Today's Devotion

FEAR NOT




"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.


We love because he first loved us. 1 John 4:18,19"


"Do not fear what they fear[a]; do not be frightened."[b] But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect 1 Peter 3:14-15"



It's been laid on my heart to write about fear today, maybe it was something my mom shared with me yesterday...FEAR is False Evidence Appearing Real. I love this, and I think it is really true. I searched for the scripture that I wanted to use today but couldnt locate it, but in the process found some that I think are pretty wonderful too. If anyone knows the scripture that says "Fear not for I'm with you" let me know where to find it. Thanks:)



Okay back to my devotion. I think what my mom shared with me is true, we often do not attempt things because of this emotion which most likely is not even accurate or even real. This morning I was driving to work and they had Christian Psychologist, Kevin Leneham (I think that was the last name) anyways, he was talking about how if we all lived life simply on our emotions most of us would probably end up in jail with one another. Yea, if I acted the way I feel when angry I may end up behind bars. But with that same thought lets look at Fear, if we live our lives by giving into this emotion what a boring life we would lead. I know some of my friends have loved ones going through very challenging times, in which nothing is certain, and fear is an overwhelming present emotion, and for those I encourage you to read the above verses. Whatever you are facing know that God Loves you and will be with you. And as far as the second passage I hope I can give answers to those who question their faith in a way that is gentle and respectful. This is something that I'm continuly working on as I try to let God's light shine through me. So today if you are a bit fearful about a decision, medical condition or the future look at the word...FEAR and see False Evidence Appearing Real, and turn your eyes towards the word LOVE (I tried to come up with a cool thing like my mom had for FEAR but couldnt come up with anything...i'd love your suggestions:), the love family, friends and most importantly the love God has for you.



In God's Love,

Sarah:)

Today's Devotion

True Beauty




"Your beauty should not come from outward adornment such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight~1 Peter 3:3,4"



Sorry this is arriving so late in the day. Its been a busy but blessed day. Eventhough I was busy today I did have time to read my daily devotional which is convienently located in our bathroom...you moms can appreciate this right...only place you MAY have a few minutes to yourself:) Anyways, this was the scripture I read this morning, and it has stayed with me throughout the day. What a blessing that in itself is. We live in a society that is unfortunately focused on our outward appearence of beauty instead of our True beauty, our spirit, and love of the LORD. I'm often pretty vain about my physical appearence...requiring a shower, make up, and clean clothes before going anywhere. This has changed dramatically since becoming a mom, don't worry I still shower daily...but I may go out in public without makeup and even with dirty clothes on. I had a wonderful opportunity today to reach out to young parents at the toddler fair, and although I was there for work I could still let my spirit shine through in the words I spoke, and the behaviors I showed towards them. Today I witnessed several examples of true beauty as the Bible has laid out for us and thought I'd share them with you:

~The brighteness in a toddlers face when running around on no nap, and the mothers laugh and smiles watching it.

~The beam a nana has when her 2 grandsons snuggle up to her to listen to her read them the Bible

~The friendly hugs between 2 young friends as their play date ends

~The proud feeling felt by a friend as she shares her toddlers accomplishments of the day

These are just a few things that I think God would think would be beautiful and I got to witness them ALL today!!! So what true beauty did you see today? I'm sure it wasn't the latest fashion magazine!!!



In God's Love,

Sarah:)

Today's Devotion

YOUR IN GOOD HANDS




"Our lives are in his hands, and he keeps our feet from stumbling.~Psalm 66:9"



Nope not Allstate but God's hands are the best hands to be in. Our lives are in his hands, and he can keep us on steady ground even when we feel shaken, broken, and defeated in fact in those times he holds us even closer I think because we need to feel HIS love even more. Today I'm going to do this a little differently because there were a lot of verses in this chapter that really ministered to me and pray it does the same for you. So lets see the proof that we are in HIS hands:

Verses 17-20

17For I cried out to him for help,

praising him as I spoke.

18 If I had not confessed the sin in my heart,

the Lord would not have listened.

19 But God did listen!

He paid attention to my prayer.

20 Praise God, who did not ignore my prayer

or withdraw his unfailing love from me.



Yesterday I wrote about how our sins are forgiven, and I guess I'm backtracking a bit but today let us confess those sins, pray and be comforted in God's love.



Sorry this is so short today but I think God's words says it all today, and well I'm just short on time:)



In God's love,

Sarah:)

Today's Devotion

Forgiven




"Though we are overwhelmed by our sins, you forgive them all.~Psalm 65:3"



Anyone else ever become totally overwhelmed by the mistakes and sins we make on in my case a daily basis? I'm sure I'm not alone we are humans who unfortunately sin. Sometimes I wonder why I make the mistakes I make, and often it almost feels as if someone else makes those mistakes like I'm not in control, something I hate to feel. Now I don't mean to sound totally crazy but I think sometimes Satan tries to get power over us and so we slip and act, say, or do things which are sinful. For me right now the greatest sin I'm struggling with is being short tempered with the ones I love most, Nathen and the boys. And honestly last night I felt like well I've already yelled, ridiculed, and been mean there's no going back...you know "damage is already done, who cares" attitude. Well someone very important DOES CARE, HIS name is Jesus, but he does not care in the way that we may think. He's not standing there over us with a ruler waiting to elicit punishment upon us, no HE has forgiven us for all of our sins and he's waiting for us not to punish but to feel his love and forgiveness. Now this doesn't mean that I can go around sinning and hurting people at will, but what it does mean is I can pray to be more of the parent and spouce God wants me to be, and eagerly work towards that goal through scripture reading, fellowship and prayer. YES I know I will continue to sin, just as every human will but I also know that when I do I should not become anxious, overwhelmed, or stagnant because God has already forgiven those sins. So today whatever sins are lurking in your mind from the past know that they are forgiven and submit them to GOD and let go of that overwhelmed guilt feeling.



Here is a song that I love because it is all about being Forgiven in Christ's love



FORGIVEN AND LOVED

Romans 8:1, Ephesians 3:17-19

Written by Jimmy Needham, Ryan Wayson and Blake Samperi



Tell me I’m forgiven and loved

Cause I hear it from the street corner priests

On how God is love and how man can be clean

But my joy has been on holiday

And my peace has almost passed away

Tell me I’m forgiven and free



CHORUS:

O I tried and tried to rectify my hopeless situation

But I bought the lie I still have work to do

Now I’m working nine to five like I can earn my own salvation

But there is no condemnation in You



O whisper to me now that its for real

Cause in the silence of these walls righteousness lost its appeal

Dirty deeds have done me in

O but that can’t stop the Faithful Friend

Giving mercy once again as You heal

Here it is I’m feeling it



CHORUS



O He died He died to rectify my hopeless situation

And His blood commands my guilt to leave

Now on Calvary I stand

Empty pockets open hands

O there is no condemnation for me



CHORUS



Child you’re forgiven and loved

Child you’re forgiven and loved

Child you’re forgiven

And Child you are loved

Child you’re forgiven and loved



In God's Love,

sarah

Today's Devotion

tragedy and hope




"We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope~ Romans 5:3-4"



This has been a difficult week for many people in our small community as well I'm sure in other places of the world. In this week alone, parents have lost their child, children have lost their parents, and parents have received grave news about their children's health. I really felt God calling me to encourage those affected by these tragedies today, and received this verse in my email today. I think maybe I've used it before but I think God wants us to revisit it today. The first part almost appears as an oxymoron...rejoice in our sufferings~how is that even possible? Well I can speak from experience (although I have never experienced the losses people around me this week have endured) when I'm really struggling that is when I lean in on God even more, and realize that this life on Earth is only temporary and there is a better place being prepared for me. The next part of the verse is about perserverance, and I think that naturally makes sense as we accept life on Earth is temporary and that the tragedies are part of God's greater plan I think we can perservere, which leads to character and lastly hope. I know families affected by these tragedies are probably feeling numb today and the thought of feeling hopeful seems foreign and insane. And that is okay it is healthy to grieve and have those feelings, I think God made us this way for a reason. As difficult as the reality of the loss is know that God is stronger than any emotion, tragedy or loss.



As I've been reflecting on these 2 losses over the last day or so, I wonder if God chose to take these individuals when he did because he knew they would need each other, a baby needs a mom and a mom/grandmother a child/grandchild. Of course only God knows the reason he took these two people almost simulanteously.



Please join me in continued prayer for the Drago and Hill/Woodward family as they grieve the loss of their family members.



I'll close with a song that I think illustrates better what I wanted to do today:

There will be a day by Jeremy Camp

I try to hold on to this world with everything I have


But I feel the weight of what it brings, and the hurt that trys to grab


The many trials that seem to never end, His word declares this truth,


that we will enter in this rest with wonders anew






But I hold on to this hope and the promise that He brings


That there will be a place with no more suffering






(Chorus)


There will be a day with no more tears, no more pain, and no more fears


There will be a day when the burdens of this place, will be no more, we'll see Jesus face to face


But until that day, we'll hold on to you always






I know the journey seems so long


You feel you’re walking on your own


But there has never been a step


Where you’ve walked out all alone






(Chorus)






Troubled soul don’t lose your heart


Cause joy and peace he brings


And the beauty that’s in store


Outweighs the hurt of life’s sting






I can’t wait until that day where the very one I’ve lived for always will wipe away the sorrow that I’ve faced


To touch the scars that rescued me from a life of shame and misery this is why this is why I sing



In God's Love,

Sarah

Today's Devotion

Jesus and the Little Children




"Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these; And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them~Mark 10:14,16"



Today I wanted to focus on little children since its Evan's birthday, and although we've had a wonderful day my heart continues to be heavy from the news of local little baby passing recently. I can't imagine loosing one of my children, and am so thankful that they are both so healthy. I don't know the Drago family personally but know many people who are affected by their loss, and I feel sad for them, as I cannot imagine loosing my children. So today really wanted to hopefully provide comfort to those who are mourning this loss of Baby Cade.



I think this verse really illustrates what little Cade is experiencing today, being held by Jesus along with all the other babies who have entered into heaven before him. We really don't know this side of Heaven why little ones are taken from their parents at such a young age but I hope it provides comfort to the family and others that their loved one(s) are being held and are out of pain, and happy in heaven. Again I can only imagine that it is a long, difficult, and painful road as you continue to live on Earth without your child and maybe just the picture of your child in Jesus' arms can help you get through to the next day.



Today I ask whoever is reading this to be thankful for your blessings, and pray for those families who have lost their children.



In God's Love,

Sarah:)

Today's Devotion

The Key


You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life...~ Deuteronomy 30:20, NLT

Arn't we all looking for the key to the "good life"? Of course we all have our definations of what the good life may look like. For me to sum it up in one word is happiness. Happiness in my relationships, happiness in my job, happiness in my service. This morning while I was driving to work I heard something that convicted me in that I need to spend more time obeying HIM, and listening to HIM. I think I have the listening to HIM thing down pretty well, you know I've often been described as a "great listener" but its that whole obeying HIM thing that often is more difficult. What convicted me is that I need to make my husband top priority after God. As he can atest, Nathen is most often maybe 2nd, 3rd, honestly probably 4th or 5th down the list. Other priorities are not necessarily wrong or bad, my children, church, outreach groups for moms, and work but nevertheless they do not need to be above my husband. I've been almost in tears throughout the day thinking about this. I think we often shaft our spouces because we know they love us and will always be there. And I honestly believe that no matter what Nathen and I will grow old together, but today I really heard God telling me that I need to spend more quality time with him through exploring the Bible together and doing a Bible study together. I was planning on doing a womens bible study but that fell through and I think it was God's will HE wants my study in the bible to be with my husband and to fellowship with my number 1 earthly priority. I think the key to happiness, and life is exactly what this verse says, listen and obey God. I pray that Nathen is as excited as I am about this new venture we'll take together and will want to do a Bible study with me. He is so supportive in all of my ventures so I'm hopeful the same will be true for this, but still I'd appreciate your prayers.



Sorry that this devotion is more of a journal than a peice of encouragement today.



Wishing you all a blessed and wonderful day,

Sarah

Today's Devotion

No Enemy too much for OUR GOD!

"for you are my safe refuge, a fortress where my enemies cannot reach me.~Psalm 61:3"




Okay yesterday while I was running one of Nathen's favorite songs came on my Ipod. I like it too, and it really got me to running a bit faster as its a bit upbeat. But while I was listening to the lyrics I knew I had to share them with you, and wouldn't you know it the chapter I read today goes right along with it? Yea, God works like that!:)



I've tried several times to copy and paste the lyrics of the song with little success so if you want to check it out its called Dear X (you don't know me) by Diciple.



We all have our enemies whether it be a person, our own emotions, addictions, obsessions, computers:) whatever it is we all have our "X". But if we look at the verse above those enemies can never reach us when we are surrounded by God's love, and trust and faithfully serve HIM. One of my enemies is my own self, I tend to be very critical, and emotional, often taking words of others too personally. I've cried many tears over the years, and although I still probably care too much of what others think of me it is comforting to know that I can seek refuge from these emotions, and oftentimes distorted thoughts easily by focusing on my relationship with God, and digging into HIS word.



So whatever X you are facing today know that you can find shelter, refuge, and comfort in God's love.

Blessings,

Sarah

Today's Devotion

Work in progress




For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.~ Philippians 2:13



I had a hard time deciding or rather hearing what God wanted me to write about today so am using the scripture my mom used yesterday in her devotion but feel I'm going a different way with it focusing on the first part of the verse.



Notice it says God IS WORKING in you not God has worked in you. We are all a work in progress regarding our walk with God and the work he has laid out for us. No matter our age we could be in 100s and God continues to work in us, just look at Abraham for example. God told him he would have many children at didn't have his first child until after he turned 100!!! And I'm sure we all remember the "Father Abraham" song which sang about all his "many sons":)



The other day I was feeling pretty good about myself, thinking yea I do a lot for others, i'm letting God's light shine through me, donating time, money to worthy causes, attending church, raising children, ect. But then as this thought cross my mind another reflection entered my heart--I should never think I'm doing "enough" because I don't know what God has laid out for me. I know it was the Holy Spirit stopping me in my self-righteous tracks, and I'm glad HE did. We can always do more, be more available, be more receptive, more open, more spiritual, the list is endless. So although I do think I am living my life the way God wants me to live I'm not just going to be satisfied with that and stop short of whatever he has for my future. As I'm writing this I can't help but think of Brandon Heath's Song Wait and See (He's Not Finished With Me Yet!). God is always working in us, so no matter what you are doing or where you are at spiritually know that he is not finished or given up on you!





“Wait and See (He’s Not Finished With Me Yet!)” – Brandon Heath



I was born in Tennessee

Late July humidity

Doctor said I was lucky to be alive



I’ve been trouble since the day that I got here

Trouble till the day that I disappear

That’ll be the day that I finally get it right



Chorus



There is hope for me yet

Because God won’t forget

All the plans he’s made for me

I have to wait and see

He’s not finished with me yet



I never really was that good in school

I talked too much, broke the rules

Teacher thought I was hopeless fool alright



I don’t know how but I made it through

It’s one of those things that you’ve gotta do

But I always had a knack for telling the truth



Chorus



Still wondering why I’m here

Still wrestling with my fear

But oh, He’s up to something

And the farther on I go

I’ve seen enough to know

That I’m, not here for nothing

He’s up to something



So now’s my time to be a man

Follow my heart as far as I can

No telling where I’m ending up tonight

I never slow down or so it seems

But singing my heart it’s one of my dreams

All I gotta do is hold on tight



Chorus





In God's Love,

Sarah

Today's Devotion

Be Gentle




"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.~Ephesians 4:2"

Yesterday I talked about how the words help, helpful, and helping are constants coming out of my mouth, well gentle is another one that flows pretty easily and regularly as well with two active little boys who love to show each other their love through tackles, hits, and kicks! Yes I say "Aiden or Evan (whoever is the perpetrator at the moment) be gentle to your brother" more times than I can count. I don't think my boys are unusually aggressive or rough they are just boys and need to be reminded to be gentle. Something happens in adulthood and we don't get these reminders as often as maybe we should. And yes I think we need those reminders as well. Earlier today I had a group supervision meeting and there is a lady in our group who is very negative, and my initial thought to her was to give her a hug and say "it seems like you could use a hug". But did I do that? Nope of course not, why? I'm not quite sure probably my human nature took over and it was easier to just sit there and listen to her negative comments, and defend mine instead of being gentle and surrounding her with love. No I don't know her well but I think in this verse love is referring to that kind of love you show to one another even without knowing them, like giving a smile to someone on trail just to brighten their day, making small talk and smiling to an elderly woman at the grocery store. Nope I did not offer that kind of love or gentleness to my colleague instead I guess I've opted to be patient and wait for next month when I see her and cease the opportunity to show her that love and gentleness.



So today whatever your circumstances are in a relationship(s) be gentle, patient and love one another.



In God's Love,

Sarah:)

Today's Devotion

Our Forever Helper!



"Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me. ~ Psalm 54:4"



Being a parent as well as working with children and adults who work with children through my job I often say the phrase "Look..you are helpful" or "Please help me do x,y,z.." Yes this is something that we seem to say constantly throughout the day...maybe its not so frequent for people who work with adults for a living..but for me the word help is a much used 4 letter word~hopefully used more often than other not so helpful 4 letter words!



As Christians it is our responsibility and destiny to help and serve one another. But what to do when we feel helpless, and too exhausted to serve anyone? Easy, we simply call onto our Forever Helper, God. While we call onto our Lord our hearts, ears, and mind need to be open to his words and instructions. It's amazing to see in every day things how God answers prayers of help. I have a great example of how God did this for me just today. As I was picking Aiden up from preschool I was praying that it wouldn't start raining as I had packed a picnic lunch for the boys like I did last week because we had a great time playing and eating at the park while our nanny was in class. But today the sky was dark, cloudy, and no sun in sight. I was really looking forward to our time at the park today and prayed for the skies to clear, and you know what, by the time we arrived at the park the sun was out and only pretty puffy clouds were out. In the car we had a nice discussion about how God helped us by moving the clouds and having the sun come out because he loves us so much and wanted us to have fun at the park. I know its a little example of how our Eternal Helper can help us but if he can take time to listen and move some clouds away for me and my children just imagine what else he can do for you!!! So today whatever you are facing know that God is there and wants you to call onto HIM for help. So just as we are called to help others lets allow God to help us and just go to HIM for help! Here is a song just about that.



My Help comes from the Lord by The Museum

When sorrows come and hope seems gone

You're the rock I rest upon

When waters rise and I can't breathe

You're the love that rescues me



[Bridge:]

Out of the darkness I lift up my eyes

Unto the hills I feel my faith rise



[Chorus 1:]

Maker of heaven, giver of life

You are my strength my song in the night My refuge my shelter Now and forevermore My help comes from the Lord



[Verse 2:]

When I'm broken scarred by sin

Death gives way to life again

When I suffer when I doubt

In you I'm free in you I'm found



[Repeat Bridge:]

[Repeat Chorus:]



[Chorus 2:]

Maker of heaven, giver of life

You are my strength

You're my refuge

Now and forevermore...



In God's Love,

Sarah

Today's Devotion

Discipline




"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever ~Hebrews 13:8, NLT "The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love~Psalm 103:8, New International Version"



I hope you all had a wonderful weekend, I had a very relaxing and eye opening weekend. I spent much of the boys' naptime on Saturday reading a book I actually got for work but its on discipline so found it helpful for me personally as well being a parent, as well as reading my Bible. Throughout my readings in both of these wonderful resource books I found the exact same message love is better than fear or anger. Yesterday during church the sermon was on blended families and how we are all brothers and sisters in Christ, and how the first Blended Family was Mary, Joseph and Jesus. I feel tremendously blessed to have a wonderful family in my husband, and two children as well as an awesome extended family with my sisters, brother in laws, parents, neices, and nephew (still only 1 but maybe another one in a few weeks depending if Sheldi has a boy or girl!:) But I also have wonderful friends who are my family through our relationship with Christ.



Okay boy this is really all over the place this morning...sorry. Back to what I think God wants me to share with you today. HE is a loving, compassionate and slow to anger no matter what he loves us. I think disciplining children is one of the most difficult things I've ever done in my life, and I think I've completed some pretty challenging things, college, master degree, 10K, ect. But all of those combined does not equate to the difficulty that is disciplining children!!! Over and over i've read this weekend about how to discipline with love not fear, and over and over I read in the Bible how God loves us no matter what. If we are to be Christ like in all that we do I think I will try to model my discipline practices after HIM and guide my children lovingly rather than quickly anger and make them scared. One of the key principles in the discipline book I'm reading is "Be the person you want your child to become". I think that is a great message and to extend on that I think we want to be person God wants us to be so we can raise godly children. And in those moments when I am displaying the person that I'm not proud of and definately don't want my children to become, I can take comfort in knowing that Jesus Christ is the same today as he was yesterday and will be tomorrow, I can say a prayer thanking him for his grace, and ask him for guidance on how to guide my children. Remember he took Paul who killed Christians and then became one of greatest leaders of Christianity, all of this through Jesus' love. So if Jesus did that many yesterdays ago he can help us be better parents today and tomorrow! It's a challenge I'm putting forth for myself as well as all my brothers, and sisters in Christ!



In God's Love,

Sarah

Today's Devotion

My mom wrote this today and thought I'd use it today as it ministered to me and hope it does the same for you as well:)


Remembering




Even the darkness is light to You.And night is as bright as the day.Darkness and light are alike to You.Psalm 139:12,For we walk by faith not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7



I don't think any of us can think of this date and not get a lump in our throat. The first verse may seem confusing is light and darkness the same to God. I think a little is lost in translation. I think what this verse is saying is that God's light dispels darkness. The darkness is the same to to God because HE controls all. HE sees the end result the final result of all darkness being cast into the darkness of hell where it belongs.



We live in the here and now and its difficult to see other than what is right in front of us. And if we live be the second verse For we walk be faith not by sight Then we can live in the light constantly. Because we are not walking by our circumstances or our feeling or our fears. We are walking hand in hand with the author of faith our Savior! Walk with HIM today. Take HIS hand and follow step by careful step. Its okay h that you don't know where he is leading because HE knows the way...He created the way!



Pray today for all those who have been affected directly by 9/11!

Friendships

I'm writing tonight just to document and journal my thoughts thats what blogs are for right?? Anyways, this evening I had a wonderful time chatting with a old high school classmate for a few minutes, and reconnecting with a childhood church friend after dinner. It really got me thinking about my experiences with friends throughout my life. Ever since I was a very small child I always felt like I was on the outside of my peer group....this coninued on through Jr. High, High School and even college. You know I had friends but I always viewed all the rest of the group of friends closer to one another than I was to any of them, and I think for the most part my interpretation was probably correct. I can remember in grade school being isolated from my group of friends because they thought I was "too preppy" and sitting and just crying on my moms lap saying "why doesn't anyone want to be my friend?" these feelings continued to haunt me at times. But here recently I seem to be blessed with a ton of friends some quite new others older friends from a different lifetime ago, like my friend Pam. We have not seen each other for close to 20 years until this evening, and yea there were some awkward silences a few times, trying to catch our breaths from catching up from so much lost time, but overall our visit was wonderful, and quite amazing how even as adults childhood friends still have a lot in common and similar beliefs and interest. And I know our friendship will grow even more now that we are adults. I'm not sure what has happened over the last year or so, am I more confident, self-assured that I don't care what others think of me, are people just more friendlier now than they were before, am I choosing better friends? I'm not quite sure what it is, but I think it's a combination of just being more mature, confident, and allowing God to work in my life. I'm more happy because of that relationship with God and so people may just be drawn to fellowship with me, not sure but I'm sure thankful and feeling blessed for the wonderful friendships I have!

Today's Devotion

Riches?!


Do not be overawed when a man grows rich, when the splendor of his house increases; for he will take nothing with him when he dies, his splendor will not descend with him. A man who has riches without understanding is like the beasts that perish.Psalm 49:16-17, 20"



One of the 10 commandments is "Do not covet what others have" but goodness as humans don't we often wish our house was like that of someone elses, or had less financial worries like others? I think this is a constant issue for many couples in our era. We've become a society of wanting to "Keep up with the Jones'"! Sadly this is probably nothing new, I remember my mom talking about this issue saying during their early years of being married my parents would also get caught up in this game with their friends. I know this is kind of sounding a bit negative this morning but I'll get to the positive and hopefully encouraging part in a minute:) Yes we are humans we want what others have, but really does it matter how much money we make, what our home is like, what kind of car we drive or what our entertainment system includes? NO it really doesn't, because do any of those things bring us true happiness or stay with us throughout eternity? Nope...yes they may provide us with extra luxaries and comfort but true happiness and eternity not at all. Well here comes the good news, a relationship with Jesus Christ provides that true happiness and is everlasting. And you know what else no matter what Jesus will never say we need a new TV to view a football game (no this has never happened...but our house is usually never first on the list to view football games:) No all he asks is that we join him in fellowship, and everything he has to offer is richer than anything on this earth. So today I encourage you to get spiritually rich through a relationship with HIM!



In God's Love,

Sarah

Today's Devotion

Do HIS WILL




Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.-- Psalm 143:10



This is going to be short and hopefully sweet today because honestly I'm just having a wonderful afternoon visiting with my mom while the boys nap.

We often try to do things on our own, our own will which may not be what God would have us do, but like any human we blindly try it on our own. Most often though we come crawling back asking for God's guidance and wisdom. Today I encourage you to reflect, listen, and do God's will. Whether it be reaching out to a new mom, making a meal, sharing a Bible story with your children, or fellowshiping with other believers, do it and be blessed. The more we do God's will the more the Spirit will work in and through us, and what a wonderful result that is.



So today what is God's will for you?



In God's Love,

Sarah:)

Today's Devotion

Being Persecuted




"Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.Matthew 5:10"



The definition of persecuted according to Websters is to pursue with harassing or oppressive treatment, esp. because of religion, race, or beliefs; harass persistently. Last week I felt like I was being persecuted, no I wasn't being prisoned for my beliefs like many before me have, but I did feel judged, harrassed and mistreated because of my religion and the way I live out my religion. As some of you may know someone put on my scripture post last week that I should check out an article on CNN about facebook boosting egos. I may have read too much into this comment but I took it as this person was saying by posting daily scriptures I was some how feeling that I was better than others and getting an ego from it. It initially really upset me, I deleted the comment and reached out for support and encouragement, and even thought about quitting my daily scripture posts. But after some reflection, encouragment, and time in God's word I've come to the conclusion that this comment was just proof that I am doing what God wants me to. We may be ridiculed, harrased, mistreated and even persecuted for our beliefs but you know what that is okay, because God is preparing for us a place in Heaven, and its our job to live righteously, and for HIM regardless of the negativity that comes from it. And what to do if we are prosecuted well I think we continue to reach out and love on those who mistreat us, that is what Jesus calls us to do as well. So whatever your prosecution is today, a sly comment from another facebooker, a coworker mocking your beliefs, or a professor refuting your beliefs know that what you have is stronger, and more powerful than any insult!!! Yes we have a loving, powerful, and Awesome God behind us all the time.



In God's Love,

Sarah

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Today's Devotion

Out of the darkness!




"Jesus said, "I am light, and I came into this world. I came so that every person that believes in me would not stay in darkness.-- John 12:46 (ERV)"



It is a beautiful day outside, cool fall type temps, sun is shinig, the birds are singing, BUT I've not been able to appreciate it because of yet another challenging day with my two blessings. I don't mean to complain I know we are blessed there are just several challenges right now with both of them and it being Friday my single mommy mind is getting ready for Nathen's return home and I'm just about on empty. So yes today I've felt a little overwhelmed, stressed, annoyed, and well just not recognizing the brightness of our day today. During naptime both boys were crying and screaming something that is pretty unusual...they usually both transition well into nap time but today was a challenge and for a while a very dark place--I kept telling myself to remain calm which I think I did for the most part, but the crying and screaming was overwhelming. And after some time (i'm not sure how long but it seemed like forever) Aiden dried his tears and said "Mommy read me my Bible". My 3 year old son knew how to get us out of the darkness of a challenging naptime. All three of us sat and rocked and read Bible story after Bible story until they both fell asleep. As I was reading about the miracles performed, parables told, and the rising of Jesus I couldn't help but feel like I had entered into a brighter part of our day, even if they hadn't fallen asleep I think I would still feel this way because of all the stories we read it just put me in a better place emotionally and spiritually. I know the "darkness" I refer to is really minor compared to what others may be faced with, addictions, negative relationships and the like; but God is an awesome and loving God and will help each of us out of the darkness if we only let HIM work in our lives...even if that work is facilitated by our children as it was today with me. So whatever you are going through today pull out your Bible and do some reading and praying you will feel lightness come into your day as well.



Have a wonderful holiday weekend,

IN God's love,

Sarah

Today's Devotion

PRAISE HIM!!!




"Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy. How awesome is the LORD Most High,

the great King over all the earth! ~Psalm 47:1,2"



Yesterday we looked at how God is there during our most troubled times and to cry out to him, well today I want to focus on praising him and recognizing his awesomeness (if that is a word:). I hope you all have experienced the wonderful sight of children praising God it is really the most precious thing to watch. Our boys are still listening to their VBS songs from earlier in the summer praising God. If you are having a rough day I encourage you to think of my boys lifting their hands, dancing, and signing to glorify God...that will for sure put a smile on your face it does mine. Something happens though as we get older, I see it even in church on Sunday mornings we don't lift our hands and cry out in joy when praising. Yes we may sing and nod our heads (I think the men's favorite form of worship--no singing but just head nodding). This passed Sunday I noticed a young probably college aged girl who was rejoicing and praising God during our worship time, but I noticed her hands lifted up by her side...almost retraining herself from raising them up high. Of course I do not know this person at all and am just using this as an illustration of how even the strongest Christians in what should be safest place for worship feel need to restrain their joy and praises to God. WHY do we restrain ourselves from praising our most awesome God, the one who gave us everlasting life? The only thing I can come up with is our human embarrassment, I'm guilty of that...I sing outloud during worship but for some reason feel like I would be looked at weird if I raised my hands and really really gotten into my praise and worship time. Honestly we should not care what others think of us especially if it gets in our way of having a meaninful praise time with our Loving God. So my challenge to you and myself is really praise and worship HIM....and if we feel embarrased well that is a small price to pay for everything God has done for us, don't you think?:)





Here is a song to get you started:)

Oh Praise Him by David Crowder Band

Turn your ear

To Heaven and hear

The noise inside

The sound of angels awe

The sound of angels' songs

And all this for a King

We could join and sing

'All to Christ our King!'



How constant

How divine

This song of ours will rise

Oh, how constant

How divine

This love of ours will rise

Will rise...



CHORUS:

Ohh praise Him!

Ohh praise Him!

He is Holy!

He is Holy!



Turn your gaze

To Heaven and raise

A joyous noise

Oh the sound of salvation come

The sound of rescued ones

And all this for a king

Angels join to sing

'All for Christ our King!'





CHORUS {x2}



Oh la la la la la la..

Oh la la la la la la..

Oh la la la la la... laaa laa laa laaa!



CHORUS



How infinite and sweet

This love so rescuing

Oh how infinitely sweet

This great love that has redeemed

As one, we sing...



OUTRO:

Hallelujah,

Hallelujah

He is Holy,

He is Holy



OUTRO



CHORUS



Oh la la la la la la..

Oh la la la la la la..

Oh la la la la la... laaa laa laa laaa!



OUTRO



CHORUS



Oh la la la la la la..

Oh la la la la la la..

Oh la la la la la... laaa laa laa laaa laa!



Happy praising!!



In God's Love,

Sarah

Today's Devotion

Always There


God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.The Lord Almighty is with us~Psalm 46:1,2,5,7

Today has been a challenging but rewarding day. Yes this is not a typo although it was quite challenging at the end of the day I feel I've grown, learned and yes even received an reward!

I'd been trying to figure out what scripture to use all day and trying to find the time to figure that out (not an easy task with 2 active boys:). And finally after my lovely blessings were asleep I read this chapter in Psalm and it was like a big pat on the back from Our Loving Heavenly Father saying "Sarah I've been here all day for you just waiting for you". Yes I did turn to God throughout the day, praying please help me manage my emotions and be a good mom today. And thankfully my mom was here today and we had a wonderful talk about how sometimes we can have everything but still feel down and defeated which often may be a spiritual attack from satan. Well not to sound too crazy I really felt I was being attacked today, my children were really pretty good today but I WAS NOT, I was cranky, snappy, irritable and just not portraying the Christian mother that I strive to be. As I read this verse tonight I found it interestingly comforting that "her" was used instead of him. Even way back then God understood the stressors that females face. No matter the stressor in our life nothing is too big for God even the worse attack by Satan is an easy battle for our Almighty God. We simply just need to recognize HIM as our ever present shelter and refuge during our troubled times because he is always there waiting to pick us up dust us off and set us back on the path again.

Even the youngest little hearts know that God is Always there, in the last few days I've noticed Aiden singing "he's always always there"....which I think is probably a song he heard on KLOVE Always by Switchfoot. We need to have that song running through our head, mind, and hearts daily just as he has here recently. Here are the lyrics to help you with that task:)

Switchfoot Always Lyrics Songwriters: Foreman, Jon;


This is the star, this is your heartThis is the day you were bornThis is the sun, these are your lungsThis is the day you were bornd I am always, always, always yoursAnd I am always, always, always yours





These are the scars deep in your heartThis is the place you were bornAnd this is the hole where most of your soul comes ripping outFrom the places you've been torn





And it is always, always, always yoursAnd I am always, I'm always, I'm always yours





Hallelujah, I'm caving inHallelujah, I'm in love againHallelujah, I'm a wretched manHallelujah, every breath is a second chance, yeah





And it is always, always, always yoursAnd I am always, I'm always, always yoursAlways, always, I'm always yours, I'm yoursAlways, always, I am always yours











In God's Love,



Sarah:)