Transition

Transition-a passage, a movement, an abrupt change. No where do you see a stop or pause in a transition...there is movement...forward changing movement. Thank you Lord that although we are in a transitional phase of our lives we are not at a stop. Thank you that YOU know the plans you have for us...plans of a future filled with hope! :)

Lift my Hands

I lift my hands up to you Lord. Despite all that is going on, despite what I think and feel I will continue to lift my hands up to you. My heart is broken and I don't understand but I will lift my hands to believe again. I know you have the best in store and I will trust You know what is best. Again my heart is broken and my mind is confused but I know that you are faithful and I will place my trust in you!

This Baby Changed the World

Merry Christmas

  Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.  And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS.  He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David.  And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”  And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.  Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.”  Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.  Luke 1:30-38

Oh to have this kind of faith to answer the way Mary did!!!

Charlie in the Box

 "Halt who goes there?!"  said Charlie in the Box.    The conversation below is from none other than "Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer". 

Charlie-In-The-Box: I am the official sentry of the Isle of Misfit Toys.
Hermey: A jack-in-the-box for a sentry?
Charlie-In-The-Box: Yes. My name is...
Rudolph: Don't tell me: Jack.
Charlie-In-The-Box: No, Charlie. That's why I'm a misfit toy. My name is all wrong. No child wants to play with a Charlie-In-The-Box, so I had to come here.


Have you ever felt like a "Charlie in the Box"?  Feel like you don't fit in or belong.  Boy I sure have, more than once.  In fact sorta feeling like that right now in a few places in my life.  Just don't fit in, seem to be on the outside looking in.   Well Jesus was a "Charlie in the Box!"  He didn't fit in with what society expected of him.  He was an outcast and yet EVERYONE wanted to be friends with him.  They would journey hundreds of miles just to get a glimpse of him, crawl on their news just to touch the hem of his garment!  God uses the rich and poor, the beautiful and the ugly, the popular and the unpopular.  You may feel like a "Charlie" but know this...GOD HAS A PLAN FOR YOU!!!!  And it will be fulfilled if you truly seek after HIM!!!

Patience...Waiting...not my favorite!

"Patience ~ an ability or willingness to suppress annoyance when confronted with delay. Waiting ~ a pause, interval, or delay." These two words and definitions go hand in hand and I for one do not like either of them....just being honest.

   Right now we are "waiting" to hear from the two churches that interviewed Sean for the lead pastor's position.  We are having to be "patient" while we "wait."   I know it's the holidays and I know that the boards/committees of these churches may put off making a decision until after Christmas...which means a whole month of waiting.

I do not like waiting or patience. Never have never will.  I am sure there is a reason why God likes to keep teaching me this lesson.  Sooner or later, probably later never , I will learn that it's ok to wait and be patient.  Right now is not that time!

I want to be able to say that I would be ok with the doors closing...honestly I won't be ok with it!  But I would rather have a closed door than be in this waiting game with these two churches. UGH!

Poor People

Saw this posted on Facebook and thought it was worth a repeat for the blogging world.

POOR PEOPLE ?

One day, the father of a very wealthy family took his son on a trip to the country with the express purpose of showing him how poor people live. They spent a couple of days and nights on the farm of what would be considered a very poor family.

On their return from their trip, the father asked his son, 'How was the trip?'

'It was great, Dad.'

'Did you see how poor people live?' the father asked.

'Oh yeah,' said the son.

'So, tell me, what did you learn from the trip?' asked the father.

The son answered:

'I saw that we have one dog and they had four.
We have a pool that reaches to the middle of our garden and they have a creek that has no end. We have imported lanterns in our garden and they have the stars at night. Our patio reaches to the front yard and they have the whole horizon. We have a small piece of land to live on and they have fields that go beyond our sight. We have servants who serve us, but they serve others. We buy our food, but they grow theirs. We have walls around our property to protect us, they have friends to protect them.'

The boy's father was speechless.

Then his son added, 'Thanks Dad for showing me how poor we are.'

Isn't perspective a wonderful thing? Makes you wonder what would happen if we all gave thanks for everything we have, instead of worrying about what we don't have.

Appreciate every single thing you have, especially your friends!

Pass this on to friends and acquaintances and help them refresh their perspective and appreciation.

'Life is too short and friends are too few.'

By: Author Tom Baker

Forks

Ever been on a hike or a river adventure and you come to a fork in the road so to speak?  Two paths that lead to the same destination, different characteristics, sights to see things to do and yet they lead to the same goal.  That is what we are looking at right now.  Two separate churches are interested in Sean as their pastor. Both from all that we know on the surface look the same a few differences but both appear to be great opportunities.  Sometimes when faced with a fork in the road it is hard to know which path to take.  Right now we are faced with this situation.  Naturally the outcome is yet to be seen.  For all we know both doors will close and we could be back at the starting point again. We only want what God wants for our family.
  We know no matter the outcome He knows what is best.  This is like a roller coaster for the emotions and thoughts...I really dislike roller coasters...specially this close to Christmas! UGH!

   Lord make the path clear and straight that we would know what to do if given an option and we would follow only what you have for us!  Amen 

SMILES

Yep I am smiling again.  Although I was sad the other day when we received some news that was disheartening now that we have the full story I am much happier.  This weekend Sean preached at Daysprings A/G in Frenchburg, KY.  It is a beautiful church and the congregation is so loving.  They took to our kids so quickly, it really doesn't surprise me though our children are wonderful.  Anyway, the church board is interested in Sean and after this weekend we believe that they may be calling and inviting us to come back for a church vote, a vote for pastor.
    We were so blessed by their worship and the anointing was so sweet.  The presence of God just filled that place and I know people were touched!  We loved it from the moment we walked into the sanctuary. We hope they call us!  We would be honored to serve these people and this community.
   During the worship time this 6 year old little girl sang, "Waiting Here for You   " and WOW!  That little one blew me away!  I love the song anyway but there is something about a little child raising her hands to the Lord and singing with all her might to the Lord.  Just such a blessing!

Frown

My heart hurts.   

Some very disappointing events have taken place that I am not going to expand on here.  

But if you read this blog please just pray for our family.  Thanks

Standing on this scripture verse today!

I know the plans that I have for you, declares the LORD. 

They are plans for peace and not disaster, plans to give 

you a future filled with hope. Jer 29:11

The Visitor

Once gain someone has posted this little story.  This time it's on Facebook.  No one to credit but would love to give credit where credit is do.  I hope this challenges you the next time you see a visitor in your church.

****************************************

A man went to visit a church, He got there early, parked his car and got out. Another car pulled up near the driver got out and said, "I always park there!

You took my place!"

The visitor went inside for Sunday School, found an empty seat and sat down A young lady from the church approached him and stated, "That's my seat! You took my place!" The visitor was somewhat distressed by this rude wel...come, but said nothing.

After Sunday School, the visitor went into the sanctuary and sat down. Another member walked up to him and said, " That's where I always sit! You took my place!" The visitor was even more troubled by this treatment, but still He said nothing.

Later as the congregation was praying for Christ to dwell among them, the visitor stood up, and his appearance began to change. Horrible scars became visible on his hands and on his sandaled feet. Someone from the congregation noticed him and called out, "What happened to you?" The visitor replied, as his hat became a crown of thorns, and a tear fell from his eye, "I took your place.."

The Storm

This morning a friend sent me the following story in an email.  It had been forwarded to her from another friend and that friend had received it as a forward as well.  I would LOVE to give credit to the original author of the story but am unable to but I wanted to take time to share it with you today.  All of us go through storms in life and this really touched my heart and made me think of His faithfulness during those times!


THE STORM

A pastor had been on a long flight between church conferences..

The first warning of the approaching problems came when the sign on the airplane flashed on: Fasten Your Seat-Belts. Then, after a while, a calm voice said, "We shall not be serving the beverages at this time as we are expecting a little turbulence.  Please be sure your seat belt is fastened."

As the pastor looked around the aircraft, it became obvious that many of the passengers were becoming apprehensive.  Later, the voice on the intercom said, "We are so sorry that we are unable to serve the meal at this time. The turbulence is still ahead of us."

And then the storm broke .

The ominous cracks of thunder could be heard even above the roar of the engines. Lightning lit up the darkening skies, and within moments that great plane was like a cork tossed around on a celestial ocean. One moment the airplane was lifted on terrific currents of air; the next, it dropped as if it were about to crash.

The pastor confessed that he shared the discomfort and fear of those around him.  He said, "As I looked around the plane, I could see that nearly all the passengers were upset and alarmed. Some were praying. The future seemed ominous and many were wondering if they would make it through the storm.

"Then, I suddenly saw a little girl. Apparently the storm meant nothing to her. She had tucked her feet beneath her as she sat on her seat; she was reading a book and everything within her small world was calm and orderly.  "Sometimes she closed her eyes, then she would read again; then she would straighten her legs, but worry and fear were not in her world.

When the plane was being buffeted by the terrible storm when it lurched this way and that, as it rose and fell with frightening severity, when all the adults were scared half to death, that marvelous child was completely composed and unafraid." The minister could hardly believe his eyes.

It was not surprising therefore, that when the plane finally reached its destination and all the passengers were hurrying to disembark, our pastor lingered to speak to the girl whom he had watched for such a long time.

Having commented about the storm and the behavior of the plane, he asked why she had not been afraid. The child replied, "Cause my Daddy's the pilot, and he's taking me home."

There are many kinds of storms that buffet us. Physical, mental, financial, domestic, and many other storms can easily and quickly darken our skies and throw our plane into apparently uncontrollable movement. We have all known such times, and let us be honest and confess, it is much easier to be at rest when our feet are on the ground than when we are being tossed about a darkened sky.

Let us remember: Our Father is the Pilot. He is in control and taking us home.
Don't worry!

Ever Faithful

Yesterday during our worship service we sang “Never Let Go.”  Here are a few of the chorus lyrics in case you are not sure what I am talking about…

“Ever faithful, Ever true, You I know You never let go, 

You never let go, You never let go, You never let go”

We have sung this song a few times before but this time was different.  You see during the weekend a brother in Christ lost his battle with cancer but won the victory over death as he entered through the pearly gates of heaven.  While we were singing the Lord was speaking to my heart.  In times of great strife, storms, illness, and the death of loved ones we often times question where is God?  Why has He left us?  Why has He allowed this to happen?  Sometimes it’s hard to remember that He is right there with us during those tough times.

   You see God NEVER lets us go.  Once we accept Him as our Savior He grabs a hold of us and refuses to let go.  What the Lord was showing me yesterday is that it is during those times of storms that He holds on to us even tighter. When we are questioning where He is, He is there holding onto us with all of his might.  In the case of this dear brother in Christ, the Lord showed me that God was there with him, holding on so tight that when the pain he was in was too much to bare Jesus said, “That’s enough, it’s time to come home,”  removing him from the pain and the disease, holding him tightly, never letting him go. 

  If you are hurting today, struggling with “where are you God” in the midst of your storm know this…

God is there! He hasn’t let your side! He will NEVER let you go, in fact in the midst of your storm He is there holding you tighter than ever before!  God’s word promises us, “For the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deut 31:6b

In His Grip,

Here in Your Presense

 Tonight I just want to sit in your presence Lord!  I want to feel your arms wrapped around me, knowing all things are in your control.  Feeling your touch, wiping all my fears away!  Lord just as the lyrics of this song state, all fear is suddenly wiped away.  Lord you know how I do not like not knowing how events will play out.  There are so many scenarios playing out in my mind and all I want is peace.  I trust You fully and know what ever door you open or even if you shut all of them that you know what you are doing.  Just need your reassurance tonight in a real way!  I long for more of your presence in my life Lord!  More of you and less of me!  


Found in Your hands, fullness of joy
Every fear suddenly wiped away here in Your presence
All of my gains now fade away
Every crown no longer on display, here in Your presence
Heaven is trembling in awe of Your wonders
The kings and their kingdom are standing amazed

Chorus:
Here in Your presence, we are undone
Here in Your presence, Heaven and Earth become one
Here in Your presence, all things are new
Here in Your presence, everything bows before You

Bridge:
Wonderful, beautiful, glorious, matchlessin every way
Wonderful, beautiful, glorious, matchlessin every way

More lyrics: http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/n/new_life_worship/#share

Thoughts

SO many things on my mind....

* Do I need to downsize more for when God moves us?
* What do I keep and what do I give away?
* Where is He going to send us?
* Why must my children scream when in the house?
* What is God thinking? (A church in KS has contacted us as has one in KY)
* What if after everything we end up moving to KS...will I love it there as much as I do KY?
* How can we pay off the rest of our debts the fastest way?
* How can we afford to move?

This is just a few things on my mind...they all  (except one) depend on faith and trust in God.  God alone knows where we are suppose to be, I just don't want to move and then be longing to be back in KY.  So God if it is your will for us to move anywhere but in the state of KY then I pray you will remove the desire to live here.  When we move (we have moved to different homes and states 6 times in 14 years) I pray that it be the last time we move.  I want to set roots in the next place and feel like we are "home"! 

Resting Under His Wings

Earlier this week a friend posted this picture on Facebook.  I immediately thought of this scripture,
Ps 91:4..."He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge."  My friend Cindy shared that a friend of hers and sent the picture to her and she had no idea who took it. I ask if I could use it specifically for this blog and well here it is.  I just find it comforting to look at.  Reminds me that God is there no matter how far I run, or what I do, if I will turn back to him I will find refuge.  A safe haven.  Anyone else out there need a place to find rest, a safe place to rest?  Thank you Jesus that you cover us with your wings of mercy and protect us from harm.  You got our backs and for that we thank you Lord!

Creaking Door

God has a sense of humor, He really does.  A door that we thought was closed is may now be open again.  Only this time it is creaking open.  We were contacted and now starting the beginning process of the interviews.  We are trusting God to tend to every detail and cover us with his favor.  If you read this blog you know we have been seeking ministry opportunities for some time now (over a year).  This may be the one and it may not but what we do know is it is in His hands and we are trusting Him to open the door WIDE!

You Reap What You Sow

A friend of mine sent me this in an email.  I hope it touches your heart, makes you think and makes you want to act like it did me!  ***************************************************************** Good morning said a woman as she walked up to the man sitting on ground. The man slowly looked up.   This was a woman clearly accustomed to the finer things of life. Her coat was new.. She looked like she had never missed a meal in her life. His first thought was that she wanted to make fun of him, like so many others had done before.. "Leave me alone," he growled.... To his amazement, the woman continued standing. She was smiling -- her even white teeth displayed in dazzling rows. "Are you hungry?" she asked. "No," he answered sarcastically. "I've just come from dining with the president. Now go away." The woman's smile became even broader. Suddenly the man felt a gentle hand under his arm. "What are you doing, lady?" the man asked angrily. "I said to leave me alone. Just then a policeman came up. "Is there any problem, ma'am?" he asked.. "No problem here, officer," the woman answered. "I'm just trying to get this man to his feet. Will you help me?" The officer scratched his head. "That's old Jack. He's been a fixture around here for a couple of years. What do you want with him?" "See that cafeteria over there?" she asked. "I'm going to get him something to eat and get him out of the cold for awhile." "Are you crazy, lady?" the homeless man resisted. "I don't want to go in there!" Then he felt strong hands grab his other arm and lift him up. "Let me go, officer. I didn't do anything." " This is a good deal for you, Jack" the officer answered. "Don't blow it.." Finally, and with some difficulty, the woman and the police officer got Jack into the cafeteria and sat him at a table in a remote corner. It was the middle of the morning, so most of the breakfast crowd had already left and the lunch bunch had not yet arrived... The manager strode across the cafeteria and stood by his table. "What's going on here, officer?" he asked. "What is all this, is this man in trouble?" "This lady brought this man in here to be fed," the policeman answered. "Not in here!" the manager replied angrily. "Having a person like that here is bad for business.." Old Jack smiled a toothless grin. "See, lady. I told you so. Now if you'll let me go. I didn't want to come here in the first place." The woman turned to the cafeteria manager and smiled....... "Sir, are you familiar with Eddy and Associates, the banking firm down the street?" "Of course I am," the manager answered impatiently. "They hold their weekly meetings in one of my banquet rooms." "And do you make a godly amount of money providing food at these weekly meetings?" "What business is that of yours?" I, sir, am Penelope Eddy, president and CEO of the company." "Oh." The woman smiled again. "I thought that might make a difference." She glanced at the cop who was busy stifling a giggle. "Would you like to join us in a cup of coffee and a meal, officer?" "No thanks, ma'am," the officer replied. "I'm on duty." "Then, perhaps, a cup of coffee to go?" "Yes, maam. That would be very nice." The cafeteria manager turned on his heel, "I'll get your coffee for you right away, officer." The officer watched him walk away. "You certainly put him in his place," he said. "That was not my intent. Believe it or not, I have a reason for all this." She sat down at the table across from her amazed dinner guest. She stared at him intently.. "Jack, do you remember me?" Old Jack searched her face with his old, rheumy eyes. "I think so -- I mean you do look familiar." "I'm a little older perhaps," she said. "Maybe I've even filled out more than in my younger days when you worked here, and I came through that very door, cold and hungry." "Ma'am?" the officer said questioningly. He couldn't believe that such a magnificently turned out woman could ever have been hungry. "I was just out of college," the woman began. "I had come to the city looking for a job, but I couldn't find anything. Finally I was down to my last few cents and had been kicked out of my apartment. I walked the streets for days. It was February and I was cold and nearly starving. I saw this place and walked in on the off chance that I could get something to eat." Jack lit up with a smile. "Now I remember," he said.. "I was behind the serving counter. You came up and asked me if you could work for something to eat. I said that it was against company policy." "I know," the woman continued. "Then you made me the biggest roast beef sandwich that I had ever seen, gave me a cup of coffee, and told me to go over to a corner table and enjoy it. I was afraid that you would get into trouble... Then, when I looked over and saw you put the price of my food in the cash register, I knew then that everything would be all right." "So you started your own business?" Old Jack said. "I got a job that very afternoon. I worked my way up. Eventually I started my own business that, with the help of God, prospered." She opened her purse and pulled out a business card.. "When you are finished here, I want you to pay a visit to a Mr. Lyons...He's the personnel director of my company. I'll go talk to him now and I'm certain he'll find something for you to do around the office." She smiled. "I think he might even find the funds to give you a little advance so that you can buy some clothes and get a place to live until you get on your feet... If you ever need anything, my door is always opened to you." There were tears in the old man's eyes. "How can I ever thank you?" he said. "Don't thank me," the woman answered. "To God goes the glory. Thank Jesus...... He led me to you." Outside the cafeteria, the officer and the woman paused at the entrance before going their separate ways.... "Thank you for all your help, officer," she said. "On the contrary, Ms. Eddy," he answered. "Thank you. I saw a miracle today, something that I will never forget. And..And thank you for the coffee." ! God is going to shift things around for you today and let things work in your favor.

Steps

It's October!  I can not believe this year is slipping away and I feel as if I can't reign it in.  It's a crisp cool day here in Ky, 46 degrees and I am for sure NOT ready for these temps!  Thankfully by the end of the week we will be back up to the high 70s low 80s.   I prefer temps in the 70/80.  We are still seeking God about ministry.  Just waiting on Him.  We are doing our part, sending resumes, praying, believing for open doors.  Not sure there is anything else we can do.  Sometimes, most of the time, I wish God would give us a manual telling us what to do next.  Oh I know we have the Bible and it is a manual for our lives but I am talking about what to do in this process of knocking on doors.  I just want to know the next step.  Trusting blindly in full faith that His plan will be revealed.

And yet....

We will still praise Him!  We have sent out a total of 12 resumes to churches seeking a new pastor and so far have had 5 doors close. The sweet sound of silence is sometimes golden and other times it is troubling.  It is when the silence is broken and then a door is closed.   Many times its the waiting in the silence that is more aggravating than the closed door. This process of applying and then waiting for an answer is .... well .... it's just plan frustrating.  Sometimes those in leadership at the churches we apply to are kind enough to let us know they received the resume, other times they are kind enough to send a letter letting us know they have elected a pastor.  Other times we get NO RESPONSE at all even after we have tried contacting them a few times.  Personally I would rather have a disappointing letter than no response ever.
   Well regardless how many doors shut in our face we will praise the Lord.  He is worthy of our praise PERIOD!

Transition

So instead of writing here I wanted to share what I wrote over at Pastoring Partners Network about the Season of Transition.  I am one of the guest writers there along with other women that are in ministry.  It is a great place to be encouraged and challenged as women in ministry.  You can also check out the message boards to see what people are talking about.  It's a place to find support, encouragement and help from women who "get it." You can be yourself or you can sign on undercover to protect your identity.  Come and check out what PPN is all about!

He is so Faithful

After a year of trying to get a better position with higher pay, in the company that Sean works for, Sean has finally been rewarded for his hard and dedicated work!  YAHOO!  God came through again.  He always does.  I can spend my days stressed and worried or I can chose to trust Him to do as His word says and that is "He shall supply all of our needs!" I am learning and it hasn't been an easy year but I am learning to put all of my trust in Him and not in what we are able to do!  Thank You Lord for once again proving yourself to us.  Not like You even have to do so but because You love us you do it over and over and over and over again!

Surrendering to YOU

My dear friend Pastor Tara posted this song on Facebook tonight.  You can read her blog here!  I highly recommend reading Tara's blog called The Fight Within.  I do believe I have found the song of the year for my life.  I will share it in a second or you can just scroll down and click play.  But this past week has been an awesome week!  Have spent this past week watch General Council and the Influence Conference for the Assemblies of God via the internet.  You can listen in on the sessions via videos now at General Council. Anyway they were very powerful messages.  God got a hold of my heart like never before... uhm ...well not in a long time have I surrendered everything to Him the way I did this past week.  I am so thankful for His touch and His Holy Spirit that has been gently calling me to Him.  God has set me free of some things this week that I am not going to share here but this song I am sharing really explains a lot!

A Dream I'm Dreaming

I can almost see it
That dream I am dreaming
But there's a voice inside my head saying
"You'll never reach it"

Every step I'm taking
Every move I make feels
Lost with no direction
My faith is shaking

But I gotta keep trying
Gotta keep my head held high

There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

The struggles I'm facing
The chances I'm taking
Sometimes might knock me down
But no, I'm not breaking

I may not know it
But these are the moments that
I'm gonna remember most, yeah
Just gotta keep going

And I, I got to be strong
Just keep pushing on

'Cause there's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah!

There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be an uphill battle
Somebody's gonna have to lose

Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah!

Keep on moving, keep climbing
Keep the faith, baby
It's all about, it's all about the climb
Keep the faith, keep your faith, whoa

Closed Doors

Closed doors...a year ago a couple of weeks ago I would be complaining, throwing a fit, doubting what God was/is doing and most definitely would be questioning why God has closed yet again another door.  I can't say that in the future I won't wonder or question. I don't think there is anything wrong with questioning God and asking why and what His plans are as long as my heart is in the right place and that is a place of trusting Him.  But I have had to repent and ask Him forgiveness when I have done a lot of complaining!
   Anyway today we learned two doors to ministry have been closed.  I am not stressed, worried or even releaved to be honest.  Just thankful that God has closed those doors.  It means He has another plan, a better plan and in that I am very thankful!  "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord.  Those plans are to give me a future, hope and will bring glory to His name!  I know what ever door He plans to open He already has it prepared for us and is preparing us for it!
   In Your will Lord that's where I always want to be!

My Dearest Friend

I don't know how to say exactly how I feel
And I can't begin to tell you what your love has meant
I'm lost for words
Is there a way to show the passion in my heart
Can I express how truly great I think you are
My dearest friend
Lord, this is my desire
To pour my love on You

Chorus:
Like oil upon your feet
Like wine for you to drink
Like water from my heart
I pour my love on you
If praise is like perfume
I'll lavish mine on you
Till every drop is gone
I'll pour my love on you

Dancing with the Father

Lately I haven't been posting much of anything substantial but today I want to share some things the Lord has shown me over the weekend.  On Sunday, during worship, the Lord showed me some pictures that I want to share with you.  I have tried to find some pictures on the web that can illustrate what I saw and I hope it helps you see what the Lord showed me!

 

First picture was of the Father holding a baby or small child in the air dancing in circles. 

The child was in full trust of her Father as they danced, no fear of falling, 

complete eye contact, and full of love and trust.

 

How fun!  To stand on your Father's feet, trusting his steps

and yet with out stretched arms.

 

The last with the daughter's head against the father's chest in a warm embrace.

 

Now what the Lord revealed to me is that when we first accept Him as our Savior we are like a small child or baby who fully trusts the Lord, never taking our eyes off of him, fully trusting his hands to support us, guide us and protect us.  As we grow we experience things that keep us at bay.  We trust the Lord (represented by our feet on our father's feet as we dance) but we want to do things our way (arms stretched out keeping our father at bay).  Oh we want to know His plans and we want to follow Him but by our terms and how we think He wants us to go.  But the last scene of the child with her head on her Father's chest represents how the Father wants us.  He wants us in his warm embrace. Fully trusting Him!  With our ear against His chest hearing His heart beat.  HEARING HIS HEART BEAT!!!  How are we to hear His heart beat for our lives without that warm embrace.  Trusting, relying on, fully engulfed by his arms.  Hearing His heart beat so much so that if it beats to the left we follow and if it beats to the right we follow.  To fully know what God wants for our lives, to trust and obey we must hear His heart beat!!! 

   I will be honest, I tend to be the little girl on His feet but with outstretched arms keeping Him at bay.  Oh I fully trust the Lord but I want to see around me (and Him) at times, to see if there is a way out of a situation instead of being embraced in His arms.  What I have found is that when I am in that position I am longing to be in His embrace hearing His heart beat.   You would think after 22 years of dancing with the Lord as an adult I would realize I need to be within His embrace hearing His heart beat.  For it is within that embrace that I have peace, I have rest, I have comfort and protection.  

   I don't know about you but I am choosing today to dance within His embrace to hear His heart beat for my life.  What are you going to chose to do?

He Is.

Such a timely song! We are in a waiting place. Casting out nets and waiting for the Lord to fill them with a new destination, a new place of ministry. We are waiting on Him and this song reassures me that He is there.

Words

Wondering
Trusting
Dreaming
Hoping
Wishing
Expecting
Accepting
Wanting
Needing

A word of direction from my Lord!

Nuff Said

You ARE for Me!

I know that you are For me! I know you are! I know that you are for me! I know you are!
What a morning! Seriously! I can't shake this feeling that some how I have missed something important! So many thoughts are going through my mind right now. Too many to be honest.
This morning as I was walking back from getting the mail and was opening an item I felt this major weight about leap off my shoulders and then as I began reading the letter realized that even though this great opportunity has presented itself to us, there is no way it will happen. Which is why I must remind myself that God is FOR ME! He is not against me. He wants this opportunity to take place he does really! So I must trust Him to provide the means for it to take place.
I am realizing that either I am a very negative person or that I deal with the facts so much that having faith for something to take place is just a leap of faith every time. Reality just stinks to be honest sometimes. There are many times I can read the scripture and although it may be positive the reality of a situation becomes so much bigger than what the scripture says in my mind. I need God to be bigger than my circumstances. I KNOW He is but sometimes I need to SEE it take place!
God this is an opportunity to take some pressure off our shoulders financially. It won't really change anything in our daily events but to take just a little more pressure off of Sean and myself would be such a wonderful and healthy thing. God I know you are for me! I know that You are my provider and this opportunity is one I must beg of you to help us with so that we can walk in financial freedom. Lord move the mountains on our behalf!

An Yielded Heart

In a tough place right now. It's a personal thing I am walking right now. A place of of just...hmmm...honestly I just don't have the words to even explain it. I feel as if I am adrift on the water and need God to blow me towards the right direction. I am willing to go and do and be all He needs and wants me to. I think honestly I am getting to a place of desperation. Maybe that is where God wants me to be. So desperate for Him, His direction, His provision, His guidance and wisdom. So that when it's time for Him to blow my boat there will be no fight left within me and I will completely yield to His will. Hmmm wow thank you Lord for opening my eyes to see what it is You truly want, an yielded heart! A surrendered heart!
This song about written by Kari Jobe "You Are For Me" really ministers to my spirit right now. Here are the lyrics so you can sing along.

So faithful, so constant, so loving and so true

So powerful in all You do
You fill me, You see me
You know my every move
You love for me to sing to You

Chorus:
A
I know that You are for me
I know that You are for me
I know that You will never forsake me in my weakness
And I know that You have come now
Even if to write upon my heart
To remind me who You are

Verse 2:
So patient, so gracious, so merciful and true
So wonderful in all You do
You fill me, You see me, You know my every move
And you love for me to sing to You, Lord

Chorus:
I know that You are for me
I know that You are for me
I know that You will never forsake me in my weakness
And I know that You have come now
Even if to write upon my heart
To remind me who You are

Resurrection Sunday is not ...

just one day a year for me. It is through grace I am saved and set free from the bondage of sin. I am not perfect and fall before my Savior daily to repent for attitudes, words I have spoken that did not bring Him glory. NOPE Resurrection Sunday is not just a once a year event! For me it's a daily event! Thank you Jesus!

"Surrender "

"I'm giving you my heart, and all that is within ,
I lay it all down for the sake of you my King.
I'm giving you my dreams, I'm laying down my rights,
I'm giving up my pride for the promise of new life.
And I surrender all to you, all to You.
And I surrender all to you, all to You.
I'm singing you this song, I'm waiting at the cross,
And all the world holds dear, I count it all as loss.
For the sake of knowing you, the glory of your name,
To know the lasting joy, even sharing in your pain."

Sometimes in life you just need to surrender to Christ all of your hopes and dreams. I am at that place again. Not understanding many things going on right now, amazed at how God is providing (NOT how I ever fathomed or wanted to be honest) but He is providing, and yet I find myself once again wanting more. Not material stuff just more of Him more of what HE wants for my life and for our family.
I question a lot of things and lately a lot more questions are surfacing. But the one thing I know is that I want MORE of HIM and less of me!

Winter

SO I started writing this long post about winter and how it correlates to this season of rest my husband and I are in but I realized I was making what I wanted to say much more complicated than it is.

Here are some words that come to mind in most peoples minds when you say winter:

Cold Quiet Rest Loneliness Bareness Nakedness Crisp air Dark

Snow Dreary Death Hopelessness

All of these words are so ... sad. As I was looking at how to write this out I realized that what I wanted to share has nothing to do with these words. A friend of mine once told me she LOVED winter. Honestly I thought she was nuts up until this past weekend. I could never understand why she loved the season. It's all of the above words...right?!

WRONG! During the winter season the earth rests. Everything seems to slow down, specially when snow blankets the ground. You can see through the trees and see what the leaves and bushes have hidden through out the rest of the year. In that you can see all kinds of things; a creek winding down the hill side, a small red cardinal sitting on the branch of a tree, or an old abandoned barn. This past weekend on my drive to and from church I was praying and asking God to show me something I haven't seen before, something about this season we are in and that is when I saw a small cardinal perched on a branch. I would have never seen it had it been the summer or any other season but winter.

That's when I realized, winter is more than those dreadful words, so much more! You see winter also means rest, peace, hope just to name a few. It's a time when the earth rests and prepares for spring. Spring is seen as a time of growth, renewal, of new life being born. Without winter spring can not happen.

God showed me that I must not rush this season of rest that we are in. That I need to see the beauty in this season because He is behind the scenes preparing us for spring. I believe our season of rest will come to an end soon and that our season of renewal and new birth is around the bend. Until the first buds of spring come forth in our lives I shall rest, sit back and watch how God's hands brings for the new ministry He has for us to do!

Blessings

I heard this beautiful song this morning and I just can't stop listening to it. Right now God and I are working on some things in my life. Some things I don't understand and probably won't ever and I am coming to grips with those things. Anyway this song spoke directly into those thoughts today and I wanted to share.

Hidden Damage

So today I have been thinking...I know hold on to your hats because I was actually thinking and it's only 8 AM. As I said the other day, I was in an accident. Thankfully the van is drivable so my husband has been taking it to work with him. Well today I had to meet him at the mechanic so that we can get the brakes in the car. While he was taking care of that I was sitting in the van. (yes that is my van and yes we are taking it tomorrow to get an estimate of what it is going to cost to get it fixed...praying it won't be a tremendous amount...this is coming out of our pockets.)
Do you know how embarrassing it is to sit in a vehicle that has this kind of damage? Right now all the openings are covered with a black garbage bag and PURPLE duct tape. So it stands out even more.
Anyway as we were driving home I started thinking about how looking a the van from one side you can not see any of the damage, but walk around it and there it is. Then this thought crossed my mind...how many people do we see that look whole, healthy and happy on the outside but on the inside are damaged worse than my van? Then you have people that have been "damaged" and you see the evidence on the outside such as with a burn victim and yet you get to know that person and they are more whole, healthy and happy than that other "perfectly put together" person on the other corner.
I am so glad that I serve a God that can see the inside past the "perfect outer shell" and can heal the damage on the inside all because He loves us! I invite you to pray this prayer with me today..
Dear Heavenly Father,
Today I came before you and ask that you reach deep inside of me and heal all the damage that no one else can see. Past hurts, negative thoughts, sins I have committed, all of it...Lord cleanse me from within, heal the damaged areas and restore to perfect health my body, mind and soul. Forgive me for the sins I have committed. I accept You today as King and Lord over all of my life.
In Jesus Name...Amen.

Wrap Me in Your Arms Lord!

Hmmmm, Jesus wrap me in your arms. On Friday I was in a accident. By road rules it was my fault because I did not yield the way for the oncoming car. But to my defense I was following another car turning left through the intersection and there was NO CAR (at least I didn't see one) as I was going through the light. Needless to say this car/small suv hit me going about 40 through the intersection I was doing maybe 25 (the light had just changed to green for ME). Smashed my van & threw me for a loop inside. Thankfully I never hit my head but my body is really feeling the impact of that accident.
On top of that my husband has a stomach virus and my baby boy has the flu. Thankfully my oldest who will be 11 in a few weeks has been taking care of all of us. Anyway this morning I tuned in to the service at Lift Church in Venice Florida. You may wonder how I would know of this church but you have to understand it is my home church. It use to be called Venice Assembly but they launched a new church and vision last year and changed the name. It is an awesome church with awesome worship and a loving church as well. It is the church I was saved in as a teenager, Sean and I were married there and served on staff there for 4 almost 5 years. They broad cast their services on Sunday mornings and Wed nights and other times when they have guest speakers or events. You can go here to tune in or find more info about the church and the Pastors Gary and Rhonda Gray.
Anyway the message was awesome...loves Pastor Gary's last quote; "The beginning of worship is surrender!" During the alter time Lucas was singing this song...

Wrap Me in Your Arms by Michael & Lisa Gungor

There is a God who loves me
Who wraps me in His arms
And that is the place where I'm changed
And that's where I belong

[Chorus]
Take me to that place, Lord
To that secret place where
I can be with You
You can make me like You
Wrap me in Your arms
Wrap me in Your arms
Wrap me in Your arms

AWESOME worship song and is most definitely my song of prayer today!

GOD IS SOO GOOD!

OK so the other day I was sharing how God has really been speaking to me about trusting Him for the smallest details. That when He says he will provide HE WILL! Well let me share. This week due to my miscalculations in the check book ... :-( sigh... we had less than $20 for two weeks after bills and food. Unfortunately our vehicles need gas. Sunday during the worship service I felt God speak to me saying, "Trust me, I will provide." I wasn't even thinking about the financial issues we were in just worshiping Him.
OK so we were expecting some money for two of our kids birthdays. We decided to speak to the kids and ask them if we could borrow the money. (NO we do not make habit of this but it was their money not ours). Well our twin 7 yr olds have hearts of gold! They both said, "You can use it Mommy and Daddy!" No qualms, no crying just you can use it! It was breaking my heart to even think about it. God knows our hearts! He really does!
Today unexpectedly we receive a tax refund from IL that we were not expecting for another two weeks! PRAISE GOD! We did not have to borrow the kids birthday money! We blessed them with added funds just because they were willing to sacrifice for our family. (We were going to give it back to them as soon as Sean got paid.)
SO why am I sharing such a personal issue? Because we have all been in situations that look hopeless. Honestly that is how I was feeling besides mad at myself. That's not the point! The point is GOD PROVIDES! His promises are true!

He's GOT it COVERED!

Been a while since I actual wrote on here and not just posted song/videos. A lot going on here and honestly writing has not been at the top of my list. But God has really been pouring into me just thoughts that flutter through my head and I figured I better start really writing them down. Maybe they will capture your thoughts as well.
You know this journey we are all on is truly all about God and not us. God has really been impressing on my heart that this year is my (our) year of breakthrough in a variety of areas. OH the joy that brings to my heart! Break through is what we need! But you know in that break through comes the tests, trials and mountains to climb. Yes before every break through there is a time of complete darkness. You see just before the sun rises is the darkest moments. I know this personally because every morning I drive my kids to school. It is pitch dark, I mean even with the dim lights I can barely see, I always have to drive with the brights on. It is so dark that even my kids have noticed that it is super dark. Sometimes we leave and the sun will rise as we pull into the school driveway, and the kids are always amazed at the change in the sky :) I cherish those times with the kids!
You know the Bible tell us:

"Don't ever worry and say, 'What are we going to eat?' or 'What are we going to drink?' or 'What are we going to wear?' Everyone is concerned about these things, and your heavenly Father certainly knows you need all of them. But first, be concerned about his kingdom and what has his approval. Then all these things will be provided for you. "So don't ever worry about tomorrow. After all, tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matt 31-34 (GW)

Here's the thing. We have been struggling financially like about 80% of the rest of America. We are blessed! Sean has a job, because of that we have a home! There are things that happen to a family that is on the brink of breaking...you do a little more praying, a little more crying out, and a whole lot of humbling. But you know what, God has taken us down this road before. This one is a bit more humbling and a whole lot more bumpy. But God has been faithful.
I really feel God was speaking to me today saying, "DON'T WORRY ABOUT TOMORROW! I GOT IT COVERED!" He is faithful, he will come through and for that I am forever grateful. My life is a lot more peaceful when I remember that! When I don't and I am full of stress!
Thank you Lord for reminding me that YOU GOT THIS COVERED!

Make you Stronger

"Arms Open Wide"

“What does love look like?” is the question I’ve been pondering
“What does love look like?”
“What does love look like?” is the question I’ve been asking of You

I once believed that love was romance, just a chance
I even thought that love was for the lucky and the beautiful
I once believed that love was a momentary bliss
But love is more than this
All You ever wanted was my attention
All You ever wanted was love from me
All You ever wanted was my affections, to sit here at Your feet

Then I sat down, a little frustrated and confused
If all of life comes down to love
Then love has to be more than sentiment
More than selfishness and selfish gain

And then I saw Him there, hanging on a tree, looking at me
I saw Him there, hanging on a tree, looking at me
He was looking at me, looking at Him, staring through me
I could not escape those beautiful eyes
And I began to weep and weep

He had arms wide open, a heart exposed
Arms wide open; He was bleeding, bleeding

Love’s definition, love’s definition was looking at me
Looking at Him, hanging on a tree
I began to weep and weep and weep and weep

This is how I know what love is, this is how I know what love is

And as I sat there weeping, crying
Those beautiful eyes, full of desire and love

He said to me, “You shall love Me, You shall love Me
You shall love Me, You shall love Me”

With arms wide open, a heart exposed
With arms wide open, bleeding, sometimes bleeding

If anybody’s looking for love in all the wrong places
If you’ve been searching for love, come to Me, come to Me
Take up your cross, deny yourself
Forget your father’s house and run, run with Me
You were made for abandonment, wholeheartedness
You were made for someone greater, someone bigger, so follow Me
And You’ll come alive when you learn to die

Song: Artist: Album:

Arms Wide Open Misty Edwards Fling Wide

He Loves Us!

I am realizing how much God loves us. It is amazing! HE LOVE US! HE LOVES YOU! HE LOVES ME! He really loves me! I am realizing when all the past hurts were happening He was there keeping things from getting worse, protecting me from deeper pain. He was there! Holding me when I wept, He was there when my heart was breaking, he was there when my innocence was stolen from me, He was there when my baby died, He was there. He does care. Do I wish He had stepped in and stopped certain things from happening...oh heck yes. But ya know what, I wouldn't be the same person I am today! I would be able to minister to people who have and are walking through the same things I have walked through. You see what satan means for evil God means for good and He will get the glory! So today I chose to look upon the past and say God YOU TURNED IT AROUND! YOU TURNED IT AROUND! YOU TURNED IT AROUND! You shall get the glory! You will get my praise. Now matter how much my past hurts, my future is filled with joy. It is filled with your love! Thank You Jesus! Thank You Jesus!


Lyrics to How He Loves Us :

He is jealous for me
Love's like a hurricane,
I am a tree
Bending beneath the weight of
His wind and mercy
When all of a sudden, I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory
and I realize just how beautiful You are and how great your affections are for me.

Oh, how He loves us so
Oh, how He loves us
How He loves us so.
(x2)

Yeah, He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves.
(x2)

We are His portion and
He is our prize,
Drawn to redemption
by the grace in His eyes
If grace is an ocean, we're all sinking
So heaven meets earth like a sloppy wet kiss and my heart turns
violently inside of my chest
I don't have time to maintain these regrets when I think about the way


He loves us,
whoa, how He loves us
whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves
(x2)

Yeah, He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves.

Yeah, He loves us
He loves us
He loves us
He loves.

Yeah, He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves

He loves us,
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves us
Whoa, how He loves

Lord be my Healer

For most of Dec. I was sick with strep throat and double ear infections. Was on antibiotics and steroids for 18 days. Started feeling better the Monday before Christmas and then that Wed just two days later got this terrible burning in my sinus cavity and woke up sick. Nasty sick; coughing, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat...all of it. Well it's been 2 weeks and I am still sick. Can I just say I am sick and tired of being sick. Anyway, tonight I decided enough is enough and started singing this song:

Healer

You hold my every moment
You calm my raging seas
You walk with me through fire
And heal all my disease

I trust in You
I trust in You

I believe You're my healer
I believe You are all I need
I believe You're my portion
I believe You're more than enough for me
Jesus, You're all I need

You hold my every moment
You calm my raging seas
You walk with me through fire
And heal all my disease

I trust in You
I trust in You

I believe You're my healer
I believe You are all I need
I believe You're my portion
I believe You're more than enough for me
Jesus, You're all I need

Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible for You

This is my prayer! I have been so stressed and this week has added to the stress...you see both of our blessing vehicles have decided to not be nice and have transmission issues...one is leaking and the other is skipping gears. Neither are good scenarios for us financially. That tax refund check that we know we will be getting can't come fast enough. So God if you are listening either fix the cars or get us those W-2 forms to us ASAP so we can do a fast return. Yes I talk to God like that. I don't need some ritual or formal prayer, He's my best friend and we talk all the time. Actually I think I do more talking than He does...or maybe He is talking and I just haven't heard Him because I have been so loud lately! If that's the case Lord forgive me for not listening to Your still small voice.
So I have the stress, the terrible cold, and now due to the stress my eye is twitching again. Had this same issue back at the beginning of the summer when we were trying to decide if we were going to move from IL to KY or not.
SO tonight my prayer is this song...