Women of Noble Character

Giving with Gusto

2012-01-26T09:45:00.000-08:00

For the past 20 weeks we've been studying The Quest for Character, and the focus has been about guarding our heart. The next 20 weeks we will be studying about giving our heart. To have well-rounded, or balanced, character it is imperative to open our heart to giving.

Americans are generous. As a country and individually we give with gusto. Most of us were taught from a young age that it is better to give than to receive, while others have learned through hardship that giving is a joyful experience.

"Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, "prompt to do it") giver [whose heart is in his giving]." 2 Corinthians 9:7 AMP

Do you want to be cheerful giver?

Reflect on God's gifts to you. - It's a wonderful exercise to look back on your life and see God's goodness. I have had 44 years (yes, that's how old I am) of trials, tears, and fears. But, God was with me through it all. He pulled me out of some of the darkest pits, and He used others with "giving with gusto" hearts to bring me to this moment where I can share and give back that love. At this moment I may be financially poor, but He continually opens doors daily as opportunities for me to give.

Remind yourself of His promises regarding generosity. - God calls us to give without strings. Only give with the expectation of His promises.

“So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." Matthew 6:2-4 NIV

Examine your heart. - Ask yourself: Is my giving proportionate to my income? Am I motivated by guilt, or by contagious joy? If someone else knew the level of my giving to God's work, would I be a model to follow? Have I prayed about giving, or am I just an impulsive responder?

Trust God to honor consistent generosity. - A few years back when my son needed open-heart surgery, I was fired from my job for taking too many sick days. I tried to find another job, but because of the uncertainty of my circumstances it was difficult for anyone to hire me. I went back to my former employer to beg for my job back, but my request was denied.

With feelings of desperation I made my way through the parking lot to my car. As I was unlocking the door a homeless woman approached me. She asked if I had any money to spare for a sandwich. Under a tree a few feet away I saw a baby carriage with her meager belongings. I asked her about the carriage. She told me she kept it so she could visit her little girl, who was in foster care, and take her to the park once a week.

Maybe because misery loves company I asked her to tell me her story. She related a familiar story of abuse from her husband and the inability to give up on their relationship. How her daughter had gotten in the middle of a fight, and the authorities were called in. The courts deemed her an unfit mother while she remained with her husband, so the daughter was taken away from her.

Now this woman was struggling with trying to find a job, a place to live, and getting her daughter back. Even though she had left her husband nobody seemed to believe she was moving on. Her family just didn't want to take a chance that she wouldn't let him back into her life, so they refused to take her in.

I prayed with her, and knowing I only had 6 dollars in my purse, what remained of my last paycheck, I pulled a 5 dollar bill out and gave it to her. After asking her if she needed a ride anywhere, I gave her the number to my church. I told her to contact them, and to tell them I sent her. Two weeks later I saw her again at a Sunday service. The next day we went together to a group meeting at a domestic violence center. The last time I talked to her she had a place to live, was working full time, and the courts were considering letting her have her daughter back.

I do not share that story to brag. In fact when the woman took that 5 dollar bill my brain was screaming, "What are you doing? You need that money!" But my heart was at peace, and God has honored my generosity overwhelmingly.

It breaks my heart to hear so many grumble and complain about who deserves help and who doesn't. People label giving with terms like "spreading the wealth" or "entitlement programs". It's a vicious cycle for those truly in need. NO ONE likes a hand out, but they definitely need a hand up. Give to your churches with gusto so those in need can go there for help instead of the government. In the end they will receive so much more than just a hand out.

"Forbid it Lord, that our roots become too firmly attached to this earth, that we should fall in love with things." Peter Marshall

If you would like to participate grab a button and share how God is leading you to be A Woman of Noble Character. This link is open all week, and to all denominations of the Christian faith.

Dial "G-O-D" ~ Week 4

2012-01-21T22:55:00.000-08:00

"I love the LORD, for he heard my voice; he heard my cry for mercy. Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live." Psalm 116:1-2

When you're frustrated or lose focus call on God for help. Getting organized is sometimes difficult because we get overwhelmed by the mess. It can seem too big for us to handle. But, He is always there for us.

Remember we are working on creating a clean heart. It has to begin with changing the inside. Once we have given complete control of our hearts and homes to Him we cannot fail.

If you would like to participate in the challenge download the Devotional for the Disorganized, link up daily or weekly, and grab a button here.

Beauty...at a Distance

2012-01-19T08:21:00.000-08:00

Some people just look like they have it all, and it's all going their way.

I would bet at one point or another, someone has thought that about you.

When I started my blog, I have to confess, one of my biggest intentions was to knock that idea out of anybody's mind. I'm as flawed as anyone else.

It's so easy, when we watch others from afar, to think that they are perfect and have no challenges. As we get closer and come to know people better, it becomes clear that no one is exempt from trials and challenges, and it's those things we can learn and grow from as individuals.

When I wrote this post, things got very quiet on this blog. I reread it and wondered why. It may just be that no one had much to say that week, but I have to admit, it gave me pause and made me wonder....Do we, as those who profess to follow Jesus Christ, put ourselves up on a pedestal as well? Do we deny that we make mistakes? Do we look at others and condemn them for their mistakes? Yikes! I hope that's not the way things are. If so, maybe it's time we gave ourselves a bit of a break and allowed ourselves to be imperfect. If we don't face them, we'll never overcome them.

In ourselves, we need to accept who we are and where we are in this journey. We need to face that we're not perfect and shouldn't be quick to judge those around us.

What is it they say? Be gentle. You never know what someone else is going through. Everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

I'd like to add....we must be careful. We never know when we could find ourselves standing in those same shoes.

One step forward ~ Week 3

2012-01-15T07:30:00.000-08:00

"I will heal their waywardness and love them freely, for my anger has turned away from them." Hosea 14:4 (NIV)

Isn't that beautiful, and doesn't that fill you with peace? How can you not trust a God who loves you that much?

He is working in me from the inside out, and though He sees my cluttered and less than clean home He loves me freely. He is creating in me a clean heart so I'm able to see the chaos as less of a challenge and more of a blessing. He has provided for me abundantly!

Now He is asking me to create an environment deserving of His presence and mine. Every day I ask for peace and guidance because I trust Him. He is showing me the plan, one step forward.

If you would like to participate in the challenge download the Devotional for the Disorganized, link up daily or weekly, and grab a button here.

Parental negligence

2012-01-12T10:04:00.000-08:00

I think as Christians we tend to be harder on ourselves as parents than anyone. I know I am.

The Bible gives plenty of instruction on how to raise Godly children, but instead Swindoll in The Quest for Character shares from an article published years ago by the US Chamber of Commerce a list of twelve rules on "How to train your child to be a delinquent."

When your kid is still an infant, give him everything he wants. This way he'll think the world owes him a living when he grows up.
When he picks up swearing and off-color jokes, laugh at him, encourage him. As he grows up, he'll pick up "cuter" phrases that will floor you.
Never give him any spiritual training. Wait until he is twenty-one and let him decide for himself.
Avoid using the word wrong. It will give your child a guilt complex. You can condition him to believe later, when he is arrested for stealing a car, that society is against him and he is being persecuted.
Pick up after him - his books, shoes, and clothes. Do everything for him so he will be experienced in throwing all responsibility onto others.
Let him read all printed matter he can get his hands on...[never think of monitoring his TV programs, *video and computer games]. Sterilize the silverware, but let him feast his mind on garbage.
Parents quarrel frequently in his presence. Then he won't be too surprised when his home is broken later.
Satisfy his every craving for food, drink, and comfort. Every sensual desire must be gratified; denial may lead to harmful frustrations.
Give your child all the spending money he wants. Don't make him earn his own. Why should he have things as tough as you did?
Take his side against neighbors, teachers, and policemen. They're all against him.
When he gets into real trouble, make up excuses for yourself by saying, "I never could do anything with him; he's just a bad seed."
Prepare for a life of grief.

Obviously this is very harsh, but tell me you don't see many of these qualities in society today. Swindoll's book, The Quest for Character, was written in the '70's, but much of it's content is very relevant today. We are raising the next generation of Christians. How is it going with you and your children?

"Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the door frames of your houses and on your gates." Deuteronomy 6:5-9

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His peace ~ Week 2

2012-01-07T23:56:00.000-08:00

When you trust God it is so much easier to find peace. Every time you feel confused and frustrated by your circumstances close your eyes and find the peace He is offering.

Write the scriptures and weekly prayers from the Devotional for the Disorganized on 3x5 cards. On the back of the card write the names of the other participants. When you feel alone or overwhelmed read them aloud and then say a prayer for the others. Soon the peace will sink deep in your heart.

"For God is not the author of confusion but of peace..." 1 Corinthians 14:33

If you would like to participate in the challenge download the Devotional for the Disorganized, link up daily or weekly, and grab a button here. (This is separate from our Thursday weekly link up, so please add your links to the correct post.)

Quest for Character: Curiosity

2012-01-05T09:54:00.000-08:00

Curiosity--the two-edged sword. In so many ways, we benefit from curiosity; great things are discovered as we probe deeper. In other ways, we punish ourselves; we overstep the boundaries of safety and find ourselves with the consequences of probing into the wrong areas.

image credit: http://www.gamasutra.com/

I am, by nature, a curious person. I ask a lot of questions. If I don't know the reason why someone wants me to do something or I don't understand or agree with why, I won't do it. Thus the reason why I rarely, if ever, kept the curfew my parents applied to my life every weekend when I was growing up. By nature, yes, I'm a rebel but not without a cause.

However, when I do understand something, I will stick to it and do it. When I see that it benefits my life, I will hold onto it.

This leads to some thoughts I've been having lately. I got to thinking about all the things I've never tried--even as a curious person. I started wondering why. Why had I never had the desire to do things "everyone else" is doing?

Swindoll answered that question for me this morning:

"Remove the safety belt of Biblical parameters and curiosity will send our vehicle of learning on a collision course, destined for disaster" (The Quest for Character, p. 100).

People will say that I live a strict life; that I'm limited by my religious beliefs, but I tend to think differently. I cling to the boundaries God has set for me because, not only do I find safety in them but, I find my life blessed by them. My ability to feel Him close is a result of obeying what I've come to understand from Him.

The limits I have chosen to set in my life, because yes, I know I have the choice to accept any or all of them offered, have made my life a joyful journey so far.

image credit: http://www.daily-dabble.com/

Curiosity is a good thing as long as we "Prove all things." and "Hold fast to that which is good" (1 Thessalonians 5:21).

If you would like to participate grab a button and share how God is leading you to be A Woman of Noble Character. This link is open all week, and to all denominations of the Christian faith.

Trustin' Him ~ Week 1

2012-01-01T09:07:00.000-08:00

This is the official start of the "Clean Heart Challenge".

If you would like to participate in the challenge grab a button here. (This is separate from our Thursday weekly link up, so please add your links to the correct post.)

Week 1 ~ Trustin' Him

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

Rigidity

2011-12-29T09:36:00.000-08:00

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Jesus was the ultimate non-conformist. When I read His recorded words there are times when I can actually hear the gasps from the crowd, the disagreeing grunts from the Sadducees and Pharisees.

*"There are people who do not want us to be free. They don't want us to be free before God, accepted just as we are by His grace. They don't want us to be free to express our faith originally and creatively in the world."

*"They themselves refuse to live arduously and openly in faith, but huddle together with a few others and try to get a sense of approval by insisting that all look alike, talk alike and act alike, thus validating one another's worth. They try to enlarge their numbers only on the condition that new members act and talk and behave the way they do."

Does this at all sound familiar? I've attended many churches, and met many individuals who are so rigid as to tell me their ways are the right ways. I believe that God gave us the Holy Spirit so we don't fall into the traps of conformism.

Tell me, honestly, do you see Jesus in your day-to-day interaction with others? Are you judgmental and rigid to those who are of a different religion? Or, are you embracing them as believers of the one true God, and brothers and sisters in Christ?

I want to encourage you to stop looking at the rigid trappings of your religion, and practice your faith as Jesus did. LOVE one another as He loves you!

*Eugene Peterson, Traveling Light

Clean Heart Challenge ~ Week 1

2011-12-27T07:07:00.000-08:00

Every January people talk about making resolutions, and we've all heard stories from those who have made resolutions. They stick with it for a few weeks or months, but for some reason or another they just don't manage to follow through.

I'm going to confess, "I'm disorganized." When I missed a dental appointment two days before Christmas it became apparent that I need to make some major changes in my disorganized life.

I've also struggled for years with clutter in my home. Last year I made a little progress in this area, but it just wasn't enough. After reading through the Devotional for the Disorganized I decided that this year I wanted to do something different.

So, I'm taking the challenge. I will be posting about my progress, and linking up with everyone else who wants to join in. No matter what area of your life you want God to "Create In Me a Clean Heart", I want to encourage you to follow through.

I believe in prayer, have witnessed it's power, and know the blessings that come from prayers, so please add those who link up to your prayers each day. It helps to know, "You are not alone!" Join in the "Create in me a clean heart" challenge because there is nothing God cannot help us overcome.

If you would like to participate in the challenge grab a button here. (This is separate from our Thursday weekly link up, so please add your links to the correct post.)

Week 1 ~ Trustin' Him

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

Downward Spiral

2011-12-24T07:36:00.000-08:00

I spent the last evening running away with my husband. We stayed in a hotel and ate out. It was perfectly lovely!

I read the chapter in Charles Swindoll's Quest for Character yesterday of the same title as this post. It was amazing how many things led my mind to the theme of the chapter. I couldn't get it out of my mind. Swindoll speaks of erosion and how it happens to our individual hearts. It became part of everything I saw and heard. By evening, I had to read the chapter to my husband and get his feelings on it.

He shared that, as a middle school principal, he had just been in a science classroom the previous week in which they were discussing ways to halt erosion and even reverse it.

We agreed that we had a goal for the new year--stop the spiraling, or better yet, figure out how to create an upward spiral in ourselves and thus in our home.

Swindoll shares, and I agree, that the erosion of our hearts, just like the erosion that takes place in our world happens imperceptibly. In this lies the difficulty of overcoming it.

In my mind, it isn't impossible to conquer this. It's a matter of taking precautions and yes, sometimes overdoing it. It's also a matter of adding things into your life and into your heart that are good and uplifting. This process doesn't just happen. We all, yes, all because we are all victims to it in this world, need to be active in defeating the factors that erode our hearts.

I don't know if there's one magic key. I believe that for everyone, that erosion-reverser is different because we are all unique individuals.

With the new year in sight and the celebration of our Savior's birth tomorrow, this upward-spiral is easy to conceive. For me, it will be increased fervor in my prayers. More dedication to going to the temple. Increase in working to understand what I read as I study the scriptures. More than anything, it will be to serve others and reach outward.

As we discussed these things, my mind was drawn to this. Although the speaker is of my faith, I believe this message is for everyone.

May we all, at this time of year, and throughout 2012 and our lives, "look inward," "reach outward" and "look heavenward;" thus, halting the silent erosion of our hearts and eventually, creating an upward spiral in our lives.

Merry Christmas and may your 2012 be all you dream it can be!

If you would like to participate grab a button and share how God is leading you to be A Woman of Noble Character. This link is open all week, and to all denominations of the Christian faith.

Running Scared

2011-12-15T10:28:00.000-08:00

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"There is nothing to fear but fear itself."

In the midst of trouble and trials fear has a funny way of blocking out all reason. We tend to let it consume us until there is nothing to see but the fear, or what we are afraid of.

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." 2 Timothy 1:7

I am a little late with my post today because my family has been bombarding me with phone calls and love. It is a trying time for me with lots of worries, and fear of the unknown.

Fear has tried to take seed in my heart, but with the constant support of family and friends, my faith in God's almighty power, and filling my mind with God's Word fear will not sprout and grow.

Do not let your quest for character be interrupted. Charles Swindoll ends this weeks chapter in The Quest for Character with this:

"What comes from the Lord because it is impossible for humans to manufacture it? Wisdom. What comes from humans because it is impossible for the Lord to experience it? Worry. And what is it that brings wisdom and dispels worry? Worship. Let nothing detract from your time of personal worship today. Let nothing frighten you... nothing from yesterday's past, today's present, or tomorrow's future. Nothing."

Brilliant advice don't you think?

Feast and Famine

2011-12-08T15:25:00.000-08:00

These words jumped off the page at me...

"A few heroic 'snipers.'"

Swindoll brings to us the reality of a spiritual famine in the land. He gives the example of many spiritually strong leaders of days long gone and says, "That once-strong army of valiant and vigorous soldiers seems strangely reduced to mere squads here and there...a few heroic 'snipers'" (p. 78).

So, I ask of you, in regard to the words above, are you one of them? The only way to change the spiritual famine is to feast upon the word of God and then don't be afraid to share what you know.

If you're searching for a spiritual giant to lead you, the only sure way to find one is to be the giant yourself.

Handle today

2011-12-01T01:06:00.000-08:00

For weeks I've been struggling with a schedule and plans for daily tasks. I have a check list of to-dos for each day of the week, and I've prayed over my lists asking for God's help. How hard can it be to wake up each morning and tackle one thing at a time? But, every night I've been disappointed and frustrated with my lack of discipline.

"The secret lies in how we handle today, not yesterday or tomorrow. Today... that special block of time holding the key that locks out yesterday's nightmares and unlocks tomorrows dreams." The Quest for Character , Charles Swindoll

Living each moment is a practice in preparing our hearts for God and a building of character. It's not what you don't get done, or what you wish to get done that matters. It isn't even about what you've accomplished but how you handled each moment in life.

Last week I read a blogging friends post that at first I found disheartening, but after much contemplation I thought it was very representative of our frustrations with living a Godly life. Although I respect her insights and appreciate her honesty, there is one point that needs to be made. The Word of God is not a list of to-dos, or a checklist of requirements to be marked off as completed. It is a guide for daily living.

We need the stability of His guidance foremost in our lives because God has given each one of us free will. It is free will, or human nature as some call it, that keeps most of us from living each moment of today in freedom. There is a constant battle to do the right thing, but it's not always clear what's right and what's wrong. God knew we would make mistakes, but He didn't leave us without hope.

"What is today? A day the Lord has made. A twenty-four hour segment of time never lived before and never to be repeated. You may never live to see another day like this one. You may never be closer to a decision you need to make, a step you need to take, a sin you need to forsake, a choice you need to determine. So - do so today." The Quest for Character , Charles Swindoll

We learn from yesterday, look forward to tomorrow, but God only desires that we live today, this moment... then the next... it takes practice.

Honesty

2011-11-24T11:09:00.000-08:00

Every one of my kids has gone through a phase with dishonesty. I know I went through a BIG one when I was about 15. I finally got caught in a lie by my parents. By the time they caught me, it wasn't just one lie, it was a whole series of lies--a HUGE web. Once I knew they were onto me, I knew I was going to have to revise my story to make it "better," but better only made it worse.

When all was said and done, my dad, who I admired more than anyone, said, "You have destroyed our trust, and it's not easily earned back."

UGH! I think he could have lit me on fire, and it would have hurt me less.

That very day I decided that I would be known as an honest person. I have done my best to keep that as one of the creeds I live by.

So, when did you decide that "honesty is the best policy?"

Sincerity

2011-11-17T09:08:00.000-08:00

It's the American dream! The sincerity of those who represent us in Washington was clear, everyone should be able to own their home. Buyers were sincere in their desire to make good on their loans. So, what went wrong?

"No amount of devotion or determination or sacrificial involvement in wrong actions will ever make them right." The Quest for Character , Charles Swindoll

There are those who say banks knew these loans would be defaulted on. There are those who say government knew relaxing the loan restrictions would be a bad idea. With all sincerity they did it anyway to help people obtain the American dream, but was it right?

"We who are on a quest for character must allow sincerity to be our badge of excellence throughout our days on earth." The Quest for Character , Charles Swindoll

"And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God." Philippians 1:9-11

"When the Son shines through and tests our lives, the absence of cracks will guarantee the presence of truth. You cannot separate the two... no matter how sincere you may be." The Quest for Character , Charles Swindoll

We cannot change others, or the past. Though the 'cracks' in America are glaringly bright, are they as bright in your own life?

Loneliness in Leadership

2011-11-09T23:49:00.000-08:00

There are things that only a few can do. There is knowledge and understanding that only a few will ever have. There are things so personal that cannot be shared. This is the lot of a leader.

To be the one in charge sometimes means not letting others see that you might be nervous or unsure. As the leader, you have to step up and be confident at all times. These are lonely times.

A few months ago, my oldest daughter and I went to Japan to help with the clean up from the tsunami. It was a remarkable experience and one that was very much guided and directed by God. It has changed me.

One thing that happened, a situation I've never experienced before, was finding myself completely responsible for another human being with no tangible support system. I have never flown on the trapeze without a net before. There has always been my husband or my parents or some other human being there to help if there was a problem.

The first night in our apartment, I realized that the very ground I was standing on could fail me at any moment. I also came to the reality that those we had arrived with us were in another part of town. We hadn't been with them when they were taken to their quarters, and the people in charge lived in a closer apartment, but I only knew the building. If something were to happen, would I go running through the walkways yelling their names? Hmm. That just didn't seem like a good idea.

To make matters worse, we had no cell phone access, no internet and no land line. We didn't know our neighbors. We didn't know anyone.

I knew I had only one net left--the greatest safety net possible.

After my daughter was in bed for the night, I shut myself into the closet-sized laundry room and got on my knees. I expressed my concerns and told Him how much I needed Him. I was immediately reassured and the fears never returned. My loneliness disappeared. I was there on His errand, and He was there to strengthen me.

In The Quest for Character, Charles Swindoll shares a story about the Library of Congress. He speaks of a small box that holds the contents of Abraham Lincoln's pockets the night he was assassinated. Fascinating! The last thing listed was "Some old and worn newspaper clippings." The story goes into further detail and explains that "The clippings were concerned with the great deeds of Abraham Lincoln...."

We all know that Lincoln was a humble man. Not given to self-aggrandizement. But, this just shows us that we all, even the very greatest among us, need a little pat on the back. We need to be able to look back at what we've done and be reassured that it's good. Even God in the creation of our world looked at each day and said that it was "good."

These little reassurances are wonderful miracles in our lives. Yes, we will have our critics, but we need to cling to the fact that God is rooting for us. Only in Him can we feel not so alone as we try to lead as He would.

Short on creeds and long on deeds

2011-11-05T02:21:00.000-07:00

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"Double-mindedness is a common disease that leaves its victims paralyzed by doubt...hesitant, hypocritical, full of theoretical words, but lacking in confident action. Lots of talk but no guts." The Quest for Character , Charles Swindoll

As some of my friends can attest, this past week I've truly suffered from double-mindedness, being driven and tossed by my circumstances. So, I tried to spend a few days catching up on my time with the Lord. Reaquainting my knees with the carpet next to my bed. I've always felt this humbling action the most necessary for a more stable life.

I'm studying James 1 this week, and I apologize for not having this post ready on Thursday. I thought it was wonderful of Swindoll to include Joe Bayly's A Psalm of Single-mindedness in the chapter.

Lord of reality

make me real

not plastic

synthetic

pretend phony

an actor playing out (her) part

hypocrite.

I don't want

to keep a prayer list

but to pray

nor agonize to find Your will

but to obey

what I already know

to argue

theories of inspiration

but submit to Your Word.

I don't want

to explain the difference

between eros and philos

and agape

but to love.

I don't want

to sing as if I mean it

I want to mean it.

I don't want

to tell it like it is

but to be it

like you want it.

I don't want

to think another needs me

but I need (her)

else I'm not complete.

I don't want

to tell others how to do it

but to do it

to have to be always right

but to admit it when I'm wrong.

I don't want to be a census taker

but an obstetrician

nor an involved person, a professional

but a friend

I don't want to be insensitive

but to hurt where other people hurt

nor to say I know how you feel

but to say God knows

and I'll try

if you'll be patient with me

and meanwhile I'll be quiet.

I don't want to scorn the cliches of others

but to mean everything I say

including this.

Knowing God. There is no pursuit more important.

What kind of people ought you to be?

2011-10-27T06:52:00.000-07:00

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A few months ago the pastor at my church said something that made me think. It was sort of an aha moment for me. He said, "Once we accept Jesus into our hearts we have everlasting life. So why aren't we living that everlasting life right now?"

What kind of people ought you to be?

I believe God wants us to live right now our everlasting life, and serve Him with the joy of knowing who's we are and where we're going.

"But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat." 2 Peter 3:10-12

This week in The Quest for Character I encourage you to set your heart to seek God. Swindoll asks the question, "Is your heart 'completely His'?"

If you would like to participate grab a button and share how God is leading you to be A Woman of Noble Character. This link up is open all week, and to all denominations of the Christian faith.

Renewal

2011-10-20T09:12:00.000-07:00

Do you allow yourself time to renew your mind and body?

Image credit: http://liberatingworkingmoms.com/

I used to think I wasn't a good mom if I did this. If I had to leave my kids in another's care, there was always some amount of guilt attached to it.

Mr. Swindoll asserts that this just isn't true--that even the Savior encouraged his disciples to go and rest.

I believe this is true. One of our purposes here in life is to be wise stewards of all the blessings received. Without our minds and bodies, what would we have to receive these blessings with? Our physical and mental selves are our greatest assets.

Image credit: http://www.codinghorror.com/

In Stephen R. Covey's "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People," one of those habits to "Sharpen the Saw." If we don't take care of ourselves, we won't be able to work toward what we are to become in this life. We will be ineffective.

As I've developed as a mom, I've learned a number of things. First of all, I learned that my attitude early on was VERY flawed. I felt marvelous after returning from a date with my husband or a girls night out. I was better at the mom thing after some time away. I was able to move slower and not feel so rushed.

Second, I learned that, in my situation, I had to be the impetus of things moving in the right direction. I found a family in our congregation with a similar number of children and proposed a weekly date trade. We'd go out on Friday nights and leave our children with them; they'd go out on Saturdays. It worked marvelously. Our kids couldn't wait for our date night.

Then, with that same family, every six months, we'd take a weekend away. I blogged about an easy way to do this some time ago. Here's a link, if you're interested.

One of the very best things I do once a year, though is go to this. It rejuvenates my spirit and helps me feel the promptings that I need to improve in all areas of my life--as a mom, as a wife and as a human being. If you can find something like this to attend, it's well worth the time and money to do so. I live in Portland, and the tour frequently comes here, but there have been times when the closest location has been Seattle. At those times, we've gone as a group of women, reserved a hotel room and made a girls weekend of it. That's been THE BEST!

I believe Christ wants us to reach our full potential. He's all about us being successful in whatever we undertake. There is someone else, however, so wants us to be miserable like he is. It makes me wonder if those little twinges of guilt are somehow his workings.

The last thing I have to say about this, though, is that all things must be done in moderation. Follow what you feel/hear in your heart. If you begin to feel that you're losing your ability to do well in any area because you're spending too much time for yourself, that's the time to reevaluate and steer yourself back into the right direction--to get your priorities back in order. Make renewal a blessing in your life, not the foundation.

I've already posted this, and it's been here for at least half a day, but as I'm sitting here pondering on this topic further, another thought occurred to me. Is the Sabbath used as a day of renewal? Do we run around and do all the things we do on every other day, or is it a special day? A day set aside for worship, prayer, service to others, etc. I believe there is great joy to be found by taking the Sabbath day literally as a day of rest just as the commandment states.

If you would like to participate grab a button and share how God is leading you to be A Woman of Noble Character. This link up is open all week, and to all denominations of the Christian faith.

Guarding your heart from words

2011-10-13T08:55:00.000-07:00

We've all experienced them. You know those loud, obnoxious, rude people who demand to have their way. We've all seen or experienced for ourselves the destruction of their words. Don't you just want to give as good as you get, or do you become a "doormat" just to keep the peace.

As Christians we are instructed to be kind, gentle, peaceful and loving. Some see that as timidity, or equate it to becoming "doormats". But that is not what a Christian is, nor is it what God expects.

As a society we've become adept at masking our real emotions. We make excuses for our words and actions such as: "I was abused.", "They behaved badly first.", or "I'm a Christian." We make judgements based on the outward appearance of an individual without really looking at the inside. How did painful emotions get inside this person to make them behave this way?

Words are powerful. From our birth words are molding and forming our personalities. Underneath that loud, obnoxious person is a crying, hurting individual, while a timid, reserved individual is disguising a raging, terror. Making the conscious decision to respond to them according to God's Word is what matters.

Swindoll offers a suggestion to read a chapter from Proverbs every day for the next thirty-one days. When I was in high school my class challenged ourselves to do this. It was amazing how our words started to change. We began to talk the walk with each other and our families. As an adult I see how this will affect those around us, not just our loved ones, but with the people we meet every day.

Watch and see how it affects your blogging too.

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God's Judgment, Not Ours

2011-10-06T09:40:00.000-07:00

Can I be honest here....

This section of the book made me a bit angry. I almost wonder if I misunderstood what he was saying, and I hope if I was, someone would set me straight.

I guess I look at God's judgment a bit differently than many; particularly Mr. Swindoll.

My place in this life, is to be accountable for me. I once heard these words in a song, "All alone I came into this world. All alone I will someday die."

Sand and Water-Nielsen Chapman Beth from bemyselffloater on Vimeo.

These words were powerful. I knew there was something more than what I was hearing. There was something for my soul to learn from these words. My heart was tugging at me to get the whole message.

What I finally understood was that my purpose in this life is not to punish others. My purpose is to learn from my mistakes and the mistakes of others around me. My purpose is to lean on the Savior to lift me up and make me better. I can't do that for anyone else.

Mostly, my purpose is not to lean on the arm of flesh. Not to be pessimistic, but we are all human. We ALL make mistakes. We are, none of us, perfect, and to expect that from someone else is a terribly unfair thing. Anyone can fall at any time. There is only one who didn't, and we need to trust Him. It isn't our job to choose His timing in punishing others who've wronged us. It's not our place to pray for the demise of terrible people. That time will come. We need to trust Him who knows all things.

My purpose here in life is to be the best me I can be. All alone I'll someday die. I will only account for myself before Him.

Lynda shares her thoughts on this same section of the book. The link is below her post.

Guarding your heart from injustice

2011-10-06T09:23:00.000-07:00

{Photo credit}

How many times a day do we hear this?

"It's not fair, Mom!"

How many times a day do we feel it?

It's not fair that my son is being raised in a single parent home. It's not fair that we are struggling when others seem to be able to skirt around the system, take advantage of others, and lie, cheat, or steal their way to prosperity. But, we are proudly, defiantly, and obediently different.

"Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord." Romans 12:17-19

Talking with my son about God's judgement is so important. It's a hard pill to swallow when you see someone getting away with sin, but God has promised...

"It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near and their doom rushes upon them.” Deuteronomy 32:35

In our Quest for Character this week we're focusing on God's judgement. Swindoll closes this lesson with these words.

"In a depraved world, it is difficult to find many sources of encouragement and happiness. Look around. The scene is bleak and grim. Corruption, oppression, infidelity, injustice, and rivalry await us around most corners, breeding discouragement and fear. So it is 'around' us.... under the sun... but never 'above' us.

May God give us eyes to see through our circumstances and to hear His voice of reassurance through the cracks and crevices along this journey called life. As we seek Him this day, may new insights bring fresh encouragement, new sounds, and long overdue happiness. Don't miss the sights. Listen carefully." excerpt from The Quest for Character page 43

Read Hebrews 12

Guard your heart against overcrowding

2011-09-29T06:58:00.000-07:00

I grew up with scenes like this. Farmhouses interspersed between fields of corn, onions, and alfalfa. The unending country roads were my friends where I could walk for miles and think. There were cows, horses, grasshoppers, frogs, snakes, and a myriad of bugs to see up close. Life seemed to move slowly then, but it slipped by so fast I wasn't able to appreciate it as I do today.

This week in The Quest for Character, Swindoll tells about an experiment with mice to prove overcrowding takes a terrible toll on humanity. Taking his advice, here were several of my insights from the observations and conclusions of the experiment.

Adults formed natural groups of about a dozen individual mice. We segregate ourselves from others. Whether it's race, religion, politics, or some other interest, we stick with our "group" and don't allow for differences.

We have become intolerant of opposing views and/or personalities, and for this we have shut out the very ones God wants to reach. In an effort to protect ourselves we are not fulfilling God's commandment. “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it." Luke 9:23-24

In each group each adult mouse performed a particular social role... but there were no rules in which to place the healthy young mice, which totally disrupted the whole society. We get so wrapped up in our roles as parents and adults we forget the little ones who will follow in our footsteps. If we don't take time to teach them, guide them, and love them our daily pursuits for wealth, position, and greatness are in vain. “But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.” Luke 6:49

The males who had protected their territory withdrew from leadership. Children need their fathers to be men of God who will provide more than just worldly provisions. Men need to be present in spirit, and not just the bread winners of the home. “Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” Luke 11:11-13

The females became aggressive and forced out the young... even their own offspring. With all the chores and responsibilities we forget to make time for our children. We push them away to complete one more project, make one last phone call, or attend one more meeting.

Women need to schedule relaxing play and spiritual growth time with children, not only to bond with them, but to remember what it was like to be carefree and unburdened. “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:41-42

The young grew to be only self-indulgent. They ate, drank, slept, groomed themselves, but showed no normal aggression and, most noteworthy, failed to reproduce. Because their was no guidance or love the children made their own way. Today questions like, "Why would I bring a child into this world", are perfect examples of the overcrowding we have enforced on children. Their selfish desire to shut out the world with video games and television is how they are adapting to the neglect and indifference of "busy" parents. "But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop." Luke 8:15

There is no more and no less evil in the world today than when Jesus walked upon it, but we alone have created an atmosphere of overcrowding that is pushing God out. It is the responsibility of all who know and love God to shine as His beacon.

“No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light.” Luke 11:33

We need space and quiet time with the Lord, to have our cup filled everyday, but we also need it to connect with our family. To build a foundation to then go into the world and share the love of God. Whether it is our neighborhood or a distant land. We are recognized by our fruit. (Luke 6:43-44)

Photo credit: dreamstime.com

Guard your Heart: Group Numbing

2011-09-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

We've all been there....You know, the time when someone's being picked on by someone bigger than he is. The time when no one else is saying anything, so you choose not to say anything either. I would even venture to say that right now, there's something going on or not going on that you feel is unjust.

Mr. Swindoll, in this section, talks about a group that joined in and committed some very traumatic acts that hurt many.

"The smirks or shouts of the majority have a way of intimidating integrity" (p. 33)

I think this happens, but I think more common are the sins of omission--those things we don't do or choose to be silent about and let them continue. The injustices of life that are either caused by tradition or fear or just now knowing how to start the change that needs to happen.

So, I want to challenge you today....
Figure out what is causing injustice in your life or around you, and do something about it--anything. Write a letter. Send an email. Make a phone call. Begin to make a change.

"Lead with your head rather than your feelings. If you fail to do this, you'll lose your ethical compass somewhere between longing to be liked and desiring to do what is right" (p. 34).

For more on this topic, read Joshua 23:1-16; 24:14-15

If you would like to participate grab a button, choose a prompt from below or just share how God is leading you to be A Woman of Noble Character. This link up is open all week, and to all denominations of the Christian faith.

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

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Guard your heart, don't wear a mask

2011-09-15T11:13:00.000-07:00

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"These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules. You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to human traditions.” Mark 7:6-8

How do you measure success? What is true success? This is the second lesson on guarding your heart in Swindoll's book The Quest for Character.

Swindoll goes on to refer to Ralph Waldo Emerson's reflection on success, and states it's what is not mentioned that is impressive. Emerson isn't referring to money, status, rank, or fame.

My personal experience with success as a cosmetologist also became my downfall. I built up my clientele, and allowed me ego to become bloated because I did not guard my heart from the evils of success. It is a common mistake for all of us. The more money we have, the more attention we receive has a tendency to inflate our own view of ourselves. It is a recipe for disaster if we don't guard our hearts from this.

"Again Jesus called the crowd to him and said, 'Listen to me, everyone, and understand this. Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them.'” Mark 7:14-16

Swindoll's final words are quite profound to me:

To be like Christ. That is our goal, plain and simple. It sounds like a peaceful, relaxing, easy objective. But stop and think. He (Christ) learned obedience by the things He suffered. So do we. He endured all kinds of temptations. So must we. To be like Christ is our goal. But it is neither easy nor quick nor natural. It's impossible in the flesh, slow in coming, and supernatural in scope. Only Christ can accomplish it within us.

True success for me is knowing that there will be ups and downs in life but I must remain on an even path in my walk with Christ. Struggles and hard times do not make me a victim, and prosperity does not place me above anyone else. Worldly temptations will be put before me, but I will guard my heart and not just mask it from evil.

Have you been inspired by this quest for character? This weeks scripture focus is Mark 7:1-23.

The Quest for Character: Targets of Temptation

2011-09-08T11:28:00.000-07:00

I have decided to join Lynda in reading and sharing about Charles Swindoll's Quest for Character. My book arrived yesterday. Phew! Just in time.

So, let me begin by asking, what are your desires? When do those desires become temptations?

Swindoll breaks it down into four main points for our biggest temptations:

Fortune
Fame
Power
Pleasure

Fortune. Are you wealthy, or do you have desires to be? I don't think wealth is a bad thing, but it's motive that makes the difference. What do I plan on doing with it once I have it?

Wealth becomes a bad thing when, as Swindoll says, "The desire to own, to possess, to amass wealth, to get rich; let's face it, to look rich....Enough is never enough. Contentment is out of the question." (p. 21).

I think it's funny how things follow each other in life. I have been working on getting a grip on the idea that "enough is never enough" in my own life before even reading this chapter and have been cutting back on the "stuff" in my life. I want to learn to be content with what I've been given. To be honest, I've had so much stuff around me that I can't possibly to care of it all. What's the saying? "Live simply that others may simply live." That's where I'm at. After spending time in Japan cleaning up from the tsunami, I made the stark realization that it could all be gone in a matter of moments. The question I've been asking myself is, "Do I want to be so attached to the things I own that when and if something disastrous happens in my life I can't let go and move on?"

I think this is the irony of life. As I've been cutting back, I can see that those things that will truly make us content, and even happy, are the opposite of what the world teaches us.

Fame. Do you seek to be popular? Are you willing to bend your values to fit those of the person or people you want to be "in" with? Or, do you surround yourself with people that make you feel good no matter if they're in the "in" group or not?

I have to be honest, I received a nomination for Young Mother of the Year in my home state last year about this time. I was delighted that someone would think of me that way, but it instantly started to go to my head. My immediate thought was, "How should I change myself, so I can better fit the mold I have in my head of what a 'Young Mother of the Year' should be." It got so blogging was really hard. I suddenly felt that I couldn't "keep it real." I had to be better than I am for everyone else. I was no longer just good enough.

As time has gone on, I have learned that I am no longer a candidate for Young Mother but because my oldest will be 18 in a few months, I would become a candidate for Mother of the Year, but after receiving the portfolio that I would have to fill out, one of the first requirements stated that I had to be 45 years old. I am not yet. It was a bit of a relief to find that I was out of the running--I could go back to being just plain me. I was off the hook.

Since that time, I've received a few emails telling me that the rules are being changed as of this fall. I haven't heard conclusively, but I know that all things happen for a reason. Maybe all of these ups and downs were to help me get a grip on all of this. Maybe it's to help me realize that my purpose in all of this is to glorify God and do His will, or maybe it's to help me realize that I really don't need accolades in my life. I just need to be a good mom. I guess that's what it all comes down to with fame. Do you do it for the right reasons. Are you blessing the lives of others and not being exclusive with your love and friendship? Are you being a humble servant. I haven't decided what I'm going to do yet. The portfolio has to be turned in my January, but I do know that I need to learn God's will for me and do what He directs. Thank goodness for prayer.

Power. Do you try to control others? Do you put others in submission to your will? Or, are you consultative? Do you allow others an opinion and to voice that opinion? Do you seek to bring others along with you in doing good?

If you're a parent, how about with your kids? What kind of relationship do you have with them? I once heard that you should speak to your children as you would a business associate. You would never yell at someone you work with, so why would you do that to your kids?

Again, we all have some amount of power in our lives. Keeping it in balance is the trick--not letting it go to our heads.

Pleasure. I have to be honest, when I go grocery shopping, I almost always buy an eclair. I love them. They are so amazingly yummy. To me, they are quintessential yumminess. I also find that I rationalize the purchase by telling myself that I "deserve" it. I've somehow earned it. I'm not saying that an eclair is evil--not at all. I guess I just need to ask myself if I'm going overboard. Life needs its pleasures, that's true. An eclair every once in awhile is fine, but every time? We need to treat ourselves every so often. We need to be kind to ourselves but when it turns to selfishness and doing things just because we want them and thus making others sacrifice because of our entitlement, we've got some rethinking to do.

I look at pleasure here as just plain selfishness--putting me first, and not thinking things through. Can I afford it? Is someone else going to do without because I'm having this? Is there someone who could benefit from this more than I? Is there someone I could share this with?

I want to reiterate that pleasure is not a bad thing. It's part of what life's about. Just like wealth, having friends, and being in charge aren't bad things, but any of them, when out of balance, can ruin your life. We need to take care of ourselves and our responsibilities. It's when they become selfish that we they become temptations.

At the end of this section, Mr. Swindoll asks that we read 1 John 5. The very last verse reads, "Little children, keep yourselves from idols." (1 John 5:21). From what I've learned, an "idol" is anything that you desire that keeps you from God. We may not even realize that the idols in our lives are just that. They are those things that keep us from keeping His commandments. For all of us, they are something different. The trick is to keep them in balance, or if they're not bringing anything good into your life, do without them altogether.

In order to be free of these temptations, we must be born again and then lean on our Savior to strengthen us. In 1 John 5, it speaks a lot of God, Christ and the Holy Ghost and their roles in our lives. If we lean on them, we can find the changes we need in our lives. We can put our biggest temptations, whether they be fortune, fame, power or pleasure, in check. We can find balance and fulfill our individual purposes in this life.

If you would like to participate grab a button, choose a prompt from below or just share how God is leading you to be A Woman of Noble Character. This link up is open all week, and to all denominations of the Christian faith.

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

A quest for character

2011-08-31T20:22:00.000-07:00

(Photo credit)

"The highest reward for a (wo)man's toil is not what (s)he gets for it, but rather what (s)he becomes by it." -American Way

"Life is a jungle. Only the fit survive. And among the ones who do, those who sense danger and know the techniques of self-defense come through in the best condition."

That is an excerpt from Charles Swindoll's book The Quest for Character.

The publishers state, "The Quest for Character launches you on a lifelong journey - a relentless pursuit of integrity and inner strength. Swindoll calls you back to life's core issues: honesty, purity, courage, conviction, compromise, sincerity, determined love, and 'deep-water faith.' The deep down stuff that determines who you really are." (emphasis added)

For the next few weeks I will be sharing with you from my heart the things I will be learning from this wonderful book. Join me here every other Thursday, and at My Heart's Desire on my quest for character. It has been, and will continue to be an understanding of how to give from my heart while still guarding it from the treacherous jungle we live in.

"Listen, my son (daughter), and be wise, and set your heart on the right path" Proverbs 23:19

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

Leaning

2011-08-25T14:46:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I'm so good at leaning. Sometimes I fall short.

This is my favorite, I wanted to share it with you....

As school will start here soon, and we're working on all of our preparations, I find myself trying to strike a balance again--a never ending struggle.

In times of imbalance, I know that I need to lean harder and more consistently. I need to pray more in my heart and listen for the guidance I receive. I just need to remember.

I read in Exodus 19 the other day and was struck as the children of Israel said, "All that the LORD hath spoken we will do" (verse 8). Of course we know that that isn't how things turned out. That may have been their intention, but they dropped the ball--they lost the vision.

So, I'm curious...how do you keep yourself pointed in the right direction? When things get out of balance, how do you get yourself back on board? Besides "just do it," is there anything special you have or do as a reminder?

If you would like to participate grab a button, choose a prompt from below or just share how God is leading you to be A Woman of Noble Character. This link up is open all week, and to all denominations of the Christian faith.

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

Have faith in the storm

2011-08-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

{Photo credit}

Did they see the storm coming? What preparations did they make for it? How long was it raging before they woke Jesus?

When our storms are calmed we rejoice. He shakes His head.

"Where is your faith?"

During the storm we panic, loose control of our emotions. We only see the outward signs of trouble, but He sees opportunity.

Our instincts make us fall to our knees and cry out to the Lord. The tears flow, from fear... pain... grief? Where is our faith? He gives us power to move mountains if only we believe.

The storms will come. Will our faith be strong enough the weather them? Will we hold our heads high knowing He is coming?

"There will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars. On earth, nations will be afraid and confused because of the roar and fury of the sea. People will be so afraid they will faint, wondering what is happening to the world, because the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then people will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to happen, look up and hold your heads high, because the time when God will free you is near!" Luke 21:25-28

*Note ~ We are looking for contributors at Women of Noble Character. If you would like to join us regularly, or just occasionally send me an email. God bless you, and thank you for linking up!

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

Julie's trip to Japan

2011-08-11T10:28:00.000-07:00

Having just come back from a mission trip to Japan, Julie has many stories to share on her blog, Hesses Madhouse.

A woman of noble character has a heart for helping those in need. Devastated by the tsunami, and trying to get back to a normal life has been a struggle for many in Japan. Julie was able to take time away from her busy life to help out.

Thank you to all those who were able to help her make this mission trip! If you would like to read more about it head over to Hesses Madhouse.

*Note ~ We are looking for contributors at Women of Noble Character. If you would like to join us regularly, or just occasionally send me an email. God bless you, and thank you for linking up!

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

Guest post from Amy at Sunshine Sentiments

2011-08-04T07:21:00.000-07:00

Since I have been so busy moving and settling into our new home, I have asked Amy at Sunshine Sentiments to guest post here this week. I have enjoyed Amy's blog posts for some time, and I'm thrilled she has agreed to allow me the opportunity to share this with you.

An anchor for the soul

Bill Cosby tells a joke about how when his father was little he didn't have an alarm clock, all he had was a sense of responsibility. Well, there are days when my to-do list (or, more accurately, the list of things I'd like to do but can't seem to) and the responsibilities attached have induced enough anxiety in me to ensure I never over-sleep again. This feeling of not being able to accomplish the things I need to do makes me feel out of control. And when I'm feeling out of control, it feels a lot like I'm being tossed about from one crisis to the next, riding the emotional tides as they swell and overwhelm. And I'm going down for the last time.

It feels like my soul needs an anchor.

So, the last time I was drowning in expectations and responsibilities, I opened the Bible and there it was, my anchor.

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where our forerunner, Jesus, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek. (Hebrews 6:19-20)

We have hope in God. In His promise to save us through His grace and our belief in His Son, Jesus Christ, our forever High Priest. In His being constant. God can't lie or contradict Himself. If He promises something, He won't later capriciously change His mind. We can have faith in Him because He is worthy of our faith. He is holy and just. And knowing God's character of constancy insures our hope completely. As long as we have this hope, there will be a place where the rules don't change, where rest is assured, where we are safe and secure. Where our souls are anchored in the calm harbor of Him.

Sounds great, doesn't it? But how does it apply in real life? How about an example?

My E-baby is in the middle. First-baby and McK-mine are above and below him. And sometimes he feels lost between them. I can see it coming, those times when he is overwhelmed and tossed about on emotional swells. I can see it before E-baby acts out with bad behavior in response to his out of control feelings. Now, here is the part where I'd love to tell you that I react by pulling him close, reassuring him and setting him back on the right path. Sometimes my response is just as reactionary as his and I yell. Not very effective. Other times I remember why he's so lost to begin with and do a better job of anchoring him. I pull him into my lap, hug him close, feel his heart beating against mine and the soft in-and-out of his breaths and I tell him something I love about him. A character trait that I admire. One that could help him in the situation with which he's struggling. I choose the blessing words instead of the curses. And he feels how much I love him. And it calms him. And the blessing words give him a new perspective.

I think it's like that with us and God. When we put our hope and faith in God and Who He is, He takes every opportunity to show us how much He loves us with blessings. Blessings of words from His Word. Blessings of beauty in the world around us. Blessings of relationships with family and friends. Blessings of the sure knowledge of His presence in situations where the world has told us there is no hope. And if we let that hope anchor us, we too can rest a while and be calmed. We can re-align our view with a Heavenly perspective. And, in doing so, our faith is strengthened, our hope reinforced. And we recognize that it's okay if we're not in control of whatever situation we're facing. Because He always is. Always. You can't ask any more from an anchor than that, can you?

Anchored by hope,

bound by grace,

Please visit Amy at Sunshine Sentiments.

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

Soften My Heart

2011-07-28T09:14:00.000-07:00

I've been reading about Moses and the children of Israel seeking freedom from Egypt these past few days. I find it interesting that part of God's purpose, along with softening Pharaoh's heart was to soften the hearts of the rebellious children of Israel.

God, through His prophet, Moses, made things very clear to the children of Israel, but they refused to listen.

Exodus 6:9 "And Moses spake so unto the children of Israel: but they hearkened not unto Moses for anguish of spirit, and for cruel bondage."

Moses is doubtful of his mission in the beginning because, as he follows God's instructions to him and goes and speaks to the Israelites, they don't heed his words. He wonders if those who claim to know God won't listen and do, how will he ever persuade Pharaoh to do what he needs to do?

Although it is apparent in those first chapters of Exodus that God's intent is to work on softening Pharaoh's heart, the children of Israel are no better than he is. As I read this time, I wondered if part of the entire exercise, days and days of prophecies and the fulfilling of prophecies, was to bring His covenant people to a point where they would listen and follow.

I wonder at myself sometimes, as one who professes to believe in God as my Heavenly Father. Do I work to be close enough to Him, through prayer, scripture study and service to others, that I can be assured that I know His will for me? Do I listen when He speaks? Do I then do what I am instructed to do? If I doubt, do I pray to have understanding? If I fall short, do I ask for a way to be strengthened or to find answers that I need?

In short, how much do I limit His hand in my life?

How many rods have to be made into serpents for me? How many Red Seas does He need to part in my behalf until I listen and obey?

But in Exodus 6:7, our Heavenly Father says, "And I will take you to me for a people, and I will be to you a God: and ye shall know that I am the LORD your God, which bringeth you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians."

The greatest truth I find from this is that it's all done in His wisdom. It doesn't matter how many times He has to part the sea for me. He knows what I need, and He is patient and loving. He knows my potential. He will do these things for me, and He does.

I am grateful!

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

I'm alone, but I'm not alone...

2011-07-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

...but I feel alone.

I've been here before. I can't let anxiety and depression take control. Though tasks seem mountainous I cannot give in to emotions and feelings.

"So I say, live by the Holy Spirit's power. Then you will not do what your sinful nature wants you to do." Galatians 5:16

I wake up to a new day wanting to purge and move on. As the minutes and hours tick by it's hard to imagine I'm not alone. The quiet around me doesn't seem to penetrate the deafening lies swirling inside.

"The sinful nature does not want what the Spirit delights in. And the Spirit does not want what the sinful nature delights in. The two are at war with each other. That's what makes you do what you don't want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the authority of the law." Galatians 5:17-18

The law of a world tries to dig in telling me I need more, I should want more. But the Holy Spirit reminds me there is a place being prepared for me. This is not my home.

"What the sinful nature does is clear. It enjoys sexual sins, impure acts and wild living. It worships statues of gods. It also worships evil powers. It is full of hatred and fighting. It is full of jealousy and fits of anger. It is interested only in getting ahead. It stirs up trouble. It separates people into their own little groups. It wants what others have. It gets drunk and takes part in wild parties. It does many things of that kind. I warn you now as I did before. People who live like that will not receive God's kingdom." Galatians 5:19-21

The One who loves me unconditionally and is with me continually helps me persevere. My faith and obedience brings me closer to Him. The Holy Spirit gives me the tools to bring glory to Him while I'm here.

"But the fruit the Holy Spirit produces is love, joy and peace. It is being patient, kind and good. It is being faithful and gentle and having control of oneself. There is no law against things of that kind." Galatians 5:22-23

I am not alone and will put away the feelings and sinful nature of anxiety and depression. I am His!

"Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed their sinful nature to his cross. They don't want what their sinful nature loves and longs for." Galatians 5:24

I have more than I need. I will praise and honor Him by living in harmony with the Holy Spirit that is in me. I am not alone!

"Since we live by the Spirit, let us march in step with the Spirit. Let us not become proud. Let us not make each other angry. Let us not want what belongs to others." Galatians 5:25-26

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

Enough and More

2011-07-13T22:34:00.000-07:00

One of my daughters has been working on reading the scriptures everyday this summer. Wanting her to have some time to keep her writing skills up while out of school, I encouraged her to find a notebook and keep notes as she read. One day she came in very joyful and shared the insight she'd received as she read and wrote that day.

I love that writing while I read opens so many doors to my understanding of the word of God.

The class I'm currently taking on personal finance assigned me to read 1 Timothy 6 to help me gain a proper perspective on wealth. The first time I read through it, I just read, but as I'm preparing for a final here in a few weeks, I thought I'd better take some time to read more carefully. This time I jotted personal notes after each verse. Wow! There's so much there!

1 Timothy is where we find that "money is the root of all evil" (verse 10), but there were two areas that grabbed me the most--verses 6-8 and verse 18.

⁶But godliness with contentment is great gain.
⁷For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
⁸And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

I once read a blog in which the writer spent most of her time complaining about not having enough money to do everything she wanted to do. I was very sad for her because I could very much relate to her, but these verses in 1 Timothy made me see that I have all that I could ever need and so much more. When we enter this world we really have nothing--not even a shirt on our backs. In some parts of the world, a baby gains hardly more than that throughout his/her whole life. How could I possibly want more?

I look around me and wow! I have SO MUCH. How often I lose perspective. I came here with nothing and have gained so many things all because my Creator has given them to me. He has given them to me to take care of and to give away to those who need them. They're not really mine at all. They are mine to prove myself with. Am I a worthy servant? Am I grateful in all that I have? If I lose something, yes, I'm sad to see it gone, but I still have so much to be thankful for.

If I were to lose everything tomorrow, would I still be grateful for the few things that are mine--life? My family? The air that I breathe? The ability to see? To hear? To feel?

In verse 18, it says:

"That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate;"

Am I ready to give away all that I have at a moment’s notice? Am I rich in good works? These will be life's true reward. This is where my treasure should be. My heart should be set on doing good at all times.

Satan has worked things around in our world where we become afraid to step in and help out. We over think the opportunities that come our way and choose not to help, or we judge those who need our help and then don't help at all.

The most important thing I've walked away from this chapter of scripture with was that I need to follow my heart when it directs me to help someone else. I need to just act and not think.

If you would like to participate grab a button, choose a prompt from below or just share how God is leading you to be A Woman of Noble Character. This link up is open all week, and to all denominations of the Christian faith.

Blessed are the pure in heart

2011-07-07T06:12:00.000-07:00

How many times have you asked yourself if the people you surround yourself with are helping you think about what is noble, right, pure, lovely, or admirable?

What about you, are you helping others think about what is noble, right, pure, lovely, or admirable?

I recently heard a man explain about his walk with Christ as a progression of images. At the beginning Christ was behind him pushing him towards God and righteousness. As he has grown in his walk, he has the image of Jesus beside him. Now, he wants God to look at him and see Jesus. He wants the purity, goodness, and love of Christ to permeate his being so that God and others will see our Lord and Savior instead of him.

"Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." 2 Corinthians 7:1

There are some who don't understand how to separate themselves from the world. They have a hard time believing they don't have to be tough, course, rude, vane, or greedy. But, as Christians we are called to put Christ first, be examples of Him. We cannot serve God and the world!

"He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me. The LORD has dealt with me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands he has rewarded me.

For I have kept the ways of the LORD; I am not guilty of turning from my God. All his laws are before me; I have not turned away from his decrees. I have been blameless before him and have kept myself from sin. The LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness, according to my cleanness in His sight.

To the faithful You show yourself faithful, to the blameless You show yourself blameless, to the pure You show yourself pure, but to the devious You show yourself shrewd. You save the humble, but Your eyes are on the haughty to bring them low. You, LORD, are my lamp; the LORD turns my darkness into light." 2 Samuel 22:2-29

Though we will only gain salvation through Christ and not through our works, God desires us to want a pure heart.

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." Matthew 5:8

Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Corinthians 7:1

A woman of noble character seeks righteousness at the cost of friendship and fellowship. If you feel there are those in your life pulling you away from what is right, be strong in the Lord to say, "No More!" Show them love by discouraging there attempts to pull you into the world, but if all fails break the ties.

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

Turning Our Hearts

2011-06-30T10:01:00.000-07:00

With the kids home from school for the summer, I'm finding that my ability to focus in on my own thoughts is a bit hampered. I decided that I wanted to turn my thoughts toward freedom as the fourth is quickly approaching.

I recently took a trip to Spokane, Washington. I had a chance to meet some cousins I'd never met before. My mom's mom died when she was six. I have never known anyone from her side of the family. Because of ancestry.com, facebook, and my mom's excellent record-keeping skills, I was able to locate some of them, and we all met up for a very fun four days (last week).

As I wandered around the places where my grandparents, my great grandparents and even my great, great grandparents walked, my heart was drawn to them. I pondered on the idea of turning the "hearts of the children to their fathers" (Malachi 4:6). This time of year, this is what we, in the United States, get to do. We have the opportunity to appreciate those who have sacrificed so much that we might enjoy the lives we do now.

My great, great grandparents came from Germany in 1871. My great grandfather and his brothers changed their names to fit in with their new surroundings. My great grandfather, who was Johann Heinrich Willhelm Holz in Germany, became, simply, Will Holz in the United States. He was here to stay.

I became almost giddy as I drove down the streets where they lived. They created a business for themselves. They made friends and enjoyed associations with others. They lived happy, peaceable lives.

As I dug a little into the past, I was also impressed with just what I means to be free. We truly have so much to be grateful for. It is because of those who have gone before us, no matter what county we may live in, and the choices they made that have helped bring us to where we are now.

I am grateful for people with vision--those who looked into the long-term and just what would bless their children and their children's children and their children's children's children. I love that those same blessings can be passed down to my own family.

Life is a blessing! May we take God by the hand and follow where He leads that our children may also have their hearts turned to us in gratitude for the blessings that come their way as a result of our obedience.

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

Leah, a noble woman of courage

2011-06-22T23:59:00.000-07:00

Can you imagine entering a relationship knowing you're unwanted? In Genesis 29 we read the story of Jacob's quest to gain Rachel as his wife. He was tricked into marrying Leah the older, plainer sister first. Instead of bemoaning her fate Leah serves her husband, cares for him, and gives him children.

The first three sons she named with the hope of gaining Jacob's love. But every day Leah watched as Jacob worked for one goal. She didn't give up though, and finally with the fourth son Leah gives praise to God by naming him Judah. Because of her courage, diligence, and faith God blessed her.

Burden or Opportunity

Sometimes life throws us a curve ball. We can either see it as an insurmountable burden, or an opportunity. God can use us for His glory no matter what lies ahead, and we should fear nothing.

I was recently told a story about a boy who was having difficulty memorizing Psalm 23. His Sunday school class was to recite this scripture before the church congregation at the end of the month. This boy tried every way imaginable to remember the chapter.

The Sunday morning came for him to stand before the people. When he was called on he boldly went to the front of the church. He stood there, paused for a moment then said, "The Lord is my shepherd and that's all I need to know."

Over the past two weeks seeds of doubt have entered my mind whether I can handle the responsibility of my mother anymore. Dealing with the all the medical, financial, mental, and emotional issues of getting her settled in the nursing home are overwhelming. The unbidden urge to pass everything over to one of my sisters and run has been tempting.

Then this morning I was reminded of Leah's strength. How she persevered and relied on God to help her carry the burden of being an unwanted wife. Day after day, year after year. And though she may have never fully received Jacob's love she did gain his respect. She embraced God's will for her life, and He blessed her.

Humbly look for the opportunity instead of seeing the burden, and remember all we need to know is, "The Lord is my Shepard."

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

Learning to Stand Firm in My Limits

2011-06-16T12:22:00.000-07:00

"And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" Joshua 24:15

I've been pondering a lot about this scripture this week. For some reason, a few days ago, it just popped into my mind while I was driving the car. Sometimes it seems that those that just show up end up being there for a reason that I find out later. I've gotten so I don't ignore them like I used to.

As I considered this one, there were two thoughts that occurred to me. First, "choose you this day. This is the idea that we, here in this life, have the right to choose. It's something we are never denied. We always have a choice even if all it is is a matter of choosing to be happy in our situation or sad in it. There is always a choice to be made. We can't take that away from anyone. We can manipulate and we can coerce, but when it comes right down to it, everyone has a choice even if it's just in how they respond.

Yesterday I read that the only way we can truly be free to choose is to be self-sufficient. The more we free ourselves from leaning on others, the more we can choose our own way. From the personal finance class I'm taking, I read this:

"When you are in need, the Lord can help you understand what you should do, show you what changes you need to make, and direct you to the knowledge you need to make those changes. As you follow His guidance, you are changed from the inside out, and in the process, you become both spiritually and financially self-reliant. The Lord takes you from where you are to where you need to be.

"The Lord works from the inside out. The world works from the outside in. The world would take people out of the slums. Christ takes the slums out of the people, and then they take themselves out of the slums.… The world would mold men by changing their environment. Christ changes men, who then change their environment. The world would shape human behavior, but Christ can change human nature." (Ezra Taft Benson. 1985)

Our choices are so vital. I also ran across this yesterday from a friend on Facebook:

“I am what I am today because of the choices I made yesterday.” ~ Stephen Covey

The second point I pondered from the scripture in Joshua was the part I think sticks in my brain every time I read or hear this one,

"as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord"

Joshua is setting his limits here based on his values. He is making his own mission statement. I got to thinking about my own family. Years ago we created a family mission statement. I think we probably need to revisit it and update it, set goals according to it and move forward in a more unified manner.

Further, I thought about what I personally stand for. What are my limits? Where do I draw my line? Of course, I can't draw a line for anyone else, but I can live within the boundaries I set for myself and set an example.

Sure enough, I found myself connecting the dots of the way God teaches me. As you can see from the connections to what I'm learning in class to what I read on Facebook to the scripture popping into my head to this experience, which led to this pondering, which led to more opportunities to stand firm, which led to finding this quote:

"He loves us. He will watch over us, and—even in hard times He will prosper us—if we are not of little faith. He may try us, but He will not forsake us."

Don’t we in great sincerity sing:

How firm a foundation, ye Saints of the Lord,

Is laid for your faith in his excellent word! …

The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose,

I will not, I cannot, desert to his foes;

That soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake,

I’ll never, no never, no never forsake?

(Hymns, no. 66.)

"That is His promise, and His word is true," Mark E. Petersen, May 1981

Stand firm, my friends. God's got your back.

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

Renew your mind

2011-06-08T23:58:00.000-07:00

{Photo credit}

Changing gears is not always easy, especially when your talking about changing the way you think. Becoming Women of Noble Character doesn't happen overnight. It takes time ~ a lifetime.

For most of us the struggle of maintaining the necessary changes seem an insurmountable task, but if we get those gears going in the right direction it becomes manageable, even second nature.

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

{Photo credit}

While packing and going through my mother's belongings this week, it was necessary to change how I viewed each item. The fact is she can't take everything she owns with her to the nursing home, nor can I store or keep every item. Also, I need to remember my sisters might want something of my mothers, so separating donations, throw away, and keep became a matter of changing gears.

When we accept Jesus into our lives we put away the old way of doing things. Sinful habits and thoughts are something we want to avoid. But, yet again it won't happen overnight.

"I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I that live, but Christ living in me: and that life which I now live in the flesh I live in faith, the faith which is in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself up for me. I do not make void the grace of God: for if righteousness is through the law, then Christ died for naught." Galatians 2:20-21

I want to encourage you to accept where you are, and slowly move toward shifting gears in your thoughts and actions. If you try to change gears too fast you will only strip them. Then where will you be?

God is abundantly patience with us. He knows our struggles, and will meet us right where we are. He allows for our humanity, and knows faith takes time to grow. Every time you find yourself falling into old habits imagine those gears slowly coming to a stop. Pray for His help in getting them turning in the right direction.

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?

That We Might Prosper

2011-06-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if I know what I'm doing, but I'm giving it a shot this morning.

First, by way of introduction, my name is Julie Hess. I live in Beaverton, Oregon and am mother to seven children. You can find more on me here.

I became acquainted with Lynda through her Women of Noble Character challenge. It was wonderful! It was so nice to ponder on life and see some of the things I might just be doing right and also see ways to make those things I'm not doing quite right better. I find I don't take the time to think on these things as often as I should.

I am also a student. I'm working to finish my degree by August 2012. If everything goes right, it will be done well before that--April 2012 or even December of this year. Ahh! That would be my sigh of relief.

Because of the push toward school right now, things are a bit off balance. That is my biggest challenge right now. My family is very supportive, but it's tough, when I'm very capable of stepping in and doing things, to let them do for themselves. I feel guilty. If I step in, I step away from my studies and things get left behind, so there is a fragile balance that I attempt to strike everyday. Many days, I'm afraid to say, I fail by going too far one way or the other.

In order to get things back into focus, I know where I need to direct my vision. I can only do what I need to with God's help, so that's where I'm working on turning.

I woke at 5:30 this morning, went down to the front room and knelt and prayed. I opened my computer and went to the program I use for scripture study. I'm working on reading through the Old Testament. Today, it was the story of Joseph and Potiphar's wife. More than any other, one word stuck out--"prosper."

In this chapter (Genesis 39), it says such things as (forgive the underlining, I can't seem to get rid of it):

Verse 2 "And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man..."
Verse 3 "And his master [Potiphar] saw that the Lord was with him, and that the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his hand."
Verse 23 "...the Lord was with him, and that which he did, the Lord made it to prosper."

It wasn't Joseph that made Joseph prosper. It wasn't that he was a financial genius or a member of the mob. He was a humble man who looked to God for his answers. He obeyed God's commandments as we see from his encounters with Potiphar's wife, and he moved forward not doubting that God knew the plan; Joseph had undying hope. God was able to bless him because Joseph made it easy for God to do just that.

So, here's what I gathered as the key ingredients that Joseph gives us to prospering. I need to seek God for answers, obey His commandments and move forward without complaint doing what I feel is God's will for me.

I don't want to "prosper" as the rest of the world pictures prosperity. I want to prosper in the sense of what I have the potential to become. That, to me, would be prosperity--to fulfill my potential as a daughter of God.

As I read this, I also got to thinking of the preparation that God had given Joseph. From his teens he'd had dreams. He also was blessed to know what they meant. He knew he was bound for better things; for important things. He never lost the vision of who he really was meant to be.

I believe that we are each given these kinds of opportunities--little miracles in our lives (tender mercies) that guide us, and if we follow carefully, we will see those things come to pass in our lives.

I love that I will get a chance to ponder on and share some of those tender mercies here, but that I will also get to learn from you and your experiences as you link up to these posts.

May God make you to prosper in every aspect of your life!

If you have an idea for another prompt leave it in the comments below.

What scripture are you meditating on this week?
What Christian hymn or song has blessed you this week?
Have you been able to share your faith with someone this week?
Are you celebrating a religious tradition this week?
Are you, a friend, or a loved one in need of prayer this week?
How was your walk with Christ this week?
Was there a special place you went to spend time in prayer and meditation this week?