Last night on the Wives On Purpose prayer call, our scripture was Proverbs 14:1. The New King James Version reads: The wise woman builds her house, But the foolish pulls it down with her own hands.
I got to thinking about building my house, about building my marriage. A long time ago my marriage was a nice design idea in my head. I planned my wedding and signed the contract to begin work. I was married in the Church and joined by God. I had indeed entered the marriage covenant and begun living my life as life’s construction crew surveyed, dug, poured, and measured. Brick after brick was laid to make my marriage house. I loved and admired the finished product. I was sure that when the rains came down and the floods came up that my marriage would stand. Why, because we were founded on the Rock!
What I failed to realize is that sometimes in a fierce and violent storm, all that we see is wiped away. The only thing left is the foundation. It is from there we that rebuild. A wise woman builds.
During 20 years of marriage, I have learned a few tips to help build and rebuild my marriage house.
1). I survey my property. I never assume that my marriage house is in good shape. Periodically I ask my husband questions.
• Are you comfortable in our relationship?
• Are there some things we should address?
• Are your needs still the same and are they being met?
2). When I see a tear, some peeling, or just something broken, I immediately call in for repair. Jesus is the best worker I know. I put him on speed dial and tell Him exactly what is wrong.
• I pray no matter where I am or what I am doing.
• I stop and pray.
3). I have learned that I get what I pay for. Building a house costs time and money, building a marriage costs too.
• I pay with patience. Marriage is until death.
• I pay when bad weather stops all progress.
• I pay for top quality materials. Only the best books, devotionals, marriage conferences, etc. will do for my marriage mansion.
I want to build my marriage house. I know that occasionally it needs upgrades and sometimes entire rooms need to be renovated. I keep my eyes and ears open to the Lord so when it he says it’s building time… I can say Yes, Lord… Let it be done to me according to your word!
If you are in a time of building do not fear. Understand that you are a wise woman!
Lisa
12/08/2009
11/09/2009
I Am Pressing On
Today is a good day. The sun is shining and it is not too cold. I enjoyed some private time with Jesus this morning. I got my kids to school on time, ate a healthy breakfast which included oatmeal, then I dressed for my exercise workout. That is where my thoughts took over.
I don’t belong to a gym or a take any formal classes. I don’t swim or run. I simply pop in a DVD. To keep myself motivated, I picture many of the women whom I admire in my living room exercising with me. I walk away pounds with my favorites. P. Bunny Wilson, Stormie O’Martian, Sheryl Brady, Darlene Bishop, Trena Jenkins, Priscilla Shirer, Lysa TerKeurst, Beth Moore, and so many others. Yes, they are my cheerleaders.
Surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses (Hebrews 12:1), I should be able to finish the program right?
Today was different. I was distracted. My mind wandered away from my famous cheerleaders and my DVD. The tasks I had to complete seemed more important than what I was doing. With each step I became anxious about my “to do” list. I even looked at my watch to see how much longer the DVD would last. Then I heard the women say “your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you” (1Cor.6:19). “Take time to care for it.”
I moved to knee lifts….8 more, 4 more…I was getting tired now. I wondered if I should turn it off. As I debated this issue, I heard the ladies again. This time they said “press on”. “Press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). Then it hit me! This is how I often approach my marriage and my husband.
I start off pretty good. I move to do the right thing (love, honor, and obey). Then I get distracted. My mind and my heart begin to wander. My “to do list” takes priority over him. I move on one more day, one more day, one more day…. Only now I live with anxiety and frustration. I am getting tired. I began to ask myself if I should just turn it off. How do I turn off?
You know…
I fix dinner but don’t serve his plate.
I welcome my children home with a smile. When he arrives I give him little more than a polite hug.
I interrupt my evening for the children’s bed time routine. I sigh when he interrupts me doing the dishes to share a new idea.
I stop calling him during the day to say hello.
I call on the cell phone when I need him to make a stop on hi sway home.
I complain about the household tasks he forgot to do.
I question him about every decision he makes.
This can be a very long list if I let it BUT…
I hear the ladies. Press on! Press toward the goal of a happy marriage. Press on even when you are tired. Press on and finish the race. I want to win the prize. Don’t you? I hear the Spirit of God telling me to press on.
Have you ever had to press in your marriage just to do the right things? Have you heard the Spirit of God supporting you? I would love to hear your testimony…
If you would like to leave a comment and do not have a blog. Click on Comments and choose anonymous from the drop down menu. You may leave your name in your comment if you like. I really do love to hear your thoughts so please share...
Lisa
I don’t belong to a gym or a take any formal classes. I don’t swim or run. I simply pop in a DVD. To keep myself motivated, I picture many of the women whom I admire in my living room exercising with me. I walk away pounds with my favorites. P. Bunny Wilson, Stormie O’Martian, Sheryl Brady, Darlene Bishop, Trena Jenkins, Priscilla Shirer, Lysa TerKeurst, Beth Moore, and so many others. Yes, they are my cheerleaders.
Surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses (Hebrews 12:1), I should be able to finish the program right?
Today was different. I was distracted. My mind wandered away from my famous cheerleaders and my DVD. The tasks I had to complete seemed more important than what I was doing. With each step I became anxious about my “to do” list. I even looked at my watch to see how much longer the DVD would last. Then I heard the women say “your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you” (1Cor.6:19). “Take time to care for it.”
I moved to knee lifts….8 more, 4 more…I was getting tired now. I wondered if I should turn it off. As I debated this issue, I heard the ladies again. This time they said “press on”. “Press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). Then it hit me! This is how I often approach my marriage and my husband.
I start off pretty good. I move to do the right thing (love, honor, and obey). Then I get distracted. My mind and my heart begin to wander. My “to do list” takes priority over him. I move on one more day, one more day, one more day…. Only now I live with anxiety and frustration. I am getting tired. I began to ask myself if I should just turn it off. How do I turn off?
You know…
I fix dinner but don’t serve his plate.
I welcome my children home with a smile. When he arrives I give him little more than a polite hug.
I interrupt my evening for the children’s bed time routine. I sigh when he interrupts me doing the dishes to share a new idea.
I stop calling him during the day to say hello.
I call on the cell phone when I need him to make a stop on hi sway home.
I complain about the household tasks he forgot to do.
I question him about every decision he makes.
This can be a very long list if I let it BUT…
I hear the ladies. Press on! Press toward the goal of a happy marriage. Press on even when you are tired. Press on and finish the race. I want to win the prize. Don’t you? I hear the Spirit of God telling me to press on.
Have you ever had to press in your marriage just to do the right things? Have you heard the Spirit of God supporting you? I would love to hear your testimony…
If you would like to leave a comment and do not have a blog. Click on Comments and choose anonymous from the drop down menu. You may leave your name in your comment if you like. I really do love to hear your thoughts so please share...
Lisa
10/29/2009
Blessings In The Pit- Notice What God is Doing
This may sound harsh but, I consider my present living conditions a pit. I live in a rental property and I am not happy about my living situation. I moved here three years ago and I know that God brought me here. Having made that clear now let me give you my testimony about this pit.
When we first arrived in this house we encountered plumbing problems. Then the kitchen cabinets wore out. We are without a few working shelves and drawers. The windows don’t open and close properly and several are missing screens. I could go on forever about the repair work that is needed here. The bottom line is I have spent the last 3 years despising the house, the neighborhood, and the circumstances surrounding how long we must remain here. I have spent a great deal of time complaining about this pit and whining about how long it will take God to move us from here to somewhere better.
Recently, I decided to stop complaining about my struggles and to focus on seeing God everywhere in them. I want to learn something new about Him in all that I experience. I started with my pit because this morning I was complaining…. again. I got in the shower (For those who have never heard me say this…God talks to me in the shower)…As the hot water beat on my tired body I began to pray. I asked God to move me to a better place but this time I also asked him to show me where he is in this situation. Like always, he answered.
He reminded me of Joseph. Joseph began his journey with the Lord from a pit. His pit was empty and had no water. (Gen 37:24). In the pit, Joseph was left and his brothers thought he would die there. But God had a plan to deliver him and use him. As I recalled the story I compared my current house and living conditions to Joseph’s “pit”. For me this house is empty and has no life giving water… (Even the water outside does not work)
If you know follow the story, you find God’s hand on Joseph until he got to the palace. While in the shower God showed me his hand on my life even in this pit.
A few things I noticed:
1. God taught me how to fight for my children using the weapon of His word. My middle daughter hates her bedroom. She complains of bad dreams and fears that someone is coming to “get her”. I posted psalm 91 over her bed. We pray it every night. We play the Bible on CD in her room at night and I spend many nights praying over her.
2. God showed me the importance of teaching my children to pray. They must be able to seek God for themselves. My son sleeps next door to his sister and often wants to protect her. I hung a framed prayer written by my father over his bed. It is entitled “Mother’s Teach Your Son’s To Pray” by Hailey Bernard Ellis. By age 3 he could pray openly and with great faith for our family.
3. God humbled me. Our house is very outdated. Many things are broken and need repair. I pointed out every one of them. I wanted my husband to feel guilty enough to hurry up and move us. Then the recession hit. I heard about families who lost homes. I knew several. They would be glad to live in mine. I was convicted and humbled.
4. God still blessed me.
I recognize some of my daughter’s spiritual gifts.
My children now turn to God when they are afraid.
I have been delivered from a huge bag of spiritual bondage.
I have been freed from some unhealthy friendships.
My husband has been freed from strongholds.
My husband has been freed from past hurts.
I can see my husband’s determination to have the best for us.
My children are flourishing in school and developing godly character.
5. God has shown me gratitude. My pit has 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, a finished basement, and space for my children to play. The “Wives On Purpose Ministry” meets here each month, and I have even entertained 29 people for a sit down Christmas Eve dinner. All in this pit! Not so bad after all right?
6. God reminded me of that he is sovereign (above all else). If I continued to despise the place where I live then I am despising the God who brought me here.
7. God gave me another chance to worship Him. In the shower I began to give thanks and praise for all I had received in the pit. No harm had come to me. Major appliances were working. My family is closer because we have survived some hard times. We are all growing in Christ Jesus.
Today I can see clearly the blessings I received while in a pit and I am standing still to see the salvation of the Lord… Because I know that Joseph went from his pit to the palace…. Palace here I come!!!!
Are you in a pit of yoru own?
Where have you seen God's hand?
If would like to share your thoughts and do not have a blog click on comments and choose anonymous from the drop down menu . You may leave your name in your comment if you'd like.
I love to hear your thoughts.
Lisa
When we first arrived in this house we encountered plumbing problems. Then the kitchen cabinets wore out. We are without a few working shelves and drawers. The windows don’t open and close properly and several are missing screens. I could go on forever about the repair work that is needed here. The bottom line is I have spent the last 3 years despising the house, the neighborhood, and the circumstances surrounding how long we must remain here. I have spent a great deal of time complaining about this pit and whining about how long it will take God to move us from here to somewhere better.
Recently, I decided to stop complaining about my struggles and to focus on seeing God everywhere in them. I want to learn something new about Him in all that I experience. I started with my pit because this morning I was complaining…. again. I got in the shower (For those who have never heard me say this…God talks to me in the shower)…As the hot water beat on my tired body I began to pray. I asked God to move me to a better place but this time I also asked him to show me where he is in this situation. Like always, he answered.
He reminded me of Joseph. Joseph began his journey with the Lord from a pit. His pit was empty and had no water. (Gen 37:24). In the pit, Joseph was left and his brothers thought he would die there. But God had a plan to deliver him and use him. As I recalled the story I compared my current house and living conditions to Joseph’s “pit”. For me this house is empty and has no life giving water… (Even the water outside does not work)
If you know follow the story, you find God’s hand on Joseph until he got to the palace. While in the shower God showed me his hand on my life even in this pit.
A few things I noticed:
1. God taught me how to fight for my children using the weapon of His word. My middle daughter hates her bedroom. She complains of bad dreams and fears that someone is coming to “get her”. I posted psalm 91 over her bed. We pray it every night. We play the Bible on CD in her room at night and I spend many nights praying over her.
2. God showed me the importance of teaching my children to pray. They must be able to seek God for themselves. My son sleeps next door to his sister and often wants to protect her. I hung a framed prayer written by my father over his bed. It is entitled “Mother’s Teach Your Son’s To Pray” by Hailey Bernard Ellis. By age 3 he could pray openly and with great faith for our family.
3. God humbled me. Our house is very outdated. Many things are broken and need repair. I pointed out every one of them. I wanted my husband to feel guilty enough to hurry up and move us. Then the recession hit. I heard about families who lost homes. I knew several. They would be glad to live in mine. I was convicted and humbled.
4. God still blessed me.
I recognize some of my daughter’s spiritual gifts.
My children now turn to God when they are afraid.
I have been delivered from a huge bag of spiritual bondage.
I have been freed from some unhealthy friendships.
My husband has been freed from strongholds.
My husband has been freed from past hurts.
I can see my husband’s determination to have the best for us.
My children are flourishing in school and developing godly character.
5. God has shown me gratitude. My pit has 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, a finished basement, and space for my children to play. The “Wives On Purpose Ministry” meets here each month, and I have even entertained 29 people for a sit down Christmas Eve dinner. All in this pit! Not so bad after all right?
6. God reminded me of that he is sovereign (above all else). If I continued to despise the place where I live then I am despising the God who brought me here.
7. God gave me another chance to worship Him. In the shower I began to give thanks and praise for all I had received in the pit. No harm had come to me. Major appliances were working. My family is closer because we have survived some hard times. We are all growing in Christ Jesus.
Today I can see clearly the blessings I received while in a pit and I am standing still to see the salvation of the Lord… Because I know that Joseph went from his pit to the palace…. Palace here I come!!!!
Are you in a pit of yoru own?
Where have you seen God's hand?
If would like to share your thoughts and do not have a blog click on comments and choose anonymous from the drop down menu . You may leave your name in your comment if you'd like.
I love to hear your thoughts.
Lisa
10/22/2009
Write It All Down
Today is a great for me because I can praise God for his promises! I suppose I should feel that way every day, but many days I praise because God is worthy… not because I feel like it. Today is different. It is different because of what I read.
Last night I read my journal entries and sermon notes from the entire year. I read my life’s story until I found myself reading the New Year’s Eve sermon notes from 2007 http://www.fbcglenarden.org/ . That is when I began a new journey with the Lord.
I cannot begin to tell you all that has happened in me, my family and my life since 2007. That really does not matter. What does matter is that I share with you how it gave me the praise I have today. You see God gave me a word in 2007. The verses preached and my journal entries spoke to my heart and I wrote them down. I lived through 2007 and 2008 listening to God and writing the messages down. I have recorded prayers, devotions, and promises. God made me some promises.
A few weeks ago, I decided to list all of the recent promises God made to me. I wrote 3 pages in my journal! Last night, I read them too and my heart pounded fast and I got so excited. My insides were tingling as I realized that God was doing some great things FOR ME!!!! He had promised!
I could not have read these things last night if I had not written it all down. (Three years of living in three notebooks). My mind gets bogged down with living day to day. My body gets tired and my emotions make me weary. I must write in order to hear the Word clearly, gain understanding, and renew my hope. I believe in a journal.
Today I can rejoice and sing a new song because of what I wrote.
Today I can go to God and pray his word back to him.
Today I can stand and believe him for what he told me.
Today I can praise him for his promises!!!
Even if you are not a journal writer, please consider finding a way to write your story. Any kind of book will do. Just get in a quite place and write what you hear from God. Allow Him time with you. Give him a chance to speak to you. Write what he says and don’t forget the promises.
It will give you praise like never before. Don’t take my word for it…
Jeremiah 30:2 says Thus says the Lord God of Israel, write in a book for your self all the words that I have spoken to you (NKJV).
Praise God today for what he is doing in your life and in your marriage. He is worthy!
Lisa
Last night I read my journal entries and sermon notes from the entire year. I read my life’s story until I found myself reading the New Year’s Eve sermon notes from 2007 http://www.fbcglenarden.org/ . That is when I began a new journey with the Lord.
I cannot begin to tell you all that has happened in me, my family and my life since 2007. That really does not matter. What does matter is that I share with you how it gave me the praise I have today. You see God gave me a word in 2007. The verses preached and my journal entries spoke to my heart and I wrote them down. I lived through 2007 and 2008 listening to God and writing the messages down. I have recorded prayers, devotions, and promises. God made me some promises.
A few weeks ago, I decided to list all of the recent promises God made to me. I wrote 3 pages in my journal! Last night, I read them too and my heart pounded fast and I got so excited. My insides were tingling as I realized that God was doing some great things FOR ME!!!! He had promised!
I could not have read these things last night if I had not written it all down. (Three years of living in three notebooks). My mind gets bogged down with living day to day. My body gets tired and my emotions make me weary. I must write in order to hear the Word clearly, gain understanding, and renew my hope. I believe in a journal.
Today I can rejoice and sing a new song because of what I wrote.
Today I can go to God and pray his word back to him.
Today I can stand and believe him for what he told me.
Today I can praise him for his promises!!!
Even if you are not a journal writer, please consider finding a way to write your story. Any kind of book will do. Just get in a quite place and write what you hear from God. Allow Him time with you. Give him a chance to speak to you. Write what he says and don’t forget the promises.
It will give you praise like never before. Don’t take my word for it…
Jeremiah 30:2 says Thus says the Lord God of Israel, write in a book for your self all the words that I have spoken to you (NKJV).
Praise God today for what he is doing in your life and in your marriage. He is worthy!
Lisa
10/20/2009
When God Answers Your Prayers
As I live and pray and work for the Lord, I also struggle. I talk to God all day long about what he wants from me and what he wants to do through me. I ask him what’s next. I watch for him to show up all over the place and make every effort to welcome him into the most private places of my heart. I desire to live for Jesus but to successfully do so… I need prayer.
When I wake up in the morning to late to have devotions, I need prayer.
When I stay up all night with a sick child, I need prayer.
When I drift into the car ahead of me, I need prayer.
When my prayer partner goes on vacation and I think I cannot pray without her, I need prayer.
When I must treat an enemy like a friend, I need prayer.
When my house begins to literally fall down, I need prayer.
When I cannot utter my own prayer, I need prayer…..
Have you ever felt like this? I tell you this has been my life lately BUT…. when women pray God shows up! I have been the beneficiary of God’ presence because you have prayed….
In the last few days…
• God spent time with me at night because I was up late. He spoke when I read my Bible at 11:00 p.m. instead of 5:30 a.m.
• He healed my son of the fever, vomiting, and diarrhea in a few days instead of weeks.
• The car I drifted into was driven by a woman I know. Neither vehicle was damaged. She even asked if I was OK.
• While my prayer partner is on vacation and I have been able to pray for her trip, her family, and her blessings.
• God has made even my enemy bless me by sending a kind email
• He has also given me the promise of a new house
• A friend called just to let me know she was thinking of me
• Another friend sent an email that she had just finished praying for me
And just when I thought I was drained dry… I got on the Wives On Purpose conference call for marriage and those women prayed for my strength and renewal! God really does answer prayer. He has answered your prayers for me and I am grateful…
Our husbands need prayer too. What would happen in our marriages if we prayed for our husbands the same way? How often would we see God’s changing hand on their lives if we prayed for them every day? It sounds silly but we should try and remember our husbands in our daily prayers…The Bible tells us to pray without ceasing (1 Thess 5:17). We will see God answer…. Our husbands will be thankful just like me!
Lisa
When I wake up in the morning to late to have devotions, I need prayer.
When I stay up all night with a sick child, I need prayer.
When I drift into the car ahead of me, I need prayer.
When my prayer partner goes on vacation and I think I cannot pray without her, I need prayer.
When I must treat an enemy like a friend, I need prayer.
When my house begins to literally fall down, I need prayer.
When I cannot utter my own prayer, I need prayer…..
Have you ever felt like this? I tell you this has been my life lately BUT…. when women pray God shows up! I have been the beneficiary of God’ presence because you have prayed….
In the last few days…
• God spent time with me at night because I was up late. He spoke when I read my Bible at 11:00 p.m. instead of 5:30 a.m.
• He healed my son of the fever, vomiting, and diarrhea in a few days instead of weeks.
• The car I drifted into was driven by a woman I know. Neither vehicle was damaged. She even asked if I was OK.
• While my prayer partner is on vacation and I have been able to pray for her trip, her family, and her blessings.
• God has made even my enemy bless me by sending a kind email
• He has also given me the promise of a new house
• A friend called just to let me know she was thinking of me
• Another friend sent an email that she had just finished praying for me
And just when I thought I was drained dry… I got on the Wives On Purpose conference call for marriage and those women prayed for my strength and renewal! God really does answer prayer. He has answered your prayers for me and I am grateful…
Our husbands need prayer too. What would happen in our marriages if we prayed for our husbands the same way? How often would we see God’s changing hand on their lives if we prayed for them every day? It sounds silly but we should try and remember our husbands in our daily prayers…The Bible tells us to pray without ceasing (1 Thess 5:17). We will see God answer…. Our husbands will be thankful just like me!
Lisa
10/14/2009
One Crazy Morning
Some days it seems like life is crazy and I am going crazy too. Some days like today, I wonder how to hold on when everything and everyone has turned to chaos. Have you ever been there?
Yesterday, my daughter, Hailey, was out of school. We spent the entire day together. It was good bonding time only last night she wanted to sleep in my bed. After much debate and some tears, I got her to sleep in her own bed… BUT, I sat with her until she fell asleep. Yesterday, my son, Gavin, came home from preschool. He whined and fussed all evening. He was tired and worn out. Yesterday, my biggest girl, Rachel came home sad. The work load in 10th grade is getting the best of her and she is struggling to keep an “A” in all of her classes. Yesterday, all of my children needed MOMMY….
Last night, I settled them down. Hailey went to sleep at 9:30pm. Gavin fell asleep at 11:00p.m. Rachel was still awake doing homework when I fell asleep at 11:30 p.m. What a late night for us all. That was my yesterday.
The emotional pull from my children yesterday and the lack of sleep last night was draining on me. I needed time with God to be ready for today. Somebody please tell me why I was looking at both Hailey and Gavin at 5:00 a.m. They were climbing into my bed! They were trying to get to MOMMY….and Mommy was trying to get to God!
It was pure chaos getting ready for school this morning. Gone was my quiet time. Gone was my time of peace and gone was Daddy’s patience with us all.
After dropping the kids at school, I stopped the van and sat for a while. God is not a god of chaos! I tried to pray… that was full of chaos too… Have you ever felt that way?
I looked up at the sky. The clouds were puffy and white but the sky seemed gray. That is how I felt. I wanted to quote every scripture I knew. I wanted to praise God with a song. I wanted to be righteous. I look to hills where my help comes from. That was all that came out. Tears began to fall down my cheeks. Jesus help me!
Jesus, help me! Jesus, give me patience! Jesus, help me make it today! Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!
The tears fell as I started the van and headed for home. I drove and some verses came to mind. I began to sing “The Promise” by Y’anna Crawley. If you have never heard it, google her and listen. Her song will bless you.
I arrived home and sat some more. Jesus, help me today. My life seems crazy. I have so many things on my mind, but I am depending on you to be my help. Please be my peace. You are my God and there is none like you. I love you Lord and I trust you. Help me! I am counting on you and I believe you are able to do more than I can ask or think. Help me. I love you Lord in the midst of what seems like chaos. You are in control… I began to pray and praise my God.
My prayer seemed as jumbled then as it sounds now BUT… when life seems crazy and I feel crazy. I know my God still hears me. He hears you too…
If you have ever been here, share how you made it over. I would love to hear how God met you in a crazy moment.
Lisa
Yesterday, my daughter, Hailey, was out of school. We spent the entire day together. It was good bonding time only last night she wanted to sleep in my bed. After much debate and some tears, I got her to sleep in her own bed… BUT, I sat with her until she fell asleep. Yesterday, my son, Gavin, came home from preschool. He whined and fussed all evening. He was tired and worn out. Yesterday, my biggest girl, Rachel came home sad. The work load in 10th grade is getting the best of her and she is struggling to keep an “A” in all of her classes. Yesterday, all of my children needed MOMMY….
Last night, I settled them down. Hailey went to sleep at 9:30pm. Gavin fell asleep at 11:00p.m. Rachel was still awake doing homework when I fell asleep at 11:30 p.m. What a late night for us all. That was my yesterday.
The emotional pull from my children yesterday and the lack of sleep last night was draining on me. I needed time with God to be ready for today. Somebody please tell me why I was looking at both Hailey and Gavin at 5:00 a.m. They were climbing into my bed! They were trying to get to MOMMY….and Mommy was trying to get to God!
It was pure chaos getting ready for school this morning. Gone was my quiet time. Gone was my time of peace and gone was Daddy’s patience with us all.
After dropping the kids at school, I stopped the van and sat for a while. God is not a god of chaos! I tried to pray… that was full of chaos too… Have you ever felt that way?
I looked up at the sky. The clouds were puffy and white but the sky seemed gray. That is how I felt. I wanted to quote every scripture I knew. I wanted to praise God with a song. I wanted to be righteous. I look to hills where my help comes from. That was all that came out. Tears began to fall down my cheeks. Jesus help me!
Jesus, help me! Jesus, give me patience! Jesus, help me make it today! Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!
The tears fell as I started the van and headed for home. I drove and some verses came to mind. I began to sing “The Promise” by Y’anna Crawley. If you have never heard it, google her and listen. Her song will bless you.
I arrived home and sat some more. Jesus, help me today. My life seems crazy. I have so many things on my mind, but I am depending on you to be my help. Please be my peace. You are my God and there is none like you. I love you Lord and I trust you. Help me! I am counting on you and I believe you are able to do more than I can ask or think. Help me. I love you Lord in the midst of what seems like chaos. You are in control… I began to pray and praise my God.
My prayer seemed as jumbled then as it sounds now BUT… when life seems crazy and I feel crazy. I know my God still hears me. He hears you too…
If you have ever been here, share how you made it over. I would love to hear how God met you in a crazy moment.
Lisa
10/10/2009
A Matter of Trust
I wrote this to share with the women at New Song Bible Fellowship Church http://www.newsongbiblefellowship.org/ . I thought you might enjoy it too.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding. Isn’t that what the writer of Proverbs said? (Proverbs 3:5). This verse is one of my favorites and I read it often. Why does it mean so much to me? I am glad you are curious enough to ask.
My husband’s grandfather, John C McLaughlin, was a wise man of God. He lived his life according to the scriptures because he spent his time getting to know Jesus. He was a remarkable man and I loved him. I called him “Daddy Mac”.
I spent many hours visiting with Daddy Mac and most of our conversations were dominated by talk about the Lord and reading the Bible. One day I asked Daddy Mac if I should return to college and finish my degree. He quoted this verse instead of offering his own opinion. It sounded like this “Lisa, just trust in the Lord. Don’t lean on your own understanding”. The next verse reads; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs. 3:6)
Is it really that simple? I wish I could say it was for me. The truth is often I don’t trust the Lord. When faced with a big decision or bad situation, I lean unto my own understanding. I waste time and energy trying to work it out. While I’m busy making plans, arrangements, and a big mess of my life, God is waiting to make my path straight.
After leaving Daddy Mac, I thought long and hard about the verse. (Some call it meditating on the word). Do I trust God enough to take me back to college? It had been a few years since I was a student. Could God work out paying for classes? How would I get the money and time off from work? There I was leaning unto my own understanding. I read the verse again and started to acknowledge Him. The God who made heaven and earth was telling me to return to school. The God who has all power in his hands would write my work schedule. The God who had provided all of my needs would pay for classes. He did not leave me nor forsake me and I graduated with honors.
My trust grew as I read and memorized the scripture. Now I trust Him with all my heart. I finally stopped leaning on my own understanding. I fully acknowledged Him in all of my ways and He really does direct my paths.
What about you? Is there any special verse directing your path right now?
I would love to hear about it. Share your comments and your verse below.
Many may be blessed by your story.
Lisa
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding. Isn’t that what the writer of Proverbs said? (Proverbs 3:5). This verse is one of my favorites and I read it often. Why does it mean so much to me? I am glad you are curious enough to ask.
My husband’s grandfather, John C McLaughlin, was a wise man of God. He lived his life according to the scriptures because he spent his time getting to know Jesus. He was a remarkable man and I loved him. I called him “Daddy Mac”.
I spent many hours visiting with Daddy Mac and most of our conversations were dominated by talk about the Lord and reading the Bible. One day I asked Daddy Mac if I should return to college and finish my degree. He quoted this verse instead of offering his own opinion. It sounded like this “Lisa, just trust in the Lord. Don’t lean on your own understanding”. The next verse reads; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs. 3:6)
Is it really that simple? I wish I could say it was for me. The truth is often I don’t trust the Lord. When faced with a big decision or bad situation, I lean unto my own understanding. I waste time and energy trying to work it out. While I’m busy making plans, arrangements, and a big mess of my life, God is waiting to make my path straight.
After leaving Daddy Mac, I thought long and hard about the verse. (Some call it meditating on the word). Do I trust God enough to take me back to college? It had been a few years since I was a student. Could God work out paying for classes? How would I get the money and time off from work? There I was leaning unto my own understanding. I read the verse again and started to acknowledge Him. The God who made heaven and earth was telling me to return to school. The God who has all power in his hands would write my work schedule. The God who had provided all of my needs would pay for classes. He did not leave me nor forsake me and I graduated with honors.
My trust grew as I read and memorized the scripture. Now I trust Him with all my heart. I finally stopped leaning on my own understanding. I fully acknowledged Him in all of my ways and He really does direct my paths.
What about you? Is there any special verse directing your path right now?
I would love to hear about it. Share your comments and your verse below.
Many may be blessed by your story.
Lisa
10/06/2009
Just Say Thank You!
I woke up this morning sleepy as usual. I gathered my things and went downstairs. I am in the habit of sitting down with Jesus after I make coffee and gather my Bible, pen, journal, and devotional. Today, I couldn’t find my Bible. How do you sit down for devotion time and not have your Bible?
I was too sleepy to look for it and didn’t want to go back upstairs. I might wake up my son (then I would have no time at all). So...I sat there. I was still and the house was quiet. It was still dark outside and I could hear crickets chirping. I began to feel the presence of God. He showed up to sit with me!
I began to picture Jesus getting up on so many mornings. It was often still dark. The disciples were often still asleep. He just went away to be with the Father. He didn’t have a Bible either I began to chuckle. As I took a sip of coffee, I remembered:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
He was in the beginning with God. (John 1:1-2)
Even without my bible, I was with God. The living Word of God was sitting with me on my couch. Then I remembered so many verses in my bible. I had indeed hidden the Word in my heart. I had Jesus. I had God with me!
All I could do was say THANK YOU!!!! I repeated it over and over again. As I thanked the Lord for being with me, many things came to mind. I just repeated Thank You:
• For loving me enough to be with me
• For coming to live inside of me
• For giving me another day to serve God
• For allowing me time to worship in my home
• For keeping my children asleep so I could be alone
• For holding back the time so I would not be late for school
• For giving me a family at all
• For giving me a heart for my husband
For… For… For ….
The list was endless so I just kept saying Thank You Lord. For being so good to me. Then I rememberd
His goodness will follow me all the days of my life. (Psalm 23:6). I was refreshed, blessed, and ready to face the day.
I finally stood up and asked the Lord to take control of my heart, my time, my life, and my day. I asenced the steps and woke up my children. As they dressed for school, I walked back into my room. I began to give my husband soft kisses. I kissed his cheeks, forehead, and chin. I kissed him until he woke up. When his eyes opened I looked up to the heavens and whispered THANK YOU all over again!
Some days we just gotta give thanks!
Lisa
I was too sleepy to look for it and didn’t want to go back upstairs. I might wake up my son (then I would have no time at all). So...I sat there. I was still and the house was quiet. It was still dark outside and I could hear crickets chirping. I began to feel the presence of God. He showed up to sit with me!
I began to picture Jesus getting up on so many mornings. It was often still dark. The disciples were often still asleep. He just went away to be with the Father. He didn’t have a Bible either I began to chuckle. As I took a sip of coffee, I remembered:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
He was in the beginning with God. (John 1:1-2)
Even without my bible, I was with God. The living Word of God was sitting with me on my couch. Then I remembered so many verses in my bible. I had indeed hidden the Word in my heart. I had Jesus. I had God with me!
All I could do was say THANK YOU!!!! I repeated it over and over again. As I thanked the Lord for being with me, many things came to mind. I just repeated Thank You:
• For loving me enough to be with me
• For coming to live inside of me
• For giving me another day to serve God
• For allowing me time to worship in my home
• For keeping my children asleep so I could be alone
• For holding back the time so I would not be late for school
• For giving me a family at all
• For giving me a heart for my husband
For… For… For ….
The list was endless so I just kept saying Thank You Lord. For being so good to me. Then I rememberd
His goodness will follow me all the days of my life. (Psalm 23:6). I was refreshed, blessed, and ready to face the day.
I finally stood up and asked the Lord to take control of my heart, my time, my life, and my day. I asenced the steps and woke up my children. As they dressed for school, I walked back into my room. I began to give my husband soft kisses. I kissed his cheeks, forehead, and chin. I kissed him until he woke up. When his eyes opened I looked up to the heavens and whispered THANK YOU all over again!
Some days we just gotta give thanks!
Lisa
9/28/2009
Just Say No!
Just Say No!
My phone rang. My girlfriend was on the other end. Her voice was weak as she said “Lisa, I have a prayer request”. As I inquired about the request she began to sob. Her husband had expressed a desire to give up on their marriage. She was hurt and did not know what to do….
I was not sure what to do either. I thought for a moment, asked a few questions, and then asked her if I could come over. She agreed. I hung up the phone, talked to my husband about leaving the house, and prayed that God would show up in this situation.
What was I going to do?
I remember that day. I felt the way she did. I heard the same words she had…. What did God do for me? A girlfriend came to my house and held me while I cried. That was my mission. Sometimes we just need a girlfriend to come hug us while we cry.
As I drove I prayed. Lord, soften her husband’s heart. It is in your hands (Proverbs 21:1). Turn it towards you and towards his wife. Comfort her. Give her peace and let them speak life and not death into their marriage from this point forward (Proverbs 18:21).
I parked and entered her home. It is warm and beautiful. The Lord was there. I spoke to her husband. He was cordial but did not want to visit with me. I was just thankful that he did not object to my coming.
As I spoke to her, we talked about Jesus. I reminded her that he loves her and how she must keep her eyes on him. In times of crisis she must read her Bible and believe God’s truth. She has to be determined to block out the lies from the enemy and remember that she has victory in Christ Jesus. We prayed and agreed that none of this was too hard for our God!
I drove back home and spent more time in prayer. Today I am just saying No!
No She is not a bad wife
No She did not marry the wrong man
No She cannot be strong all by herself
No She cannot pray all by herself
No God has not left her, nor is he punishing her
No She cannot give up or quit
In times of crisis, we must call on one another. I beg you to stand with me today against the enemy of marriage. I ask you to search your heart and pray for just one wife who is hurting. Go to the Lord on behalf of one wife who thinks she is a failure. Put your arm around one wife who looks like she needs a hug. Speak words of encouragement to just one wife in Jesus name.
I could not have made it to the other side without some of God’s women fighting for me. Let God use you to support another married woman. Get mad enough to fight for other wives who are in crisis. Use your weapons of prayer and praise to combat the enemy and his lies.
I beg you today to realize that we are God’s women and we live in our marriages… on purpose.
Join me today and seek God on behalf of the wives in crisis and let’s watch God move …..Together.
Lisa
My phone rang. My girlfriend was on the other end. Her voice was weak as she said “Lisa, I have a prayer request”. As I inquired about the request she began to sob. Her husband had expressed a desire to give up on their marriage. She was hurt and did not know what to do….
I was not sure what to do either. I thought for a moment, asked a few questions, and then asked her if I could come over. She agreed. I hung up the phone, talked to my husband about leaving the house, and prayed that God would show up in this situation.
What was I going to do?
I remember that day. I felt the way she did. I heard the same words she had…. What did God do for me? A girlfriend came to my house and held me while I cried. That was my mission. Sometimes we just need a girlfriend to come hug us while we cry.
As I drove I prayed. Lord, soften her husband’s heart. It is in your hands (Proverbs 21:1). Turn it towards you and towards his wife. Comfort her. Give her peace and let them speak life and not death into their marriage from this point forward (Proverbs 18:21).
I parked and entered her home. It is warm and beautiful. The Lord was there. I spoke to her husband. He was cordial but did not want to visit with me. I was just thankful that he did not object to my coming.
As I spoke to her, we talked about Jesus. I reminded her that he loves her and how she must keep her eyes on him. In times of crisis she must read her Bible and believe God’s truth. She has to be determined to block out the lies from the enemy and remember that she has victory in Christ Jesus. We prayed and agreed that none of this was too hard for our God!
I drove back home and spent more time in prayer. Today I am just saying No!
No She is not a bad wife
No She did not marry the wrong man
No She cannot be strong all by herself
No She cannot pray all by herself
No God has not left her, nor is he punishing her
No She cannot give up or quit
In times of crisis, we must call on one another. I beg you to stand with me today against the enemy of marriage. I ask you to search your heart and pray for just one wife who is hurting. Go to the Lord on behalf of one wife who thinks she is a failure. Put your arm around one wife who looks like she needs a hug. Speak words of encouragement to just one wife in Jesus name.
I could not have made it to the other side without some of God’s women fighting for me. Let God use you to support another married woman. Get mad enough to fight for other wives who are in crisis. Use your weapons of prayer and praise to combat the enemy and his lies.
I beg you today to realize that we are God’s women and we live in our marriages… on purpose.
Join me today and seek God on behalf of the wives in crisis and let’s watch God move …..Together.
Lisa
9/26/2009
The Week End
Hello All,
I just want to let you know that I usually spend my week ends with my family (I am not online much).
That is the time when I cook for the week, deal with laundry, and just enjoy being at home.
I wonder what you do?
Now that Fall is here, I am moving summer clothes into storage and bringing out the winter ones.
Gone are the flip flops.. for now...
No matter what household task calls your name ....
It is my hope that you can find time to relax and rest in God's presence.
Enjoy your Week's End...
Lisa
I just want to let you know that I usually spend my week ends with my family (I am not online much).
That is the time when I cook for the week, deal with laundry, and just enjoy being at home.
I wonder what you do?
Now that Fall is here, I am moving summer clothes into storage and bringing out the winter ones.
Gone are the flip flops.. for now...
No matter what household task calls your name ....
It is my hope that you can find time to relax and rest in God's presence.
Enjoy your Week's End...
Lisa
9/23/2009
When Prayer Changes People
“Give my husband a new wife, and let it be me”. Stormie OMartian wrote this in her book the Power of a Praying Wife. I read it for the first time during my separation over nine years ago. What was she talking about? I could not imagine needing to change anything about myself and I was not going to pray for that. After all, he was the one who needed to change.
Today, I pray for change daily so that my husband gets the good thing God promised him in Proverbs 18:22. What happened to make me ask for change?
• I realized that God loves my husband just like he loves me. I often act like God loves me more.
• When he messes up, God forgives him just like he forgives me. I am often unforgiving.
• God respects my husband and has given him the responsibility of taking care of me. I often disrespect my husband by fighting for control over our family.
• God thinks highly of my husband and made him in His own image. I often don’t think much of him at all.
Instead of being a suitable helper I often act like the destroyer of his manhood. Then God showed me… ME. ...I was not perfect and both God and my husband know it.
Today I pray, “Give my husband a new wife, and let it be me”. I pray:
• Lord shut my mouth when my husband talks. I want to hear him clearly.
• Let him be satisfied with me, the wife of his youth
• Help me to remember and to do what he asks of me (the small things like paying a bill, making an appointment, or pick up something from the store).
• Give me a smile when I look at him.
• Let me accept his compliments graciously
• Help me to cook what he likes to eat more often
• Help me to sleep lighter so I notice when he comes to bed… so he can smile a lot more
• Help me to give fewer commands and opinions
These may seem like crazy prayer requests but, incorporating them into my everyday life is a challenge. I could not do it without praying for it every day. The results are a blessing. My marriage is changed because God constantly changes me.
When I measure myself against a Holy and perfect God, I fall short. I am a horrible wife and need to be made over but because of Jesus, I am a new creation. Old things have passed away, behold, all things have become new. (2 Corinthians 5:11).
Because of who He is… my husband has a new wife…. and Jesus let it be ME!!!!!
Lisa
Today, I pray for change daily so that my husband gets the good thing God promised him in Proverbs 18:22. What happened to make me ask for change?
• I realized that God loves my husband just like he loves me. I often act like God loves me more.
• When he messes up, God forgives him just like he forgives me. I am often unforgiving.
• God respects my husband and has given him the responsibility of taking care of me. I often disrespect my husband by fighting for control over our family.
• God thinks highly of my husband and made him in His own image. I often don’t think much of him at all.
Instead of being a suitable helper I often act like the destroyer of his manhood. Then God showed me… ME. ...I was not perfect and both God and my husband know it.
Today I pray, “Give my husband a new wife, and let it be me”. I pray:
• Lord shut my mouth when my husband talks. I want to hear him clearly.
• Let him be satisfied with me, the wife of his youth
• Help me to remember and to do what he asks of me (the small things like paying a bill, making an appointment, or pick up something from the store).
• Give me a smile when I look at him.
• Let me accept his compliments graciously
• Help me to cook what he likes to eat more often
• Help me to sleep lighter so I notice when he comes to bed… so he can smile a lot more
• Help me to give fewer commands and opinions
These may seem like crazy prayer requests but, incorporating them into my everyday life is a challenge. I could not do it without praying for it every day. The results are a blessing. My marriage is changed because God constantly changes me.
When I measure myself against a Holy and perfect God, I fall short. I am a horrible wife and need to be made over but because of Jesus, I am a new creation. Old things have passed away, behold, all things have become new. (2 Corinthians 5:11).
Because of who He is… my husband has a new wife…. and Jesus let it be ME!!!!!
Lisa
9/18/2009
Sit Down And Eat
I was reading John 6: 1-15. You know the story where Jesus feeds the Five Thousand? I have read it many times before. You may have too. This time I reflected on how many times Jesus has performed this same miracle in my life.
I am not ashamed to admit that these are tough financial times. Shopping for food can be a meal planning and budgeting nightmare. As I prepare for dinner, I often feel like Andrew (vs 8). I look at the "five small barley loaves and two fish" in my pantry and ask... how far will they go among so many?
I often whisper this pitiful prayer to Jesus but one day I commented to a friend. "Girl, I am not sure when I will get to the grocery store. Money is tight but we need food". She responded with something like "Wait on the Lord. He will provide".
In the midst of such a casual conversation and a pitiful prayer, Jesus responded too. He told me like he told the disciples "Sit down." (vs 10). Can you imagime that sometimes I am running so much that I fail to sit down? I believe Jesus tells us to sit down so we can see Him work. In the passage, the men sat down and Jesus gave thanks for the food they had gotten from the boy. After speaking with my friend, I spotted the makings for dinner. I gave thanks too. I was not sure when more food would come but I was grateful for what I had.
Just like in the Bible while I was giving thanks.... it happened. God the Father multiplied what I served and my family had enough to eat! But that was not all...
A few days after my dinner, my sister-in-law called. She said "We have a lot of food over here. Can you come and get it?" I shouted yes! We filled our freezer with meat and veggies. Then my mother-in-law called. She said " I am coming to town. Give me a list of food I can bring you from the wholesale place." I began shouting to the Lord.
The next day that same girlfriend came to my house. She brought bags full of groceries, toiletries, and even MONEY! She had spoken to a few women at her Chuch about me. God moved on their hearts and they gave to me. They did not know me but they gave to me....I recognized the hand of God because these women sent to my house EXACTLY what was on my grocery list.
My freezer is full. My pantry is full. My closets are full. My wallet is full. Can you say GOD IS ABLE!!!!!
By the time I finished crying and thanking the Lord, I was exhausted. Jesus had fed my multitude! I still shake when I remember this. It was not long ago. I share it with you because I never want to forget....
When we whisper a pitiful prayer to Jesus and give thanks for what we have... He multiplies it. He performs a miracle.
Lisa
I am not ashamed to admit that these are tough financial times. Shopping for food can be a meal planning and budgeting nightmare. As I prepare for dinner, I often feel like Andrew (vs 8). I look at the "five small barley loaves and two fish" in my pantry and ask... how far will they go among so many?
I often whisper this pitiful prayer to Jesus but one day I commented to a friend. "Girl, I am not sure when I will get to the grocery store. Money is tight but we need food". She responded with something like "Wait on the Lord. He will provide".
In the midst of such a casual conversation and a pitiful prayer, Jesus responded too. He told me like he told the disciples "Sit down." (vs 10). Can you imagime that sometimes I am running so much that I fail to sit down? I believe Jesus tells us to sit down so we can see Him work. In the passage, the men sat down and Jesus gave thanks for the food they had gotten from the boy. After speaking with my friend, I spotted the makings for dinner. I gave thanks too. I was not sure when more food would come but I was grateful for what I had.
Just like in the Bible while I was giving thanks.... it happened. God the Father multiplied what I served and my family had enough to eat! But that was not all...
A few days after my dinner, my sister-in-law called. She said "We have a lot of food over here. Can you come and get it?" I shouted yes! We filled our freezer with meat and veggies. Then my mother-in-law called. She said " I am coming to town. Give me a list of food I can bring you from the wholesale place." I began shouting to the Lord.
The next day that same girlfriend came to my house. She brought bags full of groceries, toiletries, and even MONEY! She had spoken to a few women at her Chuch about me. God moved on their hearts and they gave to me. They did not know me but they gave to me....I recognized the hand of God because these women sent to my house EXACTLY what was on my grocery list.
My freezer is full. My pantry is full. My closets are full. My wallet is full. Can you say GOD IS ABLE!!!!!
By the time I finished crying and thanking the Lord, I was exhausted. Jesus had fed my multitude! I still shake when I remember this. It was not long ago. I share it with you because I never want to forget....
When we whisper a pitiful prayer to Jesus and give thanks for what we have... He multiplies it. He performs a miracle.
Lisa
9/16/2009
He Is Such A Good Listener
It is fun to chat with a woman who has met a new guy. The excitement in her voice is unforgetable as she describes him with great detail. How tall he is. How his skin looks. What he was wearing and how deep and romantic his voice sounds. She always mentions his smile and how she was sooooooo.... attracted to him because he listened to all she had to say.
I felt the same way about my husband when I met him 29 years ago. He would listen as I shared all that was in my heart and all that was in my head. I talked a lot. After we dated, married, and began to dwell in the same home... my impressions shifted a bit. It seems my talking was not as interesting to him and his listening skills were no longer impressive to me.
I think many wives feel the same way. I often hear women complain saying "My husband never listens to a thing I say". He just doesn't listen! What do I do?
Psalm 116:1-2 says: I love the Lord because He has heard my voice and my supplications. Because He has inclinded His ear to me. Therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live. Isn't that great news! All I have to do is pray. Talk to the Lord. I can go into my room, shut the door, and pray to my Father who is in that place with me. (Matthew 6:6). He sees me there and He listens.
No longer do I need to burden my husband with every detail of my life. No longer do I need to tell my husband every thing that is on my mind. I can tell God.
He is such a good listener!
Tell your husband many things. Tell your God everything!
I felt the same way about my husband when I met him 29 years ago. He would listen as I shared all that was in my heart and all that was in my head. I talked a lot. After we dated, married, and began to dwell in the same home... my impressions shifted a bit. It seems my talking was not as interesting to him and his listening skills were no longer impressive to me.
I think many wives feel the same way. I often hear women complain saying "My husband never listens to a thing I say". He just doesn't listen! What do I do?
Psalm 116:1-2 says: I love the Lord because He has heard my voice and my supplications. Because He has inclinded His ear to me. Therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live. Isn't that great news! All I have to do is pray. Talk to the Lord. I can go into my room, shut the door, and pray to my Father who is in that place with me. (Matthew 6:6). He sees me there and He listens.
No longer do I need to burden my husband with every detail of my life. No longer do I need to tell my husband every thing that is on my mind. I can tell God.
He is such a good listener!
Tell your husband many things. Tell your God everything!
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