I firmly believe that you can learned life lessons from anyone and anything if you look for it. I mean, even the famous New York Yankee (woot woot!) Yogi Berra was full of wise words: "If the world was perfect, it wouldn't be."
For those of you classic movie fans (ahem.... Rebecca!) you know this next quote to be from none other than Audrey Hepburn. She is without a doubt my favorite actress of all time. And no, I have no deep spiritual explanation for this admiration. I just love her work!
“I was asked to act when I couldn't act. I was asked to sing 'Funny Face' when I couldn't sing, and dance with Fred Astaire when I couldn't dance - and do all kinds of things I wasn't prepared for. Then I tried like mad to cope with it.”
So, what can we learn from this luminary who "had it all together"? Even our classic heros and Hollywood stars who seem to be living the life they'd always dreamed of have to deal with the cards dealt to them. Audrey Hepburn didn't feel prepared for her role in "Funny Face"; but did she give up? Thank goodness no! As a result, we can now watch her stunning performance with Fred Astaire in this exemplar film.
In my own life, things have not been panning out like I planned. Nothing horrific or awful, just my own personal "Funny Face" kind of year. Am I going to let the fear of the unknown paralyze me or will I "try like mad to cope with it"?
What are your "Funny Face" situations? Will you rise up to the challenge and let God use you?
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
The Call to Missions
Webster defines missionary as "one who undertakes a mission, especially a religious mission". When most people hear the term missionary that think of someone who has this major calling from God to go overseas. Not too long ago I heard a lady tell an overseas missionary, "I am so sorry you have to live over there." Somehow people have developed a wrong view of true missions. I would like to submit that every Christian is called to missions.
In Matthew 28, Jesus gives all Christians what is known as "the Great Commission."
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
That is the mission given to all believers. So, technically, every one of us is a missionary. The teacher is a missionary to her students and her fellow teachers; the athlete is a missionary to his team, coaches, and fans; the doctor is a missionary to his patients and staff. And that's just on the career side of life; we are missionaries to our neighbors, we missionaries to the people we see at the grocery store.
So, I am a missionary to the people in this new south Georgia town (the culture shock makes that one not hard to believe!); I am a missionary to my neighbors; I am a missionary to the students and teachers when I sub. You never know what action or word those around you notice that makes them say "She is different!"
Now, before you can applied this call to missions you need to ask yourself, "Am I different?" This should be a relief to Christians. "I always knew I didn't fit in; what a relief!" But if that is not the case, some evaluating needs to be done. Why do you fit in with the world? Can they even tell you are different?!
You have been called to missions. Now go live it!
In Matthew 28, Jesus gives all Christians what is known as "the Great Commission."
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
That is the mission given to all believers. So, technically, every one of us is a missionary. The teacher is a missionary to her students and her fellow teachers; the athlete is a missionary to his team, coaches, and fans; the doctor is a missionary to his patients and staff. And that's just on the career side of life; we are missionaries to our neighbors, we missionaries to the people we see at the grocery store.
So, I am a missionary to the people in this new south Georgia town (the culture shock makes that one not hard to believe!); I am a missionary to my neighbors; I am a missionary to the students and teachers when I sub. You never know what action or word those around you notice that makes them say "She is different!"
Now, before you can applied this call to missions you need to ask yourself, "Am I different?" This should be a relief to Christians. "I always knew I didn't fit in; what a relief!" But if that is not the case, some evaluating needs to be done. Why do you fit in with the world? Can they even tell you are different?!
You have been called to missions. Now go live it!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Standing in the Gap
The most immutable person I know is my husband; what an amazing man! I will not lie to you: God is still working on my ability to show patience and mercy, and I have a LOT of learning to do. Yet He has given me a husband who excels at both. And, man, is it humbling! Isn't it funny how God uses the actions and kindness of others to convict? I can think of more than one occasion just today where I made life difficult and he had every right to just quit being so nice; but he never does. You see, when life gets tough, I interpret that as the "time to move on" signal from God; how naive, and yes, weak!! Fortunately, my husband is much stronger and wiser than I; otherwise, God would have "called" us to several different life situations by now, and we'd be well on our way to living on a secluded island somewhere.
I am the chief offender of chalking up hardship to being "out of God's will." Jobs, people, cities; I mean, I'm even reading to a book to try and figure out what to eat and not eat in order to avoid cancer. Whatever makes life easy...yes, I am weak. But God calls us to tough situations: daily actually. Luke 9:23- "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily, and follow Me." So loneliness, depression, difficulty all should be encouraging. Jesus even warned us in Matthew 9:37- "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few." Clearly this is not gonna be an easy walk on this earth!
God is searching for people to stand in the gap (Ezekiel 22:30). This is not a small task or a "group" effort. It is a call to loneliness and discouragement. But it is a call to serve the ultimate calling. I mean think about it: if it were an easy job He would have to look very long for people to fill it.
What "gap" has God called you to fill? Could it be that the difficult situation in which you've found yourself is right in the middle of God's plan? In the midst of the hardship, you are "standing in the gap." Wow! How exciting is that?! Be faithful to cover that gap He has entrusted you with. We may not know the difference we are making until we get to heaven, but oh boy, will it be worth it!! Who will have the chance to hear the gospel because you were there to stand in the gap; who will be discipled only because you were there, willing to handle the tough times? Joshua 1:9- "Be strong and courageous!"
I am the chief offender of chalking up hardship to being "out of God's will." Jobs, people, cities; I mean, I'm even reading to a book to try and figure out what to eat and not eat in order to avoid cancer. Whatever makes life easy...yes, I am weak. But God calls us to tough situations: daily actually. Luke 9:23- "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily, and follow Me." So loneliness, depression, difficulty all should be encouraging. Jesus even warned us in Matthew 9:37- "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few." Clearly this is not gonna be an easy walk on this earth!
God is searching for people to stand in the gap (Ezekiel 22:30). This is not a small task or a "group" effort. It is a call to loneliness and discouragement. But it is a call to serve the ultimate calling. I mean think about it: if it were an easy job He would have to look very long for people to fill it.
What "gap" has God called you to fill? Could it be that the difficult situation in which you've found yourself is right in the middle of God's plan? In the midst of the hardship, you are "standing in the gap." Wow! How exciting is that?! Be faithful to cover that gap He has entrusted you with. We may not know the difference we are making until we get to heaven, but oh boy, will it be worth it!! Who will have the chance to hear the gospel because you were there to stand in the gap; who will be discipled only because you were there, willing to handle the tough times? Joshua 1:9- "Be strong and courageous!"
Monday, November 8, 2010
Contentment
If you haven't noticed already, I love my animals. My first pets were two cats named Three and Four. (I had just learned to count that week.) My pets progressed to a rottweiler named Moe who lasted maybe a month before he ended up at the ominous Wal-mart. You see, this is where we took the pets who didn't quite fit in. Needless to say, a stray rottweiler puppy did not fit in with my baby brother and sister. Then came Wendy the black mutt who lasted only a few weeks longer than Moe, then Tumnus the grey cat. (I was reading the Chronicles of Narnia at this time.) Tumus was the proverbial "cat with nine lives". One winter he climbed up into the engine of a car, only to come out with three and a half paws. :( In our humanistic minds,one might say "Well he has every right to become a grumpy old cat!" But he was a real trooper. You'd never know the difference ten years later when he was still walking around, purring away. I do not have a memory of Tumnus in which he was not purring. Talk about a content cat! And he never met a dog he didn't like (or more importantly a dog that he provoked to chase him!). Rain or shine, black lab or shi tzu, Tumnus had learned the secret to contentment.
Similarly, our new addition to the family Aubri the cailco kitten has that same laid-back approach to life (though 90% of the time, we are convinced she is on Speed!). A few weeks ago her hyper-active lifestyle got her in a bit of trouble, but did that slow her down? Not one bit. Yes, she nearly lost her tail and spent two weeks in a cool whip container with stitches. But I'm quite convinced that the entire process was more painful for me than for her. "What if the vet cuts off her tail!? I can't believe she is in so much pain!" And blah blah blah, worry worry worry. Meanwhile, Aubri is pouncing on air, and yes, purring incessantly. I mean, she was on a streets just months ago; losing her tail is the least of her worries. Why is it easier for my cat to be content than it is for me!?
Ouch. Did you feel that twinge of conviction, too? As a culture and in our own personal lives we have lost that feeling of true contentment. How can we regain that peace??
Philippians 4:12-13
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Contentment is found in acknowledging God's sovereignty. Romans 8:28 says, "God causes all things to work together for the good of those He has called according to His purpose." EVERYTHING! Whether you working and would rather be at home, or are at home and would rather be working, God is working! Whether you're a city girl in the country or a country girl in the city, God is working! Through depression, and breakups, deaths, and discouragements, God is still God and He is working!
In fact, if things aren't going your way, get excited because that means you are not in control; Someone greater is! Only then can we claim Philippians 4:13 and then find true contentment.
I have realized after adopting Aubri that I am one of the very few cat lovers. But I hope you will still learn from the attitudes of Tumnus and Aubri.
Romans 8:28-30
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
Similarly, our new addition to the family Aubri the cailco kitten has that same laid-back approach to life (though 90% of the time, we are convinced she is on Speed!). A few weeks ago her hyper-active lifestyle got her in a bit of trouble, but did that slow her down? Not one bit. Yes, she nearly lost her tail and spent two weeks in a cool whip container with stitches. But I'm quite convinced that the entire process was more painful for me than for her. "What if the vet cuts off her tail!? I can't believe she is in so much pain!" And blah blah blah, worry worry worry. Meanwhile, Aubri is pouncing on air, and yes, purring incessantly. I mean, she was on a streets just months ago; losing her tail is the least of her worries. Why is it easier for my cat to be content than it is for me!?
Ouch. Did you feel that twinge of conviction, too? As a culture and in our own personal lives we have lost that feeling of true contentment. How can we regain that peace??
Philippians 4:12-13
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Contentment is found in acknowledging God's sovereignty. Romans 8:28 says, "God causes all things to work together for the good of those He has called according to His purpose." EVERYTHING! Whether you working and would rather be at home, or are at home and would rather be working, God is working! Whether you're a city girl in the country or a country girl in the city, God is working! Through depression, and breakups, deaths, and discouragements, God is still God and He is working!
In fact, if things aren't going your way, get excited because that means you are not in control; Someone greater is! Only then can we claim Philippians 4:13 and then find true contentment.
I have realized after adopting Aubri that I am one of the very few cat lovers. But I hope you will still learn from the attitudes of Tumnus and Aubri.
Romans 8:28-30
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. 29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Fruit
There are many moments during one's childhood that make such an impression that they are remembered for a lifetime. These are the moments that we use to learn, to grow, and most importantly to laugh. :) I've had several of those that make me cringe, "What was I thinking? Certainly that wasn't me!" My mother can confirm, however, that there was in fact a scrubbed down milk tin found in the nearby cow pasture creek given to her by her oldest 6th grade daughter as an anniversary gift. Yes, cringe. Again I ask myself "What was I thinking?!" It's the thought that counts. :)
Another such memory is less embarrassing and simply shocking to the mind of a ten year old. My sister had a "male" cat named Oreo. Now, we have always loved our animals dearly but they are just that: animals. I will never forget the day I walked outside and was stunted by what I saw; I ran back in a panic. "Mom, Oreo is nursing some cat's kittens!!!" I was smart you see; I knew that boy cats don't have kittens so certainly Oreo kidnapped these poor babies. But no, the shock was not over; I soon learned that Oreo was in fact a mother. Boy cats do not nurse; he was a girl!
Matthew 7:16: You shall know them by their fruits.
All this time we had been fooled into thinking Oreo was a boy; however, when it was all said and done her true self was revealed. Having kittens did not make Oreo a girl. Just the opposite is true. Because she was a girl, she was able to have kittens. The same can be said of Christians. Yearning for God's Word and growth, loving and serving others, being faithful to God and His commandments do not make us Christians. However, as Christians this is how we will act. Just like the kittens made us realize Oreo's true self, a person's desires and priorities can give us a hint to his/her true identity. How can a true believer not want to make time with the Lord part of their daily walk? How can a Christian feel no remorse for sin, apathy, or unfaithfulness? We are still humans; we will mess up daily! But someone who has a relationship with the Lord feels that tug and discomfort that comes from knowing their actions/thoughts/words do not please God.
Matthew 7:21-23: Not everyone who says to me, "Lord, Lord" will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, "Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your Name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?" Then I will tell the plainly, "I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!"
What is your lifestyle? Yes, Christianity affects your entire life. Are you characterized as a person who is angry, mean, selfish? Are you preoccupied with sports, academics, or even your family? How are you raising your children? Do they put sports, friends, and fun over Bible study and their relationship with the Lord? Yes, even children can have a walk with God, and they do show fruit! Or do people see something different in you?
Galatians 5:22-23: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Another such memory is less embarrassing and simply shocking to the mind of a ten year old. My sister had a "male" cat named Oreo. Now, we have always loved our animals dearly but they are just that: animals. I will never forget the day I walked outside and was stunted by what I saw; I ran back in a panic. "Mom, Oreo is nursing some cat's kittens!!!" I was smart you see; I knew that boy cats don't have kittens so certainly Oreo kidnapped these poor babies. But no, the shock was not over; I soon learned that Oreo was in fact a mother. Boy cats do not nurse; he was a girl!
Matthew 7:16: You shall know them by their fruits.
All this time we had been fooled into thinking Oreo was a boy; however, when it was all said and done her true self was revealed. Having kittens did not make Oreo a girl. Just the opposite is true. Because she was a girl, she was able to have kittens. The same can be said of Christians. Yearning for God's Word and growth, loving and serving others, being faithful to God and His commandments do not make us Christians. However, as Christians this is how we will act. Just like the kittens made us realize Oreo's true self, a person's desires and priorities can give us a hint to his/her true identity. How can a true believer not want to make time with the Lord part of their daily walk? How can a Christian feel no remorse for sin, apathy, or unfaithfulness? We are still humans; we will mess up daily! But someone who has a relationship with the Lord feels that tug and discomfort that comes from knowing their actions/thoughts/words do not please God.
Matthew 7:21-23: Not everyone who says to me, "Lord, Lord" will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, "Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your Name, and in Your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?" Then I will tell the plainly, "I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!"
What is your lifestyle? Yes, Christianity affects your entire life. Are you characterized as a person who is angry, mean, selfish? Are you preoccupied with sports, academics, or even your family? How are you raising your children? Do they put sports, friends, and fun over Bible study and their relationship with the Lord? Yes, even children can have a walk with God, and they do show fruit! Or do people see something different in you?
Galatians 5:22-23: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
A Life to Be Emulated
At one point in my childhood years my dad was a college pastor. And let me tell you, I was the luckiest little kid on the planet: nonstop attention from cool college kids! One in particular was a girl who would take us on excursions around Athens; she earned the right to have my childhood dog named after her. And when she asked me to be her flower girl, I was on cloud nine! Since then, we have been able to keep in touch through all the moves and life changes. Now I have enjoyed getting to know her three fun-loving girls while still being fortunate enough to have her as an example of a Godly wife and mother.
And that is what the Christian walk should look like: encouraging one another. Titus 2 explains it well:
And that is what the Christian walk should look like: encouraging one another. Titus 2 explains it well:
"3Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. 4Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, 5to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God."
That whole "train younger women" doesn't have to be a literal class or "how-to" discussion (and rarely is!). It is about providing a physical example of the Proverbs 31 woman; a lifestyle that younger women can safely emulate and know they are becoming more like Christ. And honestly, you never know who you may impacting. That middle school girl who seems to want nothing to do with you may actually be watching you like a hawk. There have been countless times that I have found myself thinking, "How would Wendy/Mom/Karen.... respond in this situation?" Or maybe the more frequent convictions after the fact: "She would never have responded like that." And each woman as someone looking up to her. The middle school girl has her little sister following her foot steps; the college girl has high schoolers watching her every move. Who is watching you??
Paul said in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Follow me as I follow Christ." Can you say that about your life?
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Life is good?
My aunt has always been a huge proponent of personality types, and thus I have become a huge fan. It fascinates me how one little test can explain so much about a person. I can't tell you how many "ah ha!" moments I have had at her house while discussing this topic. "So that is why she does that!" More recently this cure-all test has been applied to my husband and I. Admittedly, I am into this a good bit more than my husband; however, as the days go by living with his melancholy-choleric I can see he is slowly buying into the idea. I keep life exciting for my sanguine-phlegmatic! Yes it's true, we are complete opposites. Though as a good choleric, I would argue he has a hint of choleric in him as well. Back to my point....
Being a "scholar of the types" I would call my new home town phlegmatic-phlegmatic. Life is very laid back, slow, and fun. Oh to be a phlegmatic! I envy their "easygoing-ness". Contrary to my title, life for a melancholy is not always good. Wikipedia defines melancholy as "the mental type, live by-the-book." An example of this is my car accident in high school. At a stop sign, I stopped at the white line. Going past the line would be breaking the rules, so heaven forbid I pull up past the bush on my left to see if a car is coming. Sure enough, just behind the bush was a Yukon. Suddenly, that rule about stopping at the white line didn't seem so important.
A list of melancholy character traits includes "sensitive, unsociable, moody, perfectionist, melancholy." The last part of that definition is the part that's real bummer....literally! We melancholies tend to feel things very deeply. So, life can be a bit of a roller coaster. Needless to say, these past few months have been full of change and uncertainty. Sometimes life does not feel so good.
I've heard more often than once lately "Just trust God! He is in control." But do my feelings of depression really mean I am not trusting God? I struggled with this thought for a while. I am trying the best I know how to trust God; in my head I know He has a perfect plan and I honestly am excited about it; I am faithful to spend time with Him. So why do I still have feelings of discouragement? Why am I not always "high on life" like my wonderful sanguine-phlegmatic? Because that is not how God made me. Through my studies, I have been reminded of the many accounts that God simply asks for pure honesty. The Kaph section of Psalm 119 (verses 81-88) is the Psalmist begging for comfort; Job poured out his heart and his negative emotions to God; Ecclesiastes is full of Solomon's despair.
God will bring us through rough times. He does not ask us to feel good about it; He simply asks us to rely on Him for strength. When we don't understand or when we think life is spinning in a downward cycle, we can find peace in His Word. Our true trust is found in where we turn when the darkness seems overwhelming. Jesus Himself asked for relief before His crucifixion. "But not My will, but Thine be done."
Let me backtrack a moment to look on the positive side (a big step for this personality type, I know!). I said earlier that God has given each person their personalities for a reason. You are probably convinced that mine is just awful. There are positives and negatives to each type! Because of our deep ability to feel things, we are able to relate to people on a deep level. You can usually tell what we are thinking, if not by what we say, by the look on our faces, so we can't help but be open. We are very loyal and will do what it takes to get a job done. So for all my fellow melancholies out there, look on the bright side! God is using us in unique ways. Look to your true source of peace, and when those dark days come buckle down and focus on the Truth.
Psalm 119:103- "How sweet are Your Words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!"
Being a "scholar of the types" I would call my new home town phlegmatic-phlegmatic. Life is very laid back, slow, and fun. Oh to be a phlegmatic! I envy their "easygoing-ness". Contrary to my title, life for a melancholy is not always good. Wikipedia defines melancholy as "the mental type, live by-the-book." An example of this is my car accident in high school. At a stop sign, I stopped at the white line. Going past the line would be breaking the rules, so heaven forbid I pull up past the bush on my left to see if a car is coming. Sure enough, just behind the bush was a Yukon. Suddenly, that rule about stopping at the white line didn't seem so important.
A list of melancholy character traits includes "sensitive, unsociable, moody, perfectionist, melancholy." The last part of that definition is the part that's real bummer....literally! We melancholies tend to feel things very deeply. So, life can be a bit of a roller coaster. Needless to say, these past few months have been full of change and uncertainty. Sometimes life does not feel so good.
I've heard more often than once lately "Just trust God! He is in control." But do my feelings of depression really mean I am not trusting God? I struggled with this thought for a while. I am trying the best I know how to trust God; in my head I know He has a perfect plan and I honestly am excited about it; I am faithful to spend time with Him. So why do I still have feelings of discouragement? Why am I not always "high on life" like my wonderful sanguine-phlegmatic? Because that is not how God made me. Through my studies, I have been reminded of the many accounts that God simply asks for pure honesty. The Kaph section of Psalm 119 (verses 81-88) is the Psalmist begging for comfort; Job poured out his heart and his negative emotions to God; Ecclesiastes is full of Solomon's despair.
God will bring us through rough times. He does not ask us to feel good about it; He simply asks us to rely on Him for strength. When we don't understand or when we think life is spinning in a downward cycle, we can find peace in His Word. Our true trust is found in where we turn when the darkness seems overwhelming. Jesus Himself asked for relief before His crucifixion. "But not My will, but Thine be done."
Let me backtrack a moment to look on the positive side (a big step for this personality type, I know!). I said earlier that God has given each person their personalities for a reason. You are probably convinced that mine is just awful. There are positives and negatives to each type! Because of our deep ability to feel things, we are able to relate to people on a deep level. You can usually tell what we are thinking, if not by what we say, by the look on our faces, so we can't help but be open. We are very loyal and will do what it takes to get a job done. So for all my fellow melancholies out there, look on the bright side! God is using us in unique ways. Look to your true source of peace, and when those dark days come buckle down and focus on the Truth.
Psalm 119:103- "How sweet are Your Words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!"
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Count Your Blessings
1 Chronicles 16:34- Give thanks to the LORD for He is good; His love endures forever.
*in no particular order
1. My Husband:
He always enjoys having fun. He includes me in his ministry work here, and provides for me (jobless) with no complaint.
2.My Dad:
He is a great example of self-sacrificing. He always stands up forwhat is right and for what God has called him to do.
3. My Mom:
She is more concerned about the welfare of others than that of herself. She is always ready to listen and provide encouragement.
4. My sisters Emily and Kelsey:
They are both so much fun and always know how to have a good time! They are always ready to listen and encourage, each in her own way.
5. My brothers Christopher and Caleb:
They are both very committed to their ministries. Like my Dad, they are very self-less and always look for opportunities to serve others.
6. My friend Amanda Johnson:
Though we have only been friends for a few months, she has been one of most encouraging friends I've ever had. She is always ready to listen and provide honest advise. She encourages me with honesty about her own openess.
7. My friend Rebecca Hager:
She has been my loyal friend since birth! I can always count on Rebecca to be there for me. Seriously, she's been there through the thick and thin!
8. My In-Laws:
They are all very supportive and very generous. They are all ready at a moments notice to help with anything.
9. My chihuahua and kitten:
They give me loyal company and entertainment while at home! Seriously, I can't walk to another room without a small parade behind me. Ha!
10. God's Word:
What a comfort it brings! God's Word is the guidebook for life. It provides encouragement for the Christians and convictions for the sinner.
There is sooo much more to be thankful for but that would take days!! Take the challenge and make note of things you are most thankful for. Notice how God has blessed you! The relief and comfort that comes is well worth the time.
*in no particular order
1. My Husband:
He always enjoys having fun. He includes me in his ministry work here, and provides for me (jobless) with no complaint.
2.My Dad:
He is a great example of self-sacrificing. He always stands up forwhat is right and for what God has called him to do.
3. My Mom:
She is more concerned about the welfare of others than that of herself. She is always ready to listen and provide encouragement.
4. My sisters Emily and Kelsey:
They are both so much fun and always know how to have a good time! They are always ready to listen and encourage, each in her own way.
5. My brothers Christopher and Caleb:
They are both very committed to their ministries. Like my Dad, they are very self-less and always look for opportunities to serve others.
6. My friend Amanda Johnson:
Though we have only been friends for a few months, she has been one of most encouraging friends I've ever had. She is always ready to listen and provide honest advise. She encourages me with honesty about her own openess.
7. My friend Rebecca Hager:
She has been my loyal friend since birth! I can always count on Rebecca to be there for me. Seriously, she's been there through the thick and thin!
8. My In-Laws:
They are all very supportive and very generous. They are all ready at a moments notice to help with anything.
9. My chihuahua and kitten:
They give me loyal company and entertainment while at home! Seriously, I can't walk to another room without a small parade behind me. Ha!
10. God's Word:
What a comfort it brings! God's Word is the guidebook for life. It provides encouragement for the Christians and convictions for the sinner.
There is sooo much more to be thankful for but that would take days!! Take the challenge and make note of things you are most thankful for. Notice how God has blessed you! The relief and comfort that comes is well worth the time.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Redecorating
I believe I have "redecorated" our home about fifty times since moving in the end of July. While watching the kitten and chihuahua play (more of the hyperactive kitten "playing" with the independent chihuahua), I am suddenly horrified at the sight of a misplaced picture, or a couch that is clearly on the wrong wall completely. I don't know if it's perfectionism or pure boredom; whatever it is, my living room has had many facelifts. And, oh, the cleaning. Well, with the two aforementioned pieces of entertainment also known as Sosa the loyal chihuahua and Aubri the playful kitten, there is plenty of dusting and vacuuming to be done. Never a lack of laundry and kitchen and bathroom cleaning in our household, yet with no job and no human children (yes I consider Sosa and Aubri my babies), there is plenty of time to practice keeping house. My clean house is a very deceptive guise for "good house keeping skills". Those have yet to be proven, until I have to balance it with a full schedule. I am thankful for the time to master these skills for when I do have less time to devote to it.
Our women's ministry at church is currently doing a wonderful Bible study on personal revival. Admittedly, my "straight by the book", black-and-white personality was at first unsure about the idea. "Personal revival!? Where is that in the Bible?" Desperate for deep relationships in my new town, I decided to see what this was all about. And I am so glad God brought me there. Contrary to my simple minded ideas, personal revival is all over the Bible. Specifically we are looking at Hosea. This week the author discussed humility, and boy did it get personal. This morning's lesson ended the week with a personal inventory. Let me sum it up by saying it was a very convicting experience. I have a lot of "redecorating" to do. It was as if I had been just doing the next thing, which happened to be the women's Bible study, fellowshipping with other women then "bam!" I am suddenly horrified with the sight of my sin. How could I be so prideful?!? What do I even have to prideful about??!! And wow, does pride affect everything! This can be very overwhelming and quite depressing. As Romans 7:15 says "I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do, I do not do. But what I do not want to do, I do." Can you feel the frustration?!
Yet there is hope. Recently I have been studying through Psalm 119. The parallel between that and the revival study has been fascinating. (Remember, I am a housewife with only a dog and cat to take care of, so lots of time on my hands). While discovering my faults and struggles in the Bible study, the psalmist provides hope. Section Beth (v9-16) gives an explanation of how someone can keep the law: by treasuring His Word. Daleth (v25-32) has been my personal favorite thus far. The Psalmist is clearly confronted with his depravity and is yearning for revival. Yes, in verse 25 NASB uses the word "revive" is used. Silly me, revival is in the Bible. "My soul cleaves to the dust; (possibly the feelings we goes through when fully confronted with our sin) revive me according to Your Word." So where do you find the guide to "housekeeping"? God's Word. Verse 31: "I cling to You testimonies." Cling! This is the same word for your belt clinging to your waist. That's pretty tight (sometimes tighter than others!). :) Who or what do we cling to when confronted with sin? The true relief is found in God's Word and none other.
As long as we are on this earth, there will be plenty of housekeeping and redecorating to be done. But thank God, He has given us the Guide!
Our women's ministry at church is currently doing a wonderful Bible study on personal revival. Admittedly, my "straight by the book", black-and-white personality was at first unsure about the idea. "Personal revival!? Where is that in the Bible?" Desperate for deep relationships in my new town, I decided to see what this was all about. And I am so glad God brought me there. Contrary to my simple minded ideas, personal revival is all over the Bible. Specifically we are looking at Hosea. This week the author discussed humility, and boy did it get personal. This morning's lesson ended the week with a personal inventory. Let me sum it up by saying it was a very convicting experience. I have a lot of "redecorating" to do. It was as if I had been just doing the next thing, which happened to be the women's Bible study, fellowshipping with other women then "bam!" I am suddenly horrified with the sight of my sin. How could I be so prideful?!? What do I even have to prideful about??!! And wow, does pride affect everything! This can be very overwhelming and quite depressing. As Romans 7:15 says "I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do, I do not do. But what I do not want to do, I do." Can you feel the frustration?!
Yet there is hope. Recently I have been studying through Psalm 119. The parallel between that and the revival study has been fascinating. (Remember, I am a housewife with only a dog and cat to take care of, so lots of time on my hands). While discovering my faults and struggles in the Bible study, the psalmist provides hope. Section Beth (v9-16) gives an explanation of how someone can keep the law: by treasuring His Word. Daleth (v25-32) has been my personal favorite thus far. The Psalmist is clearly confronted with his depravity and is yearning for revival. Yes, in verse 25 NASB uses the word "revive" is used. Silly me, revival is in the Bible. "My soul cleaves to the dust; (possibly the feelings we goes through when fully confronted with our sin) revive me according to Your Word." So where do you find the guide to "housekeeping"? God's Word. Verse 31: "I cling to You testimonies." Cling! This is the same word for your belt clinging to your waist. That's pretty tight (sometimes tighter than others!). :) Who or what do we cling to when confronted with sin? The true relief is found in God's Word and none other.
As long as we are on this earth, there will be plenty of housekeeping and redecorating to be done. But thank God, He has given us the Guide!
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Driving Through the Country
Let me begin by saying this: driving in the country is not the same as driving in the city. Not even close. In fact, I think they should offer a class when transitioning from metro to rural or vice-versa. For example, a long road in south Georgia is NOT the same as that in the city. In the city, a long road is generally an interstate or highway, therefore the speed limit ranges from 55-75 mph. This is not the case in rural towns. A long straight road is just that: a long. straight. road. The speed limit ranges from 25-55mph. I can only think of one explanation, and this goes back to the idea of a "drive through the country." It means driving very slowly through the middle of nowhere, so as to take in the scenery. The "slowly" part is mandated by speed limits posted by the proud officials of that locale. It'd be a shame for a passer-by to miss part of the town while driving through. Don't get me wrong: driving in rural Georgia is quite interesting and has much more country-side to see than that of the big city. However, this type of driving is nowhere to be found in my personality description. When I get behind the wheel of a car, I do so because I have a destination. The "fun" part of driving is getting to the destination. This has become even more true as my city driving now stands out like a sore thumb to law enforcement in south Georgia with roads to pay for. I'm sure I own an entire highway somewhere by now. Since my first abode in south Georgia 6 years ago, I have learned to hate driving. And every single ticket has been in rural Georgia. No lie. I'm sure there are a few who sympathize with my distain for driving, as well as those who have yet to feel that drop in the stomach at the site of blue lights in the rear-view.
But this goal-driven attitude affects more than just my driving. Why is it so hard for me to enjoy the ride of life? "Oh I'll be settled once I graduate. Then I can have a ministry." Or "If only I could live in a big city. Then I would truely be happy." How much time have I lost by being focused on the goal and ignoring the signs around me, the needs around me? My ministry may not look like my "goal" but it is actually more valuable because it isn't my plan. Therefore, anything that happens cannot be credited to any accomplishments or goals that I have pushed myself to meet. Only God knows the things that will be accomplished along the way.
Proverbs 31:12, "She does him good and not evil all the days of her life." Did you notice the end of that verse? "All the days of her life." Not once she gets her white house with the picket fence; not once she gets her phD, or her dream career. Every single day she does the good things listed in the rest of the chapter.
This "slowing down and enjoying the ride" thing seems impossible and overwhelming to this goal-oriented chick, but sanctification is a process that Christ does in us. Philippians 4:12-14: all things are possible through Christ. So, while I learn to sit back and enjoy the ride (literally and figuratively), He is able to conform me to His image, and I am able to notice my surroundings. How exciting!
But this goal-driven attitude affects more than just my driving. Why is it so hard for me to enjoy the ride of life? "Oh I'll be settled once I graduate. Then I can have a ministry." Or "If only I could live in a big city. Then I would truely be happy." How much time have I lost by being focused on the goal and ignoring the signs around me, the needs around me? My ministry may not look like my "goal" but it is actually more valuable because it isn't my plan. Therefore, anything that happens cannot be credited to any accomplishments or goals that I have pushed myself to meet. Only God knows the things that will be accomplished along the way.
Proverbs 31:12, "She does him good and not evil all the days of her life." Did you notice the end of that verse? "All the days of her life." Not once she gets her white house with the picket fence; not once she gets her phD, or her dream career. Every single day she does the good things listed in the rest of the chapter.
This "slowing down and enjoying the ride" thing seems impossible and overwhelming to this goal-oriented chick, but sanctification is a process that Christ does in us. Philippians 4:12-14: all things are possible through Christ. So, while I learn to sit back and enjoy the ride (literally and figuratively), He is able to conform me to His image, and I am able to notice my surroundings. How exciting!
Monday, September 6, 2010
Where True Peace is Found
Most people have a picture of what their life will one day look like. It may not even be a "dream" per say, such as living in multi-million dollar house on beach, but there is a plan. Especially for us type A super-planners. Yet I hope by the end of this post, you will see that true peace is not found in fulfilling one's life goals.
My planned life: live in a big city, preferably Charlotte, Washington DC, or maybe even San Diego. Work full-time as a middle school science or health teacher, one day becoming a missionary to Central America. Happily married to someone who works in the ministry. One dog and one cat, two kids. Eat very little meat and dairy. Daily exercise and a ministry I can be involved in, both growing and serving.
Being an extreme introvert, hanging out with people for extended periods of time drains my energy. Don't get me wrong; I LOVE hanging out with friends, but I "recharge" by being alone. However, contrary to popular belief, I despise being alone. Weird, right? While I can't speak for other introverts, I enjoy being in crowds of people: people I don't know. During graduate school my "recharge station" was the mall, more specifically Barnes and Noble. Being a city with a population of 200,000, it was rare that I saw anyone I knew, yet I was never alone. There was no need to converse or entertain, yet there was the presence of other human beings. I would spend hours there in my energy dock. In undgrad, my station was Starbucks. It's an automatic response to extended periods of time with friends: head to the charger. You can see why I like the big city. You are never alone, and only see people you know if planned, preferably in one to two hour increments. It is my comfort zone. My husband is not an introvert....far from it. He loves interacting with people. He couldn't care less what or when he eats, but his "charging station" is hanging out with friends. They say opposites attract: we are living proof.
Yet I have found that being in my comfort zone may be the most dangerous place for me. I have "no need" to seek God's presence.
The population of my current town is 3,747. No, I didn't miss a zero. It's small. Ideal for an extrovert who thrives on interacting with people he knows. Yet this was not my plan, or my desire. After a long day of church or swimming lessons or parties, where do I "recharge"!? Where do I go to escape!?! And how am I supposed to be an example at the schools if I can't even get a job there? What will happen to my "perfect plans"? Panic sets in. Yet in that moment realizing my total loss of control, God's presence becomes know.
My plans, in and of themselves were not bad or "ungodly" at all. They were just that: my plans. But why worry about fulfilling my plans when God already has His plans in motion? Who am I to say that my plans are better than the Almighty Creator?! And what a peace that is found in letting go, and trusting God to ordain my steps. How exciting is it that He is letting me be part of His work here in the country! And there is so much work to be done. If I had started off with a full time job, with people I know, and a haven to recharge, I would have had no need to seek the Lord's presence. Yet in His presence is where peace and true purpose can be found. It took letting go and discomfort to find that.
In her book Keep a Quiet Heart Elisabeth Elliot wrote that she thought she'd live in Ecuador forever. But that was not God's plan. God does not call us to a life of wordly comfort where everything goes "according to plan", but quite the opposite. It is in the lifestyle of "discomfort" that peace is found. God has brought me where I am today, and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
My planned life: live in a big city, preferably Charlotte, Washington DC, or maybe even San Diego. Work full-time as a middle school science or health teacher, one day becoming a missionary to Central America. Happily married to someone who works in the ministry. One dog and one cat, two kids. Eat very little meat and dairy. Daily exercise and a ministry I can be involved in, both growing and serving.
Being an extreme introvert, hanging out with people for extended periods of time drains my energy. Don't get me wrong; I LOVE hanging out with friends, but I "recharge" by being alone. However, contrary to popular belief, I despise being alone. Weird, right? While I can't speak for other introverts, I enjoy being in crowds of people: people I don't know. During graduate school my "recharge station" was the mall, more specifically Barnes and Noble. Being a city with a population of 200,000, it was rare that I saw anyone I knew, yet I was never alone. There was no need to converse or entertain, yet there was the presence of other human beings. I would spend hours there in my energy dock. In undgrad, my station was Starbucks. It's an automatic response to extended periods of time with friends: head to the charger. You can see why I like the big city. You are never alone, and only see people you know if planned, preferably in one to two hour increments. It is my comfort zone. My husband is not an introvert....far from it. He loves interacting with people. He couldn't care less what or when he eats, but his "charging station" is hanging out with friends. They say opposites attract: we are living proof.
Yet I have found that being in my comfort zone may be the most dangerous place for me. I have "no need" to seek God's presence.
The population of my current town is 3,747. No, I didn't miss a zero. It's small. Ideal for an extrovert who thrives on interacting with people he knows. Yet this was not my plan, or my desire. After a long day of church or swimming lessons or parties, where do I "recharge"!? Where do I go to escape!?! And how am I supposed to be an example at the schools if I can't even get a job there? What will happen to my "perfect plans"? Panic sets in. Yet in that moment realizing my total loss of control, God's presence becomes know.
My plans, in and of themselves were not bad or "ungodly" at all. They were just that: my plans. But why worry about fulfilling my plans when God already has His plans in motion? Who am I to say that my plans are better than the Almighty Creator?! And what a peace that is found in letting go, and trusting God to ordain my steps. How exciting is it that He is letting me be part of His work here in the country! And there is so much work to be done. If I had started off with a full time job, with people I know, and a haven to recharge, I would have had no need to seek the Lord's presence. Yet in His presence is where peace and true purpose can be found. It took letting go and discomfort to find that.
In her book Keep a Quiet Heart Elisabeth Elliot wrote that she thought she'd live in Ecuador forever. But that was not God's plan. God does not call us to a life of wordly comfort where everything goes "according to plan", but quite the opposite. It is in the lifestyle of "discomfort" that peace is found. God has brought me where I am today, and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
A Pent Up Race Horse
Webster defines routine as "a regular course of procedure; habitual or mechanical performance of an established procedure." There's not much "routine" in the life of housewife. For me, it goes about as far as a weekly cleaning schedule. This can be hard on a type A, OCD, oldest of 5 new bride.
I like to think I am flexible. Give me one weeks notice and I'll be available for whatever you have in mind. :)
The people in our new community seem to know how to relax and be flexible much better than I do. Another area of growth; funny how God puts you in your least ideal situation so as to provide optimal growth. And I am thankful for that. After all, adjusting my scheduled time to go to the grocery store to hang out with a friend may not be the end of the world after all.
One thing I have been fortunate enough to establish in my daily "routine" is my workout. I LOVE my new gym! It's open 24-7 and is rarely crowed. Much to my husbands chagrin, I can even workout at 11pm after an unplanned food outing with friends. As is normal for those of us routine-followers, there are a few people who I see most every day at the gym. Granted, there is not much conversing going on between reps, but every now and then the usuals get a chance to catch up. One of these regulars is a local pastor. Upon first meeting, he explained how he came to his current church and proceeded to give me (a new youth pastor's wife) advise. "Start with the ABC's." I nodded, knowing deep down that I was prepared to jump right into inductive Bible study with my new youth. You see, I had it all planned out....
Famous last words. For those of you unfamiliar with inductive Bible study, it isn't something you just dive right into. You have to have a hunger for it. The words of the pastor seem so much more real. In all of my planning and training, the thought had never crossed my mind that what was normal for me was far from normal for others.
A local teacher-friend explained it well: "You just feel like a pent up race horse." She was referring to my desire for a teaching job. I have all this training and knowledge I am ready to try, yet no avenue to show it. I wonder how many of us miss valuable opportunities to minister and be part of God's plan simply because we have it "all planned out." Yet how exciting it is to be flexible and watch God work; He's plan is infinitely better than anything I could dream.
Proverbs 31:17- "She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her task."
And I'm sure the work of the Proverbs 31 woman is not always (if ever!) what she expects. She work diligently, whether she planned for it or not!
Webster defines flexible as"characterized by a ready capability to adapt to new, different, or changing requirements." God is faithful and I know He will help me gain this trait.
I like to think I am flexible. Give me one weeks notice and I'll be available for whatever you have in mind. :)
The people in our new community seem to know how to relax and be flexible much better than I do. Another area of growth; funny how God puts you in your least ideal situation so as to provide optimal growth. And I am thankful for that. After all, adjusting my scheduled time to go to the grocery store to hang out with a friend may not be the end of the world after all.
One thing I have been fortunate enough to establish in my daily "routine" is my workout. I LOVE my new gym! It's open 24-7 and is rarely crowed. Much to my husbands chagrin, I can even workout at 11pm after an unplanned food outing with friends. As is normal for those of us routine-followers, there are a few people who I see most every day at the gym. Granted, there is not much conversing going on between reps, but every now and then the usuals get a chance to catch up. One of these regulars is a local pastor. Upon first meeting, he explained how he came to his current church and proceeded to give me (a new youth pastor's wife) advise. "Start with the ABC's." I nodded, knowing deep down that I was prepared to jump right into inductive Bible study with my new youth. You see, I had it all planned out....
Famous last words. For those of you unfamiliar with inductive Bible study, it isn't something you just dive right into. You have to have a hunger for it. The words of the pastor seem so much more real. In all of my planning and training, the thought had never crossed my mind that what was normal for me was far from normal for others.
A local teacher-friend explained it well: "You just feel like a pent up race horse." She was referring to my desire for a teaching job. I have all this training and knowledge I am ready to try, yet no avenue to show it. I wonder how many of us miss valuable opportunities to minister and be part of God's plan simply because we have it "all planned out." Yet how exciting it is to be flexible and watch God work; He's plan is infinitely better than anything I could dream.
Proverbs 31:17- "She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her task."
And I'm sure the work of the Proverbs 31 woman is not always (if ever!) what she expects. She work diligently, whether she planned for it or not!
Webster defines flexible as"characterized by a ready capability to adapt to new, different, or changing requirements." God is faithful and I know He will help me gain this trait.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Refocusing
Let's get honest for a moment: as of the past month, any fantasies of going out of town usually involve interstates, Starbucks, and of course shopping malls. Hey, I wouldn't even mind getting stuck in traffic for a little while. However, this weekend we found ourselves going further south...yes it is possible! My husband was a groomsman in a wedding, and we spent last weekend participating in the wedding festivities in deep south Georgia.
While there, we had the privilege of meeting an Australian pastor and his college intern. What an encouraging pair! During the weekend we had several conversations about ministry. In their laid-back Aussie style, they explained their discipleship-based ministry in the land Down Under. Meanwhile, God is using them to reveal suppressed truths about my own current attitude....
The biggest struggle with being jobless is tied to our humanistic need for approval. I mean, how would I even cope if mud was tracked onto my new rug?! And of course the world would come to an end if, heaven forbid, I served spinach salad and baked chicken to someone who hates vegetables and prefers red meat.
And then comes the big one: what do people think of me being unemployed? Every career question prompts a long explanation; I mean, it'd be just awful if people thought I CHOSE my current occupation!! But seriously, why so do I care so much?! How shallow! While it's totally fine and natural for me to want to present a clean, modern home, and it's totally fine for me to enjoy making myself look presentable (I believe one pastor said it would be a sin for some women not to wear makeup! ha), there is a balance. So what is it that really does matter? What matters is that I am using my gifts and resources to bring glory to God. He has provided me with a town house to host people, kitchen equipment to cook, and plenty of time to prepare! At the end of the day, if they didn't like my food or if someone stopped by before I had a chance to vacuum, my purpose has not been hindered. In fact, it has actually been accomplished: relationship building.
And this all goes back to what we as Christians we are called to do wherever we are..."make disciples." (Acts 1:8)
What is being in the ministry really about? It's not about numbers; it's not about convincing people to become Christians; it's about producing disciples. Isn't it frustrating how we get so stuck on ourselves? It's like we need visible affirmation that our work is worthwhile. Similar to my struggles in looking for approval from others in my housekeeping, often the focus in ministry is on numbers. It's on things that can be easily measured. I may base our success on how many people we shared the gospel with, or how many came to Sunday school, or how many Bible studies we are in. As confirmed by our new Australian friends, the focus is all wrong. My job is to make disciples. This is not as easily measured, but why does it need to be?? I should not seek man's approval, but God's. And what is it that brings Him joy?
1. Be attentive to the missions field around me. Look for opportunities to lead people to Him, help them grow.
2. Make disciples. And this goes both ways. Not only do I need to find a place grow, but I also need to find people to disciple.
3. Use my gifts! God gave me my gifts and preferences and He doesn't expect me to ignore them, but to use them for His glory!
I am blessed to have come from a family based on discipleship. As I have grown up and moved around, I have really come to appreciate my dad's commitment to discipling his kids. I have never met another dad like him. How blessed am I!? And he continues that commitment in the lives of men and college guys. His goal is not to lead people to Christ but to guide them through a growing walk with the Lord. It's the multiplication factor! My dad is the best example of true, worthwhile ministry that I know, my model for ministry here. <3
While there, we had the privilege of meeting an Australian pastor and his college intern. What an encouraging pair! During the weekend we had several conversations about ministry. In their laid-back Aussie style, they explained their discipleship-based ministry in the land Down Under. Meanwhile, God is using them to reveal suppressed truths about my own current attitude....
The biggest struggle with being jobless is tied to our humanistic need for approval. I mean, how would I even cope if mud was tracked onto my new rug?! And of course the world would come to an end if, heaven forbid, I served spinach salad and baked chicken to someone who hates vegetables and prefers red meat.
And then comes the big one: what do people think of me being unemployed? Every career question prompts a long explanation; I mean, it'd be just awful if people thought I CHOSE my current occupation!! But seriously, why so do I care so much?! How shallow! While it's totally fine and natural for me to want to present a clean, modern home, and it's totally fine for me to enjoy making myself look presentable (I believe one pastor said it would be a sin for some women not to wear makeup! ha), there is a balance. So what is it that really does matter? What matters is that I am using my gifts and resources to bring glory to God. He has provided me with a town house to host people, kitchen equipment to cook, and plenty of time to prepare! At the end of the day, if they didn't like my food or if someone stopped by before I had a chance to vacuum, my purpose has not been hindered. In fact, it has actually been accomplished: relationship building.
And this all goes back to what we as Christians we are called to do wherever we are..."make disciples." (Acts 1:8)
What is being in the ministry really about? It's not about numbers; it's not about convincing people to become Christians; it's about producing disciples. Isn't it frustrating how we get so stuck on ourselves? It's like we need visible affirmation that our work is worthwhile. Similar to my struggles in looking for approval from others in my housekeeping, often the focus in ministry is on numbers. It's on things that can be easily measured. I may base our success on how many people we shared the gospel with, or how many came to Sunday school, or how many Bible studies we are in. As confirmed by our new Australian friends, the focus is all wrong. My job is to make disciples. This is not as easily measured, but why does it need to be?? I should not seek man's approval, but God's. And what is it that brings Him joy?
1. Be attentive to the missions field around me. Look for opportunities to lead people to Him, help them grow.
2. Make disciples. And this goes both ways. Not only do I need to find a place grow, but I also need to find people to disciple.
3. Use my gifts! God gave me my gifts and preferences and He doesn't expect me to ignore them, but to use them for His glory!
I am blessed to have come from a family based on discipleship. As I have grown up and moved around, I have really come to appreciate my dad's commitment to discipling his kids. I have never met another dad like him. How blessed am I!? And he continues that commitment in the lives of men and college guys. His goal is not to lead people to Christ but to guide them through a growing walk with the Lord. It's the multiplication factor! My dad is the best example of true, worthwhile ministry that I know, my model for ministry here. <3
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Wear Your Heels!
As all of my friends know, I love love LOVE to wear heels. Something about them makes me feels much more relaxed and confident. While it's nice to find a pair of comfortable stilettos, this is not always realistic. I'll pick a toe-pinching "tall shoe" over the most comfortable ballet flats every time. Now once my job description changes, this persuasion may change slightly. But for now: heels win out every time.
With this love comes a love for shopping. I LOVE shopping! My favorite is finding "deals". "Banana Republic shirt for $10!? What an easy shopping-decision!" While Augusta wasn't one of my favorite cities to live it, they made up for it with an AMAZING mall. The three best stores a girl could ever want were side by side: The Loft, Banana Republic, and Gap! Overwhelming, I know. A simple stop through on my way to studying at Barnes and Noble would produce bargains beyond belief! But somehow I managed to live there two years without going completely bankrupt.
One of the many adjustments of living in south Georgia: the closest mall is two hours. While at first this fact was part of my wallowing, God is faithful enough to give me a reality check every now and then. Fact 1: I have no job. Hence, the blog! No job=no income=no money. Period. Fact 2: Shopping is not the most productive way to spend my time. While there is a time and a place, I can see how being a housewife with a mall close by would be dangerous...very dangerous. Fact 3: God has a lot of work here for us to do. The last thing I need are distractions from this work.
While I am still figuring out God's current calling for me, each day is an adventure. As He helps me focus more and more on Him, He is showing me ways to be part of His work here. Being a youth pastor's wife, this shouldn't be hard to find. Isn't it funny how we make "doing the Lord's work" so complicated? Maybe what God has for me right now is to help with cleaning up after youth events after everyone has left; or type up handouts for the lessons Wednesday night. Or even just do what I can to help the youth pastor be the best youth pastor he can be! This is not as glamorous as leading Bible studies or writing books, but since when is it all about me? This is a hard pill to swallow; my wallowing and self-pity do not allow such thinking. How exciting, though, to be part of the amazing work God is doing here! And what an honor. Despite feeling out of place and useless, He has given me purpose. All He is asking me to do is be myself and look for ways to dive right into His work.
So, while wearing my new $8 Gap shirt (purchased through online shopping... moderation is key!) and my "tall shoes", God is using me right here in south Georgia.
Proverbs 31:22- "She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple."
My mom is one of the classiest women I know; she makes a point of presenting herself in a proper way without being flashy and consumed with her appearance. Her house is always nicely decorated and clean. Meanwhile, she has an extraordinary ministry with the impoverished high school mothers in her GED class. Clearly her sense of style is not flashy! And she in NO way lives outside of her means. Where do you think I get my love for bargain shopping?! :) Because of this, she is a true Proverbs 31 wife. I hope to one day find that balance she has. She's my hero!
With this love comes a love for shopping. I LOVE shopping! My favorite is finding "deals". "Banana Republic shirt for $10!? What an easy shopping-decision!" While Augusta wasn't one of my favorite cities to live it, they made up for it with an AMAZING mall. The three best stores a girl could ever want were side by side: The Loft, Banana Republic, and Gap! Overwhelming, I know. A simple stop through on my way to studying at Barnes and Noble would produce bargains beyond belief! But somehow I managed to live there two years without going completely bankrupt.
One of the many adjustments of living in south Georgia: the closest mall is two hours. While at first this fact was part of my wallowing, God is faithful enough to give me a reality check every now and then. Fact 1: I have no job. Hence, the blog! No job=no income=no money. Period. Fact 2: Shopping is not the most productive way to spend my time. While there is a time and a place, I can see how being a housewife with a mall close by would be dangerous...very dangerous. Fact 3: God has a lot of work here for us to do. The last thing I need are distractions from this work.
While I am still figuring out God's current calling for me, each day is an adventure. As He helps me focus more and more on Him, He is showing me ways to be part of His work here. Being a youth pastor's wife, this shouldn't be hard to find. Isn't it funny how we make "doing the Lord's work" so complicated? Maybe what God has for me right now is to help with cleaning up after youth events after everyone has left; or type up handouts for the lessons Wednesday night. Or even just do what I can to help the youth pastor be the best youth pastor he can be! This is not as glamorous as leading Bible studies or writing books, but since when is it all about me? This is a hard pill to swallow; my wallowing and self-pity do not allow such thinking. How exciting, though, to be part of the amazing work God is doing here! And what an honor. Despite feeling out of place and useless, He has given me purpose. All He is asking me to do is be myself and look for ways to dive right into His work.
So, while wearing my new $8 Gap shirt (purchased through online shopping... moderation is key!) and my "tall shoes", God is using me right here in south Georgia.
Proverbs 31:22- "She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple."
My mom is one of the classiest women I know; she makes a point of presenting herself in a proper way without being flashy and consumed with her appearance. Her house is always nicely decorated and clean. Meanwhile, she has an extraordinary ministry with the impoverished high school mothers in her GED class. Clearly her sense of style is not flashy! And she in NO way lives outside of her means. Where do you think I get my love for bargain shopping?! :) Because of this, she is a true Proverbs 31 wife. I hope to one day find that balance she has. She's my hero!
Monday, August 9, 2010
This one is for you, Meg! :)
So we have established one part my job description: provide food for my family. With this I am able to not only enjoy a favorite hobby (cooking), but also stay true to myself by eating healthily. This new job I have may not be so bad after all...
Over the years I have become rather particular about what I eat. Not that I don't love food! Don't get me wrong, I love a big bowl of chocolate ice cream or an order fries. But these are definately a treat and are by no means kept in the house. I cringe at memories of cafeteria food freshman year of college...eek. More often than I'd like to mention I can remember going through the line struggling to find something appetizing. By the time I'd reach my usual table with my hall mates, I would have a bowl of ice cream. The end. I am embarrassed to say there were no fruits, no veggies! Ah, the horror! I feel nauseated remembering these days of malnutrition. Thankfully, I have matured greatly (and gradually) since then. So much is related to food...my well-being, my attitude, my energy levels. My point: I am very excited about my new freedom to cook full meals every day. :) If you haven't noticed, I 'm a bit obsessed. Moving on...
Everyone has things they don't enjoy. One thing that I have come to dislike is eating out (see previous paragraph). My dilemma: people around here prefer eating out for fellowship.... a lot. So do I (A) alter who I am, or (B) remain a hermit crab for my time here? Ah, but there must be an option C! And there is. I have decided to address the status quo by having people over for dinner. And so, I have a new way to use my hobby.
Our first dinner was a success. Thursday night a couple came over and we enjoy the aforementioned bread as a side. The night ended with a rousing game of Bananagrams (one of my new favorites).
Then came to second hosting. I'd always heard that cooking can be unnerving and at times a flop. I'd also noticed that people seem to particularly enjoy eating out on Sunday afternoons after church. In my naivety, I did not understand either of these facts.
Thursday afternoon we invited a couple whom we had met when we first began the interview process here back in April. They have been very welcoming and helpful through out the entire transition, so I thought it appropriate to host them for Sunday lunch! What a nice thought....
Saturday morning I looked through the cookbook, picking out a meal to cook for our friends the next day. It needed to be fairly quick, as I had 30 minutes between church and lunch. This would be a synch! I found a lemon garlic chicken recipe, planned a spinach salad, pulled some corn from the freezer, and bought a loaf of whole wheat bread. (while the bread making experience was quite rejuvenating, I was not recovered enough to attempted a second go-around quite yet). I had this hosting thing down pat! Famous last words.
It's 12:30pm Sunday. Lunch is a 1. Time to enter my cooking haven. Speed bump #1: Instead of boneless chicken breasts, I have somehow managed to purchase chicken strips. Yikes. No worries. I have a cabinet full of whole wheat pasta and sauces. The FBC pounding party has come to my rescue. I whisper a prayer of thank you, Lord, and proceed to make chicken alfredo. As the pasta is boiling, I open my bag of spinach to prepare the salad. Speed bump #2: The leaves are rotten to the bottom. Great, now what. Heaven forbid I host a lunch without vegetables (see first paragraph...yes, obsessed). As I am browning the chicken, my mind is processing the dilemma. Then at 12:40pm it hits me: lima beans! Being a good wife, I keep a stock of my husbands favorite vegetable in the freezer: lima beans. Who would have thought they would come to the rescue for a such a well planned lunch?
It's 12:50pm. The beans are just finishing. The chicken and sauce are simply waiting on their noodles to be complete. And now the pasta is done boiling. Feeling very impressed with myself for fighting the food evils and producing a healthy meal in less than 30 minutes, I began straining the noodles. Let me pause by explaining another asset to my kitchen. You have met my Kitchen Aide mixer in the previous posting...I love her. Now you will meet my garbage disposal. With the simple flip of a button food can be washed down the drain, gone forever; no more reaching down the drain to pull out clogging food. Back to my story. I am draining the pasta, the final step to my meal. Suddenly, speed bump # 3 hits: the lid from my new pot slides out of my hand. Pasta begins spilling into the sink, and yes, down the garbage disposal. As I begin grabbing the pasta, the entire pot falls into the sink; there was not a single piece of pasta survivor that day. I only had a second to process and respond to this tragedy. Pounding party! I quickly slung open my packed shelves of food and grabbed another box of pasta. And at 1:15pm we were sitting down to eat a meal of chicken alfredo, lima beans, and bread. A pure miracle from heaven!
Convinced my new friends could sense the unnerving from the meal preparation, I jokingly confessed the entire process to my friend that afternoon at the pool. She assured me they had no idea. :) But we will have a re-do in the future, that is for sure! Not only does God provide for His children, but He also has a sense of humor! And that Sunday, I was especially grateful for our generous new church family here at First Baptist. Thank you for the pounding party!
Proverbs 31:25b: "She can laugh at the days to come." I am NOT good at this; my husband can vouch for me on this. Being a choleric type A perfectionist, I can take life a bit too seriously. During this meal preparation, God gave me the ability to lighten up, and actually enjoy watching the meal fall apart and then come together. God is good, and there is so much to learn! What an adventure!!
Over the years I have become rather particular about what I eat. Not that I don't love food! Don't get me wrong, I love a big bowl of chocolate ice cream or an order fries. But these are definately a treat and are by no means kept in the house. I cringe at memories of cafeteria food freshman year of college...eek. More often than I'd like to mention I can remember going through the line struggling to find something appetizing. By the time I'd reach my usual table with my hall mates, I would have a bowl of ice cream. The end. I am embarrassed to say there were no fruits, no veggies! Ah, the horror! I feel nauseated remembering these days of malnutrition. Thankfully, I have matured greatly (and gradually) since then. So much is related to food...my well-being, my attitude, my energy levels. My point: I am very excited about my new freedom to cook full meals every day. :) If you haven't noticed, I 'm a bit obsessed. Moving on...
Everyone has things they don't enjoy. One thing that I have come to dislike is eating out (see previous paragraph). My dilemma: people around here prefer eating out for fellowship.... a lot. So do I (A) alter who I am, or (B) remain a hermit crab for my time here? Ah, but there must be an option C! And there is. I have decided to address the status quo by having people over for dinner. And so, I have a new way to use my hobby.
Our first dinner was a success. Thursday night a couple came over and we enjoy the aforementioned bread as a side. The night ended with a rousing game of Bananagrams (one of my new favorites).
Then came to second hosting. I'd always heard that cooking can be unnerving and at times a flop. I'd also noticed that people seem to particularly enjoy eating out on Sunday afternoons after church. In my naivety, I did not understand either of these facts.
Thursday afternoon we invited a couple whom we had met when we first began the interview process here back in April. They have been very welcoming and helpful through out the entire transition, so I thought it appropriate to host them for Sunday lunch! What a nice thought....
Saturday morning I looked through the cookbook, picking out a meal to cook for our friends the next day. It needed to be fairly quick, as I had 30 minutes between church and lunch. This would be a synch! I found a lemon garlic chicken recipe, planned a spinach salad, pulled some corn from the freezer, and bought a loaf of whole wheat bread. (while the bread making experience was quite rejuvenating, I was not recovered enough to attempted a second go-around quite yet). I had this hosting thing down pat! Famous last words.
It's 12:30pm Sunday. Lunch is a 1. Time to enter my cooking haven. Speed bump #1: Instead of boneless chicken breasts, I have somehow managed to purchase chicken strips. Yikes. No worries. I have a cabinet full of whole wheat pasta and sauces. The FBC pounding party has come to my rescue. I whisper a prayer of thank you, Lord, and proceed to make chicken alfredo. As the pasta is boiling, I open my bag of spinach to prepare the salad. Speed bump #2: The leaves are rotten to the bottom. Great, now what. Heaven forbid I host a lunch without vegetables (see first paragraph...yes, obsessed). As I am browning the chicken, my mind is processing the dilemma. Then at 12:40pm it hits me: lima beans! Being a good wife, I keep a stock of my husbands favorite vegetable in the freezer: lima beans. Who would have thought they would come to the rescue for a such a well planned lunch?
It's 12:50pm. The beans are just finishing. The chicken and sauce are simply waiting on their noodles to be complete. And now the pasta is done boiling. Feeling very impressed with myself for fighting the food evils and producing a healthy meal in less than 30 minutes, I began straining the noodles. Let me pause by explaining another asset to my kitchen. You have met my Kitchen Aide mixer in the previous posting...I love her. Now you will meet my garbage disposal. With the simple flip of a button food can be washed down the drain, gone forever; no more reaching down the drain to pull out clogging food. Back to my story. I am draining the pasta, the final step to my meal. Suddenly, speed bump # 3 hits: the lid from my new pot slides out of my hand. Pasta begins spilling into the sink, and yes, down the garbage disposal. As I begin grabbing the pasta, the entire pot falls into the sink; there was not a single piece of pasta survivor that day. I only had a second to process and respond to this tragedy. Pounding party! I quickly slung open my packed shelves of food and grabbed another box of pasta. And at 1:15pm we were sitting down to eat a meal of chicken alfredo, lima beans, and bread. A pure miracle from heaven!
Convinced my new friends could sense the unnerving from the meal preparation, I jokingly confessed the entire process to my friend that afternoon at the pool. She assured me they had no idea. :) But we will have a re-do in the future, that is for sure! Not only does God provide for His children, but He also has a sense of humor! And that Sunday, I was especially grateful for our generous new church family here at First Baptist. Thank you for the pounding party!
Proverbs 31:25b: "She can laugh at the days to come." I am NOT good at this; my husband can vouch for me on this. Being a choleric type A perfectionist, I can take life a bit too seriously. During this meal preparation, God gave me the ability to lighten up, and actually enjoy watching the meal fall apart and then come together. God is good, and there is so much to learn! What an adventure!!
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Bread-making
Now that you have the background to my new life, it is time to begin my charting of this search for significance as a housewife.
Let me begin by telling you my self-pity and pride have been completely exposed these past few weeks. This awkward exposure is what has led me to my quest for purpose. I began with (and, eh, still wallow in more than I'd like to admit...ahem) feelings of displacement and injustice. "I have a masters degree and am certified to teach 4 subjects! I don't deserve to be a housewife!!", "I don't fit in or belong here in South Georgia!", "All of my girls are in school and I have NOTHING to do." And on and on goes the whining. You get the picture. Pure embarrassment to anyone.
After worrying myself into a pit of despair (and it didn't take long), I began to realize, with the help of friends and the Holy Spirit, that my focus has been all wrong. Instead of knit picking and focusing on what's bad, I needed to find something constructive to do with my time. And thus begins the bread-making....
I have always enjoyed cooking, much to the enjoyment and dismay (I like to be "creative"...) of my family. Being a newly wed with so many generous friends and family, I am pleased to announce that I now have a full collection of all the kitchen equipment I would ever need to open a small restaurant. At this point in the job search, I am not ruling that out... I ramble.
One of my favorite kitchen gifts is my Kitchen Aide mixer. What a delight to the homemaker's eyes! The morning after my refocusing, I decide to put my baby to work: I am going to make bread! I mean seriously, what do I have to lose except a few hours of wallowing. Not only am I making bread, but I am going to make whole wheat bread in south Georgia (I've always felt a need to prove my individuality...). As I pour the flour and water mixtures in this Kitchen Aide jewel, I am awed. It is hands-free! My biceps are pleased with this new addition to the kitchen.
The timer goes off and I retrieve my flour mixture from the mixer. Preparing to knead, my heart drops. The "dough" is like glue! "This is NOT what the picture looks like." The feeling of despair began creeping in... "I can't even make bread. What is my purpose?!" At this point and entire hour of wallowing had been lost...tragic. After briefly contemplating scraping the whole thing, I realized the truth: what else was I going to do with my afternoon? Why not give a try? And I am so glad I did.
A few hours later, I nervously peeked into the oven. It was almost time for youth group and I was hoping to leave the house on a cherry note. It smelled like bread, it looked like bread, and now was the true test. I sliced a piece and a wave of relief washed over me. It tasted like bread!! I excitedly texted my husband (who was completely ignorant of my adventure for the day) "The bread worked!." Generating no response, I naturally called my mother for approval. Begin a good woman, she was excited with me. I quickly sliced a piece to give my husband and left for church.
Proverbs 31:15- "She gets up while it is still dark and provides food for her family."
Part one of my role as a housewife: provide healthy meals for my family. But I'm not even gonna attempt to get up before dark. That'd be a bad day for everyone. :-D
While I am called to live in an area I am not familiar with, God is not asking me to change who I am. As my aunt wisely pointed out from Shakespeare, "To thine own self be true!" He made me with a passion to eat healthfully, and has thus provided the tools to do so. What a relief!
Let me begin by telling you my self-pity and pride have been completely exposed these past few weeks. This awkward exposure is what has led me to my quest for purpose. I began with (and, eh, still wallow in more than I'd like to admit...ahem) feelings of displacement and injustice. "I have a masters degree and am certified to teach 4 subjects! I don't deserve to be a housewife!!", "I don't fit in or belong here in South Georgia!", "All of my girls are in school and I have NOTHING to do." And on and on goes the whining. You get the picture. Pure embarrassment to anyone.
After worrying myself into a pit of despair (and it didn't take long), I began to realize, with the help of friends and the Holy Spirit, that my focus has been all wrong. Instead of knit picking and focusing on what's bad, I needed to find something constructive to do with my time. And thus begins the bread-making....
I have always enjoyed cooking, much to the enjoyment and dismay (I like to be "creative"...) of my family. Being a newly wed with so many generous friends and family, I am pleased to announce that I now have a full collection of all the kitchen equipment I would ever need to open a small restaurant. At this point in the job search, I am not ruling that out... I ramble.
One of my favorite kitchen gifts is my Kitchen Aide mixer. What a delight to the homemaker's eyes! The morning after my refocusing, I decide to put my baby to work: I am going to make bread! I mean seriously, what do I have to lose except a few hours of wallowing. Not only am I making bread, but I am going to make whole wheat bread in south Georgia (I've always felt a need to prove my individuality...). As I pour the flour and water mixtures in this Kitchen Aide jewel, I am awed. It is hands-free! My biceps are pleased with this new addition to the kitchen.
The timer goes off and I retrieve my flour mixture from the mixer. Preparing to knead, my heart drops. The "dough" is like glue! "This is NOT what the picture looks like." The feeling of despair began creeping in... "I can't even make bread. What is my purpose?!" At this point and entire hour of wallowing had been lost...tragic. After briefly contemplating scraping the whole thing, I realized the truth: what else was I going to do with my afternoon? Why not give a try? And I am so glad I did.
A few hours later, I nervously peeked into the oven. It was almost time for youth group and I was hoping to leave the house on a cherry note. It smelled like bread, it looked like bread, and now was the true test. I sliced a piece and a wave of relief washed over me. It tasted like bread!! I excitedly texted my husband (who was completely ignorant of my adventure for the day) "The bread worked!." Generating no response, I naturally called my mother for approval. Begin a good woman, she was excited with me. I quickly sliced a piece to give my husband and left for church.
Proverbs 31:15- "She gets up while it is still dark and provides food for her family."
Part one of my role as a housewife: provide healthy meals for my family. But I'm not even gonna attempt to get up before dark. That'd be a bad day for everyone. :-D
While I am called to live in an area I am not familiar with, God is not asking me to change who I am. As my aunt wisely pointed out from Shakespeare, "To thine own self be true!" He made me with a passion to eat healthfully, and has thus provided the tools to do so. What a relief!
Friday, August 6, 2010
Housewife?!?
Recently someone mentioned to me the idea of keeping a blog. I laughed, but later found myself proposing the idea my best friend. "I am thinking about considering a blog about being a housewife. What do you think?" She was very excited about the idea, so here I am!
Where do I begin? Well, I suppose the revelation point of my new identity is a good starting point. I have now been married for almost one month. The first week after the honeymoon was full of paper work, new accounts, a new name, thank you notes, returns... and on and on it seems. One event in particular spark the realization of my new role: the joint bank account.
We were sitting at the desk across from the banker, filling out paperwork and all that adding me to my husbands account entails. Everything is flowing smoothly when suddenly I am hit with THE question. The one can affect an outsider's perception of you for better of for worse. Sweetly, the banker looks across the desk and asks, "What is your career?" Suddenly I am at a loss for words. For most my life, I could answer that question without second thought. Lifeguard, telemarketer, student. I looked across the desk at the eager banker and shamefully mumbled, "I'm unemployed." Suddenly feeling like a parasite on my husbands bank account, I proceeded to come up with a detailed explanation of my many degrees, and desire to find a teaching position. However, before I could develop my explanation, my new friend smiled and excitedly announced, "Well, that means you are a housewife!" A housewife?! I wasn't sure how I felt about that. What exactly is a housewife? I'd always imagined a lady older than myself with several kids, a house with a white picket fence, and a vegetable garden out back. Something that may (or may not) be in the future for me. But a 25 year old newly wed with a chihuahua and a two bedroom townhouse? This was something for me to ponder.
And thus begins my venture to discover my role as a housewife. What is it that God has for me to do?
Where do I begin? Well, I suppose the revelation point of my new identity is a good starting point. I have now been married for almost one month. The first week after the honeymoon was full of paper work, new accounts, a new name, thank you notes, returns... and on and on it seems. One event in particular spark the realization of my new role: the joint bank account.
We were sitting at the desk across from the banker, filling out paperwork and all that adding me to my husbands account entails. Everything is flowing smoothly when suddenly I am hit with THE question. The one can affect an outsider's perception of you for better of for worse. Sweetly, the banker looks across the desk and asks, "What is your career?" Suddenly I am at a loss for words. For most my life, I could answer that question without second thought. Lifeguard, telemarketer, student. I looked across the desk at the eager banker and shamefully mumbled, "I'm unemployed." Suddenly feeling like a parasite on my husbands bank account, I proceeded to come up with a detailed explanation of my many degrees, and desire to find a teaching position. However, before I could develop my explanation, my new friend smiled and excitedly announced, "Well, that means you are a housewife!" A housewife?! I wasn't sure how I felt about that. What exactly is a housewife? I'd always imagined a lady older than myself with several kids, a house with a white picket fence, and a vegetable garden out back. Something that may (or may not) be in the future for me. But a 25 year old newly wed with a chihuahua and a two bedroom townhouse? This was something for me to ponder.
And thus begins my venture to discover my role as a housewife. What is it that God has for me to do?
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