Mariposa Kisses (aka Dianne's Blog)

I love Halloween. But sometimes Christians tend to paint a negative face on this cultural holiday. And don't get me wrong, it can be gruesome and nasty. I mean, some of the flyers in the mail have been tossed immediately into the recycling bin to avoid younger eyes in our household. But, let's not forget to have fun at the same time!

As we've hunted for costumes, we've had an especially impossible time finding one in particular: angry birds. And not just the red one that everyone knows about. Our son wants the black bomber one. After calling like a thousand stores, visiting about a hundred of them, and web-hunting until my eyes practically popped out of my head, I had to give up in shameful defeat. But we did find one site that still has the red bird for fifty dollars plus shipping. So at this point, I'm trying to decide if I could actually toss over fifty plus dollars for one kid costume.

Our daughters already picked theirs: Spider-girl and Princess-of-thieves. They look adorable and have been practicing the fighting parts all week long. The angry glares, the poised fighting positions, battles with one another, the daggers, the swords... the quick hand movements. And it got me thinking... that when they wear these costumes, they actually feel like those strong and brave characters. Since we're still not sure what our son will end up wearing, let's just think on these two for a moment.

What if we covered ourselves with truth and absorbed the full message available to us? By believing the things the Bible says about us once we know Jesus, we would actually live differently. Let's take three of the big ones. First, if we covered ourselves in love, we would start to love others better. Second, if we wore a cape of forgiveness, can you imagine how we would start to forgive others and ourselves? Third, let's try to costume ourselves with kindness. Wouldn't our words be so different and our actions as well?

When the kids take off their costumes, they discontinue the role play. And we do the same thing with our faith. We feel brave and strong and spiritually fed in the middle of our quiet times or during Bible study or for one hour on Sundays. But then we forget, and our lives reflect that lost concept of truth that had momentarily empowered us just minutes or hours before.

So, let's get practical! Try to wear something as a visible reminder of who we are in Christ. It could be really simple like a ring, a bracelet, or a necklace. Maybe it's a tattoo for some of you who can brave the needle thing. Perhaps it's just a sticky note in your car or in your wallet so that every time you see it you're reminded of a verse that keeps things in perspective. This October 31st you'll likely wear a fun costume to your church or to a party, but try to focus on an eternal costume that outweighs them all.

Labels: Bible, costumes, faith, Halloween

I love a good story, especially when the underdog wins. And that's totally what Jesus is into as well. In fact, if you've studied even a small part of the New Testament, you see that Jesus longs to serve and save the losers that he encounters. And the great part is that he's still passionate about the marginalized and the misunderstood people around us today.

Maybe you feel like you're stereotyped for the wrong reasons. People just don't understand what you're all about. Perhaps you feel judged because of your ethnicity, gender, or social class. Maybe your inferiority complex comes from a broken or an abusive upbringing? Then again, it could be that you're just an unappreciated mom who feels like all you do is change diapers and fold laundry. Or are you the one who simply never gets a fair chance at anything, the kid who was always picked last for cherry ball? If so, stick around for three of Jesus' stories that deal with the outcasts of his time.

The first tale is about a deformed woman who is healed on the Sabbath. Jesus sees her suffering from some kind of evil spirit that has caused her to be crippled for eighteen years. She can't even sit up straight. So how does Jesus respond? Right away, we notice how much He cares about her. While many onlookers just stare past her, Jesus sees her physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. And because he loves her, he decides to heal her.

"When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, 'Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.' Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God" (Luke 13:12+13).

So let's check out the synagogue ruler's response to this awesome miracle. He's a pretty good guy after all, right? NOT! Luke tells us about his foolish response:

"Indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, the synagogue ruler said to the people, 'There are six days for work. So come and be healed on those days, not on the Sabbath.' The Lord answered him, 'You hypocrites! Doesn't each of you untie his ox or donkey from the stall and lead it out to give it water? Then should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbath day from what bound her?'" (Luke 13:14-16).

Obviously we don't want to respond like the ruler did, but do we generally act any better? Or do we lock God in by our insistent demands, telling him when and where and how he gets to direct our paths? And when God steps in to meet our daily needs, do we praise him? Do we even thank him for our most basic provisions like food, good health, and each oxygenated breath that keeps us alive? A more challenging question might be how we respond to the marginalized, like this woman who sits there alone as a needy outcast. Do we run to her type, willing to help, ready to care?

Now let's take a look at the second story, the one about that horrible sinner. He's done that one thing, the act that comes to your mind when you think of the person that could never make it in to heaven. She's said that certain word or phrase that would never come out of your perfect lips. He's that totally lost friend or relative that you avoid during reunions. Just being in the same room with this person makes you cringe. Well, guess what? Jesus cares about him or her too. Check out the story of the lost sheep.

The Pharisees and teachers of the law have been mumbling about how Jesus welcomes and even eats with sinners. So Jesus tells them this parable:

"Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent" (Luke 15:4-7).

Kind of unfair, right? I mean, why should God care more about those sinful people than about us? Oh wait... we are those sinners, totally in need of his amazing grace!

Now for the third story, think of an overzealous IRS agent and how freaked out you are by his meticulous legalism. Of how irritating it is that you have to keep all your financial statements for three to five years just in case your worst nightmare comes true and you get audited. Then picture Zacchaeus, the authoritative and mega-rich chief tax collector, traitor to his people and ally of the hated Romans, who also happens to be super short. He's so short in fact, that he can't even see over the crowd as Jesus rides in to Jericho. So he climbs a sycamore-fig tree to get a better look!

"When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, 'Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.' So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. All the people saw this and began to mutter, 'He has gone to be the guest of a sinner'" (Luke 19:5-8).

This story shows us yet again that Jesus cares about outcasts. He notices Zacchaeus because he sees his heart before he even arrives. He knows that Zacchaeus needs a savior. He gives this marginalized member of society a chance, just like he gives all of us an opportunity to trust in him as well.

So guess how the tax guy responds?

"But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, 'Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount'" (verse 8).

Jesus then tells him that he is saved and Luke reminds us that "... the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost" (verse 10).

Zacchaeus does three things really well in this story. First, he addresses Jesus as Lord because he realizes that he's talking to the Son of God. Second, he takes care of the poor. Third, he is honest with those he has wronged. So let's take a look in the mirror. When we receive mercy from God, how do we respond? Do we call him Lord? Do we care for those in need? Can we admit we're wrong and make amends with those we've hurt?

We can all identify with the protagonists of these three stories: the crippled woman, the lost sheep, and the tax collector. We relate in some way as we battle physical differences, spiritual inferiority, or emotional weaknesses. With these stories of God's compassion for three New Testament losers, let's run to Jesus for his love and his truth for our own lives as well!

And just one last thought, when we do happen to stereotype our fellow human beings for their skin color, hairstyle, the types of tattoos they wear, the cars they drive, or the vices that entangle them, let's stop and view them with Jesus' eyes first. Then let's try to care like he does. And let's love them with his hands so they can be healed and redeemed as well! We're no better, just literally saved by God's perfect love and grace!

Labels: Bible, Jesus, Luke, marginalized

I was thumbing through my Bible as I wrote a goodbye card to a friend who is moving to the Midwest this weekend. I encouraged her with Proverbs 3:5+6 which talks about trusting in the Lord with all of our heart and how God will make our paths straight. Then I flipped over to Psalm 119:105 about the Bible being a lamp to our feet and a light for our paths. As my eyes scanned back a bit on the preceding page, I came upon verse seventy three, which says, "Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding to learn your commands."

At first, I felt confused about why those two ideas would sit side-by-side in the same verse. David talks about how God created him... but then he immediately switches the topic to a desire to know God's commands. Doesn't it seem like David just got distracted? Or is there a reason these two concepts go together? When I thought it over and prayed for a bit, God revealed to me that he made both humankind and his laws as his precious handiworks.

Since he formed us to have fellowship with him, he also created his laws in order to protect us from ourselves and one another. So the two ideas actually fit perfectly together. When we understand our true identity in the Lord, that he formed us with his own hands, then the response is a desire to learn and obey his commands. Knowing who we are helps us to see that God's rules are a beautiful love-list rather than a mandatory to-do list.

Sometimes we forget how much God values us; that's when we tend to shy away from a longing to follow his commands. When you think through those moments of temptation, when is it that you give in the most? When you feel totally aware of your identity in Christ? Or when you momentarily forget who you are? As Christians, the Holy Spirit convicts us of our sin so we can be brought back into refreshing fellowship with the Lord. Then we long to understand and follow his commands once again.

So if we want to obey God, we should stay focused on our righteous and holy identity in him. Simply put, it means we need to pray and read the Bible. Please join me as I try to remember that his "...hands made me and formed me..." so that I will long for the "...understanding to learn (his) commands."

Share your thoughts about identity and God's commands. We'd love to hear from you. Keeping it real! :)

Labels: Bible, Psalm 119

Summer is upon us. The fabulous aromas entice our senses: neighborhood barbecues, gently warmed sunscreen, freshly chopped veggies and herbs, and dripping watermelon from our kids' faces. We all look forward to Fourth of July parties, summer vacations, and a plethora of picnics and outdoor family events. The MLB season gets exciting as well with those unexpected trades and a number of surprising upsets (GO PADRES!!!).

But there are some things we dread, like getting into a bathing suit so we can splash around in the pool to avoid the oppressive heat. Or putting on that tight pair of shorts that seemed to be a lot looser last summer. But maybe you're not one of those insecure types; in contrast, you feel incredibly comfortable in your silky smooth skin, which means that your struggle is a bit different. You long for people to notice your sculpted legs and your toned abs. You crave the attention and dress accordingly to show off that new tattoo that decorates your lower back. Or maybe it's that new skin-tight tank that you bought to show off what you've got???

As Christians, we walk a fine line, a tightrope really. Or you could call it a double edged sword. On the one hand, we should be confident in ourselves, certain of who we are in Christ, not caving in to low self esteem. Yet on the other side, we need to be very careful how we express that satisfaction, by representing Christ at all times. If you feel offended so far, please keep reading because God truly does care about the issue of body image in our culture and in our church. So stick with me!

For those who feel depressed because they aren't pretty enough, tall enough, tan enough or whatever else "enough" comes to your mind, you need to rest in your true identity in Christ! You must surrender your heart, body, and mind over to the Lord in order to find immeasurable value from His perfect love. The truth is that Satan wants you to feel like you're a loser. If he can keep you trapped in that lie, then he knows you'll never win. You'll even avoid certain ministry opportunities because you'll think you're inadequate for the job. But remember, you were bought with a price, the one that cost Jesus His life. So don't let the enemy claim that victory. Instead, attack Satan with this Biblical truth:

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made... My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be" (Psalm 139:14-16).

If that passage isn't enough to get you back on track, start right at the beginning of the Bible and read from Genesis:

"Then God said, 'Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air...' So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them... God saw all that he had made, and it was very good..." (from Genesis 1:26, 27, 31).

You are incredibly valuable. You matter to God and you also matter to me and to a ton of other people here at Sandals Church. We care about your heart and not so much about what you look like. You aren't too ugly, too fat, too skinny, or too different looking to worship here with us. We welcome you! We want you here with us!

And for those who feel a bit too confident, you have a job to do as well. Go to the Lord for your sense of self worth as well! Let it be from HIM and not from the attention you receive from others for being physically beautiful. Don't pile on another plastic surgery to your summer's to-do-list. Why not donate vanity's fund to an amazing ministry opportunity instead? I mean seriously, think of the people you could feed in a third world country instead of using it towards another Botox injection or another laser surgery for this or that.

Also, be modest with your attire. You might look like a runway model, but you don't have to dress like one, especially when you're at church. Let your witness draw others to Christ by how you act and ALSO by what you wear. If your "short" shorts don't actually cover your behind, then they're too short. And if your bathing suit covers less than your undies do, then it's too small. Certainly, it's one thing if you're in a friend's backyard with the gals working on a tan, but not if you're at a group event with the guys who WILL struggle with lust because of it.

Keep it practical and decide what your goal is before you even get dressed; if you don't pre-think it, then your human longings will dictate your outfit for you. Temptation will step in like a crisp piece of forbidden fruit and before you know it, you're dressed to flaunt it. Are you wearing that low-cut shirt so that so-and-so will notice you? Or are you choosing to wear the extra tank under that low-cut one so he will have an easier time sitting next to you as he listens to Pastor Matt's sermon?

Make sure you take this challenge seriously because it's a relevant issue in our culture today. And it's one where Christians tend to blend in with the world, especially during the long and hot summer months. Of course we all fall short in this area, whether we're single, engaged, or married. The truth is, we all like to turn a few heads because it makes us feel cool, accepted, and attractive. But when we become deceived by Satan's lies, we need to rethink our mindset.

Our value shouldn't come from other people's accolades of our physical beauty. We should long for spiritual affirmation instead that is based upon our spiritual maturity, our growth in the Lord, and our faithfulness to God's eternal agenda for our lives. By choosing to dress modestly and by getting our acceptance from God instead of from the world, we honor Him and we also protect our fellow believers from stumbling.

Imagine in both cases, how our world would be different if physical beauty wasn't the primary goal in most people's lives. Gals and guys often feel downcast because they don't look good enough on the outside. Ironically, even the "perfectly" figured lucky-ducks often feel like they're STILL inadequate. In both situations, people just want to be loved and accepted for who they are on the inside. I mean, it's pretty messed up when neither group is happy. The truth is that no-one's really content without the Lord in the center of their life. And that means obedience to GOD alone and to HIS agenda for how we live.

Instead of trying to look amazing for the world's favor, let's focus on spiritual pursuits, like the one Paul challenges us with in Ephesians:

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand" (Ephesians 6:10-13).

So then Paul gives a ton of detail about the Believer's attire. He clues us in about the outfit that we all need to wear whether we're the ones who struggle with poor self esteem or those who battle with pride and arrogance. Check it out:

"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (verses 14-17).

In closing, remember who you are! Whichever way you slice it, you will struggle. You'll think you're too lame or you'll focus on how you're too amazing. But don't despair! Grab your Bible and get on your knees. Pray!!! Ask the Lord to help you so that you can focus on His plans for your summer. Think about how you can honor the Lord with your time, money, and talents while dressing appropriately to all those barbecues, birthday parties, and baseball games. And just to challenge you with one more awesome passage of Scripture, check out Paul's sobering admonition in Romans:

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers (and sisters), in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-- this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-- his good, pleasing and perfect will" (12: 1+2, my parenthesis added).

Labels: Bible, body image, Christian

Last Sunday, Pastor Matt encouraged us with the story of the feeding of the 5000. He told us that God can use us for His highest and greatest purpose when we are at our lowest and weakest moments. One of the verses he referenced was 2 Corinthians 12:9, "...my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness..."

But do we really believe this to be true? And if it's not true, do we really have any hope at all? The fact of the matter is that we all get weighed down by a plethora of weaknesses. My struggles happen to be depression and doubt, along with anxiety and anger. Maybe your entanglements have more to do with self esteem issues, jealousy, lust, or greed.

Where do we go if we don't believe this verse to be true? The answer is simple: we must fall on our knees. God is good at wrestling. Remember his match with Jacob thousands of years ago? He can take you on as well. So, if you are doubting that HIS POWER IS MADE PERFECT IN WEAKNESS, then challenge the Lord! Ask him, "Are you sure Lord?" Let Him defend Himself because I'm certain He will show up!

For starters, think about where you're weak and how the Lord has already shown up. For me with my depression, I sometimes wonder why the Lord won't just remove this thorn from my flesh. And then I start to think through all of the ways that He has blessed me: my legs and arms, my breath, my faithful husband, my healthy and energetic children, etc. The list starts to get so long that I can't help but lose sight of the darkness.

Of course our weaknesses seem overwhelming; often times they simply are too much for us to handle. And that's why we need to drop to our knees, place our face down upon the ground if necessary, and submit it all to the Lord. When we SURRENDER, He hears our cries and He begins to transform us into His perfect image, where truth and love reign supreme. During the process of transformation, HIS GRACE BECOMES SUFFICIENT FOR US AS HIS POWER IS MADE PERFECT IN WEAKNESS.

It doesn't happen over night. We must wait patiently for the Holy Spirit to give us the faith to see and to believe. So, while we wait, let's remember that, "...our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12).

Since we live in an imperfect and evil world where Satan still has some power over evil and sin, let's remember to "...put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition...take up the shield of faith. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God" (from verses 13-17).

If you still don't believe that HIS GRACE IS SUFFICIENT FOR YOU, FOR HIS POWER IS MADE PERFECT IN WEAKNESS, don't worry! I'm not here to judge you. It's frequently hard for me to grasp its veracity too. But we can hold each other up and cling to God's word as we go through this journey together, one day at a time. Keep the faith fellow believers. Life on earth is hard, but remember that heaven will be amazing!

Labels: Bible, encouragement, grace

Sometimes life feels so cruel and unfair. Injustice blasts itself across so many broken hearts. And it seems like evil wins in the end. And while I won't share my particular anecdote here, I'm sure you can relate with some story of your own.

The details likely produce tears or anger. Your heart isn't sure why it can't heal because the thing, whatever that thing happens to be for each one of us, is just too damn big.

But, here to give us a little bit of perspective and some hope as well is King David. It's been hard for me to pray lately and to crack open my Bible because I've fallen back into a hole of depression.

But, somehow God's spirit inched its way through the scars and encouraged me to open up to Psalm 34 instead of a chapter of Jane Austin's Pride and Prejudice (which always makes me feel better).

So here goes with some truth and encouragement. As you read these verses, I want you to pay attention to the verbs that are used and we'll chat about them in a bit. What you need to know right away is that it's okay to cry out to God and also that God will work out all the details of the crap that you are going through.

"17 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. 18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

The next two verses reiterate the previous point, about God helping you through the tough times. They also go on to talk about how He protects you as well. Check it out!

"19 A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all; 20 he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken."

And then I love how the Psalm ends with such truth and assurance. It's this awesome reminder that evil doesn't actually win in the end. This is such a powerful point to cling to when you seem to notice the bad stuff triumphing wherever you go. But it's not the way it plays out in God's book.

"21 Evil will slay the wicked; the foes of the righteous will be condemned. 22 The Lord redeems his servants; no one will be condemned who takes refuge in him."

So here are the main verbs from the passage: cry, hears, delivers, is (close), saves, protects, slay, be (condemned), redeems, and takes (refuge). The first and last verbs deal with the Believer. She cries out to God and takes refuge in the Lord.

But the other action words have to do with God's response. God hears, delivers, is close, saves, and protects his followers. And this is what he does to the evildoer: He slays and condemns him.

It's important for the Believer to remember HER own role through the storms. Remember what the Psalmist said? You must cry out to God!!! Especially when you feel like God does not care! Especially when you feel like He has abandoned you! Especially when you long for God to step in right that very second, but He remains silent!

Dear Believer, King David also reminds us to take REFUGE in the Lord! Feelings of condemnation will enter into your mind, but then you need to run to the Father. Remember that God gets the final word. He holds you even when you can't see Him! And He judges those who have harmed you.

Labels: anger, Bible, depression, Psalm 34

No matter how stressful life gets, the sun ALWAYS rises anew. It's such a great reminder that we are not alone. Even if an emotional serpent has me by the throat, it can not thwart the sun's warmth.

God's word is like that too. It's always there for us. It soothes us with truth and encouragement, no matter what we face! In a world where chaos and injustice run rampant, we can turn to the Bible to find the answers.

But, do the sun's heat and the Bible's presence mean that God is good? Even though I struggle to see that at times, I think the answer is "Yes, they do." It is by God's mercy that the sun's radiance lights our planet without burning us into flames.

Our earth's axis at 23.5 degrees to the sun is a miracle in and of itself. We don't spin off into space like we would if it were off of that by even one millionth of one degree. It's this huge friendly reminder from the Lord like, "Hey, I see you guys and I'm taking care of you."

His Word does that too. He didn't have to give it to us. We could have been left for dead, clueless, and even more ridiculous than we already are.

Imagine the confusion of life with no rules and no guidance. But because of God's grace, He filled the Bible's authors with some super deep and amazing insights over the years.

So instead of walking blindly, we get to read about God's plan for our lives, no matter how insane they get. Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path."

As I've struggled in my own whirlwind of darkness lately, I've been challenged about God's goodness. Do I really believe He is good, you know when I'm not at church singing worship songs with hundreds of other believers?

What about God's goodness when I wake up with really upsetting thoughts in my head? What about when I feel really down and the feelings don't go away for a long time? Is He still good, even then?

My friend reminded me earlier today... that He is good, no matter what we're going through. Praise God for those cozy chairs at Starbucks cuz she had to listen to me cry and moan about this and that for two hours.

Through her plethora of struggles in life she said she has always clung to the reality of God's goodness. She hasn't lost that hope no matter how challenging her family's circumstances have been. And while she didn't judge me at all for questioning God's goodness, she encouraged me through her testimony.

My twin sister also reminded me in a text today of Hebrews 11:1, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." That's hard for me on most days... to be sure of what I hope for???

Do I really hope for heaven and all that spiritual stuff on most days? Probably not. I get caught somewhere between wishing for emotional wholeness and the American dream.

Happiness! An end to all emotional struggles! Financial security! Health and safety for our three kids! The list goes on ad nauseum. And I certainly don't always focus on those fluffy angel-feathered wishes: to be holy, to be ready for heaven, to be used by God, etc.

And then... certain of what I can't see? Not sure I nail that one either. I'm afraid of the dark, so if I can't see something, it just freaks me out. Not seeing the afterlife... frankly, that drives me nuts. Of course, I want to end up there, but the thought terrifies me.

It's hard for me to see my emotional and spiritual development over the years as well. Has the Lord really done a work of restoration and wholeness in me since I accepted Christ twenty-five years ago? If I depend upon my feelings, I might not feel like God has done very much at all.

But, if I take Hebrews 11:1 to be true, then He must be doing something. I just have to be sure that I'm hoping for what He hopes for. And of course, I must be certain of that hope, even when I can't see the result of it at this exact moment.

So, what do you think about God's goodness? Do the sun's constancy and the Word of God give you hope in His goodness? Share your thoughts here. We'd love to hear from you, even if you disagree. Keeping it real! :)

Labels: Bible, God, goodness, sun

Some people are all too eager to take down their pine-shedding Christmas tree. We got ours early this year, so it was becoming an actual fire hazard. But still, I was so bummed to see it go. It felt like Christmas flew by this year... no matter how hard I tried to suspend it into slow-motion. The dinner, the lights, the church service, the presents, the laughter, the music... it raced by like a shooting star.

So, to respond to the melancholy of the passing holidays, our family decided to celebrate the night of taking down the tree. We sang along to some fun Christmas tunes, took pictures of the kids in front of the tree, wrapped each kid with white Christmas lights, and finally decorated our official 2010 family ornament. we even went outside for a Christmas tree bonfire before bed.

I explained how it was the ultimate recycling process. The kids were thoroughly entertained by the monstrous sized blaze in our fire-pit. We have 3/4 of the tree left in the backyard to burn later this weekend; so we'll definitely have to make some S'mores.

Our family night of un-decorating the tree and house was helpful to review the season and to let it linger on for just one more night. However, I still can't take down the last few decorations. I love my hanging snowman banner that says, "Let it snow." I also display my family picture ornaments on an upstairs display shelf so that we can see them throughout the year.

There's also one new piece that I may keep out indefinitely as well. It's a red and green wooden decoration that says, "HOPE." It reminds me that the message of Christmas lives in my heart all year long. It doesn't have to fade into the storage bins like most of the ornaments. I don't have to hide this one in the garage until next Christmas simply because it is green and red.

Even though we know we have hope in Jesus all year, we sometimes forget. Somehow the baby Jesus figure in the manger scene makes it so much clearer. And we feel more hopeful while the kids are smiling and opening presents around the tree. It's just easier to cling to our Christian hope when we're on that long relaxing break.

The truth is that we can all find HOPE in Jesus and His goodness every single day. As I sat reading my Bible this afternoon, I studied the "voice of the Lord..." from Psalm 29. It made me wonder, "What does the voice of the Lord sound like?" I pictured things like thunder, fire, wind, and even a quiet cloud.

The Psalmist describes it like this, "The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic. The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars... The voice of the Lord strikes with flashes of lightning. The voice of the Lord shakes the desert... The voice of the Lord twists the oaks and strips the forests bare" (from Psalm 29:4-9).

The feeling I had after reading this Psalm was one of comfort because of God's power. I might feel defeated about saying goodbye to Christmas, amongst a plethora of other struggles and obstacles, but the Lord is still majestic. The Psalm ends with these words: "The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace" (verse 11).

Psalm 29 is an in-your-face reminder that no matter what's going on, you can get through it because God is there for you. It's also a passage about extending our faith. It can be hard to listen to the Lord; it's not usually an audible noise that we can record on our MP3 players. Isn't it more like a reminder of His truth through His word or a fellow believer?

Let's choose to find hope as we listen for His voice in 2011. Let's grab hold of God's strength and peace as we depend upon one another. Share your thoughts about the post-Christmas season. We'd love to hear from you. :)

Labels: Bible, hope, peace, post-Christmas, strength

While working out at the gym last night, any onlooker would have seen me and said, "She is in the zone." You know when your music is too loud even for a teenager and your gaze is straight forward with the focus of a hunter? You want to stop but you can't because your mind is steady upon the task at hand.

My goal was to run four miles averaging 8 min 30 second miles. I also spent ten minutes on the elliptical machine and ended with ten minutes of heart pumping exercise on the bike. Over all, it was a great workout. My shins were killing due to some nagging shin splints, but I was there to work out and that's what I did.

Any time I start to feel wimpy due to pain or fatigue I just think about Gail Devers and her three Olympic championships amidst her battle with Graves' disease. She could have given up, but she didn't. Most people don't work out as hard as I do and I'm no Gail Devers, that's for sure.

But, I guess when I'm at the gym or out running a course, my goal is to get the most out of that precious time while I've got it. I'm also training for a few specific races coming up in our area. But mostly, I just feel a personal call to do my best while I'm able-bodied to actually work out and run the race ahead of me.

As I run my heart out or cycle like a maniac, I occasionally wonder if I'm living this sold out for my faith in God. Sometimes, it's easy to get so committed to our physical pursuits, such as our economic investments, our health endeavors, or our professional goals, that we fix our eyes on this temporary life rather than upon eternity. Isn't it the truth though?

When we do actually sit down to rest our eyes upon the Lord, we frequently aren't able to slow down. We are so focused on the tasks around us, that we can not be still for spiritual pursuits. But, here's the thing: if we can not rest before the Lord to meditate on His goals for us, then all the other stuff is done in vain.

No matter how much money you earn, no matter how physically fit you are, and no matter how brilliant your credentials make you, if you do not spend daily time in the presence of our Creator, your life's accomplishments are meaningless.

It's not that your efforts won't produce anything; the fact is that they will. But, you won't net eternal fruit from those goals if you don't first lay them in front of the alter before the Lord.

What does this look like? Sitting before the Lord doesn't have to be fancy; in fact it can be very practical. It requires focusing your spiritual lens to see through His eyes. Here's an example. At the start of your day, just pray a quick prayer to set the plethora of tasks ahead of you before God's agenda first.

Say, "God, whatever you have for today, that's what I want to be about." Ask God to use all things for His good. Ask Him to direct your steps so you can be about His eternal plan amidst your daily activities.

Some people would recognize me at the gym as the gal who sweats like a fountain. Others would say, "She's that weird woman who can actually be seen lifting up her hands in praise to God while she's running."

While some would label me as strange, I simply can't pass up that moment to praise God when an awesome worship song comes up on my running mix. Can you ignore the chance to praise the Lord who has given you everything you have, even the eyes you use to read this post?

As you pray throughout the day as well, ask God to guide your steps toward His purposes by giving you ears to hear His call. Ask Him to lead you to that conversation with a co-worker. Ask Him to show you how you can pray for that fellow mom who is going through way too much right now.

Begin to see other people the way He does. Ask Him to give you compassion for that person who always seems grumpy or difficult. You see, when we live for eternity, we actually interpret things differently, as God does.

So, challenge yourself to live out the fruit of His spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22)).

Let's get in the zone people... in the zone for the King. Let's fix our eyes upon His agenda, upon His will for our lives, upon His schedule for our day. In the midst of all the things we have to do, let's not forget to take some time out out to set our hearts right before Him.

Then, no matter what you're doing: working out, adjusting your checkbook, packing your kids' lunches, or logging in to your work computer, you'll be investing for eternity. Zone in fellow believers. This life is just a blink. Then, we're off to worship our God for eternity!

Labels: athletics, Bible, God, purpose, worship

I feel like God is calling me to trust Him even more deeply than the day before. It's like this never-ending cycle, right? We begin to trust Him in one area of our lives and then He calls us further into the maze, to trust with stronger faith. If it's not your own issues, then it's something about your kids. Or maybe you've got some financial issues that are dragging you down.

Perhaps it's an ongoing battle with your spouse... because marriage seems to be a never-ending work in progress given by the Master as well. He's constantly shaping us into His service and His workmanship directly through the hands of our loved one. Will we trust God to make us more patient, less angry, more forgiving? Will we let that issue go, that's not really that big of a deal anyways?

The question we have to ask ourselves in all of these things is this: Is God faithful? If He is, then whatever we face, no matter how small or big, we know we can get through it. Do you believe it, daughter or son of the King? Do you really believe that God is faithful? Do you think He sees you during those quiet moments when no-one else can? I think He does.

Easier said than done though, right? That's usually where my struggle begins. I feel like God is faithful one day, but maybe not so much the next. I overcome a huge obstacle and then within days, I'm like: "Well God, how in the world are you going to help me with this next thing?" It's like I'm a child who has all my needs met... but constantly implores, "When's my next snack? I need one NOW...even though you just gave me one fifteen minutes ago!"

We know as parents that our kids' needs are always on the center of our minds. We readily intend to meet their next and most immediate need. But, sometimes their urgency makes us feel like they don't think we'll come through for them. When one of my kids comes running down the stairs yelling, "More chips pleaaaaaase..." you would think he or she had suffered from a severe form of starvation. The truth is, I'm constantly offering them food throughout the day; they could never feel starved in our family's home.

That's how God is with us as well. He meets our needs so abundantly. During His time on earth, Jesus said, "...I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" (John 10:10b). He goes on to say, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep" (v. 11). I mean, how can we waste even one second worrying about whether or not God is going to come through for us? He gave us His very own life!

He sacrificed everything for us. He heard the battle cry. He conquered the ugly grip of sin that enslaved us by nailing His own hands and ankles upon the cross. Sure...the Roman soldiers held the hammers, but don't you know His own power allowed the nails to dig into His flesh? In just one millisecond, He could have released the heavenly battalions and commanded the injustice to end. But He didn't. He hung on the cross so that you and I could be free.

When you feel like you can't really trust Jesus, picture a cross hanging in your own home. Would you get on it for someone else? And even if you would be willing to, have you been called to do that any time recently? Pretty sure your answer is "No." So the least you and I can do is this: trust our Savior...because He is trustworthy.

The Apostle Paul reminds us to hand our stresses over to God: "Do not be anxious about ANYTHING, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends ALL understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6+7).

Maybe this post doesn't change anything for you. You're still strung out. That stressful situation still looms over you like a thundercloud. That bill still rests on your chaotic counter-top. Your kid still struggles with that same old issue. You still have to forgive your spouse for being grumpy this very morning.

But, here's the thing about Jesus. When you give Him a little, he takes it and multiplies it. So, start out small with three simple steps. First, take twenty seconds and talk to the Lord about it. Say, "God, this thing overwhelms me. Help!" Second, write down a few of the verses listed above on a sticky note and paste it somewhere to remind you of how He cares.

Third, lift your hands up to heaven as a symbol of how you're letting this stuff go. The issues that your family faces are outside of your control, but not outside of His. You can rest now because you are in good hands.

Labels: Bible, faith, kids, parents, trust

As I read through one of my favorite devotional books this morning, I was touched by some challenging words. They are from the August 3rd entry from "Streams in the Desert." The words begin with a verse from the Bible: "Be men (and women) of courage; be strong" (1 Corinthians 16:13).

The entry goes on to quote Phillips Brooks: "Never pray for an easier life-- pray to be a stronger person! Never pray for tasks equal to your power-- pray for power equal to your tasks. Then doing your work will be no miracle-- you will be the miracle." So what does this look like on a practical level for you and me?

COURAGE:

It means delving into things that aren't necessarily comfortable. Helping the neighbor who has recently lost her husband by bringing meals and extra bedding for her guests. It also means going out of your way to spend time with her after the funeral is over and everyone else has left. Though it's difficult to interact with grieving hearts, it is very very brave.

It also means forgiving your spouse in front of you kids even when you feel like throwing out ten more cutting words in your defense. It takes courage to allow God's spirit to convict instead of tearing into that person who has hurt you. Sometimes a friend or a relative might cause you pain and you must respond in the same way: FORGIVE!

Maybe for you, it means staying at a job that you don't necessarily love because it's where God wants you at the moment. Or it could be the simple response of walking with the Lord even when you don't feel His touch or can't see His plan. Continue to read His word. Continue to trust His plan. That takes courage, friend!

STRENGTH:

Maybe you are called upon to help a co-worker move some heavy boxes. Go ahead... extend your strength for her, even though you'd rather be watching the baseball game instead. What about rearranging the family-room for your wife for the twelfth time this year, simply because it shows her that you care? Flex those biceps because you are strong!

And yet, it could be as simple as following up with a friend who has battled depression. You might feel tired of hearing about his problems and sorrows; but your strength gives him so much comfort while he simply tries to make it through each day.

Maybe you are called to be strong during these tough economic times. Strong to make the tough cut-backs. Strong to endure those two used cars sitting in your drive-way. Strong to do without... even though you'd rather buy those new shiny gadgets. Flex your power by putting your money into savings instead. Fix that item that's broken instead of replacing it; this way, you can extend a hand and help someone else who has much less.

Courage. Strength. These are essential to our Christian faith. But, many of us forfeit their presence in our lives because it's easier to avoid the work involved to develop them. We run. We hide. The result is that we are cowards and we are weak.

Let's step up to the plate fellow believers. Stand! Run! Soar into the challenges of today. When you are called upon to be courageous and to show your strength, be ready! No matter what the cost, you will reap the benefits of a pleased Savior. His smile will shine upon your life as you obey Him...especially when it's hard.

Labels: Bible, courage, faith, family, strength

Sometimes, God's word is just enough...no commentary needed. So, here are two Bible verses that have really ministered to me over this past week:

Psalm 28:2, "Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place."

AND

Psalm 73:26, "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."

Labels: Bible, Psalms

The rain calls us indoors. We must take shelter from the downpour or we will get soaking wet. For those living in the midst of a storm, they know that taking cover means protection from the harsh wind, rain, and hail. But, some people refuse to stay inside; instead they resist the storm's darkness and fury. After hours of effort, they collapse from exhaustion and eventually crawl into a warm place where they can find rest.

When the Lord calls us to rest, it means He has good plans for us. He has not forgotten our dreams or our investments in this world, for He uses all things to the good of the one that is to come. The Lord calls us to slow down so that we may hear from Him. As stated in a quiet time from Streams in the Desert, "There is no music during a musical rest, but the rest is part of the making of the music. During those rests, we foolishly believe we have come to the end of the song. He (God) counts the break with unwavering precision and plays his next note with confidence, as if no pause were ever there" (selected).

While experiencing the most rain we've had in one week here in Southern California during my three decades of life, I've been inside a lot. Last night, I couldn't even sleep well because the rain beat against my windows with such passion and fervor. Instead of the tranquility that the droplets might usually bring, I felt anxiety and darkness. And that is how I've felt in some areas of my life as well: anxious and dark. God's voice has been very quiet over the past three to four years and I have been waiting to hear it clearly for some time now.

But, then I was reminded of a sign the Lord gave to me yesterday during a slight respite from this crazy storm. A beam of light shone through my upstairs window, calling me to the outdoors. I said to my kids, "Let's go, there must be a rainbow outside." And to my wondering eyes, there appeared the most dazzling rainbow, as if it had been colored with brand new Crayola markers. Its beauty took my breath away, but as I called my neighbor to inform her of the colorful beams of light, it vanished. The rain started up again. It was gone.

Though the rainbows of life occasionally come and go, their significance never leaves us. The symbol of the rainbow represents hope and promise. It reminds people of God's mercy and compassion. While in the midst of the tempest, we must keep our eyes fixed on what we know, that the rainbow is still there, waiting to peek through the clouds. Similarly, the Lord is ALWAYS there, especially during the storms! In truth, a rainstorm is a sign of hope as well because it reflects what is yet to come, the colors of promise and for we who believe, eternal life with our KING.

So, don't give up friend. That is what Satan would want you to do. He would call you to hide your head, to quit dreaming, and to shut down. That is not the message of the God of Israel. God calls you to "Trust in (Him) with all your heart and (to) lean not on your own understanding, but in all your ways, (to) acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5+6). In the New Testament, the hope continues on. John 10:10 says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have LIFE, and have it to the full."

Share how you've weathered a tough storm. Give some stories of the rainbows that God has placed in your path. I'd love to hear from you. To God be the glory for the storms and the rainbows! :)

Labels: Bible, family, rainbows, rainstorm

The sweetest aroma is your heart lifted up to God, even when it is broken. When your words are too mixed up in your own head to pray, you offer up a mish-mash of blabbing. But, He loves your honesty. Sometimes you can't even pray, so you sing to the Lord instead. And He loves it because your heart is genuine. In these moments of weakness and hardship, God is truly honored because your focus is fully on your need for Him. When you don't feel His presence, but you remain steady anyways, you show Him that you really believe.

If you're struggling to trust God, that's okay. When you keep on persevering in light of the difficulty, it reveals true devotion to your faith in God. Even when it seems easier to keep your eyes on your fears and doubts, it's best to keep your eyes on the history of God's faithfulness throughout your life. Remember the time He protected you during that scary car accident? Remember when He carried your child through that horrific sickness? Remember how he provided for you when you thought you weren't going to be able to pay that bill? What about the time you prayed to find that sand-dollar, and you did?

The Bible says, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" (Romans 15:13). In the next chapter, Paul says, "The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you." When we do find ourselves in a season of struggle or silence, we must cling to God's word because our feelings can deceive us. I remember a cold winter morning during my college-years. I looked out my dormitory window with hope and optimism because the sun felt so warm as it touched my face. Based on what I felt, I thought it must have been warm outside. But, oh how deceiving that picture was because this moment occurred in Wheaton, IL. I stepped outside of Fisher Dormitory and soon realized that my turtleneck and thick wool sweater were insufficient for the whipping wind that bit like a venomous snake. I immediately bobbed back to my room for my down-feathered navy blue coat.

We can't base our realities on mere feelings. Instead, we have to use our other senses to validate our interpretation of reality. If you are experiencing a season of despair, test your feelings. Is your life really as bad as it seems? It might be pretty bleak, but on the other had, after reflecting on your blessings, you remember some of the good things as well. Use your eyes to focus on God's beauty through nature. Then, you will remember God's power because of the works of His awesome creation. Maybe you love music, so you decide to pump your MP3 player up with some uplifting praise tunes. The result is that your heart redirects itself towards God's goodness and provision even though you don't feel it in your own life at that exact moment.

Feelings matter because they reflect the state of your heart. They shouldn't be ignored or repressed because they validate who you are and what you're going through. But they are not supreme to your well-being. Instead of clinging to your feelings, you must anchor your heart in truth so that even when the storm hits, you will not be blown away by the violent winds. Sing! Pray! Listen! Look! These things offer perspective, especially when you're feeling run-down and weak. Keep going for today... you're not alone and you have God's word as a powerful weapon against the enemy! Be practical too, remembering that God gave you other resources other than your feelings so that you could distinguish between truth and lies.

Share some of the ways that God is carrying you through your tired or depressed feelings. How has He shown Himself when you've felt like giving up? I'd love to hear from you and to lift you up in prayer as well!

Labels: Bible, encouragement, God's word

Hebrews 2:10, "...perfect through suffering."

Steel is the product of iron plus fire. Soil is rock plus heat and the crushing of glaciers. Linen is flax plus the water that cleans it, the comb that separates it, the flail that pounds it, and the shuttle that weaves it. In the same way, the development of human character requires a plus attached to it, for great character is made not through luxurious living but through suffering. And the world does not forget people of great character.

I once heard the story of a mother who brought a crippled boy with a hunched back into her home as a companion for her own son. She warned her son to be very careful not to refer to the other boy's deformity, since this was a sensitive matter to him. And she encouraged him to play with his new friend as if he were a normal child. But after listening to her son play with him for a few minutes, she heard him ask his companion, "Do you know what that is on your back?" The crippled boy was embarrassed, hesitated a moment, but before he could respond, his friend answered the question for him by saying, "It is the box that holds your wings, and someday God is going to break it open, and you will fly away to be an angel."

Someday God is going to reveal this fact to every Christian: the very things they now rebel against are the instruments He has used to perfect their character and to mold them into perfection, so they may later be used as polished stones in His heaven yet to come. --Cortland Myers

Suffering is a wonderful fertilizer for the roots of character. The great objective of this life is character, for it is the only thing we can carry with us into eternity. And gaining as much of the highest character possible is the purpose of our trials. --Austin Phelps

The mountain of vision is won by no other road than the one covered with thorns.
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Share some of the streams in your life as you walk through the desert! I'd love to hear how God is carrying you!

Labels: Bible, Streams in the Desert

What if you died today? Do you know where you would go? Most people become extremely stressed out when they have to discuss the topic of death. Whether it involves the planning of a will, someone's life insurance policy, or just religious beliefs in general, people frequently prefer to avoid the topic.

When you see those corny commercials where the wife and husband happen to wander into the kitchen for a late-night snack at the exact same minute, you sense the fabrication of the scene. You'd bet a million dollars you were about to watch a life insurance advertisement. And, usually you'd be right.

Why is it that we avoid the topic of death? Or, at the very least, why does it make us shift uncomfortably in our seat, no matter where we're sitting? I think it's because we prefer to be alive, so it makes the topic of death or of dying a pretty uncomfortable one. But, here's the real deal: death is cool. Unlike the phony life insurance commercial that's supposed to give you the warm fuzzies, the Bible offers hope and eternal life in Jesus Christ.

When you do come face to face with conversations pertaining to death, grab your Bible. Not that you shouldn't get all of your practical financial issues in order pertaining to passing away, but your peace with the Creator should come as the biggest priority. As I was driving up a long road after dropping my three kids at school, the concept of God's grace was really soaking in to my thick skull covered by medium-length brown hair.

While I've had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ since I was ten years old, I was really blown away during my time alone in the car by the fact that there's nothing I have to worry about spiritually before I die. I don't have to stress about the "what ifs" before dying because Jesus is my bridge, my peace, and my full payment. Sometimes death seems stressful because you might think, "Well, I have to do this, this, and that before I die...how stressful not to know when it will be?"

The thing is, if you walk with Jesus, HE is your all in all. He is sufficient. Doesn't that blow your mind? Of course, your life should demonstrate your love for Him on a daily basis, but you don't have to worry about the incidentals. He's taken care of them. You already have your "Get out of Jail Free" pass.

The popular verse that shows up in the background of NFL games is the basic truth of our faith. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." But, some people want to complicate the Gospel's simplicity by saying, "But you also have to do this, that, and the other thing. It's not just because of Jesus."

The next verse states, "For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." You see, it's not really about you, it's just about Jesus. He won't bully His way into your heart, but once He comes in, He's there to stay. Revelation 3:20 says, "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." It does not say, "If you do all of these other things too." What a relief, huh? While I definitely love LIVING, I'm pretty stoked about dying too. Heaven is gonna be the party of the century, so we better start sending out our Evites now.

Labels: Bible, death, grace, Jesus

Going to God, is it really worth it? Or, does it just seem like a waste of time because He might not be listening anyways? Well, here's what King David had to say about it when he walked the Earth.

Psalm 34:4 says, "I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears."

Psalm 34:15 says, "The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their cry."

Psalm 34:17+18 say, "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

Psalm 34:19+20 say, "A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all; he protects all of his bones, not one of them will be broken."

So, if King David had anything to say about it, he'd try to convince you that it's worth it to go to the Lord because He cares for you and answers you. One of the keys seems to be living a righteous life. If you know the Lord and are saved, then you can't ever lose your salvation, but it's clear from Scripture that you can break fellowship with Him because of sinful behavior. So, if you've been sinning lately, just get back on track by telling the Lord you're sorry and that you're thankful for His awesome forgiveness through Jesus' atonement on the cross. Start anew each day.

It's so great that we can approach God freely because of His Son's work on the cross. Take advantage of the fact that you can go to God for help. Some people aren't even aware that they have access to an all-knowing, all-loving, all-powerful, perfect, and gracious God who has their best interest in mind. What a blessing that we know we can approach the throne of GRACE!

Labels: Bible, God, King David

Romans chapter eight tells us, "For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children" (verses 15 + 16).

So many times, we ourselves are clueless about our own identity. Even when we know the Truth, our vision can become clouded. I'm a mom, an author, a wife, a sister, a daughter, and an aunt. And though I am certain of my plethora of roles to be carried out, I am frequently afraid. Afraid of failure. Afraid of exhaustion. Afraid of my own sinful nature. Afraid of who I'm not. Afraid even of the dark, at times.

But, Paul encourages the believer by reminding her that she does NOT need to be afraid because she is God's child. Failures will still come your way. Fatigue and despair will charge at you like a ton of bricks. Sin will sneak its way in and a temper will be lost or a thought will overtake you. You may not become all that you thought you were supposed to be in this short lifetime. And the night will always come as the sun's rays fade away.

But, there is hope! Paul goes on to say, "Now if we are children, then we are heirs-- heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory" (v17). How cool is that? Co-heirs with Christ! We may suffer now, but we will take part in the fiesta later...the glory that is to come. Verse 21 says, "...the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God."

Don't give up today my awesome sister in the Lord! You know who you are! Walk in that knowledge and surrender your fears. Rest in your claimed spirit of daughter-ship. Remember too that "...in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (v 28).

Share some of your victories here. I'd love to hear how God is shaping you.

Labels: Bible, daughter-ship, women of faith

Peter replied, "Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death" (Luke 22:33). Jesus answered, "I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me" (verse 34).

As Christian moms, we are called to live differently. We are called to represent our faith in Christ. That means, if someone is in need, we should try to lend a hand. We should apologize and be the bigger person in a difficult situation. If a fellow mom is having a difficult time with her kids or in her marriage, we should offer to pray with her.

Sometimes, we just don't feel up to it. We feel tired and worn out, like "Let someone else love that person today." Even the disciples fell asleep on Jesus after he returned from His time in prayer. Peter was one of Jesus' closest friends and he denied him three times. What's the big deal if we do the same thing?

"A servant girl saw (Peter) seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, 'This man was with him.' But he denied it. 'Woman, I don't know him,' he said" (verses 56+57).

"A little later someone else saw him and said, 'You also are one of them.' 'Man, I am not!' Peter replied" (verse 58).

"About an hour later another asserted, 'Certainly this fellow was with (Jesus), for he is a Galilean.' Peter replied, 'Man, I don't know what you're talking about!'" (verse 60a).

Immediately after Peter's third denial, as predicted, the rooster crowed. "The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter..." (verse 61a). What a convicting scene. Peter had been so convinced that he would do anything for Jesus. Then, he would not even admit that he knew Him.

Have there been times in your Christian walk where you have denied Christ? Where you haven't even admitted to others that you know Him?

As moms, we want to show our kids God's love and we long for them to know Him. The best way to model that out is in our own lives on a daily basis. If our kids see us helping a homeless person, they will likely do the same thing when they are older. If they observe us reading our Bibles and praying, they will likely model the behavior. If they hear us accepting our spouse's apology when he is wrong, they will also mirror that difficult task.

Being a mom is tough work and being a Christian can feel exhausting as well. Just remember that you're not alone. Without God's help, I couldn't do either task well. But, I love Paul's reminder, that "I can do everything through (Christ) who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13).

Labels: Bible, denial, moms