Merry Christmas!

Don't Forget Jesus

Christmas is a special time
To reflect on Jesus Christ
The wonder of His lowly birth
Brings meaning to our lives

There really is no other reason
We celebrate this day
The birth of God’s precious son
And the life He willingly gave

But so much seems to distract us
In the busy-ness of our lives
We lose our focus in all the happenings
Not knowing, we leave out Christ

We lose sight of the true meaning
As we endlessly rush about
Trying to find that perfect gift
Seems to cloud our Saviour out

We need to stop and reflect awhile
Remembering our precious Lord
His birth, His life and sacrifice
And all that He stands for

For though the world may celebrate
It seems though for other reasons
Let’s keep in mind that Jesus Christ
Is the true meaning of the season

© By M.S.Lowndes

Secrets of Happy Home Life

What are some of the secrets of happy home life?

The answer might be given in one word—Christ.

Christ at the marriage-altar;

Christ on the bridal journey;

Christ when the new home is set up;

Christ when the baby is born;

Christ when a child dies;

Christ in the pinching times;

Christ in the days of plenty;

Christ in the nursery, in the kitchen, in the parlor;

Christ in the toil and in the rest;

Christ along all the years;

Christ when the wedded pair walk toward the sunset gates;

Christ in the sad hour when farewells are spoken,

and one goes on before and the other stays, bearing the unshared grief.

Christ is the secret of happy home life.




-JR Miller, Secrets of Happy Home Life, 1894

Restoring the Atmosphere of Your Home

I really liked the idea that was presented in this article, "Restoring the Atmosphere of Your Home". Please head over and read it. It might be a useful addition to your parenting "bag".

The 12 Days of CHRISTmas ~ Explained

My husband and I were just wondering what this song actually meant. I'm so thankful to have read the following information. I have not done any research to see if this is "accurate", but it does make sense. I hope you enjoy!

Luke 19:40 ~ "I tell you," He [Jesus] replied, "if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."

Has this cute, fun little CHRISTmas ditty ever puzzled you? What in the world do these Old World objects have to do with CHRISTmas?

I have your answer...

From 1558 until 1829, truly committed Christians & Roman Catholics in England were not permitted to practice their faith openly. In the early days of this time period, the Catholic church even chained the Bible to the pulpit & forbade parishioners to own &/or read their own Bible. Someone during that era wrote this carol as a secret way to publicly celebrate the tenants of the Christian faith in a culture dominated by a tyrannical secular government.

It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning plus a hidden meaning known only to the committed faithful. Each element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality which even their children could remember.

-The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.

-Two turtle doves were the Old and New Testaments.

-Three French hens stood for faith, hope and love.-

-The four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.

-The five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.

-The six geese a-laying stood for the six days of creation.

-Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.

-The eight maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes.

-Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.

-The ten lords a-leaping were the ten commandments.

-The eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.

-The twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.

Did you know? Your body has a clock.

I received the following information and thought it might be helpful for others to know!

11pm to 1am Gallbladder ( sign of gallbladder problem you would be restless during this time )

1am to 3am Liver

3am to 5am Lung

5am to 7am Large Intestine

7am to 9am Stomach

9am to 11am Spleen

11am to 1pm Heart

1pm to 3pm Small Intestine

3pm to 5pm Bladder

5pm to 7pm Kidney

7pm t0 9pm Circulation

9pm to 11pm Triple Warmer ( Thyroid, Adrenal and Pancreas )

At these times body is concentrating its energy to those issues cleaning in those areas. If you are having any issues with theses area’s you may want to consider giving some nutrition to that area.

* Reference - Herbs etc.

Are You an Older, Godly Woman, or Just Old?

Are You an Older, Godly Woman, or Just Old?

In Christ Alone: Why We Homeschool

In Christ Alone: Why We Homeschool: "1. Proverbs 22:6 How can I make sure that my child will go in the way he should go so that he will not be misled off the path of righteousne..."

Staying Focused

Staying Focused

If Jesus Came in person to spend some time with you..

Would you change to modest dress before you let Him in,
Or hide some magazines and put the Bible where they'd been?

Would you hide bad music discs and put a hymnal out?
Could you let Him walk right in, or would you have to rush about?

I wonder, if the Savior spent a day or two with you,
Would you go on doing all the things you always do?

Would you go on saying all the things you always say,
And would your life continue as it does from day to day?

Would you take Him with you then to every place you go,
Or would you maybe change your plans for just a day or so?

Would you then be glad to have Him meet your closest friends,
Or would you hope they'd stay away until His visit ends?

Would you then be glad if He would perm'nently remain?
What would you tell Him that you did to end abortion's reign?

Or would you hope that He'd not ask about his little ones,
And would you sigh with great relief when He at last was gone?

It might be int'resting to know the things that you would do
If Jesus came in person ... to spend some time with you.

--author anonymous

Tied Down

Tied Down, by Edgar A. Guest

"They tie you down," a woman said,
Whose cheeks should have been flaming red
With shame to speak of children so.


"When babies come you cannot go
In search of pleasure with your friends,
And all your happy wandering ends.
The things you like you cannot do,
For babies make a slave of you."


I looked at her and said: "'Tis true
That children make a slave of you,
And tie you down with many a knot,
But have you never thought to what
It is of happiness and pride
That little babies have you tied?


Do you not miss the greater joys
That come with little girls and boys?
"They tie you down to laughter rare,
To hours of smiles and hours of care,
To nights of watching and to fears;
Sometimes they tie you down to tears
And then repay you with a smile,
And make your trouble all worth while.


They tie you fast to chubby feet,
And cheeks of pink and kisses sweet.
"They fasten you with cords of love
To God divine, who reigns above.
They tie you, whereso'er you roam,
Unto the little place called home;
And over sea or railroad track
They tug at you to bring you back.
The happiest people in the town
Are those the babies have tied down.


"Oh, go your selfish way and free,
But hampered I would rather be,
Yes rather than a kingly crown
I would be, what you term, tied down;
Tied down to dancing eyes and charms,
Held fast by chubby, dimpled arms,
The fettered slave of girl and boy,
And win from them earth's finest joy."

Never Leaves Us Comfortless!

I have read that, with every time of trying, God never leaves us comfortless. I am sure we would not be alone if we were to describe some of the trials we are facing--I have read in the Psalms something to the effect that "the afflictions of the righteous man are many, but the Lord delivers him out of them all" (Psalm 34:19). So glad his comforts were ours today! --Large Family Mothering

Yesterday was a great day! After having some hard emotional times lately, it was great to not only have a day full of joy, but to be reminded of God's faithfulness and provisions.

Chad was preaching up in Empire again. The weather wasn't the greatest for an 1 1/2 hour drive, but we made it there safely. We were warmly greeted by all there. Dara received high compliments for playing the piano for the four weeks we were there. While she sometimes made mistakes, they said it was a blessing to them. They appreciated her being willing to be used by God instead of being worried about it not being "perfect". It was nice to hear others telling her the same things we have been telling her.

Chad's sermon was good and seemed to be perfect for some of the people in the congregation. He even was able to continue a discussion about it with one of the men who it particularly pertained to.

I was once again reminded of the joy of children as we sang a last song, "The First Noel" and Martha, Jaina and Cora all tried singing along. All they new was "noel" and "king", but they sang their hearts out none the less with beautiful smiles on their faces.

After church, we went to a little pizza place for lunch. We enjoyed talking with another couple that was there that made mention of how well behaved the girls were being. When Chad went to pay for our pizza just before leaving, we were told that the couple had paid for our meal! What a true act of kindness and a reminder from our Good Lord that He will bless us beyond what we can imagine!

We then went to Moomers (the best ice-cream place ever!) and not only enjoyed the ice-cream, but was able to vote for the employee gingerbread house contest. The girls had a blast choosing "Best of Show", "Wouldn't want to live there", "Best house for Santa", etc.

After arriving home, the girls had a blast riding the kitty cat and ovation around the yard. I don't think there was a single spot that didn't have a track on it! They came in and warmed up with hot cups of tea. We then watched a great movie for family night (Saving Sarah Cain--I highly recommend it!). It just reminded us about how important family is and standing for our convictions as well as the saving grace of God. He will use every circumstance for the glory of those who love the Him!

Yesterday was a great day and I am so thankful the Lord blessed us with all the great reminders of His great love for us! It never ceases to amaze me the love He has for us even though we are sinners and mess up more times than we care to admit.

If you are going through a hard time right now, please remember that God will comfort those who follow Him. He will "deliver you out of your afflictions"!

Eight gifts that do not cost a cent

THE GIFT OF LISTENING...

But you must REALLY listen. No interrupting, no daydreaming, no planning your response. Just listening.

THE GIFT OF AFFECTION...
Be generous with appropriate hugs, kisses, pats on the back, and handholds. Let these small actions demonstrate the love you have for family and friends.

THE GIFT OF LAUGHTER...
Clip cartoons. Share articles and funny stories. Your gift will say, "I love to laugh with you."

GIFT OF A WRITTEN NOTE... It can be a simple "Thanks for the help" note or a full sonnet.
A brief, handwritten note may be remembered for a lifetime, and may even change a life.

THE GIFT OF A COMPLIMENT...
A simple and sincere, "You look great in red," "You did a super job," or "That was a wonderful meal" can make someone's day.

THE GIFT OF A FAVOR...
day, go out of your way to do something kind.

THE GIFT OF SOLITUDE...
There are times when we want nothing better than to be left alone. Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others.

THE GIFT OF A CHEERFUL DISPOSITION... The easiest way to feel good is to extend a kind word to someone. Really, it's not that hard to say, "Hello" or "Thank You".

--Author Unknown

The Ten Commandments of Marriage:

1. Do not place others before one another. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife.

2. Let nothing on earth become more important than your marriage. Seek first God’s will in your marriage and the other things will come as He desires.

3. Speak to one another with kindness and love. Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a word kindly spoken.

4. Remember to worship together. Oh come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker. For He is our God.

5. Love and accept one another’s family as your own. Your people shall be my people.

6. Do not harm one another with words, attitudes, or action. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor and evil speaking be put away from you…and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ has forgiven you.

7. Be faithful to one another. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control….And the two shall become one flesh.

8. Never take joy from one another. Above all things put on love, which holds everything together in perfect harmony.

9. Always speak the truth in love. The Lord will show you what is right and true, that you may always speak with integrity.

10. Do not desire or be envious of what others may have. I have learned that in whatsoever state I may be, to be content

A Wise Woman Builds Her Home: Teaching Children to Listen

A great post on the biblical significance to teaching our children to listen.

A Wise Woman Builds Her Home: Teaching Children to Listen: "I have eight children and I am always working on training them~it truly seems like it is a never ending process! We have our good days an..."

The Real Meaning of Christmas

We have made some changes to how we are "doing" Christmas this year.

We aren't putting up a Christmas tree. I couldn't see any biblical significance to this or see how it pointed our thoughts to Christ, so instead, I bought I nativity set and we put that up. We also are not doing stockings. Again, what is the biblical significance? As in the past few years, we are only giving three gifts to each of the girls in memory of the three gifts the wise men gave Christ. We will read the Christmas story out of Luke 2 on Christmas Eve and do the "What Jesus really wants for Christmas" devotion on Christmas Day. We are adding a study of the Advent this year since I am the girls' Sunday School teacher. Even while doing all of this to help us keep Christ as the focus this year, I still felt this nagging feeling we should be doing more.

I read a blog post which lead me to this post about remembering whose birth we are actually celebrating at Christmas. She makes a really good point (which was pointed out to her by her then 4 year old son!). Since money has already been spent on gifts this year, I'm not sure how much of this we can do, but we might try to start a new tradition this year on a small scale and just make it bigger and bigger each year.

I encourage you to check the post out and see if God challenges you to make changes. It might not be for everyone, but what is for everyone is to focus on Christ during Christmas. That may look differently for everyone, but I pray we all make an effort to bring Christ back to Christmas!

The More We Have the More Ungrateful We Are??

The More We Have the More Ungrateful We Are??

Friendship and Encouragement is Biblical

I was blessed by reading this devotional from Proverbs 31 Ministries today (I'm a bit behind in my email!). I want to thank my true friends who have always been here to offer encouragement and help me get through the tough times in my life. Some of you I have never even met in person, but knowing you are praying for me and the advice and encouragement you offer through emails is priceless. While I had times in my life where I didn't have any close enough friends who I could turn to for encouragement, I am truly blessed to be surrounded by a number of friends now. My prayer is all of you have at least one friend who is there to encourage you through the hard times and that we are all that time of friend to others.

What I Needed to Read

I wanted to share with you all a post I read that I really needed to read. It is on a topic that I have been praying about for some time and have felt like I haven't made the progress I had hoped to, but haven't given up. I hope you enjoy this post on speaking gently.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Psalm 100
A Psalm of Thanksgiving.

1 Make a joyful shout to the LORD, all you lands!
2 Serve the LORD with gladness;
Come before His presence with singing.
3 Know that the LORD, He is God;
It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;[a]
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.

4 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving,
And into His courts with praise.
Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
5 For the LORD is good;
His mercy is everlasting,
And His truth endures to all generations.

The destructive influence of foolish women. . .

The destructive influence of foolish women is readily apparent in the secular world. In recent years we have seen the power of foolish women to tear down and destroy the moral sensitivities and fiber of an entire nation. We can all think of high profile women, entertainers, politicians, wives of public figures--whose philosophies and lifestyles have wielded an enormous, negative influence on our entire culture.

However, what should trouble us even more is the extent to which foolishness among women has permeated the evangelical church. We have followed the world in redefining what it means to be a woman, as well as what is means to be a man. We have blurred, if not eradicated, the distinctions between feminine and masculine character, behavior and roles.

We have lost our moorings, our sense of what is pure and good, true and right. We have little comprehension of the meaning or importance of such old-fashioned words such as wholesome, modest, discreet and chaste.

--Nancy Leigh Demoss, Biblical Womanhood in the Home

Disciple Like Jesus For Parents

One of the blogs I follow is giving away the book Disciple Like Jesus for Parents. It sounds like a great book and a good addition to any Christian Parent's library. Head over to God Made, Home Grown to read more about the book and to enter to win a copy of the book for yourself!

Hear and Now

This devotional spoke to my heart. I have been struggling on hearing God's purpose for my life in the coming days, months, and years. We need to listen to Him in all things--even the "small" things. I hope you visit the link and are encouraged as I was.

The Frog in the Pot

I have heard before that the way to boil a frog is to put it in cold water and slowly heat it up to boiling. The frog doesn't notice the small changes in temperature and doesn't jump out. If you try to put a frog in a pot of boiling water, it will immediately jump out.

I have seen the same thing happening to America since the 60s. I was lead to a link on an article about a similar topic and wanted to share it with everyone. "[T]he church (according to Mr. Wolf's observation) is sliding into debauchery along with the world, just at a slower rate."

Are You a "Joyful Mother of Children"?

Are You a "Joyful Mother of Children"?

Never Again

Never again will I confess "I can't" for "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:13

Never again will I confess lack, for "my God shall supply all of my needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Never again will I confess fear, for "God hath not given me the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." II Timothy 1:7

Never again will I confess doubt and lack of faith, for "God hath given to every man the measure of faith." Romans 12:3

Never again will I confess weakness for "The Lord is the strength of my life." Psalm 27:1

Never again will I confess defeat, for "God always causeth me to triumph in Christ Jesus." II Corinthians 2:14

Never again will I confess lack of wisdom, for "Christ Jesus is made unto me wisdom from God." I Corinthians 1:30

Never again will I confess worries and frustrations, for I am "casting all my cares upon Him who careth for me." I Peter 5;7

Never again will I confess condemnation, for "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus." Romans 8:1


--Anonymous

The African King

The story is told of a king in Africa who had a close friend with whom he grew up. The friend had a habit of looking at every situation that ever occurred in his life (positive or negative) and remarking, "This is good!"

One day the king and his friend were out on a hunting expedition. The friend would load and prepare the guns for the king. The friend had apparently done something wrong in preparing one of the guns, for after taking the gun from his friend, the king fired it and his thumb was blown off.

Examining the situation the friend remarked as usual, "This is good!"

To which the king replied, "No, this is NOT good!" and proceeded to send his friend to jail.

About a year later, the king was hunting in an area that he should have known to stay clear of. Cannibals captured him and took them to their village. They tied his hands, stacked some wood, set up a stake and bound him to the stake. As they came near to set fire to the wood, they
noticed that the king was missing a thumb. Being superstitious, they never ate anyone that was less than whole. So untying the king, they sent him on his way.

As he returned home, he was reminded of the event that had taken his thumb and felt remorse for his treatment of his friend. He went immediately to the jail to speak with his friend. "You were right," he said, "it was good that my thumb was blown off. And he proceeded to tell the friend all that had just happened. "And so I am very sorry for sending you to jail for so long. It was bad of me to do this."

"No" his friend replied, "This is good!"

"What do you mean, "This is good?" How could it be good that I sent my friend to jail for a year?"

"If I had NOT been in jail, I would have been with you when you were captured."

Situations may not always seem pleasant while we are in them, but the promise of God is clear. If we love Him and live our lives according to His precepts, even that which seems to be bleak and hopeless will be turned by God for His glory and our benefit.

-- Author Unknown

(Shared by a friend on Christian Parents Form)

The True Cost

Often, we don't think about the true cost of our decisions. We live in the moment and how things are going to affect us "now". I read a devotional today reminding me to think about those future costs before making decisions. I wanted to share it with you.

True Cost

Humble Me, O Lord

Wow, it is amazing how God will see a weakness in our character and bring us to our needs about it. He uses the most unlikely (to us anyways!) ways to accomplish this as well.

Just last night (into this morning), God humbled me. I thought I had been living a pretty good life for Him, but He opened my eyes to a sin that I had been "hiding". It is something that I was thinking wasn't actually a sin. The world told me it was right for me to feel the way I did about the issue at hand. I've had numerous people tell me I was justified with my feelings (and some that told me I wasn't "angry" enough). But God opened my eyes to the fact that I'm called to be different from this world and in this instance ("And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."--Romans 12:2), I needed to change my thinking.

We had an answer to prayer (and even beyond our prayer) from an unlikely source. I was ecstatic about the abundant blessing until I discovered who God used to provide us with the blessing. My first thought was that I didn't want it anymore, but God immediately chastised me. How was I to turn down a blessing from the Lord?! It is up to Him to use whomever He desires to bless us. It was just after having this thought that Chad asked me if it was because I "hated" the person. I immediately said, "I don't "hate" __________!" But in reality, I think I did. I was holding a grudge for things that happened 13 years ago, 10 years ago, and the most recent was 4 years ago. Who am I to hold a grudge for even 4 years?! What happened should have been forgiven a long time ago and I was just letting bitterness grow in my heart to the point where I almost gave up an immense blessing from the Lord because of it.

I was brought to my knees during my quiet time with God this morning. I asked for forgiveness from Him and I feel Him telling me that I need to apologize to the person in question and ask for forgiveness for myself.

I read Deuteronomy 8:2 this morning, "And you shall remember that the Lord your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not." I began wondering if the hardships we had been encountering which opened the door to receive this blessing was all because God was humbling me and testing me. Would I keep His commandments to forgive as I had been forgiven? Would I love my neighbor as myself? I can't believe it took me this long to see how wrong I have been, but I am thankful that my eyes were opened!

I Peter 5:6 says, "Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time." This is a promise from God! If we are obedient and open to His discipline, He will exalt us! It may not be fun or easy to endure, but we will be rewarded if we are faithful to allow Him to mold us. The nice thing is that He doesn't give us a time limit either. "In due time" tells us that it doesn't have to happen at a specific time, but when it comes "due" in our lives.


Thank you, O Lord, for humbling me and showing me the error of my ways. Please continue to prune me and mold me into the woman of Christ You would have me be. Open my eyes to any other "hidden" sin in my life. Show me how to truly live for You and show others Your love, grace, and mercy. Grant me the strength to humble myself before those I need to ask forgiveness from and not let my pride get in the way. Use me for Your honor and glory today. Amen.

My ABC's of Thankfulness

A friend posted on her blog her ABC's of Thankfulness and I was so encouraged by reading her list, that I wanted to make my own and share with everyone here. It isn't very easy because there are a number of things I wanted to put for each letter. Please know that this list is not exhaustive of what I am thankful for but only a glimpse into my blessings.

A--Almighty and Awesome God! I serve and Almighty and Awesome God!
B--Beauty! I am surrounded by God's beauty every day as I look at His creation and the children He has blessed me with.
C--Children! Growing up I never imagined having a large family, but the Lord knows better than I and has blessed me abundantly with children!
D--Deliverance! Christ's shed blood has delivered me from the bondage of sin and allows me to live a life of freedom.
E--Everlasting love! Christ loves me with an everlasting love!
F--Forgiveness! I am thankful that not only does my Lord forgive my sins, but I am surrounded by a husband and girls that also forgive me when I mess up.
G--God! I can't say enough that I'm thankful that I serve a loving, caring, and forgiving God!
H--Husband! The Lord has blessed me with an amazing husband who not only loves me and my girls, but works very hard to provide us with what we need and is a great spiritual leader in our home.
I--Immanuel! God is truly with me each and every day.
J--Jehovah Jireh! My Lord has shown me He is Jehovah Jireh (the Lord who Provides) over and over in my life.
K--Kindness! I am blessed to not only be on the receiving end of kindness from those in my life and even those I meet for the first time, but am blessed to be able to show kindness to those around me.
L--Love! The love of my Heavenly Father and of my family gets me through each and every day.
M--Marriage! I'm thankful that God created the institute of marriage and has blessed my marriage so abundantly.
N--Natural Healing! I'm so thankful that God created everything we would need in nature and has given us the wisdom to know what and how to use those remedies.
O--Oneness! Not only do I serve the One true God, but He made my husband and I, one.
P--Parents! I've been blessed with parents who love me and my family even though they don't always agree with decisions we make. They support us with words of encouragement and continue to be spiritual guides in our lives.
Q--Quiet! It doesn't occur much in my household, but I am thankful for those quiet moments in which I am able to abide in my Father.
R--Redeeming love! Christ redeemed me with His precious blood.
S--Scripture! I'm thankful the Lord has given us His Word to help guide us through this life.
T--Trials and tribulations! I know it might sound weird, but I am thankful for the trials and tribulations because it allows me to grow and always draws me closer to the Lord.
U--Unity! Not only unity with God, but with my husband and within the body of Christ.
V--Victory! Victory in Jesus, My Savior forever. . .
W--Womb! I am thankful that not only has God blessed my womb abundantly, but also that I am able to experience having a child grow in my womb. My heart goes out to those who long for a child in their womb.
X--"X"! The Greek letter for Christ.
Y--Yesterdays! I'm thankful for my yesterdays. They may not have always been pleasant, but they made me the person I am today and God used those experiences to draw me closer to Him.
Z--Zero! The number of things that can separate me from the Love of God.

Don't Convince--Live It!

I wanted to share a post that came through today that really speaks to my heart as I've seen so many people trying to convince themselves and others about their spiritual life instead of just living it. I've been there myself before so maybe that is why I'm more sensitive to seeing it in others. That being said, I know the true difference it can make to actually have roots in Christ instead of just acting like you do. Check it out.

Don't Hang Fruit on a Dead Tree

Persecution is Alive and Well in This Day and Age

Anyone who thinks that Americans do not suffer from persecution for their beliefs live in a fantasy world. Enduring persecution is alive and well for many Christians in America today.

As anyone who follows this blog knows, I have a large family. We currently have 8 daughters and another blessing on the way. I never thought it would matter to anyone else how many children we have, but we are under attack because of our choice to leave our family size up to God.

We have faith that if God grants us a blessing, He will provide for that blessing. We have never had a need go unanswered. Do we live the "American Dream"? No, but we don't want to either. We don't feel the need to go on fancy vacations, drive fancy vehicles or live in a house that is way too big. We don't see the benefit of not giving children any responsibilities within the family because we can pay someone to do the job instead (in fact, I see it as a major detriment to not teach responsibility). We don't see the need to have more clothes in the closet than they could possibly wear.

We have never gone hungry (Do we always have our favorite foods? No, but food is to provide nutrients and if it delicious, then that is just a benefit.) We have always had a roof over our head. We have always had heat in our home. We have always had clothes on our backs (and weather appropriate clothes at that) and shoes on our feet. Our bills have always been paid. And to top it all off, He even blesses us with extras like camping trips, special toys, and the such.

Why is it then, that people feel they have to right to criticize us and tell us how "unwise" we are living? Doesn't the bible tell us that "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge" (Proverbs 1:7, NKJV)? Doesn't it say that, "'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways," says the Lord" (Isaiah 55:8, NKJV)? We can not always fathom the ways of God. We can not always understand why He allows some things to happen and other things to not happen. We may not "agree" with His will, but in the end, if we truly trust in Him, we know that His ways are best.

His Word says, "I am a laughingstock to my friends, by calling on God, who answers me. The righteous and upright man is a laughingstock" (Job 12:4, NASB). I know we shouldn't be surprised at persecution, but knowing that it will happen and enduring it are two different things. I'm thankful that my faith in the Lord is strong enough to get me through even persecution. I'm joyful in my tribulations because as James wrote, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing" (1:2-4, NKJV). God is working in my life. He is molding me to what He wants me to be. I am clay in the hands of the Potter.

Another way to look at it is that we must be living how God has called us to live because if we weren't, then the devil wouldn't be using his tricks to try to turn us from God. If we are not living for God, then we aren't a "threat" to Satan and he will leave us alone. He might think he is going to destroy our faith, but he is only working to strengthen it and draw us closer to God!

I guess the point of this post is to encourage anyone who is also enduring persecution to keep the faith! We may not understand exactly what God is doing in our lives, but we can have peace in knowing that it will all work out for the good (Romans 8:28, NKJV--"And we know that all things work together for the good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.").

If you would like prayer for a trying situation in your life, please leave a comment letting me know and I will add you to my daily prayer list.

I'm a Contributing Writer!

Today my first post as a contributing writer was published at At The Well. I would love for you to head on over and check it out!

The Lies We Believe

I wanted to share a good post by a fellow blogger about how we (as women) have been deceived. Please check out a Wise Woman Builds Her Home.

50 Ways to Love your Spouse

1. Start each day with a kiss.

2. Wear your wedding ring at all times.

3. Date once a week.

4. Accept differences.

5. Be polite.

6. Be gentle.

7. Give gifts.

8. Smile often.

9. TOUCH.

10. Talk about dreams.

11. Choose a song that can be "your song."

12. Give back rubs.

13. Laugh together.

14. Send a card for no reason.

15. Do what they ask before they ask.

16. Listen.

17. Encourage.

18. Do it their way.

19. Know their needs.

20. Fix their favorite breakfast.

21. Compliment them twice a day.

22. Call them.

23. Slow down.

24. Hold hands.

25. Cuddle.

26. Ask their opinion.

27. Show respect.

28. Welcome them home.

29. Look your best for them.

30. Wink at them.

31. Celebrate birthdays in a big way.

32. Apologize.

33. Forgive.

34. Set up a romantic getaway.

35. Ask, "What can I do to make you happier?"

36. Be positive.

37. Be kind.

38. Be vulnerable.

39. Respond quickly to their requests.

40. Talk about your love.

41. Reminisce about your favorite times together.

42. Treat their friends and relatives with respect.

43. Send flowers every Valentine’s Day and Anniversary.

44. Admit when your wrong.

45. Be sensitive to their sexual desires.

46. Pray for them daily.

47. Watch sunsets together.

48. Say "I love you" frequently.

49. End each day with a hug.

50. Seek outside help if you need it.

--By Dr. Steve Stephens

A Wise Woman Builds Her Home: 14 Marks of A Wise Woman

A Wise Woman Builds Her Home: 14 Marks of A Wise Woman: "Today I am sharing 14 marks of a wise woman. She... Fears God, Proverbs 31:30. “Openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law..."

Joy in Homemaking - or any other task

Joy in Homemaking - or any other task

I'm on a Mission

I'm on a mission to simplify my life. Because it is the easiest, I've started with the computer. I unsubscribe to a dozen of the blogs/sites I was getting updates from. I trimmed my Face Book friend list down to 200 (but I'm going to thin it even more later today). I have found that too much of my time is being taken with things that don't matter in this life. I feel guilty about not keeping up with this blog because I truly believe God has called me to uplift women as they journey through life.

The next area I am going to work on is the office/schoolroom. The schedule for school seems to be working well, but I'm not sure about the paperwork aspect of school. I am finding it difficult to keep up on grading the papers (maybe it is because I help them work through the problems so I don't feel the urgency to grade?). I'm tired of my desk looking so messy and I feel like I waste time looking for things that should be organized.

After that, I will move on to going through some boxes that have become catch-alls whenever we need to move a room for some reason or another. I have a box of things from when we painted our room and moved things around. I haven't gotten them back out, so do we really need what is in there? I have a couple of box from when we moved the girls from their two rooms into the one. Again, do we need what is in there? These are all things I need to consider and I am sure if I got rid of a few things, the extra space would be therapeutic.

In the mean time, I'm going to share some posts from other bloggers that I have found inspiring and/or thought provoking. These are from the blogs that I am constantly impressed with so I have kept the subscriptions to them.

On the importance of working through problems in a marriage:

Guarding and Growing Your Marriage

How do you measure success?:

The Successful Woman

Being careful about the "small things" in life:

Things That Seem So Small

Working through those tough seasons in a marriage:

Loving a Stranger and Being Willing to Change

I hope you take some time to check out these posts and are encouraged by them as I was.

A Wise Woman Builds Her Home: The State of the Home

A Wise Woman Builds Her Home: The State of the Home: "'The state of a nation is always determined by the state of the home.' -Anna Sofia and Elizabeth Botkin, Biblical Femininity If Chr..."

Puddles In The Path (a message for brides) -by "Aunt Elizabeth"

As a young bride-to-be, you stand in awe of what lies before you. You wonder, is this really happening to me? Is it really true that our marriage plans have been announced in church, and our wedding is within weeks of taking place?

Yes, Mary, it is true. You will soon be facing the biggest change you have yet encountered in life. There have been other milestones to remember--the first day of school, and the last. Your first signing after you turned sixteen and became part of the youth group, your baptism, and then the letter that started your friendship with Aaron. Your life has also been sprinkled with other memorable events such as funerals, weddings, reunions, trips with your family. I think you would say your life thus far has been a mixture of joys and sorrows, hills and valleys, happy times and seasons of trials.

Up until now you were a part of the home your parents provided for you. You were a big influence in that home, but the responsibilities lay on older and wiser shoulders. Your parents laid the plans and, to the best of their ability, sought to provide a safe haven for the children in their care.

Once you and Aaron have spoken your vows and pledged your lives to each other, you will leave the shelter of that home to start a new one. Many brides look forward to this as an exciting adventure, and I trust you do too. No doubt you and Aaron have prayed about this, and made plans and set ideals for this new home. You look forward to having your dreams become reality.

All this is fine. It is right and proper to look forward to this change. At the same time, it is important for you to realize that every path in this life has its rocky places to cross and its puddles to traverse. Marriage is no exception. By being aware of the puddles you may meet, hopefully you can steer around them instead of plunging right through them. A muddied marriage is not bliss!



LEARNING TO COMMUNICATE

Learning to communicate is one of the most important lessons couples need to learn early in marriage. Up until now your communication has been through short visits with each other and exchanging letters. This is about to change. You will be sharing a home and spending much more time with each other. From now on you will meet in your everyday clothes and your everyday manners.

It is good to remember that you are two different individuals, having been brought up in separate homes. There are bound to be puddles in the path you have chosen to travel together. That which was strictly forbidden in your home may have been accepted in Aaron's, and vice versa. With God's help you must seek a happy medium you are both comfortable with.

There are so many things for married couples to agree and disagree about. Will meals be on a strict schedule, or whenever? Will the tools we use be put away, or is it all right to let them lay wherever we used them? How often will we invite guests into our home? How much of our income can be used for groceries? Will we eat store-bought cereal, or homemade? These are only a few of the issues you need to discuss and agree upon in order to reach a comfortable routine. It will not happen overnight, and it will take a good bit of patience and flexibility until a pattern has been set.

Wholesome communication between marriage partners is more than talking things over. We also communicate with actions and attitudes. when Aaron gets involved in a project and doesn't show up at dinnertime, don't stay in the house and stew about his failure to keep the schedule you had agreed upon. Go out and see how things are going for him. Ask him if you can help in any way. Instead of telling him in a no-nonsense way that dinner is ready and waiting, it is better to ask if he has time now to come and eat.

Go out between meals with a drink or a snack, or simply to say "hi." Take an interest in his work. Notice his progress and comment on it.

Never forget that you are the helpmeet. If you feel Aaron needs encouragement in dropping or developing certain habits, offer it cautiously and kindly. He is not a child needing correction, not is he your brother to whom you did not hesitate to give a piece of your mind. He is your husband, the man you are to look upto and reverence. The more you can do this, the easier he will find it to fill his role--that of loving his wife as he loves his own body.

You might find it hard to imagine that the time will come when you are tempter to respond to Aaron with harsh words. Don't yield to this temptation. Choices in marriage are like an echo. If you speak sharp words, you will very likely hear sharp words in return. If you bit your tongue when you are upset and wait to talk until you can speak softly and kindly and sensibly, you will likely hear the same in return. Whatever the situation, you will regret any harsh words you utter.

There is another peril you must avoid. If there is anything more damaging than sharp words in marriage, it is no words at all over a length of time. The "silent treatment" is a tactic too many women use to get their own way.

I heard recently that in 2001 there was a couple in New York City who had a disagreement. They had not spoken to each other for three days. On September 11th, the wife went to work as usual, with the rift still between them. Her office was in one of the Twin Towers that were destroyed that day, and she never returned home. The husband was devastated and lived with remorse and guilt, but it was too late to make amends.

We want to learn from such incidents. There have been happenings closer to home where the husband and wife parted in their usual way, but one or the other was called into eternity before the time they had expected to be reunited. Let's bear in mind that life and marriage are given to us one day at a time without any promise for the future. Therefore we want to cultivate good feelings and, as much as possible, live in peace. Your goal should be to always part in such a way that you eagerly look forward to meeting again.



The Heart of the Home

God smiles on happy homes. He delights when people live together in harmony. In spite of how you feel now, happiness in marriage does not come automatically. It takes constant and continued effort to unselfishly feed and nourish the love so essential in everyday life.

The thirteenth chapter of 1 Corinthians is often called the love chapter. It could also be called "A guide to a happy marriage." Study it. Return to it. Meditate on each verse to remind yourself that your love for Aaron will at times cost you something. If you truly love him, you will be patient and kid, unselfish, not easily provoked, not jealous, not proud, and not touchy.

In verse eleven, Paul reminds his readers that when he was a child, he spoke as a child, thought as a child, and understood as a child, but when he became a man, he put away these childish things. When you and I were young, Mary, we lacked maturity. We tried to push the jobs we didn't like onto someone else. We were prone to look out for ourselves. If we could get away with it, we pouted when things did not go our way. Now we are no longer children; marriage is supposed to be an indication of maturity. Ask God to help you grow in His graces and to leave behind all that is childish. Your happiness depends on this.

While man is to be the head of the home, the woman is the heart. Blessed is the wife who can create warmth in the home. When Aaron returns to the house from his labors, greet him with a warm smils, a warm house and a warm meal. The food you serve does not need to be fancy or elaborate, as long it is seasoned with the joy of having Aaron there to share it. The wise Solomon realized this he said it is "better to have a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith" (Prov. 15:17)

It is always inspiring to visit a newly established home. The dishes are shiny, the towels thick and thirsty, and the bed sheets crisp. This is symbolic of your stage in marriage. Though many others have traveled this way, you have not. Take advantage of this time and enjoy it, but realize it is a passing phase. Hopefully as the newness wears off, you will become more relaxed and more comfortable. It has been said that the normal couple's honeymoon lasts a year, and then it is replaced by something better! May it be for you!



Do not expect perfection

regardless of what you tin now, Aaron is not perfect. At about the time you begin to notice his faults, he will realize his bride has shortcomings too. Therefore, you must not expect your marriage to be without flaws. Just keep in mind that it does not need to be perfect in order to be wonderful.

The very first marriage, instituted by God Himself, left some things to be desired. Eve led her husband to sin, and when he was confronted about it, he did not hesitate to put the blame on his wife. Many, many marriages since then have been muddied by partners who have waded into the same puddle. The wife makes excuses like, "if only he would take his responsibility serious..." or "He will have to do his part first before I can stay in my role."

It is only in storybooks that husbands are ideal, always doing what is right and sweet. In real life, they are very human. They sometimes do and say things without thinking. So do wives, in spite of their best intentions. The English language has provided us with words to remedy such situations. Use them freely, without waiting on Aaron to use them first.

Since no marriage is perfect, it is unwise to put your relationship under a microscope. There are many trifles in marriage that must be overlooked. Life is not a game in which we keep score of things that happened in the past. Always and never are words to avoid. "You're always late for meals," and "You never put your things back where they belong," are exaggerations that should not be thought, much less spoken.

We wives like to be on the receiving end of expression of love and appreciation. Making the meals, doing the laundry, keeping the house in order, and the countless other tasks that go with our role tend to become tiresome. We like it when our efforts are noticed and appreciated. Remarks such as, "Thanks for the good dinner," brighten our day and make it all worthwhile. But what if our efforts go unnoticed?

Once again, we can set an example. Perhaps we should start expressing our appreciation. Who brings home the paycheck, providing funds for our needs? Who hitches up the horse when we go away? Little tokens like carrying out the garbage and filling the woodbox should not go unnoticed. A hearty "thank you!" is in order, not only for special favors but also for the regular duties our men perform. Many marriages have suffered because partners took each other for granted.



Other puddles to avoid

it will take time to establish habits and routines that both of you are comfortable with. Give yourself time and wait in patience and confidence. Misunderstandings in marriage are more frequent in the first years, but with God's help they can be overcome. As the wife and helpmeet, your role is to be as flexible and agreeable as your conscience allows.

We women are subject to swinging moods. There are days when we do not feel as perky and cheerful as we would like. Don't leave Aaron in the dark when this happens. Assure him that it is not his fault and that you simply need a little time to get over it. But then see that you do! If you have something on your mind that is bothering you, share it. He will want to know.

Be loyal to your husband. He is your best friend. You will share secrets with him that are too precious to share with anyone else. Never let anyone-not your mother or your favorite sister or your good friend--ever get between yourself and your husband. Satan delights in such. This is especially true when you have daughters old enough to confide in. Many marriages have landed on the rocks because mothers and daughters stuck together against the will of the husband and father. By the time the children arrive on the scene, husband and wife should be so close to each other that the sharpest wedge can not force them apart.

Being too busy and having too many debts can cause conflicts between husband and wife. In the times we live in, it is almost impossible to purchase property without depending on borrowed money. Sometimes investments are made that don't pay off. No one can always make the right decisions and there are bound to be losses. Once again, you are the helpmeet. Stand by your husband, supports him, and be sympathetic when things don't go well. Rejoice with him when they do. Your confidence in him will make a big difference in his confidence in himself, and in his eventual success.



Contentment with godliness

The Apostle Paul in 1Timothy 6:6 states that contentment with godliness is great gain. Herein lies a challenge for all wives===to be content with the home and life her husband provides. In order to be truly content, we dare not look around and compare our husband with others. You will no doubt see couples who have a nicer house than you do. There will be men who earn more money than Aaron does, or who seem to have the gift of drawing a crowd of listeners when they have something to say. There are so many ways we can compare our husband or our marriage or our home with others, but doing so is not wise. The secret of true contentment is not adding to our possessions, but subtracting from our desires.

Let's not lose sight of what Paul says must go with contentment--godliness. The woman who fulfills her duties with reverence for God and her husband does herself and her family a big favor. The last chapter of Proverbs describes such a wife. Even though not all the verses fit the society we live in, many of them do. Verse 30 has an important message for all of us: "Favor is deceitful and beauty is vain but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised."

My prayer for you, Mary, is that you will be such a woman and find true contentment in being Aaron's wife. Instead of focusing on all the puddles in the path, you will at times pause in your life and absorb the wonder of it all. When Aaron was looking for a wife--a virtuous woman, whose price is far above rubies--from among many choices, he chose you! He saw in you someone with whom he wanted to spend the rest of his life. Rise to the challenge Mary. With God's help, do all you can to bring sunshine into Aaron's life, for then the sun will shine on you , too, and on many other people around you.

What is better than sunshine to dry up puddles?



--Copied from Young Companion, September/October 2010, Pathway Publishers.

Awesome, Amazing God!

I know I've said it before, but I will say it many times over . . . I serve an Awesome, Amazing God! As I've mentioned before, I've been struggling with some things and feeling rather down and alone for quite some time, but God is great and can heal anything!

There has been such a drastic change in me, that Chad asked me if he had his wife "back". I guess what I was experiencing affected more than just me. It feels great to feel like myself again. I am enjoying life, my girls, and being a wife.

I think what helped me get through all this was people telling me that God was with me through it all and me reminding myself of that (sometimes multiple times in a hour!), reading His Word, and studying the Bible. After watching Letters to God I returned to writing my prayers (something I used to always do but haven't done in a while). It is amazing how much it clears my head and allows me to see God working to have things down in writing. I am going to continue writing my prayers and have a journal just for them (thanks to Mare!).

I feel so free! I feel so loved! I am so thankful that the Lord never gave up on me! He truly is an Awesome, Amazing God!

Parenting Hangs in the Balance

Parenting Hangs in the Balance

5 Signs of a Virtuous Wife

5 Signs of a Virtuous Wife

Mean Mom, Kind Mom

A great devotion from Proverbs 31 Ministries--Mean Mom, Kind Mom

Loving in the Spirit

Today must be a day to be blessed by what God has spoken through other people! I encountered another blog post that convicted me but also encouraged me to be a better mother. I suggest heading over to The Mommy on the Bus Says to hear about loving in the Spirit instead of the Flesh

Mothering and Suffering

I was blessed to read a post by New Generation Cedar in which she posted links to past posts that she had done. One in particular spoke to me in my current state in life. I wanted to share it here in case anyone else needed some encouraging words when it came to mothering.

Motherhood and Suffering…Is It a Sign?

I Will Fall at Your Feet

What a great reminder for those of us busy with our lives in the here and now.

I Will Fall at Your Feet

Exciting News!

You may have (or may not have) noticed a new button on the right side of my blog--At the Well Contributing Writer. Well, it has been added because I will be contributing my Home Cooking for Body and Soul studies for a series on At the Well! A lesson will be posted every fifth Friday of a month that has five Fridays. The next month that has five Fridays is October so be looking for my first published post on October 29th!

Until then, check out the site and look around. It is a great site that I've been following for almost a year and I am continuously encouraged and uplifted by it.

Your Personal Quiet Time

Do you struggle to find time to spend with Jesus? Do you struggle with having a “quiet time?” Natalie did, and she wants to help you learn how to cultivate your relationship with Christ just as He does with you! Jump over to At The Well to learn more about how to spend time with Him and His Word! Your Personal Quiet Time is a short, but in-depth, bible study on Your Personal Quiet Time.

I must say that although I have had great quiet times with the Lord in the past, they have been allusive for just over a year. While I spend time every day reading His Word and praying, I just don't feel the connection that I have in the past. I am hoping that by participating in the study with other At The Well participants, I might be able to find what I am missing.

Head on over there yourself if you also want to examine your personal quiet time with God.

Standing on God's Promises

I've been having some rough days for the past month (not every day, but often for a few days at a time). This weekend was one of those patches of bad days. Yesterday was particularly bad. I'm not sure if it is being caused by the fact that my hormones are still out of balance since having Hava (who knew it would take more than 7 months for them to get back in balance?!), or from having too much on my plate (being a mother, preparing for school--writing curriculums, responsibilities at church, preserving food from the garden, etc), or financial stress, or maybe just all those put together. Regardless of the cause, it has been pretty bad a few times.

This morning I read Psalm 34:17 in one of my small devotional books. It spoke to me and caused me to want to read the whole Psalm so I opened my bible and started reading. It is amazing how God can speak what you need to hear when you need to hear it. What are the chances that I would be on that page in my devotional today? What are the chances that I would be the only one awake so I would have the opportunity to look up the Psalm and read the whole thing? I can tell you that it wasn't coincidence or luck; It was the Holy Spirit speaking me through the guidance of my loving heavenly Father!

Some of the verses from Psalm 34 that I am choosing to stand on today are:

"I sought the Lord, and He heard me And delivered me from all my fears."--4

"This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him, And saved him out of all his troubles."--6

"The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their cry."--15

"The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, And delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit."--17-18

"Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the Lord delivers him out of them all."--19

You may be going through a rough time right now and these verse may strengthen you as they have strengthened me. Take them as promises from God and stand on them! You may not be going through a rough time right now, but keep these verses in mind for when you do have rough times (we know that they will come!).

I'll end with the words from a great song:

Standing on the Promises

Standing on the promises of God my King
Through eternal ages let His praises ring;
Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing,
Standing on the promises of God.

Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God my Saviour;
Standing, standing,
I'm standing on the promises of God.

Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God.

Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God my Saviour;
Standing, standing,
I'm standing on the promises of God.

Standing on the promises of Christ the Lord,
Bound to Him eternally by love's strong cord,
Overcoming daily with the Spirit's sword,
Standing on the promises of God.

Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God my Saviour;
Standing, standing,
I'm standing on the promises of God.

Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
Listening every moment to the Spirit's call,
Resting in my Saviour as my all in all,
Standing on the promises of God.

Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God my Saviour;
Standing, standing,
I'm standing on the promises of God.

Working Women and God's Plan

The debate about whether or not women should work outside the home is always being discussed. Personally, I believe it is God's design for women to be keepers of the home, but I understand why sometimes it is necessary for a woman to work. I also believe there is a big difference between working full-time and part-time or working from home. The Proverbs 31 woman is often put on a pedestal for women to emulate and she worked ("She considereth a field, and buyeth it; with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard." 16 and "She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and deliverth girdles unto the merchant." 24), so I know that bringing in money is not against God's plan. I do, believe, however, that many women have put their careers above their families and even when they haven't, it is hard to give 100% at both jobs.

I thought I would share an article that discusses this topic--Do Working Women Blaspheme God's Name. I agree with what she has written, but would have liked to see how she addresses the fact that the Proverbs 31 woman worked in the article as well.

Giveaway at marie-madeline studio

Marie-madeline studio is giving away a fat quarter bundle of their Flower Sugar 2! Go to their website to enter. I would love to win this, but wanted to share such a great opportunity with everyone as well!

Teaching Letters and Serving

One of my blogs I follow is giving away a Curriculum Kit that she has put together. It sounds absolutely amazing! Each week they focused on one letter of the alphabet. They thought about people they knew whose names started with that letter and then blessed those people with something that started with the same letter. The example she gave was making mini muffins for Mrs. Moses, the Millers, and Mark.

Head over the Heavenly Homemakers if you want to enter to win this kit! You don't have to be a homeschooler to use it. I think it would be beneficial to every family with small children. Even if your children know the alphabet, you can still use this as a starting point to instill the love of serving!

Hospitality

First, I need to apologize that I haven't posted in over a month. I can't believe how fast June went. I'm going to try to be more deliberate about posting things again.

Secondly, I've talked to a lot of women lately about the lost art of hospitality. The Amish women don't understand how the "English" can be so inhospitable and the "English" women wish we were more like the Amish in that regard. When someone in the Amish community has a need, there are several other families willing to help out. However, it seems that when others of us have a need (whether it be financial, emotional, physical), there are often times no one willing to help or if there is, not many people step up to the plate. I find it sad that we seem to have lost the art of hospitality. I was pleased to see a few entries on hospitality on a blog I follow. I thought I would share them here.

Hospitality: What, Why, When and How

Hospitality or Humility: Practical Tips for Practicing Hospitality

Television in the Home

I have been reconsidering my television choices for quite some time. We don't watch TV during the day anymore with the exception of the occasional cooking/craft show on Create (PBS). There are some shows that I have enjoyed watching in the evenings after the girls are in bed (although nothing where I have to be home and watching it. I only watch if I do happen to be home and have nothing else to do.), but I've been wondering about whether or not I should be watching them. Although I "know" the things people do on them are wrong (adulterous relationships, violence, etc.) I figured that since I knew they were wrong, that it was okay. The Holy Spirit, however, has been convicting of watching them.

A great article about the onslaught of sin that we allow into our homes through the television can be found at Kids Faith. Although I'm not sure I would go as far as to say that television can be viewed as the anti-christ, she does make some good points about television viewing affecting our lives.

Broken Hearts

A fellow blogger posted something that I have been thinking about and feeling for the past week. Marriages (even Christian marriages) are falling apart all around us. Why?! This doesn't have to be. In just the past 1 1/2 weeks, I've heard of two Christian marriages that are ending in divorce. This breaks my heart and, just like Laura says on her blog, makes me mad! If your heart is also breaking from broken marriages, please read her post at Heavenly Homemakers.

Natural Alternatives

As many of you know, we avoid the use of chemicals in our home as much as possible. The Modest Mom is giving away a book that will greatly help us in that quest. You can head over there and enter to win the book for yourself as well if you would like to remove chemicals from your home.

Radical Winner!

I need to apologize for not posting the winner sooner. I was sick on Thursday and have been playing catch-up since.

The winner of Radical is Lauren!

Lauren, please message me with your mailing address. I know you are overseas, but I would like to send the book anyway. I'm not sure when I will get to the post office next, but I will mail it out as soon as I can!

Quick Fix Healthy Mix Giveaway

As I've talked about before, I highly suggest eating healthier and avoiding prepared food from the store. Another blog I follow is having a giveaway for a book that I think would be a great addition to any kitchen! Check it out at The Modest Mom.

Reclaiming the Lost Vision of Motherhood

O' for mothers to hold in their hands a child who's soul is eternal and to grasp the vision of changing the world through her mothering as she purposes toward multigenerational faithfulness.

To look into the eyes of her child and know that God has put a purpose for that child here on earth--to advance the kingdom of heaven-- which is glorifying the Father he serve's above. Mothers also put on earth for royal purposes, to raise children for the King. Shaping and molding them to become one day warriors for the Lord. Who will not just feed the poor in secret but also help direct and change the course of a nation. History has proven time and time again, that one person can change the course of history. You never know who you might be raising. Susannah Wesley never knew the child she rocked in the cradle would take England by storm. John Wesley started a movement and said, "If I can find ten men who hate nothing but sin, love nothing but God, and seek nothing but the souls of men, we can turn England upside down for God." This man, did indeed with the help from God, turned England upside down for God. . . .

Read the rest of this post, here.

The Dailyness

""Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway." Proverbs 8:34 (NIV)

Life wouldn't be so hard if it wasn't so daily. As I sit here surrounded by laundry and dishes piled high in the sink, I see more than ever how life wears us down one day at a time."

Read the rest of this devotion, here.

Radical--Review and Book Giveaway

Water Brook Multnomah Publishing Group provided me with a copy of Radical by David Platt for review and also a copy to give away. I am so glad they did!

This is a great book that I truly believe that every Christian should read. Platt covered many issues I have been dealing with lately. He raises the same questions that I have raised for myself and my church. He does a good job of basing his beliefs with scripture and challenging the reader to make changes in his/her life. I truly believe that he makes a valid point--we should like how Christ called His disciples to live. I was convicted that I have adopted too many of the worldly conveniences of the American Dream and created my own Christianity.

I plan on participating in The Radical Experiment. My prayer is Chad will also read this book and we will embark on the Experiment as a family.

You can read the first chapter by going here. You can also request a free copy of The Radical Question by going here. The Radical Question is a great "summary" of the book, Radical. I recommend it for those who think they don't have time to read the whole book or for those who just don't like to read. It also would make a great tract to pass out to others. My hope is after reading The Radical Question, you will feel compelled to read the full book and possibly do a study on it. You can purchase the book at Water Brook Multnomah Publishing Group.

You have the opportunity to win a copy of this life-changing book! To simply enter, please just leave a comment. You don't have to be a follower (you can just post as anonymous), but you must leave an email address where I can contact you if you win (you may leave it in a broken link if you choose. example: memoriesmama @ netonecom . net). To earn multiple entries, you can do the following (make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry!):

• Become a follower
• Comment about this giveaway with a link back here on your own blog
• Post about this giveaway with a link back here on Facebook

You can enter to win until May 13th. The winner will be chosen by a random drawing, and I will post the winner on May 14th.

If you don't win, I highly suggest getting a copy of the book for yourself. You won't be sorry!