Did you ever just really hate that awful time in your life where you just wish you could have taken a number and checked out? Begging God, "Take me, I want to go! I am tired of this stupid harsh world!"
Been there, done that! How selfish and ungrateful I was at that time. The past couple of months I've been so fortunate to take a movie theater seat in my own life and just take in the trailer to see how temporary pain has lead to a fountain of love. If only I could have trusted God's love for me during some of those situations how much more I could have gained from them. I cheated myself! (don't get me wrong, I'm not volunteering to go back there)
Who would have thought being cheated on would have brought me to a point in my life to offer forgiveness and true heart filled wishes of happiness. It was not easy but I am thinking I would not trade it for the lotto winnings. Back then I could not have fathomed trusting God's purpose for that pain I was experiencing. Now, I see His reasons unfolding before my eyes.
If your in the mud, love it, embrace it and I promise you this, He has got some big plans in store for you, so keep your eyes open and trust His Bigger Purpose!!!
BTW- B in Child Psychology and a B in Algebra. Now, there's proof of God's love!!! Thank you to everyone for the friendships and encouragement throughout the semester! Hugs!!!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
C.S. Lewis
Thought of the Day "The safest road to Hell is the gradual one -- the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts." (C.S. Lewis)
I want to hang out in Heaven this C.S. Lewis. He can speak and I'll listen!
Bring on those sharp sudden turns God... I'm yours!
I want to hang out in Heaven this C.S. Lewis. He can speak and I'll listen!
Bring on those sharp sudden turns God... I'm yours!
Saturday, March 29, 2008
It's a pleasure to meet you...
Plan and simple...God is pretty gosh darn amazing with the people He put in our lives. I am truly inspired and totally blessed!
I had a unplanned conversation today with one of Nicolette's friend's mother. She shared what it was like growing up in a Christian home and being part of a small "family oriented" church. I am totally psyched about how God is speaking to us as a family though those we come in contact with. We are so lucky to have His love and continued inspiration.
Thank you God!
I had a unplanned conversation today with one of Nicolette's friend's mother. She shared what it was like growing up in a Christian home and being part of a small "family oriented" church. I am totally psyched about how God is speaking to us as a family though those we come in contact with. We are so lucky to have His love and continued inspiration.
Thank you God!
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Thought of the Day
"The church is not a gallery for the exhibition of eminent Christians, but a school for the education of imperfect ones, a nursery for the care of weak ones, a hospital for the healing of those who need special care." (Henry Ward Beecher)
We went to a church on Easter morning that made this statement a reality! It lifted my hopes for the sinners of the world to have a place to heal and be restored! For people like you and me to come to know the true forgiveness of our loving God!
We went to a church on Easter morning that made this statement a reality! It lifted my hopes for the sinners of the world to have a place to heal and be restored! For people like you and me to come to know the true forgiveness of our loving God!
Monday, March 17, 2008
Tis the Season
The snow has melted and the flowers are beginning to push their way through the earth's surface. Christmas has since passed, Spring has sprung and Holy Week and Easter are upon us. This time should be one of reflection and realization of how fortunate we are.
Casting Crowns was playing this morning on The Word FM and the lyrics "But if we are the body Why aren't His arms reaching? Why aren't His hands healing? Why aren't His words teaching? And if we are the body Why aren't His feet going? Why is His love not showing them there is a way? There is a way;" "Jesus paid far to high a price for us to pick and choose who should come."
God gave us His only Son to pay for our sins. He created us knowing how we would let Him down throughout our life here on earth. Could you imagine? That thought alone is hard to fathom.
We were very fortunate to be invited to a church last weekend where we heard such a beautiful message to kick off Holy Week. The Pastor spoke to us about responsibility and accountability. He spoke about how God will take all experiences and use it to aid another. With this mindset, you can transform your thinking to one riddled with negativity to one filled with hope. God does not want us walking around sulking for the rest of our lives for what we have done wrong. He wants us to learn from them and help others struggling, just as we did and may still do.
God had blessed my life in so many ways. As of late, I praise Him for the group of women who meet at my house on a Saturday morning to discuss the Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyers. Most recently, we spoke of God's love for us and how, like a leach, a mind filled with ungodly thoughts can get in the way of how deep His love truly is for us, by draining us dry. Yet, on the other hand, if we fill our minds with His love and thoughts, we will be able to really honor Him and embrace His love. We will than live out His will, taking our sins and turning them into His good will. We will than honor God, our Father!
Casting Crowns was playing this morning on The Word FM and the lyrics "But if we are the body Why aren't His arms reaching? Why aren't His hands healing? Why aren't His words teaching? And if we are the body Why aren't His feet going? Why is His love not showing them there is a way? There is a way;" "Jesus paid far to high a price for us to pick and choose who should come."
God gave us His only Son to pay for our sins. He created us knowing how we would let Him down throughout our life here on earth. Could you imagine? That thought alone is hard to fathom.
We were very fortunate to be invited to a church last weekend where we heard such a beautiful message to kick off Holy Week. The Pastor spoke to us about responsibility and accountability. He spoke about how God will take all experiences and use it to aid another. With this mindset, you can transform your thinking to one riddled with negativity to one filled with hope. God does not want us walking around sulking for the rest of our lives for what we have done wrong. He wants us to learn from them and help others struggling, just as we did and may still do.
God had blessed my life in so many ways. As of late, I praise Him for the group of women who meet at my house on a Saturday morning to discuss the Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyers. Most recently, we spoke of God's love for us and how, like a leach, a mind filled with ungodly thoughts can get in the way of how deep His love truly is for us, by draining us dry. Yet, on the other hand, if we fill our minds with His love and thoughts, we will be able to really honor Him and embrace His love. We will than live out His will, taking our sins and turning them into His good will. We will than honor God, our Father!
Friday, March 14, 2008
Mixed Signals
Take a trip with me....
It's sunny, you've got your sunglasses on, the top is down on your black shiny BMW, you don't have a care in the world. Leeland is blaring from the radio. You feel so cool. Maybe too cool because when someone who is actually going the speed limit gets in your way, it frustrates you to no end. Your blood pressure begins to rise. You begin to tell them to move, in a Christian loving kind of way, even though they can't hear a single word you're saying. After about 10 minutes of this, when you think you can't take another moment, they put their blinker on to make a left hand turn. You're thrilled to finally be getting rid of them, to continue your trip and return to your world or music and a warm breeze blowing through your hair. They slow down. You slow down. Blink, blink, blink. There's no traffic coming in the opposite direction. Yeah, the moment has arrived. As against the law as it is, you being to go around them to the right, that's when it happens. BAMMMM! They aggressively turn the wheel, making a right turn...into your front bumper. You get out of your car and you're screaming at them. You've totally lost your cool. "But you had your left blinker on!!!" Before you stands an older gentleman, obviously scared and upset. Your behavior just makes him even more nervous. He begins to cry. That's when you return to your car to get your information. In your excited state, you never lowered the radio down. That's when you hear it. Tears of the Saints.
Suddenly, I feel convicted. My heart aches with pain, shame and embarrassment. My most recent behaviors have not been those of a Christian. The Saints are crying out with pain. This truly is an emergency.
Ironically, a situation similar in nature happened to me only a few years ago. I had bent down to pick up a water bottle that had fallen out of the car upon opening up that rear passenger's door. Upon my up righting myself, an elderly woman caught a glimpse of my white t-shirt in the dark of the night and swerved. Thank God she did. She barely missed me and clipped the door of my mother's Ford Explorer truck bending it like a tin can. My first instinct was to yell, no scream at her. She was shaking more than I was. I think I was in a bit of shock at how close I had just come to death. She could not stop apologizing and began to cry. That was when it happened, I found myself comforting her. God had convicted me on the spot. The pain my reaction had caused was uncalled for. I thank God for that moment and am grateful for His on the spot aching of my heart to turn my mixed signals instantaneously into His work.
Our God is awesome and on this Easter season, I ask you, are you sending mixed signals or walking boldly in His love?
It's sunny, you've got your sunglasses on, the top is down on your black shiny BMW, you don't have a care in the world. Leeland is blaring from the radio. You feel so cool. Maybe too cool because when someone who is actually going the speed limit gets in your way, it frustrates you to no end. Your blood pressure begins to rise. You begin to tell them to move, in a Christian loving kind of way, even though they can't hear a single word you're saying. After about 10 minutes of this, when you think you can't take another moment, they put their blinker on to make a left hand turn. You're thrilled to finally be getting rid of them, to continue your trip and return to your world or music and a warm breeze blowing through your hair. They slow down. You slow down. Blink, blink, blink. There's no traffic coming in the opposite direction. Yeah, the moment has arrived. As against the law as it is, you being to go around them to the right, that's when it happens. BAMMMM! They aggressively turn the wheel, making a right turn...into your front bumper. You get out of your car and you're screaming at them. You've totally lost your cool. "But you had your left blinker on!!!" Before you stands an older gentleman, obviously scared and upset. Your behavior just makes him even more nervous. He begins to cry. That's when you return to your car to get your information. In your excited state, you never lowered the radio down. That's when you hear it. Tears of the Saints.
Suddenly, I feel convicted. My heart aches with pain, shame and embarrassment. My most recent behaviors have not been those of a Christian. The Saints are crying out with pain. This truly is an emergency.
Ironically, a situation similar in nature happened to me only a few years ago. I had bent down to pick up a water bottle that had fallen out of the car upon opening up that rear passenger's door. Upon my up righting myself, an elderly woman caught a glimpse of my white t-shirt in the dark of the night and swerved. Thank God she did. She barely missed me and clipped the door of my mother's Ford Explorer truck bending it like a tin can. My first instinct was to yell, no scream at her. She was shaking more than I was. I think I was in a bit of shock at how close I had just come to death. She could not stop apologizing and began to cry. That was when it happened, I found myself comforting her. God had convicted me on the spot. The pain my reaction had caused was uncalled for. I thank God for that moment and am grateful for His on the spot aching of my heart to turn my mixed signals instantaneously into His work.
Our God is awesome and on this Easter season, I ask you, are you sending mixed signals or walking boldly in His love?
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Editting
If you could edit your life, would you? Would you click a button to change things or cut them out completely?
There's no way I would! I would not trade my life for the world. Hard to believe, right? Especially after, the "challenges" I've been through in my lifetime. Those whom I call friend, know what I am talking about.
For so many years and especially 2 years and a few months ago , I pleaded with God, "Why me?" The funny thing is, today, I thank Him for it all! Every last second! I honestly believe that, I'm one lucky Chick! I can even say that after all the recent happenings. You know that when you're in the trenches, that God has big plans for you! Let's call it Boot Camp for Believers!
Although I would not change a thing about life, I just love the edit button on here. Post, Edit, Post again, Edit. It's like a big fat eraser, in a button, of course! Click it-poof it's all gone. Change your mind, click it and it's back again.
I LOVE to write. I could do it every day and never get sick of it. I enjoy blogging my thoughts on here just to throw them out there. Get them out of my head and share them with you. I will never deny that what you see here, is the real me. There are times that I may seem angry. I probably am. Last time I checked, I was quite human, just like you. And humans do a lot of stupid things. Trust me, I've done my share over the past 37 years. But what I do know is, I don't live for the edit button. I live to "Publish Post" button. Life is not a blogging post. It's one trip around, one go at it. It is one chance to touch an other's life in a positive way.
What if God chose to make permanent image of you in His heart of the day knowing broke someones heart?
I ask myself this question all the time to keep myself honest and accountable...
If you were to take a long hard look in the mirror, would you be afraid of what it would say back? Live today in a way that you don't have to fret tomorrow and wish there was an edit button. To be able to live our lives with free will is a beautiful, priceless gift that God gives us.
Thanks for listening, well reading. Dawn-Claiming my smile back from those who don't know love. And living each day to show others how to, willingly!
There's no way I would! I would not trade my life for the world. Hard to believe, right? Especially after, the "challenges" I've been through in my lifetime. Those whom I call friend, know what I am talking about.
For so many years and especially 2 years and a few months ago , I pleaded with God, "Why me?" The funny thing is, today, I thank Him for it all! Every last second! I honestly believe that, I'm one lucky Chick! I can even say that after all the recent happenings. You know that when you're in the trenches, that God has big plans for you! Let's call it Boot Camp for Believers!
Although I would not change a thing about life, I just love the edit button on here. Post, Edit, Post again, Edit. It's like a big fat eraser, in a button, of course! Click it-poof it's all gone. Change your mind, click it and it's back again.
I LOVE to write. I could do it every day and never get sick of it. I enjoy blogging my thoughts on here just to throw them out there. Get them out of my head and share them with you. I will never deny that what you see here, is the real me. There are times that I may seem angry. I probably am. Last time I checked, I was quite human, just like you. And humans do a lot of stupid things. Trust me, I've done my share over the past 37 years. But what I do know is, I don't live for the edit button. I live to "Publish Post" button. Life is not a blogging post. It's one trip around, one go at it. It is one chance to touch an other's life in a positive way.
What if God chose to make permanent image of you in His heart of the day knowing broke someones heart?
I ask myself this question all the time to keep myself honest and accountable...
If you were to take a long hard look in the mirror, would you be afraid of what it would say back? Live today in a way that you don't have to fret tomorrow and wish there was an edit button. To be able to live our lives with free will is a beautiful, priceless gift that God gives us.
Thanks for listening, well reading. Dawn-Claiming my smile back from those who don't know love. And living each day to show others how to, willingly!
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Thought of the Day
"Non discipleship costs abiding peace, a life penetrated throughout by love, faith that sees everything in the light of God's overriding governance for good, hopefulness that stands firm in the most discouraging of circumstances, power to do what is right and withstand the forces of evil" (Dallas Willard)
I want to be a student at Liberty University for forever just so I can read their "Thought of the Day" It's definitely not for the Algebra homework! Or research studies!
Thank you God for an amazing week!!! Just when I think I am the luckiest person in the world, BAMM, you go and bless me with another reason! I may look exhausted, even sound exhausted (it's lack of sleep, really) but God is working me hard and I'm loving it!
If clay could express it's feelings after the artist molded it into a work of art, it would say..."I'm looking good, but boy was that exhausting!" I am far from a work of art, but I am the clay in God's hands!
I want to be a student at Liberty University for forever just so I can read their "Thought of the Day" It's definitely not for the Algebra homework! Or research studies!
Thank you God for an amazing week!!! Just when I think I am the luckiest person in the world, BAMM, you go and bless me with another reason! I may look exhausted, even sound exhausted (it's lack of sleep, really) but God is working me hard and I'm loving it!
If clay could express it's feelings after the artist molded it into a work of art, it would say..."I'm looking good, but boy was that exhausting!" I am far from a work of art, but I am the clay in God's hands!
Saturday, March 1, 2008
A Confession of Forgiveness for the Believer
Father, in the name of Jesus, I made a fresh commitment to You to live in peace and harmony, not only with the other brothers and sisters of the body of Christ, but also with my friends, associates, neighbors and family.
I let go of all bitterness, resentment, envying, strife and unkindness in any form. I give no place to the devil in Jesus' name. Now Father, I ask Your forgiveness. By faith, I receive it, having assurance that I am cleaned from unrighteousness through Jesus Christ. I ask You to forgive and release all who wronged and hurt me. I forgive and release them. Deal with them in your mercy and loving-kindness.
Form this moment on, I purpose to walk in love, to seek peace, to live in agreement, and to conduce myself toward others in a manner that is pleasing to You. I know that I have right standing with You and Your ears are attentive to my prayers.
It is written in Your Word that the love of God has been shed abroad, poured forth into my heart by the Holy Ghost who is given to me. I believe that love flows forth into the lives of everyone I know that I may be with abound in the fruits of righteousness which bring glory and honor unto You, Lord, in Jesus' name. So be it!
Scripture References: Romans 5:5, 12:16-18, 10; Philippians 1:9, 11, 2:2; Ephesians 4:27, 31, 32; I John 1:9; Mark 11:25; I Peter 3:8, 11, 12; Colossians 1:10
I let go of all bitterness, resentment, envying, strife and unkindness in any form. I give no place to the devil in Jesus' name. Now Father, I ask Your forgiveness. By faith, I receive it, having assurance that I am cleaned from unrighteousness through Jesus Christ. I ask You to forgive and release all who wronged and hurt me. I forgive and release them. Deal with them in your mercy and loving-kindness.
Form this moment on, I purpose to walk in love, to seek peace, to live in agreement, and to conduce myself toward others in a manner that is pleasing to You. I know that I have right standing with You and Your ears are attentive to my prayers.
It is written in Your Word that the love of God has been shed abroad, poured forth into my heart by the Holy Ghost who is given to me. I believe that love flows forth into the lives of everyone I know that I may be with abound in the fruits of righteousness which bring glory and honor unto You, Lord, in Jesus' name. So be it!
Scripture References: Romans 5:5, 12:16-18, 10; Philippians 1:9, 11, 2:2; Ephesians 4:27, 31, 32; I John 1:9; Mark 11:25; I Peter 3:8, 11, 12; Colossians 1:10
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Chaching$$$
If I had a penny for every time someone visited this site this week to read what I would post after our "meeting with the mediator" I'd be able to drill a well for the kids of Africa to have fresh drinking water in a poverty stricken village. If only you were here for good intentions. I hate to disappoint you.
Its kind of a sad to think that instead of emailing me or one even better, giving me a call to see if we are doing OK. You'd rather click here to see me vent. So sorry to disappoint you... I'm still me. Remember, this is Walking in Love, a journal of my journey. I refuse to sell my soul for anyone. Pastor, family member or boss. In my eyes, I have only ONE whom I report to, and without a doubt, He's cheering me on this week. I can hear Him now..."Way to go daughter of mine!!!" :)
I want you to know that...I pray for you, I pray for the Pastors, I pray for the leaders, I pray for the elder board and advisers, I pray for the congregation. I pray for those who have decided to depart and especially for those yet to walk in. I pray especially hard for you, if you came here for gossip and hatred. I hate no one. I only feel hurt and discomfort. A reality our Lord deals with each and every day on a level I could not fathom.
I could quote scripture. I could remind you that God demands us to live in love. You know that already. A man or woman right with God knows very well when he or she disappoints Him. The Bible is the greatest rule book ever written. If you muck up, pick it up, God will lift you up.
This is my blog, and I'm sorry to disappoint you in saying that I am still me. The same Dawn that would be there to help the same person who stomped on my heart this past Sunday. The same Dawn that will pray each and every day for the lost, lonely and unsaved. I will lift up those already saved that they too will do what God demands of us and not give more people a reason to turn from Him but to Him.
Sorry for the boring blog..... sorry to disappoint you. I'm still praying for you, harder now than ever. May God's Blessings Not Only Shine Over You but Through You!!!!!!
Let me walk away being known as ....Dawn, the woman that loves an amazing man, not for what he once was, but for the man he is each and every day. Please remember me as God's daughter, a true Carpenter in mind, body and soul.
Its kind of a sad to think that instead of emailing me or one even better, giving me a call to see if we are doing OK. You'd rather click here to see me vent. So sorry to disappoint you... I'm still me. Remember, this is Walking in Love, a journal of my journey. I refuse to sell my soul for anyone. Pastor, family member or boss. In my eyes, I have only ONE whom I report to, and without a doubt, He's cheering me on this week. I can hear Him now..."Way to go daughter of mine!!!" :)
I want you to know that...I pray for you, I pray for the Pastors, I pray for the leaders, I pray for the elder board and advisers, I pray for the congregation. I pray for those who have decided to depart and especially for those yet to walk in. I pray especially hard for you, if you came here for gossip and hatred. I hate no one. I only feel hurt and discomfort. A reality our Lord deals with each and every day on a level I could not fathom.
I could quote scripture. I could remind you that God demands us to live in love. You know that already. A man or woman right with God knows very well when he or she disappoints Him. The Bible is the greatest rule book ever written. If you muck up, pick it up, God will lift you up.
This is my blog, and I'm sorry to disappoint you in saying that I am still me. The same Dawn that would be there to help the same person who stomped on my heart this past Sunday. The same Dawn that will pray each and every day for the lost, lonely and unsaved. I will lift up those already saved that they too will do what God demands of us and not give more people a reason to turn from Him but to Him.
Sorry for the boring blog..... sorry to disappoint you. I'm still praying for you, harder now than ever. May God's Blessings Not Only Shine Over You but Through You!!!!!!
Let me walk away being known as ....Dawn, the woman that loves an amazing man, not for what he once was, but for the man he is each and every day. Please remember me as God's daughter, a true Carpenter in mind, body and soul.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
"As far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath." (Romans 12:18-19)
Do you know someone who just walks around every day with nothing but hate spewing from their mouth? It's exhausting to hang with them, isn't it? I can't imagine being them.
God's word it quite clear in the verse above. Let it go!
If you need a reality check, this one's for you! You're not God!
So, hang up that ego trip you're on and let the God who made you deal with you and others like you. How's that for reality?
Do you know someone who just walks around every day with nothing but hate spewing from their mouth? It's exhausting to hang with them, isn't it? I can't imagine being them.
God's word it quite clear in the verse above. Let it go!
If you need a reality check, this one's for you! You're not God!
So, hang up that ego trip you're on and let the God who made you deal with you and others like you. How's that for reality?
Monday, January 14, 2008
Late Nites...
Last week I blogged of our Youth Pastor, Tucker and his amazing ability to convey a message. Well, I believe that behind so many strong men, are inspiring women. Tucker has one of the best. Her name is Cherie. She's a beautiful wife and loving mother. She just has this all around beauty about her. It's really great!
Well, we finally, after many failed attempts, made it to Perkins after Ignite (Starbucks was the original plan, but it was already late). It was a great night! Huge thanks to Justin, a family friend, who brought my girls home and Tucker who took care of bedtime rituals in the Hibbs house. It allowed Cherie and I to just sit there and share, as God intended us to. We laughed and laughed. We also shared on so many levels. Our lives, passions, loves and dreams. One of the highlights was introducing Cherie to fries with brown gravy and mozzarella cheese. I thought it to be sad that she had never experienced them before. She's a fry lover and this just kicks it up a notch!! BAM!
I had to laugh to myself on my way home. Fries and late night gatherings have always been part of my life. Back in the day it was after a night of drinking and dancing and those fries just seemed to go well at the craziest of hours. Sharing the night with Cherie was one night that has left a true mark on my heart. It blows my mind how times have changed. A dozen years ago or so, I was drunk and giddy and searching for happiness. And now, all these years later. I shared a night with an awesome woman, who is a true inspiration of God's love and had a great night just being me.
Thanks Cherie for being you and allowing me to be me!
Well, we finally, after many failed attempts, made it to Perkins after Ignite (Starbucks was the original plan, but it was already late). It was a great night! Huge thanks to Justin, a family friend, who brought my girls home and Tucker who took care of bedtime rituals in the Hibbs house. It allowed Cherie and I to just sit there and share, as God intended us to. We laughed and laughed. We also shared on so many levels. Our lives, passions, loves and dreams. One of the highlights was introducing Cherie to fries with brown gravy and mozzarella cheese. I thought it to be sad that she had never experienced them before. She's a fry lover and this just kicks it up a notch!! BAM!
I had to laugh to myself on my way home. Fries and late night gatherings have always been part of my life. Back in the day it was after a night of drinking and dancing and those fries just seemed to go well at the craziest of hours. Sharing the night with Cherie was one night that has left a true mark on my heart. It blows my mind how times have changed. A dozen years ago or so, I was drunk and giddy and searching for happiness. And now, all these years later. I shared a night with an awesome woman, who is a true inspiration of God's love and had a great night just being me.
Thanks Cherie for being you and allowing me to be me!
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Wearing Your Heart On Your Sleeve
For the first time in a while I was captivated by the message in church. Kudos to Tucker! He just shines with God's given talent when he is preaching. It's so his thing! I don't know if he would agree or not, I am just a fan of his passion. We are fortunate to have him preaching to us the entire month of January. I have been looking forward to it for some time now. It's a great way to start the year! You should come check it out at Carpenters Community Church.
Today's message was based on the TV series, Heroes and entitled "Just Go." Tucker called us on the carpet about our faith. He asked us where we stand on it. What defines and inspires our faith and how willing we are or are not to get out of our comfort zone and share it with others.
Last year this time I got an amazing tattoo on my back of an Icthus. (Latin word, meaning fish. The letters stand for: Jesus Christ, God's Son, Savior) I just love it! I did it because I wanted the opportunity to share my faith with others. It's kind of funny when co-workers will catch a glimpse of it and judge. I look at them, tell them to get a life and explain that it's a permanent reminder to me and all those who see it how GOD is amazing and with me always. Well this week, Tucker got an pretty freaking (shhh, it's not a bad word) cool tattoo, offering him a similar opportunity. You'll have to check it and his story out at his blog. I hope he doesn't mind.... Tucker Hibbs.
I'm not much of an actress. I can't lie to save my life. (ask my mom, dad or Mark) I wear my heart on my sleeve. I consider myself a "What you see, is what you get" kind of girl. I can only hope that my love of Christ is apparent in my words and actions. As for the tattoo, it's just another heart on my sleeve. It's an opportunity to share my testimony. The key is, not allowing it to limit me. Being a Christian has tested me. It's not easy but it's so worth it. Tucker called being a Christian "not boring" today.... so true! It's very possible to talk the talk while walking the walk. I'm honored when co-workers point me out at a Christian. It's one label I wear proudly! Thanks Tucker for the amazing morning!
Today's message was based on the TV series, Heroes and entitled "Just Go." Tucker called us on the carpet about our faith. He asked us where we stand on it. What defines and inspires our faith and how willing we are or are not to get out of our comfort zone and share it with others.
Last year this time I got an amazing tattoo on my back of an Icthus. (Latin word, meaning fish. The letters stand for: Jesus Christ, God's Son, Savior) I just love it! I did it because I wanted the opportunity to share my faith with others. It's kind of funny when co-workers will catch a glimpse of it and judge. I look at them, tell them to get a life and explain that it's a permanent reminder to me and all those who see it how GOD is amazing and with me always. Well this week, Tucker got an pretty freaking (shhh, it's not a bad word) cool tattoo, offering him a similar opportunity. You'll have to check it and his story out at his blog. I hope he doesn't mind.... Tucker Hibbs.
I'm not much of an actress. I can't lie to save my life. (ask my mom, dad or Mark) I wear my heart on my sleeve. I consider myself a "What you see, is what you get" kind of girl. I can only hope that my love of Christ is apparent in my words and actions. As for the tattoo, it's just another heart on my sleeve. It's an opportunity to share my testimony. The key is, not allowing it to limit me. Being a Christian has tested me. It's not easy but it's so worth it. Tucker called being a Christian "not boring" today.... so true! It's very possible to talk the talk while walking the walk. I'm honored when co-workers point me out at a Christian. It's one label I wear proudly! Thanks Tucker for the amazing morning!
Saturday, December 29, 2007
What a year...
2007 has been filled with so many ups and downs. It's been a year of lessons. Lessons that I know I will look back on and appreciate one day.
Some of the things I've learned are:
Some of the things I've learned are:
- God puts you where He wants you for a bigger purpose, whether you want to be there or not.
- Trusting God, trusting others, trusting myself, means defeating satin at his cruel games and I can't do it alone.
- True friends are a gift from above. God has a funny way of leading us to amazing people.
- Unfortunately, I've learned the true purpose of this quote "The greatest single cause of atheism in the world today is Christians who acknowledge Jesus with their lips then walk out the door and deny him by their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable." - Brendan Manning
- A church is not the 4 walls but the people within them.
- Prayer is awesome and powerful!
- If your heart and mind are not with God, don't drag others down with you, but ask for help.
- The world is full of loving Christians.
- The world is full of hypocrites.
- True love is the very bestest!
- Telling your boss the your job is both challenging and entertaining will make him/her giggle.
- My girls can be so loving and goofy at times; My girls can be beyond challenging at others.
- Healing only happens when you stop hating.
- When you lead your life with God's love, you find true happiness.
Wishing you a year of love. Happy 2008. May God's hand guide you.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
What's your key ingrediant?
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." (Ralph Waldo Emerson)
So, what defines you? Are you true to the person you want to be? Or do you alter who you are to please others? And who are the others? What really matters in life? What if GOD knocked on your door today and asked you this...
"Do you really think I would have done that?"
So, what defines you? Are you true to the person you want to be? Or do you alter who you are to please others? And who are the others? What really matters in life? What if GOD knocked on your door today and asked you this...
"Do you really think I would have done that?"
Monday, December 24, 2007
The Christmas Story
From the Revised Standard Version Bible
Luke, Chapter 2
In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be enrolled. 2: This was the first enrollment, when Quirin'i-us was governor of Syria. 3: And all went to be enrolled, each to his own city.4: And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David,5: to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child.6: And while they were there, the time came for her to be delivered.7: And she gave birth to her first-born son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.8: And in that region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.9: And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear.10: And the angel said to them, "Be not afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will come to all the people;11: for to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.12: And this will be a sign for you: you will find a babe wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger."13: And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,14: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom he is pleased!"15: When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us."16: And they went with haste, and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.17: And when they saw it they made known the saying which had been told them concerning this child;18: and all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them.19: But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart.20: And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.21: And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.22: And when the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord23: (as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord")24: and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, "a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons."25: Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.26: And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ.27: And inspired by the Spirit he came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law,28: he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,29: "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word;30: for mine eyes have seen thy salvation31: which thou hast prepared in the presence of all peoples,32: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to thy people Israel."33: And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him;34: and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against35: (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed."36: And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phan'u-el, of the tribe of Asher; she was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity,37: and as a widow till she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day.38: And coming up at that very hour she gave thanks to God, and spoke of him to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.39: And when they had performed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.40: And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.41: Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the Passover.42: And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom;43: and when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it,44: but supposing him to be in the company they went a day's journey, and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintances;45: and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking him.46: After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions;47: and all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers.48: And when they saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, "Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been looking for you anxiously."49: And he said to them, "How is it that you sought me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?"50: And they did not understand the saying which he spoke to them.51: And he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them; and his mother kept all these things in her heart.52: And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature, and in favor with God and man.
Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition (RSV), copyright © 1965 and 1966 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. and are used by permission of the copyright owner.
Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition (RSV), copyright © 1965 and 1966 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. and are used by permission of the copyright owner.
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Do you remember...
Do you remember those early days of going to church or a Christian gathering, where the people were really feeling the moment. Their hands were raised. They were kneeling on the ground. They were dancing around like hippies at Woodstock.
I even remember the first time I heard someone speaking in tongues. There's a word that comes to mind to describe them. Its a word that speaks mountains of my ignorance on my walk.
This morning at nine am service at Carpenters, a young lady made me feel like one of those people I use to stare at. Tucker and the Worship Team were really rocking it. I was bouncing around, like I always am. That was when I must have caught her eye. She glanced once but that was not enough. Her head abruptly turned a second time and she was obviously caught off guard that someone could be enjoying Christian music, in church, at 9 am! I had to giggle. I didn't care, and it didn't slow down. I was loving the feeling of the Holy Spirit dancing in me. I wish I could get everyone to feel it. The energy is amazing!
So, there you have it. I have officially classified myself as one of them, a _____! And, you know what? I would not ever change it! So deal!
I even remember the first time I heard someone speaking in tongues. There's a word that comes to mind to describe them. Its a word that speaks mountains of my ignorance on my walk.
This morning at nine am service at Carpenters, a young lady made me feel like one of those people I use to stare at. Tucker and the Worship Team were really rocking it. I was bouncing around, like I always am. That was when I must have caught her eye. She glanced once but that was not enough. Her head abruptly turned a second time and she was obviously caught off guard that someone could be enjoying Christian music, in church, at 9 am! I had to giggle. I didn't care, and it didn't slow down. I was loving the feeling of the Holy Spirit dancing in me. I wish I could get everyone to feel it. The energy is amazing!
So, there you have it. I have officially classified myself as one of them, a _____! And, you know what? I would not ever change it! So deal!
Friday, December 7, 2007
Loving thy brother...
If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother. 1 John 4:20-21 NIV
There is only one explanation for the ability to love a ex more after the divorce than before. The only answer is God, Himself.
There is only one explanation for the ability to love a ex more after the divorce than before. The only answer is God, Himself.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Knock, Knock!! Who's there?
"You must not exploit a widow or an orphan. If you exploit them in any way and they cry out to me, then I will certainly hear their cry." Exodus 22:22-23 (NLT)
Do you always answer the door when God guides someone into your path?
Do you always answer the door when God guides someone into your path?
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
No Doubt!
Ok, I admit it, I'm human. Go figure!! NO Really!! Have you ever asked God to send you that neon sign? The big picture? An earthquake to calm your doubts and fears?
I have and still do! Well, I did somewhat recently and guess what?
MY EARTH HAS QUAKED! I HAD TO BLINK FROM THE NEON!
IT'S AMAZING!!!
Ask and you will receive! Go for it! His Word is all around me and I can't stop smiling! Thank you God for picking me!
I have and still do! Well, I did somewhat recently and guess what?
MY EARTH HAS QUAKED! I HAD TO BLINK FROM THE NEON!
IT'S AMAZING!!!
Ask and you will receive! Go for it! His Word is all around me and I can't stop smiling! Thank you God for picking me!
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