skyLIFT

"LIFTing" means KNOWING, LOVING and FOLLOWING...

Posted on the wall of the LIFT Student Ministries (LSM) home office is “The Fellowship of the Unashamed” statement by Dr. Bob Moorehead.  Our prayer, desire and hope is that all students who cross our paths directly and those impacted indirectly through our ministry will come to KNOW, LOVE and FOLLOW Christ, claiming this statement as their own…

The Fellowship of the Unashamed

I am a part of the fellowship of the Unashamed. I have the Holy Spirit Power. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. I won't look back, let up, slowdown, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure. I am finished and done with low living, sight walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tame visions, mundane talking, chintzy giving, and dwarfed goals.

I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or popularity. I don't have to be right, first, tops, recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded. I now live by presence, learn by faith, love by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by power.

My pace is set, my gait is fast, my goal is Heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions few, my Guide is reliable, my mission is clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, deterred, lured away, turned back, diluted, or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of adversity, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of  popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity.

I won't give up, back up, let up, or shut up until I've preached up, prayed up, paid up, stored up, and stayed up for the cause of Christ. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. I must go until He returns, give until I drop, preach until all know, and work until He comes.

And when He comes to get His own, He will have no problem recognizing me. My colors will be clear for…

"I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes…" (Romans 1:16) 

Thoughts, comments, no snide remarks please…

Ø If you are a student who has either been directly or indirectly impacted by LSM I would love to know your story.

Ø If you are an adult who has either been directly or indirectly impacted by LSM I would love to know your story.

Ø If you want to experience what God is doing through LSM I would love to hear from you and encourage you to check us out at LIFTstudentministries.com.

 

As for me and my house…

(We) won't give up, back up, let up, or shut up until we've preached up, prayed
up, paid up, stored up, and stayed up for the cause of Christ. (We) won't give up, back up, let up, or shut up until I've preached up, prayed up, paid up, stored up, and stayed up for the cause of Christ. (We are) disciples of Jesus Christ. (We) must go until He returns, give until (we) drop, preach until all know, and work until He comes.

In Him,

Stefanie

Oh, Vine Where Art Thou?

Today was “Veggie Show and Tell” day in Alex’s Kindergarten class.  Our instructions included bringing in vegetables, especially those with roots still attached, so the children could see the value of God’s creation in providing nutritious foods for our betterment. Alex, being the huge VeggieTale fan he is decided he wanted to take in a cucumber, a tomato and an asparagus in honor of Larry the Cucumber, Bob the Tomato and Junior Asparagus from VEGGIETALE fame.  So to accommodate my son’s desire, I picked up these vegetables at the grocery yesterday, bagged them up and packed them in his backpack for their “show and tell” debut.

When I picked him up this afternoon he proudly held out his craft ~ a piece of orange construction paper with about 5 different types of vegetables taped on accompanied by little notes about each of them.  He put a cherry tomato, a radish, lettuce, celery and broccoli on his paper and carried it with such care.  When we arrived home he noticed a portion of the tomato had broken loose and was gently moving around on the paper.  As he placed it back in its original place he made a comment that prompted this blog topic.  He said “it isn’t going to live long without the vine”.  He was exactly correct ~ once the tomato was removed from the vine its decline was sure.  

Jesus applied this principle to our relationship with Him found in the Gospel of John:

“Live in me. Make your home in me just as I do in you. In the same way that a branch can't bear grapes by itself but only by being joined to the vine, you can't bear fruit unless you are joined with me. “

 "I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you're joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can't produce a thing. Anyone who separates from me is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire. But if you make yourselves at home with me and my words are at home in you, you can be sure that whatever you ask will be listened to and acted upon. This is how my Father shows who he is—when you produce grapes, when you mature as my disciples.”  ~ John 15:4-8 (MSG)

1.     He is a resident, not just an overnight guest

What does He mean when He tells us to “live in me…make your home in me…”?  Think about when you have company come into your home.  You may tell them “make yourself at home” as a way to let them know how comfortable you want them to feel.  Although we extend the hand of hospitality we still assume certain boundries will remain in place.  For example, we don’t anticipate our company will sort through our personal items, choosing and using what they please without request or consent.  We also suppose a certain level of decorum will be demonstrated in that we would not expect to see them roam through our home inappropriately dressed.  So, in essence, we want them to feel as comfortable as company can be.  Making our home in Him gives Him total access to our lives.  He is not just “company”, He is a resident. 

2.     We are connected to Him, not just His tour guide

Not only do we make our home in Him, we are connected to Him.  As with any fruit or vegetable the vine is the source of life.  It is through the vine the nutrients and water from the earth are infused to make them healthy and useable.  Jesus is our vine ~ our source of life.  The language he uses in verse 4 of John 15 cannot say it any stronger...

·       “Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.” (NIV)

·        “Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.” (NLT)

·        “Stay joined to me, and I will stay joined to you. Just as a branch cannot produce fruit unless it stays joined to the vine, you cannot produce fruit unless you stay joined to me. “(CEV)

 

Apart from Him we cannot produce fruit ~ period.  So what will our lives lack apart from the vine?  Let’s inspect the fruit…

Galatians 5:22, 23 ~ But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives:

ü  Love ~ unconditional, tenderness, fondness, affection, friendship

ü  Joy ~ bliss, delight, elation regardless of the circumstances

ü  Peace ~ serenity, harmony, calm despite the chaos all around

ü  Patience ~ staying power, persistence, fortitude in all situations

ü  Kindness ~ consideration, helpful, compassionate to all

ü  Goodness ~ decency, kindness, integrity, what you are when no one is looking

ü  Faithfulness ~ loyal, trustworthy, dependable no matter the circumstance

ü  Gentleness ~ tender, kind, light-hearted to all

ü  Self-control ~ strength of will, willpower, discipline no matter what happens

Apart from Him we cannot fulfill His desire for us.  When we cut ourselves from the vine, we begin a slow spiritual decline.  Our salvation remains secure, but what we produce will be anything but a reflection of Him.  We give Him the tour of our lives but then take it from there.

3.     When our home is where He is, He will do anything we ask

If you will think back to your childhood you can remember rules you parent’s had for the home.  For example, maybe you weren’t allowed to leave your yard without a parent accompanying you when you were 8 years old.  You knew that was a set rule for your home.  Your parent’s had repeatedly reminded you of the rule, they have explained their reasoning behind the rule and you knew the consequences if you chose to leave the yard outside the company of one or both of your parents.  Now, why in the world would you ask your parent’s permission to walk down the street, all by yourself, to visit a friend, knowing how emphatic they were about their directive?  I guess it is the same reason we ask God to violate His principles and statues for our selfish reasons ~ we want what we want.  God will not change who He is to accommodate us.  When we ask Him to walk outside of who He is to answer a “prayer request”, scripture says we ask “amiss”.  James 4:3 puts it this way…

“And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure.” (NLT)

God will not respond to a request that will cause Him to violate who He is.  The thing is when we are connected to the vine, having the life source of the Savior infusing us daily, we won’t ask God to do anything for us that would cause Him to go against who He is.

Are you connected or are you slowly withering away from the vine? 

Is He your company or have you allowed Him to really set up a residence?

Inspect the fruit and give yourself an honest answer…

In Him,

Stefanie

An Explosion of Abundance...

John 10:10

“…I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.”  (The Message)

“…My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.”  (NLT)

“…I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (ESV)

If I have heard the following statement one time I have heard it hundreds…”If I become a Christian I won’t be able to have any fun.”  My response is what can be more fun than living an abundantly satisfying life?  That is what Christ brings to our lives the moment we ask Him into it. Knowing and realizing that fact let’s look at what a “better life than (we) ever dreamed of” looks like.

1.     There is an abundance of LOVE

One of the greatest needs we have is the desire to be loved ~ unconditionally.  We want it so much at times that we make unorthodox decisions in pursuit of it.  Not only that but the world around us “loves” everything…movies, ball teams, clothes…  Love is more than an emotion ~ it is a commitment.  Love lifts, accepts, offers strength and does it without looking for anything in return.  Who committed His life more than and demonstrated His love to us more than Christ?  I love this version of Romans 5:6-8…

 

“Christ arrives right on time to make this happen. He didn't, and doesn't, wait for us to get ready. He presented himself for this sacrificial death when we were far too weak and rebellious to do anything toget ourselves ready. And even if we hadn't been so weak, we wouldn't have known what to do anyway. We can understand someone dying for a person worth dying for, and we can understand how someone good and noble could inspire us to selfless sacrifice. But God put his love on the line for us by offeringhis Son in sacrificial death while we were of no use whatever to him.” (MSG)

 

In the NKJV the scripture says that “…(God) demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”  To demonstrate means reveal, make obvious, display…  So God reveals, displays and makes His love obvious toward us…  He lays it out there for the taking or the leaving. 

2.     There is an abundance of PEACE

In looking around, watching the news, reading the headlines and listening to the conversation of people it is evident people don’t live with much peace.  They are anxious, suspicious, confused, paranoid, uneasy and fearful.  They have put their faith and trust in their finances, jobs, and people, all of which will fail us at one point or another or have already done so.  What can He who is peace make available to us?

 

"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. ~ John14:27 (NASB)

 

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”

~ John 16:33 (NLT)

 

“God is not a God of confusion but a God of peace.”

~ 1 Corinthians 14:33 (NCV)

 

“…for he is our peace…” ~ Ephesians 2:14 (YLT)

 

3.     There is an abundance of GRACE

I am sure you have heard the UPS slogan “what can BROWN do for you?”  I ask “what can GRACE do for you?

 

·        Grace builds us up…

”And now I entrust you to God and the message of his grace that is able to build you up…” ~ Acts 20:32 (NLT)

·        Grace one-upped sin…

“And the law came in besides, that the trespass might abound; but where sin abounded, grace did abound more exceedingly” ~ Romans 5:20 (ASV)

·        Grace went where the law couldn’t go…

“And since it is through God’s kindness, then it is not by their good works. For in that case, God’s grace would not be what it really is—free and undeserved.” ~ Romans 11:6 (NLT)

·        Grace enables me to be who I am in Christ…

“But God's grace has made me what I am, and his grace to me was not wasted…” ~ 1 Corinthians 15:10 (NCV)

·        Grace helps us to have the most of every good deed…

” And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” ~ 2 Corinthians 9:8

So living abundantly doesn’t sound so stifling, does it?  Living without abundance brings…

Emptiness, lacking love…

            Unrest, lacking peace…

                        Working for acceptance, not a recipient of grace…

I choose an explosion of abundance.  How about you?

In Him,

Stefanie

I Wasn't Expecting This...

Monday as I was preparing breakfast for Alex I realized I purchased crunchy peanut butter instead of the smooth and creamy.  Now you may be thinking “so what’s the big deal?”  Well, you are not the parent of Alex Daniel Brown.   I carefully spread the peanut butter on one slice of bread and laid it down, following that I ever so gently smoothed the grape jelly around the second piece of bread.  As usual, I put the two pieces together and tenderly removed the crusts.  All the time thinking to myself “I won’t draw this peanut butter mishap to his attention because, after all, he does like peanuts.”  I invited him to breakfast and had him say prayers.  Before joining him I ran to the back of the house to unplug my flat iron.  Just as soon as I entered the bathroom I heard it “Mom…” “Yes, Alex” I replied as I peaked around the corner.  “My peanut butter has peanuts in it.”  I took a deep breath and said “Isn’t that neat, Alex…you do like peanuts.”  Alex looked perplexed and said “Yes, but not in my peanut butter.”  Thankfully there was a little tiny bit of smooth and creamy peanut butter left in the bottom of the jar I had earlier thrown away.  Yes I did it ~ I pulled the trash out and pulled the jar off the top, opened it and scrapped the last bit of smooth peanut butter out to make his breakfast PB&J. 

When Alex bit into his sandwich that morning he expected the usual ~ smooth and creamy peanut butter with grape jelly on white, crust less bread.  He was surprised to find out what he had come to expect was not what he experienced. 

When we follow in obedience to Christ there are certain things we come to expect from Him.  We expect Him to be consistently faithful, forgiving, loving, patient, fair-minded and honest.  

“For Jesus doesn't change—yesterday, today, tomorrow, he's always totally himself.”

~ Hebrews 13:8 (The Message)

What can be unexpected about Him is the path in which He directs our lives ~ His Divine design for us. He chooses and uses the unexpected in supernatural ways.  Let’s look at a couple of the “unexpected” ones God chose to use in astonishing ways.

1.    Mary, the mother of Jesus

A teen-ager ~ some speculate around the age of 13 ~ was chosen to be the mother of Jesus Christ, Himself.  I try to imagine what it was like for her to hear the news from the angel sent by God.  Luke’s account says this…

“Don’t be afraid, Mary,” the angel told her, “for you have found favor with God!  You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus.” ~ Luke 1:30, 31(NLT)

Now, honestly, do you think she was expecting that type of news?  Here she is a young girl preparing to wed an honorable man.  The romantic in me hears conversations between Joseph and Mary as they prepare to wed.   “I am so thankful my parent’s chose you for me, Joseph.”  “Mary, I knew you were the one for me when I first saw how much you loved our Lord.”  The last thing either one of them thought they would be dealing with was her conceiving the Son of God through the intervention of the Holy Spirit.  Unexpected news ~ yes…  Divine design ~ yes…

2.    The Apostle Paul

Persecutor.  Torturer.  Killer. This is how the followers of Jesus Christ knew Saul.  His Damascus road conversion and what followed after had to be the craziest, most dumbfounding news the followers had ever heard.  I am sure they were rendered speechless when the topic of conversation steered toward this man named Saul who is now Paul and no longer kills Christ’s followers.  This is what Paul said about His life before Christ:

"My dear brothers and fathers, listen carefully to what I have to say before you jump to conclusions about me." When they heard him speaking Hebrew, they grew even quieter. No one wanted to miss a word of this.

 He continued, "I am a good Jew, born in Tarsus in the province of Cilicia, but educated here in Jerusalem under the exacting eye of Rabbi Gamaliel, thoroughly instructed in our religious traditions. And I've always been passionately on God's side, just as you are right now.

"I went after anyone connected with this 'Way,' went at them hammer and tongs, ready to kill for God. I rounded up men and women right and left and had them thrown in prison. You can ask the Chief Priest or anyone in the High Council to verify this; they all knew me well. Then I went off to our brothers in Damascus, armed with official documents authorizing me to hunt down the followers of Jesus there, arrest them, and bring them back to Jerusalem for sentencing. “                                                                                                                               ~ Acts 22: 1-5 (The Message)

Paul’s ministry opened up the avenue for Greek’s, that is you and me, to have the opportunity to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ and have the option of choosing to know, love and follow Him.  This murderer…this hater…this follower is now considered the greatest missionary of all time.  Unexpected person ~ yes…  Divine design ~ yes…

3.    Insert  your name here

Are you as surprised as I am that God would have a divine design for our lives?  I look at my life and the many, MANY times I have fallen short, disappointed Him, made a wrong decision (a decision made without consulting Him) and just flat chose to follow my own lead.  It is then I wonder why in the world He would still honor me by choosing to use me?  I am coming to realize…

·        God is not expecting sinless perfection but a heart after His ~ look at David….

·        God is not expecting me to walk on water, but be trusting enough to do so if He asks ~ look at Peter…

·        God is not expecting me to walk into a King’s court unannounced thus facing death but be willing to do so for His sake ~ look at Esther…

·        God is not expecting me to love when tragedy comes my way but rather bless and praise Him when it does ~ look at Job…

What is your unexpected news?  Mine, we are leaving the comforts of Oak Hill Baptist Church and venturing out to enlarge LIFT Student Ministries’ territory.

Who is the unexpected person? Me. 

Sidebar:  I told Dan shortly after our transition when the why’s of life were a constant topic of our conversation that God knew if He asked Dan to walk these waters, he would do just that and do it with integrity.  As for me, He is growing me in my new territory…

What about you?  Are you ready for the unexpected of life?  Are you ready for His Divine design for your life?  He is waiting to reveal it to you.

In Him,

Stefanie

Going, Going, Gone...

Matthew 28:19, 20

“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations,^[a] baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.  Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (NLT)

“So go and make followers of all people in the world. Baptize them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach them to obey everything that I have taught you, and I will be with you always, even until the end of this age." (NCV)

"God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I'll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age."  (The Message)

 

As many of you know LIFT Student Ministries (LSM) began an international work last year in London, England.  Dan lead a team of students and adults “over the pond” to do what we do ~ find students, love them and direct them to the cross.  As they landed and began preparing they hoped the 50 bed facility would soon be filled to the brim with British students.  To their surprise and God’s glory 56 students came to experience this “LIFT” thing led by the visiting Americans.  If you were to speak to anyone who broke the “AirLIFT” ground in England they will tell you that although it was one of most challenging weeks of their lives it soon became one of the most amazing weeks of their lives.  Of the 56 students attending, 32 of them came to know the Lord as their Savior.  LSM believes the Great Commission is our directive from the Almighty and we strive to accomplish it with passion and integrity.

So what does it mean to fulfill the GREAT COMMISSION?  As Christians we are all “commissioned” ~ so what is expected of us?  Let’s see…

1.    We are to make all people believers…

The “making” referred to in the New Living Translation (NLT) does not involve forcing, pressuring or threatening.  It has to do with introducing people to who Jesus is, what He did for them, what He can do for them, then having them accept the free gift of salvation.

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.  ~ Romans 6:23 (KJV)

 

One of the easiest ways to explain the process of salvation is by using the “ABC’s”:

A ~ they must ADMIT they have sinned, done things in which God does not approve

"There is no one who always does what is right, not even one.” ~ Romans 3:10

“Everyone has sinned and fallen short of God's glorious standard” ~ Romans 3:23

B ~ they must BELIEVE the Gospel – the death, burial and the miraculous resurrection of Jesus on the third day

“If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and if you believe in your heart that God raised Jesus from the dead you will be saved.   ^~ Romans 10:9

C ~ they must CONFESS or plead guilty to their sin and acknowledge their need for a Savior

We believe with our hearts, and so we are made right with God.  And we declare with our mouths that we believe, and so we are saved.”  ~ Romans 10:10

D ~ encourage them to DO it now…DON’T wait…

“…Indeed, the “right time” is now. Today is the day of salvation.” ~ 2 Corinthians 6:2 (NLT)

2.    We must teach baptism…

Salvation does the work – baptism is the outward demonstration of how Christ changes our life through faith when we accept Him.  We clearly see that in the account of the 2 thieves crucified on either side of Jesus.  The one believed and was promised eternity by the Savior.  His belief saved him.  He did not have the chance to follow in baptism.  Baptism is symbolic of the transformation made by Christ in us at the time of salvation.  Our immersion symbolizes the burial of Jesus (we die to the control sin has over our lives) and our raising out from the baptismal waters demonstrates our new life in Christ. 

“When you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and you were raised up with him through your faith in God's power that was shown when he raised Christ from the dead.”  ~ Colossians 2:12

3.    We must teach them ~ disciple them…

Salvation…Baptism…Discipleship…

What is discipleship?  Why is it so important?  When we disciple a new child of Christ, we show them to what it is to know, love and follow Christ.  Salvation is just the beginning.  It is there the new child meets their Father.  Now they must get to know who their Father is, what He expects and what He desires for our lives. 

You remember how it was when you first started dating that special someone.  I know, for Dan and I, we talked on the phone for hours (imagine that), we spent as much time together as we could afford, shared favorite pastimes, thoughts for the future and memories from the past.  We wanted to know each other as completely as possible.  The same thought goes with discipleship ~ we must spend time with God to know who He is.  What do we need to teach a new Christian?

…the importance of daily Bible reading

…the importance of prayer

…the importance of finding a Bible believing/teaching/preaching ministry to plug into

…the importance of pursuing those things which are pure, good, kind… (Philippians 4:8)

…the importance of finding an accountability partner to help stay focused

The GREAT COMMISSION starts with going.  For LSM it means going to…

·        LIFT Central, Cedarville University

·        LIFT East, Harrisonburg, VA

·        LIFT Midwest, Siloam Springs, AK

·        LIFT Middle Midwest, Springfield, MO

·        LIFT Southwest, Longview, TX

·        LIFT Northeast, Langhorne, PA

AirLIFT…

o   LIFT UK, London, England

§  LIFT Brazil

·        LIFT Fiji

o   LIFT Botswana

§  LIFT Jamaica

 

We will go.  We will teach.  We will baptize.  We will disciple.

Will you go?  Will you teach?  Will you baptize?  Will you disciple?

 In Him, 

Stefanie 

The Day After...

What an Easter celebration we had yesterday!  Our church was adorned with decoration reminiscent of the Jerusalem of old, with our music team dressed in clothing reflecting that which might have been worn during that time period.  We rejoiced with a chorus of “He Lives” and “Up from the Grave He Arose” and marveled that through the unbelievable, incredible power of the resurrection we are redeemed. Then we, maybe as you did, gathered around the lunch table to continue our celebration, thanking God for loving us to death, unto death.  Following that we talked, watched the children play, went back for seconds and maybe even thirds of the delicious meal prepared for us and basked in the amazing sunshine by which He blanketed us.  What a day! 

Here it is Monday ~ the day after.  Some have returned to work, with others returning to school.  Is Easter REALLY over?  Is it just one day we celebrate, hunt eggs and dress up or is it a day that continues daily in our lives? I believe the celebration of Easter, the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, should be a continuous party.  Therein lays our hope.  Without the resurrection our hope is lost in the ointment and grave clothes, the darkness of the borrowed tomb and the savagery of the crucifixion. 

Thus the question ~ how can we continue the celebration of the resurrection all year long?

1.     Realize the same power that raised Him from the dead is the same power that saves and keeps us.

"Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."                             ~Romans 10:13 (NIV)

When God gives me the opportunity to lead someone to Him I always use this verse.  As I do, I point out to them that anyone who calls WILL be saved.  It is immediate.  There is no waiting period.  It is instantaneous. 

“It's in Christ that you, once you heard the truth and believed it (this Message of your salvation), found yourselves home free—signed, sealed, and delivered by the Holy Spirit. This signet from God is the first installment on what's coming, a reminder that we'll get everything God has planned for us, a praising and glorious life.”         

~Ephesians 1:13,14 (The Message)

Once His power saves us it seals us and keeps us.  I LOVE The Message’s translation of Ephesians 1:13,14…”(we are) home free – signed, sealed and delivered”.  Once we are His nothing can separate us from Him ~ NOTHING.  The seal refers to the divine protection He provides us once we are in the fold.  Remember Romans 8: 38,39…

For I am persuaded beyond doubt (am sure) that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things ⁱmpending and threatening nor things to come, nor powers,

Nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.                                                                                        ~The Message

2.     The same power that raised Him from the dead will empower us to complete His will in our lives.

At the moment we come to know Jesus as our Savior we become a part of His world-wide plan.  His desire is that all who draw breath come to realize the reality of the resurrection, its power and their need for Him.  He uses us, those who are redeemed to accomplish His goal.  He saves us, equips us and then sends us out into battle.  I love the following portion of scripture outlining our importance in His overall plan:

You are Christ's body—that's who you are! You must never forget this. Only as you accept your part of that body does your "part" mean anything. You're familiar with some of the parts that God has formed in his church, which is his "body":
   apostles
   prophets
   teachers
   miracle workers
   healers
   helpers
   organizers
   those who pray in tongues.
But it's obvious by now, isn't it, that Christ's church is a complete Body and not a gigantic, unidimensional Part? It's not all Apostle, not all Prophet, not all Miracle Worker, not all Healer, not all Prayer in Tongues, not all Interpreter of Tongues. And yet some of you keep competing for so-called "important" parts.

                                                                                                                                            ~ 1 Corinthians 12:27-30 (The Message)

We are all gifted differently, but gifted we are.  God uniquely designed us for a specific role in His plan.  His purpose for our lives may be totally different from someone else’s but He needs all of us.

So, is Easter over for you until 2010 or is it Easter the day after?  

He saves us.

            He keeps us.

                        He uses us.

Celebrate every day as though it were Easter!

In Him,

Stefanie

Does It Have To Hurt This Badly?

This morning I was talking to my dear friend Christi regarding what God has asked both she and her family to walk through this week.  In the midst of our conversation she made a wise statement that has resonated in my mind ever since.  She said that “All things are possible with God but that doesn’t mean all things are painless.”   Why is it we believe having God accomplish His perfect will in our lives is a painless process?  Why would we think we were exempt from pain when Christ, Himself, endured the pain of the cross to accomplish God’s perfect will for His life and cause His perfect plan to come to fruition?  Isn’t God’s design for us to become mature in Him so we can be mature in Him?  He has the blueprint for our lives…a perfect sketch for us. Our perfection, that is our maturation, will not always come through a painful experience but be aware, sometimes it will require it.

Joseph…

Joseph was his dad’s favorite.  He didn’t ask for his father’s favor, but that didn’t make the response of his brother any less hateful or bitter.  In fact, their disdain of Joseph escalated so much that they devised a plan to do away with him.  They lured him away from home and cast him into a pit.  Some wanted to kill him but one brother had to idea to sell him and make it out as though was killed.  Now, while Joseph was in the pit this conversation was being held within earshot.  Can you imagine the emotion flowing through him?  This was his flesh and blood devising a way to rid him from their lives.  If you are familiar with the biblical account, David is sold into slavery, but because of his honesty and character is elevated in Potipher’s household, finding himself in charge of all the food in the land during a widespread famine.  Because their family was on the brink of starvation, people and animals alike,  Joseph’s brothers came to Egypt in search for food to sustain them through the famine.  Through a series of events and conversations, Joseph reveals who he is to his brothers.  I wish I could have seen the look on their faces.  Shock.  Dread.  Fear.  Unbelief.  Instead of casting them out from his presence to sure death, Joseph makes a profound statement we find in Genesis chapter 50:

“As for you, you thought evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring about that many people should be kept alive, as they are this day.”  Genesis 50:20 (Amplified Bible)

Joseph went through an extremely painful life process.  He experienced being blindsided by his own brothers, being sold into slavery, being misrepresented by Potipher’s wife, enduring imprisonment and a lengthy separation from his family.  If Joseph did not have a mature, real, lasting relationship with God, following Him and trusting in His will for his life, he would not have been the person God used to continue the line of Israel.  Remember, Jacob, Joseph’s father became Israel.  Israel became the twelve tribes ~ God’s chosen people.  Out of the tribe of Judah came our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  Through all the pain I am sure Joseph in hind-sight is thankful God chose him to walk that walk. 

Ruth…

Ruth became one of my favorite people in the Bible many years ago when I went through a verse by verse Bible Study of her book at our church.  What I found out about her early adult years was as follows:

·         She married

·         Her father-in-law died

·         Her husband died

·         Her brother-in-law died

·         Her sister-in-law went back to her family

·         Ruth committed to take care of her mother-in-law, Naomi

·         She worked the field, gleaning from the scraps to bring food home for them

This was anything but “the glamorous life”.  What tremendous pain and disappointment Ruth faced early on in her life.  What she found in Naomi’s God, the God who would eventually become her God, made all the difference in her life.  She was determined to walk through the uncomfortable even the painful to be fully mature in Him. 

¹⁶ But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. ¹⁷ Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me."  Ruth 1:16,17 (NIV)

What if Ruth ran from what God had laid before her?  What if she said “this is way too painful for me” and fled from His presence.  I am sure we would not find her mentioned in the lineage of Christ found in Matthew 1:2-6,

Abraham had Isaac, Isaac had Jacob,
   Jacob had Judah and his brothers,
   Judah had Perez and Zerah (the mother was Tamar),
   Perez had Hezron, Hezron had Aram, Aram had Amminadab,
   Amminadab had Nahshon, Nahshon had Salmon,
   Salmon had Boaz (his mother was Rahab),
   Boaz had Obed (Ruth was the mother),
   Obed had Jesse,
   Jesse had David, and David became king.

Those of us who walk the way of the cross do so because we love Him; however the dividends are out of this world! 

Stephen…

Fortunately we do not experience the physical pain and torture some of our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ around the world face on a daily basis.  Emotional pain is lasting, but physical torture can be life-threatening.  As I looked for one more person to mention Stephen came to the forefront of my mind.  Stephen loved Christ.  He followed Christ.  He followed Him to the death ~ his death.  Because Stephen was empowered by the Holy Spirit to do wonders and miracles, speaking with such wisdom the “religious” leaders could not resist his speaking, they decided to do away with him.  They found people willing to bring false allegations against Stephen which would, in turn allow the leaders to quiet him.  Instead of hushing him, Stephen spoke with even more bravery in Acts 7.  He did not allow conjured up accusations against him to suppress the message of Christ.  When all the dust settled a decision was made to stone Stephen.  Now, this morning I accidentally hit my hand on our credenza in our front room.  OUCH, did it hurt.  Now, imagine if you will, Stephen kneeled in the midst of an angry crowd.  They choose a stone ~ some large, some sharp~ and set aim on Stephen.  One by one the stones come flying.  Remember, this was stoning unto death, not just stoning unto bruise.  As he endured the pain, the intense pain, he knelt, not just before his accusers and judges, but before His Heavenly Father.  I find Acts 7:56 to be one of the most profound scriptures in all the Word.  As Stephen kneels he looks up into the heavens and makes this statement:

“And (he) said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.” (KJV)

In scripture when we see an account written about Jesus being by His Father we usually read Jesus is “sitting” at the right hand of the Father.  Now get this…it forever changed me…  In this Acts scripture Jesus is standing.  A standing ovation is given by the Savior of the world.  Don’t tell me Jesus doesn’t recognize our pain ~ He stands to demonstrate His love for us, appreciation for our stance and honor of our sacrifice.

Why does it have to hurt so badly?  Because it just does.  As we look toward tomorrow, Easter Sunday, we’ll celebrate our risen Savior.  This is the biggest Christian holiday we observe.  But before the dawn there was the painful, dark Good Friday. 

Isaiah 53 (KJV) ~

Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?  For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.  He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.  Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.  But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.  All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth.  He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.  And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.  Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.  He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.  Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

When the pain of life comes, rejoice!  He is maturing you, your walk and your relationship with Him.

In Him,

Stefanie

 

Who Helped Make You, You?

When I think of who has influenced my life over my 39 years many names and faces cross my mind.  It was difficult to narrow down my choice. I did, however, decide on one - my mother-in-law, Greta Brown.  I have had the privilege of watching her up close for the last 15 years.  When I venture back in my mind, many things resurface regarding the influence she has had on me and many of you reading this blog.  Here is what I wrote for our ladies conference that sums up who she is to me and why she has been such an influence on me.  (I was to use words beginning with the "w" in Brown in my description.)

 

“W”

• Mom is a WOMAN. 

• She has great WEALTH when it comes to her family, her faith and her God. 

• She is WISE in counsel, WHIMSICAL when she plays with her grandchildren, WILLFUL when she wants what she wants and never WAVERING in her commitment to her Father God.

• Although she may be a WORRIER at times, it is the kind of WORRY all mothers have – a genuine love, concern and devotion for her children.

• She is not WHINY and has very little tolerance for those who do WHINE.  WHINING is a WASTE of time and energy.

• Mom has a WONDERFUL WAY to communicate the teachings of GOD to both small children, which I have seen first hand, and to adults, as we all will witness here this weekend.

• She will always take an opportunity to WITNESS when presented the chance.  That may include leaving a track after eating a meal out or striking up conversation with someone sitting next to her on a plane (if she is not asleep).

• She WAKES early to spend time with her Lord in prayer, reading and studying. 

• Mom determined long ago her family WILL stay together, they WILL know the Lord and they WILL serve Him to the best of their abilities.  I am a product of her WILL.

Who has influenced you?  How have they influenced you?  Please take a moment and share…I would love to hear what you have to say!

In Him,

Stefanie

 

I Love You This Much...

What blessed lunch I had yesterday!  Michelle Pilaczynski (Mason, 3), Sara Robinson (Zach, 5) and I (Alex 5) went to “Burber King” (that’s how Alex pronounces it) to eat and allow our boys some time to play.  Throughout the meal we exchanged stories about our boys – some funny, others a little more serious.  We enjoyed watching them play on the indoor playground, listening to the “little boy” conversations they shared.  In their endeavor to keep us involved in their play they would periodically call out for us or come back to the table to share a thrilling experience.  While sitting at the table our chat seemed to always come back to our children.  But it wasn’t just idle chat; the three of us have an honest desire to have our children know, love and follow Jesus ~ completely. 

So how do we do that?  How do we motivate our children (and ourselves) to know, love and follow Christ?   Let’s look to the scripture for some guidance.    

~ Joshua 22:5 

But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of the Lord charged you:  to love the Lord your God and to walk in all His ways and to keep His commandments and to cling to and unite with Him and to serve Him with all your heart and soul [your very life].      (Amplified Bible)

“But take careful heed to do the commandment and the law which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, to love the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, to keep His commandments, to hold fast to Him, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul.” (NKJV)

“Take diligent heed”…”only be very careful”…”take careful heed”… 

In other words: 

·        Take diligent heed – meticulous regard…

·        Very careful – incredibly, exceptionally, especially careful…

·        Careful heed – carefully take note of…

Do you think Joshua wanted the children of Israel to take what he had to say seriously?  The language he chose clearly drove home that point home.

Ø  Take diligent heed…to love the Lord your God. 

The type of love Joshua speaks of is not the puppy bat your eyes kind of love.  He is talking about a committed love – a dedicated, loyal, devoted, unswerving, faithful love.  A love not swayed by “feeling”, but is unshakable, solid and constant.  It doesn’t have the attitude of “what’s in it for me?” but instead asks “what can I do for you?”   Although you have emotional times, this love is committed all the time.

Ø  Be exceptionally careful…to walk in His ways.  What are “His ways”? 

It is having a…

v  Love that is unconditional, unwavering and steadfast

v  Joy where you are glad/happy regardless of your circumstances

v  Peace causing you to be calm, tranquil and serene

v  Patient presence which means you are even tempered and demonstrate endurance

v  Kind spirit which means you are gentle, kindhearted, compassionate and sympathetic

v  Goodness about you which causes you to want the best for others

v  Faithfulness where you stick around not bailing when things become difficult

v  Gentleness demonstrated by your meekness and humility

v  Self-control which is your strength of mind and will, willpower and self-discipline

Ø  Take careful note of His commandments and follow them

I am sure you immediately think of the “Big 10” we find in Exodus when you hear the word “commandment”.  In addition to those, Jesus gives us further instruction in the New Testament.  Here are a few…

“You know that our ancestors were told, "Do not murder" and "A murderer must be brought to trial." But I promise you that if you are angry with someone, you will have to stand trial. If you call someone a fool, you will be taken to court. And if you say that someone is worthless, you will be in danger of the fires of hell.” ~ Matthew 5:21,22 (CEV)

“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. ²⁹ If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell. ³⁰ And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell.” ~ Matthew 5:21-20 (CEV)

"Here's another old saying that deserves a second look: 'Eye for eye, tooth for tooth.' Is that going to get us anywhere? Here's what I propose: 'Don't hit back at all.' If someone strikes you, stand there and take it. If someone drags you into court and sues for the shirt off your back, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. And if someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously.´~ Matthew 5:38-42 (The Message)

Ø  Be especially careful to cling to Him and serve Him with all you heart and would.

When Dan and I returned from our trip to Las Vegas and Southern California a few weeks ago we experienced the “clinging”.  Believe it or not, with all the traveling we do this was only the second time both Dan and I had been away from Alex at the same time.  The last time was when he was 13 months old and we actually came home a day early.  He has just gone with us or one of us stayed home with him while the other travels.  So when we came home, there he was.  If I was doing laundry, so was he.  If I was emptying the dish washer, so was he.  If I was in the bathroom, he was outside the door.  He now opens my car door and any door I walk through.  He would grab my hand, look into my eyes and say “Mommy, I love you!”  He clung to me.

In looking at our relationship with our Heavenly Father how “clingy” are we?  Are we right by His side all throughout the day?  Are we reminding Him of how much we love Him?  Are we doing what we can for Him just like Alex opening the door for me? 

Do you know Him?

How “clingy” are you?

Are you serving Him?

Are you able to stretch out your arms and say “I love you this much”?  Why not, He did.

In Him,

Stefanie

 

 

 

 

 

Lead Me in the Way Uncomfortable...

“Never be afraid to do something new. Remember, amateurs built the ark; professionals built the titanic.”

~Anonymous

A popular encouragement mentioned from the pulpits of America is “We need to get out of our comfort zone.”   We nod our head; some of us may give an “Amen” while others sit quietly wondering “What is a comfort zone?  What is MY comfort zone?”  Good question.  It’s difficult to get out of something we cannot identify.  So what is a “comfort zone”?  The best way I can describe a “comfort zone” is as follows:  the space in which we live that doesn’t cause us anxiety and doesn’t create an element of risk.  It seems to me that if we want the supernatural in our lives there must be an element of risk involved coupled with a tad bit of anxiety. 

June 8, 2008 was an eventful day in our lives.  That was the Sunday we stood before the church and presented our vision for LIFT Student Ministries.  Of course, as most of you know, that vision included Dan “transitioning” out of his role at church and into a full-time role as the Executive Director of LIFT Student Ministries.  It was at that moment we entered an“uncomfortable zone”.  Here is how:

1.     We stepped away from a 26 year ministry we knew inside and out.

2.     We stepped away from financial stability into the world of becoming “self-supportive” during of the worst economies in our lifetime.

3.     We moved away from the normalcy of having our family home together, enjoying the day to day activities (soccer practice/games, school activities/programs, devotions/prayer time, not to mention, after 15 years of worshiping together, we are apart more Sundays than we are together). 

4.     We are adjusting to how longtime friendships are impacted by separation all the while building and cultivating new relationships.

5.     We are “raising” money which is hugely “uncomfortable” for us.  Although we are most thankful for the generosity of people, we are much better givers that receivers.

These are just a few examples of how we stepped, well actually jumped from the comfortable to the not so comfortable.  Let’s look to the scriptures for others who opted to step out of their “comfort zone” in pursuit of God’s will for their lives.  First, Peter… 

Meanwhile, the boat was far out to sea when the wind came up against them and they were battered by the waves. At about four o'clock in the morning, Jesus came toward them walking on the water. They were scared out of their wits. "A ghost!" they said, crying out in terror. But Jesus was quick to comfort them. "Courage, it's me. Don't be afraid." Peter, suddenly bold, said, "Master, if it's really you, call me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come ahead."

Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus.                                 ~ Matthew 14:24-29 (The Message)

I love The Message’s version of this familiar scripture.  It says that Peter jumped out of the boat.  With the storms raging around, bounding thunder and piercing lightening, waves which nearly overtook the boat, Peter jumped.   Even though their boat was under siege what was the concern? They were experienced fishermen, right?  I am sure they survived similar storms in the past.  One thing was for certain, jumping out of the boat would surely mean death.  Yet, Peter jumped…   He moved from what was comfortable and familiar to pursue Christ.

Now Let’s take a look at Moses…

~ Exodus 6:29, 30 (The Message)

 God addressed Moses, saying, "I am God. Tell Pharaoh king of Egypt everything I say to you."

 And Moses answered, "Look at me. I stutter. Why would Pharaoh listen to me?"

~ Exodus 7: 6, 7 (The Message)

Moses and Aaron did exactly what God commanded. Moses was eighty and Aaron eighty-three when they spoke to Pharaoh.

Moses stuttered.  How insecure he must have been when speaking to people.  I am sure he was perfectly fine and comfortable listening to a conversation rather than being a contributor.  My how stunned he must have been when Jehovah chose him to be His own messenger.  He would be the mouth-piece of God, Himself.  He would be the one to speak on behalf of the entire Nation of Israel, his people, God’s people.  I love what is written in Exodus 7:6 – “Moses and Aaron did exactly what God commanded”.  They ventured from the comfortable to the uncomfortable, delivered the Nation of Israel and accomplished God’s perfect will.

Now, to one of my favorites, Esther…

~ Esther 4:1-16 (The Message)

I know this passage is a bit lengthy but necessary to capture the essence of what Esther risked.

 ^1-3 When Mordecai learned what had been done, he ripped his clothes to shreds and put on sackcloth and ashes. Then he went out in the streets of the city crying out in loud and bitter cries. He came only as far as the King's Gate, for no one dressed in sackcloth was allowed to enter the King's Gate. As the king's order was posted in every province, there was loud lament among the Jews—fasting, weeping, wailing. And most of them stretched out on sackcloth and ashes.

 ^4-8 Esther's maids and eunuchs came and told her. The queen was stunned. She sent fresh clothes to Mordecai so he could take off his sackcloth but he wouldn't accept them. Esther called for Hathach, one of the royal eunuchs whom the king had assigned to wait on her, and told him to go to Mordecai and get the full story of what was happening. So Hathach went to Mordecai in the town square in front of the King's Gate. Mordecai told him everything that had happened to him. He also told him the exact amount of money that Haman had promised to deposit in the royal bank to finance the massacre of the Jews. Mordecai also gave him a copy of the bulletin that had been posted in Susa ordering the massacre so he could show it to Esther when he reported back with instructions to go to the king and intercede and plead with him for her people.

 ^9-11 Hathach came back and told Esther everything Mordecai had said. Esther talked it over with Hathach and then sent him back to Mordecai with this message: "Everyone who works for the king here, and even the people out in the provinces, knows that there is a single fate for every man or woman who approaches the king without being invited: death. The one exception is if the king extends his gold scepter; then he or she may live. And it's been thirty days now since I've been invited to come to the king."

 ^12-14 When Hathach told Mordecai what Esther had said, Mordecai sent her this message: "Don't think that just because you live in the king's house you're the one Jew who will get out of this alive. If you persist in staying silent at a time like this, help and deliverance will arrive for the Jews from someplace else; but you and your family will be wiped out. Who knows? Maybe you were made queen for just such a time as this."

 ^15-16 Esther sent back her answer to Mordecai: "Go and get all the Jews living in Susa together. Fast for me. Don't eat or drink for three days, either day or night. I and my maids will fast with you. If you will do this, I'll go to the king, even though it's forbidden. If I die, I die."

Here is the situation…Haman set out to annihilate Israel.  Mordecai, Esther’s uncle, sent word to her.  He asked her to go before the King, unannounced to speak on behalf of Israel, her people, to save them from extinction.  Her initial response was one of hesitation – going to the King unannounced could possibly mean death.  If she didn’t step away from her safe, comfortable place, risking her life in the meantime, her family, and yes Esther, herself would be murdered at the hands of Haman.  As you read you saw the King did welcome her and within course of a few days, Haman was the one hung on the very gallows he built for Israel.

Peter jumped…

            Moses ventured…

                        Esther risked…

What will be said of you? 

Will you remain comfortable or will you take a risk, venture out and jump in?

                        In Him,

                                                            Stefanie

 

What Lies Beneath...

I am sure you have seen her…she doesn’t have a hair out of place, her make-up is flawless, her clothes are impeccable and her teeth are pearly white.  Recently you were over to her home for a baseball booster meeting and you couldn’t believe your eyes ~ her kitchen and family room were spotless.  She had a variety of snacks all laid out neatly, with napkins matching cups matching plates.  Not to mention she has 3 children, all different ages and she works one day a week at a local dentist’s office.  All your friends comment on her appearance and that of her home.   Not only that, but your husband has asked you why you can’t be as “together” as she is.  “How does she do it?” you ask.  You look at your life and begin to believe you are a lost cause.   There is no way you can do all she does and look great while you do it.  I know ~ I have been there, too.

In my pursuit to become the “all-around woman” I have discovered interesting nuggets I want to share with you.  It is not all about perceptions and assumptions; it is all about the heart, the soul of who we are.

…”People judge others by what they look like, but I judge people by what is in their hearts."

~ 1 Samuel 16:7 (CEV)

v  The standard for a Godly woman is found in Proverbs 31

If you review the characteristics of a Godly woman laid out in Proverbs, there is only one reference to one’s outward appearance.  Now, I am not saying there shouldn’t be a healthy pride in our appearance.  There certainly should be.  We are a reflection of our Father…We are his daughter and we should carry ourselves like a daughter of the King.   But character, the person we are when no one is looking, is what truly matters according to the 1 Samuel scripture. 

Who is the Proverbs 31 woman?

1.      She is someone who can be trusted.

You can always confide in her because she will not betray your confidence.   She will be honest in all dealings and demonstrates discretion. 

2.      She is never spiteful, but very generous.

You can always rely on the fact she is not malicious, will not be intentionally hurtful to anyone, unkind or unpleasant on purpose.  She will be giving of both herself and her substance.

3.      She manages her money well and she is not wasteful.

Managing begins with tithing.  We are required to give back the first-fruits of labor ~ 10% goes to Him. 

 “You people are robbing me, your God. And, here you are, asking, "How are we robbing you?"

You are robbing me of the offerings and of the ten percent that belongs to me.”  ~ Malachi 3:8 (CEV)

In addition, we live in a world of excess; excess of everything.  Do we need all we have?  I have to be honest, I struggle in this area.  I love stuff!  Purses, shoes, books, magazines, etc… I love buying Alex stuff more than I do myself.  I so enjoy seeing the look on his face when presented with his “surprise”.  But I have notice something lately, although the smile appears, it doesn’t last as long as it once did.  Why?  Stuff is just stuff to him.  That has bothered Dan and me.  We began implementing a “clean and clear” day about every 3-4 months at our house.  We clean out the playroom and clear away toys not in use or that are not the appropriate age for him.  We choose who or where we are going to donate the toy(s) and make that happen.  We don’t give away junk ~ we trash that, but the toys in good condition we pass along.  In fact, a couple months ago Alex agonized (as only a 5 year old can do) as to whom to give his toys to.  He wanted them to go to just the right family.

4.      She provides the best she can for her family.

Providing the best for your family doesn’t mean you have to buy the best and the latest thing for yourself or your children.  You may be providing the best environment by having a safe home, an adequate amount of food for your family and a clean bed on which to rest.  You may also provide the best by playing Praise & Worship music around your home to create an environment of joy and peace. 

5.      She is up before her family, preparing her home for the start of the day.

We as wives and mothers are the heart of our home.  We set the pace of our home.  If we are not careful, we will fall behind and struggle to stay on top of the day to day “stuff”.  I understand the need to occasionally take a day off or sleep in, but having a stable diet of that can veer us off course.  We can set the pace by organizing our space.

6.      She is not lazy and does not look for ways to get out of work.

If your day is like mine, it looks something like this:  up around 6:15, shower, put on make-up, lay school clothes out and wake the child.   Fix breakfast, do devotions, work on AWANA verse then dry and fix hair and get dressed.  Make the beds; put dirty dishes away and finish packing lunch and snack.  Make sure homework has been signed off, give Alex his allergy medicine and pack the back-pack.  Wake Dan, if he is home.  We are in the car by 7:50 and on our way to school.  I get home about 8:10 and begin the second half of my day which may include work, household chores, tending to my 80 year old mother who doesn’t drive, errands, host a party at school (I am the party mom, ya know…), etc…Can you relate?  There is no time to be lazy, is there? We make lists to stay on task.  We do run-throughs of our home to make sure we have tended to all the needs.  Slothful, idle, sluggish ~ we are not.  Props to you wives and mothers…you rock!

7.      She keeps her home clean, safe and welcoming.

When Dan and I first began dating, I came to his house before going on our second date.  In the back of my mind I prepared myself for“bachelor pad” ~ mismatched furniture, breadcrumbs on the counter, toilet seat up and a not so nice “dirty sock” smell.  Oh my, was I ever shocked!  When I walked in for the first time (and every subsequent time thereafter) I found everything in its place, counters neatly cleared and clean, a toilet seat cleaned after each use and furniture, although a nice muted brown that matched.  Needless to say, I was dumbfounded.  It was a warm and welcoming place to enter.  Oh, by the way, there wasn’t the “dirty sock” smell I anticipated either.  Candles were lit and air freshener was always abounding.  You know if you come to our home now, you will find it just that.  It is a homey, relaxing place where everything has a place (even if it is in the dining room turned playroom).  I have to admit this is not let me repeat NOT my forte.  I must really work to keep my home environment uncluttered.  I am a clean freak with Clorox being my best friend, but I get lost in clutter sometimes. 

8.      She is available to help those in need.

A recent post I shared had to do with balancing your life.  I am still a complete advocate of that; however we don’t want to become such an isolationist that we are not available when there is a need.  I would encourage you to decide on one or two ways you can help a person or an institution.  For example, if your child’s school has a chaperone need, you can put yourself on the list.  Field trips are few and far between, but you will still be able to meet at need.  If you know of  a shut-in who has a difficult time getting to the store, offer to pick up a few things for him/her when you do your weekly shopping.  You can meet a need as you do your usual thing.

9.      She prepares her family for all seasons.

About 4 years ago I was attending an Admissions and Release Committee (ARC) meeting at a local elementary school.  As I pulled up to park I notice the temperature outside was 19 degrees.  As I waited for the meeting to begin I overheard a conversation between a darling school nurse and a little girl who could not have been older than the third grade.  She had come to school that morning, that 19 degree morning, with sandals on along with a sleeveless shirt.  The nurse was going through the clothes closet looking for more appropriate clothing so the little girl would be safely warm.  I struggled to hold back the tears.  I am sure I sent Alex out so bundled up he looked like the Michelin Man.  But isn’t that what we are supposed to do? 

10.   She is respected by her husband and children.

What does it mean to be respected?  It means you are appreciated, valued, treasured, cherished, a prize… Although my love language is not “words of affirmation” I do enjoy hearing them from Dan.  He has especially been kind over the last 14 months since he has been on the road SO MUCH.  He realizes I am doing double duty and wants to make sure he shows his appreciation for my “holding down the fort”.  Your husband may not be a man of many words, but he may show his appreciation other ways ~ by giving you the night off and putting the children to bed or by preparing dinner and cleaning up so you don’t have to do so.  For those who don’t receive a lot of appreciation or may not feel valued or treasured at this moment, please know your Heavenly Father sees all and knows.  He smiles in response to your desire to be of good, Godly character and is pleased.

 

Remember our friend from the introduction?  Well, yes her appearance is put together but what lies beneath is anything but glamorous.

               The drawers of her mind are filled to the brim and spilling over with an attitude of superiority.

The dust bunnies of her soul are entirely selfish, not even making sure her children have brushed their hair or teeth before leaving for school.

The take out containers in the trash, the ones from where all the “impressive, homemade” desserts came from are filled with night after night of not having a family dinnertime.  Everyone simply goes to their own little spot to eat alone.

…”People judge others by what they look like, but I judge people by what is in their hearts."

~ 1 Samuel 16:7 (CEV)

How is your heart, your character?  Good condition?  Need some help?  Call upon Him.  He is waiting to “create in you a pure heart…) (NCV, Adapted).  Will you let Him?

In Him

Stefanie               

 

 

 

 

No Worries...

Alex was listening to a song on our way home from Detroit Monday called ‘No Worries”.  As I listened to the words I was reminded of how quickly we can give into the negative thoughts and emotions which surround us every day. Anxiety…  Frustration … Discouragement… We all, at some time or another, experience these emotions, but if we are not careful, they will become a staple in our emotional diet, causing us to withdraw, become depressed all the while sliding toward hopelessness.  It can happen before we think twice.  God wants to remind us there is HOPE…

·        “Lord, my family has forsaken me because I have chosen to follow you…”

Proverbs 18:24

I AM “a friend who sticks closer than a brother”. (Amplified Bible, Adapted)

·        “Lord, my husband has decided to leave me and our children after 12 years of marriage…”

Hebrews 13:5

"I WILL NEVER DESERT YOU, NOR WILL I EVER FORSAKE YOU." (NASB)

·        “Lord, my job is a risk, my husband is working as much overtime as he can, my electric bill is a due in a couple of days…”

 

Philippians 4:19

^“I shall abundantly supply all your need according to [my] riches.”

(Darby Translation, Adapted)

 

·        “Lord, I can’t believe my ‘friends’ are spreading such untruths about me…my character is being attacked because of their selfish motivations…”

 

Psalm 144:1,2

"I AM HE who trains (you) to fight fair and well.
I AM the bedrock on which (you) stand, the castle in which (you) live, (I AM

your) rescuing knight,
The high crag where (you) run for dear life, while (I) lay (your) enemies low."

(The Message, Adapted)

 

·        “My son has wandered so far away from you, my heart is breaking and I need help and hope!”

 

Proverbs 22:6

“Train children to live the right way, and when they are old, they will not

stray from it.” (NLT)

 

·        “I am struggling with the negative influence of those around me.  I want to follow you but don’t feel I have the strength to do so…”

 

1 John 4:4

"But you belong to (ME), my dear children. You have already won a victory

over those people, because (MY) Spirit who lives in you is greater than the

spirit who lives in the world." (NLT, Adapted)

 

Growing up I dealt with a bad case of the “worries”.  I worried about everything ~ how well I did in school, where I would go to college, would we be able to afford college, what would I be when I “grew up”, will my family fight when we are all together at Christmas, will my family even come over for Christmas (they were prone not to show up)…just to name a few.  I would be so nervous at home that I slept with my Bible opened to this scripture (and I even memorized it for good measure):

~ Matthew 6:25-34 (Amplified Bible)

²⁵Therefore I tell you, stop being perpetually uneasy (anxious and worried) about your life, what

you shall eat or what you shall drink; or about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life greater [in

 quality] than food, and the body [far above and more excellent] than clothing?

    ²⁶Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your

 heavenly Father keeps feeding them. Are you not worth much more than they?

    ²⁷And who of you by worrying and being anxious can add one unit of measure (cubit) to his

 stature or to the span of his life?

    ²⁸And why should you be anxious about clothes? Consider the lilies of the field and learn

 thoroughly how they grow; they neither toil nor spin.

    ²⁹Yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his magnificence (excellence, dignity, and grace) was not

 arrayed like one of these. [I Kings 10:4-7.]

    ³⁰But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and green and tomorrow is

 tossed into the furnace, will He not much more surely clothe you, O you of little faith?

    ³¹Therefore do not worry and be anxious, saying, What are we going to have to eat? or, What

we going to have to drink? or, What are we going to have to wear?

    ³²For the Gentiles (heathen) wish for and crave and diligently seek all these things, and your

 heavenly Father knows well that you need them all.

    ³³But seek (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of

 doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given you besides.

   ³⁴So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its

 own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble.

Don’t let worrying consume you.  Identify what worries you…  Research God’s word for a “word” to meet your need.  Claim it!  Memorize it!  Cling to it! 

In Him,

Stefanie