In Sickness and in Health

"In a time of sickness the soul collects itself anew." Latin Proverb

I have to say that today's devotion wasn't my favorite. I know that every morning God has something in store for me and I'm hoping that someone else gets a blessing from it and that my heart remains soft and willing to receive every message from God. Who know, I might need to remember it someday!?!

Anyways, the devotion was about sickness and the healing process. Being a preschool teacher, I rarely get sick (knock on wood). When I'm constantly around children who are carrying lots of germs and spreading their own illnesses with each other, I'm usually okay to blow noses, take temperatures, and I occasionally (okay, let's be honest, more than occasionally) get sneezed or coughed on. My body fights off the sickness and I'm still in shape to go to work and assist the other children who are fighting off the same bugs.

I praise God that my body hasn't suffered any major illness either. I do have a very illness-prone family and it is a big joke that a lot of them don't even have an immune system. Sadly, a lot of my family does really have auto-immune stuff going on and we tend to not joke about it to the ones it really effects.

It's a tough thing to go through when you have to take a break from everything and let your body heal. It's also a great learning experience for yourself. You learn that you are not indispensable and that the world does go on without you. You also learn that certain areas do need you and they work better when you are up and well. Being sick can also teach us that we need to take all things in moderation and at a balanced pace. We need a reminder that our body is not a machine that we can just ignore until it breaks down; we must maintain it and keep it healthy.

There are other illnesses that give us bigger, and deeper reminders about life and about God. There are times when we learn that all we have to believe in is God and we must trust His doing. This is a hard one and many, many people struggle with this every day. It's one that not too many people can give advice on because it's such a hard situation. All I know, which isn't much, is that God is all-knowing. He will direct us and lead us into righteousness and we must trust His will. This world is not our home and if we can just remember that the end of this life is not the end and we are promised a beautiful life in heaven!

Will Do

1. Choose to trust God in times of illness
2. Listen to what the Spirit of the Lord has to say when you are sick
3. Use illness as a time to reconsider your priorities
4. Rest in God's love
5. Slow down and let nature's healing process happen
6. Take better care of yourself
7. Honor your body in sickness and in health

To Do

1. Read about the healing miracles in the Gospel
2. When you are felling stressed out and on the edge of getting sick, take a day to rest and renew
3. Make sure your medicine cabinet is stocked
4. Make a special treat basket for times of convalescence: magazines, books, bedtime treated, puzzles, and special soaps.
5. Take a treat basket yo a sick friend
6. Go to bed an hour early and get some needed rest
7. Write about your priorities in your journal - especially if your schedule is running you ragged 

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Psalm 119:67-68
2. Jeremiah 17:14
3. Jeremiah 33:6
4. Matthew 9:35
5. Matthew 9:22
6. Psalm 107:20
7. Psalm 41:3

"It is true to say that patience in sickness and other forms of trouble pleases God much more than any splendid devotion you might show in health."

            Unknown

Get Back Up Again

"A man should never be ashamed to own he has been in the wrong, which is but saying, in other words, that he is wiser today than he was yesterday." Jonathan Swift

We all fall down at times and we all should get up all the time!

Mistakes happen. Sometimes more than once and we all kick ourselves in the booty for it but that doesn't mean that we should give up trying.

Think of a child learning to walk. If they gave-up, even after the 20th time of falling, they would never have walked! They didn't focus on the fall, or the failure. They focused on their goal. They didn't let the "bad stuff" get in the way of their success and they sure didn't let their failure stop them from achieving their goal!

It's funny, ironic, that as we grow older we get "wiser" but in reality it seems like a lot of times the "wiser" part really doesn't do too much for us. We make excuses, think too hard about things, and choose logic over faith. Maybe this is another reason why God said to keep a childlike heart!?!

Click Here for a song that everyone should listen to when they fall down!!!

Will Do

1. Trust God and do your best
2. Believe that God forgives 
3. Learn from your mistakes
4. Forgive others
5. Be flexible
6. Forgive yourself
7. Be willing to be a beginner
8. Be willing to try a different way

To Do

1. Memorize a Bible verse about God's forgiveness 
2. Do a word study on forgiveness
3. Watch a child learning to walk
4. Make a collage of 20 images that remind you of freedom and forgiveness
5. Go to someone who has been hurt by your mistakes and ask for forgiveness
6. Start an art or craft project and make a mistake on purpose! Then see what a beautiful thing you can create from the "mistake". 

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Galatians 2:21
2. Hebrews 8:12
3. 2 Corinthians 5:17
4. 1 John 3:20
5. James 1:25
6. Romans 6:14

"The man who makes no mistakes does not usually make anything."

            Edward John Phelps

Your Life on a Journey

"In the spiritual journey we travel through the night toward the day. We walk not in the bright sunshine of total certainty but through the darkness of ignorance , error, muddle, and uncertainty. We make progress in the journey as we grow in faith." Christopher Bryant

Your life is a pilgrimage. We are on a journey as we grow-up in this life and it is up to us to make the most out of our journey by trusting God and allowing him to lead us through it.

Many of us hope that our journey will continue on for years and years. But the truth is, it could end at any time. I'm not trying to be morbid, but it's the truth! We never know when this life will come to an end and we must live every day as if it was our last. So...this is a bit of an eye-opener!?!? I can look at my life, think about what all I'm doing, and ask myself if this is what I want; is this what I need?

If the answer is no, I think we need to make some changes! Yes, change is hard, and not always promising, but at least you can put your trust in God and He will lead you to paths of righteousness!

I read something this morning that really rubbed me in a good way, "God loves you as you are, but He loves you too much to let you stay where you are."

If you are in need of some kind of life make-over, let God lead you to a better place. Trust that he will direct your path and your walk of life!

Will Do

1. Trust that God is with us every step of the way
2. Be open to new experiences and new ideas
3. Have a grateful heart
4. Be flexible
5. Look for rainbows when it rains
6. Learn the lessons difficulties teach us
7. Expect that I will change and grow as a person in my journey through life

To Do

1. Do a Bible study on someone in the Bible who went on a journey
2. Read John Bunyan's spiritual classic, A Pilgrim's Progress
3. Read a great adventure novel or a travel memoir
4. Go on a trip to a place you've never been to before
5. Take a long walk or drive somewhere
6. Journal to this question, "If my life is a journey, where am I on that journey?"
7. Buy a guidebook and plan an imaginary journey to that destination

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Psalm 37:23
2. Psalm 42:4
3. Hebrews 11:13
4. Psalm 119:54
5. 1 Peter 1:17-18
6. 2 Corinthians 5:7
7. Psalm 84:5
8. Psalm 42:8
9. Genesis 12:1
10. Hebrews 11:8
11. Hebrews 11:16
12. 2 Corinthians 6:16

"Every man has two journeys to make through life. There is the outer journey, with its various incidents and the milestones...There is also an inner journey, a spiritual Odyssey, with a secret history of its own."

            William Ralph Inge

Lend Some Encouragement

"Encouragement is oxygen to the soul." George M. Adams

Encouragement is something we all need and is also something that we call can give to someone else.

Here are some helpful tips on giving encouragement:

• Be specific 
• Be honest and kind - no flattery allowed.
• Be positive and confident. If there is a doubt to express, handle it with care and an alternative.
• Be spontaneous with your encouragement. It doesn't always have to be planned out.
• Don't worry how it is received. Many people don't know how to handle praise.
• Be consistent.
• Offer suggestions, not advice.
• Be your own best encourager!

Will Do

1. Cultivate the art of encouraging others
2. Be honest, yet kind and helpful
3. Release my discouragement to God
4. Focus on the positive
5. Make encouragement a habit
6. Believe the best of others
7. Be willing to speak up and encourage others
8. Count my blessings

To Do

1. Do a word study on encouragement
2. Call a friend and encourage them
3. Form an encouragers circle to meet on a regular basis
4. Offer to pray for someone else's needs
5. List specific ways someone is a blessing to you. Share the list
6. Write a note of encouragement to 5 people
7. Give 5 people a hug today

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Romans 14:9
2. 2 Kings 6:16
3. Acts 14:22
4. 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12
5. Hebrews 10:24
6. 2 Timothy 4:2
7. Hebrews 10:24-25

"Everybody can be great. Because anybody can serve. ...You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love."

            Martin Luther King 

Excellence, Not Perfection

"Perfection never exists apart from imperfection, just as good health cannot exist without our feeling effort, fatigue, hunger or thirst, heat or cold; yet none of these prevent the enjoyment of good health."
            Henri de Tourville

I feel like I've come a long way in the "try out perfection" area. I remember when I first stared blogging on here I would say things like "I need to realize that things are going to go as planned" and "I need to trust God about things" and the hardest one, "change is good".

I feel an inner peace about my life and it feels really great!

Today's devotion was titled "Pursuing Perfection" and the topic, "Frustration". *LOL* Normally I would read this and think to myself, "Oh my, here's one I really need to read" or "I think God needs me to see this today". However, today I just read it like any other devotional topic and took what I could from it and realized that I'd grown - I have come a long way!

I've always heard about the feeling of God living inside you. I've always felt and thought that I had God living inside of me. Growing up in a Seventh Day Adventist, Christian home and family I was brought up surrounded by Jesus' love! I was always in love with Jesus but really began to pursue my own relationship with him as I grew older. I had heard the stories of other's saying that "there was a hole in their heart" or "an empty space that needed to be filled". These never occurred to me since I had really always had that empty space filled.

Well, looking back now, I can see that there was somewhat of a hole. It was that space where I couldn't quite fill on my own because I fall short of perfection. The saying, "Do your best and let God do the rest", well I was doing, trying, attempting, and failing at my best but was never really trusting God enough to do the rest. Now that I have let Him completely in, I trust Him with all my heart, I can say that my heart is completely full! He has filled up the spaces and I feel content, at peace, happy!

Will Do

1. Do your best and let God do the rest!
2. Be thankful for life as it is rather than as you wish it could be
3. Be thankful for the blessings in your life
4. Not judge a gift by the package it comes in
5. Be appreciative of the small things in life
6. Relax and be easier on yourself and others
7. Redefine your definition of perfection to include the beauties of imperfection

To Do

1. Post a copy of 2 Corinthians 12:9 over your mirror
2. Start a craft or art project that can teach you about the process of creativity 
3. Write in your journal about perfection
4. Watch a baby learning to walk
5. Go to an antique shop and think about the families that have used the heirlooms and why that makes them beautiful, even with worn spots and broken edges. 

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Philippians 3:12
2. 1 Corinthians 1:27-29
3. 2 Corinthians 4:7
4. 2 Corinthians 12:9
5. James 1:4
6. Psalm 138:8

"Demand perfection of yourself and you'll seldom attain it. Fear of making a mistake is the single biggest cause of making one. Relax - pursue excellence, not perfection."

            Bud Winter

Having Community

"If my heart is right with God, every human being is my neighbor." Oswald Chambers

Having a sense of community with anyone around you is what God has in mind for us here on earth.

Many of us, myself included, have our own communities. We have the people we know and love that we like to hang-out with and spend time with. Then we have our church communities that we worship with. We also have work communities, neighborhood communities (maybe) and a few others.

The problem with this picture is that this isn't community at all! Community wasn't meant to still be in sections or so separated. God intended for us to be a community for everyone. There was never to be a split amongst people.

I'm not saying to go treat the scary guy on the street like you would your close friend and put yourself in danger, but we should be seeing these people through God's eyes and creating a world of community. It is our call as Christians and it is our task here on earth.

Will Do

1. Look for ways to create community 
2. Be friendly and helpful
3. Be considerate of others' feelings
4. Be generous with praise and cautious with criticism
5. Serve others in love
6. Respect our differences and seek to find common interests
7. Enjoy the people God has brought into your life

To Do

1. Invite a newcomer to your Bible study group
2. Host a party or get-together at your house
3. Participate in a volleyball game or other group activity
4. Make a donation to a charity.
5. When you are feeling low, reach out to someone else and send flowers, make a phone call or write a friendly note.
6. Make a collage of pictures of family and friends
7. Volunteer to help build something in the community

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 1 John 4:11
2. John 13:34-35
3. 1 John 4:20
4. Proverbs 15:27
5. Romans 12:15-16
6. Galatians 5:13
7. James 2:8-9
8. Psalm 82:3-4
9. 1 Corinthians 12:26
10. 1 Corinthians 16:14
11. Philippians 2:2
12. Proverbs 3:28

"Your neighbor is the man who is next to you at the moment, the man with whom any business has brought you into contact."
            George MacDonald

It's in the Small Things

"He who is not contented with little will never be satisfied with much." Thomas Benton Brooks

Life is about all the little things that make us happy! Like the fact that (yes, I know I'm a dork) I have 4 "plain" coffee mugs I use for Monday-Thursday morning coffee. But on Friday I have a special Disney mug that I use - because it's Friday. So this morning, when I reached into the cupboard to find that after this morning, I'll only have one more plan mug to use and then it's Friday!!! This was so exciting to me! I love little reminders that the week is coming to an end and I get my lovely weekend!

This is a just an example of how really little things in life can make a big difference just by choosing to look at them in the right way. You may think I'm silly, and I know I am, but small things like this happen all around us all the time. It is important to find the happiness in them and cherish those brief moments of bliss!

Will Do

1. Praise God for the gifts He gives each day
2. Cultivate a contented attitude
3. Find delight in the small things in life
4. Live in the moment instead of worrying about tomorrow
5. Look for ways to share good things with others
6. Commit to spending more time with those you love
7. Celebrate goodness

To Do

1. List 5 blessings you enjoyed today
2. Write in your journal your thoughts about why your glass is half full instead of half empty
3. Make a pot of soup - share it!
4. Learn how to do a simple home craft such as quilting or knitting that can be soothing
5. Get together with friends just to talk
6. Pick a favorite novel and reread it
7. Spend an afternoon in front of a cozy fire

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Philippians 4:11
2. Ecclesiastes 3:12-13
3. Proverbs 15:16
4. Philippians 4:12-13
5. Proverbs 28:20
6. Psalm 92:4
7. Psalm 89:1
8. Proverbs 13:7
9. 1 Timothy 6:6-8
10. Hebrews 13:5
11. Psalm 131:2
12. Psalm 103:2

"Life is a great bundle of little things."

            Oliver Wendell Holmes

Just Imagine

"Joy is the serious business of heaven." C. S. Lewis

Knowing that there will come a day when we will get to walk into the pearly gates of heaven and walk on street of gold is a little crazy for me to comprehend.

When I was little, I would try and think about all the amazing things of heaven. Playing with the animals, seeing Jesus and God and getting to put a face to the name, and just playing all day - oh, and flying! Now that I'm older, things have changed a bit. I'm excited to see the many people in my life be there with me! I'm excited to see what house got created for me and my family knowing all the things we adore and how He's going to top it all! I still can't wait to see Jesus and God's face and finally know. I wonder if it'll be a similar face - one I've seen my whole life and recognize the eyes, the nose, the lips. Maybe Jesus has appeared several times in my life and getting to heaven to see His face will show me that He was really always there.

I know everyone has probably heard the song "I Can Only Imagine". I love that song! It brings tears to me eyes pretty much every time I hear it. Even if you've heard it before, I'm asking that you listen to it once again and really concentrate on putting yourself there on that day - in heaven. Really take the words to heart and just imagine what heaven will be like!

Here it is: just click here.

Will Do

1. Live life as if your choices had eternal value and eternal consequences
2. Trust that God has a place prepared for you in heaven
3. Look heaven's beauties on earth
4. Know that you understand in part and will know in full eternity
5. Try your best to create a little bit of heaven on earth wherever you are
6. Create beauty and order in life
7. Worship God in the beauty of holiness

To Do

1. Spend an hour talking with children about heaven
2. Read 1 Corinthians 15:35-58
3. Buy a CD of music that inspires and uplifts you
4. Visit a famous cathedral and see heaven visualized in stone and stained glass and light
5. Walk in a forest and see glimpses of heaven on earth
6. Do a New Testament study on heaven
7. Grow a fragrant blooming plant on your winter windowsill

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Luke 12:13
2. Psalm 23:6
3. Romans 5:10-21
4. Revelation 2:1
5. John 6:51
6. John 14:2

"If you are a Christian, you are not a citizen of this world trying to get to heaven; you are a citizen of heaven making your way through this world."

            Vance Havner

Go On, Stand Out

"Always be in a state of expectancy and see that you leave room for God to come in as He likes."
           Oswald Chambers

From the time we are young, society tries to have us conform. We are told to not stand out, not show our vulnerabilities and to always "fit in" (whatever that means). A lot of times we become trapped in the mob of life and we're whisked away stuck in the middle of this huge crowd of nonsense that we're hoping helps us to "fit in".

God has a different plan for us. He wants us to stand out, stand up, and to show others that we are different because He lives in us. God wants us to cause a scene so that we do stand out and gather attention for His glory. We are to be curious about life and all that it has to offer!

God created us with amazing minds and bodies. I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed but I do know a little bit about the body. I love my science classes in college! All of them made me realize just how incredible life really is and how wonderful God made us. It is up to us to research, ask questions, be curious about things - because we can! God didn't give us amazing brains for us to waste!

Will Do

1. Enjoy the vastness and variety of God's creation
2. Be open to the unexpected
3. Cultivate curiosity
4. Seek out new experiences and new people
5. Keep an open mind
6. Be playful in new explorations
7. Be willing to be a beginner and make mistakes

To Do

1. Listen to a missionary share their adventures or join a missionary trip
2. Take a tour or hike at a national park
3. Chaperon a group of young people 
4. Ladies - try a new color of lipstick
5. Visit a museum, aquarium, or zoo
6. Go to the library and read a book on something you don't know anything about
7. Try a new kind of exercise

Bible Verses to Remember

1. John 8:36
2. Isaiah 43:19
3. Proverbs 18:1
4. Proverbs 3:13
5. Galatians 5:1
6. Psalm 27:4
7. Matthew 6:22

"If we knew what we were doing, it wouldn't be called "research", would it?"

            Albert Einstein

The Gift - The Present

"Be ready at all times for the gifts of God, and always for new ones." Meister Eckhart

Gifts are surrounding us each and every day.

Christmas time is a great time to think about gifts! I love gift giving! It is one of my love languages that I have been blessed with and when it comes to gifts, I'm all over it! I love the excitement of picking up on little things and figuring out what to get someone. I love the surprise factor when I finally do give the gift and the other person wonders how I knew?!? I just love the whole process!

I know that bits and pieces of us are exactly how God is in the whole picture. We were made in His image and so I'm positive that all the love languages are His expertise. I'm can't imagine how God feels when He gives us a gift. He waits with anticipation for us to discover it - and when we finally do I can relate with His feelings of pure joy and genuine excitement. It is nothing for Him - all for us!

One of the biggest gifts we have received, and overlook it, is today - the present. Let us not forget to thank God for the now! He has promised us all things, let us rejoice in today!

Will Do

1. Thank God for the gifts he has given 
2. Accept the opportunities and limitations of life as gifts from God
3. Cultivate natural abilities
4. Serve others with love
5. Be grateful for the gifts each moment brings
6. Enjoy the gift of you - femininity or masculinity
7. Be open to accepting even the unattractive and difficult gifts

To Do

1. Do a topical Bible study on spiritual gifts
2. Give an extra 10% to God
3. Create a theme gift basket and give it to someone
4. List 25 things that God gave you today
5. Spend some time at a nursing home lending a listening ear
6. Take a class to develop a new skill or practice and old one

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 1 Corinthians 12:4
2. Matthew 7:11
3. Proverbs 17:8
4. James 2:17
5. Romans 12:6
6. Romans 11:29
7. John 4:10

"God's gifts put man's best dreams to shame."
            Elisabeth Barrett Browning 

Finding the Good

"Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence." Helen Keller

In every circumstance there is a positive and negative side. You could probably pick apart every singe thing in life and find there to be a good and bad to it. Our job, as Christians, is to find the good and help others see it. Especially when they can't seem to find it, or know to even look for the positive.

Jesus promises us that He is working everything together for our good. He may see the end result as perfect when we only see the current situation as awful, terrible, despicable. It is up to us to have faith and know that everything is coming together and everything will be good and perfect. It is also up to us to help others remember that promise and to hold their hands and their heads high when they can't seem to do it on their own.

Look for the good in all situations. Find it - I promise it is there. You can always see the dim light and the more you look for it the brighter it becomes!

Will Do

1. Have faith in God
2. Expect God to bring good even in negative situations
3. See every stumbling block as a stepping-stone. 
4. Be optimistic about outcomes
5. Choose a positive attitude
6. Focus on the positive instead of the negative
7. Be open to new possibilities

To Do

1. Journal about an unexpected blessing that came at a difficult time in your life
2. Try replacing every negative word or comment with a positive one
3. Make a personal affirmation from a Bible verse and say it in the mornings
4. Develop a friendship with someone new
5. Write your worries in the sand at the beach
6. Plant a garden 
7. List 10 impossible things to try. Do one! 

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Proverbs 11:27
2. Psalm 118:24
3. Hebrews 12:1
4. Romans 5:1-2
5. Hebrews 10:35
6. Hebrews 10:23
7. Matthew 6:22

"As you travel on through life, whatever be your goal, keep your eye on the doughnut and now upon the hole."
            Author Unknown

Finding the Beauty

"Gratitude to God makes even a temporal blessing a taste of heaven." William Romaine

There is so much beauty in the things around us that we almost always look past. Many times there are several things, right in front of us, that we can stop and praise Jesus for but instead go on with our busy lives and forget to.

There are the more obvious things we should be thankful for, like our homes, our families, food, etc. These are all things that we probably are all thankful for but still don't praise God for them. Then there are the less obvious things, like the people who put thought and effort into making the house we are living in, the food we are eating, the clothes we are wearing. The fact that we can drive to work on roads that actually run well and the stop lights that turn red and green when they're supposed to. These are the things that we should always be praising God for. These are the things that make life easy - simple.

The bible says to "pray continuously". Some of us have never really contemplated this order before. I've often wondered how someone can pray continuously. I thought that this would be a lot of work and effort and I wasn't quite sure how one would even attempt this. Then I began to realize that there is so much to talk to God about. There is so much to praise Him for. Praying throughout the day is a must, and praying continuously is easy when you have so much to praise Him for!

Will Do

1. Cultivate a childlike heart
2. Be aware of small blessings
3. See material things as small miracles from the hand of God
4. Be grateful for the blessings of daily life
5. Enjoy ordinary life more
6. Appreciate the work of all the people who contribute to the functioning of daily life
7. Look for signs of the kingdom of heaven in the mundane things of earth

To Do

1. Make a list of 100 ordinary things and praise God for each one 
2. Take a walk around your neighborhood
3. Go to a coffee shop and learn about all the different varieties and countries they came from
4. Pray for your plumber, sanitation worker, mail carrier, mechanic, grocery checkout clerk, and servers
5. Leave and extra tip for your server as an unseen thanks offering to God
6. Be barefoot and feel the earth between your toes

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Psalm 107:43
2. Psalm 111:4
3. Psalm 50:14
4. Ecclesiastes 7:25
5. Psalm 113:3
6. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
7. 2 Corinthians 9:15
8. Proverbs 13:7
9. Proverbs 13:25
10. Ecclesiastes 11:7
11. Psalm 16:9
12. James 5:13
13. Colossians 3:15
14. 1 Timothy 4:4

"In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich."

            Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Let Go and Let God

"God forces no one, for love cannot compel, and God's service, therefore, is a thing of perfect freedom."
Hans Denck

I know I've talked a lot about letting go and giving God complete control over my life. This is something that I struggle with - a lot. I like to be in control. I like to know what is coming and have it all figured out before it gets here. I like to be prepared for the best, and worst.

Today, more than ever, I read about a visual picture of how control can hurt us. My devotional presented a "word picture" about holding a rock in your hand. If you hold it tight and clench all your muscles around it, you probably won't be able to hold it for long. If you let go and let it sit in the palm of your hand, you'll probably be able to hold it for a lot longer. This is how life is. We must let go and let it be. We can enjoy it all the more and longer!

Will Do

1. Let go and let God
2. Allow God to surprise you
3. Have a teachable heart
4. Let go of unrealistic expectations
5. Be flexible, not rigid
6. Live in grace by faith
7. Embrace a new freedom

To Do

1. Reflect on Galatians 6:15 
2. Take a different route to work
3. Do a topical study on the Pharisees
4. Go to the library or buy a book on a subject you've never read about before
5. Try a new restaurant
6. Get together with a group of friends and brainstorm exciting new ideas
7. Plant a new kind of seed in your garden

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Romans 8:6
2. Galatians 1:15-16
3. Romans 1:1
4. Galatians 6:15
5. Isaiah 26:4
6. 1 Peter 5:7

"The spirit of God first imparts love; he next inspires hope, and then gives liberty; and that is about the last thing we have in many of our churches." 

            D. L. Moody

Praising Him

"Praise not merely expresses but completes the enjoyment; it is its appointed consummation...In commending us to glorify Him, God is inviting us to enjoy Him." C. S. Lewis

Praising God can happen at any time of day, anywhere, and about anything!

Today I am praising God that I was able to wake up early, have devotion, go to the gym, and blog! I tried out a new morning routine and I'm still deciding how I like it. I praise God that he woke me up feeling refreshed and energized and able to do the things I had planned.

I sit here now, sipping my coffee, so thankful for everything God has given to me and all that He has provided. There are so many things to praise God for. Sometimes we forget that we need to praise God for the little things - we only are reminded when something big and extravagant happens. Lets remember to praise him in everything! Little moments are what make up our lives so glorify God in all the little things and let the joy pour in to you life!

Will Do

1. Praise God with all your heart
2. Be alert to small blessings in the day
3. Have a thankful heart
4. Avoid complaining
5. Be aware of opportunities to praise God in the midst of the day
6. Joyfully sing songs of praise to God
7. Take delight in being God's child

To Do

1. Write your own personal prayer of praise to say to God
2. Memorize a Psalm of praise
3. Number a page from 1-100. Write down 100 things you praise God for in your life. (you can see my list tonight on my other blog for Thankful Thursday)
4. Join with other believers in praise and worship at church
5. Write a letter to someone you admire
6. Sing a song of praise to God when you're doing the dishes or another household chore
7. Do a topical Bible study on praise

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Psalm 135:1
2. Revelation 4:8
3. 2 Corinthians 3:18
4. Luke 1:46-47
5. Hebrews 13:15
6. Isaiah 65:18
7. Psalm 69:30

"You don't learn to praise in a day, especially since you may have been complaining for years! New habits take time to develop. But you can begin today, and practice tomorrow, and the next day, until it becomes a part of you."

            Erwin W. Lutzer 

I Think it Got Me

So, I slept in again. This time it wasn't due to lack of sleep (my hubby actually medicated himself with a much needed Benadryl) but because I think I'm coming down with it.

This is no fun! I have a pretty strong immune systems - working with little ones and all. My symptoms do seem to be less severe then my hubby's. He has plugged nose and really sore throat. I only have a mild sore throat so at least my body is fighting of the majority of this nasty thing.

*finger's crossed and knock on wood*

Prayers are much needed for my health and for my hubby's appointment today! He is getting his MRA results and his blood work back. Please pray that all is well and that I can kick this bug in the bud! 

An Unrestful Night

Bless my poor hubby's heart! He has been going through so much and now he is sick! This is the reason for my lame/late post this morning.

Last night I went to bed at my normal bedtime. Later on in the evening, as usual, my hubby came to bed. I am an extremely light sleeper and everything wakes me up! Well, last night was real hard for the both of us to sleep. He couldn't breathe out of his nose and I could tell that it was even hard to breathe through his mouth due to his sore throat. Well, every cough, snore, and stir woke me up! I was wide awake from about 2-3am this morning.

So, what did I do? I slept in! I wanted to get up on time and do my regular routine, but I was just too tired and couldn't get up. Pray for my strength today with these little ones! Hopefully I will get to go home early and get to bed early tonight!

Stay Calm and Slow Down

"Grant me the serenity to accept things I cannot change, the courage to change things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference." Reinhold Niebhur

I have to be honest and say that I actually had to look up the word "serenity" this morning. My devotion this morning was all about serenity and I wasn't quite too sure what it meant exactly.

I'm not sure if this is because I don't have the best vocabulary or if it is because serenity is such a unique thing these days. Whatever the reason, I looked it up and got a better understanding of what it really means.

Serenity is calm. It is peaceful. It is being content in the moment and not needing anything else. Like I said - not too common of a thing these days.

Life these days is all about the rush of getting things done, climbing to the top, having the best things, fitting in. There is not too much time in a day to experience serenity. I long for the days that I hear about in books; the ones where families took things slow and steady. They ate dinner together, worked together, loved each other. I know that we still do those things, but it feels so rushed and it takes a whole lot of effort to do so.

In order to experience serenity, try some of these things...

Will Do

1. Offer yourself to God in faith
2. Believe that all things work together for the highest good
3. Look for ways to simplify your life
4. Keep focus on important priorities 
5. Do your best and trust God with the results
6. Trust in divine wisdom
7. Be faithful, not fearful

To Do

1. Set up appointments in your calendar for you and God
2. Turn 5 Bible promises into personal affirmations 
3. Keep a record of daily activities and asses them in light of your priorities
4. Organize your closets
5. Thoroughly clean your house
6. Practice saying "No" out loud 
7. Create a beautiful flower arrangement

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Isaiah 30:15
2. Luke 2:19
3. John 14:27
4. Romans 8:6
5. James 3:18
6. Matthew 5:8
7. Romans 8:28
8. Psalm 116:7

"Let nothing good or bad upset the balance of your life."

            Thomas A Kempis 

Finding the Good in Envy

"Envy comes from people's ignorance of, or lack of belief in, their own gifts." Jean Vanier

Envy is something I'm sure we have all experienced in our lives. It is something that we must learn how to control and hopefully learn how to make it go away.

A lot of times, probably all of the time, our envy has to do with coveting what someone else has. "Do not covet" is the very last commandment from God. It is hard to now want what other people have, especially in our world today. But when you really think about it, envy is just that - wanting what someone else has.

So what should we do about this envy? Why not use it for good? Why not really dig deep and try and understand just why you are envying that person. Figure out what it is you want or like about them and then do yourself a favor and start taking step to doing it!

You can always take it a step further for good too. Let the person know what you envy about them. You don't have to say "I envy you because..." but you can let them know that you love something about them. It is okay to give someone a compliment and it may just take away some "not-so-good" feelings you have toward them.

Don't let envy get the better of you - you get the better of envy! Start making yourself a better person today!

Will Do

1. Remember to use feelings of envy as a catalyst for spiritual growth
2. Be more compassionate and forgiving
3. Be willing to make small changes to become who you desire to be
4. Look beyond surface appearances
5. Choose to take positive actions instead of dwelling on negative feelings
6. Put yourself in other's shoes
7. Think the best of others

To Do

1. Pray and ask God to show you what you can learn from your feelings of envy
2. Do one small thing to cultivate a good quality in your life that you envy about someone else
3. Write a letter to God thanking Him for your blessings
4. Answer: "How do I get caught up in the envy game?"
5. Have a close friend tell you your greatest qualities and then you return the favor
6. Do a kindness for someone you envy

Bible Verses to Remember

1. James 3:16
2. 1 Corinthians 13:4
3. Proverbs 27:4
4. Colossians 3:12
5. Proverbs 22:4
6. Matthew 20:26-27
7. 1 Peter 2:1
8. Proverbs 14:30

"Envy takes the joy, happiness, and contentment out of living."

            Billy Graham 

A Heart Full of Love

"A loving heart is the truest wisdom." Charles Dickens

Love is something that has fascinated me all my life. Maybe it's because I am a girl. Maybe it's my personality. Whatever it is, I have always loved love.

As a little girl I would dream of prince charming coming to my reduce. Not that I needed rescuing but I would still dream it. I was lucky to find love at a young age. I met my hubby at the age of 6. Sounds funny, I know, but it is the truth. I didn't know at the time that he was my future husband but God had it all planned. We actually fell in love in high school and the rest is history.

Even though I found love at a young age, I still was fascinated with it through others. Romantic movies get me every time, even songs on the radio hit that spot and make me tear up.

Love is something that God wants us to understand. He wants us to get it and to realize that what we're feeling when we are experiencing love is just a taste of what He feels for us. It is amazing to me how much love God has in His heart. I know my heart is full to the max with love, but His is just bursting!

Will Do

1. Open your heart to the love of God
2. Risk vulnerability
3. Honor others and respect yourself
4. Empathize with others and share their joys and sorrows
5. Cultivate love in your life
6. Embrace love's possibilities 
7. Believe in the transformational power of God's love

To Do

1. Read about the life of Christ in the Gospel of John
2. Meditate on Corinthians 13 - the Love chapter 
3. Reach out and be a blessing to someone today
4. Write about a time when love touched you deeply in your life
5. Make  list of practical acts of kindness
6. Do one of those act of kindness anonymously
7. Let your family members know that you love them

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 1 Peter 1:22
2. 1 Timothy 1:5
3. 1 Corinthians 2:9
4. Isaiah 63:7
5. Romans 12:9-10
6. John 14:21
7. Deuteronomy 7:9
8. Leviticus 19:18
9. Romans 13:10
10. 1 John 14:21
11. 1 Corinthians 13:6
12. John 13:34-35

"Love has the power to give in a moment what took can scarcely reach in an age." 

            Goethe

Find Your Rest

"Sabbath is a way of being in time where we remember who we are, remember what we know, and taste the gifts of spirit and eternity." Wayne Muller

Rest is such a wonderful thing.

I love when I wake up in the morning and I'm happy to be up. I feel rested and I just feel good about my day.

I'm having one of those mornings today. I woke up excited to get my day started. It wasn't even a struggle getting out of bed. It may have been the heater that was on and it wasn't too cold to get out from underneath the covers, but it was easy getting up this morning!

God mentions rest in the Bible so many times. It is a different rest - a peaceful rest. He reminds us that we can find that rest in Him and it is much needed in our lives.

After my hubby and I moved down south when we got married it was hard finding a church that felt like "home". My idea of church is a community and somewhere to connect with other believers and worship - together. I have always loved my home church. The community, the worship, everything about it was "church" to me. When we moved, I lost that sense of community and togetherness worship. It was hard on me because I had never felt unmotivated to go to church before.

Now, weeks, sadly maybe months, have gone by and we still have not found a church that we love. I know church isn't for us and isn't about finding where "we" fit in, but in order for me to be fulfilled and rested I need that. I'm praying to God that He shows me where we belong. I'm praying that I found my church where I can rejuvenate and rest from the busy week. I know how important it is and I need it in my life.

Will Do

1. Acknowledge God's design for a regular rhythm of rest and work
2. Feel free to take time off to relax
3. Enjoy a departure from work and routine
4. Seek God in a quiet moment of rest
5. Let God run the universe 
6. Laugh more
7. Lighten up and have fun

To Do

1. Enjoy the Sabbath Day this week
2. Go for a long walk in a restful place
3. Spend a quiet afternoon reading a book or doing something relaxing
4. Dress up for church
5. Buy tickets and go to a concert (do something out of your routine)
6. Create a Sabbath ritual - family dinner, Sabbath walk, etc.
7. Spend some time playing with children

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Matthew 6:6
2. Mark 6:31
3. Colossians 2:2
4. Psalm 23:2
5. Exodus 20:8
6. Psalm 4:8

"Sabbath is like a stile between the fields of toil, where we can kneel and pray, sit and meditate."

            Henry Wadsworth Longfellow 

Be Still and Know

I took last week "off" from early mornings. I was resting my body...rejuvenating it. It feels good to be caught up on sleep and back on here blogging!

Ironically, my devotional this morning was about rest and being still. We all know the famous verse, "Be still and know that I am God". I love this verse - I love this song!

Never do you understand something so much as when you actually go through it. What I'm trying to say is that I've known this verse for years. I've sang the song so many times. But it wasn't until I really needed to understand "being still" and really "knowing" that He is God that it really sank in.

God is real! He is present and all-knowing. It is a powerful thing when you actually really understand that!

Be still today. Realize that He is God and He is in control. It is a powerful idea and an awesome truth!

Will Do

1. Draw close to God in moments of silence
2. Remember that God wants to speak to you
3. Look for times when you can add quiet and silence to life
4. Remember that silence can restore you - refresh you
5. Cultivate silence communion with God among chaos
6. Carry the inner stillness found in silence in your busy life.

To Do

1. Take 10 minutes every day this weeks to be in silence with God
2. Create a personal mini-retreat for an afternoon of quiet with God
3. Ask your family to join you in having a quiet hour in your home every day: no TV, radio, computers - just quiet!
4. Take a walk in a quiet place
5. Turn the radio off and drive in silence for awhile
6. Get up a little earlier to enjoy some quiet time with God. 

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Psalm 46:10
2. Zechariah 2:13
3. Matthew 11:28-29
4. Isaiah 30:15
5. Psalm 4:4
6. Psalm 131:2
7. Luke 10:38
8. Ecclesiastes 4:6
9. Psalm 23:2
10. Matthew 11:15
11. 1 Samuel 3:10
12. Isaiah 32:17-18

"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10

I'm Here...

I've been trying to catch up on my sleep since Sunday. I have gone to bed early every night since then and decided to sleep-in in the mornings. Unfortunately this means I can't do my morning blogs but it'll only be for this week. I'm not sure how many read both of my blogs, but if you are wondering why I'm so tired and need to catch up on sleep, refer to my other blog, "All You Need is Love". Last night's post explains it all. Click here for the post.

Again, I'm envying your prayers!

A Friend Loves at All Times

"The impulse of love that leads us to the doorway of a friend is the voice of God within and we need not be afraid to follow it." Agnes Sanford

I once heard the quote "In the cookies of life, friends are the chocolate chips"! I actually think this hung in our kitchen when I was growing up!

How true is this statement?!? If it wasn't for friends, life would be a little boring, a little sad, and a little uneventful.

I am such a people person. I love being around others and having a good time. If there is ever I time I have to be by myself I do whatever it takes avoid it. I call up friends, family, anyone to make it so that I don't have to be by myself.

Friends are such a wonderful gift from God. They are there to support us and love us for who we are - exactly what God wanted for us! Our friends are treasures and we must remember that in order to have good friends, we need to be a good friend!

Will Do

1. Be thankful to God for friends
2. Be alert to the needs of your friends - not just your own needs
3. Lighten up, laugh, and let down your hair with your trusted friends
4. Make friendship a high priority in life
5. Be honest with friends
6. Believe the best and encourage the best in your friendships
7. Appreciate the unique qualities of all friends

To Do

1. Write down a list of qualities that make good friends
2. Make a date to go out with some of your best friends
3. Make a special day devoted to spend with a friend you haven't seen in a while
4. Buy a thoughtful gift for a friend
5. Send encouragement to friends when needed
6. Place photos of friends in places that will remind you or your fun times!

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Proverbs 17:17
2. Isaiah 41:6
3. 1 Corinthians 16:14
4. Proverbs 27:9
5. Galatians 5:13
6. Proverbs 18:24
7. 1 Peter 4:10
8. James 2:23
9. Philippians 2:2

"The only way to have a friend is to be a friend."

            Ralph Waldo Emerson

He's Got the Whole World in His Hands

"It's not what I do that matters, but what a sovereign God chooses to do through me." Elizabeth Dole

God has a plan for everyone! That is a pretty simple statement with a lot of meaning in it.

Sometimes it is hard to always know what the purpose is in something: this can be something small or big. You may be wondering what the purpose is behind losing a job or not being able to find one. You may be wondering what the purpose of your life is. God knows. God has a reason. 

My students learned that "God Made the World" last week. Our theme song was "He's God the Whole World in His Hands". I loved that song as a child - especially the itty-bitty baby part. Singing it as an adult I now understand the deep meaning in its words. God really has the whole world in His hands. His hands are big enough for all of us and he is there. He isn't leaving or too busy. He is bigger than all of this! He's got us in His hands!

Will Do

1. Say yes to God's calling 
2. Ask for God's guidance
3. Be compassionate to those who are in need
4. Be open and creative
5. Stand for the truth
6. Seek God's highest good in all situations
7. Do your best and trust God with the rest

To Do

1. Create a personal mission statement
2. Read the biography of a famous missionary of Christian
3. Invest $100 into one of your talents or gifts
4. Invest $100 into someone else's ministry or talent
5. Send thank-you notes to those who were a good influence on your life
6. Take a life-planning course

Bible Verse to Remember

1. 1 Peter 2:21
2. 1 Corinthians 1:26
3. Isaiah 6:8
4. John 15:16
5. Romans 11:29
6. Ephesians 4:1
7. Isaiah 32:8

"God has created me to do some definite service; he has committed some work to me which he has no committed to another." 

            John Henry Newman

You Can Do It

"He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much." Bessie Anderson Stanley

Success is something that we all want to achieve. We all view success differently and want to succeed at different things.

There are so many viewpoints on success and how to go about doing it. God has many promises about success and He will help you with what you are trying to achieve.

Here are a few other pointers to help you succeed:

• Keep a positive attitude 
• Set goals you can achieve
• Do your best and take risks
• Don't quit!
• Lighten up and have some fun
• Commit your ways to the Lord

Will Do

1. Commit your works to God
2. Keep a positive attitude
3. Be diligent
4. Be persistent
5. Seek to live life well
6. Look for possibilities instead of concentrating on problems
7. Define success in your own way

To Do

1. Take some time to really think about what is important to you
2. Write in your journal about what success means to you
3. Make a list of successes you would like to achieve - pray about them
4. Send a thank-you note to someone who has either helped or inspired you
5. Read a biography of someone you find successful
6. Get together with friends and talk about all your hopes, dreams, and aspirations
7. Give a donation to something you believe in

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 3 John 2
2. Matthew 5:16
3. John 3:27
4. Colossians 3:23
5. Matthew 7:13-14
6. Proverbs 10:22

"Your success and happiness lie in you. External conditions are the accidents of life. The great enduring realities are love and service."

            Helen Keller

I Love Being Married

"We don't naturally grow together and love each other more. We tend to grow apart, to grow distant. So we have to work hard at marriage. It's the most fun work in the world, but it's still work." Ann Ortlund

Marriage is such a wonderful gift! I am a newbie still but I love what marriage offers and everything beautiful that come with it.

A while back, when my hubby and I were still dating, he said something to me once that was so profound (he tend to do that a lot). He told me that he felt that love came in waves; it was never the same. At times he loved me so much it as overflowing, and at others it wasn't so much. He always loved me though! (this happened to be at a time where his point was he loved me a whole bunch at that point so no worries!).

My devotional this morning was about marriage and its many seasons. Little did I know, or my hubby know, at that point in our lives that what he was saying had so much truth to it. There are times when we go through highs and lows, with anything, but especially marriage. There will be times when everything is great. Things just seem to all into place and almost feel perfect. Then there are those other times when you wish the "good times" were back. You wish that you weren't arguing about dumb little things and you wonder why everything is making you upset.

Marriage is a great and wonderful gift. It is the closest we will ever come to understanding God's love for us. God has given us marriage to teach us so many things: love, faithfulness, strength, endurance, patience, just to name a few.

Treat your marriage how you would your relationship with God. Treat your spouse how God treats you. Truly practice a loving and unconditional love relationship. It is hard to do. But having God as your foundation will make you strong and able to do the impossible!

Will Do

1. Honor your spouse and make your marriage a priority
2. Bring concerns to God in prayer
3. Be open to change
4. Understand that marriage has its seasons that God will help you through
5. Be willing to compromise
6. Make time together a priority
7. Be committed to growth, in marriage and as an individual

To Do

1. Remind each other why you want to be together
2. Make a commitment to worship together
3. Make a list of 3 things you admire in your spouse and then tell them!
4. Plan a romantic date for just the two of you
5. Tuck a love note in your spouse's lunch 
6. Turn off the TV and just spend an evening together

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Genesis 2:24
2. Genesis 2:18
3. 1 Corinthians 7:3
4. Matthew 19:11
5. Matthew 19:6
6. 1 Thessalonians 5:11
7. Proverbs 19:14
8. Ecclesiastes 4:9
9. 1 Corinthians 16:14

"There is no more lovely, friendly, or charming relationship, communion, or company, than a good marriage."

            Martin Luther 

Loving what You Do

"Work without a love relationship spells burnout." Lloyd John Ogilvie

It is so hard to find a job that you love doing. Sometimes work becomes so separate from our lives that we don't even considerate it something apart of it.

The sad thing is that the majority of people spend most of their time at work. I know that my time is mostly spent at work. 40 hour weeks are a pretty good chunk of my time. If I didn't love my job I'd have a pretty miserable life.

Finding a job that you love is important! Loving what you do, and why you do it, is a start to being happy in your work and appreciating your workplace and the people you work with!

Will Do

1. Trust God to bless your labors
2. Do your best work
3. Be persistent
4. Get organized
5. Have a positive attitude about work
6. Seek ways to constantly improve
7. Cultivate a willing heart and willing hands for God's work

To Do

1. Make a prayer list of concerns about work
2. Write your personal goals for your life - weekly, monthly, yearly goals
3. Develop a new skill
4. Meet with a career counselor if necessary
5. Update your resume
6. Organize your workplace - at home and in the office
7. Write about your ambitions, hopes and dreams

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Colossians 3:23
2. Philippians 1:10-11
3. Hebrews 6:10
4. Ephesians 2:10
5. Ephesians 4:28
6. Proverbs 31:13

"A dairy maid can milk cows to the glory of God."

            Martin Luther

Study God's Word

"The Bible is alive, it speaks to me; it has hands, it lays hold on me." Martin Luther

Sometimes we find it so hard to get into the habit of studying God's Word and having a devoted relationship with Him.

I remember in my teenage years really wanting to have a better relationship with God but not knowing how to do that. I remember comparing myself to my mom. I would watch her get up in the morning, sip her morning coffee, and sit comfy on our couch and read the Bible and her devotional book. I thought that when I was her age I would do the same thing. I thought it would come easier with age.

Well, here I am sitting comfy on my couch, sipping my morning coffee and reading my devotional book. I'm here! I'm doing it! But, the sad part of it all is that I could've done it then as well...I just didn't know how.

I'm not blaming anyone, or saying I would have if someone had taught me what to do. I am saying that I was searching for what to do and I couldn't seem to find the answer. It was right in front of me but I wasn't getting it.

So...now I sit here hoping to help someone else who is in the same predicament that I was in.

How should we get into a relationship with God? How should you study? Here are some quick tips to try out. They are all different, so find the one that fits you best! That's the start of it - finding what works for you and God!

• Pick a topic and study if throughout the Bible. Family, love, faith, etc.
• Choose a character you love, or want to know more about. Read and study their life in the Bible
• Choose a book in the Bible to study. Break it down throughout time and reference other books to help you understand it. 
• Memorize verses in the Bible. Tuck them away in your heart.
• Read the Psalms or Proverbs. Every day choose one to read and really focus on what it is saying. 
• Read the Bible through in a year. There are many study plans to get this done in a year. Look them up and give it a try. 
• Pick out an important topic to study. Such as the "Sermon on the Mount".
• Read the Life of Christ - the gospels.

These are just some ways to get on track, a beginning. Hope this helps!

Will Do

1. Seek God's wisdom for life from the Bible
2. List to His guidance through circumstances, people, intuition, and the Bible
3. Resolve to study the Bible regularly
4. Make spiritual growth a priority
5. Be open to new ways of understanding God
6. Nurture your spirit with prayer and Bible study
7. Trust that God will guide to the right resources

To Do

1. Buy a good Study Bible (or do what I did and ask Grandma for an old one!)
2. Do a topical study
3. Start a Bible study journal 
4. Start a Bible study group
5. Learn how to use other resources, such as a concordance, Bible dictionary, and commentary
6. Call a friend and pick a time to study together
7. Memorize meaningful texts

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 2 Peter 1:4
2. Joshua 1:8
3. Hebrews 10:23
4. John 8:31
5. Proverbs 30:5
6. Psalm 119:105
7. Psalm 19:7
8. 2 Corinthians 1:20
9. Deuteronomy 8:3
10. Psalm 119:24
11. 2 Timothy 3:16
12. Matthew 4:4
13. Luke 11:28

"Men turn this way and than in their search for new sources of comfort and inspiration, but the enduring truths are to be found in the Word of God."

            Elizabeth, The Queen Mother

Don't Be A Fool

"There is never a fear that has not a corresponding "Fear Not."" Amy Carmichael

Jesus is the rock, everything else is the sand. Simple as that!

We all have heard the story of the foolish many building his house on the sand. When the winds blew and the storm came, the house blew over.

Then, there was a wise man who built his house on a rock. When the winds blew and the storm came, the house stood firm!

Now...we all know that no matter where we build our house the winds are going to blow and the storms of life will come. We know that the house will rock. So why not start out wise and build on a solid foundation? Why not build your life on something solid, something you can count on and trust, and not worry about the end result?

Will Do

1. Trust God as my true security
2. Bring my fears and worries to God
3. Be willing to move beyond a comfort zone
4. Have a positive attitude in the midst of a negative situation
5. Be open to other people
6. Cultivate peace and a trusting heart
7. Remember that God is your protector and provider

To Do

1. Write your worries down on paper - then burn them
2. Do a study on fear, tracing God's promises through the Bible
3. List your blessings
4. Comfort someone who is afraid
5. Memorize a comforting Bible verse
6. Write about a time when you felt insecure and how God helped you and how other's helped you as well. 

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 1 John 4:4
2. John 10:29
3. Hebrews 13:6
4. Isaiah 43:2
5. Psalm 94:18-19

"The cure for fear is faith."

            Norman Vincent Peale

Lead Us Not Into Temptation

"Every temptation is great or small according as the man is." Jeremy Taylor

Temptations surround us every day. They are the big ones - such as stealing, lying, cheating, and gossiping. Some of these seems easy to steer clear of, but others not so much.

Think about it....how many times are you tempted to eat a little too much, keep the extra change that the store gave you, flirting with someone who is married (and you're married too). These are the "smaller" temptations that haunt us every day that aren't so easy to stay away from.

When you think about it, temptations seem to come around when we aren't satisfied. If we were "full to the brim" with happiness then non of the above would affect us. We wouldn't need more food, extra money, or attention from someone who we shouldn't be getting it from.

Now, I'm not saying that your life is unhappy or anything...we all fall short of happiness when we aren't connected to the source of joy! Get connected! Talk to God, pray to him and let him fill your life with joy. Then...temptations, big or small, won't make their way in.

Will Do

1. Pray for God's guidance and help when temptations arise
2. Remember and understand that you always have a choice when temptations occur
3. Trust God to deliver you
4. Remember that God will always show the way out of a temptations - or a way to avoid it in the first place
5. Remember everyone struggles
6. Be honest with yourself about what you're tempted with
7. Have empathy with other who struggle

To Do

1. Write a prayer to God asking for help with specific temptations
2. Read and meditate on Romans 7:21-23
3. Say a simple "no thank you" to smaller temptations
4. When you resist temptations, reward yourself with a wiser choice
5. Ask a friend to help you with something you struggle with
6. Develop a habit to help you control your temptations - a quick walk, count to 20, say a prayer

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Proverbs 14:8
2. James 1:2-3
3. 1 Peter 5:8-9
4. Romans 7:1-23
5. 1 Corinthians 10:13

"My temptations have been my masters in divinity."

           Martin Luther

He is With You

"Time lost is when we have not lived a full human life, time unenriched by experience, creative endeavor, enjoyment, and suffering." Bonhoeffer

There is a time for everything!

The seasons of the year remind us of the many changes that life can bring about. The good news is that there is always a perfect time for the different things in our lives.

I can not say it better than Mandisa does in her amazing song, "He is With You". You have to listen to it! I've posted the link HERE. Click on it and take a listen. It is so touching and it really gets the point across that needs to be said this morning!

Will Do

1. Savor every season of life
2. Really know that God is with you in everything
3. Rejoice in the circle of seasons
4. Remember good times
5. Be thankful for the lessons learned from difficult times
6. Enjoy family and friends
7. Reflect on the past, rejoice in the present, and rest the future in God's hands

To Do

1. Create a family album
2. Celebrate Valentine's Day by giving special gifts
3. Make a wreath with seasonal materials
4. Take a bust day in December to reflect
5. Make a May Day flower basket
6. Write about the season of life you are experiencing
7. Be a sponsor for a younger group's event

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Ecclesiastes 3:1
2. Ecclesiastes 3:11
3. Ecclesiastes 5:18
4. Psalm 118:24
5. Psalm 90:12
6. Esther 4:14
7. Deuteronomy 3:25

"What is Time? The shadow on the dial, the striking of the clock, the running of the sand, day and night, summer and winter, months, years, centuries - these are but arbitrary and outward signs, the measure of Time, not Time itself. Time is the Life of the Soul."

            Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Don't Be A Worry-Wart

"Feed not your spirit on anything but God. Cast off concern about things, and bear peace and recollection in your heart." John of the Cross

Why must I always worry? I think that this is a common thing that we all do.

In the beginning of our marriage I was worried a lot. Maybe it was the new finances we were taking on?Maybe it was me being in school and working full time? Or maybes it was just me being a control freak?

I remember my hubby telling me that I can't have it both ways. What he meant was that I can't say that I'm trusting God for everything and say that I have strong faith while worrying all the time about finances and freaking out about time and other things.

He was right! What he said was so profound and I still remember that today. I can't have it both ways. I can't trust God and worry at the same time. The worry totally takes the trust away.

Today's devotion was all about worry and how we as Christians are told not to! We are not to worry about anything. We need to always know that God is with us and He will figure it out.

We can either decide to be impatient and fix problems on our own with limited resources, or (I like the alternative) we can wait for God's perfect timing, allowing him to play out His outcome with His unlimited resources!

Will Do

1. Trust that God will take care of every need
2. Focus on thoughts of God's provision instead of fears
3. Be thankful for what God has provided
4. Concentrate on living in the moment instead of worrying about tomorrow
5. Cast all your cares on God!
6. Be aware of the needs of others
7. Have a positive attitude

To Do

1. List 25 things you are thankful for from God
2. Memorize Psalm 23
3. Write an "I-Trust-God" check for tithe
4. Have a good cry and then take a walk....refreshing!
5. Write your worries in the sand
6. Take a stress-management course
7. Call a friend and pray with her

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Matthew 6:34
2. Psalm 138:8
3. Isaiah 12:2
4. Psalm 94:19
5. Psalm 118:6
6. Proverbs 1:33
7. Psalm 121:2
8. Proverbs 12:25
9. 2 Corinthians 3:4-5
10. Philippians 4:7
11. 2 Thessalonians 3:3
12. Hebrews 10:35

"Care for the next minute is just as foolish as care for a day in the next thousand years. In neither can we do anything, in both God is doing everything."

            C. S. Lewis

Full of Life

"We may affirm that absolutely nothing great in the world has ever been accomplished without passion." Georg Hegel

There is someone who draws your attention whenever you come into contact with them or something about them. They intrigue you. I have someone in mind that I am so intrigued by. Every time a picture is put up on Facebook I have to go and see the entire album. Their life, their family - they are just so interesting!

Some might think this a little creepy, or interesting, but I just see it as someone that I look up to. I am motivated by this person's lifestyle. Every thing I see that she does I think it is brilliant!

Now, I don't find this too ironic. I think that we are drawn to happy, passionate people. We long to be full of life and excitement! I hope that I am that someone for another person out there. I hope that I love my life to the fullest and give off a zest for life.

Here are some pointers to follow in order to embrace life:

• Appreciate life itself - rejoice in the small things and let people know it
• Seek out new experiences - do something new, fun, and spur of the moment
• Be active - Exercise, play, plan parties, have fun!
• Cultivate beauty - Plant a garden, make a scarf, take up painting
• Reach out to others - Let others know that you are there for them - and be there
• Add spice and color to all your days - Cook, bake, wear a cute scarf
• Lighten up - Laugh more - It's good for you!
• Be thankful for the many blessings in your life
• Never be afraid to be passionate about your faith

Yay! I just made my own mini list of things I must do! 

Here's what the devotional says:

Will Do

1. Embrace life with zest and passion
2. Be open to life's surprises
3. Laugh more
4. Enjoy every moment of the day
5. Count blessings with a grateful heart
6. Celebrate diversity and wonder
7. Live life as an adventure

To Do

1. Sign up for a class that is intriguing to you
2. Create an original recipe
3. Try a new restaurant or as new dish of food
4. Throw a party for all your friend - just because!
5. Read an adventure story
6. Plan a trip to a local exotic place
7. Take someone you love on a surprise romantic date

Bible Verses to Remember 

1. 2 Timothy 1:7
2. Psalm 91:16
3. Proverbs 8:35
4. 1 Corinthians 10:31
5. John 15:11
6. Proverbs 10:22
7. Proverbs 16:3
8. 1 Corinthians 13:11

"It's not how long you live, but how well you live."

            Martin Luther King

Reaching Out

"The best exercise for the heart is reaching down and lifting people up." Ernest Blevins

Jesus was the ultimate comforter. He not only made people feel better emotionally, He also reached out and touched them with healing hands.

It is so important to understand how important human touch is. Sometimes a touch is all you need.

There are times when the hubby and I have a disagreement and the only apology we both need is an embrace; any type of touch will do and we both know that we will feel better as soon as we just reach out.

There are other people in our lives that need human touch and we can help them with that! Everyone needs it, but who can you give it to today?

Will Do

1. Be thankful that God is constantly reaching out to us
2. Be alert to opportunities to reach out to others
3. Share your time with others
4. Have an open and tender heart
5. Be willing to ask for help
6. Have empathy
7. Be grateful for those who have extended a hand

To Do

1. Volunteer to help someone in need
2. Give someone you love a back rub or massage
3. Hug a child today
4. Introduce yourself to someone with a handshake
5. Visit someone in a nursing home
6. Call someone you haven't spoken to in awhile
7. Journal about how God has reached out to you

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Matthew 9:21
2. Luke 18:15
3. Mark 8:22
4. Psalm 147:3
5. 1 Thessalonians 4:18
6. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
7. Matthew 14:35-36

"To ease another's heartache is to forget one's own."

            Abraham Lincoln 

Loyalty

"Faithfulness in little things is a big thing." Saint John Chrysostom

Loyalty.

I hope that I am looked at as a loyal person. I think that anyone would hope that they are loyal. It seems easy enough to stick to your word, sustain from talking about others, and believing the best in others; yet, we seem to always find ourselves in these situations not doing what a loyal person would do.

God feels very strongly about loyalty. It is all up and down the proverbs and throughout the Bible. Loyalty is very important to Him and we need to get help to be truly, loyal people.

Thanks you God! Thank you for showing us true loyalty and for being the perfect example for us to follow.

Will Do

1. Believe the best before I think the worst
2. Encourage instead of criticize
3. Keep my word
4. Be kind to all I meet
5. Treasure loyalty and trust
6. Be honest with my friends
7. Rest in God unfailing loyalty

To Do

1. Call or write a friend to offer encouragement
2. Evaluate your ability to be loyal
3. Apologize, if necessary, to someone who you did not show loyalty too
4. Read the book of Ruth - true story of loyalty
5. Instead of joining in the gossip, next time stand up for the person
6. Make an effort not to gossip with your friends

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Proverbs 16:6
2. Matthew 6:24
3. Ruth 1:16
4. Proverbs 18:21
5. Proverbs 19:22
6. Proverbs 10:18
7. Proverbs 20:6

"Loyalty means not that I am you, or that I agree with everything you say or that I believe you are always right. Loyalty means that I share a common ideal with you and that regardless of minor differences we fight for it, should to shoulder, confident in one another's good faith, trust, constancy, and affection."
            Karl Menninger

Beauty

"Characteristics which define beauty are wholeness, harmony, and radiance." Thomas Aquinas

It is hard to always understand what beauty really is. We are constantly being told what the whorl thinks beauty is and it become embedded in us and we can't seem to remember the truth.

Beauty comes from within and God promises that He will beautify us with His love. This means we have to let Him in and do it! It God is in our hearts we are beautiful!

Will Do

1. Remember that beauty begins in the heart
2. Don't compare yourself to others. Have a peaceful spirit. 
3. Enjoy your femininity
4. Be compassionate and empathetic
5. Always be positive and cheerful
6. Allow God's spirit to calm your heart

To Do

1. Ask God to reveal your special, feminine gifts.
2. Sit quietly and reflect on what God is doing in your life
3. Take a fragrant bubble bath
4. Write about what makes you feel feminine
5. Place fresh flowers and candles around your home
6. Buy something beautiful for your home
7. Buy or make something beautiful to wear

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 1 Chronicles 16:29
2. Isaiah 58:11
3. Psalm 19:14
4. Philippians 1:10-11
5. Psalm 149:4
6. Song of Solomon 6:10
7. Esther 2:12

"Beauty is God's handwriting. Welcome it in every fair face, every fair day, every fair flower."

            Charles Kingsley 

Identity

"To work in the world lovingly means that we are defining what we will be for, rather than reacting to what we are against." Christina Baldwin

We all have a specific identity. Hopefully you are proud of yours and are willing to let people in and know it.

Knowing who you are is important in this life. Understanding the person God wants you to be is even more vital. Continue to search and question who God wants you to be and become that identity and stay confident in who you are!

Will Do

1. Be confident in the person God called you to be
2. Enjoy your individuality
3. Invest in cultivating gifts and talents
4. Relax in God's love - don't try too hard
5. When others struggle, be empathetic to their needs
6. Enjoy your freedom
7. Know that you are special!

To Do

1. Tell someone why you are special
2. Ask someone why they are special
3. Ask yourself what your purpose is on earth and take heart to it
4. Write thank-you notes to people who have encouraged you
5. Write down what qualities of Christ are evident in you
6. List 10 strengths
7. Maximize one of your strengths!

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Psalm 118:8
2. John 15:16
3. 1 Corinthians 13:12
4. 2 Corinthians 5:17
5. Ephesians 1:11
6. 1 Peter 2:9

"Christians have an entirely new basis for identity. This basis is a foundational reality which transcends any culture's evaluation of a person."

            Barbara Cook

Let the Children Come

"I love little children, and it is not a slight thing when they who are fresh from God love us." Dickens

We all know that children are a gift from God. I am so lucky to get to work with them every day! They are so full of life and I love them for it!

Some of us have children of our own, and some of us have the children of others to motivate and learn from. It is important to remember some key things when loving and raising children. Always give them lots of love! They need to know you care for them. Hugs, cuddles, and saying "I love you" are great ways to start. Discipline is a must! Children need to know their boundaries and respect those who give them some! They also need to see that you are consistent with discipline. This helps them see that there is consistency in the world and they can count on you. And, of course, spend time with them. Show them that you value their opinion and what they are doing in their life! They will love you for it!

Most importantly, remember that Jesus wants us to have hearts like children. That is what will show us how to have faith like we need!

Will Do

1. Appreciate God's message like a child would
2. Enjoy speeding time with children
3. Remember that we are all God's children
4. Have a sense of humor!
5. Treasure passing moments and store of memories
6. Be generous with love and affection

To Do

1. Give children your time today
2. Give some extra hugs or "I love you"'s to a child today
3. Treat a child with something special today
4. When asking a child a question - really listen

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Proverbs 22:6
2. Ephesians 5:1
3. Isaiah 49:15
4. Proverbs 23:24
5. Mark 10:13-14
6. Psalm 127:3

"A baby is God's opinion that like should go on."

            Carl Sandburg

Courage

"Courage is doing what you're afraid to do. There can be no courage unless you're scared."                Eddie Rickenbacker

Courage.

It is a funny thing. Those that think they have it, don't; those that think they don't have it, do.

It takes digging deeper to find courage at times. It may come in a simple way, for instance, when I (because I'm the teacher) have to get rid of the spider in the classroom. Or, maybe  it is in a less obvious way, but still very dominant. When a family has to make the decision of putting their loved one into a nursing home. These are all acts of courage.

Will Do

1. Remember that God gives us courage
2. Overcome fears with faith
3. Believe that God will take care of us
4. Appreciate the courage of others
5. Always stay positive
6. Always look before leaping
7. Always remember what it feels like to act courageously

To Do

• Read a biography of a courageous woman of the past
• Personal a Bible verse that promises courage in a challenging situation
• Volunteer
• Confront someone you have been avoiding
• Try something new you have been afraid to try
• Take a self-defense class

Bible Verses to Remember

1. 1 John 4:18
2. Romans 8:37
3. 2 Corinthians 12:9
4. Matthew 10:28
5. Philippians 1:27-28 
6. Proverbs 28:1

"Courage faces fear and thereby masters it. Cowardice represses fear and is thereby mastered by it."

            Martin Luther King

In Times of Trouble

"In times of trouble, remember that God is too kind to be cruel, too wise to make a mistake, and too deep to explain himself." Unknown

There are so many times in this life that we experience troubles. Troubles can come in all types of ways. It can be a small trouble, or a big one that you can't seem to shake. Whatever it is, you have a choice. You can either look at the trouble as something that is annoying, hurting, and just plain difficult. Or, you can choose to look at it for a blessing in disguise. Sometimes forgetting your camera at home may cause you to waste time, turn around, and go back and get it but in God's timing and wisdom, the "waste of time" was really keeping you from a terrible accident. (true story)

Choose to look at your troubles as blessings in disguise. Just a reminder about a wonderful song I talk about before - Blessings by Laura Story. Click on the link and listen if you haven't already! It is a beautiful song and a great reminder for the devotion today.

Will Do

1. Trust God with troubles
2. Be positive even when tempted to complain
3. Look for lessons in your troubles
4. Be compassionate with others who are facing troubles
5. Remember that troubles are temporary
6. Be grateful for the small things in life

To Do

1. Every time you are tempted to complain, list 5 things you are thankful for
2. Read Psalm 42
3. Do a kind deed without being discovered
4. Write about 3 things that are troubling you
5. Find a Bible verse for each of those 3 things and memorize the promise
6. Take a 1/2 hour to relax and be by yourself
7. Dress becomingly today! 

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Isaiah 45:3
2. Psalm 55:22
3. Hebrews 6:12
4. Hebrews 11:6
5. Isaiah 9:2
6. Ephesians 5:13
7. 2 Corinthians 4:16

"I would rather walk with God in the dark than go alone in the light."

            Mary Gardiner Brainard 

Honesty - the Best Policy

"The simple step of a courageous individual is not to take part in the lie. One word of truth outweighs the world." Alexander Solzhenitsyn

Being a honest person is something we must all strive for. I say "strive" because I know how hard it is to stay honest. Or maybe I should say how easy it is to be dishonest. All it take is chaining one word in a sentence when repeating someone's words. Or maybe it is not telling the "whole truth". These are "easy" ways that we become dishonest and our image of "trustworthiness" can slowly fade away.

Will Do

1. Confess your sins to God
2. Believe that you are forgiven by God
3. Be honest with God about your true feelings
4. Respect others by being honest with them
5. Respect yourself by being honest when no one is watching
6. Be generous
7. Trust that God will meet all your needs

To Do

1. Go somewhere for a day or weekend and reexamine yourself
2. Write down 5 areas that need improving on when it comes to honesty in your life
3. Balance your checkbook
4. Answer honestly on your tax returns and other important documents
5. Give honest feedback and compliments to your friends
6. Always pay your fair share on things - maybe a little more at times 
7. Go to someone you wronged and make it right

Bible Verses to Remember

1. James 1:22
2. Luke 6:47
3. 2 Corinthians 4:2
4. Proverbs 16:11
5. Isaiah 58:11
6. Isaiah 33:15-16

"Our lives improve only when we take chances - and the first and most difficult risk we can take is to be honest with ourselves." 

            Walter Anderson

Family

I had every intention to blog yesterday morning. However, God had a different plan. My alarm never went off...or it did and I turned it off not knowing it. What was so strange about it was that I actually needed the sleep! I didn't wake up "late" just not as early as I wanted to. God spoke to 2 dear ones of mine and they both texted me, randomly, in the morning. I never get texts in the morning! I believe it was God waking me up from a much needed sleep!

"A family is a place where principles are hammered and honed on the anvil of everyday living." Swindoll

Today's devotion was about family. I am such a family person! Luckily, my hubby is as well. We both love spending time with family and enjoying their company. The times we spend with them are full of memories and we can't wait to have a family of our own soon. (not too soon - don't jump to conclusions people) *tee-hee*

The bottom line is family is important to us, and family is important to God! There are times when I can't imagine my life changing or falling apart but as I look at everyone around me I see their lives slowly fading. I try not to, but I can't help but thinking, "what if that happens to us?" I'm sure they didn't see this coming either. I'm sure everyone was once in love and full of dreams and never imagined falling apart and now they are divorced. I'm sure that parents don't raise their children thinking they will fall into drugs or depression or whatever. So how do we stay away from this? How do we really protect our families?

Well, I don't know that right answer. I wish I did. I want to save my future family from these heartaches. What I do know is that God can hold people together. He is the glue and the string and the tape...whatever you need - He is it! I think that if God is in the middle of a relationship, a family, that really nothing can come in and screw it up. I think that if God is the core, the middle, the foundation and He is the top priority then everything will be just fine.

Will Do

1. Trust God to provide for and protect family
2. Honor your spouse
3. Enjoy your specific privileges in your family (mother, daughter, husband, son, etc)
4. Cultivate thoughtfulness, tenderness, and empathy
5. Be positive and encoring

To Do

1. Create a family tree
2. Spend an evening going through old pictures of family
3. Do a family project for the community
4. Write your family members letters 
5. Give lots of hugs
6. Plan family vacations

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Genesis 18:19
2. 1 Thessalonians 5:11
3. Proverbs 24:3
4. 1 Timothy 5:4
5. Proverbs 29:15
6. Psalm 115:14
7. Exodus 20:12
8. Proverbs 22:6
9. Colossians 3:21
10. Romans 14:19
11. Psalm 22:30-31
12. Joshua 24:15

"Loving relationships are a family's best protection against the challenges of the world." 

            Bernie Wiebe 

Creative Acts

"Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain and artist once he grows up." Pablo Picasso

Creativity is something that we all have. You may not think that you have this "talent" but you do! God created us to be creative. Now the task at hand is to find out what your creative art is.

So where to start and how do we find it? Well, you can start by these simple guidelines:

• Step into the unknown with courage - don't be afraid to try new things!
• Pay attention - realize when you are interested in something and grasp it
• Trust the process - sometimes is doesn't "feel" of look like art...just keep going and see what happens
• Practice, practice, practice - Practice makes perfect
• Become the student - don't try and "teach" yourself...just learn and be open to learning

I have confidence that we are all creative. I love creating and using my imagination to bring things together. Event planning, decorating, singing, gardening...many things to explore!

Will Do

1. Believe that using creativity is a gift to God
2. Understand that learning comes from success and failure
3. Be open to new ideas
4. Have courage to start something, learn something, and enjoy something new
5. Give credit for trying
6. Approach things with creative passion
7. Let go of expectations and just enjoy

To Do

1. Read Genesis 1
2. Go to a craft store and become inspired
3. Do things from a creativity workbook
4. Visit a museum, art gallery, or theatre
5. Do one small creative act today
6. List 20 things that you enjoy doing - do them!
7. Make a creativity journal

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Romans 12:6
2. Galatians 6:4-5
3. Genesis 1:27
4. Colossians 3:23
5. Psalm 139:16
6. Ephesians 2:10
7. 2 Corinthians 5:17

"To live a creative life, we must lose our fear of being wrong."

            Joseph Chilton Pearce 

Wants and Desires

"Man finds it hard to get what he wants, because he does not want the best; God finds it hard to give, because He would give the best, and man will not take it." George MacDonald

Are we really wanting what is best for us? Are we really thinking it through all the way to the end and seeing the bug picture? God can! Are we being selfish with our hopes, dreams, and desires or are we wanting something that is reachable, achievable?

God know what is best for us. He can see the entire picture and knows what will truly make us happy. Why not really focus on connecting with God - then everything else should fall into place.

Will Do

1. Dare to dream big dreams because we have a big God
2. Be willing to work hard
3. Have patience with delays and problems
4. Commit wholeheartedly to achieving a goal
5. Trust God to guide
6. Trust in God's perfect timing
7. Be thankful for blessings

To Do

1. Write down a cherished goal and break it down into steps to accomplish
2. Do the first item on your list
3. Make a collage that represents your dreams
4. Take a class that will give you a new skill for your dreams
5. Call some friends for a time of encouragement 

Bible Verses to Remember

1. Isaiah 65:24
2. Hebrews 6:19
3. 2 Corinthians 5:1
4. Hebrews 10:35-36
5. Proverbs 13:19
6. Hebrews 10:23
7. Psalm 37:4

"What can be hoped for which is not believed?"

            Saint Augustine