Wow! It has been many moons since I have posted on my blog. A sweet dear friend reminded me of this just this past Sunday! I am a devoted 'journal' lover! I journal 3 or 4 days a week most weeks, in my private journal book. I forget that 'blogging' is a "type" of journal!
Today is a new beginning! I like new beginnings.
~ A new journal book.
~New Year
~New mornings.
~Starting a new book.
~A new baby.
~A new year.
~A new recipe.
~A new friend.
~ New job.
~New lifestyle.
~New adventure.
~New home.
~New ideas
They are 'fresh' and unwritten upon. Opening a brand new book smells so new. A new adventure holds unexpected surprises! We like that! God tells us that HE gives us new mercies every day! Think about it! Thousands of new mercies EVERY DAY! His loving kindness is new everyday too. How wonderful that is. I often ask the Lord to give me eyes that see. Not dull unseeing eyes, but eyes that quickly 'see' Him and His providential care. Ways in which I miss if I am not looking with the eyes of faith. If God notices the sparrow and takes care of the those tiny birds, how can I not know His care for me? When we ask him to open our eyes, HE does! Commit to asking him to open your eyes to His providential care for you this year! I did and I hope you will too!
~Grateful Heart here, Sherry Lynette
Showing posts with label Encouragement. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Encouragement. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Heroes Today~
This is a true story and it made me cry. I thought it was worth passing on to you.
A chaplain, who happened to be assigned to the Pentagon, told of an
incident that happened right after Flight 77 hit the Pentagon on 9/11.
A daycare facility inside the Pentagon had many children, including
infants who were in heavy cribs. The daycare supervisor, looking at all the
children they needed to evacuate, was in a panic over what they could do.
There were many children, mostly toddlers, as well as the infants that
would need to be taken out with the cribs.
There was no time to try to bundle them into carriers and strollers. Just
then a young Marine came running into the center and asked what they
needed. After hearing what the center director was trying to do, he ran
back out into the hallway and disappeared. The director thought, "Well,
here we are, on our own."
About 2 minutes later, that Marine returned with 40 other Marines in tow.
Each of them grabbed a crib with a child, and the rest started gathering
up toddlers. The director and her staff then helped them take all the
children out of the center and down toward the park near the Potomac and the
Pentagon. Once they got about 3/4 of a mile outside the building, the
Marines stopped in the park, and then did a fabulous thing- they formed a
circle with the cribs, which were quite sturdy and heavy, like the covered
wagons in the Old West. Inside this circle of cribs, they put the toddlers,
to keep them from wandering off.
Outside this circle were the 40 Marines, forming a perimeter around the
children and waiting for instructions. There they remained until the
parents could be notified and come get their children.
children and waiting for instructions. There they remained until the
parents could be notified and come get their children.
The chaplain then said, "I don't think any of us saw nor heard of this on any of the news stories of the day. It was an incredible story of our men on that day.
There wasn't a dry eye in the room. The thought of those Marines and what they
did and how fast they reacted; could we expect any less from them? It was
one of the most touching stories from the Pentagon.
Remember Ronald Reagan's great compliment: "Most of us wonder if our lives
made any difference. Marines don't have that problem." God Bless the USA ,
our troops, and you.
It's the Military, not the politicians that ensures our right to life,
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
It's the Military who salutes the flag, who serves beneath the flag, and
whose coffin is draped by the flag.
If you care to offer the smallest token of recognition and appreciation for
the military, please pass this on and pray for our men and women, who have
served and are currently serving our country, and pray for those who have
given the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.
did and how fast they reacted; could we expect any less from them? It was
one of the most touching stories from the Pentagon.
Remember Ronald Reagan's great compliment: "Most of us wonder if our lives
made any difference. Marines don't have that problem." God Bless the USA ,
our troops, and you.
It's the Military, not the politicians that ensures our right to life,
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
It's the Military who salutes the flag, who serves beneath the flag, and
whose coffin is draped by the flag.
If you care to offer the smallest token of recognition and appreciation for
the military, please pass this on and pray for our men and women, who have
served and are currently serving our country, and pray for those who have
given the ultimate sacrifice for freedom.
With a grateful heart for the men and women who serve AMERICA ~ the land of the Free!
Freedom is not free ~ Lynette
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Busy Tuesday~
What a busy day!
It all began with making the bed.
Then my devo time---too short!
Off to the the bathroom to wash, do hair and put lipstick on ~ smile!
Dress and add shoes.
Put Bible and journal in red book bag.
Go downstairs to pack up my 'stuff' which is a lunch tote, book bag, purse and coffee mug.
Grab a banana and a quick cooked egg. Bring with.
Grab a coat, my stuff and get in the car for the 10 minute ride to Open Bible. Eat banana and egg as hubby drives.
Get settled at work. Grab fresh mug of coffee.
Hand out two band-aids.
Smile, greet, answer phones.
Deliver a message to a teacher.
One more band-aid for a boo-boo.
Refill my coffee mug.
Smile, greet, answer phones and take messages.
Computer work.
Smile, greet, answer phones, take messages and make appointments on computer.
One more coffee refill.
Late slips written.
Notes sent and delivered.
On and on it goes....delighting in being a blessing along the way.....
School is out.
Basketball Games to cheer and clap!
Home again, home again, jiggity jig!
Cooked dinner.
Ate dinner with all the family~
Now to head for the PJs and a good book!
Good night!
What a day, HE was with me in it all, every minute of every hour~
Praise the LORD, for HE is so GOOD ~ Lynette
Monday, January 10, 2011
Happy New Year!
Beginnings are nice. New shoes. New baby. New house. New friend. New day. New week. New Year. Starting off fresh is motivating. We have now entered 2011. Wow.....2011. I remember in 1980 thinking how long away the year 2000 seemed to be. We had 3 little boys. Darlings. Cute. Full of energy and vim and vinegar. I was tired most nights too. I loved being Mommy to them.
So as I begin another NEW year ~ it causes me to pause and think. I think about 2010 and all the Lord did in and around me. I count my blessings. I see HIS hand at work. I see changes. I see how much my kiddos have matured in this last year, all they have accomplished too. I see the many mercies given undeservedly to me over and over again. I see forgiveness granted and given. I see love expressed in hundreds of ways. I see the goodness of a loving heavenly Father that gives, and gives, and gives again of HIS measureless goodness and presence in my life. So much to be thankful for. So much to be grateful for. Isn't HE wonderful and full of grace, love and mercies!
Having thought about 2010, I ponder the gift of 2011. A NEW YEAR!!! A year of expectations. What are my expectations? Since I know my God is good and HE is FAITHFUL.....I know the plans HE has for me are for His glory and my good.
Joys? Yes.....walking with HIM is pure joy. Disappointments? I am sure...yet they cause me to run to HIM. Hope? Always.....for my hope lies in Christ. Struggles? Maybe....but they cause me to grow in faith. Love? Sure...for they will know we are HIS by the love we have for one another. Heartache....we will see. I will enter into HIS sufferings and know HIM better.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Therefore all fear can flee away. I know whom I have believed and HE is able to do so much more than I can even imagine! My faith is rooted in HIM, not myself, not my circumstances, not my family, not my place in time. It is in HIM! What a year to look forward too! To HIM be all Praise!
Happy New Year, it all belongs to HIM, Lynette
Monday, December 27, 2010
How do we know we love God?
"For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another." Galatians 5:13
So many people think being 'called' by God is just for pastors, missionaries, church leaders and Sunday school teachers. Yet the Bible says everyone of HIS true children is called to serve God by serving others. This is true for me and you. This is true for children, teens, all believers!
We are never saved by serving, but we are saved to do good works and serve others. Paul gives us three insights related to to this subject.
1st ~ The basis for serving others is salvation.
"YOU were called to be FREE. You cannot serve God until you have been set free by Jesus ....set free from the darkness of your own sins.
Until you experience the transforming power of God's grace in your life, you're too enslaved by your own hurts, habits, and hang-ups to think much about anyone else.
Without the freedom of forgiveness, you'll end up serving for all the wrong reasons. Like trying to earn approval of others, trying to run away from pain, trying to kill guilt, trying to impress God. Serving motivated by these will leave you burned out and bitter in the end.
2nd ~ The barrier to serving others is selfishness.
"Do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature." The biggest reason we don't have energy to serve others is that we are preoccupied with our own agendas, dreams, and pleasures.
I was hit with this again recently. Every year Dale and I work to decorate for Christmas at our Church. It is one of those things that is not much noticed, unless it goes undone. She went to Mexico on a Missions Trip and I oh so much missed her expertise! I was in charge. To my own shame, I started to get irritated. I prayed about it. The Lord graciously asked me....who are you doing this for? OUCH! Then HE sent me 3 sweet angels of mercy ~ and YES, it did get done. After praying, my heart was again in the right place......how easily I can be selfish!
"If you insist on saving your life, you will lose it. Only those who give away their lives for my sake and for the sake of the gospel will ever know what it means to really live." Mark 8:35
3rd ~ The motive for serving is love.
"Serve one another in love."
"No matter what I say, What I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love."1 Corinthians 13:3 ~The Message.
God is way more interested in why I serve others than in how well I serve them. He is always looking at my heart, serving willingly and eagerly out of love for Jesus and gratitude for all he's done for me.
Why do I do what I do? It is the love of Jesus that compels me. Some are looking only to do what they get paid for, or for applause of others, to 'feel' good. Yet these are empty. It is the love of God for me that makes me want to love HIM by serving others, even if they notice not.
We are most like Jesus when we serve others. After washing the disciples' feet, Jesus said, "I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you." John 13:14-15
So what now?
~ How can I help?-----Consider your response to this Scripture verse: "Each one of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, 'How can I help?" Romans 15:2
~ Who will I serve this week? Ask God to bring to mind someone you should serve this week, and ask him what you should do for that person. Then do it!
Who will you serve this week? Who will I serve this week? Ask HIM!
We love because HE first loved us! Lynette
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Food for Thought:
As 2010 comes to a close and we begin 2011, we each should stop and consider some things to think about!
Everyday we make important decisions about how we live our Christian lives---decisions that concern our character, conduct, commitment, and contribution. These choices reflect who we are and who, by God's grace, we are becoming. Consider the following with me.
Character ~ who a person really is, even when no one else is watching or sees. God sees.
*(Gal. 5:22-26; 1 Peter 1:13-16) What character issues do I want God to help me work on in my life in the coming months?
Conduct ~ a person's actions that serve as an extension of her character. God sees.
*(Ephesians 4:23-43; 5:15-21) How would you like the Holy Spirit to help your conduct reflect more accurately who you really are in Jesus Christ? Are there specific actions that need to be put off or put on?
Commitment ~ the quality in a person that enables her to do what she said she will do, even if circumstances change or no one sees her actions. God sees.
*(Psalm 15:4; 2Timothy 2:2; Matthew 5:37) Where do I need help in aligning my priorities and commitments with His heart and ways?
Contribution ~ positive results that occur when a person uses her unique gifts to reflect Christ to unbelievers and serve the body of Christ.
*(1 Peter 2:9-12; Ephesians 4:11-16) In what areas do I want God to help me make more significant contributions in the lives of others?
Let's pray and seek the Lord as we close out 2010. If you journal like I do, just make a page for these items. Pray over them and 'dog ear' (I use a sticky tab) and check it once a week. Leave a page or two to write thoughts, things you notice and victories gained. It only takes a few minutes and think of the 'gain' in your walk with Christ!
So grateful to be a daughter of the KING! Sherry Lynette
Friday, December 3, 2010
Gratitude Check
I did the 30 Days of Gratitude Attitude in November. It was a blessing and I learned a few things in the process. I learned I am not as steeped in gratitude as I thought I was. I thought I was a very grateful person. To my chagrin, I found out I am not as much as I want to be or thought I was. Isn't that true for most of us a lot of the time?
Gratitude does not come naturally for any of us. Especially with children. Yet there is something remarkable about a contented thankful child. Children learn best by example. Even we as adults learn by example, if we have our eyes and ears open. Do my children hear me thank their father when he changes the dead light bulb out? Do they hear me thank him when he opens the door for me, or kindly gets me a glass of water to drink? Do those around me hear me thank the Lord for the sunshine, or beautiful flowers or for his provision of needs?
Do my children hear me grumble when Dad is late for dinner due to work, or grumble when the sun doesn't show up for a week, or someone is slow in my lane as I drive? Why is grumbling so easy?
Gratitude is very much caught rather than taught. How contagious am I at home? How contagious are you at home, at work or at Church? Good things to consider!
Sit down and think about your 'gratitude quotient'. I know I have been doing that for the last couple days too. Think about who God has placed in your sphere of influence. If you have children, they are watching you closer than you know. If you don't have children at home, what about friends at work or at Church? What are you teaching them about gratitude by your lifestyle? I am learning to pray when I am tempted to 'grumble'. It really does help!
Thanksgiving for 2010 is gone. Yet GRATITUDE is not. I learned about myself this year. I hope you did too. Let us grow in our heart gratitude attitude. I know I desire this and I hope you do too! "He is able to do more than we ask or think".
Gratefully HIS, Lynette
Monday, November 1, 2010
Marriage Monday
I know I said part 2 from last week would be today, but I will continue that later in the week. I came across an article about "Bonded Couples" and I liked the reminders because it is so practical and I am a very practical lady.
So here are some very practical ways to build into you husband and invest in being more deeply 'bonded' together ~ which makes the LORD extremely happy!
A couple things I would add. Number one should be PRAY for your husband. Pray for his relationship with Christ. Pray for his integrity. Pray for wisdom. Pray for strength in a day and age when men are torn asunder, especially godly men. Pray for his relationships with other godly brothers. Ask God to make him HIS man. Ask God to keep YOU out of the way as He works. God will answer!
The second thing is never stop showing your husband respect. That is what HE desires. We just naturally 'love' our husband, which is nice.....yet what he really likes is respect. Respect should be something we as women should always, always, always be learning more about and practicing daily, if you love your husband.
I have been married 40 years and am still 'learning' the power of respecting as God asks me to. I shudder to think how disrespectful I had been at times earlier in my marriage, to my own shame. 1 John 1:9 is the remedy. AND asking for forgiveness of my always forgiving husband. Study, look it up, practice it. Godly women have done this down through the ages.....and I want too also!
Here are practical reminders to all of us ~
Have a great day and give your hubby a big 'hug' as he comes home today with sweet words of a grateful heart for WHO he is!!! Tell HIM!!!! I know I will and I hope you do too!
6 Habits of Highly Bonded Couples
Highly bonded couples…
1. Are courteous and kind to each other.
A little kindness goes a long way. Try to treat your husband like he's a good friend. If you're rude and snippy to your husband, why will he want to be nice to you?
2. Talk about issues before they get out of hand.
In marriage, you have to choose your battles, but if you sense that an irritation is becoming a major annoyance, you need to talk about it with your husband.
3. Believe in each other.
If you think your husband is a loser, you're going to treat him that way. Even if he has a track record of business failures or poor decisions, keep your opinion of those outcomes separate from who he is as a person.
4. Assume the best about each other.
Look for the good things about your husband and assume the best in his actions and words. Instead of assuming that he has bad intentions, give him the benefit of the doubt before you jump to conclusions.
5. Live in a "we" world.
Couples who are close use words that show they are set apart. Try to say, "Our bedroom, our house, our children, etc." Think of you and your husband as a team.
6. Touch.
It sounds corny, but hugs are healthy. So, hug your husband when he comes home, instead of just giving him a quick peck on the cheek or lips. Touch his shoulder while he's driving; hold hands while you pray at church, offer to rub his back.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Elisabeth Elliot
I was introduced to Elisabeth Elliot, the speaker and author many years ago. We were living in Utica, NY and my first three boys were young back then. Dave and I been invited to hear her speak near by and we went. She was mainly speaking to women (not preaching) that night. I connected with her right away. I have read everything she has ever written since then. She has a heart for Christ and a 'trusting' walk with her God faithfully through the years, always depending on him and his grace. She has been widowed twice. She is now in her late 80s and lives in New England along the shore.
Elisabeth once said she had ladies ask her all the time "why has God not given me a husband and yet He has given you three?" She does not know, she says. God does. She never went looking for them, they found her. I appreciate that answer in a day and age when it seems so many young women are on the 'prowl'......even ones who call themselves believers. Rare is the young lady who waits for God's timing.
Many blessing have I received from Elisabeth. I do not personally know her (although I do have books signed by her hand) yet have stored up much practical wisdom for my life from her sharing. When my boys were little, I would get so overwhelmed, so frustrated with 'daily-ness', so tired, so wanting adult conversation and yes, maybe felt a little sorry for myself that I was in the trenches always with too much to do and not enough time. We had one car back then, so getting out was not easy. I love being home, I love homeschooling, yet some days were just so routine and mundane. I sometimes would get 'stuck' ~ until I came across this poem Elizabeth loved back then and shared on the radio many many times. (she used to be on the radio everyday...I loved it)
Here is a quote of hers from her radio program many year ago:
"Have you had the experience of feeling as if you've got far too many burdens to bear, far too many people to take care of, far too many things on your list to do? You just can't possibly do it, and you get in a panic and you just want to sit down and collapse in a pile and feel sorry for yourself?
Well, I've felt that way a good many times in my life, and I go back over and over again to an old Saxon legend, which I'm told is carved in an old English parson somewhere by the sea. I don't know where this is. But this is a poem which was written about that legend. The legend is "Do the next thing." And it's spelled in what I suppose is Saxon spelling. "D-O-E" for "do," "the," and then next, "N-E-X-T." "Thing"-"T-H-Y-N-G-E."
DO THE NEXT THING
At an old English parsonage down by the sea,
There came in the twilight a message to me.
Its quaint Saxon legend deeply engraven
That, as it seems to me, teaching from heaven.
And all through the hours the quiet words ring,
Like a low inspiration, do the next thing.
Many a questioning, many a fear,
Many a doubt hath its quieting here.
Moment by moment, let down from heaven,
Time, opportunity, and guidance are given.
Fear not tomorrows, child of the King,
Trust them with Jesus, do the next thing.
Do it immediately, do it with prayer;
Do it reliantly, casting all care.
Do it with reverence, tracing His hand,
Who placed it before thee with earnest command.
Stayed on Omnipotence, safe ‘neath His wing,
Leave all results, do the next thing.
Looking to Jesus, ever serener,
Working or suffering be thy demeanor;
In His dear presence, the rest of His calm,
The light of His countenance, be thy psalm,
Strong in His faithfulness, praise and sing.
Then, as He beckons, do the next thing.
I cannot count the times this poem has kept me on the right path. Helped when I was worn out, helped when I wanted to quit, helped when I wanted to run away, helped when I was selfish or sad. Helped me when I didn't know what to do first. As the burdens seemed so big, I would remember Elisabeth and this poem. The haunting words would come sweetly......"Sherry, do the next thing."
Do you ever struggle and want to know what to do? Sweep the kitchen, hug that child, smile at the mailman, fold that laundry.....just do the next thing! Leave the results to Jesus!
Gratefully His, Lynette
Do you ever struggle and want to know what to do? Sweep the kitchen, hug that child, smile at the mailman, fold that laundry.....just do the next thing! Leave the results to Jesus!
Gratefully His, Lynette
Emotions~
I came across this quote by Jonathan Edwards in Treatise on Religious Affections. "It is vain to contend with anything that hath the power of our affections at its disposal; it will prevail at the last." He is right. When you feel something strongly, you are very confident in whatever that emotion says about you, other people and God.
Try disagreeing with any strong emotion that you have and see how long you can last.
~ Try telling anger that it might be wrong.
~ Try telling fear that there will be grace for tomorrow.
~ Try telling guilt that there is forgiveness in Christ, which means that God does not see us according to our sins. Yes, you know the words, but when guilt is loud the words are silent.
~ Try telling shame that Christ, through faith, accepts, washes and makes us holy.
~ Try telling mania that its choices might have horrible consequences.
~ Try telling depression.....anything good.
Anger is the obvious example. Right or wrong, anger is always, always confident. No shades of gray. No ambivalence. Anger is very sure of itself.
Depression? You might disagree with this one. After all, depression is infused with self-doubt. Depressed people feel like failures and failures are not very confident. But is there any interpretation of reality that is more stubborn than depression? You hear a depressed person speak of the futility of life, and nine times our of ten, Scripture isn't going to jar the person back into thinking God's thoughts. I am not trying to be critical of depressed people with these observations. I am, however, trying to raise some warning flags for all of us. The stronger the emotion, the harder it is to hear the truth, and depression, if anything, is a very strong emotion. Strong emotions have much in common with delusions. Delusions insist on their interpretation despite clear reason, all contrary to evidence or a consensus among friends for a different interpretation.
Think about it.
"Emotions portray what is happening in our hearts. They tell us what we really want.
Emotions speak to our hearts. Sometimes they speak to us. You are frustrated, add a bit of tiredness and you might get anger. The anger tells you that the mess the kids made yesterday, which was merely a nuisance, is now catastrophic. In short, your emotions lied to you. They told you that something was a big deal when it was not.
How do we manage all of this? It can get complicated, but that doesn't mean the answer is complicated. A wise person listens to the Truth and listens to other people. A wise person listens. This is no simple listening, as the book of James reminds us. It is really hearing, which doesn't come naturally.
I am part of a larger body and I need the larger body. I don't have all wisdom and knowledge in myself. When there is a difference of opinion between my feelings and what God says, God's words win. I gladly submit to him. When there is a difference of opinion between my feelings and what many wise friends and counselors have said to me, I submit to the wisdom of the community. We need others around us who are wise and say wise things to our life.
Yes, this sounds good on paper. Right now my emotions are not raging in a particular direction. The good news is that I can practice humility today. I can listen to God......really listen. I can consider the interests of others as more important than my own. That will prepare me for the times when my strong feelings don't tell me the whole story."
(Taken from an article by Ed Welch~Biblical Counselor and author)
Good words for me and you today ~ emotions are real and sometimes they lie to us. May we have the discernment to know the difference, and if not, have wise ones near who do.
Gratefully His, Sherry Lynette
Try disagreeing with any strong emotion that you have and see how long you can last.
~ Try telling anger that it might be wrong.
~ Try telling fear that there will be grace for tomorrow.
~ Try telling guilt that there is forgiveness in Christ, which means that God does not see us according to our sins. Yes, you know the words, but when guilt is loud the words are silent.
~ Try telling shame that Christ, through faith, accepts, washes and makes us holy.
~ Try telling mania that its choices might have horrible consequences.
~ Try telling depression.....anything good.
Anger is the obvious example. Right or wrong, anger is always, always confident. No shades of gray. No ambivalence. Anger is very sure of itself.
Depression? You might disagree with this one. After all, depression is infused with self-doubt. Depressed people feel like failures and failures are not very confident. But is there any interpretation of reality that is more stubborn than depression? You hear a depressed person speak of the futility of life, and nine times our of ten, Scripture isn't going to jar the person back into thinking God's thoughts. I am not trying to be critical of depressed people with these observations. I am, however, trying to raise some warning flags for all of us. The stronger the emotion, the harder it is to hear the truth, and depression, if anything, is a very strong emotion. Strong emotions have much in common with delusions. Delusions insist on their interpretation despite clear reason, all contrary to evidence or a consensus among friends for a different interpretation.
Think about it.
"Emotions portray what is happening in our hearts. They tell us what we really want.
Emotions speak to our hearts. Sometimes they speak to us. You are frustrated, add a bit of tiredness and you might get anger. The anger tells you that the mess the kids made yesterday, which was merely a nuisance, is now catastrophic. In short, your emotions lied to you. They told you that something was a big deal when it was not.
How do we manage all of this? It can get complicated, but that doesn't mean the answer is complicated. A wise person listens to the Truth and listens to other people. A wise person listens. This is no simple listening, as the book of James reminds us. It is really hearing, which doesn't come naturally.
I am part of a larger body and I need the larger body. I don't have all wisdom and knowledge in myself. When there is a difference of opinion between my feelings and what God says, God's words win. I gladly submit to him. When there is a difference of opinion between my feelings and what many wise friends and counselors have said to me, I submit to the wisdom of the community. We need others around us who are wise and say wise things to our life.
Yes, this sounds good on paper. Right now my emotions are not raging in a particular direction. The good news is that I can practice humility today. I can listen to God......really listen. I can consider the interests of others as more important than my own. That will prepare me for the times when my strong feelings don't tell me the whole story."
(Taken from an article by Ed Welch~Biblical Counselor and author)
Good words for me and you today ~ emotions are real and sometimes they lie to us. May we have the discernment to know the difference, and if not, have wise ones near who do.
Gratefully His, Sherry Lynette
Monday, September 27, 2010
Struggle?
Today is Monday and it is raining here. We need it...we REALLY need it. As a gardener, I love the rain because the flowers need it! God knows we need it too.
Do you ever struggle with the sovereignty of God? Do you wonder why he has planned the things in your life the way He has? Do you doubt his love and goodness for you? When your relationships are messy and your circumstances are difficult, do you question his love for you?
I have been thinking a lot lately about the sovereignty of God. His ways. His plans. His work in me. His work in his world. The plans he has for all of us, me, my kids, my grand kids, my family, my friends, my Church.
My hubby and I had six children who many times thought they didn't need us. They resisted us over and over again. We'd say "NO-NO" and they would reach for the hot stove anyway. We said "No-no" when they wanted to run into the street. They wanted self rule many times. Like us, they often assumed their intentions were good and their plans sound. Like us, they tended to think they were capable of knowing what was best, even when they lacked important information and experience.
Our children did not have the ability to grasp the abstract reasons we said "No No". They were too young to know the purposes of the command or the plans for why we did what we did. Like we often do, they simply felt they knew a better way, their way.
So we often took our child by the face and said "look at me. Do you know how much I love you? Do you know I would never ask you to do something that would hurt you or make you sick? Do you trust me? I am so sorry you do not understand, and one day you will, yet I want you to obey me. You are too young to understand but I want you to trust me. Say to yourself.....my mommy loves me...I trust my mommy". Over and over and over again, I had this talk with my kids. Over and over again with each one.
God does the same thing with me and you, over and over and over again. He meets us in one of the difficult hallways (or driveways) of our lives. He kneels down before us and in love, asks us to trust his loving and wise rule, even though we do not have a clue what he is doing.
He knows there are times and moments when our life does not look like there is anyone ruling it, let alone someone wise and good. He knows there will be times when we will wish we could be the author of our own story. He knows that at times we are overwhelmed by what is on our plate or what we face. He knows that we are confused by His plan. He knows there are times we do not understand what is going on. Yet, we can trust him. Just like my children learned that our plans were for their good, God's plans are even better for our good.
I do not have to understand. I do not have to have my way. Real rest is found in trusting the PERSON who is in control of things I don't understand. So I trust HIM!!!
Lots to think about, don't you agree?
"Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases." Psalm 115:3
"...all the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, and he does according to his will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand or say to him, "What have you done?" Daniel 4:35
Enjoy your rainy day today, I know I will !
Trusting HIM, with a most grateful heart, Sherry Lynette
Do you ever struggle with the sovereignty of God? Do you wonder why he has planned the things in your life the way He has? Do you doubt his love and goodness for you? When your relationships are messy and your circumstances are difficult, do you question his love for you?
I have been thinking a lot lately about the sovereignty of God. His ways. His plans. His work in me. His work in his world. The plans he has for all of us, me, my kids, my grand kids, my family, my friends, my Church.
My hubby and I had six children who many times thought they didn't need us. They resisted us over and over again. We'd say "NO-NO" and they would reach for the hot stove anyway. We said "No-no" when they wanted to run into the street. They wanted self rule many times. Like us, they often assumed their intentions were good and their plans sound. Like us, they tended to think they were capable of knowing what was best, even when they lacked important information and experience.
Our children did not have the ability to grasp the abstract reasons we said "No No". They were too young to know the purposes of the command or the plans for why we did what we did. Like we often do, they simply felt they knew a better way, their way.
So we often took our child by the face and said "look at me. Do you know how much I love you? Do you know I would never ask you to do something that would hurt you or make you sick? Do you trust me? I am so sorry you do not understand, and one day you will, yet I want you to obey me. You are too young to understand but I want you to trust me. Say to yourself.....my mommy loves me...I trust my mommy". Over and over and over again, I had this talk with my kids. Over and over again with each one.
God does the same thing with me and you, over and over and over again. He meets us in one of the difficult hallways (or driveways) of our lives. He kneels down before us and in love, asks us to trust his loving and wise rule, even though we do not have a clue what he is doing.
He knows there are times and moments when our life does not look like there is anyone ruling it, let alone someone wise and good. He knows there will be times when we will wish we could be the author of our own story. He knows that at times we are overwhelmed by what is on our plate or what we face. He knows that we are confused by His plan. He knows there are times we do not understand what is going on. Yet, we can trust him. Just like my children learned that our plans were for their good, God's plans are even better for our good.
I do not have to understand. I do not have to have my way. Real rest is found in trusting the PERSON who is in control of things I don't understand. So I trust HIM!!!
Lots to think about, don't you agree?
"Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases." Psalm 115:3
"...all the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, and he does according to his will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand or say to him, "What have you done?" Daniel 4:35
Enjoy your rainy day today, I know I will !
Trusting HIM, with a most grateful heart, Sherry Lynette
Monday, June 28, 2010
Are you 'Content' ??
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me---practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:8-9
Are you content? There is a secret to being content....and I have learned it! It is what you think about and how you think about the things you think about. If you want God's kind of peace, be diligent about what you think about. It takes self-control. I know. I learned the hard way.
I was a worry-wart as a child. I always thought of all the things that could go wrong. I was aware at a young age that bad things happen to people. So I fell into the trap of being a worry-wart. My parents told me all the time that I was one. Then at age 12, Jesus drew me to Himself. Slowly I began to 'trust and obey'. It had become a bad habit to worry. God in is redeeming grace freed me from the sin of worry. I've had bouts of it since, but HE continues to show Himself powerful and mighty in my life. I am quick to see that wrong turn and run to the Cross.
The secret is to put your mind on the things above. No matter what you or I face ~ we CAN ask God to give us his eyes....to view the 'thing' through the eyes of our heavenly Father. He cares for us if we are one of HIS sheep. We can trust HIM. He is in control. He is powerful. He is mighty. He cares. He loves us and wants only what will be for our good and HIS glory. We can trust Him. Ask him. He will show you! He is waiting for you to find your contentment in HIM and in Him alone! Don't make the mistake of trying to find it in people, your hubby, your children, your house or friends or things. You will not find it there. Only in Jesus Christ is it found....true, deep, joyous contentment is in HIM and in HIM alone!
Here are a few good words to help in the pursuit of contentment~
**Never allow yourself to complain about anything---not even the weather (God hates grumbling)
** Never picture yourself in any other circumstances or someplace else. Bloom where you are.
**Never compare your lot with another's. Comparisons lead to sin.
**Never allow yourself to wish this or that had been otherwise. God knows what is best for you.
**Never dwell on tomorrow---remember tomorrow is God's, not ours.
God is so faithful and true. He has a plan and a purpose for me and for you. Remember ~"A quiet heart is content with what God gives." ~ Elisabeth Elliot
Are you content? You can be! Turn your thoughts around today!
Gratefully HIS, Lynette
Are you content? There is a secret to being content....and I have learned it! It is what you think about and how you think about the things you think about. If you want God's kind of peace, be diligent about what you think about. It takes self-control. I know. I learned the hard way.
I was a worry-wart as a child. I always thought of all the things that could go wrong. I was aware at a young age that bad things happen to people. So I fell into the trap of being a worry-wart. My parents told me all the time that I was one. Then at age 12, Jesus drew me to Himself. Slowly I began to 'trust and obey'. It had become a bad habit to worry. God in is redeeming grace freed me from the sin of worry. I've had bouts of it since, but HE continues to show Himself powerful and mighty in my life. I am quick to see that wrong turn and run to the Cross.
The secret is to put your mind on the things above. No matter what you or I face ~ we CAN ask God to give us his eyes....to view the 'thing' through the eyes of our heavenly Father. He cares for us if we are one of HIS sheep. We can trust HIM. He is in control. He is powerful. He is mighty. He cares. He loves us and wants only what will be for our good and HIS glory. We can trust Him. Ask him. He will show you! He is waiting for you to find your contentment in HIM and in Him alone! Don't make the mistake of trying to find it in people, your hubby, your children, your house or friends or things. You will not find it there. Only in Jesus Christ is it found....true, deep, joyous contentment is in HIM and in HIM alone!
Here are a few good words to help in the pursuit of contentment~
**Never allow yourself to complain about anything---not even the weather (God hates grumbling)
** Never picture yourself in any other circumstances or someplace else. Bloom where you are.
**Never compare your lot with another's. Comparisons lead to sin.
**Never allow yourself to wish this or that had been otherwise. God knows what is best for you.
**Never dwell on tomorrow---remember tomorrow is God's, not ours.
God is so faithful and true. He has a plan and a purpose for me and for you. Remember ~"A quiet heart is content with what God gives." ~ Elisabeth Elliot
Are you content? You can be! Turn your thoughts around today!
Gratefully HIS, Lynette
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Chihuahua Blessings~
So far away and yet so near!
That is how I am feeling about Mexico right now~ My heart is very much there and my body is very much here. I have been praying, thinking, praying and dreaming about Mexico.
Mexico is now in my blood stream. What can I say? That is the best analogy I can say to explain how I am now. All the things that I was afraid of were as nothing. Those things I had heard and thought "oh no".....were less than nothing. The LORD is in Mexico doing an amazing job through amazing people. It is all HIM....yet HE uses who HE chooses!
I left behind so many dear friends as we drove away from Chihuahua. I loved being with LightShine ......and wish we could of been there more. The kids. The staff. Hearts opening to God's love. The love and affection and all the diverse personalities....what joy!
Being there for the Marriage Conference was really really a blessing. If you are married you never will (or should never) out grow hearing about biblical marriage and all the challenges, struggles, joys and blessings of walking with your spouse hand in hand with your God. I was amazed at the honest questions asked at the Q&A session. People really do want to know how to live for Jesus Christ. Dave and I enjoyed getting to know Marcos and Alma (Dave's translator) and thank the LORD for them. Of course getting to know Heather & Chris and Lisa and Sean was a true blessing. God has his servants all over this globe serving HIM and HIS people.
My heart and life will never be the same. I am changed. I am humbled. I came face to face with my own selfishness of heart. I saw with new eyes. My heart beats differently now. I see the LORD's heart in a new way. Chihuahua is in me now. I pray, I think, I pray for Chihuahua and all those whom I love there!
Do your work, Oh Lord, and be glorified!
Gratefully His, Lynette
That is how I am feeling about Mexico right now~ My heart is very much there and my body is very much here. I have been praying, thinking, praying and dreaming about Mexico.
Mexico is now in my blood stream. What can I say? That is the best analogy I can say to explain how I am now. All the things that I was afraid of were as nothing. Those things I had heard and thought "oh no".....were less than nothing. The LORD is in Mexico doing an amazing job through amazing people. It is all HIM....yet HE uses who HE chooses!
I left behind so many dear friends as we drove away from Chihuahua. I loved being with LightShine ......and wish we could of been there more. The kids. The staff. Hearts opening to God's love. The love and affection and all the diverse personalities....what joy!
Being there for the Marriage Conference was really really a blessing. If you are married you never will (or should never) out grow hearing about biblical marriage and all the challenges, struggles, joys and blessings of walking with your spouse hand in hand with your God. I was amazed at the honest questions asked at the Q&A session. People really do want to know how to live for Jesus Christ. Dave and I enjoyed getting to know Marcos and Alma (Dave's translator) and thank the LORD for them. Of course getting to know Heather & Chris and Lisa and Sean was a true blessing. God has his servants all over this globe serving HIM and HIS people.
My heart and life will never be the same. I am changed. I am humbled. I came face to face with my own selfishness of heart. I saw with new eyes. My heart beats differently now. I see the LORD's heart in a new way. Chihuahua is in me now. I pray, I think, I pray for Chihuahua and all those whom I love there!
Do your work, Oh Lord, and be glorified!
Gratefully His, Lynette
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
My counselors ~
"Your testimonies are my delight; they are my counselors." Psalm 119:24
How I have struggled so many times with things in my life when all I needed do was turn to my 'true and faithful counselors' ~ hidden in God's word.
What life it brings. What peace it gives. What help I find. What grace bestowed on me. What soothing of my mind I find. What true joy is mine. What hope is there. What protection is near. What strength is given. What steadfast love endures forever!
Take the time to read all of Psalm 119 today and REJOICE ~ HE can be your favorite 'counselor' today too!
In Jesus is my delight ~ hugs, Lynette
How I have struggled so many times with things in my life when all I needed do was turn to my 'true and faithful counselors' ~ hidden in God's word.
What life it brings. What peace it gives. What help I find. What grace bestowed on me. What soothing of my mind I find. What true joy is mine. What hope is there. What protection is near. What strength is given. What steadfast love endures forever!
Take the time to read all of Psalm 119 today and REJOICE ~ HE can be your favorite 'counselor' today too!
In Jesus is my delight ~ hugs, Lynette
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
A Quote that speaks to me!
I collect quotes that really speak to me and say something of eternal value or that are encouraging to my own soul ~ some very godly men and women have a real way with words!!! Here is a recent 'jewel' I found written centuries ago!
“Those who lack friends to open themselves unto are cannibals of their own hearts….This communicating of a man’s self to his friends works two contrary effects; for it redoubles joys and cuts griefs in half.” (Francis Bacon, “Of Friendship,” 1625)
I have found this so true and am immeasurably blessed to have such friends. There is nothing like a godly friend to tell you the truth, even when it hurts ~ that is true love! What about YOU? Do you have a friend who loves you enough to disagree or gently remind you that you are a sinner saved by Grace? And love you still! I do and I hope you do too!
“Those who lack friends to open themselves unto are cannibals of their own hearts….This communicating of a man’s self to his friends works two contrary effects; for it redoubles joys and cuts griefs in half.” (Francis Bacon, “Of Friendship,” 1625)
I have found this so true and am immeasurably blessed to have such friends. There is nothing like a godly friend to tell you the truth, even when it hurts ~ that is true love! What about YOU? Do you have a friend who loves you enough to disagree or gently remind you that you are a sinner saved by Grace? And love you still! I do and I hope you do too!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Little Things
Some days I feel so little. The mundane things I do, seem so small. I repeat, repeat the same tasks over and over, seemingly noticed by none but me. The little things mount up and fill my days it seems.
I have an assortment of devotional books I have been given as gifts or purchased myself. One of my favorites is "Streams in the Desert" by Mrs. Charles E. Cowman (volume two) My thoughtful hubby gave it to me years ago. So on my 'dry' days I can turn to this little volume , after reading my Bible. I was amazed recently to read these words:
She hath done what she could. Mark 14:8
Lord, let me do the little things
Which may fall to my lot;
Those little inconspicuous ones
By other oft forgot.
If, like the Master, I can give
Myself for those I love,
Rich joy and peace shall come to me,
Sweet rest in heaven above.
I know not when the day shall close;
But when life's curfew rings,
I want my Lord to find me then
Still doing little things. ~ Unknown.
I am sure that those persons who are faithful in that which is least must wear very radiant crowns. They are the ones who tower above as when they are called upon to do the little tasks ~ never murmuring. They are the ones who win victories amid trivial irritations. Great are they who are faithful in little things.
Isn't that just like the Lord to give me the words for just where I am!! Thank you Lord for the little things. Make me faithful today in all I do. Even the little things.
Delighting in Jesus, hugs, Lynette
I have an assortment of devotional books I have been given as gifts or purchased myself. One of my favorites is "Streams in the Desert" by Mrs. Charles E. Cowman (volume two) My thoughtful hubby gave it to me years ago. So on my 'dry' days I can turn to this little volume , after reading my Bible. I was amazed recently to read these words:
She hath done what she could. Mark 14:8
Lord, let me do the little things
Which may fall to my lot;
Those little inconspicuous ones
By other oft forgot.
If, like the Master, I can give
Myself for those I love,
Rich joy and peace shall come to me,
Sweet rest in heaven above.
I know not when the day shall close;
But when life's curfew rings,
I want my Lord to find me then
Still doing little things. ~ Unknown.
I am sure that those persons who are faithful in that which is least must wear very radiant crowns. They are the ones who tower above as when they are called upon to do the little tasks ~ never murmuring. They are the ones who win victories amid trivial irritations. Great are they who are faithful in little things.
Isn't that just like the Lord to give me the words for just where I am!! Thank you Lord for the little things. Make me faithful today in all I do. Even the little things.
Delighting in Jesus, hugs, Lynette
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Meditating during the day---
Someone asked me 'how' I meditate.
There are many different styles. I have two. I will share one today and the other another day!
Well, it is rather easy. We all think about stuff. We let our minds wander the halls of our thoughts. As I put the dishes away, as I load the washer and drier, as I water my plants, as I go up the steps to put away 'stuff' for the hundredth time today, as I dress, wash my face, as I undress and put my PJs on; my mind is thinking! I might be thinking about the kids, I might be thinking what to make for dinner. I may be thinking about my hubby or my college kids, or my Grandkids. Any number of things could fill my mind.
So I 'choose' in those moments to think 'scripture'. I have a little spiral tablet that is full of memory verses that I personally need to remember. We all have them. 1Peter 5:7 ~ "Casting all your cares on Jesus, for He cares for you!" (One of the very first I had my kids memorize years ago) Psalm 42:5 when I'm 'blue'. My girls and I have memorized Psalm 131, Psalm 100 etc. together.
Then when I am going about my work, I think, I turn over in my thoughts those verses. When I first was learning to do this, I taped up the verses over my kitchen sink to memorize them, to help me. I carried verses in my pockets. Over time I have gotten a bit better at memorization, yet I still at times revert back to this method (taped over the kitchen sink) to really nail down the verses I am learning or reviewing.
I can give a very recent example. Mark 9:23-24 "And Jesus said to him, "If you can! All things are possible for one who believes." Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, "I believe; help my unbelief!" ESV
So for the day I mulled these two verses over and over and over.
Do I believe?
What is "crying out" about?
What pockets of unbelief do I have?
Do I know what they are?
Does Jesus hear me?
Help! I need help!
What was Jesus thinking?
All?
possible?
What does that mean?
How desperate was the father?
and on and on and on........
How does this apply to me Lord?
All day long, thinking about this father and his encounter with Jesus. Asking the Lord,
talking to the Lord.
Talking to myself.
Looking, really looking at each word and what it means to my life.
In the beginning as I was learning to meditate it took effort. Now it just comes. I wish I had written all the verses down that I had done this with but alas, I did not. I have enjoyed my hours with the Lord doing this. I especially enjoy doing this as I work outside in the open air. I even can then talk out loud.
At home around others, in my free minutes I do it silently. It is not a "leave me alone, I meditating" kind of thing. It is more a back and forth, back and forth. Minutes at a time. After telling Hannah to move onto the next subject, or in between tests, I am meditating. Others may not even know I am doing this! My children are growing up, so my minutes to meditate during the day and at night when I can't sleep or wake up at night are more plentiful. When they were little it was more challenging.
Just do it! Driving, walking, standing, alone, with others, even in crowds. Don't just wander all over with your thoughts, have a verse to meditate on. If you can't remember, stick a verse in your purse to look at while waiting in line at the grocery store. Pull it out! Bring every thought captive to the obedience of Jesus Christ.
I can not tell you the delight of it all. It really isn't all that complicated, just pick one verse, memorize it and then go to town. Pick another one if you want. I sometimes jump from one and then it leads to another and I am having a blast!
Then stop and listen to what the Lord tells you. HE wants you to do this and HE will give you answers to your questions or discussion with HIM!
I am HIS sheep and I hear HIS voice. I know the Shepherd's voice. I hear HIM call me. I hear HIM speak. You can too.
Happy Meditating ~ delighting in Jesus today, hugs, Lynette
PS. If you try this method, let me know how it went ~ share the blessing! Keep at it ~ you too will find delight!
There are many different styles. I have two. I will share one today and the other another day!
Well, it is rather easy. We all think about stuff. We let our minds wander the halls of our thoughts. As I put the dishes away, as I load the washer and drier, as I water my plants, as I go up the steps to put away 'stuff' for the hundredth time today, as I dress, wash my face, as I undress and put my PJs on; my mind is thinking! I might be thinking about the kids, I might be thinking what to make for dinner. I may be thinking about my hubby or my college kids, or my Grandkids. Any number of things could fill my mind.
So I 'choose' in those moments to think 'scripture'. I have a little spiral tablet that is full of memory verses that I personally need to remember. We all have them. 1Peter 5:7 ~ "Casting all your cares on Jesus, for He cares for you!" (One of the very first I had my kids memorize years ago) Psalm 42:5 when I'm 'blue'. My girls and I have memorized Psalm 131, Psalm 100 etc. together.
Then when I am going about my work, I think, I turn over in my thoughts those verses. When I first was learning to do this, I taped up the verses over my kitchen sink to memorize them, to help me. I carried verses in my pockets. Over time I have gotten a bit better at memorization, yet I still at times revert back to this method (taped over the kitchen sink) to really nail down the verses I am learning or reviewing.
I can give a very recent example. Mark 9:23-24 "And Jesus said to him, "If you can! All things are possible for one who believes." Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, "I believe; help my unbelief!" ESV
So for the day I mulled these two verses over and over and over.
Do I believe?
What is "crying out" about?
What pockets of unbelief do I have?
Do I know what they are?
Does Jesus hear me?
Help! I need help!
What was Jesus thinking?
All?
possible?
What does that mean?
How desperate was the father?
and on and on and on........
How does this apply to me Lord?
All day long, thinking about this father and his encounter with Jesus. Asking the Lord,
talking to the Lord.
Talking to myself.
Looking, really looking at each word and what it means to my life.
In the beginning as I was learning to meditate it took effort. Now it just comes. I wish I had written all the verses down that I had done this with but alas, I did not. I have enjoyed my hours with the Lord doing this. I especially enjoy doing this as I work outside in the open air. I even can then talk out loud.
At home around others, in my free minutes I do it silently. It is not a "leave me alone, I meditating" kind of thing. It is more a back and forth, back and forth. Minutes at a time. After telling Hannah to move onto the next subject, or in between tests, I am meditating. Others may not even know I am doing this! My children are growing up, so my minutes to meditate during the day and at night when I can't sleep or wake up at night are more plentiful. When they were little it was more challenging.
Just do it! Driving, walking, standing, alone, with others, even in crowds. Don't just wander all over with your thoughts, have a verse to meditate on. If you can't remember, stick a verse in your purse to look at while waiting in line at the grocery store. Pull it out! Bring every thought captive to the obedience of Jesus Christ.
I can not tell you the delight of it all. It really isn't all that complicated, just pick one verse, memorize it and then go to town. Pick another one if you want. I sometimes jump from one and then it leads to another and I am having a blast!
Then stop and listen to what the Lord tells you. HE wants you to do this and HE will give you answers to your questions or discussion with HIM!
I am HIS sheep and I hear HIS voice. I know the Shepherd's voice. I hear HIM call me. I hear HIM speak. You can too.
Happy Meditating ~ delighting in Jesus today, hugs, Lynette
PS. If you try this method, let me know how it went ~ share the blessing! Keep at it ~ you too will find delight!
Monday, April 12, 2010
Marriage Monday~
I was thinking Monday would be a good day to 'journal' about Marriage!
What girl doesn't like to think, talk, or read about marriage? I know I do. My Mom did not tell me much about marriage before I got married. I don't know why. She was a quiet person and was rather private ~ even with me and my sister Robyn. She told me later after I had been married awhile that her Mom never said one word about marriage or being a wife.
After turning to my Bible to see what God said, I needed application ideas. I was blessed to be living at a time in history when books on marriage were plenty at the book store and in the library. So I read all I could find the first year of marriage. I read lots and lots. I think back and am amazed at how naive I was as I walked down the aisle to get married. I must add some of the authors were very good and godly, some were worldly and nasty. I tried to stay away from the nasty ones.
A very very very good book I would recommend to every older girl to read is "Let Me Be a Woman" by Elisabeth Elliot. My girls will each be given their own copy soon. It is a book written from Elisabeth to her daughter, Valerie the year before she marries. It is packed full of wisdom, insight and things girls should know about men. I found it a delightful read.
One thing I have been thinking a lot about is love and respect. The Bible tells husbands to 'love' their wives. God knows that is what we NEED. It also tells us as wives to 'respect' our husbands. Go back and look up the passage, it doesn't say for the wife to 'love' her husband. Respect is to men what love is to women. I love my own husband so much. YET---he NEEDS my respect. Showing respect is different than showing him love.
How so, you ask! Well, respect is what HE needs....so as a wife I should be studying how to show my husband respect. I could make a list a page and half long. You see, I have learned the hard way! I have many times blundered in this area.
Let's give our husbands what they NEED, what they desire. Remember respect to your man is like love ...only different! HE will love you for it! This is a lifelong process....keep at it!
Enjoy your marriage today ~ God's gift to YOU!
Delighting in Jesus today, hugs, Lynette
What girl doesn't like to think, talk, or read about marriage? I know I do. My Mom did not tell me much about marriage before I got married. I don't know why. She was a quiet person and was rather private ~ even with me and my sister Robyn. She told me later after I had been married awhile that her Mom never said one word about marriage or being a wife.
After turning to my Bible to see what God said, I needed application ideas. I was blessed to be living at a time in history when books on marriage were plenty at the book store and in the library. So I read all I could find the first year of marriage. I read lots and lots. I think back and am amazed at how naive I was as I walked down the aisle to get married. I must add some of the authors were very good and godly, some were worldly and nasty. I tried to stay away from the nasty ones.
A very very very good book I would recommend to every older girl to read is "Let Me Be a Woman" by Elisabeth Elliot. My girls will each be given their own copy soon. It is a book written from Elisabeth to her daughter, Valerie the year before she marries. It is packed full of wisdom, insight and things girls should know about men. I found it a delightful read.
One thing I have been thinking a lot about is love and respect. The Bible tells husbands to 'love' their wives. God knows that is what we NEED. It also tells us as wives to 'respect' our husbands. Go back and look up the passage, it doesn't say for the wife to 'love' her husband. Respect is to men what love is to women. I love my own husband so much. YET---he NEEDS my respect. Showing respect is different than showing him love.
How so, you ask! Well, respect is what HE needs....so as a wife I should be studying how to show my husband respect. I could make a list a page and half long. You see, I have learned the hard way! I have many times blundered in this area.
- Do I interrupt him as he speaks?
- Do I interject as he explains?
- Do I say 'turn here' as he drives?
- Do I frown at him when I should be smiling at him?
- Do I say 'don't forget.....' ---I am not his mother!
- Do I say 'yes, sir--please--thank you and you are right often!
- If I need help do I 'tell' him to do such and such or do I ask sweetly?
- How many times have I contradicted something....even little things? Very disrespectful!
- How easily do I defer to his choice.
- Do I build him up in front of the kids?
- How often do I compliment him, esteem him, tell him how great he is?
- What do I do to show him I appreciate his manhood?
- Look for manly things to compliment...not feminine~
- Did you know being 'unhappy' in public is a public rebuke to your husband?
Let's give our husbands what they NEED, what they desire. Remember respect to your man is like love ...only different! HE will love you for it! This is a lifelong process....keep at it!
Enjoy your marriage today ~ God's gift to YOU!
Delighting in Jesus today, hugs, Lynette
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Hump Day
Today is Wednesday! I have heard some call it 'hump day' because it is the middle of the week. But is it really? I guess if you work or go to school Monday through Friday it would be the middle of the week for work and school. Yet there are seven....SEVEN days in a week! Are you one who lives for the week end?
When I was in grade school, I know I lived for the week ends. School was not one of my favorite things unless I was in recess, Library skills, Art or lunch time. I was a 'day dreamer' , checked out most of the time when doing Math or book work. It was just maturation. I was slow to give up baby dolls, naps and play time. I think back and remember my parents saying "she is smart, just a dreamer!"
My Mom was President of the PTA (Parent Teacher Association) at Canoga Park Elementary School. She knew all the teachers, Principal and Staff. My 2nd Grade Teacher was Mrs. Barnett. My poor 2nd Grade teacher didn't know what to do with me. Everyday at 2pm we had 'learning to tell time' class. Everyday at 2pm I put my head down on my desk and preceeded to go to sleep. EVERY DAY! So the teacher had another meeting with my Mom. "Your daughter must go to bed eariler!" Mrs. Barnett said. "She's in bed at 7pm every night and sleeps all night." my Mom gently told Mrs. Barnett. The school year continued and I continued with my one hour nap from 2pm til school let out at 3pm.
One Spring day my Mom was at school doing some volunteer work and ran into Mrs. Barnett. "How is Sherry doing now?" "Oh ~ Mrs. Masters, never worry about your daughter and school! She is our 'little mother'. "When we have a problem with a shy student, or one who hits or is unable to get along with others, we put them with Sherry and she sweetly 'helps' them overcome. " She will do just fine in life. (My Mom told me this story when I was in my thirties) I have no rememberances of it!
I am told I did outgrow needing a nap everyday the years following 2nd grade. . My Mom told me when I had my own children that each child is unique, special and different in different ways. Some need very little sleep. Some need lots of sleep and then there are some like me who took naps all the way through the early years. It is okay! God has a plan and a purpose for each and every one. As we trust, pray and wait and see, HE will do marvelous things!
As I see little ones coming and going on the days I work, I find myself smiling inside. They too may not remember the funny things that happen. Maybe they will remember! I wonder how many 'need' a nap? Some are probably hoping for the week end to come quickly, just like I did many years ago!
Happy 'hump day' to you! Hug a 2nd Grader in your life!
Delighting in Jesus, hugs, Lynette
When I was in grade school, I know I lived for the week ends. School was not one of my favorite things unless I was in recess, Library skills, Art or lunch time. I was a 'day dreamer' , checked out most of the time when doing Math or book work. It was just maturation. I was slow to give up baby dolls, naps and play time. I think back and remember my parents saying "she is smart, just a dreamer!"
My Mom was President of the PTA (Parent Teacher Association) at Canoga Park Elementary School. She knew all the teachers, Principal and Staff. My 2nd Grade Teacher was Mrs. Barnett. My poor 2nd Grade teacher didn't know what to do with me. Everyday at 2pm we had 'learning to tell time' class. Everyday at 2pm I put my head down on my desk and preceeded to go to sleep. EVERY DAY! So the teacher had another meeting with my Mom. "Your daughter must go to bed eariler!" Mrs. Barnett said. "She's in bed at 7pm every night and sleeps all night." my Mom gently told Mrs. Barnett. The school year continued and I continued with my one hour nap from 2pm til school let out at 3pm.
One Spring day my Mom was at school doing some volunteer work and ran into Mrs. Barnett. "How is Sherry doing now?" "Oh ~ Mrs. Masters, never worry about your daughter and school! She is our 'little mother'. "When we have a problem with a shy student, or one who hits or is unable to get along with others, we put them with Sherry and she sweetly 'helps' them overcome. " She will do just fine in life. (My Mom told me this story when I was in my thirties) I have no rememberances of it!
I am told I did outgrow needing a nap everyday the years following 2nd grade. . My Mom told me when I had my own children that each child is unique, special and different in different ways. Some need very little sleep. Some need lots of sleep and then there are some like me who took naps all the way through the early years. It is okay! God has a plan and a purpose for each and every one. As we trust, pray and wait and see, HE will do marvelous things!
As I see little ones coming and going on the days I work, I find myself smiling inside. They too may not remember the funny things that happen. Maybe they will remember! I wonder how many 'need' a nap? Some are probably hoping for the week end to come quickly, just like I did many years ago!
Happy 'hump day' to you! Hug a 2nd Grader in your life!
Delighting in Jesus, hugs, Lynette
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Laughing~
I have a friend at work who has the most contagious laugh I have ever heard. We all love to hear her laugh! I told her today that I would love to 'tape' her laugh to just have it to listen to when I needed it. She laughs often, the music ringing in everyone's ears. I am not the only one who loves, loves, loves to hear her laugh, we all do! What a special gift!!!
The Lord gave me this verse this morning. Psalm 56: 9 ~ "This I know, that God is for me." What an encouraging, loving verse to send right into my heart! It made my day 'shine'. Even when the coffee pot tipped over and spilled out, even when a little boy vomited in the office, even when I forgot to put Dave and my lunch order into Shirley. I remembered that "God is for me!".
Maybe you have had a hard day. Maybe a hard week. Or even a hard month! If you are HIS child, then know HE is FOR you! If you are like me, that should make you smile. Maybe even laugh! Doesn't it make you want to sing!?
It did me, and yes, I did laugh more than once or twice today!
What a wonderful mercy filled God I love!
Delighting in Jesus, hugs, Lynette
The Lord gave me this verse this morning. Psalm 56: 9 ~ "This I know, that God is for me." What an encouraging, loving verse to send right into my heart! It made my day 'shine'. Even when the coffee pot tipped over and spilled out, even when a little boy vomited in the office, even when I forgot to put Dave and my lunch order into Shirley. I remembered that "God is for me!".
Maybe you have had a hard day. Maybe a hard week. Or even a hard month! If you are HIS child, then know HE is FOR you! If you are like me, that should make you smile. Maybe even laugh! Doesn't it make you want to sing!?
It did me, and yes, I did laugh more than once or twice today!
What a wonderful mercy filled God I love!
Delighting in Jesus, hugs, Lynette
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