Mom's Overture by Anita Renfroe

PAY IT FORWARD

Indianapolis, Jeanne Mayo – She preaches powerfully and very convincingly on the “Pay it forward Theology”, she hands out this card – a remembrance of sorts and then she reads this out loud in fact we all read this out loud with her. “With your help, Lord, I will not die an unlived life. I will not live cautiously in fear of failing or of being pressed too hard. Instead, I choose to shake my very heart until it becomes an impassioned promise…a soaring wing…and a blazing torch. I refuse to live a life of undisrupted calm, placid boredom, and lukewarm mediocrity. Rather, I by God’s grace am committed to be an edge-dweller. I am wholeheartedly determined to live out loud. Then one day, when I stand before the eternal throne of God, I will skid into Heaven and shout victoriously, ‘What a ride, Jesus! What a ride!’” A friend of mine has a signature she ends her e-mails with: “Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming -- "WOW--What a Ride!" Amazing how the pieces just seem to fall together! I hope one day you read that out loud and mean it. You see there are plenty of things in this world to entertain with. Plenty of vacation spots to go to, projects to complete and hobbies to spend your time on. Yet, there is only one thing that truly satisfies and that’s having a relationship with the one and only Living God. Jesus Christ. The rest is just the icing on the cake. Following Him is far from boring, far from being safe all the time, far from being quiet or dull. It means living life out loud so others can see Him and find Him. Maybe now, years after the tune of “This Little Light of Mine” has faded from my lips I have finally realized what “Hide Him under a Bushel – NO!” really means.

Mondays are funny

Mondays are such funny days. They are not my favorite day of the week...but.... they do seem to fly by. I get up, I look at the clock.....I do everything I need to do for my family and then all my "Monday" chores and then I look at the clock again and in 30 minutes Les will be home. WOW! It's always the day of the week that I look forward to the least....but it is so nice that it seems the day happens quickly and the next moment my Les is back home.

Ready, Set, DONE

Today was a new day....and a start of something I have been waiting for. A release, a new begining, not only putting hurts far, far behind..... but leaving them for good...and for a better, more hopeful, more blessed path. Sometimes you think that you've had your last straw...you realize.....you can push forward just a bit more...because God still has work for you to do. THEN FINALLY IT COMES....the RELEASE.......the moment when you realize God has instructed you to stay, to do, to work, and then when you stick it out... and you obey God, and you did all He asked you to do in a situation..... FINALLY......F~I~N~A~L~L~Y.....you are released and it is so CRYSTAL CLEAR that your heart, your spirit and your mind are all FREE and at PEACE. That is what tonight has finally been for me. It has been that way for alot of my Christian Family too tonight. We said our goodbyes. So many of my Christian family are so much further down their spiritual path then me...but EVEN ~I~ KNOW when GOD IS IN SOMETHING.........THERE ARE BLESSINGS! WHEN?WHERE GOD IS NOT...there is confusion, hurt, pride, and leadership that is UNBIBICAL...self serving...and asks others to forgive but cannot LEAD forgiveness even though they like their title of "LEADER". I finally know and have learned from wonderful Christian friends and wonderful Christian Pastors enough to know and see....when it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck....no matter what YOU may call it......... GOD named it a DUCK....AND SO IT IS!!!! All my Christian friends are still my Christian friends and they and I have enough outreaches and studies where we won't lose each other at all. All we will lose is the heartache, heartbreak and a church that has lost everything it once had. Where God once reined......He is not now.... proof is in the blessings...or should I say LACK THEREOF!?!?. WHERE GOD IS....so are the BLESSINGS! Where everything ENDS...ministries, fellowships, kindness, trust, truth, respect ....IS DEATH and death and confusion is of Satan. No matter what anyone says, feels, quotes, or hides.... THE TRUTH IS CLEAR. God brings all things to light. FINALLY...~RELEASE~!!!! Thank you Jesus!!

FAITH

http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=ee73e63418003b47d7d5

~IMAGINE~

He creates each of us by Christ Jesus to join him in the work he does, the good work he has gotten ready for us to do, work we had better be doing."

Ephesians 2:10 The Message

ExCiTiNg AdVeNtUrEs FoR oUr FaMiLy

~~~~~WOW!!!!!!~~~~~

There is so much going on in our family!!!!! Exciting, WONDERFUL changes!!!!!!

So many "NEWS"!!!!! Les & I are really excitied!!!!! This is the first time in FOREVER

that so many new doors, exciting paths are open to us. IN ALL AREAS!!!!

I feel my heart just overflowing. Good stuff from our GOOD GOD.

Oh ........and, LEGOS ARE fun!!!

My "ENTERTAINMENT" Center

Sarah Ann, Samuel Walter, Joshua Daniel, Elizabeth Marie, Rebecca Grace, Hannah Lynn

THANK YOU JESUS!!!!

Today I want to quit

but I really..... want to WORK,

beside YOU JESUS!!!

~~~~~~~~The Fern and the Bamboo.....~~~~~~~

One day I decided to quit.... I quit my job,

my relationship, my spirituality.. I wanted to quit my life. I went to the woods to have one last talk with God.

"God", I said.

"Can you give me one good reason not to quit?"

His answer surprised me..."Look around", He said.

"Do you see the fern and the bamboo?"

"Yes", I replied.

"When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took very good care of them.

I gave them light. I gave them water.

The fern quickly grew fromthe earth.

Its brilliant green covered the floor.

Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed.

But I did not quit on the bamboo.

In the second year the Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful.

And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed.

But I did not quit on the bamboo".

He said. "In the third year,

there was still nothing from the bamboo seed.

But I would not quit.

In the fourth year, again, there was nothing from the bamboo seed.

But I would not quit.He said.

"Then in the fifth year a tiny sprout emerged from the earth.

Compared to the fern it was seemingly small and insignificant.

But just 6 months later the bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall.

It had spent the five years growing roots.

Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive.

I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle."He said to me.

"Did you know, my child, that all this time you have been struggling,

you have actually been growing roots.

I would not quit on the bamboo. I will never quit on you.

Don't compare yourself to others."He said.

"The bamboo had a different purpose than the fern,

yet, they both make the forest beautiful."

"Your time will come," God said to me. " You will rise high!"

"How high should I rise?" I asked.

"How high will the bamboo rise?" He asked in return.

"As high as it can?" I questioned.

"Yes." He said, "Give me glory by rising as high as you can."

I left the forest and brought back this story.

I hope these words can help you see that God will never give up on you........

Never regret a day in your life.

Good days give you Happiness.

Bad days give you Experiences.

Both are essential to life.

Keep going...

Happiness keeps you Sweet

Trials keep you Strong,

Sorrows keep you Human,

Failures keep you Humble,

Success keeps You Glowing,

But Only God keeps You Going!

Have a great day!

The Son is shining!!

God is so big

He can cover the whole world with his Love

and so small

He can curl up inside your heart.

Having A Mary Spirit

You Can Childproof Your Home But They'll Still Get In!!!

I was looking on the Mop Shop web site and saw a book with this title.....and it made me laugh!! Gotta love it!!!!

Is Mom the Only One?

Why Is Mom the Only One Who... *Closes the cabinet doors? *Asks others to smell their house, just to get a third party opinion? *Puts the dishes in the diswasher (as opposed to the counter a mere matter of INCHES above the dishwasher. Ive even tried leaving the dishwasher door open as a subtle hint, but to no avail!)? *Pulls the shower curtain closed? *Turns off the lights? *Picks up the paper/box/shoe/sock/whatever, that is in the middle of the entry and everyone is walking around? *Puts the cordless phone back on the charger? *Throws away old items in the fridge? *Moves the old newspapers from the "reading receptacle" to the trash?*Picks up the towels off the bathroom floor ?*Cleans the scum that grows around the faucet ?*Picks up the tiny pieces of trash that accumulates in the corners of the room (where the vaccum can't pick up) ?*Straightens the welcome mat on the front porch ?*Smells the kitchen rags to see if they're stinky enough to be washed ?*Speaking of smelling things (a nose is an important "tool" in mommy's world)....smells the kids' hair to determine if they need a bath? *Smells the laundry in the basket to see if it's a clean or dirty load? Tip! Never, and I repeat NEVER smell underwear, always assume those are dirty, even if they aren't! *Gets on all fours and smells the carpet, just to see if that pee stain the dog left, came out (am I the only one that does that?) >*Turns the heat down at night ?*Looks to see if the toilet paper is out in the bathroom BEFORE going as opposed to doing the bathroom scream, "CAN SOMEONE GET ME SOME TOILET PAPER?" ...that NEVER happens to a mommy. *Throws away the reading magazines in the bathroom that are water- logged, ripped and otherwise trashed but still sitting there for reading? *Has dust bunnies on the mind? *Cleans the toothpaste goop off the tube, walls and counter?*Notices when it's time to get a new toothbrush? *Knows exactly how much soap is left in all the shampoo bottles even though the bottles aren't see through? *Knows how many meals that cube of cheese will last until its gone? *Is the only one to ever think about running the butter dish through the washing machine? *Cleans out the hair that accumulates down the drains....yuk! It's a dirty job but someone has to do it? *Saves rubber bands for future use to close the tops of food packages?

I'm Loving HIM~~~JESUS

When I read this I could only think....there but for the grace of God go I. Read all the way to the end of the story and you'll understand why. A Return is Requested....You'll see why! Breakfast at McDonald's This is a good story and is true, please read it all the way through until the end! (After the story, there are some very interesting facts!): I am a mother of three (ages 14, 12, 3) and have recently completed my college degree. The last class I had to take was Sociology. The teacher was absolutely inspiring with the qualities that I wish every human being had been graced with. Her last project of the term was called, "Smile." The class was asked to go out and smile at three people and document their reactions. I am a very friendly person and always smile at everyone and say hello anyway. So, I thought this would be a piece of cake, literally. Soon after we were assigned the project, my husband, youngest son, and I went out to McDonald's one crisp March morning. It was just our way of sharing special playtime with our son. We were standing in line, waiting to be served, when all of a sudden everyone around us began to back away, and then even my husband did. I did not move an inch... an overwhelming feeling of panic welled up inside of me as I turned to see why they had moved. As I turned around I smelled a horrible "dirty body" smell, and there standing behind me were two poor homeless men. As I looked down at the short gentleman, close to me, he was "smiling". His beautiful sky blue eyes were full of God's Light as he searched for acceptance. He said, "Good day" as he counted the few coins he had been clutching. The second man fumbled with his hands as he stood behind his friend. I realized the second man was mentally challenged and the blue-eyed gentleman was his salvation. I held my tears as I stood there with them. The young lady at the counter asked him what they wanted. He said, "Coffee is all Miss" because that was all they could afford. (If they wanted to sit in the restaurant and warm up, they had to buy something. He just wanted to be warm). Then I really felt it - the compulsion was so great I almost reached out and embraced the little man with the blue eyes. That is when I noticed all eyes in the restaurant were set on me, judging my every action. I smiled and asked the young lady behind the counter to give me two more breakfast meals on a separate tray. I then walked around the corner to the table that the men had chosen as a resting spot. I put the tray on the>table and laid my hand on the blue-eyed gentleman's cold hand. He looked up at me, with tears in his eyes, and said, "Thank you." I leaned over, began to pat his hand and said, "I did not do this for you. God is here working through me to give you hope." I started to cry as I walked away to join my husband and son. When I sat down my husband smiled at me and said, "That is why God gave you to me, Honey, to give me hope." We held hands for a moment and at that time, we knew that only because of the Grace that we had been given were we able to give. We are not church goers, but we are believers. That day showed me the pure Light of God's sweet love. I returned to college, on the last evening of class, with this story in hand. I turned in "my project" and the instructor read it. Then she looked up at me and said, "Can I share this?" I slowly nodded as she got the attention of the class. She began to read and that is when I knew that we, as human beings, and being part of God share this need to heal people and to be healed. In my own way I had touched the people at McDonald's, my son, instructor, and every soul that shared the classroom on the last night I spent as a college student. I graduated with one of the biggest lessons I would ever learn: UNCONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE. Much love and compassion is sent to each and every person who may read this and learn how to LOVE PEOPLE AND USE THINGS - NOT LOVE THINGS AND USE PEOPLE. There is an Angel sent to watch over you. In order for her to work, you must pass this on to the people you want watched over. An Angel wrote: Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart. To handle yourself, use your head. To handle others, use your heart. God Gives every bird it's food, but He does not throw it into its nest. Send it back, you'll see why ! A Box of gold *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* With a secret inside that has never been told *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* This box is priceless but as I see *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* The treasure inside is precious to me *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* Today I share this treasure with thee *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* It's the treasure of friendship you've given me. *~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

UNITED STATES MAP

• A father wanted to read a magazine but was being bothered by His little girl, Shelby. She wanted to know what the United States looked like.Finally, he tore a sheet out of his news magazine on which was Printed the map of the country. Tearing it into small pieces, he gave it to Shelby and said, "Go into the other room and see if you can put this together. This will show you our whole country today." After a few minutes, Shelby returned and handed him the map, correctly fitted and taped together. The father was surprised and asked How she had finished so quickly. "Oh," she said, "on the other side of the Paper is a picture of Jesus. When I got all of Jesus back where He belonged, then our country just came together." This one is worthy of forwarding. ~AMEN~

Running on empty?

I was on the Mops leadership website today and thought this was great and wanted to share. Not sure if anyone even reads my blog...but, that's ok.....it's still great to me. ENJOY!!! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Sharing Your Faith: Refrigerator Half Full or Half Empty?By Liz Selzer “Mom! There’s nothing to eat! Can we pick something up on my way to practice?” my son bellowed, his head hidden by the half-open refrigerator door. Yes, that twinge of mother guilt hit me hard. I just did not have time to get to the store, and we really were out of most of the quick fix food items for hungry teenage boys. The refrigerator was empty, as were the counters. But for some reason the suggestion of getting something on the way felt like an added insult to my mothering. Wasn’t I supposed to be the source of sustenance for my family? As I busied myself with a makeshift grilled cheese for him, an interesting parallel shot through my mind (which I think was no accident): Mother guilt Evangelism guilt Not doing all I could as a mother Not doing all I could to spread the good news of God’s love Empty refrigerator Empty sense of God’s impact in my own life Not finding time to grocery shop and fill up Not finding time to be filled by God Grocery shopping Time spent with God I thought about how the kitchen looks after I make a trip to the store–food overflowing onto the counters, bread in the breadbox, fruit in the fruit bowl, that coveted box of donuts in plain sight. It is very apparent that I’ve “filled up” at the store. But what about “filling up” in my life? When people look at me, is it apparent that I have been filled up by God? Is his love overflowing from me to those around me? Am I taking the time with God to be filled by him? Evangelism, telling others about the good news of Christ, is an overflow from our lives with Christ. If we are living on empty, we have little to share. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 Sharing the gospel with others comes from an active and vital relationship with Jesus. As we are filled through relationship with him, we can in turn fill others. Hope sloshes out of us and onto them. We cannot help but be a living example for the hope we have found. Over the years, I have found that evangelism guilt (just like mother guilt) is completely unproductive and unhelpful. I have to think it grieves God greatly when our perception is that telling others about him is a chore or something we have to do. How he must delight in us when our lives are a living testament to him, when our conversations are infused with his love, when our joy overflows onto those around us. The following are a few thoughts I had to help promote a lifestyle of evangelism, a life so full in God that it is outwardly apparent to all those we hope to touch by his grace and love. Make time with God a part of our every day. This does not have to look like a regularly scheduled time, it can be an on-going attitude of gratitude for all he does; an on-going intentional inclusion of him in all we do. Recognize that our part in evangelism is the willingness to speak about the joy we have found in our relationship with God and give credit where credit is due. Any “conversion” of the heart is in the hands of the Holy Spirit. Focus outside of ourselves. Even though the default of the human condition is to always see things through our own eyes, being intentional about seeing things from another point of view will help us see everyday opportunities of what is inside us that can overflow encouragement onto others. Increase our ability to observe and discern places where people need help or encouragement; this way we can tailor our encouragement to the specific needs of others. Treating people as unique creations helps them see that the good news of God’s love is for them specifically. Take the opportunity to talk about our own stories, how God has impacted our lives in very real ways. This tangible example is much more impacting than a bunch of arguments and logical reasons to believe in God. Remember that lives changed by God’s love are the greatest legacy you can leave in this world. So the next time you’re feeling guilty or empty or guilty for feeling empty, remember where your source of joy comes from, that you are meant to live a hope-filled life, a life that is not contained, spilling out and covering those around you. Liz Selzer is the Director of Leadership Development at MOPS International.

Today is ~my~ "Happy" Birthday!!!!!!

I am the little girl in the pink holding the birthday cake.....(or at least that is how my spirit and heart feel inside....young, happy, excited, hopeful) . I am happy that for the most part that is how I view life. Since it is early in the morning, I know I will update this later today...but, if you are reading my blog...... as a gift to me on my birthday, I would just appreciate if you could take a minute and say alittle prayer for me...... a prayer that God will fill my year with His blessings that He has waiting, the ones He has picked out special for me, His path and His will for me. A prayer that He will work in my life in such a mighty way that my heart will grow by leaps and bounds and I will open my heart and let God guide and and let Him work His will through me. A prayer that God will be so life changing in me this year that miracles will happen and His Love and His goodness will shine through and I can testify to others how truly awesome God is!!! I know I can do all this already....because God is ALWAYS so good and every blessing I have is such a huge gift from Him..... BUT, I pray for spiritual growth, I pray for a deeper faith in my God, my Jesus, I pray to walk more in HIS WORD then by my own will......and if I can grow these things in my heart & spirit this year......that will only make me want to share Jesus even more...because it will be a wake up call to my soul. So Please, if you are reading this today..... I would like that prayer said by you to Jesus for my birthday. Thank you!!!! I will write more later tonight. I am so blessed for all I have but most of all I'm blessed because I am HIS!

Samuel's 1st "friends" birthday party

SAMUEL WALTER BISHOP

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Today was our Samuel's first birthday party with his friends. He was so excited and this being such a busy month for us and his actual birthday being May 8th, he was also alittle annoyed it took his mommy so long to pull this together. I think I had a bit of "fear" not knowing what to

do, or play, or "craft" for a little boys party. I thought & thought & thought...and then I decided....LES WAS A BOY ONCE.....he can run this party. That only passed the anxious fear on to him. Les is such a wonderful husband. He always helps me with everything....even the parties.......but "RUN" the party!?!?!?!!? Oh wow!!!! He was (to say the least) nervous and talking for a week about what the boys could do. It was so sweet to see him that way over a party for our child. Anyway, the 3 hour party went very well. The boys all had fun. Samuel was so happy!!! Les felt so good that he actually handled the party. I was here for "moral" support. See some pictures from our fun day today. These are all Samuel's very "bestest"

friends and their mommies are some of mine!

GUESS WHO GRADUATED???? and, lost a tooth?

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Our Rebecca Grace Graduated from Kindergarten last night.

It was a wonderful celebration through our homeschool co-op.

Rebecca graduated with all her little friends and the Kindergarten class sang "Amazing Love". It was so adorable.

When we got home...she was so excited she was talking and her

second baby tooth fell out. It had been hanging on for awhile. There is another "big girl" tooth right behind it just waiting to break through. Rebecca looks so darn cute with those 2 bottom teeth missing....BUT, please stand back when she talks!!!!! She's not used to 2 teeth missing yet. Oh what a fun night! It was really so nice.

Happy Birthday Baby Girl

OUR REBECCA GRACE!!!!!!!

Happy Birthday today to our little sweetheart! We love you so much!

Thank you for being our little girl and one of God's many gifts to us~

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!!!!

Remember Me

********** Memorial Day **********

This weekend is Memorial Day Weekend

~~~~~~~~GOD BLESS YOU~~~~~~~~~~~~

All the service men, women and families

You are all amazing and we love you and

GOD BLESS YOU and thank you, thank you

so very much!

Spring, Summer

Oh Boy! I loved the weather today....I like spring & fall the very best.

I like the new beginnings of spring....the hope, the promises of a fresh new start and everything starting to flourish. The beautiful birds chirping.

Open windows, breezes, ice tea.

Then I like fall too. The coolness, the crispness, the changing leaves, the colors, The skies and the squirrels. The smells when I am baking a pie,

warm candle glow, pumpkins and being cozy, hot chocolate.

This year though it seems one of my little guys has developed allergies.

He rubs his little eyes and sneezes so much. He looks and feels so uncomfortable. It makes this mommy sad that she can't take that pain from her little son. Since today was our last day of school till fall, I declared today....

"Stay in your PJ's if you want Day!" It's a wonderful idea I got from a wonderful friend

and a Christian sister. All my children loved the idea and after a busy school year we just

took a nice day of rest and a day to kick off our Memorial Day Weekend. It was fun, refreshing,

and restful. We laughed, we played, we colored and we did crafts....all in our PJ's for this very special PJ day! Sometimes just doing something you don't usually do gives you a fresh look

at everything. Great Day! Tonight is, Family Movie Night.......we'll have popcorn and we

hope to watch "Are We Done Yet?" The Plugged in Movie Review, from Focus On The Family, rated it high for Family entertainment. Enjoy your wonderful evening!! See you at the movies!!!

School's Out For The Summer

********************************************************

It's Fun to Learn!!!!!

Today is our last day of school. Some summer fun work "extra fun stuff" will still be done....

but now summer fun begins.

Funny Baby

I was shopping for a baby gift on line and this picture was on the site I was at.

It is so darn funny. I think the site was baby genius or something like that.

I'm sure this picture was all changed with computer graphics. It was cute, it was funny and it made me smile.

lol lol lol too cute!

A great Church

There are Three Non-Tangible Components that Go into the

Making of a Great Church!

MEMBERS: 1. TRUST the church's leadership Trust in leadership is built on three elements: Leader's Credibility, Respectfulness, and Fairness Credibility means that leaders: a. fulfill their roles with integrity b. explain to members how their efforts relate to fulfilling the church's vision and mission c. maintain open, delineated lines of communication to members as well as open, delineated lines of feedback from members. Respectfulness means that leaders: a. appreciate and support the work of the members b. value member's input and seek to work collaboratively with them in making decisions affect their area of responsibility c. value and care for member's lives outside the church Fairness means that leaders: a. demonstrate balanced treatment of members (i.e. no favoritism) b. are objective in terms of who gets appointed or assigned to a given role or position c. are seen as just in terms of how they handle and resolve (i) interpersonal disputes, (ii) complaints about policies or procedures, and (iii) member or staff performance issues 2. TAKE PRIDE in the ministries of the church and the role they play Members: a. find purpose in knowing that the work they individually do makes a difference b. find satisfaction in being part of a team that is effectively serving the Lord c. are pleased be a member of a congregation that is having a positive impact in the world 3. ENJOY their connection with others in the church Members: a. are comfortable being themselves b. experience warm and meaningful relationships c. feel as if they are part of a extended loving family . What Great Churches Experience more people want to become part of them fewer people want to leave them creativity and ministry development blossom within them, & increased contributions to them allow them to do more for the Lord

Norman Vincent Peale~ Quote

"In moods of discouragement or despair,never forget that the sunshine will ultimately come back,that it's absence never is permanent.Hang onto your faith, knowing that soon you will rise into the sunshine again." ~Norman Vincent Peale~

Oh Jesus, thank you Jesus

“He carried our sorrows” From Isaiah 53:4

RIGHT? WRONG? Who are you to judge?

In the first place, Christianity is not a list of taboos. "For by grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast" (Ephesians 2:8,9). Remember that the Lord Jesus Christ has already suffered and died for all our sins in order that we might be freely forgiven and saved, through an obedient trust in Him. In the second place, it is not our right to pass judgment on someone else and his activities. As the Bible says: "Let us not therefore judge one another any more; but judge this rather, than no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother's way" (Romans 14:13). Most of us are quick to criticize others, but it is far more important to be sure our own conduct is pleasing to the Lord. "For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged" (I Corinthians 11:31). Of course, it is very important for a real Christian, one who has been saved through personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, to live a life that is honoring to his Savior and that is helpful to his fellow Christians and to those he should try to lead to Christ. In order to evaluate particular activities and problems, God has established a number of general principles in His Word for our guidance. Some of these are as follows: If there is a specific warning or commandment in Scripture dealing with a particular matter, then there is no question. Thus, murder, adultery, fornication, drunkenness, theft, etc. are always wrong; such sins as these are clearly and definitely condemned in numerous Scriptures. When there is no specific Scriptural reference, it is good to ask, not whether a certain thing is wrong, but rather, if it is definitely good. The Bible says, for example, to "redeem the time" (Colossians 4:5). Our few days here on earth are so short and precious, in relation to eternity, that we ought never to waste time on selfish trivia, but to use it only on that "which is good, to the use of edifying" (Ephesians 4:29). A good test is to determine whether we can honestly, in good conscience, ask God to bless and use the particular activity for His own good purposes. "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God" (I Corinthians 10:31). If there is room for doubt as to whether it pleases God, then it is best to give it up. "For whatsoever is not of faith is sin" (Romans 14:23). We need to remember that our bodies, as well as our souls, have been redeemed and belong to God. "What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's" (I Corinthians 6:19, 20). This great truth should have a real bearing on what we do and where we go with our bodies. We must evaluate our actions not only in relation to God but also in relation to their effect on our family, our friends, and other people in general. Even if a particular thing may not hurt us personally, if it harmfully influences or affects someone else, it is wrong. "It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak... We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves" (Romans 14:21; 15:1). Remember, finally, that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior, and nothing else can be allowed to take priority over our conformity to His will. No habit, or recreation, or ambition can be allowed to have control over our lives. Only Christ has that authority. "All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any" (I Corinthians 6:12). "Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Colossians 3:17). Excerpt from The Bible Has the Answer, by Henry Morris and Martin Clark, published by Master Books, 1987 The Bible Has the Answer book by Henry Morris, Ph.D, and Martin E. Clark The Bible has the answers to the most important questions of life, and this book reveals what it says about more than 150 of those questions! Includes answers to some of the most difficult doctrines of Scripture

Sin

I'd like to bring to light scripture and hard core truth that would really solve a lot of problems in Christendom if we heeded the Lord's direction on the topic. There's actually a ton of meaty content on either side of the verses I'm going to highlight, so maybe that'll be a part two and three or more... Matthew 18:15-20 "If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. 16 But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' 17 If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector. 18 "I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. 19 Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." Before this verse Jesus is talking about lost sheep, after He shares a parable about the unmerciful servant, and then the next chapter leads into divorce... So, what I am talking about here is sin. We all sin. It's not like one day, we just 'out of the blue' decide to have an affair or murder someone or hoard or squander wealth or be 100lbs overweight. The list goes on, obviously, but an affair starts with poor/no communication, then co-existence, then striking up 'trust' and 'friendship' with someone of the opposite sex who is not your spouse, then justified late nights at work and BAMMO, your new 'best friend' is not the one God designed and you actually think that person is worth destroying your family over. You justify in your heart that you can be a great parent but not a great spouse. In summary, believing lies... Let's take the next one on the list...murder. You don't just go shoot/stab/whatever someone at lunch one day. There are obviously pent up emotions of anger and angst that build and build because healthy ways of dealing with disappointment, frustration, abandonment, rejection, were never sought. In summary, believing lies... Or take over-eating and obesity. You don't just wake up one day 25, 50, 100, 300lbs overweight. This sin of gluttony is real and I lived it, though I may have never 'looked' the part, it's abuse of God's temple, our bodies. In Some cases (mine) this one comes through daily choices of not taking a short walk, choosing life giving foods on a regular basis, and thinking food is something other than just that...food. In summary, believing lies... So, back to sins...James encourages us. "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." James 5:16 Most sermons you hear from this scripture only refer to the verses before that talk of faith healing for the sick. Well, sin makes us sick. Worry, fear, anger, pride, lust, greed, control, passive-aggressive angst, gossip, etc, etc. "My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins." James 5:19-20 Again, this verse is mainly used in circles referring to people who don't know Christ, but James is talking about Christians who are wandering, steeped in sin. We need to stop expecting the 'hardcore, real' sinners to start fessing up and heed the scriptures that are directed to followers of Christ. I've done it before and will most gladly do it over and over again...I will air my dirty laundry because as crappy as it is to admit I'm not perfect, it's not like anyone thought that in the first place, so, it's helping me see what everyone else has seen all along and what God sees, and that brings freedom. You know what satan loves (it's the only thing he's capable of 'loving'...)? He loves to hate us. He loves to see God's creation, that is, all of mankind, in bondage to sin. He loves lies and is the author of them, so when we realize we are believing lies and desire to break free from them, he gets REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY ticked off! And that's not the whole of it! He knows scripture more than many of us, so when he sees that we are starting to 'know' it and live it and walk in it, he freaks because he knows that a man who knows who they are in Christ is a dangerous force against his cause...the destruction of God's image, Man. Soooooo...when we openly confess our sins to one another, or are turned from sin because someone we love rebuked us, we are breaking the enemy of our hearts hold on us. No, it's not necessarily pleasant! It totally sucks, really. Oooh, how fun to tell the world that our sins...our dirty laundry...but once confessed it has no hold on us! James 4:4-10 says, "You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. 5 Or do you think Scripture says without reason that the spirit he caused to live in us envies intensely? 6 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." 7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 9 Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up." Legalism uses this Scripture to refer to not listening to anything other than Christian music or only going to Christian schools or boxing yourself into Christian circles so you aren't 'exposed' to the world. What I think it means is befriending sin. Befriending the temptations that so easily entangle, our buttons, our weaknesses, the thoughts that run through our minds, instead of taking them captive since they are in opposition to the Most High God. I love the book of James. There is so much meat in it. Anyway, the 'funny' thing about lies and sin is that it's not original. For instance, do you or your husband or your friend's husband or wife really think you are the only person to be tempted with looking at another beautiful person other than your own spouse? Oooh, it's not original! You aren't all that and a bag of chips! None of us is! Sin isn't original...it's WAY old, like, since even BEFORE the Garden (when Lucifer thought he was all that and a bag of chips), and until we get sick of it in our lives and openly confess it because of the blood of Christ, NOT CARING WHAT OTHERS THINK BUT ONLY CARING WHAT GOD THINKS, it will eat us alive, corrupt our hearts, our minds, our marriages, our attitudes, our relationships. It will cause us to believe that friendship with the world is where we were created to exist and take our focus off of heaven, God's presence, the place for which we were created to breathe. I'm not saying to go look for the specks of dust in everyone and their dogs' eyes. Though, if there is someone in your life who has sinned against you, or whom you have sinned against, go to them quickly instead of allowing it to eat away at your heart. Follow the instructions of Jesus above and if, after all the steps are followed, they don't give a rip, walk away, with forgiveness in your own heart and pray. Believe me, James says that the spirit he caused to live in us envies intensely, NOT slightly. God will work on that person's heart, and if they still are self-serving even after that...I guess I don't really know what happens. That's between them and God. Not all our sins have to be taken to this public a level if we would swallow our pride early on. Newspapers, tabloids and TV stations would actually report on news and not people's personal lives if we were willing to admit our need for prayer and sharpening in the first stages of temptation. I can tell you from personal experience, confession of sin to a 3rd party behind a booth or curtain has no accountability. When we are able to be real about our weaknesses, shortcomings and sins, face to face, full exposure, we are closer to healing and walking in freedom. Without accountability there is no motivation for change, and certainly no need for remorse and hardcore repentance.

THE HAPPY FILE

1. I thought this was a wonderful thing and I wanted to share.... “Be joyful always.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16 (NIV) It wasn’t what some would call a perfect day, but to her it was special. We had spent the day together just hanging out around the house. Simple things like lunch on the deck, soaking in the sunshine, and giggling over funny memories traced the outlines of our shared moments. That’s when she whispered a few words as if she were telling herself a secret, “This day is going in my Happy File.” She explained that her Happy File was a record kept of God’s simple blessings, those moments in time that beam with a little extra spark. You know the ones. When no one else would get it, but whenever you recall it… you smile. Her collection was spilling over the top. Often we choose to hang onto the bad memories. We relive the abuse. We replay piercing words. We carry the guilt and hold on to the shame. We forget the promise of Romans 8:1, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (NIV). No condemnation. Period, nada, zip, none! She found the Happy File very helpful when darkness came creeping into her life. Satan loves to fill our minds with negative thoughts and trip us up with stumbling blocks. A stash of happiness works like a flashlight in the middle of the night. The evil one can cloud our world with gloom, but when we open the file that holds God’s blessings, the shadows are shattered. So what are you choosing to keep on file? Here is the deal. Start a collection of Happy Files! God’s fingerprints are all over each day. Look for them! Record them! Recall them! Next, pull out those old musty files that have collected guilty dust and shameful mildew. One by one as they come to your mind plunge them into God’s thought-shredder. Second Corinthians 10:5 instructs, “Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (NIV). When you say this verse out loud, something amazing happens! The thoughts go away! God longs to give you freedom from guilt, shame, worry, and anything else that hinders your ability to be joyful. When you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you can begin daily to rid your mind of the garbage Satan has dumped on you and replace it with Happy Files. Then you truly can BE JOYFUL ALWAYS. Dear Father, thank You for forgiving us for every sin we have ever committed and promising never to condemn us for them! Help us each day to choose to live in the freedom of that promise and to be joyful always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Our Church Our Storm

I was sure by now That You would have reached down And wiped our tears away Stepped in and saved the day But once again, I say “Amen”, and it’s still raining As the thunder rolls I barely hear Your whisper through the rain “I’m with you” And as You mercy falls I raise my hands and praise the God who gives And takes away I’ll praise You in this storm And I will life my hands For You are who You are No matter where I am Every tear I’ve cried You hold in Your hand You never left my side And though my heart is torn I will praise You in this storm I remember when I stumbled in the wind You heard my cry You raised me up again My strength is almost gone How can I carry on If I can’t find You As the thunder rolls I barely hear You whisper through the rain “I’m with you” And as Your mercy falls I raise my hands and praise the God who gives And takes away I lift my eyes unto the hills Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord The Maker of Heaven and Earth

NEW*** Thankful Thursday

This Thursday I am thankful for....... A beautiful day outside, windows could be open, good day of school, laundry being done, my migrane FINALLY going away, chocolate brownies, good friends, our victoriously Frazzled Female study, My wonderful husband taking our children out so it was peaceful for study, late night talks, warm and comfy bed, My Jesus

What's in your bucket?

When our oldest daughter started Sunday School, she had a little girl in her class that she tried to play with and tried to get her to smile. She was a very sad little girl and it was a great concern to our daughter. We prayed with our daughter and God gave us great yet very simple wisdom. We pictured this little girl holding a bucket. And her bucket was empty. She didn't have any kindness or joy or smiles in her bucket. We told our daughter that every time she was kind to this little girl, some kindness would be put into her bucket. Every time she smiled at this little girl, a smile would go into her bucket, etc. And soon, this little girl would have some smiles in her bucket that she could share with our daughter. A few short weeks went by, our daughter came home from sunday school very excited. The little girl had smiled at our daughter for the first time. God showed our daughter the principle of sowing and reaping first hand. And she took great joy in learning this valuable lesson and seeing the answer to her prayers for this little girl. What you sow into other peoples' lives, you will also reap. Do you know the account of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38 and on? Martha is frantically trying to get things ready for a meal with Jesus, and Mary is sitting at Jesus' feet listening to Him. Martha gets irritated because Mary isn't helping her in the kitchen. But Jesus says, " Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only a few things are necessary, really only one; for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her." Martha was worried and bothered - those words mean anxious and disturbed. Wow, what are we anxious about today - what are we disturbed about today? When we allow those type of emotions to get into our thoughts and in our heart, we move into a realm of fear, doubt and unbelief. Those things are not from God. 2 Timothy 1:7 says that God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind. Fear,doubt and unbelief are the opposite of faith. Hebrews 11:6 - "Without faith it is impossible to please God". I want to please God. Jesus also told Martha that there is only one thing that is necessary....and Mary had chosen the good part. That is, sitting at Jesus' feet, spending time with Him, learning from Him and soaking in His everlasting love. And no one can take that away. I love that. No one can take away my precious time with Jesus. No one can take away my love for Him. No one can reach in and take away from me what God is doing in my heart. So today I say, "what's in MY bucket?" I have been running pretty hard the past couple weeks. Some things get pushed aside because of the busyness. I confess, I was being a "Martha". And the result of being too busy brought unrest to my heart. My bucket was not being filled daily with the sweet peace of Jesus. You know the old childrens' song "There's a hole in my bucket, dear Georgie, dear Georgie" ? I had a hole in my bucket and it leaked out everything I had. Jesus is so very faithful. His arms are always open - always open - and the invitation is always there to come meet with Him. I will be as Mary and choose the one good thing...sitting at His feet and taking in everything that He has for me for today. Blessings on you as you sit at the feet of Jesus.

There is a RIGHT and there is a WRONG

What is RIGHT...is not always EASY and What is EASY .... is not always RIGHT ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ And yes.....God says to LOVE THY NEIGHBOR However, God also says....... To everything there is a season.... There is a TIME to LOVE and if there is a TIME to love then to me that means there is a TIME when we need to place our love on the back burner and BE STRONG and do WHAT WE NEED TO DO in the name of LOVE. Being strong and doing what WE NEED TO DO doesn not mean...ILL WILL or HATRED. It simply means we need a back bone and need to do what is good and right and just....sometimes LOVE IS TOUGH it isn't always soft and kind and giving someone their way...or just not wanting to "make a scene" doesn't make it "LOVE". Jesus was a LOVING MAN....however when he knew ENOUGH WAS ENOUGH and he turned all the tables over in the synagoge....that didn't make Him unloving. He needed to be STRONG and DO THE RIGHT THING..... in the NAME of LOVE and what is right. So I believe that loving your neighbor does not mean being WEAK and letting them prevail so you don't "hurt" them. Discipline HURTS, Accountablitily can HURT, getting back on the RIGHT course can HURT. PAIN does not mean hatred. Pain can mean growth. Pain CAN mean love. However...LOVE does NOT MEAN you don't have to be strong and do what's right. Doing what is right in the name of LOVE is more important than letting someone go on doing wrong because you are afaird to offend or hurt them. Do you think Jesus was afaird when he was upset and turned the tables over? He did it in the NAME of love and WHAT IS RIGHT. We need what is RIGHT. THAT is real love. If I say I love my children and keep letting them do whatever they want.... because I am a Christian and should show love.....to me... That is NO LOVE AT ALL. However, if I make them accountable, responsible and if need be disciplined for their wrong actions THEN I am really showing them love. When I have a backbone....when I really care.... when I want God golified and I want the wrong dealt with... THAT IS LOVE!

God Is Using THIS

Four Words I recently heard four words that have changed how I view everything. These words are so profound to me, yet so simple. Before I share those words with you, I thought I’d share some instances in which those words can be used. See if you can relate: You have to work with a difficult co-worker. (A backstabber, perhaps?) Someone totally misunderstood what you had to say at Bible Study (or on your blog!) and became offended. Your ob-gyn calls you with questionable test results. You need to come in for a biopsy. You and your husband are in total disagreement regarding how a certain situation should be handled. The bills are mounting, and there's not enough money to pay them. Your toddler just decorated the couch with ketchup. The car made a pitiful noise when you started it this morning. Your child's teacher has some "concerns" and has requested a conference with you. You've prayed for years for a certain situation in your life to change, and it has changed alright… for the worse. Your teenager is deeply hurt over a friendship, and there’s nothing you can do about it. A loved one is continually making poor choices. And on, and on, and on. These scenarios (and more!) are what we face each and every day as plod this earth. There are moments and seasons of deep and abiding joy, punctuated by times of hurt, angst, and bewilderment. Here are the four words I heard a few weeks ago: God is using this. What if: Beth Moore (or insert the name your favorite Bible study teacher) was in town doing a conference, needed to make some last-minute changes in what she was going to say, and called you from the hotel to see if she could use one of your Bible study resources? Rachel Ray wanted to use one of your family recipes for her show? Laura Bush wanted to use one of your children’s books in a talk she was giving at your local library? Your favorite singer was sitting near you on an airplane wanted to use your iPod? I know these examples are somewhat far-fetched, but would you let them use what's yours? I would, in a heartbeat! It would be an honor for someone of their renown to want anything I have. I would offer it up gladly! What if the God of the universe, the Creator of all time, events, and people wanted to use the time, events and people in your life for His purposes? This one's not far-fetched at all. He does. God uses finite circumstances to accomplish eternal works. What a privilege it is to think that He would use what concerns me to fulfill His plans! And He does it every day. Oh, I think I've always been conscious of that on some level, and I’ve certainly repeated Romans 8:28 to myself plenty of times over the years, "God works all things together for good to those who love God, to those are called according to His purpose." (NASB) But lately, it has helped me so much to look situations square in the face and say out loud, "God is using this." These are the raw materials with which He will work as He "works all things together" in my life for my good and for His glory. He will use the big and small events in my life to mold me into the image of His Son, to draw me and others to Himself, to reveal more of His character, to further His Kingdom on this earth, and to bless me in this life as well as eternally. How that knowledge counsels my heart as I get a real sense that it is all in His hands. All of it- the good and the bad- must bow to His perfect will for my life and for this world. What are you facing today? Disappointment? Joy? Confusion? An area of bondage? Health issues? Remember, God is using this.

Mother Daughter night

Tonight was the Mother Daughter Banquet at First Assembly. I bought tickets for my mom, sister, my four daughters and myself. The food was great and all the wonderful men of the church serving us....Pastor Bob too was GREAT! They were so kind and so attentive. It was great. Rusty was very kind too because in the middle of all the hussle and bussle he went and sent up another table so we could all sit together and eat. Rusty is GREAT too!!! Anyway, it was a nice evening and the speaker was excellent! She spoke on the Victorian era. It was very enjoyable to listen to her. We learned alot of fascinating stuff. Anyway it was a fun evening. Oh, by the way...the picture of my girls is from a "secret keeper girl" spa evening I made for them a few months ago where I pampered them and did manicures, pedicures, facials....we had lots of giggles that evening too!

My Elizabeth, My Dear Elizabeth

Today is our Elizabeth Marie's 12th Birthday!!! Today is celebrate Elizabeth day!!! Elizabeth is our first baby...and I just cannot believe that 12 years have gone by like the blink of an eye. I love this child....of course I love ALL my children. It's just having her MADE ME a mommy. I remember being in the hospital (after ICU) and finally, when they were going to release me, I just couldn't believe...I just COULD NOT BELIEVE...that I got to, (that WE got to) take this precious little baby home. What did we know? We were never parents before!?!?!?! There was no "direction manual" (other than the Bible)...I needed a book that said...NURSE 8 times a day! CHANGE DIAPERS!!! Everytime she falls asleep and you place her down she WILL open her eyes...this WILL BE NORMAL!!!! Gosh, even my vacumn, phone, car has a MANUAL.....but this precious, little baby just trusted and depended on me, on us, for EVERYTHING!!! Now I realize that is just how I depend on God. I really feel that the greatest gift that God has blessed me with besides my wonderful, loving, patient, Godly husband.... and all my precious babies. This includes my heavenly angels. I just thank God everyday for these babies which I prayed for and they truly are my life. This is what God has called me to do and the ministry he has called me for at this season in my life. Some days are hard, others make me laugh and still others just tug at my heart with moments I will treasure even when I get to heaven, I am sure. Nothing....NOTHING.....means more to me than the PEOPLE God has placed ion my life. THEY are the gifts, the blessings, the spirit of God that keeps me going. I am so thankful for everyone God has given me. I am so thankful for my husband, my children and my Dear Sweet Elizabeth. Today we celebrate her. Today we went to lunch, and FBS and to get her nails manicured and for fappicanions and then tonight her favorite dinner and cake and presents. Elizabeth is 12 now.....and she has been a gift to me since the day I was blessed with knowing I was having her. I thank you Jesus for your mercies on me and giving me things I could never earn or deserve. You are an AWESOME GOD........and thank you for trusting me with your sweet child Elizabeth. I am honored beyond words and I pray I do you justice Jesus. I love you God and I love the beautiful gift that you have given ME today...this May 9th of a little soul that will always, ALWAYS mean you bless me much more than I could ever deserve. Thank you Jesus. I love you. I love you too my dear Elizabeth Marie who is 12 years old today!!!!!!

My Handsome, My Samuel Walter

Today, Tuesday May 8th is my little guys 7th birthday. Our Samuel Walter Bishop turns 7 today. He is such a sweet and loving little guy. He has a gentle heart. He cares about everyone. He is a cuddler. Samuel started T-ball this year at the Christian Youth Center and he is so happy his team color is RED. The color of Spiderman. He loves "daddy time" He has long talks with mommy. He loves Jesus so much. When I think back 7 years ago when I delivered him...his story is amazing and it is because of the hand of God and a wonderful OB that Samuel is here today. If he would have gone to his due date we would have lost him because of 2 tight knots in his umbicial cord. I thank Jesus EVERY SINGLE DAY for this little boy. This GIFT! This joy in my life. His heart is pure and his love is open and honest. He is a Jesus follower and a totasl gift from God. I hear he shares a birthday with Pastor Rick too!!!! You couldn't ask for better company to share a birthday with. It's nice for little boys to have Godly mean to follow...in their daddies and Pastors and of course Spiderman...(who Samuel recently told me loves Jesus too!) Thank you Jesus for small gifts that grow into BIG BLESSINGS!!! I love you Jesus and I thank you and I love this baby boy you have entrusted to loan to me. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to our SAMUEL WALTER BISHOP!!!!! WE LOVE YOU!!!!!~~~~~~~