Moving through our seasons

Danger signs and Red Flags

thanks to Hagar the Horrible

Ephesians 5:22-24
"Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 
For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, 
He Himself being the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, 
so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything."

Proverbs 25:24
"It is better to live in a corner of the roof
than in a house shared with a contentious woman."

Many-Faceted Mothers

"Mothers are strange creatures. It's true.

Even when their kids are grown and grey or bald or both

they worry about their underwear. 

And socks. And summer colds.

They worry when the roads are icy. 

Or when there's an epidemic.

They worry about childish weaknesses long outgrown.

They are stunned to find their children so precocious.  

They feel the same astonishment when 

their sons are appointed Chairman of the Board 

as when they won the sack race. 

They are flabbergasted and delighted 

when their little daughters become headteachers.  

They need to keep in touch.  

They phone at inconvenient moments.  

They smile bright crocodile smiles at friends 

of whom they don't approve.  

They refuse to grow old peacefully.

--Pam Brown 

*

Worship in Spirit and in Truth

If only the Church would take Christian Doctrine seriously in their hymns and choruses. Praise God that we can sing sound doctrinal hymns on our own!

Kind of Silly: Can Choir

Manipulation and Control devastates

"Once you have convinced a fellow-creature of the rightness of a cause, he takes his own direction and lives his own life.  

It is quite likely that even if you change your mind, he will not change his.  

Yet you remain at least partly responsible for what he does.  

Those who write where many read, and speak where many listen, had best be careful what they say.  

Someone is bound to take them seriously, and it really is not good pretending that you didn’t know this."

Peter Hitchens (former atheist now a Christian), The Rage Against God, pg.21
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Colossians 2:8 
“See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, 
according to the tradition of men, 
according to the elementary principles of the world, 
rather than according to Christ.”

Thankful for regular guy fathers

by Don Wimmer and Pat Brady

Forgiveness

The heart of a mother is a deep abyss 

at the bottom of which 

you will always discover forgiveness.

-Honore' De Balzac

*

Drawers Jammed with Treasures

"A mother is the lady 
with drawers jammed with finger paintings, 
letters, handmade greeting cards, 
lopsided Easter Bunnies, clay cats, 
certificates and medals - 
and who could not be persuaded 
to part with one of them."

--Pam Brown

A parent's desire for their child is for them to choose rightly

Zits by Scott and Borgman


Proverbs 1:8-9
"Hear, my son, your father’s instruction 
and do not forsake your mother’s teaching; 
Indeed, they are a graceful wreath to your head 
and ornaments about your neck."

The Power of the Cross

“Oh, to see the dawn
Of the darkest day:
Christ on the road to Calvary.
Tried by sinful men,
Torn and beaten, then
Nailed to a cross of wood.

This, the pow’r of the cross:
Christ became sin for us;
Took the blame, bore the wrath—
We stand forgiven at the cross.

Oh, to see the pain
Written on Your face,
Bearing the awesome weight of sin.
Ev’ry bitter thought,
Ev’ry evil deed
Crowning Your bloodstained brow.

This, the pow’r of the cross:
Christ became sin for us;
Took the blame, bore the wrath—
We stand forgiven at the cross.

Now the daylight flees;
Now the ground beneath
Quakes as its Maker bows His head.
Curtain torn in two,
Dead are raised to life;
”Finished!” the vict’ry cry.

This, the pow’r of the cross:
Christ became sin for us;
Took the blame, bore the wrath—
We stand forgiven at the cross.

Oh, to see my name
Written in the wounds,
For through Your suffering I am free.
Death is crushed to death;
Life is mine to live,
Won through Your selfless love.

This, the pow’r of the cross:
Son of God—slain for us.
What a love! What a cost!
We stand forgiven at the cross.”

-by Keith Getty and Stuart Townend 

ABUSE: Sometimes Life is so Real

I do not go looking, but "Real Life" surely finds me.  

I now understand that the LORD uses those who are open to being His hands and feet.  Although each situation in "Real Life" is tough and it costs time and part of my life, I am blessed to be His maidservant, and I pray for those women He weaves into my life. 

This world's NOT our home.  Sin is running rampant and so many times women and children are the ones being hurt.  This does not mean that males are not hurt also.

Abuse of every kind is everywhere, and as time flies by I encounter it in women I know or meet.  Mainly, I share God's truth that they are dearly loved by Him.  I am always pointing them to the LORD.  He is the One who has answers.  Just letting them know that God is for themas they live in their situations gives them great hope and a future because He cares for them.

It is an "easy" thing to be caught up into abuse without realizing that it has been happening.  Maybe there is only that "uh oh" feeling, like something is not quite right, which "whispers" to you, but you do not heed it.  Soon enough any of us can be deep into the control and manipulation of the Abuser. 

I post this meme to perhaps open up some eyes of those who may be caught in the web of any kind of abuse: 

*

The name of the Lord is a strong tower;

The righteous runs into it and is safe.

Proverbs 18:10

*

*Find a safe confidant and share your concerns*

A Life's Sacrifice

"A mother's love!  
What can compare with it!
Of all things on earth, 
it comes nearest to divine love in heaven.
A mother's love means a life's devotion 
- and sometimes a life's sacrifice - 
with but one thought, 
one hope and one feelings, 
that her children will grow up healthy and strong, 
free from evil habits and able to provide for themselves."

-Anonymous

I even read the book

--Charles Schultz

Modesty is humility in action.

Project Inspired, with post by Phylicia Masonheimer, wrote on modesty in, "What wearing a Bikini Taught Me About Modesty".  

"...my bikini was to boost my self-confidence. But I quickly realized that wearing a skimpier swimsuit couldn’t have a lasting effect on my confidence because it was an external fix to an internal problem. 

Dressing up a lack of confidence doesn’t “fix” the problem—it just covers it for a little while. 

Instead of helping me become more confident, 
it made me a spiritually weaker person 
who depended on my outward appearance 
for validation and approval.

I also realized that I was advertising my body—something I wanted to have valued and treasured—to the eyes of any passing guy. I had been working with non-Christian guys for many years and I’d heard the comments they made about the girls at car washes and on the beach. 

I knew that by exposing my body to the public eye, I had devalued something precious, 

and I began to search the Bible to see what it said about my value as a woman.

As I studied God’s Word concerning my decision, I came to understand the incredible value God placed on my body. 

In the Old Testament, God’s glory was housed in the richly decorated, golden Temple. 

Now as Christians, His glory (through the Holy Spirit) resides within each of our bodies. 

We ARE the new “temples” of God’s glory (1 Corinthians 6:19)! 

In Genesis, I discovered that woman was God’s final touch on Creation. She was the crowning glory of all God made."

"...Modesty is humility in action..."

Thank you, Phylicia, great post!

What makes a mother?

A mother can be almost any size or any age, 

but she won't admit to anything over thirty.

A mother has soft hands and smells good.

A mother likes new dresses, music, a clean house, 

her children's kisses, an automatic washer, and Daddy.

A mother doesn't like having her children sick, 

muddy feet, temper tantrums, loud noise, or bad report cards.

A mother can read a thermometer (much to the amazement of Daddy),

and like magic, can kiss a hurt away.

A mother can bake good cakes and pies,

 but likes to see her children eat vegetables.

A mother can stuff a fat baby into a snow suit in seconds,

and can kiss sad little faces and make them smile.

-Author Unknown

Media Etiquette

Thank you to Unlocking the Bible for this resource.  Please check out the whole post, 

15 Questions to Help Christians Follow Jesus on Social Media, from 9/26/13:

1. Are you seeking to glorify God through social media?

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 

(1 Corinthians 10:31)

The foundational question “Are you seeking to glorify God?” can be addressed to any situation in life because we were created to glorify God (Isaiah 43:7). When we stray from our life’s God-given purpose, we quickly fall away from where God wants us to be.

2. Does social media lead you into sin?

If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. (Matthew 5:29)

Social media is itself a morally neutral thing, neither inherently good nor bad. But when put in the hands of sinful human beings, it should be no surprise that it can be used for a host of sinful behaviors: bullying, sinful relationships, sexual perversion, worldly ideas, and allowing yourself to be led astray by bad influences. Pray that God would reveal your sins and the idols that may exist or be fed through social media, and for the grace and power to repent.

3. Does your speech build up or tear down?

From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so. (James 3:10)

Social media is rampant with gossip, bullying, pessimism and complaining. Instead of conforming to the world, be a light and use your words to build others up. Know your weaknesses and be on your guard when someone posts something that pushes one of your buttons. Before you post, pray Psalm 19:14: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.”

4. Do people see the light of Christ in you based on what you post?

…let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)

Social networks present a unique opportunity to let your light shine before others by show the hope you have in Jesus Christ. You are able to challenge and encourage others to believe in Christ and follow him. Don’t forget the awesome opportunity you have to proclaim to the world the unsearchable riches of Christ!

5. Is social media your master?

“All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything.” (1 Corinthians 6:12)

Don’t become a slave to the beeping of your phone or computer and always be checking your notifications online. Do you really need to check each notification, or can you check a few times throughout the day? Instead of constantly checking notifications with spare moments, read Scripture, pray, or let your mind rest.

6. Does your use of social media help you redeem the time?

…making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:16)

Let’s be honest: Some social media sites act as a black hole that suck up our time. It can be easy to go on Facebook to “check one thing” and to stay on for an hour. What else could you have done with that hour? Was that making the best use of the short life God has given you?

7. Does your use of social media help you renew your mind in God’s truth?

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)

God can use little moments we give to him throughout our day to grow us, including time on social media. You can use your Facebook and Twitter streams to grow your faith by following accounts that honor God. I have sought to develop the discipline to stop and read Scripture whenever I see it posted to remind me that everything else posted is of limited importance compared to the Word of God that has eternal importance (1 Peter 1:24-25).

8. Do you use social media as a platform to complain?

Do all things without grumbling or disputing… (Philippians 2:14)

Paul had a lot he could have complained about (2 Corinthians 11:23-28), yet he still tells us to “do all things without grumbling or disputing.” Some turn to social media to complain, but God’s will for his children is that they give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Which characterizes you: thankfulness or constant complaining?

9. Do you use social media for unprofitable arguments?

A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion. (Proverbs 18:2)

There is no shortage of social media arguments about politics, sports, religion – you name it! While some conversations can prove profitable, many others are a waste of time. Instead of arguing with fools, invest your time and energy into something more worthwhile.

10. Do you value social media interactions more than real-life relationships?

You shall love your neighbor as yourself. (Matthew 22:39)

God made us for relationships. Increasingly today, these relationships can take place through technology and can make people less social in real life. (So much for social media!) Instead of merely “liking” a picture or favoriting a tweet, invest in real relationships by having meaningful conversations. Take the extra step by letting people important to you know that you care about them. Or take an even greater extra step – actually talk with your friend face-to-face!

11. Does social media make you a healthier and more productive person?

You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. (Deuteronomy 6:5)

Social media causes some people to have a shorter attention span, lose sleep, and even be depressed. Is that you? God desires that we honor God with not only our body, but also our entire being. Don’t let social media suck away your ability to follow that command.

12. Do you have any relationships through social media that you should cut off?

Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” (1 Corinthians 15:33)

Social networks like Facebook and Twitter make it easy to connect with everyone you’ve ever known – for better or for worse. Some of our connections can discourage us in our faith or lure us into sins like gossip, bullying, and rekindling unhealthy relationships. Many divorces today are caused by discontented spouses rekindling old flames on Facebook. Don’t let this happen to you! Exercise godly wisdom and cut off “bad company” that will hinder a holy life.

13. Does social media help you be content?

…godliness with contentment is great gain. (1 Timothy 6:6)

Social media can add fuel to the fire of covetousness and insecurity because it can lead us to compare ourselves to others and their relationships, possessions, and lifestyle. Have you ever thought that your friend always posting pictures of their possessions might not be content? The secret to contentment is not having everything you want, but being thankful with what you have. May we learn to be like Paul who learned to be content in every situation (Philippians 4:11-13).

14. Do you use social media to boost your ego?

For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? 

(Mark 8:36)

We can believe the lie that we only have value if people follow us or like our posts. If your mood depends on the number of “Likes” or “Retweets” your post receives, you care too much about gaining the approval of man. Rejoice in the fact that the gospel says that God accepts you because of what Christ had done.

15. Do you use social media to hide?

Like clouds and wind without rain is a man who boasts of a gift he does not give. (Proverbs 25:14)

Have you ever known someone who acts cool online but is a radically different person in real life? Unfortunately, social media can act as a mask hiding our true identity. The root of this issue is pride – we want people to think we are cool and have it all together. Remember the truth of James 4:10: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.”

Summer in the Mid-West

Ecclesistes 3:1-8

"There is an appointed time for everything. 
And there is a time for every event under heaven—
A time to give birth and a time to die;
A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted.
A time to kill and a time to heal;
A time to tear down and a time to build up.
A time to weep and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn and a time to dance.
A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones;
A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing.
A time to search and a time to give up as lost;
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear apart and a time to sew together;
A time to be silent and a time to speak.
A time to love and a time to hate;
A time for war and a time for peace."

Heads up! Our culture is seductive

FYI: Our culture unrighteously suppresses the truth.  If we choose to actually listen to God's Word we will see and understand that 'His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature can be clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that none can be without an excuse'.  That which is known about God is evident within all people even when they suppress the truth.


Romans 1:16-23
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 

For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “But the righteous man shall live by faith.”

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 
because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.

For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

Professing to be wise, they became fools, 
and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures."

Snoopy has a choice

Something pretty to make

Simple white cupcake with white icing, topped with crystal sprinkles, and beautiful strawberries and blueberries to decorate them.

-Taste of Home photo