Female in Motion

I've heard some really weird ideas that people have about God and what He likes and dislikes. Here's a few comparisons: The world says God doesn't listen. I know He loves to hear from me. The world says hell will be a party. (It won't.) I know God is preparing a beautiful place in heaven just for me. The world says God has too many rules. I know He has given me freedom like I've never known before. The world says you have to be perfect before you walk into a church. I know God loves me just as I am. The world says God is intolerant. I know the only thing God hates is sin--not sinners. The world uses prayer like a genie in a bottle. I know God will supply all my needs. The world says that being a Christian is "too hard." I know He gives me strength to face whatever challenges life gives. The world says He disapproves of their lifestyle. I know God loves all of us so much He sent His Son to die on the cross for our sins. The world...

Grace begins with Jesus Christ. He IS grace, but it is not limited to Him. As Christians, we can, and should show grace to others, too. When I think about the grace that God has shown me, how He lavishes favor on my life, it makes me want to pay it forward. How can I demonstrate grace to others? I want to start by being less critical of those around me, and more tolerant of others' choices. If I listen more, and have compassion, I can mirror the grace our Heavenly Father gives. Those folks that are hard to look at, ministry begins there. Instead of running or looking away, I need to meet people where they are, while telling them my salvation story. We've all been there. By modeling Christlike attributes, I will mature my faith. Like Noah, Moses and the apostles, I want to find grace in the eyes of the Lord. *** Notable Quote: Titus 2:11-14 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts...

Matthew 18:2-5 And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. Tonight, my heart is heavy at the loss of one of God's little children. She was only four years old, but I learned many lessons from this powerful teacher. And now, as I try to live a life that honors her memory, I invite you to lift prayers of comfort and mercy for the grieving family. Good night, little Sunshine! Until we meet again.

Today is Female in Motion's eighth blogaversary! After reading my first blog entry, I can't believe: a. that anyone still reads this, and b. that my writing was so atrocious.We've all come a long way, friends. Eight years ago, I was 45 years old, working a business from home and exercising at the new gym in Ark City, Fit Zone. Today, I'm 53 years old, commuting daily to a job in Wichita, a cancer survivor and just starting to exercise again after a long time away. Monday's blog theme was gratefulness, and I want to continue on that subject. Since our business closed, The Hubster and I have had to learn how to live lean again. We know God is blessing our efforts to pay off old debt and medical bills and teaching us how to be content with what He gives. We all are surrounded with things. Our possessions seem to possess us, rather than the other way round. I feel more safe when I have all my stuff around me, but am I? No. Objects are no substitute for a Savio...

The Bonnie & Clyde of Farmington Drive! Wow, the last four days have gone by in a whirlwind! I traveled to north central Missouri last weekend to attend a family reunion. My mother's family, the Ballews, meet every two years to eat, laugh, talk, play games, hang out, share memories and generally love on each other. We're a big, happy, crazy, fun family and really enjoy being together. Tonight, I am grateful for family. Mine, The Hubster's, and the one we created. Rainbows United held their All-Staff In-Service Day today. It started early at the beautiful Botanica, with inspirational speeches, service awards and a yummy breakfast. This afternoon, we broke into departments for more training, team-building exercises and an equally delicious lunch. Fun at work! Tonight, I am grateful for my job. The work, the people and the mission. This week, Female in Motion will celebrate its' 8th blogaversary. To mark the occasion, I will post a second entry this week on...

Our youngest cat family member, Buddy, came to us from the Cowley County Humane Society. We celebrated his third birthday last month. Yes, we mark these occasions. Before Buddy joined our family, he was fitted with a microchip by the CCHS staff. This bit of hardware identifies us as his parents and informs others how to get in contact should we become separated from our beloved tabby boy. Simply put, Buddy belongs to us and the microchip proves it. When I was 20, and invited Jesus to come into my heart and be my Savior, I was marked by God. From that point on, I was identified as belonging to my Heavenly Father. I am not in bondage, however, this adoption was freely entered into by both parties. One day, if we haven't already made that decision, we will be required to choose teams, if you will. A mark, you WILL have. I don't want anyone to have that hanging over them, so why not make your travel plans now and avoid the rush? Jesus wants you for His very own. When we a...