Female in Motion

On a Christmas long ago, I received a very special gift—a stuffed monkey with soft fur. It was something I dearly wanted. When I made my Christmas wish list that year, I asked for just a few things: the new Partridge Family album, a diary (I was always filling up those things!), and a stuffed brown monkey with soft fur on his face; not a sock monkey. I was very specific on that point. What I didn’t know, until years later, was that my mom had a heck of a time finding that little monkey. She trudged to store after store, all over Wichita, trying to find one with fur on his face. My mom and dad, who were great parents, always gave me good gifts. They were very generous and loving. If parents give their children nice presents, how much more would our Heavenly Father give us if we ask Him? What gift would you ask for this Christmas? *** Notable Quote: James 1:17  Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of l...

A flower arrangement I made for Tam.  Last week I wrote about the departure of a co-worker and dear friend, Tam. You may have been left with the impression that she was this tiny, shy girl who needed a lot of guidance and shepherding. Oh, no. Not at all. She is one of the most powerful, influential and strong women I have ever met. And I'm so grateful for the lessons she taught me. Tam is a thoughtful, humble and giving person. She taught me to be more generous with my words and deeds. A lifelong learner, my friend taught me to be curious and always strive for more knowledge. I learned to think of others first and to be grateful for what God has given. Tam taught me to be a better listener and not be so quick to speak first. I learned that even though I am from a culture so very different from hers, Tam was gracious and loved me with open arms and heart. Tam taught me vital life lessons and I will forever be in her debt. Thank you, God, for this gift. *** Notabl...

Last Friday was my work bestie's last day. She has found a new position with a different company. And while I am incredibly happy for her, I will miss Tam deeply. At the farewell party we threw for her, she said it felt like a graduation. And she's not wrong--Tam learned everything she needed to know where she was and now she's moving on. Tam came to our company three years ago. She was very shy and quiet; a friendly soul, but timid when it came to casual conversation. Tam confided in me that she was unsure of her language skills. A first-generation American, Tam came to the United States by herself when she was 15. Through many hardships, she finished high school and got a bachelor's degree in accounting. At her farewell luncheon, Tam greeted guest after guest with big hugs and smiles, lots of fun conversation and witty remarks. She is much more self-confident today. Tam says that I am one of the reasons she is more confident now, but I say that she did all t...

Photo courtesy of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. I'm struggling with a difficult season in my work. Usually, I am quite confident in my skills but this new challenge is really wreaking havoc with my peace of mind. Tearing up at odd times and fighting melancholy thoughts, I have been feeling sorry for myself. I feel powerless and out of control. Notice anything missing? Yeah, me too. I haven't been asking My Best Friend for advice. I've talked to my co-workers, vented to The Hubster and shared with friends. They've all been wonderfully supportive and helpful. It's scary to feel so very alone. Being in total control of myself and my work is something I take for granted. And I take a lot of pride in that. And that's when I knew I needed to run into the arms of Jesus and let Him take over. The reason I feel alone is that I have isolated myself. And I am over-stressed and anxious because I chose not to pray about it. So I'm going to do what I should have...

Photo courtesy of Logos Bible Software WONDER OF IT ALL George Beverly Shea Lyrics   There's the wonder of sunset at evening, The wonder as sunrise I see; But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul Is the wonder that God loves me.   Refrain O, the wonder of it all! The wonder of it all! Just to think that God loves me. O, the wonder of it all! The wonder of it all! Just to think that God loves me.   Verse 2 There's the wonder of springtime and harvest, The sky, the stars, the sun; But the wonder of wonders that thrills my soul Is a wonder that has only begun. *** Notable Quote: "Stuff your eyes with wonder, live as if you'd drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It's more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories."--Ray Bradbury

John 1:14 (KJV) And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. I worked with a person once, a long time ago, who routinely hurt people with their words. This person said they were just "telling the truth." As if a verbal attack on someone's personality is edifying or even helpful. The truth has nothing to do with tearing down others. Christ spent His earthly life sharing the truth with love. He taught that the truth would set us free--and it does. But truth devoid of love is worthless. In the Bible, love is characterized as long-suffering, guileless, without ulterior motive and always fair. If you use these attributes to temper the truth, it will draw others, instead of repelling them. When you tell friends (or yourself!) the truth, consider Christ's teaching and avoid harsh or cutting words. What is your motive or reward for this truth-telling? Will it be...

Tonight we hosted a revival at our church, and I took care of three fun and frisky toddlers in the nursery. I had a good time and learned some new things. 1. Stacking blocks is fun, but it's more fun to knock them down. 2. What's mine is mine and what's yours is mine, too. 3. It's hilarious to wear your socks on your hands and rub them on Miss Carol's face. 4. Old MacDonald is the best song in the world. 5. A sleepy and sad kiddo will quiet down if you sing Jesus Loves Me and rock them a bit. *** Notable Quote: Jesus loves me! This I know, For the Bible tells me so; Little ones to Him belong; They are weak, but He is strong. Refrain: Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me! The Bible tells me so.

October is Pastor Appreciation Month. Have you prayed for your minister today? *** Notable Quote: "Are you manifesting God in your life today?"--Mike Truman, pastor, Missionary Baptist Church

Photo courtesy of Central Penn Parent. Psalm 61:1-2 (KJV) Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Last week, I felt led to meditate and write on the subject of anxiety. While I prayed and put my thoughts together, I had no idea that someone else was doing the same thing…it was The Hubster. When I arrived at church on Sunday morning, my favorite Sunday School teacher was speaking incredible truths from God on fighting anxiety and putting all our trust in Him. Man, it was good. The Hubster really made me think when he asked the class if their children trusted them. “Is your child suspicious when you ask them to hop in the car? Do they ask why and where are we going? No, your children trust that you are taking them somewhere nice and that they will be safe with you.” Imagine if we had to drag our children kicking and screaming through life? Now, ...

Today was a pretty spectacular Monday. The Hubster retired! I'm so proud of him. This big step. This life of providing for his family. Now it's time to dream some new dreams and look for new challenges. So grateful God blessed me with this very special man. And so glad I get to be his co-pilot on the next adventure. *** Notable Quote: Psalm 34:8 (KJV) O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.

Photo courtesy of bluestoblessings.com. Ephesians 4:13-16 (KJV) 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: 16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. A very long time ago, I had a co-worker who would say cruel and unkind things to me and others. This person used the rationale that they were merely "telling the truth." They were speaking what they considered to be the truth...

Photo courtesy of Freepik. Mark 12:29-31 (KJV) And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is , Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. Why am I here? What is the meaning of life? The secret is...love God. Love people. In that order. If you truly want to change the direction of your life, try this strategy on for size. For the next week, put God first. It will amaze you how everything else will just fall into place correctly. After that, love people. Even the ones that aren't very lovable. And the ones who let you down. Forgive them their trespasses, just as Christ has forgiven you. Try the experiment again next week, and the next. Soon you will have a whole ...

Photo courtesy of Crosswalk. Precious Lord, I need to get some things done--but I'm scared. What if I fail? What if I get hurt? What if they make fun of me? Doing things for Your Kingdom is important, but I'm not sure I can do it. I'm not a strong person, Lord. If only conditions and timing were a little bit better. Then I could go out and really do something. I want to believe You'll be beside me every step, but I can't see You. I want to believe You can hear my prayers, but I can't hear You.  When I spend time in prayer, You remind me of Your promises to protect me and give me strength for daily battles. You are my courage. You are the One I trust. Doubt drifts away when I hold close to Your Word. Fear doesn't stand a chance when You are near. Thanks, God, for baby steps forward. In Jesus' holy name, Amen. *** Notable Quote: 1 Corinthians 15:58 (KJV) Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in t...

Beautiful artwork by Fae! My pastor gave a message yesterday on vision . We have come to the conclusion of one era in our church, and now are starting a new season. Pastor Mike has encouraged us to carry what we have learned and begin again. I wrote in July about change . This summer has brought profound differences to my life. While once content to be splashing in the kiddie pool, I am now adrift in a turbulent sea. There are no familiar landmarks around. The landscape is like an uncharted planet, not familiar or friendly. This new journey will be challenging and interesting. And I will need plenty of patience to follow God's leading, even when I am uncertain about where He's going. God asks us to wait on His timetable and be patient toward others. Just as He is patient and long-suffering with us. Patience is a muscle that needs to be exercised to stay in top condition. Learn to live, breathe and thrive through the waiting. I will follow God's leading, even whe...

Miss Jana at a baby shower for my cousin Evelyn Lister. 1 Corinthians 2:9 (KJV) But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. My beautiful friend and mentor died Wednesday night from complications of metastatic breast cancer. Jana fought bravely, but this hideous disease was stronger than her tiny frame could handle. Did cancer win? Not a chance. A sister in Christ for 37 years, Jana was a pillar of our church. She was the pianist, decorator, Sunday School stalwart, fellowship dinner organizer, secret floor mopper, Vacation Bible School treat maker, and plant waterer, all while making it look completely effortless. Most of all, Jana loved Jesus. She shone with His light and reflected His mercy. If you were looking for just the right Bible verse for a particular situation, my dear friend always knew. She was a proficient Bible scholar. While I can be loud and aud...

I exchanged emails with a supervisor at work recently. She asked for my opinion on a billing situation. I replied that the issue could be resolved easily, but (and this is a Kardashian butt), the insurance company would need to pay correctly. She came to my office, laughing about my characterization of the size of that "but." There are some pretty big "buts" in God's Word, too. Our Heavenly Father has a way of completely turning around a bad situation into something really great. Always remember, when you can't seem to handle a burden on your own, let God take control and watch Him work. Here are some of my favorite "buts" in scripture. Romans 5:6-8 (KJV) 6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us...

Photo courtesy of  iStock Isaiah 60:1 (KJV)   Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.  Woke is a slang term that means being aware of and sensitive to social and racial injustices. Enlightened, so to speak. There are many people on this planet that consider themselves awake and aware of everything around them, and yet they are blind to the things of the Lord. Scriptures remind us that God's presence fills creation, but only His children are truly aware of Him around them. We live in a society of those who are enlightened, progressive and highly intelligent. However, they are completely oblivious to the all-consuming grace and mercy of Jesus Christ. Christ Followers are the only ones in this world that are truly "woke." We are reborn and alive forever through Christ. I believe it is time for Christians to have a wake-up call. Look around and see the lost around you. They need to be made aware of God and His love for th...

Photo courtesy of Christianity Today (After the horrific events in El Paso and Dayton last weekend, this post seems uniquely timed.) 1 John 5:14-15 (KJV) And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him. "How do I pray? What do I say to Him?" she asked. I have had this late-night conversation more than once in recent days. Actually, I used to be this person--without a clue how to talk to God. The big secret on how to talk to God is no secret at all. Talk to Him like He is your friend because you'll never have a better one. Check out the prayers of Jesus in the New Testament. He spent long hours alone, before the Throne of Grace. When you're feeling upset, confused, anxious or just plain mad, tell your Heavenly Father how you feel. He can't wait to hear what's on your mind. Pr...

Fey Fae original drawing Last week, I helped to plan three parties. Yes, it was hectic and I was stressed. Party#1: A "Bon Voyage" party for a young co-worker and friend who was returning to her home country. Party#2: A retirement party for my boss, who has spent a lifetime as a CPA and now wants to spend the rest of his life with his family. Party#3: A wedding reception for a sweet couple who are starting all over again. All three of these parties brought big changes to the lives of those involved. And change is a source of major stress. Along with the fear of the unknown, transitions bring pain in view of radical transformations. Life changes can bring grief, like a death, but they also provide joy and growth in new experiences and perspectives. When I accept new challenges and even embrace them, I mature in my faith. Be assured, your value to God is constant and will never change. When change comes, and it always does, we can accept a new reality and grow ...

Original entry date: February 6, 2012 A letter came in the mail today. A dear friend is going through hard times. A missionary to troubled teens in the Kansas City area, this man also works full-time at a secular job to provide for his family. Last week, he was fired from his job for something he did not do. He's discouraged. I know a woman who is waiting on a sign from God. Her life is in a holding pattern. She has a family, a great career, loving friends, and she wants more. This woman wants to step out by faith on a new mission, but God hasn't said the word yet. She is discouraged. Last week I got two rejection letters for my writing. After two years of submitting my work to publications, I still have no success. My blog is gaining new readers and I am networking with lots of talented writers, but I want to be published. I am discouraged. Elijah the prophet was discouraged, too. God sent him to preach to the people of Israel, but King Ahab worshipped Baal and the altar...

Photo courtesy of Smithsonian Magazine John 16:33 (KJV) These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.  I'm a Christian, why isn't my life perfect? It should be easy, according to some very popular doctrines. Just believe God and He will make sure everything is great, right? Um, where does it say that in the Bible? John says that in the world we will have tribulation, aka problems. Our Savior will give us peace, though, because He has overcome the world. What an amazing promise! Our lives here on earth won't be perfect, but we will have our Precious Lord beside us, every step of the way. *** Notable Quote: "In spite of the cost of living, it's still popular."--Kathy Norris

Artwork courtesy of  Tabatha "Fae" Waldroupe Exodus 20:9-10 (KJV) Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: A dear friend gave me an amazing gift--a devotional book called, "Sacred Rest" by Cheryl Wunderlich. Each night before bed, I savor two pages of hope and encouragement, centering on the need for a Sabbath. The Scripture quotation above reminds us that rest is a commandment from God. And while we would never consider breaking God's laws like "do not murder" and "don't covet your neighbor's wife," we don't think twice about blowing right through a Sabbath day of rest. I have a tough time with this one. It makes me feel lazy when I sit around all day, reading, calling loved ones and nappin...

Fae's first "doodle" I am extremely pleased and honored to introduce you to someone special. Fae Waldroupe, a gifted young artist, will be providing visual content to Female in Motion's weekly blog posts.  While leading a ladies small group at my church, I noticed Fae sketching on a plain cross handout. What she did (which Fae calls "doodling"), was astounding.  Please join me in welcoming Fae to the blog and make sure to give this talented woman some positive feedback. Lamentations 3:22-23 (KJV) It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.  Sometimes it feels like our souls are battered and bruised from trying, from waiting, from failure, from rejection. We feel profoundly flawed. Take time to remember that so many in the Bible--Noah, Abraham and Sarah, Daniel and Joseph were all flawed and human. That's how God knew that He would be ab...

1 Peter 3:15 (KJV) But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Philippians 4:11 (KJV) Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I get this question a lot, especially at work. "Why are you so happy all the time?" How I answer depends on who is asking. If it is a child, I tell them how much I enjoy hanging out with them and the other kiddos at Rainbows. When I have a one-on-one conversation with a co-worker, I explain the reason for my optimistic attitude. 3. I am content in my life and work. 2. I am a naturally happy person. 1. Ask me about how God has blessed my life. Number one is the real reason for my joy. My Heavenly Father lavishes me daily with grace and mercy and I am so very grateful for His love. What's your reason? *** Notable Quote: Psalm 16:8-...

Courtesy of Tan Chiu Chiu Proverbs 3:11-12 (KJV) My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. It's inevitable. Your relationship with your Heavenly Father is mirrored by your relationship with your earthly father. My daddy was a good one. He always put family first--even above his career. He never missed a game or concert or play. There were hard times. My teenage years were tough and he didn't react well to a headstrong, smart-mouthed girl. We found our way back to each other after I married and became the mother of his first grandchild. Not everyone had a great father. Some were absent, cold or even abusive. Don't allow that lousy example to tarnish your image of our Savior. He is warm, loving and concerned about us in the way a true father should be. No matter what kind of dad you had here on earth, a close and personal relations...

Photo courtesy of Quincy Vagell 1 Kings 19:11-12 (KJV) And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.

Photo courtesy of  Quora Psalm 103:11-12 (KJV) For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him. As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. In my nightmare, I'm being chased by a snarling monster that just can't be shaken. Once overtaken, he pounces on me, pinning me to the ground--a heavy weight on my chest. I wake in a sweat, breathing hard. Guilt is, simply put, the weight of sin on our souls. But guilt does not come from God. There is no such thing as "Godly guilt." The accuser pushes guilt onto our hearts because he is desperate. He knows the freedom that Christ bestows. Satan wants us to continue to be shackled by sin. He's a liar. We must repent and ask for forgiveness. After that, our sins are covered by the blood of Jesus. If you know, love and believe in our Savior, you have no guilt. It is replaced with God's grace and our gratitude and praise. Ste...

Photo courtesy of R. Blackwood Psalm 93:3-4 (KJV) The floods have lifted up, O LORD, the floods have lifted up their voice; the floods lift up their waves. The LORD on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the mighty waves of the sea.  Sometimes, my life overwhelms me. I feel like my head is barely above water and I am paddling like mad. On days when the flood waters in my life are high, I look to the book of Psalms for comfort and guidance. King David had a practical knowledge of the storms of life. When I pray, my Heavenly Father reminds me of my very blessed life. I have privileges and gifts that others only dream about. Being a Christ Follower is not about avoiding the daily woes, but weathering them with the assurance that He is before you--clearing a path. Take courage. You are not alone. God is with you and for you. *** Notable Quote: "Impossible is one of God's favorite words."--Max Lucado

Photo courtesy of healthychildren.org. Isaiah 11:10 (KJV) And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious.  When we were young, my brother and I had a sneaky way to get out of our afternoon naps. We begged Mom to lay between us on her big bed and read us a story. She was so tired, it wasn't long before she was asleep and Dave and I had the run of the place! Any type of rest seems to be a precious commodity in the circles I run in today. It seems I absolutely have to be exhausted before I ask my Heavenly Father to intervene.  That's my mistake. God works best through us when we are well-rested. Take time between each task to rest, reflect and inquire what His will is next. When we are prepared, our Lord can use us most effectively. Conversely, if we are depleted, stressed out and way too busy, He passes us over for another who is better suited f...

Psalm 51:1 (KJV) Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. King David wrote a song about his sin of adultery and murder. It's found in the Bible, in Psalms 51. What's more, he taught it to the church choir so they could sing it every Sunday! I don't believe it was David's intention to glorify his sin, but rather to glorify the God that forgave him of that iniquity. He also wanted the people of his kingdom to see that even though David was King of Israel, he still made mistakes. In reading this Psalm, you can see David's true repentance. He was begging God for a return to intimacy. This passage contains some of my favorite words, "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me." David knew that if he revealed his sins to the people, the transparency would endear him to them. Transparency aids repentance and the sacrifice of pr...

Photo courtesy of HolleyGerth.com I've said it before, Holley Gerth gets me. Actually, I'm just paranoid enough to think she might be having me followed. Besides being my favorite inspirational writer, Ms. Gerth shares openly about her struggles with infertility, depression, life. In late March, Holley published a blog post  called "7 Amazing Strengths of a Highly Sensitive Person." I have read and re-read this post many times. Each time, I gather new insights into why I am the way I am. While in therapy more than a decade ago, I learned that I am what is termed an "emotional albino," meaning I am particularly sensitive to others emotions, so much so that I can virtually feel what they are feeling. After 57 years on this planet, I've become more self-aware. My emotions no longer lead me around by the nose. When you are more tuned in to what your mind and body are doing, it helps. Above all, I have things to offer this world. My life has val...

Photo courtesy of lucep.com Galatians 6:2 (KJV) Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. "You're an angel!" she said to me. All I had done was make a phone call to a loved one. "No," I said, "I just love you." "No," she persisted, "God used you to bless me!" I didn't think much about what she said, until Sunday morning. Waking up, I didn't feel well. But since it was Easter, I didn't want to miss church. About mid-way through worship, I had to rush to the bathroom. The Hubster became concerned about my absence and asked two of the ladies in Children's Church to look in on me. These young women ministered to me in such a loving way, I was humbled and honored. "You two are angels!" I exclaimed. "We just wanted to help," they replied. And then I understood. Angels can be anyone--anyone who is willing to be used by God. Hebrews 6:10 assures us that God w...

Psalm 127:2 (KJV) It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.  Our family lost a beloved member last week. As we gathered to bury our loved one, we shared family stories and cherished memories. It was tough. We talked and cried and hugged. After we left to make our way back to Kansas, I began to realize how keyed up and exhausted I was. The Hubster, my mom and I stopped at rest stop in Cassoday on the way home. We sat and ate chicken sandwiches, feeling kind of numb. It made me think about what rest stops are, and why they are necessary along the journey. Don't do what I do--go until I collapse completely and sleep for 13 hours. Self-care means time to breathe, sleep and rest. If you want to grow stronger in your faith and endurance, build regular rest stops in your week. This life's journey is long, but periodic rest will bring peace to your tired soul. *** Notable Quote: "We live ...

We made prayer boxes in our small group on Friday night. So much fun! Matthew 21:21-22 (KJV) 21 Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. 22 And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.  "Have you ever said, 'Well, all we can do now is pray?'...When we come to the end of ourselves, we come to the beginning of God."--Billy Graham "The reality is, my prayers don't change God. But, I am convinced prayer changes me. Praying boldly boots me out of that stale place of religious habit onto authentic connection with God himself."--Lysa TerKeurst "Prayer is where the action is."--John Wesley

Esther 4:16 (KJV) Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the king, which is not according to the law: and if I perish, I perish.  Queen Esther's story of courage in the face of crisis is one of my very favorites in the Bible. Let's put it simply--she was a gutsy broad. Although she began her life in Shushan as the niece of a civil servant, her brains, beauty and sweet spirit drew King Ahasuerus to her and Esther became Queen to the ruler of most of Asia and Africa. God placed Esther in the palace at the precise time she was needed most. Her people, the Jews, were in peril of being exterminated. Even as Queen, however, Esther was not allowed to approach the King on his throne unless she was summoned. If she disobeyed the rule and came into the presence of the King without his bidding, she would be killed. Wha...

Matthew 5:6 (KJV) Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. When I was going through chemotherapy for breast cancer, they gave me steroids to help my body process the chemicals. It left me with a few interesting side effects. Leg cramps, acne, and major food cravings. I soaked in Epsom salts for the leg cramps, slathered on Clearasil for the acne, and ate lots of meat for the cravings. That was the only thing that helped satisfy that carnivorous urge. The big problem, though, is that the cravings kept coming back. I never seemed to be satisfied for very long. Are you hungry and thirsty for more? If the things of this world never satisfy for long, lean in close to the Savior. Let Him satisfy you in a way you can keep. For total and completely lasting satisfaction, follow hard after Him. *** Notable Quote: "People who love to eat are always the best people."--Julia Child

Photo courtesy of Fr Ed Namiotka Psalm 43:5 (KJV) Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God. During the first few months of every year, I get all my checkups done. By the time I have seen my family care physician, oncologist, dermatologist, and dentist, not to mention all the lab work and x-rays, it is nearly Spring and my bank account is seriously depleted. While all these visits are vital for my overall health and well-being, they only tell part of the picture. It’s good if my tumor markers are low, my blood pressure is steady and my mammogram is clear. The only way to tell if I am spiritually healthy, though, is to do a faith checkup. I need to take some time and ask myself a few important questions. 1.        How close do I feel to God? 2.        Do I spend time daily in prayer and...

Psalm 34:13 (KJV) Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile. This week, I shared an important truth with my Sunday School students--thinking before you speak. Our class contains several sets of siblings and this subject is quite--ahem--timely. I have begun to lead the group in lessons on basic Christian values, i.e. honesty, compassion, humility, morality, generosity, forgiveness--to name a few. We use our tongues to lie, accuse and judge others, brag about and exaggerate our accomplishments, and spread gossip. None of these pass the five-question test in the graphic. My new focus on listening brought about this post. I need practice on this one--I can be a bit snarky at times. *** Notable Quote: "Speak less. Listen more."--Mrs. Thorp, my 3rd-grade teacher

James 1:19 (KJV) Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: Last Friday, I spoke to a small group of women from my church. My subject was meditating on God's Word and being "still." It is something I have been contemplating recently. How often am I actually quiet? In a conversation, am I listening simply to reply? Or am I taking in the words that someone is speaking to me? If I want to be perceived as a good listener, a confidante, a trusted friend--I must set aside my agenda and take on Christ's servant heart. I strive to improve my conversational skills, including listening, so that others will notice something different about me--the influence of my Savior. *** Notable Quote: "Wisdom is the reward you get for a lifetime of listening when you'd have preferred to talk."--Doug Larson