We've been thinking recently that A might be ready for a toddler bed. We simultaneously found an amazing deal and a local family delivered it to our house today. YEY craigslist!
We just put A down for the night and she splendidly well. We prayed together, placed her in bed, covered her up, and walked towards the door. As I looked back, I saw this big girl laying there, covered up with her blanket, looking dearly back at us. She looked so much older! Gone are crib days forever. She's in a big girl bed. It was bittersweet.
All day long I could not wait to make the bed, introduce her to it, get excited, etc. And, the moment we took the crib down I just wanted to cry. ;-) Oh, the life of a mom. S is such a wonderful balance for me. :-)
So, here we are in the quiet of the evening with our big girl dreaming on her new bed in the next room. Sleep tight, love!
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Dust
I'm an Israelite. I’ve complained against the Lord in the heat of the desert. If it weren’t so hot and if the wind was not in my face, I would have a better perspective and be fine. Why is the desert essential to growth? Does God really allow us to walk through the desert to glorify Him?
You may recall the end of the story: the Israelites put their trust and hope in the power of the Lord and the truth of His Word. They realized that He was in control the entire time. It must have been a little embarrassing for them, humbling at the least. Isn’t the same true for us? Why did I fret? Why did I get so angry at you and others, Lord, when really, it was all for my good? Ultimately, it was all for Your glory, Lord.
God is faithful and rules sovereignly over ALL our trials; He governs and orders them. Do you believe that? Could it possibly be true? Why would He bring something so painful and difficult into our lives? So that in the end, when it is all said and done, we will fear Him and put our trust in Him. Strong words, but true. I assure you of this. God is holy and wants us to be holy and it just so happens that circumstances are one way to draw us closer to Him and holiness. And, sometimes these circumstances appear to us as too much to bear.
I once faced a very difficult situation and had to face much of it alone. Although not many people audibly heard my complaints, I can say with honesty that they existed in my heart. Tears flowed inside me. Why, Lord? Why this? Why now? What at all? It was extremely difficult to understand, let alone to aim to trust Him through it. Yet, in God's great mercy and love, He remained faithful to me when I was faithless. And, the end result continues to be something beautiful, not outward, but deep and lasting within.
I’ve seen fruit of the trial. I’ve seen His goodness, and even if I never see the ultimate answers to some questions, I trust Him. And, I saw it again tonight. How kind of Him to show me through a friend that He continues to use what I saw as darkness to bring light to others. HE uses the trial, which He brought into my life, so He might be glorified and others might grow in holiness.
Our God has a history that is worth studying. He has a way in which He cares for His people, and He is committed to continue to declare His fame both on His own, and through our lives. How blessed we are to be a part of that!
So, the sand, the heat, the wind and dust are okay, as long as I know He governs it all.
You may recall the end of the story: the Israelites put their trust and hope in the power of the Lord and the truth of His Word. They realized that He was in control the entire time. It must have been a little embarrassing for them, humbling at the least. Isn’t the same true for us? Why did I fret? Why did I get so angry at you and others, Lord, when really, it was all for my good? Ultimately, it was all for Your glory, Lord.
God is faithful and rules sovereignly over ALL our trials; He governs and orders them. Do you believe that? Could it possibly be true? Why would He bring something so painful and difficult into our lives? So that in the end, when it is all said and done, we will fear Him and put our trust in Him. Strong words, but true. I assure you of this. God is holy and wants us to be holy and it just so happens that circumstances are one way to draw us closer to Him and holiness. And, sometimes these circumstances appear to us as too much to bear.
I once faced a very difficult situation and had to face much of it alone. Although not many people audibly heard my complaints, I can say with honesty that they existed in my heart. Tears flowed inside me. Why, Lord? Why this? Why now? What at all? It was extremely difficult to understand, let alone to aim to trust Him through it. Yet, in God's great mercy and love, He remained faithful to me when I was faithless. And, the end result continues to be something beautiful, not outward, but deep and lasting within.
I’ve seen fruit of the trial. I’ve seen His goodness, and even if I never see the ultimate answers to some questions, I trust Him. And, I saw it again tonight. How kind of Him to show me through a friend that He continues to use what I saw as darkness to bring light to others. HE uses the trial, which He brought into my life, so He might be glorified and others might grow in holiness.
Our God has a history that is worth studying. He has a way in which He cares for His people, and He is committed to continue to declare His fame both on His own, and through our lives. How blessed we are to be a part of that!
So, the sand, the heat, the wind and dust are okay, as long as I know He governs it all.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Weekend Away
We're getting ready to meet up with my roommates from college and their families for the weekend. We've all rented cabins at a campground. I am so looking forward to it! We're the kind of friends that just pick up where we left off, so it always goes smoothly when we're together.
It will be especially nice for all of our kids to get to know each other better. We're hoping this is something we can continue each year.
So, I'm off to pack, pray, and trusting the Lord for a great time of catching up, sharing, and growing together. :-)
It will be especially nice for all of our kids to get to know each other better. We're hoping this is something we can continue each year.
So, I'm off to pack, pray, and trusting the Lord for a great time of catching up, sharing, and growing together. :-)
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Sunday Morning
My heart was overflowing with gratitude this morning at church. I am thankful to be in a place where truth is preached unashamedly, and hearts are impacted by the Word of God.
As I looked around the sanctuary, it seemed that everywhere I turned, I knew personally of those around me. We’ve shared in Bible Study together, in prayer, over dinner, or in the lobby. We’ve gotten to know each others’ names and stories. We’ve encouraged one another in our spiritual growth.
I’ve met godly women who walk in truth and desire the same for others. I’ve seen them live out the word of God unashamedly, yet gently and graciously. I’ve shared tears with those struggling, and joy with those rejoicing.
Most importantly, the Word of God is shared boldly and accurately. I’m thankful for a Pastor that truly loves his flock and shepherds us. And, he's not afraid to share the things that could be offensive to the world around us because it's what God wants us to know in His Word.
I am thankful for people being willing to share their weaknesses and personal struggles, and that I in-turn can be transparent and expose areas of sin in my own life. I’m thankful that Adah will grow up among such a wonderful spiritual family.
S and I have seen what the church can be, and we are so thankful to be here.
As I looked around the sanctuary, it seemed that everywhere I turned, I knew personally of those around me. We’ve shared in Bible Study together, in prayer, over dinner, or in the lobby. We’ve gotten to know each others’ names and stories. We’ve encouraged one another in our spiritual growth.
I’ve met godly women who walk in truth and desire the same for others. I’ve seen them live out the word of God unashamedly, yet gently and graciously. I’ve shared tears with those struggling, and joy with those rejoicing.
Most importantly, the Word of God is shared boldly and accurately. I’m thankful for a Pastor that truly loves his flock and shepherds us. And, he's not afraid to share the things that could be offensive to the world around us because it's what God wants us to know in His Word.
I am thankful for people being willing to share their weaknesses and personal struggles, and that I in-turn can be transparent and expose areas of sin in my own life. I’m thankful that Adah will grow up among such a wonderful spiritual family.
S and I have seen what the church can be, and we are so thankful to be here.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Don't Waste Your Time
When you're tempted to worry, pray. I was challenged by this concept a few months back when reading Running Scared by Ed Welch. The book is filled with incredible wisdom and insight, and I highly recommend it if you’re struggling with fear or anxiety, or even simply trusting God.
Worry wastes time. It immeasurably robs us of precious moments we can spend praying and thanking the Lord for His provision. It draws our eyes away from what is true. It captivates us to spend our time dwelling on things that really are already taken care of by a Sovereign God.
Last week, S was in a car accident on the way to work. He was completely fine, but our car was totaled. We knew that we did not have the funds to purchase a new vehicle. But, we decided to pray and trust the Lord. He knew about the accident. He knew of our need. He knew the questions of our hearts. And, He is so faithful!
Before the end of his workday, the Center where S works offered him a new position with a raise. Wow. How foolish it would have been to spend the whole morning worrying when God had gone before us and worked everything out. He cares faithfully for the birds of the air, and He cares faithfully and tenderly for His children.
Our trust is not in the hope of a new position or higher income. Our trust is in the God who knows our needs and provides for us as individuals, and for us as a family. Our trust is that the righteous will never be forsaken. We are never alone. God sees and knows all things. We are never removed from His sight and His love and care for us is beyond measure.
Today, we’re trying to search for a replacement car. The temptation to worry is back… I must act fast; someone else could buy this car, etc. S reminded me, “If the car is the one God is providing for us, we don’t have to worry. It will be there.” Sigh. Thank you, God! If I look back, I recall countless times when this has been true in our lives. We really can leave things in His hands! God is far more attentive to detail than we are, and far more able than we are to accomplish the things that will bring Him honor.
I often say I’m like James in the Bible. I look in the mirror and forget what I’ve seen/learned within hours, even minutes. God is so gentle to show me again.
When I sense the temptation to worry, I pray instead. The weight is lifted completely and the control is removed from my hands and placed into His. What a better place for it to be!
I pray for His glory and His fame in all circumstances—even if circumstances conflict with my personal preference. He can be trusted!
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases.”
Worry wastes time. It immeasurably robs us of precious moments we can spend praying and thanking the Lord for His provision. It draws our eyes away from what is true. It captivates us to spend our time dwelling on things that really are already taken care of by a Sovereign God.
Last week, S was in a car accident on the way to work. He was completely fine, but our car was totaled. We knew that we did not have the funds to purchase a new vehicle. But, we decided to pray and trust the Lord. He knew about the accident. He knew of our need. He knew the questions of our hearts. And, He is so faithful!
Before the end of his workday, the Center where S works offered him a new position with a raise. Wow. How foolish it would have been to spend the whole morning worrying when God had gone before us and worked everything out. He cares faithfully for the birds of the air, and He cares faithfully and tenderly for His children.
Our trust is not in the hope of a new position or higher income. Our trust is in the God who knows our needs and provides for us as individuals, and for us as a family. Our trust is that the righteous will never be forsaken. We are never alone. God sees and knows all things. We are never removed from His sight and His love and care for us is beyond measure.
Today, we’re trying to search for a replacement car. The temptation to worry is back… I must act fast; someone else could buy this car, etc. S reminded me, “If the car is the one God is providing for us, we don’t have to worry. It will be there.” Sigh. Thank you, God! If I look back, I recall countless times when this has been true in our lives. We really can leave things in His hands! God is far more attentive to detail than we are, and far more able than we are to accomplish the things that will bring Him honor.
I often say I’m like James in the Bible. I look in the mirror and forget what I’ve seen/learned within hours, even minutes. God is so gentle to show me again.
When I sense the temptation to worry, I pray instead. The weight is lifted completely and the control is removed from my hands and placed into His. What a better place for it to be!
I pray for His glory and His fame in all circumstances—even if circumstances conflict with my personal preference. He can be trusted!
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases.”
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Strands of Grey
I want to grow in wisdom; I want to be grey. With each new strand that arrives on my head, I know it has come with more things learned. I rejoice. I want to learn more and grow in grace.
Welcome to the blog!
J
Welcome to the blog!
J
Friday, July 11, 2008
The Deceit of Anger
We all get angry. Things upset us. We are easily frustrated when days do not go according to plan. I see this in Adah when she can’t get a toy to perform the way she desires or when a piece just will not fit in her puzzle. Annoyance. Frustration. Such occurrences are part of our daily lives.
The Bible draws a great deal of attention to anger. Some anger is righteous and some is unrighteous. More than often, ours is unrighteous because we are sinners. My question is this: what do we do with anger? What happens if it grows? What do we do when frustration at a puzzle turns into a puzzle piece flying across the room? How do we respond?
The other day, our phone had no dial tone. And, we had no computer. Our car was having trouble. I was a little annoyed. There was a moment I felt like Adah, and I just wanted to throw something across the room. What was going on in my heart?
Let’s face it: whether big or small instances, we all get angry. It is moments like this when I say to Adah in her trial, “Love, we do not throw our toys. Many people put time and energy into making these for us. We need to be considerate and respectful of our toys. I understand you’re angry. Sometimes it’s hard when our toys don’t do what we want them to, but that’s ok. That’s why we keep trying and be patient. Let’s ask Jesus to help us be patient in this situation. Let’s confess we’re angry and want to act in a way that will honor Him. Let’s ask for His help.”
God similarly reminded my heart of this when I was angry at our situation. I needed His help, and praise God that His grace is so good, so gentle and abounding. He truly does provide an escape from sin, as we seek and submit ourselves to Him.
I know what you’re thinking: “Jocelyn, if that the height of your anger issues, you’ve got it easy.” Ha. The point is not who has faced more that entitles one to anger. The beauty of this message is this: the Bible assures us that there’s a way out; we don’t need to live a life of anger and bitterness. God calls us to so much more. Grace and peace can be prominent in our trials. We can trust in a God who is in control even when nothing seems to be in our lives.
It’s easy to feel like God is far from us when we struggle. Does he really care that my phone has no dial tone? If I believe He controls and governs all things, I should seek Him for what He may be trying to teach me through the trial. Furthermore, how can I honor Him through it? When I get to the root of my anger, it is often grounded in fear and lack of confidence in God’s ability to handle the situation. Don’t be deceived to think that all anger is justified, or even that if it’s “justified” we’re supposed to remain in it. Don’t believe the lie that it entitles us to treat objects, or more importantly individuals poorly or disrespectfully. This is not love and such actions (which originate in the heart) grieve the Holy Spirit. We need to confess such things and receive forgiveness. God is faithful to forgive and purify us. (1 John 1:9)
I don’t want sin to take root in my heart, or in the hearts of my family. In the moment it peaks, we want to seek Christ for help to turn to Him in obedience. We want to put aside anger and be renewed in the knowledge of Christ. God is teaching us endurance through trials, and that’s what we love to sing of together: God is faithful in all things. Trials are purposeful and lead to wisdom. How foolish we would be to miss this by letting anger have its way. God desires that we give thanks in everything and that we do it all without grumbling or complaining. How do we do this: by His grace and through His strength. We can’t do it on our own. We need Him so desperately. Thank you, God! You are so very good to us!
“But now put away and rid yourselves [completely] of all these things: anger, rage, bad feeling toward others, curses and slander, and foulmouthed abuse and shameful utterances from your lips. Clothe yourselves therefore, as God's own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper]. Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive]. And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony]. And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ's] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always]. Let the word [spoken by] Christ (the Messiah) have its home [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness, as you teach and admonish and train one another in all insight and intelligence and wisdom [in spiritual things, and as you sing] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God with [His] grace in your hearts. And whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him.”~Colossians 3:8, 12-17 (Amplified Bible)
The Bible draws a great deal of attention to anger. Some anger is righteous and some is unrighteous. More than often, ours is unrighteous because we are sinners. My question is this: what do we do with anger? What happens if it grows? What do we do when frustration at a puzzle turns into a puzzle piece flying across the room? How do we respond?
The other day, our phone had no dial tone. And, we had no computer. Our car was having trouble. I was a little annoyed. There was a moment I felt like Adah, and I just wanted to throw something across the room. What was going on in my heart?
Let’s face it: whether big or small instances, we all get angry. It is moments like this when I say to Adah in her trial, “Love, we do not throw our toys. Many people put time and energy into making these for us. We need to be considerate and respectful of our toys. I understand you’re angry. Sometimes it’s hard when our toys don’t do what we want them to, but that’s ok. That’s why we keep trying and be patient. Let’s ask Jesus to help us be patient in this situation. Let’s confess we’re angry and want to act in a way that will honor Him. Let’s ask for His help.”
God similarly reminded my heart of this when I was angry at our situation. I needed His help, and praise God that His grace is so good, so gentle and abounding. He truly does provide an escape from sin, as we seek and submit ourselves to Him.
I know what you’re thinking: “Jocelyn, if that the height of your anger issues, you’ve got it easy.” Ha. The point is not who has faced more that entitles one to anger. The beauty of this message is this: the Bible assures us that there’s a way out; we don’t need to live a life of anger and bitterness. God calls us to so much more. Grace and peace can be prominent in our trials. We can trust in a God who is in control even when nothing seems to be in our lives.
It’s easy to feel like God is far from us when we struggle. Does he really care that my phone has no dial tone? If I believe He controls and governs all things, I should seek Him for what He may be trying to teach me through the trial. Furthermore, how can I honor Him through it? When I get to the root of my anger, it is often grounded in fear and lack of confidence in God’s ability to handle the situation. Don’t be deceived to think that all anger is justified, or even that if it’s “justified” we’re supposed to remain in it. Don’t believe the lie that it entitles us to treat objects, or more importantly individuals poorly or disrespectfully. This is not love and such actions (which originate in the heart) grieve the Holy Spirit. We need to confess such things and receive forgiveness. God is faithful to forgive and purify us. (1 John 1:9)
I don’t want sin to take root in my heart, or in the hearts of my family. In the moment it peaks, we want to seek Christ for help to turn to Him in obedience. We want to put aside anger and be renewed in the knowledge of Christ. God is teaching us endurance through trials, and that’s what we love to sing of together: God is faithful in all things. Trials are purposeful and lead to wisdom. How foolish we would be to miss this by letting anger have its way. God desires that we give thanks in everything and that we do it all without grumbling or complaining. How do we do this: by His grace and through His strength. We can’t do it on our own. We need Him so desperately. Thank you, God! You are so very good to us!
“But now put away and rid yourselves [completely] of all these things: anger, rage, bad feeling toward others, curses and slander, and foulmouthed abuse and shameful utterances from your lips. Clothe yourselves therefore, as God's own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper]. Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive]. And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony]. And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ's] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always]. Let the word [spoken by] Christ (the Messiah) have its home [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness, as you teach and admonish and train one another in all insight and intelligence and wisdom [in spiritual things, and as you sing] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God with [His] grace in your hearts. And whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him.”~Colossians 3:8, 12-17 (Amplified Bible)
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