Things every pastors wife needs you to know....

Many people have no idea what it is like to be the spouse of a pastor. Many wives have husbands who when they leave work, all of those duties are left at work until their spouse returns there.

However, as a pastors wife, your husband does not belong to just you any longer. When he is at church he is at work. When he is at home he is at work. And even when you are on vacation he is STILL at work.

There is always someone needing something, someone seeking advice, someone sick in the hospital that needs visiting, or that thing going on that needs his input. Therefore, there is always the calls, txts, or emails coming in that disrupt the life of a pastor and get in the way of the pastors personal and family life.

Yes, He answered this call. So, he should expect and accept this responsibility with open arms because its what God called him to do.

But, many pastors wives would probably like you to know a few things about what its like to live in her world before you pick up that phone to call her husband,  or before you judge her or her husband.

1.  She is not perfect. He is not perfect. And tho they may try their best to be good Godly examples and follow Gods guidance for their ministry for your congregation,  they are still HUMAN and make mistakes.

2. Just because her husband is the pastor of the church, does not mean that she is obligated or required to pick up the slack for the rest of you not doing your part as a part of the body of Christ. She needs her own time to worship and be spiritually fed like the rest of you. So do not volunteer her for things she does not feel led or volunteer to do herself.

3. Before you pick up that phone, ask yourself... "is this important enough to call right now? Can it wait until sunday or Wednesday or until his next office hours?"
If not,  of course give him a call. But if it can wait, please do.
Its just as important for the pastor to be with his family as it is for you to be with yours. Dont rob him of that. He loves you, but he also needs to love his family and meet their needs. Dont forget hes also a husband and father, not just your pastor.

4. Many pastors wives feel alienated from the rest of the congregation. Why? Because she knows your eyes are always on her. Youre watching her parenting, how she dresses, how she reacts and interacts with others, and even if you dont realize it, you hold her to a higher standard and are quick to notice the things that are not up to your standards. She knows this, and is trying her best to be what you want her to be. SO, cut her some slack! Invite her to lunch! Get to know the real her,  and accept her and appreciate her for who she is. Because really, that's all she desires.

5.  Just because she is not at church every time the doors are open, it does not mean she does not support her husband or his ministry with you. She is also a mother, a sister,  a daughter, a human being who also has a life outside of the church walls,  and responsibilities that need attention as well.

6. She wants you to know that she is a part of her husbands ministry and desires the same respect you give her husband. They are one body, therefore they are a team. They think and pray together about the ministry they have with you,  so do not put her down or ignore her just because she is a woman. Her other half is a man, your pastor, so treat her with the same care, love,  support and attention.

7. She wants you to know that her children are HER children. Her rules apply,  not yours. Yes, the saying "it takes a village to raise a child" may apply in certain circumstances,  but do not override her authority over her children while at church. Just because you think its okay for Susie to wear her sunday dress on the playground, does not mean its okay with mom and dad. Save outside play for sunday or weds night,  that goes for painting too!

8.  If you do not agree with something she or her husband has done or said...tell THEM.  Not the guy next to you in the pew, or the little old lady who may be sympathetic to your view, or even your sunday school teacher. Its certainly not biblical, and can very well be considered gossip. If you tell everyone else, and not the source of your concern...how can it be fixed or at least addressed? If you have a genuine concern, then voice it privately. A pastor and his wife want to help you, but they cant if they are the only ones who are not aware there is a problem.

9.  A pastors wife wants to know you appreciate her just as much as her husband.   You celebrate her husband on pastor appreciation sunday, but have you ever celebrated her? Yes, he is the pastors brings your message during services, but what about the work she does?

10.  Do you realize the sacrifices she makes in her family so that you can have access to her husband 24 hours a day? I bet you dont realize the hard work she put into a meal, only to have her husband absent from the table because you've called. Or what about the late nights she struggles to get homework done with all three children by herself because you've held the pastor up after the service talking about trivial stuff that really doesn't matter?  Are you aware of the times her husband leaves her side to be with you? Or how about the first time hes had time to snuggle up  beside her for the first time in a month, only to have it abruptly disturbed because you decided to drop by to discuss the budget or your concern for the decisions made at the last business meeting?

Dont get me wrong,  of course a pastor's wife realizes very quickly the sacrifices she is going to make when her husband enters into ministry. She accepts that responsibility,  and a good pastor's wife never complains about those sacrifices she has to make to share him with you.

BUT be mindful of those sacrifices, and please appreciate and acknowledge them. Dont forget all shes giving up, so that you can feel you have a pastor who is a part of your life and active in the life of your church and community.  Dont forget to celebrate her too, because its very possible she is just as involved, if not more, as her husband in the things going on in his ministry with you.

Faith and The Entertainment Industry

What percentage of the movies, music, and other areas of the entertainment industry do you expose yourself to that is faith-based?

Would you be able to even give a percentage because its probably somewhere in the neighborhood of 1% or less?

If you are like many Americans, you probably dont even know there is a faith-based market out there unless you walk in the doors of a christian bookstore and happen to see their small section of films.
Sure, you might have heard of Fireproof,  or Courageous, and some other films that were born out of a christian nature, but thats probably only because these films had such a large, near million dollar, budget- due to a megachurch that funded such movies.

Why is there such a small percentage of faith-based films out there? I have my own theory...here goes....

I actually had an actor tell me once she was okay with doing a christian based film as long as the title didnt make it obvious that it was faith-based.  Why? Her reason was that "so many 'Jews' run the entertainment industry, and will not hire me if Ive done films with a christian message"

A christian director told me once that he didnt do faith-based films because the entertainment industry doesnt see them as real films, they are hoaky and have a reputation of being low quality, therefore "I dont want to get labeled as being one of 'those' filmmakers, and not be chosen to direct mainstream motion pictures because of it"...... WHAT?

I dont know how much stock I can put in those statements. I actually find that hard to believe that a director or casting agent would discriminate against an actor because they've done faith-based work. But, is it true?

If many actors and others in the industry feel that way, could this be a reason we dont see much of it? Are people afraid to make films with a christian message because they will get labeled as such and never be accepted into "the club"?

Also, how many of you can say you've got members of your church or close friends who are extremely wealthy and can fund a major project like this? Probably not many of you, because most christians do not desire to be millionaires. It takes 16 hour selfish hardworking days for many years to get to that kind of sucess. I may be wrong in this, but I dont see many people of faith willing to give up their families, church families, and their lives for this. Im sure there are a handful of very devout christians who have found a way to balance it all, and are rolling in the doe, but Ive never met one. That kind of sucess usually only comes from giving away yourself and everything "normal" for the love of the mighty buck. In my opinion, this is why faith-based films just dont always have the quality that major motion pictures do- they dont have the support of major investors.

How many of you know a business who would sponsor a film, especially for advertising purposes, but yet once they understand its a christian film, cannot have any part of it because they do not want to discriminate against other religions, causing them to lose business?

In the last few years, there seems to be a change in the industry. We have more people longing for good, wholesome, entertainment they can watch with their families. They want to watch something with a message they can learn from and relate to. Thus, we are seeing a rise in the faith-based film industry. 

We need to seek out and support these filmmakers following their hearts and call on their lives to make movies, art, and music.

They dont get the support most mainstrwam production companies do, and many production companies just are not willing to work these films because they are not "real" films that people are going to run to the movies to see, bringing in the millions.

Please seek out these films to support. There are many out there who need your help, and even offer many perks such as free movies, your name in the credits, some even offer walk on roles!

Here's mine :)

Www.gofundme.com/5qob2c

Dog Love, God Love

This may be a little far fetched for some, but did you ever stop and think about the love dogs give?

Dogs are a prime earthly example of Gods love for us.

You can ignore them, forget to feed them, even abuse them, and yet, our dogs will still come back wagging their happy little tails yearning for love.

We can ignore God; his presence, his lick in the mouth to show us how much he cares.

Like a dog, He waits for us to turn and face Him just so he can jump up in our faces and lick us all over to show us that no matter how much we ignore Him, abuse our relationship with Him- Hes going to love us no matter what.

While we are out, Our dogs will wait for us at the front door for hours. They never give up. They cant wait for us to come back home so that we give them attention,  and they can love us in return.

Thats how God does. When we've left, pursuing our own lives apart from Him- Hes still there waiting for our return.

He doesn't care what other dogs you petted while you were gone, or what you may have done while you were out. All He cares about is that you are home. He wants to lick all that away, cuddle with you and make you feel better.

Our dogs love us unconditionally,  and always will, they just want us to come home. Plain and simple.  Come home.

Hypocrites

Aren't we ALL hypocrites in some form or another?

Christian film

Hey everyone!! I hope I can count on your support for my faith based film! Through the Rainbow is a film about dysfunctional relationships and lives made right by the Perfect relationship God offers through Jesus Christ!
Any dollar amount will go a long way, if all of my Friends and blog followers gave only $5 or more we would have exactly what we need to produce this film and get it into the hands of those who need to hear the message!
The link is below!
Thanks in  advance!
Love ya! .
Laura ann heaton Gray

http://link.email.dynect.net/link.php?H=WpfRqTFmqv694QBxhWWqw%2F4KOnHQCEirdHUzekFHPbg4G8Sqo88fDpoqGyjgVbMyOi6lghGRwti1C3WSIqRoPGHJE%2Bx%2BvWQcxH0WC9rONz8hY3NniwJJnQ%3D%3D&G=21&R=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gofundme.com%2F5qob2c&I=20131216144635.0CFB2DA00057%40mail6-03-pao&X=MHw3NzY2NjI6VEVNUElEXzQyOw%3D%3D

Support my film! A girls journey through abuse, neglect, adoption, and finding God on the other side!

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/excelsiorproject/through-the-rainbow?ref=email

What is church?

Church isn't a museum for good people, its a hospital for the broken. I L♡VE this!

I love this because I think its a great reminder that our churches need!

How many churches do you know that the vast majority of their ministry is "in house"? Those where, its hard to find the work they do that's not for themselves?

Are they reaching out to the broken? The poor? The people with tatoos, nose piercings,  or a different color?

If you are a part of a congregation that does,  congrats!! But, you're one of very few.

Many churches are all about what they are comfortable with. They are concerned with their image.

I mean, "God forbid someone visit our church and see we have members or other people sitting in our congregation that are "different". Those visitors might not come back!"

I don't know about you, but if I were visiting a church and saw diversity of ages, ethnicities, wealth, and social status I would stick around for a while!

Why? Because that means this church is open, loving, and is really working to get the Gospel to EVERYONE!  -not just their peers, friends, and people who they consider to be on their own level.

We've got to get out of our MUSEUMS we've created and bring in these people that NEED the Gospel! That NEED to know that they are loved by us, and by Jesus no matter what they've done, who've they've done, where they've been, where they live, how much money they have, or if their house is clean or not!

GOD DID NOT TELL YOU TO PRESERVE YOURSELF! So get off the shelf of security, arrogance,  and self worth and get out there and do something with what Gods given you!

People are sick! Sick at heart! Sick in spirit! ITS UP TO US TO HEAL THEM BY SHARING THE GREAT PHYSICIAN who can heal all wounds!!

I hope this gives each of you the motivation to break away from your safe place, what we have turned our churches into!

Have a blessed day and God speed!!

Xoxo

Give it Anyway!

Today as I pulled up to Wal-Mart, I noticed an older woman, and a near adult man; who I assumed was the woman's son. They held a sign that read: "Homeless, Please Help". 

I passed them as I entered into the parking lot and something within me said..."They need your help."  So, I stopped in the parking lot, pulled out my wallet, and started to to pull out the three dollar bills I had sitting beside the $20 bills that were also in there.  It was as if God told me; "You've got three of those twenty dollar bills, do you really need all three? Or could they use them more"?

I them pulled back around up next to where they were standing, I held out the $20 bill, the woman stood there in amazement at the money I was offering her. She thanked me profusely, almost in tears. I told her to have a great day, and I pulled off.

I felt very accomplished, very good about myself because I had done what Jesus calls us all to do. He says we are to help each other, to love each other unconditionally, and to show His mercy and love to others. 

As I pull into a parking space I posted on Facebook;
  " There is a homeless family in Front of Wal-Mart on Avalon Ave, if you are nearby please drop them some groceries or money please!!"

    I did this because I thought maybe there are others out there who would want to give to people in need. However, I did not have the happy ending to this story that I wanted....

I'm shopping in Wal-Mart for  the items I came for and my husband calls me on the phone.
    "Someone just posted on your wall that these people are not poor. They are simply professional beggars. They do not work, but make the same amount of money that the rest of us to by sitting out by the road. If you ask them if they are really homeless they will tell you the truth if you ask them. Most people in town know this already by now. "

  At first, my heart was broken. I felt for sure by the look of these people they needed help. Why did my heart tell me to give them money if they are no worse off than I am? 

Then, the anger set in. I was bound and determined to march right back out there and demand my money back and tell them that everyone in town knows the frauds they are, so they might as well go home and stop taking us giving people for fools!

But, God placed His hand on my heart, almost as if physically, and whispered... "You did what I asked you to do. You cannot help what they did, but you will be greatly rewarded for loving people as you do, and following my commandments to serve me by serving other people."

As I placed my groceries on the conveyer belt to check out, it dawned on me that after giving them that $20 I may no longer have enough money for the items I came for. As the cashier rang up the items butterflies began to bubble up in my stomach. Will I have enough? Am I going to be one of "those people" who has to put items back because they were living outside their means while everyone else stares and judges them?

$42.34 she said. You'll never believe the next thing that happened....  I pulled out the money from my wallet, the EXACT amount of money I had left was FORTY TWO DOLLARS AND THIRTY FOUR CENTS. 

I probably looked as if I had seen a ghost. As I handed the cashier the last $42.34 that I had for the week, my heart smiled. I prayed inside.... Thank you Lord for taking care of me, as I took care of others.

I tell you this story to say this....
   God tells us to take care of each other no matter what the circumstances may be. That homeless guy on the street corner may or may not really need your money, but what if he does? GIVE ANYWAY!!

God rewards us for the good deeds we selflessly do, and takes care of our needs when we take care of others.

So, next time you see someone in need....GIVE ANYWAY. 
Don't feel comfortable giving them money? Then drop them a bag of food from the grocery store, or from a fast food restaurant nearby.

 Then, at least, you know you gave them something they will for sure use to nourish their body, and you will bless them, and maybe, just maybe they will FEEL that blessing in Jesus' name.

God Bless.... and Get Giving!!!  :)

The Mary Kay opportunity!!! Watch and begin your career today!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYhT_AMWSdg&feature=youtube_gdata_player

My life with MARY KAY can be yours too!!

My friends! I have found a new calling! I've been trying for years to find something to help my family financially, boost my confidence,  and make me feel special again!
I considered options like Tastefully Simple, Thirty-one, and even Mary Kay. But after prayer, nothing seemed to 'click'.
But two months ago I tried Mary Kay for the first time and I knew in my heart there was a future there! After prayer and speaking with my husband, we decided to go forward! And what a reward it has been!
I was worried I wasnt "good enough" or knew enough people to sell the products to.
However I am having the time of my life meeting new people and helping women enrich their lives and feel beautiful again!
I've only been running my business for two months and already made my way on the Queens court of sales for my unit and recieved so many free prizes and products!
Where will YOU be this time next year? My bet is the same place you are now trying to make ends meet, still longing for a career that makes you happy!!
Look no further! If you want a bright future full of rewards on many different levels then Mary Kay is for you!
Its NOT about selling, its about teaching women how to love their skin, smell and look wonderful, and feel great about themselves! Who wouldn't want a career like that?
Women are leaving their day jobs every day because of Mary Kay!  Why? Because of the way it makes them feel and because their Mary Kay income has surpassed their other jobs! I even met several DOCTORS at the recent seminar who left their practices for this! Ladies who were making over 250k-500k a year who just started their businesses a year ago!
Are you ready to be the most sucessful woman or even man you know?? Contact me today and lets get your new life started!
I would never steer anyone wrong. You just don't know what your missing!
256-762-3395
Lauraann05@gmail.com
Www.marykay.com/lauragray

Watch this short video and give your opinion and Ill send you a free product!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYhT_AMWSdg&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Become a part of my team today!! :)

Marriage Equality

I've struggled with what I believe when it comes to gay marriage. As a Christian, I want to shout "NO! You  can't do that!"

And, for a while now that has been my first gut reaction to the subject. But, after much prayer, consideration, and even talking with my husband, the pastor, on the subject, I've decided this is my stand on the subject.....

If you want to insist on separation on church and state, then that fine line has got to be one big huge gap.  We as Christians want it to be a fine line, a line where church and state occasionally touch, and maybe even bleed into the other because those are the standards we live by, and want others to live by as well. We know in our hearts that God intended marriage to be between and man and a woman, and that His example of executing cities because of homosexuality, proves that He does not approve of that lifestyle.

HOWEVER, we cannot push our belief's on the government to govern whether gay marriage is allowed- and yet scream separation of church and state! You've got to choose to be together or separate! There can be no compromise just because that's what WE believe! We cannot keep claiming our nation was founded on Christian principals, because simply it was not. It was based moreso on Masonic principals than anything, but that's a whole other story.

Jesus loved EVERYONE regardless of their lifestyle choices or sin in their lives, or jobs they held, or how they were viewed by society. Did he agree with  how they lived? Maybe not, but He had true love in His heart for them, and only wanted/wants a relationship with them/us. Why else would He have died for us to save us from those things that were impure in our hearts?

Today, as the law was passed that states must recognize gay marriage, I have had witnessed more hatred and disgust towards the gay community than ever before. People actually telling others on facebook that they hope they burn in Hell forever for their lifestyle, and to go read their bibles to find the truth!

SHAME ON THEM! Is that how a REAL Christian should act? I think NOT!  I've done my fair share of disagreeing with gay marriage online, but never in a million years would I wish hell on any human being on earth, regardless of their choices and lifestyle. Jesus was the true example of love. He never told someone, "You disgust me with  your sin. Go to hell!"

People. He came to SAVE us from hell! And to be an example of the love we should have for our fellow man! And NO CHRISTIAN should be wishing that on ANYONE. Instead, we should be PRAYING and LOVING everyone around us.

If you disagree with the way someone lives. Pray for them. Be an example of love they cannot deny. Let Jesus shine through you.

They may not change their ways, but they cannot ever say they never saw the love of Jesus in someone! BE that example!

I do not think that the government should have a say in whether a man wants to marry a man, or woman wants to marry a woman. If that's the choice they make, so be it. Its THEIR life to live, NOT OURS.
Its not our job to judge, THAT's GODS!

Leave Godly business to GOD and mind your own ;)

Love Actions Speak Much Louder Than Love Words...

Any relationship is something you have to actively seek to work on. You cannot get caught up in your every day life, schedule, and circumstances and forget to keep that spark between you and your mate. We sometimes get to comfortable with our relationships, forgetting to continue to "woo" our husband or wife once those vows are made, the honeymoon is over, you pop our three kids, and the end of our workday is over and we are just ready to vegge out before starting another day.

A reason I believe so many marriages end in divorce is because each party, or at least one of them, has forgotten to make the other feel special, forgotten to show the other just how much you love, appreciate, and cherish the other.

But, HOW do you show that to your loved one? Everyone has different ways of showing their love.

As a wife, and mother, our natural instinct is to make sure he gets his favorite meals on the table when he comes home from a long work day, hang up and wash his clothing, make sure he has a clean towel for when he washes off his long day, keep the kids from bothering him while he watches his favorite tv show, make sure he has snacks he likes, and maybe even make him lunch for work when he needs it.

As a husband, he may feel that being intimate is the best way. He might also watch the kids while his wife goes shopping, or spends time with her friends. He might keep the kids occupied while she takes a much needed bath to soak away the stresses of the day. He could even buy her something from the store that he noticed she had her eye on. Some husbands, who are not as lazy, might even clean up the cheerios off the floor, just so she doesn't have to.

But, are those not things that any married couple should do for each other anyway? Are those things in any way being romantic? Do they start any kind of spark for the other?

Some women may say yes. I've heard several women comment that their biggest turn on is to witness their husband cleaning.

 Kuddo's to those who feel that way, but I'm talking about actively seeking out to make your mate feel special, wanted, sexy, and there really is no way they would ever even be interested in another woman or man on the planet, til death do they part.

I've put together a list of things to show your loved one just how special they are to you. Not all of these idea's are things that are going to appeal to everyone, but hopefully it can get you thinking, and actively seeking how to strengthen your relationships on many different levels.

Things to do for HER:

1.Compliment her on what she's wearing. Be specific about how it compliments her body.
2.Surprise her by doing something for her when she least expects it.
3.Defend her, in all ways. Even if she is wrong. Especially with family.
4.When she is sick, even if you're a germaphobe, cuddle with her, pick her flowers from outside.
5.Seek out things to help her, don't do nothing just because you don't know what to do, ASK her
   "how can I help you".
6.Pretend she has a sign over her head that reads "Make me feel special right now", and think of
    ways to do so, right that minute, not later, because you will probably forget.
7.Never show any other woman, especially in front of her, any kind of attention that could be
   misunderstood.
8.Plan AHEAD for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special holidays. NEVER do anything
   last minute. Waiting until the last minute,( in a womans mind), says you did not think enough
   about her, or how special she is to you, and you are only doing something for her because you
   feel "obligated" to do so.
9.Leave a special note or poem for her she can find, maybe even with her favorite flower, as a
   sweet surprise, on your pillow to find as she wakes, in the seat of her car, or on the bathroom
   mirror.
10.Show her affection without sexual intentions.
11.Have flowers delivered to her from time to time, just to say "Just because I love you".
12.Offer to watch the kids and/or clean the house and send her off for some "me" time.
13.Arrange to have a sitter, and surprise her by taking her out to her favorite restaurant.
14. Make sure every week that you do something, just the two of you, even if its only for
      a little while. You need that alone time. Knowing that alone time, apart from intimacy,
      is important to you, shows how important she is to you.
15. When the two of you go to dinner, don't sit across from her, sit WITH her in the booth.
16.Pray for her. Pray that God helps her through her day, and gives her the things she needs,
     and let her know you prayed for her today just because you wanted her to have a good
     day.

Things to do for HIM:

1.Send him an email while he is at work. Tell him you love him, and can't wait for him to
    come home.
2. Send him pictures of yourself in an email or txt message, men are very visual.
3.Watch his favorite tv show with him, even if you don't like it. Don't talk, just sit with him
   and watch with him. Some men just like to BE with you, and that's all the comfort they need.
4.Send a sweet note in his lunch, briefcase, or even wallet for him to find at work.
5.Instead of handing off a baby, the kids homework, or a "to do" list when he comes home,
   greet him at the door with a long kiss.
6.Make his favorite meals from time to time, to show you know his likes.
7.Give in more often to intimacy, even when you don't feel like it.
8. Greet him when he comes home from time to time wearing your nicest outfit, hair done
    the way he likes it, heels, and makeup all done. Not only will this make him feel special
    that you dressed up just to greet him, but it will raise his interest in you as well.
9.Tell him how HOT he looks today.
10.Plan a day that he can just go do something he wants to, without worrying about you
     or the kids. Guys need "me time" too.
11.If you see a shirt, or item in the store you know he would like, (if you have the money) buy it
     for him. And if you don't have the money, tell him about it, and save up the money to buy it
     for him, at least that way he knows you were thinking about him.
12.When you go to a restaurant, don't sit across the table from him, sit by him in the same booth.
13.Make sure you always tell him how you appreciate the little things he does.
14.Make his favorite dessert, and let him know its just for him.
15.Pray for him, and tell him you did so. Just because you love him and are thankful for him.


Not all of these ideas will work all the time, but if you use these idea's as a guide, and actively seek out ways to SHOW your love, your appreciation, and need for your husband or wife, it will mean so much to them.

 Don't ever let a day go by that you do not do SOMETHING to SHOW your thinking about them. Even on the busy days, a simple email, txt message, or Facebook post expressing your love will get you far.

Don't let them think that you've forgotten about them, and don't let them forget about you by
remaining in the background. Keep YOU in their thoughts, and keep them in YOURS.
Even if you're angry......

No One Is Safe!!

We all say there are things we would never do. Never in a million years would we be caught doing this or that. Why? Because we believe those things are wrong, or might hurt our loved ones in some way. For example, there once was this gentleman. He loved his wife, treasured her, cherished her in the deepest way. However, he found himself getting a little too chatty with another woman online. In the beginning, it was innocent. Her online pictures were beautiful. Though she was not strikingly gorgeous, he noticed that he was drawn to her images. She was very down to earth, very smart, and they held on interesting and engaging conversation. He enjoyed talking to her, and hearing her stories and about her day, and enjoyed telling her about himself as well. One day, this girl started to flirt. She began to speak of and ask questions that no married gentleman should engage in. He resisted at first, insisting he was happily married, and tried to change the subject on many occasions. But, to his own detriment, found himself involved in a conversation that intrigued him, made him feel special- but was not pure in any sense. Before he knew it, he was agreeing to meet this woman. He insisted he could not actually cheat on his wife physically, but that he was up for meeting for lunch and whatever else might come their way. He found himself hiding in another room talking with this girl while his wife was taking care of the kids, fixing dinner, and putting them to bed. And also while she was out of the house. He hadn't actually met this girl, but in his heart and his mind he had already committed adultery. He was doing something he swore he'd never do. His wife knew something was different about him. He was distant, spaced out, and seemed to be struggling with something on his heart. She asked him if there was something wrong, if he had been feeling I'll the last few days. He denied anything was going on and insisted he was just tired. The next day, he told his online mistress that his wife was sensing something different about him. He was afraid of her finding out, and just couldn't risk " his little secret" as she called herself being discovered. Little did he know she already knew. She had spent the last few days trying to be prettier than the girl in the pictures. She made his favorite meals. She tried her best to make herself more attractive by wearing her best clothes, makeup, and winning him over intimately. But, she was too late. He had already crossed that line, even though it was all in his mind and fingertips of the keyboard. Though his intentions were genuine in the beginning, he let himself slide into a deep hole he could no longer crawl his way out of. He hurt his marriage in a way that only God could mend. His wife lay in a puddle of her own weeping. She felt worthless. She felt that if she had maybe done something different, lost a few more pounds, kept the house just a little neater, or even were better in the bedroom, her husband maybe would have never entertained such an online relationship. If she couldn't keep her husband happy, what good was she? This is a lesson we all can learn from. Every human on earth is very capable of doing something they've told themselves they could never do. Protect your heart and your mind, you just never know when that sinful nature is going to creep in and take control before you even realize it.

I was born THIS way...

I was born THIS way.....

 

 

 

I'm puzzled and just can't figure out how to address such issues as the "equality" thing that's going around right now.

People keep saying that the law, and what people should be allowed to do with their own lives has nothing to do with the bible, or Jesus, or God, but rather:

"They were born this way, IF there is a God, He made them this way, therefore there is nothing wrong with what they d...o". or "The bible has nothing to do with law or what people should and shouldn't do", or "Its the way they choose to live their life, if they feel like doing it, why not?"

And I'm over here like... "But, didn't law originate based on biblical principles? Wasn't the law set in place from the beginning because God said so?"

If we are to be free to do whatever we want because we were "born that way", then why is it not okay for a mass killer to kill people because "It makes them feel better"?

Why is it not okay to commit adultery because we were "we want to, because it feels good"?
Why is it not okay to be lie?
Why is it not okay to cheat?

Why is it not okay to disobey our parents? Why is it not okay to do all the things we all do on a daily basis?

All of the things I listed above are listed in the BIBLE. If you don't believe the bible is a guide for our lives...then why are you not disregarding ALL the bible says?

We can't pick and choose which things we want to abide by just because we "feel like it" or because "it feels good".

It's all or nothing...choose...

Christians base their lives on the bible because that's what we believe the bible tells us to do. We base our lives on it because we believe the bible is our guidebook, and Jesus' teachings and example are how we are supposed to try to live by. Do we mess up? Most definitely! BUT, at the end of the day, we are sorrowful, shameful of our sin, and strive every day to do better. (or at least we SHOULD). We do not deliberately go against what our "guidebook" tells us, and say it's okay because we did what we feel is more fun, or because we were born in sin, therefore the sin is ok.

In a true follower of Christ's mind, we know that sin is NOT ok, but know We will never be perfect, we will always give into our sinful nature in one way or another. We are sorry we gave in, sorry we hurt our temple, sorry we hurt someone else, and wake up tomorrow and try again.

Jesus came to Earth to give us that opportunity to try again. He was born into sin, to become sin, so that He could rise again, wiping away our transgressions against ourselves and others.

We don't love each other because its what is moral...we love each other because GOD is love, and commanded us love one another...

If you don't believe in God, or Jesus, then stop loving other people!

 

Why? Because if you don't believe in God, then you don't believe in LOVE!

 

 

When you take THAT law away, let's see how much you love life then!

God made Adam And Eve...Not Adam And Steve

Biggest Hoax EVER

I was told yesterday that the Bible was the biggest hoax ever! And that Salvation, believing that Jesus Christ died for our sins and was resurrected on the third day; proving He was God's son, was the biggest lie ever told- all a part of the hoax! Ummm.....really? Sure, because people from the very beginning planned to make sure the prophesies would come true by having children through the line of David, so that Jesus would be born and we could call Him a Savior! Do you really think that the people in biblical times really had that much time on their hands between herding, trading, crafting, and travel to all come together to create the biggest hoax that would last for thousands of years as the biggest practical joke ever played on mankind?? These people are the biggest idiot's I've ever seen! I was called a "Bible thumper". Well, Ive got news for you honey- Id much rather be a bible thumper, than Satan's Playtoy in the hereafter! People lack such faith! Such hope! It saddens my heart people cannot believe in what is right in front of them. They claim they believe in God, and that God is so merciful that His compassion on His people will save all mankind. She even said God said "I have people of many folds", claiming that meant that all sorts of people, even those who do not believe will be spared. However, Jesus said "I am the way, the truth, the life, no man shall come to the Father except through me". This means if you do not believe in Jesus as the son of God, His virgin birth, His resurrection, then yes, you indeed are lost, and unfortunately are destined for an eternity separated from His presence should you never confess with your mind, heart, and tongue, Jesus as Lord and Savior of your soul. Hoax? Well, let me look at it this way- I'd much rather believe, and live a Godly life, having hope in a life with Him for eternity, than be wrong and be cast forever into Hell. If you believe, and are wrong- then you are the same as the one who never believed. You'll end up in the same state of death. BUT why play with such a chance? Why risk it? Why risk the chance of Eternal life when its FREE? Jesus already paid the price, so why not accept it?? You'll accept a free phone, free rent, free childcare, free food, ect, ect from the Govt because you believe they have your well-being and health in mind, but you won't believe in a free ticket of Grace for what happens next? We who believe, have HOPE. We have LOVE. We have EVERYTHING. Why wouldn't ANYONE want that?

THE BIBLE - New Series on the History Channel

The trailer for this new series that will be on the History Channel was posted online, and comment after comment just got sadder and sadder, so much it brought me to tears. 

Society today is just pathetic. It simply breaks my heart to see so many people out there who do not believe, and think it appropriate to bash the bible, and the Christian faith.

 I understand a lot of people's attitudes towards Christian's with all that they see about the Catholic church, and claims of sexual molestation, and abuse of all sorts within the Vatican and the Catholic church in general. It's not only the Catholic church that gets into this kind of trouble, many other denominations and religion's do- I think the Catholic church gets so much media attention because of who they are, how public everything is, and they have a Pope who sits up there for all to see.

Many, do not believe the bible to be anything more than a story book passed down through the ages. Some even said they thought the devil wrote it. If that were so, doesn't that make God real if you believe in Satan?

One of the first comments said that the bible was most probably written by the devil? umm..seriously? If so, He's pretty stupid of a sort to admit that in the end, that God will win, and that he will be forever burning in the lake of fire in Hell. If he were to write it, don't you think that he would lie and say that he, himself, will win over the earth, defeat God, and reign forever?

 Those who refuse to believe, ridicule the bible, and the Christian faith, will soon be shown their stubbornness and lack of thinking for themselves, and looking into their own hearts- searching for that one still voice...

The bible says that every knee shall bow, and every tongue confess that He is Lord. You may not believe it now, but when your day comes, you will, and you will remember that this girl from Alabama told you so.

 What does it hurt to believe? What do you lose?

 Id much rather put my trust in a God who loved me so much that He sent His own son to die for me, and believe it, and it be true- than to never believe and miss out on a lifetime in Heaven, and forever rot in hell. 

I don't have to think that way tho- cause I know in my heart it to be true. But, sometimes you've got to think differently when trying to explain to others why you should believe.

Of course, each has to discover their faith on their own. You can't MAKE anyone believe, you can only plant the seed, and hope that God can water it, and it grow.

Big Purse Syndrome

Do you carry a large purse? Do you feel that overwhelming need to have everything you might need in case of an emergency or if you are stranded somewhere?

Or do you just carry a large purse, not intending on carrying your life with you, it just happens to collect everything over time?

Or do you feel you need to have anything and everything in case someone else might need something, and that nurturing makes you feel good about yourself?

      Many moms feel like they must carry a ton of stuff with them all the time because there is just no telling what their child might need. Being a mom of three, I fully understand this feeling. I carry a purse, and a diaper bag with me these days. The older two, which are now 7 and 9, really don't need that much, but take advantage often of what they might find in the bag such as snacks, drinks, candy, and wipes if they make a mess of something. But my baby who is almost 3, still needs most of the necessities such as change of clothes, extra shoes, pull-ups, wipes, snacks, toys, ect because she still makes messes and needs entertainment on certain occasions.

    But how many people out there are still carrying around these large bags when they only have themselves to worry about?  A recent study by a local chiropractic association says that the average purse weighs about 14 pounds! Why are we doing this to ourselves ladies!!??  You may not realize it, but that actually affects your body. It can cause lop-sidedness, problems with posture, and back, shoulder, and neck problems. 

Galatians 6:5 says "each one should carry his own load", But, the bible didn't say make it has heavy as possible! LOL

I have listed several ways below to still carry your things you might need at any given moment, yet still consolidated so you aren't carrying such a big load.

1.  Do you have several medicine bottles in your purse? Consolidate! Get one big medicine bottle, take each type of pill you think you might need and a couple in their own little craft baggie that's only about an inch wide, write on each baggie what it is, along with dosage, and put all of them in the one bottle. Presto!

2.  Is your bag littered with receipts? This one is easy...DON'T leave them there. At the end of your day, always put them in a prepared folder or firebox for easy retrieval should you need them later.  If you are like me, you'll leave them in there so long that you get tired of seeing them and throw them away, or throw them out of your purse somewhere, and then need them and they aren't there.

3.   Do you really need all that makeup with you all the time?  Most girls I know, carry their makeup bag with them in their purses as well. This is partially what makes our bags so heavy!  After you've done your makeup in the morning, all you really need to take with you is some lipstick, lip gloss, and maybe some pressed powder. If you've got an event that night, leave the bag in your trunk inside a cooler with an ice pack to keep it from overheating. There's no need in wagging it around all day.

4.   Only buy purses with pockets in the inside to help you organize. Don't buy ones with pockets on the outside, though. You make yourself a victim of theft too easily that way. Anyone can come by and snatch your phone on the street or desk when you are away if it is visible. Designate each pocket inside for keys, phone, or even an inhaler for easy grabbing without having to shuffle around in your bag to find them.

5.   Get a big enough wallet to carry all your cards, pictures, and ID's in one. With all the new discount cards we all carry for the different stores we frequent, it really adds up and can be hard to keep up with if we don't have them organized in one place. Some stores also give you the key chain version, so store the card at home, and the key chain version will keep up with itself! Unless, of course, you misplace your keys, then I can't help ya! haha

6.  Don't let anything just float around in your purse, other than your wallet itself. Buy about three different small, clear, makeup bags. Separate things like your lip gloss, powder, beauty products into one. In another, things like gum, band aids, candy, medicine in small baggie, small tissue pack, safety pins, pony tail holders, bobby pins, ect.. Then in the other I would recommend a two ink pens, a small notepad, tokens for transportation (if you take public transit), an extra house key (should you lose your keys), and any other miscellaneous necessity you might need during your day.

7.   Don't go too small, and don't go too big. If you go too small, these things won't fit inside. Your purse will look like it's about to throw up all your belongings, and the straps will break fairly quickly because a small purse is not made to carry that much weight.  BUT, Don't go to big either, because you will surely stuff more and more stuff in your bag and make it too easy to get disorganized. You will lose your knack at organizing and just begin to throw things in your bag again just because they fit!

    I hope these idea's help you out. If you can think of any other great idea's to help us girls organize our bags, feel free to email me or post a comment below! Thanks!

Www.AskThePreachersWife@gmail.com

Religious..but LOST

²¹ “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. ²² Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ ²³ Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’ Matthew


   <sup>I think there are many people out there who believe they are following Jesus, that they are "Christians", and are living life the way that Jesus would have them. They may be faithful members of the church who give every single Sunday to the offering plate, they sing in the choir, they volunteer their time to church activities, they might even teach Sunday School.

But sadly, they've missed the mark. They think that all the things they are DOING are the keys to getting in good with Jesus, and ultimately on that day, will open the doors of Heaven for them.</sup>

 These folks may have grown up in a Christian home, where the Bible was read and prayers were offered. They may have been taught impeccable morals. God has offered his grace freely to all. We must choose to receive or reject it. Unfortunately, the religious but lost have chosen to reject that free grace, in favor of their own good works and self justification, even without realizing it.

 The only means of covering sin is by faith in Christ's atonement. All those outside of genuine faith live in their sin, which exposes them to the wrath of God. All that stands between them and the burning flames of hell is simple trust. Yet they refuse, either willfully, or through the irresponsible act of neglect to that small voice calling inside that says..."Step out, trust me. You're not yet right!"   

They probably hear that voice, but are confused by it because in their minds they are doing good, their sin is minimal, they believe in God, they believe Jesus died on the cross, yet they've forgotten that Jesus said they must REPENT of their sins.

 Sure, they may pray, and tell God to take their sins away. But true repentance means that they are truly sorry for the things they have done and never want to do them again. Repentance means you literally turn yourself around in a 180 and go the opposite direction. But these people who are religious, think that all the good things they do make up for those things that are sinful.

There have been great men who laid down their lives, even gave their bodies to be burned, who were religious but lost. One example of such a religious but lost martyr was Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormanism. Mormons believe that one's salvation is based on such good works as baptism, good deeds, missionary work, and following Mormon teachings.

Being religious means following a certain set of rules or doctrines. It means that I go to a church (or synagogue or temple or whatever), and I do what the pastor (or priest, or rabbi) tells me I should. It means that I believe, that by doing what I should do, I am some how getting closer to God. This is not Christianity at all.
Being religious is being a "doer" manipulated by guilt, to try to please a God who is distant, sitting up there just waiting for them to mess up so he can strike them down.

Being Christian on the other hand, offers more freedom, as it is not based on rules and regulations, but on a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. A Christian knows that he is a sinner saved by grace and that when he follows Christ, the Holy Spirit will do the work of change from the inside out. It is a growing process. The deeper your relationship with Christ becomes, the more you want to follow Him, and the more Christ-like you become.

 Being a Christian means being a hearer, not a doer, not manipulated by guilt, but by the desire to please the Lord, who is intimately involved with every step of their life, who patiently and lovingly picks them up when they fall.

Not to say that Christian's are not "doers", because they should be. But a Christians works come out of a deep dedication to their Lord to follow Jesus' teachings. Their HEART wants to do things for others, because they have the one and only true love -Jesus- living there. They don't do good works for the purpose of "Look what I did", or "This makes me a better person". Or at least they SHOULDNT. Its very easy to get caught up in that way of thinking, but a Christian does the good works because they WANT to, not because they feel they HAVE to in order to get on God's good side.

They know that they stepped out on faith that day Jesus spoke to their hearts and said, "Its time, trust me, follow me, put your faith in me, I died for you so that you may live, set yourself aside and live in ME, and I will become the Lord of your life".   The only thing they ever have to do to become a Christian, secure their right to Heaven, is Repent of their lives, and follow Jesus.

It sounds so easy, doesn't it? But is it really that easy to leave behind who you are up until this point? Is it that easy to quit smoking cold turkey? Is it easy to control your foul mouth just because you've decided not to curse anymore? It is easy to stop hanging out with those best friends you've had since elementary school that you party and experiment drugs and alcohol with?  Is it easy to go from a life of sexual immorality to saving yourself for your wedding day?

NOO! It's the HARDEST thing you will ever do! And no amount of good deeds is going to cover it up!

But, repentance means that you give all that up! You commit to never doing that stuff again and Jesus tells us is hurtful to our bodies, which is now HIS Temple. Where HE resides!

Are you going to mess up? Most definitely! But, Jesus died on the cross for ALL our sins.

It's not easy to just give up that life as we've known it to be thus far. If you put your trust in Jesus to take away those desires, He will do it. Sure, we may let ourselves get in the way, and that is the time to turn it back over to Him. Confess it! Lay it down! If we WANT him to change us, He will.

It may be hard, but no where near as hard as having to remember every single little white lie, cross word, or sinful thought or action and having to do a good deed, or confess to a priest, in order to be free of it. (which in that case you never really are).

Don't be religious... it's too much work!

Be a follower of JESUS- The ONLY way to Eternal Life!

"Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." Romans 10:13 

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." Romans 10:9

"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast".  Ephesians 2:8-9  

"Salvation comes to those who do not work for salvation, but believe on Jesus Christ instead!" Romans 4:5
          

God Of The Universe!

Its amazing that we forget that the God of this, all creation, space that extends for all eternity, is the same God of all our lives. Our successes, our accomplishments, our troubles, our tears. If He can create something as vast as the Universe, our solar system set just right, and keeps it there, cant He set things right in our little bitty lives here on earth? The earth is tilted at just the right degree to keep it from spinning out of control. There's no reason it should be tilted this way, other than He holds it there. Every single thing the earth does is for a reason, down to the tiniest microorganisms. If we believe He made all this, makes it perform 100%, then shouldn't we trust that He also holds us in His hands the same way? When you are down, and feel like the whole world is on your shoulders, just remember, He won't let you hold it alone. Put your trust in Him, your faith in His salvation, and He WILL give you the desires of your heart. It may not feel ok today, or tomorrow, but He promises that it IS okay, even when we can't see it...

Lupercalia or Valentine's Day?

There seems to be some speculation on the origin's of Valentine's Day. I decided I would blog today about Valentine's Day and share where it first started. But, I'm a little confused. SO, I will share the facts with you and let you decide for yourselves :)

Of course, all the text to follow is just information I found online and other people's opinions.

One Version of the Story....
Lupercalia was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman God of Agriculture, (the date in February was originally chosen to welcome spring) and to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus commemorating young men's rite of passage.
A lottery was held where all the young women in the city would place their names in a big urn and the city's bachelors would then each choose a name out of the urn and the girl would be the sexual partner of the young man for a year.

I Different Version of the Story......
In 498 A.D. Pope Gelasius of the Christian Church declared the celebration a pagan holiday, and decided to Christianize it. He did this by creating a "misinformation" celebration on the day before the festival of Lupercalia, February 14th, in the hopes of confusing the entire matter.

Instead of the names of young women, the urn would contain the names of Christian Saints and the young men and women were to emulate the ways of the saint they picked from the urn for a year.

And Yet Another side of the story......
Saint Valentine was a Roman who was killed for his faith on February 14, 269 A.D. He had refused to worship pagan gods, and some stories say he was a priest who would marry young couples in secret who shared the Christian faith and wanted a Christian wedding dedicating their marriage to God. In 496, his 'saint day' was established. He is associated with love because he fell in love with the daughter of his jailer, and would pass notes to her. His final note, before he was executed, read 'from your Valentine'.

In Italy, with its romantic and religious roots, St Valentine's Day became the traditional day to be engaged. Young Romans would spend this day gathered together in gardens to listen to romantic poetry and music.

As with many holidays, the celebration of St. Valentine's Day became a mixture of the new Christian rites as well as the older pagan rites of that same time of year.

My opinion......
No matter where "Valentine's Day" came from, today is about love. What is love? None other than Jesus. So share Jesus' love with everyone you meet today!

What Girls REALLY Want for Valentines! Listen up Boys!

At Valentines, we are supposed to do something, give something, and have a card that says just the right thing about how we feel about our significant other. I think many guys get all bent out of shape over this because they really just don't know what to do.

Do I give her the same ole' teddy bear and box of chocolates? Do I buy her jewelry? Do I make something because I'm creative and want to show her that something from the heart is more important than throwing money down on something and calling it special? Does she really care if I buy her roses? Will an I.O.U suffice because I simply had no idea what to do, or ran out of time??

Lets address each of those individually....

Do I give her the same ole' teddy bear and box of chocolates?
     What did you give her last year? If you did this  last year, then NO. Spice it up! Do something different! But, if you do give her this, find the biggest teddy bear you can! If it doesn't already have ribbon, find some pretty sparkly, thick, ribbon and tie it around the bears kneck. Include a hand written love note tied on to the ribbon. If you buy chocolates, make sure you get the kind she likes! I personally do not like nuts, so any candy with nuts would not be a good pick. If you don't know, then buy truffles from a specialty candy store! What girl doesn't like Milk Chocolate Truffles??

Do I buy her jewelry?
   Unless you are planning on proposing, do NOT buy a ring. Because as soon as she see's that box, that's the first thing she will think! What a let down that would be!  Buy a necklace, or a bracelet. And you must spend at least $100. Don't buy something cheap or not real. If you can't afford this much, then don't bother. Why? Because in a girls mind, your jewelry cost defines how much you love her. And yes, every girl finds a way to find out how much you spent and what its worth!

Do I make something because I'm creative and want to show her that something from the heart is more important than throwing money down on something and calling it special?
   This is a tricky one. Something hand made, and from the heart is very special. If you really do put a lot of time and brain power into this, you can pull it off fairly well. But, if it looks cheap, like it took no more than 5 minutes to create, then it will probably appear you did not want to spend the money and went cheap on her. This is always a good option for those guys who don't have a lot of money to spend. If you do this, make it LOOK like you spent money and time on it.
   Don't give her a poem on regular paper. Type it up, use pretty paper, place the paper on a piece of pink or red construction paper or card stock to create a boarder. Spray it with your cologne. If you've got a little extra cash, buy a pretty frame to put it in. You need at least one rose to go with this. And give it to her as soon as you greet her at the door.
   If you're musically inclined, Sing the poem to her. Bonus points for sure!!

Does she really care if I buy her roses?
  YES. Yes. And YES. The only exception to this would be if you knew her favorite flower and wanted to show her you "noticed" her likes. This can mean a lot to know you cared more about getting her something special to her liking, than going with the traditional flower. Also, the MORE flowers the BETTER. This is like jewelry, the more you spend shows just how big your love is. If you can't afford a whole dozen, or two, or three, then even ONE rose can get the point across to the right girl. But it all has to do with how you present it. Dress it up. Add ribbon and maybe baby's breath. Wrap the stem in a pretty tissue paper. Never include a vase, because it will look like you bought it that way. If you go with only one rose, include a little card that says something like; "Two hearts, One rose, One love" or something sappy like that ;)
   Even if you buy her something expensive, you should include at least one rose. If you can afford to spend the money on the gift, then a few extra dollars for a flower will show her you went the extra mile :)

Will and I.O.U suffice because I simply didn't know what to do or ran out of time?
     Um...NO! DUH!  Every girl in America thinks "If you couldn't take time out of your day, just ONE day a year, to do something special for me, then that means you really could care less about my feelings or our relationship".  You appear thoughtless, or careless. She may say different, but she thinks it.  Don't get caught that last day without even thinking about what you want to do, and empty handed. Take time to really think about it, and prepare. The more you procrastinate, the less thoughtful your gift is going to appear.
   Now, if you really do get stuck in this situation because of things out of your control- Run by a spa, or her favorite jewelry store, department store, or specialty shop and buy her a gift certificate. If you go this route, $50 should be the minimum! You can't buy ANYTHING nice for less than $50 these days. If she doesn't get the immediate gratification from your gift on Valentines, she needs to look forward to spending it. She's going to feel cheated if you give her anything less.
   Then, on your way to her house stop by a flower shop or even gas station for at least one flower. At this point, you may not be able to find any roses, so the nicest flower you can find may be the best shot you got!

   In all the hustle and bustle today, we might forget to show our loved ones just how special they are, and how much we love them. Don't let Valentines get caught up in the business of life. Set that day apart and try your best to WOW her and make her feel special. If you can't go out and buy the expensive stuff, then do something simple, but MEANINGFUL.  Leave a rose on her pillow, or on her windshield, with a hand written note expressing your feelings. Make a pic-nick and take a stroll in a park. Take her to her favorite restaurant or rent her favorite movie and snuggle in on the couch.

   All the things listed above are superficial, materialistic. Some girls really go for that, or even require it. But, I say it's all about SHOWING your love, than it is how much money you spend. If you can afford to do an expensive gift along with just doing something special, great! But, if not, any good girl is going to appreciate the thought you put into making the day special without spending a bunch of money. If you do something simple, and actually put some thought into it, and she gets upset because you didn't spend- then you probably need to rethink that relationship. If she really cares about you, she cares about what you DID do for her, not what you DIDNT.

Here are a few bible verses that speak to healthy relationships. Read each one. It might help you in deciding how to express your love this Valentines Day, and you might can even use one on your hand written card :)

Romans 12:9-10                           

Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.       

Proverbs 31:10          
An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.     

Mark 10:9         
What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.

Ephesians 5:33                     
However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

Are YOU A Vampire Church Member???

Are you a part of a "vampire" church? Or are you a "vampire" church member? I've been to so many churches in recent years that are so dead inside, I don't know why they even stay open. They live amongst the living, and pretend they have something pumping inside, but when you take a closer look you see their ministry is colder than ice. No matter how hard you try to revamp their hunger for discipleship, community involvement, and just that thirst for feeling God move in their lives and their church, they just won't budge. They are vampires offended at the suggestion that they live in the day time. Sucking the blood out of what their purpose truly is. They may keep their pews warm, but the body has no movement, no purpose, no real definition. These churches are unwilling to let go of tradition, or what used to be. They expect the old ways of doing things to just magically reach the people of today. They are unwilling to work for ANYTHING. They come to church, sing a few songs, listen to the preacher, eat each others pot luck dinners, and go home. They are Zombies following the routine they think they are supposed to follow, missing the whole point! Are they even seeking God? Are they even seeking to reach out to their community in service, or to win other's for Jesus? THIS IS WHAT'S WRONG WITH MANY CHURCHES TODAY! We need a revival! Wake up your dead bodies and have some purpose! America needs you! Don't understand why America is failing? Because these same bench warmers sit back and let it happen because they are unwilling to stand up and take it back! We can't afford to be vampires anymore sucking out what life the church has left! How can we expect anyone to help this nation, when we have so many who aren't even trying to save their own churches? They sit back and watch their church fail, but just can't understand WHY. Well, because you did NOTHING to save it!

I Shall Not Want

Psalm 23: 1-4 "The Lord is my Shepard, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures: He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul : He leads me in the way of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, thou I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and staff they comfort me." This has always been one of my favorite verses in Psalms. It reminds me that no matter what is going on in my life, and no matter how hard a situation may be, God is in control. We, as His children, have absolutely nothing to worry about. As long as we are living our lives for Him, we will want for nothing. Things may not be easy, and we may feel like we just aren't "living up to The Jone's", but our every need will be met. I get caught up sometimes with feeling less of a person because nearly everyone I associate with has a nicer home than I do. I honestly do not know of anyone my age who lives in a home older than 15 years old. All my friends and acquaintances live in these newer homes, excellent curb appeal, new furnishings, and decorated like you wouldn't believe. I often feel sad and embarrassed, to the point that I really just cant stand the thought of any of those people coming to my home. However, we are truly blessed to even have a home to live in! We may not own it, but it is a roof over our heads and meets our immediate needs! It really could be so much worse, and for that I am thankful! I think we often forget just how blessed we are! We may not have what others have. We may not get the things we want to fill up our lives to appear like a pretty little package on the outside. But, I know in my heart that no matter how our home may appear to others, its filled with love, God's love, and that's all that matters. I'd much rather have our humble home, and live a righteous life, than have a fancy home that fills our life with pride. In the end, it doesn't matter what you have as long as you've got what you need. Be thankful for what the Lord has given you. Why? Because there's always someone who has less than you.

Be Healthy

I, like many women, have struggled with my weight nearly all my life. Even in high school I was a little more meaty than the other girls. I wasn't over weight, just more filled out. Part of that was due to my dance background. Then, and even some now that I've retained, a good bit of my weight was due to musle mass because I was a dancer. My body was pretty firm, not mushy, but I still looked like I was carrying a little more weight because of it. Even now, people cannot believe how much I actually weigh, because I don't look like I weigh that much. When they find out how much I weigh they always comment "Well, you sure to carry yourself well, because you would never know you weigh that much!"

But now, after having three children, having to undergo a complete hysterectomy after my third, and just not being able to exercise due to my illness, I have gained so much weight and it was a month ago that I realized that I was gaining weight again when I noticed fat rolls starting to form on my lower back and belly. I've never been happy with my body, but to realize that my weight was spinning out of control I had to do SOMETHING.

I have several friends who started on Thinogenics, and every time I saw them they looked thinner. To find out that they only take one pill a day, only change their meals a little bit, and the key is water, and they weren't even exercising.... I knew I had to try it!

Well, I started Thinogenics last Wednesday, and I've already lost 10 lbs! I even forgot to take it for 2 days this week, and pigged out at my daughters birthday party Saturday night!

I know that God made us all unique, and we should be proud of our bodies. But, I do believe that God did not intend for us to let our bodies get out of control with extra weight on our bodies. There are places in the bible that tell us that over eating is actually as sin. I know that there are certain people who have health issues that make them keep a lot of extra weight on their bodies, regardless of what they eat, but He did not intend on us eating all of these foods with fillers, and for it to be processed with un-natural additives, that make us keep all this extra fat on our bodies.

A few years ago I tried a diet of eating only natural food. Nothing carbonated. No processed foods. Very low sugars. I mainly lived on veggies, flavored water, fruit, and one piece of meat, and one sugary thing a day. I ate all day, but only those things. I lost 20lbs in about a month and a half! That just goes to show you that all these foods we eat that are "easy" and "fast" are foods that make us gain weight.

However, there came a day where I just HAD to eat something bad for me. That ONE McDonalds meal and Coke did me in! Once I reintroduced myself to it, my body started craving it and little by little I started cheating more and more until I was eating all that junk all over again. Then, my illness set it, and I've been gaining weight ever since!

I say all this to remind you to eat healthy, stop eating junk, keep yourself in check! I'm not saying you need to start Thinogenics, I'm just saying that we've got to remind ourselves that we are killing ourselves with all this processed and unnatural food we consume. It's not just the weight, it's the health issues that come from the weight and fatty foods we consume. Before all these processed foods came out, people in America were typically 4 sizes smaller than the majority of Americans today. That should be a wake up call to all of us.

So, from now on, I'm committing myself to eating more healthy. Even if I go off the Thinogenics, I'm going to stop eating junk, processed foods, sodas, and sugars that are not good for me. I urge you to take the same initiative. I promise you will lose those extra pounds and feel so much better!

I know today's post isn't all that inspirational, but it's what's on my mind right now. If anything, I hope it just helps remind you to put that donut down and grab some broccoli! Put down that Coke or Sweet Tea, and add some Crystal Lite flavor drops (with no aspartame) to a bottle of water! :)

AMAZING thing called SPACE

 

 

My Son's third grade class took a trip to the Space And Rocket Center yesterday. I've always been interested in space, and all the wonders that are out there we know nothing about. But, I was in complete awe at the movie we watched about the Hubble Space Telescope.

First, we walked into this huge theatre, like no theatre I've ever seen. The seats were so steep, that when we reached our seats I honestly felt like I was going to pass out. The room was a big oval which actually made me nauseated because it was so disorienting. I couldn't breath. I had to get out of there!

However, when they movie started I couldn't take my eyes off of the screen! Not that you could if you wanted to, because the screen was so ginormous that it almost felt like you were watching it in 3D.

The images that were coming across that screen were as if you were literally flying through space. The Hubble telescope is an AMAZING invention!

 

I've always imagined that when I die that God would grant me the wish of flying through space and seeing all of his creation on the way to where He is in Heaven. This experience was just like this! It took everything I am to not stand up in that theatre, as scared as I was, and just spread my arms wide like I'm flying! Looking at the pictures you can see online is NOTHING compared to the experience of actually flying through the air with the Hubble Telescope actually going INTO the amazing stars, other galaxies, and other AWESOME stuff I don't even know the names of!

 

If you ever go to the Space and Rocket Center, you've GOT to go see that movie and experience it.

If you don't already believe in God, then you will after seeing this movie. There just is no way you can't after taking in all that breathtaking beauty that is out there!

 

I started out breathless from the disorientation from the room, to being completely breathless from observing all of God's creation! The things He has created just brought tears to my eyes! Words cannot even begin to explain what it looks like out there!

 

I would encourage you to do a web search for Hubble Space Telescope Images. It is simply mind-blowing to see the pictures of what this telescope has captured! The picture above is one of those, out of thousands, that it has seen!

 

MIND BLOWING!

Psalm 91 PROTECT US FROM THE STORM

When I was in the 6th grade, our home in Marietta Georgia was hit by a tornado. Ever since I have been deathly afraid that one day I would relive that scary day. Our home was not destroyed, but damaged by tree's that had been thrown around the yard. There was no tree left in our yard at that time. The biggest tree in our yard, a HUGE pine tree, was perfectly cut, as if done by a chain saw, into three pieces (about 40 ft long, and weighing hundreds of pounds each). Each piece rested on a different side of our home. All just resting peacefully, as if set there on purpose, nice and neatly against the house on all three sides.

Now, there is just no way that could have possibly happened if it hadn't been for divine intervention. Even bushes that were only 5 feet tall up against our home completely disappeared. Yet, our home still stood. I believe firmly that the Lord had his hand on our home that night protecting us from harm.

Psalm 91 reminds us that God protects His people. That is not to say that bad things won't happen to us, but His promise is that no matter what does happen to us, that He has us in His hands, and will take care of the situation. When the tornado's came through North Alabama in April two years ago, people asked "How could God let this kind of thing happen to us!?".  I've felt that same feeling when things have gone severely wrong in my own life, but who are we to question God's will? I believe that every trial we face comes at us for a reason. Our brains simply cannot even fathom the vastness of Gods plan, and perhaps that's why we question it all the time.

The bible also says "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understandings, but in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6.

I know that hard times, bad storms, or even tragedy may come my way, but I trust that God knows what He's doing- whether it be to take care of me here on Earth, or bring me to Heaven to live with Him.

10 Things That Change When You Become A Mom

When we are young, we just can't wait to be married! Its a dream us girls plan nearly from the day  we are born. We carry around our baby dolls and dream about being married to daddy one day just like mommy. Cute, yes. My oldest daughter asked my husband the other day if she could marry him when she grows up. I think he thought it kinda strange, but in research about child behavior I find that it's perfectly normal for a little girl to think that daddy is the perfect person to marry one day.

BUT, Does anyone ever warn us that once we are married and have children that our lives will completely change? That all of our wants and needs go out the window while we are taking care of our families? At least, that's the attitude a woman SHOULD have when she has a family. I've sacrificed a lot in my life since being married and having children. There are some women who manage to have families, and yet their lives do not change at all. They still do the things they want, go where they want, and pursue their dreams because they hire someone else to do the "mommy duties", or they simply just ignore their children and the children end up raising themselves. I'm kinda in the middle now. I, for years, followed my husband wherever his ministry took us, and stayed at home doing nothing but taking care of the kids all day and night. But, I've learned in the last year or so that I CAN still do that, AND have some time for myself. I was in a deep depression because I never was able to do anything for myself, or have any time alone just to vegge out. I really wore me down. I've learned that you've got to put your family first 90% of the time, and leave at least 10% of your time to just be alone and do something nice for yourself. Get your nails done! Get your hair cut! Go shopping by yourself! If you don't have anyone to watch your kids, rent them a movie, pop some popcorn and tell them to stay there and do not move for at least an hour while you take a hot bath with the door locked or read a book or some other thing you enjoy!

Here is a list of things that Change when we become moms:      :)

1)Sleep is a word that you must just erase from your vocabulary! Especially if you're a mom of a newborn. However, it doesn't get that much better as they get older. Even one's that start out in their own beds at the beginning of the night find a way to sneak in your bed.

2)Clean Clothes. At some point in your day your child WILL find a way to ruin that brand new top you wore for the first time today with their little spaghetti fingers! ALWAYS keep a spare outfit in the trunk. Clean laundry is also a challenge because I find that I always wash their clothes first to make sure they have something to wear, forgetting about myself-leaving me in sweats and a t-shirt for the third day in a row! LOL

3) Vacations IF you are able to take vacations at all, those vacations you once knew are a thing of the past! Your vacation is no longer about relaxation and that special alone time with your significant other. No, your vacations now are about what the kids will enjoy-Destinations with plenty of activities to keep them busy and entertained. While you may have a good time watching them have fun- from now on its all about THEM :)

4)PUKE is the new "normal". If you're like me, before I had children I could not stand the site or even sound of someone throwing up. If I saw or heard it, it was all over for me as well!  But, when you're little one is sick as can be, throwing up all over you and your bed, your "mommy gut" kicks in and you simply do what you have to, and tho it may gross you out a bit, its no longer the same issue as it was before.

5)Non-Mommy Friends Disappear  You are no longer "cool" or fun to hang out with when you have children. After about the third time your friend calls you to come hang out or go to a party and you say, "I cant, I don't have a sitter" or "I cant, my baby is sick", you probably won't hear from that friend as much as you used to. No matter how good a friend she/he may be, if they don't have kids, then they don't have the same restraints as you, and they are going to want a friend who has the same freedoms to do those fun last minute plans out on the town!

6)Taking Showers/Baths are now considered a LUXURY! I've always been afraid to take a shower or bath with the door closed or locked because I'm just so afraid something might happen without me realizing it. Therefore, my relaxing bath time turns into the baby playing with the bubbles, and insisting she join me, while the older ones comment on every body part I have still visible from the bubbles, as I try to grab a towel to cover myself. I've learned I have to pick my bath time wisely to actually get anything relaxing out of it.

7)MINE is no longer YOURS. Now, everything you have your children think is theirs as well. Am I the only one who sneaks a Dove candy bar to my bedroom and hides beside her bed so she doesn't have to share?

8)FOOD My little one will sit forever and not eat a single thing off her plate. But, put her in my lap and she will eat every bite on MINE. For some reason the food on mommy's plate tastes so much better than she same food on her own.

9)Weight Many women will never see that size of dress they wore or weigh the same as they did before having children. Mainly because your body changes so much during pregnancy, but also because we get so busy rushing our little ones around that fast food and anything that is convenient becomes part of your normal routine. Fast and convenient almost always equals unhealthy and/or full of fat.

10)Personal Appearance Before having children, I would never, ever, EVER let another human being see me without my hair done and full makeup. I also tried my best to always wear something cute, just because you never know who you are going to see while you are out. But, after having babies, I've come to realize that no one cares what I look like, and what does it matter now anyway? I mean, I've got my man, who else do I need to impress now? My main problem is not having the TIME to get myself all dolled up before getting the kids out the door in the morning. I'd much rather have that extra 45 minutes of sleep that make sure I'm wearing mascara. However, in the last year I've begun to care a little bit more about myself. I may not get fully dressed or makeup on before taking the kids to school, but now I at least attempt to go home and make myself cute before being seen in public :)

These are just a FEW things that change when you become a mom. We might can touch on some more of those later...

One thing is true no matter what changes we go through or have to make once we become a mother, and that things is ITS WORTH IT :)