It's been an interesting week here in the Wingfield home. If you are like me, you are doing several things at once and thinking about so much more.
Sunday morning, a young lady sang this song,
How Beautiful -
How Beautiful the hands that served the wine and the bread and the sons of the earth
How beautiful the feet that walked the long dusty road and the hill to the cross
How Beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ
How Beautiful the heart that bled that took all my sins and bore it instead
How beautiful the tender eyes that choose to forgive and never despise
How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ
And as He lay down His life
We offer this sacrifice that we will live just as He died willing to pay the price
willing to pay the price
How Beautiful the radiant bride who waits for her Groom with His light in her eyes
How Beautiful when humble hearts give the fruit of pure love so that others may live
How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ
How beautiful the feet that bring the sound of good news and the love of the King
How Beautiful the hands that serve the wine and the bread and the sons of the Earth
How Beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful is the body of Christ
This past Saturday, my oldest daughter and I were helping a Saturday Bread Ministry deliver lunch to those in need. We truly saw those in need, and we're glad we had volunteered to help.
It felt good to be doing something to help others for whatever reason could not help themselves.
On the way home, we stopped by a local store to pick up a few things and my daughter read a tabloids, "Jamie-Lynn Spears Pregnant Again." For those that might not know the story, this is Britney Spears sister who had a Nickelodeon Teen show. She glamorized teen pregnancy for some, a very poor role model in my opinion. Anyway, she gave birth 3 months ago. She's 17 years old. I do not know if the rumors are true, I hope they are not, but rumors are running that she's 8 weeks pregnant and considering termination.
My daughter, Lisa ( age 11), and I had a long talk about people looking for love and attention in the wrong places. People who have holes in their lives that only God can fill.
How beautiful you are to God
No matter who you are:
Stay-at-home mom
Single mother
Widow
Barren woman
Dying one
Homeless one
Hurting one
You are beautiful to God
FAITH - my little Ariel sings this little song " Faith is just believing what God says he will do."
Out of the mouths of babes.......
God is TRUTHFUL
God is FAITHFUL
GOD is LOVE
God loves you and he will meet all your need if you will only allow him in.
Only God can fill the VOIDS in your life
Are you hurting?
Are you dying?
Are you homeless or alone?
Do you feel like no one cares and you don't know what to do?
Have you trusted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord?
To accept Jesus is simple...... it's a free gift from God, just take it.
You can ask Jesus into your heart with this very simple prayer, just repeat it.
Dear Jesus,
I know I need you
I know I'm a sinner
I'm sorry. Please help me turn away from these things
I believe you are God's Son sent here for me to die in my place for my sins.
Please come into my life, walk with me and help me.
Thank you Lord for loving me and saving me.
Amen.
That's it. Welcome to the family.
May the God of all Hope, Peace and Love fill you in ways no one can ever fill you.
I leave you today with two of my favorite verses to encourage you.
Jeremiah 29:11-14a (NIV) For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity.
Proverbs 3:4-5 (NIV) Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Love,
Your sister in Christ,
Amy
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Duggar Family Mania - A Gentle Loving Reminder
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity. " Jeremiah 29-11-14a (NIV)
Duggar Mania is here. Everywhere I look, we see 17 Kids and Counting, see the websites, buy the DVD's, but the book, get their picture, what do they believe? what books do they use? what resources do they use? I want to be like Michelle.......... etc., etc., etc.
I will humbly admit to you too that I am one who tapes all the shows, watches religiously and yes wants to be like Michelle in certain ways myself. But I think it's very easy to get carried away and move further away from God's plan for us instead of closer to his unique special plan for each of us.
So please know, what I am saying here, is I love watching the Duggar family and getting some great ideas from their teachings. I am not trying to condemn them or judge them, but I want to lovingly remind everyone out there that God may not have the same plans for you as he has for Michelle.
In the New Testament, Legalism is addressed in many different ways. And literally speaking, Legalism can mean paying closer attention to rules and laws than to what God has given you and chosen for you through his grace and mercy and His gift through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Legalism can also mean, pushing your own beliefs, rules, laws etc. on other people because you believe you are right, you have declared yourself righteous, better than others.
Sometimes, without intending to, you can push your beliefs onto someone else simply because that person is not where you are at, this may be a weaker brother or sister. These are the ones we need to be so careful with. The ones still learning that all God requires of you is that you accept his free gift of His Son Jesus Christ, love mercy and live humbly with your Lord - NOTHING ELSE!!!!!!!
Galations 5:1-18 (NIV)
Galatians 5
Freedom in Christ 1It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
2Mark my words! I, Paul, tell you that if you let yourselves be circumcised, Christ will be of no value to you at all. 3Again I declare to every man who lets himself be circumcised that he is obligated to obey the whole law. 4You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. 5But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope. 6For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
7You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? 8That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you. 9"A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough." 10I am confident in the Lord that you will take no other view. The one who is throwing you into confusion will pay the penalty, whoever he may be. 11Brothers, if I am still preaching circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been abolished. 12As for those agitators, I wish they would go the whole way and emasculate themselves!
13You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature[a]; rather, serve one another in love. 14The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."[b] 15If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.
Life by the Spirit 16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Walk and live by the Spirit, The Holy Spirit of God. Daily rising and seeking only what he has purposed for you. Pray continuously. Search the scriptures. Search your heart!
I've said it many, many times before.
God has a very special purpose and plan for each of our lives. What he has planned for me, he may not have planned for you, and that's O.K.
We are all given specials gifts to work together in our strengthens and weaknesses to build up the body of Christ.
When we go off comparing, envying and coveting what others have or do, we have strayed away from what God has planned for us. Keep your eyes on the Lord. God gives each of us abilities and gifts.
But godliness with contentment is great gain. I Timothy 6:6 (NIV)
If they obey and serve him, they will spend the rest of their days in prosperity and their years in contentment. Job 36:11 (NIV)
Live by Faith
Romans 14:22-23 (NIV)
22So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves. 23But the man who has doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.
There is only one Michelle Duggar, and God has very special plans just for her and her family.
There is only one Amy Wingfield, and what he has planned for me he may not have planned for you and your family, and that's ok!
I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? Psalms 121:1
Quit looking around, comparing yourselves to each other.
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, Colossains 3:23 (NIV)
He loves you and wants only the best for you.
Amy
Duggar Mania is here. Everywhere I look, we see 17 Kids and Counting, see the websites, buy the DVD's, but the book, get their picture, what do they believe? what books do they use? what resources do they use? I want to be like Michelle.......... etc., etc., etc.
I will humbly admit to you too that I am one who tapes all the shows, watches religiously and yes wants to be like Michelle in certain ways myself. But I think it's very easy to get carried away and move further away from God's plan for us instead of closer to his unique special plan for each of us.
So please know, what I am saying here, is I love watching the Duggar family and getting some great ideas from their teachings. I am not trying to condemn them or judge them, but I want to lovingly remind everyone out there that God may not have the same plans for you as he has for Michelle.
In the New Testament, Legalism is addressed in many different ways. And literally speaking, Legalism can mean paying closer attention to rules and laws than to what God has given you and chosen for you through his grace and mercy and His gift through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Legalism can also mean, pushing your own beliefs, rules, laws etc. on other people because you believe you are right, you have declared yourself righteous, better than others.
Sometimes, without intending to, you can push your beliefs onto someone else simply because that person is not where you are at, this may be a weaker brother or sister. These are the ones we need to be so careful with. The ones still learning that all God requires of you is that you accept his free gift of His Son Jesus Christ, love mercy and live humbly with your Lord - NOTHING ELSE!!!!!!!
Galations 5:1-18 (NIV)
Galatians 5
Freedom in Christ 1It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
2Mark my words! I, Paul, tell you that if you let yourselves be circumcised, Christ will be of no value to you at all. 3Again I declare to every man who lets himself be circumcised that he is obligated to obey the whole law. 4You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. 5But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope. 6For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.
7You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? 8That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you. 9"A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough." 10I am confident in the Lord that you will take no other view. The one who is throwing you into confusion will pay the penalty, whoever he may be. 11Brothers, if I am still preaching circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been abolished. 12As for those agitators, I wish they would go the whole way and emasculate themselves!
13You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature[a]; rather, serve one another in love. 14The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself."[b] 15If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.
Life by the Spirit 16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Walk and live by the Spirit, The Holy Spirit of God. Daily rising and seeking only what he has purposed for you. Pray continuously. Search the scriptures. Search your heart!
I've said it many, many times before.
God has a very special purpose and plan for each of our lives. What he has planned for me, he may not have planned for you, and that's O.K.
We are all given specials gifts to work together in our strengthens and weaknesses to build up the body of Christ.
When we go off comparing, envying and coveting what others have or do, we have strayed away from what God has planned for us. Keep your eyes on the Lord. God gives each of us abilities and gifts.
But godliness with contentment is great gain. I Timothy 6:6 (NIV)
If they obey and serve him, they will spend the rest of their days in prosperity and their years in contentment. Job 36:11 (NIV)
Live by Faith
Romans 14:22-23 (NIV)
22So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves. 23But the man who has doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.
There is only one Michelle Duggar, and God has very special plans just for her and her family.
There is only one Amy Wingfield, and what he has planned for me he may not have planned for you and your family, and that's ok!
I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? Psalms 121:1
Quit looking around, comparing yourselves to each other.
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, Colossains 3:23 (NIV)
He loves you and wants only the best for you.
Amy
Monday, October 6, 2008
Turtles, Penguins and Disappointments
Hello all,
It's been an interesting weekend here at the Wingfield home.
I did have a wonderful date with my husband on Saturday afternoon. We saw the movie Fireproof. I won't spoil it for anyone, but I will say if you have not seen it, please go. It's definitely worth your time, your money and your thoughts.
My thoughts............ concerning the movie..... I think I'd rather keep those private for now. This movie's main focus is all about 1. Getting right with God and 2. Getting right with your spouse.
Both are very private and intimate things to me, and so I will just encourage you to go and see for yourself what God has in store for you after watching this movie. Only God knows.
I went to the zoo yesterday after church. Our local zoo has a free ticket day, once a year. You bring an outdated phone book. The zoo recycles the books and you get free admission to the zoo. It saves me $30, so I always make it a point to go with my children each year. They love seeing the animals.
This trip for me was like no other. This time I had my neices with me and their mother. I'm home-schooling not only my own children, but my two little neices too. So this was our first field trip for the year.
I wore the hats of teacher and chaperone on this trip. I'm also the mother of a very active 22 month old little boy, Michael, who is determined to never use a stroller again, but take life at his own pace.
Michael constantly reminds me to slow down and enjoy life. Michael could have cared less about the zoo animals. He loves the outdoors and he loves watching people. So while all the little girls are dragging my sister-in-law to see all the animals at break neck speed, I'm lagging behind with Michael.
Michael has a sippy cup in one hand, a lollipop in the other and is strolling through the zoo slower than Moses in the desert, not watching the animals, but enjoying all the sites and the people around him. He loved it. Who cares about the cheetahs and the monkeys? I'm outside, I'm free and there's things going on all around me! COOL!!
He's so smart and so observant. It's amazing what he tunes into.
And for the first time, I found myself observing the animals in whole new way.
Turtles -Turtles are selfish, simple creatures. I think their primary existence consists of their desire, for food, sleep and personal satisfaction.
We visted the penguins too. They eat, they sleep, they swim.
Maybe I'm really, really tired, but I found myself envying the simple life of the turtles and the penguins. Wouldn't it be great to just be sinful little creatures if for only awhile?
Well....... no, as I was reminded tonight, as I was sharing these thoughts at a ladies Bible study, turtles and penguins don't have souls. They don't have the assurance of life eternal with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. They go through life simply doing what feels good, what is instinctly right for them, and one day they will die and that will be it. They will cease to exist.
We as humans, as Sons and Daughters of the Father, as Brothers and Sisters in Christ, we were created with the purpose of love and fellowship, to put others before ourselves, to share love and be loved, to put Christ in the center of all we do. To grow and mature physically, emotionally and spiritually, becoming more like Him who created us everyday. To accept and to have the assurance of life everlasting, eternally. We will not cease to exist.
Lesson learned: I would not want to be a turtle or a penguin, but maybe I do need to slow down a little bit, enjoy life a little more and spend more time with God. I know I've taken on a little too much and I need to down-size and re-organize a few of my priorities. Thank goodness for GRACE - Amen sisters?
Disappointments - God gave Eve to Adam for fellowship. Someone to share with.
However just as we are not perfect, neither our our friendships, and we have to realize that Grace abounds here too, in our friendships and how we relate to one another.
No two people are alike. We are all given a special purpose and plan, and gifts from God. What I'm called to do you might not be called to do. And, what I think is "so cool!" you might think is just "HORRIBLE," but it is when we can look past these differences and embrace each other's uniqueness that true bonding, fellowship and friendship can blossom and bare fruit.
I have been feeling lonely lately. I have no one to share with. What I mean, is I can't find anyone like me.
I can't find anyone out there who enjoys the same things I enjoy. I don't know anyone, other than the Duggars, who embrace having children like I do.
I love giving everything, all that I am, every aspect of my life, my soul, my heart, over to God. I've learned to go to God with everything and he has met all of my needs. But in my own selfish nature, I desire someone to share all of this with, and I can't find that person.
Yes, I'm married. Yes I share things with my husband, but he does not share my belief that I feel led to lay everything at God's feet. He does feel God expects him to meet certain responsibilities when it comes to family planning and provisions. It makes for some difficult times in our lives because we do not agree on these issues. Each time I conceive, I go through a time of mixed emotions of total estatic happiness over our new blessing from God to feelings of total lonliness because my spouse does not share my joy.
I know some of you would tell me if your husband says, "No more," then it should be , " No more." I know some of you feel that way. But this is my cross I carry, and I feel so strongly that this is my calling, that even this too is a matter of prayer, more than I can possibly express, and I know if it's meant to be, it will be.
But I wish I could share this joy with my husband. I've accepted we are different, I pray God will change our hearts, grow our marriage and make it stronger. I know He is in His own way and in His own time, but also, it is up to us too, to openly embrace each other, our seperate gifts and callings, with all our strengths and weaknesses working together as one to give God the Glory.
The same thing goes for friendships. As hard as I try, I've yet to find another woman on the planet who wants to have as many children as God wants her to have and enjoys cooking for large groups of people and loves to write and share the way I do.
OK I GIVE UP, I REALIZE I'M UNIQUE,
" God made me special and he loves me very much." (Thank you Bob and Larry!)
but I am still lonely. I wish I could go to social events and share about my desires to have more children and cook for 100+ people, and not come away feeling like everyone just thinks I'm nuts!!
It doesn't take long sitting among your peers to realize you all have different gifts and talents, but some gifts and talents are easier embraced, encouraged and supported than others.
And let's face it, being quiverfull and enjoying feeding large groups is just not easily embraced in today's, " let's make things easier world."
I don't know why God has called me with these gifts, but I love them. I cherish each blessing. I get excited when asked to cook. I know you know I am eager to share through my writings. For the most part I'm happy. " If you're happy and you know it shout HOORAY!!!!!"
I just wished I had someone to shout Hooray with me.
Dear Lord,
"You are my refuge,my portion in the land of the living" (psalm 142:5) NIV
"You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence."(Acts 2:28)"
Take away the lonliness and feel me with joy.
Amen,
Amy
It's been an interesting weekend here at the Wingfield home.
I did have a wonderful date with my husband on Saturday afternoon. We saw the movie Fireproof. I won't spoil it for anyone, but I will say if you have not seen it, please go. It's definitely worth your time, your money and your thoughts.
My thoughts............ concerning the movie..... I think I'd rather keep those private for now. This movie's main focus is all about 1. Getting right with God and 2. Getting right with your spouse.
Both are very private and intimate things to me, and so I will just encourage you to go and see for yourself what God has in store for you after watching this movie. Only God knows.
I went to the zoo yesterday after church. Our local zoo has a free ticket day, once a year. You bring an outdated phone book. The zoo recycles the books and you get free admission to the zoo. It saves me $30, so I always make it a point to go with my children each year. They love seeing the animals.
This trip for me was like no other. This time I had my neices with me and their mother. I'm home-schooling not only my own children, but my two little neices too. So this was our first field trip for the year.
I wore the hats of teacher and chaperone on this trip. I'm also the mother of a very active 22 month old little boy, Michael, who is determined to never use a stroller again, but take life at his own pace.
Michael constantly reminds me to slow down and enjoy life. Michael could have cared less about the zoo animals. He loves the outdoors and he loves watching people. So while all the little girls are dragging my sister-in-law to see all the animals at break neck speed, I'm lagging behind with Michael.
Michael has a sippy cup in one hand, a lollipop in the other and is strolling through the zoo slower than Moses in the desert, not watching the animals, but enjoying all the sites and the people around him. He loved it. Who cares about the cheetahs and the monkeys? I'm outside, I'm free and there's things going on all around me! COOL!!
He's so smart and so observant. It's amazing what he tunes into.
And for the first time, I found myself observing the animals in whole new way.
Turtles -Turtles are selfish, simple creatures. I think their primary existence consists of their desire, for food, sleep and personal satisfaction.
We visted the penguins too. They eat, they sleep, they swim.
Maybe I'm really, really tired, but I found myself envying the simple life of the turtles and the penguins. Wouldn't it be great to just be sinful little creatures if for only awhile?
Well....... no, as I was reminded tonight, as I was sharing these thoughts at a ladies Bible study, turtles and penguins don't have souls. They don't have the assurance of life eternal with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. They go through life simply doing what feels good, what is instinctly right for them, and one day they will die and that will be it. They will cease to exist.
We as humans, as Sons and Daughters of the Father, as Brothers and Sisters in Christ, we were created with the purpose of love and fellowship, to put others before ourselves, to share love and be loved, to put Christ in the center of all we do. To grow and mature physically, emotionally and spiritually, becoming more like Him who created us everyday. To accept and to have the assurance of life everlasting, eternally. We will not cease to exist.
Lesson learned: I would not want to be a turtle or a penguin, but maybe I do need to slow down a little bit, enjoy life a little more and spend more time with God. I know I've taken on a little too much and I need to down-size and re-organize a few of my priorities. Thank goodness for GRACE - Amen sisters?
Disappointments - God gave Eve to Adam for fellowship. Someone to share with.
However just as we are not perfect, neither our our friendships, and we have to realize that Grace abounds here too, in our friendships and how we relate to one another.
No two people are alike. We are all given a special purpose and plan, and gifts from God. What I'm called to do you might not be called to do. And, what I think is "so cool!" you might think is just "HORRIBLE," but it is when we can look past these differences and embrace each other's uniqueness that true bonding, fellowship and friendship can blossom and bare fruit.
I have been feeling lonely lately. I have no one to share with. What I mean, is I can't find anyone like me.
I can't find anyone out there who enjoys the same things I enjoy. I don't know anyone, other than the Duggars, who embrace having children like I do.
I love giving everything, all that I am, every aspect of my life, my soul, my heart, over to God. I've learned to go to God with everything and he has met all of my needs. But in my own selfish nature, I desire someone to share all of this with, and I can't find that person.
Yes, I'm married. Yes I share things with my husband, but he does not share my belief that I feel led to lay everything at God's feet. He does feel God expects him to meet certain responsibilities when it comes to family planning and provisions. It makes for some difficult times in our lives because we do not agree on these issues. Each time I conceive, I go through a time of mixed emotions of total estatic happiness over our new blessing from God to feelings of total lonliness because my spouse does not share my joy.
I know some of you would tell me if your husband says, "No more," then it should be , " No more." I know some of you feel that way. But this is my cross I carry, and I feel so strongly that this is my calling, that even this too is a matter of prayer, more than I can possibly express, and I know if it's meant to be, it will be.
But I wish I could share this joy with my husband. I've accepted we are different, I pray God will change our hearts, grow our marriage and make it stronger. I know He is in His own way and in His own time, but also, it is up to us too, to openly embrace each other, our seperate gifts and callings, with all our strengths and weaknesses working together as one to give God the Glory.
The same thing goes for friendships. As hard as I try, I've yet to find another woman on the planet who wants to have as many children as God wants her to have and enjoys cooking for large groups of people and loves to write and share the way I do.
OK I GIVE UP, I REALIZE I'M UNIQUE,
" God made me special and he loves me very much." (Thank you Bob and Larry!)
but I am still lonely. I wish I could go to social events and share about my desires to have more children and cook for 100+ people, and not come away feeling like everyone just thinks I'm nuts!!
It doesn't take long sitting among your peers to realize you all have different gifts and talents, but some gifts and talents are easier embraced, encouraged and supported than others.
And let's face it, being quiverfull and enjoying feeding large groups is just not easily embraced in today's, " let's make things easier world."
I don't know why God has called me with these gifts, but I love them. I cherish each blessing. I get excited when asked to cook. I know you know I am eager to share through my writings. For the most part I'm happy. " If you're happy and you know it shout HOORAY!!!!!"
I just wished I had someone to shout Hooray with me.
Dear Lord,
"You are my refuge,my portion in the land of the living" (psalm 142:5) NIV
"You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence."(Acts 2:28)"
Take away the lonliness and feel me with joy.
Amen,
Amy
Quiverfull Resources and links
I recently discovered a blog called Quiverfull Family http://quiverfullfamily.com written by a Christian wife and mother of three...so far. She updates very regularly with photos of her family, christian book reviews and even has contests for families! Like me, she has much to say, check it out. There's alot of information on her blog.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
With God All Things Are Possible
The Kids Sing: My God is so Great, So Strong and So Mighty, There's Nothing My God Cannot Do.
The Praise Team Sings : God of wonders beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy The universe declares You majesty You are holy, holy Lord of heaven and earth ...
Is there nothing our God cannot do?
Our pastor told a joke one Sunday, It goes like this......... Preacher sees a little boy standing by the door of the sanctuary one Sunday, Preacher thought he'd have a little fun with the fella, " I'll give you a shiny red apple if you tell me one thing God can do." The child looked at the preacher and said very plainly, " Sir I'll give you a whole box of apples if you tell me one thing God can't do."
I found that so fun and true!
We run around all over the place trying to do this and that, never resting, stressing out, worrying.
There's a county group called Alabama. They have a song that's called, I'm in a Hurry to get Things Done."
Lyrics:
"I'm in a hurry to get things done
Oh I rush and rush until life's no fun
All I really gotta do is live and die
But I'm in a hurry and don't know why ..."
Is that where the world is right now? Is that where you're at right now?
Psalm 46: 10 (NIV) says " Be Still and know I am God...."
Matthew 6:26 (NIV) says "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"
Philippians 4:4-7 (NIV) "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Our God loves us. Our heavenly Father created us in His own image, not so we can run around like chickens with our heads cut off trying to do our " To-Do Lists, " That we ourselves made out of our own doing. We take on too much.
Micah 6:8 (NIV) "He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly- now of course that was Old Testament, so you know we've got to include, Acts 16:31 (NIV) They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household."
but we are saved by grace through FAITH in Jesus Christ.
FAITH - one of Webster's definitions states Faith is "belief and trust in and loyalty to God."
Faith can move mountains
Matthew 21:21 (NIV) Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done."
In the Book of Mark, Jesus talks much about FAITH
Mark: 11:22 (NIV) "Have faith in God."
Mark 6:6 (NIV) "He was amazed at their lack of faith"
Mark 4:40(NIV)He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?"
Take a look around you. Look at all you have been given. Make a list of all your blessings. From the free gift of Grace and salvation to the pillow you lay your head on at night. From the Bible you are free to read on your own, to the food on your table. From the spouse sleeping next to you this evening to the sweet children asleep in the next room. You have been blessed.
God loves you. He knows you. He created you not to run around stressed trying to meet your own needs, but to fellowship with Him and grow in knowledge and love and friendship with Him and to share that knowledge, love and friendship with everyone you meet. Leave the need meeting to God
Philippians 4:19 (NIV) "And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."
With God, All things are possible,
Ephesians 4:13 (NIV) "until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ"
Until tomorrow, these thoughts I leave you,
Amy
The Praise Team Sings : God of wonders beyond our galaxy You are holy, holy The universe declares You majesty You are holy, holy Lord of heaven and earth ...
Is there nothing our God cannot do?
Our pastor told a joke one Sunday, It goes like this......... Preacher sees a little boy standing by the door of the sanctuary one Sunday, Preacher thought he'd have a little fun with the fella, " I'll give you a shiny red apple if you tell me one thing God can do." The child looked at the preacher and said very plainly, " Sir I'll give you a whole box of apples if you tell me one thing God can't do."
I found that so fun and true!
We run around all over the place trying to do this and that, never resting, stressing out, worrying.
There's a county group called Alabama. They have a song that's called, I'm in a Hurry to get Things Done."
Lyrics:
"I'm in a hurry to get things done
Oh I rush and rush until life's no fun
All I really gotta do is live and die
But I'm in a hurry and don't know why ..."
Is that where the world is right now? Is that where you're at right now?
Psalm 46: 10 (NIV) says " Be Still and know I am God...."
Matthew 6:26 (NIV) says "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"
Philippians 4:4-7 (NIV) "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Our God loves us. Our heavenly Father created us in His own image, not so we can run around like chickens with our heads cut off trying to do our " To-Do Lists, " That we ourselves made out of our own doing. We take on too much.
Micah 6:8 (NIV) "He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly- now of course that was Old Testament, so you know we've got to include, Acts 16:31 (NIV) They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household."
but we are saved by grace through FAITH in Jesus Christ.
FAITH - one of Webster's definitions states Faith is "belief and trust in and loyalty to God."
Faith can move mountains
Matthew 21:21 (NIV) Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done."
In the Book of Mark, Jesus talks much about FAITH
Mark: 11:22 (NIV) "Have faith in God."
Mark 6:6 (NIV) "He was amazed at their lack of faith"
Mark 4:40(NIV)He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?"
Take a look around you. Look at all you have been given. Make a list of all your blessings. From the free gift of Grace and salvation to the pillow you lay your head on at night. From the Bible you are free to read on your own, to the food on your table. From the spouse sleeping next to you this evening to the sweet children asleep in the next room. You have been blessed.
God loves you. He knows you. He created you not to run around stressed trying to meet your own needs, but to fellowship with Him and grow in knowledge and love and friendship with Him and to share that knowledge, love and friendship with everyone you meet. Leave the need meeting to God
Philippians 4:19 (NIV) "And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."
With God, All things are possible,
Ephesians 4:13 (NIV) "until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ"
Until tomorrow, these thoughts I leave you,
Amy
Friday, October 3, 2008
I have a date with my husband this weekend!
I have a date with my husband this weekend, and I'm as excited as though I were 16 again anticipating its arrival.
Anybody else out there feel that way when you finally get time alone with your husband?
As stay- at- home moms, we are all so busy. I think I do more now in a day than I ever did when I worked 80 hour work weeks as a manager for Bealls before I had children. But you know what? I still think this is the best career in the world, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. Except, I miss time with my husband.
We have a very good marriage. I tell people all the time, " our marriage is better than it's ever been!" And that's true, It is.
He loves me, I love him. We hardly ever fuss. We enjoy each other.... but as good as our lines of communication are with each other, the responsibilities of life make it hard for us to find time for each other. And even though he is home every night after 5PM and home all weekend, so many things take us away from each other............
Tomorrow will be great!
We are going to see the new Kirk Cameron movie - Fireproof- www.fireproofthemovie.com .
It's a new Christian movie by the same church who made - Facing the Giants. Kirk Cameron plays a fireman who gives 100%+ to his job but his marriage is failing. He talks with his dad. His dad gives him a book, a 40 day plan, tells Kirk to try it, give it 40 days before you do anything else, follow the plan, see what happens.
I can't wait to see this movie! and I'm eager to take a look at the 40 day plan book myself.
I know what I'm doing here at home as a mom, teacher, writer, friend etc., all of it is very important. Each child we are raising, we are raising for God. God has entrusted these little gifts to us to care for, nurture and raise.
I pray that each of my children all receive Christ in their hearts and follow His lead. I love each one of them and I thank God for allowing me the wonderful gift of my children and the gift of being allowed to stay home and home-school them.
"Children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them" Psalm 127:3-5
And we are very happy. This is a happy home. God is so good to us. Every need we have, he provides. We are building a new house. We are debt free. We spend our evenings together watching movies, playing games, taking walks, etc. It's all very pleasant.
But there are some things that I struggle with at times that our contradictory to my so called, "happiness." I truly feel called to be a stay-at-home, home-school, quiverfull mom. And for the most part, everyone around me understands that and accepts it.
But being Mom is not my only role in life. I also enjoy being Amy, friend and wife, who enjoys getting out there and fellowshipping/sharing with my husband and other adults. I enjoy going out to eat, to movies, small groups etc.
We have four children, so far. They range in age from 11 down to 1. The oldest is not yet old enough to babysit her siblings. My mother does not live in the area, and if she did, she wouldn't want to keep all 4 at one time. My mother-in-law does live in the area, but doesn't like to keep all 4 at one time. Babysitters, if you find one, can charge $5 an hour.
It seems, at times, we have very little support of the fact that this is our ministry and our calling.
God calls us all to do special things
Ephesians 4:11-13 (NIV) "It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ."
This verse says it all, that God has a special purpose, a calling and a ministry for each of us, but at times it seems that those around me deem some callings higher than others.
I have nothing against full time missionaries, please don't take this the wrong way, but is the calling of a full time missionary in a third world country any greater than my calling on my mission field here in Kilgore, Texas to raise my family, support, nurture and encourage those around me in the name of the Lord?
Are we not all doing the same thing?
Sharing the love of Christ through our daily lives.
We all need breaks. Everyone knows a missionary or a pastor needs R & R. A time away, a time to rest and reflect.
But not everyone understands that motherhood or parenthood is a ministry too. We love our children. We'd give our lives for our children. But there are times when we too need R & R, a time to rest and re-full, to be uplifted, strengthened and encourage ourselves.
As parents, we need time, now and then, to remember we are not just parents, we are not just Mom and Dad, we're also still husband and wife, Amy and Lance.
Even if it's just for two hours, once in a blue moon, to go see a movie together. It is a blessing. A time to rest and re-full.
Let me leave you today with two challenges.
1. No matter what, each day, make time for God, yourself and your spouse.
2. If you can, help each other out. We are all here to help, encourage and support each other.
If you live close to another family with many children, maybe you could arrange to trade off baby-sitting once a month so that each of you could enjoy time alone with your spouse.
Maybe you and your church or home-school group could start a free Parent's night out.
Be creative.
Remember when you were courting or dating? Remember the feeling of excitement, simply at the fact that you were going to see each other and be enjoying each other's company? Find ways to keep that feeling alive in your marriage each and everyday.
I'm off to the movies!
Amy
Anybody else out there feel that way when you finally get time alone with your husband?
As stay- at- home moms, we are all so busy. I think I do more now in a day than I ever did when I worked 80 hour work weeks as a manager for Bealls before I had children. But you know what? I still think this is the best career in the world, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. Except, I miss time with my husband.
We have a very good marriage. I tell people all the time, " our marriage is better than it's ever been!" And that's true, It is.
He loves me, I love him. We hardly ever fuss. We enjoy each other.... but as good as our lines of communication are with each other, the responsibilities of life make it hard for us to find time for each other. And even though he is home every night after 5PM and home all weekend, so many things take us away from each other............
Tomorrow will be great!
We are going to see the new Kirk Cameron movie - Fireproof- www.fireproofthemovie.com .
It's a new Christian movie by the same church who made - Facing the Giants. Kirk Cameron plays a fireman who gives 100%+ to his job but his marriage is failing. He talks with his dad. His dad gives him a book, a 40 day plan, tells Kirk to try it, give it 40 days before you do anything else, follow the plan, see what happens.
I can't wait to see this movie! and I'm eager to take a look at the 40 day plan book myself.
I know what I'm doing here at home as a mom, teacher, writer, friend etc., all of it is very important. Each child we are raising, we are raising for God. God has entrusted these little gifts to us to care for, nurture and raise.
I pray that each of my children all receive Christ in their hearts and follow His lead. I love each one of them and I thank God for allowing me the wonderful gift of my children and the gift of being allowed to stay home and home-school them.
"Children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them" Psalm 127:3-5
And we are very happy. This is a happy home. God is so good to us. Every need we have, he provides. We are building a new house. We are debt free. We spend our evenings together watching movies, playing games, taking walks, etc. It's all very pleasant.
But there are some things that I struggle with at times that our contradictory to my so called, "happiness." I truly feel called to be a stay-at-home, home-school, quiverfull mom. And for the most part, everyone around me understands that and accepts it.
But being Mom is not my only role in life. I also enjoy being Amy, friend and wife, who enjoys getting out there and fellowshipping/sharing with my husband and other adults. I enjoy going out to eat, to movies, small groups etc.
We have four children, so far. They range in age from 11 down to 1. The oldest is not yet old enough to babysit her siblings. My mother does not live in the area, and if she did, she wouldn't want to keep all 4 at one time. My mother-in-law does live in the area, but doesn't like to keep all 4 at one time. Babysitters, if you find one, can charge $5 an hour.
It seems, at times, we have very little support of the fact that this is our ministry and our calling.
God calls us all to do special things
Ephesians 4:11-13 (NIV) "It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ."
This verse says it all, that God has a special purpose, a calling and a ministry for each of us, but at times it seems that those around me deem some callings higher than others.
I have nothing against full time missionaries, please don't take this the wrong way, but is the calling of a full time missionary in a third world country any greater than my calling on my mission field here in Kilgore, Texas to raise my family, support, nurture and encourage those around me in the name of the Lord?
Are we not all doing the same thing?
Sharing the love of Christ through our daily lives.
We all need breaks. Everyone knows a missionary or a pastor needs R & R. A time away, a time to rest and reflect.
But not everyone understands that motherhood or parenthood is a ministry too. We love our children. We'd give our lives for our children. But there are times when we too need R & R, a time to rest and re-full, to be uplifted, strengthened and encourage ourselves.
As parents, we need time, now and then, to remember we are not just parents, we are not just Mom and Dad, we're also still husband and wife, Amy and Lance.
Even if it's just for two hours, once in a blue moon, to go see a movie together. It is a blessing. A time to rest and re-full.
Let me leave you today with two challenges.
1. No matter what, each day, make time for God, yourself and your spouse.
2. If you can, help each other out. We are all here to help, encourage and support each other.
If you live close to another family with many children, maybe you could arrange to trade off baby-sitting once a month so that each of you could enjoy time alone with your spouse.
Maybe you and your church or home-school group could start a free Parent's night out.
Be creative.
Remember when you were courting or dating? Remember the feeling of excitement, simply at the fact that you were going to see each other and be enjoying each other's company? Find ways to keep that feeling alive in your marriage each and everyday.
I'm off to the movies!
Amy
Thursday, October 2, 2008
God has a purpose and plan
Jeremiah 29:11(NIV)
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Matthew 19:26 (NIV) "With God, all things are possible."
Phillippians 4:13 (NIV)" I can do everything through Him who gives me strength."
These are my favorite verses. The ones I hold near and dear in my heart.
Hello, and welcome to my blog. Hopefuly this will be a place where you can daily be encouraged that God is real. He is right here with you, he loves you, knows you and wants to fellowship with you and meet your needs, but you have to open the door first and let him in.
Revelations 3:20 ( NIV) "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me."
Let me start by telling you what I believe. I am a Christian. Actually, if you want to get technical, I am mostly a Calvinistic, Conservative, Evangelical and Quiverfull. But who wants to get technical? In Amy terms, what that means is I believe "God is with me." It's that simple.
God has a very special purpose and plan for each of us. Even before we were born, he had a very special plan for each of us. We are all gifts from God
Psalms 127:4 (NIV) Lo, Children are a heritage of the Lord;and the fruit of the womb is his reward
Now that's not to say, we can't mess things up. Take a look back in scriptures. Do you really think God created Adam and Eve and then planned to throw them out of the garden? No. God gives us choices. We are not robots or puppets on strings. God gives us choices. He wants us to choose Him, to choose the right ways, but he allows us to make the decisions for ourselves, and sometimes, we make bad ones.
Take Cain for example. Cain was jealous of Abel. So in a fit of rage, he killed Abel and completely wiped out an entire generation. God didn't have that planned. Yes, he knew it was all going to happen, but think about it......... God has a special plan and a purpose for each of us. He gives each one of us special abilities. Some of us are stay at home moms who enjoy raising children, homeschooling and cooking. Some of us would rather have a personal chef and a maid, we can't boil water and we burn toast. But that is why God gives each part in the body of Christ a different job. Our strengths and weaknesses work together for the greater good.
Cain did not need to be jealous of Abel. Cain was a farmer, Abel was a shepherd. God had special plans for each of them. But Cain's heart was not where it needed to be and he made a bad choice.
But can God take a bad choice and make something good from it? You bet. Remember, all things are possible with God.
I believe children are a blessing from God, all children, planned or unplanned. God can take the child that was created and make it a wonderful blessing to each and every person it meets from here to eternity.
Why wouldn't we lay everything at God feet? Why do we fret over the nation's economy? The price of groceries, gas, clothes and college? Stop fretting and start praying. God is right here. He is ready and able to meet each and everyone of your needs, but you need to stop and ask him to help.
Have you stopped and talk to God today? Nothing is too menial or trivial for God.
Phillippians 4:6 says, (NIV) Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
I leave you today with the words of a song I grew up with in church. Don't worry today. Relax, lay it all at His feet, won't you let the Savior in today?
Time After Time ( The Savior is Waiting)
The Savior is waiting to enter your heart
Why don't you let Him come in?
There's nothing in this world to keep you apart
What is your answer to Him?
Chorus:
Time after time
He has waited before
And now He is waiting again
To see if you are willing To open the door
Oh, how He wants to come in.
If you'll take one stepToward the Savior, my friend,
You'll find His arms open wide.
Receive Him, and all of your darkness will end
Within your heart He'll abide.
Chorus:
Time after time
He has waited before
And now He is waiting again
To see if you are willing To open the door
Oh, how He wants to come in.
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Matthew 19:26 (NIV) "With God, all things are possible."
Phillippians 4:13 (NIV)" I can do everything through Him who gives me strength."
These are my favorite verses. The ones I hold near and dear in my heart.
Hello, and welcome to my blog. Hopefuly this will be a place where you can daily be encouraged that God is real. He is right here with you, he loves you, knows you and wants to fellowship with you and meet your needs, but you have to open the door first and let him in.
Revelations 3:20 ( NIV) "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me."
Let me start by telling you what I believe. I am a Christian. Actually, if you want to get technical, I am mostly a Calvinistic, Conservative, Evangelical and Quiverfull. But who wants to get technical? In Amy terms, what that means is I believe "God is with me." It's that simple.
God has a very special purpose and plan for each of us. Even before we were born, he had a very special plan for each of us. We are all gifts from God
Psalms 127:4 (NIV) Lo, Children are a heritage of the Lord;and the fruit of the womb is his reward
Now that's not to say, we can't mess things up. Take a look back in scriptures. Do you really think God created Adam and Eve and then planned to throw them out of the garden? No. God gives us choices. We are not robots or puppets on strings. God gives us choices. He wants us to choose Him, to choose the right ways, but he allows us to make the decisions for ourselves, and sometimes, we make bad ones.
Take Cain for example. Cain was jealous of Abel. So in a fit of rage, he killed Abel and completely wiped out an entire generation. God didn't have that planned. Yes, he knew it was all going to happen, but think about it......... God has a special plan and a purpose for each of us. He gives each one of us special abilities. Some of us are stay at home moms who enjoy raising children, homeschooling and cooking. Some of us would rather have a personal chef and a maid, we can't boil water and we burn toast. But that is why God gives each part in the body of Christ a different job. Our strengths and weaknesses work together for the greater good.
Cain did not need to be jealous of Abel. Cain was a farmer, Abel was a shepherd. God had special plans for each of them. But Cain's heart was not where it needed to be and he made a bad choice.
But can God take a bad choice and make something good from it? You bet. Remember, all things are possible with God.
I believe children are a blessing from God, all children, planned or unplanned. God can take the child that was created and make it a wonderful blessing to each and every person it meets from here to eternity.
Why wouldn't we lay everything at God feet? Why do we fret over the nation's economy? The price of groceries, gas, clothes and college? Stop fretting and start praying. God is right here. He is ready and able to meet each and everyone of your needs, but you need to stop and ask him to help.
Have you stopped and talk to God today? Nothing is too menial or trivial for God.
Phillippians 4:6 says, (NIV) Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
I leave you today with the words of a song I grew up with in church. Don't worry today. Relax, lay it all at His feet, won't you let the Savior in today?
Time After Time ( The Savior is Waiting)
The Savior is waiting to enter your heart
Why don't you let Him come in?
There's nothing in this world to keep you apart
What is your answer to Him?
Chorus:
Time after time
He has waited before
And now He is waiting again
To see if you are willing To open the door
Oh, how He wants to come in.
If you'll take one stepToward the Savior, my friend,
You'll find His arms open wide.
Receive Him, and all of your darkness will end
Within your heart He'll abide.
Chorus:
Time after time
He has waited before
And now He is waiting again
To see if you are willing To open the door
Oh, how He wants to come in.
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