Sunday, September 30, 2012

Pull the WEED

 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. 
-Hebrews 4:16-

It was a few weeks ago that I was cutting my backyard when I noticed a ton of weeds were completely covering our banana trees. You couldn't even see the fruit because the weeds had taken over the bush. Fruit was there, it was just covered by overgrown weeds that could have been taken care of had I just pulled the weeds out when they first showed up. Reality is I hate yard work, and will put it off until the very end. The unfortunate side to that is many times the work is much harder in the yard because I haven't taken those few moments to pull the weeds when they first peak up. 


This got me thinking about the "weeds" in my life. I have weeds as a wife. I have weeds as a mom. I have weeds as a friend. I need to make margin in my life to pull those weeds up, evaluate and make a plan to prevent the weed from coming back. Many times I see the weed, walk by, and later reap crazy because of it. I need to be proactive with those things that cause the fruit of Jesus to be hidden. Just like those bananas were there, so too is the fruit of Christ in our lives, but because sin overtakes the process, it causes us to look just like every other mom; every other woman. 

When I choose to yell at my son instead of breathing, praying, and then addressing the issue...I am allowing the weeds of frustration & anger to perk up and overtake me. I need to go back, pray, pull that weed up, and ask a friend to hold me accountable with it. That takes humility, transparency, and love for Jesus. In my moments of temptation, I need to pray for the fruit of Jesus to be present and seek to bring Him glory in the process. 



So what is your "weed?"

Have you tried to pull it? 

Who will you ask to hold you accountable?

Don't allow sin to hide the fruit that He so desperately wants the world to see.  Be willing to sacrifice pride and ask for help.





Saturday, September 29, 2012

GOD Delights in MY DETAILS!

"The Lord directs the steps of the godly. 
He delights in every detail of their lives. 
Though they stumble, 
they will never fall, 
for the Lord holds them by the hand." 
- Psalm 37:23-24

This verse is so refreshing. It reminds me that God delights in every detail of my life. 

delight - (n) great pleasure

He takes great pleasure in knowing the details of my life. Those things that seem minuscule to some are monumental to Him.   He wants to hear my heart and know that I am ok. 

When my marriage seems done. He wants to hear me share. When I feel like a failure as a mom, the Lord desires to listen to my hopes and dreams. When it seems friendship is void in my life, my heavenly Father reminds me where my value comes from. There is one who is able with a willing ear and constant truth to encourage me. 

Take a few moments today. Share your heart with your Heavenly Father. Unscripted. Real. Raw. He longs for your relationship to deepen which only happens when we commune regularly with Him.


So what is it for you right now? 

What's the thing you feel no one understands or sees?
 He does.
 He cares. 
He waits for you to share 
with Him 
your heart and desires.  

Friday, September 28, 2012

Just give me four minutes.

     Instead of "reading" the Parakaleo blog, if you have four minutes...you can listen!!
   

     While traveling this week I heard the song "Do Everything" by Steven Curtis Chapman.  The first verse had me smiling as I thought of the Parakaleo Moms.  The song is based on Colossians 3: 17, "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."   My challenge is that you would consider learning the chorus with your child(ren) this week. (Even if you can sing, your kids will think you can't...so just belt it out!)





Thursday, September 27, 2012

PMS


There are a few days out of every month when my flesh just starts screaming at me.  Maybe some of you can identify with me.  Most days I go along serving my family and loving them but then there are those few days where all of the sudden… “No, I do not want to get up and get you a glass of water!”  “No one appreciates me.”  “Why don’t you get me a glass of water?”  It’s like this crazy women has taken over my body.  All of the sudden I am the most selfish person in my house. 

Several years ago this really started to bother me.  I know that we all just say, “It’s PMS” and we go about our selfishness as if it is just acceptable because some hormones are doing something in us.  We expect everyone to adjust according to our hormones.  And I honestly had just had enough of that.  It is just ridiculous for me to expect everyone to walk on eggshells and serve me as the evil queen for a few days a month.  (Not that the serving thing would be all that bad but the motivation of fear behind it is wrong.) 

So I started to really pray about this, seeking wisdom from God to help me understand.  There were two things God showed me: That evil queen can only come out to play a few days a month because she is in my heart and the other was that it is His way of keeping me humble.  It is very humbling to be reminded each month that I am not all that great and I need the Lord to give me strength, love, mercy, and kindness. 

There were some other things I started to notice as well.  As I grew more in the Lord, the less intense my mood swings seemed to be, the more self-control I had, and I became aware sooner that PMS was here.  I am, although, still reminded each month of my real ugly, selfish self.  But I know now that for those few days I need some extra one on one time with my Heavenly Father. 

“The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”  Romans 8:6
 
“And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.”  Romans 8:11
 
My point in sharing all this is to encourage and challenge.  As I studied last week what it meant to walk in the Spirit I was so encouraged.  My flesh is weak, it is crabby, it is tired, and selfish.  But I have the Spirit of a mighty God living in me, a Spirit that does not tire, or become weary, a Spirit that has more strength and love than I will ever need.  An ultimate power source right there inside my heart I simply have to make the choice to tap into that no matter the circumstances surrounding me. 

“Do you not know?  Have you not heard?  The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.  He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.  He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.  Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Isaiah 40:28-31


 
I want to love and to serve my kids the same everyday of the month.  I realize some days I will fall short because I am human.  I get sick, I get hurt, and my heart gets sad and broken.  But I don’t really want to regularly have a few days a month where I am just unapproachable, unloving, and selfish.  I don’t believe that is what God wants either.  I believe just like all other sin in my life He wants me to repent, and seek Him so that my heart can be made new. 

 

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Being Prepared

It has occurred to me that I need to be a prepared momma.  I’ve always felt like I was a pretty well-prepared person.  Growing up I was a Girl Scout so it was a given that I’d be prepared for any and all situations, right?  In grade school I took two pens and a notebook to class just in case someone else needed one.  In college I’d throw an extra pair of clothes in the car for those ”just in case I go somewhere after class” times.  And now with my kids I thought I’d do fun art & science projects with them.  But, OH NO! I didn’t prepare beforehand.  – THIS got me thinking about spiritual things.  I need to get prepared before starting an art project but how much more before venturing into the day! 

The Bible says in 2 Timothy 4:2 to “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season.”  And, But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15).

Art and science projects are fun, but someone needs to prepare all the materials, know when to do it, and how to pull it off.  When it comes to spiritual things, we need to be prepared mommas in these ways too. 

Get prepared for spiritual things each day by putting on the armor of God, by praying for your kids, praying for those who will come into your home, for those you will meet while we are “on the way”.  As prepared mommas we might be the vessel that God uses to turn a sinner away from her sin.  It’s having spiritual antenna up to recognize the tone in someone’s voice that says, “I’m not okay”. 

Ephesians 2:10
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works,
which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

 

If we are Ephesians 2:10, we can ask the One who made us, who formed us, and who has it already mapped out for us how to be prepared. 

Are you prepared? Have you received Jesus as your Savior? God loves you and wants you to know His way.  He wants you to be prepared for life, death, and eternity.  The only way to know God the Father is through His Son, Jesus. By accepting Jesus as your personal Savior, you will have V.I.P. access to the Father. Jesus says that He goes to the Father and prepares a place for you. Now, that’s what I call being a prepared momma.

“God, I’m a sinner and I need You to save me from my sins. Please forgive me and cleans me from head to toe, make me whole and pure. I am deciding today, right now, to receive Jesus as my Savior and I pray You help me follow You each day of my life. I pray this in the name of Jesus, Amen.”

If you prayed to receive Jesus just now, please let someone know.  You can leave a comment below or go to that person you know who has been talking to you about Jesus.  Read your Bible and get to know God.  Go to church.  Pray.  The Parakelo moms are proud of you and so is the Lord.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Just Say No

In elementary and middle school we were taught to "Just Say No". If someone approaches you regarding drugs you simply just say, "No". I was so confident, once I was armed with the knowledge of what to do in that situation. I was ready to say no to even a baby aspirin! I walked around with my imaginary cape on and my imaginary shield held high bearing the slogan 'Just Say No!' It was well over 10 years before I was approached by anyone about drugs! However, even though my cape and shield were tucked away in a closet of my mind, I was still able to say no.

In our Christian walk, saying no usually refers to sinful behavior. Yes, of course we should be saying no to sinful behavior. However, there may be another area needed a few no's. Ministry. You read right, ministry. Are you serving somewhere that God has not called you to serve? Are you a part of a certain ministry just because you can't say no? God's word has something to say about this.

"Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ's body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other. In His grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly." Romans 12:4-8 NLT

Pray about the ministries and areas in which you serve. Be sure God has called you to serve there and in that capacity. Pray for His will and edification of His kingdom. If we are serving in a ministry we are not called to, we could possibly be prohibiting the person He has called, from being able to serve there. Moreover, if you are serving in too many places, you can be stretched really thin and not be effective or worse, they all suffer. Keep in mind that caring for your family is a ministry.

"You must decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." - 2 Cor 9:7 NLT

Challenge: Read and reflect on 1 Corinthians 12.

Monday, September 24, 2012

The 'In' Crowd




Included. We all want to fit in or belong somewhere. We want friends we can trust; a place where we can feel safe to “be ourselves”. This past week, I watched as my son played at the park with two of his friends. They laughed, they played tag, they climbed things, and they ran around. However, it didn’t immediately start off that way. There were three of them, and you know the saying, “two’s company, but three's a crowd”. Unfortunately it looked like it was going to be one of those times where two of the friends delighted in their friendship, while the other one felt left out.

Instead of jumping in right away, I prayed that God would intervene and help them all to play together. God answered that prayer in the most beautiful way. When one of the boys tried to cling to the other, the boy who was being clung to simply refused to leave anyone out. Although he was “chosen” as the favorite, he refused to play the part. He just kept playing with everyone. I remember having a talk with his mom a while back, and commenting on how her son was always so inclusive of everyone. Her response was shocking, but great. She said, “He better include everybody! If he doesn’t, we leave and go home. We don’t tolerate that kind of behavior in our house.” How beautiful!

This playground incident reminded me of a passage in Romans when Paul was passionately argued the case for circumcision of the heart versus circumcision of the flesh. As you may know, this was a heated topic back in that day. It was approximately 57 years after Christ’s death and resurrection, and people needed to know: Did Gentiles have to become Jews first (obeying the law and becoming circumcised) to become Christians? The questions at stake: who is “in” and who is “out”?

To get clarity on this issue, I read a commentary in which the author said that circumcision of the flesh was intended to be an outward expression of inward change, but it had become what he termed an “identity maker—a way to determine who was ‘in’ and who was ‘out’”.  He went further to say that in our sin nature “there is something inside us that is not bothered when others are excluded, that wants others to be excluded—that feels more special when we’re on the inside and somebody else is not…”.

I want to challenge each of us as moms to recognize when we feel this way and pray that God would make us sensitive to the Holy Spirit so that we can recognize when we are excluding people, and then seek to do something about it. For example, when you arrive at the park with a group of moms and your kids, but there is a mom who came by herself who seems friendly, do you include her or ignore her? Can she join in on the conversation or is she left to herself and her own thoughts?

Our kids are watching.  God’s word declares that he does not play favorites (Romans 2:11). Let’s model Christ’s example and seek to include rather than exclude. Let’s teach our children to do the same.

Prayer:

God it feels wonderful to be included—to know that there is a place or a group of friends with whom we “belong”. Lord, it is so easy to get comfortable in our little group of friends and be so content with that group that we are hesitant to invite other into our circle. Yet you desire that we love you with our whole heart, and love our neighbors as we love ourselves. In fact, you said all the other laws hang on those two laws. Help us to remember that—to love you and to love people. Help us love on your people and be a friend to the stranger. Help us to model you, and please help our kids to pick up on our example. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

Challenge:

Next time you are at the park, zoo, play station, jump zone, etc. with some of your friends, ask the Holy Spirit to help you be sensitive to another mom in need of a friend. Then show yourself friendly! J

Sunday, September 23, 2012

ENCOURAGE ME


All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort—we get a full measure of that, too. -2 Corinthians 1:3-5 MSG

Sometimes as moms we just need some encouragement. We need that cup of cold water poured out onto our dry and thirsty land. We need someone to pray with us and remind us that it will be ok. Those that have walked before step up and live out the above verse. Allowing healing to happen with the help of the Holy Spirit.


I was reminded of this truth a few days ago when my younger sister gave birth to her first child. Living in a different state, I have been relying heavily on IPhone's "Facetime" to see the baby and calling throughout my day to check on her. 

What an adjustment it is, as a new mom, isn't it? 


Some will jump right into motherhood and bounce right back completely as if they never skipped a beat. Then there are others needing any extra help they can get just to "survive" each day! When I had my first I was definitely the latter. That is why I feel so burdened to check in tons with my sister knowing the trials that come with being a new mom. I want the Lord to use me to comfort her in the same way HE used other moms to encourage me too.

Many times the Lord gives us opportunities to be a vessel used to encourage another, but because our lives are so "busy" we miss it. We can be so focused inward that the outward expression of our faith is obsolete. Don't you agree?


For some that opportunity may be sending a word through the mail or maybe texting a scripture verse to encourage. For some it will be a phone call. Others will double that recipe and run it over to the exhausted and worn out mommy.  Many will offer to babysit, even for a few minutes, so that mommy can nap or shower. What a gift!



I can remember so many who prayed for, encouraged, made meals, loved on, and cared for my family during those tough and exhausting weeks in the beginning. Those willing to take time out of their week to lighten my load some. I was blessed watching Christ use believers during my time of need,  and now my heart yearns to do the same on the flip side.

One of my favorite "blessings" was, after the birth of my second son, and a sweet friend found out (from my husband) my favorite Starbucks drink, came over, and took my older son out to the park while I sipped my Frappacchino in peaceful bliss! 


Aaagghh what a gift. Simple idea with huge impact on a tired and weary mom. A day cherished where the Lord used a willing vessel to refresh me in the very small way I needed. I want to be that type of friend someday! One who listens and heeds the call.

How does the Lord want to use you today? 

Are your eyes wide open and ready to receive the "mission" he is sending you?

In your life, what does being a willing "vessel" look like practically, in the way of service, amongst those HE has surrounded you with?

Lord, we want to be used by you. Help us to clear the path, schedule, and busyness of life in order to fulfill the call you have on our lives. You are Jehovah Jireh, the perfect provider...please help us to live that out for those in need today.  Love you and we are grateful to call you our friend!

Saturday, September 22, 2012

GOT GUILT?


The plans of the diligent lead to profit
as surely as haste leads to poverty.
 - Proverbs 21:5


"So, have you felt the guilt yet?" 
This was the question my friend asked when my second son was born three years ago.  My Jack was just a few days old and I was still in the daze of no sleep and much crazy. Jeni explained that when she had her second she felt such guilt from having to tear her attention in two different directions. Feeling as if neither is fully getting your attention but not wanting to neglect either. 

It was a few days ago that I remembered that conversation. I was sitting on the floor enjoying time with my youngest throwing a ball back and forth, while my oldest was "enjoying" a time out. It was only five minutes but it was a joyful five minutes and we had a blast. We laughed and played. I realized it was short but sweet and I need to look for these opportunities more often with both boys. Moments when one is busy and I have a chance to enjoy a time with the other. I need to be mindful of just how important these little nuggets of time are to both my child and me as well. When we have that one-on-one time it opens up the opportunity to see sweet personality traits that sometimes get overlooked in the busyness of life.

Whether you have one child or ten, there are always days when you ponder and question how much quality time is being spent with family. I think if we want our time to count, then we must be intentional about how we spend it. Plan out our day. Plan out your week. Look for those small windows of time for hugs, laughs, talks, that will create memories you cherish, with each child. 

What does that practically look like for you?
Have you struggled with the "guilt"?
Is there margin in your schedule for you to have a "date" with your little one?

Lord, help us to carve out quality time with the children you have entrusted us with. Allow us to make deposits of love and encouragement in their lives as we sacrifice a few moments each day. Thank you for the gift of parenting. I must be intentional and I need your help. I love you! 

Friday, September 21, 2012

Empty Nest...Really???


This will happen to you…

You get married.

You become a mom.

You have another, or adopt two more. However, God plans it, your family grows.

And they grow and grow some more.

You deal with diaper rash and vaccinations.  You choose schools and cry when they leave or cry if they stay home.

One moment you are tying shoes, and the next moment, you’re teaching them to drive.

And then you…

Have an empty nest??

How did this happen? I mean, I guess I considered where this was headed, but now? Really?

With one child married and another off to college, we only have one at home.

What’s a mom to do?  Where did the time go? Was I a good steward of our time?


I really want it back.  I want the time back.  I want to do a better job.  No, I really don’t want to digress to diapers and training wheels and school decisions.  I want “them” back.

My babies!!

How much more, God wants us back.  Away from the world and its entrapments. Looking only into His eyes.  Enamored by Him.  Letting Him care for us.  Giving Him control. He wants to be the center.  He deserves complete control. I think this was some of what Jesus was communicating when He told us to “Remain in Him” from John 15.

In fact even while I am physically away from Our Heavenly Father, I can practice abiding, remaining in Him.

As I sort this place in my Mommy heart with my “babies” grown and gone,  I will reveal in the fact I can choose to remain in Him, by relying on Him.  Trusting Him.  He can have me “back” all the time I choose to remain in Him.


Thursday, September 20, 2012

Me Time

"While taking time for myself, I definitely felt refreshed, but the moment I got home and realized the sink was still full of dirty dishes and I would still have to give baths to all the children before the night would be over, I wanted to head right back out the door."  Amy Roberts

That is something I myself have experienced and I know many moms have.  Follow this link to see what this mom discovered about "me time." 

The Me Time Myth By Amy Roberts

“Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”  John 4: 13-14

"This verse should be inscribed over every earthly pursuit we have."  Chuck Smith 

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Mid-Teen Crisis



It's official. Both the Cudmore kids are in their mid-teenage years!  This past week my daughter Bailee turned 15, and my son is soon to be 17! It's exciting and interesting all at the same time.  These days have caused my husband and I to be on our knees interceding on behalf of our mid-teens; but not for reasons you may assume.  Much like the proverbial "mid-life" crisis many go through, these mid-teen years has brought our family to a time of reflection and re-evaluation. Not just in how we teach and guide Sam and Bailee, but its a time for them to step back and see how the Lord is leading them.  The mid-teenage years are a good time for us as parents to "let the leash out."  To allow our children to seek the Lord and ask Him what His will is for their life, not just for the day but for the days ahead. It's a time to face any doubts, fears, and/or confusion about all aspects of life. God is shaking up our status quo.  See I told you; exciting and interesting all at the same time!

As far back as I can remember Samuel has had a ball and bat in his hands, and Bailee has desired to be a ballerina, and is constantly dancing.  Seeing these gifts the Lord placed in them, my husband Darin and I, began to provide opportunities for them to learn and grow in these areas. It's hard to imagine them not participating in these activities.  This summer was very similar to summers past; Samuel played on a travel baseball team and Bailee attended a 4 week summer ballet intensive program.  Being involved in these activities is what we have always done. During this time, the Lord began answering some of my prayers for them as Christian mid-teens.  Prayers such as, "Lord please let nothing get in the way of your will for their lives", or "Lord please help them know you, really know and trust you." (Something tells me, Christian Mom, that you may have and continue to pray similar prayers.) Well, be mindful of what you pray because the way the Lord answers prayers is often not the way we envision. "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord." Isaiah 55:8 "His ways are eternal" Habakkuk 3:6b.

Mid-way through the summer dance program my daughter came to us with some struggles she was having in the program.  These struggles were causing her to re-evaluate if dance was truly what she was supposed to do.  She was thinking about quitting the program. This was an eye-opener for us as her parents to say the least.  This is what she has always dreamed of. It was really hard for her to tell us because she did not want to disappoint us.  Suffice to say, after much talking, seeking God's word, and praying on both our parts, she did not quit dance or the summer intensive.  We recognized it as an opportunity to trust the Lord during these challenging circumstances. It was very difficult to see her walk through this refining emotional and spiritual time. It's not the way I expected the Lord would grow her knowledge and trust of Him; that's for sure.  However, it was through these trials she grew. His ways are best...always.

Meanwhile, during that same summer we noticed Sam loosing his desire to play baseball.  This was disconcerting especially to my husband.  Sam had always played baseball and he is good at it.  It was perplexing.  Regardless, he finished the summer season just in time for the Fall baseball season.  He started practicing with the team as usual.  Once again we saw his lack of enthusiasm.  When Darin and I approached him about what we saw he was able to share with us that he did not want to play fall ball.  He had been worried to tell us because he, like Bailee, did not want to disappoint us or his coaches.  Suffice to say, after much talking, seeking God's word, and praying on both our parts, Samuel decided to take the fall season off.  He feels as though, and Darin and I agree, that the Lord is doing a "new thing". (read Isaiah 48). Not sure about Spring baseball but I am sure that the Lord is answering my prayer and nothing will get in the way of HIS will for Samuel.

So I say all that to say this; If you have children entering or living in the mid-teen years be encouraged! These are interesting and exciting times.  Embrace it all! The ups and downs; the set backs and victories. Listen to them with ears empty of your own expectations.  Allow them to question. LOVE. "My dear brothers (godly moms), take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for a man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires". James 1:19 Remember your prayers for them and watch their lives.  Often, you will be surprised how the Lord chooses to answer them.  Each parenting stage has it's own set of challenges however you are not alone.  "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him" James 1:5. He began the good work  in you and  in your children and will complete it! (Philippians 1:6).

Dear Lord, please give us the courage to parent from your perspective.  Your way, your will, your best!  Thank you for your faithfulness.  In Jesus name and by the power of the Holy Spirit I pray.  Lord, may only You remain. Amen



Monday, September 17, 2012

Your Love Never Fails


Have you ever felt tired, overwhelmed, or frustrated as a Mom? Have you ever felt like you just needed a break? Have you ever felt like a friend or loved one disappointed you? Have you ever been the one to disappoint someone else for whom you cared deeply? I have felt all of these things and more. Yet what constantly amazes me is that God’s word declares, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Hebrews 13:8

I am so glad that we serve a constant and faithful God. His word also declares that God “does not change like shifting shadows”. James 1:17 He is always faithful, true, and right in whatever he does. He does not change his mind on a whim—He keeps his promises.

Lately, as a woman (a very pregnant woman) I have been struggling with a whirlwind of emotions. I think some of the things I feel are just because of my personality—I am naturally sensitive. Other emotions are caused by those around me, and the things they say or do (or don’t do) that hurt or agitate me. Other times, I just feel plain old hormonal. Yet I was brought to tears yesterday at church when I was reminded of the faithfulness and consistency of our God.

Fellow mom, our children often face the same whirlwind of emotions that we do. Have you ever felt so proud of your child one moment and completed shocked at their behavior the next? Psychological studies actual state that kindergarten age children and middle school age children are often very similar because they are both going through drastic developmental changes (emotionally, physically, and mentally). I don’t know about you, but that is a lot of hormones for one house!  So, what do we need to do when we are having one of those moments (or days or weeks)?  We need to fix our gaze on the one, true, constant God that never changes. We need to help our children do the same.

Here are the lyrics of the song that brought me to tears:

“One Thing Remains”

Higher than the mountains that I face
Stronger than the power of the grave
constant in the trial and the change

One thing remains

Your love never fails
It never gives up
It never runs out on me

Because on and on and on and on it goes
It overwhelms and satisfies my soul
And I'll never, ever, have to be afraid

One thing remains

In death
In life
I'm confident and covered by the Power of Your great love

My dept is paid
There’s nothing that can separate
My heart from Your great love

Your love never fails
It never gives up
It never runs out on me

Prayer:

God you are so good and faithful and true. Your love flows without end, and it never gives up on us. When we are tempted as Moms to feel like running away, please hold us tight and bring us back to you. When we are tired, please be our strength. When we are hurt, be our comforter. When we feel overwhelmed, remind us to pray and fix our eyes on you. We love you Lord, but thank you for your constant and perfect love that sought us out first. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

 

Click here to listen to the song on youtube:


 

 

Sunday, September 16, 2012

JEHOVAH JIREH


Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? - Matthew 6:26

As a mom, some weeks can seem so mundane and then other weeks the Lord will teach me many lessons all at once.  This past week was the latter. It started as my husband's old car was "going" and we began praying for a new one. Simultaneously,  my parents were looking for a new car, and getting rid of their old truck.  And in comes... the blessing of God. We got their old truck just at the right time.

Jehovah Jireh, God my provider, had the timing align so perfect that as we were in need HE had someone else step up to meet it. Sometimes we are afraid to ask the Lord for things because we think it is such a huge request. But I want to tell you to step out, ask, watch and be blown away at how the Lord supernaturally provides for you.

It was five years ago I became a stay-at-home mom. It was definitely a challenge to go from two incomes to one, but it has been the most amazing time of our lives. We have seen miracles. Yep. Each time we pray and He meets the need, I am reminded that HE still does miracles today. 

SO what is your "miracle"? What is that thing you are in need of? 


Have you prayed about it? Have you laid it at His feet and trusted in His wisdom?




The Lord is not a geenie, but He is a father that loves you and wants to help you along in this journey of life. There have been times I have prayed and had to wait or it hasn't been the right time. Then there have been times the answer is no, but that is where trust comes in. I must believe HE knows best and can see what is up ahead when my vision is limited to today.   

"for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things."
 - Psalm 107:9

Pray. Trust. Believe. Ask. Knock. Praise Him for the NOW. Seek Him for the future.

Saturday, September 15, 2012

PLAN + PROCESS = PURPOSE



For you created my inmost being;
    you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
    your works are wonderful,
    I know that full well.
 My frame was not hidden from you
    when I was made in the secret place,
    when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
 Your eyes saw my unformed body;
    all the days ordained for me were written in your book
    before one of them came to be.
How precious to me are your thoughts,[a] God!
    How vast is the sum of them!
 Were I to count them,
    they would outnumber the grains of sand—
    when I awake, I am still with you.
-Psalm 139:13-18



I am thrilled to announce that we are the new proud owners, again, of  "Butterfly World" Annual Passes. I love that place! At just the right time you see thousands of butterflies flying throughout the aviary. I gleaned some parenting lessons walking through, as I observed the life cycle of the butterfly. Butterflies are beautiful to watch and there is a cycle each caterpillar goes through in order to make it to the end....soaring through the air in all its beauty for all to see. Sometimes we see the beautiful creature and forget there was a process that occurred before ever seeing the beauty. Just like in parenting!



A butterfly doesn't start out as a butterfly but as a caterpillar with a process and plan, that is needed in order to fulfill it's purpose. As I meandered through Butterfly World I was reminded of how my children are very much like the butterfly.  If I look at my kids as a "process" it causes me to pause and realize this is not the "end product"(butterfly) but just the cycle/season they must go through to get to the next part of His plan.

Remember...
God has a 
PLAN,
PROCESS,
and
PURPOSE
for our children





Just as a caterpillar must feed on leaves for growth, as a parent I must feed my my child the Word filled with Truth to see growth as well. I must allow those cycles to happen even when it is uncomfortable and trying. Many lessons our little ones learn will be those truths they teach others with later. Once our children have eaten the Truth, our prayer is that they will attach themselves to the TREE of Life, Jesus, (just as the chrysalis above attaches to the branch) and wrapped by the Holy Spirit causing them be ready to soar for His glory as a beautiful example of His creation...just like the butterflies.

There are many phases that the Lord brings them through with a very specific purpose in mind. There will be phases we don't understand but must believe our Creator knows the reason and trust in that. Sometimes I don't like the process that my child is going through because it causes me heartache and pain. It causes me to be stretched. In those times I must cling to Christ- trusting His plan and purpose is good.  Parenting is a sanctifying process that causes us to rely more and more on Christ...but isn't that our PURPOSE here on earth :)

What lesson is the Lord teaching your child right now? 

What is HE teaching you about your child through this process? 

Trust. Pray. Read His Word. Look for the beauty in the process. Remember you have the most amazing  opportunity....to raise up the NEXT GENERATION for CHRIST!! Don't give up! 

Friday, September 14, 2012

A Party or a Headache?


As Valencia mentioned in her Tuesday blog, we don’t enjoy the moment because we are looking at the next event.  Maurilio Amorim shared such a sweet sentiment this past week, I thought it would reinforce Valencia’s response exactly…Please welcome our friend, Maurillo Amorim and “A Different Approach to Inconvenience!”

While the adults at my delayed gate in Atlanta looked around frustrated, tapped their toes, check their watches often, a group of small children decided to take a different approach to the inconvenience. I like their approach better.
Google Image
It was a typical scene in most busy airports in America: people trying to get to their final destinations, hoping that their delayed flight would not derail their best laid plans. I had joined the rest of the self-important business travelers whose body language clearly displayed our discontent with the situation. During my time at the gate, I saw a few small children find each other and impromptu form a circle on the floor. Then they began to play games, and by the time we were boarding, they were breaking into song. Our delay became their party.
As I was boarding I looked at the children and could not help but to smile. I noticed a lady next to me smiling as well. The thought then crossed my mind: at point in my “development” I lost the ability to find the fun and excitement in the most of mundane, if not, inconvenient, of situations? At what point of maturity life became a series of tasks and appointments where I lost the opportunity to make new friends and smile?
Years ago my flight to Rio was diverted to Bogota, Columbia due to engine issues. Our entire 747 was stranded at the airport. We could not even leave the plane due to obscure reasons I do not recall. Word came that we would have to stay at least another 6 hours waiting for the problem to be fixed before we could leave. People were mad, hungry, despondent–the typical traveling reaction to such an ordeal.
After a make-shift dinner of airport food fare, we found ourselves sitting back at the plane grumbling about our misfortune. During this time I discovered that the young couple sitting next to me were college students like myself, but they were also opera singers and quite accomplished for their age. “Why don’t you sing for us?” I proposed. They look puzzled at first then shrug their shoulders and agreed.
What happened next was pure fun. My new friends broke into an Aria right from their seats. They stood up and began to sing from the top of their lungs. It was just beautiful. The whole plane got quiet, and as they finished the first song, the place erupted in spontaneous applause. For the next several minutes they went through most of their repertoire. Once they were done, I stood up and ask if anyone else would like to sing, or “share a talent” with the rest of the plane.
What started as a terrible delay in an airport where soldiers carried machine guns around the concourse, turned out to be one of the most memorable moments of my life. It’s been almost 30 years since then, and I can still remember it vividly.
What would happen if we were not always so “grown up” and found a way to turn the inconveniences of life into opportunities to engage and enjoy people around us?  I think the airport children were right. They found a party where we found a headache.

Proverbs 17: 22 A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength.  Our challenge this week is to take as many "inconvenient" situations and turn them in to a party.  Let us know about your celebrations.