The 30-Day Giving Challenge

 

My cousin-in-law Alyssa, at Keeping the Kingdom First, is hosting The 30-Day Giving Challenge.  I have accepted the challenge and encourage you to do the same.

With November here, we automatically begin thinking about Thanksgiving.  Why not make the whole month of November a month of thanks and giving?  While going through this 30-day challenge of giving something each day, you will be blessed in return.  With each gift or act of kindness, you will feel good to have helped someone else.  You will also begin to think more about the needs of others around you.

Alyssa's preacher explained the challenge as follows:

Spend 30 days with a journal in your hand. Try it for the next 30 days and see if I’m lying. Take a journal and just jot down everything you give. Every time you find yourself being generous, write it down. Every time you feel prompted by God to give something you never would, or why would I buy THAT many cookies… from the Girl Scouts. I don’t know why, God just gave you the prompting to do something special for somebody! Write it down.

And then write down on the other side every time something comes back to you. Every time the cycle gets completed. Do it for 30 days, and you’ll never be the same again. You’ll never look at giving the same way again.

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There are all sorts of way to give during this challenge.  You can give money, of course, but you can also give supplies, food, and clothing.  Those are things we naturally think about as ways to help others.  But I want to suggest another way that you can give of yourself during this challenge:  Give of your time.

Time is a precious thing to all of us, but sometimes we become stingy and selfish with our time.  Think about the hours you spend watching TV or hours on the computer or maybe enjoying a hobby.  Could you give up some of that time to help someone else - to give of yourself to help others?

It's great to give money, food, supplies, and clothes - and in fact, it's needed.  But, we must also make sure we are giving of ourselves from the heart and not just giving to fulfill and obligation - as a sense of duty.

Because I live in a very, very small town (less than 900 people) my ways to volunteer will be different than yours, but here are some ways to give in the next 30 days:

  1.  Volunteer to read a book at school.
  2.  Volunteer to take an elderly person shopping or to the grocery store.
  3.  Volunteer to babysit (free of charge) for a family with young children.
  4.  Take a meal to a neighbor.
  5.  Take a care package to a hospital waiting room.
  6.  Go visit patients in the hospital.
  7.  Take a group of adults, teens, or children to the nursing home to visit and sing.
  8.  Send someone a card. (homemade or purchased)
  9.  Bake cookies or muffins and take them to work to share with your co-workers.
10.  Volunteer to rake leaves in an elderly person's yard (or other yard work).
11.  Volunteer to take elderly people to their doctor's appointment.
12.  In line at a fast food drive-thru, pay for the person's meal/order behind you.
13.  Take flowers to an office (ex. your bank, doctor's office, post office, etc.)
14.  Send a hand-written note to a teenager (they'll be shocked that it's not a text message)
15.  If your child is in school, volunteer to help with school events, parties and carnivals.  Even if you work, those in charge can use your help in some way.
16.  Make fall door decorations and take them to nursing home residents.
17.  Take a meal to a family with a newborn baby.
18.  Help organize food boxes to give away to families in need.
19.  Send a note of encouragement to men and women in the military.
20.  Volunteer your time at a women's shelter, a soup kitchen, or other service provider.
21.  Take the time to call or go visit widows and widowers.  This time of year can be especially lonely for those who have lost their spouses and whose children may not live close by.
22.  Invite someone to your home.  This could be for a meal, for coffee/tea, desserts, or maybe a game.
23.  Host a neighborhood ladies' brunch.  Hand-deliver invitations.  Play ice-breaker-type games that allow each person time to talk.
24.  Host a ladies salad supper with friends or Christian sisters from your congregation.  Have them bring an item from their past to tell about, as well as their favorite salad.
25.  Most people do not like to ask for help, even if they need it.  Offer to help others in a specific way, such as, "I have Monday morning free.  Why don't I come help you with whatever you need done?" 

I look forward to this challenge and know that it really will be a challenge.  It is something I will need to plan for daily.  It won't just happen.  I have to "plan" for it to happen.  On the other hand, I can expect to be blessed by God because of this challenge.

Look what Jesus told the disciples: 

Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
Luke 6:38

So, are you up for the challenge?  What other ways can you think of that you can give during this month?

It Doesn't Matter

It doesn't matter if I am rich or poor -

It only matters if I am a good steward with whatever God has given me.

It doesn't matter if I am successful or unsuccessful as the world sees success-

It only matters that I live my life to the glory of God.

It doesn't matter if I have possessions and treasures -

It only matters if I have given to others and helped those in need.

It doesn't matter if I have a small house or a large house -

It only matters if I have given my life to God through Jesus, so that I may live in my Father's house some day.

It doesn't matter if I get my children involved in all kinds of activities where they can learn new things -

If I never teach them about God - about Jesus - about His Church - and about the Bible...then I have failed.

It doesn't matter if I spend all of my time doing good deeds and working for the Lord -

If I never take the time to really BE with Him, then I'm not growing in the way that He wants me to grow.

It doesn't matter if I am friendly and outgoing and caring towards others -

If I never use the opportunity to tell others about Jesus then I'm not doing what I've been commanded to do.

It doesn't matter if I believe I am  a good person and try to live an upright life -

If I never give my heart to Jesus and dedicate my life to Him, then I am still lost.

It doesn't matter if I say all of the right things as a Christian -

If I don't live with God number one in my life, then my example is void.

It doesn't matter if I say I love others over and over -

If I never take the time to show them my love, then my words are insincere.

It doesn't matter how much I know about God's Word -

If I never apply that knowledge to my life or use it to help others, then that knowledge is wasted.

It doesn't matter what I think is important in life -

It matters what God believes is important.

Written by Lori Waugh - October 2009

I know, O LORD, that a man's life is not his own; it is not for man to direct his steps.

Jeremiah 10:23

Self Control

Self control is one of the Fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).  God's Holy Spirit is ready, willing and able to help us have self control.  Think of all of the things we could do with His Spirit working within us to give us the strength we need to overcome so many temptations.

In what area do you need "Self Control"?  Ask yourself the following questions:

What is it that I believe I cannot be happy without?
What is it that I crave?
What is it that I believe I must have?
What is it that I spend most of my spare time thinking about?
What is it that I most worry about losing?
What is it that I seek my happiness in the most?
What do I love more than God?
What is the one thing I am thinking of right now that this can’t possibly mean?
 

Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control. Proverbs 25:28

So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled. 1 Thessalonians 5:6

The Chronicles of Biscuit - Sinasight?

My mother-in-law is Biscuit's Wednesday night Bible class teacher.  She told me the other day that she had something funny to tell me that he had said in class.  Later on she sent me the conversation.  Here's what she sent:

"I was singing this song:
Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world
Red and Yellow, Black and White, They are precious in his sight.......

Biscuit wanted to know what "Sinasight" meant.  "Preciou"s in His sight."

Do you have any funny stories to share?  I would love to hear them!  Children are "Precious in His sight", indeed!

Home Sweet Home

Gratituesday:   After being gone from Monday through Saturday night last week, I am grateful to be home. 

Yesterday was busy all day with Bible classes, worship services, fellowship meal, an afternoon worship service, a nap, evening worship, and teen devotional, so I didn't have much time to think about the fact that I was home.  However, today, I thought about it a lot! 

As I made the kids' breakfast and lunches this morning, I thought:  Home Sweet Home!  As I did loads of laundry and cooked supper, I thought:  Home Sweet Home!  As I picked up the kids from school and worked with them on homework, I thought:  Home Sweet Home!

Sometimes I have to admit that the monotony of the every day chores get a little bit tiresome.  It is always nice to have a little break from those daily routines.  However, this last week was a long time for me to be away (my daughter was on the trip, too) from the rest of my family and I was soooooooo glad to get home.  One of the male sponsors made the following observation on the morning we left to drive back home:  "As excited as I was to go on this trip and see all of the things we were going to see, I don't think anything can compare to how excited I am to get back home."  I said, "I think you got that exactly right!"  In fact, I think all 15 of us felt that very same way.

Why is "HOME" so sweet?  Because it's where the family is.  It's where we belong and where we feel loved.  Home is a place we can relax together and work together and play together.  It's a place where we can share feelings, hopes and dreams. It's a place that flourishes when God is number one and everyone is striving to follow in Jesus' footsteps.

Of course, I realize that many don't have those same feelings about "Home".  For them it isn't sweet or happy or safe.  My heart aches for those who do not have a "Home Sweet Home". 

We may not all have a "Home Sweet Home" here on earth, but we all can have a home that is sweet in eternity - and that home is heaven.  God has provided a place that will bring rest for the weary and relief for those in pain.  He has provided a place for His children to live with Him that will last for all eternity.

 

"But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body." Philippians 3:20-21

I want to be in that home, don't you? Heaven will be the best "Home Sweet Home" we could ever dream of!

What are you grateful for today? Gratituesday is hosted by Laura at Heavenly Homemakers.

If the Boot Fits...

Back in mid-September when our family was going to be in Oklahoma City for the State Fair, my husband dropped his boots by a western store for them to be polished and shined. The next day he asked me to stop by and pick them up. I told the "shiner" man my husband's name and he gave me the boots. They were in a boot bag.

Now fast forward to this past Friday, October 23. My husband was getting ready to go somewhere and got out his boots for the first time since getting them polished and shined in mid-September. When he put on the boots, he immediately knew they weren't his. The shoe-shiner had given him back the wrong pair! And, most likely who ever is the owner of these boots, now has my husband's boots.

The shoe shine man was contacted and asked if he knew anything about the boots. But, unfortunately, he hasn't had anyone come back and say they, too, had the wrong pair. My husband's boots were nicer than the ones he now has, and although the color of the boots is similar, the ones he now has are darker and the sole is much thicker.

I was out of town when I first heard this story and I have to admit - rather than have sympathy for my husband's plight, I laughed. I am sorry that he has apparently lost his good pair of boots, but the whole story is really funny to me (and to him, too - though not quite as funny as it is to me!).

There are several lessons to be learned from the lost boots story:

#1: Never assume.
I picked up the boots and assumed they were the right ones. Of course, even if I had seen them out of the bag, I wouldn't have known they were wrong by looking at them. They are similar. However, after getting them, my husband assumed they were the right ones and didn't check to see, until many weeks later.

Making spiritual application it's wise to never assume anything, either. We should never assume that what we are being told or what we read is correct. Take for instance my blog posts - don't just read them and think, "That's really good." or "That's not right." Check it out in God's Word. Read the Bible for yourself to see what it says and to check if what you are being taught is what God's Word says. People are human. They can make mistakes. But, people can also deceive. If you EVER read something I've written and think it is wrong - please tell me! I want to be accountable to you, my readers.

Never assume. Check it out!

"Even as he spoke, many put their faith in him. To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."" John 8:30-33

#2. Don't delay.
My husband really should have checked out his shoe bag sooner. He knows that now. Delaying has now made it impossible (most likely) to fix the problem.

Spiritually speaking, we should never delay, either. Those who have heard about God and Jesus should not delay, but decide to become a Christian as soon as they realize the need.

We should also not delay in confessing sin - to God and to those we have wronged. Seeking forgiveness from God and others is imperative to the Christian. Unforgiven sin seperates us from God and we should act quickly to remedy the situation as soon as we realize the sin is there. We should ask for forgiveness and be willing to give forgiveness to others quickly - without delay.

"As God's fellow workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. For he says, "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation." 2 Corinthians 6:1-2

#3: Get it in writing.
One thing about the shoe-shining man that I noticed is that he didn't have a receipt or anything written down. I wonder if there have been mix-ups before? I'm thinking there probably has been because there is no system of record-keeping.

We can't see God's Book of Life, but we can be confident that our name is written there if we live according to God's Will and do what it says in His Word. (Again, not assuming we are hearing or reading what is true - but reading to in God's Word for ourselves.) Getting it in writing is not something we will actually see in our life right now, but knowing that it is there provides us with the peace, comfort and hope we as Christians want to have.

"He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before my Father and his angels." Revelation 3:5

"Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life." Revelation 21:27

A Scarecrow in a Melon Patch

Fall is my very favorite time of year.  I know it is many of yours, too, because when I posted that question as a monthly "Fun Poll" several months ago, it received the top ranking. We enjoy decorating our yard with haybales, home-grown pumpkins (not as many this year!), corn stalks and a scarecrow.

After traveling across many states over the past week for the National FFA Convention, I was able to see the many colors of fall in full splendor.  God's handiwork was everywhere and I am thankful to have had the opportunity to see those beautiful landscapes.

Last week while searching for something on the internet, I came across a scripture talking about melons and a scarecrow.  To tell you the truth, when I first saw it I really didn't believe it was a "real" Bible verse.  I had never seen/noticed it before - that I had remembered, anyway.  But sure enough - it really is a scripture in the Bible!  How neat that even in those many years ago, there were scarecrows!  Isn't that amazing?

Look at the scripture passage that includes the scarecrow/melon verse:

"Hear what the LORD says to you, O house of Israel. This is what the LORD says:

"Do not learn the ways of the nations or be terrified by signs in the sky, though the nations are terrified by them.

For the customs of the peoples are worthless; they cut a tree out of the forest, and a craftsman shapes it with his chisel. They adorn it with silver and gold; they fasten it with hammer and nails so it will not totter.

Like a scarecrow in a melon patch, their idols cannot speak; they must be carried because they cannot walk.

Do not fear them; they can do no harm nor can they do any good." "

Jeremiah 10:1-5

God told Jeremiah the prophet to explain to the Israelites that their idols were useless.  They themselves made the idols, but then they were afraid of them.  It seems strange, doesn't it?  But, God says, "Do not fear them; they can do no harm nor can they do any good."  Just like the scarecrow, it sits and doesn't speak and can not move walk on it's own.  God wanted the people that the idols were useless and no good.  He wanted them to know that He is the ONE TRUE GOD.

"No one is like you, O LORD; you are great, and your name is mighty in power."

Jeremiah 10:6

Put It To Death

From Lori: The following is an email subscription post from Alan Smith's Thought for the Day.  This hotel in Indianapolis has very limited internet, so I wasn't able to post as usual.  Hopefully tonight I can from Springfield, MS. 

"Mommy, my turtle is dead," the little boy, Freddie, sorrowfully told his mother, holding the turtle out to her.

The mother kissed him on the head, then said, "That's all right. We'll wrap him in tissue paper, put him in a little box, then have a nice burial ceremony in the back yard. After that, we'll go out for an ice cream soda, and then get you a new pet. I don't want you...." Her voice trailed off as she noticed the turtle move.
"Freddie, your turtle is not dead after all."

"Oh," the disappointed boy said. "Can I kill it?"

Using the mind of a child, it's easy to see why Freddie felt that way. In his immature mind, the "blessing" of an ice cream soda more than made up for any loss suffered through the death of a pet.

There is a sense, though, in which the benefits of death far outweigh any sadness we might feel. The apostle Paul frequently wrote of the need to "put to death" the sinful behavior that once characterized our lives. We're well aware of what he's talking about because we constantly struggle with temptation. Just when we think we've given our sins the death blow, they resurface with new life. Putting them to death is not an easy thing to do. It helps to be reminded of the benefits of doing so:

"For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." (Rom. 8:13)

The thought of "living" with God far outweighs any sadness I might experience from putting to death those "deeds of the body."

Father, as I look at my sinful behavior which resurfaces from time to time only to hurt and disappoint you so much -- that behavior which you hate even more than I do, enough to sacrifice your only Son -- I have only one question: Can I kill it?

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ

LOL

Today we heard Mike Rowe speak at the National FFA Convention.  He is from the Discovery Channel show "Dirty Jobs With Mike Rowe".  He talked about how he is not how one might think.  He said that he's not an actor.  What he does is real - no script and no retakes.  He's not a host - because he just talks to people.  He said it's important for people to understand that what he does is just working along with others and he likes to think of himself as an apprentice.

The FFA used to be called "Future Farmers of America", but although the organization still uses FFA as it's name, the meaning has changed to much, much more than farming.  Mr. Rowe talked about how it's important for American (and other countries, too) to understand that FFA is important for America because of what it represents and what it does - which may, indeed, involve farming, but also involves many more areas of agriculture (specifically our nation's food supply and energy conservation).  FFA is a great organization and the students involved become educated in many different areas.

When you think about perceptions, think about what people may think of you.  What image do you give others about yourself?  Would others be surprised to know that you are a Christian?  Could they tell you are a Christian by the way you live?  By the way you talk?  By the entertainment you choose?

Many believe that our example is enough to show others about how to be a Christian.  A good example is imperative, but I also believe there comes a point where we have to say something and let them know that we are a Christian.  An example would be if someone is saying vulgar language continually around you and you never say anything, they will assume that you approve of that language, don't you think?  If you and I never stand up (in kindness and with love) and say anything, the people around us may never realize that something might be offensive to us.

Another thing we should speak up for is Jesus.  Confessing Jesus is one of the things we must do before becoming a Christian; however, that confession doesn't stop there.  It must continue the rest of our lives.

"Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven” Matthew 10:32-33

The FFA motto this year is "LOL", which stands for "Lead Out Loud".  Of course, this is to reach the texting teens (and adults!) who use LOL all of the time to mean "laugh out loud".  But this LOL is different.  It means don't just sit back and let things happen all around you, but do something.  Do something to lead.  It doesn't mean you have to be the LOUDEST or the one out in front, but it means to do something to make a difference. 

You and I can LOL (Lead Out Loud) as Christians each and every day by making good choices, by showing and telling others about God and about Jesus.  Make the choice to LOL today!!!

And I Think To Myself....What a Wonderful World!

What a wonderful world God made for us to live in!  It's a blessing to have the opportunity to travel and see all of the beautiful landscape and sights He made and His creations have made. 

The earth is the Lord's and everything in it, the world and all who live in it.  Psalm 24:1

Our trip to the National FFA Convention:

Meramec Caverns in Stanton, Missouri

Stalagmites in the caves.  They are amazing!

FFA Members on their way to the convention.

FFA Pride!

Posing at the Meramec Caverns.  Such beautiful scenery!

Fall Colors - St. Louis, Missouri

The Arch & Courthouse in St. Louis, Missouri.

Inside the Court House where the famous Dred Scott trial was held.  We watched a video about the trial and slavery.  So sad and so wrong!  It's hard to believe that people could ever think slavery was okay.  Of course, we read about it in Bible times, too, and it was just as horrible then. 

Prejudice is wrong, too. God loves EVERYONE.  Jesus loves EVERYONE.  We should imitate God and Jesus and make it our goal to love everyone as we are commanded to do.  "Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight."

Lauren took several pictures from on TOP of the arch.  I did ride up in the small little bowl tram thing, which had no air conditioning.  And, I did look out of the top, but not too much!  I was glad to get back down, but am glad to have done it - once. :)

Thank you for your prayers as we continue to make our journey to the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana!

Indiana - Here We Come!

In less than two hours I'll be going on a trip for the week.  Our school's FFA organization is headed to the FFA National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana.  I'm going along as the female adult chaparone.  My daughter will be one of six girls in my group (16 total going). 

For someone who hasn't traveled much, in the last 15 months I've actually been blessed to go to quite a few places.  On this trip I'm excited to get to see places and states that I've never seen before.  I'm especially excited to see the beautiful landscape along the way - especially now that it's fall.  (Oh, yeah.  I forgot that tonight we are driving ALL NIGHT tonight and I won't really get to see any of the "pretty".  Hopefully on the way back I will!). I will tomorrow, though.  Yes, God gave us a beautiful world to live in and to enjoy. 

I'm grateful to have the opportunity to go on this trip; however, I will miss my three boys and my husband.  Even though they could have made it fine without it, I got meals ready and planned for them.  I have no doubt that they will be well taken care of while I'm gone.  I've got a great husband who's also a great dad!  Of course, I'm sure I'll have some "straightening out" to do when I get back (concerning manners and things like that)!  "Dad" isn't quite as concerned with manners as "Mom" is!

The thought of FFA members coming from all over the United States to attend this convention is amazing to me.  After attending the Oklahoma FFA Convention (see these posts) in the spring, I was so inspired by the messages we heard.  I know this convention will be the same way and we are all looking forward to that. I'm grateful for student organizations that promote service to others, hard work, team work, and dedication.  Although FFA (and others, too) isn't a faith-based organization, the FFA definitely has Bible-based goals. 

Please pray for our group's safety (and prayers for sleep might be good, too :)!!).  Pray for all of the other FFA members who will be attending the convention, as well.  I'll post from St. Louis, Missouri tomorrow (if it is the Lord's Will).

Trials and Trees

Yesterday I told you about a family in town whose house burned down.  Thankfully no one was hurt and the family has been helped with food, clothing, shelter, and money. 

Typically our small town is quiet and doesn't have too much going on.  But this weekend has been really different because two strange things have happened. Today a man fell out of a tree and broke his neck, several ribs and fractured vertebrae.  He was medi-flighted to Oklahoma City for evaluation and possible surgery, but after examination, the doctors believe he will only need a brace and will possibly come home in a few days.  Thankfully both of these events have had good outcomes. God has blessed both of these families.

Both of the stories above involve trees or wood from trees. We have a few tree stories in our family, as well.  In 2004, my mom asked for something unique for Mother's Day.  She wanted her trees trimmed and asked if her two sons-in-law could do the trimming for her.  So, on the Saturday before Mother's Day on that Sunday, my husband and brother-in-law began working on the trees. 

It wasn't too long after the work began that my 2nd oldest child came running into the house and said, "Daddy's hurt!".  I rushed out to the back yard and found Joe lying on the ground gasping for air and couldn't talk plainly.  It was so scary!  I honestly thought that he was paralyzed and would never be able to speak again.  But, thankfully, God allowed Joe to be healed.  He did break his collar bone and some ribs and later developed pneumonia, but was back to normal within a few months.  God blessed Joe and our whole family.

Almost a year and a half after Joe's tree incident happened, his brother had his own tree encounter.  Except this time it didn't involve falling OUT of a tree - it involved a tree falling ON him.  Joe's brother, Dan, was with a group of volunteers from his church family who were working with Hurricane Katrina victims in Texas. 

I can't remember all of the details, but a large tree was being cut down due to storm damage and it fell on top of Dan, pinning him underneath.  After getting the tree off of him and accessing his injuries, he was flown to Galveston for surgery.  Later he was able to fly to an Oklahoma City hospital which was closer to his home in Edmond.  He had many broken bones and months of hospital stays, doctor's appointments and therapy.  He, too, has been blessed with an almost-total recovery and is back to running marathons, triathalons, and lots of other (crazy!) things. God blessed Dan and his whole family.

There are many "tree" stories in the Bible.  There were real trees and figurative trees.  Trees were used to provide wood for sacrifices and to build things.  Trees gave refuge and brought death. 

When we think of Jesus' encounter with a tree, our minds will most likely think about the cross.  The cross conjures up many different things in people's minds, but to the Christian, the cross signifies Jesus' sacrifice.  Jesus' death on the cross gives the opportunity for us to have salvation and eternal life.  Without the cross, we would be lost!  The cross is where Jesus willingly gave His life for us.  He became the atoning sacrifice for our sins (1 John 2:2; 4:10)  The cross is where God blessed us by giving His Son up for us.

Thank you God, for making trees.  They are beautiful and provide us with food, shelter, cleaner air, and so many other things.  Be with the family who lost their home in the fire. Be with the one who fell from the tree today and continue to help him heal.  Thank you for blessing Joe and Dan and allowing them to recover from their tree incidents.  But especially, thank you for giving Your Son, Jesus, to die on the tree - the cross - for us and our sins.  You have blessed us in so many ways, and for that, we are grateful.

In Jesus' Name,
Amen

We Can Never Out-Give God

Every good and perfect gift is from above...James 1:17

As I sat down to write this post, with the intention of posting about giving, I found out, via Facebook, about someone's house burning down in our small town (less than 900 people small).  Of course, in small towns most everyone knows everyone else.  The affected family grew up here.  They raised their family here. They have three grown children and one younger child.  In fact, just today they had a new grandson.  Ironic, isn't it?  A blessing and a disaster - all in the same day. 

Many people have already helped this family tonight and many others will continue to do so.  I know that in the morning the churches in our community will look for ways to reach out and help this family by donating food, clothing, and providing shelter.  That's what Christians do - look for ways to help and serve those in need.

Loosing everything is something none of think about very often.  It's nothing we expect to ever have happen to us.  Giving in times like this is what we need to do and what we should do.  To be like Jesus, we must help those in need.  But, no matter how much you and I may give - we can never out-give God.  Why?  Because he gave us something we can never do:  He gave us the opportunity to have eternal life with Him in Heaven!  He gave His Son as our Savior!

Please pray for this family and other families all around the world who have disasters in their life.  Pray that they may look to God for strength, help, and comfort.  But, don't forget to say "thank you" to God for the blessings, as well.  Just as this family had a blessing of a new grandbaby today, they also can be thankful that no one was hurt in the fire. 

WE CAN NEVER OUT-GIVE GOD!

Don't Be a Goat!

Last week while my husband was gone, Zachary (our oldest son) and I would go and feed the goats in all of the fields. Our three oldest show goats as FFA/4-H projects and they take care of them, but there are also three fields of goats that my husband takes care of mostly himself that are breeding stock.

One of the fields has a guard dog, Ranger. Ranger is very intellegent, as I was able to see for myself this week. This particular field is "U" shaped and you drive up in the middle of the "U" to feed Ranger and the goats.  There is field area on either side of the drive. When we drove up and my son got out of the pickup he said, "Mom, watch Ranger."

We had parked more towards the south side, but as soon as Zachary went towards the north side with the dog food, Ranger took off quickly and ran as hard as he could all the way around the field and to the other side to his food.  He knew immediately which side of the field his food was being taken as soon as Zachary lifted it out of the back of the pickup.  (A funny this is that he wouldn't eat it. Zachary (and my husband) say that he never eats it until they leave.)

The goats stand in a row along the south part of the field, looking at me sitting in the pickup and Zachary, as he is taking their food to the NORTH part of the field. They can see Ranger from across the field, too. But, instead of running around to the food like Ranger did, they just stand there - looking and meheheeeing (that's the sound goat's make, in case you don't know!). I'll just say that goats are "intellectually challenged"....that's a nice way to put it!

After a while...quite a while....the goats figured out that their food is on the other side of the field and then one by one they turned and began running to the other side. Now, I should explain that my husband or son do this on either side to make it easier to pour out the feed. If they poured it on the side where the goats were, they would be in the way and the feed would go everywhere.

So, I got to thinking....there HAS to be some sort of spiritual application to this story. And here's what I thought of: We are all different. We have different degrees of intelligence. We all have different talents. Some of us work quickly. Some of us work slowly. BUT, none of us should be like those goats, who day after day, do the SAME THING over and over and never figure out what is going on. They stand there for quite a while just looking and "talking" (goat language)- not having learned anything from the days before, but repeating the same thing (that doesn't work) each day. Ranger is the leader and shows that quality every day, but, he himself doesn't have any followers. 

You would think that eventually one of the goats would look to his example, but no.  They just stand together in their same group, looking at him from the other side of the field and talk.  Wonder what they are saying in goat language?  "Look at that dog?  What does he think he's doing?  He's going to the other side of the fence.  That will never work.  We've always done it this way."  Eventually one goat finally starts towards the field and then the others begin to follow.

As Christians we should be following in Jesus' footsteps, which lead to God.  But, sometimes, we are looking at those around us and see what they are doing and we follow them.  We want to stay in our comfort zones and in our familiar groups and not grow closer to God on our own.  Of course, we can learn from the examples of others, but we have to be careful not to be following them as a human beings, but instead be following Jesus - a spiritual being.  And, like the goats, sometimes we tend to just stay in our same little groups or cliques, uncomfortable to reach out to others or go along with others (who, like the dog, are taking the lead and accomplishing what he needs to)  and who also may be doing the right thing.  If we follow others, we may be learning what is "True" and "Right", but we might not be.  We must follow Jesus and God, and let the Spirit lead us. We must do what the Bible says....not what men/women say.  We must look to the examples of others to learn from them, but only be followers of Jesus.

“It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.” —Psalm 118:8

"Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." Galatians 1:10

Can you think of any other spiritual example to this goat/dog scene?  It's amazing to watch the creatures God made!

Something to Think About

Have you ever thought about what you would have done if you had been the first man or woman God created?  Would you have taken of the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil?  Or would you have resisted Satan?

A few weeks ago, during a Bible study time at our congregation, a visiting preacher made a keen observation.  Adam and Eve didn't make it past the first chapter in the Bible without sinning.  He said, kind of jokingly, "I think I could have made it to chapter 4!"

It's interesting to put ourselves in the shoes of those who lived during the Bible times and think about what we would have done if we had been in those same situations.  It's easy to say that we would have done better - that we wouldn't have sinned...that we wouldn't have denied Christ....that we wouldn't have betrayed Christ.  But, maybe we would have.

Think about people in the Bible and the stories you know about them.  Whose life resembles yours?  While there are many great examples in the Bible of people we might like our lives to resemble, of course the ultimate one we should all strive to resemble is Jesus.

I Did it My Way?

Most of you have probably heard the song, "I Did it My Way", by Frank Sinatra.  I remember hearing of a man who wanted that song played at his funeral.  When he died, the family respected his wishes. 

"I DID IT MY WAY".   Obviously this man was not a Christian.  And how sad that anyone would go through life doing as they please, living as they want to live, without giving a thought to how God wants them to live.  Yes, sadly we all know millions of people live that way every day.

Now, I have to admit that there are times when I, too, try to do things "my" way - when I let "self" get in the way.  It's something I work on daily. You may, too.

As Christians, we should all be striving to live God's way...and at the end of our lives be able to sing "I Did it God's Way".

Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in his ways.  Psalm 128:1

Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Psalm 25:4-5

Toothless Grins

GRATITUESDAY

Tonight's post is very special because it's been a loooooooooonnnnnnnngg time coming.  In June Tyler (a.k.a. Biscuit) worked to get his two front top teeth out and at that time they were pretty loose.  Well, it took quite a while for the first tooth to come out...actually it was about three weeks ago and it happened when he and Jacob were playing football in a hotel room (during one of our trips to Oklahoma City for the state fair).  Jacob "tackled" Tyler and the tooth popped out!  He was so excited and we hoped that the other one would come out soon after, but it didn't.  A few days ago, I wrote this post and mentioned Tyler's dangling tooth. 

Here's a close-up of the "dangler".  I was afraid he would swallow if it fell out during the night!

Well, yesterday morning during worship, Tyler (apparently) was trying to get the dangling tooth out, and OUT IT CAME!  He was so excited!!  Of course it bled a little bit and luckily I had a few tissues stuffed in my purse.  I think that is the third tooth he's lost during worship.  He does it quietly and without much movement because I've been sitting right next to him each time.

I had been telling Tyler he would be singing "All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth"....and sure enough....he will be! And, for that, I'm grateful.  Because he's the youngest of my four children and I'll miss seeing those sweet toothless grins.

What are you grateful for today?  For more Gratituesday, visit Heavenly Homemakers.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

I've heard of seasonal disorders.  Actually I thought it was Seasonal "Distress" Disorder, but I guess not. Here's the definition for the disorder: Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that occurs in relation to the seasons, most commonly beginning in winter.  It's kind of interesting to me that the initials spell SAD, because the disorder seems to make people sad.  People with SAD become "sad" because they can't see the sun.  We all need the sun to get adequate amounts of vitamin D.  In fact, we couldn't survive without the sun.

This disorder came to mind because it's been many days since we've seen the sun here in southwest Oklahoma.  I believe on Friday the sky was brighter but still the sun wasn't actually seen.  We have had a lot of rain, which is always needed and for that, I'm extremely thankful.  I can usually tell when my children are ready to see the sun (it was a few days ago, in case you're wondering!).  My husband is in Nashville/Franklin, Tennessee, so he's missed out on the no-sun days.  Even though he misses being with his family, I'm pretty sure he's glad he missed out on the gloomy days!  I kind of like the kind of days we've been having, but even I get to missing the sun after a while.

We, as humans, miss the SUN after a few days, but what about THE SON? God's Son Jesus?  Do we "miss" Jesus if we are away from Him for a day or do the days go on and on before we realize He's not been in our life? Just as we could not survive very long without the sun, we can't survive without the SON (Jesus).  But, with Him in our lives, we will be able to live with He and God in Heaven for eternity! 

 No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also.

1 John 2:23

Thank you, God, for the sun and your Son...both are gifts to us from You.

The Chronicles of Biscuit - "No, I Just Play for Them"

Biscuit is a huge OU (University of Oklahoma) fan.  In fact, he has several OU shirts and even a jersey which he wears at least two or three times a week.  However, last night I noticed Biscuit had on an OSU (Oklahoma State University) jersey and also had his face painted with letters (notice in the picture that his forehead says "USO" because he did it in the mirror and so it was backwards...but he didn't know it! Also notice the dangling upper tooth that is just barely hanging on!).  The OSU jersey was a Christmas present from three years ago when he was an OSU fan.

Anyway, I said, "Biscuit, are you an OSU fan now, since you're all dressed up as an OSU foot ball player?"  He replied, "No, I just play for them."  In the make-believe football game he was getting ready to play, he was an OSU football player, but at heart he was still an OU fan.

It makes me wonder:  Does God look at us and say, "Are you really a fan of mine or do you just play like you are one?"  And how do we answer, "No, I just play like I am one." or "Yes, I am a fan of God!"?  What impression do we leave on our family?  What impression do we leave on our friends? As Christians, we must be totally devoted to God - not just "playing like" or "pretending".

I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.  Revelation 3:15-16

How to Give Advice

I mentioned recently that I subscribe to Alan Smith's Thought for the Day (TFTD).  I thought you would enjoy the post I received today.  It's funny but teaches a good lesson, too.  Enjoy!

The wife was busy frying eggs, when her husband came home. He walked into the kitchen and immediately started yelling. "CAREFUL!!! CAREFUL! MORE OIL! TURN THEM! TURN THEM NOW! WE NEED MORE OIL! THEY ARE GOING TO STICK! CAREFUL! CAREFUL! TURN THEM! TURN THEM!!! HURRY UP! ARE YOU CRAZY! THE OIL IS GOING TO SPILL! USE MORE SALT! THE SALT!!"

The wife was very upset, "What is wrong with you? Why are you yelling like this? Do you think I don't know how to fry an egg?"

The husband calmly replied, "I just wanted you to know what it's like for me when I am driving the car and you're sitting next to me."

Without making specific judgments about wives giving advice to their husbands while driving (or about husbands giving advice to their wives while cooking!), let me simply say that we all need to be conscious of how we give advice to others. The author of the book of Proverbs has much to say on the subject. In fact, the words “tongue”, “mouth”, “lips” and “words” are mentioned in Proverbs almost 150 times!

Consider these words of advice about giving advice:

Know all the facts before you give advice – “He who answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame to him.” (Prov. 18:13)

Give advice in a calm manner – “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Prov. 15:1)

Be careful about giving unsolicited advice – “In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” (Prov. 10:19)

But when advice is needed, be prepared to give godly advice – “The heart of the righteous studies how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours forth evil.” (Prov. 15:28)

Above all, give advice out of a sincere love for your friend – “Open rebuke is better than love carefully concealed. Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” (Prov. 27:5-6)

When you give advice, may it be "a word fitly spoken" (Prov. 25:11) because "a word spoken in due season, how good it is!" (Prov. 15:23)

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Some Things You Just Can't Share!

I just sat down to write a blog post, not really knowing what I was going to write about tonight.  Then my daughter came in to tell me good night.  She sat down close by and said, "Mom, I've got a situation.  Every night after I brush my teeth, I put my toothbrush up in the cabinet in a certain container by my contact stuff.  But, every morning when I go to brush my teeth, it's in the drawer and I don't know why." 

At this point I was thinking, "Who would move her toothbrush?" But then Lauren continued,  "Well, just now I went to brush my teeth and it was wet!"  All of the sudden, I knew what was happening.  One of her brothers was "sharing" her toothbrush!  They are all three asleep, but we're pretty sure Jacob is the one who is using the toothbrush.  Why?  Because he's the one who never can find his toothbrush.  He's the one who never remembers to pack a toothbrush on a trip.  And, (unfortunately) he's the one the dentist recently said needs to brush better!

Lauren wrote Jacob a note to leave in the bathroom for Jacob to see in the morning (she's already convicted him!).  It was a nice note...much nicer than I would have been if I found out someone was sharing my toothbrush (YUCK!)

We talked about this situation and agreed:  There are just some things you can't share.  A toothbrush is at the top of our list!  Now, Jacob MAY have a rebutal.  He may use the scripture: "Share with God's people who are in need." Romans 12:13.  But, although he is, indeed, one of God's people and he may be "needy" in the sense that he "needs" a toothbrush, I'm pretty sure that would be taking that scripture completely out of context....don't you??

There's another thing we can't share.  While we can share our faith and tell others about God, and about Jesus, and what Jesus has done in our lives, we can't share our salvation.  My salvation won't save my husband.  My salvation won't save any of my children.  My salvation (a gift from God through the death, burial, and resurrection of His Son, Jesus) is mine alone. We each are accountable for ourselves as to our relationship with God.  "So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God." Romans 14:12

My husband is in Nashville, TN, on a business trip, so I just called him and told him this story.  He responded, "Well, on the bright side - at least he's brushing!"  Very true!

God's Promises

"Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made."

Psalm 145:13

I've already shared with you a little bit about the ladies retreat from this past weekend, but I wanted to share one more post about "Promises of God".

During each retreat four different ladies speak to the group (actually this time one session was a mother-daughter team, so there were five).  Two ladies do longer lessons and two do shorter devotionals.  It is always so interesting and inspiring to see how the four ladies choose to present their lesson.  Each lady is given the theme title, but then they come up with their own lesson and they don't communicate with each other about the direction they are going in their lesson.  Each lady has their own style of teaching, just like each of the ladies in the audience have a different style of listening and learning.  I'm always amazed at how God works and uses each of the speakers as a vessel to pour out His Word to all of us in a different way.

This year one of the speakers talked about something not-so-good in her life - an illness.  She talked about how God turned the illness, which she has lived with for 10 years,  into something good - revealing His promises throughout the illness.  She shared with us the following poem:

GOD HATH NOT PROMISED

God hath not promised

skies always blue,

Flower-strewn pathways

all our lives through.

God hath not promised

sun without rain,

Joy without sorrow,

peace without pain.

But God hath promised

strength for the day,

Rest for the labor,

Light for the way

Grace for the trials

Help from above,

Unfailing sympathy,

Undying love.

Written by Annie J. Flint

God promises to be with His children (Christians - called according to HIS purpose...see verse below).  Not that everything is good or is what we might want, but that He will be with us, even through the bad.  He promises that He will work it out for the good, even though we may not completely understand.

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God,  to them that are the called according to his purpose."

Romans 8:28 

Thank you, God, for always keeping your promises!

WHAT NOT TO WEAR

My mom is responsible for putting up new bulletin boards from time to time at the church building where she and my dad worship. This past Sunday my husband was preaching there (filling in for their regular minister), so I made sure to take my camera along so that I could take a picture of the bulletin board.  I thought it would make a great post to share with you.

The title is "WHAT NOT TO WEAR" and then lists several items that are not becoming for a Christian to wear.  Let's look at each of these traits.

PRIDE:  These six things the LORD hates, Yea, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look...Proverbs 6:16-17

ANGER: We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Proverbs 29:22

SELFISHNESS: We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Romans 15:1

WHINING: Do all things without murmurings and disputings. Philippians 2:14

BAD ATTITUDE: Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Psalm 51:10

If we have any of these items in our Christian wardrobe, we need to get rid of them quickly!

Wise Lessons Learned

On this Gratituesday, I am grateful for wise lessons learned....

Last week in our Wednesday night Bible study, the teacher told a story about a lesson he had learned several years ago.  At that time the teacher was a young father.  His son played little league.   He was upset about the little league field and began to complain to his dad about another young father who was working on the field.  He didn't think this other father was doing to the field what needed to be done.  He didn't care for the way the other father was taking care of the field at all, really.  The teacher said that his dad said something really wise to him...something that really changed his life.  He said, "Well, at least he is doing something!".  In other words, this teacher's father pointed out to him that he himself wasn't doing anything to help with the field.  He was only complaining about what was being done.  From that day on this teacher said he always looked for ways to actively help and not just sit back and complain while others did the work.

I've thought a lot about this story since last Wednesday.  How many times do I complain (either in my head or out loud) about the way something is being done?  And, if I do complain, what am I doing to help the situation?  Unfortunately, many times when we complain, we are just complaining about something that we aren't willing to help change.  It's easy to complain.  It's much harder to get involved and try to make things better.

I've actually experienced this first hand many times throughout my volunteer work.  Each year I organize the town/school carnival.  Sometimes there are complaints about how the carnival is run, how the booths are set up, or something else.  I would say that every year there is a complaint of some sort - some BIG and some small.  But, most of the time, the ones who are doing the complaining are the ones who aren't willing to help organize the event at all.  It's the same thing with the fair parade, which I also have organized many times.  Last year I had lots of "advice" about how it should be done or why something should not be done.  Finally, after tolerating a lot of "input" (that's a nice way of saying it!), I suggested (very nicely) that the person giving all of the advice, should take over the parade the next year.  Would it surprise you if I told you I never got any more advice after that?  Funny how that works, isn't it????

So, let's ask ourselves two questions:
1.  If I have a complaint about something (anything), what am I doing to help the situation?
2.  Is there something I could do to make it better?  If so, am I willing to work to make it better?

We all have our "pet projects"...certain things that are important to us.  Sometimes we expect others to feel the same about our projects and we want them to be involved and help us. But, are we willing to help others with their "pet projects"? Sometimes yes and sometimes no.  We must realize that sometimes we are going to be disappointed because we're going to be alone.  There may be no one willing to help.  It's at those times, we must evaluate our motives of WHY we are doing what we are doing.  Is it to glorify God or to receive praise from others?  If we are honest with ourselves, we should only be doing what we are doing to honor and glorify God.  If we get help from others - fine.  If not, that's okay, too, because as my husband said in a sermon yesterday, "We are living our life for an audience of one!".  Only one.  And that ONE is God.

I have one more question for you:  If everyone in the world was just like you, what would get done?  What would be left un-done?  Think about the wise answer the father gave his son in the story above.  "At least he is doing something."  What are you doing?

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:17

To see what others are grateful for, visit Heavenly Homemakers.

Craft Time at the Ladies' Retreat - Dishcloth Britches

At the annual QMCC Ladies Retreat I mentioned yesterday, different ladies sign up to do different things for the next year's retreat.  One group of ladies signed up to provide a craft for the retreat.  They provided the supplies and showed us how to make "Dishrag Britches".  It was lots of fun for everyone!

Even though I really like to do crafts and do them quite ofen, I've never showed one on my blog before.  I don't know why!  So, I thought you all might enjoy this one and decided to share it with you today.  The little note attached to the britches fit the theme of the retreat as well:  "Promises of God".

Each lady was given a snack-sized ziplock bag with the following items:  poem (with the straight pin at the top)and two pieces of yarn (crochet yarn, I think), each piece about 24 inches long.  We were also given big needles.  I don't know what size they were, but large enough for the two pieces of yarn to go through.  Also, we were given a small piece of tape for the ends of the yarn to make it smaller and more pointed to go through the eye of the needle.  When threading the needle, pull the yarn pieces all the way until there is only about three inches left.  (So the one side would be 21 inches of yarn and the other side would be 3 inches.)

Fold dishcloths in half and lay down on a table, unfolded sides touching. On the second row of the red stripe or approximately 1/3 of the way down on the dishcloths,  insert the needle from the front side of one dishcloth, going to the back through the second layer, then over to the other dishcloth, come up from the back - sewing the two pieces together.  Pull the yarn until the loose side is about 3 inches long.  Cut the yarn on the other side to about 3 inches.  Tie a bow.

Repeat these steps on the very middle of the two dishcloths, which happened to be on the next stripe on these cloths.  Only make two of these bows before moving to the top edge.

At the top, begin on one side and stitch wide (about one inch) stiches (only going through ONE thickness) all the way around to the other side, ending at the center of the other dishcloth. Pull the strings to gather the top, which makes the "waist" of the britches.  Cut the longer yarn again to

about 3 inches and tie a bow.

Now do the same thing as was done on the top, except do each "leg" of the dishcloth britches seperately.  I began at the middle of each dishcloth instead of the inside edge because I wanted the bow in the middle of the leg.

Pin the poem on the britches.

Here's the poem.  It does have one typo where it has YOUHAVE.  Should be YOU HAVE.  It was so neat that the ladies who provided this craft wrote a special note mentioning God's promises to go along with the retreat theme.

Here are two of the ladies showing their finished dishcloth britches.  Don't they look cute?

If the directions don't make sense, let me know!  Sewing isn't my thing at all :).  I tried to be specific, but something it may be confusing.  Anyway, this craft would make a neat homemade gift.

Ladies' Retreat 2009

This weekend was the 30th Annual Quartz Mountain Christian Camp (QMCC) which is near Lone Wolf, Oklahoma. The theme was "Promises of God". I want to share with you a little bit about the retreat.  One Christian sister travels over an hour away each year to make a bulletin board with the retreat theme. Isn't that a great way to serve others by using her God-given talent?

I ordered t-shirts for the retreat this year.The lady at the store asked me what color of shirts I wanted.  I couldn't decide, so she said, "How about using several different colors?"  "Perfect, I said!" The ladies really liked the shirts and enjoyed getting to choose a favorite color.

The tables were simply decorated usuing one color of the rainbow (red, orange, yellow, blue, green, and purple) per table. A wrapped flower bouquet was placed in the center of each table.

The program carried out the theme and the theme scripture was carried out in several ways: The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made. Psalm 145:13

Small favors were placed at each place setting.  The treats were small swirl lollipops, with a scripture sticker on the back. The lollipops can be purchased at Oriental Trading.

I will share more about the special ladies retreat in the next few days, but if you want to try one of the recipes from the retreat (Pumpkin Pancakes with Caramel-Pecan Sauce), go to "Life's a Bowl of Cherries". The recipes are posted for you to enjoy.