The Life Of A Tree

The Life Of A Tree

7/21/13 – Original

8/6/13 - Verses
10/1/13 - Revised

The following passage was taken from a study that I taught.

"Imagine a large and lovely tree, a tree that invites creatures to come and nest. A tree whose leafy arms hold the promise of comfort and rest. A person who is a shelter is one who affords those that enter her life the joy of relaxing in her love. She has come alive to her longings and the beauty of offering her soul without contempt or pressured performing. This aliveness is not a fruit that she uses to adorn herself. Rather, it is for the explicit purpose of having more to give to others for their well-being and to God for his Glory." -Dan Allender, The Wounded Heart.

I actually carry around a copy of that passage because it speaks so much to me. There is also a different picture of a tree that I post in various places to remind me of this.

In the last few weeks, I've really felt like God was trying to talk to me about trees. I am captivated by every one that I see. Collectively and separately, I am stirred with so much thought and adoration. 

I can't help but wonder what that would be like? -God making me into a tree. If I were a tree; what kind would I be? An oak is usually what comes to mind, even though I haven’t necessarily decided.

You know the old adage that "You are the company you keep."  If I spent more time in the presence of trees, could I in fact become more like them?  What are some characteristics that I could gain? -Might I already have? 

I started coming up with the following list, starting with the most obvious. Consider it slowly. I hope that it speaks to you as well.

1. It’s the greatness of a tree that people imagine, not the sapling or damaged areas. - 1 Peter 5:10

2. Able to sway but never bend. - Romans 12:2

3. Arms always raised. - Psalms 63:3-4

4. Food/nourishment is always evident in fingers. Scattering seed. - Titus 2:1-5

5. Appearing to ‘dance’ through the blows of life. - James 1:12

6. Strong enough to hold a house within arms, or a nest, or two. - Proverbs 3:18

7. Sought for admiration, pleasure to a child, shelter from sun and rain, or as a choice material in building. – Philippians 2:1-4

8. To be a necessity to others in order to sustain life. - Proverbs 31:20

9. To only produce such quality and high value resources. - Galatians 5:22-23

10. What doesn't get consumed by others has potential to become the next offspring. - Deuteronomy 4:9-10

11. I've heard that if you follow the longest limb on a tree, you fill find that it covers the longest root. What a smart tree to always protect what makes it stand. – Psalms 91:2 (Check out the whole chapter).

12. Injuries & disease turn into interesting knots and scars. – Mark 5:19

13. Trees do not restore and repair wood that is injured and infected. Instead they compartmentalize off the damaged tissue. They don't work to replace those cells, they just grown around it! - Romans 6:4

14. Even decay can be used for the benefit of others. – Romans 8:28

15. Within the bark, appears to be a grooved road map for others to follow. -From the ground, up. - Isaiah 26:7

16. Only growing up. Never looking back. - Philippians 3:13-14

17. A tree does not waiver. It always stands ground. – Hebrews 10:23

18. Anyone can tell, simply by looking at the tree, what kind of tree it is, or that it is in fact, a tree. - John 15:5

19 It knows the difference in seasons, waiting and producing. – Hosea 12:6, Galatians 6:9

20. Flourishes in light, wilts in darkness. - 1 Thessalonians 5:5

21. Lives –only- on God's provision. – Matthew 6:11

22. The wood of a tree is an arrangement of living, dying, and dead cells. (Sounds just like our habits, huh?) – 2 Corinthians 4:12

23. To make no sound ever, except when moved by something. - Proverbs 15:4 | Branch

24. Born w/a crown. (The name for the upper portion of a tree). - Romans 8:17

25. Most of where I would retain water would be underground, hidden from sight. (I couldn't resist.) - Psalm 139:15-16

26. Trunk would be skinniest part. (Oops it happened again.) - Psalms 147:10-11

27. There's a fullness inside that only God gave. It can't be filled with money, food, compliments, etc... - Ephesians 3:16-19

28. That fullness is what gives the tree its strength. – 2 Corinthians 4:16

29. Satisfied with stillness. – Psalm 25:4-5

30. Some trees are self-pollinating, but they will often produce larger yields with a cross pollinator. – Philippians 4:13

31. Oak Trees grow incredibly slow. If they are overshadowed by bigger trees they spend most of their energy just trying to grow tall enough to see the sun. They do best when they are directly in the light and separated from other trees. – Psalm 27:8

32. For the rings, the past is tucked away on the inside, no one would know unless someone sought its heart. – Luke 9:62

33. Never stops maturing. – Job 12:12-13

34. Always a pleasing fragrance. - Ephesians 5:2

35. Most can weather any storm. They may be changed but not destroyed. –2 Corinthians 4:7-9, Romans 5:3-5

36. It's what's the roots are in, that determines how quickly it grows, how large it becomes and what it can withstand. - Matthew 7:24-27 | Branch

37. Trees trap more of the sun's energy than any other group of organisms on earth. (Son’s energy) - 1 John 4:4

38. One large tree can lift up to 100 gallons of water out of the ground and discharge it into the air in a day. (Living water & Profession) – John 7:38

39. They produce enough oxygen for 2-4 people to live. - Proverbs 11:30

40. It's the way that the crown is worn that makes a tree appealing. - Matthew 5:14-16

41. However, it's chosen for the consistency of the heart. – Proverbs 18:16

This might be another list that I come back and add to over time. Feel free to come back and check. I hope that it was a blessing to you.

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord,
whose confidence is in him.
 They will be like a tree planted by the water
that sends out its roots by the stream.
It does not fear when heat comes;
its leaves are always green.
It has no worries in a year of drought
and never fails to bear fruit.”

- Jeremiah 17:8

Fully Sensing God

Recently I was looking for a picture for one of my posts. I wanted a green landscape. Scrolling through pictures, some were so green that I could smell them as clearly as if I were sitting there. If you've ever broken leaves on a plant or if you have been in a really lush forest, you might have an idea of the smell that I am referring to.

It happened again the following week while looking for another similar picture. This time it stayed on mind. I knew that there was a reason. I asked God what he might be trying to tell me with those pictures. The smell reminded me of my childhood, which was spent outside, swimming, making mud pies, collecting critters and climbing trees or singing to them. (Yes, really.)

I loved the water too but I would have to say by far that in the woods, was my favorite place to be. Of course by the teenage years I started drifting from that. And when I started having kids, I stopped going outside all together. Babies, bugs and sun... It just wasn't a good mix for me. When the kids got old enough to be entertained by outside, I stole that moment to catch up on something else that needed doing inside.

Since that last picture, I've thought a lot about how life and the world distract us from God. The more we learn, the more that we do for ourselves and the less that we look to God to provide. We live by our plans and talk about our needs and do what we want to do. 

We build our own houses, make our own gadgets and technology and then we surround ourselves with our things. Then we wonder why feel so caged up. There is no reflection of God in any of it. We're not only not looking at his future and what he can do, we aren't even looking at what he's already done and where he's been, or still is. Yet we ask ourselves, why is God so far away?

You might be wondering, how smelling a picture and going outside, relate to being closer to God? The smell was so strong and so alluring, it was calling my name. (I wish that I had saved the picture). 

It really got me thinking about the purpose and use of our senses. He created 5. I hear messages about him. I see his word in my bible. I taste evidence of him as I profess it with my mouth; his word and what he has done in my life. That only leaves 2 more. Touch and smell.

How much do I touch anything that God has made? Or celebrate it? I love my family. Clearly, God made each member. But the members in my family are 'man'. Going in my yard, still reflects 'us'. How long has it been since I have gone somewhere that only reflected God. Where there was no evidence of man at all? -To fully appreciate what only he has made. 

...calling my name.

And then there was smell... I was at a loss. I started thinking about what I did know about smell. Studies indicate that aromatherapy affects our mind and mood. It is the smell of food that arouses our appetite. Tasting wouldn't nearly be as good without smell. Familiar smells hold the power to connect us to a different time and place.

In fact every time that our kids go see their great grandmother, we laugh because when they come home, they each smell like Nanny. This might be a little far-fetched but Ecc 3:20 says that we came from dust and maybe somehow; that deep earth smell is a familiar reminder of home. Or maybe, in being deep in those woods, there is a smell that only my soul recognizes as God. 

Maybe all 5 of our senses are given for the purpose of identifying his nearness and his goodness. Even smell.

Psalms 107:9 - says that he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things. If smell increases the appetite for it and amplifies the taste of it... How much more powerful could it be standing in his presence, if I made it so that every sense could only focus on him?  

Sanctuary...

That aromatherapy bit must have some truth in it also. The mountains, rocks and sand all filter water. The trees and plants filter air. Standing in the middle of all of that filtering and 'freshness' would have to have an invigorating effect on me as well. Not only filtering my mind of it's contaminants but slaking the pollution of the world from my soul.

Leviticus dedicates several chapters (see 17-20) to "Separating ourselves from the world and the worlds ways." Obviously that's more of a reference to a lifestyle. But what about as a hard reset? To be transformed by the renewing of my mind. (Romans 12:2)

I don't know about you but I could use a hard reset. 

I pray that this post lingers on your thoughts as it did mine. -That it plants a seed of desire to not only find that place but to go there. Regularly. The earth is FULL of his goodness. (Psalms 33:5) May we each find our own private sanctuary within it. 

********

You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands. (Isaiah 55:12 NIV)

Prayer | Notes

Two years ago, my New Year's resolution was to improve my prayer life. I bought a book and started practicing different things. It was such a good resolution that I decided to renew it again this year and next year it will also be the same. The following list is of notes that I have made along the way.

1. Pray the way that you know how to pray - When I was a teenager. I laid in bed one night and tried to pray. I apologized to God for only saying the same few words in prayer that it seemed like I always said. As I laid there in the silence, I kept feeling like I needed to get up and read Ephesians 6:18.

I hadn't memorized any scripture. I had no idea what or why that verse was coming to mind. I tried to ignore it but I finally had to get out of bed. I turned the light on and opened my bible. I felt the Holy Spirit over me as I read "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 Lord’s people."

God honors the words of your heart. If your words are sincere, it doesn't matter how few you say or how many times you've already said them. He is still listening.

2. Be specific - There have been times that I have wanted or needed something and I didn't want to ask God because I didn't want to "interrupt him" for something petty. -Like "God, help me find my keys".

However, a couple of years ago I was making a set of Resurrection eggs to teach my Sunday school kids about Easter.  If you aren't familiar with toddlers, this is an age where they LOVE to hold little things in their hands. I could have printed pictures for each egg but I knew that they would be much more interested in the story, if there was something that they could hold inside each one.

Most of the items were easy to find. However, finding a donkey that small was not. I went to every toy and department store that I could think of. Please God let me find this donkey. I know that there is one. I just need you to show me where it is.

The Saturday before Easter, I was trying not to get discouraged but I still hadn't found it. The kids had a birthday party to attend in Williamsburg. The stores in Williamsburg were my last hope. I tried every one that I could think of before I took the kids to the party. No donkeys were found.

As we left the Birthday party, I was walking to my truck. I stepped off of the sidewalk and over in the shadow by a column, something caught my attention. I turned to look at it and it appeared to be a gray rock. I turned back to the truck but I felt something telling me to go back and look at it. So I did. I picked it up. It was the tiniest donkey that I had ever seen. 

It was the donkey from Shrek and must have come from a child's birthday cake. I scoured the parking lot for any small child that may be missing it. When none was found, I teared up a little and sent up thanks. God reminded me again of the same verse from so many years before.

I've had several friends comment that God only answered because it was something that aided in teaching others about him. Yes, the answer(s) that we get to prayer(s) are strongly dependent on what God's will is for our life and maybe even dependent on how we would respond to the answer. -But how many people would've even prayed for a plastic donkey? You can glorify God with any answer he provides and he can answer any prayer. 

Updated 2/21/15 - Check out John 11:4. Jesus was raising Lazarus from the dead and said it was so that God could be glorified through the answer! Now this is only one example but read the other miracles in the bible. When God answers our prayers, it is maybe occasionally out of love or will but mostly it IS in order to give GOD Glory!

3. You cannot bother God by seeking his hand - You SHOULD seek it in everything that you do and in everything that you need. He knows the need. Just like we know that he's there. Sometimes, he just wants us to ask. -To consider him, so that we can learn that he is trustworthy.

4. Seek Ye First (Mat 6:33) - Ask him before we ask all of our friends. Ask him before we find our vice. Ask him before we give up. Ask him before acting in haste or emotion. Seek ye first.  Not last or after.

5. Pray together - Matthew 8:20 says: "For where two or three gather in my name, there I will also be." There have been several periods in my life, where I have asked others to pray with me. I usually do this when I am really anxious about something. Whether we physically pray with each other or if I make a request and others pray on their own. -When someone else prays with me about the same thing, I can feel the difference. My anxiety always stops. I attribute it to this verse and the results of a prayer team.

6. Fasting - I've only fasted twice and it should only be done if you feel led to do it. I have received peace and answers during both times that I have fasted. There are many verses that mention fasting and so I won't reference one. You can search on your own. I am certain that I will fast more when I study more about it. 

7. POWER in repetition - Some of the simplest prayers that I have prayed, have been "Hallelujah" over and over.  Try it. (The next two examples are also a form of repetition.)

8. Write it down if you need to - I've been terribly uncomfortable praying out loud. I am mostly embarrassed when I draw complete blanks while I have every one's attention. However, I told God that I'd accept every opportunity to pray out loud until I could get past that. So, I found myself writing prayers ahead of time (so that I wouldn't forget my words).

I have even discreetly read from the paper when the opportunity presented itself. It might sound corny and I don't do it anymore but it got me practicing something out side of my comfort zone. Again, God sees your heart and honors what you are trying to do, if it is truly for him.

9. He can give you the words - Last fall a friend and I were talking about prayer. She had heard a statement about how "he will give you the words to pray." I didn't really have any experience with that. I actually thought it was strange statement. -Most likely because I couldn't understand the point of praying, if he was going to tell me what to say.

However, there have been some occasions since that time that I would find myself rehearsing prayers and thoughts, until I got them in a certain order. -Particularly, before opportunities where I would be praying out loud. When the opportunity presented itself, I would verbalize the words that I had been meditating on.

I thought that this was my updated method of practicing. Instead of writing thoughts, I thought I was just memorizing and order of words.  However, when those situations have occurred, I have had a big response to those prayers. Other people have felt the spirit while I prayed. I believe now that the spirit does give you the words to pray in certain situations. -Especially, for the benefit of someone else. (I will be studying more about this one too).

Updated 2/21/15 - See also in John 11:41-42 Jesus Thanked God in front of others and he says that he does it for the listeners benefit.  Stop to consider what it's like when you hear someone talking to or about someone that they don't know verses when they talk to or about someone that they do know. How much more of an impact do you think that would have for someone without faith to hear us talk to a God that we know; sharing knowledge or confidence about what we trust in him?  It gets our attention doesn't it? Our prayers out loud with others can totally be for the listeners benefit!

10. Confession/Admission - Humble yourself and say what's really on your heart. There is power in admitting not only your sin but your weakness. You are recognizing that you have a need and that God really is bigger than you are.

11. Journal - Record your thoughts but also record your answers in a prayer journal. You will be surprised how much more visible it is that God is with you and that he does reply. This whole blog is my record. This is my journal so that I can easily see the evidence of his hand in my life. He is with me. He is with you too.

12. Less worry - This is not the command to "worry less".  This is the byproduct "less worry". Once I started writing about my prayers, it started a cycle; I started listening more, which led to praying more, which led to thinking about prayer more and then back to doing it more. Somehow in doing that, I've started worrying less. I am learning to be peaceful. ...It's the darnedest thing. ;)

13. You can improve your prayer life -  Get a study. Practice, practice, practice.

14. God listens to the prayers of the righteous - I seriously believe that this is not about believing in God. This is about being obedient to God. If you believe and if you are obedient (or are trying your best to be) then it makes all the difference in your prayer life. See John 9:31, Psalms 34:17, 1 Peter 3:12.

15. Thankfulness - See his hand in your blessings and answers and remember to thank him.

16. Exalt him - One of the best things that I've learned about praying is that "Thanking God is still focused on self and what he has done for you." Thankfulness is important; but trying to pray without asking for anything and without thanking him for anything, is really hard. -At first. Try to pray to him about how awesome he is. How powerful he is. How you want to know him or feel his presence. Exalt him.

17. Include scripture - I have started doing this the most.  Depending on what I will be praying about, I will look up scripture and I will reference it in my prayers. "Your word says this..." or "Psalms says this..." and I am seeing such a significant difference in my prayer.  Not only that; but in saying scripture more frequently, the memorization comes more easily. There are a lot of studies on scripture and prayer or "praying God's word". This will be something else that I study more of.

18. Put a little love into it  - Do you enjoy listening to someone talking that clearly doesn't mean what they say or that doesn't have any passion for what they are saying? God hears all- but our prayers have to be more powerful when we're having a conversation and not just going with a motion.

Remember to check back. I've got quite a few studies that I will be doing about prayer in the next year or so. I am pretty sure that I will have more notes to add. :D

19. Pray outloud - Check out this video, Mike Donehey on Prayer.

Taste And See That The Lord Is Good

When I was a kid, my best friend was a girl named Krystal. We spent every moment together, walking the neighborhood, watching movies, going to the races, the beach, or going camping. One day in particular, we got together to watch movies. (Most likely just Dream A Little Dream on repeat.)

At some point, we started getting hungry and so we found ourselves in the kitchen raiding the cabinets. It seemed like there was nothing that was either already or quickly prepared. As we turned to leave the kitchen, Krystal spied a crock pot on the counter.  She yelled "Mom made boiled peanuts!"

If you're not from the south, you might not know that people in the south really do boil peanuts. In fact, where I come from, boiled peanuts can be found at just about every farm stand or corner in town. They come in two flavors, plain or spicy. Many people also make their own, like my friend's mom did.

Before this moment, I didn't know any of the above either. They didn't really sound appealing but I was willing to try them. We each got a cup of peanuts and an extra bowl to discard shells.  I picked up my first wet, soft peanut and bit into the shell. Juice oozed out as I bit in. Once removing the shell, I bit into the meat of the nut.  I am pretty sure that I spit it out immediately. It was wet and slimy and soft and totally unlike any idea that I had about a peanut.

Krystal said "Maybe it was it a bad one. Try another one." So I did. Same process. Except this time I think that I chewed it up. It was definitely more firm then the last one and it wasn't quite as slimy. I thought to myself; "Where was the crunch? Is it supposed to taste this way? I finally said out loud, "Why on earth would someone eat these?"

Of course, she had probably finished half of her cup by then. As I tried to form my opinion of them, I decided to go back to the kitchen and look at the pantry one more time. I looked through everything again but found nothing. I finally retreated to the living room. I sat back down on the floor and forced myself to finish the rest of my cup of peanuts. When I was done, I got back up and got another cup, even though I was pretty sure that I didn't like them.

I am not sure at what point I developed a LOVE for boiled peanuts, but it happened. It even became my favorite snack. It just took a little practice to change my mind.

Here lately I've been thinking about how that compares to aspects of our spiritual life. Going to church, learning to rely on something that our eyes might not see, and particularly how it compares to reading the word.

Jeremiah 15:16 ESV says Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts.

Not only does this passage reference eating the word but also notice that it says he delighted in them AFTER he ate them. The words became a source of joy. Maybe not at first and maybe not even during but he 'delighted' after he consumed them.

How many times have I picked up my Bible and thought "OK God, I will get serious. I am going to read a chapter every day until..." or I would commit to completing a whole book of the Bible within a particular period of time. Yet the moment that I would try to read, I'd pick up and endless genealogy in Chronicles. I was lost with who was who before I ever got to a passage that didn't list a name.

I'd come across passages, like the ones in Revelations that talk about beasts, bowls, scrolls and trumpets. I was so confused. Should I read this literally or is this a metaphor? Then I would read Mathew, Mark, Luke and John and it was like reading the same thing over and over. I was so discouraged every time. How do some people seem to have so much faith? And how come I don't get it? It just doesn't make sense to me.

But then-

I was attending a study with some friends about 5 years ago. It was a good mixed group. Some of us were raised to believe in God but we were young in our own faith. Others in the group were well seasoned. It seemed that every time I had a question about a passage, a friend would not only try to answer the question but he would also read from the commentary in his Bible. I'd scramble through pages trying to figure out what he was reading from. It was like a light bulb going off every single time but I could never find the answers in my own Bible.

Finally, I asked him what kind of Bible he had. It was a Life Application Bible. It had interpretation of what was happening in each passage. It cross referenced other passages to give you more details to the story. It had so many in depth biographies about characters in the Bible. I had to buy one. It was one of the best investments that I ever made. And now, even when I understand a passage, I look for the commentary because it is so powerful.

You might ask how reading the Bible applies to eating something new. In both scenarios, it was awkward and seemingly unnatural for me to want or even like either. But trying it again, and again, and again is what made each of them become something that I loved.

Psalms 34:8 says to Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.

How do you taste something that you're reading with your eyes?  You profess it with your mouth. Proverbs 18:21 says that there is LIFE in the power of the tongue. You chant it to yourself in that moment of need. You share it with your friends when you've made a connection. You pray his word right back to God when you don't know what else to do. "Your word says 'X' and... 'I need it" or "I believe it" or "I have found it to be true..."

You have to apply it to your eyes, to your thoughts, to your lips, and to your life. You can't apply it if you do not read it and know what it is. And if you're doing neither of those, how do you know that God is good?

At some point a regular study wasn't enough. A situation would arise and I would use a concordance or Google to look up passages and interpretations of verses until I found one that either satisfied or convicted my heart.  I wonder what God says about this...

His word became so much more personal when I started trying to apply it. When I found it to be true; I did delight, not only in God but in his word. Then my desire changed and I began to enjoy reading the Bible in every other method.

If you're still trying to figure out how to like the Bible, I encourage you to ask God to make you like it. I'd also like to recommend that you pick out a Bible that you like. The one that I mentioned is a great one but there are other study Bibles. Also consider the translation. If you can't understand KJV, try NAS or NIV translations. Make it personal. If it's something that makes sense to you and if it's something that YOU picked out, you'll be more inclined to read it.

I'd also like to recommend that you pick out or even go to a Bible study. You can read on your own. You don't have to go to church or meet with a group. However, when you're in a group, you can discuss ideas and different interpretations and learn about tools. All of which might help you grow your own faith.

I know that I am on a church kick these days but I've really been surprised by how much I've grown to love it. I have recently missed 3 weeks between family visiting and sickness in our house. By that third week, I was literally grieving not being at church. If I go too long without reading his word or spending time with him, I find myself grieving there too. What is most interesting though, is that I crave all of it now; church, my Bible and time with God. But it first came, by the practice of....

The last thought that I'd like to leave you with is how the Bible compares to that crock pot. The crock pot was in the same room with us the whole time. We stood so close to it and yet kept searching and searching for something to satisfy our hunger. We didn't even notice it until after we had finally exhausted all of our other options. The only reason that I became aware of its satisfying contents was because someone else had been satisfied by it before and knew to open it up.

Matthew 4:4 (NIV) Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."

Have a blessed day y'all!! :D

101 ways to train your mind to be on the things of the Lord

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." - Philippians 4:8.

Some of these ideas might seem a little silly but truthfully, we all just need a lot of reminders. The more we start looking for ways to include God; the more that we will actually start including him. I went from being a woman who could never remember to pray to becoming a woman who prays all of the time. Don't make any part of this list your law. :) Ask God to help you or reveal where to start and give yourself time to practice.

1. Memorize a bible verse (or two). Repetition leads to new habits.
2. Write affirmations of biblical promises, your goals, new habits etc. Repeat them every day as part of your morning routine.
3. Change one or all of your passwords to scripture passages or spiritual words/phrases.
4. Slap some yellow sticky notes with words that you find encouraging, EVERYWHERE YOU GO. (Or for you private types, write them in the fog on the mirror or hide them in other places.)
5. Or wear jewelry, temporary tattoos, clothing, etc. for the same purpose as number 4. If you pick one thing and always use or wear it, then it will serve as a great reminder, not only to keep you on task but it can also become an invitation to talk about God when someone inquires about the item. 
6. When you commute in the car, trade that music for quiet time, a Christian worship hour, audio teaching, or even listen to the audio bible.
7. Pray with your children (and spouse). And to break up the monotony, you can incorporate lessons from school like if your preschooler is learning ABC's, pray for someone or something that starts with A and then the next night B.  OR Find something that you're thankful for that starts with that letter or pray for 'x' number of things.
8. When someone or something upsets you, take that as an opportunity to think of a positive about the situation or person, pray to God or reference a verse that might adjust your attitude. Pray also about what you can DO. Perhaps there is a need that you can meet to restore your peace.
9. Develop personal goals. If you don't know where you're going, how do you know where you're headed?
10. Develop Spiritual Goals, not just for yourself but as a family.
11. Don't be impulsive. Especially with large purchases or decisions. Consider biblical principles or even your personal/spiritual goals. How will your decision line up with those items?
12. Fast from food, a thing or activity. Then every time that you think about that thing, offer up a prayer or word of thanks to God.
13. Pray with a friend that asks for advice. This is twofold. Not only are you putting your advice on the shelf but you're bringing God's hand into the situation.  Plus, the more that you pray out loud, the better that you will become at praying out loud.
14. Stop saying your "lucky" and give God the thanks for your blessing(s).
15. There are devotion books for children, include one in your bed time reading with the kids at night. (There is also a teen edition)
16. Better yet, get an adult edition for you.
17. Go outside; touch nature and something that God has made. There is life in it.
18. Commit to something at your church or in service to God.  By committing you will form new habit(s).
19. Give God part of your day. Every day.
20. Ask God what he wants you to think about.
21. Then wait and listen for his reply.
22. Re-prioritze your life so that "love" comes first.  The more you look for things to love, the more that you will find things to love. This is the greatest commandment.
23. Turn off the electronics. There are plenty of verses that refer to peace of mind, being quiet and not being restless. You don't continuously need to touch that gadget.
24. If your kids find something that they like at church, incorporate it at home. Example: My kids LOVED candlelight service at Christmas. So, we bought candles for the house and so, once a month or when they ask, we light candles and sit on the porch at night. There are no rules (except for the ones that apply to fire safety and well everyone must come and be present). Then each person takes a turn (but only if they feel led to). When it's your turn, you can sing, pray, talk and worship the Lord anyway that you feel led. 
25. Try to find God in everything. (Sometimes you just need to ask him- God what would you like me to know about this? What do you want to teach me?)
26. If you want to know about something biblical, take the time to look it up.
27. If you start a study, even if you don't like the subject, tell yourself that God can still teach you something from it. Then complete it.
28. Expect to be successful at keeping your mind on the things of God.
29. Expect God to show you new ways to incorporate this.
30. Everything that you do, do the best that you can do to give him honor. (Col 3:23)
31. Start journaling. When you pray about something, document your answers, it will keep you listening. Don't limit the journal to prayers that only ask God for things. It can be a record of blessings, goals, plans, etc.
32. Start setting standards on movies and books that you read. Don't watch them if they break commandments or make you feel awful. Turn them off then and find something better to watch or listen to.
33. Download a bible app,  podcast or book on your smart phone or tablet.
34. Decorate your home with little reminders that mean something to you and your relationship with God.
35. Say the blessing before each meal.
36. Subscribe to a blog or daily devotion.
37. Your body is a temple. Start treating it that way and think about what you're doing to it and putting in it.
38. Select spiritual screen savers.
39. Put something on your ceiling so that you see it first thing when you wake up (or by the bed, if the ceiling thought just freaked you out. haha).
40. Look for someone that you could share God with each day.
41. Unfortunately we all have to reprimand our kids occasionally. When this happens, try and think of scripture that references the behavior that want them to correct.
42. Do the above, when you need to correct yourself.
43. Then forgive yourself.
44. Then try to love yourself like God loves you.
45. Try to love others like God loves them.
46. During family time each day, instead of asking what your high/low was ask, "How did you see/feel/hear God today?"
47. If you like games, look for Christian or Biblical trivia online or other board games.
48. If you enjoy baking, make it an opportunity to tell a story like with Hot Crossed buns or Resurrection Rolls.
49. Do something nice and unexpected for someone else. Then make it an opportunity to discuss and/or reflect on God's love with the recipient.
50. Pay tithes.  Everyone cringes at this but if you give it to him first, you're putting him before everything else.
51. Volunteer or help someone when you see or hear of the need. (Golden Rule)
52. Encourage fellowship in your home. Invite friends. Not just yours but also your children's friends.
53. At dinner or on the way home everyone should take a turn to name something that they are thankful for.
54. Attend church. Take as many people with you as you can.
55. Monitor what comes in your home and what goes out.
56. GET REST, it's easier to keep a mind in line, when it is fully rested.
57. Start practicing what you are learning. Caring for the earth by not littering, returning things when they are out of place, helping others and animals, like turtles crossing the road.
58. See where God is working and join him. (reference from Experiencing God study.)
59. Nothing is coincidence. Believe in divine intervention.
60. Read the bible. The more that you put in your mind, the more that will stick around. This is easier to do when you find one that you like. The Life Application Bible is awesome!
61. Do crafts with your kids like resurrection tombs or something else. You can google Christian crafts.
62. Did someone say snacks?
63. Put this Romans 13:8 somewhere visible in your wallet and consider it before spending. 
64. Find an accountability partner and then discuss that list weekly.
65. During the Holidays, find ways to make them about God instead of just the traditional holiday garb.
66. Name a pet after someone in the bible. Every time that you call him/her...
67. Set an alarm clock or ringer to an encouraging song or phrase.
68. If you're going to take a class or go to counseling, search and register for a Christian version.
69. Plan ahead so that it's easier for you to stay in line. (You'll know where/when you might need to be planning in your own life.)
70. When selecting a vacation, schedule it around a mission opportunity, retreat or conference.
71. When you have nothing to say and nothing to think, sing a song to God.
72. When you have too much to say and too much to think, sing a song to God instead.
73. Be sober minded, not just concerning the effects of alcohol but in all things that you consume, and lack of sleep. (1 Peter 1:13)
74. When writing letters and cards for friends, include encouraging verses.
75. Live like someone is watching your every move. He sees. So do others.
76. Surround yourself with positive people. Iron sharpens iron.
77. Don't be afraid of discipline. Look for it. Accept it and consider it.
78. Avoid sin as much as possible. I know that sounds too general but seriously, think about your actions.
79. Apologize to any person and/or to God as soon as you are aware of an offense.
80. Guard your time with God. Turn the phone off, put the dogs outside, get up before the kids...
81. Remember WWJD? In your every decision, consider and apply "What Would Jesus Do in this situation?"
82. When passion for something over takes you (whether good or bad) ask God what he wants you to do with that.  It might be your sign to act on his behalf. If it happens enough in the same kind of situation, you might have a hint at your calling.
83. Simplify your life. Less things, less money, less tasks = less distractions = more peace.
84. Be social. He made us for fellowship, with him and with others.
85. Consider what your values are or apply biblical principles to your life.
86. Actually accept the help when it's offered.  (Better yet, don't wait, ask for it.) It might free up some time to reflect more on God.
87. Be affectionate to God. If you don't feel it, act as though you do. Your desire will grow.
88. Change your self-talk. Don't meditate on things that aren't biblical like worry, shame, regret, insecurity. When the thought comes, correct it, rebuke it, look up a verse and practice that instead, every time the thought comes back.
89. When you think that you can't give or if you start to feel stingy with something, remind yourself of verses Matthew 25:40 or Proverbs 21:26 or that God fed thousands with just 2 fish and five loaves.
90. Use your gift in service to the Lord. If you like to sew, make something for residents of nursing homes or hospitals. If you like to cook, do it for shut ins or invite needy over. If you love time with kids, foster or be a Big Brother/Sister or a lunch buddy at a local school.
91. Care for the things that you've been given. This is easier if you see them all as gifts or things that don't belong to you.
92. Don't gossip. Build each other up or say nothing.
93. If you're dating, make sure that prospects are not only believers but active in their faith.
94. Don't complain. If you're going to say it, you were already thinking it. Get that mind right.
95. Don't be idle.  Be ACTIVE, in your life, in your faith, and in self. Ever heard the expression "An idle mind is the devils playground." If you're lolly gagging along, the devil will derail you.
96. Don't be so focused on the finish line that you can't enjoy your place now but Stick it out with God.
97. When you feel like saying "Why God why?" Hold that thought and just put your trust in him.
98. Obedience. When you do what you feel like God has been asking you to do, it's easier to feel closer to him.
99. Don't compartmentalize God. It will be easier to keep your mind on God, if you don't put him back in the box after Sunday. 
100. Talk about Christ with your family.  Not just in stories or what happened at church but how he is working in your own life.
101. Give your heart to God. Ask him in, let him lead, then follow.

I've Never Seen That Before

About two weeks ago, I had some work done to my 4 Runner. The valve cover gaskets needed to be replaced. The work had needed to be done for a while but it took forever to diagnose. I picked it up on a Saturday. The truck seemed to be running fine until the following Tuesday morning.

I am not sure if you are familiar with the Piankitank River Bridge but it has been under construction for some time now. The two lane bridge has only one lane open to traffic. The other lane is completely undriveable. There is no emergency lane or shoulder. The only room to move is in the one lane that you are traveling in. If you've been over it, you might remember it more because instead of road workers directing traffic, you will find a stop light that determines which side of traffic can cross.

Anyway, on Tuesday morning, I was first in line and when the light turned green, my oil light came on and the engine cut off. I quickly prayed, "Oh please God, the truck can break but please don't let me be the disabled vehicle that stops traffic -both ways- on a busy one lane bridge first thing in the morning."

I turned the key and it started up again.  I made it across the bridge and about a mile (Thank you God) before the oil light came back on and it cut off for good. I was able to coast into a subdivision.

I heard some crazy sounds. I smelled some good smells. I looked under my truck and sure enough, oil was dripping from underneath. "This isn't good." I popped the hood and the pulley for my timing belt was broken. It had busted through the plastic cover and was revealing itself to me. "Oh no, this isn't good either."

A man stops by and offers to help. He looks under the hood and says "I've never seen that before." A fleck of awareness strikes me as if this is my queue to tune in to what God is doing. Just that morning, I said a prayer and asked God to show me something new. I chuckle a little; this man's words cannot be a coincidence. I feel myself accept some kind of challenge. "OK God. I'm yours. Yes, I meant what I prayed, even if it is this. Reveal your power."

Of course I also prayed that God would make me satisfied only with what he gave instead of what I want. The situation before me is definitely not what I want. I want a running vehicle. Heck, a new car is just fine. I boldly ask for it. Why not? Colin and I have been talking cars for sometime and just have not been in a position to buy another one. Neither of us saw this coming though. This truck was our better vehicle.

I get my phone to make calls and ironically my cousin's boyfriend, Steve just took over his family's towing business and they live immediately behind me. How convenient. (Thank you God).

I'm out in the country and so it will be a while before he gets to me. I pop the hatch in the back of the truck and I sit there making calls. Within minutes, I have three cars that I can borrow if necessary, offers for a ride into work, and other 'willing to help' offers. (Thanks again).

Then I notice the day. It is beautiful! We've had some super hot streaks lately but it's not hot this day. I comment a lot that I want to live somewhere that is in the 70's year round with a slight breeze.  The weather is EXACTLY that. I giggle a little and lift up another (Thanks).

Finally the tow truck arrives and the Steve looks under the hood. Again I hear, "I've never seen that before." (of course I will hear it about 5 more times before the day is over). I tell him my prayer. We share funny smiles and talk about where to take the truck.

In the ride back to Gloucester, I try to make a mental list of things at I am thankful for about this situation. I didn't get tires or other work done to the truck that was needed yet. -Not because I was waiting for something. I just couldn't seem to get our schedules right to make it happen. This must be why. (Thank you God). I didn't even fill it up with gas. I was on E. (Thanks again). I wasn't in a wreck. We were all OK and the kids weren't with me. (Thanks some more)

I know that the issue with my truck is major but I just have so much peace and I just can't stop laughing.  You know what- that is truly something new, for me. I do laugh a lot. I try to be positive but there was a season in my life where the back of my mind was a dark room filled with worry. Not just worry but sometimes obsession. There is plenty of opportunity for that here. But I feel different. Instead of my freaking out about the problem, or the expense or the inconvenience; the peace of God sustains me (Philippians 4:7) and I know that it's a gift from him. -Not just Peace but Joy. (Romans 15:13). (Thank you God)

I stop by to see my regular mechanic to have him take a look at the truck before I return it to who did the work. I just want to confirm whether or not what has happened, is or is not related to what was done. My motor is gone. The cam has completely snapped. The mechanic said "It looks like a freak thing". He even follows it with the magic words.

I don't think it's a freak thing. I am not blaming God or even trying to blame anything one else. Life happens. Things happen. But God provides. (Philippians 4:19). Before I had even made it to this point of my day, I had 3 offers for a loaner car for an indefinite period of time. I didn't even have to ask.

I started to refuse them because that wasn't the solution that I wanted. It wounded my pride to need something from someone else. How much do we doubt God's power when he doesn't answer prayers the way that we think that he should answer them? -As if our plans are so much better?

My heart might want a new engine. My flesh might want a new car. We tell God that he can answer prayers with a (fill in the blank). While we can and should be specific in our prayers, we need to be sure to leave enough room for God to be God. How many times do we think that he's not answering simply because his (fill in the blank) is different than ours. We don't even recognize that we already have a solution. Or maybe he can't do what needs to be done because we didn't give him enough room to work. A loaner wasn't what I wanted but he provides.

I'll say it again- He provides.

And again, HE PROVIDES.

He sees the whole picture. There are a lot of things going on in my life right now. Car payments are not what I need. Truthfully, there are a lot of other things I need to take care of before I even consider this motor. God knows this and I now agree with him that the very best solution is the loaner car at least for a bit. Without my having to ask one person, he provided 3.

I don't know how the rest of this story will end yet.  -But I remind myself not to put faith in things. I  also note that I really like the person that I am growing up (in Christ) to be. (Thanks again)

****

While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:18 NASB)

Start Your Fire (down at the PBC)

A couple of weeks ago, I shared a post called "Fire Starters". I don't usually share my blog posts on our church Facebook page but I felt led to share that one. Afterwards, I started beating myself up because I spoke about some things that  happened in church. I was worried that someone might interpret that as a negative message about what they would find inside. I might have even given the devil an opportunity to have a field day with it; by keeping new people from wanting to come and by upsetting the people that currently attend.

In the time since that post, I have thought more and more about how easy it is to be offended. We don't like what someone says, or a particular message that was given, the way the choir sings, the uncomfortable pews, the temperature of the building or blah blah blah...  There is just too much stuff to not like, if we stop to think about it.

I might have gotten upset when someone made a comment to me (refer to the other post). In hindsight, it was such a catalyst for me to get real about my faith. I took it straight to God and he really put me in my place. "Are you coming to church for the people or for me?" In so many ways, I can't help but be thankful for that one moment. (And countless other moments in my life that initially made me uncomfortable).

I didn't like it. It didn't stroke my ego. If I had given that one spark the room to ignite; I might have never settled down at any church. If I didn't let God convict me and then make a decision to commit no matter how I felt, then I would have missed out on meeting some pretty incredible people inside it.

If I got mad enough to walk away, I might not have seen 2 of my 3 children baptized so early in life or I would've missed the blessing of hearing my preacher sing from the pit of his soul, the opportunity to be a part of some mission opportunities right here in my own community, and the gift of belonging to a purpose.

I pray to be a strong woman of faith and to have a big, strong family right there with me. I pray to have good Christian friends and that somehow I can make a difference in the life of another.  When I first started praying those prayers, I was not where I am now. Although I am not perfect by any means, God has been able to answer some of those prayers, simply by my willingness to be obedient.  -Even when it hurt. How many times in life do we allow offenses to cheat us from the glory that awaits us, if we would just push through?

And no, you don't need to come to church to prove that you believe in God or even to find him. But at some point, doesn't faith require us to get over ourselves? True worship is selfless. It's not what a church can do for us, or what we think that we can do for God but a recognition of who we are called to be in Christ and coming forward to find our position.

Church is one of the greatest spiritual weapons that you can have.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12  says Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them 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. (NIV)

and

Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

No matter where you are in your faith, I encourage you to cultivate your desire to know God and to discover the power of church.  Don't stop once you hit the doors.  If sitting in the back is getting comfortable then move a little closer to the front, or come again on another day, or even sign up for an activity inside.  The closer that you get to the heart of it, the more you will realize how much it is exactly what you have been looking for.

You might not be able to come to Providence but there is a church somewhere that is has been waiting for you. Choose one and then keep coming back. If you'd like to come to Providence, we'd love to have you. Our services are at 9:00 and 10:30.

Revelations 2:10 Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.