Saved Sister

Jumping the Track with Roger Fields

2012-02-01T08:36:00.000-05:00

I love everything about Kidz Blitz!

A super fun experience where families come to learn more about God together.

I mean, what's not to love?

But I have to admit that I really didn't know much about the man behind the ministry - Roger Fields.

All that changed as I read his new book

While reading I realized that Roger wasn't just sharing about his journey to his calling, but was opening up about his faith journey as well and invited us to come along with him. He shares the stories of tracks he jumped in following where God was leading him. He shares the successes and failures along the way and how God uses both. He doesn't claim to be an expert, but gives such encouragement throughout the book.

I really enjoyed reading the stories of how Kidz Blitz came to be, but even more than that I loved the story of his family along the way.

This is my favorite quote:

"I had been making the classic mistake of letting my experience shape the Bible instead of allowing the Bible to shape my experience.
That became my objective: to see my family reflect all that God promised in His word."

You can find out more about Kidz Blitz and Blitz Ministries by visiting the website here:
Kidz Blitz.

You can read an excerpt from the book and purchase it on the website here:
Jumping the Track.

I have an extra copy of the book to give away to a reader thanks to Roger. You can enter to win by leaving a comment here on my blog. I would love to hear about your family and how I can pray for you all. I will pick a winner on Friday.

Missions Monday

2012-01-30T08:12:00.000-05:00

It's time for Missions Monday.

Every Monday I will introduce you to some great charities that you can get involved in. When I say get involved, I mean you can donate your money, time, and/or pray for these organizations who are doing amazing things to help people.

Today I would like to introduce you to

Thirst No More.

From the website:

"Thirst No More's mission is to transform communities through the power of compassion. Our projects are typically in regions where people have been ravaged by war, tyranny, or natural disasters.

Thirst No More is a Christian aid organization. We seek to express the heart of Jesus through our work. We believe He closely aligns Himself with the poor, the powerless, and the marginalized. Our mission is to represent His heart through strategic acts of compassion."

To learn more about this organization and how you can get involved, you can visit their website here:

Thirst No More - Website.

You can connect with them on Facebook here:

Thirst No More - Facebook

and you can follow them on Twitter here:

Thirst No More - Twitter.

Seriously Still

2012-01-27T08:05:00.000-05:00

You want me to do what?

Be what?

Be still?

Seriously?

Lord I have so much to do today.

Beds to make, clothes to fold, and the list goes on.

You want me to be still right this moment and be with You. I hear you and am coming.

It is my deepest desire today to know You more. To have You speak to my heart today. To share with You my dreams and the fears and doubts that come along with those dreams today. To talk to You about one of my girls that is going through one of the hardest times in her life and beg for You to heal her. To thank You for these beautiful men both big and small that You gave to me. To ask to be the wife and momma that they so deserve.

Sometimes it takes my breath away when I think of how much You desire this time with me. Sometimes when I come all I can do is weep, feeling an overwhelming gratitude that You are mine and I am Yours and this moment in time is ours.

So I am working on the whole be still thing. When I get too busy, I remember the day before when we came together and how You spoke to me.

So today I am still...

Seriously.

Be still, and know that I am God
Psalm 46:10

Tuesday Tunes

2012-01-24T08:55:00.000-05:00

I love your sanctuary, LORD,

the place where your glorious presence dwells.

Psalm 26:8

Missions Monday

2012-01-23T08:27:00.000-05:00

It's time for Missions Monday.

Today I would like to introduce you to

Back 2 Back Ministries.

From the website:

"Back2Back Ministries is an international Christian non-profit organization that is dedicated to being a voice for orphans. We exist to love and care for orphans and impoverished children, by meeting their physical, spiritual, educational, social and emotional needs that they may overcome their life circumstances and break free from the cycle of generational poverty.

We desire for every orphan and impoverished child to have the opportunity for success through “care for today and hope for tomorrow”. Our goal is that each child would experience restoration to a life of purpose in which they can become fulfilled and mature Christian adults."

You can find out more about this organization and how you can get involved by visiting their website here:

Back 2 Back Ministries - Website.

You can connect with them on Facebook here:

Back 2 Back Ministries - Facebook

and follow them on Twitter here:

Back 2 Back Ministries - Twitter.

Encourage

2012-01-20T08:21:00.000-05:00

21 And the presence of the Lord was with them with power, so that a great number [learned] to believe (to adhere to and trust in and rely on the Lord) and turned and surrendered themselves to Him.

22 The rumors of this came to the ears of the church (assembly) in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch.

23 When he arrived and saw what grace (favor) God was bestowing upon them, he was full of joy; and he continuously exhorted (warned, urged, and encouraged) them all to cleave unto and remain faithful to and devoted to the Lord with [resolute and steady] purpose of heart.

24 For he was a good man [good in himself and also at once for the good and the advantage of other people], full of and controlled by the Holy Spirit and full of faith (of his belief that Jesus is the Messiah, through Whom we obtain eternal salvation). And a large company was added to the Lord.

Acts 11:21-24

Encouragement is a powerful gift. It isn't flattery or empty praise, but heartening words that inspire us with hope and confidence meant to build us up in our relationships with God and others. Barnabas was an encourager and God sent him to build up the people in Antioch.

Do you have a "Barnabas" in your life? Thank God for that person. Are you a "Barnabas" in someone else's life? Ask God to help you be an encouragement to others.

Waiting Through Change

2012-01-19T08:26:00.000-05:00

I have been walking through a pretty big life change. Going from a working mom to a stay at home mom can be a challenge at times.

Don't get me wrong...I am so very thankful for the blessing to be home with my family. But I have been going through that period of adjustment which has been stretching me in ways that I wasn't expecting.

I have a whole lot more time on my hands than I thought I would. My guys go off to work and school each day and I can only clean and organize so much.

So what do I do with all that free time?

I know what you're thinking. Why would extra time on my hands be a challenge?

I am a do-er. I am a planner.

When God asked me to quit my job months ago, He didn't tell me the next step after that.

I am in that season of waiting during the change to hear from Him what the next step is for me.

So I wait expectantly.

Sometimes patiently.

Always hopeful.

Knowing that His plan for me is so much more than I could dream for myself. Knowing He has a purpose for my life. Knowing that He will use me in ways I can't even imagine yet.

A Mile in His Shoes - A Review

2012-01-18T13:57:00.000-05:00

I am always on the lookout for family friendly movies and A Mile in His Shoes is definitely a wonderful find.

This is a story about a coach of a minor league baseball team who takes a chance on a young boy with amazing talent who also has Asperger's syndrome. When he joins the team he not only changes the team's record, but also their hearts. It is a great story of faith, determination, and the power of friendship.

Here is a preview of the movie:

A Mile in His Shoes is an inspirational movie that I definitely recommend for family movie night.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Tuesday Tunes

2012-01-17T08:58:00.001-05:00

Love this album by Ginny Owens!

Here is one of the songs from the album.

Missions Monday

2012-01-16T08:50:00.000-05:00

It's time for Missions Monday.

Today I would like to introduce you to

Mercy & Sharing.

From the website:

"Mercy & Sharing is a Haitian-registered, non-profit organization that provides care and education to abandoned, orphaned and disabled children in Haiti.

Mercy & Sharing rescues the abused, abandoned and disabled and provides them with care, rehabilitation, education, hope and opportunity. Mercy & Sharing has developed systems and procedures that create a healthy environment and work to bring about systemic and lasting solutions for this overlooked population. Our skilled staff nurses these children to health, provide food, shelter and education, and most importantly, provide a loving environment that builds character and integrity."

To learn more about this organization and how you can get involved, you can visit their website here:

Mercy & Sharing - Website.

You can connect with them on Facebook here:

Mercy & Sharing - Facebook

and follow them on Twitter here:

Mercy & Sharing - Twitter.

Flying in Circles

2012-01-12T12:51:00.000-05:00

Lately I've been feeling a bit like a plane flying in circles waiting to land. I started out with only directions on how to fly the plane and a flight plan, but one without a destination.

Everytime I ask, "Now?" I hear "Not yet, love."

So I keep circling.

Waiting.

Waiting to hear, "Yes love, now."

Then I will know the place He has just for me.

Tuesday Tunes

2012-01-10T07:24:00.001-05:00

God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God.

Ephesians 2:8

Missions Monday

2012-01-09T08:14:00.000-05:00

It's time for Missions Monday.

Today I would like to introduce you to

Tiny Hands International.

From the website:

"Tiny Hands is a Christian non-profit organization dedicated to empowering the church in the developing world to help the poor overcome poverty and become lights of the world. We are committed to finding the greatest injustices in the world, and working towards relieving them however possible.

We are particularly called to orphans, street children, and the victims of the sex-trafficking industry. We want to find those who are already doing the work, who are called and faithful, and help them do it in greater ways and with more efficiency. We do it all in obedience to, and for the glory of Jesus Christ."

You can find out more about this organization and ways you can help by visiting their website here:

Tiny Hands International - Website.

You can connect with them on Facebook here:

Tiny Hands International - Facebook

and follow them on Twitter here:

Tiny Hands International - Twitter.

Never Alone

2012-01-06T08:35:00.000-05:00

One of our most basic fears is that of being alone.

It causes us to make wrong choices, keep silent about our pain, and basically live most of our lives behind the mask.

The beautiful thing about our heavenly Father is that He is always with us. He promises this to us without any other condition than that we believe in Him.

For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.”

Hebrews 13:5b

There may be times when we feel that He is silent, but He is still there. To hear, heal, guide, restore, confort, love. He is there.

Listen to this song by BarlowGirl and hold tight to the knowledge that He is with you always.

What I'm Reading

2012-01-02T23:28:00.000-05:00

It's no accident that every book I have been reading recently is about prayer. I really feel that God is trying to grow me in this area. So when I picked up Joyce Meyer's book - The Power of Simple Prayer, I knew that it was exactly what I needed to hear exactly when I needed to hear it.

One of the things I loved in this book is how she writes about how prayer deepens our relationship with Him. How we build a relationship with Him over time just as we would with other people in our lives by sharing our hearts with Him in conversation.

What are you reading right now?

I Pray

2012-01-02T23:06:00.001-05:00

I pray.

I pray in the morning. I pray throughout the day. I pray at night before I go to bed.

I pray for my family. I pray for my friends. I pray for my church. I pray for our children's ministry. I pray for the world.

But...

I am a talker. I like to talk on the phone. I like to talk over coffee. I just like to talk.

Unfortunately recently that whole talking thing filtered into my prayer life as well. I had stopped listening as much. I had forgotten that this was supposed to be a conversation.

My Abba wanted to speak to me and I wasn't silent long enough to hear Him. I can't tell you the exact moment I realized this. I just felt that pull to Him. You know the one where you just have to get alone with Him. Well over a few days of this time with Him, I just felt a gentle, loving "shhhhh..." in my spirit.

It was like something shifted inside me.

So today...

I pray.

But...

I listen more.

Tuesday Tunes

2012-01-02T22:42:00.001-05:00

I can't get this song out of my head.

I live for You and no one else.
Set apart all of me.
Burn a flame for all to see.
Save me.

Missions Monday

2012-01-02T06:58:00.000-05:00

It's time for Missions Monday.

Today I would like to introduce you to

Serving His Children.

From the website:

Serving His Children (SHC) is a non-profit organization set up in Jinja, Uganda to help serve those suffering from severe and moderate acute malnutrition. Join us as we fight to break the cycle of malnutrition in all of the lives of those we are serving.

Serving His Children’s mission is “to reflect the unconditional love of Christ by breaking the cycle of malnutrition one life at a time, through mentoring the family towards long-term change.”

To learn more about this organization and ways you can help, you can visit their website here:

Serving His Children - Website.

You can connect with them on Facebook here:

Serving His Children - Facebook

and follow them on Twitter here:

Serving His Children - Twitter.

one word: be

2012-01-01T10:14:00.000-05:00

For the past month I have been praying about my one word for the coming year. 2011's word was Obey. As I was reflecting on the past year and dreaming about the coming year, I realized that I am not saying goodbye to this year's word and the journey it brought me through, but adding to it and continuing on that same journey.

My word for 2012 is

Be.

2011 was alot about doing.

Taking the step He was asking of me.

2012 is more about being.

Just be the person He has created me to be.

Just be with Him.

Just be with my family.

Just be with my friends.

Just be with my small group girls.

Just be present in every moment He gives me.

So looking forward to all He has for me in 2012.

Happy New Year friends!

May the Lord bless you

and protect you.

May the Lord smile on you

and be gracious to you.

May the Lord show you his favor

and give you his peace.

Numbers 6:24-26

2011 in Music

2011-12-31T22:31:00.000-05:00

Here is some music that touched my heart this year.

2011 in Pictures

2011-12-31T21:35:00.000-05:00

Here are some of my favorite pictures of 2011.

Family

My Girls

Friends

My Heart is Broken

2011-12-31T14:45:00.004-05:00

My heart is broken...

-For the child who has never heard who Jesus is and how much He loves them.

-For the child who has never been to church or even knows what that is.

-For the child who will go thru so many struggles alone wondering who even cares.

-For the child who is bombarded by images on tv (and some even in their own lives) of hatred and violence and think that it is normal.

-For the child that will go to bed tonight hungry.

-For the child who longs for an unconditional love from anyone.

They are screaming "SEE ME! HEAR ME! LOVE ME!"

Who will tell them that God does? Who will show them His love is real?

We should be doing everything possible to reach out to children today for Christ. Tell them about the Son of God who loved them so much that He died for them! Tell them that forgiveness is possible thru Jesus and He will always be there for them! Tell them that they have a place in His house!

It is time to boldly proclaim God's love to our children today!

I will stand for these children and tell them every week how much Jesus loves them. I will kneel for these children and pray that they open their hearts and accept Jesus as their Savior. For the children that are there, for the ones to come, and the ones that may never come.

They are why I do what I do.

My heart is broken and I will never see a child the same again.

Thank God.

Be With Me

2011-12-29T09:24:00.000-05:00

Be with me.

A few days ago those words just popped into my head out of nowhere. Of course this happened to be one of those days where I got busy doing things around the house and just brushed it off. I went on about my day without giving it another thought.

Be with me.

So the next day I hear those same three words. At first I look around to see if one of my guys is messing with me. (yes they do that) I hear it again a little louder this time. And I totally get it. Or so I thought.

Be with me.

So I immediately go to the place where I spend that time alone with my Abba. I got my Bible out and my journal all ready to dive in. I start to pray. Gosh I have alot to say today. So many things to be thankful for. So many people on my heart to pray for.

Be with me.

Ummm...ok...I thought that's what was happening. You...me...here together Lord. I've got everything ready. I'm ready. Hey I even have a new purple pen to use today. Cute huh? What do you mean put it all away? Ok. Yes I am listening.

with ME.

He just wanted me to come away from everything and BE with Him.

Not read, not write, not talk.

Just BE.

Ok so there was some talking. Only a little from me. He talked and I listened. It is one of my most precious times with Him and I can't wait to hear those words again when he lovingly says...

Be with me.

My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.”

And my heart responds, “Lord, I am coming.”

Psalm 27:8

I'm Not Perfect

2011-12-27T10:14:00.000-05:00

What does the Lord your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the Lord your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul.

Deuteronomy 10:12

Where does it say perfection?

Too often I expect perfection from myself when even God isn't expecting it from me. When of course I can't achieve that goal, I feel that I have failed not only myself but Him as well.

The beauty of being His daughter is that perfection isn't a prerequisite to receive His love. I am learning more each day about love from my Abba. My Daddy who cheers when I succeed and bends down from heaven to pick me up when I fall. My Daddy who sets me on His lap to whisper so lovingly to my heart and teaches me so much when I sit at His feet. My Daddy who walks with me and reaches out to hold my hand just to let me know He is there. My Daddy who can be silent at times to encourage me to stand on His promises.

He doesn't want perfection.

He just wants me.

Kidzplayce Christmas ShoutOut

2011-12-25T09:17:00.000-05:00

Hey there Kidzplayce kids!

Hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!

You all are ROCKSTARS and I am so blessed to spend each week with you!

I love you all bunches and Jesus loves you even more!

Hugs and more Hugs!

Ms. Wendy

A special shoutout to my 45 girls:

Sweet, sweet girls...

I am so blessed to be a part of your lives! I am so proud of the wonderful girls you are and excited for all God is going to do in your lives! I cherish our time together each week and love you all beyond words!
You make my heart sing!

Hey Kidzplayce Krew!

Merry Christmas to you all!

I absolutely love serving with you all each week!

You totally ROCK!

Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.
Philippians 1:3

Love you all!

Wendy

The Christmas Tree

2011-12-24T10:15:00.000-05:00

THE

CHRISTMAS TREE

I KNOW WHO I AM

I am God's child. (John 1:12)

I am Christ's friend. (John 15:15)

I am united with the Lord. (1 Cor. 6:17)

I am bought with a price. (1 Cor. 6:19-20)

I am a saint (set apart for God). (Eph. 1:1) 

I am a personal witness of Christ. (Acts 1:8)

I am the salt & light of the earth. (Matt. 5:13-14)

I am a member of the body of Christ. (1 Cor. 12:27)

I am free forever from condemnation. ( Rom. 8: 1-2)

I am a citizen of Heaven. I am significant. (Phil. 3:20)

I am free from any charge against me. (Rom. 8:31 -34)

I am a minister of reconciliation for God. (2 Cor.5:17-21)

I have access to God through the Holy Spirit. (Eph. 2:18)

I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms. (Eph. 2:6)

I cannot be separated from the love of God. (Rom.8:35-39)

I am established, anointed, sealed by God. (2 Cor.1:21- 22)

I am assured all things work together for good. (Rom. 8:28)

I have been chosen & appointed to bear fruit. (John 15:16)

I belong to God.

And that is who He says I am. How about you?

Looking Back

2011-12-22T16:48:00.000-05:00

I have been spending some time this week looking back on the past year.

What a year it has been!

I really had no idea what God had in store for me. When He asked me in April to step out in obedience I didn't know anything about the second or third step. Just that first one and boy was it a doozy. When He asked me if I would obey and trust Him completely and get out of the boat, I just had to take that first step. And so began the journey.

I wish I could say that every day was easy, but they weren't. Some days were really challenging. There were times that I felt like Peter when he tried to walk on water and stumbled. But like Peter, Jesus held His hand out to me and pulled me back to my feet reminding me to keep my eyes on Him.

There have been days of doubt and discouragement. I have immersed myself in His Word. The place where He reminds me of the depth of His love and all He has promised me. His love letter to me. Those days when I have felt most alone is when He has drawn closer to me than ever before. I have learned to cherish my prayer time with Him even more. To treasure the times He whispers to my heart.

There have been days of great joy and peace. Where I am learning to rest more in Him and what true surrender really means. The gift that He has given me in time with my family and friends. Those moments when my sons say how happy they are to have me home and love all the time we spend together. When my husband says he loves having me here and already sees a difference in our boys and our home. The time spent with my friends over coffee where we talk about everything happening in our lives.

Someone asked me the other day if I would change anything. I wouldn't change anything in the journey He has chosen for me. I would like to be better at walking in it though. But the beauty of this time is that it doesn't end at the stroke of midnight December 31st. That just marks the beginning. The beginning of another year of walking with Him.

I am so excited to see where we're going this year!

My Reading Wishlist

2011-12-22T10:23:00.000-05:00

This book by Katie Davis is number one on my reading wishlist right now.

I could go into all the reasons why I so want to read it, but instead I will share these videos of Katie opening her heart.

The Christmas Lodge - A Review

2011-12-19T12:23:00.000-05:00

During a weekend trip to the mountains, Mary (Erin Karpluk) finds herself at the now-dilapidated lodge where she spent the holidays with her family growing up. She becomes determined to restore the building to its former glory. Inspired by her grandfather and guided by her grandmother in heaven, Mary throws herself into the project, and during the process finds herself drawn to Jack (Michael Shanks), a handsome man who loves the lodge as much as she does.

Historically unlucky in love, this chance encounter allows Mary to renew her faith in life and discover her one true love. For an uplifting story about the importance of faith, family and the true holiday spirit, go to the Christmas Lodge.

If you're looking for a family friendly holiday movie then this is definitely one to add to your collection. It is an uplifting story about the importance of faith and family. Faith and the true spirit of Christmas shines throughout this movie. I absolutely loved it!

What I'm Reading

2011-12-19T10:56:00.000-05:00

Doing this series on Wednesdays gives me an opportunity to share what I am reading. This may vary from week to week as I tend to read multiple books at a time.

Enemies of the Heart by Andy Stanley is a must read. He is such an incredible teacher. In this book he talks about sin and the emotions that control us.

The book is about guilt, anger, greed, and jealousy.

Guilt- I Owe You

Anger- You Owe Me

Greed- I Owe Me

Jealousy- God Owes Me

"Andy Stanley explores each of these destructive forces and how they infiltrate your life and damage your relationships. He says that, left unchallenged they have the power to destroy your home, your career, and your friendships."

Not an easy topic to read for sure, but he doesn't just leave you thinking of these emotions, but shares how to identify, examine, and confront them. It is a convicting book and an encouraging one as well.

There are discussion questions included in the book which makes for a good small group study as well as a personal study.

Missions Monday

2011-12-19T06:33:00.000-05:00

It's time for Missions Monday.

Today I would like to introduce you to

A Glimmer of Hope.

From the website:

"At Glimmer, we believe that the best way to affect sustainable change is to tackle all of the unique areas that perpetuate poverty. Rather than focus on a single issue like water or education, our unique model of integrated development means that we work across many different sectors to bring deep change. Our Ethiopian staff of development experts are pros at transforming communities through water, education, health, and microfinance projects."

You can find out more about this organization and ways you can help by visiting their website here:

A Glimmer of Hope - Website.

You can connect with them on Facebook here:

A Glimmer of Hope - Facebook

and follow them on Twitter here:

A Glimmer of Hope - Twitter.

About Glimmer from A Glimmer of Hope on Vimeo.

One Mother to Another

2011-12-13T07:58:00.000-05:00

"Do you ever wonder how we will know when He is more than a child? Will it be something He says? A look in His eye?" -Mary ("The Nativity Story")

As Christmas approaches, I have been thinking alot about Mary.

I love this song of praise from Mary when she found out she was pregnant.

“Oh, how my soul praises the Lord.

How my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!

For he took notice of his lowly servant girl,

and from now on all generations will call me blessed.

For the Mighty One is holy,

and he has done great things for me.

He shows mercy from generation to generation

to all who fear him.

His mighty arm has done tremendous things!

He has scattered the proud and haughty ones.

He has brought down princes from their thrones

and exalted the humble.

He has filled the hungry with good things

and sent the rich away with empty hands.

He has helped his servant Israel

and remembered to be merciful.

For he made this promise to our ancestors,

to Abraham and his children forever.”

Luke 1:46-55

As expectant mothers, we all had our own share of anxieties, concerns, and doubts. Now add the fact that Mary was the mother of the Savior of the world. How is that for some added pressure?

Was she nervous about the delivery? Did she realize that Joseph would be the one to deliver Him? How overwhelming was it when the shepherds and wise men came unexpectedly? That was just the beginning.

Once everyone else went to sleep that night, did she stay up wondering how in world was she going to raise the Messiah? Did she think about years down the road?

The mother in me has always been drawn to her and what life must have been like for her. How wonderful and yet difficult at the same time.

During this time of year, I am joyously celebrating the birth of Jesus and also the life of His mother. What an incredible story of faith and love for God!

Missions Monday

2011-12-12T08:07:00.000-05:00

It's time for Missions Monday.

Today I would like to introduce you to

Joyful Heart Foundation.

From the website:

Joyful Heart's Mission

The mission of the Joyful Heart Foundation is to heal, educate and empower survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse and to shed light into the darkness that surrounds these issues.

Joyful Heart's Vision

The vision of the Joyful Heart Foundation is a community that:

- is empowered with knowledge, courage and compassion to help survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse heal mind, body and spirit;

- values and dedicates resources to individuals and families that have been impacted by these issues; and

- seeks to ignite and foster an open dialogue about how to collaboratively end the cycle of violence and abuse.

You can learn more about this organization and how you can get involved by visiting their website here:

Joyful Heart Foundation - Website.

You can connect with them on Facebook here:

Joyful Heart Foundation - Facebook

and follow them on Twitter here:

Joyful Heart Foundation - Twitter.

An Invitation to Romance

2011-12-09T08:09:00.000-05:00

Be still, and know that I am God.

Psalm 46:10a

In times past I have looked at this verse as a command to stop doing so much and have a quiet time with God. Today my Abba gave me a new way of looking at it. It isn't a command, but an loving invitation to be with Him and get to know Him better through His Word and fall more deeply in love with Him.

Catherine Martin says in her book Knowing and Loving the Bible,

"God is inviting you to a secret garden of intimacy and romance with Him. He wants you to know Him. Let His desire for you become your greatest desire too."

To know that my Father wants so much to spend time alone with me is overwhelming. To know that He longs to speak to my heart so intimately is breathtaking. To know that this is one of His deepest desires is the most romantic invitation that I have ever received.

One Word

2011-12-08T08:04:00.000-05:00

Sometimes the greatest gift that you can give another person is a word of encouragement. Just one word from you could completely change the direction of their day or even their life. So when you feel the Holy Spirit's prompting to say something kind to another person no matter how uncomfortable it may make you feel...do it. Make the time. There is such power in that one word.

So make that call, mail that card, send that email.

It may be the greatest gift you give today.

So let's do it—full of belief, confident that we're presentable inside and out. Let's keep a firm grip on the promises that keep us going. He always keeps his word. Let's see how inventive we can be in encouraging love and helping out, not avoiding worshiping together as some do but spurring each other on, especially as we see the big Day approaching.

Hebrews 10:23-25

What I'm Reading

2011-12-06T08:53:00.000-05:00

Doing this series on Wednesdays gives me an opportunity to share what I am reading. This may vary from week to week as I tend to read multiple books at a time.

Description

"More Lost Than Found helps readers reconnect with a faith worth believing.

If you look at the statistics about people raised in the church who are now leaving it, you’ll realize that something has gone horribly wrong. Has God’s truth lost relevance? The answer to this question, says Jared Herd, director of XP3 college ministries, is an absolute no. Next-generation Christians are drifting from the institutional faith because they no longer see their very real struggles or their need for deep connection with God adequately addressed there.

In More Lost Than Found, youth expert Jared Herd comes alongside anyone who has drifted from faith to reengage them with the truth they long to hear. With amusing anecdotes and brilliant insight, he gives readers the permission to struggle with their faith while, deep down, knowing they still believe it and want to believe it. In this refreshing, true-to-life message, readers find a companion for their faith journey, rediscover the truth they grew up believing, and are invigorated to lay hold of it once again."

Here are some quotes that have me thinking.

""Perhaps the violent rejection of that message by those on the outside isn't an issue with Jesus-it's an issue with how the Savior has been translated for them."

"Children born hundreds of years ago were born into a story, and parents made sure their children knew that story and felt a part of it."

"Most people I know who walk away from faith don't walk away because of doubt. They walk away because of pain."

I have really enjoyed reading this book. It has given me a new perspective as a parent and a children's ministry volunteer. There is a part of the book that talks about connecting the older generation with the younger generation through story that really has me thinking as both.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Tuesday Tunes

2011-12-06T06:50:00.000-05:00

The Birth of Jesus Foretold

Luke 1:26-38

26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a village in Galilee, 27 to a virgin named Mary. She was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of King David. 28 Gabriel appeared to her and said, “Greetings, favored woman! The Lord is with you!”

29 Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean. 30 “Don’t be afraid, Mary,” the angel told her, “for you have found favor with God! 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus. 32 He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David. 33 And he will reign over Israel forever; his Kingdom will never end!”

34 Mary asked the angel, “But how can this happen? I am a virgin.”

35 The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the baby to be born will be holy, and he will be called the Son of God. 36 What’s more, your relative Elizabeth has become pregnant in her old age! People used to say she was barren, but she’s now in her sixth month. 37 For nothing is impossible with God.”

38 Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her.

Missions Monday

2011-12-05T08:34:00.000-05:00

It's time for Missions Monday.

Today I would like to introduce you to

One Day's Wages.

From the website:

"According to UNICEF, approximately 3 billion people live on less than US $2/day and 1.4 billion people live on less than US $1.25/day - the definition of those living in extreme poverty. In the midst of these staggering statistics, what can one person do? What can a person's "one day's wages" do in the face of such staggering statistics?

While we might not be able to save the world, we can absolutely make a difference. We can help change the world and in turn, be changed. While the issues are complex, experts and global organizations are in agreement: We have the capacity to end extreme global poverty."

You can learn more about this organization and how you can get involved by visiting their website here:

One Day's Wages - Website.

You can connect with them on Facebook here:

One Day's Wages - Facebook

and you can follow them on Twitter here:

One Day's Wages - Twitter.

Kidzplayce Family Devotional - Week 6

2011-12-04T18:31:00.000-05:00

FAMILY DEVOTIONAL

Lesson 7

God Provides Forgiveness When We Ask For It!

Pig True/False:

1. True/False: A pig can get a sun burn.

2. True/False: Pigs don’t have a good sense of smell.

3. True /False: Pigs are very intelligent.

ANSWERS: 1. True 2. False: They have a highly developed sense of smell. 3. True: A pig can actually pick up tricks faster than a dog.
Bible Verse

This week’s Bible Verse tells us that God is faithful to forgive us of our sins when we ask Him. I John 1:9

Bible Story

In our lesson this week we imagined what the story of the Prodigal Son would have been like if the son hadn’t come home and asked for forgiveness. As a family, read the actual story of the son returning home in Luke 15:11-32.

Write it Down

Have each member of the family write out a list or draw pictures of things they have done wrong and needed forgiveness for. Then, find a way to completely destroy the paper. As you are doing this, talk to your children about how God forgives us of our sins. Together as a family, read Psalm 103:12. Just like we can’t read these papers any more, God doesn’t remember our sins anymore. However, we still suffer consequences from our sins, but that doesn’t mean God didn’t forgive us. God will forgive us of our sins, but we will still have consequences from our sins.

Game of Grace

As a family play a game of dodge ball or duck-duck goose. Play the game like you typically would. Part way through the game, one member of the family gets to call “Grace”. When someone calls grace everyone who has been tagged out gets to experience grace and come back into the game. After you’ve finished the game, talk about how great it was to be offered grace and allowed back in the game. Just like we were offered grace in this game, God continually shows us grace and gives us second chances.

The Big God Story

2011-11-30T12:21:00.000-05:00

I so enjoy bedtime story moments with my Zachary.

Last night we decided to start reading The Big God Story again. I absolutely LOVE this book. It is a wonderful reminder that the Bible isn't just a collection of stories, but one story that points out the promise of God that He will send a Redeemer to reconnect us with Him forever. It is also a reminder that we are a part of this amazing story of a loving, faithful God.

Missions Monday

2011-11-28T12:42:00.002-05:00

It's time for Missions Monday.

Today I would like to introduce you to

Red Thread Movement.

From the website:

Our Mission

· Generate awareness of the global human rights crime of sexual slavery, particularly of women and young girls.

· Raise financial support for efforts to end sex trafficking in Nepal.

· Educate girls in Nepal to actively prevent sex trafficking on the front lines.

Our Work

· We sponsor a safe house in Butwal, Nepal, where women and young girls who are victims of sex trafficking receive shelter, counseling and vocational training.

· At-risk girls are employed to make the bracelets for Fair Trade wages in an effort to prevent them from becoming victims of trafficking.

· We sponsor two border units along the Nepal/India border that are staffed with young women previously rescued from slavery. They possess the personal experience to effectively identify traffickers.

· We sponsor girls’ sewing classes in villages throughout Nepal that provide young women with the training and resources needed for them to earn a steady income.

· We provide Red Thread bracelets to girls in Nepal that they use to educate their friends and other girls about the risk of being trafficked.

To learn more about this organization and how you can get involved, you can visit their website here:

Red Thread Movement - Website.

You can connect with them on Facebook here:

Red Thread Movement - Facebook

and follow them on Twitter here:

Red Thread Movement - Twitter.

Kidzplayce Family Devotional - Week 6

2011-11-27T19:13:00.000-05:00

FAMILY DEVOTIONAL

Lesson 6
Salvation Only Comes From God!
Ostrich True/False:

1. True/False: An ostrich’s eye is bigger than its brain.
2. True/False: When an ostrich gets scared it sticks it head in the sand.

3. True/False: An ostrich cannot fly.

Answers: 1. True: An ostrich’s eye is almost 2 in. across.. 2. False: When scared it lies down and presses its neck to the ground. 3. True:It can’t fly but can run up to 43 miles per hour.

Bible Verse
This week’s Bible Verse tells us that Jesus is the only solution to our sin problem and the only way to Heaven. John 14:6

Bible Story
In this week’s lesson we looked at what would happen if people tried to fix their own sin problem instead of letting Jesus do it. In Matthew, Mark, Luke and John you can read the story of how Jesus wants to fix our sin problem and how He has provided us the way into Heaven.

Invite a Family
Think of a family that you know that does not attend church. Come up with a fun and creative way to invite this family to church with you this coming weekend. Be sure and meet up with them at church, show them around, answer any questions and even go out to lunch together. Talk to your kids about the importance of telling others about Jesus and inviting others to church.

Salvation Bracelet
Use your creativity and have each member of the family create a salvation bracelet. You can make the bracelet from beads or yarn or whatever is easy to find. The goal of this bracelet is to be able to walk someone through the story of salvation by going through each color on the bracelet. Here are the colors you will need. Black represents our sin. Because of our sin we are separated from God. Red represents God’s love for us. Jesus died on the cross for our sins to show how much He loved us. White represents our sins being taken away when we accept Jesus. Blue represents water and being baptized. We are baptized to show we have joined God’s team. Green represents growth. We can grow more like Jesus and closer to God by obedience. We should read our Bibles, pray, and come to church to learn more about God and do what He tells us to do. Gold represents Heaven. If we accept the invitation Jesus gives to follow Him, then we can spend forever with Him in Heaven. After you have created the bracelet, find one person this week who you can give this bracelet to and share the story of salvation.

Give Thanks...

2011-11-24T07:55:00.000-05:00

Psalm 136

1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!