Tuesday, October 13, 2015
Thursday, October 8, 2015
Patience and Gentleness are the Keys
Galatians 5:22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit
is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law." NIV
Patience? Wow, this is something many are afraid to ask God for. I've heard friends say, "I'm not asking God for patience, he will give me trials to teach me." I say, bring it on. If God has to give me situations to teach me patience, then I'm all for it. This is one area that I need help in!
Being the mother of a 3 1/2 year old, I admit, presents my lack of patience quite large. When we are 5 minutes late for an appointment, the last thing I want to hear as we are running out the door is "I have to go potty." And, when I call, "come brush your teeth" for the fifth time, I'm crying in Alto, if you know what I mean!
Everyday my patience is tried in one way or another. It's up to me to decide how I want to deal with it. And believe me, there are days I want to crawl under a rock.
Proverbs 25:15 "Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, a gentle tongue can break a bone."
When my little one is rolling on the floor, kicking and screaming; while foaming at the mouth, it's all I can do to remain patient. To be honest, sometimes I get on the floor and join the party. Just kidding, but I'd like to.
When he's acting out, I want to lash out myself. But luckily, God is showing me that harsh words can crush his spirit and make him feel unloved, just as, giving in can empower him and allow him to rule the roost. So what to say in these situations? Patience and gentleness are the keys.
Proverbs 22:6 "Train a child in the way he should go; and when he is old he will not turn from it."
While being patient I realize he's just a little boy and soon he will grow out of these childish ways. As I gently talk to him about his misconduct (accompanied by correct discipline) I'm helping him realize where his boundaries are. It is my responsibility to teach him what God says about obedience, and show him ways to obey.
So, if we are 5 minutes late to our appointment, unless it's an attorney, what matters? Usually the first five minutes of most appointments are a waiting period anyway. It's really not worth getting all worked up about. Besides, I'd rather stop for potty break than change wet pants.
Patience is something that can be learned, but it takes practice. If you are afraid of the challenge, maybe you should work on one of the other fruits. But, if I were you I'd get this one out of the way now, it will make the others seem quite easy later.
As I learn patience, he's learning obedience; and 2 rights are definitely better, than any wrong!
Patience? Wow, this is something many are afraid to ask God for. I've heard friends say, "I'm not asking God for patience, he will give me trials to teach me." I say, bring it on. If God has to give me situations to teach me patience, then I'm all for it. This is one area that I need help in!
Being the mother of a 3 1/2 year old, I admit, presents my lack of patience quite large. When we are 5 minutes late for an appointment, the last thing I want to hear as we are running out the door is "I have to go potty." And, when I call, "come brush your teeth" for the fifth time, I'm crying in Alto, if you know what I mean!
Everyday my patience is tried in one way or another. It's up to me to decide how I want to deal with it. And believe me, there are days I want to crawl under a rock.
Proverbs 25:15 "Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, a gentle tongue can break a bone."
When my little one is rolling on the floor, kicking and screaming; while foaming at the mouth, it's all I can do to remain patient. To be honest, sometimes I get on the floor and join the party. Just kidding, but I'd like to.
When he's acting out, I want to lash out myself. But luckily, God is showing me that harsh words can crush his spirit and make him feel unloved, just as, giving in can empower him and allow him to rule the roost. So what to say in these situations? Patience and gentleness are the keys.
Proverbs 22:6 "Train a child in the way he should go; and when he is old he will not turn from it."
While being patient I realize he's just a little boy and soon he will grow out of these childish ways. As I gently talk to him about his misconduct (accompanied by correct discipline) I'm helping him realize where his boundaries are. It is my responsibility to teach him what God says about obedience, and show him ways to obey.
So, if we are 5 minutes late to our appointment, unless it's an attorney, what matters? Usually the first five minutes of most appointments are a waiting period anyway. It's really not worth getting all worked up about. Besides, I'd rather stop for potty break than change wet pants.
Patience is something that can be learned, but it takes practice. If you are afraid of the challenge, maybe you should work on one of the other fruits. But, if I were you I'd get this one out of the way now, it will make the others seem quite easy later.
As I learn patience, he's learning obedience; and 2 rights are definitely better, than any wrong!
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
How Lovely are your feet?
Romans 10:15 As it is written 'How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!'"
I remember the day I got the call like it was yesterday. My friend was calling about something very dear to my heart, something that would change our lives forever. That adoption call began our lifelong journey with child number five! You see, she knew a friend, who had a daughter, who had a friend; well, you know the rest. Three months later we brought our newborn baby home and the rest is history.
I'm not sure how beautiful my friend's feet actually are, but to me they are quite amazing! Her feet brought us good news, and we are grateful.
Proverbs15:30 "A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones." NIV
Do you have good news to tell someone? Are you holding back because you fear they won't receive it, or it sounds dumb? Let me encourage you, go, tell them what's on your heart, show them that you care. Your very words might be exactly what they need to turn their heart around.
If God used David to kill a giant, he can use you to save a life.
I remember the day I got the call like it was yesterday. My friend was calling about something very dear to my heart, something that would change our lives forever. That adoption call began our lifelong journey with child number five! You see, she knew a friend, who had a daughter, who had a friend; well, you know the rest. Three months later we brought our newborn baby home and the rest is history.
I'm not sure how beautiful my friend's feet actually are, but to me they are quite amazing! Her feet brought us good news, and we are grateful.
Proverbs15:30 "A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones." NIV
Do you have good news to tell someone? Are you holding back because you fear they won't receive it, or it sounds dumb? Let me encourage you, go, tell them what's on your heart, show them that you care. Your very words might be exactly what they need to turn their heart around.
If God used David to kill a giant, he can use you to save a life.
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
A Gentle, Quiet Spirit is True Beauty
3 Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. 4 Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. 1Peter 3:3-4 NIV
If you know me, you know I am far from quiet. I am an Italian/German girl with all the vim and vigor that comes with those personalities. I stay up late, wake up early, and never miss a party, if I can help it. I talk loud, laugh loud, and if it's possible, I probably sleep loud!
But that doesn't mean I can't have the quiet, gentle spirit that 1Peter talks about. I believe,what this scripture reflects is true inner beauty. All the makeup in the world, fine jewelry and fashionable attire does nothing for a woman who is bitter, angry, self-centered, and always in control.
A gentle spirit is caring and loving toward others. She puts her husband and children's needs above her own. She does not dress unbecomingly as to draw attention to herself; rather modestly, to avoid confusion.
A quiet spirit is not boisterous, and does not joy in making a scene to prove a point. A quiet spirit holds back the daggers, while portraying both strength and courage; as she addresses all situations with love and understanding.
A quiet, gentle spirit, is not easy to attain, but with Christ I can do all things. Christ's grace and power give me the strength I need to do all that he requires of me.
"I can do everything through him who gives me strength."Phil 4:13
I am encouraged to know that I don't have to be perfect. When I mess up and my blood pressure rises, he is my calm. His power and strength, are building in me, a gentle, quiet spirit; and that true beauty, is something I look forward to possessing.
Monday, October 5, 2015
Mustard Seeds Grow Peace
Galatians 5:22-23 "But the fruit of the Spirit
is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness and self-control. Against such there is no law." NKJV
If you are one of those women like me, whose stress triggers nausea and cold sores in and around your mouth, you know it is no fun at all! For the past three weeks, I've been plagued with both. It seems the stress in my life has taken over; and it's evident in my outward appearance.Where is my peace? Why have I allowed these circumstances to take over?
Now, before you say to me, "relax", let me tell you, I try! Dealing with several big issues lately, has kept me sleep deprived and given my appetite a jolt. It just seems impossible to see the light at the end of these tunnels. My patience has been shot, my temper raised and I need a breakthrough! Have you ever felt like this?
In Matthew 17 the Apostles were unable to drive the demon out of the boy and they asked Jesus 19 "Why couldn't we drive it out?" 20 He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, Move from here to there and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Whew! I'm so glad I'm not the only one that can't move mountains, but I should be able to. Is my faith not strong enough, am I weak, do my demons need rebuking?
1Peter 5:6 "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you;" and as the song goes "He is our peace."
This is so hard for me. I am the kind of person that wants to fix it myself. I am one that portrays strength in public, but inside I am really weak. How can I drop my cares in the Master's hand and walk away? I must learn to trust that he has my back, trust that he has it all under control, and trust that he knows what's best. The sooner I realize this, the sooner my peace will come and my troubles fade.
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me. John 14:1 NIV
So who's troubled? Who wants to be beautiful inside and out? Who needs peace? Me.
I guess I need to tend to my garden; plant my mustard seeds, and find my peace.
If you are one of those women like me, whose stress triggers nausea and cold sores in and around your mouth, you know it is no fun at all! For the past three weeks, I've been plagued with both. It seems the stress in my life has taken over; and it's evident in my outward appearance.Where is my peace? Why have I allowed these circumstances to take over?
Now, before you say to me, "relax", let me tell you, I try! Dealing with several big issues lately, has kept me sleep deprived and given my appetite a jolt. It just seems impossible to see the light at the end of these tunnels. My patience has been shot, my temper raised and I need a breakthrough! Have you ever felt like this?
In Matthew 17 the Apostles were unable to drive the demon out of the boy and they asked Jesus 19 "Why couldn't we drive it out?" 20 He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, Move from here to there and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Whew! I'm so glad I'm not the only one that can't move mountains, but I should be able to. Is my faith not strong enough, am I weak, do my demons need rebuking?
1Peter 5:6 "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you;" and as the song goes "He is our peace."
This is so hard for me. I am the kind of person that wants to fix it myself. I am one that portrays strength in public, but inside I am really weak. How can I drop my cares in the Master's hand and walk away? I must learn to trust that he has my back, trust that he has it all under control, and trust that he knows what's best. The sooner I realize this, the sooner my peace will come and my troubles fade.
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me. John 14:1 NIV
So who's troubled? Who wants to be beautiful inside and out? Who needs peace? Me.
I guess I need to tend to my garden; plant my mustard seeds, and find my peace.
Sunday, October 4, 2015
Forgiveness and Humility in a Bottle of Water
1Peter 5:4 "Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."
Now humility is never easy, especially when a young male orders me to throw away my water as I'm entering the movie theater.
The other weekend I was so excited to go on a movie date with my hubby. I had the sitter arranged and off we went on a Double Movie Date. It was my bright idea to to bring snacks and a drink with us as to avoid any additional costs. As we were walking through the Ticket Line, the bright attendant noticed my bottle of water and kindly asked me to give it to him. My response, I'm embarrassed to say, was far from beautiful. "But I just want a drink while I'm watching my movies! We are seeing two movies and will be here a long time. Besides your drinks are so expensive, it's highway robbery!"
He insisted that the rules are the rules and begrudgingly, I handed over my shotgun, or I mean my water. As the movie was playing, I got thirsty and decided to go get a coke. "$4.95!", I exclaimed, as I showed my character yet again. I bought it anyway, and went in to watch the movies. All during the first show I kept thinking of how rude I was and that I owed the young man an apology. My sin, kept me from fully enjoying the show. Immediately, after movie #1, I apologized to the young man, and we made up. Was that easy? No. Was it necessary? In my heart and mind it was.
Matthew 11:25 "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins." NIV
I have to admit, I was angry with that guy. I felt like he did me wrong by not allowing me to bring my water in, and for forcing me to buy an expensive drink! But in reality, he was just doing his job, and that's exactly what he said. Needless to say, I still haven't forgotten about the water incident, but at least I was able to enjoy the second movie, and a refill of Coke! Oh did I mention that these two movies were Christian Films? I am so glad I'm not perfect, but I am forgiven!
Now humility is never easy, especially when a young male orders me to throw away my water as I'm entering the movie theater.
The other weekend I was so excited to go on a movie date with my hubby. I had the sitter arranged and off we went on a Double Movie Date. It was my bright idea to to bring snacks and a drink with us as to avoid any additional costs. As we were walking through the Ticket Line, the bright attendant noticed my bottle of water and kindly asked me to give it to him. My response, I'm embarrassed to say, was far from beautiful. "But I just want a drink while I'm watching my movies! We are seeing two movies and will be here a long time. Besides your drinks are so expensive, it's highway robbery!"
He insisted that the rules are the rules and begrudgingly, I handed over my shotgun, or I mean my water. As the movie was playing, I got thirsty and decided to go get a coke. "$4.95!", I exclaimed, as I showed my character yet again. I bought it anyway, and went in to watch the movies. All during the first show I kept thinking of how rude I was and that I owed the young man an apology. My sin, kept me from fully enjoying the show. Immediately, after movie #1, I apologized to the young man, and we made up. Was that easy? No. Was it necessary? In my heart and mind it was.
Matthew 11:25 "And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins." NIV
I have to admit, I was angry with that guy. I felt like he did me wrong by not allowing me to bring my water in, and for forcing me to buy an expensive drink! But in reality, he was just doing his job, and that's exactly what he said. Needless to say, I still haven't forgotten about the water incident, but at least I was able to enjoy the second movie, and a refill of Coke! Oh did I mention that these two movies were Christian Films? I am so glad I'm not perfect, but I am forgiven!
Saturday, October 3, 2015
Your First Step to Beautiful
1 Corinthians 13:13 "And now these three remain Faith, Hope, and Love, these three; but the greatest of these is love." NIV
love. what does it mean to love?
I can honestly say that until I became a mother, I had no clue what real love was all about. I said I love you to my husband, and I did love him, but the truth is I never really knew what true love was, until we had our first son. I remember the day he was born like it was yesterday. I remember the hold he had on my heart and how I ran every time he whimpered. I remember the hurt I felt when I had to go back to work, and the joy when he took his first step. I remember the pain when he left for college, and how happy I was when I heard he was returning home.
We are parents again with number five, and my heart melts every time I look at our now 3 1/2 year old. When he calls my name (mommy) over and over again, I have to admit, I get frustrated at times because I'm busy or tired, but mostly I just want to say "Yes, prince, what can I do for you today?"
Ever wonder what God's reaction is when you call his name over and over again? Do you ever wonder if he's too busy, too tired, or if He gets frustrated? What about when you fall away in sin, do you wonder if he cares? Does his heart melt when he sees you turn back his way?
Psalm 40:1-2 "I waited patiently for the Lord: He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand." NIV
Psalm 145:18 " The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them." NIV
God's Word plainly says He hears our cry and saves us. Isn't that what mothers do? How many times have you sat up in the middle of the night thinking you heard your child call your name and, once confirmed you went running? If you got a call saying, "Mom, I'm sick can you come get me?" would your answer be "No, I'm busy, I can't come right now"? Of course not, you'd run to his rescue.
When we do these things, are we not reflecting Gods love?
1John 4:7-9 "Dear friends, let us love one another for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love, does not know God, for God is love." NIV
Do you know the Father's love? Have you seen and experienced it? Are you living it? The Bible says:
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." NIV
I could not do what God did. I'd rather die myself, if the choice was given. It would break my heart to sacrifice my son that way.
I'm certain the heart of God was broken to see Jesus hanging on that cross, to hear him cry for help. But it had to be for the scriptures to be fulfilled.
As the song is written: "I'm forgiven, because you were forsaken........ Amazing love, how can it be, that you my king he would die for me?"
Prior to Jesus death Jesus was speaking to his his Apostles:
"You know the way to the place where I am going."
Thomas said to him, "Lord, we don't know where you are going, so how can we know the way?"
Jesus answered,
"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:4-6 NIV
A mother's love is not living proof that we know God's love. Knowing Jesus is. In fact, knowing him personally, is your first step to beautiful. Do you know him?
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