6.8.09

6.8.09
Definitely annoyed...

I haven't been on here in quite a while. The funny thing is, I have had a lot to share - the sad thing is that I have let the actual posting of it fall to the side. I log on and all I see is that 2 people are following this blog, so maybe that is why I've let it go and not made it a priority. I know that this is linked to my Facebook account, so people are seeing it there too. Anyway, if it were only you who were reading this it would be all worth it, so forgive me for not being present in the past few weeks. If this blog impacts your life that is amazing, if my journey of faith is encouraging you then that is reason enough for me to keep doing it!

I hope you'll turn around and start your own blog - your own conversation as you continue on your journey of strength in the Word.

Ecclesiastes 7:8 The end of a matter is better than its beginning,
and patience is better than pride.

We all know this too well... we get into a disagreement and we're so stuck on our own emotions and pressupositions that we are apt to make very rash conjectures, and often suppose that such and such things, or people, are against us. We quite often do the same thing when God decides to do something that we werent expecting - a move, a new job, loss of something or someone, etc. We are so caught up in the anxiety that we forget that God is perfectly content with what He is doing because He knows what the end looks like.

Wait for the result, dont ask with frantic rage "Why did God allow this to happen?" His ways, though right now seem to be clouded with confusion, will appear all right. The storm will soon pass and you will see the benefit of sticking with God.

Use your energy to pour into His word and in prayer. He will bring peace in the meantime.

Learning and walking with you... stay tuned...

5.31.09

Proverbs 16:8 "Better is a little with righteousness than a great revenue with injustice."

Pastor Ken is talking today about assessing why you have. Are you trustworthy of what God has already given you before He gives you more? I've been in a season of testing lately. My washer is broken, and my first response is to say I need another one. Well, why about fixing what I have?

God is no shocked by the circumstances that come our way. He knows what's currently happening as well as what's on the way. He is God! The big question is, what am I going to do with it?

God, no matter how much or how little I have, I want to find myself righteous to you!
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I know it's been quite a while since I've been on here. I'll do more to share with you my journey of faith and life.

Blessings, and stay tuned!

5.1.09

I have so much to be thankful for. I don't know why I worry so much about the dumb little things. All I need is the Lord and He is so amazing that He provides for us. I'm not just talking about money either... I'm talking about the times where I listen next to Hannah's door and can hear her snoring in her sleep, or when my husband looks at me and says "I love you."

Matthew 18: 2He called a little child and had him stand among them. 3And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 4Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

What I see here is that it is the heart of a little one, like my daughter, that I need to have. She believes that mommy could fly and that daddy can save the day. She never doubts mommy and daddy because we have proved to her that we wont let her down.

Why cant I believe for big things like my daughter does? Why cant I count on God through EVERYTHING like my daughter counts on us? Sure, I get around to trusting Him after I've had my moments of doubt, but why can't I instantly trust and obey? I need to remember that with Him all things are possible. Nothing is too big or too small for Him. Mommy and Daddy will make mistakes, but God will never let His children down.

I pray that you are all blessed today... if you think about it, please go over to and pray for the Freemans. Read their story. They will show you what incredible faith looks like, and they will also make you stop and be thankful for those blessings you, and I, often take for granted.

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Its moving day and I've been an emotional wreck! I am so grateful for my dad making a way for us to move back to CA and get back on our feet. My dad never ceases to amaze me, and he does it with a quietness and selflessness that I hope I can emulate one day.

It will be like Christmas opening our boxes and seeing all the things we own! You see, we haven't seen anything in these boxes for the past year and a half. Christmas in May... its a good thing, and I am so grateful for today! :)

Stay tuned...

4.29.09

Psalm 139:24 See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.

Two major themes here: #1) Any thing false in religious principle; any thing contrary to piety to myself, and love and benevolence to man. #2) The way that is right in a man's own eyes is seldom the way to God.

When you are in a new place, like I am now, you make an impression. The question is - is it a good one or a bad one? I'm trying desparately to be "on the top of my game" and still staying true to my good personality traits. I want to be myself, but only my good traits! You know what I'm saying??

As I am learning a new system, and new people, I want to make sure that I am portraying Christ and Christ alone. Thats my focus. I want God to get rid of anything that is of me... I want all of Him. Transition is difficult for anyone, and I want to handle my work and other's reactions with grace.

I want to keep my focus on the goal - that God would lead me in the way of the everlasting. I need His grace and wisdom. I need God's direction as I take another step each day.

4.28.09

Matthew 15
8: "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me."
16-18: "Are you still so dull?" Jesus asked them. "Don't you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.'"

There were such religious rules about things that were clean and unclean. The right way to wash hands, the right food to eat, even when people were sick and then became well there would be a waiting time before they were fully "clean" again.

Food that is eaten always has a process. Some is taken and nourishment for the body, other parts are expelled as waste (sorry for the mental image). What we take into our heart must only be for nourishment - for ourselves and for others - because we all know,a s it's written here, "whatever things that come out of the mouth come from the heart."

The food we eat does not pollute the mind... things that come into our heart can either nourish us or pollute us. And in turn, others. Sin is always conceived in the heart before it is spoken or acted upon.

Just like how I decide what my family will eat - there are good choices and bad. French fries or veggies? Soda or water? The same is true for the condition of my heart. What am I allowing into my heart - am I making good decisions that will produce nourishment or bad that will pollute?

Lord, help me to make wise choices. I want nourishment from You so that there will be good things that come from my mouth and actions. I know that if my heart is corrupt, the whole body will be corrupt. So, help me Lord to have a clean heart that hungers only for You. Amen.
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First day on staff at The Highlands... pretty amazing! :)

4.27.09

Psalm 142: 3 When my spirit grows faint within me,
it is you who know my way.
In the path where I walk
men have hidden a snare for me.

I found this Psalm to be interesting because right before the verses you read: "A maskil of David. When he was in the cave." So we know that he was in a cave hiding. David was distressed because he had a handful of men and Saul had outnumbered him by many. God knew where David was (physically and spiritually).

It reminds me that when we feel like we're in the most disastrous of circumstances, God is ever so near. We may be in a cave hiding for our life, or in a cave hiding from life... either way God sees us and wants to give us hope, new life, and direction.

Thank you Lord that You see us right where we are and You want to meet us right where we are. I love You Lord.

4.25.09

(Picture is an oldie, but goodie) :)

Matthew 12:11 He said to them, "If any of you has a sheep and it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will you not take hold of it and lift it out? 12How much more valuable is a man than a sheep! Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath."

Maybe I'm just saying this because a mom, because my job NEVER ends as a parent... but I feel the same applies to us as Christians. When did we get the idea that we needed to have a day off from doing God's work? I understand that there are times when you need refreshing in God's word, times of relaxing... but this should NEVER apply to your faith. Faith is a 24 hour thing. You are an example at all times. I say this because I have been guilty of slacking off, of protesting for a day off, of thinking I deserve a break. WHAT!?? I would never say that about my job as a parent. I would never say "Oh Hannah, fend for yourself today, mommy is taking a break." No way! She is my responsibility. And for all of us, Faith is our responsibility. Don't give up on this... see what God can do in your life and in the lives of others.

Its a priviledge to be your daughter, Lord. I love You! Give me the endurance when I want to give up, the words to speak to others, and a tight grip on Your promises. Amen.
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This week is a week of new beginnings... new job... new home... I'M EXCITED! Thank you LORD!

While you're surfing the web, please stop by www.worldvision.org today...
Malaria is one of the deadliest diseases impacting poor children around the world ... killing more than 2,000 children every day. Fortunately, effective and inexpensive tools are available to protect children from this killer. Your gift today will help us reach our goal of providing three million life-saving bed nets to children in the hard-hit African nations of Zambia, Mozambique, Kenya and Mali.

4.23.09

Matthew 10:27What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs.

A person should only preach what he/she has learned from God’s spirit. (I know, this kind of sounds like s “duh!” statement, but really think about it) How often do our own personal feelings get in the way? How many times have you wanted to “re-arrange” scripture so that it supports a poor lifestyle? It happens! We want to justify our actions so badly that we miss correction and wisdom. This has happened to me. I’ve picked and chosen scriptures that work best for my “current situation,” totally missing what God is trying to say because my own personal thoughts block out the truth.

My suggestion… don’t start digging into the word with your ego in the way. Clear it up, get your heart right, and welcome the correction. I guess you could say “correction: it does a body good!”

Lastly, remember to share the TRUTH with others. “Proclaiming from the rooftops” means whatever God speaks to you is for the benefit of mankind. Don’t keep what God has given you away from them! Share it! The houses in Judea had flat roof tops and were sometimes used to announce things in the most public manner. So, go get on your roof top… share what God has given you… and be a blessing!

God, thank you for reminding me to let You guide me through the worse. Not my feelings, not my own personal desires. Please help me to find my roof top. Help me to share with others Your truth and love. Amen
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What an amazing week this has been, and its only Thursday! God is so faithful, and we have a lot of changes coming up for our family. I cant wait!!

We are enjoying house sitting for the Fish family. Its been peaceful, and a gas saver! Soon we’ll be able to move back into our house, and after a year and a half it’ll be just the three of us! I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to have lived with others while we’ve followed where God was taking us. But it will be nice to finally settle down. :)

That’s all for now… stay tuned…

4.21.09

Matthew 8: 16When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick. 17This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah:
"He took up our infirmities
and carried our diseases."[c]

Not one did the Lord Jesus ever reject, who came to him soliciting His aid. There wasn’t an interview, or a credit check. The aid was there for any who genuinely wanted it – and in a word it was done.

I keep thinking about last night… we went to a Hillsong United time of worship. Amazing. God did many wonderful things. There was a young man about twi rows ahead of us who had just been saved and was now being set free. He wept loudly. He cried out to the Lord, and in the midst of it all he was letting go, and letting God set him free. He didn’t care how loudly he was crying, if it was the “perfect time” in the set, or what others around him were thinking. It was as if it was just He and Jesus in that large theater. Nothing else mattered in that moment. He was free.

Each of us had a moment, or many moments like that last night. We were before the Lord, being set free and our attention getting back on Him and His purpose for our lives. We were giving Him glory, and our voices lifted up to Him as one.

Oh how He loves you. He cares where you are right now. He will give you aid. Ask… believe… be set free.

4.13.09

2 Corinthians 13 5Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? 6And I trust that you will discover that we have not failed the test.
I hope this doesn’t sound superficial… because I’m not trying to be, but I can spot a fake purse from a mile away. Hey, I’m one to shop clearance racks and look for great deals, so I don’t have a problem with fake designer purses. I can just tell that they are not the authentic designer bags. Even the ones that look like they really could be the real deal – I can spot it out. No, its not a spiritual gift. Ha!

One thing I can’t point out very well is fake jewelry, that is until it irritates my skin!

Just like my eye can point out the look-alikes from the authentic pieces, or fake jewelry is sold, there is a test of the heart to see if you can remain true to the faith. Will you take the test to see if you have authentic faith? Go ahead, test yourselves… how are you responding to difficult situations today? Are you mixed with bad doctrine? One thing is for sure… it isn’t God who alters us with fakeness, it is ourselves. We pollute.

And finally what the apostle is trying to state is: You have had, and you shall have, the fullest proof that I have preached the true faith among you; and that God has confirmed it by his testimony; and therefore I am proved and manifested to be what I ought to be, and shown to be approved of God.

So again I say, test yourselves and your authenticity. I pray Lord that I am found to be authentic throughout the test of my faith. I love You Lord, Amen.
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Celebrated Resurrection Sunday yesterday. It was awesome!! My sister and two of her friends came to church with their kids. And they want to come back! I’m so excited. Many were saved at the services at The Highlands – it was an incredible day!

Hannah had a lot of fun playing with her cousins and hunting for Easter eggs. When we got home I was able to read to her the scriptures of Jesus’ sacrifice and love. Easter was a fantastic day. :)

Still waiting to find out what the future will hold for me. Yes, I cannot share any more details with you readers yet. But I know that whatever it is it will be incredible. I am open to what God has planned for me.
Good read for the week: Shepherding the Child’s Heart, Tripp

That’s all for now, stay tuned!

4.3.09

Psalm 89
15 Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you,
who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD.

16 They rejoice in your name all day long;
they exult in your righteousness.

17 For you are their glory and strength,
and by your favor you exalt our horn.

To shout for joy in the Lord, to walk vigorously in Him. The whole day we rejoice in Him... when we're tired, when were lonely, when things arent going our way, and in the good times too, of course. (It always seems much easier when the times are good, but remember that this says ALL DAY!). I love how the Psalmist then writes, "For You are their glory and strength..." So there is your answer for when you are tired. He will give you strength. He exaults us, and in doing so we grow in His wisdom, His holiness, His power, and -- yes -- His happiness to.

I feel worn out today. I dont know if its because it is Friday, or if it is because Spring Break is right around the corner... either way I am just tired. All I want to do is... well... nothing. [side note - something just happened in the middle of my devos and now I am frustrated!] I get in these places where I just dont feel like [fill in the blank]. Blah! But I know that I can get my strength from the Lord. I need to turn my bad attitude around and start praising the Lord. I am going to do that right now in fact...
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The weekend is here! I am going to meet up with my family for dinner tonight. Very excited about the time I'll get to spend with my baby girl and hubby.

Thats all for now... stay tuned...

4.02.09

2 Corinthians 2
14But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. 15For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. 16To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life. And who is equal to such a task? 17Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, like men sent from God.

Here he is saying that we are the aroma of God... the sweet savour of Christ. No matter if the aroma touches some and the deny the Lord, or those who come to the knowledge of Him, it is the same purpose. To present the sweet aroma of the Lord - the fragrance of His truth and love. An ancient Jewish writer put it this way: "As the bee brings home honey to its owner, but stings others; so it is with the words of the law." He is also saying that many will try to take God's word and corrupt it; mingle it to their liking. But we are to present the clear message of life and death in truth and in love.

Aroma is a powerful thing. I love the smell of my grandma making spaghetti. Its a secret family recipe and it is amazing! Sometimes when I drive by a restaurant I can smell the food cooking from a block away. My mother in law does not have a sense of smell, but a powerful aroma can still effect her senses. One year we sent her a beautiful bouquet of roses. When she opened the box (fresh cut flowers) she said that the aroma was so powerful she could almost make out the smell. Another way it is powerful is when you walk in your front door and are then smacked with the aroma of "oopps, I forgot to take out the trash" (you all know what I'm talking about!).

Its very clear here that we are to have the aroma of Christ overtaking us and our surroundings. There should be once scent, one clear and truthful scent of Christ, not a mixture of aromas (or odors for that matter!). So, go ahead... smell yourself (ok, put your arms down!). Are you giving off the aroma of Christ??

Lord, I want your fragrance to cover me so that my aroma is You. Amen
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So, day two of my frugal ideas. Here is one for you...

Buy diapers in bulk! No, this isn't a brand new idea, but how many times have you run into the store (grocery stores are the worst!) and bought a package because you were totally out?? I just did a week ago and probably paid an extra 25% more for them. My idea?: purchase them at diapers.com, or at babiesrus.com. Right now I can get a bulk pack for what I'd normally pay for a mega pack, plus right now there is free shipping! Diaper delivery! Check it out and see if it can save you some money. :)

I am going to the library today to get a library card. I had one in AZ and I used it all the time. I have a ton of books (most of them Christian parenting books) that I need to read up on.

Still waiting on getting my "dream" finalized... may sound confusing to you, but I should have more to write about this when it is public knowledge. :)

Tim is loving he assignment at The Highlands. The people are amazing and there will be so much for both of us to learn. We're excited to be there.

Hannah is doing well. She is into singing, reading, coloring, and dancing. My dad came back from Oregon yesterday and she was so excited to see him. She kept saying, "Papa [holding up a book]" and "Papa [raising her arms for him to carry her]." She adores him. I love their bond.

That's all for now.... stay tuned

Cool link for the week: www.livingonadime.com

4.01.09

2 Corinthians 1
3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

If you really think about it, we don’t deserve anything. Really. I know I sure dont. The messes we are in usually are the result of our own self doing. (I say usually. I know there are circumstances that are out of our control.) But, the sin we put ourselves in is no one else’s fault but our own. We have a choice – sometimes we choose the right thing, other times we choose the wrong.

Here is what is so fascinating to me… God, who is full of tender mercy, takes notice of us. He sees where we are at. He grieves when we are troubled. He is also the God of all consolation. He comforts us and never leaves our side when trouble is at the door or all around. He is always near. He bears us up in the midst of our difficulties.

Have you ever received a gift when you didn’t deserve it? Maybe a kind gesture from a friend you were in a fight with. Or a check that came out of the blue at a time when you needed it. Well, God’s mercy and grace is just like that. You feel down and out, not knowing how you’re going to make it through the mess you put yourself in – and there God is with His free gift of mercy and comfort. Will you accept His gift today? I know I need it!! :)
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Ok, so I am starting something new… well, it will start when we move back into our house at the end of this month… so stay tuned for updates on how it goes…

I am going to get even more frugal then I already am trying to be. Yes, it’s true. I’ve been doing some research, and there are tons more ways I can be saving money.

Here are two that I will be trying once we’re back in our house:
1.) I will be line drying our clothes. Seriously. The research I have done shows that this truly is an art. Laugh if you will, but my clothes will smell fresher and I will be saving a ton of money on energy and gas.
2.) I am going to try to walk to the grocery store when I need an item. The only store closest to where our house is located is Vallarta. I have nothing against Vallarta; I have just never been in one. I hear their prices on produce are fantastic. We’ll see what else they have to offer there and if it would be a good deal for me to do most of my shopping there. I’ll be exercising my body and my budget!

This isnt an April Fools Day joke... try these for yourself and see how you can stretch you dollar too!

So, that where I am beginning. I have 30 days until the big move and I am hoping to add to this list. If you would like to submit an idea, please email me at sharon.m.lee@live.com.

Cool link of the week:
www.livingonadime.com

Stay tuned...

3.26.09

Joshua 23
9 "The LORD has driven out before you great and powerful nations; to this day no one has been able to withstand you. 10 One of you routs a thousand, because the LORD your God fights for you, just as he promised. 11 So be very careful to love the LORD your God.

Basically what this is saying is 1.) stop thinking that you have to be many in number to make a big difference, because with the Lord you are stronger than anything imaginable. 2.) lenaphshotheychem, Take heed TO YOUR SOULS, literally. The WHOLE self must love the Lord God. You cannot have this love scattered.

I'm sad today. I'm sad for God's people. I hear from friends, loved ones, and their frustration with people who serve. For example a singer refusing to sing on the worship team because a leader was 10 minutes late with a legitimate reason. Its sad. How far are we going to take this selfishness? When are we going to realize that we are God's vessels, created and called to do His work? (Especially when we have a specific task that we've committed to). It grieves my heart.

Which brings me back to today's scripture... people of God, lets do something about this selfishness. You may be one person who is willing to do this, but you have the strength of God. Instead of letting it continue lets nip it in the butt now! What are we afraid of? Time is short, lost souls are at hand, so we shouldn't be afraid to stand up and say "let's get over ourselves and remember why we're here." And then secondly, people who are being selfish - when was it that your First Love changed to yourself? Let's put our focus back on God and get rid of this pride.

I'm sorry if it sounds like I am going on a rant here... I hope you hear my heart. I say this all in love. And sometimes I get this way too and have to steer back into the right attitude. This isn't to point fingers, or yell and scream -- its to put the focus back on God and our task as His people.

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Busy day today... oil change, smog check, work... looking forward to spending a nice night with my husband and baby girl.

Stay tuned...

3.24.09

1 Corinthians 9
25Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. 27No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

Spring training. Its that time of years folks. Think about it... whether you want to play a sport this summer, or you just want that bikini (or tankini in my case) ready body. Its a time to get healthy so that you're don't dragging and huffing and puffing while your kids want you to play outside with them. Ah, Spring. And. Training.

The people in Corinth knew a thing or two about training. They had crazy games of sport. After all, they were the site of the original Isthmian Games (like the Olympic Games in many ways)! They felt that their Greek gods would be pleased with them if they had physically fit bodies, and performed will in their sports. They spent a lot of time in training.

In working out, or getting in shape, endurance is a key. Once you give in to a week without doing any physical activity, or like me, to that donut sitting in the break room - its all over. The key is to endure, to remain at the top of your game. They say it takes 30 days for something to develop into a habit. Hmmm... maybe we need to all take a 30 day devotional/worship/prayer/fast(?) challenge. If we spent more time in the word than on the couch in front of the TV I bet we'd all have so much of God's word in us that we would have to shout it out to everyone or else we'd explode! What do you think?? Are you up for the challenge??
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It is Tim's first day at The Highlands (www.thehighlandschurch.com)! He is so excited, and got to spend some time with the interns today. It will be great to see what God will do!!

As for me, I am using God's wisdom for my life to be creative. Maybe I will write more about that some other time...

Hannah is finally getting well after being sick for almost a week. The weather is getting so nice outside and I cannot wait to let her run and play! It will be so great getting into our house!

We had dinner last night with my mother in law, and her boyfriend Luis. It seemed so natural to see them together, like this should have happened several years ago! Praying for them as they consider the future.

That's all for now... stay tuned...

While you're at it, please visit the following:

3.20.09

Psalm 69
16 Answer me, O LORD, out of the goodness of your love;
in your great mercy turn to me.

The mercy that is explained here translates to that of a mother to her young. God shows a multitude of mercy upon His children!

This speaks to me in several ways today:

Hannah. Yes, it is obvious that she is my baby and I show her mercy and love on a daily basis... but I feel like this goes much deeper.

I look at some of the teen moms who come in to the school I work at. Most are clueless on how to take care of their child. Yes, there is a mother's instinct in most of us women, but I feel as though their little one is a mere accessory which was all too glamorized in the beginning, but they have now found that it is much harder than they thought. Little ones require such work, and it breaks my heart to see these young girls who are so not ready for all that is required of them.

One of those hard moments is when you have an ill child. Hannah has been sick for the past few days. She is so young she cannot describe to me what hurts, so mommy has doubled as a detective for the past few days. She gets up at night because she isn't feeling well, so I am exhausted. But even in the worst of times, the exhausting times - I am her mommy and I love her and show her mercy. I couldn't imagine reacting any other way.

The same is true of our Father. He loves us deeply, and He would do anything for us. He doesn't get too exhausted or too busy to answer our call to Him. It doesn't matter if we call out in the morning or night, anytime is a good time for Him. He knows our needs and how to best tend to them.

God, thank you for Your everlasting love and your tender mercy. Thank you that I can always depend on You.
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As I mentioned above, we are praying that Hannah feels well soon. I believe that Jesus is already tending to her needs and making her body healthy!

The news has now been out of our new adventure. We will be going on staff to serve at The Highlands Foursquare Church. We have received a lot of confirmation for this new season. Tim will specifically be working with their Internship program. We are so excited and cannot wait to see what God has in store! God is faithful and His promises are true!

We will also be moving back into our home at the beginning of May! We are grateful that my Dad has allowed us to stay with him during this transition, but its time for him to get his house back! :)

It's Friday and I am looking forward to this weekend! family dinner tomorrow night and some great fellowship all weekend long!

Stay tuned...

3.18.09

Psalm 37
19 In times of disaster they will not wither;
in days of famine they will enjoy plenty.

This means that even in the worst of time, those who are in Christ will be safe and provided for. Those who love God will not be ashamed of it either! When others are sad and anxious, we lift up our head with great joy and comfort in our God. We have confidence that in some way or other God will provide. We will rejoice and be glad.

I don't have to say (but I guess I am right now) that times are tough right now, some would even call them scary. Sure, you read the headlines, or you have even experience the fear in a very real way. Tim and I were walking through it. Everyone said that this was the worst possible time for us to move without jobs lined up, without even savings to cover however long it would take. But we knew that our God would provide. He has conquered it all, so why should I worry?

Of course I have had those days where the anxiousness has stirred up within me and I have proclaim "NO! My God shall supply all my needs. I am a child of God and he will take care of us!" And the times I've said this has been in tears.

I cannot make you believe that God has you covered... you need to believe for yourself. But go ahead, curl up on His lap and let His arms envelop you with love and comfort. Listen to His voice... hush yours for a moment and be still. He loves you.... trust in Him today. I know I am.
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Cant give details, but my God has us covered! Thank you LORD!!!

Hannah is getting her two year old molars, and we've begun the planning for her 2nd bday party. Time is flying...

Stay tuned...

3.17.09

1 Corinthians 2
For who has known the mind of the Lord
that he may instruct him?" But we have the mind of Christ.


No one can do what God has done, no one can assist God. When God created the world no one gave Him advice. No one said "you know God, the ocean would look better over here" or "don't you think clouds should be pink instead of white?" It's kind of silly when you think about it. But, we think it is OK to advise God in what to do for our lives, don't we? We interfere thinking our way is better, our idea of outcome more desirable. Why can't we just let God do what He desires? Why do we think we can do it better? And why do we get angry when He decides to perform a different way? It is because we don't fully understand the mind of God.

God did, however, give us the mind of Christ. When we were born again we had a renewing of our mind which gave us the capabilities to get to know God through His word. The Spirit allows us to be qualified to convey this information to others. But I believe we need to walk in a daily renewing of our minds to line up with what God wants for us.

Next time I find myself questioning Him, or giving Him a "to-do" list, I will ask the Lord, "renew my mind today. I want my will to line up with Your desire for me. I want to know You and to see things the way You see them. Amen"

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Good things are coming our way... I believe it!

stay tuned...

1 Corinthians 1
18For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19For it is written:
"I will destroy the wisdom of the wise;
the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate."

There are two sets of people here - unbelievers and obedient believers, that is obvious. But back in the day he was referring to the Jews and the Greeks. It is to the Jews a stumbling-block, and to the Greeks foolishness; but unto those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. The Jews had a presupposition that their Messiah would be a grand prince, not a man who had a common occupation like them, and who even walked among them. They wanted a sign, they wanted it on their terms. The Greeks laughed at the idea of a saviour who hung on a cross. They desired wisdom - sciences, arts, knowledge and scholarly idea. Matthew Henry wrote it this way: "Those who are saved are reconciled to the doctrine of the cross, and led into an experimental acquaintance with the mysteries of Christ crucified." To us today it is applied to believers and unbelievers.

All of the money I spent on my college education will never enligten my mind the way that the Holy Spirit, and the word of God does. All of the world who does not believe is baffled by the work of God and the saving grace of Christ because they have yet to let the Holy Spirit renew their mind. God chose the "crazy" way of doing things, and it confused men of the "wise."

I was thinking today about what the thoughts must be of some of those around me. I have close people in my life who are very smart, highly educated people - but the idea of God baffles them, they think I am nuts while nicely not really getting in my way or questioning me. Then I have others who live a lifestyle that is one I wouldn't necessarily choose. How weird they must think I am for not wanting to party or dress like them. "You're only young one" is what they say. My lifestyle confuses them.

I am saddened that some of my loved ones are dooped into thinking that what this worlds has to offer - the knowledge and the glitter - is much better that choosing Christ.

Lord help me to help them understand. I know it cannot be me... it has to be You.
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We're doing well. Tim has some possibilities opening up and we're bringing them before the Lord.

We spent the weekend watching Maddux and Reagan, and enjoying Claire's first birthday (picture above). Reminds me how time flies by and how much I cherish these precious moments.

That's all for now... stay tuned...

3.13.09

Galatians 4
1What I am saying is that as long as the heir is a child, he is no different from a slave, although he owns the whole estate. 2He is subject to guardians and trustees until the time set by his father. 3So also, when we were children, we were in slavery under the basic principles of the world. 4But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, 5to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. 6Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba, Father." 7So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir.

You now have a right to the inheritance, because you are one of the family, the children are the ones who inherit; but this heirship is the most extraordinary of all: it is not an heirship of any tangible possession, either in heaven or earth; it is not to possess a part or even the whole of either, it is to possess Him who made all things; not God's works, but God himself: heirs of GOD through Christ.

Have you ever had something happen that dramatically changes your life? One day you are a student, then next you are a graduate... one day you're single, the next married... one day youre pregnant, the next you have a baby in your arms. Did you know that this is what happens when you are saved? You are no longer a slave to this world, but an heir of Christ. You are no longer trying to make ends meet by the worlds standards, but you are rich in Christ.

I am learning this... my life is about to take abother turn. I am very excited to see what God has in store for me but I know that what it is will change my life in an instant. I am excited and eager to see what he will have me do.

Take that next step in Christ and see where God will lead you today - you never know what it could bring, what it could change.

3.11.09

Deuteronomy 16:11
"And thou shalt rejoice"

The offerings of the Israelites were to be eaten with festivity, communicated to their friends with liberality, and bestowed on the poor with great generosity, that they might partake with them in these repasts with joy before the Lord.

We see this often in scripture... "thou shalt rejoice"... "bless the Lord, o my soul and all that is within me." Its all over. Why? Because we have to be reminded to praise the Lord no matter what circumstance, no matter the environment.

This stuck out to me so much - especially today. Now, I am going to get super personal here so bare with me. I got a paycheck yesterday and today it is all spent (well, at least its in all of my little electronic envelopes waiting to be spent for the right bill). Yup, it is true. I am not rolling in the dough like people may think. Tim is still on the search for a full time job, so our income is half of what it was in Arizona. PLEASE HEAR ME -- I do not write this for you to feel bad for me. Quite the contrary. Please rejoice with me that all of my bills are paid, there is food in the pantry, and we've taken care of our tithe responsibly. I write this simply as an example, a very real one, from my own life. Yes, there is no money until next week - but God has supplied all of my needs. So, when I am getting down today I will say "SELF bless the Lord!!!"

I hope that as you are going through your days and weeks that you will do the same. Even when it looks grim, even when it looks like you are not going to make it, or even when you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that you are definitely not going to make it -- BLESS THE LORD. He holds my economy, not this crazy world. You can also apply this to any circumstance you are facing today. Are you sick? BLESS THE LORD. Are you lonely? BLESS THE LORD. He has got you covered baby!

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I guess my journal gives you a clear picture of where we are at right now. Broke in the world's eye, but rich in Christ!

Tim is still on the hunt and I know God has him covered. He has never let us down!

Hannah and I went for a walk around the mall yesterday (no, that is not why we are broke - I didn't buy anything) and she kept saying how cute the clothes were. She even reached out for a skirt and was holding it for a while. She didn't want to put it down, but eventually I got her to say "bye bye skirt." She loves fashion, I can tell. It will be fun to teach her mommy's frugal ways of shopping! :)

That's all for now... stay tuned... and BLESS THE LORD!

3.9.09

Deuteronomy 11:13 So if you faithfully obey the commands I am giving you today—to love the LORD your God and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul- 14 then I will send rain on your land in its season, both autumn and spring rains, so that you may gather in your grain, new wine and oil. 15 I will provide grass in the fields for your cattle, and you will eat and be satisfied.

There is a promise to obedience and steadfastness (I always question if that is a word or not). Its simple... God says to lover Him and serve Him, and THEN He will send the rain and provide the grass in the fields. There is an action and a promise here.

In a world where we have a mentality of instant gratification, and the idea for something for nothing, we have a challenge set before us. I saw a recent infomercial that shwoed how you could have a perfectly sculpted set of abs and a tight tush all while sitting on the couch in front of your TV. It was a contraption that fit around your torso and buns and vibrated and squeezed around you so that it confused your body into thinking it worked out. My first thought was, "sweet! I can eat ice cream, workout, and watch american idol all at the same time!!" The infomercial had done its magic and I was just about hooked. But I knew that that wouldnt do the trick. I cant get something for nothing. I have to standfast and workout and eat right if I want a sculpted and healthy body.

The same is true with the Lord. His love is a FREE gift, yes. But it still costs us our old ways. We have to turn those in to Him for forgiveness. It requires us to have action and to take part in that love daily. We make a choice everyday whether to standfast to His truth, or be dooped into the glimmer of the worlds temporary gains.

I want His unchanging love, His rain, and the grass in the fields.

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This past week was pretty busy. I didnt have much time for blogging on my reading, sorry folks. This time change has also thrown me off. For the past year in AZ we didnt have a time chage. Som I am getting used to the CA life again and I guess this is just one thing that goes along with it. :)

I spent Friday and Saturday at Father's Eyes. Pretty incredible time. I am already looking forward to next year!

Also went to Trish's baby shower. Made me, for just a second, really want #2 soon! But, I guess well just have to see when that time will be.

This week will be just as busy, but I know that it will be blessed by God! :)

Please pray for Tim as he continues the hunt for a full time job. And please pray for our family because this commute really is hard. Imagine taking 2 hour out of your day just for driving. Ugh!

Thats all for now... stay tuned...

2.27.09

Numbers 21:4 They traveled from Mount Hor along the route to the Red Sea, to go around Edom. But the people grew impatient on the way; 5 they spoke against God and against Moses, and said, "Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the desert? There is no bread! There is no water! And we detest this miserable food!"
6 Then the LORD sent venomous snakes among them; they bit the people and many Israelites died. 7 The people came to Moses and said, "We sinned when we spoke against the LORD and against you. Pray that the LORD will take the snakes away from us." So Moses prayed for the people.

8 The LORD said to Moses, "Make a snake and put it up on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live." 9 So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, he lived.

I did not have to look hard for what my verse of the day would be. This speaks to me so clearly. The children of Israel were tired of the long march round the land of Edom. They speak discontentedly of what God had done for them, and distrustfully of what He would do. And you know what? I am just like them sometimes. Lately I've been acting the same way. I am frustrated that I cant snap my fingers and make everything line up the way it should be. I've forgotten of the promise that has been spoken over my family. I've been trying to do it all on my own. When will I stop? Like Israel, when will I be pleased? What more will it take? I already have the word of God, my source, my promise - so what more should I need?

Matthew Henry said this: "Let not the contempt which some cast on the word of God, make us value it less." It is the bread of life, substantial bread, and will nourish those who by faith feed upon it, to eternal life. We see the righteous judgment God brought upon them for murmuring. He sent fiery serpents among them, which bit or stung many to death. They felt the bite. And God made a wonderful provision for their relief.

Compare their disease and ours. Sin bites like the snakes did. Compare the application of their remedy and ours. They looked and lived, and we, if we believe, shall not perish.

Lord, I put my trust in you!!

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Last night we had dinner with my Aunt Sherri. I was so happy to see her! I wish we lived a little closer so that I could see her often. I hope some day soon we'll be able to take Hannah up north to see all of the sites around where my Aunt lives, just like I did when I was a little girl.

I am putting my trust in the Lord for God's provision in a job for Tim. The world says that there are no jobs, but my God has a perfect plan for His kids. :)

Stay tuned....

2.26.09

Psalm 28: 5 Since they show no regard for the works of the LORD
and what his hands have done,
he will tear them down
and never build them up again.

This is plain and simple... those who show no regard for the Lord in turn have no knowledge of His true nature or His works. From Adam Clark commentary: "This is a remarkable prophecy, and was literally fulfilled: the Babylonian empire was destroyed by Cyrus, and never built up again; for he founded the Persian empire on its ruins. Even the place where Babylon stood is now no longer known."

I think a lot of people get God all wrong. They think He is this mean angry being who loves to watch the destruction of the world. What they do not understand is that God has been giving them chances of redemption all along. He has compassion for His creation and grieves when they disobey Him.

We, as His children, have an opportunity to evaluate our own lives and the state of our world. What are we doing that impacts this? Are we really being the hands and feet we are called to be? I know in my own life I could be doing a much better job.

I haven't been on here in a while, so let me repeat my hopes in posting my journaling... I hope my evaluation of myself will bring you encouragement and hope to do the same. We all get one chance at life. What are you going to do today that will make a difference?

Lord, help me to see this as a challenge, and to not feel content just because I have assurance that I am saved. What will You have me do to help people regard You as the Lord in their own life? I love You Lord, and I know You love Your creation. I am here to serve You alone. Amen

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We've been getting into somewhat of a routine, although we are still trying to find full time work for Tim. We're in limbo with so many parts still so I cannot wait to step into what God has for us.

Hannah started preschool and is doing well. She loves the new toys to play with and her new friends, especially one of the teachers - Pearl. She is still learning how to nap in a new environment, but I think she'll settle in nicely soon.

I am so grateful that my dad has let us stay with him during this time. It is making the transition smoother and gives us some quality time together.

That's it for now... stay tuned....

Again??... come on...

Yes, I have been saying that to myself over and over again since the last time I wrote a post. I have been having trouble staying consistent at posting while I have been getting used to my new drive (and the new commute that comes along with it). needless to say, I am exaughsted. I love the new job, but the drive is really killing me because ti cuts in on my family time. I am thankful that my dad has given us a roof over our head until we can get back into our house, but I am so over the drive!

I have a lot to be thankful for though... so I can deal witht he drive for a little while longer.

I am enjoying the newness (or re-newness, rather) of everything. Its weird coming back to a place where you grew up knowing that you've have changed over the past year. I say changed because I have gained a new perspective on things while out in AZ last year. There are so many possibilities before us, but I am looking to what God would have for me personally and for my family. It really is exciting.

I think its hard for some to understand our story over the past year - where God brought us to and then brought us back. But I am not affraid to tell it. I have gained so much from being out in AZ and I will never regret any of it.

Its like in our daily reading today (Acts 18)... I dont think Paul made the plans for his coming and going. He left that up to the Lord. I want to be like that.

This all may be very confusing, but that is the outcome of pouring out your heart sometimes! :)

Stay tuned...

2-4-09

I got to have lunch with some of my new coworkers today. It was great -- and well, kinda funny since two of my coworkers I went to high school with, and the other is a close friend of my older sister. Funny how we all got brought into the same office. :)
I am trying to get a balance between work hours and home life, since the hours are very different from when I was working in AZ. My focus is to make the time I get to spend with my family real quality time.
Hannah was really cute the other night... Calliou was on PBS, and Hannah is a big fan. Tim was wearing his Rock for Life shirt which has a baby that looks like... well, you guessed it - Calliou. So Hannah went up to his shirt and said "Calliou!!" It was the cutest and funniest thing. Pure comedy.

-Daily Devotional-
Psalm 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
making wise the simple

I heard this being said of this verse: "It [the law of the LORD] is distinct and certain, reliable, right, pure, holy, and true. Hence it revives those depressed by doubts, makes wise the unskilled (2Ti 3:15), rejoices the lover of truth, strengthens the desponding (Ps 13:4; 34:6), provides permanent principles of conduct, and by God's grace brings a rich reward."

Wow, that is right on. I want to be a lover of God's law because it is the only thing I can count on. All that is int his world will fade and pass away, but the law of the LORD will remain. When I seek it, it will make me strong in all areas.

Thank you Lord that I can trust in You. As I seek Your law I know that it will wash me with truth and make me wise. Thank you Lord for your law! As difficult as it may seem at times, I know You are showing me the way... help me to see.

Daily Devotion from StudyLight

34Then Peter began to speak: "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism 35but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right.

The scene before Peter enlarges his conceptions of the purpose of God; for he now sees that his mission is designed not for the benefit of Cornelius alone, but for a large number of his Gentile friends; and if for all these, then, there is to be no further national limitation to the gospel. He gives utterance to this conception. (34) "Then Peter opened his mouth and said, In truth I perceive that God is not a respecter of persons; (35) but, in every nation, he that fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him." This expansive thought was sufficient to burst asunder all the exclusive bonds of the Mosaic institution, and should be sufficient now to explode the equally injurious theory of an arbitrary predestination of certain men and angels to their eternal destiny. [See Westminster Conf., ch. iii: sec. 5.] It is a positive declaration that God respects not persons but character. To fear him, and to work righteousness, and not any other distinction between persons, is the ground of acceptability with him.

Action Needed Now

Let me begin by saying that I don't understand how so many people can stand back and silently accept what is about to happen to our country. How can you pretend to live in a world of puppy dogs and rainbows just hoping that our lives will go on unaffected by our new government? I'm happy for those of you that can go about your lives ignoring what's going on, but for the rest of us we have got to stand together to do what is in our power to keep this place together. Remember, no one is going to do it for us.Want to do something? Visit this site:http://www. cagw. org This is the website for Citizens against Government Waste... Click on the link: Tell Your Senators: Vote NO on the So-called "Economic Stimulus" Bill!Then, read this article. It only touches on some of the recipients of the new bill.Stimulus': Your Money for Illegals, Welfare Recipients,Arts, and SexJust how outrageous is this shameful $819 billion stimulus?For starters — and this will shock you — both the House and the Senate programs have a loophole that even gives illegal aliens cash payouts.Here's how The Associated Press explained it: “Undocumented immigrants who are not eligible for a Social Security number can file tax returns with an alternative number. A House-passed version of the economic recovery bill, and one making its way through the Senate, would allow anyone with such a number, called an individual taxpayer identification number (TIN), to qualify for the tax credits.”In case you didn't know it, any illegal can get a TIN number from Social Security, no questions asked.This means illegals who broke the law to get here will be eligible immediately for federal cash — up to $1,000! It gets worse.Let me detail for you some facts from the “stimulus”: More than $4 billion is earmarked for "neighborhood stabilization activities" — money that will go to groups like ACORN, which worked closely with the Obama campaign, the same group accused of massive voter fraud.Almost half of the proposed spending will directly benefit the Service Employees International Union, federal, state, and municipal employee unions, or other Democratic-controlled unions, according to writer Ben Stein.$600 million goes for news cars for top government bureaucrats.Obama promised major infrastructure projects — yet only 5 percent of all the money goes for this.$50 million for the National Endowment for the Arts.$75 million to fund anti-smoking programs.$650 million for the switch from analog television to digital.$335 million to help prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.$600 million for “climate change” research programs.This is just a small part of the long laundry list of trivial, weird, and simply outrageous programs being funded in the Obama stimulus bill, which goes on for 680 pages — so long no one in the House was believed to have read it before voting for it! Just to show you the tremendous waste, there is so much money appropriated in this bill you could give every unemployed person in the nation a check for $75,000 for the amount being spent.

Here in CA!

Hello... here in California - got here safe and living out of boxes. Will write more soon. :)

Last Day

Well, today is the last day here in AZ. So far it's 6:39 and I am at work. I don't think it will be much of an accomplishing day. How can your last day really be on to get much work done? The work that really needs to be done is at home finishing up all of those little things that have to be done before the big move tomorrow. I wish I was at home with Hannah.

Our friends Marc, Deb and Jordyn came from CA to help us move. What amazing friends! I mean, who does that, really?! They are so great. Its been fun watching Hannah and Jordyn play with each other, and the couple of hours I got to spend chatting with Deb were refreshing.

Heike comes in tonight and then we're on the road tomorrow. Funny thing is, I have still never really been in Phoenix. Hilarious.

Stay tuned...

Journal 1-30-09

Exodus 25:1 The LORD said to Moses, 2 "Tell the Israelites to bring me an offering. You are to receive the offering for me from each man whose heart prompts him to give. 3 These are the offerings you are to receive from them: gold, silver and bronze; 4 blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen; goat hair; 5 ram skins dyed red and hides of sea cows [a] ; acacia wood; 6 olive oil for the light; spices for the anointing oil and for the fragrant incense; 7 and onyx stones and other gems to be mounted on the ephod and breastpiece.

The word for offering in this passage is terumah, meaning a free-will offering. There were still many reqirements and particulars to this free will offering. He knew what was needed for the tabernacle.

Beyond a tithe, the offering is your choice to give. And as I have learned you give an offering when it has been directed by God to do it. What I learn in this passage is that it is important to still hear the direction from God on offerings. Sure, helping with a certain ministry or project within your church may be fun and cool - and you may even see the results from your offering, but God may be directing your offering toward something else - something you may never see the fruit of in this life, but absolutely directed by the Lord.

Listen to the Lord. Wait on Him. Let Him order your actions. Because ultimately, just as in making the tabernacle, it is all for the glory of God.

New to the Blog World

I'm not sure why I've started a blog... I guess it will be a place for me to record my thoughts, updates, etc. We'll see how this goes...

What I am hoping to do is have a sort of "online accountability" for those of you who follow this for my online journaling - through the Word, and through my life. Of course, not all posts will be available for the public eye. Journaling through the Word is a personal thing, which I am sure will bring some private postings. But with the ones I do allow you to see I hope it will bring you encouragement for your own life.

Alright, so let it begin! My first official posting of my journaling will be tomorrow, so stay tuned! Tomorrow also happens to be my last day at Banner, and last full day in AZ.

I love new adventures...