New Blog

Brook Cherith is being replaced by Women On God's Mission at http://www.saraandfriends4him.blogspot.com/.  I hope to see you there! 

Joyfully His,
Sara Skinner

I Just Can't Do It All!!

"I just can't do it all!" I sobbed, yesterday morning. My patient husband listened with love as he prepared to go downstairs. He understood the feeling, and he promised to pray for me.

Just to give you some background, I am a Dad-labeled "Idealist" from the time I was a kid. (Is that kin to "Perfectionist"?) Anyhow, of course with two busy adults and three kids (16, 5 & 2), the house is never perfect ... and this fact bothers me. I love my husband and kids! But, I also love beauty and order!

Yesterday we were preparing to have a couple of our daughter's friends over for supper. I had given Amira, our exchange student/Filipina daughter a coupon for Valentine's Day. "This coupon entitles the receiver to choose a favorite meal, including dessert." She's been spending hours thinking and leafing through my cookbooks! She finally came up with some of her favorites for the meal: Tilapia almondine, rice, cherry pie salad, and dirt. Dirt cake that is ... complete with gummy worms. I know she loves veggies, so I was going to also make her favorite green bean casserole.

Also yesterday included a two year old ripping a favorite book of ours, poop on the carpet and cushion, five year old throwing away the two year old's cookie, etc. And dare I say, with my limited energies, interrupting children, dryer beeping, phone ringing, etc., attacking the dining room where everything had been thrown when I painted the rest of the downstairs seemed as daunting to me as a miniature "ground zero". Perhaps if you know that we are having a graduation reception here in our home in three weeks (about twelve years earlier than we thought we would) puts some perspective on my drama. And as all parents know, it is nearly impossible to get much done when little children are around: "Mommy" this and "Mom" that ... fighting, screaming, injuries... grrr.

Before Tim left our room yesterday morning, he asked, "But, are you doing what is most important?" I knew the answer, but clung to my heart's plea, "For whom?!?" I WANT a clean house! I WANT peace and quiet sometimes! I WANT beauty and order! But, I had to admit, "Yes" to doing the important stuff. Don't get me wrong, our house is not a complete disaster (well, except for that one room in the basement). I do keep up with the basics, usually, and the boys are learning to be part of the Skinner Team - keeping up the house together. Amira is a tremendous help, and Tim is very helpful when he can be.

The important stuff, of course, is spending time with God, with the children, playing a game with them between household tasks instead of sticking them in front of tv. Teaching them about God. Listening to Amira when she comes home from school. Taking time to push my boys on the swing for a little while every day. Teaching them how to put others first, how to ask for forgiveness, how to use the bathroom. Opening our home to others, no matter what condition is it in.  Loving God and our neighbors ... yep, important stuff!

No, I don't just sit around the house. I work hard. And I'm very grateful to God and Tim for making it possible for me to stay home, making my family priority. And this morning, God graciously reminded me of a few important things I kinda forgot (boy, am I like the Israelites a lot of times) ...

1. "I am the LORD your God; consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy." Leviticus 11:44a
2. "In the beginning, God created the heaven and the earth." Genesis 1:1

So, thank You, Lord, for reminding me this morning, "I CAN'T DO IT!" Any of it!! Without YOU. That is often where the frustration comes in ... when I forget this immovable truth. When I get proud of some accomplishments and despise my failings. Or, when I try to face the day without first seeking His face ... no wonder I stumble and bumble through the day.

God, the Creator of the universe, understands frustration. Can you and I imagine what He deals with all the time from us?!? From seeing us mess us His perfect plan, His perfect world, hurting His heart with our evil thoughts and actions?!

"See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is." Ephesians 5:15-17

God is saying He is the guide, I am the follower. He is my Boss, I am the employee. He is the King, I am the servant. To know what He wants, I must seek His face every day, in His Word, and being sensitive to His Spirit leading. The temporal is important, but I reflect with humility on the story of Mary and Martha. And like someone said the other day, "The Proverbs 31 Woman did it ALL ... but not in one day!" I can do "IT" (what God wants me to do/what God requires of me) with HIS help. Just in case there is any doubt - HIS help. The One who created us and everything in this universe. Hmmm, then why do I even consider trying to do it on my own?

"Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice! Have mercy also upon me, and answer me. When You said, 'Seek My face,' my heart said to You, Your face, LORD, I will seek." Psalm 27:7-8

Yesterday, when Amira came home from school, I was not pretending to have everything under control. The poop on the floor was the last straw, and I carefully thought, (and the jury was unanimous), before I spurted out, "Amira, tonight we're having pizza!" We will save the fancy fish meal for an elderly neighbor's visit. Therefore, I will not be a candidate for the ER by the time the girls come!

Putting my weakness forward and admitting I can't do it all was refreshing. Thankfully she was accepting and agreed that pizza was more of a teenager food anyway (phew!). But, I did make the dirt cake - boy was it fun to see a Japanese and an Egyptian girl be handed a flower pot with a silk flower in "dirt"!  My "cake" was admitting my need, crying out to God, and seeing my family rally around to help do what I was going to try to do on my own! And we had a wonderful time with our delightful company!

I'm learning that I need to make the SPIRITUAL priority over the TEMPORAL. Thank You, God, for your patience with this weak woman. And thank you for the promise that someday, in Heaven, I will have a clean, peaceful, loving and orderly home, 24/7, forever!

To the glory of God!

Gaze (don't graze)

Where did January go?  If a month had to speed by, I am absolutely thrilled that it happened to be a frigid one.  We managed to get our Christmas tree down by the 27th (of January *blush*), and I think I finally put away the last of the Christmas wrapping and bows today!  January held some unexpected surprises for our family, as perhaps it did for yours, as well.  Nothing like a change of plans to stir things up.

Sometimes unplanned scenarios shake things up a little more than we would like ...

 

Years ago, before I married Tim, I was privileged to teach in a Christian school near Seattle for three years.  It was also a blessing to serve God in my local church.  One Sunday I was prepared, or so I thought, to accompany a duet.  We had practiced and planned to minister that morning.  However, when the right time came, and the singers took their place behind the pulpit - sitting at the piano I was helplessly horrified when I realized that I had the wrong music.  There was no way around it.  I had to stand up, numbly sulk up two sets of steps (in as dignified a manner as possible - while everyone, no doubt, was watching in wonder and amusement), walk WAY over to the far side of the choir loft, stoop over gracefully, pick up the coveted music book, and return back to my seat at the piano in a timely fashion, all in meek graciosity.  It had been, no question, a hectic morning, following a busy week.  And to my sad discovery, I had very publicly misplaced my priorities, missing an opportunity to keep the focus completely on God where it should have been.

To this day I find myself checking and re-checking to make sure I have the right music with me, wanting never to repeat that nightmare again!  Nowadays, as a wife and mother, I continue to struggle with keeping focused on what is needed right now - God's will for me in the present.

A couple weeks ago my young son brought home a Sunday school paper about Peter walking on the water.  A familiar story ...  it got me thinking.  While Peter exhibited great faith by asking Jesus to help him defy nature, he became distracted by the storm - to the point that he began to sink beneath the waves.  His weak faith and fear distracted him from where he should have been focusing - on Jesus.  While being disappointed that Peter did not experience the full potential of God's power offered to him, we can completely identify with his weakness.  Thankfully, he cried out to Jesus, Who graciously and patiently lifted him up.

How easily are you and I distracted from God and His will for our lives?  As a single woman, wife, mother, are you ever distracted from God's priorities for you by one of the following? 

• Food?
• Disorganization/poor planning?
• TV?
• Internet?
• False guilt concerning legalistic expectations?
• Exhaustion?
• E-mail?
• Urgent requests?
• The past?
• Loneliness?
• Books?
• The acceptance you want from other?
• Worry?
• Friends?
• "Over-booking" your schedule because you are afraid to say no?
• Phone calls?
• Working out?
• Serving?
• Fear?
• Aches and pains?
• Discouragement?
• Comparison?
• Discontentment?
• Emotions?

My biggest distractions are on that list.  While some on the list aren't "bad" in and of themselves, they can be misused at the wrong time and place (or with wrong motivation).  Other items on the list are sins, often wrongly minimized, needing to be confessed and forsaken.  It is a daily challenge for me to keep focused on God's will for my life.  

How is a woman to keep her focus on God and His will?  We must choose our gaze.  I didn't say "graze."  We are asking for trouble when we aimlessly graze from this patch of grass to that pile of hay - from one "good thing" to another "good thing," without first consulting our Boss, our Manager, our Shepherd.  For we may carelessly munch on some poison ivy or nibble on a thorn bush.  Or, while filling our tummies with too much verdant foliage, not realize that our wise Shepherd has led the rest of the flock to another place.  We can be left behind or lost, missing out on God's best.  We can find ourselves, like Peter, sinking down into the cold tameless dread of a life lived outside of God's will.

Here are some verses to meditate on today as you consider your gaze...

"You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your might." Deuteronomy 6:5

"Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD!  Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart!  They also do no iniquity; they walk in His ways."  Psalm 119:1-3

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding." Proverbs 3:5

"You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You." Isaiah 26:3

"But seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." Matthew 6:33

"If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.  Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.  For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God."  Colossians 3:1-3

"But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him."  Hebrews 11:6

"Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith., who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."  Hebrews 12:2

Instead of getting discouraged and overwhelmed about ALL that needs to be done, I MUST make time to meet with God to ask Him what He wants me to do right now.  Some priorities are clearly stated in His Word.  For current situations that are not specified, we can use Biblical principles, consult with our husbands and godly friends, pray for wisdom, and wait for His answer, listening in faith and expectation. 

Talk to God about your schedule and let Him help you figure out what is His will for you right now.  We won't sink if we keep our eyes, our focus, our gaze on Him.

Need Counseling?

"My Counselor not only listens but can also extend forgiveness.  He not only guides but also leads by example. His office hours are eternal, you never need an appointment, and His invoices are always marked, 'Paid in Full.'" -Higgs

What a Ride!

We are getting close to starting month #3 with our foreign exchange student, Amira, from the Philippines.  We love her and she loves us; it is a God thing the way we were put together.  Having expanded my world to embrace and care for a teenage girl in addition to two young boys, my prayer life has accelerated and my dependency on God has grown.  And now as we look forward to, Lord willing, keeping her in our family the entire school year, we must rely on God to supply much needed wisdom. 

Recently, I was jarred from my sleep in the wee hours of the morning.  And before I could focus enough to read the clock, my mind was buzzing with troubles.  While I was lying there thinking of one problem, sorrow and burden after another, I started to feel like someone was piling heavy bags of garbage on top of me.  It was coming dangerously close to cutting off my oxygen supply.  I know enough about God and about the Bible to understand that as a Christian, a follower of Jesus, there is every reason not to live like this.

The Burden Lifter

A familiar verse crossed my mind, "Casting all your care on Him, for He cares for you" I Peter 5:7.  Wonderful. ... uh .. uh ... Uh .... UH .. UH .. UUUHHHHhhh.  My burdens didn't budge.  After trying a few times, I gave up.  You think I'm a spiritual sissy?  A worldly wimp?!  I cried out to God and admitted my weakness. "Um, God, can You PLEASE take my burden - I'm too weak to cast it 2 inches."  Sadly, I lay there half believing (or maybe 3/4) that God would really do it.  Pathetic.  Knowing my sad lack of faith I confessed it to God and hoped for a miracle.

I must've fallen asleep somewhere along the line, because I woke up surprisingly refreshed.  It was a busy day, but not unbearable; I was joyfully tackling my to-do list.  That evening, nearly 24 hours after my close shave with suffocation, I was pleasantly startled to realize that I had not once through the day thought of one of those burdens that about did me in the night before!  I felt peaceful, my burden lifted, and my spirit loved by God. I immediately humbled myself before God in awe and worship.  He is the burden taker.  He is my Counselor.  Need a Counselor?  Try Jesus.  He won't disappoint.  And if it makes any difference, I'll gladly be a reference for my Lord and my God!

P.S.

Take a moment the next time you take a walk or look out the window to ponder John 15:5 - "I am the Vine (Jesus), you are the branches.  He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing."  If you don't live near a vineyard, take time to study a tree, a bush, a plant.  Unless someone comes by with clippers, those branches are going to stay attached to the base of the plant.  Perhaps a swarm of insects will compromise the health of the foliage, or a forest fire overcome and burn it all to ashes, but these scenarios are unlikely. 

Realistically, unless something extreme happens, as long as the plant receives enough sunlight and moisture, it is going to grow and be fruitful.  Sometimes I must look a sight - a branch that is panic stricken as though going through a deadly drought, scared I'm not going to get the nourishment I need - when all the time I am ONE with the most luscious, indestructible Vine imaginable.  Remember who you are, dear Sister.  Remember Who you  belong to ... go to Him for counsel when life threatens to overwhelm.  It is only there with Him that you can find what you need to bloom. 

"For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder.  And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Introduction to the Book of Psalms

The evidence is mounting that my enemy (Hint: Nickname - “Father of Fibs”) is not at all in favor of my Psalms study. We’ve had situations in our family that drastically slowed my research and writing (thankfully nothing as serious as a broken arm, like last month) … topping it all off, this past week our hard drive crashed, and I lost my research notes for the introduction to the Psalms.

I’m grateful to say at least one of the interruptions was welcome – we had the privilege of attending family camp in the middle of July. The evening speaker, Pastor Jon Jenks from Wisconsin, spoke on Psalm 1-5 during the week. What a blessing to listen to this godly man who loves God, loves God’s Word, and presents everything in a winsome, honorable manner! I look forward to sharing some tasty tidbits from Pastor J. along the way.

Big breath, “Thank You, God!” for all the interruptions, great and small … for God all-wisely commands that we give thanks in all things (I Thess. 5:18). Now, let’s forge ahead, regardless of the pitfalls and roadblocks of life that besiege us. We would be foolish to wait for a respite in the battle, a break in the clouds.

As I’ve begun wading through research, just dipping my toes in the inviting cool water of the Book of Psalms, I have learned or been reminded of many things. Here are a few basic observations:


Basic Observations

- The Book of Psalms is the Jewish hymnbook, The Psalter, compiled by several different writers inspired by God over many years and in many places, preserved and combined to become what we hold in our hands today.

- The Book of Psalms is divided into five separate books beginning with 1, 42, 73, 90, and 107 – each one ending with a doxology.

- Most of the songs in the Book of Psalms were accompanied by instruments. However, it is interesting to note that the written word and not the composed music was preserved through the centuries. Thus, I believe it is fair to say that worship is not confined to music alone.

- The Book of Psalms is the oldest book of ancient poetry still in use today. The book is full of Hebrew poetry … not so much rhyming phrases but rhyming ideas and thoughts that can be translated easily into any language to retain the elegant power of its message.

- Not all of the Psalms are praise and worship songs as one might imagine. There are Psalms about disobedience, fools, wickedness, being pursued by the enemy, judgment, and the confrontation of ones own personal deceit, doubt, and despair. How refreshing to balance these human emotions, with which most of us can identify, with Psalms of lament or petition, penitence (repentance of sin), refocus, the power of God’s law, humble gratitude, the “enthronement of Yahweh” (Ryrie), Psalms concerning Jerusalem, creation, and dependence on God Whom we praise (to name a few). My favorite locations in the Psalms are those which resemble fragrant meadows in which God gives us a picturesque view of His goodness, contrasted by the crashing thunder of His awesome and terrible power!

- The individual Psalms should be referred to as “Psalm 3” or “Psalm 106,” instead of “Psalms 3” or “Psalms 106.”

- The Book of Psalms contains prophecy. Jesus Christ the Messiah is mentioned in the Psalms hundreds of years before His incarnation (God in the flesh). Messianic Psalms … 2, 8, 16, 22, 40, 45, 72, 110, 118.

- The Book of Psalms isn’t simply an emotional man’s journal (that’s what I thought of the book when I was a kid). But, the emotion in it shows us that even godly men struggle, and that God understands this and cares about our feelings and struggles. Our Creator and Father remembers that we are dust (103) and wants to help us. The emotion and powerful Gospel found in its pages have comforted and guided millions of people for thousands of years.

- Many of the pictures in the Psalms are earthy, using descriptions of nature, for most of Israel’s people were farmers and shepherds.

- The Book of Psalms is quoted in the New Testament.

- Authors: David wrote 73, Solomon wrote 2, the sons of Korah wrote 12, Asaph wrote 12, Heman wrote 1, Ethan wrote 1, Moses wrote 1 (others unknown).

- The introductions, which begin many of the psalms, are thought by many to be inspired and should be read along with the body of the psalm they preface. For instance, in Psalm 5 – “To the Chief Musician. With flutes. A Psalm of David.” Ryrie describes it this way, “All but 34 of the psalms have titles or superscriptions which normally comprise the first verse of the Hebrew text. They are editorial titles, added after the psalms were written, but are historically accurate.”

- “Selah” is thought to be an interlude where only instruments and not singing takes place. “The two most frequently used technical terms are: (1) Selah (occurring 71 times in the Psalms and three times in Hab. 3), which is probably a musical notation signaling an interlude or change of musical accompaniment; and (2) To the chief Musician (choir director), which is attached to 55 psalms (and Hab. 3:19), suggesting that a collection of psalms existed for the choir director, possibly for use on special occasions” (Ryrie).


One Miraculous Book of Poetry

In all of my reading thus far one particular passage stood out to me. This scholarly observation is further proof of the Psalms’ miraculous compilation and preservation:

“It is most remarkable that this rich poetry should have sprung up in Palestine, and that it should have been confined to that land. It was not that the land was better adapted to lyric poetry than other lands – for in this respect it could not compare favourably with many other countries, and particularly with Greece. It was not that the events of their history had been such as peculiarly to suggest this kind of composition – for poetry adapted to the lyre or to music abounded elsewhere, and especially in Greece. It was not that the Hebrews had a more poetic imagination than other people – for theirs did not, in this respect, surpass the Greek genius, and whatever there was of poetic imagination in the character of their minds was found with equal richness in Arabia and Persia. Nor was it that their language was peculiarly favourable for this kind of poetry – for in very many respects it was far inferior in this point to the Greek, and had no superiority certainly over the Arabian and Persian.

The fact that their poetry took this turn; the fact that all which they had was religious; the fact that there was literally no poetry in their language that was designed and adapted to the dance, to festive amusements, to Bacchanalian orgies, to scenes of gaiety, frivolity, and vanity; the fact that in all the lyric poetry of the Hebrews there is literally nothing in this respect that can be placed by the side of much in the Greek lyric poetry – much in Horace – much in Burnes; by the side of the lyric poetry of all lands except Palestine, can be traced only to the idea that the new religion prevailed there, and can be best explained on the supposition that the authors of that poetry were inspired to prepare and transmit to future times that which, in all ages, would express the feelings of true devotion, and which might be permanently employed in the praises of God. He will fail to explain the fact that such poetry is found in Palestine alone, and will fail to appreciate its true nature, who does not admit that these “sweet singers” were inspired by the Holy Ghost” (Dr. Albert Barnes – see bibliography).

My most important resource for this study is undoubtedly God’s Holy Word, while prayerfully relying on the guidance of my wonderful teacher the Holy Spirit of God - Who resides in me, a child of God.

In addition, I heartily recommend the following list of supplementary volumes - tools written by scholars of the Word and lovers of God - books I have studied and will continue to use for this endeavor. They are most helpful, packed with rich gems that bring light to the Holy Bible. I will list them below in case you are interested in looking at your own or a borrowed copy.

Thank you for joining me on a quick overview of the Psalms! I am excited about delving into Psalm 1 next time – I hope you will join me. Suggestion: prayerfully read through Psalm 1 a few times as you are able (between interruptions) this coming next week. Better yet, read it through with a friend or your family!


Bibliography

Barnes, Albert. Barnes Notes On the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1962.

Kidner, Rev. Derek. An Introduction and Commentary On Books I and II of the Psalms. Downers Grove, IL: Intervarsity   Press, 1973.

Nelson’s NKJV Study Bible. Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1997.

The Original Thompson Chain-Reference Study Bible. Iowa Falls, IA: World Bible Publishers, Inc.,1982.

Peloubet, Rev. D.D. and M.A. Peloubet. Select Notes. A Commentary On the International Lessons for 1892. Boston,      MA: W.A. Wilde and Company, 1892.

Richards, Lawrence O. The 365 Day Devotional Commentary. Wheaton, IL: SP Publications, Victor Books, 1990.

The Ryrie Study Bible: New King James Version. Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1985.

Walvoord, John F. and Roy B. Zuck. The Bible Knowledge Commentary – Old Testament. Wheaton, IL: SP Publications,   Victor Books, 1985.

To the glory of God!

The Psalms: One Woman's Quest, One Psalm at a Time

This is one woman's quest to compile a concise hand's-on study of the Psalms. I'd like you to come along with me as I survey the book of Psalms, one Psalm at a time. We could spend days, weeks, even months studying just one Psalm - but, I have to have supper ready by 5:30. So, with God as our Guide, would you like to join me?

SCOPE of This Study

1. Realistically, I plan to cover one Psalm per week.  It may be more, hopefully not less.  Some Psalms are so lengthy that I will divide the study into two or three weeks. 

2. I will post the Psalm of the week every Monday (unless we have another broken arm or other non-preventable memory-in-the-making occurance in our household).

3. Since I can't promise (in good conscience) that I'll get all the way through to 150, my goal is to begin with Psalm 1-10.  I'd love to go all the way through to 150 ... we'll see how it goes.

GOALS for This Study

1. To develop a 10 word (or less) summary statement for each Psalm, taken from a common language nutshell, so that I will be able to quickly find what I need for myself and others.

2. To stand at the peak of each Psalm as a hill-top looking out over all of Scripture to find related examples and references.

3. To compile a small collection of hymns and spiritual songs that relate to each Psalm.

4. To share valuable tidbits I find in the treasure troves of godly men and women which relate to the Psalm at hand.  But realistically, don't expect gobs here ("Mommy! Mommy!")!

5. Most importantly, to let God's Word change me while I gain a greater appreciation of Who God is, what He has provided for us as His children, and how we can access the incredible resources offered to us.  To grow in godliness as a wife and mother, and to share these values with my children.

"SCHOLARLINESS" of This Study

I am just a homemaker with a desire to know God better.  God has blessed me immensely with resources that I'm compelled to use for His glory: a Christian home upbringing, becoming God's child at a young age, godly biblical teaching my entire life, a Bible college education, experience teaching children and adults, a vast assortment of resources in our personal library and beyond, a resident translator in my husband (who knows Greek and is learning Hebrew), and a yen to write.  Best of all, I have the Holy Spirit of God residing inside me as my Teacher and Guide.

This being said, I am not bragging one bit - for I know only too well how undeserving I am of these blessings, as well as how imperfect I am. I welcome you to add to the study and correct me if needed. I'm here to share in an informal setting what I am learning with anyone who cares to tag along.

.........................................................

Next TIME: Introduction to the Book of Psalms

WE: God & Me

"One thing I have desired of the LORD, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple. For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; in the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock...When You said, 'Seek My face.' My heart said to You, 'Your face, LORD, I will seek.'

Psalm 27:4-5,8

"You thot Wii was fun ... re-INTRODUCING the riviting, ancient yet modern, adventure ReALiTy game called WEE! This game involves all the senses - it's exciting, gritty, mind numbing: Rated #1, Survivor? #2!: requiring all the skills of MOTHERHOOD! There are Wee people, Wee hours of the morning, (um ... wee wee), lots of Wee prayers said throughout the day ... Whee! Of course this is a team game - where would we be without WE - our wonderful husbands ... and fellow mothers unite! You can get this game almost anywhere ... but only sign up for it w/ much prayer and great caution - prepare for the BIGGEST challenge you've EVER experienced! WEE! It'll change your life!"

Okay, so my Facebook post today is a bit crazy! This profound thought came to me in the wee hours of the morning, so what can I say?

Singleness has it's challenges, NO DOUBT! I've been there, D.T., B.T.T-shirt. Yesterday my husband and I were discussing the Shakers. Bless their gizzards, they had a form of religiosity, but they didn't seem to plan ahead: being a devoutly celibate group they were pretty much destined to run out of people sooner or later.

Tim and I talked about how they had more time to devote to God and to serve Him, if they were truly His children. I know the verses in I Corinthians 7:32-35 which address how single people can spend more time devoted to the Lord. Amen! I remember the times of intimacy with God, and to be honest I miss those times as they are more rare since I've been married. I also miss having the time to be involved in as many church activities and other varied opportunities to serve the way I used to. Things simply change when a family comes along! The ministry focus shifts, but the opportunities to serve are just as great and are infinitely important.

I must say, however, that I told Tim that NOTHING has made me rely on God more than marriage and children. So, while I may not have as much time to pour over my Bible study and prayer time (ZZzzzzz), I do have a deeper knowledge of God's sustaining power in my weakness, and I do go to Him more often and with greater desperation throughout my days to touch base with my Boss and Supplier!

Having children and being married is humbling and the best sactifier I know of - thanks to God giving me a dear husband and two happy (sometimes) busy (always) little boys. Some other descriptive words that come to mind are: exasperating, mind numbing, the deepest joys I've ever known, rewarding, maddening, enough to drive someone crazy, and I'd not trade it for anything (most days).

Truly, whether we are single or married, we cannot face the challenges of life without God. So, let it be WE - you and God wherever you go, whatever you do!

Can you relate? I'd love to hear your comments whether married or single!

I'd like to end this post with one of my favorite poems: from The Temple (1633), by George Herbert:

The Pulley

When God at first made man,
Having a glasse of blessings standing by;
Let us (said he) poure on him all we can:
Let the worlds riches, which dispersed lie,
Contract into a span.

So strength first made a way;
Then beautie flow’d, then wisdome, honour, pleasure:
When almost all was out, God made a stay,
Perceiving that alone of all his treasure
Rest in the bottome lay.

For if I should (said he)
Bestow this jewell also on my creature,
He would adore my gifts in stead of me,
And rest in Nature, not the God of Nature:
So both should losers be.

Yet let him keep the rest,
But keep them with repining restlesnesse:
Let him be rich and wearie, that at least,
If goodnesse leade him not, yet wearinesse
May tosse him to my breast.

Refresh Your Eyes

How do your eyes look and feel today? It may be that allergies are making your eyes itchy and uncomfortable. You may be feeling eye-strain as you go about your day sporting the bloodshot look. Perhaps you are self-consciously trying to hide tears ... or cover up some dark circles. I'm a fan of allergy drops and creams that are supposed to miraculously turn the dark bags into a visage of beauty. But by far the best refresher for our eyes is to make sure we are using them the way our Maker intended.

"Oh, be careful little eyes what you see..." comes from a popular old children's chorus. Yet, this is something we must be reminded of at any age. Just as we refresh our homes in the spring with spring cleaning, let's refresh ourselves (the most intimate possession we have), beginning with our eyes. With our #1 cleansing agent (Bible) in hand, keeping open communication with our Lead Cleaner (Holy Spirit) ... let's go!

1. When is the last time you looked with interest into God's Word and really focused on what He is saying to you? How often do you spend quality time with God?

"Blessed is the man ... his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night." Psalm 1:1a, 2

Helpful Hints: Many people have more than one Bible. Keep them scattered around places you spend time in your home and have one in the car to use during unexpected delays or surprise opportunities to share Christ. If you are busy with little children, keep a Bible in a drawer in the bathroom and read it when you have to be in there alone. Keep one on your dresser and commit to reading at least one verse when you wake up and one verse before you go to sleep. Choose a special place to meet God every day. Keep a basket there with your study Bible, a pen, journal, Kleenex, chap stick - whatever it will take to make it a place without distractions for sweet intimacy with your Savior. Keep Our Daily Bread or something similar on your nightstand or kitchen table to remind you to spend time in God's Word individually and as a family.

2. Look around your house. Is there anything laying out or that you have on the TV that you would hide/change if your pastor were coming over in five minutes?

"For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light." Luke 8:17

"For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light ... and have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them." Ephesians 5:8,11

"Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity." I Timothy 4:12

Helpful Hints: It may be time to clean house ... look at it as weeding. Is there a video that you've kept in your home that is bothering your conscience. It may be best for you to throw it away. The same goes with those romance novels that stir up in you discontentment and unrealistic expectations. Don't be tempted to resell them, just get rid of them. Ahhh! It feels so good to have a clear conscience and a house clear of questionable or sinful clutter. "Pastor, you can come over anytime! Feel free to look in the closets, too!" The truth is, God is in our homes all the time and knows what we have hidden. We can't hide anything from God.

3. Let's consider for a moment TV, movies, internet. It's so easy to get conditioned to watching things we feel strong enough to handle. After all, the same stuff doesn't seem to bother our friends. But our eyes and minds are very delicate and easily deceived. What do you think God would say about what you watch?

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." Romans 12:2

"Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but god is faithful, Who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it." I Corinthians 10:12-13

Helpful Hints: Place Scripture verses by the TV, computer, tape it onto the remote ... anywhere that will check your conscience. Plan ahead what you are going to do if something unacceptable comes up ... study your Bible and pray about what IS acceptable. Teach your children how to use the TV and computer responsibly. What a tremendous opportunity to teach our children HOW to use their eyes with tools that can be used for good or evil. Have the computer placed in a heavy traffic area of the house for accountability. Take "Sabbaths" from modern technology.

4. What books have you been enjoying this year? Are they books that help you or could cause harm? Are they romance novels that cause you to be discontent or are they books/magazines filled with words that build up your mind, creativity & spirit - helping you grow more into the person God wants you to be?

"Finally brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things." Philippians 4:8

Helpful Hints: Join a Bible study and get into THE BOOK of books! Subscribe to an edifying magazine such as: Proverbs 31 Woman, Israel My Glory, In Touch with Charles Stanley, World, and many others ... these will also have great book ideas in them to guide you into healthful, enjoyable reading habits. Ask your friends about a local Christian book club.

5. When you see a genuine need do you do something about it or look away? Do you feed the hungry but neglect to show them the Bread of Life?

"If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,' but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."

James 2:15-16

Helpful Hints: Look for opportunities to serve fellow believers and also out in your community. Look for a Christian based Aid to Women crises pregnancy center or a mission that not only feeds people food but also the Word of God. Be sure that you make an opportunity to let others know you are doing it because of all that Christ as done for you. Humbly deflect any praise and glory to God. Are there beggars on the corner near your grocery store? So they won't use money for alcohol or drugs, buy $5.00 gift cards for the nearby fast food restaurant and put one in a zip lock bag with an invitation to your church and an effective Gospel tract.

6. Do you look into the eyes of people without guilt? Or is there something inside that you need to confess and turn away from with God's help?

"Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does." James 1:21 - 25

Helpful Hints: Ask God to show you if there is any hidden sin in your life. Study I John 1 and genuinely ask for forgiveness. Go to people you've wronged - ask for forgiveness and make it right. Don't just convince yourself everything is okay and ignore the Holy Spirit. On the other hand don't be too self-introspective. Let God show you what needs to be done, then look to Him for the strength to do it.

7. Do you spend enough time with your husband and children, looking at them with sincere interest and love? If you are single, do you spend intimate time with God and take time to look at others with His eyes?

"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another;" Romans 12:9-10

Helpful Hints: If you're anything like me you might find yourself trying to get time to yourself and take a break from people. If you are single, you may be tempted to use all your time for yourself and your own desires. While we have so many demands on our time and countless tasks to perform ... there must be times set aside when we give our entire attention to God and to His people. Involve your family and friends with you in your work and ministries. Spend time looking into God's Word together, especially before bedtime when little minds can think about what was read. For married women, remember when you were dating and the attention you showered on your man. Don't get too busy to give him your attention ... see how he lights up and how it draws you closer together.

8. How often do you take time to look around at God's creation and take time to praise Him for His awesome power and holiness?

"'To whom then will you liken Me, or to whom shall I be equal?' says the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high, and see Who has created these things, Who brings out their host by number; He calls them all by name, by the greatness of His might and the strength of His power; not one is missing." Isaiah 40:25-26

Helpful Hints: My sister wisely reminded me, "We need beauty." Life can get so busy and hectic that I find I hardly take time to enjoy God's creation. How about you? We need to take walks, take a drive out in the country, take time to look closely at a flower, take time to smell freshly bathed baby hair, buy some flowers just to decorate the kitchen table, listen to the breeze and breathe in the fragrance of a fresh spring rain! And say, "Thank You, God!

9. When you go to church do you only look for your friends or do you make a point to seek out visitors? Do you keep your eyes open for those who need an encouraging word?

"Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others." Philippians 2:4

Helpful Hints: Get out your church directory if you have one (hopefully it's one with pictures). Look through the names and faces of those you don't know. Try to memorize the name of at least one new person a week, pray for them, and then look for them on Sunday and visit with them. Instead of going out with the group you always do, invite someone you don't know well out for ice cream or over to your house. Keep it simple so they feel comfortable. Pray for opportunities on Sunday to be a blessing to someone you haven't met before. Is your Bible study group closed or open to new people? It's important that if it is closed there are other opportunities to meet and fellowship with other people at other times. And don't just look for people your age - look for someone who is different than you.

10. Do you keeping looking back to the past with regret and guilt when God has already forgiven you? You need to look ahead with hope and grace!

"Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:12-13

Helpful Hints: Whenever you start looking back, stop yourself and make a habit of thinking TRUTH. If you are really under attack from the enemy, leave the room and change your activity. Pray through Ephesians 6 regarding the armor of God. Repeat to yourself, "I am forgiven. God's grace is sufficient for today. I am special to God!" Carry Scripture verses with you to retrain your mind with healthy thinking. It may help to ask a godly friend to be an accountability partner. Surround yourself with edifying friends who will speak the truth in love.

In the next couple days make it a point to have a conversation with a trusted friend about how God is growing you in the area of how you use your eyes. Encourage one another by discussing ways you can honor God with your lovely, one-of-a-kind "windows to your soul." I am praying that your eyes will be refreshed today!

Olive, Olive, Quite Decisive - How Does Your Garden Grow?

"Be not deceived; God is not mocked; for whatever a man

sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall

reap if we do not lose heart."
Galatians 6:7-9

Every day is filled with choices and happenings to which we must respond. Just this afternoon, as I was finishing up washing my hands, I accidentally knocked my lovely Willow Tree "spring" angel into the sink and her head broke off. Horrors!! A happening not of my choosing (granted, I could've displayed her in a safer location to avoid dismemberment ... thank God for super glue!). Yet, how I responded was of my choosing.

As I was mourning my little angel, it really is minor in value and can be glued, I walked into the kitchen and spied a bag of mini marshmallows. [Stage set: A choice I could control.] Last night I purchased them as a special treat to have with hot cocoa one last time before the summer sizzle - for my dear little boy has been asking for "hot cocoa & mushmarlows." Ever since childhood when I would zap them in the microwave to watch them nearly explode, I have found the mushy little things irresistible. How about you? CHOICE: I could rip open the bag and dive in or do something better for my body . . . Hurray! God helped me make a terrific choice: I turned around, threw open the frig door and grabbed some broccoli instead. Whew! (Not to sound too nutritiously pious, I did make it more delectable with "Lite" Ranch dip . . . and not to say that "mushmarlows" aren't okay in moderation.)

These examples of response and choice are truly "lame" compared to more serious things in life. Less than a month ago my cousin found out that her husband was dying of cancer. Choices. It was too late for treatment. While I feel terrible about this sad loss, I rejoice to report that they chose to glorify God in the situation. My Mom said that whenever someone would come to visit, David would take their hand and ask them if they have trusted in Jesus as their Savior. He would say, "God loves you and I do, too!" The last week of his life they had a family wedding; his son moved up his wedding two months so his dad could be there.

When David graduated to Glory last Wednesday, he left this earth knowing he had made the most important choice of all: Jesus. In his casket, in his hands, was placed a Bible. And the Gospel was very clearly explained to all at his funeral. My dear cousin is determined to choose not to let Satan get any stronghold in this bereavement, but for God to be honored in it all. What have you chosen to do about Jesus in your life? My cousin would want to know.

While we hope we never have to go through trials such as these, we are assured that God will give His children grace to go through any and every trial. He will help us choose what will honor Him and be a blessing to those involved. In ironic contrast, what we usually struggle with most are the "minor" day-to-day choices of life. Are these important to God? Yes!

"Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." I Corinthians 10:31

Do you think that the grouchy lady down the street just happened to become less than friendly last week? In some grumpy old people, besides typical aches and pains, the self-centered gruffness grew from many years of harboring bitterness. Seeds or weeds will reap a harvest. One of my college professors would often tell us, "Girls, you ARE who you are BECOMING." (In a few years we will look mostly like we do now - just a bit more wrinkled).

Your garden of life ~ your body, your soul, your spirit, your attitudes, your personality, your charges (those around you), your countenance ~ will be affected by the type of seeds you choose to plant and how you choose to care for your garden. So, what does your garden look like?

Weeds

• If we choose not to forgive ... we will reap broken relationships and God says He will not forgive us (Mark 11:25-26).

• If we choose to be undisciplined in our eating/body care ... we will reap unhealthiness and unwanted fat. We will lose respect and a be left with a weakened platform from which to proclaim God (I Corinthians 3:16-17).
  

• If we choose not to spend time with our families ... we will lose intimacy and influence - maybe even them (Ephesians 5:1-2; 6:4).
  

• If we choose to be friends with an angry man ... we will become angry and bitter (Proverbs 22:24-25).

• If we don't allow God to control our mind ... we will reap a weak darkened mind that will get us into all manner of trouble (Romans 12:1-2; II Corinthians 10:3-5).
  

Flowers

• If we choose to have a consistent time in God's Word and in prayer with Him ... we will reap inner strength and godly character (Psalm 1).


• If we choose to keep our focus on God ... we will reap contentment and peace (Isaiah 26:3).


• If we choose to fear/respect God ... we will reap lasting inner beauty (Proverbs 31:30).


• If we are friendly and speak the truth in love ... we will be blessed with genuine friendships (Proverbs 18:24).

• If we put on the armor of God ... we will be able to stand strong in battle (Ephesians 6:10-18).

• If we choose to embrace our weakness ... we will find God's strength more than sufficient (II Corinthians 12:9-10).

This list could go on and on. Precious Sisters - as we go about our days making choices and responding to life, instead of just patting each other sympathetically on the back - let's prayerfully and humbly encourage one another to choose to plant beautiful seeds of godliness in our gardens . . . so that when people see the verdant blooms all around us, they will look up to the One who made it all possible.

"...let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.

And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works ... exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching."

Hebrews 10:22-25

Refresher: Dishwasher Facial

Refresh your face in the kitchen ...

"Just when the dishwasher finishes the rinse cycle, and before it starts drying, I turn it off and open the door a few inches. This lets the first blast of really hot steam escape. Then I quickly throw a beach towel over the opening, trapping the steam. With my hair covered with another towel, I stick my head under the beach towel for a few minutes or so. It is so relaxing!"
- a friend of Heloise (the "Hint" lady) from Oregon