F.R.O.G to F.O.G.

"Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship"

Romans 12:1 (HCSB)

Recently, I hinted about a new season our family was embarking on; today I want to share some lessons we are learning as we Yield.

In June 2015, my Mother went home to be with the Lord. We had the opportunity to celebrate her life and love surrounded by extended family and friends of various beliefs, all unified by our love for this woman.This event began a time of deep reflection for me. I became greatly aware of Legacy...what am I creating that will outlast me? Am I living a life of honor, vision, and purpose? It was through this time of reflection that our direction began to shift. 

As a family, we had been walking through several "FROG" months...a time of "Fully Relying on God". When I say Fully Relying on God, I mean Completely! Within a two week period of time, our housing arrangement and income source ended and our vehicle became irreparable. It was in the midst of this seeming chaos that we felt the Lord ask us if we were willing to Fully Rely on Him. Our immediate response was YES...mostly out of desperation and realization that we had no other real options. 

Now, we already knew our Abba Father as loving and good; we were, however, about to deepen our experience of Him as patient and faithful!

It was in the place of seeking God for our next direction that we received the call about my Mother's passing, and in that moment I felt a baton being passed to me. As I prayed and asked Father for peace, I could almost literally see my Mother passing a relay race baton to me; and when I asked what was this, I had an understanding of legacy. Being the oldest daughter in my family, I felt a shift of responsibility in maintaining fortitude of faith...one of my Mother's greatest strengths! With this shift came an endowment and empowerment to carry on. As if her mantle had been passed to me. How humbling and loving...to experience such love! Even as I reflect and type this, I am overwhelmed by such a sweet exchange!

With support from dear friends, we were able to travel to her celebration. To be with my Dad as a support and source of love and encouragement was Priceless! To hold and cherish things that my Mother held and cherished = timeless! And to reflect with my family on valued characteristics  = Treasured! Throughout the entire time, I was very aware of God's presence! I could see His hand in Every detail as we were Fully Relying on Him! 

As her celebration concluded and we began our drive back to Arizona, Jeff and I took the time to talk about God's goodness and grace. We found vision bubbling out of our mouths and saw a new season on the horizon. Thoughts and ideas were coming out of us that we knew could only be from God because in the natural they made no sense! We saw our family traveling Full-Time, and Ministering to those that are discouraged and disconnected from their source. We also felt empowered to minister from the place of preparation and knowing Father as the only source we ever need. We could see how we were being set up to demonstrate what "FROG" looks like...Ha! 

Within a week of our return, we receive a call from a trusted friend asking us to pray about an opportunity she had discovered. She began to describe a need she had come across that she felt we were to be the solution. She described a disabled gentleman that needed some assistance in business and ministry. Everything she shared seemed reasonable, however, being in the place of "FROG", we purposed to pray and scheduled a time to meet with this minister. To my surprise, he was available the following afternoon. (At this point, we'd been FROG for 6+months, so nothing really surprised us anymore...Ha!)

In speaking with him, we learned that he required WAY more care and support than we thought we could offer. However, the exchange of care would address income, housing and transportation needs on our end. Could this be God? We left our first interview overwhelmed with the weight of Fully Relying on God! Isn't that funny, that relying on God felt weighty? I have since learned that truly FROG brings ease, relief, and great peace! But, in that moment, I wasn't sure I could do this even if God was lining it up...as if the creator of the universe was unable to position us. 

As I type this, I can clearly see how we had surrendered up to this point but had not yielded! We were MROG = Mostly Relying on God or PROG = Partially Relying on God, but not FROG!! Again, we felt the Lord ask us if were ready and willing to FULLY Rely on Him. Our response, this time, was, Father, if this is your will, then equip and enable us to fulfill all that you are aligning. It was a place beyond surrender (where we can maintain control), our response was from a place of trust...knowing He was more than able! I felt my posture begin to shift. 

We had left things with Howard agreeing to pray and meet at his home the following day. Jeff and I awoke the next day, overcome with peace and purpose. Agreeing, by faith, that if this is what God had next for us, He would enable us to fulfill every expectation. Surprisingly, we were in one accord and ready to proceed as Father directed. It was at our scheduled meeting where God completely confirmed His plans in numerous ways. He made things SO obvious that we could not deny His hand in this Divine Appointment, and so with great peace, we agreed to begin the following day.

For reference, Howard is quadriplegic. He cannot move any part of his body below his neck save a few fingers which he uses to drive a power wheelchair. In his great physical limitations, he is a licensed pastor,a non-profit organization CEO, published author and motivational speaker. He weighs 45 pounds and was only expected to live to the age of 5-12, and so now at nearly 44 years old is a living miracle. For more on Howard, you can follow him on social media as well as at howardbell.org. 

So, it began. Over one year ago, we agreed to yield to all that God had for us as individuals and a family and FROG!! 

I will go back and recount some of the various experiences we've had in the past year, but suffice it to say this has been the most difficult and rewarding thing we've Ever done! Little did we realize that FROG would mean we gave up all our rights...the right to control, the right to be right, etc. In Rom 12:1, when we are urged to present our bodies as a Living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God...I believe another way to say this is to FROG. Interesting, the next verse in Rom 12 reminds us to not conform to this age but to be Transformed by the renewing of our mind. So, dare I suggest that in my experience FROG is not about conformation, but transformation!! As we learn to FULLY Rely on God, we are sure to be transformed from the state of this world/flesh (selfish, etc.) into a place of peacefully considering others as our Father does.

Choosing to care for Howard has given us this opportunity to "Let Go and Let God" in EVERY area of our lives. We see God in our relationships, finances, time, talents, opportunities, "err-where"! We have been faced with the ugliness of surrendered ministry. What? you ask?? Yes, it is possible to surrender in ministry, and yet maintain control of our time, talents, etc. Prior to this experience, I actually thought I was a giving person...other's minded even...WRONG! I had simply adopted some behaviors that sounded good and even sometimes looked good, but was not FROG! 

So, throughout the past year, Father has been changing us...rearranging us. I think our son, Tony said it best...(Like and Subscribe to his channel...he's Amazing!!)

As we FROG, I notice the FOG...The Favor of God! 

Recently, we were driving to Virginia. It was late and dark, and a Fog rolled in. I was tired and a little scared, if I am being honest. It was then that I was immediately reminded of God's desire and ability to transform us. It is SO like our Father to surround us and envelope us in His presence, especially when things seem dark and we're tired or worn out. It is when we FROG that we experience the FOG!! It is my prayer that we continue to FROG. Likewise, I am in gratitude for the FOG. Join me next time as I share some of the many ways we are experiencing the FOG. God is good. He is Faithful, and His Love NEVER Fails!! 

Walking UnAware!

This Post Contains Content Recommended for a Mature Audience

"It's a dark night, a dark hour." - Luke 22:53

     Today, I am blogging about Take 25 at PARK Project, and want to use this forum to open up and be candid with You, 

my precious support!!  

     Five years ago, I wish I had seen a sign like this bright yellow one to alert me of what lay ahead!  Looking back, I'm sure there were signs along the way, however, I was Walking UnAware!!  The things I am about to share with you are that of an incredibly vulnerable nature, and I ask that you proceed with an Open Heart of Grace!  It is only by the Holy Spirit's prompting that I choose now to open this window and share a glimpse of the path we have traveled.  One that has brought me the greatest heartache, and the greatest hope!

     Although, I developed a relationship with the Savior at a young age, my family's religious beliefs prevented me from walking passionately with Him for many years; and even, as an adult, I found myself content with a relationship of encounters rather than constant communion.  My adult life has been one of great extremes!  I have experienced the highs of Passionate Love and Financial Abundance along with the lows of Chronic Illness and Poverty.  I spent many years trying to grow up with the attitude that "everything was under control" even when I was desperate for something more.  Without realizing it, I had become the "Queen of Denial" and quite accustomed to wallowing in "Victim Village".  During a low point, I walked away from my husband, and began trusting another.  Little did I know that this emotional and somewhat rash decision would send our family in a downward spiral that would nearly cost us everything!  

     In "Unmask the Predators", Lisa Cherry and her daughter, Kalyn Cherry Waller not only share a similar story, but statistics that should shock and alarm All of us!!  Part of Walking UnAware is lack of information, another part is denial!!  Unfortunately, I experienced both!!  I watched our family go from happy, unified and Spirit-led to disconnected, miserable and weak!  More devastatingly, I watched our oldest Daughters (14 and 12 years old at the time) go from Respectful, Secure and Safe to Belligerent, Confused and Vulnerable.  

     Walking UnAware is much like the the cliche, "Ignorance is Bliss"!  There is a sense of confidence in that you don't know that you don't know!!  The result of my choices led our entire family down  a path, that previously had seemed foreign and unthinkable!  We began to experience things that seemed surreal as if happening only in my worst nightmare!!  Walking UnAware led me toward a masked predator who, unlike me, was Completely Aware and prepared to groom our Daughters as His prey!!  

     It was a cold December morning when I received a call that our Daughters, who had been sleeping over at a friend's home while I prepared for our move, were gone.  There were foot prints in the snow leading from a basement window to the street where tire tracks led away.  Within an hour, the girls called, apologizing, saying they had reacted out of fear, not wanting to move, but that the friend who had picked them up was bringing them back.  Now, there are years of choices that led up to this moment, but suffice it to say for now, Walking UnAware was about to get very dark and ugly!!  It was on this cold December morning that I learned our Daughters had spent the previous six months building a relationship with a 37 year old married man whom they'd been sexually involved with, both individually and altogether.  By His careful planning, they were in love and prepared to fight for their freedom, so that they could be with Him.  I cannot even begin to describe the rage and heartache that came as a result of Walking UnAware!!  As we began to Unmask this Predator, what we learned was considered "classic".  The grooming that had taken place, included extensive brain-washing; and changed the hearts of our Daughters!!  Not only had our Daughters lost their innocence, we were loosing our Daughters.  Let me warn you, that the the journey between Walking UnAware and Being Aware has been thee most painful journey to walk!  This is NOT like being on a fast and furious roller coaster that you can simply jump off after a few minutes to stand on solid ground; no, this is more like finding yourself in a very deep and dark pit with no ladder!

     Another cost of Walking UnAware was that without thinking, I had walked away from God and ran right into Sin!  Fortunately, during this darkest season, God had NOT walked away from me; and in this my darkest hour, He reached out and quite literally plucked me out of my sin and lack of awareness!!  Almost immediately, He began restoring!  Although things seemed to go from bad to worse, by laying down my attachment to Walking UnAware, I found great comfort in the Grace and Mercy of an Omnipotent Father!  I found love and forgiveness in the arms of my Beloved, whom I had also walked away from; and I found great Peace in the Only One who could and already had intervened on my behalf!

     5 years later, we continue to experience God's healing and restoration!  There are still days when the enemy tries to take what He intended for evil and remind me of it; however, there are many more days that I am reminded that God has purposed this for His glory!!  I am humbled by His goodness and marvel in His grace, and I am continually uplifted by His Word!!

     Friends, I commit to continue sharing our story as led by the Spirit, but suffice it to say, This day I encourage you to consider your own walk.  I challenge you to become informed as you Unmask the Predators in your world, and I invite you to Take 25!!  I pray that our journey through this very dark place, may shed light for you and that you Never find your child's name listed with The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children!!  May you choose to Walk Aware today and always as we stand equipped in the battle to protect our children; and may you also know the Grace and Peace of our Loving Heavenly Father!!

 

     

Sunday Sentiment...

"My Own Little World" - Matthew West

     In Luke 10: 25-37 we read about "The Good Samaritan".  Now, this is a story about a man that was beaten and robbed while traveling, and left for dead.  As it happened, this was a major route between cities, and so there were surely other travelers that would assist this man.  True to expectation, along came a Priest, who when seeing this beaten man chose to pass him on the other side of the road.  Likewise, a Levite when he arrived on the scene, looked and then kept walking.  But the story goes on to say that a certain Samaritan , as he journeyed, came to where this man was and had compassion.  

     What would you have done?  What do we do?  How many times do we see the needs of others in our lives, and like the Priest and Levite, we choose to look the other way and continue on about our business?  As you consider these difficult questions, I DO NOT want you to feel condemnation or pride.  I DO hope that today, we can consider the difference we are making in "Our Own Little World" and Purpose to Be Aware, Have Compassion, Be a Solution, Make a Difference!!  

     In Luke, Jesus was speaking to a group, and sharing this story about The Good Samaritan in response to the question, "What shall I do to inherit eternal life".  Upon completion, He asks the group in verses 36-37, "So which of these three do you think was a neighbor to him who fell among thieves?"  "And he said, He who showed mercy on him!"  "Then Jesus said to them, Go and Do Likewise!" 

     This week, I will turn 40, and as I've been reflecting on my life, I felt led to start an "Initiative" inviting all of my friends and family to celebrate with me by Practicing one Act of Random Kindness each day for 40 days.  PARK Project was birthed with a vision to Inspire ALL who choose to participate to Be a Blessing by Being Others Minded as a way of life, rather than an event!

     I encourage you, and invite you to join me on this 40 day journey of Mercy and Grace beginning this Tuesday, 05/01/12!  Let us answer the call to Go and Do Likewise with boldness, passion and PURPOSE; and may you Be Blessed Abundantly as you do!!  :)

Mrs. Jeff Baker...

"Love NEVER Fails!"

 - 1 Cor 13:8 (Amp)

     22 years ago today, I began a Love Journey that has been the best of times and the worst of times; and through it all, I have learned that "Love NEVER Fails!"  It was a wet, winter Wednesday morning in Utah when I became Mrs. Jeff Baker, and I will never forget the warmth that overtook me as I dedicated my heart to my Handsome Prince Charming!  I was able to be married in His Mother's wedding gown, at the same location where my Parent's and Grandparents were married - SUCH a joy!!  We were married at 8:10 am and left directly after the ceremony for our Honeymoon Suite; then enjoyed our Reception three days later - Best Plan Ever!!

02/14/1990 - SLC, UT

     I have now been Mrs. Jeff Baker for more than half my life, and I can honestly say that I am honored to carry the name of Such a Valor Man of God!!  It hasn't always been easy, but it has certainly been worth it!  As I pause to reflect the many years I have been a wife, I am humbled by the Many lessons I have learned - generally the hard way.  I have learned the heartache of distractions, the value of Forgiveness, the mercy of Grace, the joy of Restoration, and the peace of Renewal!!  I have not always cherished this title, nor have I always brought honor and respect through my choices.  I have, however, grown in confidence as a Daughter of God which has enabled me to Honor the Wife that I am!  

     Along the way, I have discovered several resources that have SO blessed me as a wife.  Two of my favorites are:  "The Power of a Praying Wife" by Stormie Omartian, and  "The 5 Love Languages" by Gary Chapman.  We have gained wisdom and understanding about what God says for Husbands and Wives, and through the love and support of our Pastors, Drs. Tom and Maureen Anderson, we have developed a Kingdom Marriage!!

     Today, I want to encourage you that no matter where you are at in your relationship, God desires you to know His Love!  He is faithful to fulfill that which we commit our hearts to, and He is able to breathe life into our marriages!!  I can now relate to the Shulamite Girl in Song of Solomon as she declares, "Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth - for your love is better than wine!"  What a blessing it is to love and be loved with Such passion!  I LOVE that He's Still the One!!

     This Valentine's Day, I invite you to join us as we begin the "Love Language Challenge"!!  We have learned the value of working our commitment, and investing in our marriage; and so it is with great anticipation that we step into a 5 Week Journey of sowing Love into one another!  May your marriage be Richly Blessed, and may you know the Joy of Being Deeply Loved!  I am Grateful to Celebrate God's Very Best for me, and continue to thank Him for the opportunity of being Mrs. Jeff Baker!!

Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Baker
Celebrating 22 Years Together!

     

Wisemen STILL Seek Him!!

     Do you consider yourself to be wise?  How would we know?  Long ago, wise men were identified by their elaborate clothing/tunics, their abundant provisions, and their purposeful decisions.  What, then, sets us apart today as Wise?  

     2 years ago, I posted some thoughts on "where your treasure is, there your heart will also be" and challenged us to be found as the Wise Men of old - Seeking, Worshipping, and Giving!  As I now, revisit this idea that Wise Men Still Seek Him, I wonder - Do they?

     When you consider the word "wise", who do you envision?  I think of my Grandfather, and Pastors - men, who walk with Godly Character.  I also connect wisdom to my husband, who faithfully seeks to lead our family according to the Word/Will of God!  I think of Donald Trump and Bill Gates - men who have achieved great financial abundance; and I also consider women like Joyce Meyers and Marilyn Hickey whose passion for a God-Honoring life has positioned them among those of influence.  A common characteristic among these and the countless other "Wise" people, is Purpose!!  As an adjective, "Wise" is defined as follows: having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgement.  Wisdom, then is the quality or state of Being wise!

     Likewise, let's also consider again what it means to "seek".  The Greek define "seek" as pursuing a continued direction with determination.  "Seek", then, is a verb - it requires action!  Based on this information, it stands to reason that we would then desire to Be Wise in our Seeking!!  Let's get real now, and identify who or what are we seeking?  Are we seeking validation from our peers?  Are we seeking financial riches regardless of the costs?  Are we seeking love?  Are we seeking peace?  Perhaps, more importantly, are we wisely seeking?  

     The more I come to know and understand the nature of God (his DNA), the easier I can identify His Divine ability and desire to meet ALL of my needs according to His riches in Glory!  Therefore, it is Wise to "Seek First the Kingdom of God and HIS righteousness" knowing that "ALL these things shall be added to us!" - Matthew 6:33 NKJV  This is Amazing news!!  I love the simplicity and power of this promise!!!  

     What then sets us apart today as Wise?  Based on this information, Wise Men and Women Still Seek Him - thee One who Loves first!!  I invite you to join us this year as we PURPOSE to BE Wise in SEEKING Him First!!  

Merry CHRISTmas!

 Love, The Baker Bunch

The D.N.A. Domino Effect...

"By this ALL will know that You are My Disciples, 

if you have Love for One Another!"

 - John 13:35 NKJV

     This is a new season, and we are being called to Rise Up as Disciples N' Action (D.N.A.)!!  As we consider the enormity of this invitation, we are reminded that being a Disciple begins by being One Another minded!  I challenge you to join me in considering the domino effect your choices have.  What impact are you making in your world?  How are your relationships a reflection of your heart, your attitude and time?  Do you like what you see?  The D.N.A. Domino Effect is very much like The Law of the Harvest...you will reap what you sow.  If you want more joy in your life, BE joyful!  If you want more love, BE Loving!  If you want more grace, BE Graceful and Forgiving!  If you want more Peace, BE a Peacemaker!!  I know that when I actually consider the Domino Effect of my words, attitude and actions, I am Much more Purposeful!!  We serve a loving God who's very DNA enables new beginnings, second chances, restoration and healing!!  Let us purpose today to enter this Christmas Season with a heart of thanksgiving and praise as we Purposefully choose Plan BE!!

His Steadfast Love by Gloden Keys Parsons

CAPTIVATING!!!

Thank You, Booksneeze for the opportunity to preview this complementary ebook - it has truly been my pleasure!  I Highly recommend this incredible story for those desiring an adventure into the Civil War era...

This well-written, heartfelt story captivated my heart and my time!  I was moved by the vastness of God's grace as reflected through such vivid characters and settings!  I was awakened to a time where courage and freedom became powerful motivations; a time where reality seemed unreal, and faith, hope, and forgiveness became lifelines to a better tomorrow.  I was grateful for the power of  Love and Godly Character to heal deep wounds and restore families!  I am encouraged by the Happily Ever After of such Steadfast Love!!

May we also embrace the Grace of forgiveness and choose to walk a life of Peace and Love for others!!

On Faith and Forgiveness...

"Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins."

- Proverbs 10:12

Have you ever wished you could leave your past behind you?  I have!!  At the same time, have you ever pondered, in gratitude, the lessons learned ONLY having walked your past?  

It has been some time since my last post, as life's journey has seemed to explode!  Miraculous opportunities have opened (and closed) over the months, and I continue to walk in gratitude for God's provision, grace, and love!!  As I again pause to record a moment in time, I am quickly reminded of just how abundant life is!

I have long been a fan of Historical Fiction novels, particularly with a Christian theme; thus I was delighted when Bethany House Publisher gifted me an opportunity to review one of their titles!!  I received a free copy of  "to Win Her HEART" by Karen Witemeyer and eagerly dove in!!  Karen Witemeyer had already been added to my growing list of treasured authors for her ability to create deep emotions in me as I journeyed into her stories, and this novel was no different!!

As I have shared my journey, I have shared my struggle with accepting and offering forgiveness.  I have recorded numerous examples of God's grace and mercy as He gently reminded me of my worth as His daughter.  Needless to say, I felt immediately connected with the story line of "to Win Her HEART" as I reviewed the following synopsis:

A blacksmith with a criminal past. A librarian with pacifist ideals. Do they have a fighting chance at finding love?

Having completed his sentence for the unintentional crime that derailed his youthful plans for fame and fortune, Levi Grant looks to start over in the town of Spencer, Texas. Spencer needs a blacksmith, a trade he learned at his father’s knee, and he needs a place where no one knows his past. But small towns leave little room for secrets. . . .

Eden Spencer has sworn off men, choosing instead to devote her time to the lending library she runs. When a mountain-sized stranger walks through her door and asks to borrow a book, she steels herself against the attraction he provokes. His halting speech and hesitant manner leave her doubting his intelligence. Yet as the mysteries of the town’s new blacksmith unfold, Eden discovers hidden depths in him that tempt her heart.

Levi’s renewed commitment to his faith leads Eden to believe she’s finally found a man of honor and integrity, a man worthy of her love. But when the truth about his prodigal past comes to light, can this tarnished hero find a way to win back the librarian’s affections?

I immediately fell in love with the characters, as they struggled with the challenge of putting their pasts behind them.  I was moved by the evidence of God's grace to restore, as I have come to intimately know His faithfulness .  I delighted in Ms. Witemeyer's ability to include my emotions in that of the character's as she vividly guided me into an era of honor and faith.  I could relate to the discomfort of walking in love over judgement, and celebrated in the victory over the flesh!  

"to Win Her HEART" immediately captured mine, as I found myself taking every opportunity to "curl up" with Eden and Levi's adventures into Love.  Karen Witemeyer has once again created a "Happily Ever After" that left me feeling uplifted, encouraged, and loved!  I HIGHLY recommend you spend quality time walking through the pages of this inspiring novel as you consider your own Faith and Forgiveness!  Perhaps it is time to Rejoice in the Sweetness of Second Chances!!!

And Her Children Shall Rise Up and Call Her Blessed...

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!

I am SO blessed to be a mother!!  I cherish this season of growing and learning together with my amazing children!!  It is my deep desire to leave a legacy of love that will bring honor to God and my mother!  So, remember to tell that one, You Are Loved!!!

When Your Mess Becomes Your Message

"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose."
- Romans 8:28 (NKJV)

Recently, my friends at Proverbs 31 Ministries posted a blog with the title, When Your Mess Becomes Your Message. Micca focused on God's ability to heal us from addictions so that we can stand as a witness. It was moving, inspiring, and extremely touching. I am blessed to have avoided the struggle with drug and/or alcohol addictions; however, this title has stirred me to consider two important things:

1. What am I addicted to that pulls me away from God?
2. How awesome it is that my Father God has lovingly worked all things together for His good!

As you know, I strive to be transparent in sharing the lessons I have learned along the way, however, this process requires some trust. It is a vulnerable place to stand accountable before others in an attempt to glorify God, rather than validate behavior and choices. Jeff & I had the sweet opportunity to visit with some dear friends several weeks ago, and recount some of our amazing journey. As we began to share the choices we had made, and honestly the mess we had created, my heart softened again to the Savior, whom I believe made the ultimate sacrifice for me so that I could be redeemed from the very depths of the mess I had created. What an intimate example of love!

I can relate to the addict that has forgotten who they are as a child of the Most High. I can relate to the desperate woman bound by beliefs and behaviors that leave her feeling unworthy and worthless. I can relate to the rage of an unforgiving and burdened heart. I am certainly not proud of many decisions I have made over the past 20 years, however, I am very grateful for the gifts of grace, mercy, and forgiveness! I am even more grateful for the valuable perspective my mess has given me! Like David of old, it was through the very depths of my mess that I cried out and found a loving Heavenly Father that had never left me alone to fend for myself, but had already made provision for restoration. I found my Savior, Jesus Christ that selflessly paved the way for me. I found a depth of understanding that could not have come by any other means, and I found a love and peace that truly surpasses all understanding!

I know what it is to wake up in the middle of a mess and desperately want something more! I am grateful that my parents had instilled truths in me that quickly arose out of the mess of justification and rationalization to quickly point me to the only way out!! I am happy to share my journey in greater details, however, suffice it to say that I KNOW God loves us and desires to be in relationship with us; I KNOW that forgiveness is a process that brings life, love, and peace from either angle (needing forgiveness or offering it); I KNOW that healing and restoration comes when we are willing to let go!

I have learned many valuable lessons through my journey, and "Count it ALL Joy" to allow My Mess to Be My Message!! There is great power in sharing our journeys together as we uplift, encourage, and inspire one another onto the greatness instilled within us!

Thank you for blessing my life along the way!  May you continue to be blessed as Your Mess Becomes Your Message!!!

Nanette

Celebrating 20 Years!!!

Love is always bestowed as a gift freely, willingly, and without expectation. We don't love to be loved; we love to love.

Leo F. Buscaglia

20 years ago today, Jeff & I said I DO!! What an amazing journey it has been!! I am SO blessed by this covenant relationship!!! I am blessed for my testimony that God values this covenant for us and walks with us as we two become one!! I have experienced the joy of the Atonement in my marriage. I know the power of restoration that exists when we simply ask and willingly receive ALL that God has for us. I am SO blessed to share this amazing journey with my Best Friend, Lover, Protector, and Partner!!!

Wisemen Still Follow Him!

"And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary his mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh."

- Matthew 2:11

When the Wisemen of the day saw the star, they set out on a journey of love. They traveled for what is estimated as 2 years before they reached the One they had prepared their treasures for. We can learn much from these Wisemen! "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" - I am just beginning to realize the truth & depth of this insight. As I've pondered the lesson of the Wisemen, I've discovered 3 steps to gaining wisdom:

1. Seek

2. Worship

3. Give

The greek define "Seek" as pursuing a continued direction with determination to build a stronger relationship; To Worship is to really enter into an intimate relationship of honor and love; And to Give includes more than money - it includes our time, talents, encouragement, our heart! The Reward is that ALL our needs and wants are met!

We know that in this life, we WILL face challenges; the question I've been considering is have I been "Wise" at all times? Did I seek after God, make time to worship Him, and find opportunities to give when I felt blessed and abundant or does it take a trial to turn my heart towards the One who created me? I'd like to think I've always followed after this One with every passion within me, however, that would be a lie. The true story is that it took a moment in time that far exceeded my worst dreams to turn my heart toward the One who is my source and my strength.

It was 2 years ago this month that I began my own journey of love. Prior to that snowy morning, I was completely immersed in the world I had created that was based on one justification after another. I had spent most of my life looking for validation and fulfillment from anyone rather than THE One. I had turned my back on love believing I needed something more . I became a mom burdened with children. I had become a woman without purpose. I had given my heart over to the lies of an adversary that would stop at nothing to "kill, steal, and destroy". Praise God that the way out was already paved for me by the Gift of my Savior, His Son, even Jesus Christ!!

It was in this moment of desperation that I looked for a star that would lead me to ALL that I desired! I am still grateful for the mercy of our Heavenly Father! I had turned my back on him and given my heart to another, and yet the moment I cried out for Him, He was there with open arms! Just as promised, He had never left nor forsaken me, and so with a new sense of direction, I began my journey of love. Little did I know that this walk would bring great heartache, accountability, pain, healing, forgiveness, grace, love, and joy. Truly, as I began to Seek Father, I found a peace that surpassed understanding. I began to hunger and thirst after His righteousness! My passion to spend time with Father grew into a love affair of my heart! I noticed that as I sought after this intimacy with Father, He responded with abundant grace, love, purpose, joy, and understanding. I began to be wise.

I found that making time to worship Father in the midst of my heartbreak brought great comfort. I learned to trust...in this One who loves me in spite of myself, in myself, and in my love. I learned to forgive as I experienced forgiveness. I learned to focus as I found purpose. I learned to love. A habit and heart of worship was instilled in me that continues to flow through me!

I began to know the fulfillment of seeking and worshiping this One that gave so much for me, and in turn found joy in giving. I began to give precious treasure as I followed the examples laid out before me. I found the joy and blessing of giving my heart back to my Savior, my husband, and my children. How great is God to fill me with a renewed passion for these relationships. I was quickly filled with All that I had spent years looking for in all the wrong places! Isn't it sweet how blessed we are to open our eyes and find all we are seeking right in front of us?

This 2 year journey has brought great change! I have experienced healing and restoration in my marriage and family that could have only come by Divine Intervention! As I have followed after the Bright Morning Star, I have found the One! I have come to look forward with expectation to the reward of seeking, worshiping, and giving - not as "Shamu" looks for the reward of performance; but, rather as a daughter knowing her Father's delight in this journey! I do not believe or suggest that I have "arrived" at a destination of completion. I do know that I am on my way, and can find joy in the journey, and peace from the One that truly is my source!

It is my prayer this holiday season, that I would always be found Seeking, Worshiping, and Giving. I pray that I will continue to be Wise in both the seasons of learning as well as in times of harvest; through the easy and the difficult! May my treasures always point towards the One who holds my heart!

May God continue to bless you Always in All Ways!!

Merry Christmas!