Ever sat down with your Bible and not know where to begin? This is my account of daily Bible readings. I am using a two year Bible reading plan. Join me as I blog about my devotions and read through the Bible in two years.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Leave of Absence
My husband took a new job. I am more than halfway through pregnancy number two. My two year old keeps me active. Christmas is almost here. I am overwhelmed by housework, writing peices, and grading papers for my students.
I will not be posting until after New Year's Day. I have to reorganize my time and my schedule. I am not sure where this blog will fit in, but January always seems to be a great time to reorganize. Hopefully, I will talk to you all soon.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Using Our Gifts
I am trying to figure out how best to use my gifts. My husband's new position makes it possible for me to explore other career options. Today I pray that my gifts will be revealed, and I will know how to use them.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Following Orders
In 1 Samuel, Saul does not follow the orders given by God through Samuel. Because of this, his army must fight without weapons.
I learned the importance of following orders as a young child. My parents taught me well. One of the orders I feel compelled to follow is to raise my son by teaching him the true meaning of Christmas.
We aren't wrapped up in decorations or parties this year. We aren't going big on the celebrations. However, my son and I made cookies this weekend, and yesterday we took him to see Santa. I feel that a belief in Santa helps them understand the omnipresent God when they are older. As long as SAnta is not the FULL focus of Christmas, I feel that it is an okay belief.
We may not be perfect parents, but my son will learn about the advent wreath and he will go Christmas caroling with our church. Come Christmas morning, we will be in church for a communion service. The Christmas spirit may not be in my heart, but the Holy Spirit is!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Friday, December 2, 2011
December
I am tired. I am overwhelmed. I am sad for friends whose lives have been devastated by loss over the past four months. I don't feel like putting up the tree or decorating my house. I don't even feel like cleaning my house.
This sounds terribly depressing, I know. I am just not sure what the next step should be. I do not feel motivated by the calendar saying it is now December.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Fairness
God's view of fair doesn't always match ours. We can't understand his sense of fair, because we are limited to only human understanding.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Start Here
When trying to lead a Christian life, Romans 8 is a great beginning point. As I read it today, I am further convinced that Valley Mission is where my energies should lie. However, I kept thinking things like, "After report cards are finished," or, "After those two articles get written today, if I am not too tired."
It seems like good intentions won't be enough. I need to schedule a time to gather the items to give away. That is my beginning point.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, November 28, 2011
The Difference in a Week
While many of us celebrated our Thanksgiving meals, she sat with her family missing her youngest son.
Yesterday in church, a family spoke to us about their upcoming mission to West Africa. They are asking for money so they can afford to move there permenantly.
I sat in my seat and asked God if there was something I was missing. My life is comfortable, but I came to church yesterday angry with my husband. I was feeling sorry for myself and the burdens placed on me. The answer from God was clear. Stop feeling sorry for yourself and make something of this life.
When my husband got home from work, I tried to talk to him about what happened at church, but he didn't want to talk. He wanted to sleep on the couch and nurse his cold.
My journey through the Bible in two years will take me more than two years. That is obvious now. In fact, this journey may be taking me for a ride throughout the rest of my life.
I have decided upon a local mission to devote some energy to. A local shelter runs a thrift store. All proceeds benefit the shelter and residents can shop with vouchers given by the shelter. I am cleaning house and delivering a load to the thrift shop.
I also am interested in helping by either shopping or volunteering there. I just don't know how to make it work yet.
I have decided that I have a bigger purpose than my everyday life. I need to get up from my comfortable "woe is me" place and move. Will I go to West Africa? I don't know! But I WILL do something!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
A Different Life
I read Romans 5 today. It is an eye opener and solidifies my belief that Christ died for me. He knew who I would be. He knew my faults, and He died for me anyway.
Who else would lay down their life for you, knowing all of your mistakes and darkest secrets?
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, November 21, 2011
More About Abraham
Yesterday, we had a member of our church deliver the sermon because our minister was out of town. He talked about Abraham's strength and courage to follow God. Romans 4 tells us that Abraham was not saved by his good deeds. He wasn't valued by God because of his circumcision. He was saved by his belief in God.
All the great things we do are in fact great. We do our work to glorify God. However, we are not saved by those acts. We are saved by the grace and mercy of God and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. To understand this more, check out Romans 4 for yourself!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Back in the Saddle
There are many things that overwhelm me. Work, housework, parenting, being a respectful and caring wife, carrying this child to be born in spring, all overwhelm me. The trick is to not give up. Take baby steps and do all things for God's glory. Remember, with God's strength, all things are possible.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Friday, November 18, 2011
The Faith of Hannah (cont.)
Hannah sings a song of praise that matches what I read in Romans 2. Who are we to judge? I admit that I am often judgmental. Today, let's try not to judge others!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Hannah and Samuel
I am glad Hannah gets the recognition she deserves from this chapter. As a mother, I have promised to raise my child so he will serve God also. However, I don't have to give him to a priest at a young age. I can raise him and enjoy him at home. Her sacrifice was huge!
How are you raising your children today?
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
A Love Story
God's plans are amazing, but hard to see! We must have faith that God's plans will lead us to happy days.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
No Rules
In Judges 20-21, we read what happens to the Israelites when they don't have rules. They were running amuck so much, it isn't suprising that God made them slaves of the Egyptians!
Without a leader, they simply did whatever they wanted! We all need guidance in our lives. However, we have to pay attention to that guidance and follow those rules. That takes discipline!
Good luck with following the rules set before you today!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Do Your Job!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Approach the Day With a Smile
Today, I will approach my Sunday with a smile!! It is beautiful. I have happy, healthy family. We are doing well. What do I have to complain about? I do not dare complain that I am so blessed by clothing, dishes, food, friends, family, and my church that I would want anything less in my life! No! No complaints today!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Rest
Paul had many sleepless nights. He fought forward, doing God's will. I bet he had many days when he just wanted a comfortable bed. I bet he was weary from travel and wanted to rest instead of teach.
For some of us, our weary moments come when we look at baskets of laundry that need to be folded, or dirty dishes in the sink. Perhaps it is mountains of paperwork. We learn to do all things as if we are doing them for God. If we can take our steps for God, he will give us rest. Our rest and comfort can be found in him, not just in cozy clothes and comfy beds.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
More With Paul and the Death Of Samson
Samson brought death to himself by giving in to the love of a woman who tricked him. I am sure that was God's plan for him, but it is a reminder of how King Solomon's request for wisdom set him above the rest. Wisdom is a gift of God that I hope he gives me each day!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Muddle Through the Noise
Today's goal is to stay focused! I have a workday with several meetings, so my actual worktime will be short. I must stay focused!
Having said all that, today I was amazed again at Paul. I read Acts 19, which is powerful! God worked in such an odd way throughout the book of Acts!
I also read more about Samson. He seems an unlikely hero because he is really mean! I don't think I realized how cruel he was!
I hope your studies are going well, and you have time to focus!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, November 7, 2011
Back Again
As I pick up with the story of Samson and the life of Paul, I see both of them falling short as well. When I fall short, it may be God's hand working in me. Rather than beating myself up, I hop back on track.
I encourage you to do the same!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Word of God, Speak!
I took a couple of ideas away from the reading today. First of all, I found it interesting that Paul was preaching in a different way when he went to Athens. This was a time of new ideas, and philosophy was highly regarded. He took a very academic approach with them. Paul had an amazing ability to reach out to so many different types of people.
In Judges, an angel of God appears to a women to tell her she will have a son. This son will be Samson. I loved that story as a kid! We would even act it out and tear down the "walls" we built out of blocks. I look forward to reading the rest of the story tomorrow.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Paul
I don't know what Paul looked like, but he had a way with women. He was able to spread to word of the resurrection of Christ throughout entire cities by preaching to groups of women. These women would then teach the entire household.
It still isn't clear what my path in life will be. I am not quite 30, and hopefully, I have many years ahead. I imagine there will be plenty of darkness along the way, but I hope I can bring the Light into someone's life.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Arguments
God never promises that we will have dear friends who will stand by us always. He never told us that we would agree with our spouses. We know that we are in for relationship problems. Even Jesus has trouble with his relationships with others. The trick is to handle it nicely.
We are expected to treat others with respect. If their ideas don't match ours, we are free to go our separate ways. It is okay to agree to disagree.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Honor
Paul steps up to the plate in Acts 13. He moves into his life's role by pushing the Word of God and news of Jesus's resurrection to the Jews. Despite the outcome, he acts with honor.
In Judges, the people just won't listen to God. One man has the guts to stand up and ask the people if they are acting honorably or not. God brings a curse upon them to punish their dishonor.
I hope you act with honor this week!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Honor and Paul
I wrote about honor. I will post it shortly after this one.
Today I read more of Acts and stumbled across a passage where Paul is stoned and left for dead. Afterward, he gets up and begins preaching again in a different city. That takes perseverance! I hope I have that kind of drive to accomplish God's goals for me and my life!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, October 24, 2011
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Back to Their Old Ways
It is sad when our friends slip back into their old ways. We know that slipping could cost them their happiness in eternity.
The Israelites did that again after Gideon died. They immediately began prostituting themselves again.
I hope you have the chance to become a new spirit in God and not slip back into the old ways.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Army of Few
Throughout all of this, a girl I teach with said yesterday that it seemed like the enemy was trying to break into our lives and divide us. We can't possibly support everyone and help with everything they need. We are stretched too thin.
In Judges 7, God narrows Gideon's army down to only 300. They are able to defeat the enemy. We learn that no matter how small the army, God will prevail.
I will remind my friend of that today!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Asking for Proof
I find myself asking for proof sometimes, too. I feel the need for a sign to know I am on the right track. I don't think there is anything wrong with asking God to speak to us or asking God to open our minds and hearts to His voice. Sometimes we need obvious guidance to take us through the steps.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Stress
Saul was on a mission. His job was to arrest and persecute the Christians. Then God put some stress on Saul! He took his sight, changed his career, and didn't accept argument.
God has it all under control. We will be okay. He won't let us drown if we keep our eyes on him.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Leaders Among the Crowd
Deborah, in Judges 4, led an army into battle. She wasn't afraid to lose her life for God.
I don't believe that God is asking me to die for Him, but I do believe He is asking me to lay my life plans aside and live for Him. I should be able to pour out my life and live each day according to His Word.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, October 17, 2011
The Stoning of Stephen
I am reminded of that song when I read Acts 6-7. Stephen, who is critized for being filled with the Holy Spirit, is stoned to death. Just before the stoning begins, he looks up at Heaven and sees Jesus looking down on him. I wonder if he considered his own strength. I wonder if he asked God to be strong enough for him.
There are days when we wonder if we are strong enough. Allow God to be strong enough for you today!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Friday, October 14, 2011
For Or Against
I pray today that you follow God's plan and will for your day!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Home
This morning I read the end of the Book of Joshua. The verse that says, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord," is powerful! We chose hope throughout the last week. We faced the very real possibility that our son could have the same type of brain tumor is father had as a child. Fortunately, we are home with a diagnosis of a seizure disorder that is treated daily with anitconvulants. It is odd that we are thankful for a seizure disorder, but the alternative is much worse.
This week, we served the Lord. We praised him for our diagnosis. We prayed prayers of hope. We put our trust in Him.
I pray you turn to God when life gets tough!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
The Coming of the Holy Spirit
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Love and Respect: Session Four?
I have learned that the times I show the most disrespect towards my husband are the times when I am angry. When I am angry, I want love from him. The new strategy: When angry, try to approach him with a respectful tone and respectful words, but still tell him how I feel. The hope is that he will return love to me and issues can be solved.
Wish me luck!
On a different note, I finished Psalms today. Acts begins tomorrow. About to finish Joshua.
Happy Monday friends!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Happy Friday!
We are instructed to praise God even on our bad days! Happy Friday everyone! I hope you can praise God when you aren't feeling well, too!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Historical Record
This morning, as I read Joshua 12-15(still trying to catch up from last week!), I was struck by how detailed the historical facts are. If I were a historian, these chapters would be great tools to map out the lands of the Israelites. I am sure someone had done this, and our modern maps probably benefitted from it. I don't think of the Bible as being a geography lesson, but today it was!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Compassionate God
Over and over again, the psalmist praises God for his compassion. We read that we cannot put our faith and trust in men and women. We must put it in God, but He is loving and caring. He won't abuse our trust.
Remember the compassion of God today!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Whatever God Wants!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Love and Respect: Week Three
As for our Bible Study, here is the update! Women, it is not easy to respect your husbands! Men are immature and not relational. They get mad and stomp away instead of dealing with issues. They don't WANT to TALK about it. Respect them anyway and learn their language.
The book says that we see through pink glasses and men see through blue glasses. This causes a major breakdown in communication! This week, I will try to see things from my husband's point of view!
Happy Monday!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Knowing What's Best
It would be nice if every situation was clear cut or God would plainly direct us in the right direction. Unfortunately, we often feel like we are fumbling around, just trying our best.
I think God does that on purpose sometimes. He makes the path foggy so we are forced to trust in him. If it were always easy, we may turn away.
As you muddle through the fog today and make decisions, pray for guidance and trust in God.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Love and Respect: Week Two
My minister made it very clear to us that we misunderstood marriage if we thought its purpose was to make us happy. Marriage is all about trying to make the other person happy! He also said that my husband will never be everything I need him to be. He cannot meet all of my needs. No human can. Instead, I should focus on allowing God to fill in the gaps and trying each day to meet the needs of my husband.
I discovered that what my husband wants to most from me each day is praise. He wants me to tell him that I appreciate everything he does for me and our family. Rather than fuss at him for not wanting to help with laundry, he wants me to express appreciation for the money he brought into our family. He works long hours so he can be a good provider. He sees that as his number one job. Everything else is secondary. I have to understand that on some level, so I don't disrespect him when I constantly ask him to do more.
I think he may have learned a few things too, but I felt like a terribly mean wife at times. I need to show my respect toward my husband more often.
I don't know the state of your marriage, but God calls wives to be respectful to their husbands even if they don't deserve it. We don't show respect because of who they are. We show it because we are daughters of Christ, and God tells us to do so.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Friend in Trouble
In the Old Testament, a member of the Israelites, who didn't follow the rules, was stoned! That isn't an option, but do we cut them out of our lives? Jesus taught that we should forgive. It is very confusing!
Here is my opinion! If that person is harmful to you or your family, they neeed to be out of your life as much as possible. That can be a hard decision to make!
Good luck with your friends in trouble!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Friday, September 16, 2011
Power
At 29 years old, I am still amazed at God's power to bring a city to its knees with the trumpet call. Of course, we know that one day, a trumpet call will bring us to our knees and then carry us into Heaven!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Praises
Today, however, when I was reading through Psalms 131-134, I was reminded that sometimes we just need to praise God. Some prayers should just be praises and thanksgivings for our blessings.
Remember to praise God today!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Listening for God's Voice
Give God a chance today to talk with you!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Psalm 127
Psalm 127
A song of ascents. Of Solomon.
1 Unless the LORD builds the house,
the builders labor in vain.
Unless the LORD watches over the city,
the guards stand watch in vain.
2 In vain you rise early
and stay up late,
toiling for food to eat—
for he grants sleep to[a] those he loves.
3 Children are a heritage from the LORD,
offspring a reward from him.
4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
are children born in one’s youth.
5 Blessed is the man
whose quiver is full of them.
They will not be put to shame
when they contend with their opponents in court.
How awesome is that! I was just at the doctor yesterday gathering information about baby number two. I get to have an ultrasound in two weeks. This baby FEELS like a blessing!
I pray that God is the builder of your house, that he is watching over you, and grants you sleep! When God is in charge, there is peace in this world. Jesus did not come to earth to bring peace to the wars. He brought peace to our hearts.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Love and Respect: Week One
I happen to believe that the men have it easier! Jesus was the greatest model of love we could have. We are taught from an early age to love one another.
Respect is a different story. This morning I tried to think of something respectful I could do today to show my husband that I was invested into this study, but I came up with nothing.
Each Monday morning, after a meeting with our group, I will try to update the readers of this blog. It might get interesting!
For now, I encourage women to think differently about their commands from God. Yes, we are to love our husbands because we are to love all people, but respect for our husbands is God's direct command.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Retrain Out Tongues
The Bible clearly tells us to not spread words of malice about others. Our mothers were right when they told us, "If you don't have something nice to say, don't say anything at all."
I catch myself complaining to my friends I work with. I am not trying to be mean to others, but I know when I complain I say ugly things. I hope to change this situation by retraining my tongue to only spread joy and hope to others, not gloom and anger.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Moving On
Deuteronomy also tells us that Joshua was filled by the Spirit after Moses died. God took the leader of the group, but replaced him with another who also would follow Him.
From this I learned that God helps us to move on after sadness. The next door will always be opened.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Discernment
that I may understand your statutes." Psalm 119:125
I am reading a book on how to be a praying parent. The author tells us to try to quote scripture during our prayers because the Word of God is so powerful. The only time I quote scripture now is when I feel like I am losing my connection with God. If I feel like I am overshadowed by the world or ungodliness, I use scripture to help me focus. I never thought of using it to make my prayers more powerful.
The quote above is one I stumbled upon this morning. Many times I just need God to grant me discernment to muddle through all the pieces of advice and find His voice.
I hope you have the ability to understand the Voice of God today.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Be Strong and Courageous by Moses
We all come to that moment in our careers. We are now supposed to do a good job with our assignment and doubt creeps in. Perhaps a person at work stands in your way. Maybe you feel like you don't have the education needed to complete the job.
As long as you are following God's commands for your life, God's Will will be done. If this assignment matches his plan, he will guide you through.
"Be strong and courageous!"
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
What's Most Important?
16 For I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in obedience to him, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the LORD your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess.
What is most important in your life today?
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, September 5, 2011
Lack of Motivation and Too Much Procrastination
It is hard to change our habits. It is difficult sometimes to know where to begin and very easy to feel overwhelmed. Sometimes procrastination stems from not knowing what to do next. Sometimes is comes from just being tired.
God tells us to take comfort in him. He has a promise for us, a promise of a successful plan. He wants us to have a life without worry. In order for that to happen, we have to put aside our fears and follow the plan laid before us. Perhaps it simply means getting off the couch and doing what needs to be done. Sometimes that could mean a life-change!
I hope your days are worry free and you accomplish something for God today!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Keeping It All Together
At home, I am also slowly adding in cleaning habits. I am still forgetful, though. I forgot to pay my babysitter last week. I need to work on my finances still.
We are all still works of progress. God is always asking us to improve some area of our lives. When we get stagnant, he tests us! Those tests are not always comfortable.
I hope you are not satisfied with yourself to the point that you think you don't still need work.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Obey, yet again!
Sometimes we ask God "why?" when we learn of his command. Instead, we just need to say "yes sir!" and do it!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Keeping It All Together
Balance is hard. Prioritizing is hard. It sounds easy, but sometimes it is difficult to know what is the most important when everything seems important! The only advice I have is to put God first. Pray! God will help everything else fall into place.
Have a great day and remember that God can balance it for you!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Precious
It is easy for us to think of birth as a precious time in our lives. Psalm 116 refers to death as precious. It says that God sees the death of his servants as precious. At first I was surprised by that line, but when you think about it, the death of a servant means new birth to their life in Heaven.
Put into that context, I see how the death of a friend can be devastating to us, but precious to God.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Works of God, Again!
God has blessed me with resources and the ability to teach. Over the past seven years, I have learned how to successfully bring a child up several grade levels in reading. I am confident that God will help me again.
I am fully aware that I cannot do this job alone. It is only through prayer and God's help that these kids will progress. How dare I think that He can't do it! Of course God can help these kids!
The Bible clearly tells us that we will be blessed when we fear God and follow His Word!
May God bless you today!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
I have had those days. The only way I have found to push through is to do just that, push through. Since I have been writing this blog, I find it easier to push through because this has become a habit. It makes sense for me to push through because I read every morning and post just afterwards.
I have also learned that we will not always feel God close by us. Sometimes we feel his absence. That isn't bad, it is probably God testing us. He wants to us push forward, even if we feel he isn't there. Of course, we know he is always watching us!
I hope you always feel close to God, but if not, push forward anyway!
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Works of God
It is difficult to remember that God is in charge when we are in the middle of the storm. His works are mighty and powerful! They are sometimes scary, but we must remember that his works are for good. A quick read through the Psalms and we will all see the fear and reverence we should have for God.
I hope everyone has a good week! I also hope that the weather calms a bit. I would like some calm to come to our home.
Jessica is a fifth grade teacher and beginning freelance writer. She is the wife-extraordinaire to Josh and mother of two year old Devon. When she isn't teaching, mothering, cooking, cleaning, or writing, you can find her locked in a quiet room reading.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Ready!
There are days when we feel defeated. Some mornings it is hard to get out of bed because it feels like the world is against you.
Other days, we feel like God is on our side. Nothing can stop us. We know we are one the right track. We feel ready for anything the world can throw at us today! Read Psalm 108. I read the version of this Psalm in the Message this morning. If you ever need to feel ready, here is your motto!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
God’s Timing
A woman I knew when I lived in a different city, made a huge impression upon me. She had four children, the youngest almost 2. She was married to an amazing man, but it was obvious that she was the one who organized and ran that household. I was engaged to be married, and she helped council me through those days.
She said to me once that, "God's timing is always perfect. It isn't what we would plan or know to plan, but it is always perfect." She was referring to something good, but it applies to our hard times as well.
Life is busy. We beg for more time, but the time we have is perfect. We just need to weed out the ungodly pieces and focus on the rest.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Eye for an Eye
The Old Testament is full of this legal system. Aren't you glad we don't follow that system today! Every wrong we did to someone would be done back to us.
I know there are times when I hope someone will get the punishment they deserve. Sometimes we feel like wrong doers get away without any punishment at all. Take comfort in knowing that one day we all will stand before God to be judged.
However, if we all got what we truly deserve, none of us would get into Heaven. Perhaps we should be more thankful that we don't get what we deserve!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Repetition
I learned this week that a gifted learner can often learn a concept with only 1-3 teachings. A high achiever can learn with 6-8 teachings. Others could need around 15 teachings to get a concept. As a teacher, this is scary. As a Christian, this makes total sense.
It doesn't matter if we read the Bible every day. We need to read it again. We need constant teaching to become better Christians.
I was complaining to my husband that the book of Deuteronomy seems to just repeat the stories from the previous books. I understand, though, that we need to constantly read the word of God, even if we already know how the story ends. God uses His Word to speak to us.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Our Best, Is It Good Enough?
Yes! My floors need to be swept, mopped, and vacuumed. My shower needs to be scrubbed. I didn't get my laundry finished this week.
I try to get my housework finished during the week, so my Saturdays can be devoted to Devon, and my Sundays devoted to church activities and family time. I didn't quite make it this week. I have a lot of chores left, grocery shopping to do, and Devon needs a new pair of shoes.
Let's look at the big picture. God created all of creation. He created volcanoes, blizzards, floods, and tornadoes. He created each animal, those we like and those that scare us. He also made me just the way he wanted me. As long as I follow his rules, trying to live a life without sin, my best is good enough.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Forced Celebration
I friend of mine told me a couple of years ago that being happy is choice. It has very little to do with your circumstances at the time. She said that as her son battled drugs. Her ex-husband owed her thousands in child support. Her mother was ill. Her world seemed to be falling apart. Yet, she woke up each day and decided that she would feel happy and display happiness to others.
It is Friday. This has been a long week. We are all tired, cranky, and getting on each other's nerves. I have another long day of meetings ahead, but I remember the words of my friend. Today I will trust in God, put aside my bad feelings about the day, and display happiness to others.
As a mom, often my tone sets the tone of my son. As a teacher, it almost always sets the tone of my classroom. I choose to set a happy tone.
Moses explained to the Israelites in Deuteronomy that they would celebrate certain times of the year. He didn't say, "only if you feel happy." God wants us to celebrate life. He orders us to celebrate. Follow orders. Celebrate today and be happy.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Seeing the Big Picture
We have a shelf beside our door that has a curtain to hide its contents. We use it for our shoes. About four days ago, my husband made a huge mess of it. Shoes are falling off into the floor now. It is difficult to walk into the room, because you have to dodge shoes. I asked him to clean it up. They are still there.
Often I feel like my husband is lazy. He chooses to play video games rather than help with housework. He sees me cleaning and thinks nothing of watching while lying on the couch. It makes me so mad! If he were my kid, I would punish him. Because he is an adult, I don't know how to handle it.
Last night, I went to bed early. He got home late from work and had not eaten dinner yet. All of the dishes were loaded into the dishwasher except his. I asked him to load them and run the dishwasher. He promised he would.
Around 1:00am, my son was up and needed something to drink. I ran into the kitchen and saw the dishwasher open. Not only did he not run it, he left it open all night.
I was so mad! I went back to bed and worried that I was too mad to sleep. I prayed to God and told Him that this was now His problem to fix. I had had enough. I asked God to take the anger and let me sleep.
The next thing I knew, I was waking up from a really bad, but seemingly real, dream. I found great comfort in waking awful hours and travels for work. He is a fantastic father and a great husband. He is lousy at housework. With the good, I get the bad. If I am to have such a wonderful, blessed life that I have, I might just have to put up with shoes on my living room floor, or pick them up myself.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Stopping the Gossip
Psalm 101 is all about silencing gossip and putting a stop to evildoers. Yesterday was the first day back to school for all of the teachers in my county. The gossip began before the first meeting opened. Already, people were discussing who did what over the summer, but not everything was nice. It is hard to avoid the gossip, but easy to walk away from it.
Goal: A no-gossip year.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Place of Worship
Deuteronomy 12 tells us the story of Moses discussing places of worship with the Israelites. Moses tells them to seek the place where God wants to put his name. This place will be called God's House. Everyone is to go to that place to worship.
My church meets in a local high school. We don't have the ability to build a new building right now. We don't have land or money to buy it. It seems odd to worship in a school, but it doesn't feel odd when we are there.
I think Moses just wanted to make sure his people gathered to worship together. I don't think the place is all that important.
Today, all the teachers in my county go back to work. The schools will fill with laughter and a flurry of papers, pencils, and crayons. As I go back today, I want to try to remember that my job is important, but not as important as the work I do for God. I need to stay focused on the big picture a little more.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Remembering the Blessings
I've written exclusively about my friend Brent lately. Yesterday afternoon, my minister visited our home to talk to my husband and me about Brent's death and how it has affected us. He made a few points that I had not thought of yet. One of those was to remember how blessed I am to have known Brent. That sounds odd after his death, but I am so blessed to be a part of that family. We are not blood relation, but walked into the funeral with the family. I hurt because I loved him, and that is a blessing.
Psalms 95-96 are all about lifting our voices to sing God's praises. I don't know why God called Brent home, leaving behind a 2 year old to grow up without her daddy. It is hard to praise God for that. However, it is easy to praise God that Brent was able to give the world his daughter before he left. She has a lot of her daddy in her, and his spirit will carry on here on earth through her.
Deuteronomy 11 explains, again, the need to teach your children that our God is the only God. We must teach our children to obey His commands and praise Him. I hope that my son can see his father and me turn toward God in times of trouble, instead of turning away.
Today I go back to work after summer vacation. I pray all teachers are calm and at peace as they return to school.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Leaning on God
Much of my time, the week my friend Brent died, was spent letting his wife lean on me. Sometimes it was just to rest her head and cry. Sometimes it was letting her talk about her fears for the future as a single mom. Other times, though, she leaned on me because she could not stand.
Psalm 94 says, 17 Unless the LORD had given me help,
I would soon have dwelt in the silence of death.
18 When I said, "My foot is slipping,"
your unfailing love, LORD, supported me.
19 When anxiety was great within me,
your consolation brought me joy.
I am slowly learning to lean upon my God again. I am slowly getting back into my routine of housework, Bible reading, and a normal work schedule. It has taken two weeks for me to wrap my head around this. I do not know how God will use this tragedy, but I have faith that he will use it for good.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
God’s Power
I have not read my Bible or written a blog entry in over a week. When my friend, Brent, was killed, I became angry with God. The last post explains that in further detail. I was up late one night with Brent's wife last week, and she said that her faith was being tested. It was difficult to understand why Brent died because there was not an act of violence. Nobody caused his death. A tree fell on a pretty, sunny day. It happened to fall on his car as he drove.
We cannot understand God's plan, but today I can understand his power. I am sitting on a balcony, watching the sun rise over the ocean. My husband, son, and husband's family have spent the past three nights at the beach. We needed a break! As I have watched my son gaze in awe at the ocean, it is easy to see God's power.
I can't explain waves to my son yet any more than I can understand Brent's death. What I do understand is that God is in charge. We do not know his plans, but they are plans for good. This doesn't protect us from heartache, but ensures everlasting life in Heaven.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Angry with God
I watched my friend crumple to the floor, yesterday, crying to God. She begged for an answer to why her 29 year old husband was killed suddenly when a tree fell onto his car. Yes, you read that correctly. While driving down the road at 70mph, a tree broke and fell on top of their car. It is only by a miracle that the wife and two-year old are alive.
My father said at one point that he told God exactly what he thought of this situation about an hour after he heard the news. I am fairly sure he didn't use nice words. This young man killed, was my father's Godson.
We are angry! We are angry at God for this decision. It is so hard to not be angry when there is no one else to blame.
As I read my readings today, the title of chapter 8 in Deuteronomy said, "Don't Forget God."
I was moved by my friend's strength as she clutched her Rosary. She was praying for help to raise her child, from the same God who allowed her husband to die. Her devotion to God has been a lesson to us all.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Love and Death
The Bible tells us that, above all other commandments, to love one another. We go through life falling in love, loving our neighbors, and forming lifelong relationships. We feel close to God when we are in loving relationships.
Let me be clear that I am not talking of only love between spouses. There are many friends in my life that have walked through far more with me than my husband of only 4 years.
Last night a dear friend was killed when he hit a tree in the road on the interstate. He was 29 years old, and his wife and two-year old were in the back seat. The next few days for our family will be torturous because of our love for him.
Psalms 90 tells us how fleeting life can be. We understand that with a brush of his hand, God can end our time on earth whenever he wishes. Right now, in our pain, all we feel is the loss of love.
Friday, July 29, 2011
Teaching Our Children
I have said often that teaching my son to believe in and follow God is my most important teaching assignment. I want him to truly "get it." Sure, he prays to Jesus at night and thanks Him for candy and mommy and daddy, but he is too young to really understand the love God has for him.
I had a minister once tell me that my job was to show God's unconditional love for him by loving him unconditionally. Then he would understand when the time comes.
Today I read Deuteronomy 6. Here is a short piece of it.
4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.[a]
5 Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
Did you know the Jewish people actually did that? They would write the laws inside their doorframes. My hope today is that I can teach God's laws to my son so that he can "get it!"
Thursday, July 28, 2011
10 Commandments
Deuteronomy 5 recaps the 10 Commandments. It seems that every few months, someone tries to either post or remove this list. A lawsuit makes headlines. Then people sit around and argue over whether or not these rules should be posted.
Basically, it doesn't matter if they are posted in public places or not. We are simply asked to follow them. Furthermore, we have laws that uphold most of them.
The only one that gives me trouble is coveting the belongings of others. It is easy to look at your friend or neighbors and wish for the things they have. The whole, "grass is greener on the other side" idea rings true for many of us.
Regardless of where these rules are posted, they are rules to live by!
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Alone
Do you ever feel alone? The book of Psalms often has the author crying out to God because he feels alone. I know that many people feel abandoned by God at times. I also know that God never truly abandons them. So why does God allow us to feel this way? I have no idea. Maybe he tests us by making us feel like we are going through trials alone. I am thankful that I always feel God's presence.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Psalm 85
10 Love and faithfulness meet together;
righteousness and peace kiss each other.
11 Faithfulness springs forth from the earth,
and righteousness looks down from heaven.
12 The LORD will indeed give what is good,
and our land will yield its harvest.
13 Righteousness goes before him
and prepares the way for his steps.
I am visiting my parents for a couple of days. My son loves it here because he can play in the creek, ride the four-wheeler with his grandfather, and they always have ice cream for him. I love it because it is the most beautiful place I've ever seen. This morning, as the sun rises, a fog lifts to reveal the mountains that stand guard over this valley.
As beautiful as places can be, I also found beauty in these words from Psalm 85. I often read by Bible just to get a lesson or idea from them. I want to know God's plan and God's rules. Today, I just needed to read beauty.
Monday, July 25, 2011
At War
So much of the Book of Psalms is a cry for deliverance from enemies. Today I read Psalm 83-84. Again, the writer is asking God to deliver him from the enemies who pursue him.
I don't live in fear. I don't really know what that is like. However, as I type this, a 16 year old girl on the Today Show tells her story of the massacre in Norway.
There are enemies in this world who look completely normal and innocent. We can't live in fear, but this child and thousands others will forever be scarred by the events last week.
I am sure I join many of you in your prayers for Norway.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Book of Deuteronomy
I was surprised this morning when I realized that finished Numbers yesterday. I didn't look ahead at today's readings, so I didn't know yesterday was the last chapter. It didn't feel finished. Before I read Deuteronomy 1, I did some research.
I found that the title means something near "the second reading of the law." There are many who believe that Moses's death actually was written at the end of Numbers. It was decided to put Deuteronomy here to bridge the gap between the death of Moses and the Book of Joshua. When that was decided, the death of Moses was moved to Deuteronomy, so Numbers does end abruptly.
The first chapter begins a recap of the past 40 years. Wouldn't it be fun on your 40th birthday to recap your life up to that point? Maybe I will do it now as I approach my 30th birthday!
On another subject, I am working on bettering my friendship with God by being honest. When I am mad, upset, disappointed, or even happy, I will have a conversation with Him about it.
I hope you are able to do the same.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Testimonial
I am not always comfortable sharing private things, and my relationship with God is very personal. However, I need to share what happened yesterday. My money is running low with another week before payday. I know it is my own fault. I didn't create a budget for this month. I just spent whatever, whenever while working on my house. I spent an outrageous amount on school supplies, and my car needed work. Therefore, I had my husband make the car payment.
Well, he wasn't too happy. He also had to pay for the car insurance this month. So I was sweating how I would repay him. I wasn't sure I could. I prayed for God to show me how I could repay my husband. I was thinking maybe he would allow me to get a more lucrative writing job.
This is what happened. I was awarded a writing job that pays about $200 a week, while I am still teaching full time. As I sorted mail yesterday, I also found a check for $500! Apparently I overpaid a hospital bill! It was bizarre. The first thing I did was thank God. Then I went to the bank and cashed the check. I took out 10% for church on Sunday, and I sat down and wrote my budget for next month.
God is good and He provides!
Friday, July 22, 2011
Control v. Surrender
You know those days when you seem to have everything together? Your house is clean, you have money in your bank account, laundry is caught up, and you sit back and breathe a sigh of relief. Who gets credit for that? Do we praise God or pat ourselves on the back?
I read something about surrender last night. I was reminded that when we surrender our lives to God, he tests us. It isn't easy to hand over control, especially for those of us who enjoy control. It is hard for us to put complete trust in God when we constantly worry over what is to come. We try to hold on to money for the future rather than trusting that God will provide.
I don't have any easy answers to this. All I know is that deciding to relinquish control is a decision we have to remake every single day.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Knowing Your Boundaries
Numbers continues to be an odd book for me. Numbers 34 is a list of boundaries. God tells Moses exactly, and I mean EXACTLY, where their land will be when they enter the Promised Land. He gives specific details on the boundaries.
Can you imagine if God spoke to your heart, and he told you exactly which house you should live in. Don't worry about wishing for a bigger house or more land. He simply told you to be happy with this certain one, because it is all you are going to get. Would we work as hard as we do, knowing money won't change our living situation? Or maybe we would be more generous with others because we wouldn't hoard the money.
Money is the biggest thing that separates many of us from God. We don't trust his plan, because we aren't sure it will make us enough money. We can't give ten percent, because we are saving for retirement.
Just something to think about!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Reasons for Reading the Bible
One of the skills I teach my students is Author's Purpose. We talk about why an author wrote the story or article. Along with that, we talk about why a reader would choose certain books and articles to read. I was thinking about that this morning when I read Numbers.
The Book of Numbers has so many lists, it doesn't really interest me. I read the Bible to learn how I should lead my life. I don't read it to study the geography or historical facts of the time period. Today I read all about the different places the Israelites camped when wandering the wilderness. I can see why others might be interested, but I wasn't.
I guess I had not thought about reasons for reading the Bible in the past. I hope you can read with a purpose!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Deciding to Follow God
I have heard that battling alcoholism is a daily battle. Each day the person has to wake up and decide if they will stay away or give in. As much as I hate to use something like alcoholism as an example, I think deciding to follow God is similar.
Every morning, we make a decision. We choose to either lead a life that is right in the eyes of God, or we choose to follow what the rest of the world tells us is right. It won't work both ways! Watching ten minutes of TV will tell you that the world has a very different set of rules.
This is not an easy decision. It can put you against your family, or alter your career paths. It can drastically change your life and the lives of your family members.
Psalm 77 begins with all the woes of the world, but then the author makes a decision. He chooses to praise God and remember that God is in control. Even when life spirals, and it is hard to keep your feet on the ground, God has it under control.
I pray you make the decision to follow God today, but remember that you will be faced with that decision everyday!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Psalm 74
Psalm 74:16-17
16 The day is yours, and yours also the night;
you established the sun and moon.
17 It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth;
you made both summer and winter.
Everything here on earth and beyond was created by God. We all know that and don't think too much about it. Let's take that a little bit further. Everything here on earth and beyond was created by God, for God's plan and God's glory. God didn't make my husband so he could follow my plans. God didn't give me gifts so I could be praised and choose my own career path. Everything, whether we like it or not, was created for God's purposes, not our own.
Sometimes that can be tough to swallow. I struggle daily with my own will against God's will. We must remember that our time here on earth is so short compared to our time in eternity. We have to humble ourselves to God and his plan for us.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Envy!
It is hard to not look around at others and think they have it better than we do. There is always someone at work who seems to be luckier than you. There is always someone who is a better parent than you. Other people's kids may be faster at potty training or know their ABC's earlier. Friends always have nicer, bigger houses. It is hard to push away the thoughts when you wonder what it would be like to have married THAT person instead.
Jealousy, envy, and that uneasy, unsettled feeling can destroy your life. Psalm 73 is all about envy of others. This is how it concludes.
23 Yet I am always with you;
you hold me by my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will take me into glory.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart
and my portion forever.
After reading this, it is easy to see that God tells us not to be envious, because there is nothing of importance that we don't already have. We don't need to judge ourselves by earthly standards, they don't matter. If we look at our lives by God's standards, we have plenty!
Friday, July 15, 2011
Slowing Down the Journey
There are some books that are so wonderful they need to be read again and again in a lifetime. My favorite book is To Kill a Mockingbird. I read it in high school for the first time, but I think I've read it five or six more times since then. I love reading the profoundness of the situation from the eyes of a seven year old.
Another book that I have decided to reread is The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. I read it shortly before I got married, and I have decided this point in my life needs just as much direction. Last time, I think I read it in about a week instead of one section per day as suggested. This time, I will take it slower and try to process each piece a little more.
That made me think about how I am reading my Bible. Sometimes we think we need to rush through everything to hurry up and be finished. With writing deadlines and a flurry of housework, I rush through most of my day. I forget that God values our journey and uses this journey to test us and teach us. My new plan is to slow down each day. I want to take time to enjoy my journey too!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
On the Hunt
My husband is an avid hunter. He would much rather spend his Saturdays in the fall and winter deer hunting in the woods than watching football. To him, life doesn't get any better than a tree stand, warm clothes (camo, of course!), a trusty rifle, and woods full of wildlife. Nothing is more satisfying to him than know our freezer is full of meat for the winter and spring.
Our two year old has a different definition of hunting. He likes to grab a bucket and go on a berry hunt. Our yard is lined with blackberry and raspberry vines that are now ripe. Every couple of days, we go with our buckets to see who can pick more. He loves eating his blackberry pancakes or muffins, knowing that he picked the berries himself.
Hunting means searching for something that can satisfy a need or a hunger. David said in Psalm 70:4, "Let those on the hunt for you, sing and celebrate."(Msg) If any of us have a hunger or need, God can fill it. Yet, how often do we really hunt for God? Do we search for him? Are we willing to wait in a tree stand patiently for a sign of his presence, or do we brave the briars and dive right into a life full of His Spirit?
How are you hunting for God today?
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Leading Others
The Bible says that the one thing worse than sinning is to lead others to sin. As a parent, we hope that we do everything right. We do not want our children to fail in any way, but we certainly don't want their failures to be our fault. Psalms 69 says,
"5 God, you know every sin I've committed;
My life's a wide-open book before you.
6 Don't let those who look to you in hope
Be discouraged by what happens to me,
Dear Lord! God of the armies!
Don't let those out looking for you
Come to a dead end by following me—
Please, dear God of Israel! "
This has become my prayer for today. I hope that my influence on my son is only positive. I pray that I teach him love of God, the need to pray, and how to worship.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Versions
There are so many different versions of the Bible. I suppose to truly study the Bible, it would probably be helpful to read many different versions of the same passages. I don't have time for that right now! Instead, I decided to try reading The Message today instead of the NIV. I get all of these versions on biblegateway.com. They are all free online versions.
Today I read Psalm 68 and Numbers 25. Both are harsh! Psalms is all about God striking down his enemies in war. Numbers has an Israelite killing another with a spear because of sexual acts with another woman. Lots of death in the readings today folks!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Listening to our Prayers
We had a guest minister yesterday at church. He brought up a point that has me thinking. He said that God is much more likely to answer our prayers, if our prayers are in line with what he wants for us. That makes perfect sense, but how do we know what God wants for us? We pray and listen. Psalms 66 and 67 are all about praising God for our blessings. They assure us that God is listening to our prayers. We just have to listen to him also.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Why Go To Church?
Psalm 65:8
8 The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders;
where morning dawns, where evening fades,
you call forth songs of joy.
My father-in-law and father refuse to go to church. They both had arguments with members of their churches years ago, and they don't want to go through the process again. So why do we go to church?
As a kid, I thought we went to church because we needed a Sunday School teacher to tell us about God and the life of Jesus. Then, when I really decided that the belief in Christ was important to my life, I thought I went so the minister could teach me how to live. Just after college, I found myself getting very involved with the church. I was in the choir, I taught a Sunday School class, I helped with Bible School, and I attended a young adult group once a week. I thought church was a way of life.
Now, I am rethinking my definition of church. My current church still meets in a high school. Weekly groups and Sunday School groups meet in people's homes. There is no Vacation Bible School. Church is now about the people. We gather each Sunday for the sole purpose to praise God. I get excited because I know I get to go sing and praise God with some great people.
Yes, I still learn a lot from my minister. Yes, I still open my home to small groups. I still feel like a life in church is a way of life that we choose for our family. Now, though, learning about God is something I can do at home with my daily study. When at church, I no longer focus on what I get out of it, but what I can give to God.
Friday, July 8, 2011
Filling in the Holes
I wrote briefly yesterday about a point that I would like to elaborate on today. Today's post has very little to do with today's Bible readings. I read Psalm 60-61 and Numbers 21 for those of you who are following the readings.
I cook about 5 nights out of the week. The other two nights are reserved for leftovers. Devon likes to stay in the kitchen with me while I cook. He always wants to eat whatever I pickup, even if it is raw meat or a raw onion. I asked him one night if he had a big hole in his belly and needed something to fill it. He said he wanted a hotdog to fill the hole. I asked if the hole was the shape of a hotdog. He giggled and has begun to tell me what shape the hole in his belly is each time he wants something to eat. He has learned to make the shape of the hole match whatever he wants to eat.
Yesterday, I mentioned that there is a hole inside of each of us. Many of us get married to someone we think can fill that emptiness, but it doesn't work. My husband will never be perfect. It isn't fair of me to expect him to be. He can never satisfy every need I have. Only God can. The hole inside our hearts is a God-size hole. Nothing else can fill it. It doesn't matter how much money we make or how successful we are, only God can fill the hole.
I pray that everyone asks God to come into their heart to fill the voids.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Finding Rest
Even though it is summer, and I am not teaching, we are BUSY! We have crammed a lot of traveling into my weeks off from work. We are refinishing the kitchen cabinets. I am on a mission to declutter and clean this house. Devon's room is being remodeled. I am working on several freelance writing jobs. Finally, I am about to work on math pacing guides for the school system in which I teach. Sometimes I just need some rest.
Psalm 59 repeats the following verse a couple of times. It seemed to fit my overwhelmed feeling. 17 You are my strength, I sing praise to you; you, God, are my fortress, my God on whom I can rely.
When things get hectic around here, when we feel like we can't get it all together, God is there to catch us and give us rest. If we search for our strength in him, instead of in money or thinking another person can be our source of strength, we will be okay. We can't expect others to pick up our pieces for us. There is a hole inside of all us that only God can fill, not others. I love my husband, but he can't be everything I need. God can be and is everything I need. He can calm us and comfort us in times of need. He can give us rest amid the chaos.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
No Plans
There is freedom in not planning. I know it is shocking for some to hear me say that, because I am the queen of having a plan. Every night before I go to bed, I plan my next day. I plan my lessons for teaching sometimes months in advance. I plan every vacation down to the final details. It drives my husband crazy.
Today I had very little planned. I got it all finished by 9:30. So what will we do the rest of the day? Anything we want! We have a free day! Perhaps we will go out for ice cream after lunch! Maybe we will just lay around and read new books from the library.
God promises us freedom from this world if we put our faith and trust in him. He promises an everlasting life full of goodness if we allow him to plan our lives for us.
Today is all about listening for God's plan, instead of planning the day for myself.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Dealing with Criticism
None of us like to be criticized. We quickly get very defensive if we feel like someone is attacking us. A few years ago, I read a book about how to move into the field of writing as a career. The author said that every time you read a response from a publisher, you have to put on your "superhero self." This "superhero self" will handle all the negativity and your own pride won't have to deal with it.
I never thought I would find those words to be as true as I have with this new writing exploration I am attempting. In order to get a job, I have to find a client with a need and write a proposal that beats out everyone else's proposals. I was okay with that process. I wasn't prepared with criticism from the client and dealing with a need to make changes based on their wishes. I totally get that the product is for them, but often they have a different opinion of what sounds best than I do. I have to just accept that it has to meet their standards, not mine.
Again this morning, I received an email from a client asking me to make a change to a project that is about two hours away from being completely finished. This will set me back a half a day. I have to try to keep the client happy, though, so I can get more work from them. I started doubting my abilities and the reasons I am doing this.
As I dropped my son off at the sitter's house, I heard a woman on the radio who was changing careers. She was calling into the Spirit FM, the local Christian station. She said that God would not give her a tough road unless he was willing to walk down it with her. That statement made me feel a little better about this new path I am walking down.
Then I came home and read Psalm 55. I found this verse. 22 Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you;
Off I go to make changes and resubmit this assignment. I carry with me my superhero cape and faith that God is seeing me through these long days of typing on the computer.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Rough Days
We all have rough days. A few weeks ago my mother-in-law broke her ankle. To her extreme disappointment, the entire summer will be in a cast up to her knee. Last week, my eighteen year old brother-in-law shattered his jaw playing softball. Life gets difficult sometimes. So what do we do about it? Do we spend our days complaining or praying for God to take away our trials? Or do we accept our trials as a part of life and simply move on?
Today I read Numbers 16. Wow!! God got really angry with a group that rose against Moses and Aaron. The earth opened and several men, their wives, and their children were swallowed by the earth alive. Then more than 14,000 were killed in a plague. They had a rough day!
It is hard to keep perspective during our dark moments, but both injuries in my husband's family will heal. By Christmas, both my mother-in-law and my brother-in-law will be just fine. Bad days come and go, but we have to remember that God is in charge, and everything will be okay.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Create in Me a Clean Heart
It is easy to blame others. It is easy to complain about others. It is harder to take a good look at ourselves and admit our shortfalls.
When I was in youth group, about 15 years ago, one of my favorite songs we sang was from Psalm 51. This is a cry for forgiveness after David is caught with Bathsheba. This song is a great way to ask for forgiveness, and I was reminded of it after I read Psalm 51 today.
Create in me a clean heart oh God
And renew a right spirit within me
Create in me a clean heart oh God
And renew a right spirit within me
Cast me not away
From thy presence oh Lord
Take not thy Holy Spirit from me
Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation
And renew a right spirit within me