Strong Tower

Hear my cry, O God,

listen to my prayer;

from the end of the earth I call to you

when my heart is faint.

Lead me to the rock

that is higher than I,

for you have been my refuge,

a strong tower against the enemy.

(Psalm 61:1-3 ESV)

As a christian, I find it comes natural to quote verses like this in times of trial. We know our bibles, we know what we are suppose to say and how we are suppose to act....it is quite another thing to  put skin on the bone and to live this practically. When various trials enter into our lives,viscous words are spoken behind our backs, we lose friends or family members, etc...It is HARD to remember and live like God is our strength and refuge. When your flesh literally feels as though it is being torn apart and devoured or your heart feels as though it may fail you (I find God is usually silent in these times), the little weakest faith deep down inside of you can still utter...Blessed be the Lord!!! Because these words are Truth....We are told in Philippians

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

(Philippians 4:8 ESV)

So what does it actually look like for the Lord to be our ROCK, strong tower, and refuge?

I imagine myself in a war. The enemy is in hot pursuit of me. I am worn down, battered, and beaten. I see my camp straight ahead of me, the tower standing strong, a symbol of safety and rest. This isn't so far fetched from the spiritual war we engage in everyday. Jesus is that strong tower. In him we find TRUE rest for our souls. He tells us to take heart for He has overcome this world. In times of pain, trial, and confusion...Run to Jesus...Feast on the words in the bible.

Strength is a funny thing. We had to lay down all self-reliance and strength when we came to the Lord. We need to be reminded often that He is our strength.....This is a lesson that takes a long time to learn and usually means you will be stripped like an onion, layer by layer.

I remember going to a women's retreat a few years ago to hear a missionary speak. She had been traveling globally, non-stop, and was diagnosed with exhaustion after the first night that she spoke. She was the main speaker of this retreat....I remember watching her weak feeble body make its way to the podium. I remember being moved by a strength that was not of her. She taught and fed us women, it was truly a FEAST. I sat humbled and amazed as I watched the strength of the Lord in her. The Holy Spirit ministered to my soul...in our weakness God is made STRONG!!!

So friend, Run to the Rock, let Him be your strong tower, let Him give you rest and strengthen you today!!!

What is the purpose?

This Christmas, while putting gifts into the back of our car, I was stilled. My soul was quieted inside. I thought of how short our time on earth is. But a handbreadth.....

Behold, you have made my days a few handbreadths,

and my lifetime is as nothing before you.

Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath! Selah

(Psalm 39:5 ESV) 

The Lord has told us....

So teach us to number our days

that we may get a heart of wisdom.

(Psalm 90:12 ESV)

“O LORD, make me know my end

and what is the measure of my days;

let me know how fleeting I am!

(Psalm 39:4 ESV)

I find myself in the busyness of life forgetting that this is not my home. As the years roll by, my body is starting to age, my children are growing up, I've lost loved ones, and grow weary of all of the darkness of this world....I think to myself "What is the purpose?". God could have transported each one of us to heaven instantaneously once we were saved, but he chose to leave us here, and to fill us with His Spirit. He told us to be the salt and the light. He told us to shine brightly, like a beacon of hope. 

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father.

(John 14:12 ESV)

My faith is little right now. My heart aches for the children and families that were affected by the Sandy-Hook shootings. It goes out to Pastor Britt Merrick, whose daughter Daisy has still not been healed and is in tremendous pain. It aches for Pastor Levi Lusko, who lost his daughter suddenly to an asthma attack. I pray for the people affected by the natural disasters that are happening globally, the people who are dying by the thousands from hunger and disease...the list goes on and on. My heart breaks. It seems like the darkness is pressing in. In my frailty and weakness I pray.... 

ABBA,

Strengthen and purify your bride. Prepare us for the marriage supper of the Lamb. Help us and equip us to spread your gospel to the unreached. Help us to number our days and redeem the time, for these days, are OH SO EVIL. Help us to measure our days. May we not be found living for self, fattened sheep in our comfortable pastures....Oh Lord, awaken and revive us...not just in our personal devotion and worship to you but our devoted service to YOU!! Help us to live like you did. Break our hearts for the lost. Remind us how fleeting we are...Make our lives shine and bear fruit for YOUR GLORY. WE were lost and now we are found. May you send us out to love the lost and to speak of your AMAZING GRACE. Open ears, Open doors, soften the hardest of hearts, and bring a revival once again to your people. Thank you for the Gospel...Thank you for Jesus. Thank you for giving us the hope of eternal life....apart from sin, death, evil, suffering, hunger, drought.....  May we never stop working out our salvation with fear and trembling. Your grace is TRULY sufficient Lord.

Celebrate your rights!!!

The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,
(John 1:9-12 ESV)



As I began to read my Advent Devotional this morning, these words stood out to me particularly....he gave the right to become children of God.....I sat there with a humbled and thankful heart. I mean what were my rights before this God child entered into the world? I was a Fatherless, Orphaned, child of darkness. A mere shadow of what God had intended when He created the world. Without the TRUE LIGHT we are all walking around in darkness of soul and mind. Spiritually dead.

Jon went caving this weekend and shared some of his adventures with me. One of them was about being in a cave and all of them turning their flashlights off. They stood there in COMPLETE darkness...Absolutely void of any light. They could not see ANYTHING!! The thought Hit Jon that Hell would be like that!!!! Friends that is where we are spiritually if we have not RECEIVED Jesus.

It is my prayer, that this Advent/Christmas season, that we would sit and meditate on who He is and what He has done. He is the true Light who opens the eyes of the blind and gives us the RIGHT to become Children of the Almighty God!!! So as you put up your Christmas trees, wrap presents, listen to christmas carols, and prepare for your family gatherings....it is my prayer.....that Jesus and all that He has done will be the center Focus of this Christmas. It was prophesied that He would come....and He did, over two thousand years ago the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. My precious brothers and sisters, as we approach the day set aside to celebrate our dear Saviors birth...Let that Hope stir in you....that stirred within Mary and Josephs hearts, that stirred within the shepherds hearts when the angels visited them, that stirred in the wise mens hearts as they made their way across the desert to see the LIGHT of the World...Jesus...God with us!!! He Came!!!! He's coming Again :) Celebrate that HE GAVE YOU THE RIGHT TO BECOME CHILDREN OF GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What is the heartbeat of this blog?

Today as I was reading about this blogging world...the question arose, "Why do I have a blog?"Everyone has a niche...whether unique or just like everyone else. So I started to ponder the question. What is my niche? What am I passionate about?

I am passionate about Jesus!! I am passionate about His word. I am passionate about His word being rightly divided. I am passionate about sound doctrine. I am passionate about teaching His word. I am passionate about catching false doctrine. I am passionate about women understanding His word and sharpening and edifying one another. I am passionate about TRUTH!!!!....but......I am also passionate about love.Because...God is LOVE!! He tells us to speak the TRUTH in LOVE!!

                                                What is love without truth? 
                                                What is truth without love?

“Truth without love is brutality, and love without truth is hypocrisy.”

― Warren W. Wiersbe

So in short what is my niche?.....Theology!!! The study of MY GOD!!

Theology defined: the study of God; His attributes; and how He relates to the world.


Will I share cute little stories about my children...YES!!!.....Will I share my struggles and victories with home-shcool...YES!!! Will I share my heart and desire to become more like the proverbs 31 woman....Yes!!! Will I share my disappointments each time I roar instead of being that gentle and quiet Spirit before the LORD...YES!!! Will I share my LIFE experiences....YES!!!

Why?

Because all of the above is about allowing God to be in the midst and at the center of who I am and all that I do. I want Him to be glorified in my victories, failures, and weaknesses. My hearts desire is to seek Him and make HIM known. He has given me a Life and a voice....With that voice however small or LOUD it may be. I pray that He is exalted, that He is magnified, that He is represented....and that women will be spurred on to LOVE and good deeds that are firmly grounded in HIS WORD:) Practical Theology...... That is the heartbeat of this blog. 

My desire is that you will be spurred to understand theology (refer to above definition the study of GOD) and that you would spur me to do the same. That you will be spurred to search the Bible for His nuggets of Truth so that you can walk in LOVE.

Please subscribe or follow me if you are interested.

The Mess!!

I love writing about practical lessons that God teaches me....I love seeing faith with legs on. I love the word of God being practically lived out in my life...the process..the sanctification....the MESS. Just a warning this is going to be a MESSY blog!!



I'm going to start in the middle of the story...with my husband sitting on our basement floor covered in human feces with a coil stuck in our plumbing. I watched him for hours try and pull the coil out. I watched as his strength drained more and more. I stood there as he sat broken and discouraged. I felt helpless, unable to help him I started to pray.....my mind switched from temporal to eternal. I thought of how we as believers struggle and strain with life's problems. Maybe there is blockage or bondage in our spiritual plumb line.

As Jon continued to strain and struggle, I continued to pray. Little by little the coil began to come out. Hope lightened the mood and I shared with Jon that I was praying hardcore. I watched as with renewed strength and determination he pulled the coil out in tiny little sections.  We started talking and I stopped praying (sounds like alot of the prayer meetings I have been to )...the coil stopped coming out. Jon looked at me and said "you stopped praying didn't you?" It felt ridiculous to be completely dependent upon the Lord for a coil stuck in our plumbing system. Instead of rationalizing, I just started praying again...and the coil started coming out again!!! Hmmmm...imagine that... I sat there humbled as I realized how completely dependent upon him we really are. We literally can do NOTHING apart from Christ...but through Him we can do all things. So in short this isn't just some little blog about plumbing but rather living every second of our life dependent upon Jesus. You see, God was far more interested in teaching Jon and I about complete dependency upon him than our plumbing...but he used it!!! God will use anything to take His childs face into His hands and whisper "Lean on me, Come to me!!!" If you are struggling today with sin, bondage, doubt, a troubled marriage, or drought...if the roots of this world have seeped into your plumb line of faith. Find a brother or sister who strong in this season...You can't live out this faith alone!! Ask them to come alongside of you and with the strength of the Lord pull those roots out. The end product when Jon finally pulled the coil out was a ball of roots and feces...Sometimes friends that is what is lodged in our hearts..

You see without me Jon would have sat alone in human feces discouraged...without hope. I helped him carry the load...no pun intended :) I even felt incredibly helpless watching him struggle...watching as his strength was giving out.......If you see a brother or sister struggling with sin or carrying a burden by themselves get in there....GET MESSY!!!!!



Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!
(Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 ESV)

Today there is a huge mess all over the floor to clean up and an eventual 3,000 dollars that will be payed for a new plumbing system....but eternal lessons were learned. We have bleach and serve Jehovah Jireh- God will provide!!! Thank you Lord for strengthening our faith and teaching us the importance of community and dependency upon you!!!

Biblical confines in a precarious situation

Hey friends...Just wanted to share something that a friend of mine Bryan Haas wrote. I know many of us have been perturbed by the alarming rate that our country is turning away from God and we have found ourselves seeking Him to give us answers of what our conduct should be. I really felt this was held within biblical confines to safely be upset....and yet trust in Gods sovereignty. Praying that it is as much of a blessing to you as it was to me :)


There are no specific parties, candidates, or blatant voting issues mentioned in this post. I believe everything here applies objectively to every Christian, regardless of whom or what you decided to vote for. Here are my thoughts on the last 36 hours. I hav

e seen a lot of Bible verses today. To list a few: Romans 13, John 18, 1 Peter, 2 Timothy, etc. All of which have some merit to our political context. However, I think there needs to be some clarity for those passages in light of the context that some are referencing them in as well.

The act of speaking against unbiblical policies and the individual(s) who stand for them is not a violation of Romans 13. If that were the case, then the very act of voting against an incumbent official should be deemed as resisting authority (Romans 13:2) and thus sin. Yes, we are to love our enemies (Mt. 5:44, Rom. 12:20). Yes, our speech should be with grace and seasoned with salt that we may know how we ought to answer each one (Col. 4:6 -- something I need to repent from regarding my own levels of sarcasm at times). But to love our enemies means first identifying them as enemies in order that we may love them as enemies. For our speech to be with grace and seasoned with salt means we must first be speaking for there to be any speech to season. It is important to remember there is a distinction between being divisive and being uncompromising. The goal of divisiveness is to divide regardless of what is true. The goal of being uncompromising is to stand for truth regardless of if it divides. We are to reject one who is divisive (Titus 3:9-10), but we are also to “hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering” (Heb. 10:23), and to “no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting” (Eph. 4:14).

As regenerated believers in Christ, this earth is not our home. And we should not attempt to make it our home. Shocker of the day: Earth did not become Heaven on Tuesday. Our substance is not the shadow of the things to come, rather, our substance is Christ Himself (Col. 2:17). But there is nevertheless a still a shadow that we must live in on this side of eternity. Jesus is our King and our citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20). But let’s not forget that while we are in a foreign land, we are not mere aliens, but ambassadors in this foreign land (2 Cor. 5:20). Our purpose on this side of eternity is not a passive one (Matt. 25:14-28). And while politics have no part in the Gospel of grace, we should not let appeasement and passivism prevent the Gospel of grace from having part in our politics.

Yes, be subject to the governing authorities (Romans 13:1-2). Submit to every ordinance (1 Peter 2:13). Honor the king (1 Peter 2:17). Be subject to rulers and authorities (Titus 3:1). Give supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanks for kings and all who are in authority (1 Timothy 2:1). But none of that needs to include any type of implication that the Church is back-peddling from God’s truth in the wallowing of some political defeat. Truth by its very nature cannot be defeated (objective truth, for those deep thinkers who may try to split hairs with me on this). Truth simply is. Hence, God Himself is “I AM” (Ex. 3:14), truth (John 14:6), and eternal (1 Tim. 1:17). Thus there was no victory or defeat yesterday, only an acceptance or rejection of truth, or what is. Christ was not destroyed on the cross, He was rejected to the cross (Luke 20:9-18). And as we abide in Him, “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Cor. 4:8-9). That isn’t a flippant biblical pep-talk that Paul wrote. That is inspired truth found in Scripture.

As for those Christians who seem to be in the obviously-frustrated “shut up already and start honoring the king” boat (for lack of a better concise way of labeling it), I have some thoughts as well. Let me preface this by stating that I understand there are some people out there have certainly taken their comments from honest to obnoxious. I get that (and I've been guilty of that myself at times -- Just letting you know that I know that you know. You know?). But before you start responding with blanket statements to everyone still voicing concerns, here are some things to consider: Moses stood and proclaimed truth before Pharaoh, and it even angered God when Moses was unwilling to do so (Exodus 3:13-14). Nathan confronted King David (2 Samuel 12). John the Baptist confronted Herod (Matthew 14:1-5). Jesus rebuked Pilate (John 19:10-11). The early church prayed, was filled with the Holy Spirit, and spoke the word of God in boldness in direct opposition to the threats by Jewish authorities not to do so (Acts 4:18-31). On 2 separate occasions, Paul rebuked Roman authorities under his government-based legal rights as a Roman citizen (Acts 16:35-39; Acts 22:24-29). Paul spoke “the words of truth and reason” to Festus and Agrippa (Acts 26:25), which included a commission to “open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they might receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are being sanctified by faith in (Christ)” (Acts 26:18).

Take comfort in knowing that God is sovereign and that our hope is in the King of Kings as opposed to any earthly politician? But remember that it was the inaccurate thought of a dead defeated savior that made “the doors shut where the disciples were assembled” (John 20:19). And the accurate understanding of a rejected risen King (Acts 2:30-36) was what led them to go out and “turn the world upside down” (Acts 17:6). Interesting observation. Their comfort from God resulted in action, not complacency. “Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Timothy 1:17) Honor the king. Honor the King. End of rant.

Identity

                Identity

Identity is something that I have struggled with for a long time. As children we look to our parents to help us really identify with who we are and our purpose in life. I looked to mine and I found no answers. I will spare you the details, but horrendous acts happened in my life as a child, which caused fear, anxiety, and walls to go up around my heart. Truly as parents we should be giving our children a strong foundation in who they are in Christ, and encouraging them to pursue HIM and the plans He has for their lives.

I can tell you this...I tried to find my identity in so many things....Men, friends, being a wife, a mother, a musician, a writer, a worship leader, ministry and it all fell short of who I really was and the ONE that I could find my worth in. Those are all things about us...but who are we really at the core of our being? Where can we turn to find these answers? I'm sure you have tried, just as I have to find them in the world around you through many different avenues. Maybe you have read the word of God and have heard what God has to say about you, yet you aren't living in that truth. Maybe you've never read the bible and are longing for purpose in your life. Where ever you are I pray that the Holy Spirit would meet you there and minister the truth of Gods word to your heart. (This is only for those whom have believed in their hearts and confessed with their mouths that Jesus is GOD). If you have not done that please just pray and repent acknowledging that you need God...enter in through Jesus the Christ :)

Have you been looking for love?

• I am loved. (1John 3:3) 

Have you been longing for and seeking acceptance?

• I am accepted. (Ephesians 1:6)
• I am a member of Christ's body. (1 Corinthians 12:27)
• I am a child of God. (John 1:12)
• I can always know the presence of God because He never leaves me. (Hebrews 13:5)

Have people failed you and let you down or vice a versa?

• I am Jesus' friend. (John 15:14)
• I have direct access to God. (Ephesians 2:18)

Do you lack purpose and direction in life?

• I am a joint heir with Jesus, sharing His inheritance with Him. (Romans 8:17)
• I am chosen to bear fruit. (John 15:16)
• I am chosen of God, holy and dearly loved. (Colossians 3:12)
• I am God's co-worker. (2 Corinthians 6:1)
• I am seated in heavenly places with Christ. (Ephesians 2:6)
• I’ve been given exceedingly great and precious promises by God by which I share His nature. (2 Peter 1:4)
• I am one of God's living stones, being built up in Christ as a spiritual house. (1 Peter 2:5)
• I am established, anointed, and sealed by God. (2 Corinthians 1:21)Have you ever tried to find your worth in something or someone else?
• I am complete in Jesus Christ. (Colossians 2:10)
• I am united with God and one spirit with Him. (1Corinthians 6:17)

Maybe you have been abused and feel dirt or you have been thrown away in life?

• I am a Saint. (Ephesians 1:1)
• I am redeemed and forgiven. (Colossians 1:14)
• I am a new creation because I am in Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
• I am free from condemnation. (Romans 8:1)
• I do not have a spirit of fear, but of love, power, and a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7)

Beloved today, if you find yourself striving and trying to find your worth in your actions or your purpose in the world around you, I pray that you would stop!!! and let the word of God wash over you. The truth will set you free from the prison of people pleasing. Let these beautiful truths wash over you..offer up a sacrifice of praise which is the fruit of His name upon your lips. Stand with your hands lifted high to the one who came to set the captives free, redeem, send us out for good work, has numbered the hairs upon your heads, and is longing to be with you. Beloved find your worth and identity in HIM today. Let Jesus be the source of which your mothering, blogging, friendships, writing, being a wife, a runner, a student, a daughter....etc.....flow from. In Him you can be fully satisfied. So when you mess up as a mom, or no one reads your blog, or no one shows up to your bible study, or your husband seems to have lost interest in you, or your knee goes out so you cant run...insert your own thing that you may identify yourself with...YOU WILL NOT BE SHAKEN!!! Your flesh and heart will try and lie to you...but the Spirit of God, which lives in you will minister these words to you. You are loved, You are cherished, you are chosen, you have worth in CHRIST..Your husband, God, Father, The lover of your soul!!!! Let this truth permeate you today and Pray that they will me too!!

Love you gals :)

Marriages are struggling....

I am writing today with a heavy heart. Friends, many christians that I know are struggling, and I mean STRUGGLING in their marriages. I know so many people right now that are divorcing that it makes my heart ache. The process of the slow fade, the hateful words spewing out of saints mouths, adultery, violence (both physical and emotional), loss of interest in one another, and so many more things that bring you to that day where you say "I've had enough! I'm done." 

It is as though the very closest most intimate sacrament that is suppose to be a picture of Jesus and the church is being ATTACKED!! It seems like the enemy of our souls has caused husband and wife to look upon one another as enemies instead of co-laborers and brothers and sister in Christ Jesus. Our spouse should not be our enemy, we should be best friends.... we are on the same side fighting the good fight. 

As I sat thinking and praying about this I thought of a few verses...

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.

(Ephesians 6:12 ESV)

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

(James 4:7 ESV)

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

(1 Peter 5:8 ESV)

I wonder in the midst of an argument if we could see the war raging in the heavenlies if we would still choose flesh and sin, giving into temptation? If we could see that we are playing right into Satan's hands, would we continue to allow him such victory in our lives? Its as if we have forgotten that there is a spiritual war raging and that we have to participate in Christ or be destroyed. Friends are you being destroyed? Are your marriages being destroyed? Are your children being destroy? Stand firm!!! Humble yourselves. Choose forgiveness as you have been forgiven. 

Wives submit to your OWN husband as unto the Lord. Respect and Honor your husband. Let him know that you are his biggest fan. Encourage him. TRUST HIM!! If you are fighting against him drop the rope and get behind him. We are on the same side of the struggle. (Husbands if your wife is not doing this your role stays the same). 

HUSBANDS LEAD!!!!! I'm going to say it again... HUSBANDS LEAD! Protect your wife and wash her in the word of GOD, spur her on with encouragement towards Jesus. Dwell with her in understanding. Get to KNOW her. Listen to her...LISTEN to her share her heart. Husbands don't be combative when you enter the door. Lay your life down for her as Christ did for the church. Cherish her. (Wives if he is not doing this your role remains the same).

Friends we have got to humble ourselves and wake up to the war raging around us. If you don't protect and nurture your marriage...NO ONE else will. If Satan destroys a christian marriage he goes after everyone in the family. That means your children are open and exposed to him ( I know what I am talking about as a divorced mother).

The next time you think about partaking in (this list applies to men and women) fantasies; porn, unrighteous anger, disrespect, adultery, abuse (with your words or hands), or any other sin really....think ABOUT THE LORD....IMMANUEL GOD WITH US!! He sees and knows every hidden recess in our hearts and he longs to set us FREE from bondage. There is Grace and healing in JESUS. PLEASE!!! I IMPLORE YOU.....Confess your sins together as a couple before the throne of GRACE. The truth will set you free and God promises us in HIS word that He is faithful to forgive us and heal us. Find Godly and biblical counseling, surround yourselves with prayer warriors and accountability, and trust GOD!!

I know that there are times when there is just no way around divorce. When a persons life is in danger or one spouse just refuses to walk with the Lord and walks away from the marriage, or adultery. Friend if you are in that place I pray to the Lord  GOD ALMIGHTY that He would be your strength and your covering. He knows the pain you are going through and I pray that He would comfort YOU. I pray that you will find Godly support and healing. I pray that you would be covered in HIS GRACE....Remember that HE Cherishes you!! ( I have Godly friends who have found themselves in this place).

Thanks for reading....if this is not you..... please pray for christian marriages or be a support to brothers and sisters who need help and support. Please friends if someone is weak or struggling in their marriage, don't judge, get in there and lift their arms up.

Praying for headway and victory in christian marriages today. LORD please hear our cries. Deliver us from sinful bondage and help us to walk in your Spirit bearing precious fruit, help us to forgive, help us to walk in humility completely dependent upon you. You are our only hope Lord and I pray that your children would find hope and healing in your Gospel message today.

A little Honesty

I want to take a minute to be really honest with you all. For the past 9 months I have went through depths of depression and despair that I never knew existed. Honestly, I have always been someone who tries to see good, during this time however I felt hopeless. I have always been the type of person who could just change my mind and this time I couldn't. I sat alone, or so it felt. Even when I met with people I just couldn't connect. I began to get angry that no one saw this in me. If I would not have had Jackson and Judah I am not sure that I would have even gotten out of bed most days. I would go days in my pajamas and without showers.I just didn't care.

I remember one day my sweet next door neighbor saying to me "change your clothes girl." For anyone who knows me, this is NOT normal. I love getting dressed up and I love make up and clothes. I have since I was a wee little girl.

During this time I became VERY disciplined in reading my bible and praying. I really always have spent time in the word daily but it became a necessity as I felt I had no strength to get through the day.I lost my father in January, left our church in March, and moved into a new house (which had major mold problems) in June. I felt as though I lost most of what was dear to me. In this time, in complete brokenness of the soul, the Lord Jesus tenderly ministered to me. He was not rough. He did not command me to get back to work, He did not bludgeon me with scripture,  rather He beckoned me to His throne of grace, He taught me of His faithfulness, He showed me that even when I lost everything He was still there and He was still GOOD, that He will never leave me or forsake me. I am sure that you can imagine in a pit of despair when no one is helping you out the thoughts that you can have. He extended massive amounts of Grace. He walked with me, lets be real, He carried me through the valley.

Nine months has passed since my dad left this earth. I miss him greatly!! I long for the day that I see him again and everything that was wrong will be made right. Thanks to the precious bond that we have in Jesus. My husband and I have found a wonderful bible teaching church. Honestly when we first started attending I just cried through the sermons. Thanking God for truth and purity of His word and the anointing of the pastor to teach our hungry souls. God moved us out of the moldy house and hand provided a home that we will be moving into very soon, our loan has gone through and we close tomorrow!!!

It as  feel as though I have walked through the dessert or a valley. I am just on the edge of it looking back to the precious things that I learned. I have to honestly say that I have learned that joy and peace come only through the Lord Jesus Christ.Our souls can only be fully satisfied in him. As we learn more and more that this world hold nothing for us we begin to let go, pry our fingers off and say to the Father " What do YOU want with my life? It is yours".

Choosing Gratitude

Well folks we are all moved out of the mold infested house all snuggled into ONE Bedroom as we patiently wait to move into our new house. We have been here for two nights. Both nights I have been woken up by the cat and dog who are also in our room, Judah losing his pacifier,  Jackson afraid the storm, and kids arguing as they woke up early and the younger (Judah) is trying to escape.

If I'm honest, and I'm going to be, I woke up weary and tired this morning. I got out of bed with a little extra grump in my step. Mostly half asleep I stumbled and grumbled down the steps...trying to quiet the littles and the dog so they don't wake up everyone in the house. As I'm getting their milk for their cereal I shut the fridge door  just a little harder than I need to. Jackson and Judah 2 bites into their cereal need to use the potty and I am in straight cold self pity mode. I lead the littles upstairs trying to keep them quiet and help Judah onto the potty and there on the Holy ground of grunt motherhood I hear that still small voice  and He humbles me..."choose to be grateful today".

Suddenly I think wow!!! I am really blessed. I have a wonderful place to live with very precious friends whom eagerly opened up their home to us, Salvation!!!, three healthy happy children, life and breath, a good marriage, my health, a beautiful home that we just bought, and truly the list goes on.......and on!! More and more I see this work being cultivated in my soul. Truly I can say the more you choose to be grateful in EVERY situation giving thanks to God and rejoicing always, the more content you are in this life.

There are days that I hold on to my complaints and discontentment longer but I cling to this promise...
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.

Philippians 1:6

Let Your glory fall

You are the hope of all nations,
we put our faith in You Lord,
we will trust in Your faithfulness,
as we fix our eyes upon you

Let your glory fall
Let your glory fall down like rain
Let your glory flood this place
Come and fill our hungry souls again

You are worth more to me than the air I breathe
I depend on You for everything
We are desperately poor and needy
But you are rich in love and mercy

Let your glory fall

Let your glory fall down like rain

Let your glory flood this place

Come and fill our hungry souls again

So we'll wait upon you Lord, you'll renew our strength

Yes we'll wait upon you Lord, help us walk in your victory

We'll wait upon you Lord, until you set all the captives free

Jesus you are the glory, Jesus you are the glory, Jesus you are the glory of GOD

Let your glory fall

Let your glory fall down like rain

Let your glory flood this place

Come and fill our hungry souls again

This is my new song. So thankful to the Lord that this is pure truth!!

First Generation Christian Mom Part 1

Thinking back today about the day my eyes were opened to the TRUTH. He had a name....JESUS. I was raised in anything but a Christian home. We acknowledged that there was a God but there was  no relationship with HIM. We were not allowed to say G*#  D@&it*. Every once in a while we would pop into a church around Christmas or Easter but other than that we followed our own moral compass, which let me tell you was pretty low. I found myself imprisoned to sin, serving it as a slave. There was no joy in my life and I lived captivated by fear and darkness.

The day came that I decided to talk to this far off God. I had questions for Him. Did He really have the power to save a wicked wretch like me? Who was this guy Jesus that people said was His Son? I remember the day that He answered those questions December 8th of 2005. I bowed down on the floor of my bedroom and confessed with my mouth and believed with my WHOLE heart that Jesus was the Son of God and that He paid for my sins. That was the night I was transformed from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light. I began serving a new Master that night, One who was gracious and forgiving, the Lord Jesus Christ. 19 days later I found out that I was pregnant with Jack and my son Brandon was 8 years old.

My mission in life had changed. I had a child and one on the way. My mission of motherhood in Christ began that day. One thing that I did not understand was psalm 127:3. I was never treated Like a blessing or reward. It seemed as though most of the time I was an inconvenience. Major work began in my heart, mind, and soul right away. The Lord began to show me that these children were my heritage and reward. His word that is sharper than any two edged sword began cutting through years of lies and my own hurts as a child.

Another thing the Lord began to show me was that I was to be a keeper of my home. At this point I was an unmarried new believer with two children. I was lonely and desired companionship that I was able to find in the Lord. I remember the long nights of raising an infant alone. No one was there to help in a physical sense but my dependency on the Lord grew deeper and deeper. Soon the Lord opened a door for me to move into a loving Christian home with two precious sisters. I met a young man and began dating. (this young man was a total distraction in my life) a word to single Christian moms....be very careful about the man you allow into your life. Your adversary the devil roars around like a lion seeking whom he may devour and knows your weaknesses...he knows the desperation of a young Christian woman to be married. Our identity should wholly be made up in the Lord. Trust Jesus to help you find a man after His heart and accept warning from other believers when they see warning signs in your life.

At this same point the Lord was working in Jackson's dads life. Little did I know that he would soon be hitting his knees and coming to salvation....that is another blog in itself ;) maybe that blog will be titled " First generation Christian wife".                                                                              

Soon after Jon (jacks dad) came to the Lord it became evident to me that this was a real conversion. I decided with the aid of Godly counsel that Jon and I should get married. We both laugh about this season now...I basically asked him to marry me. Lol!!

Major sanctification has taken place in us both as we learn how to serve one another and love sacrificially. Early in our marriage we decided it would be best for me to stay home and take care of the house and our children. This began the journey of discipleship for my children. I honestly had NO idea what I was doing. I mean I knew how to love and care for thence in a physical sense but how could I nurture their little spirits. Honestly....by a lot of grace! In the early days we banned most tv, video games etc....it was all evil in my eyes. Something stirred in my heart that I was creating an environment that was "safe" but made God appear rigid and demanding in my children's eyes. I longed for freedom in my life and theirs to know what was acceptable. I didn't want to be a liberal parent just for the sake of my kids liking me...you know? Brandon and I still joke about when I took Pokemon away from him and told him that this game was from Satan. I told him that only Satan sucked life from beings. Whoa!!! Honestly this was all just regurgitated info I picked up from other moms and dads. I remember being on my knees so much in those early days of my faith begging God to give wisdom of how to raise my kids for His glory.

I didn't realize how much I wanted to write on this subject so I will conclude this as the beginning of my journey:) can't wait to share more of what the Lord has taught me!! I would LOVE to hear some of your stories too! Be looking for part 2.

Why Lord?

Today while reading My Utmost for His highest I was convicted, and pruned. The topic was intercessory prayer. I know that is something that our precious Lord has called me to and equipped me for.

. . . praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit . . . —Ephesians 6:18

The Lord has spoken to me a handful of times through visions and dreams and as I prayed for Him to show me the interpretations, I found warning in these dreams. Why would God have shown me anything like this? It is truly a question to be pondered He loves each of us with an equal love that shows no partiality. So begins my longing to know why He has shown me this.

As time goes on these dreams begin to unfold in real life and I know that it was Him speaking. Again why Lord? Then this morning I sit down for my quiet time with Him and He speaks. That thin small voice that we must tune our ears to hear. He spoke to the depths of my soul revealing to me that it was a call to bathe the people involved in prayer. I am broken and undone certainly there were times when I did just that, yet mostly I just watched. My soul is filled with an aching and crying out for Him to forgive me.

Just a couple of months ago I shared with a sweet sister these dreams. She has known the Lord a great many number of years.  She said the Lord had also given her a dream and told me what it was. In truth it scared me and justified my fears about the people involved. Then I missed the wisdom that she spoke over me, yet clinging to it now. She told me to PRAY!! You see anytime God reveals a mystery with you, your response should be humility and prayer. That was not mine…it lead to pride and justification. For that I am broken. I find hope in the fact that He has started a good work in me and He will complete it. He is guiding me and teaching me through this process. What a forgiving and gracious God we serve. Yet now I will engage in a spiritual battle for those involved. My weapon is PRAYER. Don’t make the same mistakes I have. Hear wisdom crying out in the streets. If God has shown you mysteries and knowledge He expects you to steward it in a way that brings Him glory, and draws you closer to Him.

God gives us discernment in the lives of others to call us to intercession for them, never so that we may find fault with them.

~Oswald Chambers~

False Gospels and Fattened Shepherds

More and more we are talking about and seeing shepherds that are not feeding the sheep. They are feeding themselves and being fattened up. They are not rightly dividing the Word. Their pocketbooks and waistlines are a testimony to that. God tells us - Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap Galatians 6:7. Today our sweet Lord led me to Ezekiel 34. WOW!! Shepherds repent. Bow down and humble yourselves before The MIGHTY GOD!!! In America we are taught a humanist gospel. It isn't true. You don't have to better yourself or love yourself in order to minister to others Jesus actually says we are to die to ourselves and pick up our cross and follow after HIM-Matthew 10:37. We are to live our lives as a holy sacrifice poured out like Paul better yet like our LORD Jesus the Christ!!. I am going to put some of Ezekiel up the scriptures that just screamed AMERICA today.....

"Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy and say to them, 'Thus says the Lord GOD to the shepherds: "Woe to the shepherds of Israel who feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flocks? You eat the fat and clothe yourselves with the wool; you slaughter the fatlings, but you do not feed the flock. The weak you have not strengthened, nor have you healed those who were sick, nor bound up the broken, nor brought back what was driven away, nor sought what was lost; but with force and cruelty you have ruled them. So they were scattered because there was no shepherd; and they became food for all the beasts of the field when they were scattered.

'Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD: "[As] I live," says the Lord GOD, "surely because My flock became a prey, and My flock became food for every beast of the field, because [there was] no shepherd, nor did My shepherds search for My flock, but the shepherds fed themselves and did not feed My flock"-- therefore, O shepherds, hear the word of the LORD!

Sound familiar?

I may just be rambling but I don't think so. Let God speak to your heart. If you are a sheep that has been hurt by a pastor or those in the church don't allow that to stand in between you and the only living GOD. The One whom created YOU with His very hands. Formed you out of dust and breathed life into you. Allow our good Shepherd, Jesus Christ to lead you to a pasture where you will be fed and healed.

Beware of wolves in sheep’s clothing. Beware of those whom share a different gospel other than or adding to Jesus being the only way to the Father. Beware of those that tell you God is here to fulfill all of your fleshly desires; money, beauty, health etc....Jesus desires to reconcile you to His Father. He desires to change your heart not your circumstances. He desires to fill your spirit with His that you may be able to walk through the hard times that are to be expected in this sinful fallen world. Let Him love you today. And as His humble servant know that I am praying for and loving you today!! 

(I wrote this in 2009) Just reread it and decided to post it :) Enjoy

You have called me to be holy, as you are Holy.

Today I have been thinking about the call of Holiness that we as Christians have.

            but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”

(1 Peter 1:15-16 ESV)

            Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.

(Hebrews 12:14 ESV)

I find that I have grown tremendously in the years that I have known Christ. I truly am not that dead woman that I was before. I am humbled to serve such a mighty God that would give His life; sacrificing himself for my sin so that I could be made holy through His holy life being laid down for me. There are no words of worship or adoration that give this justice.

There are days though, when holiness just does not seem like something I am growing in. I see the weakness and the desires of my flesh rise up. I speak an evil word about someone, I hold bitterness and unforgiveness in my heart, I judge the heart intentions, I criticize instead of build up…..and my dirty laundry list goes on. In these moments, I don’t feel holy. As a matter fact I feel dirty and defiled.  Then I hear that thin silence of Gods voice calling me to repentance. To holiness. Convicting my Spirit to be washed cleaned and revived in Him. It is truly humbling that He would even talk to us in these places. Grace, HIS PRECIOUS GRACE, pours over me. Oh, Romans 6 plays in my mind, as I think of the sacrifice that was made for me. The precious blood poured out, for me. SO that I can that I could stand  righteous in the eyes of the living God!! I cry out, “oh LORD make me Holy as you are holy. I can’t do it in my own strength. Never let me waste a precious drop of your atoning blood spilled at Calvary. Let holiness and grace embrace in my life today, so that I can have hope to have clean heart and clean hands in Your sight Abba Father!!! “

Thank you Jesus!!

Incorruptible Beauty

I have been thinking a lot about the beauty of the Christian woman. Scripture tells us~            

Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious. For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.

(1 Peter 3:3-6 ESV)

I was at a baby shower a couple of years ago and I heard a few Christian women talking. Fitness, babies, church, and the topic of beauty came up; it was very interesting to hear some of what they said.  One woman said she saw a mother recently out of the house that just looked awful= sweat pants, ponytail, no make-up, tired ( it was probably me), and then said she could never leave the house looking like that. It was quick words sputtered out but isn’t that the reality of a woman’s heart? Most of us are mortified just if someone sees just our everyday getup( and if you act like you have NEVER been insecure about this, you are lying). Many times we work on the outside thinking we can hide what is within, shielding our deep need for Jesus. Because there is a deep deep need inside of every woman that can only be met by a loving and gracious Savior. Now don’t get me wrong. Make-up, jewelry, clothes, fitness, etc….are all good and fun things. But it just seems like God is concerned mostly with the Spirit or the heart of a person.

I believe the NKJV states that we are not merely suppose to be thinking about external things as women. I like that wording. It’s not wrong, but focus more on your Spirit. Even the apostle Paul says ~ for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.

(1 Timothy 4:8-10 ESV)

It is also interesting to note the last line of 1 Peter~ And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening. I love that line!!! Fear nothing nothing that is frightening. It makes me think of Philippians 4 that says to bring all of your anxieties to God by prayer and supplication and HE will give you the peace that surpasses all understanding and guard your mind and heart in Jesus Christ.

We as women struggle to stay here. We make it here, we are doing well, then life gets away from us, kids wake up in middle of the night puking, or our husband loses his job, death in the family, an unruly teenager, input your life struggles here---- point is; life just happens. In the midst of those times, Gods promise is that if you come to Him, pour out your fear and anxieties and trust in Him. Read Isaiah 26:3 He will give you peace and a gentle and quiet Spirit that cannot be corrupted by this world.

I want to note that it is not wrong or sinful to be anxious or scared. It becomes sin when you try to handle that on your own and do not take it to God. When it consumes you.

My encouragement to my precious sisters this morning is this. Sit with the Lord. Eat and receive of His love, grace, and forgiveness for you. Read His tender words. Let Him cultivate a gentle and quiet Spirit that is not anxious and is fully satisfied in Him. Remember that you, YES YOU!! Are fearfully and wonderfully made by an amazing God. Compliment other women when you see this incorruptible beauty that this world cannot steal or replicate. It is an eternal beauty given by the Spirit of God. Love you ladies. Walk in the beauty of the Lord today!!

YOU ARE NOT ON THE OUTSIDE LOOKING IN!!

Have you ever felt like you were on the outside looking in? Face pressed against the windowpane intently watching and wishing you were a part of what was happening? Have you ever been the soul stripped bare? Watching as people smile, connect, and live around you? Eyes lifted up and heart bowed low. Have you ever poured your life into something only to have all of your dreams shattered? I have and it hurts.....

WE know that God promises to work ALL things together for the good of those that He called according to HIS purpose and conform us into the image of Christ. When pain and turmoil strike the soul and circumstances don’t match to what you think they should. What is your response? Do you allow bitterness and anger (which defiles others around) to engulf you? Do you add up your losses? Or do you turn your eyes to the Maker of heaven and earth, trusting that somehow; He is going to use this, YES THIS, to conform you more into His image. 

If there is one thing that I have learned in the past couple of years of my life; it is to hold everything loosely, yet delicately. It All belongs to Him so it has value..... Also, God is not here to fulfill our expectations. That might sound harsh and I truly don’t mean for it to. This is what He has shown me to be true; that His ways are higher than our ways, and His understanding so much higher than our understanding. If He directs, moves, and cuts ties to the place your dreams were born; how tightly will you grip? If He leads you in another direction, will you follow? Can you stand outside of yourself with a span so much broader than your limited view and see a Kingdom being built for His glory. Soul stripped I write this and cling to His promises. 

If He is for me who could ever be against me? That He is able to do exceedingly abundantly more than we could ever ask, that He has plans not to harm us, but rather for a future and a hope. 

So where do we go from here?

I lift up my eyes to the hills.

From where does my help come?

My help comes from the LORD,

who made heaven and earth.

(Psalm 121:1-2 ESV)

Restore to me the joy of your salvation,

and uphold me with a willing spirit.

(Psalm 51:12 ESV)

The heart of man plans his way,

but the LORD establishes his steps.

(Proverbs 16:9 ESV)

It has been hard to realize that I was never on the outside looking in rather being prepared for a new work. God is interested in conforming us into His image. Let me be the first to say that this is not the easiest place to be but it is the very best place to be. Simply clay in the potters hands.

Home for a while

Fellowship Missionary-

Ahh, the familiarity. This is the church that the Lord used to speak to my dead soul for the very first time 6 and a half years ago. I remember sitting in my chair wiggling around as GOD spoke directly to me. I wouldn’t expect anything less 6 and half years later. This was also the very first church that I ever brought Jon to in the process of the Lord Jesus calling and wooing him out of the world 4 and half years ago. Deep roots have been set here.

I whisper to Jon as we walk into the sanctuary that I was sitting in the back row when I first heard Gods voice. He says “lets sit there, maybe we will hear Him today” in a joking fashion. As we look up, one of our most favorite saints is standing there smiling at us with his beautiful family. Hugs are exchanged and whispered promises to get together and catch up on where we are on this journey are made (they are being fulfilled this Wednesday). The worship has started and an energetic 70 plus lady is dancing down the aisles singing “hallelujah” and praise you Lord”. We quickly find our seats, second to back row.

We are engaged and the Holy Spirit is moving. Announcements are made and the pastor approaches after a beautiful video testimony of a young man whose life had been flipped turned upside down by the glorious grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Quickly we get into the text about Josephs life. Truth resonates as the pastor reads and teaches from the scripture. The power of the Holy Spirit is mending and binding inside me. I look over at Jon, whose eyes are filled with tears as the beautiful truths of our God Almighty pour over us. I whisper "I think I can call this home for a while."

We gather our children from the kind childrens ministry workers and run into people we know from BC (before Christ) and after. Such a joyous celebration. We end our precious afternoon at Granite City eating brunch and then home for cuddles and naps. Thank you Lord Jesus for Sabbath rest and cuddles!!!

A New Season

As many of you know Jon and I have felt the leading of the Lord Jesus to leave Gospel Community. We’ve prayed, many conversations have taken place, and we have walked through that open door. One thing MUST be said…I am eternally grateful for the precious season of life that we had there. The Lord took a chance with us and allowed us to pour ourselves into this church plant and was faithful to bring servants that are very gifted to fill any void that there may be in our decision to leave. With that being said…..

We are moving into a new season of our life. Jon is calling that my buzz word I am all about the “seasons” of life right now. In this season we will be looking for the body in Fort Wayne that God wants us to be apart of. I want to blog this spiritual journey that God has us on.

Pine Hills Church-

            Excitement dances in our chests as we pull into the parking lot. I look at Jon as none of this is familiar and say “this is weird.” We get out and walk into a mass of people. Very friendly people, that before that day I never knew existed. There are smiles and handshakes. A precious sister in the Lord sees our faces looking around. I am sure looking a little lost and helpless, she quickly comes to our aid and helps us get the boys checked in. People are standing everywhere talking and there is excitement in the air, only I am not sure what I am feeling yet, overwhelmed. We take the kids back to their classes to very cute little rooms with smiling Sunday school teachers waiting for them. Salty wet tears begin to stream down my face and I need to find the bathroom, only I have never been here before so I don’t know where the bathroom is.

Jon is waiting for me when I come out of the bathroom. We take each other’s hands and walk into the sanctuary. Oh joy; familiar faces!! Jon sees Dustin Wegner and I see Brenda Geiser. We stop and chat and then find our seats. As I look around at the congregation, again I am overwhelmed. This particular building is to say the least, beautiful. Very appealing to the eyes. The lights dim and the worship team starts to play. Again, I think how wonderful the music is and I am somehow not able to sing. Inside of me I know that we are all just broken people and yet this is all very well put together.

God gently begins drawing me into worship. Beautiful songs and truths, sang by broken people. I still can’t sing I just stand there with my hands held up letting these truths go into my soul and raising them up to HIM!!

The Pastor comes up after worship is over and announces that they are taking a break from the book they have been studying. He goes on to say that we are going to watch a video of a family that is soon departing for Mali, Africa. Be still my soul. My mind quickly goes to my desire to be a missionary in a foreign land. But I silence the thought and focus my attention on this precious family. They share their God story of how He opened every door for them. I sit there in quiet excitement for all the things that these precious saints are going to experience with Jesus and the Yulankan people.

The pastor comes back up and gives a brief sermon on the great commission and again I am stirred to want to drop everything and go wherever He calls me to go. Though at least for right now it seems He wants me in Fort Wayne, Indiana. But there is that sliver of hope that I cannot put to rest that maybe, just maybe, He might be preparing to send my family to a place where He is working on the hearts of the people to know HIM. About this time the pator calls this family up and the elders lay hands on them. My heart is the same heart beat as theirs. I am just praying so hard for the work that Jesus is preparing for them and my mind slips to the reality of discouragements, warfare, doubts, and I just pray harder!!!!!

The service ends…as we drive away from the first in our many churches to visit, I am just so excited about the work that our precious Lord is doing around Fort Wayne. I then span out even broader and think of the whole world and I am humbled to bear His name. To call Him my God!!

Jon and I chit chat about the fire that has been reignited in our souls to serve Him in a foreign land. For now we pray and serve Him faithfully in Fort Wayne, Indiana…. Never the less we were reminded of the precious desire He has hidden deep within us.



For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
a time to seek, and a time to lose;
a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
a time to tear, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
a time to love, and a time to hate;
a time for war, and a time for peace.

(Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 ESV)

It's At Your Feet

It’s At Your Feet

Oh Dark night of my soul, My bones are aching, everything seems so out of control, it hurts just to breathe in, the pain is so excruciating, my mouth is in the dust, but you won’t leave there oh Lord with no hope

It’s at Your feet, that’s where I find forgiveness

It’s at Your feet, that’s Where I find love

It’s at Your feet, that’s where I find peace

It’s at Your feet, that’s where Your Spirit leads me

I hunger and I thirst for Your righteousness, when this old clay vessel dries up, I come and drink from the well that never ends, I trust in Your faithfulness oh Lord, You never let me down, my mouth is in the dust, you won’t leave  me there without  any hope.

It’s at Your feet, that’s where I find forgiveness

It’s at Your feet, that’s Where I find love

It’s at Your feet, that’s where I find peace

It’s at Your feet, that’s where Your Spirit leads me