Psalm 37:7 KJV
Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.
Dearest Sisters,
HAPPY TUESDAY!
I pray that you and yours had a productive and promising day!
I hope that you all have a restful and relaxing evening!
I want to remind everyone that we find our true rest in God. There is indescribable spiritual rest in our God. And, when we take needed SELAHs to reflect on God, we are refreshed and restored. Likewise, when we break for Sabbath rest or other much needed R&R, we find rejuvenation for our minds, bodies, and souls. God is good!
Regrettably, I've learned that an increasing number of Christians are tapping into the mystical practices of ancient Catholic monks in their quest to practice restful living. For the Classical Educators or students among us, be wary of practicing "schole" or restful learning. Dearest Ladies, rest is good; in fact, it is necessitated in the Bible. Rest is good for our pilgrim sojourns and Christian discipleship. Rest is good for reflection and renewal post-divorce. But, NOT all rest is equal. NOT all rest is good. And, definitively speaking, NOT all rest is biblical.
Many false gods/ spirits offer "rest" but true rest is not their end goal. Many religions offer "rest" for the soul and body but true rest is not their end goal. Many new faddish activities and exercises offer "rest" but true rest is not their end goal. Remember, in ALL things, Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). There is NO rest outside of Him. Moreover, there is NO rest in Jesus plus some activity or exercise derived from another religion.
Mystical activities have flourished among Catholic monks. Prior to the monks, it flourished among mystics in the ancient civilizations of the Greeks and Romans. Mystical activity was channeled in the false religions of Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, and animism, even amongst Kabbalah Jews; mysticism was conjured up from the practices of ancient Egyptians. Mysticism has survived from antiquity. It is still among us today.
Satan is continually using mysticism to lure Christians into false, spiritual experiences. So many are desperate to "experience" God (or a god) that they are venturing from the godly wisdom of the Bible to seek and find God (or god). Sisters, when satan and culture whispers new ideas and notions of experiencing God, we must resist the temptation by standing on truth. We must resist the temptation by sticking to the ancient paths of our forefathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Contemplative meditation is NOT a godly avenue to connecting with God nor resting. Moreover, chanting, channeling, walking through labyrinths, mind-emptying meditating, practicing rosary, engaging in adult coloring, and practicing yoga etc are all practices derived from eastern, mystical, idol worshipping, false religions; none of them offer true, lasting rest. Instead, these practices open up one's mind and soul to the spiritual realm, much like drugs. When one's mind and body enters into a trance-like, altered, "rest" stage then spiritual beings are welcomed into one's body and home. What initially appears to be "rest," results in spiritual oppression and depression from a dark realm.
Please be very, very, very careful as you shop the market of Classical Education curriculum for yourself or your kiddos. Please be very careful as you peruse the choices for aids to assist consumers in managing stress, resting or relaxing. Seek God for wisdom and discernment. All that glitters isn't gold. All that seems peaceable and benign isn't pleasant.
Love and blessings to all
Hugs
Tuesday, February 28, 2017
Monday, February 27, 2017
THE LORD IS MY ROCK
Psalm 18:1-3 KJV
18 I will love thee, O Lord, my strength.
2 The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
3 I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.
Dearest beautiful mamas,
HAPPY MONDAY!!!
I hope that you and yours are well!
I'm cheering for one and all as we buckle down to accomplish myriad tasks this week. Remember, YOU are competent! YOU are able! YOU can do ALL things through Christ!
In Psalm 18, David reminds us that God is our strength, fortress, and deliverer. In verse 4, we learn that David called upon the Lord so that he would be saved from his enemies. God is indeed our strong tower. We can run to Him. We can hide in Him as He wages battles on our behalf. Our victory is in God alone! Glory hallelujah!
Dearest Sisters, you can trust God with the cares and concerns of your heart. If there are seemingly insurmountable challenges in your life, run to Jesus! If there are wicked enemies that plot all manners of evil against you, run to Jesus! Cry out to Jesus; He will rescue you!
I'm praying for us all! I trust that God will deliver us! The Lord is faithful and just! Continue happily and joyfully in your role as mother!!!
Being a single mom is challenging but God looks upon our humble estate with compassion and understanding. We have to continually remind ourselves that God knows EVERYTHING about us and our struggles. He knew that our hubbys would break our hearts and break their promises. God knew that we would have to work and raise our kiddos day-to-day without substantial support, let alone encouragement. GOD KNEW!!! And, He is walking alongside us to bolster our strength and lift us up when we fall down. Divorce permanently impacts our families but God ensures that a lot of the imminent changes (post-divorce) are for our good.
Many of us want to make a difference in the world! We want to do something great! We want to have a significant, meaningful impact! We want to feel special! We want to do something special! Sometimes, it seems that our chances are eroded because of divorce. By and large, many of us derived our identities from our husbands and our marital status. Generally speaking, when our marital titles and possessions were stripped away from us, we were left feeling unwanted and unimportant. Those feelings were very real but but very untrue. Beloved, YOU are special. Divorce can never strip us of our roles as loving, dutiful, faithful mothers!
We change the world with every hug we give our loved ones, with every bedtime story we read to our kiddos, with every meal that we cook, with every moment that we play with our children, and with every task that we wrap in love such as laundry, chauffeuring, reviewing homework, or dampening a fevered brow. We make a difference by loving our kiddos through the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of life. No person in history has ever done anything great without a mother's love.
The devil will attempt to distract us from our all important assignment as keepers of our homes. Don't fall for the distractions. As the old folks say, "charity begins at home." When the load gets hard to bear, fall on Jesus. He is our rock! He will bear us up.
I'm cheering for you all!!!
I'm praying for you all!!!
Have a glorious day!
Love and blessings
Hugs
18 I will love thee, O Lord, my strength.
2 The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
3 I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.
Dearest beautiful mamas,
HAPPY MONDAY!!!
I hope that you and yours are well!
I'm cheering for one and all as we buckle down to accomplish myriad tasks this week. Remember, YOU are competent! YOU are able! YOU can do ALL things through Christ!
In Psalm 18, David reminds us that God is our strength, fortress, and deliverer. In verse 4, we learn that David called upon the Lord so that he would be saved from his enemies. God is indeed our strong tower. We can run to Him. We can hide in Him as He wages battles on our behalf. Our victory is in God alone! Glory hallelujah!
Dearest Sisters, you can trust God with the cares and concerns of your heart. If there are seemingly insurmountable challenges in your life, run to Jesus! If there are wicked enemies that plot all manners of evil against you, run to Jesus! Cry out to Jesus; He will rescue you!
I'm praying for us all! I trust that God will deliver us! The Lord is faithful and just! Continue happily and joyfully in your role as mother!!!
Being a single mom is challenging but God looks upon our humble estate with compassion and understanding. We have to continually remind ourselves that God knows EVERYTHING about us and our struggles. He knew that our hubbys would break our hearts and break their promises. God knew that we would have to work and raise our kiddos day-to-day without substantial support, let alone encouragement. GOD KNEW!!! And, He is walking alongside us to bolster our strength and lift us up when we fall down. Divorce permanently impacts our families but God ensures that a lot of the imminent changes (post-divorce) are for our good.
Many of us want to make a difference in the world! We want to do something great! We want to have a significant, meaningful impact! We want to feel special! We want to do something special! Sometimes, it seems that our chances are eroded because of divorce. By and large, many of us derived our identities from our husbands and our marital status. Generally speaking, when our marital titles and possessions were stripped away from us, we were left feeling unwanted and unimportant. Those feelings were very real but but very untrue. Beloved, YOU are special. Divorce can never strip us of our roles as loving, dutiful, faithful mothers!
We change the world with every hug we give our loved ones, with every bedtime story we read to our kiddos, with every meal that we cook, with every moment that we play with our children, and with every task that we wrap in love such as laundry, chauffeuring, reviewing homework, or dampening a fevered brow. We make a difference by loving our kiddos through the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of life. No person in history has ever done anything great without a mother's love.
The devil will attempt to distract us from our all important assignment as keepers of our homes. Don't fall for the distractions. As the old folks say, "charity begins at home." When the load gets hard to bear, fall on Jesus. He is our rock! He will bear us up.
I'm cheering for you all!!!
I'm praying for you all!!!
Have a glorious day!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Friday, February 24, 2017
BE KIND TO YOURSELF
Jeremiah 31:3 KJV
The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.
Psalm 103:12 KJV As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.
BE KIND TO YOURSELF
Dearest Ladies,
HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!
It's a blessing to be alive!!!!!! The air smells GREAT!!!!! The sun is slowly ascending; the birds are happily chirping. A new day has dawned! Glory hallelujah!
Cheers to a glorious day for you and yours! Cheers to a restful and relaxing weekend! Enjoy!
Many people quip that life is short. Life is indeed short when compared to eternity. Our days can be counted whereas eternity is forever.
Although, life is relatively short, there are some challenging seasons throughout life that are very, very long. We all are familiar with those LONG, LONG seasons. Perhaps some of us are enduring a LONG season of uncertainty, doubt, heartache, or pain. If you are coping with a LONG season, BE ENCOURAGED! After a LONG season, there is a "due season" wherein you shall reap your reward.
LONG seasons are often full of LONG, LONG, LOOOOOONG days. No trial or circumstance can literally extend or shorten the 24 hours allocated for every day. But, some trials seem to drag on endlessly without regard for time. Some trials make us feel like we are living one long night. IF you are experiencing one perpetually long, terrifying night, BE ENCOURAGED. It's darkest before dawn.
As we sojourn on earth, God continues to prove Himself faithful. He is very gentle and kind with us. He always welcomes us with open, loving arms; He floods us with lovingkindness. He beckons us to come and cast our cares on Him. He invites us to confess our sins day after day. And yet, He compassionately forgives us of ALL of our sins. Our forgiven sins are as far from us as the east is from the west. Glory hallelujah!
Dearest Sisters, God gives us an exemplary model for the regard we should have for ourselves. If we are going to successfully endure and finish our Christian race, we must be kind to ourselves. We all will have tough days; we all will miss the mark sometimes. But, we can not and should not beat ourselves up. All mistakes are not sins. We must be kind to ourselves when we make mistakes. And, when we sin, we must not linger long on "self." Sin, moreover the law that exposes it, should point us back to our loving God.
Introspection and judgement, even repentance, are very necessary but they must be balanced with kindness. We should avoid at all costs self-loathing. Satan is our accuser; one of his greatest weapons is a fiery dagger of accusation that is aimed for our hearts. Let's NOT act in collusion with our enemy.
During LONG seasons and LONG days, we need self-kindness. During LONG trials and tribulations, we need self-kindness. As we overcome and strive to survive, we need self-kindness. As we process divorce and life thereafter, we need self-kindness. As we work through pain, we need self-kindness. As we seek healing and restoration, we need self-kindness. Yesterday is LONG and gone, today we have a new shot at EVERYTHING. Whatever you are striving to achieve, give it another "go." Don't be so hard on yourself. Kindness is a far greater motivator than disdain.
Love and blessings
Hugs
The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.
Psalm 103:12 KJV As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.
BE KIND TO YOURSELF
Dearest Ladies,
HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!
It's a blessing to be alive!!!!!! The air smells GREAT!!!!! The sun is slowly ascending; the birds are happily chirping. A new day has dawned! Glory hallelujah!
Cheers to a glorious day for you and yours! Cheers to a restful and relaxing weekend! Enjoy!
Many people quip that life is short. Life is indeed short when compared to eternity. Our days can be counted whereas eternity is forever.
Although, life is relatively short, there are some challenging seasons throughout life that are very, very long. We all are familiar with those LONG, LONG seasons. Perhaps some of us are enduring a LONG season of uncertainty, doubt, heartache, or pain. If you are coping with a LONG season, BE ENCOURAGED! After a LONG season, there is a "due season" wherein you shall reap your reward.
LONG seasons are often full of LONG, LONG, LOOOOOONG days. No trial or circumstance can literally extend or shorten the 24 hours allocated for every day. But, some trials seem to drag on endlessly without regard for time. Some trials make us feel like we are living one long night. IF you are experiencing one perpetually long, terrifying night, BE ENCOURAGED. It's darkest before dawn.
As we sojourn on earth, God continues to prove Himself faithful. He is very gentle and kind with us. He always welcomes us with open, loving arms; He floods us with lovingkindness. He beckons us to come and cast our cares on Him. He invites us to confess our sins day after day. And yet, He compassionately forgives us of ALL of our sins. Our forgiven sins are as far from us as the east is from the west. Glory hallelujah!
Dearest Sisters, God gives us an exemplary model for the regard we should have for ourselves. If we are going to successfully endure and finish our Christian race, we must be kind to ourselves. We all will have tough days; we all will miss the mark sometimes. But, we can not and should not beat ourselves up. All mistakes are not sins. We must be kind to ourselves when we make mistakes. And, when we sin, we must not linger long on "self." Sin, moreover the law that exposes it, should point us back to our loving God.
Introspection and judgement, even repentance, are very necessary but they must be balanced with kindness. We should avoid at all costs self-loathing. Satan is our accuser; one of his greatest weapons is a fiery dagger of accusation that is aimed for our hearts. Let's NOT act in collusion with our enemy.
During LONG seasons and LONG days, we need self-kindness. During LONG trials and tribulations, we need self-kindness. As we overcome and strive to survive, we need self-kindness. As we process divorce and life thereafter, we need self-kindness. As we work through pain, we need self-kindness. As we seek healing and restoration, we need self-kindness. Yesterday is LONG and gone, today we have a new shot at EVERYTHING. Whatever you are striving to achieve, give it another "go." Don't be so hard on yourself. Kindness is a far greater motivator than disdain.
Love and blessings
Hugs
Thursday, February 23, 2017
TO BUILD OR NOT TO BUILD
Proverbs 14:1 KJV
Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.
HAPPY THURSDAY ER'BODY!
Cheers to great things that are headed your way! Cheers to God who is sending those great things your way! God is good! Yay! Hooray!
Someone once we said that we can be grateful that thorn bushes have roses or we can lament the thorns on rose buds! What's your pick? I implore us all to take our negative, self-defeating thoughts captive. Instead, we should ponder the word of God and free our minds and souls.
TO BUILD OR NOT TO BUILD
I recently read an account of an instructor that greets all of her new students with the following salutation:
"Hello, Greatness."
She got the idea from her mother whom instilled in her that hard work is important but attitude is more so valuable. "Greatness, she said, is something you feel, and when you feel great, you treat others the same way (AA AW)."
The instructor spread greatness in her class by touching her students with her goodness and kindness.
A dear friend of mine recently shared that she wakes up to a beautiful mug on her nightstand that has a wonderful message emblazoned on it's side. It reads:
"Good morning lovely"
She mentioned that reading her mug each morning jumpstarts her day. Reading "Good morning lovely" reminds her of God and her hubby's love for her, even on mornings when she doesn't look or feel lovely. It's easier to spread love when we feel loved.
Dearest beautiful Mamas,
We have the divine assignment of building up our homes and kiddos. Words are practical, powerful "bricks" that are available for our use in building our homes and children. Every word that we say builds up or tears down our homes and kiddos. Every word that we DO NOT say, when we should, can sorely affect our missions.
Do you awake your kiddos with a special greeting? Do you put them to bed with a warm, lovely farewell? Do you have affectionate pet names for your kiddos? Do you have wall art displayed in your home that exudes loveliness and goodness?
Ladies, as survivors of divorce, we must use every opportunity to carefully build our homes and kiddos with our words. Time is of essence. Our kids won't be young and impressionable forever. Let's season our speech with grace, goodness, and love. Sweet words of affection and affirmation are free but they will invaluably benefit our children and homes for a lifetime.
Words create atmospheres and environments that are welcoming or repulsive. We convey how we feel about someone or something with our words. It's our duty to use our words to make our homes blessed and beautiful and our kids loved and accepted.
Years ago, I attended a very wonderful graduation of a class of nurses. Prior to the candle lighting ceremony, the instructor reminded each nurse, "people may forget what you did for them or even what you said but they rarely ever forget how you made them feel." We are our kiddos first teachers in life. Let's make sure as mothers and teachers that we make sure that they feel BEST at home. Then, we can be assured that they are able to thrive and eventually spread their wonder and goodness to those beyond our homes. Cheers to the journey!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.
HAPPY THURSDAY ER'BODY!
Cheers to great things that are headed your way! Cheers to God who is sending those great things your way! God is good! Yay! Hooray!
Someone once we said that we can be grateful that thorn bushes have roses or we can lament the thorns on rose buds! What's your pick? I implore us all to take our negative, self-defeating thoughts captive. Instead, we should ponder the word of God and free our minds and souls.
TO BUILD OR NOT TO BUILD
I recently read an account of an instructor that greets all of her new students with the following salutation:
"Hello, Greatness."
She got the idea from her mother whom instilled in her that hard work is important but attitude is more so valuable. "Greatness, she said, is something you feel, and when you feel great, you treat others the same way (AA AW)."
The instructor spread greatness in her class by touching her students with her goodness and kindness.
A dear friend of mine recently shared that she wakes up to a beautiful mug on her nightstand that has a wonderful message emblazoned on it's side. It reads:
"Good morning lovely"
She mentioned that reading her mug each morning jumpstarts her day. Reading "Good morning lovely" reminds her of God and her hubby's love for her, even on mornings when she doesn't look or feel lovely. It's easier to spread love when we feel loved.
Dearest beautiful Mamas,
We have the divine assignment of building up our homes and kiddos. Words are practical, powerful "bricks" that are available for our use in building our homes and children. Every word that we say builds up or tears down our homes and kiddos. Every word that we DO NOT say, when we should, can sorely affect our missions.
Do you awake your kiddos with a special greeting? Do you put them to bed with a warm, lovely farewell? Do you have affectionate pet names for your kiddos? Do you have wall art displayed in your home that exudes loveliness and goodness?
Ladies, as survivors of divorce, we must use every opportunity to carefully build our homes and kiddos with our words. Time is of essence. Our kids won't be young and impressionable forever. Let's season our speech with grace, goodness, and love. Sweet words of affection and affirmation are free but they will invaluably benefit our children and homes for a lifetime.
Words create atmospheres and environments that are welcoming or repulsive. We convey how we feel about someone or something with our words. It's our duty to use our words to make our homes blessed and beautiful and our kids loved and accepted.
Years ago, I attended a very wonderful graduation of a class of nurses. Prior to the candle lighting ceremony, the instructor reminded each nurse, "people may forget what you did for them or even what you said but they rarely ever forget how you made them feel." We are our kiddos first teachers in life. Let's make sure as mothers and teachers that we make sure that they feel BEST at home. Then, we can be assured that they are able to thrive and eventually spread their wonder and goodness to those beyond our homes. Cheers to the journey!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Wednesday, February 22, 2017
HOMEBUILDING 101
Revelation 1:3 KJV
Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.
HOME BUILDING: Reading Aloud As a Family
Dearest Sisters,
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!!!!
Charge ahead with grace and poise or gruel and grit!!! Just charge ahead! Victory is up ahead!
Divorce is a visceral foe. It attempts to take everyone captive. One of the treacherous effects is division. The spirits of fear and chaos can try to attack a family post-divorce. Consequently, we- as loving mamas- have to invest substantial time and energy into the re-building of our families and homes. We have to provide stability for our kiddos. We have to achieve a new 'normal.' And, we have to flood them with love, affection, and affirmation as we strive to strengthen our family bond. With the Lord, we can mitigate the effects of divorce; through the blood of Jesus, we can do damage control and reclaim our lives. No weapon formed against us can prosper because greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world.
Are you looking for a new family pastime or bonding activity? If so, look no further than your home library. Reading together as a family is a fantastic pastime and bonding adventure.
Though the options are endless, the Bible can be an incredible source to use to launch your family's read-aloud-sessions. It's a very powerful experience to hear the Bible read aloud. More and more churches use the Bible less and less on Sundays. And, often "sermons" are void of scriptures in favor of inspirational quotations. If your family hasn't been soaked and saturated in the scriptures in a while, don't delay; use the Bible to read and study as a family.
Reading aloud, as a family, is a GREAT undertaking that can improve family connectedness, increase familial intimacy, foster open dialogue, and even assuage family mental health issues. It's amazing to witness family intimacy alleviate myriad stressors and lingering anxiety and moodiness.
Family storytelling has a much longer history but whether telling stories or reading books, the blessings and benefits of "campfire traditions" can supercharge our families and build up or nurture our 'homes.' We can have the goodies of "camp" without leaving our premises.
So, choose a moment- sooner than later- to call everyone together for FAMILY READING TIME. Invite everyone to snuggle up in their favorite spot. Then, welcome one and all to travel together to distant places and eras AS A FAMILY. Try a few sessions. I think you will agree that it's worthwhile. I'm praying that you, your family and your home are blessed.
Love and blessings
Hugs
Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.
HOME BUILDING: Reading Aloud As a Family
Dearest Sisters,
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!!!!
Charge ahead with grace and poise or gruel and grit!!! Just charge ahead! Victory is up ahead!
Divorce is a visceral foe. It attempts to take everyone captive. One of the treacherous effects is division. The spirits of fear and chaos can try to attack a family post-divorce. Consequently, we- as loving mamas- have to invest substantial time and energy into the re-building of our families and homes. We have to provide stability for our kiddos. We have to achieve a new 'normal.' And, we have to flood them with love, affection, and affirmation as we strive to strengthen our family bond. With the Lord, we can mitigate the effects of divorce; through the blood of Jesus, we can do damage control and reclaim our lives. No weapon formed against us can prosper because greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world.
Are you looking for a new family pastime or bonding activity? If so, look no further than your home library. Reading together as a family is a fantastic pastime and bonding adventure.
Though the options are endless, the Bible can be an incredible source to use to launch your family's read-aloud-sessions. It's a very powerful experience to hear the Bible read aloud. More and more churches use the Bible less and less on Sundays. And, often "sermons" are void of scriptures in favor of inspirational quotations. If your family hasn't been soaked and saturated in the scriptures in a while, don't delay; use the Bible to read and study as a family.
Reading aloud, as a family, is a GREAT undertaking that can improve family connectedness, increase familial intimacy, foster open dialogue, and even assuage family mental health issues. It's amazing to witness family intimacy alleviate myriad stressors and lingering anxiety and moodiness.
Family storytelling has a much longer history but whether telling stories or reading books, the blessings and benefits of "campfire traditions" can supercharge our families and build up or nurture our 'homes.' We can have the goodies of "camp" without leaving our premises.
So, choose a moment- sooner than later- to call everyone together for FAMILY READING TIME. Invite everyone to snuggle up in their favorite spot. Then, welcome one and all to travel together to distant places and eras AS A FAMILY. Try a few sessions. I think you will agree that it's worthwhile. I'm praying that you, your family and your home are blessed.
Love and blessings
Hugs
Tuesday, February 21, 2017
YOU. ARE. MOM.
Proverbs 31:28a KJV
Her children arise up, and call her blessed.
YOU. ARE. MOM.
YOU are....
M. Millions of miracles squeezed into one body
O. Outstanding overcomer of oversized, overwhelming battles
M. Majestically marvelous and magnificent. Made by God.
I'm sure you hear "Mom" yelled, cried, screamed, asserted and maybe even burped many times DAILY!!!
Sometimes you may want to run and hide in the bathroom because you are constantly being summoned. Other times, you may want to pull the covers over your head and pretend that you don't hear a thing. "Just a few more moments of quiet," you plead with yourself while hoping that your kiddos would take a hint from your prolonged delay. As a single mom, days can be frequently long and tough. There are no reenforcement troops coming to bolster your efforts. But, no worries; God will hold you up.
Try and bear this in mind when you hear your kiddos calling....
"Roses are red,
Violets are blue.
Your home and your family are blessed because of YOU."
There is a small blessing nestled in every single "Moooooooom" that your kiddos verbalize.
One day, sooner than you think, those summons for mom will turn into the more articulated "return blessings" of compliments, tributes, toasts, endearing tales to share with your grandkiddos and ultimately, a lovely legacy of your dutiful sacrifice that far outlives your ability to serve.
Answer when duty calls! The future rewards far outweigh the present pressures!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Her children arise up, and call her blessed.
YOU. ARE. MOM.
YOU are....
M. Millions of miracles squeezed into one body
O. Outstanding overcomer of oversized, overwhelming battles
M. Majestically marvelous and magnificent. Made by God.
I'm sure you hear "Mom" yelled, cried, screamed, asserted and maybe even burped many times DAILY!!!
Sometimes you may want to run and hide in the bathroom because you are constantly being summoned. Other times, you may want to pull the covers over your head and pretend that you don't hear a thing. "Just a few more moments of quiet," you plead with yourself while hoping that your kiddos would take a hint from your prolonged delay. As a single mom, days can be frequently long and tough. There are no reenforcement troops coming to bolster your efforts. But, no worries; God will hold you up.
Try and bear this in mind when you hear your kiddos calling....
"Roses are red,
Violets are blue.
Your home and your family are blessed because of YOU."
There is a small blessing nestled in every single "Moooooooom" that your kiddos verbalize.
One day, sooner than you think, those summons for mom will turn into the more articulated "return blessings" of compliments, tributes, toasts, endearing tales to share with your grandkiddos and ultimately, a lovely legacy of your dutiful sacrifice that far outlives your ability to serve.
Answer when duty calls! The future rewards far outweigh the present pressures!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Monday, February 20, 2017
GOD WILL MAKE A WAY
Isaiah 41:17-20 KJV
17 When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the Lord will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them.
18 I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water.
19 I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the shittah tree, and the myrtle, and the oil tree; I will set in the desert the fir tree, and the pine, and the box tree together:
20 That they may see, and know, and consider, and understand together, that the hand of the Lord hath done this, and the Holy One of Israel hath created it.
The Lord Will Make A Way
Dearest Sisters,
HAPPY MONDAY!!!!
I hope that you all are well! I'm praying for you and yours! Smile!
We live in a post-modern society. We are accustomed to many benefits of modernity. One of such benefits is our use of streets, roads, and highways.
When we venture off on a cross-town, cross-county, or even cross-country trip, we have the privilege of journeying on well-traveled, "tried and true" roads. Unlike settlers and pioneers of bygone eras, we don't take into consideration the position of the sun and stars to mark our location or progress on a trip. Also, there are minimal lingering fears about flooded out passages, overgrown trials, caravan bandits and thieves or other terrors. Usually, we load up in our vehicles, program our GPSs, and take off into the horizon. We are typically assured that our paths are safely paved and governed. We trust that our GPSs will safely lead us to gas stations, restaurants, lodging, and eventually our final destination. Modern traveling doesn't require much faith.
In contrast, when the Children of Israel traveled, FAITH was crucial to their survival. Outside of their settlements, EVERYTHING was wilderness. Outside of their captivity in Egypt, the wilderness existed. As God's chosen people, the Israelites were sustained in the wilderness by God's provision.
Without modern amenities, the Children of Israel heavily relied on God to supply their need in the wilderness. It was quite miraculous indeed to see the Lord establish a path, provide water and food, and protect His children. Can you imagine the Lord opening rivers and fountains in the wilderness? Can you imagine the Lord coloring the dry, parched landscape with life-giving greenery? Sometimes these miracles occurred instantaneously, in the daytime, in the sight of the Israelites! Can you imagine?
Sisters, our roads are paved but our paths through life are not always easily visible nor discernible. We know that God is the way (John 14:6) and that His word is a lamp for our feet, a light unto our path (Psalm 119:105). Yet, we walk by faith and not sight.
Dearest Ladies, there are times when traveling our paths of life that we become poor and needy; desperate for God to move on our behalves. Sometimes, we encounter wilderness-like situations wherein we need God to manifest a miracle- in fact, a series of miracle- for our survival.
Divorce is one such occurrence that can catapult the BEST of us into a challenging wilderness situation. The aftermath of divorce is crushing, overwhelming, tragic.... Ironically, when the judge bangs the gable and officiates the divorce, our lives don't become liberating and easy overnight. Life seemingly gets messier as we try to salvage as much as we can from our former lives. But, things get better as we march forward to renewal and restoration. Regardless of where you find yourself on the healing spectrum, YOU can depend on God! WE CAN DEPEND ON GOD!
Just over the weekend I prayed concerning two troublesome, sobering accounts: one ladies' ex-husband just retired with a lump settlement. But, he stopped paying child support. He feels justified in stopping payment because he is not actively working. Another case involved a single mom that lost child support because her husband returned to school as a full-time student. He threw his hands up; he's given in. He doesn't feel responsible for his kiddos' well-being any longer.
Dearest sisters, we are reminded in countless ways EVERYDAY that God is our source. No one and nothing can separate us from God's love and provision. God takes great pleasure in caring for us. The Lord doesn't view protecting and providing for us and our kiddos as a burden in the sense that some ex-husbands and father of our kiddos (FOK) do.
When we go before the Lord poor and needy, He provides for us!!!! Cling to the hope and promises of God as recorded in Isaiah 41! God has gone before us; He knows our challenges better than we do AND He has provided for our every need! The Lord is BEST at making a way when there seems to be no way!
TRUST GOD!!!!
Love and blessings
Hugs
17 When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the Lord will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them.
18 I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water.
19 I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the shittah tree, and the myrtle, and the oil tree; I will set in the desert the fir tree, and the pine, and the box tree together:
20 That they may see, and know, and consider, and understand together, that the hand of the Lord hath done this, and the Holy One of Israel hath created it.
The Lord Will Make A Way
Dearest Sisters,
HAPPY MONDAY!!!!
I hope that you all are well! I'm praying for you and yours! Smile!
We live in a post-modern society. We are accustomed to many benefits of modernity. One of such benefits is our use of streets, roads, and highways.
When we venture off on a cross-town, cross-county, or even cross-country trip, we have the privilege of journeying on well-traveled, "tried and true" roads. Unlike settlers and pioneers of bygone eras, we don't take into consideration the position of the sun and stars to mark our location or progress on a trip. Also, there are minimal lingering fears about flooded out passages, overgrown trials, caravan bandits and thieves or other terrors. Usually, we load up in our vehicles, program our GPSs, and take off into the horizon. We are typically assured that our paths are safely paved and governed. We trust that our GPSs will safely lead us to gas stations, restaurants, lodging, and eventually our final destination. Modern traveling doesn't require much faith.
In contrast, when the Children of Israel traveled, FAITH was crucial to their survival. Outside of their settlements, EVERYTHING was wilderness. Outside of their captivity in Egypt, the wilderness existed. As God's chosen people, the Israelites were sustained in the wilderness by God's provision.
Without modern amenities, the Children of Israel heavily relied on God to supply their need in the wilderness. It was quite miraculous indeed to see the Lord establish a path, provide water and food, and protect His children. Can you imagine the Lord opening rivers and fountains in the wilderness? Can you imagine the Lord coloring the dry, parched landscape with life-giving greenery? Sometimes these miracles occurred instantaneously, in the daytime, in the sight of the Israelites! Can you imagine?
Sisters, our roads are paved but our paths through life are not always easily visible nor discernible. We know that God is the way (John 14:6) and that His word is a lamp for our feet, a light unto our path (Psalm 119:105). Yet, we walk by faith and not sight.
Dearest Ladies, there are times when traveling our paths of life that we become poor and needy; desperate for God to move on our behalves. Sometimes, we encounter wilderness-like situations wherein we need God to manifest a miracle- in fact, a series of miracle- for our survival.
Divorce is one such occurrence that can catapult the BEST of us into a challenging wilderness situation. The aftermath of divorce is crushing, overwhelming, tragic.... Ironically, when the judge bangs the gable and officiates the divorce, our lives don't become liberating and easy overnight. Life seemingly gets messier as we try to salvage as much as we can from our former lives. But, things get better as we march forward to renewal and restoration. Regardless of where you find yourself on the healing spectrum, YOU can depend on God! WE CAN DEPEND ON GOD!
Just over the weekend I prayed concerning two troublesome, sobering accounts: one ladies' ex-husband just retired with a lump settlement. But, he stopped paying child support. He feels justified in stopping payment because he is not actively working. Another case involved a single mom that lost child support because her husband returned to school as a full-time student. He threw his hands up; he's given in. He doesn't feel responsible for his kiddos' well-being any longer.
Dearest sisters, we are reminded in countless ways EVERYDAY that God is our source. No one and nothing can separate us from God's love and provision. God takes great pleasure in caring for us. The Lord doesn't view protecting and providing for us and our kiddos as a burden in the sense that some ex-husbands and father of our kiddos (FOK) do.
When we go before the Lord poor and needy, He provides for us!!!! Cling to the hope and promises of God as recorded in Isaiah 41! God has gone before us; He knows our challenges better than we do AND He has provided for our every need! The Lord is BEST at making a way when there seems to be no way!
TRUST GOD!!!!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Friday, February 17, 2017
DEFYING THE ODDS
Matthew 18:19 KJV
19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.
Dearest Ladies, HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!
I pray that you and yours are well.
God is fighting for YOU!!!
I'm cheering for YOU!!!
DEFYING THE ODDS
It's a wonder to behold planes take off and land.....
Planes are able to fly because their turbo engines emit thrust or energy that defies gravity; it exceeds the drag (or air resistance) that would pull it back or down. Also, the wings produce lift because air speed is increased where there is a region of low pressure. Without a sophisticated formula of physics and aerodynamics, flight would be impossible. In fact, the slightest change in air pressure, speed, and thrust could jeopardize a mission. PLANES DEFY MANY ODDS!
It's a wonder to see a handmaiden faithfully serve her Lord......
Sisters, we are very much like a plane in flight. Our mission is impossible without Heaven's intervention. Each day the Lord breathes life into our hearts and homes and carries us through the day. We exist in the palms of His hands. We are upheld by cords of love that suspend from His heart. We survive and thrive because of God.
Without the Lord's supportive factors, we cannot stay afloat or a flight. We need a mixture of prayer, patience, and faith to persevere. Our spiritual weapons of warfare are also essential for our journeys.
Prayer is so important. Prayer defies logic and reason; it defies the limitations of our thoughts and ways. Prayer invokes God's presence. Prayer welcomes Heaven into our lives and situations. Prayer pipes hope, power, and love straight from the Lord's throne room into our hearts. WITH PRAYER AND THANKSGIVING, WE DEFY MANY ODDS!
Let's be careful to pray DAILY! Let's be mindful to prayer for one another! There is power in prayer! When we come in agreement with God's word, His will, and His way, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!!!!
Have a restful and relaxing evening and weekend!
Love and blessings
Hugs
19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.
Dearest Ladies, HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!
I pray that you and yours are well.
God is fighting for YOU!!!
I'm cheering for YOU!!!
DEFYING THE ODDS
It's a wonder to behold planes take off and land.....
Planes are able to fly because their turbo engines emit thrust or energy that defies gravity; it exceeds the drag (or air resistance) that would pull it back or down. Also, the wings produce lift because air speed is increased where there is a region of low pressure. Without a sophisticated formula of physics and aerodynamics, flight would be impossible. In fact, the slightest change in air pressure, speed, and thrust could jeopardize a mission. PLANES DEFY MANY ODDS!
It's a wonder to see a handmaiden faithfully serve her Lord......
Sisters, we are very much like a plane in flight. Our mission is impossible without Heaven's intervention. Each day the Lord breathes life into our hearts and homes and carries us through the day. We exist in the palms of His hands. We are upheld by cords of love that suspend from His heart. We survive and thrive because of God.
Without the Lord's supportive factors, we cannot stay afloat or a flight. We need a mixture of prayer, patience, and faith to persevere. Our spiritual weapons of warfare are also essential for our journeys.
Prayer is so important. Prayer defies logic and reason; it defies the limitations of our thoughts and ways. Prayer invokes God's presence. Prayer welcomes Heaven into our lives and situations. Prayer pipes hope, power, and love straight from the Lord's throne room into our hearts. WITH PRAYER AND THANKSGIVING, WE DEFY MANY ODDS!
Let's be careful to pray DAILY! Let's be mindful to prayer for one another! There is power in prayer! When we come in agreement with God's word, His will, and His way, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!!!!
Have a restful and relaxing evening and weekend!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Thursday, February 16, 2017
HAPPY FEET
Romans 10:15 KJV
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
Dearest radiant, remarkable Ladies,
HAPPY THURSDAY!!!!
Here's today's riddle: what's big and small, arched and flat, smelly and scented, covered and bare, rested and tired, pedicured and natural, but, BEAUTIFUL nevertheless? Drum roll please. If you guessed "OUR FEET" then you're correct. Yay! Hooray!
HAPPY FEET
ARE YOUR BEAUTIFUL FEET HAPPY?
Sisters, stop working for a moment. PAUSE! Plop down in a chair or rest on the couch. Unshoe your feet and massage them. If you have time, run some warm water into a basin, toss in some epsom salt, AND SOAK YOUR FEET! Then, dry them off and lotion them up.
We are busy women. Some of us work from home; others of us work away from home. As single parents, we are constantly working on something. We are healing and recovering in the midst of everything else that is going on.
In reality, we don't clock in or out from our lives that seemingly rush ahead at lightening speed!!!!!
We work ALL day. And even when we lie in bed, our minds are racing with thoughts about unfinished projects or new tasks that await us. If we could, some us of might elect to work in our sleep so our days would be less harried. But, THANK GOD, our thoughts are arrested during REM sleep!!!! Our bodies need rest; and the Lord designed many built in mechanisms to ensure our heathy, regular intervals of sleep. Sleep is necessary for our healing, both mentally, spiritually, and physically.
We work around the clock and our work doesn't fit into one small, neat mental box like many men. Instead, our work as moms (and home educators) influences every area of our lives. When we're home, or even in the grocery store, bank, or church, our kiddos are never far from our thoughts; in fact, most of the time, they're right at our side. We are non-stop; always on the go. So, sometimes, it easy to forget the necessity and importance of self-care.
God calls OUR FEET beautiful because we proclaim the Gospel and spread glad tidings to our kiddos and others. We are lovely and cherished in God's sight. He sees our faithful, dutiful work, day in and day out. Our work is not validated nor esteemed greatly by society BUT, our work matters to God. WE matter to God.
Sisters, I encourage you to take regular breaks to get off your beautiful feet. Elevate them! Soak them! Massage them! Rub them! Polish them (your toenails that is LOL)! Do whatever is necessary to keep yourself motivated, energized, and refreshed. Take a moment or two everyday to keep yourself battle-ready. Fatigue, neglect, and exhaustion can amplify the challenges of any day. So, plan ahead. Stay on guard!
KEEP YOUR BEAUTIFUL FEET HAPPY!!!!
Love and blessings
Hugs
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
Dearest radiant, remarkable Ladies,
HAPPY THURSDAY!!!!
Here's today's riddle: what's big and small, arched and flat, smelly and scented, covered and bare, rested and tired, pedicured and natural, but, BEAUTIFUL nevertheless? Drum roll please. If you guessed "OUR FEET" then you're correct. Yay! Hooray!
HAPPY FEET
ARE YOUR BEAUTIFUL FEET HAPPY?
Sisters, stop working for a moment. PAUSE! Plop down in a chair or rest on the couch. Unshoe your feet and massage them. If you have time, run some warm water into a basin, toss in some epsom salt, AND SOAK YOUR FEET! Then, dry them off and lotion them up.
We are busy women. Some of us work from home; others of us work away from home. As single parents, we are constantly working on something. We are healing and recovering in the midst of everything else that is going on.
In reality, we don't clock in or out from our lives that seemingly rush ahead at lightening speed!!!!!
We work ALL day. And even when we lie in bed, our minds are racing with thoughts about unfinished projects or new tasks that await us. If we could, some us of might elect to work in our sleep so our days would be less harried. But, THANK GOD, our thoughts are arrested during REM sleep!!!! Our bodies need rest; and the Lord designed many built in mechanisms to ensure our heathy, regular intervals of sleep. Sleep is necessary for our healing, both mentally, spiritually, and physically.
We work around the clock and our work doesn't fit into one small, neat mental box like many men. Instead, our work as moms (and home educators) influences every area of our lives. When we're home, or even in the grocery store, bank, or church, our kiddos are never far from our thoughts; in fact, most of the time, they're right at our side. We are non-stop; always on the go. So, sometimes, it easy to forget the necessity and importance of self-care.
God calls OUR FEET beautiful because we proclaim the Gospel and spread glad tidings to our kiddos and others. We are lovely and cherished in God's sight. He sees our faithful, dutiful work, day in and day out. Our work is not validated nor esteemed greatly by society BUT, our work matters to God. WE matter to God.
Sisters, I encourage you to take regular breaks to get off your beautiful feet. Elevate them! Soak them! Massage them! Rub them! Polish them (your toenails that is LOL)! Do whatever is necessary to keep yourself motivated, energized, and refreshed. Take a moment or two everyday to keep yourself battle-ready. Fatigue, neglect, and exhaustion can amplify the challenges of any day. So, plan ahead. Stay on guard!
KEEP YOUR BEAUTIFUL FEET HAPPY!!!!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
God is fighting for YOU
Dearest sweet mamas,
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!!!!
I pray that all is well with you and yours!
God is fighting for YOU!
He will use ALL things together for GOOD.....for YOU!
I'm cheering for YOU!
I encourage us all to ENJOY. EVERY. MOMENT. of our journeys. (Well, almost every moment. SMILE!)
Motherhood is a great challenge but it also yields some of the greatest rewards.
Concerning time spent with our kiddos, under our wings...., in our homes....., under our tutelage...., the days are long but the years are short.
So, E.N.J.O.Y.
YOU are beautiful! Your kiddos are beautiful! Have a beautiful evening!
Love and blessings
Hugs
***Please sound off with any praise reports or prayer requests.
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!!!!
I pray that all is well with you and yours!
God is fighting for YOU!
He will use ALL things together for GOOD.....for YOU!
I'm cheering for YOU!
I encourage us all to ENJOY. EVERY. MOMENT. of our journeys. (Well, almost every moment. SMILE!)
Motherhood is a great challenge but it also yields some of the greatest rewards.
Concerning time spent with our kiddos, under our wings...., in our homes....., under our tutelage...., the days are long but the years are short.
So, E.N.J.O.Y.
YOU are beautiful! Your kiddos are beautiful! Have a beautiful evening!
Love and blessings
Hugs
***Please sound off with any praise reports or prayer requests.
Tuesday, February 14, 2017
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY
Matthew 25:31-40 KJV
31 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:
32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:
33 And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.
34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
HAPPY Tuesday Ladies,
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!!
I pray that you all are well! I trust that you and yours had a wonderful day! Yay! Hooray!
I'm praying for everyone!!!
I'm cheering for everyone!!!
It's such a blessing to have Jesus as a Valentine. His love is awesome and amazing in February, on the 14th, AND year round. Jesus loves us with an enduring, faithful, loyal, and uplifting love. Glory hallelujah!
It's Jesus' love that propels us forward as we recover and heal post-divorce. It's Jesus' love that comforts us on dark, lonely nights. It's Jesus' love that warms our hearts when we are exhausted and bewildered. It's Jesus' love that got us through this day.
Typically, we think of Valentine's Day as a holiday to receive, receive, and receive. Pop culture has programmed our minds with ideas and notions of love that are based on Greco-Roman philosophies. Such propaganda makes it so easy to measure our desirability and lovableness on the receipt of huge, big, lavish gifts. In turn, others may measure our love for them based on our ability to shower them with ostentatious gifts wrapped in shimmery, sparkly, glittery hues of pinks and reds. Oh how Cupid and commercialism can steal the joy and wonder of showering one another with L.O.V.E.
Jesus is our faithful Valentine year after year. His love is constant and consistent. He shows His love in BIG and small ways. His sacrificial death on the cross is an ever-giving symbol and gift of love. We benefit from Christ's death DAILY! Thank you God for JESUS!
We can spend today and the days after by loving our Lord in return. In the scriptures, Jesus reminds us that ALL that we do for the least of them, we do it unto Him. I challenge us all to love Christ by loving those who arguably need love the most but receive it the least.
So, here are some ways that we can love Jesus on Valentine's Day and throughout the year. We can do the following: feed the hungry, care for the thirsty, care for a stranger, clothe a naked brother or sister, visit the sick and shut in, or visit those in prison. When we serve those that are forsaken, shunned, and suffering, we serve Christ. We can follow God's admonishment to love Him by loving the 'least of them,' by serving at soup kitchens, donating clothes to shelters or missions or perhaps volunteering in nursing homes or jails/ prisons. The opportunities to serve are endless.
Instead of treating Jesus to dinner, we can serve the homeless in a soup kitchen or volunteer to serve Seniors at a sweetheart lunch. Let's hope BIG, dream BIG, and execute BIG action. Let's invite our kiddos on the journey. The church and the world needs us to demonstrate Christ's love in tangible ways.
And, interestingly, when we serve others while we are hurting or suffering, we are usually more blessed than our intended beneficiaries. There is an inherent blessing in blessing others, especially when we give and serve through our brokenness and pain. My daily tea bag message read, "plant kindness, gather love." BE ENCOURAGED sweet sisters!!! We harvest love from kindness!!!
Love on Sisters!
Love when it feels good; love when it hurts!
Love consistently! Love constantly!
Love and blessings
Hugs
31 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:
32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:
33 And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.
34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
HAPPY Tuesday Ladies,
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!!!
I pray that you all are well! I trust that you and yours had a wonderful day! Yay! Hooray!
I'm praying for everyone!!!
I'm cheering for everyone!!!
It's such a blessing to have Jesus as a Valentine. His love is awesome and amazing in February, on the 14th, AND year round. Jesus loves us with an enduring, faithful, loyal, and uplifting love. Glory hallelujah!
It's Jesus' love that propels us forward as we recover and heal post-divorce. It's Jesus' love that comforts us on dark, lonely nights. It's Jesus' love that warms our hearts when we are exhausted and bewildered. It's Jesus' love that got us through this day.
Typically, we think of Valentine's Day as a holiday to receive, receive, and receive. Pop culture has programmed our minds with ideas and notions of love that are based on Greco-Roman philosophies. Such propaganda makes it so easy to measure our desirability and lovableness on the receipt of huge, big, lavish gifts. In turn, others may measure our love for them based on our ability to shower them with ostentatious gifts wrapped in shimmery, sparkly, glittery hues of pinks and reds. Oh how Cupid and commercialism can steal the joy and wonder of showering one another with L.O.V.E.
Jesus is our faithful Valentine year after year. His love is constant and consistent. He shows His love in BIG and small ways. His sacrificial death on the cross is an ever-giving symbol and gift of love. We benefit from Christ's death DAILY! Thank you God for JESUS!
We can spend today and the days after by loving our Lord in return. In the scriptures, Jesus reminds us that ALL that we do for the least of them, we do it unto Him. I challenge us all to love Christ by loving those who arguably need love the most but receive it the least.
So, here are some ways that we can love Jesus on Valentine's Day and throughout the year. We can do the following: feed the hungry, care for the thirsty, care for a stranger, clothe a naked brother or sister, visit the sick and shut in, or visit those in prison. When we serve those that are forsaken, shunned, and suffering, we serve Christ. We can follow God's admonishment to love Him by loving the 'least of them,' by serving at soup kitchens, donating clothes to shelters or missions or perhaps volunteering in nursing homes or jails/ prisons. The opportunities to serve are endless.
Instead of treating Jesus to dinner, we can serve the homeless in a soup kitchen or volunteer to serve Seniors at a sweetheart lunch. Let's hope BIG, dream BIG, and execute BIG action. Let's invite our kiddos on the journey. The church and the world needs us to demonstrate Christ's love in tangible ways.
And, interestingly, when we serve others while we are hurting or suffering, we are usually more blessed than our intended beneficiaries. There is an inherent blessing in blessing others, especially when we give and serve through our brokenness and pain. My daily tea bag message read, "plant kindness, gather love." BE ENCOURAGED sweet sisters!!! We harvest love from kindness!!!
Love on Sisters!
Love when it feels good; love when it hurts!
Love consistently! Love constantly!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Friday, February 10, 2017
LOVE IS ALWAYS IN SEASON
Good evening beautiful mamas!
HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!
I pray that everyone had an incredibly awesome and amazing day! Yay! Hooray! Cheers!
As I sat at breakfast this morning, I started to reflect on love, Valentine's Day, and pop culture. My mind took me back a couple decades to a hit song by Stevie Wonder entitled "These Three Words." Is anyone familiar with this track?
I don't self-identify as an exclusive fan of any one singer, songwriter, or composer but I have sampled various genres of music and musicians. There is no shortage of talent among some guys and gals in the music industry. I have marveled at some of the poetic genius that is unearthed among songwriters.
If pop music offends anyone's sensibilities then please pardon my faux pas. I'm not a fan per se but certain songs resonate with me for one reason or another. Read on if you dare. Please check out the lyrics to Stevie's song "These Three Words." They are posted below:
When was the last time
That they heard you say
Mother or father, I love you
And when was the last time
That they heard you say
Daughter or son, I love you
Ones you say you cherish everyday
Can instantly be taken away
Then you'd say I know this can't be true
When you never took the time
To simply tell them "I love you"
When was the last time
That they heard you say
Sister or brother, I love you
And when was the last time
That they heard you say
Darling or best friend, I love you
The one for whom you'd give your very life
Could be taken in the twinkling of an eye
Through your tears you'd ask why did you go
Knowing you'd didn't always show
Just how much you loved them so
These three words
Sweet and simple
These three words
Short and kind
These three words
Always kindles
An aching heart to smile inside
I know a family
Who hasn't a cent to their name
And yet the joy and love they have between them
They always claim
And when one's called from life
The survived mourn the lost
And will never be the same
Yet they rejoice
In knowing they gave them their all
These three words
Sweet and simple
These three words
Short and kind
These three words
Always kindles
Wow! Stevie packed a punch in this song! I'm not sure what inspired his composition but we can gather much from this pop hit. We are reminded that love is a whole lot more than three, sweet and simple words however, if we're not careful, we can miss many opportunities to say "I love you" and to show how much we care.
Dearest Sisters, we may long for romantic love interests from time to time. It's only natural. But, while we are waiting for God's "green light" and for a favorable suitor, we have a host of family and friends to faithfully shower with love. Tomorrow is not promised so it's best that we express our love to our loved ones while we have time.
I imagine that our kiddos can benefit from hearing us say "I love you" more often. I suspect that there are family members and friends that we haven't reached out to in a long time; some that would love to hear our voices or enjoy our presence. I venture to say that there are strangers in shelters, prisons, jails, and hospitals all over that are dying to hear and feel God's love reflected through us. And then, there's the ongoing, challenging pursuit of loving our enemies. Ouch! Yes, even our wretched enemies are yearning for our love, grace, and mercy.
Sometimes it's so enticing and easy to desire a new 'friend' to love. Old relationships seem harder to mend and they are bogged down with many complexities and complications. It's no wonder that new love is so welcoming. Our hearts and minds can get carried away with ideas of romantic getaways and cute gestures to prove our love to a new love interest. New love is refreshing, renewing, exhilarating, and invigorating. Sometimes we desire it to satisfy our own carnal needs. And, sometimes our desire is truly for the benefit of another. But, most often, we can feel a sense of accomplishment and progress quicker in new relationships. That sense of pride seems to far outweigh the frustration and disappointment of relationships that seem utterly impossible to navigate or salvage.
Some say love is blind. We can easily gravitate to that blinding light. The blinding element of love is wonderful because is anesthetizes and separates us from the cares and concerns of this world. How tempting it is to self-medicate with relationships. Oh may the Lord help us in our struggles.
Surely, we need love. We were designed to give and receive love. I believe that God made 'love' to be a multifaceted experience. It is a sustainer and preserver of life.
But, while we're waiting on romantic love (if the aforementioned wait is applicable to you), remember that there are scores of people all around that need OUR love. There are many people, near and far, that need to hear us say, "I'm sorry," "I love you," Is there anything that I can do to help you?"
As Stevie sang, "when was the last time they heard YOU say.....darling, I LOVE YOU?"
Dearest Sisters, make someone's Valentine's Day very, very, very special. Touch someone's life with your goodness EVERYDAY. Give the love that someone so desperately needs. Say the words that someone so desperately needs to hear. Love like you've never been hurt! Love hard!
Love and blessings
Hugs
HAPPY FRIDAY!!!!
I pray that everyone had an incredibly awesome and amazing day! Yay! Hooray! Cheers!
As I sat at breakfast this morning, I started to reflect on love, Valentine's Day, and pop culture. My mind took me back a couple decades to a hit song by Stevie Wonder entitled "These Three Words." Is anyone familiar with this track?
I don't self-identify as an exclusive fan of any one singer, songwriter, or composer but I have sampled various genres of music and musicians. There is no shortage of talent among some guys and gals in the music industry. I have marveled at some of the poetic genius that is unearthed among songwriters.
If pop music offends anyone's sensibilities then please pardon my faux pas. I'm not a fan per se but certain songs resonate with me for one reason or another. Read on if you dare. Please check out the lyrics to Stevie's song "These Three Words." They are posted below:
When was the last time
That they heard you say
Mother or father, I love you
And when was the last time
That they heard you say
Daughter or son, I love you
Ones you say you cherish everyday
Can instantly be taken away
Then you'd say I know this can't be true
When you never took the time
To simply tell them "I love you"
When was the last time
That they heard you say
Sister or brother, I love you
And when was the last time
That they heard you say
Darling or best friend, I love you
The one for whom you'd give your very life
Could be taken in the twinkling of an eye
Through your tears you'd ask why did you go
Knowing you'd didn't always show
Just how much you loved them so
These three words
Sweet and simple
These three words
Short and kind
These three words
Always kindles
An aching heart to smile inside
I know a family
Who hasn't a cent to their name
And yet the joy and love they have between them
They always claim
And when one's called from life
The survived mourn the lost
And will never be the same
Yet they rejoice
In knowing they gave them their all
These three words
Sweet and simple
These three words
Short and kind
These three words
Always kindles
Wow! Stevie packed a punch in this song! I'm not sure what inspired his composition but we can gather much from this pop hit. We are reminded that love is a whole lot more than three, sweet and simple words however, if we're not careful, we can miss many opportunities to say "I love you" and to show how much we care.
Dearest Sisters, we may long for romantic love interests from time to time. It's only natural. But, while we are waiting for God's "green light" and for a favorable suitor, we have a host of family and friends to faithfully shower with love. Tomorrow is not promised so it's best that we express our love to our loved ones while we have time.
I imagine that our kiddos can benefit from hearing us say "I love you" more often. I suspect that there are family members and friends that we haven't reached out to in a long time; some that would love to hear our voices or enjoy our presence. I venture to say that there are strangers in shelters, prisons, jails, and hospitals all over that are dying to hear and feel God's love reflected through us. And then, there's the ongoing, challenging pursuit of loving our enemies. Ouch! Yes, even our wretched enemies are yearning for our love, grace, and mercy.
Sometimes it's so enticing and easy to desire a new 'friend' to love. Old relationships seem harder to mend and they are bogged down with many complexities and complications. It's no wonder that new love is so welcoming. Our hearts and minds can get carried away with ideas of romantic getaways and cute gestures to prove our love to a new love interest. New love is refreshing, renewing, exhilarating, and invigorating. Sometimes we desire it to satisfy our own carnal needs. And, sometimes our desire is truly for the benefit of another. But, most often, we can feel a sense of accomplishment and progress quicker in new relationships. That sense of pride seems to far outweigh the frustration and disappointment of relationships that seem utterly impossible to navigate or salvage.
Some say love is blind. We can easily gravitate to that blinding light. The blinding element of love is wonderful because is anesthetizes and separates us from the cares and concerns of this world. How tempting it is to self-medicate with relationships. Oh may the Lord help us in our struggles.
Surely, we need love. We were designed to give and receive love. I believe that God made 'love' to be a multifaceted experience. It is a sustainer and preserver of life.
But, while we're waiting on romantic love (if the aforementioned wait is applicable to you), remember that there are scores of people all around that need OUR love. There are many people, near and far, that need to hear us say, "I'm sorry," "I love you," Is there anything that I can do to help you?"
As Stevie sang, "when was the last time they heard YOU say.....darling, I LOVE YOU?"
Dearest Sisters, make someone's Valentine's Day very, very, very special. Touch someone's life with your goodness EVERYDAY. Give the love that someone so desperately needs. Say the words that someone so desperately needs to hear. Love like you've never been hurt! Love hard!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Thursday, February 9, 2017
DATING AGAIN
Dearest Ladies,
HAPPY THURSDAY!!!
Has anyone jumped back into the dating/ courting world? What was your experience? Are you still there? How are things going?
If your heart is still beating....if your heart has fluttered and skipped a beat because of the thought of a new adventure with love or romance, YAY! HOORAY! I'm not sure what your future holds; GOD DOES! But, feeling lovely and loved coupled with butterflies in your stomach is a sign of your healing and progress towards complete restoration and renewal. Continue to fight forward!
Often we assume that recovery from sickness like a common cold is guaranteed. We also readily believe that broken bones can and will heal with proper attention. Yet, we are often doubtful about the heart's ability to be healed after trauma. When we are hurt, we often wonder if we will EVER recover and bounce back. Well sisters, God is a heart surgeon. It is His great pleasure and will to heal our hurting hearts. Allow the Lord to minister to YOU!!!!
I was out and about several days ago. I was conducting business transactions when all of a sudden I was startled by an approaching man.
I was completely side swiped.
I don't even recall his salutation. He quickly began a monologue on his physical attraction to me. He went on and on. I was speechless. I hadn't received so much fanfare and attention since FOREVER. I didn't know how to process the 'sweet nothings,' the accolades, nor the attention. I wanted to drop everything and run. But, I held my ground.
Eventually, I mustered up the courage to respond. I believe it was a coherent statement because a brief conversation ensued. After all was said and done, we exchanged numbers and departed.
Initially, I felt giddy, electrified, and excitable. I felt my gradual ascent to cloud 9. Could it be that love had found me?! I was bitten by the 'love bug.'
Hours later, reality yanked me down from cloud 9. I felt strange. All at once, it felt awesome to be on the receiving end of an intelligent, handsome man's attention but somehow a budding 'love' interest and all of its entanglements felt awkward; 'love' didn't appear to fit in my busy, single-parent world. His smile was perfect. His deep baritone voice was comforting. His handshake was firm yet friendly. He appeared to be a winner. But, there was so much more to discover about Mr. Prince Charming.
My heart felt ready for a new adventure but my 'world' did not seem to have a vacant corner where a new love interest could take hold and occupy. This gentleman shared that he also is a divorced, single parent although a few years old. I guess that similar identity should have been reassuring but somehow I couldn't clinch the assurance that I sought after I slipped away from his inviting, warm gaze.
Many thoughts raced through my mind before I received the first text, "goodnight beautiful." The attention felt great but I wasn't ready to lose myself in the plummeting, all-consuming power of romance and love. I was simultaneously excited and nervous. Love requires many risks. I wasn't sure if I was up for the challenge. Starting a new friendship requires time, energy, and selflessness. I wasn't sure if I had time, energy, or 'self' to give.
It all felt so overwhelming yet I felt affirmed and validated. It felt great to be noticed especially when I had done nothing special to warrant anyone's, let alone any man's, attention. Inhale! Exhale!
Presently, I am fully committed to single parenting. I'm already triple booked in many areas. I haven't dated in FOREVER. Where could I possibly squeeze love? I couldn't even easily take off on a date. It's challenging enough to get a sitter for my business appointments. Who would be available to sit for dates?
I was quickly exhausted thinking about myriad possibilities and impossibilities.....
I have occasionally day dreamed about courting again. I have also given thought to remarriage. I have even glanced through a couple of bridal magazines to stay abreast of the current trends in the industry. I was once looking forward to the future hope of new marital bliss and romantic adventure. But, when the chance surfaced, I scurried away. Cold feet got the best of me.
I won't be on a hot date with a hot man this Valentine's Day but I still feel very, very loved and grateful for my progress with healing.
Do any of you have 'love interests' stories to share? Has anyone vowed to remain single indefinitely in order to be single-handedly devoted to motherhood? Has anyone experienced recent dating or courting? Is anyone looking forward to marriage/ remarriage sooner than later? Can anyone relate to my experience? Please feel free to share.
We all are on the journey to renewal and restoration. With each and every day, we are moving closer and closer to God's intended goals for our lives. We all are a work in progress. The Lord God will finish the good work that He began in us many years ago.
I'm not sure of your cares and concerns during this month of love but I pray that you are filled with God's unspeakable joy. I hope that you are persuaded of God's enduring, faithful love towards you and yours. God loves YOU! Your kiddos love YOU! A host of family and friends love YOU! And, I love YOU!
YOU. ARE. LOVED.
Enjoy those that love you on TODAY!!! Enjoy each moment with your loved ones. The days are long but the years are short. ENJOY!
In God's sovereignty, you may experience romantic love again. Surely, people fall in love in mysterious ways. But, wait for God's lead. Don't rush. The Lord will make EVERYTHING beautiful in His timing.
Love and blessings beautiful mamas
Hugs
HAPPY THURSDAY!!!
Has anyone jumped back into the dating/ courting world? What was your experience? Are you still there? How are things going?
If your heart is still beating....if your heart has fluttered and skipped a beat because of the thought of a new adventure with love or romance, YAY! HOORAY! I'm not sure what your future holds; GOD DOES! But, feeling lovely and loved coupled with butterflies in your stomach is a sign of your healing and progress towards complete restoration and renewal. Continue to fight forward!
Often we assume that recovery from sickness like a common cold is guaranteed. We also readily believe that broken bones can and will heal with proper attention. Yet, we are often doubtful about the heart's ability to be healed after trauma. When we are hurt, we often wonder if we will EVER recover and bounce back. Well sisters, God is a heart surgeon. It is His great pleasure and will to heal our hurting hearts. Allow the Lord to minister to YOU!!!!
I was out and about several days ago. I was conducting business transactions when all of a sudden I was startled by an approaching man.
I was completely side swiped.
I don't even recall his salutation. He quickly began a monologue on his physical attraction to me. He went on and on. I was speechless. I hadn't received so much fanfare and attention since FOREVER. I didn't know how to process the 'sweet nothings,' the accolades, nor the attention. I wanted to drop everything and run. But, I held my ground.
Eventually, I mustered up the courage to respond. I believe it was a coherent statement because a brief conversation ensued. After all was said and done, we exchanged numbers and departed.
Initially, I felt giddy, electrified, and excitable. I felt my gradual ascent to cloud 9. Could it be that love had found me?! I was bitten by the 'love bug.'
Hours later, reality yanked me down from cloud 9. I felt strange. All at once, it felt awesome to be on the receiving end of an intelligent, handsome man's attention but somehow a budding 'love' interest and all of its entanglements felt awkward; 'love' didn't appear to fit in my busy, single-parent world. His smile was perfect. His deep baritone voice was comforting. His handshake was firm yet friendly. He appeared to be a winner. But, there was so much more to discover about Mr. Prince Charming.
My heart felt ready for a new adventure but my 'world' did not seem to have a vacant corner where a new love interest could take hold and occupy. This gentleman shared that he also is a divorced, single parent although a few years old. I guess that similar identity should have been reassuring but somehow I couldn't clinch the assurance that I sought after I slipped away from his inviting, warm gaze.
Many thoughts raced through my mind before I received the first text, "goodnight beautiful." The attention felt great but I wasn't ready to lose myself in the plummeting, all-consuming power of romance and love. I was simultaneously excited and nervous. Love requires many risks. I wasn't sure if I was up for the challenge. Starting a new friendship requires time, energy, and selflessness. I wasn't sure if I had time, energy, or 'self' to give.
It all felt so overwhelming yet I felt affirmed and validated. It felt great to be noticed especially when I had done nothing special to warrant anyone's, let alone any man's, attention. Inhale! Exhale!
Presently, I am fully committed to single parenting. I'm already triple booked in many areas. I haven't dated in FOREVER. Where could I possibly squeeze love? I couldn't even easily take off on a date. It's challenging enough to get a sitter for my business appointments. Who would be available to sit for dates?
I was quickly exhausted thinking about myriad possibilities and impossibilities.....
I have occasionally day dreamed about courting again. I have also given thought to remarriage. I have even glanced through a couple of bridal magazines to stay abreast of the current trends in the industry. I was once looking forward to the future hope of new marital bliss and romantic adventure. But, when the chance surfaced, I scurried away. Cold feet got the best of me.
I won't be on a hot date with a hot man this Valentine's Day but I still feel very, very loved and grateful for my progress with healing.
Do any of you have 'love interests' stories to share? Has anyone vowed to remain single indefinitely in order to be single-handedly devoted to motherhood? Has anyone experienced recent dating or courting? Is anyone looking forward to marriage/ remarriage sooner than later? Can anyone relate to my experience? Please feel free to share.
We all are on the journey to renewal and restoration. With each and every day, we are moving closer and closer to God's intended goals for our lives. We all are a work in progress. The Lord God will finish the good work that He began in us many years ago.
I'm not sure of your cares and concerns during this month of love but I pray that you are filled with God's unspeakable joy. I hope that you are persuaded of God's enduring, faithful love towards you and yours. God loves YOU! Your kiddos love YOU! A host of family and friends love YOU! And, I love YOU!
YOU. ARE. LOVED.
Enjoy those that love you on TODAY!!! Enjoy each moment with your loved ones. The days are long but the years are short. ENJOY!
In God's sovereignty, you may experience romantic love again. Surely, people fall in love in mysterious ways. But, wait for God's lead. Don't rush. The Lord will make EVERYTHING beautiful in His timing.
Love and blessings beautiful mamas
Hugs
Wednesday, February 8, 2017
GRACE
Ephesians 2:8-9 KJV
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Dearest Ladies,
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
Smile!
G.R.A.C.E.
Grace makes the world go 'round....
Without grace, all would be consumed in a 'dog eat dog' kind of world.
God is the grand exemplar of grace. The Lord extended to us love and grace in place of what we really deserved. Our Heavenly Father demonstrated that love covers a multitude of sins. Our Lord illustrated the sufficiency of His grace.
God proved that love and grace never fail when Christ was born in a lowly stable. God proved that love and grace never fail when Christ ascended into Heaven. God continues to prove that love and grace never fail as He daily chisels us into His prized workmanship.
Some argue that God's gift of salvation or His grace is free. And, to some extent it is. Salvation or grace is free in that we could never satisfy the initial payment nor we could ever repay God for it. Moreover, we were never deserving of His grace. And, even after a lifetime of works and service, we are still undeserving. We could NEVER, EVER, EVER become recipients of God's grace on our merit alone. So, grace is free in that it was freely given to us as we could never earn it. But, grace is hardly free.
Truthfully, Jesus paid a hefty price for the dispensation of grace that so beautifully characterizes our lives. Also, God made an enormous sacrifice in order for us to be set free from the oppressive, fatal wages of sin. Although a down payment was not required of us, as we grow and mature in the Lord we should eventually realize that grace costs us a handsome price as well.
Because God bestows immeasurable grace upon us, we must be bearers of immeasurable grace. The unbeliever can choose a lifetime of unforgiveness, resentment, anger, bitterness, hate, and revenge. It's a choice that's full of morbid consequences. Nevertheless, unbelievers can choose that course. We, on the other hand, may initially grapple with all manner of strong emotions and disgust after divorce. But, God doesn't want us to linger in the toxic, murky, unfruitful waters of the soul's poisons. Someone once said, "holding on to unforgiveness is likened to drinking poison but hoping someone else dies." Ladies, we can't afford to wallow in misery and self-medicate with poison. God wants so much more for us.
Divorce and life post-divorce can be very, very hard and painful. Post-divorce struggles with income, housing, life and health insurances and outstanding debt from legal work can make us very upset and bitter. News of an ex-husband's new girlfriend or new wife can cause us to seethe with anger and frustration. Having our children shuffled back n' forth every other holiday can make us irritable and miserable. Or perhaps, observation of our exes starting lives anew and fathering additional kids (when we can barely get by on child support), can catapult us into a visceral, anxious, hate-filled existence. Typically, we struggle with abandonment and it's lethal attack on our hearts and egos. But, often when our exes appear immediately successful or seem so quickly able to rebound, we can experience post-traumatic stress. We often wonder how they could desert us and then so easily move on. Then, we lambast ourselves for not being able to bounce back as smoothly and swiftly. "Why? Why? Why?" we ask.
If we're not careful, we can cripple our chances for renewal and restoration. It's tempting to rehearse all of our hurts, frustrations, and disappointments. But, if we daily stir up and feed upon negative experiences and memories, then we risk being enslaved to the past and distanced from reality and a favorable, bright future.
It's only natural that we feel hurt and angry after divorce. Anger is a self-preservation aid. Anger fuels us with energy and adrenaline; we are driven to protect and defend ourselves against all harm. However, godly anger will eventually subside and we must navigate forward after it wanes. Anger is healthy when we subscribe to it in healthy doses and in healthy ways.
We have to resist stoking the flames of anger. We have to resist fueling and cultivating anger after its 'normal' range of expression has passed. We must work through our anger and all those things that negatively trigger it.
As recipients of God's amazing grace, our lives are marked by love. Love resides in our hearts. However, love and mercy can't live in our hearts alongside anger, malice, hatred, vengeance, and bitterness. Love and hate cannot co-exist in our hearts; neither can light and darkness. Eventually, hate will choke love. And, darkness will soon strangle all rays of light.
Sisters, we must guard our hearts!!!!
The price of receiving God's grace is our dutiful obligation to extend grace to others, including ourselves. Surely, we must engage in a process to 'bounce back' from hurt and harm. But, in the aftermath, we must chose life, love, forgiveness and healing. We are called to be bearers of God's grace.
Being a bearer of God's grace is beneficial to others but, we benefit as well. When we extend grace to those that don't deserve our forgiveness, we are set free from mental and emotional prisons. We also are able to reflect an image of God in a lost and hopeless world. Ultimately, we bring honor and glory to God, when we extend grace. As the Bible admonishes us, let's allow grace to greatly abound where sin abounds.
Jesus makes us worthy of God's grace. But, if we never extend grace, we will NEVER feel worthy of God's love and grace. Without "feeling" God's grace, we will feel unworthy. Without extending grace so that others can "feel" God's grace, we feel more unworthy. Consequently, low self-worth will cause us to reject God's influence and impact on our lives. We must resist and rise above the snares that rob us of experiencing God's grace and extending it to others. We must be gracious to others.
HAPPY GRACING sisters!
NOTHING and NO ONE is worth us living a life of fear, hatred, and unforgiveness!!!!
Let's continue to resolve the issues of our hearts so that we can love liberally and generously ALL those that don't deserve our love and grace....
We are most like Christ when we live and act as He did!!!!!
Love and blessings to all
Hugs
8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Dearest Ladies,
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
Smile!
G.R.A.C.E.
Grace makes the world go 'round....
Without grace, all would be consumed in a 'dog eat dog' kind of world.
God is the grand exemplar of grace. The Lord extended to us love and grace in place of what we really deserved. Our Heavenly Father demonstrated that love covers a multitude of sins. Our Lord illustrated the sufficiency of His grace.
God proved that love and grace never fail when Christ was born in a lowly stable. God proved that love and grace never fail when Christ ascended into Heaven. God continues to prove that love and grace never fail as He daily chisels us into His prized workmanship.
Some argue that God's gift of salvation or His grace is free. And, to some extent it is. Salvation or grace is free in that we could never satisfy the initial payment nor we could ever repay God for it. Moreover, we were never deserving of His grace. And, even after a lifetime of works and service, we are still undeserving. We could NEVER, EVER, EVER become recipients of God's grace on our merit alone. So, grace is free in that it was freely given to us as we could never earn it. But, grace is hardly free.
Truthfully, Jesus paid a hefty price for the dispensation of grace that so beautifully characterizes our lives. Also, God made an enormous sacrifice in order for us to be set free from the oppressive, fatal wages of sin. Although a down payment was not required of us, as we grow and mature in the Lord we should eventually realize that grace costs us a handsome price as well.
Because God bestows immeasurable grace upon us, we must be bearers of immeasurable grace. The unbeliever can choose a lifetime of unforgiveness, resentment, anger, bitterness, hate, and revenge. It's a choice that's full of morbid consequences. Nevertheless, unbelievers can choose that course. We, on the other hand, may initially grapple with all manner of strong emotions and disgust after divorce. But, God doesn't want us to linger in the toxic, murky, unfruitful waters of the soul's poisons. Someone once said, "holding on to unforgiveness is likened to drinking poison but hoping someone else dies." Ladies, we can't afford to wallow in misery and self-medicate with poison. God wants so much more for us.
Divorce and life post-divorce can be very, very hard and painful. Post-divorce struggles with income, housing, life and health insurances and outstanding debt from legal work can make us very upset and bitter. News of an ex-husband's new girlfriend or new wife can cause us to seethe with anger and frustration. Having our children shuffled back n' forth every other holiday can make us irritable and miserable. Or perhaps, observation of our exes starting lives anew and fathering additional kids (when we can barely get by on child support), can catapult us into a visceral, anxious, hate-filled existence. Typically, we struggle with abandonment and it's lethal attack on our hearts and egos. But, often when our exes appear immediately successful or seem so quickly able to rebound, we can experience post-traumatic stress. We often wonder how they could desert us and then so easily move on. Then, we lambast ourselves for not being able to bounce back as smoothly and swiftly. "Why? Why? Why?" we ask.
If we're not careful, we can cripple our chances for renewal and restoration. It's tempting to rehearse all of our hurts, frustrations, and disappointments. But, if we daily stir up and feed upon negative experiences and memories, then we risk being enslaved to the past and distanced from reality and a favorable, bright future.
It's only natural that we feel hurt and angry after divorce. Anger is a self-preservation aid. Anger fuels us with energy and adrenaline; we are driven to protect and defend ourselves against all harm. However, godly anger will eventually subside and we must navigate forward after it wanes. Anger is healthy when we subscribe to it in healthy doses and in healthy ways.
We have to resist stoking the flames of anger. We have to resist fueling and cultivating anger after its 'normal' range of expression has passed. We must work through our anger and all those things that negatively trigger it.
As recipients of God's amazing grace, our lives are marked by love. Love resides in our hearts. However, love and mercy can't live in our hearts alongside anger, malice, hatred, vengeance, and bitterness. Love and hate cannot co-exist in our hearts; neither can light and darkness. Eventually, hate will choke love. And, darkness will soon strangle all rays of light.
Sisters, we must guard our hearts!!!!
The price of receiving God's grace is our dutiful obligation to extend grace to others, including ourselves. Surely, we must engage in a process to 'bounce back' from hurt and harm. But, in the aftermath, we must chose life, love, forgiveness and healing. We are called to be bearers of God's grace.
Being a bearer of God's grace is beneficial to others but, we benefit as well. When we extend grace to those that don't deserve our forgiveness, we are set free from mental and emotional prisons. We also are able to reflect an image of God in a lost and hopeless world. Ultimately, we bring honor and glory to God, when we extend grace. As the Bible admonishes us, let's allow grace to greatly abound where sin abounds.
Jesus makes us worthy of God's grace. But, if we never extend grace, we will NEVER feel worthy of God's love and grace. Without "feeling" God's grace, we will feel unworthy. Without extending grace so that others can "feel" God's grace, we feel more unworthy. Consequently, low self-worth will cause us to reject God's influence and impact on our lives. We must resist and rise above the snares that rob us of experiencing God's grace and extending it to others. We must be gracious to others.
HAPPY GRACING sisters!
NOTHING and NO ONE is worth us living a life of fear, hatred, and unforgiveness!!!!
Let's continue to resolve the issues of our hearts so that we can love liberally and generously ALL those that don't deserve our love and grace....
We are most like Christ when we live and act as He did!!!!!
Love and blessings to all
Hugs
Tuesday, February 7, 2017
HOPE IS THE SOUL'S ANCHOR
"But if the storms don't cease,
and if the wind keeps on blowing,
my soul has been anchored in the Lord." ~My Soul is Anchored
Hebrews 6:19
"Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;”
Good morning dearest Ladies,
HAPPY TUESDAY!!!!
I hope that you and yours are well. Welcome to the dawn of a new day! Cheers to a promising and productive day!
An old African proverb states, "it doesn't matter if you're a lion or a gazelle, you better start running when the sun comes up." Run on sisters! Fight forward! We have much to accomplish!
I encourage us all to fiercely cling to God now and always. I pray that we all tenaciously hold firm onto our hope and faith in God. Hang tough!
The storms of life will rage around us. Sometimes storms will threaten to rage in us. But, we must press on.
Like Daniel, who was tossed in the lion's den, we must fight forward. We must walk through life trusting that God is with us and believing that He will deliver us. But, we must engage the storm and walk through it even when God's deliverance doesn't preclude us from danger.
We must walk through life even if the storms don't cease and the winds keep on blowing!!!!!
Like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, whom were tossed in the fiery furnace, we must approach storms with that the mindset that even if God doesn't spare our lives, we will serve Him through the storm. In fact, we will serve Him always because our souls are anchored in Him.
Our allegiance to God helps us to walk through storms. It also influences 'how' we walk through storms. We can always endure storms with hope because our God walks with us regardless of the outcome. We are reassured that God works ALL things, even storms, together for good.
We must walk through life even if the storms don't cease and the winds keep blowing!!!!
Our souls are anchored in the Lord sisters!!!!!!
God holds our future! He holds our tomorrow!!! We can fight forward with hope! Divorce is not the end; it's just another NEW beginning.
I'm proud of YOU!!!
I'm praying for YOU!!!
I'm cheering for YOU!!!!
Love and blessings
Hugs
and if the wind keeps on blowing,
my soul has been anchored in the Lord." ~My Soul is Anchored
Hebrews 6:19
"Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;”
Good morning dearest Ladies,
HAPPY TUESDAY!!!!
I hope that you and yours are well. Welcome to the dawn of a new day! Cheers to a promising and productive day!
An old African proverb states, "it doesn't matter if you're a lion or a gazelle, you better start running when the sun comes up." Run on sisters! Fight forward! We have much to accomplish!
I encourage us all to fiercely cling to God now and always. I pray that we all tenaciously hold firm onto our hope and faith in God. Hang tough!
The storms of life will rage around us. Sometimes storms will threaten to rage in us. But, we must press on.
Like Daniel, who was tossed in the lion's den, we must fight forward. We must walk through life trusting that God is with us and believing that He will deliver us. But, we must engage the storm and walk through it even when God's deliverance doesn't preclude us from danger.
We must walk through life even if the storms don't cease and the winds keep on blowing!!!!!
Like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, whom were tossed in the fiery furnace, we must approach storms with that the mindset that even if God doesn't spare our lives, we will serve Him through the storm. In fact, we will serve Him always because our souls are anchored in Him.
Our allegiance to God helps us to walk through storms. It also influences 'how' we walk through storms. We can always endure storms with hope because our God walks with us regardless of the outcome. We are reassured that God works ALL things, even storms, together for good.
We must walk through life even if the storms don't cease and the winds keep blowing!!!!
Our souls are anchored in the Lord sisters!!!!!!
God holds our future! He holds our tomorrow!!! We can fight forward with hope! Divorce is not the end; it's just another NEW beginning.
I'm proud of YOU!!!
I'm praying for YOU!!!
I'm cheering for YOU!!!!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Monday, February 6, 2017
MY SOUL HAS BEEN ANCHORED
My Soul Has Been Anchored
Verse:
Though the storms keep on raging in my life,
and sometimes it's hard to tell the night from day.
Still that hope that lies within is reassured
as I keep my eyes upon the distant shore;
I know He'll lead me safely to that
blessed place He has prepared
Chorus:
But if the storms don't cease,
and if the wind keeps on blowing,
my soul has been anchored in the Lord.
Bridge:
I realize that somtimes in this life
you're gonna be tossed by the waves
and currents that seem so fierce,
but in the word of God I've got an anchor;
and it keeps me steadfast and unmovable
Dearest Sisters,
HAPPY MONDAY!
I had the privilege of celebrating my grandmother's 90th birthday this past weekend. Up above, I posted lyrics to a song that my father sung to my grandmother. You can hear the song with a quick GOOGLE or YOU TUBE search.
My father's rendition was very, very encouraging. I don't believe there was a dry eye in the room. My dad's song selection was absolutely glorious and such a fitting tribute to my grandmother. She has been through a lot in 90 years but she's still a 'tough ole bird.' She is a baby of the Great Depression era. If you know the caliber of the folks of that era then you know my grandmother. Interestingly, she is one year younger than the current reigning Queen Elizabeth II. They both are very poised, graceful, and wise beyond their years.
As I listened to my father's serenade, I reflected on the storms that continually blow into our lives as divorcees and single parents. The storms are many and sometimes long. But, WE ARE STILL HERE!
Sisters, I want to remind you that God is our anchor. His word is the rope that secures us to Him, our anchor. Storms will rage. Winds will blow. But, God will keep us from being overtaken and defeated.
THE LORD IS OUR ANCHOR!!!!
GOD IS OUR ANCHOR!!!
God never promised to give us storm-free lives. Jesus didn't have a storm-free life and we won't either. BUT, the single most beautiful difference between our lives and that of unbelievers is that God promises to hold our hands during the storms. He promised to never leave us nor forsake us. So, hang on! The storms will come....the storms will rage....the winds will blow. BUT, God is our anchor.
BE ENCOURAGED sweet, beautiful mamas.
God is for you and yours!
Go, fight, win!
Be radiant and resilient!
YOU are God's beautiful creation!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Verse:
Though the storms keep on raging in my life,
and sometimes it's hard to tell the night from day.
Still that hope that lies within is reassured
as I keep my eyes upon the distant shore;
I know He'll lead me safely to that
blessed place He has prepared
Chorus:
But if the storms don't cease,
and if the wind keeps on blowing,
my soul has been anchored in the Lord.
Bridge:
I realize that somtimes in this life
you're gonna be tossed by the waves
and currents that seem so fierce,
but in the word of God I've got an anchor;
and it keeps me steadfast and unmovable
Dearest Sisters,
HAPPY MONDAY!
I had the privilege of celebrating my grandmother's 90th birthday this past weekend. Up above, I posted lyrics to a song that my father sung to my grandmother. You can hear the song with a quick GOOGLE or YOU TUBE search.
My father's rendition was very, very encouraging. I don't believe there was a dry eye in the room. My dad's song selection was absolutely glorious and such a fitting tribute to my grandmother. She has been through a lot in 90 years but she's still a 'tough ole bird.' She is a baby of the Great Depression era. If you know the caliber of the folks of that era then you know my grandmother. Interestingly, she is one year younger than the current reigning Queen Elizabeth II. They both are very poised, graceful, and wise beyond their years.
As I listened to my father's serenade, I reflected on the storms that continually blow into our lives as divorcees and single parents. The storms are many and sometimes long. But, WE ARE STILL HERE!
Sisters, I want to remind you that God is our anchor. His word is the rope that secures us to Him, our anchor. Storms will rage. Winds will blow. But, God will keep us from being overtaken and defeated.
THE LORD IS OUR ANCHOR!!!!
GOD IS OUR ANCHOR!!!
God never promised to give us storm-free lives. Jesus didn't have a storm-free life and we won't either. BUT, the single most beautiful difference between our lives and that of unbelievers is that God promises to hold our hands during the storms. He promised to never leave us nor forsake us. So, hang on! The storms will come....the storms will rage....the winds will blow. BUT, God is our anchor.
BE ENCOURAGED sweet, beautiful mamas.
God is for you and yours!
Go, fight, win!
Be radiant and resilient!
YOU are God's beautiful creation!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Thursday, February 2, 2017
THE LORD IS YOUR DELIVERER
Dearest Sisters,
BE ENCOURAGED!!!!
The Lord is your deliverer!
There is nothing that God cannot deliver you from!
The Lord God will deliver YOU out of ALL your afflictions!
Cry out to God!
The Lord is listening!
God will deliver YOU!
God will redeem YOU!
February is known as the 'love month.' Please read below an excerpt from Psalm 34! I pray that you are refreshed and renewed by this love letter that God penned to YOU. Allow the love of God to overwhelm you; to flood through your veins. Walk in God's love. Live in God's love. Exist in God's love. Drink deeply of God's love.
YOU ARE LOVED!!!!
Because God loves YOU, it is His great pleasure to deliver YOU!
Be encouraged sweetheart!
Read on....
Psalm 34:17-22 KJV
17 The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.
18 The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.
19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.
20 He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken.
21 Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate.
22 The Lord redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.
God loves you!
I love you!
The Lord is loving, compassionate, loyal and faithful!
Look to Heaven for your deliverance!
Fight forward!
Love and blessings
Hugs
BE ENCOURAGED!!!!
The Lord is your deliverer!
There is nothing that God cannot deliver you from!
The Lord God will deliver YOU out of ALL your afflictions!
Cry out to God!
The Lord is listening!
God will deliver YOU!
God will redeem YOU!
February is known as the 'love month.' Please read below an excerpt from Psalm 34! I pray that you are refreshed and renewed by this love letter that God penned to YOU. Allow the love of God to overwhelm you; to flood through your veins. Walk in God's love. Live in God's love. Exist in God's love. Drink deeply of God's love.
YOU ARE LOVED!!!!
Because God loves YOU, it is His great pleasure to deliver YOU!
Be encouraged sweetheart!
Read on....
Psalm 34:17-22 KJV
17 The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.
18 The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.
19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.
20 He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken.
21 Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate.
22 The Lord redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.
God loves you!
I love you!
The Lord is loving, compassionate, loyal and faithful!
Look to Heaven for your deliverance!
Fight forward!
Love and blessings
Hugs
GOD EQUIPS US
Exodus 4:10-12 KJV
10 And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue.
11 And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made man's mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the Lord?
12 Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say.
Dearest Ladies,
HAPPY THURSDAY!!!!
I pray that you and yours have a promising and productive day.
I'm praying for you and yours!
I'm cheering for you and yours!
Sisters, God has commissioned us to parent our kiddos. The day the Lord knit a child in our wombs, our journeys began. God knew before He commissioned us as moms that we would face enormous giants, terrifying enemies, excruciating obstacles, and crushing setbacks. The Lord knew all along what was up ahead. And yet, He still chose us because He knew that He would qualify and equips us for every battle.
God created our children's unique personalities, preferences, styles, and quirks. He knew of our children's needs before we did. He knew that our beautiful children needed a special mother that was uniquely formulated to embrace their individualities and to encourage them to maximize their potential. The Lord God set love in hearts as life was growing in our wombs. Not only were we called to Mommyhood, we were specifically made for it. Never doubt God's plan.
The Lord knew that single parenthood was up ahead. He knew the grief, despair, and depressed moods that we would experience when our husbands declared that they would no longer participate in the day-to-day parenting of our kiddos. God knew that our hearts and minds would swell with fear, anxiety, worry, and frustration. The Lord knew that we would struggle with bouts of lethargy, fatigue, insomnia, and strange illnesses and physical attacks. The Lord knew that we didn't think we could face down the terror and move forward. The Lord knew.....
The Lord knew that we would lose or give up jobs, careers, educational opportunities, comfort, convenience, money, lengthy vacations family members, friends, relationships, loved ones, marriages, houses, homes, and other fringe benefits on our journeys....in order to remain committed and available to our children. Likewise, the Lord also knew that we would have to take on the new burden of jobs, careers, and additional schooling in order to make ends meet in our new role as sole breadwinner. The Lord knew that we would go through storms that would make us question our abilities and fortitude to parent alone. God also saw that we would struggle with faith and sometimes our sanity. The Lord knew that trials and tribulations would come that would cause us to take inventory of our resources and then doubt that we were able to financially underwrite our single parent endeavors. The Lord knew this ALL. Yet, He still handpicked us. He still chose us. The Lord chooses us EVERYDAY. The Lord knew....
The Lord is moved with compassion towards us!!!! Daily He looks upon our humble estates! Daily He promises to walk with us and equip us for every challenge that we will face on our journeys.
God qualified us to be the BEST mothers for our kiddos then and now. He gives us a thumbs up everyday. God specifically designed us to effectively parent our darling kiddos. Divorce nor its traumatic outcome can decommission us. God is for us!!!!
Sisters, can you itemize the small DAILY encounters with GOD that whisper to your heart, "Go on! Move forward! I'm proud of you! You can do this! I am with you always." They are there! Believe me, they are there. Look for those blessed impressions that God wants to leave on your heart. The Lord wants to fill your heart and days with compassion, understanding, and encouragement. The Lord sees your struggles; He wants to encourage you.
Dearest beautiful mamas, the opportunity to commence motherhood was never an invitation to sojourn without God. Rather, the undertaking required then as it requires now a personal, intimate relationship with God. Motherhood is a God thang; yep, embrace the slang-SMILE! Since the days of Eve, motherhood was a divine, miraculous endeavor- SMILE! The history of mothering goes waaaay back to the beginning. It's a God thang, sisters! It's the Lord who indescribably chooses us, creates life in us, and then stirs up every heavenly gift, trait, talent, and skill in us that we will need to care for our children. God entrusted Eve to be a nurturer of life. The Lord also trusts us. Motherhood is God's invention and idea. Therefore, we cannot be effective, committed, nor long suffering without God breathing life into our endeavors DAILY!!!!
Ladies, God chose Moses to lead the Children of Israel out of Egypt. He, too, was forsaken of all before his face-to-face encounter with God. When the Lord approached Moses with his commission, Moses was so focused on himself. Moses was consumed with anxiety and worry about his inabilities, his shortcomings, his lack of resources, and his inadequacies. Moses doubted that the Children of Israel would listen to him. He doubted his ability to lead them and his ability to persuade and influence them in light of his past. Early on, Moses was a member of the Egyptian elite and he also murdered man. Moses could not see past his past in order to move forward with God. Ladies, is anything holding you back? Let it go! God is not holding your past against you so don't you hold it against yourself. Your kiddos need you. They need you to shower them with attention, affirmation, affection, assurance, and approval.
Ladies, we MUST get past the hurt of divorce to fulfill our divine calling as mothers. We have to allow God to heal and mend our broken hearts. We have to push through the pain. We MUST get better. Unforgiveness, bitterness, and anger will surface in our hearts and rightfully so. But, they cannot remain there indefinitely. We have to be full of life and love in order to fill our kiddos' lives with love. We can do this! YOU can do this. ALL things are possible with God!!!!!!
Moses gave God reason after reason to substantiate his perceived limitations and his angst about his mission. Moses moaned and groaned in his attempt to disqualify himself and terminate his commission. Exodus chapter 4 contains a dialogue between God and Moses. Mid-chapter, Moses tells God that he is not qualified for leadership because he is not an eloquent speaker. The Lord, yet again, responded in love and compassion. God reminded Moses that HE was ALL that Moses needed. The Lord reminded Moses that amazing oratorical skills does not qualify leaders for service with God. The Lord alone qualifies and calls leaders to accomplish His will.
Ladies, we are qualified to 'mother.' We were qualified before divorce and we remain qualified. God is ALL we need. Divorce challenged us in nearly every way possible. We have questioned many, many things. We have asked "WHY?" probably more times than we can recount. Sure, we are a bit bruised, battered, and bewildered BUT, God still qualifies us. God is the one who makes ALL the difference in our parenting endeavors. He knows that we have fought immobilizing feelings and warred against myriad fears, cares, and concerns. Yet, the Lord still qualifies us. Take heart! You are fit for battle!
When Moses doubted, the Lord did not give up on Moses. In the same regard, God does NOT give up on us. When we waiver, falter, and faint, the Lord is there to gracefully and graciously usher us back to the frontline of our missions; He is always there to cheer us on. We are mommy-leaders that God have called and equipped. He will make sure that we stay focused and committed to the end.
We see that every time Moses cast doubt on his abilities, the Lord reassured him that He would equip him and walk with him. Every time that Moses cast doubt on the success of the mission, God assured him that He ALONE was the remedy for every challenge that lie ahead. The Lord is faithful! The Lord was faithful to Moses! The Lord is faithful to us!
God promised to equip and lead Moses! And, He did. The Lord wanted Moses to be fully assured and confident that although his assignment was tough, God was able to see him through it.
After all, God created everything for His purpose. The Lord orchestrated the 'Exodus' mission and called Moses, so He knew that everything would unfold just as He planned. Everything was meticulously set, Moses's trust and faith in God were the only things that had to be nailed down. Trust and faith were essential to his success on his odyssey...
Odyssey.....
Odyssey.....
Sisters, we all are on an odyssey. Single parenthood is an odyssey. Both trial and triumph lie ahead. Both sacrifice and success lie ahead. Both revilement and reward lie ahead. But, take heart! Be bold and courageous! God has called you to motherhood AND He has equipped you for the single-parent journey.
God commissioned you! God commissioned us! He knows everything that lies ahead. He knew the entire length and scope of our courses before He invited us to walk with Him....to follow Him. Trust the Lord!
Let's be mindful of Moses' example. Instead of telling God all that we can't do, let's trust that His grace, leading, equipping, and provision is all sufficient for us. Fight forward!
Love and blessings
Hugs
10 And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue.
11 And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made man's mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the Lord?
12 Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say.
Dearest Ladies,
HAPPY THURSDAY!!!!
I pray that you and yours have a promising and productive day.
I'm praying for you and yours!
I'm cheering for you and yours!
Sisters, God has commissioned us to parent our kiddos. The day the Lord knit a child in our wombs, our journeys began. God knew before He commissioned us as moms that we would face enormous giants, terrifying enemies, excruciating obstacles, and crushing setbacks. The Lord knew all along what was up ahead. And yet, He still chose us because He knew that He would qualify and equips us for every battle.
God created our children's unique personalities, preferences, styles, and quirks. He knew of our children's needs before we did. He knew that our beautiful children needed a special mother that was uniquely formulated to embrace their individualities and to encourage them to maximize their potential. The Lord God set love in hearts as life was growing in our wombs. Not only were we called to Mommyhood, we were specifically made for it. Never doubt God's plan.
The Lord knew that single parenthood was up ahead. He knew the grief, despair, and depressed moods that we would experience when our husbands declared that they would no longer participate in the day-to-day parenting of our kiddos. God knew that our hearts and minds would swell with fear, anxiety, worry, and frustration. The Lord knew that we would struggle with bouts of lethargy, fatigue, insomnia, and strange illnesses and physical attacks. The Lord knew that we didn't think we could face down the terror and move forward. The Lord knew.....
The Lord knew that we would lose or give up jobs, careers, educational opportunities, comfort, convenience, money, lengthy vacations family members, friends, relationships, loved ones, marriages, houses, homes, and other fringe benefits on our journeys....in order to remain committed and available to our children. Likewise, the Lord also knew that we would have to take on the new burden of jobs, careers, and additional schooling in order to make ends meet in our new role as sole breadwinner. The Lord knew that we would go through storms that would make us question our abilities and fortitude to parent alone. God also saw that we would struggle with faith and sometimes our sanity. The Lord knew that trials and tribulations would come that would cause us to take inventory of our resources and then doubt that we were able to financially underwrite our single parent endeavors. The Lord knew this ALL. Yet, He still handpicked us. He still chose us. The Lord chooses us EVERYDAY. The Lord knew....
The Lord is moved with compassion towards us!!!! Daily He looks upon our humble estates! Daily He promises to walk with us and equip us for every challenge that we will face on our journeys.
God qualified us to be the BEST mothers for our kiddos then and now. He gives us a thumbs up everyday. God specifically designed us to effectively parent our darling kiddos. Divorce nor its traumatic outcome can decommission us. God is for us!!!!
Sisters, can you itemize the small DAILY encounters with GOD that whisper to your heart, "Go on! Move forward! I'm proud of you! You can do this! I am with you always." They are there! Believe me, they are there. Look for those blessed impressions that God wants to leave on your heart. The Lord wants to fill your heart and days with compassion, understanding, and encouragement. The Lord sees your struggles; He wants to encourage you.
Dearest beautiful mamas, the opportunity to commence motherhood was never an invitation to sojourn without God. Rather, the undertaking required then as it requires now a personal, intimate relationship with God. Motherhood is a God thang; yep, embrace the slang-SMILE! Since the days of Eve, motherhood was a divine, miraculous endeavor- SMILE! The history of mothering goes waaaay back to the beginning. It's a God thang, sisters! It's the Lord who indescribably chooses us, creates life in us, and then stirs up every heavenly gift, trait, talent, and skill in us that we will need to care for our children. God entrusted Eve to be a nurturer of life. The Lord also trusts us. Motherhood is God's invention and idea. Therefore, we cannot be effective, committed, nor long suffering without God breathing life into our endeavors DAILY!!!!
Ladies, God chose Moses to lead the Children of Israel out of Egypt. He, too, was forsaken of all before his face-to-face encounter with God. When the Lord approached Moses with his commission, Moses was so focused on himself. Moses was consumed with anxiety and worry about his inabilities, his shortcomings, his lack of resources, and his inadequacies. Moses doubted that the Children of Israel would listen to him. He doubted his ability to lead them and his ability to persuade and influence them in light of his past. Early on, Moses was a member of the Egyptian elite and he also murdered man. Moses could not see past his past in order to move forward with God. Ladies, is anything holding you back? Let it go! God is not holding your past against you so don't you hold it against yourself. Your kiddos need you. They need you to shower them with attention, affirmation, affection, assurance, and approval.
Ladies, we MUST get past the hurt of divorce to fulfill our divine calling as mothers. We have to allow God to heal and mend our broken hearts. We have to push through the pain. We MUST get better. Unforgiveness, bitterness, and anger will surface in our hearts and rightfully so. But, they cannot remain there indefinitely. We have to be full of life and love in order to fill our kiddos' lives with love. We can do this! YOU can do this. ALL things are possible with God!!!!!!
Moses gave God reason after reason to substantiate his perceived limitations and his angst about his mission. Moses moaned and groaned in his attempt to disqualify himself and terminate his commission. Exodus chapter 4 contains a dialogue between God and Moses. Mid-chapter, Moses tells God that he is not qualified for leadership because he is not an eloquent speaker. The Lord, yet again, responded in love and compassion. God reminded Moses that HE was ALL that Moses needed. The Lord reminded Moses that amazing oratorical skills does not qualify leaders for service with God. The Lord alone qualifies and calls leaders to accomplish His will.
Ladies, we are qualified to 'mother.' We were qualified before divorce and we remain qualified. God is ALL we need. Divorce challenged us in nearly every way possible. We have questioned many, many things. We have asked "WHY?" probably more times than we can recount. Sure, we are a bit bruised, battered, and bewildered BUT, God still qualifies us. God is the one who makes ALL the difference in our parenting endeavors. He knows that we have fought immobilizing feelings and warred against myriad fears, cares, and concerns. Yet, the Lord still qualifies us. Take heart! You are fit for battle!
When Moses doubted, the Lord did not give up on Moses. In the same regard, God does NOT give up on us. When we waiver, falter, and faint, the Lord is there to gracefully and graciously usher us back to the frontline of our missions; He is always there to cheer us on. We are mommy-leaders that God have called and equipped. He will make sure that we stay focused and committed to the end.
We see that every time Moses cast doubt on his abilities, the Lord reassured him that He would equip him and walk with him. Every time that Moses cast doubt on the success of the mission, God assured him that He ALONE was the remedy for every challenge that lie ahead. The Lord is faithful! The Lord was faithful to Moses! The Lord is faithful to us!
God promised to equip and lead Moses! And, He did. The Lord wanted Moses to be fully assured and confident that although his assignment was tough, God was able to see him through it.
After all, God created everything for His purpose. The Lord orchestrated the 'Exodus' mission and called Moses, so He knew that everything would unfold just as He planned. Everything was meticulously set, Moses's trust and faith in God were the only things that had to be nailed down. Trust and faith were essential to his success on his odyssey...
Odyssey.....
Odyssey.....
Sisters, we all are on an odyssey. Single parenthood is an odyssey. Both trial and triumph lie ahead. Both sacrifice and success lie ahead. Both revilement and reward lie ahead. But, take heart! Be bold and courageous! God has called you to motherhood AND He has equipped you for the single-parent journey.
God commissioned you! God commissioned us! He knows everything that lies ahead. He knew the entire length and scope of our courses before He invited us to walk with Him....to follow Him. Trust the Lord!
Let's be mindful of Moses' example. Instead of telling God all that we can't do, let's trust that His grace, leading, equipping, and provision is all sufficient for us. Fight forward!
Love and blessings
Hugs
Wednesday, February 1, 2017
YOU have Heaven's attention
Dearest Ladies, BE ENCOURAGED!
God is for YOU!
Keep hanging tough!
Keep fighting!
God is sovereign and faithful. The Lord sees EVERYTHING that is happening to you. He sees you struggling. The Lord is grieved when you are grieved. The Lord notices your tears and angst. The Lord hears your cries and prayers. You have Heaven's attention.
It may seem like your cries have fallen on deaf ears.....I want to remind you that they have NOT. It may seem like your pleas for help have been ignored.......I want to assure you that they have NOT. You may feel forsaken, rejected, and scorned but, you are NOT. You are very, very, very special. God sees you! God hears you! God cares! Dearest sweetheart, YOU have Heaven's attention. You are the apple of God's eye. In just a matter of time, your relief will appear.
The Lord is wise and just! God is all-knowing and all-seeing. The Lord sees the vicious attacks towards you. The Lord is NOT pleased. He is moved by compassion for you. Vengeance is mine," said the Lord. The Lord God will avenge you. Dear heart, you have Heaven's attention.
It may seem like your cries have fallen on deaf ears. But, they have NOT. It may seem like your pleas for help have been ignored. But, NOT a single word have you uttered in vain. You may feel forsaken, rejected, and scorned but, you are NOT. God sees you! God hears you! God cares! You are God's beloved. Dearest sweetheart, YOU have Heaven's attention. In just a matter of time, your relief will appear.
Love and blessings
Sweet dreams!
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