I have to be honest

One week ago I had my heart broken.  I called a friend to  share what I considered to be good news.  She answered without realizing she had answered. I know this because I heard her ask her husband to check the caller ID on the other phone because “it isn’t showing up on this one”. When he read off the number (I could hear him plainly), I heard her groan my name and then she proceeded to say some very hurtful (and untrue I might add) things about me and then she said “I wish they (including me) would just leave me alone”.   Before she said these things I was yelling into the phone to let her know we were connected, but she must have set the phone down because I heard a lot of background noise and she never knew I was there, hearing every word. Eventually the phone disconnected. 

I sat there with many emotions raging, but I must say I was not actually shocked.  I knew her to be a woman who gossiped and slandered as easily as she took a breath, but somehow I thought our friendship was different. That it was real.  All those times she talked about mothers at the school or in-laws, I figured she just needed to vent and tried to be supportive all the while trying to redirect the conversation to a more positive, or at least neutral, direction. I also knew, from her own proud admission, that she has a history of not being truthful. In fact, she once verbally delighted at the thought that she was a “good liar”.  After hearing what I heard, it became obvious that I was not safe from her tongue lashing anymore than the next person.

Now, normally I would not blog about such personal observations of another person.  I do not share this in an immature effort to slander her.  I want you to understand the source of my pain and conflict.

Within a few minutes of processing what I heard, I knew I had three choices.  I could: 1. rant, rave and declare pay back(which I spent a few minutes doing); 2. pout and cry over the betrayal (which I have done a little, okay, more than a little) or 3. forgive and walk away. 

Jesus would (and does) forgive for far worse transgressions.  Thus, I must do the same.

Here’s my conflict though:  forgiveness is easy when it is desired.  Meaning, I would find no problem forgiving if she were to approach me with an apology.  Yes, she knows that I overheard.  During my #1 reaction phase, I phoned her mother and asked her to relay a message for me. I told her mother to tell her I am sorry if I bothered her and that I would not do it again.  I meant it. I also told my sister, who mentioned it to her that same night.  The selfish-human part of me wanted her to know I over heard. 

I understand that we all sometimes say things that we don’t mean as a result of fatigue or feeling overwhelmed at the end of the day.  I can easily get OVER what she SAID.  What still hurts me is that she knows that I overheard and has not attempted to contact me to talk it over.  I am hurt  over what has NOT BEEN SAID.   Her week-long silence leads me to come to two possible conclusions: either she 1. meant what she said; or 2. finds her pride more important than our  friendship.

Either reason leads me to #3 of possible reactions.  I forgive but what choice do I have but to walk away?  My heart still aches at the loss of a friendship that spanned many years, but if she is unwilling to reconcile what more can I do?  Jesus tells us to “turn the other cheek”, but does He say anything about us willingly ASKING to be slapped?

Forgiveness does not mean the transgression is condonable and that we should accept it for what it is.

Furthermore, God tells us that “evil company corrupts good habits” (1Cor. 15:33). Thus, I have to think that while I’ll continue to love and pray for this woman, it is best if we part ways.  What good can come from a close relationship with a woman who so easily slanders others and is so slow to apologize? 

Jesus knocks and we must open the door to invite Him in.  He does not just come barging in.

I must surrender my human emotions to Christ and pray for His guidance, direction and comfort.  I also trust He will place people in my life that will encourage and strengthen me in my walk.  I also pray that I am a good ambassador for Christ as a woman offering encouragement and words of wisdom to others.

Have you found yourself in a similar situation?  How did you respond and what lessons did you learn from it? I’d love to know!

Pre-Resolution List

I always love the new start a new year brings and usually make at least mental resolutions even if I don’t announce them.  I usually don’t announce them cause, well, I know ME and the likely hood I won’t keep them.   My self-reflection has begun earlier than usual this year and I want to make a few notes about the changes I would like to make. 

First of all, it would be pointless for me to even begin if I did not immediately surrender all my intentions and plans to God.  So, I do.

Here’s the semi-official list:

More quiet time with God.  It seems lately the kids’ eyes pop open the minute my feet hit the floor, so prayer time and devotional usually happens with them chaotically fluttering about.

Incorporate more Whole Foods into our diet.  Much more.  As the mother of a special needs daughter, one would think I had jumped on that band wagon years ago.  I have not, but now have one foot up in the air ready to heave myself onto the wagon of “limited processed foods”.  I am not naïve or foolish enough to think we can make a complete transition to no processed foods at all.  They seem nearly unavoidable, and let’s face it, sometimes convenience wins the meal-time war.  I do want to make the effort to serve more fresh fruits and vegetables, or at least  frozen, so we may reap the nutritional benefits.  I KNOW that I know that I know that the benefits are many and we’d all FEEL so much better if I just take the time to prepare nutritious well-rounded meals. 

Drink More Water. And no, sweet tea is not the same thing. Duh.

Play. Lately my idea of a good time is to be curled up with a book. While that will always be among my favorite pastimes, it is a solitary one that has does not offer the relational and physical benefits that acting silly or DOING something fun provides.

Time-Management. So that my days are more productive and I don’t work myself to death one day a week to make up all of the neglected house work.

Simply. Must. Practice. Self. Discipline. This is a biggie and none of the other goals can be achieved without it.  It covers a broad range of areas in which I must control myself: what I think; what I say; how I spend; how I teach; how I train;how I spend my free-time; how I manage household chores.  Every facet of my life basically.  (Lord, I really need help with this one!)

Have you begun your resolution list?  If so, I’d love to know what’s on it!

Rearranging the Schedule

I’ve been away from posting for far too long, I know.  We are adjusting to a new schedule, so blogging has taken a back burner.

Buck is now officially in a true big boy bed.  His crib was just not working anymore and had to be pitched for safety reasons.  His new sleeping arrangements have meant a new sleeping schedule….not by my choice, I might add!  Whereas before he would sleep until 9:30 or even sometimes 10 am, he is now standing at the baby gate at his door cheerfully shouting “Hi-dee” no later than 7:30 every morning.

This has forced me to rearrange my own schedule, as well as the school schedule.  Before, I would get most of my house work done either before he woke up or real late at night.  Now I have no choice but to go to bed earlier so I can wake up earlier.  House work no longer gets done of the early mornings or late at night.  So last week we changed our school schedule from being spread out all day, to finishing up by lunch.  The afternoon then is reserved for chores, playing and book reading (and maybe a nap).

Actually, this is just what I needed I think.  We needed a stricter school schedule.  Giving Beauty sensory breaks every half hour or so worked wonderfully for a while, but now she needs to learn more discipline and the value of hard work.

On a side note, take a look at the gorgeous sunset Hubs captured this evening.  This is behind our house.

A Good Night’s Sleep

is so important.  I keep telling myself that.  GOD keeps telling me that.  Yet, I still have a very difficult time achieving one.  I am always so much more productive the whole day when I arise early, before Beauty, and start the day off right.  But, I still have a difficult time going to sleep.  Either my mind is busy with planning projects, or just nonsense, or my body cannot relax and get comfortable.  Image credit

It is imperative that I awaken before Beauty, instead of the same time as she;  and I cannot expect her to play quietly in her room if I am feeling bad and need to rest a few more minutes.  We’ve already had to install special locks in case she decides she wants to go outside without my knowing.  Now this week we’ve also had to secure the windows so that she cannot adventure out through them.  When she decides she wants to do something, she finds a way.  At least now she cannot “sneak” outside….the process of getting out would be way too noisy.

I recently read a very helpful article over at Time-Warp Wife that pertains to getting a good night’s rest.  Here are Darlene’s 12 tips for waking up refreshed:

1. Cut back on the caffeine the night before so you get quality sleep. Avoid coffee, cola, and chocolate.
2. Go to bed early the night before. Even if you don't feel tired, your body will get used to the time that you set it to.
3. Train your body to get used to a sleeping schedule. The average person needs six to seven hours of sleep each night, but more importantly, our bodies crave routine.
4. Clean the kitchen the night before so that it's a welcoming site in the morning.
5. Don't got to bed angry or irritated. If you are quarreling with your spouse, work it out before hitting the sack. If you are angry with a co-worker or friend, let go of the anger and hurt. Don't let it fester overnight.
6. Don't overeat the night before or your stomach will be at work all night.
7. Wake up as soon as the alarm rings. Sit up immediately, then stand. Don't hit the snooze button or you'll only form a habit that's hard to break.
8. Greet your family with a smile and say something encouraging.
9. Start the day with prayer and scripture.
10. Make a schedule for the day including things that you will look forward to.
11. Get moving as soon as you can. Rather than reclining on the couch watching the news with your morning coffee, throw some laundry in, do some vacuuming, or go for a brisk walk. A little exercise will kick start your day.
12. Eat a healthy breakfast. Studies show that children who eat a good breakfast get better grades. My own personal studies (based on a survey of one person) show that moms who eat a good breakfast do quality housework and are less cranky throughout the day! :)

These are some great tips aren’t they?  Now if I only I would implement them! 

What are some things you do to prepare yourself for bed and to make sure you begin the day properly?

Preparing for Sunday

I don’t know about your household, but Sunday mornings around here are usually chaotic.  Since it is usually the only morning of the week that we have somewhere we need to be, it is often difficult to change our normal routine.  This usually results in rushing about and then forgetting most of what I needed to take with me.  Needless to say, this is not how I want to begin my day, or week.
Many Christians refer to Sunday as Sabbath, but it isn’t the Sabbath.  That is Saturday.  While we are no longer under the law, we do follow the example of the early church and meet together in worship and fellowship on the first day of the week.  Starting the day off on a bad note can adversely affect our mind-frame in church.  We may be distracted, frustrated or just exhausted.  If we are unable to focus on the service, we will likely miss a blessing.
So, what’s a family to do?  I’ve asked God to help me better prepare on Saturday for Sunday.  A few summers ago my dad toured Israel for ten days.  In fact, my dad spent a Sabbath in Jerusalem while he was there.  He said the entire city shut down at 6pm on Friday and does not open back up until 6 pm on Saturday.  He said they weren’t even allowed to use an elevator, because that would require pushing the button, which was a no-no.  Knowing that modern-day Israel is basically a secular nation, I asked if the same applied to the country as a whole.  Does Tel Aviv shut down the same as Jerusalem?  He did not know, but thinks it is pretty much a nation-wide thing. (I’d love to know if any of my readers know the answer to this.  Leave a comment! ) 
Anyway, while I do not recommend quitting all work at 6pm on Saturday, I do feel it would be so beneficial to have everything in order before going to bed.  Here’s some ideas on ways to make Sunday mornings less hectic:
*Make sure your house is in order.  Do the dishes, sweep the kitchen floor and any necessary vacuuming, put away laundry.  Tidy up.  This way, when you return home on Sunday afternoon, you can focus on quality time with the family, or even take a nap, without worrying about any chores.
* Decide what’s going to happen for lunch on Sunday and make preparations.  If you eat out, then no problem.  If you will be lunching at home, do any prep work the day before so lunch can be quick and relaxing.
*Gather everything you will need to take with you.  Go ahead and stock the diaper bag of necessary items and put it, along with your Bible and anything else you may need, in the car.  Don’t forget your offering or tithe.  If you feel safe in doing so, put it in the car too.  If not, make sure it is in your purse or hubby’s wallet.
*   Choose ahead of time what everyone will be wearing to services.  For small children, go ahead and set it out.  Older kids need to at least know what they want to wear and make sure it is clean, wrinkle-free and ready to go the next day.         image credit

I don’t know how many times I’ve gone to put tights on Beauty only to discover at the last minute that they have a big run down one leg.  If I had prepared the night before, I would’ve had time to either purchase new tights or make a different selection.
*Bathe and wash hair before going to bed.  This eliminates the rush to the shower, and saves tons of time.
*Plan a simple breakfast.  The point is to have little to no clean up on Sunday.  Remember, you want to come home and relax without being greeted by dozens of breakfast dishes, that could possibly be paired with lunch dishes.  I don’t want to spend the afternoon doing dishes, do you?
*Hit the sheets.  Earlier than usual if you can.  Once again, a blessing may be missed if we are foggy-headed from fatigue.
*Arise early and prepare yourself mentally.  This is the most important thing we can do EVERY day, not just on Sunday.  Spend quiet time in the Word and prayer, asking for wisdom and blessing for the day.  Begin with thanksgiving and praise.
I hope you, my dear readers, find these tips useful.  What can you add to this list?

Linking up at

Love

Kristine over at Raising A Quiver Full shared this on FB; I find it so appropriate and timely I have to share it with you.  The author is unknown.


If I live in a house of spotless beauty with everything in its place, but have not love ~ I am a housekeeper, not a homemaker.
If I have time for waxing, polishing and decorative achievements, but have not love ~ my children learn cleanliness, not godliness.
Love leaves the dust in search of a child's laugh.
Love smiles at the tiny fingerprints on a newly cleaned window.
Love wipes away the tears before it wipes up the spilled milk.
Love picks up the child before it picks up the toys.
Love is present through trials. Love reprimands, reproves and is responsive.
As a mother there is much I must teach my child, but the greatest of all is . . . LOVE.

Cute Joke

Email forwards.  We all get them.  Usually you have to forward the email to X number of people then all your prayers will be answered.  Delete.

Here's one that was worth reading, saving and sharing though:

A teenage boy had just passed his driving test and inquired of his

 father as to when they could discuss his use of the car. His father

 said he'd make a deal with his son: 'You bring your grades up from a C

 to a B average, study your Bible a little, and get your hair cut, then

 we'll talk about the car. The boy thought about that for a moment,

 decided he'd settle for the offer, and they agreed on it.

 

 After about six weeks his father said, 'Son, you've brought your grades

 up and I've observed that you have been studying your Bible, but I'm

 disappointed you haven't had your hair cut. The boy said,'You know, Dad,

 I've been thinking about that, and I've noticed in my studies of the

 Bible that Samson had long hair, John the Baptist had long hair, Moses

 had long hair and there's even strong evidence that Jesus had long

 hair.'

 

>You're going to love the Dad's reply:

>

>

>

 "Did you also notice they all walked everywhere they went?"

Should Christian’s Take Anti-Depressants?

 

I received a comment in my last post concerning Christians taking medication.  The sweet reader, referring to my admissions that I take no medication for fibromyalgia or depression, pointed out that taking an anti-depressant is no different than a diabetic taking insulin.

Let me take a moment to clarify my position on this and why I choose not to medicate.

I am NOT against medication.  My belief is sickness is a result of a fallen world and God has provided us with doctors and pharmaceuticals as a way of dealing with things like illness, depression and chemical imbalances.  I believe depression is a chemical imbalance within the body and not a reflection of the individual’s spiritual condition.  Christians get sick too.  Christians must live with imperfect bodies in an imperfect world.  We are not exempt from pain or suffering, despite the feel-good fluff that popular ministers like to dish out. 

I am not on anti-depressants because after several attempts with different brands, I feel they do me more harm than good.  For whatever reason, my body does not react well to them and they leave me feeling more lethargic and “muddle-headed”.  When parenting two small children and homeschooling a special needs child, I need to have a clear head.  That is why it is important for me to be strict about my natural treatments-making sure I get plenty of rest, knowing my boundaries, limiting my wheat intake etc.

Let me add, too though, that I think the less manufactured gook we put into our bodies, the better; but I am not against all medication in all situations and I certainly have no place to tell others what is best for them.

So, thank you dear reader for bringing to my attention an issue that may have caused confusion for some.   I hope this post clears this up.

The Great Comforter, a true story

In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You alone, O Lord, make me to dwell in safety.-Psalm 4:8

 

My soul waits in silence for God only; from Him is my salvation.  He only is my Rock, and my Salvation, my Stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken. –Psalm 62:1,2

 

One of the greatest challenges of living with fibromyalgia is the tendency towards depression.  Living with constant pain and extreme fatigue can wear one down mentally.  This is why so many doctors prescribe anti-depressants as a form of treatment for fibromyalgia sufferers.  You may recall I do not take any medication whatsoever, a part from the occasional Tylenol or Aleve.  Thus, I can feel very depressed quite often.  So how do I deal?

God gets me through it day by day.  He has blessed me with a family that does not hold my irrational thoughts against me and He strengthens me with His Word.  That’s the way it’s always been.

Until recently.

What I am about to share with you is true and as real as this computer at my fingertips.  Some may think I’m nuts, but I don’t care.  It is too wonderful to keep to myself, and there may be someone reading this who finds comfort in my experience.  When I relayed it to Hubster, I wept profusely.  I may do so again in relaying it to you.

Lately I have had some serious personal issues that have been weighing me down considerably.  Usually, when I feel these bouts of depression come on I cry myself to sleep….pleading with God to show Himself to me, give me some answers and, well, take it all away. He never did.

Sunday night was different.  I was, quite simply, brokenhearted.  Instead of my usual ranting and ravings to God, I just couldn’t muster up the energy to go into all that.  I was at my breaking point and could do nothing but weep with a broken heart.   I simply said to God, “I wish you would hear me and answer my cry.  But, I will simply trust You to act in Your time.”  Then I turned on my side and cried some more, without any concrete thoughts racing in my head.

That’s when it happened.  Jesus laid His hand on the side of my head and stroked it, the way a mother would comfort her frightened child awakened from a bad dream.  I am not spiritualizing this.  I physically felt the weight of his hand on my head and the gentle strokes.  I instantly KNEW it was Him and I cannot describe the feeling of comfort, peace and joy that swept over me.  He blessed me not only with a glimpse of what it will be like to be eternally in His presence, but with instant soothing comfort.  I may be a grown woman with children of my own, but I am His child and I am forever grateful with this special manifestation of His love and the comfort of being under His wing. 

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs in the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:3,4

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.  -Psalm 34:18

Glory be to God forever and ever.

Maranatha, come Lord Jesus.

(image credit)

Publicly Praise Our Husbands

This may not be easy some days.  We get so caught up in our daily chores and activities, that all we notice is what he DOESN’T do right. 

He could be like Hubster and claim that he doesn’t need spoken appreciation.  Personally, I think that is a bunch of baloney

 

Everyone needs to be told “thank you” and “good job” from time to time.  We come away feeling encouraged, valued and appreciated; and I think most men feel somewhat heroic when his wife gives him praise. 

So, let’s give it a try.  It can be praise for the obvious, “big” thing he did, but I’d bet you can find ways to praise him in the little things too.

 

I’ll go first:  this morning Hubster surprised me by cooking breakfast and having it ready when I woke up. No, I’m not talking about a bowl of cereal either!  Hashbrowns, turkey bacon and biscuits.  So what if everything was a little burnt; he NEVER cooks me breakfast!  He also washed last night’s dishes that I had left in the sink.  Good job JoJo and thanks!

Goal: financial stewardship

Don’t we all wish this were true?
Unless you are a logger, this is most likely not the case!  In fact, your situation is probably more like this: 
  I know ours is!
.
No doubt these are difficult times.  It is especially so on a single working-man’s income.  But, we are blessed.  Although Hub’s job isn’t necessarily what he would choose for himself, we are thankful he has one.  So many do not.    I am sometimes overwhelmed when I think of how God has blessed and provided for us.   This thought also convicts my heart and compels me to ask myself if I am doing all I can to be a good steward of all He has given us; particularly being a good steward of our money God’s money.  I do most of the bill paying and all of the shopping for the family.  Hubs works hard at a job he does not enjoy (no one likes shift factory work), so I am convicted to be as responsible with his earnings as possible.
So, I am committed to save where I can so our money is not: quite so much.
Here are some ways I think I can help keep expenses down so we can build up our rainy day fund: 

*  Unplug gadgets that are not frequently used.  Even if an appliance or other gadget is turned off,if it is plugged in it is still generating electricity.
*Lights off!  This is easy for me cause, unless I am reading something at night, I prefer to just be in a low light or TV light.  However, I usually have to go behind Hubs and turn off the lights he leaves on.  Take last night for example, he was off last night and was watching TV in the living room and also had the lamp on.  Okay.  Well, he also had the TV and light on in his “man cave”.  He goes to the bathroom and leaves the light on, as well as the hall light cause, you know, he just can’t walk five feet down the hall in the dark.
* Cut back on the hot water.  I’ve heard just turning down the hot water heater just a little can really save some bucks, so I am going to give it a try.  After all, we don’t take hot baths and showers in the summer anyway.
*Have a wash day.  I usually do a little bit of laundry every day.  This is wasteful cause I end up doing several small loads when I could wait till I have a bigger load. 
*Invest in a clothesline.                            
We already have the posts, I just need to buy a line.  We’ve been having some gorgeous clothes-line weather that have gone to waste cause I keep neglecting this one little purchase.  I think the benefits of saving on dryer time is obvious.
*Have an errand day/Make a list.  This is going to save us the most, and it is also going to be the most difficult to discipline myself to.  It seems I run to town everyday, sometimes 2 or 3 times a day.  It would really save us time and money if I do all my shopping and filling up on gas in one trip.  To do this, I need to keep a list of To-Dos and To-Buys while in town.  I consistently get home and realize I forgot to buy something necessary (like toilet paper) and have to make another trip.
* Get to clipping!

Actually, I’ve been couponing for a couple months now so that isn’t a newbie.  However, I have found myself buying things I wouldn’t normally buy just because my coupon for it makes it a great deal.  Need to stop that.  I have gotten several things free or for just pennies and that’s GREAT!  Most of my free items are staples that I would buy eventually, such as toothpaste and bath products, so if I have enough coupons I stock up!
*Limit eating out only to Sunday’s lunch.  We attend church with my parents, sister and brother-in-law, so we often go out to eat afterwards.  Unfortunately, I sometimes have to pass cause I’ve blown our “play money” on eating out several times that week already.  Not only is it healthier to eat home-prepared meals, but cheaper too.
* Can what you can! We’ve actually been canning green beans and freezing corn for years, but this year we’ve added to our garden a little bit.  I used to juice tomatoes, but the past several years have not produced a big enough crop.  Growing and preserving your own veggies is a great money saver, not to mention a great learning experience for the kiddos.  Here’s a pic of our modest garden this year:    We’ve added potatoes and sweet potatoes this year.  We also added peas, which I’ve already picked but didn’t get even a half a cup out of.

---

These may not seem like biggies, but every little bit counts.
I recently stumbled upon a lady who has made a similar commitment and is devoting an entire blog to ways she is saving money and building her portfolio.  Her blog is entitled Minding My Financials and in it she referred to an interesting article I would like to share with you. 
Ten Biggest Money Wasters
1. ATM fees
2. Lottery tickets
3. Gourmet coffee
4. Cigarettes
5. Infomercial impulse buys
6. Brand-name groceries
7. Eating out
8. Unused gym memberships
9. Daily internet deals
10. Bundled cable or phone services
I must admit I am surprised at number ten, but then again, we don’t bundle so I don’t know the difference. I personally think number 8 should be gym memberships in general.  Go for a walk around the neighborhood or do crunches in your living room floor and you’ll save a bundle.  The rest seem like common sense to me.  I would have to add: unnecessary late fees for movie rentals or library books, or any kind of late fee really.
What are some ways you try to save money and be better financial stewards?  I’d love to be able to add to my list!

A Special Ministry

We have a unique privilege as women of God.  We can be keepers at home, home school moms, working moms, single moms or childless and/or unmarried.  Women contribute to society (and God’s Kingdom) in so many ways which are different from men.  After all, after creating man, God saw that it was “not good” for him to be alone.  So, He created woman and “it was good”.  We complete our husbands, and society I might add, the same as our men complete us.
It is no secret that we are the more emotional sex.  Some of us have learned, through the grace of God, how to manage our emotions better than others. 
Staying at home day after day, getting out only to do the weekly shopping and attend services can be difficult for some of us who stay home to raise children.  We are delighted and feel privileged to be able to do so, yet I personally have had days when I felt as though the walls were closing in on me.  I’ve sometimes wondered, “Isn’t there something more important I could be doing for God, besides the endless cycle of cleaning, correcting, diaper changing and educating?”  And every time God gently reminds me, “You are doing the most important thing you can do right now.  You are nurturing eternal souls:  rearing a gentleman and a very special little lady, for whom I have great plans.” 
That promise fills me with encouragement and reorganizes my priorities. 
May God fill you with encouragement and strength as you fulfill His purpose for you at what ever stage of life you find yourself in.

A Biblical worldview

Wikipedia suggests that a worldview “refers to the framework of ideas and beliefs through which an individual interprets the world and interacts with it.”  Merriam-Webster.com puts it simply: “the way someone thinks about the world.”  We all have a worldview, even those who may not have ever given it much thought.  We all have ideas and thoughts and interpretations of how the world came to be, its current state and how we want it in the future.  I would define worldview as the reflection of one’s religion.

Freedictionary.com has several definitions of religion.  The first is: “Belief in and reverence for a supernatural power or powers regarded as creator and governor of the universe.”  Another is: “A cause, principle, or activity pursued with zeal or conscientious devotion”.  According to these definitions, I dare say EVERYONE has a religion, even those who vehemently oppose it.  Everyone worships something, be it God, a spiritual leader,  nature, money, a philosophy or themselves.  In short, our priorities shape our religion, our world view.  I could go on and on about mankind’s differing worldviews but my aim is to discuss a Biblical worldview so I’ll bypass the others for now. 

As born-again followers of Jesus Christ, we know that the Bible is God’s Holy Word, infallible and eternal.  Thus, those who adhere to a Biblical worldview simply view the world as it relates to God’s word.  The history of the world and mankind is spelled out in Genesis.   The end of the world, as we know it, is spelled out in Revelation.  The Meaning of it all lies within those 66 books. 

Christians recognize they are sinners and need a savior.  We acknowledge that Jesus Christ is the Son of God; that He is God and came to earth to reveal the greatest love story ever told.  He is God, and Savior.  He rose from the dead and is at the right hand of God the Father, awaiting His second return to the earth.  He is source of all Life, the Way to the Father and eternal life and the Truth of all eternity.  One day every knee shall bow and tongue shall confess that Jesus is Lord.  Bible believing Christians know this to be true and one day everyone who has ever lived will know it too.

That sounds great doesn’t it?   It is what we hear and raise our hands to on Sunday morning.  However, a Biblical worldview means we live it on Saturday night too.  And Tuesday afternoon. Every day, all day. 

Many of us have no problem “taking church home with us”.  We want to please God because we love Him.  We apply the Bible to our everyday lives, but if we have a Biblical worldview we apply it to every facet of our lives as well as extend it to our interpretations of current events and social issues.  We weigh what is happening in the world against what God says.  When we vote, we want to vote for whomever lines up best with what we consider pleasing to God. 

But, we also need to extend our beliefs to what is happening around the world.  We know that God is at work, and we can see His plan falling into place when we see it from a Biblical perspective.  We also view all humanity from God’s eyes, viewing every life as precious and all people as being eternal souls.  This is why I found it difficult to rejoice at the death of Osama Bin Laden.  Surprised?  Shouldn’t be.  He was a very bad man who did some very evil things.  He needed the Savior, but died without Him.  We should never rejoice at such a time.  A Biblical worldview acknowledges that our true enemy is not man, but that lion who searches for whom he may devour: Satan, Lucifer, the devil 

For our struggle is not against  flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.  Ephesians 6:12

Having a Biblical worldview is not just believing the Bible, but B-E-L-I-E-V-I-N-G the Bible and being able to see God at work in the world and throughout history.  It is a way of life and a state of mind.

To read more in depth on a Biblical worldview, click the images below.

 

But You Don’t Look Sick…

 

That is often what people struggling with fibromyalgia hear from those who are unfamiliar with the condition.  Fibromyalgia is not a disease, but rather a syndrome or combination of symptoms.  Because there are no physical signs of fibro, many people (and unfortunately even some doctors) discredit it as anything being “wrong”.  It is an invisible, yet many times debilitating, condition that affects millions of people.

While the exact cause remains a mystery, the simplified explanation is that the pain center in the brain is in overdrive.

I have been living with fibro for 15 years (at least that’s how long it has been since I was diagnosed).  Though the level of intensity surrounding its symptoms vary by individual, every sufferer struggles with the common symptoms to some degree or another.

Pain: People with fibromyalgia suffer from widespread chronic pain.  Try to remember the last time you had the flu.  Remember how your body ached?  That is fibro every day of your life.  As I said, the level of pain may vary.  Many people with fibro find the pain to be the most challenging symptom of fibro.  I personally rate it third on my list of struggles surrounding fibromyalgia.  If I overexert myself physically and/or do not get enough rest, or if it is a cold rainy day, the intensity of pain deepens.  Some days it hurts even to wear clothes.  Most days, however, I am able to work through the pain but I MUST NOT over do it or I’ll be down for at least 2 days. A dull muscle ache is with me every moment of every day.

When being diagnosed for fibromyalgia, the doctor (usually a rheumatologist) will check for what they call tender points.  The following diagram shows the location of these tender points:

The patient must feel tenderness or pain in at least 11 of the 18 tender points when pressure is applied.  The patient must also have suffered widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for at least 3 consecutive months.  FYI: I am MOST tender in my hips, as it took Hubs FOREVER to learn this.  I don’t know how many times he found me asleep on my side and would wake me by shaking my hip.  I not only would wake up, but would wake up swinging-ready to fight.  Seriously, hitting me with a sledgehammer would’ve been less painful.  He finally learned, thank goodness!

I said pain is third on my list.  Well, second is brain fog.  I am a very detail-oriented person, so being unable to think clearly is a major thorn in my paw.  When I say brain fog,  I mean it is like my thought processes are trudging through very thick, waist-high mud.  It is difficult to gather my thoughts and I often forget what I am saying in the middle of saying it! Memory and concentration are severely impaired.

First on my list is chronic fatigue.  This goes way beyond the normal tiredness that follows a full-day’s work.  It is being so tired I am literally too tired to speak or to even think.  Walking across the room is a major chore.  Again, some days are worse than others, but I am always tired.  A single trip to the store can exhaust me.  Some times I get tired just riding to the store or find myself leaning on the cart to hold me up because my energy suddenly diminishes.  A big cause of this, I know, is the fact that sleep problems also accompany fibromyalgia.  Remember, your body hurts everywhere.  No sleeping position is comfortable for longer than 10 minutes at a time.  This results in a night of tossing and turning and very rarely reaching the REM sleep that is so restorative. 

Other minor, or less common, symptoms are headaches/migraines, restless legs, depression, rash/skin sensitivities, irritable bowel/bladder, anxiety, and dry eyes/mouth, impaired coordination, neurological problems and vision problems. 

So what is a person with fibro to do?  I have been placed on countless anti-depressants, which is supposed to balance the serotonin levels.  I have also been put on muscle relaxers.  These did not help me at all and left me extremely lethargic.  A home school mom cannot be lethargic, so I chucked all meds.  There are a few new meds on the market, like Lyrica, that have been FDA approved for fibromyalgia.  I have not tried these, so I cannot comment on their effectiveness.  On days that are really bad, I treat with OTC meds like Aleve.  Products with guafenisin, like Mucinex, are great because it helps relieve inflammation and congestion.  Water therapy is also recommended and I have had good experience with it, though I am unable to join a pool at this time.  I have also found that eliminating or at least drastically cutting back on wheat products is also very helpful.  The gluten in wheat aggravates inflammation in the body, making pain and fatigue more prominent.  Trying to get plenty of sleep is essential.  Avoiding as much stress as possible is also very important.  Mostly, it is best to know your limits and stick to them without exception.  This is how I manage from day to day.

For more information, check out the National Fibromyalgia Association.

If you know someone with fibro, it is important that you show support and understanding.  It is not “all their head”.

3in30 Challenge

I’m joining in on the 3in30 Challenge.  The object is to choose three goals I’d like to accomplish this month.  This breaks down my marathon-long To Do list into manageable chunks.

So, for May here are my goals:

Clean/Organize the coat closet (it has become quite the catchall storage closet!)
Sew pillows for living room
Finish sowing the garden

Why don’t you join in and knock some of the stuff off your list?  Click the button above to learn more.

Happy Mother’s Day

Happy Mother’s Day!  Here are some great quotes I’d like  to share:

The real religion of the world comes from women much more than from men - from mothers most of all, who carry the key of our souls in their bosoms. ~Oliver Wendell Holmes

 

I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life. ~Abraham Lincoln

 

The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new. ~Rajneesh   (I have no idea who that is :/)

 

The formative period for building character for eternity is in the nursery. The mother is queen of that realm and sways a scepter more potent than that of kings or priests. ~Author Unknown (I love this one!!!)

 

One good mother is worth a hundred schoolmasters. ~George Herbert

 

It's not easy being a mother. If it were easy, fathers would do it. ~From the television show The Golden Girls (I had to throw that it in-those of you who know me, know why)

In Tha Muthahood

Okay, so rap has never been my style but this is great and I think all moms
can appreciate it!

Holocaust Remembrance

Today is Holocaust Remembrance Day.  The atrocities committed not so long ago shall forever remain among the ugliest of stains upon humanity.

Unable to put into words the emotion and importance that is associated with today, I will share with you some poems written by survivors:

WE WILL NEVER FORGET - AUSCHWITZ

by Alexander Kimel - Holocaust Survivor

We will never forget the selections at Auschwitz, Where Black Jackals condemned millions to gas, Right - death, left - life, right death... death ...death. The black finger, surrounded with barking dogs, Works like the Angel of Death, creating living hell. Children are torn apart from the tender embrace Of mothers, clinging to their treasures. Babies wailing from hunger, Parents parting tearfully with their children. Fathers shaken with helpless rage. The condemned form a column of trembling fear. Soon the mass of fainting humanity Is lead to the clean foyer of death. Disrobe quickly, take a shower and you will be fed. Food! Food! The hungry mass of disoriented humanity Awakens runs and fights to get into the chamber of gas. The heavy door closes and the cyclone dropped. Soon the parents choke and turn blue, Later the children turn rigid with death The people become a twisted load, Of intertwined limps and heads glued with blood. When the human pulp is ready for the works, Sondercommando quickly pull, The bodies apart, peel the gold from the mouths. And the remains are taken to the open pit, Where the bones are cleaned with fire, And the fat drained for human soap. Six days a week the Jackals drink beer, And rejoice doing the Devil's work. Sunday is the day of rest, the day When the Jackals ride to the Church, to praise God And assure the Salvation of their pious souls. Deutschland, Deutschland Uber Alles! In this Kingdom of Evil, There is no peace for the Righteous. It is the wicked that inherited This tortured World, engulfed In the red, milky, cry-absorbing fog, Guarding the wilted conscience of man.

Monument at Moriah
by Evelyn Roman- Holocaust Survivor

There stands a monument In memory of the innocent Children huddled together Rigid with terror Peering through the windows, They never can enter. Like devout processional Of a holy funeral The throng winds its way Bells suspend in the breeze Endless Kaddish prayers say. The oven doors were open wide, The world slept through this horrid rite. Forsaken, left to their own device A million children lost their lives. Through Spring returns year by year, From death new life can never rise. These hollow mute stone forms This courtyard now adorn, Their each and every size To sounds of bells gives rise "Keep your faith" they whisper "And thus avenge our demise." These bells toll for the living Reverberating through the head "As long as you go on remembering We shall endure as living dead, Make it your vigil now And pas it on ahead." * 

Inspired by the sculpture garden at the Moriah School in Engelwood, N.J., the work of an Israeli sculptor Edward T. Gordon. It is a monument erected in memory of the children who died in the Holocaust. It consists of 50 stone - bronze pieces, in various sizes, placed in a sunken courtyard. Each has a smooth interior window-heart containing a cast chime of a different size, form and tone.

More of these poems can be read here.

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Martin Niemoller: “First they came….”

First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out --
Because I was not a Socialist.

Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out --
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out --
Because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me -- and there was no one left to speak for me.

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"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing." (Edmund Burke)

And I will bless those who bless you, And the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed.  Genesis 12:3

We will not forget.

What will your children say

about you when you’ve passed?  More importantly, what will they say about your spiritual influence?  Will they rise up and call you blessed?

Do you darken the church door every time it opens?  Do you join a social network and leave Bible verses in your status? Do you generously give material things to others?  Do you decorate your home with Christian-themed quotes and plaques?  Do you regularly remind your children of God’s commandments?  Do you wear yourself thin preparing for a special church event?

Do you see where I am going with this?

All of the above are fine in and of themselves.  Commendable even.

Now let’s take a look at what your children really see.  You know, the stuff that happens behind closed doors.  The stuff you hope your children aren’t noticing, or if they notice, will understand your motives and/or thus promptly not pay it any attention.

Our real ministry….the one that will likely leave a much more permanent mark….is our family.  The role of a mother is one of privilege and great responsibility.  I dare say, in most homes, 99% of the time it is the mother that has the greatest influence on what their children see behind closed doors.  After all, the home is our domain.  It is where our children develop their world views, ethics and where much of their personality is shaped.  What an influence we mothers have!

So what do your children see behind closed doors? Where the truth of who you are resides?  Do they see the above works and find it consistent with the woman they know at home? 

                                      OR

Do they see a woman who emasculates her husband?  Her constant nagging, selfish demands chipping away at man given to her by God?  Do they see their once cheerful dad turning sour, bitter and resentful and know it was brought on by the woman created to be his help-meet but has instead spent their married life trying to control him?  Do they see a woman who grumbles and complains as a hobby?  Do they have cause to suspect that you aren’t “happy” unless you are miserable?  Does your spiritual influence lean more toward legalism and resemble that of the Pharisees?  Do they see a woman of faith and contentment, or one who worries, frets and becomes angry if money is running scarce?

I tell you ladies, no amount of scripture quoting, Christian décor or church service is going to amount to a hill of beans if your children see these ugly behaviors at home.  Sure, it is very possible they will still grow up to walk with Jesus, but they will not call you blessed or give you the credit.  They will honor you out of service to God, with forgiving hearts, as Christian adults…….or they may turn from the faith altogether! God forbid!!!

If you have gotten a glimpse of yourself in this post, repent and ask Jesus to help you become the woman He has purposed you to be.  Cast your cares upon Him.  If you are unhappy, only God can fill that void.  Not your husband. Not material things.  Not even good works.  Proverbs 14:1 reminds us that a “wise woman builds her home, but the foolish tears it down with her own hands”.  Let’s get to building!

We Believe…

Buddy Davis has written several songs for Answers in Genesis, some of which are found on the DVD Dinosaurs, Genesis and the Gospel.  This is not, I don’t think, but speaks such Truth and beauty I had to share it here.

 

Buddy Davis sings I Believe: