The scene I am about to describe plays out multiple times over any given week in my house.
Lights, camera, action...
Eden gets bored with the three thousand toys and games that are piled into the playroom and her bedroom. She approaches me as timidly and humbly as possible and asks if she can please, please, please watch something on TV. I respond by saying "no"and she proceeds to pout for the next ten minutes. Then when I ask her to come to me so that I can attempt to reason with her, she erupts into tears and wails, "I THINK YOU DON'T LIKE ME!!! I calmly reply that I do like her, I think she is the coolest five year old in the world, and I LOVE her more than I can say. She continues to cry for a couple of minutes but eventually moves on to other creative ventures.
End scene.
I am not withholding TV time because I am mean-spirited and I want Eden to wither away in apathy. I want better for her and I know that she is fully capable of coming up with something to entertain herself on her own. I am loving her by saying no. However, she interprets my actions as hateful and wonders if I even like her. I most certainly do.
Does this scene ever happen between you and God? You pray and beg and plead for something and His answer is no. You pout for a little while, and then you begin to wonder if God is truly wise and kind and loving like His Word claims. Maybe He's holding out on you because of that sin that you committed many moons ago. Maybe He's refusing your desired happiness because you haven't quite grasped the concepts of patience and gentleness and kindness. You speculate about why others seem to be winning the "life lottery" and seeing their wildest dreams come true. You even allow yourself to ponder the thought that He doesn't even like you. I can assure you that He DOES.
First of all, GOD LOVES YOU. Truly. Madly. Deeply. John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." (ESV) And there is nothing that could make Him stop loving you. According to Romans 8:38-39, neither "death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." (ESV) His love for us is unchangeable and unshakeable.
Secondly, GOD HAS A PLAN FOR YOU. He knows you better than you know yourself and He has a purpose for your life. Jeremiah 29:11 states, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." (ESV) God created you and designed you, and His plans for you are so very good. When He says no, it's because He wants you to experience the pure joy of HIS perfect plan for you.
Third, GOD IS NOT LIKE YOU. In Isaiah 55:8-9, the Lord proclaims that "my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." (ESV) He doesn't think like you. He isn't consumed with worry and fear like you. He isn't limited by time, so He can see the beginning, the end, and everything in between. He sees every thread in the tapestry of your life and He knows exactly how to weave your circumstances into something incredibly beautiful for His glory.
So sit tight, my friend. God is in control and He sees you right where you are. His plan is best. Trust Him completely and watch His wonders unfold.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Forbidden Fruit
We have a brand new kitchen floor, and as the guardian of cleanliness in the Fletcher household, it is my duty to make sure that it is well-maintained. When we moved into our house, I was told to use a certain, high-powered cleaner to really make the floor shimmer and shine. But because of the potency of this particular cleaner, I get very nervous about my children pitter-pattering their little feet across the kitchen floor while it is still wet and potentially dangerous to their precious growing bodies.
So the other day, as I began mopping the floor with said cleaner, I gave my "sometimes compliant" children express instructions to stay off the kitchen floor while it dried. They listened with rapt attention as I explained that, under no circumstances were they allowed to cross through that doorway into the temporary danger zone. And while they immediately obeyed and kept their footsies off the floor, I also noticed that they sat right up against the line that divided the family room from the kitchen. Perilously close to the forbidden floor, but not actually touching it.
After a few moments, both of my daughters grew bored with watching the floor dry and ran off to occupy themselves with more interesting things like Barbies and baby dolls. But when they sailed past me to cut through the kitchen minutes later, I had to warn them once again that they had to choose a different route. Eventually, I didn't catch the three year old in time, and she waltzed right through the prohibited area without even blinking an eye. Thankfully, the floor was bone dry by then and the perceived danger had passed.
I wish I could say that the desire to push the boundaries (and sometimes run right past them) is a rare inclination in our household or even in our society at large. But sadly, it is a cancer that infects our hearts as a result of our sinful nature.The book of Genesis paints the glorious picture of how God spoke the world into existence and lovingly placed the first man and woman in a beautifully perfect garden that was fully stocked with all sorts of wonderful plants and fruits so they could fill their bellies to their heart's content. There was only one tree that God withheld from their smorgasbord. Only one. And only three short chapters into the very first book of the Bible, Adam and Eve fall head over heels into sin by eating the only fruit that they were commanded not to eat. But thankfully...and mercifully...the story doesn't end there.
God had a plan. He knew what we were going to do before we even did it. And He sent and sacrificed His Son on the cross to atone for our sins and satisfy His holy justice. Hallelujah! What a Savior! God continues to work out His plan in the lives of those who have surrendered to Him. So even though we still reach for that forbidden fruit day after day, His mercy remains and He stands ready and willing to forgive and receive us back by the power of His unending love. His grace is truly amazing.
So the other day, as I began mopping the floor with said cleaner, I gave my "sometimes compliant" children express instructions to stay off the kitchen floor while it dried. They listened with rapt attention as I explained that, under no circumstances were they allowed to cross through that doorway into the temporary danger zone. And while they immediately obeyed and kept their footsies off the floor, I also noticed that they sat right up against the line that divided the family room from the kitchen. Perilously close to the forbidden floor, but not actually touching it.
After a few moments, both of my daughters grew bored with watching the floor dry and ran off to occupy themselves with more interesting things like Barbies and baby dolls. But when they sailed past me to cut through the kitchen minutes later, I had to warn them once again that they had to choose a different route. Eventually, I didn't catch the three year old in time, and she waltzed right through the prohibited area without even blinking an eye. Thankfully, the floor was bone dry by then and the perceived danger had passed.
I wish I could say that the desire to push the boundaries (and sometimes run right past them) is a rare inclination in our household or even in our society at large. But sadly, it is a cancer that infects our hearts as a result of our sinful nature.The book of Genesis paints the glorious picture of how God spoke the world into existence and lovingly placed the first man and woman in a beautifully perfect garden that was fully stocked with all sorts of wonderful plants and fruits so they could fill their bellies to their heart's content. There was only one tree that God withheld from their smorgasbord. Only one. And only three short chapters into the very first book of the Bible, Adam and Eve fall head over heels into sin by eating the only fruit that they were commanded not to eat. But thankfully...and mercifully...the story doesn't end there.
God had a plan. He knew what we were going to do before we even did it. And He sent and sacrificed His Son on the cross to atone for our sins and satisfy His holy justice. Hallelujah! What a Savior! God continues to work out His plan in the lives of those who have surrendered to Him. So even though we still reach for that forbidden fruit day after day, His mercy remains and He stands ready and willing to forgive and receive us back by the power of His unending love. His grace is truly amazing.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Out With the Old, In With the New
We recently followed the Lord's leading and moved to a new church in a new area. There are some aspects of moving that are exciting and fun, but from what I have experienced, moving is mostly consumed with hard work and heart-breaking goodbyes. Transitions are difficult, especially for those of us who do not appreciate change.
In the process of preparing for this move, my husband encouraged me to sort through some of the boxes that were stored in our shed and see if there were things that could be thrown out or donated. This was quite a daunting task, considering the shed contained many boxes that had not been touched since our last move three years earlier. Don't get me wrong - I truly enjoy a good "cleaning out" session. There is something very therapeutic about getting rid of extra baggage and giving yourself a little breathing room. But there were some boxes that held things that were difficult to release given their sentimental value. I won't lie. There were a few tears shed as I reluctantly gave away onesies, bibs, and other baby paraphernalia. Letting go does not always come easily.
In the process of preparing for this move, my husband encouraged me to sort through some of the boxes that were stored in our shed and see if there were things that could be thrown out or donated. This was quite a daunting task, considering the shed contained many boxes that had not been touched since our last move three years earlier. Don't get me wrong - I truly enjoy a good "cleaning out" session. There is something very therapeutic about getting rid of extra baggage and giving yourself a little breathing room. But there were some boxes that held things that were difficult to release given their sentimental value. I won't lie. There were a few tears shed as I reluctantly gave away onesies, bibs, and other baby paraphernalia. Letting go does not always come easily.
You may not have to deal with the perils of moving in your own life, but do any of you
engage in that time-honored tradition of “Spring Cleaning”? I know we make
reference to it, but do we ever actually follow through and clean out the old
to make room for the new? According to
Scripture, we are supposed to do a major “Spring Cleaning” session in our
hearts and minds when we surrender to the lordship of Christ.
In Ephesians 4:21-24, Paul says, "Assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."
As believers, we are instructed to put away our old life of sin. This means there needs to be a radical break between who we once were and who we are in Christ. The selfish, sinful life deceives us into believing that it can satisfy, when in reality, it can never fulfill that promise. We must seek forgiveness for the sin in our lives in order to embrace the abundant life that God provides.
We are commanded to be
renewed by the power of the Spirit. The
Holy Spirit is the agent of renewal in our minds. You have heard the adage that
“you are what you eat.” Well, it is also true that “you are what you think.” Every action you take begins as a thought in your mind. So in order for us to live in a right relationship with Christ, the Holy Spirit must first renew our minds with the truth of God's Word.
We are commanded to put on the new life of the Savior. If you have asked Christ to be the Lord of your life, then you are a new creation. All those things that you did in your past (and in your present!) are completely wiped away by the forgiving power of the blood of Jesus. Are you living in doubt and despair? You don't have to! We are called to put on the new self that is "created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness." (Ephesians 4:24) I don't know about you, but the words "true righteousness and holiness" intimidate me. However, the fact that this new life is righteous simply means that we are now in a right relationship with God through Christ. We are holy because we are set apart for His service and glory.
You are deeply loved by our incredible Creator God. Putting off the old and clothing ourselves in the new is not about managing our behavior and making ourselves look good on the outside. It's about loving God back and desiring to do all that He has commanded for His glory. It's not about us. It is all about Him.
So what steps would it take in your life for you to throw off the old self and truly embrace the new?
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Trusting God Through the Turbulence
Our family loves Disney World. My husband is so Mickey-crazed that, as soon as one Disney trip is coming to a close, he is feverishly plotting our next visit. We just returned from our most recent trek to the most magical place on earth, and I feel quite certain he could tell you at any given moment how many days we have left until we are breathing Disney air once again. Mickey Mouse waffles, twirling tea cups, Dole whips, parades, princesses, the Jungle Cruise, Ohana, fireworks. You name it; we love it.
The only downside to our frequent Disney expeditions is getting there. I long for the day when some rocket scientist invents a safe way to "beam" ourselves to the castle. But for now, we must rely on travel by car or plane. Both have their alluring and undesirable qualities. Commuting by car allows for more luggage and more freedom to schedule the trip as you please, even though there are moments when you feel like time is standing still while your children whine and squirm in the backseat. Traveling by plane is (usually) more time-efficient, but you are forced to pack your bags to the gills and operate on the timetable of the all-powerful airline.
For our most recent trip, we chose to fly. I am the worst kind of flyer. I would probably make a very good poster child for Dramamine when it comes to air travel. To make things exponentially worse on this particular flight, the weather was not at its best. As a matter of fact, our departure was delayed two hours or so because our plane was behind schedule as a result of the less-than-suitable elements. I will also admit to being one of the nerds that genuinely pays attention to the flight attendants while they quickly explain the emergency procedures, while praying that I will actually remember to fasten the oxygen mask to my face before frantically strapping it on my daughter. That goes against every fiber in my mommy being.
I was already very nervous about flying in general, but as we were catapulted into the sky, my fears were compounded. Our ascent into the clouds was not as smooth as I would have liked, and there were several bumps and dips that sent me into panic mode. Jason and I had decided before entering the plane that he would sit next to Eden and I would be Caroline's buddy, seeing as there were no rows with four seats all together. This posed a problem for me because, in my terror, I really needed to squeeze the life out of his hand. Caroline was not much of a comfort to me. As a matter of fact, she was cool as a little cucumber throughout the entire flight. I'm still not sure she even realized that she was thousands of miles in the air. All she knew was that Mama was next to her and Daddy and Eden were right in front of her, and that's all she needed to know.
I, on the other hand, prayed myself through the flight. There were several times when my stomach did flip flops and I secretly built my case for renting a car to drive home at the end of the week instead of subjecting myself to more anxiety. I also noticed that I felt much more secure when I could see the landscape beneath us instead of endless clouds. I reasoned that falling from 10,000 feet would be much less traumatic and/or deadly than falling from 40,000 feet. Please don't tell me if I'm wrong.
If possible, the descent was worse than take-off. As we headed back down, the pilot banked left and then right to get the plane in position to land. That was the moment I almost reached for the little white bag in front of me. While the plane was bumping and careening toward the earth, I was gripping the armrests, bearing white knuckles and pleading with God for our safety. I happened to look at Caroline and noticed that she was leisurely glancing through the Sky Mall magazine in the seat next to me. No fear. Not even a flicker of worry.
When the plane finally touched down, Eden yelled, "WOO-HOO!!!" I, however, pondered kissing the ground as soon as we taxied to the gate. Thankfully, the flight home was much smoother. I don't think my heart could have handled much more.
Sometimes life can seem like that plane ride. You feel completely out of control (because you are) and the turbulence caused by trails and tests threatens to send you over the edge. However, in those moments (and sometimes hours and days and weeks) of life "turbulence," we are called to place greater trust in God instead of giving in to fear and worry. God was in control of my life thousands of miles in the air, just as He is in control while I live daily with my feet flat on the ground. And He is watching carefully over my life on the easy, peaceful days, just as He tenderly cares for me when everything is falling to pieces. He has proved Himself trustworthy time and time again. His Word reminds me that "the LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him." (Psalm 28:7, ESV) Lord, thank You for Your power, protection, and provision during the trials and turbulence of each day.
The only downside to our frequent Disney expeditions is getting there. I long for the day when some rocket scientist invents a safe way to "beam" ourselves to the castle. But for now, we must rely on travel by car or plane. Both have their alluring and undesirable qualities. Commuting by car allows for more luggage and more freedom to schedule the trip as you please, even though there are moments when you feel like time is standing still while your children whine and squirm in the backseat. Traveling by plane is (usually) more time-efficient, but you are forced to pack your bags to the gills and operate on the timetable of the all-powerful airline.
For our most recent trip, we chose to fly. I am the worst kind of flyer. I would probably make a very good poster child for Dramamine when it comes to air travel. To make things exponentially worse on this particular flight, the weather was not at its best. As a matter of fact, our departure was delayed two hours or so because our plane was behind schedule as a result of the less-than-suitable elements. I will also admit to being one of the nerds that genuinely pays attention to the flight attendants while they quickly explain the emergency procedures, while praying that I will actually remember to fasten the oxygen mask to my face before frantically strapping it on my daughter. That goes against every fiber in my mommy being.
I was already very nervous about flying in general, but as we were catapulted into the sky, my fears were compounded. Our ascent into the clouds was not as smooth as I would have liked, and there were several bumps and dips that sent me into panic mode. Jason and I had decided before entering the plane that he would sit next to Eden and I would be Caroline's buddy, seeing as there were no rows with four seats all together. This posed a problem for me because, in my terror, I really needed to squeeze the life out of his hand. Caroline was not much of a comfort to me. As a matter of fact, she was cool as a little cucumber throughout the entire flight. I'm still not sure she even realized that she was thousands of miles in the air. All she knew was that Mama was next to her and Daddy and Eden were right in front of her, and that's all she needed to know.
I, on the other hand, prayed myself through the flight. There were several times when my stomach did flip flops and I secretly built my case for renting a car to drive home at the end of the week instead of subjecting myself to more anxiety. I also noticed that I felt much more secure when I could see the landscape beneath us instead of endless clouds. I reasoned that falling from 10,000 feet would be much less traumatic and/or deadly than falling from 40,000 feet. Please don't tell me if I'm wrong.
If possible, the descent was worse than take-off. As we headed back down, the pilot banked left and then right to get the plane in position to land. That was the moment I almost reached for the little white bag in front of me. While the plane was bumping and careening toward the earth, I was gripping the armrests, bearing white knuckles and pleading with God for our safety. I happened to look at Caroline and noticed that she was leisurely glancing through the Sky Mall magazine in the seat next to me. No fear. Not even a flicker of worry.
When the plane finally touched down, Eden yelled, "WOO-HOO!!!" I, however, pondered kissing the ground as soon as we taxied to the gate. Thankfully, the flight home was much smoother. I don't think my heart could have handled much more.
Sometimes life can seem like that plane ride. You feel completely out of control (because you are) and the turbulence caused by trails and tests threatens to send you over the edge. However, in those moments (and sometimes hours and days and weeks) of life "turbulence," we are called to place greater trust in God instead of giving in to fear and worry. God was in control of my life thousands of miles in the air, just as He is in control while I live daily with my feet flat on the ground. And He is watching carefully over my life on the easy, peaceful days, just as He tenderly cares for me when everything is falling to pieces. He has proved Himself trustworthy time and time again. His Word reminds me that "the LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him." (Psalm 28:7, ESV) Lord, thank You for Your power, protection, and provision during the trials and turbulence of each day.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Be a Barnabas
A few months ago, Eden was invited to a birthday party that was held at her personal paradise - Pump it Up. She can run and scream and throw herself around and (most likely) not injure herself because everything is inflated with air to cushion your inevitable fall. Of course, Caroline tagged along too, as little sisters often do, but Pump it Up happens to be her own personal nightmare. Unfamiliar people are running and screaming, which seems to cause panic in her heart, and she does not appreciate ground that is unstable. I can't say that I blame her.
Places such as these are quite the social experiment. It is interesting to watch children (and adults) who do not usually "party" together, unite under a common bond to celebrate a mutual friend's birthday. The kids are not sure where the individual boundaries are, and sometimes they are asked to participate in party activities that they don't particularly care for under normal circumstances.
The rock-climbing wall was one of the activities that the children could enjoy. I am not a rock-climber myself. I know that may come as a surprise, seeing as I do not enjoy heights or perspiring. As a matter of fact, when I was in high school I was coerced into repelling down the side of a mountain by my adventurous youth leader and my daring peers, and I was scarred for life. I know some people relish the heart-pounding excitement of virtually, but not actually, falling to their death. I am not one of those people.
I have passed my lack of daredevil spirit on to my cautious but fun-loving daughters. So Eden was not going to attempt to climb that wall even if you carried her up there yourself. But there were a few brave souls who timidly approached the base of the rock and decided to strap themselves in and begin the ascent.
One of those valiant party-goers was a little boy that attends our church. Jason and I know him and his family well, so as he began to pull his little body upward, we watched and cheered for him. There were multiple times when he tried to quit because he thought it was much too hard, or he became intimidated by the amount of rock left to climb. But Jason and I both called out to him and told him he was doing great and assured him that he had the strength to succeed. And you know what? He did. You should have seen the look on his little round face when he reached the top and then floated back down.
A minute or two later, another little boy stepped up to the plate. I didn't know him at all, and I didn't see any other parents paying attention to the fact that he was getting suited up for the climb. He started up and immediately became discouraged. I didn't even know the child's name, so I waited to see if anyone else would offer some words of encouragement. No one did. He made a few attempts but eventually gave up, not even making it halfway to the finish line.
In the New Testament book of Acts, we are introduced to a man named Joseph. The apostles give him the name of Barnabas, which means "Son of Encouragement." Scripture says he was "a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith." (Acts 11:24) He must have also been a pure ray of sunshine to everyone around him. I'm sure the disciples didn't give him that name because he was the pessimist of the group. He was also the first of the Christ-followers to really accept Paul and encourage the others to follow suit. He even ended up being sent out with Paul on some of his journeys.
Life is much like climbing that rock wall. It can be daunting and exhausting at times. I know what it is like to walk through a fiery trial and feel like life is caving in around you. It is vitally important that we reach out and encourage those around us. First Thessalonians 5:11 says, "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." In that same book and chapter, Paul says, "And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all." (1 Thess. 5:14)
Is there someone that you can encourage today? Look around, grow sensitive to the needs of others, and be a Barnabas.
Places such as these are quite the social experiment. It is interesting to watch children (and adults) who do not usually "party" together, unite under a common bond to celebrate a mutual friend's birthday. The kids are not sure where the individual boundaries are, and sometimes they are asked to participate in party activities that they don't particularly care for under normal circumstances.
The rock-climbing wall was one of the activities that the children could enjoy. I am not a rock-climber myself. I know that may come as a surprise, seeing as I do not enjoy heights or perspiring. As a matter of fact, when I was in high school I was coerced into repelling down the side of a mountain by my adventurous youth leader and my daring peers, and I was scarred for life. I know some people relish the heart-pounding excitement of virtually, but not actually, falling to their death. I am not one of those people.
I have passed my lack of daredevil spirit on to my cautious but fun-loving daughters. So Eden was not going to attempt to climb that wall even if you carried her up there yourself. But there were a few brave souls who timidly approached the base of the rock and decided to strap themselves in and begin the ascent.
One of those valiant party-goers was a little boy that attends our church. Jason and I know him and his family well, so as he began to pull his little body upward, we watched and cheered for him. There were multiple times when he tried to quit because he thought it was much too hard, or he became intimidated by the amount of rock left to climb. But Jason and I both called out to him and told him he was doing great and assured him that he had the strength to succeed. And you know what? He did. You should have seen the look on his little round face when he reached the top and then floated back down.
A minute or two later, another little boy stepped up to the plate. I didn't know him at all, and I didn't see any other parents paying attention to the fact that he was getting suited up for the climb. He started up and immediately became discouraged. I didn't even know the child's name, so I waited to see if anyone else would offer some words of encouragement. No one did. He made a few attempts but eventually gave up, not even making it halfway to the finish line.
In the New Testament book of Acts, we are introduced to a man named Joseph. The apostles give him the name of Barnabas, which means "Son of Encouragement." Scripture says he was "a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith." (Acts 11:24) He must have also been a pure ray of sunshine to everyone around him. I'm sure the disciples didn't give him that name because he was the pessimist of the group. He was also the first of the Christ-followers to really accept Paul and encourage the others to follow suit. He even ended up being sent out with Paul on some of his journeys.
Life is much like climbing that rock wall. It can be daunting and exhausting at times. I know what it is like to walk through a fiery trial and feel like life is caving in around you. It is vitally important that we reach out and encourage those around us. First Thessalonians 5:11 says, "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." In that same book and chapter, Paul says, "And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all." (1 Thess. 5:14)
Is there someone that you can encourage today? Look around, grow sensitive to the needs of others, and be a Barnabas.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Waiting Well
Eden has recently made the unilateral decision that nap time is no longer necessary in her schedule of daily activities, which has brought a certain level of sadness and loss of solitude to her tired mother. Part of my sadness comes as a result of the realization that she is growing up, despite my efforts to freeze time and preserve these years where life is simple to some extent. The remaining part of my sadness stems from the fact that my hour or so of "peace and quiet" has transformed into something entirely different. While I firmly believe that a midday siesta should be filtered into the everyday routine of preschooler and parent alike, Eden does not seem to agree.
I have observed that in the moments before nap time commences, Eden will ask on multiple occasions, "Is it time for Caroline to go to sleep yet?" There are days when she is so anxious for her little sister to drift off to dreamland that she truly wearies me with her inquiry.
And then, at long last, it happens.
I pick Caroline up and place her in her bed, and Eden is free to enjoy her time without the distraction of her younger sibling. She does a pretty decent job of entertaining herself for a while, but once that first hour passes, she changes her tune. Suddenly she becomes more interested in when Caroline will be waking up. At various intervals and with mounting intensity, she will ask if it is time to awaken her sister from her slumber. It is then that I remind her how eager she was for Caroline to take her nap. Her memory does not always serve her well.
My memory isn't always the best either.
As I have traveled this sod, I have learned that no matter who you are or what season of life you are living, you are always waiting on something. That "something" is different for each of us. When I was in high school, I couldn't wait to go off to college. When I was in college, I couldn't wait to get married. When I got married, I couldn't wait to begin having children. When I gave birth to that first child I couldn't wait for her to learn her days from her nights. The list goes on and on.
Waiting has never been my forte. I am actually one of the most impatient people I know. Sometimes I get so frustrated with waiting that I run ahead of God and end up begging Him to pick up the pieces later. Through various trials and tests, I have discovered that waiting is a process designed to hone me into who God wants me to be. The Lord does not ask me to wait because He is unkind or because He has forgotten me. He does not place me in a holding pattern to play fast and loose with my sanity. He always...in every circumstance...in every season...asks me to wait for His greater purpose. He can see the big picture. I cannot. He knows what is best.
I desperately long to be able to say, like Paul, "I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:11-13). What is the secret? I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Everything that happens to me is filtered through the loving hand of my Savior. If he has placed me here, then He will give me the strength I need to endure His molding process. Lord, please help me to be content in every season and embrace Your strength to delight in each day.
I have observed that in the moments before nap time commences, Eden will ask on multiple occasions, "Is it time for Caroline to go to sleep yet?" There are days when she is so anxious for her little sister to drift off to dreamland that she truly wearies me with her inquiry.
And then, at long last, it happens.
I pick Caroline up and place her in her bed, and Eden is free to enjoy her time without the distraction of her younger sibling. She does a pretty decent job of entertaining herself for a while, but once that first hour passes, she changes her tune. Suddenly she becomes more interested in when Caroline will be waking up. At various intervals and with mounting intensity, she will ask if it is time to awaken her sister from her slumber. It is then that I remind her how eager she was for Caroline to take her nap. Her memory does not always serve her well.
My memory isn't always the best either.
As I have traveled this sod, I have learned that no matter who you are or what season of life you are living, you are always waiting on something. That "something" is different for each of us. When I was in high school, I couldn't wait to go off to college. When I was in college, I couldn't wait to get married. When I got married, I couldn't wait to begin having children. When I gave birth to that first child I couldn't wait for her to learn her days from her nights. The list goes on and on.
Waiting has never been my forte. I am actually one of the most impatient people I know. Sometimes I get so frustrated with waiting that I run ahead of God and end up begging Him to pick up the pieces later. Through various trials and tests, I have discovered that waiting is a process designed to hone me into who God wants me to be. The Lord does not ask me to wait because He is unkind or because He has forgotten me. He does not place me in a holding pattern to play fast and loose with my sanity. He always...in every circumstance...in every season...asks me to wait for His greater purpose. He can see the big picture. I cannot. He knows what is best.
I desperately long to be able to say, like Paul, "I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:11-13). What is the secret? I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Everything that happens to me is filtered through the loving hand of my Savior. If he has placed me here, then He will give me the strength I need to endure His molding process. Lord, please help me to be content in every season and embrace Your strength to delight in each day.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Help Wanted
I am a mega-multitasker. The spell checker is telling me that is not an actual word, but I think it should be. I spend most days running around like a chicken with its head cut off. I've never actually seen a chicken run around with its head cut off, but I imagine it's not a pretty sight.
Sometimes I take this multitasking mania to an extreme. I have been known to have dinner cooking, while I'm shoving clothes into the dryer, with the cell phone perched between my shoulder and my ear, while the girls parade by wearing my shoes and their fancy princess dresses. It doesn't look like much when I see it written in on this page, but in the moment it is happening, it can be overwhelming. Especially when you add in that I'm sometimes doing all those things fifteen minutes before I have to drive into town for a meeting and I need to change my outfit before I go. (Others might gawk at me if I walk in with food splattered on my shirt and sticky hand prints on my jeans.)
In the midst of all that chaos, there is one thing that can successfully stop me in my tracks. All I need to hear is, "Mama, will you help me?", and it's like kryptonite to my Wonderwoman veneer. My heart literally melts when Caroline asks me that in her little chipmunk voice. Who cares if dinner is beginning to smoke? My girls need me! It's not a bird...it's not a plane...it's Mama to the rescue!
Did you know that our Heavenly Father feels that way about us too? He sees all (even when we wish He couldn't) and He watches us scurry around trying to accomplish fifty million things in one day. He knows all our anxieties and He waits patiently for us to come to Him, place our worries at His feet, crawl up in His lap, and breathe a sigh of relief.
Here are some reminders of this fact from His Word...
"In my distress I called upon the LORD; to my God I cried for help. From his temple he heard my voice, and my cry to him reached his ears." Psalm 18:6
"O LORD my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me." Psalm 30:2
"I had said in my alarm, 'I am cut off from your sight.' But you heard the voice of my pleas for mercy when I cried to you for help." Psalm 31:22
"When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles." Psalm 34:17
"As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord takes thought for me. You are my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O my God!" Psalm 40:17
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1
"For you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me." Psalm 63:7-8
"If the LORD had not been my help, my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence. When I thought, 'My foot slips,' your steadfast love, O LORD, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul." Psalm 94:17-19
This is only a small representation of the many verses that make reference to the help of God. He is truly our Helper, our Rescuer, our Deliverer, our Protector...our Daddy. I am so thankful for His tender care. May I remember to run to Him FIRST.
Sometimes I take this multitasking mania to an extreme. I have been known to have dinner cooking, while I'm shoving clothes into the dryer, with the cell phone perched between my shoulder and my ear, while the girls parade by wearing my shoes and their fancy princess dresses. It doesn't look like much when I see it written in on this page, but in the moment it is happening, it can be overwhelming. Especially when you add in that I'm sometimes doing all those things fifteen minutes before I have to drive into town for a meeting and I need to change my outfit before I go. (Others might gawk at me if I walk in with food splattered on my shirt and sticky hand prints on my jeans.)
In the midst of all that chaos, there is one thing that can successfully stop me in my tracks. All I need to hear is, "Mama, will you help me?", and it's like kryptonite to my Wonderwoman veneer. My heart literally melts when Caroline asks me that in her little chipmunk voice. Who cares if dinner is beginning to smoke? My girls need me! It's not a bird...it's not a plane...it's Mama to the rescue!
Did you know that our Heavenly Father feels that way about us too? He sees all (even when we wish He couldn't) and He watches us scurry around trying to accomplish fifty million things in one day. He knows all our anxieties and He waits patiently for us to come to Him, place our worries at His feet, crawl up in His lap, and breathe a sigh of relief.
Here are some reminders of this fact from His Word...
"In my distress I called upon the LORD; to my God I cried for help. From his temple he heard my voice, and my cry to him reached his ears." Psalm 18:6
"O LORD my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me." Psalm 30:2
"I had said in my alarm, 'I am cut off from your sight.' But you heard the voice of my pleas for mercy when I cried to you for help." Psalm 31:22
"When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles." Psalm 34:17
"As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord takes thought for me. You are my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O my God!" Psalm 40:17
"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Psalm 46:1
"For you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me." Psalm 63:7-8
"If the LORD had not been my help, my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence. When I thought, 'My foot slips,' your steadfast love, O LORD, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul." Psalm 94:17-19
This is only a small representation of the many verses that make reference to the help of God. He is truly our Helper, our Rescuer, our Deliverer, our Protector...our Daddy. I am so thankful for His tender care. May I remember to run to Him FIRST.
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