A Matter of Honor

Children’s children are the crown of old men, and the glory of children is their father.  Proverbs 17:6

My husband and I are blessed to be in a church where my father is pastor.  For our entire marriage we have enjoyed the benefits of a personal 24 hour day ‘Dial a Preacher’ line, immense wisdom, and a walking, talking concordance with cell phone reach-ability all over the world.  We greatly respect Dad!  Recently, however, we were convicted of a subtle sin in our lives: a lack of showing honor to my father.  If you had ever asked me if I thought this was something we were guilty of I would have laughed in your face.  Us? Failing to show honor and respect for the family patriarch?  Ha!  Sadly, it was true. 

We had begun to notice little things that some of our children were saying and doing, all of which smacked of a lack of honor and respect for men.  Oh, it was nothing blatant or outright awful, but we could sense it under the surface.  Adrian and I began to pray, asking the Lord to show us what was causing this.  Turns out, our own actions were teaching our children some very bad habits. I will address my own behavior to give you an idea of how a lack of honoring is taught. (Personally, I think the bulk of the blame lies with me, but my godly husband understands his role and responsibility as head of our home and is not one to throw me under a bus.)

My own delight in giving my two cents was telling my children that Dad and Grandpa really could not make good decisions without my counsel.  Joking about things such as what Daddy was wearing or what Grandpa was eating translated that these grown, mature men needed someone to help them with the very basic choices of each day because they were just too simple-minded to figure it out on their own.  Second guessing decisions that these men had prayed about was undermining their place as leaders in our family.  All of this was rubbing against everything else my husband and I were trying to teach our children about esteeming men of God.

He who mistreats his father and chases away his mother is a son who causes shame and brings reproach. Proverbs 19:26

We are so thankful that the Lord made us aware of this dangerous and erosive behavior in our lives.  We repented to my father and are making changes in how we speak to him, especially in front of the children. 

And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. 1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13

The scariest thing about all of this: we could not see our sin.  It was so subtle that even Dad was a little confused when we asked his forgiveness!  Praise God that our children are like little barometers.  They will act out what they are taught, even the silent lessons we do not realize we are teaching. 

Prayer:

Father, thank You for your Holy Spirit who came to be a helper, showing us the areas of our lives that are displeasing to You.  Please open our eyes to the things that bring dishonor to Your name and to those who are older or in a place of authority in our lives.  Amen

Challenge:

If you see behaviors in your children that are contrary to what you are verbally teaching them, examine your own life for silent lessons you might be presenting: lack of respect for your husband by leaving him out of decisions involving schooling or church attendance; unkindness through sarcastic words disguised as a joke; lack of self control dressed up as a free spirit; a controlling spirit cloaked in a hyper-scheduled day.

If you see this sin in your own life, humble yourself, go to the person and repent.  Then change your actions and heart attitude and begin to repair that which has been torn down!

The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish pulls it down with her hands. Proverbs 14:1

Jen G 2012

Smells Like...Holy Spirit

When I am in the library reading magazines and I come across one of those fragrance strips that appeals to me…I look around all secretive-like and then brush my wrist across the paper.  I want to carry that fragrance with me, making others think, “Wow, she smells good!  Where can I get some of that?" Wouldn’t they be surprised to know?  Of course, there are other fragrances that I would be more likely to call an ‘odor’.  Those do not get rubbed on my skin.

Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things? 2 Corinthians 2: 14-16

In 2 Corinthians 2:14-16, Paul draws a comparison between Christ’s followers and long ago war heroes.  When a victorious leader would return to his home city, a parade of triumph would be held in his honor.  The parade was made up of fearless warriors and important people of the city, as well as prisoners of war.  The incense that was burned during this merriment smelled sweet to those celebrating the victory.  To the prisoners it was anything but sweet.  For them, the incense was a reminder of their lasting captivity or impending death.

To those who are believers, or who are responding the Gospel, the fragrance of Christ is the sweet aroma of life.  To those who reject Christ, it is the odor of death; a reminder of the vacant place within their souls that can only be filled by the very One they refuse to follow.  

Do you want to be a diffuser of Christ’s fragrance every where you go?  Within your own strength that is impossible.  It is only with Christ in you, the hope of glory, that He can be seen (and smelled) by others.  Draw near to Him, walk closely behind Him in the shadow of His wings, let His hand rest upon you every hour of the day (Psalm 63:7-8). Then, and only then, will others find the fragrance of Christ around you.  Make them want to rub it on their wrists.

Prayer: 

Father, thank you for allowing me to be a diffuser of Your fragrance to those around me.  When others respond in a negative way, please give me the grace and strength to respond as Jesus did while on earth.  Amen.: 

Challenge: 

Consider making your 2012 spiritual goal one of being a great smelling believer.  Find a partner and encourage one another to be like Jesus in every area of life.

Jen G. 2012

Thoroughly Equipped Flamingos

by Jen G. 2011

Let’s talk about chicken and flamingos…

Did you know that chickens live in every continent on the planet except Antarctica? They are pretty easy going birds – they can live in a barnyard or in the woods or even the side of the road. They lay eggs in the yard or hen house and eat bugs, grass, grain and a myriad of other things. Chickens are made to be adaptable to many different habitats and circumstances.

Every year, a whole bunch of Lesser Flamingos fly to salty Natron Lake in Tanzania, Africa. While there, the big pink birds eat algae to give them their rosy color, find a mate and prepare to lay eggs. As the temps rise and the water begins to evaporate rapidly, the salt settles on the top of the lake and forms crusty sheets, eventually floating to the center of the lake and forming a salt island. It is in this harsh, hot, floating plain that the Lesser Flamingo builds a nest of salt and lays its eggs. Of the 2 million Lesser Flamingoes born in Africa, all 2 million are born on the salt crust of Natron Lake. Flamingos are made for this bizarre habitat and have been equipped with the necessary tools to survive there.

Just as chickens and flamingoes have a unique purpose in God’s creation, Christ followers have a special purpose in the kingdom of God. As believers, we have been created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10)

Maybe you feel like a chicken on a salt lake or a flamingo in a barnyard; your circumstances are not ideal to your thinking. You live in a 700 sq. ft. appt. or have a chronic illness or a rebellious child or a rough marriage. A tiny budget demands that you buy used curriculum or shop at thrift stores for clothing. OR, maybe your life is pretty much perfect and you feel guilty for having it so ‘easy’ when your friends are having a rough go of it.

Be assured that no matter what your life looks like right now, the Lord has given you the tools to accomplish His good purposes for you. He has equipped you to handle what life holds.

How has the Lord equipped you?

2 Timothy 3:16,17 says,

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (emphasis added)

Are you using the tool of Scripture to walk out your calling? Do not believe the lie of the enemy that you can not do what the Lord has called you to do. Spend time in the Word, study it, know it, learn from it and allow it to transform your thinking. Then walk confidently in your circumstances, knowing that He has given you all that you need to be what He has created to be.

Sort of like a flamingo.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for the beautiful examples in creation that point us right back to You and Your wisdom. Thank You that Your Word is life to me! Help me to hold fast to it, drawing the strength I need to walk out the good works You have prepared for me. Amen

Challenge:

Spend time in the word each day and allow it to renew your mind. When you find yourself second guessing what the Lord has called you to do, remind yourself that in Him you can walk out His purposes. Audibly express your thanksgiving to Him for His perfect plan for your life.

Jen G. 2011

The Possibility of Being Super Chick

Jen G. 2011

Every new year I come up with a personal project on which I need to work. Not a project like learning to paint or reading War and Peace or anything like that, but a personal project as in self improvement. (Never weight loss, though.) One year it was controlling my tongue - a never ending project. Four years ago it was getting up earlier each day. (Still never ending) The last two years it was forgiveness and getting rid of bitterness and self righteousness. (Yep.  Never ending. ) This year my key verse is: She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. Proverbs 31:27

You are probably thinking, “Puh-leeeaaase! Not that Proverbs 31 super chick again! She is an unreal example and God certainly does not intend for a modern woman to be like that. Besides, there are too many devotionals out there about her already.” Those were once my exact same thoughts. I had to decide if the whole Word of God or just the convenient parts were applicable to my life.

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

1 Timothy 3:16, 17

First, let me assure you that the woman described in Proverbs 31 was not a flesh and blood woman. (Does that make you feel a bit better?) She was and is, however, a beautiful picture painted by the Creator of the universe to be an encouragement and inspiration to all women. So often we fail to see the HOPE in her portrait, instead focusing on all the ‘impossible’ things like spinning wool and buying vineyards. Let’s take a look at this model woman’s characteristics:

~She is virtuous. V.10
~She is trustworthy. V. 11
~She does her husband good and not evil each and every day. V. 12
~She willingly works with her hands. V. 13, 19
~She provides meals for her family, even when the hours are inconvenient. V. 15
~She is financially savvy and thinks through purchases. V. 16
~She takes care of her body, purposefully strengthening herself. V. 17
~She ensures quality in what she creates, even if it means staying up a bit later. V. 18
~She reaches out to those in need and the poor. V. 20 (I see her reaching out in a physical, emotional and spiritual way depending on the need.)
~She does not worry about the physical comfort of her family because she is careful to prepare their wardrobes for the seasons. V. 21
~She takes care to dress attractively to honor of her husband. V. 22
~The work she does is desired by others. V. 25
~Her strong and honorable character is her greatest feature. V. 25
~She is full of wisdom and shares it with kindness. V. 26
~She watches over her family and is not lazy. V. 27
~As a result of the above attributes, her children and husband honor her and tell others of her integrity. V. 28, 29
~She might not be the most physically beautiful chick around, but her heart is a lovely jewel that speaks loudly of her character. V. 30, 31

Do you notice how much emphasis is placed on the woman's character?  We many times see only the seemingly overwhelming physical tasks. Proverbs 31 is so much more than that! The tasks - modern or ancient -  are just the vehicles that bring godly character into our lives! Do you want to be a kind, wise woman who accomplishes much and is love and honored by her family? Do not be discouraged – it IS possible to be Super Chick. Our help comes from the Lord, the Maker of our homes and families. Call on Him today and ask Him to show you how you can fulfill your calling as a woman.  Hebrews 4:12-16

Prayer:
Father, let me see the hope and encouragement in Your example of the woman in Proverbs. Help me to know how to walk out the calling on my life. I need Your counsel on how to be the woman I am called to be. I desire to honor You above all else in every area of my life. Amen.

Challenge:
Every woman’s life is different. Some may be a full time wife and mom at home, some might work a full time job outside of the home while still being a full time wife and mom. Others hold part time jobs, homeschool, attend college, are single, deal with chronic physical or mental illness. Some live in the city while others wrangle chickens in the country. Search the Lord’s counsel on how the above attributes will flesh out in your life. Share ideas with friends and hold one another accountable as you usher in the character of Christ into every area of your life.

Jen G. 2011



Ebenezars (Memory Stones)

I Samuel chapter 7 records a time when the Lord delivered Israel from the Philistines. Verse 12 says,
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"Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far has the LORD helped us."

When we think about the spiritual training of our little ones, we want to do everything we can to surround them with atmosphere of faith that will become as natural as breathing to them. We take them to church with us, teach them the Word, play worship music in our homes, and pray with them. In this way, we show them that God is not only our Creator and Savior, but that He desires to be in every part of our lives, and cares about us in both the "big" and "little" things.

The Bible records several instances where people built altars of stone as a remembrance of what God had done for them. In Genesis 13, God made a promise to Abram, and Abram built an altar and called the place Beth-el--the House of God. In Genesis 28, Jacob slept with a stone for a pillow and had his vision of the ladder. He then took that stone and made an altar to the Lord.

Later, as the Israelites would pass by these places, they would say, "This is where the Lord [did this or that thing]." And, as Samuel said, "this is where the Lord has helped us so far."

We all have experiences like that, don't we? This is where the Lord healed Mommy. This is where God provided a job for Daddy. This is where the car broke down on a lonely highway, and God sent somebody by to help.

As my own children were growing up, they would ask from time to time, "Tell us again about when God...." and we would gather them together and tell them our own "faith stories." Stories about what God has done for Daddy and Mommy before they were born; stories about what God has done for them! It is wonderful and faith-building to hear of someone at church getting healed of cancer, or a miraculous provision of money for someone we know. But our very own family stories of faith are the ones that make altars that our children will return to in their own times of faith-crisis. And the ones about which they will tell their own children.

All eight of my children made an early confession of faith, and we rejoiced. But I have found that each of them (and us!) also had to have a personal encounter with God, as a teenager or young adult. This faith that they were "born into," must, at some point, become their very own. They must have their "own" story, their own Ebenezers. Rehearsing our family stories throughout their lives gives an air of expectancy for them: God has done things for Daddy and Mommy; He will do things for me, as well. Let me encourage you to relate your own stories throughout your day or week, as well as making a special time to share a number of stories. There is nothing that will make your daily troubles and irritations look small like a trip down Ebenezer Lane!

Prayer:
Lord, thank you for creating me, and loving me. Thank you most of all for the gift of Your Son, whom You sent to earth so that we could have relationship with You once again. Thank you for caring for me in all the big and little ways; the miraculous and the "everyday," which is much more miraculous than I ever realize. Help me to remember often, the places I can point to and say, "this is where God met me." Help me to be more vocal about them, and realize that these stories will eventually be part of the "faith of our fathers," for my descendants generations from now. Don't let another day go by without my telling my children something that You have done for me.

Challenge:
Find a time to gather your family for a "story-time." As you do this a few times, your children will not wait for one story to end before they say, "don't forget about the time..." Make a big deal when something new happens, and you can say, "now we have another story to tell."

Memory Stones - Purchase a large clear vase and a bag of glass vase stones or beach glass (Walmart or craft stores). Everytime the Lord answers a prayer or a faith story happens, drop a stone in the vase. This is a beautiful way to remember what God has done!

Barbara K 2009

Are You a Jonah or a Moses?

My daughter and I were out with some friends looking for riding gear. While we were chatting, the young woman assisting us briefly shared a recent trial. The “I will be sure to pray for you” sentiment pushed forward in my mouth. And then the Lord clearly told me to offer to pray with the young woman assisting us.

Jen: “Seriously, Lord? You are seriously telling me to ask this girl if I can pray for her. In the middle of this store?”

Lord: “Yep. I am.”

As my heart surrendered to His leading, the sweaty palms and pounding in my chest subsided. A peace and confidence flooded over me as I boldly asked, “Would it totally freak you out if I prayed with you right now?”

The young woman looked surprised, but immediately said she would love it if we prayed. My daughter and our friends bowed their heads as if praying in the middle of a ritzy tack store while people milled around was the most natural thing in the world. And I prayed.

This story is shared not because I have a handle on immediate obedience, but because I do not. More often than not, I resist the urging of the Holy Spirit. I beg Him to speak to me, give me direction and use me. And then, when He tries to, I argue. I tell Him I am too embarrassed, not qualified and not gifted enough. In doing so I miss whatever blessing He has for me in the task at hand. Even worse, I fear, is the blessing someone else will miss because of my orneriness. Praise the Lord that this time I listened!

Jonah argued with the Lord. Instead of listening and obeying, he came up with a myriad of excuses. Most of them centered on the unworthiness of the people of whom he was being asked to minister. He did eventually end up obeying, but it was with a sour heart bent on getting the job over and done with. When the people listened to the Lord’s warning Jonah was mad! (Jonah 3:10-4:1)

Moses argued with the Lord as well. He gave reasons why he was not qualified to do the seemingly impossible job of leading the Israelites into freedom. Moses’ issues stemmed from fear rather than stuck up, Jonah pride. The Lord spoke to Moses firmly, assuring him that he was called and would be thoroughly equipped. As a result of Moses' obedience, God’s people were led into freedom and we have a beautiful example of an Old Testament shadow of Christ’s atoning work. (Exodus 3 and 4)

Are you a Jonah or a Moses? What is the Lord asking you to do and how are you responding? Do you jump at the chance to see how the Lord will work in your weakness or do you puff yourself up thinking that you are too good for the mission He has called you to perform? I encourage you to get ready to respond positively to what He calls you to do today.

"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,  not of works, lest anyone should boast.  For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."  Ephesians 2:8-10

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Prayer:

Father, I thank You that You have equipped me for every good work and that nothing is too difficult for me to accomplish through You alone. Help me to listen to Your voice today and to act immediately. Amen.

Challenge:

This week, start your days off asking the Lord to prepare your heart to hear His instructions and act on them. When you feel Him speaking to you, step out and DO what He is directing you to do. Keep a written record of how often you felt prompted to speak or do something and the results.

Jen G. 2010

To Be Like the Father

“Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” And He laid His hands on them…” Matthew 19:13-15a

The kitchen is the hub of my home. Each day I teach my children there, cook there, even my laptop is there. The rest of the house could blow away and we would probably be just fine as long as the kitchen (and at least one bathroom) stayed put.

As you probably have deduced from my description, the very fact that I was alone in this room one day this week is a highly unusual thing. Anyway, I was alone and enjoying every minute of it. My hands were busy making calzone rolls and my ears were catching an entire episode of Focus on the Family. Life was about perfect. Then I heard it - the sound of feet on the stairs and a little voice.

“Mommyyyyyyyy….”

The irritation was instant. “How aggravating! Here I am with a little bit of time, finally, to be alone and someone needs me.” For the love of Pete – can’t they ever leave me alone?!!”

Cue the voice of God.

“When is the last time you came to Me and I responded with irritation?”

Ouch.

As a parent, I am a representation of the Lord to my children. One of my most important jobs is to teach them about the Father’s love, compassion, patience, mercy, judgment, righteousness and even righteous anger. If I react with irritation and frustration when a child comes to me with a need, what does that say about the Lord - the One I am teaching them to pray to about everything that concerns them?

My goal is to change my reactions to my precious children to reflect the reactions of my heavenly Father to me, His precious child. He is always fair, full of love, just and merciful, firm and decisive in His correction and punishment, always willing to forgive and give good gifts. He is never too busy to hear me or to answer. I want to be like Him.

“When Jesus heard what had happened [the murder of John the Baptist], He withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed Him on foot from the towns. When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them and healed their sick. Matthew 14:13-14

Prayer:

Father, thank You for your consistent love for me. Thank you for always being there when I come to You with a need. Please help me to ever mindful of the privilege of reflecting You to my children. Amen.

Challenge:

Watch for opportunities this week to act in the character of God in your relationships. Search the Scriptures for examples of the Lord’s reaction to sin, need, etc. 

Jen G. 2010

Living in a Glass House

I am a stay at home wife and homeschooling mother of five children. The only time I am not being observed or possibly eavesdropped on is when I am sleeping at night or in the shower. And even then I wonder… The option of dealing with my sin issues and bad habits in private is pretty much nonexistent. Whatever I am struggling with, there are five people who are tuned in for the show; no matter how hard I try to hide it and deal with it alone it never seems to work. My children can read me like a book and that is downright frustrating! Sometimes a gal just wants to be snarky without being called on the carpet by a six year old.

Instead of being frustrated, I must choose to be thankful for this glass house in which I live. So many people lack accountability and struggle in their sin without anyone intervening or pointing them in the right direction. How blessed I am to have loved ones daily turning me towards holiness. Of course, sometimes one of my children becomes wise in their own eyes and corrects me in arrogance. I then have the opportunity to teach them the proper way to confront another believer and set them on the path to godliness. It’s a win/win situation!

My transparency with my children teaches them four things: avoiding sin, choosing sin, repentance and forgiveness. At times I do a great job of avoiding sin, but there are many, many times when I choose to do the wrong thing and have to follow up with repentance and seeking forgiveness. No matter what, my children are learning valuable lessons: the joy of victory over sin or the hurt that sin brings and the freedom that repentance and forgiveness brings.

I will no longer look at my glass house as a frustration. Instead I will see it as a blessing that allows me to teach my children the ways of God.

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Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

Prayer:
Father, thank You for my glass house. Thank You for daily opportunities to live for You in front of my children. Please help me to choose the holy path and avoid the pitfalls of sin. Let my children always feel comfortable to come to me in love when they see that I am struggling. Help me to receive their words and turn the situation into a life lesson that points them and me to You. Amen.

Challenge:
Do you feel as if you are always ‘on’, being watched and evaluated by your children or husband? Instead of feeling like that is unfair, embrace the opportunity to be more watchful of your sin areas. Become more aware of your example as a believer living with young believers or non-believers. Be thankful for the light shining in the dark corners of your life.

Jen 2010

Are You a Lemon?

We had a car once that needed to have constant repair service. If it was not one thing, it was another. Parts were always breaking and needing to be replaced or treated in some way. It was expensive; it was high maintenance. It was expensive and frustrating to own such a car! Most of us call those kinds of cars lemons.

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I have found that people are very similar in a way. So the question is: are YOU a high or low maintenance kind of person? That is a pretty scary question isn’t it? None of us want to admit that we might be a high maintenance person. How do we know what a high maintenance person looks like? Here are some clues:

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• they are focused on their “feelings or emotions” (what others say to them, how they say it to them)
• they need constant verbal praise to carry on whatever task they are doing
• they are often “wounded” by others
• offended easily
• always need to “talk” about something that is bothering them
• pout to get attention and are angry if they do not get the attention

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In other words, high maintenance people are roller coaster personalities and emotionally exhausting to relate with because they require so much attention. I think you get the picture.

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Does this describe you? If it does, don’t despair! The word of God gives us some very practical solutions to help us change. In Colossians 3: 1–5 we are told to set our minds on things above and not on the things on the earth. We are told to consider the members of our earthly bodies as dead. Skip down to verses 8–17 and we see what we are to put off and what to put on. I think the key here is to practice the "put ons" starting in verse 12. These "put ons" are a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other…..just as the Lord forgave you. Verse 14 tells us to put on love.

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If we would apply these few verses our lives would begin to be transformed. Not only do they help those us who may be high maintenance ourselves to overcome, but it will help those of us who have to deal with high maintenance people treat them with love and kindness. God is amazing isn’t He?
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Prayer: Lord, the last thing I want is for others to feel like I am a high maintenance person. Please help me to overcome and to grow up into Christ in all things. Help me as I practice the put offs and put ons listed in Colossians. 3. Teach me to set my mind on things above and to make Jesus Christ Lord of my life in all ways. Thank you.

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Challenge: Begin to take notice of how you relate to others and ask the Lord to open your eyes to your status of maintenance requirements.
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Sherry 2010

Blessing Others

In First Kings 17 we read the story of the prophet of Elijah in a time of drought. Poor Elijah was exhausted,hungry,and terribly unappreciated by the rulers of the land. In the midst of famine, the Lord directed him to a woman who would supposedly give him food to eat and a place to stay. When Elijah arrived, the woman was gathering wood to build a fire over which she and her son were planning to cook their last meal. She told the prophet that she had only a little oil and flour left, certainly not enough to feed a guest and her small family. Elijah assured her that if she would just prepare what little she had all would be taken care of and she would not be in need. The little lady took him at his word (having more faith that I might have!)and got to work. Sure enough, the flour and oil did not run out and many, many more meals were prepared for Elijah and the family.

And then the woman's son died. She was distraught and cried out asking, "Why did this happen? Did you come to remind me of my sin and kill my son?" Elijah gathered the boy in his arms, laid him on a bed, and cried out to the Lord. And guess what? The boy took a deep breath and came back to life. The woman gave great credit to Elijah and his status as a man of God. I tend to think that it was not just Elijah's godliness and heartfelt prayer that contributed to this boy's life being restored. I believe that the woman's faithfulness to give regardless of her own circumstances played a role.

A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25

Family friends recently experienced the return of blessings. They are living in a far away state surrounded by a new job, new friends, and a new church. When the mother underwent major surgery this past week, she was incredibly blessed by those new friends who reached out in big ways to care for her home and family. I know that one reason her family is being showered with love is in part due to the huge blessing they have been to so many others in their new state as well as back East.

Obviously, we are to bless others with no expectation of what we can get in return from them. There is, however, the promise of being refreshed when we refresh others. Sometimes that refreshing might come in real time, but it also could be something we must wait to receive in heaven. Either way, we have the promise! Look around and see if you are taking opportunities to bless others in whatever way possible, knowing that you will also receive the blessing of a heart like Jesus'.

Prayer:
Father, help me to see the needs of those around me and act upon them in whatever way I can. Thank you for the promise of refreshment, a heart filled with peace and joy, when I reach out and serve others in Your name. Amen.

Challenge:
There is always someone who simply needs a hug or a note in the mail. Besides the obvious meal making for those recovering from surgery or birth, you could look for unexpected ways to minister to others. Leaving the quarter in the cart at Aldi's, letting the guy behind you take the closest parking spot, or picking up the garbage someone else threw on the sidewalk. Blessings do not have to be huge to be counted!

Jen 2010

Likeminded

The word ‘likeminded’ seems to be cropping up more and more of late. It probably is not really being used more, I am just more conscious of the term. Suddenly it seems to be on every forum, in blog posts, in book titles and descriptions, even on the radio. One thing I have learned over the years is to take notice when the normal seems to morph into something bigger than usual in my mind. It usually means a lesson is waiting to be learned.
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The word likeminded is used in three places in the King James Version* of the Bible. In all three passages, likeminded was used in conjunction with having the mind of Christ.

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In Philippians 2:19-21, Paul assures the people that he is sending someone to care for them. He had to send someone because there was no one nearby who sought to serve Jesus above their own wants, desires, and needs; there was no one likeminded.
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Romans 15:5-6 is a short prayer of blessing for the Philippians. Paul prayed that God would grant them to be likeminded toward one another according to Christ Jesus, desiring that they would glorify God with one mind and one mouth. Notice that Paul was encouraging them to glorify God with ONE mouth and ONE mind. They were to focus their energy not on their own selves, but on Christ.

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Philippians 2:2-5 seems to speak most clearly on the subject of being likeminded.
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Philippians 2:2-5
Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.

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Once again, this word, likeminded, is connected to Jesus. (vs. 5)

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The word likeminded in these Scriptures is not meant to push people into boxes with others who are exactly alike. On the contrary, it is meant to draw people together in Christ to glorify His name. HE is to be what makes us likeminded. Not our preferred version of the Bible, denomination, clothing, style of worship, educational style, entertainment choices, single or double income, marital status, or size of family.

If Jesus only spent time with likeminded people according to these criteria, I would have probably been left out of the picture. Why on earth would a single, homeless, renegade male want to spend time with a blogging home school mother who likes to bake? That would be plain weird. Unless we had the God of the universe in common.

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It is perfectly okay and normal to gravitate towards those who share common interests or experiences in life. I will obviously be more likely to join a home school group than a local Boosters club. My computer habits drift to home making sites and blogs of other moms, while my husband enjoys watching political and motorcycling videos. However, dividing our fellowship as believers along those lines of preference is dangerous and unproductive.

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If we as Christ followers were truly thoughtful when using the word likeminded, there would be more Christlikeness and less disunity caused by the segregation of preferences and non essentials. And in the end, there would most assuredly be more people won to Christ by the example of our love for one another.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for the freedom I have in Christ. Help me to be like You in everything I do, showing love and kindness despite small differences in doctrine or preferences. Give me wisdom to know when something is against Your Word and grace to handle it in a loving, humble way. Amen

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Challenge:

Be aware this week of your use of the word likeminded. Examine your heart to determine if you want to be with others who love the Lord or who just do things the same way you do things in your spiritual walk.

Jen Gorton 2010

*I used the King James Version of the Bible as it is oldest translation available to me. I personally use the New King James Version and enjoy many other actual translations.

Jesus and Women

Studying the word of God can be so rich and fulfilling in every way. I’m often amazed at how much I learn and see the more I take the time to read it. I read a Christian book about Mary Magdalene to the kids one day. Ever since then, I wanted to find out more about her in the Bible. As I started reading the story I thought was about her in Luke 7:37-50, I realized it wasn’t about her. Nor is the story in Matthew 26:6-13. As I continued, I found out that those stories are about two different women.

The story in Luke 7:37-50, is about an unknown prostitute. The story in Matthew 26:6-13, is about Mary the sister of Martha and Lazarus. Since neither of those stories was about Mary Magdalene and because I’m familiar with the story about the other Mary, I was curious about the lady in Luke. As I studied the passage, I was encouraged to see how much LOVE Jesus showed to this woman, especially since she was a woman that some would consider an outcast.

Then I read another familiar story in Matthew 9:20-22. It’s about the woman with the issue of blood. As I read more on it, the fact that SHE TOO was considered an outcast made my heart rejoice even more about how much Jesus reached out to her and showed her love.

But not only how Jesus showed love towards those ladies, but also how those ladies showed much FAITH! Each of those women had lived hard lives - not only in what they had experienced physically, but emotionally, too. We all know how hard it is for us females to have others view us harshly. I can only imagine the looks, comments, and other hurtful things that happened to them. But through all of that, those women heard about Jesus. They WORSHIPPED Him! Wherever He was, they came to Him. They didn’t care about who saw them or what someone would think. They just knew they needed the Savior, and so they came.

Reading about those women really challenged me. They challenge me in two ways:

Where’s my level of worship?
Am I willing to do whatever it takes to carry my troubles to Jesus? Even if it means being looked at or treated differently by others? These women knew they had troubles. They knew they had issues of sin. They knew Jesus was the only One Who could help them and give them what they needed. I am challenged to be that same way.

What’s my heart like towards the outcast?
It’s easy to see that the Pharisees and other “religious” people were wrong to treat those women the way they did. But, as I read how they treated them, I can’t help but to wonder, “What would I do?” How many times do I see a known sick person and truly take the time to find out on a consistent basis how she is doing or how I can pray for her (and really pray)? Or, how many times do I see prostitutes on the streets in various urban areas and not stop (if I could) to minister to them and find out why they’re out there?

Reading about those women just softened my heart more for women. This world is filled with hurting women. It’s a blessing to be women who have been set free through Jesus. It’s a blessing and joy to know that He saved my soul and has changed my life through His Word. I know many other women can testify to the same thing. But there are still some dear and precious women out there who are hurting so much. We need to go out there and share the gospel with many women who need the Savior.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You so much for softening my heart so much more for women. You are doing a wonderful thing, Father. Please help me to use every opportunity You give me to share the gospel and Your word with the women You bring my way. Help me, Holy Spirit, to respond to the prompting You give me. May I not allow fear to keep me from sharing with someone. In Your name, Amen.

Challenge:
It’s simple. Let’s strive to be more faithful and diligent to share the gospel and build disciples. As I looked at Luke 8:2-3, Jesus had many women disciples, too. May we be just as faithful as those women were.

Zinnada Hodges 2010

Whatta Face!

Growing up I am sure I gave my parents many “oh-my-goodness” moments in regards to my mouth. Just ask my mom about my experience with a rather large preschool Sunday School teacher…. Once I got a pretty good handle on my mouth, Mom started working with me on my facial expressions. Sometimes my face did more damage than my mouth. (Yeah, I know how that sounds!)
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Some people say that the eyes are the window to the soul. If that is the case, then I believe that the face is the curtain on that window. With your face you convey happiness, sadness, anger, irritation, shock, joy, humor, and a myriad of other emotions. Sometimes you suggest an emotion that you are not even feeling. I am certain that not all the scowling people I see at Wal-Mart are bitter, angry people. The same goes for the grocery store, McDonalds, and even church.
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A man’s wisdom makes his face shine, and the sternness of his face is changed. Ecclesiastes 8:1b

What does your face communicate to others? If you think that guarding your facial expressions is a pointless waste of time and that people like me simply need to get a real life and stop face watching, I would say that I think you are not putting enough thought into the matter. Think of all the unsaved, hurting people that you work with or live next door to. Do they see a face that shines from a wisdom that comes from knowing Jesus or a grimace that shows discontent with life? Maybe your church family sees an irritated look that speaks volumes of your thoughts about your husband, children, friend, or pastor. What do your children see when they interrupt you? Your husband when he approaches you intimately?
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I am by no means saying that we should not allow sad or angry emotions to show on our faces. After all, God created the ability for us to express our feelings in our faces. That is how we get many social cues. I am encouraging you to be mindful of whether the look on your face is actually expressing what is in your heart. If someone looked at you while you were going about your day, would they see the peace that the Lord has given you through salvation? Would they see joy and satisfaction?
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The face is the mirror of the heart. Take time today to see what you are reflecting.
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A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance. Proverbs 15:13
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Prayer:
Father, thank You for making me in Your image. Please help me to be aware of the look on my face and to remember that it is a reflection of You. Let me always be mindful of how I represent You. Amen.
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Challenge:
Keep track of your facial expressions this week. Ask a close friend, an older child, or your husband to help you ‘see’ what you look like in various situations. Discreetly watch strangers this week to get a good picture of what I have shared. Would you guess that someone had peace and joy by the look on their face or would you assume that they were mean and grouchy? Remember, our faces give others clues to who we are on the inside. If your face is not showing joy and peace, take time to find out why. Maybe there is something in your life that is keeping you from being able to shine.
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Need:
A Fresh Start reader from Ohio and her family lost their home to a devastating fire this month. If you would like to help the Snyders financially, you may do so by donating at any Huntington Bank branch.
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Jen 2010

Altering Our Biographies

2 Cor. 5:17 – “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”

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A blogging friend of mine recently had an entry that told about someone’s distant ancestor who was a horse thief in Montana, who also robbed trains, was chased down by the famous Pinkerton Detectives, and who eventually hanged for his troubles back in 1889.

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I suppose someone in his family tree didn’t want to be associated with such a “fellow lacking in character,” and he decided to alter his great-great uncle’s biography…uh…just a smidge:

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“[He] was a famous cowboy in the Montana Territory. His business empire grew to include acquisition of valuable equestrian assets and intimate dealings with the Montana railroad. Beginning in 1885, he devoted several years of his life to service at a government facility, finally taking leave to resume his dealings with the railroad. In 1887, he was a key player in a vital investigation run by the renowned Pinkerton Detective Agency. In 1889, [he] passed away during an important civic function held in his honor when the platform upon which he was standing collapsed."

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After getting a good giggle out of the story, the Lord put the thought into my head: “That is exactly what I did for you. I altered your biography when I shed My blood on the cross.”

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Before I accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord, at the age of 23, I was a BAD, misguided, utterly foul person. But once Christ came into my life – once HE forgave me of my sins – I became a brand new person! HE completely altered my biography and has written HIS version into the Lamb’s Book of Life! All of the old crud has been erased and each page has been replaced with HIS loving grace.

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The Author of Life has a personal interest in MY story! He is helping me to write new chapters of love, devotion, prayer, ministry and out-reach that is read by everyone who comes into my sphere of influence. That can be a heavy load to carry, but He has assured me that His burden is light and that He will be with me all the way. I may fail and drop a few bricks from my load from time-to-time, but He is always there to forgive me and help me start all over.

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I’m so grateful that the Lord is in the business of altering our biographies. With His help, I’m hoping that my life will be a story worth reading by my descendants.

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Prayer:

Father God, thank You for your willingness to forgive me and make me new. Thank You, Jesus, for Your ultimate sacrifice that has altered my biography for all eternity. I am known as Yours because of Your great love for me. Please help me to carry my heritage with grace and boldness, taking Your name to those whose stories have yet to be rewritten. Amen.

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Challenge:

This week be sure to share your testimony with someone - your child, a relative, a friend, or a complete stranger. No matter how 'boring' you think your story might be, it is still a dramatic story of someone being saved from an eternity separated from God.

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Kim Wolf 2009

He Prays for Me

There are times in my homeschool mommy life that I seriously wonder if I will make it to the end. Honestly, there are also times when I wonder if my children will make it to the end. There are many days when seemingly unanswerable questions from my children overwhelm me (I mean, really, how am I supposed to know if that man in the picture in the geography book knows Jesus?), attitudes arise that I feel ill equipped to handle, frustrations with my husband creep to the surface, laundry threatens to consume me, the school year seems two years long, and the eternally misplaced math book almost sends me over the edge. It is during those times that I revisit Jesus's prayer for me in John 17.

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In the hours before His arrest, Jesus gathered His disciples together in a quiet place and told them of His coming death and resurrection. He sensed their confusion and answered their unspoken questions; they responded with faith, finally believing that He truly was God. (John 16:29, 30) He told them that He shared the coming events to assure them that even when things looked bleak, to remember that “in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." Afterwards, He began to pray for these men who had faithfully walked with Him, even when they were not completely convinced that He was who He said He was.

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I encourage you to read Jesus' entire prayer in John 17:1-19. What beautiful words the Lord spoke over His men. He prayed protection, unity, sanctification, thanksgiving, and blessing. As beautiful as that portion of Scripture is, the verses that follow are even better. In fact, they are among my absolute favorite verses in God’s Word.
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"My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them." John 17:20-26
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It is a great comfort to me that before He went to the cross, Jesus prayed for me. As a matter of fact, if you are a Christ follower, then He was praying for you as well! Jesus prayed that we would be in unity with other believers - including my children and husband - as a testimony to the fact that He was sent by the Father. He prayed that we would know that God the Father loves us just as much as He loves His own Son. His desire was that we would be with Him in heaven to experience His glory.
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This is not the only mention of Jesus praying for His family. We are assured in Hebrews 7:25 that as an unchangeable priest He lives to make intercession for us. Romans 8:33-35 tells us that Jesus is at the right hand of the Father, interceding for us. The Roman’s passage goes on to ask, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” (I always add, "Shall bickering siblings or ringing phones in the middle of a history lesson or burnt macaroni and cheese?") Regardless of what words I insert, the answer is always the same: Nothing!

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No matter what it is that threatens to overwhelm me, I can rest on the fact that Jesus Himself is interceding for me, and has been since that day with His disciples. He sees the beginning from the end and knows what is being worked out in me as I live through troubled times. I am so thankful for His heart for this mom.
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Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for constantly interceding for me. Thank You for remembering your future brothers and sisters in prayer even as You prayed for Your disciples. Knowing that the Lord of the universe is praying God’s perfect will for me word for word brings incredible peace. Amen.
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Challenge:
Read over Jesus’ prayer for His disciples and for future believers every day this week. As you soak in the beautiful, passionate words that express His heart for His people pray your gratitude back to Him. Each time you are faced with what seems an insurmountable problem, sin, or feeling remember that at that very moment, Jesus Himself is praying for you!

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Jen 2009

Times of Fellowship

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him. Colossians 3:16,17

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This week I had the opportunity to sit down with a young mom who is just beginning her homeschooling journey. She came to talk and learn more about our support group, curriculum - that sort of thing. We covered all of that, but something even more beneficial came of our time. We spent time in fellowship. Our unity in the faith drew us together until we were no longer talking about methods and learning styles, but rather we began to share what the Lord had done and was doing in our lives.

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What does fellowship look like? The dictionary says that fellowship is "the condition or relation of being a fellow." The definition of fellow is "belonging to the same class or group; united by the same occupation, interests, etc.; being in the same condition." My new friend and I are in the same condition; we were once lost but now are found. The commonality between us is that our hearts have been transformed by Christ.

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Do you have times of real fellowship with your Christian friends? Are your times filled with encouragement and sharing what the Lord is teaching you or are they focused only on where you shop, what you buy or what classes your kids are taking? This is not to say that you can not talk about other things with friends, but a portion of your visiting time should be dedicated to the Lord. As a matter of fact, as you begin to share what the Lord is doing in your life you will find that more and more of your time will be filled with testifying to His goodness and encouraging one another. You might find yourself hard pressed to talk of anything else!

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Encouraging one another in the Lord is addictive. Once you begin to share on that level with your friends you will find that everything else seems a little less exciting without "God talk"!

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Prayer:

Father, I want to honor You in my words each day. One way I can do that is by sharing what You are doing in my life and encouraging my friends in our conversations. Help me to always be mindful of opportunities to turn the conversation towards You. Amen.

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Challenge:

This week be purposeful in bringing the Lord into your extended conversations with friends. Use each opportunity to share the goodness of God and encourage other women to look for what the Lord is doing in their lives. It might feel odd at first, but I promise, you will sense a greater depth in your times of true fellowship.

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Jen Gorton 2009

The Idol of Self

For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. James 3:16
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When my children were born I knew that being a mother would be hard work. I knew there would be long nights and bad days, a ton of laundry, and changes in what dinner looked like at our house. And yet, when life really did get hard I was completely shocked. Suddenly what I wanted or needed no longer mattered. Who cared if mommy liked lentils and rice? No one else did, so apparently it was a yucky meal. Who cared if mommy liked Pollyanna? No one else did, so it was a banned movie. Who cared if mommy hated the beach? No one else did, so it was a favorite destination. No one else seemed to see the value of a nap, a quiet hour, wiped off counters, or chicken noodle casserole.
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The idea that what I wanted really was a mute point was maddening. After all, I am the mommy. And if mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy!
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I was bowing to the idol of self. The idol of self is the idea that my needs, wants, and desires are so important that others have no business getting in the way of those things. Getting interrupted during my quiet time brought harsh words and looks of disapproval. Sleeping late was more important than my children getting a good breakfast. My like of certain foods was worth others literally going hungry for the night. Plain and simple, this idol is the sin of selfishness and self seeking.
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James tells us that where self seeking exists, confusion and every evil thing are there. It is true! Think of the last time you insisted that your way was the only way. I am certain that peace was not permeating the atmosphere. In my own experience tempers flared and feelings were hurt.
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But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. James 3:17,18
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Some might worry that dying to self means teaching children that they are the center of the universe. On the contrary! I am in no way saying that we only cook what our children like or never have rules or discipline. I am saying that our response to situations speaks volumes on what we think of Jesus and His example. Jesus came to serve. He did not crab about washing feet, cooking dinner - on the beach no less, fixing broken things (think of Peter and the guy’s ear in the garden), or dying for something He did not do. He was always available to talk and minister, even when He was trying to get away and be alone for a while. Matthew 14:12-14 He had wisdom from above and lived in that wisdom daily.
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When I insist on living my life as though I am the most important I teach my children to live as if THEY are the most important. I live an example of self seeking and selfishness that is easily learned by impressionable little people. There is a much better way, however. It is not easy by any means, but the fruit it yields is so much more desirable. I need to ditch the self seeking stuff and grab the wisdom from above!

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Prayer:

Father, I desire to be like Jesus, a cheerful servant to all who glorifies You in everything. Please help me to walk in the patience and self control that is mine in Your Holy Spirit. Let my life be an example of Christ likeness to my little ones.

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Challenge:

This week be mindful of times when the idol of self demands your attention. When that rises up it is a sure sign that you need to do the opposite of what you feel - not an easy thing, but possible! Remember to walk in selfless-ness cheerfully or it really doesn't count!

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I highly recommend the book Age of Opportunity by Paul David Tripp. Although this book is marketed to those with children entering or already in the teen years I believe it is vital reading for all parents, regardless of the age of their children.

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Jen Gorton 2009

Knowing

Our family home schools in a relaxed way. That simply means that we do not use rigid lesson plans or a lot of textbooks; narration, copy work, Bible study, and a lot of reading aloud are used instead. Recently a friend made a comment implying that we did not know what we were doing. I laughed it off, knowing that she probably did not mean it at all the way it sounded. Of course, maybe she did, but I’m not going there…
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As I thought about her words I began to question if we really DID know what we were doing. Were our kids going to be academically stunted because we used a method that did not attach a grade to a child? Would they turn out socially inept because we sheltered them more than the average children? I did not actually freak out, but I was teetering on the edge. The Lord was gracious and stepped in to stop my impending crash.
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The Lord reminded me that we were on the exact path He put us on fifteen years ago when we had our first child. We knew from the beginning that we wanted our children to have a clear view of Who the Lord is, what Jesus did for us, and how to walk in a way that brought honor and glory to Him. As time went on and we matured in our own walks with the Lord the plan only became more firm. Home schooling has been a great vehicle for this, but even if we had placed our children in a brick and mortar school the call would have remained the same.
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Our days might not be filled with typical academic courses or tests, but they are filled with tons of discovery, character training, and Biblical world-view training. We filter everything we learn, from botany to math, through God-glasses. Our desire is that our children know that everything in life has a connection to the Lord and His Word; nothing falls outside of His scope.
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Being a mom is hard, home schooling or not. There are always questions in our minds: Do I spend enough time with my kids? Did I potty train too late? How did I get a selfish kid when all I do is serve them, it seems? Did they catch that cold because I was not cautious enough? Am I a good enough teacher in my home school? WHERE did that child learn to pick their nose? I encourage you to stop asking these questions. Instead, ask ones that have bearing on your child’s spiritual life. Am I teaching my children to love God’s Word? Am I truly living what I teach them? Do I need to step up the character training? Is my child learning to discern between good and evil according to the Word?
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The response to my friend’s statement is this – Yes! We know what we are doing! We are training the next generation of church leaders, community servers, wise counselors, godly parents, loyal friends, and integrity filled employees and bosses. Our grandchildren will have parents who have been taught to love instruction and to take firm hold of wisdom. Oh yes, we know what we are doing.
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My child, if your heart is wise, my own heart will rejoice!Everything in me will celebrate when you speak what is right. Proverbs 23:15, 16
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Prayer:
Father, please help me to listen to You and to filter all other opinions through the Scripture. Thank You for giving my husband and me clear direction in Your Word regarding the raising of our children. Our desire is to stay the course and stick to the path. Guide us daily. Amen.
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Challenge:
If you have been facing feelings of inadequacy in your parenting or home schooling stop and examine the source. Are the feelings promptings from the Holy Spirit or unwarranted criticism from those who walk differently? If you and your husband discern that they are from the Holy Spirit hop to it and start searching His Word and His direction on what and how to change. Consider drafting a Family Vision Statement to help you stay the course. If you would like to read our family statement, send me an email.
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Jen Gorton 2009

Choosing Peace

I am about to share something that may shock some of you.

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Occasionally, I am not peaceful.

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I could blame it on a child waking me during the night, PMS, money troubles - a myriad of things could claim the prize. Frankly, only one thing or person can be blamed for my lack of peacefulness. Me.

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Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27 What Jesus gives to me, no one can take away. I can GIVE it up, but someone else can not steal it from me. I choose to part ways with peace. I choose to take on a burden that draws my attention and energy away from the Lord. I choose to put the cares of motherhood, marriage, friendship, finances, health, and ministry ahead of the promised peace of God.

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Isaiah 26:3 says, "You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You." The solution to having the peace of God is pretty clear. If I am keeping my mind on the things of the Lord (Phil. 4:7-9) then I will be at peace. If I am not at peace, then I am not keeping my mind on the things of the Lord. Pretty simple and no way to get around it.

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I desire that those around me see the peace of the Lord in my life. Spending time meditating on the beauty and holiness of the Lord will cause that desire to become reality and the God of peace will be with me. What a wonderful thing!

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Prayer:

Father, I am so thankful that the way to that peace is by spending time in Your presence. There is no place I would rather be. Thank You, Jesus, for making the way for me to come directly to the Father. Help me to choose the beauty of Your peace over anything else. Amen.

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Challenge:

Begin each day focusing on the goodness of the Lord and His promise of peace. Post some of the peace Scriptures around your home to remind you of the way to perfect peace in the midst of difficult circumstances.

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Jen Gorton 2009

Pray About It!

I am a firm believer in praying about everything. When I was growing up, my parents went from riches to rags in their journey with the Lord. He decided that they needed to really learn reliance on Him and gave many wonderful opportunities to do so. My first clear memory of answered prayer was the house in Graceville, Florida. When my father heeded the call to become a pastor we moved to this tiny town for him to attend seminary. Mom started praying for housing. She prayed very specifically: plum trees, chickens, a barn or outbuilding for Dad’s small engine repair business, utilities included in a small rent fee and a yellow bug light on the front porch. The bug light was to be the dew on the fleece. One day, there it was – the house with everything including the yellow bug light on the front porch. The place was ours! We moved in and within days the well dried up. Our neighbors strung a hose from their well to our pipe and we lived with on again off again water for the rest of our time there. What lesson did Mom learn? She learned to leave nothing out when she prayed and how to wash and rinse her hair in under two minutes. That whole time spoke volumes to me. I saw what prayer can do and that nothing is too big or too small.
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In the Word we are told, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.” Philippians 4:6. The Lord does not say to only pray about the big stuff, but everything. He cares so very much for us. Our needs, desires, concerns are all important to Him. There is nothing that should not be prayed for.
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We should pray about getting to know the Lord more intimately, unsaved loved ones, parenting, which curriculum to use, how to order your day, frugality in the grocery store, the headache that will not leave, fear, the tenseness with your husband, the constipated baby, the business meeting at church, the bills, the broken computer, the desire for a vacation, cancer, the new clothes your child needs, the time for a bubble bath, protection while traveling, for no one in your house to throw up (my all time most used petition), lost tools, the hurting friend, a new dog, the new dog that keeps getting loose, anxiousness, confusion, bad dreams, the list goes on and on. I am by no means saying to look at God as our genie in a bottle, but to rely on Him for even the smallest of needs.
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Begin to pray about the everyday stuff and watch what happens. Your faith will increase as you see the Lord respond to your petitions and as you learn to wait when He does not answer in your time frame. Your children will see your reliance on Him and they will begin to pray more as well. It is so sweet to hear your child say, “Lord, please show me where my new blue pony is. I really want to play with it.” It is even sweeter to hear, “Mommy, I asked and Jesus showed me where my pony was! Thank you, Jesus!” There is a lot of praying out loud at my house and that helps the children to learn as well.
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When you have prayed and the Lord has answered, be sure to thank Him openly. Even if the answer was not what you desired. The Word says, “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Let your kids see that even when the answer is no, He is still worthy of thanksgiving and praise.
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I encourage you to begin this practice today. “Have I prayed about it?” should be a daily question you ask of yourself. Don’t save prayer only for emergencies and dinner. He wants to be the first One you run to in every circumstance.
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Prayer:
Father, thank You that I can come to You with anything. Thank You for caring about my needs and desires and for giving me exactly what I need in answer to every prayer. Please give me a nudge and remind me to take everything to You in prayer.
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Challenge:
This week actively look for areas in which you need to apply more prayer. Use lost toys, difficult relationships, financial need as the starting point. Remember that your children will watch and learn from your example - good or bad.
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Jen Gorton 2007