What is a servant and if we consider ourselves servants of the Most High, do we hold attitudes as such? In various church circles one will hear someone refer to a preacher or prophet as a ‘servant of the Lord’, but do we really act like it or grasp its meaning? When I think of a good servant, I think of one who obeys all his master’s commands and does so in proper attitude.
Firstly, do I actually obey the commands He has given me? I know there are many specifics concerning His will for my life that I have yet to discover, but that doesn’t leave me without responsibilities each day. He has spoken in His Word what is good and what He has required of me (reference to Micah 6:8). Also the blessings and gifts He has given me are not without obligation since to whom much is given, much is required (reference to Luke 12:48). Hence, I have no time to be lazy and useless as the Master does have need of me.
Next is my attitude concerning my work, am I cheerful concerning the tasks at hand and I do I give glory and praise to God? Or do I mumble and complain about what I am doing or what I have yet to do? Do I obey quickly or do I procrastinate and question Him? Do I serve in humility knowing that what I am doing is merely what I am required? After all, a master doesn’t give the servant special praise merely for carrying out the expected work (reference to Luke 17:9-10).
There are many references to servants within the parables of Master Y’shua and He does not mince words. There are faithful servants, lazy servants, vengeful servants, sly servants, financially wise servants, complaining servants, and even wicked servants. Yet they all have something in common – they are considered servants. This is key because the servant signifies believers, those in the kingdom.
Being a servant of the Most High requires much – it requires my whole life, mind soul and body. But who could ask for a better Master? He is THE Best! Today’s culture as a whole does not correctly understand or embrace the concept of servitude, there is nothing shaming about being a servant. There is actually nothing greater than being a servant, even slave, to the most loving and good Master. I only pray that I too can be a faithful servant, obedient in actions and in my heart of hearts.
Master YHWH, I pray that I am faithful to You in all matters. I desire to be faithful in all the blessings You have given to me. I also pray that I am faithful in obeying Your commandments as described in Torah. And I pray that as Your will and direction for my life unfolds, that I will be faithful in that as well. You are so good and I want to serve You well, so that You are glorified. It's not about making myself look good before men, but rather giving glory to Your name. Help me to be faithful, each and every day. Amein.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
An Object Lesson - July 28, 2011
In writing this blog entry, I was almost as a loss on where to begin. I had nearly forgotten that I really wanted to remember a profound (to me at least!) concept I learned this morning. It is an object lesson of sorts. I was in conversation with an [unnamed] individual and was attempting to give specific instructions, but in the midst of my multiple attempts I was more than once interrupted with complaints and had to repeat myself several times. Though this minor incident hardly bothered me, it really did cause me to ponder something in a wider context.
So often we pray for the Lord’s direction in our lives and this is a good thing. We should certainly seek out the will of the Lord for our lives. But in doing so, are we waiting for answers or is it more of a series of complaints? You know I really do think we can be so busy complaining about where we are in life and what our current assignment might be that we unintentionally block out His attempts to give instruction and guidance. Or maybe we caught a glimpse of what He said and we don’t like it, so we keep praying hoping that the instructions are different. Hmmm! Maybe I’m just full of nonsense, but maybe I might actually be on to something here! Well, these are my thoughts for the evening. I’m sorry I have no kept up with my blog and my apology is more for my sake as blogging helps to clear my mind and refocus, so as always ‘Thanks for listening!’
So often we pray for the Lord’s direction in our lives and this is a good thing. We should certainly seek out the will of the Lord for our lives. But in doing so, are we waiting for answers or is it more of a series of complaints? You know I really do think we can be so busy complaining about where we are in life and what our current assignment might be that we unintentionally block out His attempts to give instruction and guidance. Or maybe we caught a glimpse of what He said and we don’t like it, so we keep praying hoping that the instructions are different. Hmmm! Maybe I’m just full of nonsense, but maybe I might actually be on to something here! Well, these are my thoughts for the evening. I’m sorry I have no kept up with my blog and my apology is more for my sake as blogging helps to clear my mind and refocus, so as always ‘Thanks for listening!’
Friday, July 22, 2011
BiRtHdAy bLoG!
So tomorrow (or today depending on when you’re reading this) is my birthday and I will be a whopping 24 years old! In some ways, it just feels like another year to me. I mean, no big numbers there! I’m not the sweet 16, not legal 18, and even beyond the ultra-special age of 21. On one hand, I could say ‘It’s just another year!’
But I am excited about my birthday, maybe even moreso than last year and even though I’m not doing anything incredibly adventurous for my big day, I have great anticipation. I want this year to be different, I’m praying this year is different. I really don’t want it to be ‘just another year’ because I know that’s not how God sees it. Each year holds so many changes and occurrences, especially in the last few years. In just the matter of a few birthdays, I’ve been engaged, married, moved to another state, pregnant, miscarried, pregnant again, now with a 9 month old – all in the timespan of a few short years.
But I guess the big excitement and anticipation I sense for this year is slightly different. I have no idea what adventures or circumstances will come my way this year, but I do greatly desire to see the Lord’s purposes come to greater fruition in me. It’s not so much that I desire to move into something huge like full time ministry or anything like that, but I want to know by the end of this year that I’ve made definite progress in my spiritual life, specifically hearing from God and obeying God. Without going into a huge spiritual blog, I have narrowed down my main goals or themes that I’ve been running into the last few days.
The first is thoughts. I desire my thought life to be established and patterned after the Word – what God says about my life and life in general, about who I am, about what I should be doing, etc. I am really desiring to actually see myself move out of the sphere of fear into the sphere of love, His love; going from fear-based thinking and acting into a Love-based thought life and actions.
The second is the realization and application of YHWH as the “I AM”. He is who He is and that is good enough for me. He is everything I need, for this day, for tomorrow, for every day, and the rest of my life. And as much as I am praying for more of Him in tangible ways, I need to be faithful whether I hear from Him each day or after many days. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever and I will trust Him in that.
And lastly is something small, but unique that I thought of within the last maybe hour or so. Tomorrow I’ll be 24 years old. There are 24 hours in a day. I desire that the LORD order my life and my time according to His purposes in me. That when I’m at work, I’ll be doing it to the best of my ability for Him. And when I’m at rest, it will be in His presence. Whether I’m housekeeping, taking care of my child, cooking for my husband, doing some type of ministry, or simply resting – I do NOT want to waste time as I have so many times. But rather I am seeking to spend my time in a way that will best glorify Him, minister to others, and edify myself.
Anyways, I think that’s about all I have to say right now. As always, thanks so much for reading!
“Lord, thank You for another year. In this year, I pray You hear my prayers and fulfill Your purposes in me to Your glory, to bless others, and to develop Your changes within me. And I know that “He who began a good work in me will bring it to completion”.
[Added] Did I mention I have other goals that intertwine with what I’ve already stated above? I definitely want to diet consistently and lose my extra ‘baby-fat’! I also want to live out the golden rule – to do unto others as I would wish them to do unto me. This year sounds like it’s going to be a tough, challenging course with much homework and concentration, but it will be so worth it! I know I can’t do these things of my own willpower and strength, thankfully I have the comfort and aide of His Spirit readily available at all times prompting me, convicting me, guiding me, and always pointing me back to Him. Oh, I also would like to develop a much more developed prayer life including greater intimacy with the Lord and deeper intercession for the saints and the lost alike. I can't wait for this new year and new season! Bring it on!
But I am excited about my birthday, maybe even moreso than last year and even though I’m not doing anything incredibly adventurous for my big day, I have great anticipation. I want this year to be different, I’m praying this year is different. I really don’t want it to be ‘just another year’ because I know that’s not how God sees it. Each year holds so many changes and occurrences, especially in the last few years. In just the matter of a few birthdays, I’ve been engaged, married, moved to another state, pregnant, miscarried, pregnant again, now with a 9 month old – all in the timespan of a few short years.
But I guess the big excitement and anticipation I sense for this year is slightly different. I have no idea what adventures or circumstances will come my way this year, but I do greatly desire to see the Lord’s purposes come to greater fruition in me. It’s not so much that I desire to move into something huge like full time ministry or anything like that, but I want to know by the end of this year that I’ve made definite progress in my spiritual life, specifically hearing from God and obeying God. Without going into a huge spiritual blog, I have narrowed down my main goals or themes that I’ve been running into the last few days.
The first is thoughts. I desire my thought life to be established and patterned after the Word – what God says about my life and life in general, about who I am, about what I should be doing, etc. I am really desiring to actually see myself move out of the sphere of fear into the sphere of love, His love; going from fear-based thinking and acting into a Love-based thought life and actions.
The second is the realization and application of YHWH as the “I AM”. He is who He is and that is good enough for me. He is everything I need, for this day, for tomorrow, for every day, and the rest of my life. And as much as I am praying for more of Him in tangible ways, I need to be faithful whether I hear from Him each day or after many days. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever and I will trust Him in that.
And lastly is something small, but unique that I thought of within the last maybe hour or so. Tomorrow I’ll be 24 years old. There are 24 hours in a day. I desire that the LORD order my life and my time according to His purposes in me. That when I’m at work, I’ll be doing it to the best of my ability for Him. And when I’m at rest, it will be in His presence. Whether I’m housekeeping, taking care of my child, cooking for my husband, doing some type of ministry, or simply resting – I do NOT want to waste time as I have so many times. But rather I am seeking to spend my time in a way that will best glorify Him, minister to others, and edify myself.
Anyways, I think that’s about all I have to say right now. As always, thanks so much for reading!
“Lord, thank You for another year. In this year, I pray You hear my prayers and fulfill Your purposes in me to Your glory, to bless others, and to develop Your changes within me. And I know that “He who began a good work in me will bring it to completion”.
[Added] Did I mention I have other goals that intertwine with what I’ve already stated above? I definitely want to diet consistently and lose my extra ‘baby-fat’! I also want to live out the golden rule – to do unto others as I would wish them to do unto me. This year sounds like it’s going to be a tough, challenging course with much homework and concentration, but it will be so worth it! I know I can’t do these things of my own willpower and strength, thankfully I have the comfort and aide of His Spirit readily available at all times prompting me, convicting me, guiding me, and always pointing me back to Him. Oh, I also would like to develop a much more developed prayer life including greater intimacy with the Lord and deeper intercession for the saints and the lost alike. I can't wait for this new year and new season! Bring it on!
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Fear-based or Love-based?
FEAR-BASED OR LOVE-BASED THOUGHTS
Let's think about thoughts for a moment! Recently I watched Dr. Caroline Leaf on Sid Roth and she was discussing how many diseases (both physical and mental) derive from our thinking and thought patterns that we've established over time. The good news is that we can fix the 'damage' that was done. It's too technical for me to describe in a mere blog, but she did have science to back it up. Now this isn't just 'positive thinking changes everything', but I do believe that renewing our minds with the Word is a similar concept. She also explained that our thoughts were either fear-based or love-based. I thought about it and she is really onto something. I mean, think about it! Insecurity is based from fears that we don't measure up or by comparing ourselves to others or by fear of something or someone! Pride is also typically derived from a false sense of identity but if we relied on the love and of the Lord, we'd be secure in who we are [and are becoming] in Him! Jealousy/covetesness is similar also, fear that we don't measure up or won't be successful. Even lying and deceit often comes from a type of fear, especially fear of conseqences. Anger too because we fear we don't have control of a situation (or person!). But what about love? God's kind of love produces a sense of worth, purpose, love for others, contentment and joy in His presence, wisdom and focus, etc. So from here, I really want to let the sponge of my brain soak up the Word of God - what He says about me, my situation, my purposes, etc. I wish I could touch more on this, but I have to go for now. But I want to leave you with a copy of the list I've been working on today! Be blessed and choose life n love!
I am taking every thought captive to the lordship of Master Y’shua!
I am strong in the LORD and in the power of His might!
He has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power love and a sound mind!
Now the LORD is Spirit and where the Spirit of the LORD is, there is freedom!
Bless the LORD, oh my soul, and forgot not all His benefits!
This day He has set before me life and death, blessing and curse. I will choose life that I and my descendents shall live!
Life and death is in the power of the tongue!
(I felt the Lord speaking this to me one evening in prayer)
There is a place just for me at His table!
There is a place just for me in His kingdom!
There is a place just for me in His heart!
Let's think about thoughts for a moment! Recently I watched Dr. Caroline Leaf on Sid Roth and she was discussing how many diseases (both physical and mental) derive from our thinking and thought patterns that we've established over time. The good news is that we can fix the 'damage' that was done. It's too technical for me to describe in a mere blog, but she did have science to back it up. Now this isn't just 'positive thinking changes everything', but I do believe that renewing our minds with the Word is a similar concept. She also explained that our thoughts were either fear-based or love-based. I thought about it and she is really onto something. I mean, think about it! Insecurity is based from fears that we don't measure up or by comparing ourselves to others or by fear of something or someone! Pride is also typically derived from a false sense of identity but if we relied on the love and of the Lord, we'd be secure in who we are [and are becoming] in Him! Jealousy/covetesness is similar also, fear that we don't measure up or won't be successful. Even lying and deceit often comes from a type of fear, especially fear of conseqences. Anger too because we fear we don't have control of a situation (or person!). But what about love? God's kind of love produces a sense of worth, purpose, love for others, contentment and joy in His presence, wisdom and focus, etc. So from here, I really want to let the sponge of my brain soak up the Word of God - what He says about me, my situation, my purposes, etc. I wish I could touch more on this, but I have to go for now. But I want to leave you with a copy of the list I've been working on today! Be blessed and choose life n love!
I am taking every thought captive to the lordship of Master Y’shua!
I am strong in the LORD and in the power of His might!
He has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power love and a sound mind!
Now the LORD is Spirit and where the Spirit of the LORD is, there is freedom!
Bless the LORD, oh my soul, and forgot not all His benefits!
This day He has set before me life and death, blessing and curse. I will choose life that I and my descendents shall live!
Life and death is in the power of the tongue!
(I felt the Lord speaking this to me one evening in prayer)
There is a place just for me at His table!
There is a place just for me in His kingdom!
There is a place just for me in His heart!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
True Love - It does exist!
Throughout the week, I keep coming back to the theme of the Song of Songs, I feel so drawn to this topic and in all actuality, drawn to Love itself. It is just so amazing that imperfect humans can experience perfect and pure love – true love. How comforting it is to know that the love of the King is gentle and compassionate, kind and patient, strong and steadfast, and it never fails!
The imagery of the Song of Songs is so intimate and so beautiful. But probably my favorite passage is the one which begins with ‘I am asleep but my heart is awake’ and she goes on to speak of how her heart pounded and she longed for him when he came to the door and thrust his hand through the latch. I love this! And the agony she feels when she finally gets up to greet him and he is gone and nowhere to be found. There is such a longing for him, such anticipation, and such anguish when he’s gone. This really speaks to be of the deep intimacy and fellowship that was intended to comes with being the Bride of Messiah Y’shua. He is not harsh and demanding, but He so greatly desires for us to commune with Him in the secret place of His presence. Human love and marriage is a great gift (as I can attest!), but it can never fully compare or come close to the beautiful romance of the Bridegroom and His Bride. In a way this love - it is a deep mystery, it is terrifying, but utterly intoxicating and wonderful and I desire this love with my King.
The imagery of the Song of Songs is so intimate and so beautiful. But probably my favorite passage is the one which begins with ‘I am asleep but my heart is awake’ and she goes on to speak of how her heart pounded and she longed for him when he came to the door and thrust his hand through the latch. I love this! And the agony she feels when she finally gets up to greet him and he is gone and nowhere to be found. There is such a longing for him, such anticipation, and such anguish when he’s gone. This really speaks to be of the deep intimacy and fellowship that was intended to comes with being the Bride of Messiah Y’shua. He is not harsh and demanding, but He so greatly desires for us to commune with Him in the secret place of His presence. Human love and marriage is a great gift (as I can attest!), but it can never fully compare or come close to the beautiful romance of the Bridegroom and His Bride. In a way this love - it is a deep mystery, it is terrifying, but utterly intoxicating and wonderful and I desire this love with my King.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
King of Glory - 2 narratives
I’m so excited, any moment my Master and King will come through the door. I have been expecting Him for a long time and I welcome Him in frequently, especially on Shabbats. I must get my home ready, for He may arrive at any time now. I must keep busy! I must prepare myself for He wants to wine and dine with me. He has wanted to fellowship with me! Have I swept out the cobwebs? Have I put things in order? What if he walks in the door right now? Will I be ashamed of the mess that I’ve been too lazy to clean up? Is there room for Him and does He get the best seat in the house? Have I forgotten that He was coming? How can I forget, He’s the King of Glory!
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I have invited the King of Glory to tabernacle with me. I welcome His Spirit and presence to dwell here. I must get my heart ready, so that He is welcome at all times. I must keep busy! I must prepare myself for He wants to fill me with new wine and give me the bread of His words. He desires to fellowship with me! Have I swept out the cobwebs of sins and worldly lusts? Have I put my life in order? Will I be ashamed of the mess of my heart and mind that I’ve been too lazy to clean up? Have I forgotten that He has knocked on the door of my heart? Is there room for Him and does He get the best seat in the house? How can I forget, He’s the King of Glory!
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I have invited the King of Glory to tabernacle with me. I welcome His Spirit and presence to dwell here. I must get my heart ready, so that He is welcome at all times. I must keep busy! I must prepare myself for He wants to fill me with new wine and give me the bread of His words. He desires to fellowship with me! Have I swept out the cobwebs of sins and worldly lusts? Have I put my life in order? Will I be ashamed of the mess of my heart and mind that I’ve been too lazy to clean up? Have I forgotten that He has knocked on the door of my heart? Is there room for Him and does He get the best seat in the house? How can I forget, He’s the King of Glory!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Tonight's Prayer - July 11, 2011
Show me the place where Your presence dwells. Take me to the heights. I remember experiencing and seeing Your glory firsthand. I look back at these times with great awe and deep longing. Your Word is enough, but I cannot help but desire greater intimacy. Let me experience a taste of glory yet again, keep me ever in awe of You. You share no glory and majesty with any other god, it all belongs to You. Quiet my soul that I may come in, to places I’ve never been. Show me where You dwell, guide me through the high places. Let me in to the secret places created just for me and You, the chambers of intimacy created just for us. Arise my Lover, draw me away and I will come with You. May I have the heart of my Master? May I hold His hand as He guides me? May I draw near to Him? How is it that the great King looks at this maiden and has chosen her? Wow, He is looking at me and has called me to be His Bride and to follow and serve Him. What do you desire? What do you need my King? Tell me and I will go, only let me come back to You often. For I cannot bear to be away from You.
Friday, July 8, 2011
His Banner Over Me is Love
So I'm in the midst of Facebooking and I suddenly realized I was singing "His Banner Over Me is Love". I haven't heard that one in a while but I've always liked the simplicity and truth of it. I looked up the rest of the lyrics that I couldn't remember:
"The Lord is mine and I am His, His banner over me is love. He brought me to His banqueting table, His banner over me is love. He lifted me up into Heavenly places, His banner over is love. He is the vine and we are the branches, His banner over me is love. Jesus is the rock of my salvation, His banner over me is love. There's one way to peace through the power of the cross, His banner over me is love." (And though this is how the song goes, I somehow remember a verse of the song that talks about His rejoicing over us with singing.)
Maybe I needed this song today, it's so simple yet so profound.
Thank you Abba that You remind me of Your great love for me in so many ways and when I least expect it! I love how You surprise me!
"The Lord is mine and I am His, His banner over me is love. He brought me to His banqueting table, His banner over me is love. He lifted me up into Heavenly places, His banner over is love. He is the vine and we are the branches, His banner over me is love. Jesus is the rock of my salvation, His banner over me is love. There's one way to peace through the power of the cross, His banner over me is love." (And though this is how the song goes, I somehow remember a verse of the song that talks about His rejoicing over us with singing.)
Maybe I needed this song today, it's so simple yet so profound.
Thank you Abba that You remind me of Your great love for me in so many ways and when I least expect it! I love how You surprise me!
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Let's talk about Issues!
With all the news going on about this criminal and that criminal, it would seem that our society if filled with issues! The world obviously has issues, but what about me? What about you? What about us who are called by His name? Alls I know is we each have our struggles and temptations. I cant say my issues are any less than the next person or that his/hers are worse than mine. Issues are issues. Anything that pulls us away from Him is major, majorly bad! A trap is a trap no matter what it looks like. Sin is sin and it entangles us and weighs us down. We really have to be careful when we talk gossip about other people’s mistakes, sins, and addictions because we wouldn’t want to be so puffed up lest we become weak and blind, falling into temptation. Each person has to deal with his own sin issues. It certainly isn’t smart to use other people’s conduct as the measuring rod for our own conduct, but rather the word of God is the measuring rod or ‘plumbline’ as the Scriptures call it.
And another thing in the topic of our own sin and that of others. I learned a long time ago not to hold a forgiven person to their past, unless of course the past is still with them. We all need to be free in Him, that’s why we need salvation. I’m so thankful that I am saved from eternal damnation and separation from God to eternal life with Him. But I know I need to be ‘saved’ or rescued from the mistakes I make, especially those mistakes that seem to entangle over and over and over again.
My post looks rather preachy and not very coherent. It’s been a long day and I’m rather tired. I guess what I’m mostly trying to say is that we shouldn’t be worrying about the issues of the world so much as we do our own. But it is from knowing that we ARE dealing with our own issues that we can then have the ability to lead others to repentance. But first, let’s be right with God before trying to present God to the world.
And another thing in the topic of our own sin and that of others. I learned a long time ago not to hold a forgiven person to their past, unless of course the past is still with them. We all need to be free in Him, that’s why we need salvation. I’m so thankful that I am saved from eternal damnation and separation from God to eternal life with Him. But I know I need to be ‘saved’ or rescued from the mistakes I make, especially those mistakes that seem to entangle over and over and over again.
My post looks rather preachy and not very coherent. It’s been a long day and I’m rather tired. I guess what I’m mostly trying to say is that we shouldn’t be worrying about the issues of the world so much as we do our own. But it is from knowing that we ARE dealing with our own issues that we can then have the ability to lead others to repentance. But first, let’s be right with God before trying to present God to the world.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Too Important Not To!
Today was so hectic...actually my life is always hectic anymore. It's not so much that I have a tight schedule and many things on my event calendar, but rather things have just been busy because of my baby girl. I love her to pieces, but lately it's been so draining! I find myself frustrated and not feeling like the real me.
I was able to have a good deal of down time with the hubby this evening. I really needed the break and the baby went to sleep fairly early. But when 10 oclock rolled around, it felt as though the evening had been wasted...and in a way it had. Most of the evening was spent watching TV.
When 10 oclock (yes, we adults have a bedtime too...although I'm still up obviously) came, we both agreed that the evening was pretty much a waste and that we really need to give God our evenings or at least a much better portion of it, preferably the firstfruits of our evening as able.
But I just couldn't let tonight be a total waste or I would have gone to bed depressed about life and disappointed in how it is spent. So we did have a time of prayer and repentance. Tomorrow is a new day, and His mercies are new every morning. I'm so thankful for that! I pray to God that tomorrow is different, not because of circumstances but rather how I handle my time and the challenging situations that [I know] will arise.
I am writing this entry honestly because I want to convey simply this: Don't let go of prayer time, don't relationship with God the last thing on your mind. This is just too important! Whether life is comfortable right now or life seems to be pushing you to the edge, we all need God in our lives. And when I say need, I mean NEED! It is necessary for His people to be filled with His Spirit if we're going to live victoriously, in wisdom, in strength, in joy, and in obedience. But how can we hear Him if we're 'too busy'? How can we say our lives are about Him, if really it's not. This isn't about condemnation, but about returning to Him, RUNNING to Him!
Father, I thank you tonight for Your love that forgives and renews us even when we fail many times. Your love keeps drawing us back to Yourself, into sweet fellowship with You. Renew me and refresh my life that I can serve You joyfully and that my heart is glad. But my heart IS glad right now. You hear our prayers and you are near when we call upon You.
I was able to have a good deal of down time with the hubby this evening. I really needed the break and the baby went to sleep fairly early. But when 10 oclock rolled around, it felt as though the evening had been wasted...and in a way it had. Most of the evening was spent watching TV.
When 10 oclock (yes, we adults have a bedtime too...although I'm still up obviously) came, we both agreed that the evening was pretty much a waste and that we really need to give God our evenings or at least a much better portion of it, preferably the firstfruits of our evening as able.
But I just couldn't let tonight be a total waste or I would have gone to bed depressed about life and disappointed in how it is spent. So we did have a time of prayer and repentance. Tomorrow is a new day, and His mercies are new every morning. I'm so thankful for that! I pray to God that tomorrow is different, not because of circumstances but rather how I handle my time and the challenging situations that [I know] will arise.
I am writing this entry honestly because I want to convey simply this: Don't let go of prayer time, don't relationship with God the last thing on your mind. This is just too important! Whether life is comfortable right now or life seems to be pushing you to the edge, we all need God in our lives. And when I say need, I mean NEED! It is necessary for His people to be filled with His Spirit if we're going to live victoriously, in wisdom, in strength, in joy, and in obedience. But how can we hear Him if we're 'too busy'? How can we say our lives are about Him, if really it's not. This isn't about condemnation, but about returning to Him, RUNNING to Him!
Father, I thank you tonight for Your love that forgives and renews us even when we fail many times. Your love keeps drawing us back to Yourself, into sweet fellowship with You. Renew me and refresh my life that I can serve You joyfully and that my heart is glad. But my heart IS glad right now. You hear our prayers and you are near when we call upon You.
Shirking - Time to Step-Up to the Plate!
Shirking...what a strange word if you say it over and over again! So what's it mean? Without going into the dictionary definition or formal etymology, it basically just means to put off, procrastinate, throw off usually in the context of duty.
Why do we do this? It seems to be a normal human flaw to put off that which we can (and should) do today. I was thinking about this while munching on some lunch. This phrase came to mind: "Time to step up to the plate". It has to do with maturity and taking on responsibility. How many times as children and young adults did we desire to cast off the things of childhood and be a grown up with all the freedoms? But what about all the growing up that growing up requires! Whatever our current position or job title however large or small, we are called to do it with excellence. I know there's a verse somewhere in the Bible that says "Whatsoever your hand findeth to do, do so with all your might". This is one I could keep reminding myself of over and over again.
As a stay at home mom, it is a multifaceted role! It means for the most part, I am:
-Chef/cook
-Nurse
-Counselor
-Maid
-Organizer
-Guardian
-and much, much more!
But as a stay at home mom, it's so tempting to let the time fly and do my own thing. It's just too easy to leave the dishes in the sink, the laundry in various piles, and just order Chinese for dinner. Even right now, I'm still in my jammies!
But my calling right now is to be a wife and mother. There is much fulfillment not because it's my only purpose, but because it IS a major part of my calling so I want to do my best at it.
I couldn't wait for the day that I would one day meet my true love and have children. Now that day is here and has been here for quite a while now. And with the beautiful fulfillment of my hopes and dreams comes responsibility. 'To whom much is given, much is required'. It's so true, but it needn't ever be a drudgery but rather a joy! It does take motivation and not just a one-time deal.
Father, I am again reminded that in Your faithfulness, You have blessed me with the desires of my heart. Now I ask that you help me to be faithful with the blessings I have been given. Give me strength and joy for whatever task is at hand and help me to do it well and with excellence. Amein.
Why do we do this? It seems to be a normal human flaw to put off that which we can (and should) do today. I was thinking about this while munching on some lunch. This phrase came to mind: "Time to step up to the plate". It has to do with maturity and taking on responsibility. How many times as children and young adults did we desire to cast off the things of childhood and be a grown up with all the freedoms? But what about all the growing up that growing up requires! Whatever our current position or job title however large or small, we are called to do it with excellence. I know there's a verse somewhere in the Bible that says "Whatsoever your hand findeth to do, do so with all your might". This is one I could keep reminding myself of over and over again.
As a stay at home mom, it is a multifaceted role! It means for the most part, I am:
-Chef/cook
-Nurse
-Counselor
-Maid
-Organizer
-Guardian
-and much, much more!
But as a stay at home mom, it's so tempting to let the time fly and do my own thing. It's just too easy to leave the dishes in the sink, the laundry in various piles, and just order Chinese for dinner. Even right now, I'm still in my jammies!
But my calling right now is to be a wife and mother. There is much fulfillment not because it's my only purpose, but because it IS a major part of my calling so I want to do my best at it.
I couldn't wait for the day that I would one day meet my true love and have children. Now that day is here and has been here for quite a while now. And with the beautiful fulfillment of my hopes and dreams comes responsibility. 'To whom much is given, much is required'. It's so true, but it needn't ever be a drudgery but rather a joy! It does take motivation and not just a one-time deal.
Father, I am again reminded that in Your faithfulness, You have blessed me with the desires of my heart. Now I ask that you help me to be faithful with the blessings I have been given. Give me strength and joy for whatever task is at hand and help me to do it well and with excellence. Amein.
An Observation on Productivity
So part of the job description as wife and mother is keeping my family clean and healthy by keeping a clean home. Oh man, I'm so not a natural at this housewife thing! You'd think after 2+ years, it would be easy peesy (do they say that anymore??), but nope! I still struggle keeping myself on task. Oddly enough, I am getting more done with my life now that I have a baby than I did before she arrived! I guess maybe it's because I appreciate the precious little time I have to accomplish as much as I can.
I think it's just a fact of life that when we have all the time in the world, we tend to procrastinate and be lazy. But when we're pushed to hurry up or we have a time limit, we tend to be MUCH more efficient! At least, that's how it is in my case.
Well I guess I've sat at the computer long enough talking about productivity...it's time to get back to real productivity! Later ya'lls, thanks for listening to my ramblings.
Father, I love that You have given me a home and family to take care of! Help me to be diligent in my service to my family and to Your ultimate glory.
I think it's just a fact of life that when we have all the time in the world, we tend to procrastinate and be lazy. But when we're pushed to hurry up or we have a time limit, we tend to be MUCH more efficient! At least, that's how it is in my case.
Well I guess I've sat at the computer long enough talking about productivity...it's time to get back to real productivity! Later ya'lls, thanks for listening to my ramblings.
Father, I love that You have given me a home and family to take care of! Help me to be diligent in my service to my family and to Your ultimate glory.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Appreciation requires Realization
So ‘Flower’ just woke up from her nap and I started to cuddle and play with her. It’s our usual routine. She plays quietly then falls asleep while I cuddle next to her. Then when she wakes up, I play quietly with her for a bit. Oh you know, the usual – ‘munching’ on her toes, tickling her, being silly, and lots of kisses!
I love my baby girl and I’m thankful for her, but true appreciation for a thing or person doesn’t happen until realization (or reality, same derivative) takes place. I always love my baby girl, but I can honestly say I don’t always fully appreciate her because life just becomes a routine sometimes. I have a kid which means I change the baby, feed the baby, play with the baby, and put the baby to sleep. That’s pretty much the routine for most mothers of small children! But what makes me appreciate my baby as opposed to just taking care of a baby? This simple reality:
‘Flower’ is MY baby girl! She’s not just a baby, she’s my baby! My husband and I produced her out of love. She’s part of me and she’s part of him. I’m not just taking care of a child, I’m taking care of my daughter. I’m going to watch her grow up and I’m going to be there for the bumps and bruises, the first ‘I love you’, her first steps, her whole learning process, and dare I even begin to think about her growing up, wow! Yup, that’s where the appreciation really comes in! I am realizing that I’m a mother to an amazing, fascinating child that is flesh of my flesh. This is what makes motherhood special, to know that I’m providing the nurture and nourishment for the very life that my husband and I made together. She looks like me, she looks like ‘Prince’. It’s a miracle in a sense! And with all the frustrations and quirks that I go through with her, it’s just a part of who she is – wonderfully and handmade by God!
Abba, thank You for the miracle of giving life! Children are indeed a gift and blessing! Help me to always appreciate and selflessly love my little girl. I ask for the stregnth and patience motherhood requires! Im truly thankful for my sweet baby girl! Amein!
I love my baby girl and I’m thankful for her, but true appreciation for a thing or person doesn’t happen until realization (or reality, same derivative) takes place. I always love my baby girl, but I can honestly say I don’t always fully appreciate her because life just becomes a routine sometimes. I have a kid which means I change the baby, feed the baby, play with the baby, and put the baby to sleep. That’s pretty much the routine for most mothers of small children! But what makes me appreciate my baby as opposed to just taking care of a baby? This simple reality:
‘Flower’ is MY baby girl! She’s not just a baby, she’s my baby! My husband and I produced her out of love. She’s part of me and she’s part of him. I’m not just taking care of a child, I’m taking care of my daughter. I’m going to watch her grow up and I’m going to be there for the bumps and bruises, the first ‘I love you’, her first steps, her whole learning process, and dare I even begin to think about her growing up, wow! Yup, that’s where the appreciation really comes in! I am realizing that I’m a mother to an amazing, fascinating child that is flesh of my flesh. This is what makes motherhood special, to know that I’m providing the nurture and nourishment for the very life that my husband and I made together. She looks like me, she looks like ‘Prince’. It’s a miracle in a sense! And with all the frustrations and quirks that I go through with her, it’s just a part of who she is – wonderfully and handmade by God!
Abba, thank You for the miracle of giving life! Children are indeed a gift and blessing! Help me to always appreciate and selflessly love my little girl. I ask for the stregnth and patience motherhood requires! Im truly thankful for my sweet baby girl! Amein!
Just a 'thumbs-up' for Marriage!
So the title of my blog is 'Marriage, Motherhood & More'. I'm thinking maybe I should actually start writing about these things a little! I guess I somewhat started in my last post. It would seem as though I will be writing sporadically, maybe skipping days and maybe writing multiple posts. It's my first day, so I'm exciting to start talking...err...um...blogging that is!
Well since marriage comes before motherhood, I'll write bout marriage first. I really don't have anything to say except that marriage is AWESOME! But lately it would seem there is such an attack on marriage in our society! It just doesn't seem to be the norm anymore. Instead of getting into all the things that are wrong with our society today, I'll just say that I'm routing for marriage! I know there's a lot of bitterness, confusion, and hurt surrounding the topic for many, but married life really IS amazing!
I'm no expert on the subject and I only have 2.5 years experience in that field but married life is such a blessing. I have to say that the closer we get to God, the closer we get to each other. As cliche as that sounds, it is very true. We've been through a lot together. Deployment, miscarriage, pregnancy, and raising our first child, all under 3 years! Our marriage isn't perfect, but it is solid. The love is there, the commitment is there, and yes still that sense of adventure even in the ordinary everyday living. It isn't always obvious, everyday isn't always great, but I'd get married all over again to the same man if given the chance.
Maybe someday I'll post how God brought my husband and I together, but for now I just wanted to blog a little bit for the sake of marriage!
Father, I thank you that You created marriage to be holy and wonderful and fun! I thank you for the godly husband You have given to me and I pray that my marriage both publicly and in private will glorify You!
Well since marriage comes before motherhood, I'll write bout marriage first. I really don't have anything to say except that marriage is AWESOME! But lately it would seem there is such an attack on marriage in our society! It just doesn't seem to be the norm anymore. Instead of getting into all the things that are wrong with our society today, I'll just say that I'm routing for marriage! I know there's a lot of bitterness, confusion, and hurt surrounding the topic for many, but married life really IS amazing!
I'm no expert on the subject and I only have 2.5 years experience in that field but married life is such a blessing. I have to say that the closer we get to God, the closer we get to each other. As cliche as that sounds, it is very true. We've been through a lot together. Deployment, miscarriage, pregnancy, and raising our first child, all under 3 years! Our marriage isn't perfect, but it is solid. The love is there, the commitment is there, and yes still that sense of adventure even in the ordinary everyday living. It isn't always obvious, everyday isn't always great, but I'd get married all over again to the same man if given the chance.
Maybe someday I'll post how God brought my husband and I together, but for now I just wanted to blog a little bit for the sake of marriage!
Father, I thank you that You created marriage to be holy and wonderful and fun! I thank you for the godly husband You have given to me and I pray that my marriage both publicly and in private will glorify You!
Introduction/First Post
I can’t help but feel I’m missing out on something. Wouldn’t it be nice to travel the world? To do a mission’s trip and see crowds of people get saved? To be a part of something greater and more exciting than the little world I call my own. Let’s backtrack a little first.
This blogging thing is fairly new to me, so let me introduce myself. I’m pretty tightfisted when it comes to matters of privacy, so for privacy’s sake just call me “J”. I’m married to a wonderful, godly man (anonymously referred to as ‘Prince’ because that’s the pet name I gave him the day we got engaged) and a beautiful baby girl (affectionately termed ‘Flower’ here).
My interests are semi-lacking at the moment, but include photography, writing, and spending time with my little family. My political views I’m sure will come out eventually in this blog and as to religious views, I’m sure those will come out on here as well! But for now, I’d like to resume my first blog post…
Okay, now where was I? Oh yeah, I was mumbling about how I feel I’m missing something in life. I guess life is actually pretty amazing. I feel incredibly blessed to have a godly husband and a very cute and healthy baby. But I think we all get to a place where we feel life is boring or dry and we just want something new or easier or just plain different! Am I right? The day to day stuff can be downright frustrating!
But recently I found myself wondering, what if something tragic would happen and I were to lose the life I know right now. Life is uncomfortable and fairly uneventful, but if I were to lose it all and then suddenly get it back, wouldn’t I view my life so much differently? I mean, I’d be SO grateful to have this ‘unexciting’ life back, right? When it all comes down to it, everything I experience – my husband, my child, my home, my family, the little joys and little frustrations – it all makes up this thing called my life. And you know what, it’s not bad at all! Like I said, I’m incredibly blessed!
But at the same time, these things are great but they are not enough. As much as a change of scene (whether it’s just a coffee shop or traveling to another country) sounds just wonderful, that’s not what makes life fun and adventurous and meaningful. Life’s meaning can’t come from what we do, where we go, who is in our lives. It has to come from something so much more than this. My purpose, my meaning in life, and that big word ‘identity’, has to come from who I am in Messiah Y’shua. What does He want me to do? What or who does He want me to be? Why am I here? These are pretty big questions and I can’t answer those in fullness, no one really can!
But I can say this, I am married hence I am a wife. I have a child, hence I am a mother. Though these things do not solely define me, they are major aspects of my God-given purposes. If He just wants me to be a wife and mother for now, I am totally fine with that even on the days (which seem to be many) that I kick and scream (not literally…usually…).
I would like to do something I hadn’t planned on doing, I want to end my blog posts with a prayer. And this my prayer after today’s blog post: My Lord, I thank you for the life You have given me. I am thankful that I am blessed to be a wife and a mother. Help me to be the best I can be at this through Your Spirit, give me the joy and strength I need for each day. But I thank You most of all that I am Yours, may my life be pleasing to You! Amein.
This blogging thing is fairly new to me, so let me introduce myself. I’m pretty tightfisted when it comes to matters of privacy, so for privacy’s sake just call me “J”. I’m married to a wonderful, godly man (anonymously referred to as ‘Prince’ because that’s the pet name I gave him the day we got engaged) and a beautiful baby girl (affectionately termed ‘Flower’ here).
My interests are semi-lacking at the moment, but include photography, writing, and spending time with my little family. My political views I’m sure will come out eventually in this blog and as to religious views, I’m sure those will come out on here as well! But for now, I’d like to resume my first blog post…
Okay, now where was I? Oh yeah, I was mumbling about how I feel I’m missing something in life. I guess life is actually pretty amazing. I feel incredibly blessed to have a godly husband and a very cute and healthy baby. But I think we all get to a place where we feel life is boring or dry and we just want something new or easier or just plain different! Am I right? The day to day stuff can be downright frustrating!
But recently I found myself wondering, what if something tragic would happen and I were to lose the life I know right now. Life is uncomfortable and fairly uneventful, but if I were to lose it all and then suddenly get it back, wouldn’t I view my life so much differently? I mean, I’d be SO grateful to have this ‘unexciting’ life back, right? When it all comes down to it, everything I experience – my husband, my child, my home, my family, the little joys and little frustrations – it all makes up this thing called my life. And you know what, it’s not bad at all! Like I said, I’m incredibly blessed!
But at the same time, these things are great but they are not enough. As much as a change of scene (whether it’s just a coffee shop or traveling to another country) sounds just wonderful, that’s not what makes life fun and adventurous and meaningful. Life’s meaning can’t come from what we do, where we go, who is in our lives. It has to come from something so much more than this. My purpose, my meaning in life, and that big word ‘identity’, has to come from who I am in Messiah Y’shua. What does He want me to do? What or who does He want me to be? Why am I here? These are pretty big questions and I can’t answer those in fullness, no one really can!
But I can say this, I am married hence I am a wife. I have a child, hence I am a mother. Though these things do not solely define me, they are major aspects of my God-given purposes. If He just wants me to be a wife and mother for now, I am totally fine with that even on the days (which seem to be many) that I kick and scream (not literally…usually…).
I would like to do something I hadn’t planned on doing, I want to end my blog posts with a prayer. And this my prayer after today’s blog post: My Lord, I thank you for the life You have given me. I am thankful that I am blessed to be a wife and a mother. Help me to be the best I can be at this through Your Spirit, give me the joy and strength I need for each day. But I thank You most of all that I am Yours, may my life be pleasing to You! Amein.
*Disclaimer*
1) Anonymity - For the same of anonymity, no real names will be mentioned in my blog posts.
2) Honesty - For the sake of the reader, blog posts may be copied/pasted and edited OR they may just appear as they are, but one way or the other my comments and posts are my own. I don't pretend to know it all or have all the answers, neither will I hold back from my opinions for the sake of political correctness. Posts whether spontaneous or well-thought out will be quite direct and honest.
3) Purpose - Do I need a specific purpose? The world needs people who are honest about life and I'm here to show the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. I may share advice and insight, I may rant a little, or I may just blog to simply write out my thoughts whether it's about the deep matters of life or to simply share recipes or a laugh.
4) Enjoy! Please no spam, swearing, or hating!
2) Honesty - For the sake of the reader, blog posts may be copied/pasted and edited OR they may just appear as they are, but one way or the other my comments and posts are my own. I don't pretend to know it all or have all the answers, neither will I hold back from my opinions for the sake of political correctness. Posts whether spontaneous or well-thought out will be quite direct and honest.
3) Purpose - Do I need a specific purpose? The world needs people who are honest about life and I'm here to show the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. I may share advice and insight, I may rant a little, or I may just blog to simply write out my thoughts whether it's about the deep matters of life or to simply share recipes or a laugh.
4) Enjoy! Please no spam, swearing, or hating!
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