Being a Godly Mother in Today’s Generation

My heart has always been for women. It helps that I am one, but I believe that it’s more than that. God has placed within me a desire to see women of all ages fulfill their divine destiny no matter what their past; no matter what their present situations.

On Mother’s Day, I spoke a message called, “Being a Godly Mother in Today’s Generation.” I believe that the Lord had given me not only a message about parenting, but a charge to all moms to stand up and be bold about how God wants us to raise our kids. We can be encouraged in knowing that God is with us in our motherhood, and He has given us the ability and the grace to be excellent moms.

In today’s society, being a mother can be difficult. We can find ourselves feeling pressured to make decisions that are not cohesive with the Word of God. If we give in to those pressures, we can find ourselves questioning if what we’re doing will produce the end results that we’re looking for.

We are completely invested in our kids; financially, emotionally, spiritually; and we want to make sure that our kids will turn out okay. We have a desire for our children to ultimately follow Jesus whole-heartedly and fulfill the plan of God for their lives, but some of us wrestle with the questions, “Am I doing a good job?” or “Am I teaching them the right things?” For any moment of insecurity, the best remedy is the Word of God. 

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 in the Amplified version says,  “Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily. 5 It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God’s love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered wrong]. 6 It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail. 7 Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening]. 8 Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end]. As for prophecy (the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), it will be fulfilled and pass away; as for tongues, they will be destroyed and cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away [it will lose its value and be superseded by truth]. 

In response to loving our kids, Proverbs 31:28 in the Amplified version says, “Her children rise up and call her blessed (happy, fortunate, and to be envied);”. 

Jesus taught His disciples about love. God is love and Jesus was our example of who the Father is. Loving our children the way the Bible says to love is how God loves us. His very nature is shed abroad in our hearts when we become born again which means that we have the ability to love as He loves. 

The level of respect and love that our kids show us in return is a clear indication of whether or not we are truly loving them. Our children are learning what they see from us and if they see God’s love, they will love in return.

Our children know when they are being loved, but as moms, we need understand that love is not always giving sweets, buying toys, or running all over creation just appease their desires. It’s not even giving in to the temper tantrums or the constant begging that might be driving us crazy. 

Love disciplines and Love comforts. Love heals and Love corrects. There is a balance between being understanding and creating a standard of holiness in our homes. With the Holy Spirit’s help and the direction of the Word, we can find that balance and raise our children according to God’s will.

We need to stop comparing ourselves to the other moms in our circles and solely compare ourselves to Jesus. Christ is the One who set us in charge of our little ones and He is the One that we are accountable to. In the end it is Love that NEVER fails.

Living a life of worship

Worship has so many facets. It is part of our being as believers and it is at the core of everything we do for God. When I think about worship, I think about the word surrender. An absolute relinquishing of our abilities and completely embracing Him as our refuge and our hope. 

Paul said in Romans 12:1 that our spiritual service of worship is to present our bodies a living sacrifice to God. “Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.”

Worship isn’t always about the music, but about the heart. It’s a heart condition that is in a constant state of consecration to the Lord. As we live a life of worship, we lift up a fragrance that is pleasing to the Lord and what a wonderful privilege that is!

Knowing that we are walking around sending a fragrance up to Heaven that God is pleased with is pretty amazing. Being aware that He is with us always and that He enjoys fellowship with us is really comforting. Realizing that I can talk with my Heavenly Father and sing to Him anywhere I am at any time of day makes me see that worship is not just about being at church or being on stage. Worship is part of my relationship with the Lord.

Through Jesus, we have gained access to the presence of God and by Jesus’ blood, we are in made to be in right standing with Him. When the veil was torn in the temple while Jesus hung on the cross, God made it possible for us to enter into communion with Him as His children and not just as servants of the Lord. In other words, by consecrating ourselves to Him, we maintain the heart of a servant, but because of the sacrifice of Jesus, we have been adopted into the family of God and now we can call Him Father. 

It is my ultimate goal in life to please my Father in Heaven. It is He who created me, it is He who designed a way for me to receive salvation, it is He who gave His Son for me, it is He who provided all that I need, it is He who sought after me and redeemed me. The least I can give to Him is my heart, my life, and all that I have for His purpose.

All to Jesus,

Pastor Rachel Clements

Worship Leader

Bakery Day!

Today marks a NEW baked items in the pantry day! If you haven't already checked out my Nic-Nac Corner, I encourage you to do so. I hand craft wooden letters for home or office decor, and I can create anything you can dream up! Whether it be initials, words, or phrases, I can put it together. 

Here recently, I opened a bakery along side my lettering business. My business dream is to one day open a market that includes a knick knack store, a farmer's stand, a cafe, and a seasonal barn. The cafe would include a pantry full of baked goods, including cakes, pies, donuts, and cupcakes. 

This bakery that I opened, is literally out of my kitchen at home for now, but I love to bake and I love to share from food. I named it "Abigail's Bakery" because my oldest daughter Abby loves to help me in the kitchen. She and I are like pie and ice-cream, and my desire is to include my family in this business venture as much as possible. 

Last month, I sold Lemon Zucchini Bread as my very first item and it was a hit! Of course, I love using in-season produce and seasonal flavors, so this recipe is no longer available until next July. However, I would like to introduce two new items for the month of August!!

Strawberry Banana Bread and Blueberry Muffin Cake! Don't they sound scrumptious? I am really excited about the future with my bakery and I would love for you to get in on the fun!!

I am currently updating my website by adding a pantry shop, but you can place an order for the bread or cake by stopping by my Facebook page.

All you have to do is message me and let me know what you would like. I am also updating my payment options, but in the mean time, I will be able to send you an invoice via Paypal for your order.

While you're browsing my page and also my website, feel free to look at my work with wooden letters. I would love to create a design for you!!

WHAT'S TO COME -- already designed, ready to hang wooden letters!! Just choose what letters you want and we'll ship them to you or have them ready for you to pick up!




*Comment below if you have used my services or have purchased anything from the bakery!

**If you would like to subscribe to my monthly newsletter, type the word SUBSCRIBE below! I'll be sharing stories, including blogs, and updating you on new improvements to Rachel's Nic-Nac Corner!

~ Be blessed today!!

How many weeks till Christmas????

I don't know what it is, but right in the middle of the summer, July to be exact, I start to feel a change in seasons. It happens when I'm not even thinking about it. 

All of a sudden, it's like I begin to smell cinnamon, feel a chill in the hear, and hear the crunch of autumn leaves. Then I get a thrill of excitement with the thought of the holidays right behind that!

Why am I thinking, and always have been, about Christmas, Thanksgiving, and school in the middle of July?! I don't know if it's just my instinct to plan ahead, but I cannot help but embrace the ride when it comes through my mind. 

When I was a child, I looked forward to school. I couldn't wait to get supplies and new clothes, and then find out who my new teacher would be and what class my friends were. I counted down the days when August hit until the first day of school.

Today, I look forward to the school year of course a little differently since my kids are going into 3rd and 1st grade. Buying clothes and supplies is still fun, but the kids are the ones that enjoy it the most. 

Preferably, I would love to be homeschool again. However, as much as I love to teach, having their education on my shoulders isn't necessarily something I want to commit to whole heartedly. I feel that I am too much of a business and task oriented kind of person that having to be strapped to their side would be too much. 

Yet, here recently, some upgrades have been incorporated to the homeschool program that I grew up with called Abeka. It would allow the kids to do their school work in front of dvds or stream so that I would not have to do the teaching, but I would be grading their work and making sure they get it done. 

That might be fun! However, when I think about school, I begin to think about fall. Apples, pumpkins, turkey, leaves, cooler and darker days, sweaters, and fires. I just love the fall!!

Of course, it makes me think of decorating my house and baking all season. And then when Harvest comes around, I love taking the kids to corn mazes and rides on hay wagons. It's the seasonal traditions, I think, that make me look forward to this time of year. 



Afterwards, is Thanksgiving and then Christmas. This always causes me to go in to a spiral because ever year, just about, I want to be the one that cooks the entire Thanksgiving meal and I want everyone to come over to our house. Yeah right!

My over achievements sometimes make me bite on to more than I can chew, but it's the heart behind why that I romanticize about. I love people, I love to serve, and I love food!! What a better holiday to express all of those things!

Though I am getting ahead of myself in that regard; you can always plan a meal; it makes me think that I need to start planning for Christmas! What do I want to get my family? My husband? My kids? What crafts or activities do I want to do? Where should we go to see Christmas attractions during the season?

These are the thoughts the race through my brain as we approach the school year. Ha ha ha. At this moment, I work full-time, so trying to fit in the special breakfasts, movies, hot cocoa, gingerbread house tour, tends to be a little exhausted (go figure). Not to mention wrapping and shipping, shopping and visiting, planning adult parties and attending classroom parties. 

December, I would have to say, is one of two most busy months on my calendar. However, no matter how tired I am at the end of the season; No matter how quickly Christmas arrives; I leave the Christmas season warmed and filled with memories and love. 

The new school year always begins with good intentions of packing lunches, laying out clothes, pre planning weekends of fun, and holiday details, but this year needs to have a new attitude from me, I believe.

This year, teaching the kids how to pack their own lunches and lay out their own clothes. Planning less and enjoying the spontaneous moments more. Keeping Christmas simple and taking off more from work in order to slow down and enjoy the kids who are growing up way.....too.....fast.

I encourage you and myself to feel the warmth of summer and soak up every second of freedom from the school rush for right now. But when the school year begins, remember that when you watch your children climb onto the bus or walk into the school, that whether you're as involved in their life as much as you would like or not, God's hand is available to be placed on them while you're away. 

Wait in anticipation for the temperature to shift and let the autumn beauty consume you while you watch your children develop more and more into the person God created them to be. And as we approach the sports and holiday seasons, remember that doing what our neighbors do may not always be the best. Sometimes, less is more. 

Strategically ask the Lord for His guidance and direction even when it comes to extra curricular activities and Christmas presents. He has a way of leading us to being wise with our time, energy, and money. 

I love this life and all the beauty that it has to offer. Kiss your spouse. Hug your kids. Praise the Lord. Breathe deep. Dance. Sing. Laugh. Give. This life is ours to live for Him. Make it everything you and He dream for it to be!

Empowered

Have you ever felt inadequate? Have you ever felt that your best was not good enough? Well, I would have to say that in the last couple of weeks, that is how I have felt. However, if I went by how I felt, I would never accomplish anything. 

As a mom, my intentions begin on a good note. I tell myself to be more patient, understanding, calm; but something always happens to get me irritated and then before I know it, I'm raising my voice and sending the kids to bed earlier than planned just so I can get them out of my hair. 

As a wife, my intentions begin on a good note as well. I plan to spend time with my husband, being kind and affectionate; but something might happen that changes my plans. He might have to step out that evening or chores might have to be done instead because we didn't have time during the weekend. 

As a believer, my intentions begin on a good note. I plan to spend time with Jesus first thing in the morning, keep the Word in front of me, listen to worship music and pray during the day. Then I realize that we have no food in the house and I have to run before I go to work, just to have enough time to get to work on time. 

Errands, house work, responsibilities.....all screaming to get my attention while I struggle to juggle all of my hopes, dreams, ambitions, and desires. Ultimately, my heart is to love my Savior more than yesterday, serve my husband better than yesterday, pour into my kids more than yesterday, do a better job at work than yesterday, and do more in ministry than yesterday. But let's just face it, we are all human and doing all of this in our own strength just plain wears us out!

That is why the Shepard invites us to sit in His pasture and drink from His streams. It is tempting to be Martha in our "doing". Especially us ladies. We see every problem as an invitation to help when not everything requires our personal attention. We can be good at creating problems in our minds that aren't really that big of a deal. 

However, choosing a life in the Spirit rather than a life in the flesh, we find a place that we can rest. We can cast our care on the Lord in all of the areas of our lives, whether we're concerned about something or not. We can draw from the well a refreshing drink of abundant life. We can rise above issues and fear because He has raised us up. 

Even in our natural responsibilities and relationships, Jesus has the wisdom that we need to do it right. So, when things get a little hairy and don't work out right; or when it just doesn't make sense, choosing Spirit over flesh will always bring the reward. 

You might be asking, "well, what does that even mean?" I'll tell you. When you "feel" inadequate remember Who's you are. When you need rest, remember where to draw your strength. Choosing to respond in love rather than in exasperation is choosing to draw from your spirit man rather than your natural man. God is in you if you are born again, and your spirit is where He will communicate and restore you. 

That restoration will affect your soul and bring peace to your mind, a song to your heart and strength to your body. Believe me, I am encouraging myself in saying this. Mary, Martha's sister, learned something that I have to remind myself to do every day. When Jesus was in her house teaching, she took time to stop everything else and sit at His feet to listen. 

If we will learn to keep our Spirit man sensitive to the things of the Spirit, and keep our minds renewed in the Word of God, we will have a foundation that will sustain us even when things don't go as planned. 

The best illustration for this is watching a dry sponge soak up water. When you place it in a dish, that sponge will soak up as much water as it can hold, until someone squeezes it. Then the water the sponge soaked up, will automatically come pouring out. 

It's the same way with us. If we continue to live in a carnal state that stays more aware of our flesh and outside situations, we will run aground and become dry and frustrated. But if we will choose the Spirit, feasting on His Word every chance we get, spending time in His presence and being obedient to His Word, we will have a flood of refreshing water that will cleanse and thrust us forward to accomplishing much for the Lord in our families and communities. 

Kids, work, life will all try to withdraw out of your bank until you have an enormous deficit. Keeping Christ in the center of your heart, will remind us of our identity, our ability, and our position. Don't let life run you over. Triumph over it all and enjoy every day that you have on this earth. 

Heaven is now.

So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. Romans 8:6

Faith

What we pick up with our senses and what the Bible says about our situations are not always going to match. Especially when there is an attack. That's why Hebrews says, faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 

When we approach God according to our trust in what we "see" then we are not taking God at His Word. We are not fully persuaded in what He has already done on the cross. We are actually magnifying the situation above God's love for us, His complete provision and His power to intervene.

But when we come boldly into His presence and speak in faith declaring the Word of God over our situation, those things that don't line up with God's will for our lives will begin to change. Faith initiates change, and understanding His love for us helps us to realize that if He wants heaven on earth for us, then how can we belittle what Jesus has done for us by allowing brokenness to settle in?

He is the ALL SUFFICIENT ONE. Not the maybe, might, half-way, watered down, if He feels like, I might have to help Him, respecter of persons kind of god. He is an all consuming Fire that has taken our fallen state as sinners and brought us up to sit with Him in heavenly places as Kings and Priests. Just as royalty would only have the best, GOD PROVIDED FOR YOU AND ME TO HAVE ONLY THE BEST -- IN THIS WORLD NOT JUST THE ONE TO COME.

Parenting like God

Parenting is not for the faint of heart. It's tough, inconvenient, and just plain messy. I struggle between being too tired to even think, so I just say whatever to get the kids to move; to being romantic with their existence and I just give into anything they do. I know that my kids love me for who I am, but is who I am really effecting them in the best possible way?

You have probably heard the saying, "There is no manual for raising kids", but I beg to differ. The Bible is exactly what every parent needs to not only survive, but to create within each child, the heart to chase after God and become exactly who He intended them to be. 

That sounds a little daunting, but I will have to say, that if it wasn't for the Holy Spirit, I would be utterly lost. As a mom, I have come to the realization that my kids are not like everyone else's kids, but our Creator made them individually different on purpose. For a purpose that gives Him glory and honor. 

I have humbled myself to a place that in my heart, I know I need His help. I mean I didn't ask Jesus to be my Lord without the understanding that He needs to be Lord in every area of my life, but it is a daily humbling that brings me back to Him as my center for how I use my voice, my hands, and my decisions concerning my kiddos. 

The Bible talks about spanking, about honoring your parents, about not provoking your children. It talks about listening to your parents and giving a inheritance to your children. All in all, where is the balance of discipline? How tough should I be with wrong behavior? How much should I allow them to have of any good thing?

I was teaching last Wednesday night about the effects of being filled with the Spirit of God. When we become filled with the Spirit, we become filled with the very nature and power of God. Not only is God's love shed abroad our hearts when we accept Christ, but then being baptized in the Spirit, we have the nature and power of God to act just like He does, which is love.

So here is where it all comes down. We will have the most success as parents when we know what the Bible says concerning parenting and then do it. But we cannot forget also the element of how. How do we discipline? How do we speak to our children? How do we raise them?

We must look at how God responds to us when we make a mistake, or down right rebel. Does he yell at us? Does he correct out of anger? No. Though He is firm when it comes to sin, He is gentle and affirming to us. He draws us back into His presence by pointing out what we've done wrong and reminding us that we need to repent. 

Once we repent and make a change, He is quick to forgive and does not remember what we've done, also reminds us of our righteous position with Him. We must stop bringing up our child's past as a way to jab or remind them of their shortcomings. We must parent as God does. 

Even when we are growing, God never gives us what we cannot handle nor does He expect us to handle it well. It might be a stretch sometimes or a challenge, but whatever He does give us helps us to grow. Anything we cannot handle He won't give to us. Additionally, He doesn't give us anything that isn't good. How much more should we?

My heart behind this blog post is not to condemn, but rather encourage. You have what it takes to be an awesome parent. We are not perfect and we have made mistakes, but take the stance as Christ does. He sees you as forgiven and being perfected, so give yourself a break and forgive yourself of anything you feel you've done wrong. A lot of times, it's not as bad as we think.  

Take the reigns with God. Allow His presence, love and laughter exude from you with your kids. He loves them even more than we do, and He wants to work with us. He was the One that chose them to be your kids and He is the One that chose YOU to be their parents. He knew what He was doing and He gave us the tools to parent well. 

Spend time in His presence when you need to get your mind right. Spend time in His Word to find out how to raise your children in a scriptural manner. Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance concerning the uncertain and the unknown. He will give you the wisdom that you need. 

Parenting like God takes determination, discipline, and commitment. However, I can guarantee that when we apply the Word and allow His nature to flow through us, not only will we have more success in parenting, but the relationship that we have with our kids will become heaven on earth. 

Proverbs 22:6

Rachel's Nic-Nac Corner

Last year, I discovered Chip and Joanna Gaines. I will have to be honest, I absolutely love them! I love what they do, what they stand for, and what they believe. I also love the fact that Joanna does almost everything that I have always wanted to do!

For a while now, I have had the idea of beginning a road side lunch spot that sells fresh picked veggies and fruit, baked goods, flowers, and lunches and snacks. I have wanted to turn that into a cafe with a store of knick knacks and a barn that opens seasonally for the holidays. 

I started a small business through Facebook called Rachel's Nic-Nac Corner with the intention of heading down that path. I began with custom designed hand painted letters which worked for a while, but then I had a couple of kids and the idea went on the shelf for a little while. 

Just recently with Fixer Upper on TV, did the idea come back to life in my mind. I started to really market my service and got a few orders. Overall, I designed six names for different customers. I was really excited!!

I wanted to venture out and start parties, but because of other responsibilities, I was unable to dedicate time to it. Although, it's still an idea for the future. I am now going to make already designed letters that people can pick from with different designs and colors so that I can have a back stock of letters and I can sell them immediately. 

I am also looking to sell wreaths and Christmas tree services, but I have to take one step at a time. Right now, I have just opened another wing of my Nic-Nac Corner that is the Bakery. I began just this week by selling Lemon Zucchini Bread. I sold two already, invoiced for another, and have a few orders on hold. 

I am so excited about the idea of all of this because I know that not only does it entail me doing what I love, but it also brings joy to others, and supports good things. The proceeds go to missions, local churches, and other outreaches that minister the gospel around the world. 

If you are interested in finding out more about my services, products or organizations that I support, go to my facebook page https://www.facebook.com/nicnaccorner/

You'll be able to also order anything that you see. If you have any questions, feel free to message me!!

Health Journey Day 4

Okay, so my intentions with this blog was to write an entry every day. Ha ha ha, well you know how that works out when you're working full time and you have a family as well as other responsibilities. 

However, I do want to post maybe at least once a week. I began the 21 day fix again on Monday, and that is something that I would like to post about today.

I've done the 3 week program now about 1 - 2 times already, but not consecutively. This time, I intend to see it through. First of all, the workouts are only 30 minutes long, and though you can't cheat your way to losing weight or defining muscle, they are only long enough to do some damage, but short enough to feel like you didn't really spend too much time out of your day. 

Second of all, the food is great. The last couple times I did the 21 day fix, I used their Shakeology, which is amazing by the way, but I didn't want to spend the money this time. However, I found that protein, fat-free greek yogurt is a perfect substitute!

I eat lean proteins, healthy carbs, lots of veggies and fruit, plenty of water, and a taste of fats and oils. Just enough to say that I can have what I love without over doing it. The program is laid out for you, it just takes commitment to show up to the "gym" and dedication to cook and pack your food. 

I have always wanted to be healthy, but I have come to the realization that it is not just going to happen. Of course that's true, but coming to terms with that is understanding that you have been doing it the easy way up until this point. That's why you feel the way you do and look the way you do. If you don't like it then you're going to have to change the way you have been doing things. 

So, I am on day four. I have worked out for 2 days so far, planning on working out today, but couldn't yesterday because of time and responsibilities. I ate right though the last three days and I am eating right today. 

I already have had the temptations of eating whatever I feel like eating, but of course that's not going to get me the results I want. I am only looking to do it for the three weeks to see where I end up, and then take it from there. It's not easy, but with God's help I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. 

I will keep you updated on the results. 

Health Journey

All my life, I have had an interest of being skinny. I was never extremely heavy, but my idea of beautiful was not what stared at me in the mirror when I was young. I always saw the girls in my grade as more attractive, and even friends that I hung out with I felt were much more pretty than I. 

It wasn't until I was pursued by my husband that all of the lies in my head subsided, but even then, the temptation of comparison was always lingering around. I felt that my hair wasn't as nice, or my measurements were right, or my features weren't as spectacular.

I had to get the Word in my heart and renew my mind. I had to tell myself that I was fearfully and wonderfully made. I had to tell myself that God does not make ugly people and I am loved. However, once I started to have children, I noticed that my body began to change. 

Of course, you might say. Well yes, I expected that, but my lifestyle changed. I was a stay at home mom off and on, but I never got back to the level of activity as I had been before kids. Our living situation changed which limited my space for exercise and then the weather of course plays a role as well as time itself. 

Recently, I just had our third child and she just turned one! Having a sit down job for the last 3 1/2 years has not helped my health at all and during pregnancy, made me put on a lot of extra weight....of course people tell me I look good, but I know where I came from. 

When I came back to work last summer, I knew that I was going to have to change some things in order to get back into a more healthy me. I found the 21 day fix and let me tell you, it works! I started the program in the fall of 2016 and continued right through the holidays. 

I lost about 15 pounds and felt great! However, because of time, I stopped after only 1 full round. I gained 5 pounds after I stopped, and now slowly the ounces want to creep back up. 

So, it is time to get back on the horse and ride, figuratively speaking HA! I am planning my meals and working out 30 minutes a day...only 30 minutes! I am looking forward to losing another 15 pounds and then we'll go from there. For 3 weeks, I can manage a work out regiment and change my eating. Just 3 weeks...and of course I have to keep telling myself that once I start ha ha ha. 

I am looking forward to blogging about my progress and if you would like to get involved with me just let me know!! 21 day fix is on!

Knowing your enemy

The enemy is subtle. The Bible says in 1 Peter 5:8 that he prowls around like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour. The amplified version says he is like a lion that is fiercely hungry. That means that he is in intentional, stealthy, clever, and tenacious. 

Have you ever watched one of those nation shows that goes to the African safari to follow a pride of lions? Hunting is one of the major pieces to their existence.

When a lion is on the prowl, they fix their eyes on the horizon and wait. Looking back and forth over their pride, they wait for a potential victim to appear in their view. Whether large or small, they know that whatever it is, the other animal is going down.

Stealthily, they creep up behind their prey; taking their time so they don't scare it away. A lioness will step and then pause, step and then pause, waiting for the perfect moment to pounce. The group of lions might be starving, but they wait patiently knowing that in the small amount of time it takes to perfectly set up their trap, they will then be able to feast for hours and not have to eat again for days. 

Closer and closer a lion will sneak up, almost freezing itself in motion so it isn't seen. A lion's poise and muscle control is focused and it's eyes are fixed on the target. A lioness will pick out a small and feeble animal, but can also bring down a wildebeest on her own. A pack of lions can bring down a giraffe or even an elephant. 

When she does seize the moment, a lioness will run at full speed, pounce at the victim, and sink her claws into the animals backside bringing it down to the ground. More lashings of her claws and then her teeth go straight for the jugular. She will tenaciously continue until the animal has no strength left. 

I've watched videos where a lioness will just drag the animal to a spot where she will just clamp down on the animal's neck and just wait until her prey is completely dead. Motionless, bleeding, fresh flesh to feast on for the whole family. 

Once the animal is lifeless, the pack will come and tear the carcass to pieces. Ripping muscles, pulling at bone, picking off every fiber of flesh from the skeleton. There is no mercy, no feeling, no thought as to the family that animal left behind. I mean these are animals, so of course they are just taking care of the instinct that God gave to them.

However, I want to bring a point here. Your enemy is the same way. Peter wouldn't have compared him to such a predator without the truth of his character being as such. Satan has his eye on each and everyone of us. He looks for ways to creep up behind us and set his trap. He looks for those who are isolated, lonely, hurting, sick, feeble, or alone. 

He speaks to our minds to try to gets picked off from the pack so we are easier targets for his hunting mission. He tells us things like no one cares, you aren't worthy, you'll never be well, why did God do this to you? His lies aren't new though. He started in the garden with Eve and now look at the mess that she and Adam created by yielding to his madness? 

Just remember how a lion brings it's prey down and how it feeds. Then think about the fact that that is what Satan wants to do to you. He will use whomever and whatever to get at you, but behind the faces of people or the evident situations, remember that he is the one behind it coming after you.

Here's the good news. We don't have a certain end like the wildebeest, giraffe or elephant. For us, God created a way of escape! 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, "No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it."

Who is the tempter? Satan himself. You don't have to be taken down by your enemy, God is on your side. What's even more exciting is that Jesus has already overcome and because we are in Him, we are more than conquerors, and greater is He that is in us that he that is in this world!

Being aware of who our enemy is will give us the edge that we need to stay sober, well balanced, self-disciplined, alert and cautious at all times as Peter commanded. He is cunning, but he is also defeated. In Christ we can know that we have authority over him, but he cannot be taken for granted. 

Knowing who our enemy is keeps us in victory. We can get the jump on him when he thinks he's got the jump on us.  

A brand new year

Today is a unique one. Today is the last day that I will be 33 years old. Overall I am content with what I have and where I am. I am in love with my husband of almost 12 years, I have three healthy and intelligent kids, our church is growing, and we have dreams and plans for the future. 

However, looking back through this last year, I realized that it's been quite a 'cruise control' type of year. Last year, I was recovering from maternity leave and it was tough for me to go back to work. We changed schools with the kids midyear and raised an infant. We just continued with our heads down with our jobs and responsibilities. 

Then, there was one day that just made me think about the fact that where we are locationally is where we need to comfortably call home until the Lord moves us elsewhere. We've been moving for so many years that this is the first place that I know we are going to stay at least for a little while. I also realized that the more I just put the kids to bed so I can have quiet time, or the more I just keep running from place to place; checking off my list, the list will just keep growing, but life is passing by. 

I see the kids growing up in front of me and I wonder if I am teaching them what I've always told myself I wanted to teach them? Do they know Jesus or are they just going to church? Is my marriage on coast or am I doing everything I can to make it better, deeper, more meaningful? Am I really communicating to people around me that I care about them or am I just staying busy doing things to say that I care.

There's just so much to gain and so much to lose in this life if we're not careful to focus our attention on the right things. 

Beginning tomorrow is a brand new year of life for me. It will include our 12th anniversary, another slue of holidays, another school year and children turning 2, 7, and 9. I believe that it will also include some major faith projects coming to fruition, but the question that I have for myself is AM I INTENTIONALLY INVESTING IN WHAT'S ETERNAL, RELATIONAL, AND MINE.

Is what I'm doing just spinning wheels, wearing myself out? Or am I making an impact? Does my husband know that I care, that I listen, that I do what he asks and that I do respect him? Do my kids know that they are important, that they are worth my time, that I do have time to play, and that God has a plan for them? Am I eating well, taking care of my body, my soul, my spirit? Am I taking time to rest and to play? Am I stewarding my money, my possessions and resources well? Am I doing what God told me to do, or just what I want?

That might seem a little heavy, but in my 33 years, I've seen how people waste their lives chasing after dreams without God's wisdom. I've seen them use up all their energy on things that don't matter or that will never be finished. I've seen people stay broke, sick, frustrated and unfulfilled; and I am just determined not to be one of them.

This year is the year I promise not to be perfect. I promise to not have all the answers or to be able to fix every problem. I promise to do the best that I can by leaning on Jesus for every moment that I live and by loving my family as fiercely as I can. I promise to grow from my mistakes and through the proving of my faith.

My goals are to accept more quickly when I am wrong and apologize, but also to change and forgive. My goals are to put important things first, and allow everything else to fall into place. My goal is to have less of me and more of Him. My goal is the make more space for my wellness and making memories.

This is it 33! Here comes a brand new 34!

Tomorrow

Tomorrow; the Bible has a lot to say about it. In Proverbs 27:1 says "Don’t brag about tomorrow, since you don’t know what the day will bring." In James 4 it talks about tomorrow being like a fog that is for a little while and then it's gone. Jesus even spoke about not worrying about tomorrow because tomorrow will have enough trouble to think about.

Satan has many tricks up his sleeve to try to keep believers from fully stepping into the divine nature that God designed for us to live out. Worry is one of them. It paralyzes us in fear of what tomorrow might bring. Apathy is another. It says, "ah, there's no hurry. I'll just take care of that tomorrow."

Friend, today is the day of salvation! 2 Corinthians 6:2. Today is the day that the Lord has made. Psalm 118:24. Even Moses said in Psalm 90:12 "So teach us to number our days, That we may present to You a heart of wisdom."

What we need to realize is that we are only promised 120 years. You might so whoa! That's forever! But in the eyes of God, it's nothing. Moses saw that we need to cultivate a attitude of efficiency. Doing much with little. Wisdom to use our years, days, hours, and minutes for good, for advancement, for His glory.

The days that God gives us should not be something that we take lightly. They will never be returned to us and He has given us a responsibility to meet. To work hard with our hands, to love our families, to preach the Gospel, to take care of ourselves, and to worship Him in everything that we do.

I pray that as you read this today, your heart is stirred to SEIZE THIS DAY. Whatever you have planned for the day, bring to Jesus. Ask Him for wisdom on how you can use this day to honor Him. Ask Him for wisdom on how to do you job better or how He wants to use you. Spend time praying for those around you.

In whatever you do, know that you are here on purpose and for a purpose. Don't listen to the lie that says you don't matter and what you do doesn't matter. If change is needed, seek the Lord. But remember, that we will be held accountable for what we do with our time here on earth, and everything that we sow will reap a harvest. This time is precious and we need to be constantly eternally minded.

Be encouraged today. What you do matters. And what you speak creates atmosphere. Let's yield ourselves to Jesus so that our existence here on earth moves heaven to impact generations to come.

Local Eateries

This past weekend, my family and I went to Asheville to watch Cars 3. While we waited for the show time, we stopped at a local burger join called BT's burgerjoint. I've been wanting to taste their food since they opened just a few years ago at the Biltmore Park! 

When we walked in, it reminded me of a fuddruckers, but with out the toppings bar. With fun artwork on the walls, I got a sense of family at the same time I expected funky times ahead. 

We were greeted by the menu which offers pre-designed burgers, chicken sandwiches, Nathan's hot dogs and salads, as well as make-your-way options. They even had a separate kids meal which isn't always easy to find especially when you're trying non-chain restaurants. 

As we approached the counter with our orders, the kids took a window seat that overlooked the street facing the movie theatre. The place was clean and not very loud, but had some well familiar music playing while scattered televisions were showing sports games all around. 

Making the order was quick and painless. There were a couple of cashiers that were ready to help and were pleasant in doing so. We received our cups and a number card after we paid and got our drinks at the fountain. 

We chose to sit indoors, but BT's also has a patio option directly beside the street. Soon after we sat down to wait, our made-to-order meals were brought to our table. 

The kids ordered mac n' cheese with fries while the hubby and I ordered burgers only. I specifically asked for the All American which was a 1/3 lb burger with Thousand Island dressing, pickles, tomatoes, onions, cheese and lettuce.

First off, the fries were great! They had a battered texture to them and the flavor was not heavy. Of course it helps when everything was hot!! The kids loved their food and so did my husband. They all thought the it was wonderful.

My opinion, however, was that my burger was hot and thick, but I think the sandwich itself was a little too wet. The tomatoes were steak sized, which is too thick for my taste, and the the bun was saturated from the pickles, lettuce and dressing. Don't get me wrong! The burger was good, but it kind of fell apart. I didn't get the flavor pop from the meat that I was looking for, and it wasn't as juicy as I like, but I will definitely go back to try another sandwich since this was my first time and since the family loved their food. 

Let me know what you think if you get a chance to visit!!

To find their menu and more visit: https://asheville.orderamericanburgerco.com/#/

Shopping Finds

I have never been one that is obsessed with shopping or beauty products. I probably should pay more attention, but in my awareness of that, I am working on becoming better. 

As someone who is in leadership as well as in customer service, I understand that having an attractive appearance makes you look more professional and can help people take you more seriously. However, I feel that having on an amazing outfit, eye-catching accessories, dazzling hair, and naturally applied makeup will also help you feel more confident.

It's not that I find my identity in these things, but I do like looking nice, and so does my family. So, in my attempt at sprucing up my wardrobe, I stumbled upon this gem!!

Now, granted, it came from Target, but WHO CARES?? Faux leather, yes, but the color was what spoke to me! I wasn't interested in straight gold for the metal accents, so I went through bag after bag until I found this one!!

It is a cross body style option with great snaps and pockets inside! The handles are pretty hefty as well, but overall the bag itself is really light weight.

I love that it looks more expensive than it actually was!! $35 before tax is a steal for something like this. A bag that is inexpensive, but does feel or look cheap! I wasn't able to find this bag online though which is sad, however, it does have a matching wallet that I plan to buy in the future. 

To find similar bags shop at Target.com!