The Circumstance
I haven't journaled since Nov 13. That's over 2 weeks ago. Part of my reasoning for blogging was to have an added motivation to consistently be in the Word and journaling. The last two weeks, however, have be like floating on clouds. I haven't needed to 'cry out to the Lord' with my frustrations or doubt or self pity; I have been pleasantly enjoying life, family, friends, and daily tasks. Yesterday I even thought, "Why did I ever feel like I needed to go to Library story times or Women's Bible Study? It just takes away so much time I could be spending with Paxton. We have so much fun together why would I want to be anywhere else?". And for me, it's hard to sit myself down and read and journal when life is pleasant. Does that mean I haven't read my Bible in 2 weeks? Honestly, yes. I have glanced, but I certainly haven't been preparing for battle. Now here I am, sitting in the lobby during Bible Study reading the Bible and journaling. Why? Rough morning all around! I had to pass Paxton off to someone else before things got ugly. Its times like these that send me to the Word in desperation.
The Word
Eph 6:17-18
And take...the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.
The Application
A wise person prepares for battle before going into battle. Learning how to use the sword before needing to use it is how real warriors fight. Russel Crowe didn't just sit around on his break times and expect to be the top gladiator once he entered the ring. He trained. The high school jocks who sleep in on Saturdays don't get recruited to the best colleges; it's the guys to wake up early and train every morning, even in the off season, who do. This makes me think, "If I am consistent in the Word and pray always in the Spirit, being watchful for days like these, would I be able to handle these moments with more self control, emotional stability, grace, and love?". Yes, because it's all about me and how I choose to let the Holy Spirit work in me. (Note: these times wont be taken away, I'll just be more equipped to handle them). But it's not about me at all, it's about the Lord and what He wants. For me as a parent, it would be really hard if Paxton only came to me when things were awry. I love it when he runs to me and smothers me with sloppy kisses when he's happy or when he enjoys something and he wants to show me. If I then being human and limited in love feel like this, how much more will my Father in heaven desire to spend time with me and to share in my joy?
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Sunday, November 13, 2011
How to Live Happily Ever After
The Circumstance
Marriage is hard. We're going on 5 years and are having a good time, but marriage is hard. As things are changing in our life we are experiencing more conflict and more arguments and more stress than ever before. As an act of "preventative maintenance" we met with a Pastor-couple for marriage support. It's tough to see the whole picture when you're in the midst of the storm, so a wise and trusted outsider's view helped us put things into perspective and give us words for what we are feeling and experiencing. And most importantly, they were able to 'translate' what "female" was saying and what "male" was saying (since we all know we speak different languages).
The Word
Eph 6:10-13
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness 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.
The Application
Marriage is a tool God uses to help us see what is "inside". When the heat is turned up the water boils and out comes the ugly. Things have been pretty simple in our marriage; I'd say the pot has just been 'warm', but as we go on we keep adding more to our life and each addition turns the heat up another notch: James in school, a baby, less income/more expenses, James' new position at work, my continued poor health and lack of sleep, etc. Through this, we get to see what's inside of ourselves by how we are reacting to the added stressors. These reactions include but are not limited to: anger, passive-aggression, passivity and checking out, bitterness, revenge. But by recognizing what is going on, we get to decide how to respond. We can either choose to fight each other about it, point and blame and get bitter, or we can join together in the fight and help each other as we deal with the roots that go deep that cause such ugliness to come out. We now realize that, yes, we do need to fight, but instead of fighting each other we need to fight the one who is doing the attacking. James and I are both too stubborn to let anyone or anything come between us so we choose to stand together and fight as one. This takes humbleness, brutal honesty, trust, intentionality, a team of people praying along side us, and the Holy Spirit guiding and protecting us.
We all know the saying, "S#!t happens". So why are we so surprised when it does? Let's be intentional in our marriage and not get caught off guard, so when the time comes we are able to fight, and having done all, to stand.
Marriage is hard. We're going on 5 years and are having a good time, but marriage is hard. As things are changing in our life we are experiencing more conflict and more arguments and more stress than ever before. As an act of "preventative maintenance" we met with a Pastor-couple for marriage support. It's tough to see the whole picture when you're in the midst of the storm, so a wise and trusted outsider's view helped us put things into perspective and give us words for what we are feeling and experiencing. And most importantly, they were able to 'translate' what "female" was saying and what "male" was saying (since we all know we speak different languages).
The Word
Eph 6:10-13
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness 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.
The Application
Marriage is a tool God uses to help us see what is "inside". When the heat is turned up the water boils and out comes the ugly. Things have been pretty simple in our marriage; I'd say the pot has just been 'warm', but as we go on we keep adding more to our life and each addition turns the heat up another notch: James in school, a baby, less income/more expenses, James' new position at work, my continued poor health and lack of sleep, etc. Through this, we get to see what's inside of ourselves by how we are reacting to the added stressors. These reactions include but are not limited to: anger, passive-aggression, passivity and checking out, bitterness, revenge. But by recognizing what is going on, we get to decide how to respond. We can either choose to fight each other about it, point and blame and get bitter, or we can join together in the fight and help each other as we deal with the roots that go deep that cause such ugliness to come out. We now realize that, yes, we do need to fight, but instead of fighting each other we need to fight the one who is doing the attacking. James and I are both too stubborn to let anyone or anything come between us so we choose to stand together and fight as one. This takes humbleness, brutal honesty, trust, intentionality, a team of people praying along side us, and the Holy Spirit guiding and protecting us.
We all know the saying, "S#!t happens". So why are we so surprised when it does? Let's be intentional in our marriage and not get caught off guard, so when the time comes we are able to fight, and having done all, to stand.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Unanswered Prayers
The Word
1 Samuel 16
Samuel was sent by God to find the anointed king of Israel. How would he know who is was? God would tell him when he found him. For those of us who don't hear God speaking in full and detailed sentences, I interpret this to mean he would "just know". He went through each brother and knew it wasn't on of them. He couldn't say why, he just knew it wasn't. And when he was through with the oldest brothers he didn't go back through them and think, "maybe I missed it. Maybe I didn't hear God right. Was I paying attention?" he knew he didn't hear God say "this is the one" so he knew there must be more to the story. He didn't jump to conclusions and doubt that the Lord had told him to go anoint the son of Jesse to be king. Then when David came to him, Samuel knew; this is the one he came for.
The Circumstance and Application
I asked God to name our child. When I was pregnant, we went through book after book and never felt the Lord say "that's your child's name". Until I saw it. Even though we never saw it on an ultrasound, at that moment I knew that I knew that we were having a son and his name was Paxton. And sure enough, the baby was born a boy and he is definitely Paxton.
I pray the same thing about buying a house. We keep looking at houses, and some are great; we have even made a few offers because they felt like they could be "it". I know that God will provide us our house and it wont have to be too complicated. I keep looking back at other houses thinking, "maybe we missed it". "Maybe we didn't hear God." But, like Samuel, I need to not doubt. When it's time it's time, and and it's all about God's timing. Things don't happen in my timing, and when I try to make them happen in my timing it never works out the way I thought it would. God has bigger plans in mind. Sure, any of these houses will do, but the things He is teaching me through this home buying process cannot be rushed and could not have been learned if we would have bought the first house we saw.
In conclusion, as the wise Garth Brooks says: Some of God's greatest gifts are unanswered prayers.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
I Tend to Only Like Roller Coasters When It's Over
The Circumstance
I haven't been on a roller coaster for years. Somewhere in my life I got old and now rides like that make me nauseated. But when I was young and immortal I chose to go on the very scary, very thrilling "upside down" roller coasters. I would be so scared I had to psych myself up just to stand in line because I dreaded the ride. When the ride started, I would hold on for dear life, clench my whole body, never lift my hands, and often times I was too scared to scream. BUT, when the ride was over? Whew! "LET'S DO IT AGAIN!!!" Why did I put myself through that unnecessary stress? Because I was too stubborn to let fear rule my life.
The Word
Psalm 61:2-4
From the end of the earth I will cry to You, When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For You have been a shelter for me, A strong tower from the enemy. I will abide in Your tabernacle forever; I will trust in the shelter of Your wings. Selah (Selah = Pause, rest)
The Application
Life is a roller coaster. Life does not stay steady and things happen that are not according to my plans. So, when these unplanned things happen, I typically hold on for dear life, clench my whole body, and never lift my hands and enjoy it (and I usually run through scenarios over and over, lose sleep, complain about it, and even blame others for the challenge). BUT, when the moment is over I have more passion and more energy and look back and say, "LET'S DO THAT AGAIN!"
I wish I could enjoy this roller coaster of life. I wish I could lift my hands with complete trust that I'll be taken along the track and arrive at the end in one piece. You'd think, with the Path already set before me, with a trustworthy Person personally Lighting the way, and the obvious fact that I am not qualified to decide how life should be, that I could just let go and enjoy the ride. My husband's choices, my child(ren)'s development and choices, buying a house, finances, health,.... the list goes on and on of things I could enjoy oh so much more if I relaxed my tight grip, lifted my hands to relinquish control to the One who is more responsible than I, and enjoyed the ride. If I am on a roller coaster I WILL go up and down and up and down. Why am I so surprised when this happens in life? I KNOW I will experience hardships. I should EXPECT them. My first reaction should be to duck and cover under the shadow of His wings.
I haven't been on a roller coaster for years. Somewhere in my life I got old and now rides like that make me nauseated. But when I was young and immortal I chose to go on the very scary, very thrilling "upside down" roller coasters. I would be so scared I had to psych myself up just to stand in line because I dreaded the ride. When the ride started, I would hold on for dear life, clench my whole body, never lift my hands, and often times I was too scared to scream. BUT, when the ride was over? Whew! "LET'S DO IT AGAIN!!!" Why did I put myself through that unnecessary stress? Because I was too stubborn to let fear rule my life.
The Word
Psalm 61:2-4
From the end of the earth I will cry to You, When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For You have been a shelter for me, A strong tower from the enemy. I will abide in Your tabernacle forever; I will trust in the shelter of Your wings. Selah (Selah = Pause, rest)
Parenthood. 1989 Directed by Ron Howard
Imagine Entertainment and Universal Pictures
Adding this clip to my blog does not in anyway mean that condone or reject this film or its contents, but it does mean I like this clip and it's message.
Life is a roller coaster. Life does not stay steady and things happen that are not according to my plans. So, when these unplanned things happen, I typically hold on for dear life, clench my whole body, and never lift my hands and enjoy it (and I usually run through scenarios over and over, lose sleep, complain about it, and even blame others for the challenge). BUT, when the moment is over I have more passion and more energy and look back and say, "LET'S DO THAT AGAIN!"
I wish I could enjoy this roller coaster of life. I wish I could lift my hands with complete trust that I'll be taken along the track and arrive at the end in one piece. You'd think, with the Path already set before me, with a trustworthy Person personally Lighting the way, and the obvious fact that I am not qualified to decide how life should be, that I could just let go and enjoy the ride. My husband's choices, my child(ren)'s development and choices, buying a house, finances, health,.... the list goes on and on of things I could enjoy oh so much more if I relaxed my tight grip, lifted my hands to relinquish control to the One who is more responsible than I, and enjoyed the ride. If I am on a roller coaster I WILL go up and down and up and down. Why am I so surprised when this happens in life? I KNOW I will experience hardships. I should EXPECT them. My first reaction should be to duck and cover under the shadow of His wings.
Friday, October 28, 2011
The Joy of Exhaustion
The Circumstance
"One of those days" turned into "one of those weeks" turned into...."what the heck IS this phase?!". Paxton and I had a tough couple of weeks and I was so glad to leave him with James for the weekend, secretly praying that James would experience Paxton at his worst for 3 straight days. But Paxton was an angel. Of course. So I thought the teeth had broken through and we were in the clear, but this was a very hard week. With little energy for much else I resorted to eating poorly which makes me not feel good which makes matters worse. I keep thinking, "I can't wait till this is over" and I just try to duck my head and get through it. But then I think, "Life is hard. Am I going to duck for the rest of my life? Isn't there a way I can enjoy even this phase?"
The Word
Romans 5:1-4
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have[a] peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
The Application
I was searching for wisdom on the internet (sometimes a risky venture) and came across someones blog that didn't have anything to do with raising children but had a perspective changing quote. His blog was called:
The joy of exhaustion!
"You know.. the best thing in this world is going to bed with a brain that is completely exhausted after a day of playing with logic, numbers and words! Bliss!! =)
PS: Also holds true for other stuff that saps your energy and yet gives you the satisfaction of having lived up to the day. Life!"
I am exhausted because I am a mother. How can I not see the joy in that?! How many women cannot have children and DREAM of being exhausted because of their children? I am exhausted because I am a GOOD mother. I could do less, care less, spend less quality time with Paxton, but I enjoy being a good mother so I mother "all in". Yes, I will put him in his crib for "quiet time" even if he screams through it because it's better for everyone if I get a break, but ultimately that makes me a better mother. Yes, I leave him with a sitter in order to have some time for me, but that makes me a better mother. But on days (weeks) like these when I am worn out, emotionally drained, sensitive, and tired of fussiness, I can praise the Lord that I get the opportunity to be a mother.
The above verse says that I GET to have a peace with God BECAUSE I have been declared innocent according to God BECAUSE of my faith (not because of anything I do); that includes dishes, laundry, preparing meals, etc. If I don't do "what I'm supposed to do" as a stay at home mom, I don't have to feel guilty, and no one can shame me or blame me, because the only One whose opinion matters tells me to stand in His grace. And not only that, He promises that all of this hard stuff is actually benefiting me in the long run.
So when Mr. Fussy-Pants walks up to me whining "MOMMMMMYYYYYYY!" and wont let me get anything done and doesn't want anything I offer and doesn't want to be held but doesn't want to be put down and I'm at my wit's end... I can make the conscious choice to love every minute of it.
Somehow that brings rest to my spirit. That rest honors my husband more than any dinner or pile of folded laundry could ever do.
"One of those days" turned into "one of those weeks" turned into...."what the heck IS this phase?!". Paxton and I had a tough couple of weeks and I was so glad to leave him with James for the weekend, secretly praying that James would experience Paxton at his worst for 3 straight days. But Paxton was an angel. Of course. So I thought the teeth had broken through and we were in the clear, but this was a very hard week. With little energy for much else I resorted to eating poorly which makes me not feel good which makes matters worse. I keep thinking, "I can't wait till this is over" and I just try to duck my head and get through it. But then I think, "Life is hard. Am I going to duck for the rest of my life? Isn't there a way I can enjoy even this phase?"
The Word
Romans 5:1-4
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have[a] peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.
The Application
I was searching for wisdom on the internet (sometimes a risky venture) and came across someones blog that didn't have anything to do with raising children but had a perspective changing quote. His blog was called:
The joy of exhaustion!
"You know.. the best thing in this world is going to bed with a brain that is completely exhausted after a day of playing with logic, numbers and words! Bliss!! =)
PS: Also holds true for other stuff that saps your energy and yet gives you the satisfaction of having lived up to the day. Life!"
I am exhausted because I am a mother. How can I not see the joy in that?! How many women cannot have children and DREAM of being exhausted because of their children? I am exhausted because I am a GOOD mother. I could do less, care less, spend less quality time with Paxton, but I enjoy being a good mother so I mother "all in". Yes, I will put him in his crib for "quiet time" even if he screams through it because it's better for everyone if I get a break, but ultimately that makes me a better mother. Yes, I leave him with a sitter in order to have some time for me, but that makes me a better mother. But on days (weeks) like these when I am worn out, emotionally drained, sensitive, and tired of fussiness, I can praise the Lord that I get the opportunity to be a mother.
The above verse says that I GET to have a peace with God BECAUSE I have been declared innocent according to God BECAUSE of my faith (not because of anything I do); that includes dishes, laundry, preparing meals, etc. If I don't do "what I'm supposed to do" as a stay at home mom, I don't have to feel guilty, and no one can shame me or blame me, because the only One whose opinion matters tells me to stand in His grace. And not only that, He promises that all of this hard stuff is actually benefiting me in the long run.
So when Mr. Fussy-Pants walks up to me whining "MOMMMMMYYYYYYY!" and wont let me get anything done and doesn't want anything I offer and doesn't want to be held but doesn't want to be put down and I'm at my wit's end... I can make the conscious choice to love every minute of it.
Somehow that brings rest to my spirit. That rest honors my husband more than any dinner or pile of folded laundry could ever do.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
If my worst fear happens, He is still King
The Circumstance
My grandpa turned 84 today. I was 9 (give or take 3 years) when they found cancer in his body. I spent countless nights crying myself to sleep. I would play out stories in my mind of my grandpa dying, then bawl for hours before going to sleep. Fast forward 6 years and we see my doctor putting me on anti-anxiety pills because I couldn't sleep at night. I would play scenarios out in my head over and over, saying different things, reacting different ways, and usually not pleasant scenarios. Fast forward 13 years and see me as a stay at home mom, often spending most of my day with an infant who isn't much for adult conversation. I spend a lot of time in my head and if I'm not careful, my thoughts will turn south and I'll be ranting and raving at James before he even gets in the door and he has no idea why (and by that time, neither do I). I used to attend a Christian College where they had the "3-second" rule. We were not to dwell on an impure thought for more than 3 seconds. Naturally I mocked this rule by insisting I just had multiple 3-second segments of impure thoughts. I wish I had understood that this wasn't just a "rule" but a training lesson for healthy living. But I was 18 and knew everything.
The Word
2 Cor 10:5
"...bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ"
Phil. 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.
The Application
Yes, I know these versus. Yes, I know I should "take the high road"/ "live in the red line"/ live always in "prayer and thanksgiving", but doing it is another thing. It takes practice. If I started practicing controlling my thoughts at the age of 9 I would be pretty good at it by now. I'd recognize quickly when the enemy was stealing my joy. I could have spent my time praying and thanking God instead of worry about things that never happened (my grandpa overcame cancer and I made it through high school without too much traumatization). Since it's all about me, I choose to start now. I am thankful that I at least recognize my need to do this. I am thankful for the Holy Spirit to help me fight the battle for my mind. A lifelong practice: taking all thoughts captive, stopping the thoughts that do not honor Christ and replacing them with thoughts that do. Will positive thinking stop bad things from occurring? No. There is no "mind over matter"; I still live on planet Earth. But seeing life through Kingdom-colored glasses (knowing there is a bigger picture that I can't see, but the One who can see it is Trustworthy) will change how I respond to my circumstances. In time, I learn how to trust God more and more. Since it's not about me at all, in all situations (from getting lost while driving in my car to a death of a loved one) I want to say, "It is well with my soul".
TOOLS: Continually be in the Word. Memorize/meditate on scripture. Worship. Journal about answered prayers and how God has helped me through in the past. Know the Old Testament, how God continually fights for His People. Pray. Know that I am precious to Him.
My grandpa turned 84 today. I was 9 (give or take 3 years) when they found cancer in his body. I spent countless nights crying myself to sleep. I would play out stories in my mind of my grandpa dying, then bawl for hours before going to sleep. Fast forward 6 years and we see my doctor putting me on anti-anxiety pills because I couldn't sleep at night. I would play scenarios out in my head over and over, saying different things, reacting different ways, and usually not pleasant scenarios. Fast forward 13 years and see me as a stay at home mom, often spending most of my day with an infant who isn't much for adult conversation. I spend a lot of time in my head and if I'm not careful, my thoughts will turn south and I'll be ranting and raving at James before he even gets in the door and he has no idea why (and by that time, neither do I). I used to attend a Christian College where they had the "3-second" rule. We were not to dwell on an impure thought for more than 3 seconds. Naturally I mocked this rule by insisting I just had multiple 3-second segments of impure thoughts. I wish I had understood that this wasn't just a "rule" but a training lesson for healthy living. But I was 18 and knew everything.
The Word
2 Cor 10:5
"...bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ"
Phil. 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.
The Application
Yes, I know these versus. Yes, I know I should "take the high road"/ "live in the red line"/ live always in "prayer and thanksgiving", but doing it is another thing. It takes practice. If I started practicing controlling my thoughts at the age of 9 I would be pretty good at it by now. I'd recognize quickly when the enemy was stealing my joy. I could have spent my time praying and thanking God instead of worry about things that never happened (my grandpa overcame cancer and I made it through high school without too much traumatization). Since it's all about me, I choose to start now. I am thankful that I at least recognize my need to do this. I am thankful for the Holy Spirit to help me fight the battle for my mind. A lifelong practice: taking all thoughts captive, stopping the thoughts that do not honor Christ and replacing them with thoughts that do. Will positive thinking stop bad things from occurring? No. There is no "mind over matter"; I still live on planet Earth. But seeing life through Kingdom-colored glasses (knowing there is a bigger picture that I can't see, but the One who can see it is Trustworthy) will change how I respond to my circumstances. In time, I learn how to trust God more and more. Since it's not about me at all, in all situations (from getting lost while driving in my car to a death of a loved one) I want to say, "It is well with my soul".
TOOLS: Continually be in the Word. Memorize/meditate on scripture. Worship. Journal about answered prayers and how God has helped me through in the past. Know the Old Testament, how God continually fights for His People. Pray. Know that I am precious to Him.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
A Husband is More Than Just a Roommate You Get to Have Sex With
The Circumstance
I have had many roommates in my life, all of whom have brought a lot of growth in my character. Roommates are good for that. Living in close quarters with others causes rough edges to be worn down. I have said that roommate living is good practice for marriage. I always imagined being married to a man who is my best friend and, like a roommate, we would have a lot of fun together, but with the added bonus of getting to have hot, godly sex. However, I am not still living with my college roommates. At some point, our lives took different courses; we made decisions apart from one another. Also, when I was dealing with serious stuff I didn't run to my roommates for comfort and prayer. Maybe it's just my personality, but I got alone and dealt with Lord about it on my own. And if I really got mad at a roommate I could just ignore them until someone moved out. So if I really think about it, if marriage is just having a roommate I get to have sex with, then when I was living with roommates in college I was just practicing for divorce (or an empty, lonely co-habitation).
The Word
Mt 19:16-22
Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?” So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.” He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “ ‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother,’and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
The Application
The rich young ruler in this passage didn't choose to surrender all for the greatest gift in return. He was too stuck in his independence to fully commit to Christ. He wanted his independence but also the fruit of a deep relationship. I am not co-habitating, I am married. Two becoming one is no longer a natural and easy response like it was meant to be before sin entered the world. I must overcome unhealthy fear. I must face the pain and let the Holy Spirit heal wounds of my past in order to have a future with my husband. I must trust that the Holy Spirit cares about my marriage more than I do and that He can do a greater work in my marriage than I can, if I let Him through prayer and patience. I must become vulnerable to my husband, and forgive him when, not if, he hurts me because he is human. In order to have a healthy, Christ-centered marriage, I want to share the deepest parts of my soul with my spouse. He shouldn't have to learn about what is going on in my life, spiritually or otherwise, after the fact, when I already walked through the tough stuff without him. He wants to be apart of it. And he certainly shouldn't have to wait to read about it in my blog. And why, if it seems so hard to do, is it worth it? Because I, like all women in their honest moments, yearn to be truly known and deeply loved. But I can only go as deep with my husband as I have gone with the Lord. It's all about me and my openness to the Lord. The rest is all about Him. I'm sure glad He's trustworthy.
I have had many roommates in my life, all of whom have brought a lot of growth in my character. Roommates are good for that. Living in close quarters with others causes rough edges to be worn down. I have said that roommate living is good practice for marriage. I always imagined being married to a man who is my best friend and, like a roommate, we would have a lot of fun together, but with the added bonus of getting to have hot, godly sex. However, I am not still living with my college roommates. At some point, our lives took different courses; we made decisions apart from one another. Also, when I was dealing with serious stuff I didn't run to my roommates for comfort and prayer. Maybe it's just my personality, but I got alone and dealt with Lord about it on my own. And if I really got mad at a roommate I could just ignore them until someone moved out. So if I really think about it, if marriage is just having a roommate I get to have sex with, then when I was living with roommates in college I was just practicing for divorce (or an empty, lonely co-habitation).
The Word
Mt 19:16-22
Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?” So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.” He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “ ‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother,’and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
The Application
The rich young ruler in this passage didn't choose to surrender all for the greatest gift in return. He was too stuck in his independence to fully commit to Christ. He wanted his independence but also the fruit of a deep relationship. I am not co-habitating, I am married. Two becoming one is no longer a natural and easy response like it was meant to be before sin entered the world. I must overcome unhealthy fear. I must face the pain and let the Holy Spirit heal wounds of my past in order to have a future with my husband. I must trust that the Holy Spirit cares about my marriage more than I do and that He can do a greater work in my marriage than I can, if I let Him through prayer and patience. I must become vulnerable to my husband, and forgive him when, not if, he hurts me because he is human. In order to have a healthy, Christ-centered marriage, I want to share the deepest parts of my soul with my spouse. He shouldn't have to learn about what is going on in my life, spiritually or otherwise, after the fact, when I already walked through the tough stuff without him. He wants to be apart of it. And he certainly shouldn't have to wait to read about it in my blog. And why, if it seems so hard to do, is it worth it? Because I, like all women in their honest moments, yearn to be truly known and deeply loved. But I can only go as deep with my husband as I have gone with the Lord. It's all about me and my openness to the Lord. The rest is all about Him. I'm sure glad He's trustworthy.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
I just want to be a sheep (baa baa baa baa!)
The Circumstance
I don’t trust God. It’s a humbling thing to admit, but when
I look at the facts it’s the obvious conclusion.
I am anxious. I have a hard time sleeping because my mind won’t
rest. I get upset when things don’t go as planned. I get fearful, resulting in
anger, when I don’t have a firm grasp of control over my life. I am not patient
with James (another fear/control issue). There are items in this world that I
don’t have that I honestly think would solve some of my problems if I did have
them. I plan plan plan prepare prepare and then run in through in my head over
and over until I drive myself crazy. Prayer is not the first thing I think of
when I come into hard times
These things are not results of a deep trust in the Lord.
The Word
Psalm 23:1-3
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not (be in) want. He makes
me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He
restores my soul.
The Application
Dr. Robert Flores once mentioned something in a sermon on
this Psalm that stuck with me.
Sheep will not lie down in a field of luscious grass if they are hungry.
This Psalm shows us that God will take care of our needs so we are able to
rest. Also, sheep are skittish; they will not drink from raging waters; He
leads them to water where they feel safe. Sheep who are led by a shepherd they
trust are able to be still and know he is in control.
In comparison, if I trust in myself, I have every reason to
be afraid. I lead myself to raging waters and then dunk my face in full force
and then wonder why it’s hard to breathe. I have a hard time with the verse “Be
still and know that I am the Lord”. It seems like a catch 22; in order to Know
the Lord I need to be still, but in order to be still I really need to Know the
Lord.
I continually need to give up. I go through this often,
you’d think I’d be better at it by now. Just give up. Let God lead. Don’t work
so hard at something He can do so easily. But what does that really look like?
I can imagine what that looks like for a sheep, but it’s a
bit more complicated when I look at my own life, and as I've established, it's all about me.
And that is what enhances the chaos. When I realize that it's not about me at all, and I focus on the Shepherd, I can see He is trustworthy, that I am safe, that I can be still.
I just need the constant reminder to look up.
But don't give me any of those annoying cliche sayings to remind me (like FROG or WWJD). I'll throw the bracelet back in your face.
And that is what enhances the chaos. When I realize that it's not about me at all, and I focus on the Shepherd, I can see He is trustworthy, that I am safe, that I can be still.
I just need the constant reminder to look up.
But don't give me any of those annoying cliche sayings to remind me (like FROG or WWJD). I'll throw the bracelet back in your face.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Sometimes you just have to be there
10/13/11
The Circumstance
I don't usually feel like going to Bible Study, but I choose to go anyway. I never know what may happen; I will most likely learn something that can help me in this life so I make the choice to go. This week was very helpful. I made the conscious decision to open up to some wise ladies whom I trust; they were able to pray for me about some really deep stuff I've been going through. It was freeing and relieving.
I often feel too tired to attend church on Wednesday night. It keeps Paxton up past his bedtime and extends my already long day. But I choose to go anyway because I know I'll learn something I didn't already know or needed to be reminded of. This week as I entered the church I was approached by a dear friend, another wise and trustworthy lady. She shared a dream she had regarding me. I am still waiting for the interpretation to be fully known but it is a special thing to know the Spirit is active on my behalf (and that people are listening).
The Word
Luke 19:2-9
There was a man named Zacchaeus...and he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not...so he ran ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Him... Jesus looked up and saw him and said, "Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house."..."Today salvation has come to this house".
Luke 23:26
Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.
The Application
I could stay home and be comfortable and wait for things to happen to me. I could immerse myself in technology to feel connected and to fill my time. I could pass on activities that don't particularly appeal to me. But if I don't show up, I would miss out on a blessing. Sometimes you just have to be there.
The Circumstance
I don't usually feel like going to Bible Study, but I choose to go anyway. I never know what may happen; I will most likely learn something that can help me in this life so I make the choice to go. This week was very helpful. I made the conscious decision to open up to some wise ladies whom I trust; they were able to pray for me about some really deep stuff I've been going through. It was freeing and relieving.
I often feel too tired to attend church on Wednesday night. It keeps Paxton up past his bedtime and extends my already long day. But I choose to go anyway because I know I'll learn something I didn't already know or needed to be reminded of. This week as I entered the church I was approached by a dear friend, another wise and trustworthy lady. She shared a dream she had regarding me. I am still waiting for the interpretation to be fully known but it is a special thing to know the Spirit is active on my behalf (and that people are listening).
The Word
Luke 19:2-9
There was a man named Zacchaeus...and he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not...so he ran ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Him... Jesus looked up and saw him and said, "Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house."..."Today salvation has come to this house".
Luke 23:26
Now as they led Him away, they laid hold of a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, who was coming from the country, and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.
The Application
I could stay home and be comfortable and wait for things to happen to me. I could immerse myself in technology to feel connected and to fill my time. I could pass on activities that don't particularly appeal to me. But if I don't show up, I would miss out on a blessing. Sometimes you just have to be there.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
One Thing Leads to Another
10/11/11
The Circumstance
On our way home for Portland I noticed a sign at the Adult Video store that offered 'private viewing rooms'. I mentioned to James how awful it must be to be so ensnared by lust that one must watch porn in the store. The guy (or gal) who participates in such rooms didn't just decide to do that one day; no, they made a less dramatic choice once upon a time and one thing just let to another... Unfortunately this is so easy to do and the phrase "one thing led to another" is very common in our culture, and its a 'weasel phrase', used to weasel out of responsibility for ones actions. This can be used for many things: sex (porn, affairs, abuse), food, alcohol, gambling, theft, drugs, and changing of religious faith or losing touch with the Lord.
The Word
Romans 6:12-14
Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts. And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace.
The Application
My salvation has nothing to do with me. Jesus did it all for me and there's nothing I can do to get 'get more saved'. Freedom, however, is my choice. I am not to let or present, as Pastor Al Carpenter teaches in Acts and Romans. Do not let sin reign and do not present myself to sinful situations. I am to make the choice to stop sin before it starts. I am to continually check in with the Holy Spirit and if something doesn't sit right in my spirit it is up to me to turn back, and it's much easier to turn back if I haven't gone very far. It is my choice to surround myself with people who will keep me accountable to holy living. It is my responsibility to look at the long term affects of my decisions. I admit, it is frustrating that I 'can't do what I want' when I feel held back from doing something 'fun and fancy free', but like James said this weekend in his sermon, is it really a sacrifice when the result is freedom? One thing doesn't just lead to another unless I let it. The Good News is that, when I do go down the wrong path, God's grace is sufficient for even that.
The Circumstance
On our way home for Portland I noticed a sign at the Adult Video store that offered 'private viewing rooms'. I mentioned to James how awful it must be to be so ensnared by lust that one must watch porn in the store. The guy (or gal) who participates in such rooms didn't just decide to do that one day; no, they made a less dramatic choice once upon a time and one thing just let to another... Unfortunately this is so easy to do and the phrase "one thing led to another" is very common in our culture, and its a 'weasel phrase', used to weasel out of responsibility for ones actions. This can be used for many things: sex (porn, affairs, abuse), food, alcohol, gambling, theft, drugs, and changing of religious faith or losing touch with the Lord.
The Word
Romans 6:12-14
Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, that you should obey it in its lusts. And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace.
The Application
My salvation has nothing to do with me. Jesus did it all for me and there's nothing I can do to get 'get more saved'. Freedom, however, is my choice. I am not to let or present, as Pastor Al Carpenter teaches in Acts and Romans. Do not let sin reign and do not present myself to sinful situations. I am to make the choice to stop sin before it starts. I am to continually check in with the Holy Spirit and if something doesn't sit right in my spirit it is up to me to turn back, and it's much easier to turn back if I haven't gone very far. It is my choice to surround myself with people who will keep me accountable to holy living. It is my responsibility to look at the long term affects of my decisions. I admit, it is frustrating that I 'can't do what I want' when I feel held back from doing something 'fun and fancy free', but like James said this weekend in his sermon, is it really a sacrifice when the result is freedom? One thing doesn't just lead to another unless I let it. The Good News is that, when I do go down the wrong path, God's grace is sufficient for even that.
Monday, October 10, 2011
I'm so cold! But not as cold as that homeless guy.
10/10/11
The Circumstance
Cold and moody me, irritable and maybe teething toddler, gray and rainy skies= really hard day. It's only October and I'm chilled from the inside out. Today I just wanted to curl up in bed with a warm pile of blankets and nap away the winter....but unfortunately I'm not a bear.
The Word
Psalm 95:1-3
Oh come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. For the Lord is the great God, and the great King above all gods.
The Application
The Lord is worthy to be praised, even when I don't feel like it. Perspective changes everything. My job is to change my perspective. I feel better when I take the focus off of me.
Thank you that I have a home with blankets and a bed. Thank you that we have food, even when "there's nothing to eat!". Thank you that my husband is not overseas in the military, (and Lord bless the wives and children that are in that situation). Thank you that I just deal with gray skies and rain, and not shootings and neighborhood bombings. Thank you for my son's teeth; life would be much harder later if he didn't have any.
The Circumstance
Cold and moody me, irritable and maybe teething toddler, gray and rainy skies= really hard day. It's only October and I'm chilled from the inside out. Today I just wanted to curl up in bed with a warm pile of blankets and nap away the winter....but unfortunately I'm not a bear.
The Word
Psalm 95:1-3
Oh come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. For the Lord is the great God, and the great King above all gods.
The Application
The Lord is worthy to be praised, even when I don't feel like it. Perspective changes everything. My job is to change my perspective. I feel better when I take the focus off of me.
Thank you that I have a home with blankets and a bed. Thank you that we have food, even when "there's nothing to eat!". Thank you that my husband is not overseas in the military, (and Lord bless the wives and children that are in that situation). Thank you that I just deal with gray skies and rain, and not shootings and neighborhood bombings. Thank you for my son's teeth; life would be much harder later if he didn't have any.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Dear Self, remember this
The Circumstance
I didn't need a nap today. Ta da! That's the first time in a long time. Rah! I laugh in the face of fatigue! The day was pleasant, starting with a much needed visit with a good friend while Paxton had a play date elsewhere. I get energized when I make time for myself. When I don't prioritize friendships, I have a hard time with life. So I think to myself, "Self, make visiting with people a priority so you can have more good days". But somehow I forget that. Or, if I'm honest, sometimes I don't feel worthy to put myself first. So easily I let other things take priority; like cleaning the house, playing with Paxton, making dinner, things "a good wife/mother does".... In other words, I must earn my keep. "If I don't _____ then I don't deserve _____. (It sounds awful, but makes perfect sense in my head while its all jumbled in there. This is why journaling is good for me, to clear up lies that sound like truth in my head.)
The Word
Rom 6:14
For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace.
The Application
I have been crucified with Christ, I am no longer under a law of bondage, I am free. So why do I live a life based on 'good works' to earn my worth? God calls me worthy, therefore I am. Not because of things I do, but because of what He did. Life in the Kingdom of God is backwards than what life teaches us. James rejoices when he knows he has a joyful and healthy wife. He would rather have a happy wife than a clean house or delicious meal. Paxton may have a tough time if I leave him to go have fun, but in the big picture its better for him to have an emotionally healthy mommy. So I need to make it "all about me", because if I do then I can live a life that's "not about me at all". "The greatest thing you can do for your kids is learn to focus on yourself" (Scream Free Parenting, Runkel, 9)
Bottom line: I am learning how and when to enforce personal boundaries that enhance my well-being. In so doing, I strengthen my marriage and ability to parent well, thus creating a upward spiral of health in my life. I'm worth it.
I didn't need a nap today. Ta da! That's the first time in a long time. Rah! I laugh in the face of fatigue! The day was pleasant, starting with a much needed visit with a good friend while Paxton had a play date elsewhere. I get energized when I make time for myself. When I don't prioritize friendships, I have a hard time with life. So I think to myself, "Self, make visiting with people a priority so you can have more good days". But somehow I forget that. Or, if I'm honest, sometimes I don't feel worthy to put myself first. So easily I let other things take priority; like cleaning the house, playing with Paxton, making dinner, things "a good wife/mother does".... In other words, I must earn my keep. "If I don't _____ then I don't deserve _____. (It sounds awful, but makes perfect sense in my head while its all jumbled in there. This is why journaling is good for me, to clear up lies that sound like truth in my head.)
The Word
Rom 6:14
For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace.
The Application
I have been crucified with Christ, I am no longer under a law of bondage, I am free. So why do I live a life based on 'good works' to earn my worth? God calls me worthy, therefore I am. Not because of things I do, but because of what He did. Life in the Kingdom of God is backwards than what life teaches us. James rejoices when he knows he has a joyful and healthy wife. He would rather have a happy wife than a clean house or delicious meal. Paxton may have a tough time if I leave him to go have fun, but in the big picture its better for him to have an emotionally healthy mommy. So I need to make it "all about me", because if I do then I can live a life that's "not about me at all". "The greatest thing you can do for your kids is learn to focus on yourself" (Scream Free Parenting, Runkel, 9)
Bottom line: I am learning how and when to enforce personal boundaries that enhance my well-being. In so doing, I strengthen my marriage and ability to parent well, thus creating a upward spiral of health in my life. I'm worth it.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
School in the Wilderness
10/5/2011
The Circumstance
I feel like the world owes me something. It affects my mood, attitude, heart, responses, relationships and health. I know I shouldn't and it doesn't and I know the obvious scriptures about pride and humility, but I can't seem to kick it. What gives?
The Word
Ex. 16:2-3
"Then the whole congregation of the children of Israel complained against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness. And the children of Israel said to them, “Oh, that we had died by the hand of the LORD in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the pots of meat and when we ate bread to the full! For you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger.”
Ex. 16:12b
"And you shall know that I am the Lord your God."
The Application
When I was seeking God's plan for my life after college, I had a moment on top of a rock climbing tower when I felt face to face with God; He told me that I had the choice, I could either go one way where it was plush and green and simple and easy (but I would need to depend so much on Him), or I could go the other way where it was dry and desert and pretty rough going; I'd really have to depend on Him for my every need. It was my choice. I decided I wanted to take the route where I needed to depend fully on God to provide. But now here I am, trying to have both. I want a deep relationship with Christ but I don't fully depend on him. I don't trust him in the hard times, I don't recognize adversity as a time of growth and growing in my faith. I go through life frustrated and angry that I don't have what I expect to have exactly when I want it, like the world (or God) owes me something. I act like it's all about me, but in the wrong way. What actually is about me is my response to what God has given me. Am I thankful? Do I recognize that he is the Lord my God? Do I wish I was still in the land that I came from, though living in slavery it was at least comfortable? How will I choose to react to my time in the "wilderness" God has lead me to? Its only for a season, but will I stay true? What will be the result of God testing my heart? What is not about me is everyone else's lives. No one is responsible for me, my happiness, my well being. And they certainly aren't responsible for my response to life's circumstances.
Lord, I confess my pride to you. I am sorry for being unthankful. I am sorry for not trusting you in the hard times, for not looking to you for wisdom and strength, and for not seeing your hand in my life and how you are working all things together for your glory (and for thinking they should be working together for mine). Release me from these chains of self righteousness. Fill me anew with your Spirit, that I may walk in freedom with joy and thanksgiving. May my cup overflow and affect my mood, attitude, heart, responses, relationships, and health.
The Circumstance
I feel like the world owes me something. It affects my mood, attitude, heart, responses, relationships and health. I know I shouldn't and it doesn't and I know the obvious scriptures about pride and humility, but I can't seem to kick it. What gives?
The Word
Ex. 16:2-3
"Then the whole congregation of the children of Israel complained against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness. And the children of Israel said to them, “Oh, that we had died by the hand of the LORD in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the pots of meat and when we ate bread to the full! For you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger.”
Ex. 16:12b
"And you shall know that I am the Lord your God."
The Application
When I was seeking God's plan for my life after college, I had a moment on top of a rock climbing tower when I felt face to face with God; He told me that I had the choice, I could either go one way where it was plush and green and simple and easy (but I would need to depend so much on Him), or I could go the other way where it was dry and desert and pretty rough going; I'd really have to depend on Him for my every need. It was my choice. I decided I wanted to take the route where I needed to depend fully on God to provide. But now here I am, trying to have both. I want a deep relationship with Christ but I don't fully depend on him. I don't trust him in the hard times, I don't recognize adversity as a time of growth and growing in my faith. I go through life frustrated and angry that I don't have what I expect to have exactly when I want it, like the world (or God) owes me something. I act like it's all about me, but in the wrong way. What actually is about me is my response to what God has given me. Am I thankful? Do I recognize that he is the Lord my God? Do I wish I was still in the land that I came from, though living in slavery it was at least comfortable? How will I choose to react to my time in the "wilderness" God has lead me to? Its only for a season, but will I stay true? What will be the result of God testing my heart? What is not about me is everyone else's lives. No one is responsible for me, my happiness, my well being. And they certainly aren't responsible for my response to life's circumstances.
Lord, I confess my pride to you. I am sorry for being unthankful. I am sorry for not trusting you in the hard times, for not looking to you for wisdom and strength, and for not seeing your hand in my life and how you are working all things together for your glory (and for thinking they should be working together for mine). Release me from these chains of self righteousness. Fill me anew with your Spirit, that I may walk in freedom with joy and thanksgiving. May my cup overflow and affect my mood, attitude, heart, responses, relationships, and health.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Purpose, attitude, and chores
9/30/11
The Circumstance
This house is always messy. I want to be able to clean, and not just pick up, but clean. Empty drawers and cupboards, go through old clothes and get rid of items I don't want or need. But I only have time or energy to clean up and no more time or energy to do the project I originally intend to do. Its very frustrating and I feel like I'm in a pig sty all the time, even if its picked up, because I know how much stuff we have and how much we need to get rid of.
I'm thankful for James. He took Paxton out last night and even in just one hour I got so much cleaned up and had the opportunity to go through cupboards. I filled a whole box with items I don't use and I feel so good. I was exhausted to start out with, but I gained energy along the way because it's so exhilarating to be free of my little shadow, who seems to follow me every where I turn and leaves a path of destruction behind him. A wise woman once told me everything I do gets undone; I clean and it gets messy again, I cook and it gets eaten. I need to find something else where I can see results. Someone else said its like stringing a strand of pearls with no knot at the end.
The Word
Proverbs 3:34 Surely He scorns the scornful, but gives grace to the humble.
The Application
Life is all about me, but its not about me at all. I have been called to be a mother right now. In this season of my life I am to be faithful in the small things regarding my home and my husband and my son. And in doing this I am to be humble. That is the part that is all about me. The rest is not about me. Its about glorifying God in all things. When I pick up the toys for the umpteenth time it should be that I am picking up the toys for the Lord, not just for Paxton, and not just for my sake, to have a clean house. When I cook the meals it is to the glory of God, for the Lord, not just out of duty as a housewife. I am no one's slave, I humbly choose to serve the Lord in this manner. For the glory of the Lord, this is why I live.
The Circumstance
This house is always messy. I want to be able to clean, and not just pick up, but clean. Empty drawers and cupboards, go through old clothes and get rid of items I don't want or need. But I only have time or energy to clean up and no more time or energy to do the project I originally intend to do. Its very frustrating and I feel like I'm in a pig sty all the time, even if its picked up, because I know how much stuff we have and how much we need to get rid of.
I'm thankful for James. He took Paxton out last night and even in just one hour I got so much cleaned up and had the opportunity to go through cupboards. I filled a whole box with items I don't use and I feel so good. I was exhausted to start out with, but I gained energy along the way because it's so exhilarating to be free of my little shadow, who seems to follow me every where I turn and leaves a path of destruction behind him. A wise woman once told me everything I do gets undone; I clean and it gets messy again, I cook and it gets eaten. I need to find something else where I can see results. Someone else said its like stringing a strand of pearls with no knot at the end.
The Word
Proverbs 3:34 Surely He scorns the scornful, but gives grace to the humble.
The Application
Life is all about me, but its not about me at all. I have been called to be a mother right now. In this season of my life I am to be faithful in the small things regarding my home and my husband and my son. And in doing this I am to be humble. That is the part that is all about me. The rest is not about me. Its about glorifying God in all things. When I pick up the toys for the umpteenth time it should be that I am picking up the toys for the Lord, not just for Paxton, and not just for my sake, to have a clean house. When I cook the meals it is to the glory of God, for the Lord, not just out of duty as a housewife. I am no one's slave, I humbly choose to serve the Lord in this manner. For the glory of the Lord, this is why I live.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
I wish I could be in control, but I'm so glad I'm not
9/28/11
The Circumstance
We got back from vacation yesterday. It was a wonderful time away, but transitioning back into home-life is usually pretty rocky for Paxton. To add to it, he got a set of shots today and his big back teeth are trying to break through. Poor guy. And poor mommy. He woke up extremely angry, or just in pain, or confused as to where he is....whatever it was for it was not pretty. He wasn't happy and let me know it. Screaming, scratching at my face, arching his back when I held him but standing with his arms raised if I put him in his crib... I never know what to do in these situations. Force cuddling? Never goes well. Advil? I hate to use drugs if they aren't necessary (and they unfortunately took away Hyden's Teething Tablets, they're the only homeopathic remedy I have found to work, including what my naturopath suggested). What worked, you ask? Frozen blueberries. He threw them at first, but I allowed it since it caused him to stop screaming and focus on the task at hand. Once they were mostly all on the floor, he put one in his mouth. His face lit up and he continued stuffing his face. One by one he picked them up off the floor and delightfully ate them. Tantrum turned into joy and our afternoon was much more pleasant from that moment on.
The Word
John 3:26
And they came to John and said to him, "Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have testified-behold, He is baptizing, and all are coming to Him!"
The Application
My life is all about me, but its not about me at all. When my son cries I want to help him, I want to fix it, I want to kiss the tears away and make the world a better place for him. But sometimes I just can't. In the bigger picture of it all, I can't protect my son from difficulties in life, and really I don't want to because it would cause him more harm than good. But my mother's heart hates to see him cry. But its not about me. Its about God being glorified and its often a painful process to do that. The part that is about me is my choice to surrender all to Jesus. That has nothing to do with anyone but me. John did what he was asked to do by the Lord but he knew it wasn't about him. Then Jesus came and took the spotlight away from John. "They" (John's disciples) came to John to tell him about the other guy doing what John was doing. This moment was no longer about Jesus or the disciples or the others being baptized, it was all about John. What would John do with this news? John chose to surrender all. He could have become prideful, after all, he was the one doing the baptizing but now they were all going to Jesus to be baptized. But John saw the bigger picture and God was glorified through John's choice to let the Lord reign. When I parent, there are many times when I am not in control. I want to be because I often feel that life is all about me and my way is best. But, like John, I must surrender all. Paxton's life and things that he does or things that happen to him are not about me. The part that is about me is how I respond. Am I doing what God asked me to do?
The Circumstance
We got back from vacation yesterday. It was a wonderful time away, but transitioning back into home-life is usually pretty rocky for Paxton. To add to it, he got a set of shots today and his big back teeth are trying to break through. Poor guy. And poor mommy. He woke up extremely angry, or just in pain, or confused as to where he is....whatever it was for it was not pretty. He wasn't happy and let me know it. Screaming, scratching at my face, arching his back when I held him but standing with his arms raised if I put him in his crib... I never know what to do in these situations. Force cuddling? Never goes well. Advil? I hate to use drugs if they aren't necessary (and they unfortunately took away Hyden's Teething Tablets, they're the only homeopathic remedy I have found to work, including what my naturopath suggested). What worked, you ask? Frozen blueberries. He threw them at first, but I allowed it since it caused him to stop screaming and focus on the task at hand. Once they were mostly all on the floor, he put one in his mouth. His face lit up and he continued stuffing his face. One by one he picked them up off the floor and delightfully ate them. Tantrum turned into joy and our afternoon was much more pleasant from that moment on.
The Word
John 3:26
And they came to John and said to him, "Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have testified-behold, He is baptizing, and all are coming to Him!"
The Application
My life is all about me, but its not about me at all. When my son cries I want to help him, I want to fix it, I want to kiss the tears away and make the world a better place for him. But sometimes I just can't. In the bigger picture of it all, I can't protect my son from difficulties in life, and really I don't want to because it would cause him more harm than good. But my mother's heart hates to see him cry. But its not about me. Its about God being glorified and its often a painful process to do that. The part that is about me is my choice to surrender all to Jesus. That has nothing to do with anyone but me. John did what he was asked to do by the Lord but he knew it wasn't about him. Then Jesus came and took the spotlight away from John. "They" (John's disciples) came to John to tell him about the other guy doing what John was doing. This moment was no longer about Jesus or the disciples or the others being baptized, it was all about John. What would John do with this news? John chose to surrender all. He could have become prideful, after all, he was the one doing the baptizing but now they were all going to Jesus to be baptized. But John saw the bigger picture and God was glorified through John's choice to let the Lord reign. When I parent, there are many times when I am not in control. I want to be because I often feel that life is all about me and my way is best. But, like John, I must surrender all. Paxton's life and things that he does or things that happen to him are not about me. The part that is about me is how I respond. Am I doing what God asked me to do?
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