Joy in Journaling, Part 1

My journal

Early on in my Christian walk, I recognized how difficult it was to concentrate while praying quietly to myself. One minute, I'd be praying for persecuted believers and before I knew it, I would be planning a side dish for dinner. It was then I began journaling, over fifteen years ago. I suppose you could say frustration was the catalyst for my love of journaling.

One of my favorite take-a-minute-for-myself kind of books, "Interludes" by Linda Andersen, includes a chapter entitled "Jot in a Journal". A few take-aways:

• Jotting thoughts and noting dreams can become a holy act even when our scribbles are on the plainest of paper; a small spiral notebook will do. But if you want to make this interlude really special, you will need a very special kind of book to journal in... one that is beautiful and reflects who you are.
  

• Your journal is a book written for your eyes alone. No other eyes need ever read what is recorded. It will be a place to bare your soul and reveal yourself to you and to your God. It will be a private forum of your unique concerns and brewing ideas and particular curiosities about ife and living; a place to pour out your thoughts and observations and opinions and feelings without censor or judgment.
  

• You have to be able, when you journal, to shed your skin of "musts" and "shoulds" and be wholly and completely yourself.

Journaling is a tool God has given us to record our prayers, deepest desires, strengths and weaknesses. Over time, you will see a beautiful journey unfold before your eyes... your journey. And above all, you will see the hand of God at work in your life and His steadfast faithfulness in all things. What begins as a prayer journal will indeed become your praise journal.

Join me in the coming days (after vacation!) as I share more insights from Linda's book and personal thoughts on the subject.

Do you have insights to share on journaling? I'd love to hear them! I have so much to learn.

How Can I Prepare for Vacation? Let Me List the Ways...

With our mountain vacation quickly approaching, there's one thing you can be sure of. I'm making a list.

Although dad and I never need an excuse for lunch, we met today with a main goal in mind: to compare lists. He is, without a doubt, the mac-daddy of list making. I've learned a lot of great things from him over the years. Can I list just a few?

• the value of rising early in the morning (yes, there's value Brian and Megan!)
• the love of gardening
• the deep-down-kind-of-joy that comes from helping others
  
• how to bait a hook (maybe this should be #1?)
• how not to hold grudges (he's had several opportunities but I've only seen extended grace)
• how to play a mean game of Setback (cards ARE on the list!)
  

I don't have enough time in one day to share the many things my dad has taught me over the years, but suffice it to say, I'm thankful that his love for list-making rubbed off on me. I have a feeling the family will be glad too come Saturday!

A Pair of Open-Toed Sandals, Please

But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written:
"Be holy, because I am holy."

Our study in 1 Peter this week focused on the holiness of God and what it means to live holy lives: "Be holy, because I am holy."

While wearing "steel-toed shoes" during my study time would have helped to prevent my spiritual "toes" from becoming battered and bruised, it was obvious the Lord had already taken the measurements and fitted me for a different type of shoe, better known as the "open-toed sandal". You know the difference. One keeps the contents inside safe and protected while the other provides full exposure. One says "Ah...that didn't hurt!" while the other screams "OUCH!" It was clear to me that my soul was in need of a little more "OUCH!" and a lot less "Ah!"

During prep time, I came across a classic by Jerry Bridges, "The Pursuit of Holiness" As I turned the pages I noticed the markings of an assiduous reader. Wait a minute! Those were the pages I had marked... almost twenty years ago. I recalled reading the book for the first time as a relatively new believer and how the tears flowed from a heart that was desperate to be more like Christ and less like me. I also recalled an insatiable desire to obey Him quickly and completely. No questions asked.

Once again I wept, but this time for a different reason. You see, I recognized that those same desires were still within me, but the desperation that had once been the catalyst for quick obedience now seemed a bit dulled with time. Almost immediately, the Holy Spirit identified areas in my life that were in desperate need of sharpening, such as:

• Reading, and in a sense, depending more on "good" books rather than the Word. (OUCH!)
  
• Allowing too much time for "busyness"and not enough for "being." (OUCH!)
  
• Attempting to be more relevant for God rather than revering to God. (DOUBLE OUCH!)
  

So, while "steel-toed shoes" would have undoubtedly offered a more comfortable approach to this week's lesson, I'm reminded that His desire for me is not comfort, but holiness, and rarely do the two concur.

"To move into the calling the Lord has for us, we must willingly leave some things behind. Anything or anybody that receives more of my worship than God does is an idol, including television, books, the internet, or even a relationship... we are wise to willingly and gladly leave behind things that might hold us back from living bold, victorious lives for Him." -Priscilla Shirer

I Love Craig...

Craig's List, that is!

We're always on the lookout for old bricks as we plan to incorporate them into the landscape via pathways, edging, and eventually, a side courtyard. We've also been checking Craig's List from time to time for concrete pavers of the cobblestone variety.

On Friday, we found both for a bargain! The 100 year old bricks were in Due West and the pavers were located in Wellford, so the 45.00 fill-up on Thursday didn't last very long, but both finds made it well worth the trips and labor involved.

By the way, if you're searching for an alternative to Ebay, this is it! We put a few things (that were simply taking up space) up for sale this weekend on Craig's List and all three things sold within a day!

A new bike, old bricks, cobblestone pavers, a little "fun money" and less clutter = a very nice weekend!

A Schweet Ride

Check out my new ride!

Brian and I took a day trip to Gusto Cycles and found this Electra Townie 21 Art calling my name. The color is Purple Poem and it's kicking with 21 gears! I debated for over an hour between this bike and their best selling Townie -- pink, with black/white seat, coaster brakes and three gears. The debate ended quickly, however, when the sales guy said the magic words "You may have to walk up steep hills with the 3 speed." We're done here. I enjoyed the coaster brakes but if I wanted to walk I'd buy shoes, not a bike.

So, this beaut had to meet the following criteria... and it did:

• Schweet color/style (first things first! ha...)
• Comfy-mega seat (this one is leather and packed with padding!)
  
• It must make the hill that leads to Karen Trone's house... sans walking!

I think I was 12 years old the last time I sat in a bike saddle and that's exactly how old I felt riding this morning. I had a blast! Brian, Zach and Sarah were gracious (and extremely patient) during my warm-up ride.

Now all I need is a basket and a bell. Look out Simpsonville, here I come!

When I Grow Up, I Want to Be Like Her

In our study this week, we are asked to list the specific ways God has protected his calling on our lives. Godly grandparents topped my list.

Last night, we celebrated "Ma-Ma's" 90th birthday! She is my grandmother on my dad's side and like my grandmother who passed away in December, she has been a constant example of Christ throughout my life.

MaMa (Alberta Scott) was well known in the Fairforest community. She and Pa-Pa were founding members of Fairforest Baptist Church and she worked as the dietitian for Fairforest Elementary School for almost 40 years. Her yeast rolls won prizes and the hearts of many elementary aged children. As mentioned in previous posts, MaMa was the person who introduced me to nursing homes when I was a little girl. She infused me with a love for those who often go unnoticed. Rarely a week would go by when she wouldn't send me on my bike with half a pound cake for a friend who was sick or lonely. That was then. This is now.

Today, at 90 years old, she continues to read her Bible every day and share Christ with those who serve her at NHC. She understands that her journey and commitment to Him does not, and should not, fade over time. It only grows stronger.

Her life continues to leave an indelible print on my life and so many others.

"I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14

9,175 Days

Chip Ingram (a favorite!) posed the following question this week:

Are you spending or investing your life?

The question alone grabbed my attention, but what followed would bring me to screeching halt.

If you are 45 years old, and live to be 70 years old, you have 9,175 days left on earth. Gulp.

While at first it seemed downright depressing I soon found it to be more like divine motivation. Am I spending or investing my life? Good question.

Catching Up...

Here's a quick recap of the past few days...

Sunday
We sang the song "You Alone", one of the first songs I remember singing when we first arrived at CrossRoads and still met in the high school. I look back on those days with very fond memories. Singing the chorus, "I'm alive, I'm alive, I'm alive, I'm alive" served as a fresh reminder that although some things change, God never does.

Monday
We enjoyed an awe-inspiring concert of thunderous roar during the Bible class last night. Hearing the ladies share their personal stories as to how a particular attribute of God is currently impacting their lives during the "concert" was simply amazing. We had begun the class by reading Scripture that spoke of worship and His glory. How appropriate that one of the Scriptures read would be from Psalm 29: "The voice of the LORD is over the waters, the God of glory thunders.. the voice of the LORD twists the oaks and strips the forests bare. And in his temple all cry, "Glory!"

Today
I took time to do a little research on 7 speed cruiser bikes as I am in the market for a retro-like bike with high handles and a puffy seat! Needless to say, I won't be keeping up with Brian, Zach, and Sarah (I'm so proud of her for becoming a recent road biker!) but I'll have fun cruising by Karen Trone's house and other surrounding neighborhoods. I love living in the city!

I'm still planning to post videos from our hilarious "Bean-Boozled" celebration taken on July 13. Stay tuned. I'm having a few techie-type issues.

Food with A Feathered Crust

Let the hawks eat snakes... the snakes eat mice... and the mice eat insects. I was recently awakened to the fact that I'm not always a big fan of the "circle of life."

After filling up the bird feeder and adding water to the birdbath, I heard a huge ruckus behind me. The little birds I had just fed were now fleeing for their lives as one of their own had been caught and tucked tightly in the mouth of my new yard buddy, Oreo the cat.



I had fooled myself into thinking that if I fed Oreo enough cat food she would lose her innate desire for food with a feathered crust but I quickly realized that her primal tendencies would override anything Publix cat food had to offer. It served as a vivid reminder to the danger found in my own “feather crusted food” – those fleshly desires that linger until our last breath.

There is no doubt that Oreo will continue to enjoy her feathered feasts because she is a slave to her nature, but thanks be to God, I am not.

A Kiss From God

Wow. Check out Sarah's post.

My Find Could Be Your Find

Last weekend, my awesome hubster came across a free ad on Craig's List for free flowers... two of my favorite words.

The picture showed 4 plants, but there turned out to be 3 bags full of daylilies and iris. My new gardening buddy, Sandy, will be able to use some of the plants, but I have more to share if you're interested. Let me know asap!

Another shout out for Brian who is heading with his group to Sumter this afternoon to tape their music for ETV's show "Bluegrass Express". He makes me proud. :)

Conduits of Conviction

Some things happened on Sunday that left me feeling humbled and convicted. You know in James 4:10 where it says we are to humble ourselves? There's a reason why we are responsible for keeping a check on our pride meter. If we don't do it, God will. Read on.

You see, in recent years, I have wholeheartedly jumped in the middle of conversations that pertained to the supposed weaknesses of the Baptist church, as a whole. I'm ashamed to recall the many ways I focused on their weaknesses instead of their strengths. How incredibly prideful of me.

Fast forward to this past Sunday, July 13. Brian and I found ourselves in a place we never expected to be... Simpsonville First Baptist. If you had even hinted at the possibility of our ever visiting this church we, unfortunately, would have laughed in your face. God really does have a sense of humor, doesn't He? Actually, I doubt He found anything humorous about my attitude.

Although the new sanctuary is beautiful, it's what took place on the inside that the Holy Spirit used to shatter so many preconceived notions I had allowed to settle in my heart.

Conduits of conviction:

• An awesome Sunday School class [a class that we were invited to by a manager on Brian's floor at Michelin. Little did we know, a friend of ours from the past turned out to be the teacher. She is simply awesome. As I sat in class, I couldn't help but notice the coffee stains on the carpet and the flickering lights overhead, but for the first time in a very long time, I didn't care. My priorities have undergone a major shift. We were in the Word and that's what mattered most]

• Sherri Wilson, the awesome SS teacher, just returned from Africa, one of many mission trips taking place in the church. [missions/evangelism seems to be a priority]

• Based on the input from SS class members, people are learning the Word. [structured learning is beneficial, not detrimental, to one's growth in Christ. I am eternally grateful for the strong biblical teaching that took place during our years at a Baptist church -- especially in regards to our boys. Brian and I have zero doubt that they would be the young men they are today if not for the influence and structure made available through the Baptist denomination]

• 12 people baptized, including two entire families (decisions made in past two weeks) [life change is occurring here. It was one of the most moving baptisms I have ever witnessed]

• Stories shared of many unbelievers accepting invitations to visit. One man, who had not darkened the door of a church in 10 years, drove all the way from Seneca Sunday morning. [people are excited about their church - they're inviting people - and people are accepting their invitation. Guess I was wrong to think only "church transplants" darkened their door]

• A very humble pastor who couldn't even speak for the first few minutes because he was so overwhelmed by the Lord's presence. A pastor who challenged his people by closing with the question: "How hungry are you? Not for "church" - but for the living God." [It's no surprise this church has grown exponentially under his leadership. The last thing I remember a former Baptist pastor saying was "stand up so you can get to your wallet easier." My, how times have changed -- thankfully]

• We sang a few songs we knew from CrossRoads as well as others heard on the radio. My favorite? Love is Here. [and it was]

Now, don't get me wrong. I don't live in la-la land. Every church has its strengths and weaknesses, but I share my thoughts on this visit in particular because of what took place in my heart Sunday morning. I love what God is teaching me right now. Tough, but necessary lessons.

Will we end up at 1st Baptist? We don't know. But I do know this. The doors of my heart are now truly wide open to the Spirit's leading. We want to be where God wants us to be... period.

21 Years Ago Today...

Twenty-one years ago, at 8:02 am, little bright-eyed, blue-eyed Zach came into the world and life hasn't been the same since. He was expected to be a larger baby than Brandon (10+ lbs) so I opted for a planned c-section. It was the way to go!

In celebration of this special day, here are some of our favorite Z pics:



Within the next few days, I hope to post a few video clips from our "I've Bean Boozled" celebration last night. We had a BLAST!

Happy Birthday Zach!!!
You are a joy & delight to us and to so many others.
We love you!

2 H's = Success

A Quick Thought from a Very Tired Brain....

Today, when asked what it takes to be successful in NASCAR, Joe Gibbs responded with two words: you must be humble and hungry. Hmmm... sounds like another recipe for success... Kingdom style.

"Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." James 4:10

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." Matt. 5:6

When Will I Learn?

If you had taken a peek at my calendar today, the word STUDY would have leapt off the page. Although I read and jot down notes throughout the week when I'm preparing to teach, I usually set aside an afternoon or two with longer stretches of time to try and pull the lesson together.

Today was to be one of those days... at least that was my plan. I learned a lot (my favorite part of teaching!) but nothing jelled as I'd hoped. By the time I reached "Day 5" late this afternoon, frustration was rearing its ugly head. That is, until I turned the page. The title?

A Simple Dependence

Sigh. When will I learn?

A New Experience!

I just returned from the Christian Writer's Den, held in Simpsonville every second Thursday of the month. A big thanks to Kim Mahaffey for the invite!

In the meetings, Vonda Skelton and Edie Melson (both published authors) encourage people to read some of their current writings to the group. One woman, whose work has been published in two previous Chicken Soup books, read additional stories she is preparing to submit very soon. I enjoyed listening to their work, as well as the thoughtful and skillful critique that followed.

Years ago, I dreamed of publishing an article in Discipleship Journal magazine (one of my favs), but unfortunately, my mastered skills at the game called "comparison" pulled out yet another win. Maybe the timing wasn't right or maybe it just isn't meant to be, but for now, I plan to attend the meetings, listen to the experts, and learn from them. And in doing so, I am mastering a whole new set of skills called "contentment."

Craig's List Find

Here's my first Craig's List purchase...


A three-tiered fountain. Not bad for 50 bucks!

Now to find a special place in the garden...

25 Years Ago Today...

Twenty-five years ago today, I was in my SECOND day of labor. It wouldn't be until later that afternoon when Brandon would come on the scene -- all 10+ pounds of him! Strangers stopped by my room just to gaze upon the woman who had given birth to the whoppo baby. My Aunt Shirley bought his "take home" outfit. The size? 6 months.

Here are a few of my favorite pictures of the birthday boy.

Where did all the time go? Wow, they grow up fast. Too fast.

Happy Birthday, Brandon!
We're incredibly proud of you and love you very much.
See you tonight...

Surrounded by Sports

I am not crazy about watching sports (except for racing of course!) but I am crazy about the guys in my life who do. Since June, Brian, Zach and I have watched Euro 2008, Tiger's playoff at the U.S. Open, and Nadal pull off an incredible win at Wimbeldon yesterday. Now onto the le Tour de France, which began on Saturday, and will end just before the Summer Olympics begin.

My favorite athlete of the summer, however, will not be found on ESPN. Instead, you'll find him running, biking and swimming in Greenville. Zach, our youngest son, will participate in his first triathlon on August 17. Cheering him on at the event will be alot of fun, especially since we've had the opportunity to see his training behind the scenes. Have mercy. People like Courtney and others who participate in tri's have earned a newfound respect from me. Zach's eating habits have improved, he's paid for a Y summer membership so he could spiff up his swimming skills, began riding his bike like a mad-man (if you see a couple of guys riding at 7 am on Sunday mornings, steer clear! It could be Zach and Brian), and running in the early morning hours. I'm so proud of him! One thing is for sure. He did not inherit the training-perseverance gene from me.

I'm currently playing the sport known as dodge ball. Zach has reminded me a couple of times that triathletes normally don't hit their prime until mid 30's - early 40's. Oh, I am so past the prime, but I certainly need to work on the physical part of me. Doesn't working in the yard count for anything?

Anywho, I'm pretty proud of the athlete that lives under my roof, but I guess I'm still stuck with watching the other events. I'm sorry. No Lance, no interest although George certainly is a local favorite.

I'm tired. Could someone please hand me an energy bar?

Omni-Moment, Part 2

Back in June, I shared how I felt God had orchestrated an opportunity for me to teach a community-type Bible study.

Today, I'm delighted to share that it has become a reality! Thank you for your prayers! Beginning next week, I'll be teaching an evening ladies class at the local library. All the little details fell right into place, and I'll be honest... I'm pretty psyched. And especially humbled.

As I begin this new study, I'm reminded of the following verses:

• Titus 2:1: You must teach what is in accord with sound doctrine.

• James 3:1: Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.

• 2 Timothy 2:15: Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.

• 2 Timothy 3:16: All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

• Hebrews 4:12: For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Takeaways:

• I need to consistently pray for wisdom and discernment. Partial truth is really no truth at all.

• Knowing I will be judged more strictly opens my eyes to the seriousness involved in handling God's Word. And yet, I can't imagine not teaching.

• I recognize my responsibility as a teacher is to flee from any sin, habit or attitude that would hinder the Spirit's work through me.
  

• I can proclaim the Word freely and boldly, confident in the fact there is no error or "coincidences" recorded. The Word is the only safe haven that provides 100% Truth 100% of the time. Everything we need in order to fulfill our God-given purposes is found in the Word.
  

• God's Word is relevant today -- it is living and active -- not passive. It is the Word that will convict or judge thoughts and attitudes, not my words.

I'm looking forward to seeing this "omni-moment" come to fruition next week. We'll all show up, not sure of what to expect, but no doubt it will be exciting because we were all invited by the same person... God.

A Celebration of Dependence

If you've been in our home, you probably noticed this hanging on our dining room wall.

I had read this "Declaration of Dependence" while studying a Precept course in 1994, and within a few months, Brian scripted the words onto paper. We sat down with the boys, who were pretty young at the time (Brandon, 11. Zach, 7), and explained in simple terms what the words meant, and how we as a family, desired to remain dependent on God. We signed it together that night. I doubt the boys truly grasped the meaning of their signatures back then, but I thank God they would be able to grasp it today.

The colors surrounding the frame have come and gone out of style (at least a couple of times) but the words and signatures will remain timeless... and priceless.

As we celebrate our independence today, let us also celebrate the opportunity we have been given through Jesus Christ to live the lives He has called us to live, in the only way possible... through our total dependence on Him.

"So roll up your sleeves, put your mind in gear, be totally ready to receive the gift that's coming when Jesus arrives. Don't lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn't know any better then; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God's life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness. God said, "I am holy; you be holy."

You call out to God for help and he helps—he's a good Father that way. But don't forget, he's also a responsible Father, and won't let you get by with sloppy living.

Your life is a journey you must travel with a deep consciousness of God. It cost God plenty to get you out of that dead-end, empty-headed life you grew up in. He paid with Christ's sacred blood, you know. He died like an unblemished, sacrificial lamb. And this was no afterthought. Even though it has only lately—at the end of the ages—become public knowledge, God always knew he was going to do this for you. It's because of this sacrificed Messiah, whom God then raised from the dead and glorified, that you trust God, that you know you have a future in God." 1 Peter 1:13-21

An Unexpected Answer to Prayer

Have you ever prayed for something, expecting God to answer it in one way, only to have Him turn everything upside down and answer in a way you never expected?

In recent months, I have been praying specific things for our family. Several weeks ago, Brandon & Megan shared their good news about their upcoming move to Ohio. Be sure to visit their blogs to read all about it! Initially, the "mom" in me struggled a bit. OK, for two straight days. But on the third day, in the midst of my tears, this Scripture came to mind:

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8,9

I realized at that moment that God had answered my prayers... just not in a way I expected. My pity tears quickly subsided and I began to praise the Lord, confident that He is in control, that He has a divine and marvelous plan for the kids in Ohio (I'm so proud of Brandon and for a daughter-in-law who would follow him to the ends of the earth in order to glorify God) -- and that He loves and protects them in wonderful and unexpected ways... as only a perfect Father could.

How Could I Ask For More?

It's been a nice few days -- cooler weather, time with friends, and a morning with Brandon! What more could I ask for?

...which reminds me of one of my favorite songs from way back by Cindy Morgan, entitled "How Could I Ask For More?" Check out the lyrics:

There's nothing like the warmth of a summer afternoon
Waking to the sunlight, and being cradled by the moon
Catching fireflies at night
Building castles in the sand
Kissing Mama's face goodnight
Holding Daddy's hand
Thank you Lord, how could I ask for more

Running barefoot through the grass
A little hide and go seek
Being so in love, that you can hardly eat
Dancing in the dark, when there's no one else around
Being bundled 'neath the covers, watching snow
Fall to the ground
Thank you Lord, how could I ask for more

So many things I thought would bring me happiness
Some dreams that are realities today
Such an irony the things that mean the most to me
Are the memories that I've made along the way

So if there's anything I've learned
From this journey I am on
Simple truths will keep you going
Simple love will keep you strong
Cause there are questions without answers
Flames that never die
Heartaches we go through are often blessings in disguise
So thank you Lord, oh thank you Lord
How could I ask for more

Better yet, take a listen...