I am stirred up today!! In this song, Zach Williams challenges us to "Testify"...So, let me tell you about my friend, Thee Chain Breaker. 20 years ago, I was reintroduced to the one who would offer grace, mercy, forgiveness, love and freedom to me. I say reintroduced, because I knew of Him my whole life, but didn't really "know" Him. As many of you know, I grew up in a home where faith was our foundation. My parents shared a conviction for their chosen religion that our family culture was based on. I witnessed miracles growing up and established great faith in God as a Father, Jesus as a Savior and the Holy Ghost as a Guide. But, it wasn't until right before I turned 25 that I really encountered the presence and power of Love.
Ironically, my first encounter with this Freedom was based on high-energy, life-giving music at a Church service rather than an experience of Love and Presence. I was moved by the passion and joy I experienced, but it wasn't until the second week that I really encountered the Love of a Savior, thee Chain Breaker! Fast forward a few years, after I had made some really dumb decisions that would impact my family for years to come, that I REALLY experienced His ability to bring Freedom. I had lost sight of His plans for my life, and had become self-centered, self-motivated, and just plain selfish. I had forgotten that joy and peace were found not in my works, but in what Jesus had already accomplished for me on the Cross. I had gotten so caught up in trying and doing that I lost touch with the one who had already done and accomplished. In my focus on self, I forgot how to connect with others, which cost me as a wife, mother, daughter, sister, etc.
Just as Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, I had to learn how to Trust in the Lord with my Whole heart, lean Not on my Own understanding, and seek His will in ALL I do, believing that He would show me which path to take. I can now testify that "there's a better life" than the selfish road I had been walking! The very moment I opened my heart to Him, I experienced HIS peace, which led to breakthrough and deliverance. He is thee Chain Breaker!! Be encouraged today as you ReTurn to Him!!
"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"
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!!
Today, it is my honor to Pray for Others as I PARK (Practice Acts of Random Kindness)!! I LOVE to pray!! It is one of my favorite things - getting to spend time with My Daddy; especially when we get to visit about you! I invite you to review my PARK Project post and add any requests you may have as we look to the One who Loves Completely, Provides for Abundantly and Cherishes Constantly!!
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 showedmercy 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!! :)
"For we are God's Masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus,
so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago."
- Ephesians 2:10 NLT
As we enter this Season of Harvest and Thanksgiving, I invite you to pause with me and consider Yourself as God's Masterpiece.
Courtesy of Bethany House Publisher, I received a copy of my Favorite Author's latest novel, the first in her new series set at The Belmont Mansion in Nashville, Tennessee. Tamera Alexander continues to challenge and inspire me through her historically rich, romantic fiction novels, and A Lasting Impression is no exception! In this post Civil War era, we are introduced to "a nation mending, the redemption of those wounded, and the courage of a man and woman to see themselves-and each other-for who they truly are."
This eloquently written story reminds me of God's Grace, His ability to Forgive and Restore, and His desire to lead us into Second Chances - FULL of Abundant Blessings! I wonder, how many times do we resist this progression in order to question our worthiness? How often do we get stuck in our "doing for others" that we forget whom we owe ALL of our ability and opportunity too?
I LOVE to meditate on what it means to "be God's Masterpiece...created to do good things He has planned for us long ago". I am not an artist, but as I connect with Claire Laurent's passion to create, I become aware of the emotion and delicacy involved in the process. I can imagine each brush stroke taken to design and blend the variety of colors into one beautiful masterpiece, and feel humbled considering God's love for me!! I begin to see the Joy of the Lord as He painfully placed His signature on our hearts, and treasure the thought of being considered priceless!!
"A Lasting Impression" is Rich with sweet lessons of faith, forgiveness, courage, honor, restoration, trust, and love!! I am blessed by the opportunity Tamera Alexander's writing gives me to not only enjoy a good story, gain some historical insights, but also to reflect and respond to my own heart condition! In this moment, I am left with the challenge of considering the "Why" behind my actions, and equally important, the Lasting Impression I am creating. May we be filled with Wisdom and Understanding as we continue to press forward in faith, and may you be blessed as God's Masterpiece!!!
"Answering Life's Challenges with Unshakable Faith"
Do you sometimes find yourself feeling alone and discouraged with your current circumstances? Are you stuck in a rut full of distractions? Do you hesitate to answer the phone, for fear of who might be on the other end with bad news? Brenda Warner shares her life and her heart in "One Call Away" as she considered similar questions. In this intimate glimpse, Brenda allows us to connect with her and her journey...a path that led her through Life's Challenges with Unshakable Faith!!
Book Description
Brenda’s life has taken twists and turns that are stranger than fiction. It always seemed as if she was just one phone call away from the next explosive change. Each time her plans fell apart, she had a choice: would she give up, or would she press forward and learn from the unexpected? One Call Away is the inspiring story of a woman who has prevailed through many of the circumstances that discourage women: tragedy, poverty, betrayal, and humiliation. But unlike most women, her life has been on display in the media.
Brenda’s faith and God’s strength enable her to face challenge after challenge: an accident that leaves her son blind and brain damaged, a crumbling marriage, a tornado that kills her parents, a new relationship with promising football player Kurt Warner, and the pressures his sudden success brings to their growing family.
Through food stamps and funerals, Super Bowls and serving others, Brenda’s strength is unwavering. Her determination to dream new dreams, willingness to learn from her mistakes, and commitment to giving back to her community make her a role model for women of all backgrounds.
Her dreams haven’t materialized as she had imagined, but Brenda has found that God has a much bigger plan for her. Conversational and candid, One Call Away invites readers facing their own difficulties to trust God and discover hope in the future.
I thoroughly enjoyed spending time reading about this Amazing, Inspiring woman!! I could SO relate to many of her experiences, responses, and choices to move forward on purpose! I appreciate her willingness and ability to be vulnerable as she brings Glory to God in All that He has done in her and through her!! This is a woman of action, and her memoir inspires me to do the same. Her and her family continue to do powerful, abundant work through "First Things First Foundation" as they put action to their testimony! I love her heart for children, and honor her for her sensitivity to celebrating the joy that they are!! I am encouraged by her faith as she pressed forward regardless of her circumstances! As I review my complementary ebook from Booksneeze, I am in gratitude for this woman who chooses to honor God in such an outloud and profound way! I highly recommend this book for anyone asking the above questions, as well as those looking for inspiration and motivation to carry on!! Like Brenda, it has been my experience that no matter where we are in our journey, God is only One Call Away. Knowing that gives me hope for tomorrow, faith for the future, and an ability to find joy in the journey!!
"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."
- John 3:16
Are you weary in Running YOUR Race? Are there days when you feel overwhelmed and unable? Be encouraged today, knowing that you are Never alone!!
There have been times in my life when I have forgotten the promise that "I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me Strength"!! I have tried to DO my life as if I was on my own, and it was in these moments that I have felt overwhelmed and unable. It is also in these moments that I have made poor decisions - never my finest moments!! It has only been by the Grace of God that I "Run and Not grow weary, Walk and Not faint"!! It is also through this Grace that I find strength, wisdom, and ability to BE about my Father's business!!
So, today as you consider your journey; may you run with the ease of being carried by the One who loves you most, and Rest in His loving, gracious, and very capable arms!!
"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 Witemeyerand 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!!!
What is this peace? The Hebrew, Shalom translates as safe, that is (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, that is health, prosperity, peace: to be well wholly. Love it!
My thoughts today are drawn to the desire for peace. Psalm 34:14 counsels us to "seek peace, and pursue it!" Again, the Hebrew for pursue is Radaph - to run after, chase, or hunt. THIS I can relate to! I totally know what it is to pursue peace with a passion!! I am familiar with difficult situations and circumstances where fear bombards my thoughts and leaves me with the choice to seek hard after peace or to stay stuck in worry and doubt. We've known the pain of financial struggle - no income, bills to pay. Like many of you, we too have felt the sting of broken relationships, gossip, and betrayal. Recently, we have even come to know the heartache of a child being victimized in most unthinkable ways. We know that in this life, there Will Be pain and seasons of trial; so, where do we focus during these times? Where do we look for peace?
I heard a friend recently struggling to find security. She was looking to "man and the world" for a sense of knowing - a stable income, home ownership, roots. As she shared her desire and journey, I became aware of her Real search for peace. I have come to understand that often times when we seek security, we look to man for the solution, and forever seem unsatisfied. Conversely, when we seek peace and look to the One who promises an endless supply, our internal struggle with fear subsides. I am convinced that as long as we choose to dance with fear, doubt, and worry; we miss out on the opportunity to know peace, joy, and love!!
I am grateful for my relationship with a Heavenly Father that is the source of endless peace in ALL circumstances. I have heard the knock of our loving Savior who stands ready. I have considered the depth of the Atonement that covers not only the offense, the pain of being offended, as well as the offender! God knows the intent of the Adversary to "kill, steal, and destroy" and has so paved a way for us to follow!
I know that God moves among the pieces!! God stands ready and able to assist us in putting the pieces of life together peacefully! Choosing to Trust God has been one of the most difficult and rewarding decisions I make on a daily basis!! Looking to God as my source and security is an act of faith that ALWAYS brings peace!! Trusting that I am not alone in my journey to discern the pieces of life brings peace! Enjoying the Divinely appointed friendships in my life, brings peace and encouragement!
I also know that if I can find peace among my pieces, so can you! Trust God, look to him as the author and finisher of your faith! I pray that we will be encouraged in our journey to seek peace, and pursue it with renewed energy!
Yesterday was "Ash Wednesday", typically a Catholic tradition which begins a season of reflection called Lent; and, although I am not Catholic, I can relate to the value of reflecting on the life I'm leading and how it may or may not reflect the life of the Savior and draw me closer to Him. Traditionally, this time of Lent begins a 40 day journey, ending with the celebration of Easter. For many, this is a time of letting go of habits that distract us. Again, I know and understand the value of letting go of bad habits and distractions!! Often times, this is also a season of fasting, prayer, and study; a time to remember the life, death, and resurrection of our Savior. What a great idea!!! I've noticed in my life, the times when I've recognized a bad habit or distraction, the Only way to let go is by invoking the powers of heaven to assist me! I am grateful to know that God IS Faithful! I have also come to know Jesus as my Savior, Intercessor, and Friend. He is my best friend who knows Everything about me, and SO desires for me to succeed in Every area of my life! He is the one I am totally transparent with, who loves me in spite of myself! He is the one whom I can trust to always see me through the loving eyes of our Father. He knows my heart and He knows where my distractions are, He also knows an easier way!
I was thinking of my other Very Best Friend and Sweetheart, Jeff. We have been married now for more than half of my life. He knows me intimately, and often times can recognize things about me that I just don't see. He also loves me enough to be open and honest in his feedback. Now, for many years I resented this fact! I spent a lot of time hearing his loving support as critical judgments, Totally unfounded in truth. I found myself being defensive, defiant, disrespectful, disgusted, and eventually disloyal. What a dangerous road to choose!!! In my self-righteous pride, I had taken the love and support offered me and watered it down to the point of holding No value. On top of that, I found myself complaining that I didn't feel loved. I then decided to wallow in self-pity and even enrolled others to join me. I was quite the hostess at this incredible Pity Party!! I had spared no expense! I found myself feeling alone, empty, and hurting; when in reality, I was being offered abundant love and support. How had I gotten so confused? Why would I resist such an offer? It took me a Long time of reflecting and letting go to see this resistance as a distraction, one of the Adversary's greatest tactics. If Satan can get us distracted and believing the lies He tells, then He wins! The Scriptures are full of wise counsel to stay focused, and on purpose!! I am grateful for Love that corrects and forgives! I am grateful for the power of Grace, Mercy, and Redemption!!! I am grateful for new beginnings!! This time of year also happens during Spring, a time of new beginnings! A time when the earth wakes up, dusts itself off, and starts all over again! Isn't it exciting that we too have this opportunity? I invite you to spend this next 40 days reflecting. I encourage you to be willing to be open and honest about where you might be distracted. Where have you replaced love and support with food, medication, etc.? Where has your self-righteous pride interfered with relationships and blessings? I even dare you to consider your own relationship with Jesus Christ.
I can promise you that this journey, however uncomfortable it may be, will be worth it! I KNOW and have experienced the power of receiving the grace and mercy to let go, and redemption to to begin again! You can start fresh, with new wisdom, new habits, new choices. God wants to bless you with Peace, Joy, Prosperity, Health, Wisdom, Understanding, Forgiveness and Love. Let this be the year when you decide to break free from the distractions of this world and set your sights on the Savior!! Be ferocious in your quest for freedom! Be Unwavering in your faith! Be Bold in moving forward!! Be Open to receive ALL that you desire and deserve!! Be Courageous in seeking Salvation.
I believe that God has Great things in store for those that love and trust Him!! I know that We choose if will be our Best of Times or Worst of Times! Please don't be like me and waist precious time wallowing! I am passionate about the joy of letting go, and being on purpose!! I know God will do miraculous things with our willing hearts!! This season, I pray that we choose to "Let our Lifesong Sing"!!
