Play Hard In The Water

I could kill any plant.  Even a cactus is not safe with me.

I'm not the neighbor you ask to water your garden while on vacation.  Come to think of it...no one does. (smile)

But this spring, I had my heart set on a beautiful front porch.  I dreamed of draping petunias flowing over white flower boxes.  I made Pintrest boards and googled landscaping arrangements for flowerbeds.  I searched and searched for colors and set a gardening budget.

I bought spray paint and gave old pots fresh faces.

Long and hard hours brought life and color to my front porch.  I was proud of my Zebra petunias, pink begonias and marigolds.  Fresh Basil and mint.  Mmm.  My porch spoke of spring.

But between then and now,  I forgot something a little important.

Water.

Yes, I know.

Now, in my own defense...the back yard is doing just fine.  (I even have a little veggie garden - proud grin) but the front porch.  Bless it's heart.

O LORD, the hope of Isreal, all who forsake you shall be put to shame; those who forsake you shall be written in the earth for they have forsaken the LORD, the fountain of living water. Jeremiah 17:13

Jesus spoke to a deep place on Saturday as the brown leaves of my petunias frowned from neglect.

Water them, Becky.  There is still life there.

Can't you see yourself in these pots, Becky?  Do you see it?  Do not forsake Me.  Your leaves will surly whither.  Come to the Fountain.  Every. Single. Day.

Yes Sir.

There are seasons that our plans for spiritual growth start big.  After cold winters, aren't we ready to start fresh? We scan bookstore shelves for new books and journals.  We sign up for studies.  We buy fresh soil and lay out our spring designs.

We spend hours digging and planting.  And God breaths life and beauty into our home.  Growth begins.  Our hearts change.  

But when the heat of summer comes, we lose gusto.  Watering our spiritual gardens becomes an every other day affair.  Maybe we get busy and forget the crucial ingredient of growth....WATER.

By 3 o'clock the sun is hot and over head.  The kids have worn us down.  The boss is on our tail.  The deadline has come.  Or that co-worker.  Oh, that co-worker. 

And then it is too late. Our soil is dry and our leaves droop south.

Are you feeling me on this?

The Lord - a fountain of Living Water.

"Living" as used here in Jeremiah means ALIVE

a) green 

b) flowing, fresh

c) lively, active

d) reviving

This is offered to us.  Every. Single. Day.

He is an endless wealth of Life! 


Flowing, fresh, lively, active, reviving FOUNTAINS of LIVING WATER.

It doesn't matter how brown your heart feels.  Or how south your leaves droop.

There is still life there.  

It just needs water.

I am committed to my front porch... again.  And I invite you to hold me accountable.

Here are pictures...(gulp - swallowing pride)

I am committed to these pitiful little guys.  The Lord has a lesson for me here.  A parallel to show.

Every. Single. Day.  They will be watered.  Every. Single. Day.  They need attention.

I am committed.

In the meantime, go and enjoy your Source of true Life.  

Put your swimmies on and play hard in His streams of Living Water today.

If You Tend To Look Back...

Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? Isaiah 43:19

Do you perceive it? The newness coming in with this new year?

There is something deep and unspeakable within me that jumps at the thought. 2011 was very long. And dry at times. I would even use the word heated. This past year brought us loss and life-altering change.

But my difficulties did not exhaust God's power. They only made an opportunity for more to be displayed.

He has been so faithful.

In Isaiah 43, God encourages the Jewish exiles to not look or live in the past, but to look to Him. He is making a way in the wilderness. He is making a clear path where there seemed to be not one. He is ready to provide refreshment in the desert.

Like the Isrealites, my natural tendency is to look back. To sulk in past mistakes or old hurts. To sit in disappointment. I can beat myself to a pulp over poor choices or harsh words I've spoken. But God is always doing a new thing. Like his instruction to the children of Israel, His words ring true in my ears today.

Behold, I am doing a new thing, do you not perceive it?

Chadash, the Hebrew word for new, simply means fresh. Are you ready for a fresh start?

I'm ready.

Yet admist the excitement, newness is a vulnerable emotion. Many uncertainties. Many questions. But in the redundant words of Scripture, do not be afraid.

"Jesus is where you are, and you can trust that he will show you the next steps." -Henri Nouwen

There are several things on my 2012 list that have a shape, yet not a face. Several of which could cause me great anxiety if I let them. Money being one of them. But I am not afraid, for Jesus is where I am. He will show me the next steps.

What is it about 2012 that brings you anxiety?

If it is your health...Jesus is where you are.
If it is your marriage...Jesus is where you are.
If it is your job...Jesus is where you are.
If it is your children...Jesus is where you are.
If it is relationships...Jesus is where you are.
If it is money...Jesus is where you are.

I am praying for you today, sweet reader. Let us look forward with great hope and anticipation! He is doing a new thing! I can perceive it! He is making a way in the wilderness for you. He is bringing refreshment in the desert for you. This past year may have exhausted you, but not your God.

He is as fresh as ever and ready to display Himself in your 2012.

Do you perceive it?

"Get out of bed, Tracie!"

This morning, I opened my computer to find a message on my facebook wall. My friend Tracie. She is a hoot. Enjoy a good giggle. Here is what she wrote...

"I was gonna see if you could come over in the morning and yell...

"'TRACIE TRACIE TRACIE... GET OUT OF BED!!!! PUT ON THAT SPORTS BRA, THOSE WORK OUT CLOTHES, THOSE TENNIS SHOES THAT YOU NEED TO PUT MORE MILES ON AND GET OUT SIDE... YOU CAN DO IT TRACIE!!!! YOU CAN DO IT! JESUS LOVES YOU AND YOU CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST... GET OUT THERE IN THE FREEZING COLD AND GET TO RUNNING. TRACIE... WHY AREN'T YOU SMILING? SMILING IS MY FAVORITE... COME ON GIRL. YOU CAN DO THIS... GO GO GO!'" ...
all while doing cheerleader jumps and clapping. Can you? What time should I expect you?

MOTIVATE ME.

I HAVE EATEN MYSELF INTO A HOLE." -Tracie

Hilarious! Oh my, how I love this girl.

But truth be known, I feel her frustration. (I threw out half of a red velvet cake the other night. I just needed it out of my house. Flee temptation!)

I am so thrown off schedule. Both physically and spiritually. I am going to bed later. Waking up later. Eating random, homemade delicacies. And lots of Chex Mix.

{sigh} I miss structure.

This time of year offers so much, but structure is not one of them.

My mentor, Debbie, asked me the other day about my goals for the new year. So I have been praying and writing them out. I love goals. Do you?

Over the next few days, I will be looking at what the Bible says about newness. And it is interesting....I find that embedded within us is the desire for new. A desire for change.

Change isn't a "New Year's" thing. Change is a Jesus thing.

New hearts. New names. New clothes. A new self.

Behold, I am making all things new. Revelation 21:5

He is the Author of change. Yet, He's always the same.

Have you been praying about goals for the new year? Share?

Today While Tending Your Flock...

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them and they were terrified. Luke 2:9

Something stopped me this morning.

I never realized (or had forgotten) that God shone His GLORY to the shepherds. I remembered the angel of the Lord appearing to them and later the multitude of angels, but in between these two occurrences, God revealed His Glory.

Glory /doxa/ Shekinah - the glory of the Lord. A bright cloud by which God made manifest to men His power and presence on earth. Splendour, brightness, magnificence, excellence, preeminence, dignity, grace, majesty; the kingly majesty which belongs to him as supreme ruler; majesty in the sense of the absolute perfection of the deity; a most glorious condition, most exalted state.

Can you imagine? Seriously.

I love it that God chooses the Shepherds. The lowly little shepherds. They couldn't have been very old. Maybe teenagers. Inconspicuous. Unnoticed. Humble. The nameless shepherds.

And He shone His Shekinah Glory to them.

He revealed the birth of Deity to them. He could have chosen anyone.

This morning, I am thankful that God chooses the lowly and inconspicuous. That might mean me. Or you.

We may not be much on the grand scale of American pop culture. We aren't English Royalty. Or public figures. But to God, we are worthy of His Glory.

Today, while tending your flock, how might God manifest Himself to you? Keep watch.

If you feel inadequate...

Do you ever feel inadequate to do ministry? To tell others about your faith? To share the gospel or encourage others in their walk with the Lord? I think we all struggle with this on some level. I know I do. For example, tomorrow night I am speaking to a group and my hands are already clammy -- my tummy beginning to turn. It is so tempting to feel under qualified when moving closer to the time of an event.

If you are in ministry (of any kind), you know what I mean.

If you are a Bible study leader, you know what I mean.

If you are a Sunday school teacher, you know what I mean.

If you are a pastor, you know what I mean.

If you teach preschool, you know what I mean.

If you need to share with a friend about Jesus, you know what I mean.

If you are the only Christian in your home, you know what I mean.

Any time the Lord puts me in a position to speak, share, teach or even write this crazy lil' blog, the enemy wants me to feel quite silly about it.

Well this morning I am combating those lies with Truth. I encourage myself with the following Scriptures often. I thought you might enjoy them, too. Read them out loud. Claim them over your own life. Here you go...

That in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge - even as the testimony about Christ was confirmed among you so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift, as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Chris. 1 Cor. 1:5-7

Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison, that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak. Colossians 4:2-4

So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it. Isaiah 55:11

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. May frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, everyone of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them. Psalm 139:14-17

I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe...Ephesians 1:17-20

Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given me by the working of his power. To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things...in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him. According to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith... Ephesians 3 (the whole thing)

A great door of effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me. 1 Cor 16:9

For who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. 2 Cor 16:9

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

Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us. 2 Cor 1:21

His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence. 2 Peter 1:3

Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack! Psalm 34:9

These are all true of you, Child of God. YOU have the mind of Christ. YOU have no lack. YOU need not be ashamed. YOU have been called to His own Glory. YOU are enriched in all speech and knowledge. YOU have a Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him. YOU stand firm in Christ. YOU are anointed. He has opened a door for YOU. He will accomplish His Word through YOU. He saw YOU being formed in the secret place. He ordained this day for YOU. He has given YOU power and all things that pertain to life and godliness.

YOU have no lack!

Hallelujah. Be blessed today! And for goodness sake, let us walk victoriously in these truths! Whoo hoo!

Do you have Scripture that speaks to you? Please share with all of us by leaving a comment.

And if you have someone who needs these passages today...forward it on.

Going Home {Awesome Guest Post!!}

Going off to college is weird. For 18ish years, your life has pretty much looked the same. And then, in one day, you move off to the university of your choosing and life is different and weird.

But you know what else is weird [and I would submit is weirder than leaving for college]?

Going back home for the holidays.

You are changed. They are changed. Your room has changed. Your friendships have changed. And sometimes it feels like you have to squeeze and finagle back into a spot that used to be really comfortable.

I’m doing my own weird “go home for the holidays” this year, as I’ve been living in Edinburgh, Scotland working with Crossroads Church for the last six months. Though it’s been a while since Mom and Dad’s was my full time residence, it doesn’t mean it is going to be simple.

At the core of who you are, you are still you. What annoyed you before will annoy you again [with a vengeance, probably]. What you loved before will make you want to stay home forever- for example, a full fridge and clean folded clothes. [Can I get an amen?]

So let’s all circle our chairs up and have a chat about how to do this thing well.

#1. Be patient
Listen, I know you’ve changed. I know you feel like a different person than when you left. And truth be known, you are in a lot of ways. And while you’ve called Mom anytime you got sick or talked with Dad about the football scores, it doesn’t mean they know all that you’ve been through. They may ask questions like, “What’s that boyfriend’s name again?” when y’all broke up in October or “When is your calculus final?” when you’ve been taking statistics. It’s okay when that happens. It really is. [I still have people make Irish jokes all the time when I have been living on a COMPLETELY different island for half of a year.] Just be patient.

#2. Be kind.
Your siblings missed you. You may not know it or feel it, but it is true. They missed you. So be nice to them. Don’t jump right back into being the angsty teen in your home. Be cool. Treat them the way you treat your hallmates or roommates at school. And try to watch the Thanksgiving Parade with them without making derogatory remarks about the cartoon character they love. [Not to mention, you’ll get to see Ingrid Michaelson perform, so you win too.]

#3. Obey the rules.
A curfew? Are you kidding me? I know. It’s hard. But you are only there for a few nights for Thanksgiving. Breathe deep, calm down, and come home on time. If it makes you insane, have a talk with Momsie and Popsie before Christmas break. [A good report card will help with that conversation, I’m just sayin’.]

#4. Be fun.
You have the choice. I know you do. You can be frowny and sit on facebook all holiday break long. Or you can play Wii with your Dad and do a puzzle with your Mom and play outside with your siblings. Be fun. When you leave to go back to school, you want them to miss you, not celebrate your exit.

#5. Talk.
What have been the highlights of the first part of this semester? What has been hard? What have you learned about life, God, friendships? Talk about this stuff. Don’t be the strong silent college kid that alienates yourself from your family. Jump right back in and tell your people about your life.

#6. Be thankful.
Let your actions say what you feel on the inside- grateful for a loving God, a family, a roof over your head. Say thanks all week long. It will go farther than you know.

Seven is my favorite number, so I’m going to let you create #7. What else do we need to remember when going home for a holiday break?

**We’ll pick one commenter to win a free copy of Annie’s book, From Head to Foot! **



The winner will be announced on Wednesday! FUN!

Annie Downs is a freelance writer in Nashville, Tennessee and she is currently flying back there from Edinburgh, Scotland. (Seriously! Today!) It has been an HONOR to correspond with her via email. Her heart beats strong for Jesus, college-age ministry and the twenty-somethings out there. (I am pulling for her to come to Knoxville and lead a weekend retreat with CRU!) Like her on facebook and learn more about her time in Scotland (and the rest of life) on her blog (one of my favs). Thank you, Annie! xoxo

Leave a comment!

By His Spirit and Grace {a guest post}

{It is my great privilege to introduce you to my sweet friend and fellow blogger Sue from Living Free In Him. Sue is a Jesus loving, wife, mom of three. writer, speaker and servant hearted lady. I am honored to know her. She has a deep down passion for encouraging women into a richer walk with the Father. I heart this girl. Enjoy a little guest bloggin' today. Afterwards, hop over to Sue's blog and look at what the Lord is doing over there.}

By His Spirit and Grace

I am so excited about being a guest poster on Becky’s blog today. I adore my friend, Becky. She has been such a blessing to me, and I know she is to all of you as well. It is a privilege for me to share my writing and my heart with you today.

In fact, I was so excited that my mind went to work last week planning what I was going to write. I prayed about it, but more in a “What do you think about this idea. God?” sort of way. I told my husband, Chris, exactly what I was going to do. I just knew I had a great idea!

In my zeal, confident of my idea, I sat down at the computer and began to type. Words were typed on paper, but they were not flowing. I love to write, but it is excruciating to write when it does not flow. Toiling. Striving. Laboring. Not fun.

Two hours I struggled and tried on my own effort to take my idea and content and make it work. It was all in vain. At the end of two hours, I realized this was not what God wanted me to write. (I’m embarrassed to say it took that long.) Discouraged and exhausted, I went to bed.

Lord, what is it You want to say?

Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the Lord of hosts. Zechariah 4:6

I knew exactly what the Lord meant. I have been trying to do things in my own might, in my own ability. I am nothing without Him. I cannot do much of anything without His Spirit. I need Him.

When I strive, I quench the Holy Spirit by not allowing Him to work.

I cannot remember if I ever have read this whole passage in Zechariah before today. How often do we go to that book for our daily devotion time? The above verse is referring to how Zerubbabel was going to build the Lord’s temple. The next verse says, “He shall bring forth the capstone with shouts of Grace, grace to it!”

He would build it not by his own might or power, but by the Lord’s Spirit and Grace. It was to be magnificent, so much so that everyone would acknowledge its beauty and know that it must be the Lord.

Now, I am not in the temple building business. However, I am into His Kingdom building business. I want my life to reflect His beauty and grace. I want people to acknowledge that there must be something else behind my life because it shines with His Glory.

There is no amount or striving, toiling, laboring that will cause us to shine for Him. The ONLY way we can shine His Light in this dark world is by His Spirit and by His Grace.

His Spirit and Grace will empower you to do whatever He wants you to do. His Spirit and Grace are all sufficient.

Oh Lord, forgive me for trying to do for you what only you can do through me. Forgive me for striving to perform instead of resting in Your Grace. I pray that whatever I do that it would be unto You and purposed by You. I pray this post glorifies You and that Your purpose would be accomplished through it. May we stop striving and know all our strength, all our power, all our resources, all our provision, all our everything is by Your Spirit and Grace.

Are You Hurting?

My heart is heavy this morning.

There is hurt all around me. Many of my dearest friends are struggling with pain and disappointment -heartache that runs dreadfully deep. I am struggling with my own, as well.

Do you know people in pain today? Are you one of them?

In a seemingly hopeless world full of strife, sickness, depression, brokenness, loss, pride, despair and death, the Word of God is truly all we have in which to place our trust.



This morning, I want to extend to you... Hope. Truth. Encouragement. Wherever this post finds you today, this I know, He is still God.

He is God in your pain.
He is God in your loss.
He is God in your sickness.
He is God in your sadness.
He is God in your strife.
He is God in your wondering.
He is God in your waiting.

He is still God.
He holds all things together, even if all seems to be falling apart.
I pray these words bring light to dark places...

Seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Colossians 3:1,2

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28

Yes, we are of good courage. We know that when while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith and not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7

We do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison. 2 Corinthians 4:16,17

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust, I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me? Psalm 54:3,4

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58

Where shall I go from your spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? Psalm 139:7

Deliver me from my enemies, O Lord! I have fled to your for refuge! Teach me to do your will for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground. Psalm 143:9,10

Then Jesus said to him, "Be gone, Satan!"... then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and were ministering to him. Matthew 4:11

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

Jesus said, "I have said these things to you that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart, I have overcome the world." John 16:33

What verse brings you hope in times of deep hurt?

Please, take time to share this with a friend today. You just never know...

God Wants Us To Ask

Anne Graham Lotz and I aren't friends, sisters-in-Christ, yes, but true friends, no. So I can't say she is "guest posting" for me this morning. However, I read her daily devotional and feel as if I know her. That being said, I feel freedom to share this post from the other day. I have pondered it and been so moved by its message. Sweet Lord, he wants us to ask Him - for everything. He's our Daddy. He hears us and loves to bless His babies. Enjoy..

If we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him. 1 John 5:15, NKJV

During the days of Ezekiel, God poured out His heart and shared what He wanted to do for His beloved people. Then He revealed an astonishing fact: "I will yet for this be enquired of by the house of Israel, to do it for them" (Eze. 36:37, KJV). God was waiting to be asked!

My mother said that if there are any tears shed in heaven, they are going to be shed over all the answers to prayer for which no one ever bothered to ask. What blessing is God waiting to give you, but you haven't asked Him for it?



Why does He wait for us to ask? Maybe He wants us to acknowledge our need of Him. Maybe it's one way of getting our attention. Maybe it's the only way we will know when the answer comes that it comes from Him, and we don't credit ourselves or someone else for it.

Blessings,
Anne Graham Lotz

{Praying for you, Pep Moms}

Hallways of Regret: A Guest Post

As I am planning for an upcoming speaking event, my dear friend Sue has been gracious enough to guest post on Cup Of Joe today. Full of the Holy Spirit, wife and mom of three, Sue writes an incredible blog at LivingFreeInHim.blogspot.com. This post, Hallways of Regret, spoke to quiet places in my heart. Have a great day my friends. I am so glad that we are Living Free In Him today. - Becky

Hallways of Regret

Last weekend, I went to a play at my old high school. Nineteen years have passed since I last walked those hallways.

Emotions stirred up in me as I opened the once familiar door. Ahead was a long hall full of past memorabilia with cases of trophies and plaques covering the walls. Countless basketball, football, track, tennis team pictures from the 1960's to present lined the hallway. As I walked a few steps, I saw the band room door. That had been where I had spent a majority of my high school years.

High school should be some of the best times and happiest memories of childhood. For me, looking back can be painful. God has healed me and redeemed my past, but memories did haunt me as I stood there in that hallway looking in the gym. Writing this is even difficult because I don't like looking back. There were some fun times, but the bad decisions I made and the people I hurt overshadow the fun times.

I know, I know...don't regret, you wouldn't be the same person you are today if you hadn't made those mistakes. Maybe not, but I still regret. I still wish I would have made better choices. I know I can't go back and change the past, but I wish I could.

Although going back in time isn't an option, God is so good and He makes all things new. We just have to choose to follow Him. His path leads to restoration.

And they shall rebuild the old ruins, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the ruined cities, the desolations of many generations. Isaiah 61:4

It doesn't matter if your family has a history of pain, regret, or shame. When you received the Lord, you entered into a new family.....a family of hope, healing, life, joy, peace. God wants you to have a beautiful life, and you have the opportunity to change the history of your family for the generations to follow! How incredible is that!

Instead of your shame you shall have double honor, and instead of confusion they shall rejoice in their portion.

Therefore in their land they shall possess double; everlasting joy shall be theirs. For I, the Lord, love justice;

I hate robbery for sacrifice; I will direct their work in truth, and will make with them an everlasting covenant.

Their descendants shall be known among the Gentiles, and their offspring among the people.

All who see them shall acknowledge them, That they are the posterity whom the Lord has blessed. Isaiah 61: 7-8

The Lord wants to restore our broken past and rebuild our broken dreams. When the Lord restores, others notice a difference. We get a beautiful life and God gets the glory.

Everyday we are faced with hallways. We get to choose which hallway we will go down:



Hallway of Rebellion: Rebellion leads to regret. When we do not follow the Lord, when we choose rebellion and to follow our flesh, we will not like the end result. Our flesh may like it temporarily and we may feel justified in the moment, but the pain of regret will come.

The whole book of Isaiah is an example of this....the Isrealites rebelled against the Lord and the Lord pleaded with them to return to Him. Their rebellion led to their captivity. Sustained rebellion always leads to captivity.

This past week, I struggled with rebellion. It was in the area of following authority. My flesh wanted to do one thing, but the Lord kept whispering rebellion leads to regret. I wish I could say I did the right thing all the time. I did listen to the Lord eventually, I am so thankful for His mercy.

Hallway of Righteousness: Righteousness has a funny ring to it. It seems unattainable, but it is ours. Jesus Christ has made us righteous. When we rebel we are actually rebelling against who we are in Christ.

I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, My soul shall be joyful in my God;

For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness. ( I love that!)

As a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.

For as the earth brings forth its bud, As the garden causes things that are sown in it to spring forth, So the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.
Isaiah 61: 10-11

So, if rebellion leads to regret, what does righteousness lead to?

Righteousness leads to reaching. When we display the character of Christ, when we act like Christ, we draw others to Him. When we rebel, we damage our witness.

Everyday we have the opportunity to decide which hallway we will go down. It doesn't matter where we have walked in the past. Our past does not determine our destiny. We are not defined by our past mistakes. We may regret some of them, but that regret can be turned into restoration. God takes our old ruins and rebuilds them into something beautiful for Him.

Which hallway will you choose today? Do you also have a something in your past that you regret? Will you give it to the Lord? He gives us comfort for mourning, beauty for ashes, joy for despair, praise instead of a spirit of heaviness.....will you also let Him give you restoration for regret?

-Sue @ LivingFreeInHim.blogspot.com

Day 31 of Prayer! Sending Out The Farmers...

A heart for missions

Last week at the pool, I had the great privilege of meeting a little boy who had recently come home from Ghana.

At the age of three, he was adopted into a Jesus-lovin' family of six. Mom. Dad. And four older brothers.

I spoke with the mother about her adoption experience. "Yes, our family is actually going back to live in Ghana. We are committing to two years. We are all so excited!"

Her oldest boy is fourteen and they stair-step down from there. "How do your older boys feel about the move?"

"We had a family meeting and told them the calling their daddy and I both heard from the Lord. We told them, 'you all are not going with us as missionary kids.'" She smiled, "'You are going as missionaries.'"

Mmmm. That is powerful.

Children
"Lord, please help my children to develop a desire to see your glory declared among the nations. A desire to see your marvelous deeds among all peoples."



Let no one despise you because of your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love , in faith and in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

It is never too early to instill in our children a ministry mindset.

Jesus didn't say, "When you turn eighteen, Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations..."

Jesus says. GO. Make disciples. Matthew 28:19

I pray my boys see themselves as missionaries. Everywhere they go. There is always an opportunity to minister. Always. At school. At the gym. On the soccor field. At the pool. Even at church...do ministry. Serve others. Bless others. Sow seeds of love, encouragement, compassion, service, hugs, pats on the back....sow, sow, sow.

A new school year is beginning. For some of you that beginning is today. Let this be a year of casting vision. This is the year of sowing seed. I want to encourage my boys to see themselves as little farmers. Little disciple makers. Little missionaries. And for Ethan (age 5), I might need to clarify a few times exactly what that means. But it is not too early to learn.

Even a rising kindergartner can sow seeds. "Go on little farmer. Sow seeds of love today. Help your friend with his back pack. Give a little girl the seat you would really like to have. Help your buddy open his Gogurt. Sow sow sow."

The harvest is plenty, but the workers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into the harvest. Luke 10:2

Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples!" Psalm 96:3

Myself and others
"Lord, please help me and _____________ develop a desire to see your glory declared among the nations, as well. Give us a desire to see your marvelous deeds among all peoples."

God bless you today, my fellow farmer.

Popcorn and Sweet Cheeks

I rarely write in the evenings. But here lately, little Pookie (a.k.a. Luke age 2.9) has been quite contrary to the idea of bedtime. I wish I could say that I am firm and as soon as he comes down the steps I'm waiting on him with the spanking stick. I wish I could say he knows I mean business and he can not get out of his bed.

But.

He is my third, and probably my last. And I am a sucker.

Tonight, however, I thought, "Tonight, things must change. No more cute Pookie coming down the steps for late night popcorn with mommy. No more puppy dog eyes staring at me over a bright orange paci."

(Yes, he still has a paci. Don't judge.)

Nope... tonight, I was going to (start) being consistent.

Eight o'clock rolled around and I curled up in bed with him, his little tan hand turning each page of a Thomas the Tank book. I read, he snuggled. At the book's end, I turned out the light. And instead of saying good night and closing his door...I stayed.

I stayed because something within me was highly aware of the time. Not bedtime...but the tic-toc of childhood.

Don't you wish we could slow it down?

My "littlest man" was born almost THREE years ago.

His birthday 8-8-08. A day set apart for great things.

Even China thought so.

I stayed a while in his double bed. Surrounded by build-a-bears and board books, petting his hair and singing lullaby's.

Praying and holding back tears.

He barely even smells like a baby anymore. He even smells three. (Silly. But mom you know what I mean.)

Would someone please tell me how to make this clock stop? Slow the hands of little-boyhood?

How do I punch pause on these sweet cheeks?



Anybody know?

I am so thankful. Thankful to the Lord for this little guy. The missing piece to the Crenshaw clan. I am so thankful for his quiet feet slipping down the stairs for popcorn. I am so thankful for his tan hands and funny dance moves. I am so thankful for his devout passion for chicken nuggets and affection for Lightening McQueen.

I am so thankful he is mine. Even though not really.

He is the Lord's.

I am so thankful for God's good and perfect plan for His life. I am so honored to have his life touch mine.

Sweet boy. I am better because of you.

Now... let's go back to bed. Good night.

Because Fat Is Not A Feeling

Who knew that cutting hydrangeas would teach me so much.

Each snap of the shears is symbolic of the Lord's pruning. A clipping away of my sin so something beautiful can grow in its place.

(If you are just now tuning in, go back and read Mason Jars for Jesus.)

God is revealing areas in my life where I clip from the bottom - giving away my "good" but rarely my "best."

Honestly, one area I give from the bottom is right here. On this blog.

I might expose a glimpse of my heart. A few hardships. But there is more to share. I give with reservation. I expose only what I feel suitable to keep myself in good graces with you (parenting struggles, a marriage squabble, an occasional "ah ha" moment).

Paul says, My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. - 2 Corinthians 12:9

Oh, I really really want the power of Christ to rest upon me. Really really. So. I must start first with my weaknesses.

Boast (kauchaomai) to glory on account of a thing

Think about that. We aren't suppose to just brag about our weaknesses. We are to glory in them. That is polar opposite of what the world promotes.

Silence is much more flattering.

But, in true Apostle Paul fashion, I am called to boast...to glory in the fact that I am eaten up with weaknesses.

Eaten up. Did someone say eat? Oh, don't get me started on food. Or body image. Those are areas I'd rather not talk about.

But out of obedience I will. Because they are areas of weakness. And God deserves the Glory.

This morning...I glory in my food & body image weakness.

Right now, I wish I could write in second person. Or write inclusively - "We all" struggle with body image. Or "we all" have food weaknesses. And yes, we may, to some degree, all have these issues. I think many of do.

But writing inclusively would make me a coward.

I have weaknesses in this area. I have for years. Am I healed? Yes.

Has the Lord brought me through it victoriously? Absolutely.

Do I always chose to abide in victory and healing? Not always.

In college, I was queen of the eating disorder. I had mastered the art of quietly throwing my head over a toilet. Even in public restrooms. I was quite skilled in vomiting so that no one knew I was gagging my lunch....dinner....dessert.

I haven't done that in a decade or more. Praise Jesus. I am so thankful.

But here I am, 33-years-old, why am I still not 100% satisfied with what I see in the mirror? Still? Why do I not see myself how the Lord views me? Beautiful? Unflawed? Created in His image?

Question: What's a girl to do?

Answer: Exercise faith.

Fat is not a feeling. Ugly is not a feeling. I know better than to say, "I feel ugly. Or today I feel fat." Feelings are not truth.

This weakness of mine boils down to the ongoing battle of me against my flesh (a.k.a the sinful nature).

Instead of saying, "I feel ugly today" I should really say, "My flesh is crawling with insecurities today."

Somedays are worse than others. Somedays I am just fine.

My mentor once said to me, "Sometimes you have to slap your flesh around and tell it what to do."

Well put. So that is exactly what I have to do. I have to speak to that mirror and tell the girl some truth.



I must tell her what the Lord thinks about her. Tell her how she was knit together in her mother's womb. Destined for good works. Created in the image of the Most High God. Tell her that she is fearfully and wonderfully made. I have to remind her that she a child of a King, redeemed and justified, righteous, sanctified, and a temple of the Holy Spirit. I have to remind her to not look to earthly things but to Jesus, who is seated at the right hand of the Father. Take off her old self, and to put on the new. She has been crucified with Christ and raised up with Him. She is created for good works....

I could go on. Do you see who we are? All of these things are not only true of me. They are true of you, too.

We are His prized possession. The apple of His eye.

His biggest hydrangea.

So when that feeling of fat comes on me...when my flesh wants to drag me down ... I tell it where to go. Literally.

I combat lies with truth.

And the lies fail every time. My flesh dies every time. It's quite fascinating, really.

This is faith. Believing in what I don't see...even if it is in the mirror.

Believing His Word, even if I don't feel it.

The assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1

No matter what I feel, I choose victory. I choose faith. I choose beauty.

Have a wonderful day... beautiful friend.

Ramblings of a Prideful Woman

This summer began with goals of being a significant one.

My list was written early May. Spiritual, physical and relational goals for myself and my family.

However, when making my plans, I could have never dreamed just how significant this summer would be ... in 1,000 unexpected ways.

The heart of man plans his ways, but the LORD establishes his steps. Proverbs 9:16

If my life was a roller coaster ride, this summer the wheels came off of the track.

Especially spiritually.

If you've followed my blog for any length of time, maybe you've sensed it. Something different? Yeah, me too. I couldn't put my finger on it for the longest time. It is still hazy to be quite honest, but this is what I know...

The Lord has brought me to a place of sober judgement.

Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. Romans 12:3

Sober Judgement (sōphroneō)- to put a moderate estimate upon one's self, think of one's self soberly

Magnifying mirrors are of great use. I have one in my bathroom. Quite handy for plucking eye brows. But if you are not use to looking at yourself in one, it can be quite alarming. Just when I think my complexion looks pretty good.... Ahem. Or wrinkles, I don't have too many. Oh yeah? Look again.

This summer, the Word of God has taken a magnifying mirror to my soul. Embellishing every area of my life that is not fully surrendered to Christ.

Come to find out, my spiritual complexion was in need of Proactive. I was broken out all over.

So off I go to the Divine Dermatologist to diagnose. "Well, Becky for one, you have way to many attachments to that blog of yours. You need to release it for a while."

What?

Release it. But its my baby. I love that blog. I have grown so much through it. And my readers. What about them? They check in and follow along. I can't let them down.

"Release it."

I'll just back away a little. Not blog so much.

"No, release it. To clean up your blemishes, I need all of your morning. Even your blogging time."

A few days later, I was online, probably blogging, when a storm blew in. And with it, I am not kidding, a lightening bolt struck near our house and took out our Internet. No lie.

"I said release it."

Yes, Sir.

It is very difficult to articulate in written words what is communicated in the Spirit. But I'll try.

First, I started a study. This one...



A Call To Die, by David Nasser. And that is exactly what I've been doing this summer.

Dying.

To my flesh. To my sin. And to any distractor that comes between me and my God. And by golly, He loves me so much, that if I wouldn't give it up, He'd go ahead and take it.

This blog, as good as it has been, has become quite an identity for me. My strings became much too attached. So He snapped them for a while.

(Confessing now) I realized that numbers became way too important. Comments became quite an obsession. And the unspoken "blog competition", even in Christian circles, became an issue for me. I wanted my blog to rank with some of the best.

Ugh. That was hard to type.

I heard one time to never become too consumed by the numbers of your followers. Jesus only had twelve. And one betrayed Him.

So. I am back. My Internet back up. And the Lord has refreshed my heart. I have come to realize that this blog can not - can not - can not take time away from my nose in His Word.

I need the Word of God like my body needs coffee. I mean water.



I need time in His presence. In my living room, on my knees, before Him. Singing praises to the Most High. O my goodness, ya'll. I am so in love with Him.

That lightening bolt, and this Call to Die have been so good. So renewing.

Forgive me for my pride. Forgive me for not constantly viewing myself with sober judgement.

So back to blogging. The Lord back as the Commander in Chief.

I am just the hands that type.

31 Days of Praying for our Children will resume. I just had to let you know what was going on in my heart.

I am so thankful for you all. No sufficient words for that one.

31 Days of Prayer: Ten (Self-Esteem)

Biblical self-esteem

Children:
"Help my children develop a strong self esteem that is deeply rooted in the fact that they are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus."

Myself and Others
"Help me and ___________ develop a strong self esteem that is deeply rooted in the fact they are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus.

For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. (Eph 2:10)

I must say, I have some beautiful nieces. Oh my goodness, I really do. (Proud Aunt Becky writing here).

I remember years ago visiting in Memphis with Brent's twin brother, his wife Erin and their children. At this time, Olivia, their second child was very small. Just starting to talk, so maybe two-years-old.

Let me tell you, Olivia is "stop and stare at her" stunning. Her blue eyes tell a story of God's creativity. As blue as the Caribbean sea. I am not exaggerating either.

Erin said to her, "Livi, you are so pretty. What makes you pretty?"

Her small voice, speaking some of her earliest words, "God in my heart."

Yes, Liv. That is exactly was makes you pretty. It is amazing that as beautiful as Olivia is, when God looks at her, he not only sees her beautiful blond hair and big blue eyes, he see His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works. He sees a call on her life. He sees his child, prepared beforehand, that she would walk with Him.

Don't think for one second that God doesn't see the exact same in you. He admires you. He sees your worth. He sees His workmanship in you. His very own image. Your self worth rests in this truth. Your self esteem is found in Him.

Amazing.

31 Days of Prayer: Eight (Showing Mercy)

Mercy

Children:
"May my children always be merciful, just as You are merciful."

Myself and Others:
"May I and _________ always be merciful, just as you are merciful."

Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful. Luke 6:36

Being female, compassion somewhat comes with the package. Girls are, for the most part, more nurturing and boys. It is amazing to me that I have to teach mercy and compassion to my children.



I am always a bit discouraged when I don't see Grant running to his brother's aid when he falls and gets hurt. Especially if Grant is the cause of the injury. And with boys, this is often the case.

"Grant, will you come here and check on your brother? Pat his shoulder. Ask him if he is OK. Show mercy and compassion to those hurting around you."

I'm not kidding. Those words have come from my mouth.

But, as silly as that sounds, Jesus' words to us are not much different. "Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful." He had to teach his disciples the same principle. Mercy isn't a suggestion - it is a command.

Our first response is not always mercy. Sadly, my flesh likes revenge, grudge and bitterness much better. But Jesus says, "No, no Becky. Love those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for your abusers. Not only do good to those who love you, but do good to the unlovable. Expecting nothing in return." (Luke 6:27-36)

A tall order for little me. But just another day for the Holy Spirit. With Him, nothing is impossible.

31 Days of Prayer: Four

Honesty and Integrity

May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in you. Psalm 25:21

Children:
"May integrity and honesty be their virtue and their protection."

Myself or Others:
"May integrity and honesty be the virtue and protection of _______________."

I often pray protection over my children. I'm sure you do, as well. It is such piece of mind knowing we can hope (or wait expectantly) for the Lord to protect our children. Synonyms for the Greek word protect (natsar) are words such as watchtower, guard, blockaded and lodge. A life of integrity and uprightness before God act as watchmen over our children. The Lord is their shelter. And yours.

Thank Him for this amazing truth today.

31 Days of Prayer: Two

Growth in Grace

Children:
"I pray that my children may grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2 Peter 3:18)

Others or Myself:
"I pray that I and __________ would grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."


But grow in grace (undeserved favor, spiritual strength) and "recognition and knowledge and understanding of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (the Messiah). To Him [be] glory (honor, majesty, and splendor) both now and to the day of eternity. Amen (so be it)! 2 Peter 3:18 AMP

"To Grow in Grace." What exactly are we praying?

Grow (auxano) to increase in inward Christian growth

Grace (charis) 1) good will, loving-kindness, favour 2) the merciful kindness by which God, exerting his holy influence upon souls, turns them to Christ, keeps, strengthens, increases them in Christian faith, knowledge and affection. Kindles them to the exercise of the Christian virtues.

Lord may we grow in grace. May we increase in inward Christian growth and may your favor rest upon us. Father, exert your Holy influence upon our souls. Turn us to Christ. Strengthen us, increase our knowledge of Jesus. Increase our affection for you and for one another. Kindle a desire within us to practice Christian virtues and to, ever increasingly, understand our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Mmm. I love that. Have an amazing, Spirit-filled day.

Chalkboard Reflections

I wrote the cry of my heart on my kitchen chalkboard.



This is smack-dab where I am.

A transition into deeper.

I could cry as I read...
"Give me real faith; give me warmer zeal; inflame me with more fervent love; grant me the grace of meekness; make me more like Jesus." - C. Spurgeon



His name is beautiful. Even in chalk.

I love you, Lord. Make us look like You.

What Hinders You?

What is the biggest distraction between you and a deeper relationship with God?

What consumes your thought life?

Are you one to make "promises" to God and break them?



I am so sick and tired of anything competing for my affection with Christ. He is so much better than "whatever it is" that might hinder a closer connection with Him.

A hindrance may be as big as alcohol, pornography or overspending.

It may be as simple as gossip, laziness, food or television.

Oh, He is better.

Read this and meditate on its depth...

Surely then you will find delight in the Almighty and will lift up your face to God. You will pray to him, and he will hear you, and you will fulfill your vows. What you decide on will be done, and light will shine on your ways. Job 22:26-28

You will find greater delight in Him. He hears your prayer.

Today I am making a decision.

A decision to go deeper. A decision to move closer to my God.

A decision to die.

To die to the thing or things that cause my growth to slow.

To die to anything that hinders my walk.

We are called to die. So we can live.

What is it today that needs to be put to death in you?

Pray about it. Make a decision.

And in the power of the Holy Spirit, you will fulfill your vows.

Are you in?