Showing posts with label Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood. Show all posts
Monday, January 7, 2013
SDG - Authentic Community
You go to church on
Sunday. Hurting. Struggling with the trials you face. They may be
raising special needs children. They may be health issues. They may
be loss of a job or loss of a family member. You carry the weight of
the world on your shoulders. An acquaintance comes up to you to say
hi and asks how you are doing? You answer: “Fine” with an
awkward smile. LIAR! You are not fine. You are not doing ok.
From your view the
acquaintance looks great. Doesn't seem to have a hair out of place.
She replies, “Great, I'm doing fine as well.” LIAR. You don't
know what lies beneath that facade. Broken marriage. Financial
struggles. Depression.
Neither of you is being authentic with
the other. Neither of you is willing to lay aside your pride and
your insecurities to be honest with each other. You are not willing
to admit humility and ask for help.
Make
this your common practice: Confess your sins to each other and pray
for each other so that you can live together whole and healed.
(James 5:16 Msg)
It should be our
common practice to be open and honest with each other. How can we be
whole? How can we be healed if we aren't honest and authentic? Why
do we allow ourselves to lie to each other when we are called to be
people of the truth? I think it is because we are spending too much
time on our facades. The view that we want people to see. The view
that we want people to think we are. The view we wish we were.
I
am not just finding this at church, but also in the blogosphere or
anywhere else I meet Christians. We all wear this facade. We don't
allow ourselves to be authentic because we don't want to be judged.
But then we become what we didn't want to become – judgers. We
start to judge ourselves on a perception and not on a truth. We
start to judge others on the same perceptions. We allow ourselves to
be valued not on authenticity but on illusion. That person seems to
have it all; why don't I? That person has no idea what I face on a
daily basis. That person must have a housekeeper, her house can't be
that clean by itself. On and on goes the judging and the lies, until
we end up like the Pharisees. Self righteous people trying to be
holy and failing miserably.
It is my belief that we as Christians
are not willing to embrace our own messes or others messes. It is
too messy. It is too scary. Too real. What will people think? What
will people expect from us when we start being honest. I was once
told by a friend that another acquaintance thought my house was
immaculate. That I did not have any dirt anywhere. She told me this
while we were cleaning for my move. I quickly pulled out one of the
beds and revealed the dust and dirt that had been under there for 4
years. See we all have that dirt. It is just hiding.
I struggle with
being authentic. I have troubles with asking for help. I do not
want to burden people with my mess. I rarely ask for prayer. I
rarely allow people to see the real messy me. The weak me. Most
people see me as a strong individual. Someone to have fun with.
Someone who can be brutally honest. But how honest am I when I don't
share with those who are close to me. When I don't allow them into
my messes. Am I selling myself and others short when I don't share? How can I expect others to share with me their brokenness and pain,
as well as their triumphs, when I am reluctant to do the same.
I just started
reading "So Long, Insecurity" by Beth Moore. It is already speaking to
me. Beth suggests that some of the reasons for our insecurities come
from trust issues with God. I think this is also the reason we
struggle with authenticity. We don't truly trust God and we don't truly trust each other. How many friendships have we lost because of
a perceived betrayal? How many times have we been let down by
people who don't meet our expectations? How many times have we let
people down? But you see God never lets us down. He is always with
us. He loves us just for who we are and not for what we are. He
loves us because of our messes. He wants our messes. He embraces
our messes.
If we want true
relationship with Jesus and each other we need to admit our
weaknesses. We need to embrace them and be authentic with each other
and ourselves about them. We need to show people that we are not doing “fine.”
We need to allow Jesus to break down the facades we have built up
and allow people into our messes. They may not know how to handle
it. That's ok. God does. Our friends and acquaintances may not know
what to do or to say. Admit it. We don't have all the answers.
God does. If we don't have the words, pray. You don't have to pray
right there but let them know that you will pray for them and
actually do it. Ask others to pray with you. Nothing will be solved
unless we start handing God our messes and allow others to do the
same.
We are meant to
be in community with each other. But unless we can truly be
authentic with each other, what kind of community are we building?
I am linking up with the Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood this week at Finding Heaven.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
The church and love
Today one of my friends asked if I could make meals for her aunt. Her aunt has fought uterine cancer in the past and last year went through a double mastectomy. Last week she went to the doctors as she has had a cold she couldn't kick. It appears that there are growths on her lungs and lymphnoids. My friend advised me that her aunt has never asked for help through her previous trials. However, she is acknowledging her need for help. She is not a believer and as a result does not have "A" church to help carry her through this. That doesn't mean that the church needs to abandon her.
Many people view the church as the place where they go to be fed. Where they worship and fellowship with other believers. What they don't understand is that the church isn't just a place, it's all believers.
And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way. Ephesians 1:22-23 NIV84
As believers we are part of Christ's body on earth. God made Him the head and we are the arms, legs, heart and lungs. No one part is more important than the other. We are unified. Our human bodies aren't static. They are in constant movement even when we sleep, they are working.
We are to do Jesus' work on earth. To show the world the wonder of his presence through love and grace, not through condemnation and judgment. That is how most non-believers see the church. Jesus didn't hang out with religious people. He was friends with the broken and needy - the unloveables. That's who we are called to love, not ourselves. A former pastor always said he wanted a t-shirt that said "Jesus-A Friend of Sinners."
We are to do Jesus' work on earth. To show the world the wonder of his presence through love and grace, not through condemnation and judgment. That is how most non-believers see the church. Jesus didn't hang out with religious people. He was friends with the broken and needy - the unloveables. That's who we are called to love, not ourselves. A former pastor always said he wanted a t-shirt that said "Jesus-A Friend of Sinners."
He calls us to love against our very nature....
This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. 1 John 4:10-12 NIV84
John reminds us that our love, like God's, is not complete unless it goes through us to another person. It's not just about saying you love someone, it's showing you love someone. This can be as simple as showing up. Amy Sullivan just wrote a post regarding this, it is well worth the read. We always think that this means going and "taking over" to show our love in action. But love is a lot of times expressed in the simple things - a giggle; a hug; a prayer. This week I was asked if there was anything that I needed by someone from my church family. Just being asked showed her love and compassion for me. She showed up. The visiting pastor this week told a story of when he and his wife had heard the "A" word in regards to their son. They phoned a friend (another pastor), he and his wife came over with pizza and beer and sat on the floor and listened and prayed. The visiting pastor said that he didn't remember anything they had said, but he always remembered that they showed up. They showed their love just being there.
This week I will be showing up. Showing God's love through my action of bringing a meal to someone that needs love, not judgment. That needs to know the church is there for her. To know Jesus loves her. I don't need to tell her all this, she'll know just because I became the church for her by showing up.
I'm linking up today with the Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Like It or Not....
How many times have you posted a status, a tweet or a post on your blog only to have no one respond to it? How does this make you feel? Do you allow it to define you? Do you take it personally? Doing research for this post I read the following quote by a student at the University of Waterloo regarding Facebook and depression.
Too much upward social comparison can potentially lead to depression....It makes me feel that either people don't like me, people don't support me or they're not listening to what I have to say"
Last week I found out that I made someone feel that way when I didn't "like" her status on Facebook, but liked someone else's status in a study group I have been involved in. I was shocked, because in fact this person perceived that I disliked them. I don't like everything I see on Facebook. Nor I do I comment on every blog I read and have given up tweeting as I still don't quite get it. That doesn't mean I dislike someone or their posting. When this happens to me, do I feel depressed? A little. Do I think people "hate" me? NO!
I think part of the problem is our focus and what we allow to define us. We were created in God's image and He commands us to worship Him alone. Too many people worship false idols and allow them to define them.
They worshiped the Lord, but also served their own gods (2 Kings 17:33)
We cannot serve 2 gods. We cannot worship God and worship social media at the same time. Many peole are on Facebook/Twitter a lot. They sit and comment on everyone else's statuses. They status about every part of their lives. They be"friend" everyone they know or have known. What if they put as much effort into their relationship with God and glorifying His kingdom on earth? What would happen if they turned off the computer and went to the word to find their worth? When we worship these "gods" we sell ourselves short. We allow ourselves to be open to Satan's deceit about who we are. Sally Clarkson in "Dancing With My Father" states "Our heart will not, cannot, be with God if it is focused on seeking happiness apart from Him." (p 54) If we focus on allowing social media to make us happy, how can God compete.
As believers we are to seek our worth not through the world's view, but through God's view. We are to seek His glory, not our own.
But seek (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom (Matthew 6:33 Amp)
I have to admit that I don't always do this. I struggle in where I find my own worth - through my relationships or through God. I have compared myself to the world's standards and often find I fall short. So how do I seek His Kingdom? Upon relflection on my own life and through study I have found four ways:
1. Go to Him 1st in prayer and praise. Too often when we are troubled or when we are excited we go to others to seek their approval or assistance. God is right there. We run past Him. We don't accept what He is offering because we are told it is too hard and His rules are restrictive. He is freedom. He wants to help us when we struggle. He wants to shout for joy when we find blessings, even in the smallest things.
2. Study His word and get to know Him. When you meet someone new, you don't just immediately tell them your life's story (unless you're giving your testimony in a group setting). You work on that relationship. You learn about their likes and dislikes. You learn about where they have been and where they are going. The same for God and He made it easy. He gave us a book about it. We may not know everything about Him as it is too overwhelming for us, but we know what we need to know. If you aren't in the word daily, why not?
3. Be content in what you have. This year my word study is contentment. I have slowly been giving up things, namely aspirations. Why? They are the world's aspirations for me and not God's. For true joy I believe we need to be content in our lives and where God has placed us for these seasons. Is that tough? Yes. It's about humbling ourselves and accepting to trust Him. It is worthwhile.
4. RELAX and trust in His plan. We all want to control things. We have plans and expectations. These are ours. These are not His plans. We need to come to a place of trust. When we can do that, we can allow ourselves to be a peace and not stress about what people think about us. Last Friday, I took the evil twin to the mall for her birthday. We had a great day and when you go to a store with a toddler and a blind person you better believe you get service.
However, as we were walking back to the van, we were stalked by another vehicle looking for a parking space. The mall was not that busy. The people waited while I loaded the van which took more than 5 minutes. I stressed out thinking about what they were thinking of me. Debbie kept saying "Relax. Who cares. If they want to wait, make them wait." She was right. I was stressing over something I perceived. Not truth. RELAX. BREATHE.
There are a lot of studies going on right now regarding depression and social media. I think a lot of it is because we are forcing ourselves to be accepted not on God's standards but the worlds standards. We are letting others define us. We are not letting God define us. We need to focus on Him and His kingdom in every aspect of our lives to feel the joy that He promises.
What are you allowing to define you?
I am linking up with the Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood at Finding Heaven.
Monday, January 16, 2012
What Inspired Me
Last week I had a comment from a reader inquiring about what books I was reading and what inspired me. I had to think about that. There is a lot that inspires, but not a lot of what I read really does this. I tend to read a lot of fiction with a few non fiction books thrown in and they are not always very inspirational. When I do read non fiction I read either a history book or biographical book. Some of these have been inspirational as I have been able to see how God works or been challenged to change my views. This year though I have challenged myself to read more non fiction Christian books, namely the studies I have purchased and always intended to read but are currently collecting dust on my shelves. I promised myself that I would read at least one of these a month.
However, I have completed many books. I know its a shock. To be honest some books I completed in studies, but there have been a few that I have read on my own. I thought I would share my top 5 non fiction study books that have challenged me, inspired me and encouraged me in my walk.
The Bad Girls of the Bible, by Liz Curtis Higgs
This was the #1 selling book after I became a Christian. The title spoke to my evil hidden humour. I thought all the girls in the Bible were good like Mary, boy did this book take away those blinders. This book spoke to me in a deep and personal way as I was a former Bad Girl. The best part was it wasn't preachy because Liz herself was a former Bad Girl gone Good. She was redeemed and renewed just as I had been. I learned more about my walk in that book then I had during my profession of Faith classes. (Sorry Pastor Phil). I learned about grace, love, truth, courage, etc.. When I met Liz at a conference I had her sign my book. I have recommended this book to many new and young Christian woman who are a little unsure of their walk. It takes away the false representation that only good girls can be used by God. God uses imperfect people to do His work and tell His story.
No Other Gods by Kelly Minter
Ok, I did this study with my Babes, but this book still changed my life. I had to look at myself deeply and realize what I was truly worshiping and it wasn't always God. It wasn't even TV as many struggle with. I was worshiping my little "g" gods, my friends. I placed those relationships first. This book enabled me to acknowledge my idolotry, but also reminded me and guided me to the one I should always have been worshiping.
The Case for Christ and The Case for Faith by Lee Strobel
After I became a Christian I had a tonne of questions. I think we all did. I wanted them immediately answered. I never felt that I was getting the answers that I wanted or were necessarily accurate. These two books answered many of my questions. Where they couldn't answer my exact questions they enabled me to let go and trust God. I may not have all the answers and others smarter than I may not have the answers, but God has the answers. These book encouraged me to trust that alone. That I didn't need the answers to believe. God was worth more than my little questions. Sometimes I still struggle with trust issues and let those lingering questions take over, but then I remember the God that redeemed me and restored me and I trust.
David: Seeking A Heart Like His by Beth Moore
These are just some of the books that have perfected my faith. I am hoping this year in my study of Contentment that God continues to teach me through other's words and stories. I already see Him doing this in the books I have been reading this month.
What are you reading? What has inspired you?
Linking up with the cool Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood at Finding Heaven.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
In His Image They Were Created
Since Middleman was diagnosed with autism, I have been feeling like I am playing catch up. Not just in arranging therapies for him, but also in my knowledge of autism. It doesn't help when doctors and therapists you meet assume you know what they are talking about. They do not supply an Autism for Dummies book to newly diagnosed parents (although I think they should).
I, as well, didn't want to jump into any group and believe me there are groups. I wanted to educate myself. One of the first books I read was about high functioning autism. It was written by a child educator for children with special needs and a parent. It was actually written in "English" and was a good primer. She didn't take sides. Her mantra seemed to be if a therapy or diet work for you then do it. If not, don't sweat it.
Now you may want to know what the sides are those who think autism is curable and those of us who think is just a part of our children. I have chosen sides. I was always a little leery of the whole immunization debate. This December I read a book called Autism's False Prophets by Dr. Paul Offit. He stated in his prologue that he was not being paid by the big pharmaceutical companies. I found it funny that a pediatrician turned immunologist had to state that, when his whole career has been about children. This book opened my eyes to the media, misinformation and explained how studies come out and how to see if they are from reputable science or not.
But the one thing that stayed with me is what one parent, a doctor, commented on. He felt that the non medical, non conventional therapies that he and his wife tried for both their sons were selling hope. A hope for a cure. After I read this, I was angry. Angry because I finally realized what my disgust was for the other side. That autism was a type of "cancer." That my son was imperfect. That I should be blaming someone or something for the diagnosis we received. Our children look normal. Many do not have any visible defects. However, just because of that doesn't mean there is a cure. Would you ask a mother of a downs syndrome child if there was a cure?
I do have compassion for these parents because I live just as they do. I know many of their struggles. Their loss of dreams and their loss of hope. I think my sense of acceptance comes from my belief that God created my child and all children with autism in His image (Genesis 1:27). That each of these precious children were fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). That God knows our children and loves them for themselves. He alone has great plans for our children, plans to prosper them and not to harm them (Jeremiah 29:11). They are just as God created each of them to be and as I wrote yesterday, God makes no mistakes. I believe if people could accept this of any child with any disability that there wouldn't be sides. There would be one focus, how our children can reflect His light and His light alone.
I am linking up with Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood at Finding Heaven today.
Monday, January 2, 2012
Messy Mondays - Everything I Want, Isn't Everything I Need
The last 2 years I have chosen a word to focus on regarding my walk with God. I pray about it a few weeks before each New Years. In 2010, I choose "Submission." I realized I was trying to control everything. For those who know me in real life, I am such a Martha and want everything in order. It is hard for me to let go. I am not going to say that I was completely successful in fully surrendering to God that year, but I did learn the benefits of doing it.
Last year I focused on "Perserverance." God led me to the right word as this past year has been one of many struggles. I have walked through the valley of darkness and pushed through it. I have been literally broken on the floor, filled with dispair. Only to be renewed through God's word and push through them again. God has been faithful and although my trials have not been taken away, He has been by my side through it all.
This year I have been lead to the word "Contentment."
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. Philippians 4:12 NIV
Contentment is defined as the statement of happiness or satisfaction, however, the Martha in me covets. A Dolce Gusto, steam mop, new curtains, bigger house, new vehicle, etc.. I want more than I have. I can also play the why me game. Why can't Middleman be normal? Why is my family facing the trials we are? Why do others seem to have it easier than me? Why don't more people link up to Caffeinated Randomness? (Ok, I really don't stress out about the last one.)
When I look at my life though I am truly blessed. Thomas may be autistic, but he doesn't have cancer or any other serious health issues. Nicole may not have many friends or be the most popular girl at her school, but she is super smart. She also has a heart for her brothers and often thinks of them before herself. Sam may not talk, but loves music and can sing songs in his own way. I have a nice house in a nice neighbourhod. I have a van. I am able to purchase a Starbucks latte at least once a week. My family is healthy. My husband is employed. We are blessed and I should be content.
In the song Blessings, there is a line that says "...or the aching of this life. Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy." What am I yearning for? Lysa TerKeurst in Made to Crave often states that "we were made to crave God." Instead of the external things I have been wanting, I need to recognize that what I truly am craving. A filling of complete contentment in life and in the blessings I have received. When I don't appreciate those blessings of God, it's me telling Him that what He got me wasn't good enough.
This year I am going to focus on being content with what I already have been given. I am going to see the joy in the simple things. I am going to embrace the gifts that come not matter what they are, knowing that God only wants good for me and only wants me to prosper.
What is your word this year? Are you content with all God has given you? Are you willing to?
I am linking up today with the Soli Deo Sisterhood at Finding Heaven.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
I'm a Geek!
I am a geek! Only a geek would get excited when our Pastor announced that the Bible League of Canada Devotional Day Planner was in and available. I managed to grab one of the last ones available. I actually got a little nervous I wouldn't get one when I saw so many of the ladies with them at coffee. This lovely planner has daily devotional readings, an area to write daily prayer requests and several reading plans. This year the main reading plan is a chronological reading of the Bible in a year.
Last year I attempted to read the Bible in 90 days with Moms Toolbox. I made it through to Luke. That's the furthest I have ever made it in one go. I justified that I have read Acts to Jude on my own before and in other studies. So the only book I haven't read is Revelation. Note how I put "justified". I feel bad that I didn't finish the B90 challenge. I enjoyed reading and learning more of God's word and the history of God's people. I feel like a "drop out. "B90 drop out, no graduation day for you....." I can hear Frankie Avalon singing it to me while I sit in a nice church pew (think Grease, without the pink hair).
This fall I decided not to try the challenge again. I wanted to focus on getting up and studying daily (I'm still working on this) with Good Morning Girls. I've met a great bunch of ladies who I have become close to even though I have only met one of them in person. But.....I still feel lead to read my Bible start to finish.
This fall I also discovered this and have been coveting it ever since.:
I love the look of this Bible and since I do not currently own a NKJV translation, it is definitely the one I will be ordering in the future. It comes with maps and articles about the historical context. It also is in full colour.
Because I do not believe in coincidences, but believe in the leading of the Holy Spirit, I feel lead to read the Bible chronologically this year. I will be posting a weekly reading plan on my side bar and posting each Thursday what God has been teaching me or leading me in my reading. The reading plan I will be following is from the Devotional Day Planner. If anyone is interested in joining me I may post a link each week after my post.
I can not wait to get started and can not wait to see where God leads me in this journey. Won't you join me?
I'm linking up with Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood at Finding Heaven.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Thank You Toddlers & Tiaras
Last week I watched an episode of Toddlers & Tiaras with my 8 year. I do not normally watch this show. However, this time I did. At the beginning of the show my daughter was excited and asked if we could do this. I answered "NO!" I asked her which is more important to God: inside or outside beauty? She replied inside. I told her these people pay attention to only the outside beauty. That they pay thousands of dollars on beauty treatments, wigs, fake teeth (flippers), spray tanning and clothes. As I was telling her this, one of the girls was getting her new flipper. I asked my daughter if she wanted one. She replied "NO!"
Once the contestants arrived at the pageant, one of the moms started talking about spray tanning her 5 year old daughter. She had been against it until she was told by the "tanner" that her daughter would not be competitive unless she did it. She caved. I asked my daughter if the little girl looked better before or after the tanning? She answered before. I asked her if she still wanted to do pageants. She stated "NO!" At that point I changed the channel and we watched Cake Wars.
This week Cindy at She Sparkles is calling a Fat Talk Free Week. I feel that this is important because I think as women we get caught up in how the world wants us to be versus what God wants us to be. We buy into the lies and demean ourselves. Many harm themselves striving to be what the world wants. What we should be asking is what God wants.
Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. 1 Peter 3: 3-4 NIV84
God loves us just for us. He longs for us and He only wants us to be humble. To think of Him 1st and follow His commands. To be completely surrendered to Him. When we focus only on our outside appearances, we dishonour God by loving what the world loves and making our beauty our idols. I am not saying you should not take care of yourself and let yourself go. We also have to remember that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1Cor 6:19). We just need to be aware when our taking care of those temples becomes an idol.
I am thankful for Toddlers and Tiaras because it has opened doors between my daughter and I regarding outward appearances and our hearts. This is just the beginning but I know we have many battles yet to overcome.
I'm linking up with Jen at Finding Heaven with the Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood today.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Membership isn't always pretty
There are times I wished it would get me discounts to buy books or get me into conferences I really want to go to. More often though it gets me judged by my family or it gets played to make me do things I really am not comfortable in doing. If you don't know what it is already, let me show you.
Yep, I'm a professing card carrying believer. Ok, so I don't actually have my official card yet. It must be in the mail, but it's played a lot.
My family, who are not believers, seem to use it to their advantage in "putting me into my place." When we were home last summer, I mentioned that I couldn't wait to see Eclipse. "What? I thought you were a Christian? " was the response my aunt gave me. I guess Christians are not allowed to see movies? When I question things or state my beliefs on abortion or same sex marriage, I get told I'm closed minded because of my beliefs. I also am not able to speak up during family activities when I see things that I don't want my children to hear or see, as I'm being an uptight moralist and not a mother of small children. I am a believer and yes, because of that many of my former beliefs, which were quite liberal, have changed. However, I don't go to family functions looking to witness to everyone. I would hope that the changes within me would show them the power of God in my life.
...if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behaviour of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives. (1 Peter 3: 1-2 NIV 84)
I find that those who don't believe use our beliefs as weapons against us - even from those who should love us unconditionally. Oh, is Satan wily.....
The other time the card is called into action is to get us to do something we don't want to do or something we want to wait and pray about. During my in-laws 50th anniversary, I wanted to hire a youth group to serve coffee. I was told by a sister in law, that I wasn't a Christian since I didn't want to serve myself. I was upset and insulted by the insinuation. Another time, when someone in my study group wanted a friend of theirs to join in, we all told her that we would pray about it. She then pulled the card on us, "...if we were Christians as we said we were, we would let her join." Why do we do this to each other? We are supposed to support each other, lift each other and love each other. I don't know any verse for blackmailing each other.
We are believers. We are sisters in the word. Daughters of a great and wonderful King. When faced with the "card," we should show the same grace that Jesus showed to those who mocked Him. We should truly reflect the way God calls us to live. To be forgiving and understanding. We don't need to allow ourselves to manipulated. We need to stand up for the truth when needed. We do not need to be judgers of non-believers or ourselves.
I am a proud believer, but I still wish I could get a discount at my local Christian book store.
I'm linking up with the Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood at Finding Heaven.
Monday, August 29, 2011
What's up with the Youts?
A few months ago, I wrote a few posts (post 1/post 2) on community in the church. These came out of things happening in the church we were attending. We have now returned to our old church. When we returned, we were saddened to see that some of our friends had left. The reason - "not enough for the youth to do." I'm troubled by this trend because it's not the first time I have heard it. It has been something I have heard since becoming a Christian. It is also something happening in the world at large.
Our world seems to revolve around our kids and their needs. Keeping them occupied and entertained through sports, music lessons and clubs. We are either chauffeuring them around or they are spending too much time in front of the tv. Where does this allow for family or devotion time? I used to balk at Dr. Kevin Leman's advice to not put kids into extra-curricular activities or only 1 per child. However, I soooooo get this now that I will be having 2 kids in school. The last 2 years, the princess was in rhythmic gymnastics. Taking her, even once a week, threw a curve in our sechdule. I cannnot even imagine if I had had her in more or if all the kids were of an age to be in 2-3 different activities each. I think I'm going grey now?? (LOL)
The church has also taken to the youth orientated culture. A question I keep hearing is: "How can our services be relevant to the young?" Many services are geared musically to a younger audience and "tried and true" hymns have been given the "ol'heave hoe". I sat in a meeting once where the worship leader said hymns "were boring and long." Now I won't disagree that some are long, but reflect on the words and see the great lessons in them. One of my favourite hymns, Great is Thy Faithfulness, is a terrific reminder that no matter what He is faithful. The words breathe His faithfulness. I find hymns as relevant today as they were when first written. Of course, they may not have "a good beat", nor could you probably dance to them, but church is not a dance club. Do not get me wrong though, I'm not saying you cannot dance in church. I love clapping and moving around, but this is a place to worship in community with young and old. It is a place where we should be teaching our young people how to respect their elders who have a lot to teach. It is not a place where our elders need to compromise their faith to accommodate another's needs.
Titus 2 is generally thought of as the scripture passage where the old women are to mentor the young women. But if you look at v. 2, it talks about teaching the old men to be reverent, as well. Through watching our elders lives and listening to their wisdom, we will learn. I am glad to be a part of a church with strong elders. I love seeing my children learn and build relationships with people who have been through war, famine, death, depression, marriage, raising children, raising grandchildren, etc... In fact, in some churches I have attended, the people who welcomed me the most were the seniors. I have enjoyed getting to know them and spending time with them.
Psalm 71:18 says:
Even when I am old and gray,
do not forsake me, O God,
till I declare your power to the next generation,
your might to all who are to come. (NIV 84)
If we continue on the trend to ignore our seniors or balk at their ideas or even to push them aside for something newer and cooler, we disallow God to work through them in our lives. We are not created knowing everything. We need to learn from those who have been "around the block a few times." And remember, you will one day be those seniors that are scoffed at today, tomorrow. How would you like to be treated?
I'm linking up today with the Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood at Finding Heaven.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Who am I reflecting?
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17 NIV'84
A few weeks ago during the Imperfect Wives show on submission, this verse came up in the discussion. I have heard this verse. I have read it a few times. But until that show, I never really thought about it and the implication it means to my life.
I go through life just doing and usually not with a great attitude. I often start out the day with full intentions to live life the fullest. I have a "rosy" attitude. By the end of the day my glasses are "fogged over." I am stressed. I am angry. I am frustrated. I am probably not a very nice person to be around. I snap. I argue. I have even been known to "shut down" and hide out in a book.
But this verse changes that. It is not about me and how it is going to make me feel. It is really about HIM. Am I doing everything I do with the thought about how it makes me feel or look or about how it makes God look? We are but a reflection of Him. Everything we do should be done to make Him look good. If my attitude is bad, how am I reflecting God to my husband or my children? Does it help me to build them up or encourage them? When I whine and complain about my life to my friends, how am I showing them I trust God? I am not saying you have to be a "shiny happy" Christian all the time. But if all we do is gripe, complain and give up then how can we honesty acknowledge that what we are doing is for Him?
Lately when I have asked my 8 year old to do minor chores (ie. pick up toys; brush hair; make bed; etc..), I have been getting the rolling eyes; the stomping of the feet; and a bit of griping. I have been calling her on it, but really she has been taught by the best.
Now is the time to be transformed and renewed. It is the time to change my attitude and glorify God in all I do - even doing the laundry. It won't be easy. It will be worth it.
I'm linking up with a great bunch of ladies at the Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood at Finding Heaven.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Inside Out
This is how people see me:
This is really how I look:
ok on the inside....
But there is hope. Hope for me. Hope for all.
I'm linking up today with some very authentic women at Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood at Finding Heaven.
No, really. I have been told many times by some of my friends that I am one of the most organized people they know. But as we all found out, not everything about Martha was a "Good Thing".
Before I moved, I had a great conversation with one of my Babes. We were talking about an acquaintance who had told her that my house was immaculate; never dirty and she didn't know how I did it. Wow, she should have been there when we were cleaning and moving furniture. I hate to admit that there were some serious 4 year old dust bunnies hiding under some of the furniture.
This is really how I look:
ok on the inside....
I have been going through some issues and struggles lately. I've tried to persevere in faith and I've headed out on my own expeditions. You can easily guess which one was better.
There have been a lot of changes in our lives, as many of you are aware. The most obvious being the move and what that entails. But there has also been the loss of dreams and the awareness of what autism means for our family. I believe God lead this move to strengthen our family, but sometimes I get into my own pity party where I just question and cry out "WHY ME!" I was the one people came to. I'm the one they think of as strong. I'm the one who people see as having it all. Do you see the problem?
Is it about God or is it about me? This weekend I was hit with it by our Pastor's sermon on the 7 woes in Matthew 23. I've been too consumed at what others see of me - my family, my friends, my church, the world. I've let everyone see my facade, my white washed tombs. (Mt 23: 27-28), but I haven't shown them my authentic self. I've even tricked myself in believing that God sees the facade. Unfornately for me, He sees to my heart.
But there is hope. Hope for me. Hope for all.
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing. Matthew 23:37
He still wants us. He is longing to gather us and care for us. He wants us to come to Him and let go of all of our facades. To be messy and authentic with Him. To humble ourselves to His will and let Him do His good work in us.
I'm linking up today with some very authentic women at Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood at Finding Heaven.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
My Confession....
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. (James 5:16a)
I confess that I have a stash of chocolate and I rarely share it with anyone, especially my kids.
I confess that I drink at least 4 cups of coffee a day.
I confess that I'm addicted to Drop Dead Diva.
I confess that I often don't put sunscreen on my kids.
I confess that most evenings I count the seconds until bed time.
I confess that I haven't finished the Bible in 90 Days challenge. I stopped in Luke.
I confess that I haven't read a lot of blogs since January and that my Reader is intimidating and overwhelming.
I confess that I rarely respond to people's comments on my blog. Something that I have been trying to work on.
I confess that I often judge and gossip about others especially when I am angry or jealous.
I confess that there are times I just want to get in my car and drive away and escape from life.
I confess that I give more of my time to my friends than to God or my family.
I confess that I struggle with forgiving people when I have been or feel that they have betrayed my trust or loyalty to them.
I confess that there have been too many times where I have felt hopeless and have been literally on the floor broken.
I confess that I don't often turn to God when I should. That I try to do it my way and fail drastically.
I confess that I'm not perfect, nor am I organized, nor do I have it all together. It usually feels like everything is balanced on a thread.
I acknowledge that I have a great and forgiving Father who continues to call me through the messy. Who loves me just for me. Who wants me to rest in His Word and presence and be whole in Him.
I acknowledge that I'm working on trusting Him and am breaking down the walls created to keep people out and me in, and allow Him to fix the hurt, lonely, broken, imperfect child who needs, calls and wants Him.
I'm linking up with Jen at Finding Heaven for Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Refiners Fire
I originally wrote this post on the Refiners Fire in March of 2010. I know there are a few things that I'm clinging too and not letting go. So I too am reflecting on these words that I wrote over a year ago.
I'm linking up with Jen and the other Soli Deo Gloria Sisters this week.A month ago my husband came home and told me about a grass fire along the highway 5 minutes from our home. He said the smoke was so bad that he couldn't see anything in front of him while driving through it. In fact, the police had to shut down the highway for a while. The next day, I witnessed the damage that had been done. Acres and acres of land that looked black, dead, injured.
Today, however, that same land looks green, fresh and vibrant. What a testimony to God's healing power.
This is actually what God does in each of our lives. He comes and purifies us. When we accept Him into our lives and place Him in control, He strips our past sins and makes us pure. Malachi talks about the fire "refining them like gold and silver." (Malachi 3:3b). For those who are unaware, precious metals are melted from their original forms to take out their impurities. Just like the grass fire did in that field. The fire took all of the old, dead grass hanging around and purged it.
What "impurities" are you holding on to? Personally, I know I continue to struggle with giving God complete control. I continually hold onto those things I think I need. I have many walls built up that I know need to be blown away. Lately, I've been praying that God help me let go, when what I realize I should be praying for is "God take them, their yours." My heart may feel like that burnt, black field, full of dead sins which I struggle to let go of, but I know that there are fields of lush green waiting for me to embrace.
Are you struggling letting go of your "impurities?" God does not want us to be in this state. He wants us lush with the promise of new life with Him if we only accept it. I pray for myself and you that we would all let go of that which is keeping us from fully submitting to God and keeping us from the new life He has promised each of us.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Twilight Revisted
When I first started blogging a took part in a meme that talked about searching for the sacred in the ordinary. This is something that I have missed and I may just have to start doing this again. It brought me such joy to find God in the little things that seem mundane.
I originally posted the following post in November of 2009. It is one of favourite because I caught a glimpse of God.
I am tempted to search for the extraordinary. I catch myself longing for the incredible. I fight the urge to notice the spectacular. In doing so, I risk missing the most extraordinary, incredible and spectacular of all... the sacred in the ordinary.I'm linking up with Jen and the other Soli Deo Gloria Sisters today.
My Moment....
Normally by this time of year we are already covered in a layer of snow and hitting highs of -10 C. However, November has been quite warm. The lowest it has been is -6 C. This Tuesday we were breaking records. It reached 13 C. However, I didn't get to enjoy it as my daughter was off school that day due to a cold. It was the second day she was home and by dinner Tuesday I was feeling a little stir crazy.
I have my life pretty scheduled and am usually on the go or having someone over. Due to 'Coles cold, I was home for two days. Around 4:30 pm I went upstairs and started getting dinner ready and was having a pity party for myself. On the radio they kept talking about the beautiful sunset we were having. After hearing about this for 15 minutes, I finally went to our front window and looked out. It was like the sky was on fire. It was amazing. I ran and got my camera and prayed I could capture the beauty before my eyes. I was reminded that God is with us in all our moods. When we're feeling a little sorry for ourselves, he ignites a fire within us and gets us going, bringing us joy in the simple things, like a sunset.
This was the view outside my door.
Monday, May 23, 2011
The Good, The Bad, The Clean and the Icky!
This weekend I watched two movies. These movies together made me think about the choices I have been making regarding my tv/video viewing. These movies were Letters to Juliet and No Strings Attached. One I can recommend, the other left me reeling. Both these movies are advertised as romantic comedies and aimed at the late teenage/college and career age. But these movies are different as night and day. One relies on the premises of what if and is light. The other relies perverse humour to get the laughs.
I watched No Strings Attached with some friends while I was over at their place for dinner. I was shocked and repulsed at the movie. Within the first 5 minutes there was already language that I wouldn't want my child to hear or see. (I can't believe I said that, I sound like my grandmother). I felt at one point that we were watching soft core porn. It was that vivid. Luckily I had to leave early and didn't watch the rest of the movie. I still feel a bit shocked and dirty. But I was more shocked that this movie was being played in front of a 15 year old with no issues about language or content.
I went home and watched Letters to Juliet and was taken back at the difference of the movies. I knew how both would end. Of course, the main characters would end up together, but in the second movie they didn't have to sleep together to do it. This difference, as well as others, led me to start thinking about what I have been watching lately and are they shows I could watch if my daughter came into the room unexpectedly.
Most of the shows I watch are pretty clean. I watch a lot of food shows, home decorating shows, shows on the history channel. We like to watch Pawn Stars and American Pickers. We enjoy watching Billy the Exterminator as a family and old Mash episodes. There are few shows I watch that I don't want my kids to watch namely Glee and Grey's Anatomy. Both these shows are inappropriate for the kids, but if it's inappropriate for the kids, then why is it ok for me? These are things I've been thinking about lately.
A few weeks ago I fasted from TV for a week. It was a struggle, but I learned that I could do it. That the TV shows didn't need me to continue. I missed one week of my two favourite shows and I didn't die.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8 NIV 84
Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:1-2 NIV84
Do the things that I read and watch regularly reflect these truths? No. Many of the shows and books I read are more "worldly." The focus on what the "world" says is acceptable, rather than what God says is acceptable. They focus on many of the issues of the day, but many look at self rather than God for help. This basic lie that we can rely on ourselves and not God can lead us further from the Father until we don't hear His voice, which is where the enemy wants us.
I will admit that sometimes I read and watch such things to see what all the "hoopla" was about. For example the Da Vinci Code. I hated this book and not because of the premise which was how most of my friends felt about it but because it was a poorly written book. Did I learn anything from this book - NO. But reading it did help me to talk to my non-Christian friends about truths. I am not a believer in banning, but I think we need to discern what we put in ourselves and how it can either educate us or harm us. If what we are watching or reading will lead us away from God then we need to cease and desist immediately. We need to match what we are feeding our hearts and minds with Gods word.
I know this is a struggle that I have. What's appropriate and what's not. I think we all do. But after this weekend I know that if it makes me feel "icky" then it's definitely something that I shouldn't be watching or reading.
My son, pay attention to what I say; listen closely to my words.
Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart;
for they are life to those who find them and health to a man’s whole body.
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.
Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you.
Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm.
Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil. Proverbs 4: 20-27
What are your thoughts? Is this a struggle you've been having?
I'm linking up with the Soli Deo Sisterhood today at Finding Heaven.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Communities within Community
This past month my church participated in a Natural Church Development Survey. You know those surveys that ask you how you feel about the worship, what do you think of church leadership, etc.. This last week we met regarding the results. There were really no surprises, but a lot of concerns. A major deficit in our church appears to be in the lack thereof or complete disregard of small groups. One of our council members even acknowledged that they had not focused on small groups in a long time.
There was a lot of discussion and numerous comments regarding the small group dilemma:
- I meet with three other men over coffee and we have various conversations. Is that a small group?
- My small group is not even affiliated with the church.
- We meet every Sunday after church and hang out
- Why do we have to sit down and study some book?
- We should organize people into small groups.
- Why are we even worried about small groups, they're not even in the Bible?
WHAT! That last one threw me for a loop. They are in the Bible.
They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. (Acts 2:42-47 NIV84)
After Pentecost, where the Spirit ignited and moved among the people, 3000 people became new believers. These people then didn't just sit around either and discuss what should or could be done - they just did. They met continually with each other in study, in fellowship, in communion and in prayer.
I know many of us think of small groups traditionally as a group of believers just sitting down with our Beth Moore studies or some book regarding a book of the Bible. These believers did just that. They studied the stories of Jesus. They studied the teachings of the letters of Peter and Paul. But I think that the study of the teachings doesn't just have to be looking at some book, but by holding each other accountable to the teachings. Just getting together with a group of men and encouraging and challenging each other in their walks is great spiritual teaching. Learning from each others' testimonies, trials and triumphs sometimes are the best expressions of God work and those stories stay with us. In know my Babes do a traditional study, but some of the best lessons I have learned, haven't been from the studies we have done, but have been from watching each of their walks and how God has worked in each of them.
The group of that "hung out" together were the group that didn't want to be pigeonholed into studying. They just wanted to hang out, play music, have fun. This is what we are called to do. To be in fellowship. To enjoy each others company. To encourage each other. To laugh with each other. To praise God in worship with each other. However, it can't just become a group where you don't hold each other accountable. Where you don't question? We need to support each other, but we also need to ask those tough questions of each other. When I first went to our church I was part of a Mom's Group, where we did mostly socialize, but we also talked about our struggles - not just as moms and wives, but as daughters of God. We held each other and prayed for each other. We did fun things every week, but we also read devotions and encouraged conversations regarding those devotions that challenged each of us. A group that just "hangs out" is in danger of not "growing" or growing stagnant as the foundation is not there.
The early believers prayed for each other. In fact, Paul stated:
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. Ephesians 6:18 NIV84
We are to lift each other up in prayer and praise. God wants us to give everything over to Him. Sometimes in our deepest trials, when we feel alone, we need that group of believers around us, interceding on our behalf; saying the words we cannot because we are too broken. It can also be a group to get down and praise for all that God has done and continues to do in us. The best example of this is shown in the book series the Yada Yada Sisterhood. These books describe a group of ladies of different social and economic backgrounds and how they lifted each other up in prayer at all times and in all ways.
Did you also notice that the new believers "broke bread" together. I know some commentators say this is about eating together. But another verse also uses the broke bread terminology.
While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take it; this is my body.” Mark 14:22 NIV84
These believers celebrated what brings us all together in remembrance of Jesus and what he gave us - His Body for our deliverance. This is something we still do two millennial later. Many of us do not do this in a small group setting. I experienced communion during a small group evening with adults with various disabilities. This still in my memory was the most moving and spiritual times I have ever partaken of communion. Sharing the gift with people who loved me for just being me; just as God loves me for me.
I know many people get stuck on the legalities of small groups. When and how they should meet? How many people should be in a group? Should they be in groups based on age, sex or interests? I think instead of thinking about the schematics, we should look at what they are: communities within community. We are not to close ourselves off to the larger community, but we should have a close group of people to share our pains and joys with and to build relationships. We need to encourage each other to build a community in a way that it strengthens and challenges their walks.
What does a small group look like to you?
Monday, May 9, 2011
Carry Each Other
A few weeks ago, I wrote about the "messy Christianity" that we all know about, but do not want to talk about. Today at Babes, we talked about this. We all agreed that the church should be the place to share these pains, trials, feelings, struggles, etc... We should feel able to be open with members of our church family. Many things prohibit this from happening. One of the Babes felt that we may not want to hear the truth because we wouldn't know how to respond. We are all human and suffer from our human frailties of selfishness, weakness, favouritism - namely our worldly nature.
James spoke about how we look at people at church.
Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? James 2:2-4 NIV 84
Tell me the truth, have you ever judged the person next to you in the pew? I know I have. Whether as James talks about the "poor man" or the single mom; the recent divorcee; the immigrant family; the "crusty" old guy, we have each judged the unknown and have chosen not to open our minds or our hearts to learning more about them. How many of us have really gotten to know those that society or our close circle of friends considers the undesirable? How many of us turn and thank God that that's not us. Oh, how easy it would be for God to answer and it wouldn't be the prayer that we were praying, but quite the opposite.
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 NIV 84
As a mom, we know a lot about carrying another's loads. My daughter always trys to get me to carry her backpack when I pick her up after school. In fact, she often comes out of the classroom and drops the said backpack at my feet. I know this is different from the burdens Paul was talking about but we are meant to support each other through our trials. How do we do this? As simple as praying for each other.
Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:13-16 NIV 84
Did you notice that we have some ownership to our "messiness." We need to talk to our "elders of the church". Many of us keep our burdens to ourselves and we wallow and suffer in silence. We don't want to share our problems with others or admit our frailties and our imperfections. But that's exactly what we are called to do. We don't have to post it in the weekly bulletin or announce it from the pulpit, but we are to share our troubles with fellow believers and pray for redemption and healing.
We were not meant to live alone. God, felt it was bad and created Eve for Adam. We were created to be in community with each other.
Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their work:
If one falls down,
his friend can help him up.
But pity the man who falls
and has no one to help him up!
Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.
But how can one keep warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NIV 84
We need to pick each other up. We need to look past our own prejudices and our own pain. We need to ask the serious questions and expect the honest answers. We need to be honest with people and not give them stock answers. It's ok to admit that we hurt or don't have all the answers. It's at those times we need to bow our heads together and go to the one who does and who can heal us and save us from our trials.
Church was made for community. We are only as strong as the weakest link. Go out on a limb today and open yourself up to the community around you.
I'm linking up today with Soli Deo Gloria Sisterhood at Finding Heaven. Come join in and see God at work.
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- Michelle
- Alberta, Canada
- I'm a 39 year old (oh yeah I'm telling you my age) Stay at Home mom. A former Bad Girl now reformed sinner, I'm married to my Y2K guy and raising 3 great children from God. Proudly Canadian, however, missing the West Coast, I currently live in the prairies watching the farmers fields produce as I learn how God produces the fruits in me.
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