I'm reading a book called The Power of a Positive Woman. (Alright, alright, you caught me. I read it when I remember to. That's what happens when you're going to school full time, working two jobs, and are reading 2 other books.)
This book is amazing though. I'm only through the first chapter and it completely changed my perspective on a few things. One came across in the introduction. Karol Ladd lists the following and really got me thinking...
The Ten Commandments for an Unhappy Life
1. Thou shalt hold onto bitterness and anger.
2. Thou shalt never get too close to anybody. Keepth all of thy relationships at surface level.
3. Thou shalt wear a glum expression on thy face at all times.
4. Thou shalt put aside play and shalt inflict upon others that which was once inflicted upon thyself.
5. Thou shalt grumble about the small stuff, forgetting the bigger picture.
6. Thou shalt forget about others' needs, thinking only of your own.
7. Thou shalt hold regular pity parties, inviting others to joinest thou.
8. Thou shalt not take a vacation.
9. Thou shalt expect the worst in all situations, blame and shame everyone around thyself for everything, and dwell on the feebleness, faults, and fears of others.
10. Thou shalt be in control at all times, no matter what.
Breathe. Is that anyway to live life? Bitterness and anger? Forgetting the bigger picture? Not vacationing?
I'm putting a stop to these rules right now. Right now! Nobody should live by them. I'm taking this list and making changes.
I invite you to do the same.
1. Bitterness and Anger-Friends, there are things we can't change in life. By the grace of God, there is forgiveness in the world. If you have an enemy, pray for them. It will help, trust me! I have a whole list of people (ahem, who I don't particularly care for...) and I pray for them whenever a negative thought crosses my mind. Believe me...this sucks. and it's hard. I know you can do it, though! If this is hard, write Ephesians 4:31-32 on an index card and carry it with you.
2. Don't get too close-I call BS on this. While you don't have to give every single nitty gritty detail about your life to people, there should be at least one friend you can call in the middle of the night and have them listen to you, to pray with you, to check up and make sure things are okay. As you get closer to Christ, God might take some of your "friends" out of your life. Trust what God is doing! (PS, I put that really big because, well, I'm still learning that lesson and sometimes, I write to you to help me understand what God is doing in my life better.) Galatians tells us to bear one another's burdens. How can you have someone help and support you along the way if you don't share?
3. Glum expressions-My mom used to tell me I always looked like I wanted to kill someone. Funny since my smile is the first thing people usually complement me on. They say it lights up my face. Glum expressions don't convey the wonderful news of Christ you have to share with the world. You don't have to be smiling and laughing all the time (because, quite frankly, that's a little scary) but smile at strangers and friends when you're walking down the street or grocery shopping. People will notice something's different about you and it will spark a conversation that might just be what they need. Matthew said we need to be the light of the world! Glum expressions don't help, friends.
4. Inflicting on others what they do to you-There are four words my momma told me when I'd come home upset-kill em with kindness. I don't know about you but there are some people I'd rather kill with something else. [[doesn't that go back to number 1... =/]] People have off days. Not everyone is perfect all the time. But! If your attitude is mostly painful towards those who are angry or mean towards you, try sitting down with an open mind and talking to them. They might be facing a terrible battle and just need a friend. Plus, Matthew 7 says people who judge others will be judged themselves and I'm here to tell you, it's not the person you're judging who will be doing it back.
5. Grumbling-If grumbling and bitching was an Olympic sport, I'd have more gold metals than I could count. The Bible tells us to do all things without grumbling. I'll let you know how that goes for me...
6. Forgetting about others-Being selfish, according to the Word, is an act of sinful nature. Don't turn your eyes away from those in need or those who are seeking for help or truth. Pray for them. Shine Christ's light into their lives. I know you'll live a happier life if you help someone else.
7. Pity Parties-Let me say this: there is a difference in an occasional pity party and one every minute of every day. I'm famous for throwing pity parties for myself. I pour a glass (or 3) of wine, pop in When Harry Met Sally or Breakfast at Tiffany's, open Reese Cups, and sit in the dark, and cry. I doubt I'll be retiring the wine, movies, and chocolate anytime soon but I will say this is an occasional thing. If you are struggling with regular pity parties, shoot me an email. I'll help you out.
8. No Vacation-It hurt my heart to write that. I know there are things preventing people from taking a week every summer to go to the beach and get away from the world. That isn't the only vacation you can take! One of my go-to things is a "stay-cation" where I don't go anywhere but I just enjoy time away from the stresses and hecticness of life. I always come back rejuvenated and ready to tackle the problems of the world. I'll let you in on one of my favorite stay-cations. (I actually do this about once a week!)
Things you need:
A quiet spot
No cell phone
No laptop
A cup of coffee
Worship music
A book
About once a week, I'll get under my bed (it's lofted so I have a little fort set up under there with a beanbag, pillows, and blankets) and just read and worship. I always have a cup of coffee because it warms my soul. No cell, no laptop, just peace.
9. Expecting the worst-If you are expecting the worst in every situation, the Devil is playing with your mind! There is no reason you should dwell on faults and fears! If you feel these thoughts creeping back into your heart and mind, try turning on some worship music and opening your Bible. The one thing Satan can't stand is when someone is worshiping God. Let the Holy Spirit stir in you. If you've accepted Christ into your life and the Spirit into your soul, I have good news! There's no room for anything else to live in there. Kick Satan out of your mind and invite God for a conversation.
10. Control-This is one topic I am not an expert on. Recently, I realized I didn't have control over everything and became oddly at peace about it. I'm not perfect and my mind sometimes wanders back to the old way of thinking but, again, worship music and the scriptures written around my home have helped. God's timing is perfect. Every time. The future is in God's hands. You should take comfort in that.
Doesn't that feel much better? You can't do this on your own...and honestly, who would want to? Find a group of friends who will keep you accountable and will love and support you, even when you're struggling with those pity parties.
As always, I'm here for you, too.
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Friday, October 19, 2012
How He Loves Us
Do not worry, do not be afraid. Over and over again we read scripture telling us these things.
How many of us can say we don't worry about something. To you who say you don't worry about anything, stop lying to yourself. I can't hear your thoughts.
One of my favorite books in the Bible is Matthew because it has two of my favorite verses telling me not to worry. Both are in chapter 6.
"Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet, your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? (verses 25-27)
"Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (verse 34)
We are much more valuable than birds, friends! It's all because God love us.
Do you have a favorite "God Loves Me" Bible verse? Mine is Romans 8:38-39
"For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present 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 in Christ Jesus our Lord."
How beautiful is that verse? Look at all those things that can't stand in the way of the love that's given to us when we give our hearts to Christ.
One thing that helps me is the inspiration that's written all around my room.
On the mirror in the bathroom.
On my closet.
On my mirror.
Above my desk.
I'm never more than a few feet from encouraging words and inspiration. I recommend you doing the same.
While you decorate a few note cards with your favorite words, listen to Kim Walker sing How He Loves Us.
It'll remind you how much God loves us.
How many of us can say we don't worry about something. To you who say you don't worry about anything, stop lying to yourself. I can't hear your thoughts.
One of my favorite books in the Bible is Matthew because it has two of my favorite verses telling me not to worry. Both are in chapter 6.
"Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet, your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? (verses 25-27)
"Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (verse 34)
We are much more valuable than birds, friends! It's all because God love us.
Do you have a favorite "God Loves Me" Bible verse? Mine is Romans 8:38-39
"For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present 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 in Christ Jesus our Lord."
How beautiful is that verse? Look at all those things that can't stand in the way of the love that's given to us when we give our hearts to Christ.
One thing that helps me is the inspiration that's written all around my room.
On the mirror in the bathroom.
On my closet.
On my mirror.
Above my desk.
I'm never more than a few feet from encouraging words and inspiration. I recommend you doing the same.
While you decorate a few note cards with your favorite words, listen to Kim Walker sing How He Loves Us.
It'll remind you how much God loves us.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Lukewarm
Revelation 3:15-16
I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm-neither hot nor cold-I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
Does that scare you? It sure scares me.
Today, I saw a friend of mine I hadn't talked to in a few weeks. After a hug and quick how ya been, he turned to me and said, "So, I've seen you've become Christian. Congratulations."
My heart dropped a little and I kind of just stood there, a little confused.
You've become Christian.
The words just hung there, like a cartoon. I felt like I could see them and they were weighing me down a little.
Am I the perfect Christian? No way. I don't even come close.
But.
I try. All the time. And by the grace of God, I have become a more patient, more loving, more giving, happier person.
I still have my moments where I want to hit things with my car but overall, my heart is different from where it was when I was in high school. My heart is different from where it was when I first came to college. My heart is different than where it was a week ago.
Everyday, I'm growing into the woman God has designed. I'm finally accepting there are things I can't change. I'm accepting that I can't have control over everything.
Romans 8:28 says "And we know that in all things God words for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
God has placed me in Wise for a reason. God has given me the tools for this blog for a reason. God has put these words in my heart for a reason. Maybe you're struggling with being lukewarm. How terrifying that God would rather us be hot or cold. I don't want to be spit out by the Lord-I want to live for Him and for His spirit to live in me.
This is a formal invitation, friends. If you see me not reflecting Christ, call me out on it. I know I'm going to slip up-it's bound to happen to all of us. As the body of Christ, we have to hold each other accountable for our actions and help support one another.
Exodus 17 tells of the story of a battle. Moses stood on top of a hill with the staff of God in his hands. As long as Moses' hands were held high, the Israelites were winning the battle.
"When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up-one on one side, one on the other-so that his hands remained steady till sunset." (Exodus 17:12)
Talk about support.
Maybe I'm not holding a huge stone above my head, but I am carrying the light of Christ through the world and trying to shine it on others. And there are people with water trying to put that light out. If you see my light start to fall or dim, pray for me and help me remember how bright it is. I'd love to do the same for you.
I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm-neither hot nor cold-I am about to spit you out of my mouth.
Does that scare you? It sure scares me.
Today, I saw a friend of mine I hadn't talked to in a few weeks. After a hug and quick how ya been, he turned to me and said, "So, I've seen you've become Christian. Congratulations."
My heart dropped a little and I kind of just stood there, a little confused.
You've become Christian.
The words just hung there, like a cartoon. I felt like I could see them and they were weighing me down a little.
Am I the perfect Christian? No way. I don't even come close.
But.
I try. All the time. And by the grace of God, I have become a more patient, more loving, more giving, happier person.
I still have my moments where I want to hit things with my car but overall, my heart is different from where it was when I was in high school. My heart is different from where it was when I first came to college. My heart is different than where it was a week ago.
Everyday, I'm growing into the woman God has designed. I'm finally accepting there are things I can't change. I'm accepting that I can't have control over everything.
Romans 8:28 says "And we know that in all things God words for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
God has placed me in Wise for a reason. God has given me the tools for this blog for a reason. God has put these words in my heart for a reason. Maybe you're struggling with being lukewarm. How terrifying that God would rather us be hot or cold. I don't want to be spit out by the Lord-I want to live for Him and for His spirit to live in me.
This is a formal invitation, friends. If you see me not reflecting Christ, call me out on it. I know I'm going to slip up-it's bound to happen to all of us. As the body of Christ, we have to hold each other accountable for our actions and help support one another.
Exodus 17 tells of the story of a battle. Moses stood on top of a hill with the staff of God in his hands. As long as Moses' hands were held high, the Israelites were winning the battle.
"When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up-one on one side, one on the other-so that his hands remained steady till sunset." (Exodus 17:12)
Talk about support.
Maybe I'm not holding a huge stone above my head, but I am carrying the light of Christ through the world and trying to shine it on others. And there are people with water trying to put that light out. If you see my light start to fall or dim, pray for me and help me remember how bright it is. I'd love to do the same for you.
Following Jesus
Have you ever sat down and thought about that? Really thought about what "Christian" means. I googled it and you know what came up? Christianmingle.com, a wiki article, and something about a wrestler.
WHAT?!
People confused about Christ are probably more confused now. I'm a sister of Jesus and I'm terribly confused. People who are confused are going to think we are looking to date and we wrestle.
I don't know about you, but it hurts me and makes me laugh all at the same time.
Being a Christian means living the life Jesus lived.
Rob Bell said living the way of Jesus was the best possible way to live.
"This isn't irrational or primitive or blind faith. It's merely being honest that we all are living a 'way'.
I'm convinced being generous is a better way to live.
I'm convinced forgiving people and not carrying around bitterness is a better way to live.
I'm convinced having compassion is a better way to live.
I'm convinced pursuing peace in every situation is a better way to live.
I'm convinced listening to the wisdom of others is a better way to live.
I'm convinced being honest with people is a better way to live.
This way of thinking isn't weird or strange; it is simply acknowledging that everybody follows somebody, and I'm trying to follow Jesus.
Do you mirror these things? Who are you following?
WHAT?!
People confused about Christ are probably more confused now. I'm a sister of Jesus and I'm terribly confused. People who are confused are going to think we are looking to date and we wrestle.
I don't know about you, but it hurts me and makes me laugh all at the same time.
Being a Christian means living the life Jesus lived.
Rob Bell said living the way of Jesus was the best possible way to live.
"This isn't irrational or primitive or blind faith. It's merely being honest that we all are living a 'way'.
I'm convinced being generous is a better way to live.
I'm convinced forgiving people and not carrying around bitterness is a better way to live.
I'm convinced having compassion is a better way to live.
I'm convinced pursuing peace in every situation is a better way to live.
I'm convinced listening to the wisdom of others is a better way to live.
I'm convinced being honest with people is a better way to live.
This way of thinking isn't weird or strange; it is simply acknowledging that everybody follows somebody, and I'm trying to follow Jesus.
Do you mirror these things? Who are you following?
Monday, October 15, 2012
You are an important player in God's song
Look in the mirror. No, really. Go look in the mirror. I'll be here when you get back.
Okay, so you probably didn't get up and go look but next time you're brushing your teeth, take a look at yourself. You are a unique and beautiful piece of God's puzzle.
It's hard to think good things about yourself. Have you ever played the Name 5 Things You Hate About Yourself game? How easy is it to name off those things? I hate my hips, I hate my nose.
It reminds me of Mean Girls. Regina, Gretchen, and Karen are looking in the mirror. They're naming off things they don't like about themselves. Then, they all look at Cady. She says she has really bad breath in the morning. That's all she can think of what she doesn't like about herself. Can you say the same?
Okay, so if you have no idea what part of this movie I'm talking about, I included it. I'm sure it inspired you to watch the whole movie. Let me finish my thought then go watch it, okay? Grool. :)
We've all heard brothers and sisters of Christ being called the Body. Even if you're the big toe, you are important! Did you know if something is wrong with your big toe, your entire balance is off? Really! Don't be discouraged if you are the toe, or elbow, or even the back of the knee of Christ. Without you, the body is not complete. Without you, there's a hole.
I like thinking of the brothers and sisters of Christ as an orchestra. Pastor John Wood at The Bridge in Warrenton, VA said this on August 12th and it has stuck with me ever since. (Thanks, PJ! You're the best!)
Are you a fan of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra? Their Christmas music is my favorite thing after Thanksgiving. My favorite song is Christmas Canon. Imagine this playing without any bass. I know it seems hard to imagine and you probably wouldn't think it would make any difference but it does! The whole undertone is completely off. Something's just missing.
The same goes for you when you are not paying attention to God. He's conducting your life. We are lucky to serve a God who has given us an instrument to play. Maybe you have an attitude because you wanted to be a flute and not the piano. You have to appreciate the wonderful music God is allowing you to play. We all can't be flutes in life.
You also have to pay attention to when it's your time to play. We can't have all the instruments playing the lead all the time. It ends up sounding messy and nobody gets their time to shine. Maybe you don't feel like you've had your solo in a long time. God has the perfect timing for you to play, even if it's just one measure out of 5 lines.
We are told that all things work through God for the good. God isn't going to set you up to fail-but you have to be watching the conductor and paying attention. He will cue you for when it's your time to play to help make His song the sweetest anyone has ever heard.
Don't ever forget how important and loved you are. On my bathroom mirror, I have written these words: The face you see in the mirror? She's precious! to the King of Kings, so don't you dare underestimate the plans He has for her, because they are GREAT!
What do you need to remind yourself you are important, cherished, loved, and chosen?
Okay, so you probably didn't get up and go look but next time you're brushing your teeth, take a look at yourself. You are a unique and beautiful piece of God's puzzle.
It's hard to think good things about yourself. Have you ever played the Name 5 Things You Hate About Yourself game? How easy is it to name off those things? I hate my hips, I hate my nose.
It reminds me of Mean Girls. Regina, Gretchen, and Karen are looking in the mirror. They're naming off things they don't like about themselves. Then, they all look at Cady. She says she has really bad breath in the morning. That's all she can think of what she doesn't like about herself. Can you say the same?
Okay, so if you have no idea what part of this movie I'm talking about, I included it. I'm sure it inspired you to watch the whole movie. Let me finish my thought then go watch it, okay? Grool. :)
We've all heard brothers and sisters of Christ being called the Body. Even if you're the big toe, you are important! Did you know if something is wrong with your big toe, your entire balance is off? Really! Don't be discouraged if you are the toe, or elbow, or even the back of the knee of Christ. Without you, the body is not complete. Without you, there's a hole.
I like thinking of the brothers and sisters of Christ as an orchestra. Pastor John Wood at The Bridge in Warrenton, VA said this on August 12th and it has stuck with me ever since. (Thanks, PJ! You're the best!)
Are you a fan of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra? Their Christmas music is my favorite thing after Thanksgiving. My favorite song is Christmas Canon. Imagine this playing without any bass. I know it seems hard to imagine and you probably wouldn't think it would make any difference but it does! The whole undertone is completely off. Something's just missing.
The same goes for you when you are not paying attention to God. He's conducting your life. We are lucky to serve a God who has given us an instrument to play. Maybe you have an attitude because you wanted to be a flute and not the piano. You have to appreciate the wonderful music God is allowing you to play. We all can't be flutes in life.
You also have to pay attention to when it's your time to play. We can't have all the instruments playing the lead all the time. It ends up sounding messy and nobody gets their time to shine. Maybe you don't feel like you've had your solo in a long time. God has the perfect timing for you to play, even if it's just one measure out of 5 lines.
We are told that all things work through God for the good. God isn't going to set you up to fail-but you have to be watching the conductor and paying attention. He will cue you for when it's your time to play to help make His song the sweetest anyone has ever heard.
Don't ever forget how important and loved you are. On my bathroom mirror, I have written these words: The face you see in the mirror? She's precious! to the King of Kings, so don't you dare underestimate the plans He has for her, because they are GREAT!
What do you need to remind yourself you are important, cherished, loved, and chosen?
Encouragement from strangers
Hello friends!
I want to say a quick but huge THANK YOU to all the people who have sent me emails of encouragement and inspiration about this blog. I have no doubt that God is doing great things through this.
It makes my heart so happy people read what I write and take time out of their busy schedules to share their stories with me. The Bible tells us to encourage each other and your encouragement is so welcomed.
I look forward to responding to each of you, getting to know you a little bit more, and expanding the brother and sisterhood of Christ. We are the body, friends. We will support and love each other.
I want to say a quick but huge THANK YOU to all the people who have sent me emails of encouragement and inspiration about this blog. I have no doubt that God is doing great things through this.
It makes my heart so happy people read what I write and take time out of their busy schedules to share their stories with me. The Bible tells us to encourage each other and your encouragement is so welcomed.
I look forward to responding to each of you, getting to know you a little bit more, and expanding the brother and sisterhood of Christ. We are the body, friends. We will support and love each other.
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Come Thou Fount
This song has brought me such joy, I can't believe I've never posted it before. The bagpipes are beautiful but the words are what brings me such peace.
The lyrics "Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, prone to leave the God I love. Here's my heart, O, take and seal it, seal it for thy courts above" are so powerful and speak to my life so much. How many of us wander around, looking for something that has never left us? It's not enough to just be empty in Christ. He takes our hearts and seals them full of love, passion, and grace...among other great things.
I hope you enjoy this song. It's one of my favorites.
The lyrics "Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, prone to leave the God I love. Here's my heart, O, take and seal it, seal it for thy courts above" are so powerful and speak to my life so much. How many of us wander around, looking for something that has never left us? It's not enough to just be empty in Christ. He takes our hearts and seals them full of love, passion, and grace...among other great things.
I hope you enjoy this song. It's one of my favorites.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Amazing
New Life
Hello, friends!
It's been some time since I've visited you. I realized the other day that there are many of you who visit this site who have no idea who I am and probably will never know.
That just amazes me.
You take time out of your day to come see what I have to say. To read my thoughts. To be inspired to start your own. And then you take additional time to send me encouragement, praise, and words of love.
It makes me feel so good about myself and so small at the same time. I wish I could meet for coffee with each of you. I wish I could tell you how much God loves you and give you the chance to tell me about your life.
I've revamped my life and my blog to better serve you, my readers. I've linked my twitter and Pinterest page so you all can follow me and send me prayer requests and thoughts if you don't want to comment. I know it can be a little intimidating to comment on something. Not entirely sure why shooting an email is easier but I'm so grateful for you who take the time to send them. They make my day so much better.
Anyway, this is a huuuuge thank you to all of you! I'm so happy God has given me the words to speak and the ability to share with you.
As always, I'm praying for each of you, even if we've never met.
It's been some time since I've visited you. I realized the other day that there are many of you who visit this site who have no idea who I am and probably will never know.
That just amazes me.
You take time out of your day to come see what I have to say. To read my thoughts. To be inspired to start your own. And then you take additional time to send me encouragement, praise, and words of love.
It makes me feel so good about myself and so small at the same time. I wish I could meet for coffee with each of you. I wish I could tell you how much God loves you and give you the chance to tell me about your life.
I've revamped my life and my blog to better serve you, my readers. I've linked my twitter and Pinterest page so you all can follow me and send me prayer requests and thoughts if you don't want to comment. I know it can be a little intimidating to comment on something. Not entirely sure why shooting an email is easier but I'm so grateful for you who take the time to send them. They make my day so much better.
Anyway, this is a huuuuge thank you to all of you! I'm so happy God has given me the words to speak and the ability to share with you.
As always, I'm praying for each of you, even if we've never met.
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