Bad Girls of the Bible- Chapter 10 Bible Study

Welcome back!

If you are new, thanks for stopping by!

We are on our final chapter in this book today,
which feels pretty awesome!

Today I am going to focus on The Sinful Woman.

There once was a girl on death row.

A prostitute & killer, we know.

He pardoned her sin,

so she might live once again.

For the rest of the story read below...

Luke 7:36-50  "One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to have dinner with him, so Jesus went to his home and sat down to eat.  When a certain immoral woman from that city heard he was eating there, she brought a beautiful alabaster jar filled with expensive perfume.  Then she knelt behind him at his feet, weeping.  Her tears fell on his feet, and she wiped them off with her hair.  The she kept kissing his feet and putting perfume on them.  When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, "If this man were a prophet, he would know what kind of woman is ouching him.  She's a sinner!"  Then Jesus answered his thoughts.  "Simon," he said to the Pharisee, "I have something to say to you."  "Go ahead, Teacher," Simon replied.  Then Jesus told him this story: 

"A man loaned money to two people-- 500 pieces of silver to one and 50 pieces to the other.  But neither of them could repay him, so he kindly forgave them both, canceling their debts.  Who do you suppose loved him more after that?"

Simon answered, "I suppose the one for whom he canceled the larger debt."  "That's right," Jesus said.  Then he turned to the woman and said to Simon, "Look at this woman kneeling here.  When I entered your home, you didn't offer me water to wash the dust from my feet, but she has washed them with her tears and wiped them with her hair.  You didn't greet me with a kiss, but from the first time I came in, she has not stopped kissing my feet.  You neglected the courtesy of olive oil to anoint my head, but she has anointed my feet with rare perfume.  "I tell you, her sins--and they are many--have been forgiven, so she has shown me much love.  But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love."  Then Jesus said to the woman, "Your sins are forgive."  The men at the table said among themselves, "Who is this man, that he goes around forgiving sins?"  And Jesus said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."

Take a moment and think about what you just read.

Does it give you goosebumps when you realize how AWESOME our father is?

He sent his son here to show love and forgiveness.

People doubted who and what he was, but this woman took a leap of faith.

She wanted a better life.

She cried tears over HIS feet to wash them.

She dried HIS feet with her hair.

She anointed HIS feet with the most expensive items she probably owned.

And his response to her, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."

I don't know about you, but there are days when I would love to hear those words spoken to me.

I am not perfect.

**psst...here is a surprise, but none of us are perfect**

I know Jesus died for my sins, but to have been able to sit at his feet.

Whoa.

There are those goosebumps again.

I probably would have cried at his feet too.

When was the last time you humbled yourself in HIS presence?

My suggestion to you, and a challenge to myself is, find some quiet time this next week.

During that time just allow the walls to break down.

Cry if you need, sing if you please, whatever you do just do it humbly for him.

I have this suspicion that when you walk away from that quiet time you'll, "go in peace".

This is a short lesson this week.

I am kinda feeling that less is more.

So let's get to the next part....

WHAT LESSONS CAN WE LEARN FROM The SINFUL Woman?

- 1 - People will talk, no matter what we do.

"We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts." ~ 1 Thessalonians 2:4

- 2 - The Pharisees though they were the Good Guys.

"No on is good--except God along." ~Mark 10:18

- 3 - One person's beautiful is another person's ugly.

"For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.  To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life." ~ 2 Corinthians 2:15-16

- 4 - Silence speaks volumes.

"The LORD is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him." ~Habakkuk 2:20

Once again I challenge you to find some quiet time this week.

Time that you can go to HIM humbly.

Pray, Sing, Cry, Sit Silently, do as you please.

When your time is up, do as he says, "go in peace".

I hope you have enjoyed this time of study.

Please let me know if you would like to see something in particular in our discussions or if you have any questions.

I hope you have a Blessed Friday!

P.S. Next Friday I will be doing a book review over 'SURFING FOR GOD: Discovering the Divine Desire Beneath Sexual Struggle' by Michael John Cusick.  This book is a book I was given for free to review, the subject matter is intense, but if you or someone you know is struggling with any types of sexual struggles please check back next week for my review.

Bad Girls of the Bible- Chapter 9 Bible Study

Welcome back!

If you are new, thanks for stopping by!

It's been a few weeks *cough 8* since we talked about our Bad Girls of the Bible.

I am sorry about that, the move and vacations really has thrown me off my groove.

We only have 2 chapters left in this book so let's get to one of them.

Today I am going to focus on Michal.

Chapter 9: Out of Step

A smitten girl.

A handsome boy.

And a father out for blood.

Sounds like most dating relationships right?

Okay maybe not so much.

The beginning of this story leads us to believe that the bad guy is 100% Saul.

Michal seems to genuinely love David and goes so far as to warn him that if he stays he will be killed.

She sends the love of her life off so that his life will be spared!

In doing so she may never see him again.

Sounds honorable.

Heroic.

But it's possible that her actions were driven by less than pure motives.

The book says "What initially appeared as the selfless act of a loving wife might turn out to be the selfish game-playing of an immature, infatuated girl".

She was making her father look like a fool.

By the time she realized that her father wasn't up for playing games she also realized she needed a better story than "...but I LOVE HIM".

1 Samuel 19:17 "Why have you betrayed me like this and let my enemy escape?" Saul demanded of Michal.  "I had to," Michal replied.  "He threatened to kill me if I didn't help him".

Wait.

Hold up.

WHAT?!

You send away the man you love in hopes of saving him only to give your father a line like that?

EVERY girl should know that a line like that will only fuel a fathers desire to find and kill David that much greater!

David is gone.

Saul still wants him dead.

Michal is married off to another.

Flash forward.

David comes out of hiding.

He's stronger now and he wants Michal back.

And what David wants, he gets.

He's a busy man, doing all he can to glorify the Lord.

2 Samuel 6:16 "And when she saw King David leaping and dancing before the Lord, she despised him in her heart." 

"His leaping was the last straw, but the haystack had been building for a very long time.  David had deserted her, ignored her, married other wives, fathered other children, and neglected even to include her in his life until it was politically expedient". ~pg 219

Over the years Michal has been filled with an array of emotions, not one of them being positive towards David.
When David returned 'home' to greet his Michal she stormed out to give him a tongue lashing all her own.
She viewed his dancing as risque, raunchy, inappropriate.
None of which were any of the things that David was going for.
He was dancing to show his passion for God, but Michal was unable to view it that way.
It was her harshness towards David that caused David to lash back.
He cut her from his life, promising to always be 'foolish' for the Lord.
That was that.
Michal always was "daughter of Saul".
She was never really "wife of David".
This was her own doing though, if you don't cleave from your parents when you marry there will always be something getting in the way of you truly growing close to your spouse.
The book sums up Michal as Bad for a Moment.
That moment was when she lashed out at David.
"...she never reached out to her heavenly Father, never gave her heart to God...in truth she never depended on the goodness of God to make her whole". ~pg 221

With all this said.....

WHAT LESSONS CAN WE LEARN FROM MICHAL?

- 1 - When God says dance, strap on your tap shoes!
"You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy". Psalm 30:11

- 2 - Nothing stops worship like unconfessed sin.
"An evil man is snared by his own sin, but a righteous one can sing and be glad". Proverbs 29:6

- 3 - Words spoken in the heat of anger are sure to burn.
"Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for a man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires". James 1:19-20

- 4 - Wise is the woman who rises above her circumstances
"When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other". Ecclesiastes 7:14

In my eyes Michal is not bad.
At least not in the traditional sense.
Michal is like most of us.
If our husbands were sent away and didn't think about us for the extent of their absence we would be hurt.
I know I would.
Michal was hurt and she used that hurt to fuel an anger that was placed in her heart by her father.
We have to be careful of seeds like that.
Family is influential like that.
Family can sway our vote quicker than any other.
Forget peer pressure, parental pressure can be detrimental to your health!
This week remember these lessons and use them to fuel all you do.
Dance.
Repent.
Soften your heart AND your tongue.
Rise above.
In the end you will feel better and you will be honoring God at the same time!

I hope you have enjoyed this time of study.

Please let me know if you would like to see something in particular in our discussions or if you have any questions.

I hope you have a Blessed Friday!

Bible Verse Friday-

"Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight!

Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of guilt, whose lives are lived incomplete honesty!

When I refused to confess my sin, my body wasted away, and I groaned all day long.

Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me.  My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat.

Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt.  I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD."  And you forgave me!  All my guilt is gone.

Therefore, let all the godly pray to you while there is still time, that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgement.

For you are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble.  You surround me with songs of victory.

The LORD says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.  I will advise you and watch over you.  

Do not be like senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control."

Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the LORD.

So rejoice in the LORD and be glad, all you who obey him!  Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!"

~Psalm 32

My NLT Life Application Study Bible Says the following:

Here David expressed the joy of forgiveness.
God wants to forgive sinners.  Forgiveness has always been part of his loving nature.
He forgives disobedience, puts sin out of sight, and clears our record of guilt.
What is confession?
To confess our sin is to agree with God, acknowledging that he is right to declare what we have done is sinful and that we are wrong to desire or to do it.  It means affirming our intention of forsaking that sin in order to follow God more faithfully.
God describes some people as being like horses or mules that have to be controlled by bits and bridles.  Rather than letting God guide them step by step, they stubbornly leave God only one option.  If God wants to keep them useful for him, he must use discipline and punishment.  God longs to guide us with love and wisdom rather than punishment.  He offers to teach us the best way to go.  Accept the advice written in God's Word and don't let your stubbornness keep you from obeying God.

I think we have all heard the phrase:
"We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God".
Have you ever stopped to think about how judgmental we can all be.
We judge people's sins as though some are worse than others.
While in our eyes it may seem that way in God's eyes all sin is equal.
We need to work on adjusting our hearts to remember this, because if we can remember this than we will know that we are no better than anyone else.

Our sins are the same as theirs.
The only thing that all of us can do is confess them to God and ask his forgiveness.
I think far to often we trick ourselves into believing that if we ignore this 'little' sin it'll go away.
But we can not hide it from God.
God knows and sees all.
We are open books to him and he is just asking us to confess what's been written so that we can turn the page.

Do you have something that is lingering in you today?
Have you said something hurtful?
Have you thought something lustful?
Have your been dishonest or deceitful?
Take a moment right now.
Get on your knees and put a name on what you have done.
Rebuke it.
Dispel  Satan from his handle and ask GOD to forgive you.
Do not be stubborn.
Stubbornness only increases your struggle.
Let go and let God lead you, gracefully and gently down the path he has planned for you.

I hope you read this today and make peace with something that is troubling you.
Not a day goes by when God doesn't want to forgive you and shower you with grace and love.

I hope you have a Blessed Friday!

P.S. Next week there will be no Bible Verse Friday as it's the 27th of the month and thus time for a Baby Diary entry.  On another note, starting in August I would like to put a little spin on Bible Verse Friday and spend some time focusing on actual Bible Study.  More specifically Women of the Bible.  If you would care to join me I am starting off with Bad Girls of the Bible feel free to get a copy 2nd hand for less here.  I will also be getting the workbook, but you don't have to get that if you don't want to.  I am thinking that each week we will cover one chapter/one woman and I will select some questions to discuss here.  I would love feedback if you have read or have insight!  I look forward to this new journey!

Bible Verse Friday

"And this is the way to have eternal life-to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth".

~John 17:3

My NLT Life Application Study Bible Says the following:

How do we get eternal life?  Jesus tells us clearly here--by knowing God the Father himself through his son, Jesus Christ.  Eternal life requires entering into a personal relationship with God in Jesus Christ.  When we admit our sin and turn away from it, Christs's love lives in us by the Holy Spirit.

This verse has been referred to as the "Definition of Eternal Life".
Simply know who God is and who Jesus was will not guarantee your everlasting salvation.
There is so much more to knowing them.
I know who the mailman is, but I don't KNOW him as a person.
I have no idea what his dreams, goals, struggles, etc are.
When we commit to knowing God we are committing to learning more about him.
Building the relationship that will fulfill both of you beyond your wildest dreams.

Knowing God is not as easy as going to church.
Who he is will not JUMP out at you as you read the Bible.
His love for you will not be fully encapsulated in worship songs.
But all of those things are small glimpses at the message he is trying to share with you.
As you go to church you must make a vow to not take the sermon at face value.
You should take notes or at the very least write down the verses that are shared with you.
Later when you find time you should open your Bible, ask God to guide your eyes to see what he has for you, and review the verses that were discussed.
Make sure they were used in proper context.
When you are finished pray that God will help you fully comprehend what you have read.
Sing his praises.
All of these things will help you to learn who God is and who Jesus Christ was.

By knowing him, by loving him, by giving yourself to him you are guaranteeing your eternal life.


Take a moment to focus on your relationship with God right now.
Apologize if you haven't been able to give him the time he deserves, I know I am guilty of this.
Thank him for his many blessings.
Ask him to guide you as you progress through your days.
These small steps will add up and your relationship with him with grow beyond what I can explain.


I hope you have a Blessed Friday! 

Bible Verse Friday

"You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand". ~Psalm 16:11

Someday I feel God's guidance more than others.
I'm sure we have all had those days.
The ones where as soon as we ponder some aspect of our life it seems we have the answer jumping at us.
Other times it seems we begin to ponder only to find ourselves revisiting the issue over and over never quite clear on what our next step should be.

Maybe it's a relationship.
Whether or not to expand your family.
Your career.

Whatever it may be God has a path for us.
If we give all things to him he will show us that path.
Ultimately, all the paths we choose should start and end with how we think it will glorify God.
If we keep that in mind, thus keeping HIM in mind, we will be filled with a joy like none other.
He promises us eternal life and we must remember that THAT is far greater than anything we can encounter here on earth.

I recently had a conversation with a friend about a relationship she is in.
She wasn't quite sure where it was going.
I know that sometimes when we are smack dab in the middle of something it is easy to become overly immersed in it and that can cloud our vision.
It is during these times that we must fall to our knees and ask God to give us 20/20 vision, or better yet 20/15!
If we ask AND then listen, he will eventually show you which fork to take at this crossroad.

I pray that all of you are fully trusting God with your lives.
That you believe he has the best intentions for you.
That you know it won't always be easy, but that it will always be worth it.

If you are having a hard time with a decision in your life and would like prayer, please feel free to shoot me a private message.
I would love to help you through whatever you are facing, BIG or small.

I hope you have a Blessed Friday!

Bible Verse Friday

"but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.  They will soar on the wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint". ~Isaiah 40:31

My NLT Life Application Study Bible Says the following:

Trusting in the Lord is the patient expectation that God will fulfill his promises in his Word and strengthen us to rise above life's difficulties.  Do you believe God loves you and wants the best for you?  Can you relax, confident that his purposes are right?  Are you convinced that he has the power to control all of life---and your life as well?  Though your faith may be struggling or weak, accept his provisions and care for you.

Let's take this line by line and engrain this concept in our hearts.

'Trusting in the Lord is the patient expectation that God will fulfill his promises in his Word and strengthen us to rise above life's difficulties'.

Just last week I was talking about 1 Corinthians 10:13 and how God will not allow us to be tempted more than we can handle.  Do you think temptations are the only thing that God protects us from?  Surely not.  I can read that above line and simply believe it.  If he brings us to it he will bring us through it.  I know that being a Christian is not a pathway to the easy road, in fact it can be harder being a Christian at times, but I know that God is with me and he protects me.

'Do you believe God loves you and wants the best for you?'

Um Hello, John 3:16 "For GOD so loved the world (i.e. us) that he gave his only begotten son, that who so ever believes in him, will not perish, but have ever lasting life".  If that doesn't prove that he loves us and wants the best for us...I don't know what else would.  Now that I am a mother I can't imagine giving my child up to die for everyone else's sins.  I selfishly would want to keep my child from having to endure that, fortunately I will never have to deal with watching my child crucified on a cross for all mankind.  I KNOW without a shadow of a doubt that GOD loves me.  Do you?  Where do your doubts lie?  Maybe if there are doubts we can dive into more scripture that will show us why we encounter the struggles and doubts that we do.

Can you relax, confident that his purposes are right?

First off can you relax?  I can.  I know a lot of people who can't though.  They aren't able to just breathe, let life work itself out naturally.  They have their hands and fingers on every aspect because without that 'control' they are afraid of the outcome.  We must find confidence that he has a plan for our lives and that it is perfect.  I didn't know what kind of mother I would be before I had Bitsy.  Now that she is here I see my developing motherhood and I like how God is molding me.  I don't worry about her like some parents.  I know that God has his hands around her.  I know there is NOTHING I can do that will keep her safe from EVERYTHING and EVERYONE good, bad, or in between.  So even if parenthood is not in your realm I'm sure that there is something in life that you feel in charge of, be it yourself, a family member, etc... How do you handle that on a daily basis.  Do you micro manage and worry...try to take a day and worry about it less.  Pray more.  Trust God.  At the end of that day...you might see that your muscles aren't as tense, you sleep better, and you have more hope for the next day.

Are you convinced that he has the power to control all of life---and your life as well?

When I was young I used to think of the world as GOD's giant doll house.  I didn't know how he could possible move each of us through out our lives without having a million hands.  Oh the mind of a child.  I know now that we all have the ability to care for ourselves.  We all have free will.  But I know now that GOD does hear us.  All of us.  It's like in the movie Bruce Almighty...when he starts hearing all the voices praying.  I think that's what God hears, except I think that he has a better grasp on it...he has been doing this for longer than we can imagine!  So yes, I am convinced, are you?  If not where do you struggle with this?

Though your faith may be struggling or weak, accept his provisions and care for you.


Simple as that.
Accept.
Relinquish YOURself and Accept HIM!


I hope you have a Blessed Friday!

Bible Verse Friday

~No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind.  And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.  But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it~ 

1 Corinthians 10:13

This rings so true.

How often do you go on a diet, ONLY to feel as though everyone else is trying to help you cheat?

How often do you put yourself on a budget, only to be assaulted by a million ideas of things you'd like to purchase?

How frequently do you set goals only to feel as though any and everything that could impede your planning will and does?

When we make goals and plans it is then that Satan attacks.

He wants us to feel a sense of failure.

He wants us to give up.

Our house juggles the stresses and temptations of a budget on a daily basis.

I've mentioned before that Bud & I are aggressively working to pay down our student debt.

Our only debt.

We give ourselves an allowance each month, but it never seems like enough.

The money seems to come in and go out just as rapidly.

We are tempted by nice patio furniture at Target.

I am tempted by fabric at the quilt shop, especially now that I have my sewing machine back.

We are tempted by the idea of having 2 cars.

**In case you didn't know we are a one car family.

That means that most days (98% of the time) Bud drives to work and Bitsy and I are home all day.

If there is something going on that I want to go to I try really hard to see if anyone near me is going so that we can hitch a ride, if that doesn't work, Bud might drive home during lunch and I'll drop him back off on my way out.**

It's humbling.

I am tempted by my neighbors beautiful plants and yards.

Bud is tempted by unhealthy foods.

But I must remember that God will not allow us to be tempted any more than we can bear.

Despite wanting to furnish our home with beautiful items, I have found peace in knowing that it'll feel so much better when we are debt free.  

Even though having 2 vehicles would make it possible for Bitsy & I to be more mobile during the week, I have found comfort in knowing that it would probably lead to too many 'just because we can' trips that would equate in spending money I shouldn't.

In the face of unhealthy choices, Bud is faced with the reality that the military requires a certain standard of him weight wise, and he too wants to be healthy.

No matter what temptations we face, God prompts us to think about the reward of being debt free.

We think of all that we will be able to do to glorify him when we don't have that debt looming over us, he reminds us of this frequently.

What things tempt you?

In what ways do you feel God tugging at your conscience to make the right choice?

How do you find support?

It can be difficult for us because everyone around us seems to spend money as though it grows on trees.

It's difficult when going out to dinner or going shopping are activities on the table because we are pinching pennies.

I have no problem going shopping with a friend, but I always feel pressured when they ask, "Aren't you getting anything"?

How do you all deal with that?

I am thankful for a God who I know protects me, shelters me, and teaches me.

He will not give me more than I can bear.

If he brings me to it he'll bring me through it.

I hope you all have a Blessed Friday!

Bible Verse Friday #41

"My child, listen when your father corrects you.  Don't neglect your mother's instructions.  What you learn from them will crown you with grace and be a chain of honor around your neck". ~Proverbs 1:8-9

My NLT Life Application Study Bible Says the following:

Our actions speak louder than words.  This is especially true in the home.  Children learn values, morals, and priorities by observing how their parents act and react every day.  If parents exhibit a deep reverence for and dependence on God, the children will catch these attitudes.  Let them see your reverence for God. Teach them right living by giving worship an important place in your family life and by reading the Bible together.

Wow!?

Does that weigh as heavy on you as it does me?

"What you learn from them will crown you with grace and be a chain of honor around your neck".

That is a lot of pressure.

But I guess you can say it's the best kind of pressure.

It's the kind that motivates you.

As parents we are responsible for molding our children.

Last week I touched on discipline.

This week I'm focusing a bit more on our role as the parents.

Before I became a Mom I had an idea of what it would be like.

The reality of it is a little less froo froo than I imagined.

I wouldn't change it for a minute though.

Being a parent is a lot of work.

It can be stressful, exhausting, and trying.

So many people judge how you raise your kids and for some reason they have no problem verbalizing what you are doing wrong, despite the fact that they don't know you from Eve!

That being said, being a parent means molding your children into Godly people.

You must be strict in some aspects of their lives while still allowing room for their own personalities to emerge.

Since becoming a Mom, Bud & I have had many conversations about how we plan to handle certain situations when they arise.

There are oh so many situations we haven't discussed and can't plan for until they happen, but it's nice to try to get on the same page early on.

Do you and your spouse have talks like this?

If you are a single parent who do you seek counsel with, your own parents, friends, etc?

I realize so often that concepts that I thought I was set on are often pushed to the wayside in lieu of alternate concepts I opt for instead.

I catch myself working on myself more now that I have a little one.

I try to be more patient now.

More forgiving.

Less judgmental (whether or not a woman wants to breastfeed her almost 4 year old is her business)

I am more open to hearing how other people handle situations so that I can stow those ideas away for when nothing I seem to be doing works.

It is Bud & I's job to raise well-rounded, God-fearing/loving, honest, well mannered, patient, creative, etc....children.

I realize, upon reading this verse and feeling the weight of its words, that we can not do this alone.

We must put it in God's hands that he will mold US into the parents he wants us to be.

Only in giving him control of our children will we be of any use in their lives.

I hope you have a Blessed Friday!

Book #36: Covenant Child - Terri Blackstock

"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness.  Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance". ~2 Peter 3:9

Book Description

Amanda’s heart broke as she watched them drive her beloved twins away. She resolved to hope . . . and to fight for them to her last breath.

Kara and Lizzie are heiresses to one of the largest fortunes in the country. But when their father dies suddenly, the toddlers are ripped from the arms of Amanda, their loving stepmother, and given to their maternal grandparents, who only want the children’s fortune for themselves.

While even the stipend their guardians get for supporting them is squandered, the children are left to raise themselves. Kara and Lizzie grow up believing they are worthless . . . until the day when they learn the truth.

Covenant Child can best be described as a modern day prodigal son story.

This book is an easy read and I found myself eagerly turning pages this week!

I liked Terri's writing as it was raw in some parts.  It wasn't always pretty and sweet like many Christian fiction books tend to be.  The life of the main characters was rough and hard and she portrayed that in an honest and real way.  

In reading this book you find out that one twin returns home upon her 18th birthday leaving to claim the fortune that was promised her.  The other is more stubborn and doesn't like the idea that if she goes 'home' she will need to finish school, live by the rules of someone else, etc.  Her stubbornness leads her to try to find a way to sue her step mother for what she believes is rightfully hers.  Despite knowing that all along she could have it if she would just come 'home'.  

This illustration reminds me of a toddler who constantly says "I can do it"!

Too often toddlers are learning how to be independent and don't realize that others hold knowledge and experience far greater than they can comprehend.

So we let the toddler try and try and try again until either they get it or they ask for help.  

In this situation the rebellious twin has a hard time learning that she won't get her way....that she must give up her pride.

It isn't until she is to her lowest point that she finally decides to ask for help.

The story is so much a reflection of God's love for us.  

He gave us free will and the ability to choose how we live our lives.

He will not interfere or force himself on us, but he loves us unconditionally and he hopes that we choose the route that leads to him.

Far too often we must be brought to our knees before we realize it's time to ask for his guidance and help.

I enjoyed reading this book and encourage everyone to read it.

Especially if you have ever doubted God's love or promises.

"For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ.  And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God". ~2 Corinthians 1:20.

Oh and if you didn't check back at my last book review I'd just like to announce that we have a winner of the MOMumental Giveaway!

**Drumroll**

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Congratulations Bethany B.

I will be in contact with you to organize the shipment of your copy of MOMumental!

I hope you all have a Blessed Saturday!

I received this book free from the publishers through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program.  I was not required to write a positive review.  The opinions I have expressed are my own.  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising." 

Bible Verse Friday #40

"No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening-it's painful!  But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way". ~ Hebrews 12:11

My NLT Life Application Study Bible Says the following:

We may respond to disciple in several ways: (1) We can accept it with resignation; (2) we can accept it with self-pity, thinking we really don't deserve it; (3) we can be angry and resentful toward God; or (4) we can accept it gratefully, as the appropriate response we owe a loving Father.

As a child when I did something wrong I received a spanking.
If I lied...I recall receiving 3 spankings.
"This is for lying to me".
"This is for lying to your Mom".
"This is for lying," my Dad would proclaim.

I know that many people don't believe in spankings, and that is fine.
I am thankful for the spankings I received as a child because it helped mold me into the adult I am today.
I learned quickly not to do things I wasn't supposed to because I didn't want to be spanked.
My brother was not as keen to this.
As soon as he would start to do something I knew he shouldn't I would try to warn him..."Don't you remember what happened last time you did that"?
He didn't think his older sister knew anything so he would continue misbehaving and then he would be shocked to receive a spanking.

The Bible tells us that discipline isn't supposed to be enjoyable.
It is supposed to be painful.
I think that is so we remember that doing bad = pain.
The 2nd half of this verse though is SO important.
"But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way".
By being disciplined we yield right living.

Discipline doesn't happen to only children as I'm sure many of you have experienced.
Speeding = tickets.
Laziness (can)= getting fired.
Crimes = jail time.
Etcetera, etcetera, etcetera.

However, people can and will eventually learn after being punished that they don't like it.
So the best thing for them is to stop doing what is wrong.
(Don't get me wrong, I know that there are still people who will speed always, there are criminals who never stop doing horrible things), but the point is that if we didn't discipline them there would never be any hope of them reverting from their ways.
I often wonder if the adults who do so many horrible things were disciplined as children?
(Again, I don't mean beatings here, that is a whole other topic).
What I'm referring to is did they have parents who took the time to notice when their child did something naughty?
Was their punishment equal to the 'crime' committed?
"afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained this way".

Maybe it's because I am a new Mommy.
Maybe it is because I got spankings.
Whatever the reason, I know that disciplining my children is not a choice.
It is an obligation for me to figure out how and to what extent I mold my children based on their actions.
I want to raise well mannered children who are fruitful in all they do.
So the next time your little one does something wrong, it is your duty to punish them according to how YOU see fit.
Just remember though, the Bible says "no discipline is enjoyable while it is happening".
So whether it be time out, restrictions, spankings etc., it will pay off in the end.
And I guarantee you that your children will someday thank you.

I hope that you have a Blessed Friday!

**All opinions on this topic are my own, I pray that I haven't offended anyone.**
P.S. Don't forget to enter my giveaway it ends tonight, winner announced tomorrow!

Bible Verse Friday #39

"After exploring the land for forty days, the men returned to Moses, Aaron, and the whole community of Israel at Kadesh in the wilderness of Paran.  They reported to the whole community what they had seen and showed them the fruit they had taken from the land.  This was their report to Moses: "We entered the land you sent us to explore, and it is indeed a bountiful country -a land flowing with milk and honey.  Here is the kind of fruit it produces.  But the people living there are powerful, and their towns are large and fortified.  We even saw giants there, the descendants of Anak!  The Amalekites live in the Negeve, and the Hitites live in the hill country.  The Canaanites live along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea and along the Jordan Valley." ~Numbers 13:25-29

My NLT Life Application Study Bible Says the following:

God told the Israelites that the Promised Land was rich and fertile.  Not only that, he promised that this bountiful land would be theirs.  When the scouts reported back to Moses, they gave plenty of good reasons for entering the land, but they couldn't stop focusing on their fear.  Talk of giants (descendants of Anak) and fortified cities made it easy to forget about God's promise to help.  When facing a tough decision, don't let the negative cause you to lose sight of the positives.  Weigh both sides carefully.  Don't let potential difficulties blind you to God's power to help and his promise to guide.

Optimist?

Pessimist?

Realist?

When you look at the glass what do you see?

I have always joked that I see another dirty dish that needs to be cleaned.

I suppose that puts me in the realist category.

Think about it for a minute though, how do you approach each day?

How do you view life's advances?

This verse tells us of where the focus of the scouts was.

Despite seeing God's promised land and knowing that he promised it, they focused on the negative.

This caused them to forget...wait for it...GOD PROMISE!

How often do we allow ourselves to be blinded by negativity?

Honestly, I really have worked on this over the past few years.

I'm in no way perfect or immune to negativity, but I can say that I try to recognize it for what it is when it attacks.

Negativity is like a virus.

It spreads like wildfire.

Negativity is corrosive.

It can erode faith leaving room for Satan to grab hold and plant seeds of hopelessness, bitterness, and resentment.

Think about that for a moment.

I believe that focusing on the negative can be a result of mental laziness.

It can be A LOT of work to find the good in situations.

That is why we must practice looking for the good so that we can build the muscles in our heart and brain to automatically seek positivity.

Athletes train their muscles with repetitious activities.

In doing so they barely even have to think when put in compromising situations.

Their bodies simple react based on the training they've given themselves.

This is the same type of rigorous training we, as Christians, must practice on a daily basis.

By looking for the good, focusing on the positive, it'll be easier for us to automatically dial into it when we are placed in compromising situations.

The next time you encounter a positive vs negative situation here is my advice:

Stop for a moment and put a name to that negativity.

Now that you have claimed it....vaccinate it.

Find something positive to replace it.

If you are around someone who is just grumpy and grouchy, try to point out the good in their situation.

Wear a smile.

It's your best line of defense against catching and passing on the virus that is negativity.

I hope you have a Blessed Friday!

Bible Verse Friday #38

"So Joshua told the Israelites, "Come and listen to what the Lord your God says". ~ Joshua 3:9

My NLT Life Application Study Bible says the following:

Just before crossing over into the Promised Land, Joshua gathered the people to hear the words of the Lord.  Their excitement was high.  No doubt they wanted to rush on, but Joshua made them stop and listen.  We live in a a fast-paced age where everyone rushes just to keep up.  It is easy to get caught up in our tasks, becoming too busy for what God says is most important--listening to his words.  Before making your schedule, take time to focus on what God wants from all your activities.  Knowing what God has said before you rush into your day can help you avoid foolish mistakes.

I don't think I know a single person who isn't busy.

Growing up I was really bad at writing letters or thank you notes.

I remember telling my Grandmother via the phone that I had been busy.

Her response has stuck with me and changed me more than she knows.

"Biz, EVERYONE is busy.  You must make time".

Ever since I have worked really hard to send out thank you notes within days of receiving gifts or visiting friends.

I work hard to get letters or emails or Facebook messages out to those I don't see often.

We are all busy and if we don't slow down we will make foolish mistakes.

One of methods to keeping sane involves having a schedule.

I sit down at the beginning of each month and review my calendar.

I write in what chores I should do what days, what blog posts I'll write and when, and of course any appointments or activities any of us has planned that month.

This verse tells us that we should take the time to focus on God when we write our schedules.

If I spend time with him not only do I find peace that he bestows upon me, but I also feel that everything falls into place better.  

This isn't always the case...life happens...and being a Christian isn't an instant pass to a carefree life, but more often than not when I let go and let God things work out for the better.

Take a moment this weekend to review what you have going on next week.

While you are doing this pray over your week, your schedule, and all that it holds.

Ta-da....you have just spent time with God.

Now when you are done...take a few moments to sit quietly and listen.

It is in these moments of stillness that we can hear God speaking to our hearts.

Sometimes he might be asking us to squeeze something more into your schedule (helping a friend, neighbor, your kids school, etc)...other times he may ask you to cut back (teaching us to say "No", this can be a hard thing to learn)...listen.

We all know what waits for us in the end.

HEAVEN.

As excited as we are to get there, God wants us to slow down and live in the now.

When do you fit in your time with God?

I hope you have a Blessed Friday!

Bible Verse Friday #37

"And now, dear brothers and sisters, we give you this command in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ:  Stay away from all believers who live idle lives and don't follow the tradition they received from us.  For you know that you ought to imitate us.  We were not idle when we were with you.  We never accepted food from anyone without paying for it.  We worked hard day and night so we would not be a burden to any of you.  We certainly had the right to ask you to feed us, but we wanted to give you an example to follow.  Even while we were with you, we gave you this command: "Those unwilling to work will no get to eat." ~ 2 Thessalonians 3:6-10

My NLT Life Application Study Bible says the following:

3:6-10 Paul was writing here about the person who is lazy.  Paul explained that when he and his companions were in Thessalonica, they worked hard, buying what they needed rather than becoming a burden to any of the believers.  The rule they followed was, "Those unwilling to work will not get to eat."  There's a difference between leisure and laziness.  Relaxation and recreation provide a necessary and much needed balance to our lives; when it is time to work, however, Christians should jump right in.  We should make the most of our talent and time, doing all we can to provide for ourselves and our dependents.  Rest when you should be resting, and work when you should be working.

As a new Mom you are constantly told to sleep when the baby sleeps.

It can be a hard rule to follow.

In the early days I often caught myself trying to clean up when Bitsy napped.

I regretted it later when I was dragging and had a baby to care for.

I have since learned a better balance and now when she naps I can make the educated decision to nap or clean.

Often I clean when she is awake...I vacuum in the moments before she is ready to lay down.

I fold laundry as she is laying in her crib fighting off the sleep she so craves.

Then when she is asleep I try to tackle a few other tasks.

There are days though when I nap while she naps, or at the very least I sit down and relax while she naps.

Leisure vs laziness.

We are often critiqued by how we spend our down time.

We are considered lazy if we watch television or nap instead of tackling to do lists.

It's an important balance though that we must strike between working and relaxing.

You must allow yourself down time so that you can perform at your peak when it is time.

Obviously I don't have a 'normal' office job anymore.

So it's hard for me to say that I work really hard from this time to that time.

But many of you do have jobs.

You get up in the morning, go to the office, work a full day, and then come home.

It can be easy to fall into the habit that once you get home leisure time begins.

There is still work to be done.

Houses need tidying, our bodies need to be exercised, and so on and so forth.

However, at a certain point in the day it is okay to say....the work is done.

Find time to enjoy life.

Watch television.

Read a book.

Sit on the porch and watch the kids play.

How do you balance your work vs home life?

How do you ensure you spend your leisure time leisurely?

Do you think you are lazy?

If so how can you remedy this?

Start taking small steps today to get yourself organized.

Work when you need to work and do so with all your heart and soul.

Rest and relax when you need to and do it also with all your heart and soul.

I hope you had a Blessed Friday! 

Bible Verse Friday #36

"There, too, the whole community of Israel complained about Moses and Aaron.  "If only the Lord had killed us back in Egypt," they moaned.  "There we sat around pots filled with meat and ate all the breat we wanted.  But now you have brought us into this wilderness to starve us all to death." ~Exodus 16:2-3

My NLT Life Application Study Bible says the following:

16:2,3  It happened again.  As the Israelites encountered danger, shortages, and inconvenience, they complained bitterly and longed to be back in Egypt.  But as always, God provided for their needs.  Difficult circumstances often lead to stress, and complaining is a natural response.  The Israelites didn't really want to be back in Egypt; they just wanted life to get a little easier.  In the pressure of the moment, they could not focus on the cause of their stress (in this case, lack of trust in God); they could only think about the quickest way to escape.  When pressure comes your way, resist the temptation to make a quick escape.  Instead, focus on God's power and wisdom to help you deal with the cause of your stress.

This past Monday taxes were due.

Did you file early?

Did you wait until the last minute?

Did you ask for an extension?

Are you hopeful when tax time comes around or do you fear it like the plague.

Despite getting a refund every year...I still walk into the process with a feeling of nervousness.

I always wonder, will this be the year that we have to pay?

I have already divulged the fact that Bud and I are working hard to pay off our student loans, rather aggressively.

Yet since right before we moved from Texas we have been putting more than enough money into repairs for our vehicle.

It's discouraging to watch bills accumulate when all you want to do is seem them diminish.

We finally had 'The Talk'.

You know the one....you have either had it with yourself, your spouse, or maybe your bank.

"It's time to get the finances under control".

Fortunately, this year we were blessed.

The refund paid for all the repairs on our vehicles which had been charged to our credit card *shudder*.

(I hate that credit card and for the record it is being frozen...seriously)

The benefit to paying it off was it meant we now have 2 free airline tickets for a trip to Texas that we thought we'd have to cancel....due to money.

But that didn't mean we were done with stress.

What it does mean is that we are going to be able to REALLY aggressively take on our student loans one at a time.

This next year our goal is to pay off all of my student loans.

It'll be hard work.

It'll be stressful, but the goal is to NOT MAKE A QUICK ESCAPE.

There is no quick escape here.

The pressure has moved in and it is time to tackle it head on.

We will be trusting God to help us make wise decisions.

We will be fervent in making our life debt free!

What things are you stressing over?

Money?

Love?

Illness?

Whatever it is focus on God's power and wisdom to help you deal with it.

It won't always be easy.

Heck...it hardly ever is easy.

But I think the hardness of it makes us stronger.

Makes us fully realize God's power.

If you need prayer for a stressor in your life, please don't hesitate to leave a comment or shoot me a private email.

We all need prayer.

We all have stress.

We all have God on our side!

I hope you have a Blessed Friday!

Bible Verse Friday #35

"Then the man said, "Let me go, for the dawn is breaking!" But Jacob said, "I will not let you go unless you bless me." ~Genesis 32:26

My NLT Life Application Study Bible says the following:

32:26 Jacob continued this wrestling match all night just to be blessed.  He was persistent.  God encourages persistence in all areas of our lives, including the spiritual.  Where in your spiritual life do you need more persistence?  Strong character develops as you struggle through tough conditions.

This post was inspired by Bitsy.

I watch her daily as she persistently attempts the same tasks over and over, refining her skills as she goes.

Each day she becomes better.

Some days she is more frustrated than others, yet she doesn't just quit.

When do we out grow that quality?

How do we learn that if something is not going as we want it to, as quickly as we want it to that we can just quit?

That we can walk away and not think twice about it?

I don't want her to learn that trait.

Although I have a suspicion that it's unavoidable.

I wish I could unlearn that characteristic.

Think about your life.

What things have you given up because they were too hard?

I'll be the first to say that strength training exercises are something I'm quick to quit on...running is another one.

I don't find joy in those exercises and maybe that is why I walk away from them.

When do we learn that if it doesn't make us happy we don't need it.

I'm sure there are plenty of kids out there that would tell you they shouldn't have to eat their vegetables because they don't make them happy, but as parents we have to persistently continue to feed those vitamin rich foods to our youngins'.

Now take a step away from your daily life and focus in on your spiritual life.

We are asked above...."Where.....do you need more persistence?"

Is it in trusting that God will provide?

Is it in believing he has a purpose for you life?

Is it in learning his word?

God wants us to have faith like a child.

"When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples.  He said to them, "Let the children come to me.  Don't stop them!  For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children.  I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it". ~Mark 10:14

I encourage you to try to live like a child this week.

Find a task that you may have previously given up on and go back to it.

Persistently try to complete it.

If babies gave up on learning they would never roll over, they would never crawl, they would never walk.

We must first all learn to roll over.

After that we will crawl on our hands and knees.

Walking is next.

And finally we will be running and jumping for joy and for Jesus!

it all starts with baby steps.

I hope you have a Blessed Friday!

Bible Verse Friday #34

"So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable.  Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless." ~ 1 Corinthians 15:58

My NLT Life Application Study Bible says the following:

15:58 Paul says that because of the resurrection, nothing we do is useless.  Sometimes we become apathetic about serving the Lord because we don't see any results.  Knowing that Christ has won the ultimate victory should affect the way we live right now.  Don't let discouragement over an apparent lack of results keep you from doing the work of the Lord enthusiastically as you have opportunity.

Even as I write this post I feel that I've already written it before.
Maybe not this verse, but this basic concept.
From time to time it's easy to feel as if your life is in a rut.
Day in and day out you may feel that you are just hitting the repeat button.
When you have babies your life starts to get more scheduled than you ever thought possible.

I recently had a male friend ask, "What do you do all day? Watch Netflix?"
He didn't mean it in a negative way, he just didn't realize how much work is involved in having a little one.
My days start and are over before I realize it.
It's a cycle of wake up, eat, pump, play with baby, put baby down for nap, clean...repeat.
Over and over and over again.
The point I have to remind myself of is that "you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless".
Right now my phase of life has me raising one baby (later, Lord willing, it'll be more babies).
That is a big task!
I am supposed to raise this child up in the way that God would want them raised.
I am supposed to plant Gods seed in her little heart daily.
I may not be out spreading the word among the masses, but I am doing the Lords work in a different capacity and I must do it enthusiastically.

Maybe you don't have kids.
Maybe you go to work daily, do your work, come home and fulfill a regular routine, and start over again the next day.
Maybe you have MANY kids and you feel as though you never have a moment where you aren't scheduled and planned out.
Whatever your work is, remember to do it enthusiastically and do it for the Lord.
Don't fret if you don't see the results you want....
....when you want to see them.
One day you will wake up and look at your friends, family, coworkers and you'll know that you've been doing God's work and that someone was affected by it.
Remind yourself daily to:
Be Strong.
Be Immovable.
Work Enthusiastically.
And above all love HIM!

I pray you have a wonderful Easter Weekend and a Blessed Friday!

Bible Verse Friday #33

"But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness."~ Romans 1:18

My NLT Life Application Study Bible says the following:

1:18 Why is God angry at sinful people?  Because they have substituted the truth about him with a lie (1:25).  They have stifled the truth God naturally reveals to all people in order to believe anything that supports their own self-centered lifestyles.  God cannot tolerate sin because his nature is morally perfect.  He cannot ignore or condone willful rebellion.  God wants to remove the sin and restore the sinner--and he is able to, as long as they sinner does not stubbornly distort or reject the truth.  But God shows his anger against those who persist in sinning.  Make sure you are not pursuing a lie rather than the true God. Don't suppress the truth about him merely to protect your own lifestyle.

Let's read verse 1:25 real quick to see what the above referenced-

"They traded the truth about God for a lie.  So they worshipped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise!  Amen".

As I reflect on this verse I can't help but think about the little things from day to day that remind me there has to be a God.

Take butterflies for instance.

So many kinds.

Each one, though small, is jam packed with an intricate design and powerhouse of colors.

There has to be a God who created such a creature.

"...truth God naturally reveals to all people..."

He shows us daily that he is real and yet there are still those who refuse to believe.

You've met that person who will argue just to argue that there can't be a God because of all the bad that happens in the world.  

The ones who think that Christians use God as a blanket of comfort to hide from the 'truth' that this is a harsh and cruel world we live in.

Sometimes, I think these people are lying to themselves more than trying to convince us that there is no God.

I know that God shows them daily that he is here, but they choose to ignore it so that they can continue living what they perceive to be a comfortable or fun lifestyle.
It is funny to me how non-Christians think that by being a Christian it means you can't have fun anymore.  (Maybe we just have different definitions of fun.....)

I feel that I come from a different perspective on being a Christian.

I don't think I am an IN YOUR FACE kind of person.

I'm not going to argue with you about God's existence.

Instead I pray that God will shine through me and that people who meet me will genuinely see Gods love and acceptance in me and in turn feel drawn to learning more about our heavenly father.

I know that there are evangelical Christians, the kind that get in your face and preach the fire and damnation.

There are the holier than thou types, who think their way is the only way.

And yes there are judgmental Christians, these are the ones that push people away from God without knowing that is what they are doing.

I think I need to give a special thanks to our last church for opening my eyes to God's love more than ever.

God loves all people, don't let this verse scare you that he doesn't.

What I get from this verse is that people tend to worship things rather than God.

People create false idols and forget who put those things here for us.

People would rather be blind than see the truth and that is what the verse is referring to.

I challenge you to reflect on what Romans 1:20-21 says:

"For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky.  Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature.  So they have no excuse for not knowing God.  Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn't worship him as God or even give him thanks.  And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like.  As a result, their minds became dark and confused."

Look around this weekend and take in everything God has made.  

Focus on the details he put into everything.

Thank him for his wonderful creations and worship him for his divine being.

The next time you encounter someone who wants to argue God's existence, think about your words before you speak.  Do not come across as harsh.  Focus on coming across lovingly.  Choosing your words carefully and maybe even saying the quickest of prayers that God would choose your words for you.  Your reaction to an encounter like this could mean the difference of someone worshipping false idols OR seeing God's love reflected and choosing to believe in him.

I hope you have a Blessed Friday!

Bible Verse Friday #32

"You have made me look like a fool!" Balaam shouted.  "If I had a sword with me, I would kill you!" ~Numbers 22:29

My NLT Life Application Study Bible says the following:

22:29  The donkey saved Balaam's life but made him look foolish in the process, so Balaam lashed out at the donkey.  We sometimes strike out at blameless people who get in our way because we are embarrassed or our pride is hurt.  Lashing out at others can be a sign that something is wrong with us.  Don't allow your own hurt pride to lead you to hurt others.

Guilty.

I am so guilty of this.

I have had situations in the past where I let into someone despite the fact that they had nothing to do with my current situation.

If I acknowledge my error for what it is, I make an effort to swallow my pride and go back and apologize to that person.

Have you done this yourself?

Have you recently done this?

My most recent encounter of this type of foolish lashing out has occurred since Bud got home.

It's not quite the same in the sense that I'm not lashing out because I've been embarrassed, but you'll see what I mean.

Since Bud has gotten home he is learning the rhythm of life with a baby.

I don't want to hover as I know he appreciates doing it on his own.

However, there have been a few situations in which I have swooped in a criticized how he was handling a certain situation.

Last night as I was relaxing with him in the living room, Bitsy in bed, I turned to him and apologized.

I told him that I was sorry that I was short with him at times, that I knew he was still learning and that it was no excuse for me to be hard on him.

He is a gracious husband and he forgave me.

I think I was more hurt by my actions than he had been.

My point here is that we need to make sure we aren't lashing out at the wrong person.

If we are doing something we shouldn't we need to take responsibility for our own actions.

If you have recently been short with someone...even if it's been a few days, I encourage you to go apologize to them.

They may brush it off, but I guarantee they will see you in a new light.

Not only that, your heart will be lightened. 

That anger likes to weigh us down...and it hides deep inside of us.

However, when we put a name on it and rebuke it, it is forced to leave us!

Ask God to forgive you for your short temper.

Apologize to those you have offended.

Find peace in knowing that you control the anger and not visa versa!

I hope you have a Blessed Friday!

Bible Verse Friday #31

"From that time on, Esau hated Jacob because their father had given Jacob the blessing.  And Esau began to scheme: "I will soon be mourning my father's death.  Then I will kill my brother Jacob". ~Genesis 27:41

Let me preface this by saying that, yes this is the third week that our verse has dealt with anger.

No, I'm not mad at anyone.

Why then have I been focused on this topic...well when the month started I wanted to have a focus.

And with all the March 'Mad'ness...I decided that anger would be it.

Now that this is cleared up let's focus on Genesis 27:41

My NLT Life Application Study Bible says the following:

27:41 Esau was so angry at Jacob that he failed to see his own wrong in giving away the birthright in the first place.  Jealous anger blinds us from seeing the benefits we have and makes us dwell on what we don't have.

27:41 When Esau lost the valuable family blessing, his future suddenly changed.  Reacting in anger, he decided to kill Jacob.  When you lose something of great value, or if others conspire against you and succeed, anger is the first and most natural reaction.  But you can control your feelings by (1) recognizing your reaction for what it is, (2) praying for strength, and (3) asking God for help to see the opportunities that even you bad situation may provide.

Let's take a moment to take that all in.

I think even I forget that there are different types of anger.

Last week I think the focus was mostly on irritation based anger, or things that bug us.

Here we are talking about jealous anger.

The green eyed monster.

Oh I am guilty of this from time to time.

In a society where keeping up with the 'Jones' is a status quo it's easy to forget how blessed you already are.

I think that as Bud & I proceed on our journey to become debt free we will struggle even more with this.

Do you have a jealous anger that you wish you didn't?

Maybe it's jealousy over someone else's finances?

Someone else's weight?

Someone else's relationship?

Or even career?

I'm sure there are a multitude of reasons to be jealous, but the goal is to take a step back and think of how much you have.  

How much God has already blessed you with.

I liked the second note about how anger tends to be the most natural reaction.

Does that bother anyone else as much as it bothers me?

Maybe because of how much truth is behind it?

My application study bible says it best though and I think that if we use this trick we can remember.
When you feel angry.....
RAP
R- recognize your reaction for what it is
A- Ask God for help
P- Pray for strength

Easy peasy 1....2....3(sy).....
Now practice makes perfect and not that I'm hoping you all have a reason to get mad, but if you do....just RAP it out.

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I hope you all have a Blessed Friday!

Bible Verse Friday #29

"For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime!  Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning". ~Psalm 30:5

The seasons are starting to change here.

The days are becoming warmer and longer.

It seems that we are always ready for the NEXT season instead of the one we are currently in.

The one we are in always seems to drag on forever!

Much like our sentiments about seasons are our feelings about feelings.

Sometimes it feels as though someone is angry or we are angry for a long time.

We may feel sad for days, weeks, months, etc.

The truth is though that these moments are temporary.

They are seasons in our life.

If we look at our life in a whole, most often we would see that the good outweighs the bad.

HIS favor lasts a lifetime.

JOY comes with the morning.

What emotions are you dealing with today?

Ask yourself if these are valid emotions.

Ask yourself if they are worth your time and energy.

Ask yourself if you have the ability to change these emotions.

If you notice that they are based on something you can just let go....let it go.

If you noticed that the energy and time spent on them is too great and gives them value they don't warrant...let it go.

If you can and want to change these emotions....let go and let GOD!

HIS favor lasts a lifetime.

JOY comes with the morning.

I'm not suggesting that there is not a time and place for anger, hurt, sadness, etc...

What I'm suggesting is that sometimes we take it all on ourselves when the Bible clearly tells us:

"Then Jesus said, Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you.  Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light". ~Matthew 11:28-30

If you are struggling to let go and let God, please let me know how I can pray for you.

Feel free to send me a private message.

I hope you have a Blessed Friday!