I love to read blogs. Fashion Blogs. Mommy Blogs. Encouraging Blogs. You name it! If it's a blog, I probably enjoy reading it. I have recently found myself "Facebook stalking" just to read what others are writing. You can learn a lot about people by reading their thoughts, ideas and about their passions. So many times I think we are afraid to SAY what we really think or feel, but WRITING it down seems so innocent.
What kind of words are coming from your fingertips (or even your mouth)? Are they encouraging, uplifting or inspiring? My prayer is that I can be the encouraging wife, mother, daughter, and friend that God has called me to be. How do I know that He has called me to be this encourager? Well, I am HIS child and His word instructs us to be this encourager that I speak about. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 reads, "Therefore encourage one another, and build each other up." But let's not stop there. Hebrews 3:13 states, "But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called "today" so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God." Yet another, 1 Peter 4:8-10, " Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." WOW! What powerful words!
What kind of power do your words hold? Are you belittling someone else or are you lifting them up? Are you cutting someone down for a decision that they made or are you praying that God would reveal Himself to them in a way never before? Are you shunning someone because of a way that they look or are you telling them that they are beautiful just the way God created them? Before we speak {or write} we should be thoughtful of those who will hear or read what we have to say. There is power in our words. Let that power be INSPIRING!
Blessings,
Heather
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Thursday, January 15, 2015
A New Year Is Here!
Soooo, it seems as though I took quite the hiatus from blogging, both here and on our family blog. I sure can tell it too! This is my therapy...free therapy and boy have I missed it! :) I hope if you are here reading, that means that you missed it too and will make it a habit to drop by to see what the Lord has laid on my heart. I vow to do a better job at blogging on a regular basis.
Since my last post, Halloween came and was fun. Thanksgiving came and brought it's own joy and before we knew it we were officially in the Christmas season. Along with Christmas came busy schedules, baking, family and friends and the celebration of our Lord and Savior!
Now, here we are! January 2015. A New Year! For some, it is a year of new beginnings. Learning to do some things all over. For some, it is experiencing things for the very first time. For others, it is going back, fixing where you messed up and trying to move forward. One thing that remains the same is the love that our Father has for us.
I have thought a lot of resolutions and what it truly means to resolve to do something. This year, I (along with some friends), decided that I would set goals. Things that I want to see come to pass. Does it mean that it may all happen within this year? Maybe not. Does that make me a failure? Absolutely not! I do vow to work my hardest at seeing these things through. What about you? What goals have you set for yourself this new year?
Personal goals are probably the most popular to set and may possibly be the easiest to obtain. Try to smile more. Be more friendly. Give back at least once a week. Lose a pound or two or ten! But what about spiritual goals? How easy are those to write down? Pretty easy. How easy are they to see through? That's the hard part. That's where dedication comes in. Your spiritual life and growth is the most important part of life as a believer and follower of Christ. Without growth, we become complacent and we no longer bear fruit. This is where we must be careful. The word specifically states that we will be known by the fruits that we bear. "This is my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples." John 15:8. Looking back over the past year, did you bear "good fruit" or "bad fruit"? Were you shown faithful as a disciple of Christ?
Before we dive into how to know if we obtain good fruits, let's discuss what "good fruits" are. Are you ready? You may see some characteristics that you have noticed in yourself!
Good Fruits:
Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self Control
How do obtain these good fruits? Walking closely with the Lord, studying His Word and committing it to heart, praying and asking for God's guidance. Sounds easy enough, right?! I have found that when I am my most dedicated and faithful is when Satan tries to get a strong hold over me. He (Satan) likes to see us fail. He likes to see us bring disappointment to the one who loved us enough to die for our sins. Let's break these fruits down one by one:
Love
Is love always easy to show? Not always--but it is a requirement. God states that as His children, we are to love one another! Can we always do this without the love of God dwelling in us. Nope! Scripture tells us so! God is love and in order to love, you must know God! When others are hurtful and unkind, show love to them so that your fruit will be pleasing to the Lord!
"But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked." Luke 6:35
"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good." Romans 12:9
"And now these three remain: faith hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:13
"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God." 1 John 4:7
Joy
The joy that comes from the Lord is unlike any emotion that you could experience on its best day! The joy of the Lord dwells from deep down inside and is so hard to contain! It will completely consume you and just bubble out--spreading its goodness to others!
"May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." Romans 15:13
"A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." Proverbs 17:22
"These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full." John 15:11
Peace
Have you ever found yourself in the middle of a situation, not sure which way to turn, then all of a sudden have a wash over you that everything is going to be ok? That is the peace from the Lord. No other feeling of complete surrender and calm can even compare! The peace of the Lord can not be mistaken nor can it replicated. When the Lord's will is being fulfilled, you know the peace that reigns above all understanding.
"The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace." Psalm 29:11
"Come to me all those who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27
"For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace." 1 Corinthians 14:33
Patience
Oh my! Have kids then talk to me about patience! Waiting is one of the hardest lessons I have ever had to learn (I think the Lord is still working on me). Ever wanted something so badly that you could literally taste it but the Lord just says, "No, not now!" That response will feel like a kick in the stomach! When the Lord dwells within you and you are walking as closely with Him as possible, He grants a tolerance to sit and wait that can come from no one else but Him. It is not our natural desire to be patient. We are an I want it now kind of society. Sometimes, the biggest blessings come when we wait on Him!
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9
"Be still and wait patiently on the Lord. Those who wait on the Lord shall inherit the land." Psalm 37:7,9
"Endurance produces character and character produces hope" Romans 5:4
"But they who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount on wings as eagles; they shall run and not grow weary; they shall walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31
Kindness
Ever been around someone who was genuinely kindhearted? How does simply their presence make you feel? Good, right? Kindhearted people exude sweetness and you just want to be near them. Being kind to others does not come natural to us. We are born sinful, selfish people. Kind people are usually putting other's feelings and concerns before their own. They truly understand what it means to love others before themselves. Anyone come to mind? Do you exude a kind heart?
"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ has forgiven you." Ephesians 4:32
"Love is patient; love is kind." 1 Corinthians 13:4
Goodness
The goodness that can only come from the Lord is so rich. His goodness is pure. This kind of goodness causes you to truly think about your actions before they happen (ah, to be filled with His goodness). To not be self-centered, but to be Christ centered. I long for His goodness. Unfortunately, most days, I feel like I fall a little short.
"Let love be genuine. Abort was is evil; take hold of what is good." Romans 12:9
"Give thanks to the Lord. for He is good; His love endureth forever." Psalms 107:1
"O taste and see that the Lord is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him." Psalms 34:8
Faithfulness
Being faithful comes in all forms. Faithful to others, faithful to situations, and faithful to Christ. Are you one who others see as a faithful person? Can you be counted on when the chips are down? Christ has proven himself time and time again to be as faithful as they come. He never leaves nor forsakes us, even at times when we feel our most alone. Christ has traveled the road before us and knows and understands where we are headed. When we are followers of Christ {and are living our lives to exemplify Him} we should stand faithful and true. Spouses should never have to question our faithfulness because our actions show us to be, friends should know that they can count on us to be there, our employers should know that they can count on us to set our best foot forward, and Christ should know that we love Him with all of our hearts because we have shown by our actions that we adore Him. Are you faithful in your study of His word, in your prayer life? If this is an area where you struggle, call a friend and find someone to hold you accountable. Ask them to pray with you that your heart may become more faithful to the things that you hold dear.
"Know therefore that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindess to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments." Deuteronomy 7:9
"The Lord will repay each man for his righteousness and his faithfulness; for the Lord delivered you into my hand today, but I refused to stretch out my hand against the Lord's anointed." 1 Samuel 26:23
"Your love oh Lord, reaches to the heavens. Your faithfulness, to the skies." Psalm 36:5
Gentleness
Often times, gentleness is viewed as weakness; however in fact, gentleness is actually being meek, mild, tender to others. To exude complete and total gentleness to others takes such self-control, especially when facing difficult situations where you may find yourself standing at cross-roads with others opinions and personalities. To be gentle is to completely surrender oneself to Christ and allow His goodness to shine through. To handle situations with gentleness instead of anger, shows a sign of maturity and spiritual growth.
"So that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love." Ephesians 4:14-16
"And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful." 2 Timothy 2:24
"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Proverbs 15:1
"But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering without hypocrisy." James 3:17
Self-control
Oh my goodness! This one {or lack of} probably reaches each one of us at various points in our lives. You may struggle with lack of self-control when it comes to shopping (me!), eating sweets (me!), "filling our friends in on the know" (gossiping) (sadly, me!), thoughts and feelings of jealousy (me!), allowing other forms of entertainment to come between your time with the Lord (*sigh, me!), and quick tempers. I have been REALLY honest about this one, haven't I? :) Truth is, we all struggle, but that does not mean that we can't strive to have Christ help us with this daily. Can you imagine how much self-control Jesus must have possessed when faced with those who did not like him (that is putting it mildly)? When faced with situations where your "self" is trying to rear it's head, lean on the Lord for control like none other.
"A fool loses his temper, but a wise man holds it back." Proverbs 29:11
"Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 2:5-9
"A man without self control is like a city broken and left without walls." Proverbs 25:28
So, now that we know what they are, how can we tell if we obtain them? Believers bearing fruit are not controlled by their environment. Situations arise, but it is all in how we handle them! Life is not always a bowl of cherries, but through the Lord, we can stand the test of time. Have you ever met a person who was battling a tough illness, a death of a loved one, a lost job, but they never seemed to be without joy in their life? That is being filled with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is in complete control-not their circumstances. Another way to tell if we obtain the fruits of the spirit may be shown in how we recover from negative experiences. Do we sit and wallow in self-pity or do we bounce back, ready more than ever to face the world with a brave face and unbroken spirit? Life happens and sometimes our days seems dark, but as Christians, the light of the world dwells within us. He is our hope. He is our tomorrow.
Now, what kind of fruit are you bearing? What kind of fruit will you bring to 2015?
Blessings,
Heather
Since my last post, Halloween came and was fun. Thanksgiving came and brought it's own joy and before we knew it we were officially in the Christmas season. Along with Christmas came busy schedules, baking, family and friends and the celebration of our Lord and Savior!
Now, here we are! January 2015. A New Year! For some, it is a year of new beginnings. Learning to do some things all over. For some, it is experiencing things for the very first time. For others, it is going back, fixing where you messed up and trying to move forward. One thing that remains the same is the love that our Father has for us.
I have thought a lot of resolutions and what it truly means to resolve to do something. This year, I (along with some friends), decided that I would set goals. Things that I want to see come to pass. Does it mean that it may all happen within this year? Maybe not. Does that make me a failure? Absolutely not! I do vow to work my hardest at seeing these things through. What about you? What goals have you set for yourself this new year?
Personal goals are probably the most popular to set and may possibly be the easiest to obtain. Try to smile more. Be more friendly. Give back at least once a week. Lose a pound or two or ten! But what about spiritual goals? How easy are those to write down? Pretty easy. How easy are they to see through? That's the hard part. That's where dedication comes in. Your spiritual life and growth is the most important part of life as a believer and follower of Christ. Without growth, we become complacent and we no longer bear fruit. This is where we must be careful. The word specifically states that we will be known by the fruits that we bear. "This is my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples." John 15:8. Looking back over the past year, did you bear "good fruit" or "bad fruit"? Were you shown faithful as a disciple of Christ?
Before we dive into how to know if we obtain good fruits, let's discuss what "good fruits" are. Are you ready? You may see some characteristics that you have noticed in yourself!
Good Fruits:
Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self Control
How do obtain these good fruits? Walking closely with the Lord, studying His Word and committing it to heart, praying and asking for God's guidance. Sounds easy enough, right?! I have found that when I am my most dedicated and faithful is when Satan tries to get a strong hold over me. He (Satan) likes to see us fail. He likes to see us bring disappointment to the one who loved us enough to die for our sins. Let's break these fruits down one by one:
Love
Is love always easy to show? Not always--but it is a requirement. God states that as His children, we are to love one another! Can we always do this without the love of God dwelling in us. Nope! Scripture tells us so! God is love and in order to love, you must know God! When others are hurtful and unkind, show love to them so that your fruit will be pleasing to the Lord!
"But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked." Luke 6:35
"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good." Romans 12:9
"And now these three remain: faith hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13:13
"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God." 1 John 4:7
Joy
The joy that comes from the Lord is unlike any emotion that you could experience on its best day! The joy of the Lord dwells from deep down inside and is so hard to contain! It will completely consume you and just bubble out--spreading its goodness to others!
"May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." Romans 15:13
"A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." Proverbs 17:22
"These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full." John 15:11
Peace
Have you ever found yourself in the middle of a situation, not sure which way to turn, then all of a sudden have a wash over you that everything is going to be ok? That is the peace from the Lord. No other feeling of complete surrender and calm can even compare! The peace of the Lord can not be mistaken nor can it replicated. When the Lord's will is being fulfilled, you know the peace that reigns above all understanding.
"The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace." Psalm 29:11
"Come to me all those who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27
"For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace." 1 Corinthians 14:33
Patience
Oh my! Have kids then talk to me about patience! Waiting is one of the hardest lessons I have ever had to learn (I think the Lord is still working on me). Ever wanted something so badly that you could literally taste it but the Lord just says, "No, not now!" That response will feel like a kick in the stomach! When the Lord dwells within you and you are walking as closely with Him as possible, He grants a tolerance to sit and wait that can come from no one else but Him. It is not our natural desire to be patient. We are an I want it now kind of society. Sometimes, the biggest blessings come when we wait on Him!
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9
"Be still and wait patiently on the Lord. Those who wait on the Lord shall inherit the land." Psalm 37:7,9
"Endurance produces character and character produces hope" Romans 5:4
"But they who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount on wings as eagles; they shall run and not grow weary; they shall walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31
Kindness
Ever been around someone who was genuinely kindhearted? How does simply their presence make you feel? Good, right? Kindhearted people exude sweetness and you just want to be near them. Being kind to others does not come natural to us. We are born sinful, selfish people. Kind people are usually putting other's feelings and concerns before their own. They truly understand what it means to love others before themselves. Anyone come to mind? Do you exude a kind heart?
"Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another as God in Christ has forgiven you." Ephesians 4:32
"Love is patient; love is kind." 1 Corinthians 13:4
Goodness
The goodness that can only come from the Lord is so rich. His goodness is pure. This kind of goodness causes you to truly think about your actions before they happen (ah, to be filled with His goodness). To not be self-centered, but to be Christ centered. I long for His goodness. Unfortunately, most days, I feel like I fall a little short.
"Let love be genuine. Abort was is evil; take hold of what is good." Romans 12:9
"Give thanks to the Lord. for He is good; His love endureth forever." Psalms 107:1
"O taste and see that the Lord is good; how blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him." Psalms 34:8
Faithfulness
Being faithful comes in all forms. Faithful to others, faithful to situations, and faithful to Christ. Are you one who others see as a faithful person? Can you be counted on when the chips are down? Christ has proven himself time and time again to be as faithful as they come. He never leaves nor forsakes us, even at times when we feel our most alone. Christ has traveled the road before us and knows and understands where we are headed. When we are followers of Christ {and are living our lives to exemplify Him} we should stand faithful and true. Spouses should never have to question our faithfulness because our actions show us to be, friends should know that they can count on us to be there, our employers should know that they can count on us to set our best foot forward, and Christ should know that we love Him with all of our hearts because we have shown by our actions that we adore Him. Are you faithful in your study of His word, in your prayer life? If this is an area where you struggle, call a friend and find someone to hold you accountable. Ask them to pray with you that your heart may become more faithful to the things that you hold dear.
"Know therefore that the Lord your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindess to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments." Deuteronomy 7:9
"The Lord will repay each man for his righteousness and his faithfulness; for the Lord delivered you into my hand today, but I refused to stretch out my hand against the Lord's anointed." 1 Samuel 26:23
"Your love oh Lord, reaches to the heavens. Your faithfulness, to the skies." Psalm 36:5
Gentleness
Often times, gentleness is viewed as weakness; however in fact, gentleness is actually being meek, mild, tender to others. To exude complete and total gentleness to others takes such self-control, especially when facing difficult situations where you may find yourself standing at cross-roads with others opinions and personalities. To be gentle is to completely surrender oneself to Christ and allow His goodness to shine through. To handle situations with gentleness instead of anger, shows a sign of maturity and spiritual growth.
"So that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love." Ephesians 4:14-16
"And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful." 2 Timothy 2:24
"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Proverbs 15:1
"But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering without hypocrisy." James 3:17
Self-control
Oh my goodness! This one {or lack of} probably reaches each one of us at various points in our lives. You may struggle with lack of self-control when it comes to shopping (me!), eating sweets (me!), "filling our friends in on the know" (gossiping) (sadly, me!), thoughts and feelings of jealousy (me!), allowing other forms of entertainment to come between your time with the Lord (*sigh, me!), and quick tempers. I have been REALLY honest about this one, haven't I? :) Truth is, we all struggle, but that does not mean that we can't strive to have Christ help us with this daily. Can you imagine how much self-control Jesus must have possessed when faced with those who did not like him (that is putting it mildly)? When faced with situations where your "self" is trying to rear it's head, lean on the Lord for control like none other.
"A fool loses his temper, but a wise man holds it back." Proverbs 29:11
"Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 2:5-9
"A man without self control is like a city broken and left without walls." Proverbs 25:28
So, now that we know what they are, how can we tell if we obtain them? Believers bearing fruit are not controlled by their environment. Situations arise, but it is all in how we handle them! Life is not always a bowl of cherries, but through the Lord, we can stand the test of time. Have you ever met a person who was battling a tough illness, a death of a loved one, a lost job, but they never seemed to be without joy in their life? That is being filled with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is in complete control-not their circumstances. Another way to tell if we obtain the fruits of the spirit may be shown in how we recover from negative experiences. Do we sit and wallow in self-pity or do we bounce back, ready more than ever to face the world with a brave face and unbroken spirit? Life happens and sometimes our days seems dark, but as Christians, the light of the world dwells within us. He is our hope. He is our tomorrow.
Now, what kind of fruit are you bearing? What kind of fruit will you bring to 2015?
Blessings,
Heather
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
When Life Gets A Little Messy
I am currently facilitating a women's Bible study called Beautiful Mess, which is a follow up to the (fantastic) movie "Mom's Night Out". This study is speaking to my heart and causing me to really dissect my actions and attitudes and make sure that they are pleasing to the Lord. The study is using the thing (people) that tends to get to me the most--my babies! How do they see their mama responding to life's crazy situations that turn my world (most of the time temporarily) upside-down?!
This week already (and it's only Tuesday! Yikes) I have had to look at myself and ask the question, "Is God pleased with my attitude today?" "Does he approve of the way I am CHOOSING to respond to this situation?" Let me be honest, I found that the answer was NO!
Last week we discovered that our responses and our attitudes are our choice. We can choose to respond (behave) differently. Does becoming angered and quick tongued get us anywhere or does it cause us to become ineffective for the Lord? When we allow the things of this world to influence our decision to respond negatively, we are giving Satan a foot-hold. WE are allowing him to keep us from doing good for the Lord. We can not (and will not) be used to bring glory to the Father as long as we are allowing Satan to take hold of our lives. *I am preaching to myself here!!
Does this mean that situations should be avoided all together? Not at all! Sometimes situations that arise need to be addressed in order for changes to be made. It is all in how they are handled that makes the difference. This is sometimes (more times than not) where I fail. Well thought out, planned out and prayed over responses should be formulated and taken to the appropriate people. If you have had a disagreement with your spouse, just after the "discussion"is probably is not the best time to try to come to resolve. It may be best to take 30 minutes, 2 hours or even a day to collect your thoughts. Sometimes our children can bring about "beautiful messes" that cause us to lose our cool. Should we blow off the handle, scream and yell to get their attention? That is probably not the most effective way to handle their tender hearts. After all, they may have simply been expanding their imagination, creating you a masterpiece or teaching their sibling how to do something "really awesome!" Take a moment, catch a breath and realize that these moments are fleeting and that they are flying by so quickly. There may come a day when you are begging for some noise in the house and you long for the mess to clean.
My attitude is my choice. My actions are my choice. Today, I am going to choose to be polite and respectful of others--until someone makes me mad (JUST KIDDING!). In Kindergarten we learned to play well with others and as an adult I am learning that MY attitude has a lot to do with that. People will not want to befriend or just be around me if my attitude stinks! We need people. We need relationships. Love those who are not lovable (let's face it, you aren't every day either) and be patient when life calls for it. Life is life. It brings ups and downs. We must learn to ride the ride with God's grace and do it with a smile on our face (even when we don't want to)!
When Satan tries to crowd your mind, just remember...
"Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me--practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you."
Philippians 4:8-9
Blessings,
Heather
This week already (and it's only Tuesday! Yikes) I have had to look at myself and ask the question, "Is God pleased with my attitude today?" "Does he approve of the way I am CHOOSING to respond to this situation?" Let me be honest, I found that the answer was NO!
Last week we discovered that our responses and our attitudes are our choice. We can choose to respond (behave) differently. Does becoming angered and quick tongued get us anywhere or does it cause us to become ineffective for the Lord? When we allow the things of this world to influence our decision to respond negatively, we are giving Satan a foot-hold. WE are allowing him to keep us from doing good for the Lord. We can not (and will not) be used to bring glory to the Father as long as we are allowing Satan to take hold of our lives. *I am preaching to myself here!!
Does this mean that situations should be avoided all together? Not at all! Sometimes situations that arise need to be addressed in order for changes to be made. It is all in how they are handled that makes the difference. This is sometimes (more times than not) where I fail. Well thought out, planned out and prayed over responses should be formulated and taken to the appropriate people. If you have had a disagreement with your spouse, just after the "discussion"is probably is not the best time to try to come to resolve. It may be best to take 30 minutes, 2 hours or even a day to collect your thoughts. Sometimes our children can bring about "beautiful messes" that cause us to lose our cool. Should we blow off the handle, scream and yell to get their attention? That is probably not the most effective way to handle their tender hearts. After all, they may have simply been expanding their imagination, creating you a masterpiece or teaching their sibling how to do something "really awesome!" Take a moment, catch a breath and realize that these moments are fleeting and that they are flying by so quickly. There may come a day when you are begging for some noise in the house and you long for the mess to clean.
My attitude is my choice. My actions are my choice. Today, I am going to choose to be polite and respectful of others--until someone makes me mad (JUST KIDDING!). In Kindergarten we learned to play well with others and as an adult I am learning that MY attitude has a lot to do with that. People will not want to befriend or just be around me if my attitude stinks! We need people. We need relationships. Love those who are not lovable (let's face it, you aren't every day either) and be patient when life calls for it. Life is life. It brings ups and downs. We must learn to ride the ride with God's grace and do it with a smile on our face (even when we don't want to)!
When Satan tries to crowd your mind, just remember...
"Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me--practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you."
Philippians 4:8-9
Blessings,
Heather
Give'Em Jesus!
Have you ever driven past that stranger on the street, the one holding the sign asking for money or food, and wondered what happened once you passed them by? Well, I have and from the conversations taking place in my Sunday school class, I am not alone.
My heart is a giving heart. I want to meet the needs of others, but I must admit, my current working position has left me a bit tainted. I often question if they really need the assistance or not. Shame on me, right?! Is it my place to say if they need it or not or is it simply my duty to be the hands and feet of Jesus and help when asked (of course the second choice is the correct choice!)?
Wanting to help is not the problem, it is knowing how to best assist the people that are in need of the help that I struggle with. Is money the answer? Should I just go buy a hot meal and deliver to them? What else can be done to make a difference in the lives of God's children who He loves just as much as He loves me?! Well, my friends, it all became quite clear sitting in Sunday school two weeks ago as we were diving into our lesson. We can give them Jesus!
We may not have money to give (and to be honest, that may not be the solution to their problem), we may not even have the availability to run to McDonald's for a burger and fries, but we can give them the word of God and a prayer. We can plant the seed of salvation if they are not believers and for those who are, we can help them see the hope that lies ahead. Hearing the words from the Lord may be just what they are looking for!
This all sounds great--right?! Now, how do we put this plan to action?
Be proactive! Prepare yourself (and your vehicle) with tracts that are filled with the words that they need to hear! They are small and can fit in your glove compartment and can easily be handed through your car window. A guy in our class even mentioned having Bibles in the car that can be handed out easily.
Stop and say a prayer! Prayer can mean a world of difference in the life of another. I know as a woman we tend to be a little scared to stop, so this can be something that is done as we are passing by. I find myself praying that the Lord can send someone that is equipped to stop and assist in ways that I can't. I ask for peace for the individual and that somehow their needs may be met.
No one ever said that being a Christian would be easy, but God gives us strength. No one ever said that sharing the Gospel would be easy, but God will give us the words to be spoken. No one ever said that it would be easy to minister to others, but God grants the desire and provides a way.
I encourage you to pray for an opportunity to serve someone today. When God answers your prayer, act!
Food for thought:
Blessings,
Heather
My heart is a giving heart. I want to meet the needs of others, but I must admit, my current working position has left me a bit tainted. I often question if they really need the assistance or not. Shame on me, right?! Is it my place to say if they need it or not or is it simply my duty to be the hands and feet of Jesus and help when asked (of course the second choice is the correct choice!)?
Wanting to help is not the problem, it is knowing how to best assist the people that are in need of the help that I struggle with. Is money the answer? Should I just go buy a hot meal and deliver to them? What else can be done to make a difference in the lives of God's children who He loves just as much as He loves me?! Well, my friends, it all became quite clear sitting in Sunday school two weeks ago as we were diving into our lesson. We can give them Jesus!
We may not have money to give (and to be honest, that may not be the solution to their problem), we may not even have the availability to run to McDonald's for a burger and fries, but we can give them the word of God and a prayer. We can plant the seed of salvation if they are not believers and for those who are, we can help them see the hope that lies ahead. Hearing the words from the Lord may be just what they are looking for!
This all sounds great--right?! Now, how do we put this plan to action?
Be proactive! Prepare yourself (and your vehicle) with tracts that are filled with the words that they need to hear! They are small and can fit in your glove compartment and can easily be handed through your car window. A guy in our class even mentioned having Bibles in the car that can be handed out easily.
Stop and say a prayer! Prayer can mean a world of difference in the life of another. I know as a woman we tend to be a little scared to stop, so this can be something that is done as we are passing by. I find myself praying that the Lord can send someone that is equipped to stop and assist in ways that I can't. I ask for peace for the individual and that somehow their needs may be met.
No one ever said that being a Christian would be easy, but God gives us strength. No one ever said that sharing the Gospel would be easy, but God will give us the words to be spoken. No one ever said that it would be easy to minister to others, but God grants the desire and provides a way.
I encourage you to pray for an opportunity to serve someone today. When God answers your prayer, act!
Food for thought:
"As every man has received a gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God." 1 Peter 4:10
Blessings,
Heather
Friday, September 5, 2014
Yep, Mama has LOST IT!
Have you ever lost your cool? Please tell me you have so that I don't feel alone!
Let me just give you a snip-it into my morning this glorious AM so that you can see just how Satan was at work in the Talley home!
My alarm went off and surprisingly I actually got up and going as I should, seeing how I was to deliver both children this morning since I did not have the assistance of my wonderful husband. I took my shower, put on my face and dressed myself before arousing the children. I fixed breakfast for Evan and Emie's bottle with Oatmeal and prepared to say our "Good Mornings!" So far things seem rather uneventful.
Sleepy-eyed Evan finds his way to the recliner, mini chicken biscuits in hand and his cup of milk, ready for his favorite cartoons to start his day. Emie is settled back by this time, bottle in hand, enjoying her morning yummys too.
10 minutes in, Evan has not taken one bite--not ONE bite!
25 MINUTES LATER, Evan has ONLY managed to down 1/2 of ONE mini chicken biscuit and then looks at me like I am crazy because I am asking him why more of it has not been eaten! I take it from him and put it on the stove and tell him to get dressed, now.
I walk through about 5 minutes later and I will let you take a wild guess---he is NOT dressed! How long does it REALLY take to dress a 6 year old body? For the LOVE!!
The TV is turned off (I know, it probably never should have been on in the first place, but give a Mama a break) and I have now in a raised tone, told him once again to GET. DRESSED!
I whisk Emie to her room for a clean diaper and clothes for the day, all the while reminding Evan of what all he needs to be doing. "Brush your teeth, Evan, use the bathroom, let's brush your hair and put on your socks and shoes." Really, it's not like we don't do the same chores morning after morning! I am exhausted by this point and my day is just beginning. I must interject here that I did wake in a good mood, enjoyed my quiet shower and my 10 minutes of face preparations.
Back to my sweet Evan. He is now brushing his teeth and I have moved on to finishing my hair. I zip through the kitchen only to catch a glimpse of him darting into his room where he is trying to put the shorts that he wore yesterday back on and his shorts that I had ironed that morning are in his dirt clothes bin. I just about come apart! When I ask, it seems as though there was a mishap with our aim in the bathroom! OH. MY. GOODNESS! Now I HAVE come apart! We don't have time for this. I am behaving in a way that is NOT the way Christ intended, Evan is crying and I am in tears! What a way to start our Friday!
Apologies were given and we finally were out the door. Did I mention that in the middle of all of this Emie managed to get her hand popped and have a complete come apart. So, we all shed some tears and had a doozy of a morning!
I feel as though I owe my mother a HUGE apology for the way I behaved in the mornings when she was working hard to get me up and going! Evan is his mother's child!
Does this sound like a morning in your home? Hopefully it is not a typical morning! I can't help but think if God must feel like this sometimes. He is constantly laying on our hearts and minds the things that He desires for us to do and we just lolly-gag to the point where so much time is wasted and we (and maybe even he) end up feeling defeated. Just as I was not constantly on Evan's case "just because", there is always a task at hand-something that must be done for a specific purpose. The Lord has plans for us. Are we too busy (or being too lazy) to see His plan through?
Back to my sweet Evan this morning. I did send his teacher a message to check on him and he was doing great. Maybe the repercussions of this morning have only stuck in my mind. This Mama gig can be difficult sometimes, but I wouldn't trade it for all of the world! Maybe God feels the same about me sometimes. Being my heavenly Father can be difficult, but in the long run, I know He wouldn't change a thing!
Scripture for thought on standing firm in the Lord when Satan tries to ruin the day:
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness." Ephesians 6:10-18
Blessings,
Heather
Let me just give you a snip-it into my morning this glorious AM so that you can see just how Satan was at work in the Talley home!
My alarm went off and surprisingly I actually got up and going as I should, seeing how I was to deliver both children this morning since I did not have the assistance of my wonderful husband. I took my shower, put on my face and dressed myself before arousing the children. I fixed breakfast for Evan and Emie's bottle with Oatmeal and prepared to say our "Good Mornings!" So far things seem rather uneventful.
Sleepy-eyed Evan finds his way to the recliner, mini chicken biscuits in hand and his cup of milk, ready for his favorite cartoons to start his day. Emie is settled back by this time, bottle in hand, enjoying her morning yummys too.
10 minutes in, Evan has not taken one bite--not ONE bite!
25 MINUTES LATER, Evan has ONLY managed to down 1/2 of ONE mini chicken biscuit and then looks at me like I am crazy because I am asking him why more of it has not been eaten! I take it from him and put it on the stove and tell him to get dressed, now.
I walk through about 5 minutes later and I will let you take a wild guess---he is NOT dressed! How long does it REALLY take to dress a 6 year old body? For the LOVE!!
The TV is turned off (I know, it probably never should have been on in the first place, but give a Mama a break) and I have now in a raised tone, told him once again to GET. DRESSED!
I whisk Emie to her room for a clean diaper and clothes for the day, all the while reminding Evan of what all he needs to be doing. "Brush your teeth, Evan, use the bathroom, let's brush your hair and put on your socks and shoes." Really, it's not like we don't do the same chores morning after morning! I am exhausted by this point and my day is just beginning. I must interject here that I did wake in a good mood, enjoyed my quiet shower and my 10 minutes of face preparations.
Back to my sweet Evan. He is now brushing his teeth and I have moved on to finishing my hair. I zip through the kitchen only to catch a glimpse of him darting into his room where he is trying to put the shorts that he wore yesterday back on and his shorts that I had ironed that morning are in his dirt clothes bin. I just about come apart! When I ask, it seems as though there was a mishap with our aim in the bathroom! OH. MY. GOODNESS! Now I HAVE come apart! We don't have time for this. I am behaving in a way that is NOT the way Christ intended, Evan is crying and I am in tears! What a way to start our Friday!
Apologies were given and we finally were out the door. Did I mention that in the middle of all of this Emie managed to get her hand popped and have a complete come apart. So, we all shed some tears and had a doozy of a morning!
I feel as though I owe my mother a HUGE apology for the way I behaved in the mornings when she was working hard to get me up and going! Evan is his mother's child!
Does this sound like a morning in your home? Hopefully it is not a typical morning! I can't help but think if God must feel like this sometimes. He is constantly laying on our hearts and minds the things that He desires for us to do and we just lolly-gag to the point where so much time is wasted and we (and maybe even he) end up feeling defeated. Just as I was not constantly on Evan's case "just because", there is always a task at hand-something that must be done for a specific purpose. The Lord has plans for us. Are we too busy (or being too lazy) to see His plan through?
Back to my sweet Evan this morning. I did send his teacher a message to check on him and he was doing great. Maybe the repercussions of this morning have only stuck in my mind. This Mama gig can be difficult sometimes, but I wouldn't trade it for all of the world! Maybe God feels the same about me sometimes. Being my heavenly Father can be difficult, but in the long run, I know He wouldn't change a thing!
Scripture for thought on standing firm in the Lord when Satan tries to ruin the day:
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness." Ephesians 6:10-18
Blessings,
Heather
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
All the while...
I tend to be the kind of person who becomes totally wrapped up in whatever the task may be before me. Lately, it seems as though I can't get one foot in front of the other, keep my balance and stay focused on the task at hand. My mind is consumed with things that should be done, could have been done and things that have to be done, all the while, things change.
Change. Such a dreaded word at times, but is it really all that bad? Think about it. Before you are married, you are single, right? Then, you meet someone and something changes. You fall in love and your life is never the same again. Move ahead a few years, you marry and it is just the two of you, you decide to grow your little family, so you add a little one and once again something changes. These tend to be the kind of changes that bring us laughter and joy! These are the easy changes to handle! We all know too well that life is not all about easy changes.
The storm clouds come and dark days dawn. Friends and family members hurt and pain rips our hearts into pieces. Friendships fail and loved ones die. That is the reality of this thing we call life. These changes are not always easy to accept, but they are necessary. They aide in our growth and walk with the Lord.
Just this past week, our family lost a dear friend. Mrs. Jackie fought and kicked cancer, but her body succumbed to a heart attack. When the phone call came, my heart was broken. The tears fell and the hurt was heavy. Her family (and friends who loved her so) was (is) about to experience change as never before.
Just a little over a week ago, a friend from home was involved in a very serious auto mobile accident. Fortunately, the Lord had his hand on Jessica and her friend, their lives were spared, however physical limitations are being challenged. They will face change for a while like they have never known.
James and I have friends whose marriages have stood terrible tests. Some were able to rise from the ashes and others have not. With this, brings change--not only for the couple, but for the entire family unit.
In each situation, although they are different in their own respect, one thing remains the same. The love the Father has for every life touched by change. He is there to hold us up when we feel we have no strength. Provide comfort when all we feel is pain. Heal the brokenness when it all seems hopeless. Though physically he is not here to hold a hand or be a shoulder to lean on, he provides those for us who can fill the gaps. Our spouses, our parents, siblings and friends. Maybe you personally are not facing a trial at this time, be thankful. Maybe He has placed you in the life of someone who needs you to be there to listen, care for and love.
If currently you are facing change, embrace the opportunity to grow. Lean on Jesus like never before and know that you are loved.
"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Galatians 2:20
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today and forever." Hebrews 13:8
Blessings,
Heather
Change. Such a dreaded word at times, but is it really all that bad? Think about it. Before you are married, you are single, right? Then, you meet someone and something changes. You fall in love and your life is never the same again. Move ahead a few years, you marry and it is just the two of you, you decide to grow your little family, so you add a little one and once again something changes. These tend to be the kind of changes that bring us laughter and joy! These are the easy changes to handle! We all know too well that life is not all about easy changes.
The storm clouds come and dark days dawn. Friends and family members hurt and pain rips our hearts into pieces. Friendships fail and loved ones die. That is the reality of this thing we call life. These changes are not always easy to accept, but they are necessary. They aide in our growth and walk with the Lord.
Just this past week, our family lost a dear friend. Mrs. Jackie fought and kicked cancer, but her body succumbed to a heart attack. When the phone call came, my heart was broken. The tears fell and the hurt was heavy. Her family (and friends who loved her so) was (is) about to experience change as never before.
Just a little over a week ago, a friend from home was involved in a very serious auto mobile accident. Fortunately, the Lord had his hand on Jessica and her friend, their lives were spared, however physical limitations are being challenged. They will face change for a while like they have never known.
James and I have friends whose marriages have stood terrible tests. Some were able to rise from the ashes and others have not. With this, brings change--not only for the couple, but for the entire family unit.
In each situation, although they are different in their own respect, one thing remains the same. The love the Father has for every life touched by change. He is there to hold us up when we feel we have no strength. Provide comfort when all we feel is pain. Heal the brokenness when it all seems hopeless. Though physically he is not here to hold a hand or be a shoulder to lean on, he provides those for us who can fill the gaps. Our spouses, our parents, siblings and friends. Maybe you personally are not facing a trial at this time, be thankful. Maybe He has placed you in the life of someone who needs you to be there to listen, care for and love.
If currently you are facing change, embrace the opportunity to grow. Lean on Jesus like never before and know that you are loved.
"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Galatians 2:20
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7
"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today and forever." Hebrews 13:8
Blessings,
Heather
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Things that make you go hmmm....
Ever heard something that makes you think so hard that you literally go, "hmmmmmmm"? Over the past several years, there have been several comments made from time to time by either friends or acquaintances that have really made me stop in my tracks and think. Think really hard!
My friend Laura and I communicate almost daily-either verbally or through text. She is one of my go to gals! We work together, shop together, eat out together, and attend the same Sunday school class with our hubbys. This past week she mentioned that she has said (to another family member) on numerous occasions that her marriage comes before her boys. Now, she has said this to me many times before, but this time, it really made me stop and think. Think so much that I actually asked the hubs this morning, as he was tying his tie, what he thought that statement meant.
What does this statement really mean? More than that, what does it me to me and what does it mean for the sake of my (healthy) marriage? I am so thankful to have Laura in my life. She brings things to light for me and we seem to really balance each other out. Her husband would probably tell you that I, on the other hand, can be a negative influence as I totally indulge her love for shopping! Hey, that's what girlfriends are for, right?!
Back to topic. What does it mean to truly put James (my hubs) above all else? Even before the children who I carried for 9 months and sent my body into a whirlwind to deliver safely? Those same children who I have cradled in the middle of night and worn (still wear, as Emie is only 9 mo) t-shirts covered in their less than appealing bodily fluids (gross, I know!)? How do you even do that? They NEED me!! They have needs that ONLY I can take care of! Sound familiar?!
Well, that is where I have been shown that I am wrong! What my children NEED is to see their daddy and me loving and serving the Lord, loving one another, and being available to care for them. There are times when James and I WILL need to take a break and go to dinner--just the two of us. And that is ok! We should not feel guilty about loving each other and wanting to reconnect and re-energize our marriage. The more and more that we allow things (in some cases people) to come between us, when we diminish our ability to be able to communicate and spend time together, the worse off we will be. The worse off our marriage will be. The worse off our family will be. We must take time to love each other. It is so easy to be so busy that we forget to ask "how was your day?" or give that kiss at the end of the night, but we can't! I wouldn't have my beautiful babies if it were not for James and I can't be guilty of forgetting that!
So, in closing, just as my children need me, so does my husband! I can't a Godly mother to them if I am not being a Godly wife to their daddy! I hope this initial question made you stop and go "hmmmmm"! Thanks Laura for being my friend and for making me stop and think outside MY box! I love ya!
Blessings,
Heather
My friend Laura and I communicate almost daily-either verbally or through text. She is one of my go to gals! We work together, shop together, eat out together, and attend the same Sunday school class with our hubbys. This past week she mentioned that she has said (to another family member) on numerous occasions that her marriage comes before her boys. Now, she has said this to me many times before, but this time, it really made me stop and think. Think so much that I actually asked the hubs this morning, as he was tying his tie, what he thought that statement meant.
What does this statement really mean? More than that, what does it me to me and what does it mean for the sake of my (healthy) marriage? I am so thankful to have Laura in my life. She brings things to light for me and we seem to really balance each other out. Her husband would probably tell you that I, on the other hand, can be a negative influence as I totally indulge her love for shopping! Hey, that's what girlfriends are for, right?!
Back to topic. What does it mean to truly put James (my hubs) above all else? Even before the children who I carried for 9 months and sent my body into a whirlwind to deliver safely? Those same children who I have cradled in the middle of night and worn (still wear, as Emie is only 9 mo) t-shirts covered in their less than appealing bodily fluids (gross, I know!)? How do you even do that? They NEED me!! They have needs that ONLY I can take care of! Sound familiar?!
Well, that is where I have been shown that I am wrong! What my children NEED is to see their daddy and me loving and serving the Lord, loving one another, and being available to care for them. There are times when James and I WILL need to take a break and go to dinner--just the two of us. And that is ok! We should not feel guilty about loving each other and wanting to reconnect and re-energize our marriage. The more and more that we allow things (in some cases people) to come between us, when we diminish our ability to be able to communicate and spend time together, the worse off we will be. The worse off our marriage will be. The worse off our family will be. We must take time to love each other. It is so easy to be so busy that we forget to ask "how was your day?" or give that kiss at the end of the night, but we can't! I wouldn't have my beautiful babies if it were not for James and I can't be guilty of forgetting that!
So, in closing, just as my children need me, so does my husband! I can't a Godly mother to them if I am not being a Godly wife to their daddy! I hope this initial question made you stop and go "hmmmmm"! Thanks Laura for being my friend and for making me stop and think outside MY box! I love ya!
Blessings,
Heather
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