Who Took My Christmas Cookies and Left Me This Resolution ????

I can hardly believe another Christmas has come and gone.... I cant say that I have, but most of my friends have already taken down their Christmas decor and stored it away until next year. All of the remnants, the sparkle, the tinsel, the presents, trees, cookies and special candy, all gone..... I can't help but feel a little sad because it came and left so quickly....

The excitement that pushed us to the mall one more time for that perfect gift, is now replaced with trips to Target, for extra storage boxes and lemon scented disinfectant. Gone with the celebration and in with the organization and cleaning... Don't get me wrong, I am all about a nice pantry and a color coordinated closet, but how "magical" is that??..lol.

Why is it that we long for the "magic" of Christmas all year, and then can't wait to put it away and move on to the next big thing....? What is it that we are constantly searching for in our lives that we move through seasons so fast, and never really slow down long enough to enjoy any of them?

The next big thing.... hum, that would be "The Resolution".... What's up with that? What is so important that we have to make a special dinner, write it in our journals, blog about it, form a club, share it with our gal pals over a pricey lunch, we even make vows to our spouses about our Resolution.... Now.... hear me out, I am not saying making a resolution is a bad thing, what I am saying is why do we observe a special time of year, to commit to something we should have been committed to all year long anyway? Think about it... most people make a resolution and it starts Jan 1st, it is blown, out the window, history, kaput by Feb 15th.... 6 weeks, this is a national average....

What if we took on a healthier mind set that went like this.... God wants me to be my best so I can serve him fully... therefore, I vow to be healthier than ever, spiritually, mentally, and physically. I vow to release all I have to God, my family, my finances, my hopes and dreams. I vow to give my worship, thanksgiving, hurts, pains, and all the glory for any blessings that come my way, to God. This year, I will be healthier, I will give more of my time, love, and money than last year (if you only gave $20 last year, you may want to step it up a notch). This year I will reach out to twice as many hurting and lost souls (if you didn't reach out to anybody last year, you need to self evaluate your relationship with God,.....and STEP IT UP A NOTCH) This year, I am going to be all that I can be through Christ Jesus who strengthens me!

What do you think? Do you feel this is unrealistic, or unattainable? Shouldn't we be this way all year long?

Trust me when I say, I have every intention to clean out some closets, to get back to Curves, to cook more at home, and eat out less, to be more frugal with the money God is blessing us with, be a better wife, a better mom, and so on.... I am not bashing a good goal, or commitment.... I am just saying, we need to have our focus straight, and when you focus on God first, you will NEVER FAIL!

Where or how should I do this? Oh, so glad you asked. It is super easy...What if you (if you don't already have a group at your church) get some ladies together,(or even husband and wive couples, or a youth group) and plan some events that will promote this commitment? For example... What about a Ladies Book Club that meets quarterly, to discuss a Godly reading selection? How about a group to reach out and serve the homeless in your community? What about a group of young people, reaching out to the kids in the neighborhoods, schools, etc... to have a monthly event at a park? There are all kinds of ways to serve others while serving God. Just put your mind to it, you'll figure something out... You will be amazed at how Holy Ghost boldness will come upon your life, when you start moving forward with a spirit of servitude..... 

Secondly, ask your Pastor, what Missionaries your church supports... make a pledge to that family, and be faithful to your commitment. How much do I give you ask? Only you know what you can afford, but what if you add up how much you eat out, and share only half of the luxuries you enjoy...? Ouch!...huh? Maybe your family is barely making it pay check to pay check... are you a crafty person? Maybe you can start an eBay store (free) and contribute the proceeds to your church or a missionary family...

Last, how many bible studies have you given this year? What if you start a bible study in your home? Choose a night of the week that would work for you and your family, I know it is a commitment and sacrifice to give a night every week.. Start by inviting people from church and then ask them to invite people who need God... you will be amazed at how quickly your study fills up, you will then need to get them plugged into another study where there is room....this is a snowball effect, and super neat to watch!

There are many, many ways to be God focused in the New Year.... you just have to commit and start somewhere.... you can do it!

So, when Jan 1st gets here, and you get ready to make your New Year's Resolution, think about this kinda commitment prayer, think about, how you can keep some Godly Magic throughout the year. Slow down, enjoy the season's God has given you. Don't make unrealistic goals, that are not attainable, and that are not God focused. Be blessed this New Year......

Joy

Cookies, Glitter, Elves, and Gremlins....But What About The Greatest Gift?

I suspect the typical day in the life of any woman during the Christmas Season is somewhat the same.....grocery lists, 42 iced cupcakes for the class party, selecting 3 of the "just right" Teacher gifts that will guarantee to propel little Johnny to the "Pet Position", cleaning out of the guest room that has served as a storage all year and must now be transformed into a 5 star resort suite for the In-Laws, errands on slick, icy roads, children's Christmas List, out of stock toys, endless check out lines, cheesy wrapping paper (why didn't you just get the good stuff?) and the list goes on and on...........

It was just such a day( minus the Teachers gift, I just buy myself a pair of shoes, and ALL 3 of my students are in the "Pet Position"....lol.....I home school), I was standing in line and the thought occurred to me "What are you doing for your world"?..... WHAT????? I realized, how caught up I can become in the holiday, and completely forget the reason for the holiday.. So, I decided to give this some thought, I began to look around at the others in lines around me... I didn't see all the happy, jolly, cheerfulness that is so casually thrown around as an official catch phase of the holiday... I saw tired, worn down women.....Why???

You know, we women,  for some reason, feel that we have to take on the world and make it this sparkling, wondrous, wintry wonderland of never ending cookie eating, gift giving, belly laughing explosion of  Christmas Enchantment..... North Pole News Flash ladies....we don't......

Last time I checked I was not a 4'11" 90lbs vixen dressed in a velvet dress and white patten leather boots, with glittered cheeks and curled tendrils springing out of a fur adorned hat........And neither were these other women.... We are women, making the best for our families, but our focus has become slightly blurred in the excitement of the holiday hustle and bustle.... Maybe you are asking "What should my focus be?

Do your kids now the meaning of Christmas? Do they know that receiving a gift is about, the receiving, not as much about what it is?, Do they know that all good things come from the Lord?
If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him! Matt 7:11

We get so caught up in what to buy, how many gifts, how much is enough, if it is too little.. this is not what it is all about ladies.....we have just bought into the commercialism, and it is hard to get out of "the trap".....Want some tips of how to get out? Okay, this is what works in my family...


First, If you kids are just little... under 5, they could care less of the dollar amount of gifts....Its us who get gratification in buying a pricey gift for our kids.... don't buy them gifts that are terribly expensive, instead look for gifts that are going to last, and that will keep them entertained and using their imagination for a long time.

Our kids are older now, so the gifts are fewer, but cost more... gone are the days of fad toy sets, now its technology, and clothes..... Don't get me wrong, we have never bought junk, but a few modestly priced gifts that are chosen with that kid in mind is the idea....I usually try to buy something, just one small something that is really personal to each child, that they know beyond a shadow of a doubt, "my parents really gave this from their heart".


Also, What about your children giving? Do you require your kids to give? Or do they just sit back like Christmas Gremlins and take gifts? You know how, really smart people say that we should set our kids up to succeed? What if we purposely set work projects in front of our kids so that they can make shopping money? Now this will be a little work, because your child could still choose to do the work, earn the money, and keep it!..... hahaha...... plan back-fire...lol. You have to set them up for their purpose of giving...IE: "Hey, I have some chores that I am willing to pay someone Christmas Shopping Money for doing.." Make it clear the purpose for the money, and then do some talking about giving to others...

What about all that holiday baking? What if the kids help? Oh wait!.... do your cookies have to be perfect and you have to do it all yourself to insure that? Think of the memories you will be making for your kids by letting them into your sacred baking arena... My mom used to let us help, and yes, we had some whack looking cookies, but the time spent with Mom was priceless, and never forgotten.

Speaking of forgotten, what about those in our community that are forgotten? What about the children who are forgotten? It is a guaranteed that you know someone who's name comes to mind as we speak who can barely buy groceries for their kids let alone a present... you might be thinking, yeah but they can get a job and take care of their family better..yes, but that is not your responsibility to judge, what is your responsibility is looking after the needs of the poor...
She extends her hand to the poor, Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy. Prov 31:20
What if you take it on yourself to seek out someone at church, on your job, in your neighborhood, or your child's school, that you and your family can shop for? Explain to your kids, "God has blessed us so much, that we shouldn't keep it all for ourselves". Teach your children to give to others in need with a humble spirit, not in a boastful or bragging manner. I don't always have a lot to give, but when I see someone in need, I do try to help. And you don't have to wait until Christmas to share the love of Christ.

You know, I am not saying, don't go all crazy decorating your house and baking and all, but try to balance it out by spending some quality time with your family (not while standing in a check out line, or in traffic), Instead of spending so much on nonsensical gifts, spend it on some coffee and a nice dinner cake and invite friends over for games. Spend $50 bucks on some donuts and a carton of Starbucks, takes some friends to an area where you know you'll see some homeless people, treat them to what you have all year long, and share God's love with them... Look Ladies, Christmas is not about us.....It's about God's gift, and we don't have a right to keep it to ourselves.....
Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. ¹⁸ And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. ¹⁹ But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. ²⁰ Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.   Luke 2:17-20


I hope this Christmas Season brings you all that you hope for, and that God richly blesses your home and family....and above all I hope that we can reach out to those around us who wonder what the greatest gift of all is........ The gift of Christs love......
Merry Christmas

Joy








 

God..... I Don't Think I Can Stand The Wind.....

Outside my front window is a type of Cat Tail Bush. Today is a particularly windy day in the High Desert. As I am watching the wind blow, there is debris from other bushes, plants and trees blowing about in the yard, but the cat tail bush is standing fully intact. Oh, sure it is bending every which way, and being whipped around like crazy, but it is unharmed by the wind.....

How can that be, the plant is so delicate, it is so soft to the touch, it is easily broken by the hand, yet the wind is not harming it.... at all! It is so graceful yet strong...

Do you ever feel like you are that cat tail bush, and life is that wind, that the circumstances in your life are so strong and powerful, that it might uproot you, and carry you off from your purpose? Sometimes I do.

As I am watching this particular bush, the wind is blowing it almost completely flat to the ground only to change directions and blow it back the other way.... I started noticing... Wait! I've got it all wrong.... The bush is me, The wind is God, and he is showing me...I may blow you every which way, bending you as far as you can go, pulling on you, taking you all the way down, and back up again, but I control the wind, I will never let you become that debris you see flying past you......

Thats just like our God to allow the winds to come into our lives, blow us all around but then remind us, "Hey, I control that wind, your roots are firmly planted in me. Those other plants that you see flying in the air, and tumbling past you in destruction, did not have firm roots, they were planted in shallow dirt, with no nutrients, not planted deep enough, and they are not being fed. When strong winds come, they can not hold their ground, they can not sway gracefully in adversity, God's word says,

"In the day of prosperity be joyful,
      But in the day of adversity consider:
      Surely God has appointed the one as well as the other,
      So that man can find out nothing that will come after him".Eccl 7:14

Adversity will come to all of our lives because, God has ordered both prosperity and adversity. Both notice, he promises both... just like the bush, he may push it all the way down, but he raises it back up again.

"How do I become strongly rooted, so I can hold my ground when the strong winds of a trial come along ?" You get grounded in sound doctrine. The bible is full of scripture about being wise in learning Gods doctrine.

He stores up sound wisdom for the upright;
      He is a shield to those who walk uprightly;Proverbs 2:7

Sound wisdom in this scripture also means, sound doctrine...
      
"till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ;that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting," Eph 4:13


Don't allow yourself to believe just any doctrine that is floating around, believe a sound doctrine... this is how you will become firmly rooted, be fed, and be able to sway gracefully in adversity. If you remain firmly planted in God's doctrine, you might find him blowing you around, bending you in all directions, but remember, God controls the wind and the waves, and there is always peace after the storm. Hold on to God's wisdom, don't become debris of destruction that comes with little, or no nutrients in weak doctrine.....




God Bless you,
Joy

Because of God's Love For Us......

     

   October is National Clergy Month, and I don’t have to tell you, they don’t get any better than our Pastor, Pastor & Sis Pounds.

    I could probably go on for days and days about their goodness, kindness, selflessness, continual giving, their work that is endless, but we all know this right? What I want to help you understand, is why God has sent us to the Pounds’. Gods word says “And he gave some; apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of  Christ.”  Eph 4:11-12

                                                                                                              Sure we could belong to a church, and go faithfully, and be a “saint“, but God has placed in our lives a Sheppard, a Pastor, and for a reason, for our perfecting. God doesn’t want us to just belong, he wants us to grow, work, minister one to another, and be perfected! God loves us so much that he has allowed us an opportunity to be subject to the authority of a Pastor, and all the blessings that come with that.

    I can certainly think of times in my life, where I needed the direction of a Pastor, and I am sure you can recall being urged back into the fold as well.
    God loves me so much he gave me a Pastor? Yes!!! Listen to what God wrote to you. “ And I will give you Pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding” Jer 3:15 

It’s because of God’s love for us, that he saw fit to place a Man of God and a Godly example of a Lady in our lives.
I am forever grateful for the direction, leadership, knowledge, understanding, and yes, correction if need be, that God has sent to Connecting Point and Connecting Point HD. We love you Pastor & Sis Pounds, you are indeed, heaven sent.

   

Where have my butterflies gone.....?

Ever wonder who flipped the switch on the romance in your marriage? Exactly when did the honeymoon stop and life began? Is there a shelf life on romance, and that "school girl crush" feeling?

Well, don't look so shocked it happens in EVERY marriage....."It didn't happen in my parents marriage" you might say... Yes it did, you just didn't know it..

Take a look at the typical day in homes and marriages now days, up early, in a rush, kids rush through a bowl of sugar coated cereal, Dad can't find what he needs, kids can't find their shoes, Mom is already in the car honking..."come on, we're late!" No kiss for the honey, just a "See you later, don't be late!", Its every man for himself..... Back at home, there's no time for prayer or bible reading, because you woke up with a list, scrub the toilets, laundry, FACEBOOK, grocery shopping, make all the beds, listen to the latest gossip, the dog keeps throwing up, bill collectors keep calling, forgot to lay something out for dinner, time to pick up the kids, homework, re-clean the house, start dinner, clean a minor wound, more laundry, separate fighting kids, dinner is done, where is that man?, kids are hungry, Dad's home, No welcome home kiss, just a "Why are you late? I asked you not to be late, dinner is cold!" re-heat dinner, eat in 10 mins, no table conversation, throw the kids in the bath, "honey, wanna sit out back and talk?" Duh...I don't have time for that, I have to get the kids out of the bath"....haul the kids out of the tub, more laundry, clean the kitchen, put the kids to bed,  hummmm 9 o'clock....all the while, honey sits in his favorite chair enjoying the paper...... "I am going to bed"....Once you have settled your weary bones, honey looks at you " hey baby"..you reply "ARE YOU CRAZY? NO!".....

Sound familiar.....?

This is the way it is in many homes....across America you mean? No, I mean many homes in your church, your families, your circle of friends.. we just don't talk about it. We don't talk about it, because it is shameful. Shameful, because WE have allowed it to happen...  Lets look at that "Typical Day".....

Time Management....yes, the WIFE'S time management.... awww..... you thought I was gonna tear into that relaxing husband, the one enjoying the paper while the house fell apart???? Nope, not yet anyway....lol
See, the timing and movements of the home are set by the "Woman of the House". Look, there is power and position in being the woman of the house, what men strive for in their professional world, God has just handed us.... in our homes.... how dare we squander it on poor management skills. God has handed us this authority in our homes because of our submission to him and our husbands, there are benefits to submission. "Well, there is just so much to do" you say. Your right, our job is not easy, our load is not light, I agree.. but it is manageable, if you are disciplined and determined to have a healthy family and marriage . Let's look a little closer at this, so we can get to the root issue here....

Ladies, your mornings and day for that matter, should not be chaos. Set your priorities... Your first thought should be GOD... Spend time with God every morning... let his strength gird you up for the day.

Your second thought should be your husband, but I will get to that in a minute.....

Next, spend a few minutes with your kids.... they are a blessing from God... you have no idea what they go through at school...A child's Mom is the closest thing to God in their little world...at least pray with them each day, love them before they go off to school, greet them with love when they get home, and tuck them in with God's love every night... You owe them that, and you will be judged on your performance one day...

Manage your home... let your kids help with chores. Nobody says to be a good Mom you have to do everything.. How will your children learn if you don't teach them how to do chores? Responsibility builds Character.... make a list of expectations for your children, give them consequences... and follow through... don't give empty threats.

Now... Let's get to the heart of the matter..... the romance and where has it gone????
Some of you wanted me to be all about that "lazy husband relaxing in his chair while,  the wife was running around like a chicken with it's head cut off"...... Okay, let's look at him....
Here's how his day went....Had a bad start this am because the house is in chaos, his wife didn't acknowledge him, got to work late, boss gave him a look, HIS SECRETARY ALSO GAVE HIM A LOOK!, the one his wife didn't give him...... the guys at work teased him cause he won't wallow in the gutter with them, work on his desk is piling up and he will have to work a little late, can't reach his wife (because she is on the phone listening to the latest gossip?)to let her know, "Great! traffic, I am gonna be late for dinner, shes gonna be mad", no welcome home kiss, wow, that was some look from my secretary, wife doesn't want to sit out back and talk, I am just in the way in here, I need some peace and quite, dinner, bed time, my wife rejected my intimacy and affection, she doesn't love me......

Wow!..... Is it any wonder he made his way to his chair? What is wrong with this picture??? Well, lets start at the beginning...
Men are designed to be Conquers...Knights in shining armor... Heroes. And what he wants more than anything in life is to be that for you... he wants to fix things for you, make things better for you, he wants to "save" you... when your husband sees you drowning in a household of chaos... he doesn't know what to do to help you because he was not designed to manage your household... you were.... Unless you tell him and allow him to "rescue" you....he is not fulfilling is design.... And your probably saying " He is a smart man, why should I have to tell him what to do?" Two reasons, because it is not the customary role for most husbands, and secondly, he might be feeling like a cat in a room full of rocking chairs!.... Maybe you haven't welcomed him into your world.... Or maybe you are the wife saying "My husband would never help me with housework or the kids, that is a woman's job", Well let me just say, husbands if that is you..shame on you...your wife keeps your world spinning and you should appreciate what a challenge that is sometimes... Ladies, maybe he has not grasped the "benefits" of helping you...
Here's an example...." Hey honey, there are a lot of dishes here, if you could help me get the kids to bed, by the time I am done with the dishes, I could meet you upstairs".... would that sound better to him than, "ARE YOU CRAZY? NO!".

Okay...pardon me, maybe I am rushing some of you.....how about, "honey, if you can help me with these dishes, after I get the kids in bed, we could have some coffee out back"  Is that better??? lol.....there is nothing like opening the line of communication in the audience of all of God's wondrous creations.... the stars, the heavens... the vastness, seems to help open up even the most suppressed emotions...
My husband and I have made some of our most important decisions of our life outside, under the stars, with God... try it... you'll be amazed at how defenseless you both become...

Lets talk about that look his secretary gave him.... Even if your husband is not the type..Ladies, let me warn you about not being the one who is giving your husband "the look". It is very important that your husbands ego be fed at home.. because their are plenty of women out there, who do not see marriage as a obstacle. In fact, a married man is a "hassle  free encounter" . I would hate to think that the devil had an opportunity to slip in and destroy your marriage while you were preoccupied with your chaos... It happens everyday, to good, godly marriages, every where. We are not exempt, and you owe it to one another to meet each others needs. 

So your saying.. "Well, what does this have to do with romance and how do I get those butterflies back?" Simple, you work on it, daily...you create romance... huh? Here, let me show you..

What was romantic when you were first married? Well, for one, you put effort into it... you made sure you looked nice, the house smelled nice, there was nice music..... create this atmosphere for a special late night dinner... "Well, we have kids, if they hear music, they'll get up". So, plan a sleepover for them at Grandma's house, or set a small table outside on your patio. If you have it in the budget, drive two hours out of town, have a nice dinner, and stay at a inexpensive (okay expensive works too) hotel. If you live in a coastal area, drive to the beach just before sunset, get a coffee, spread out a blanket, and watch the sunset... There are many things you can do to bring back the spark. HOLD HANDS.... "Well, we are on a very tight budget" Okay, share a McDonalds Ice cream,.go to a High School Football field, set on top of the car and watch the game. Good Lord! how romantic is that???? I am just saying there are so many things you can do...

Look ladies, here's the bottom line you are a manager, you are married to a conquer.... get your priorities straight, clear out the chaos, so he can rescue you.....Set him up to succeed.... Let him be your Knight in shining armor....because besides all the mess, chaos, stress, and disorder that life can bring... your really a Princess.....

God Bless You,
Joy



...

Being a "Church Lady" In A Hurting World.......

    

     So I am in the store one day (Target of course, with an Iced vente quad shot white chocolate mocha), in the check out line, and the lady in front of me had just ended a phone conversation where she was relaying how involved she was at her local church, and how involved she was in Sunday School, and how the church office would practically fall apart with out her..... She moved forward, where the cashier greeted her with a smile, and said, "Hello, did you find everything you needed today?".... The "church lady" peered at the cashier over the rim of her glasses, that were slipping down to the pointy end of her nose, and replied " No, but I never do, you guys are always out of what I need!" Taken aback a little, the young cashier says, " I am so sorry, can I get someone to help you with the other items you needed? We are remodeling and we might have just placed the items somewhere else temporarily." The lady, replied "No, I don't have time to wait".

     Thinking, that I could somehow decrease the discomfort this young lady was feeling, I spoke up and said "That happens to me sometimes, but the nice thing is, Target restocks really quick, and if it is on sale today, you can get a rain check. You should check back tomorrow." Never looking up, the cashier, smiled just a tad, and the church lady, just rolled her eyes.....

     It was my turn at the register, and I felt obligated to show this young lady what a real christian is all about, a real "church lady" if you will.....the cashier skipped her usual greeting and went straight to "Thank you", and replied, "no big, she was probably having a rough day from the moment she woke up, coming here and not finding what she wanted probably had nothing to do with what is bothering her"..I said. She replied " where do you go to church?"."I go to one church but two locations"I said.... "huh?', I giggled.... I go to church on Sundays and Thurdays in Corona, but we have a Saturday service here in HD. "Oh" she replied..Well, I have tried church, but people judge me, and their mean, like that lady was". Ouch.... this really stung....had I ever been judgemental and hurt someone like that? I told this young lady, that the idea of being a christian, was to love other people with the love of Christ. God didn't send us here to be the judge of man, he sent us here to love souls so He could save them.... 

     I assured her that she would be welcome to come to service, and she would be loved and she wouldn't be judge for her appearance.. see, she had many piercings and some tattoos.. I told her God loves you just as you are, and he wants a relationship with you.... she hasn't come yet, but I left her with the info, and hopefully a better out look of what a "church lady" is....

     As I left the store, I began to think of myself, and my treatment of others. You never know when you encounter a person, what their situation is. Did that young girl pray that morning.".God, if your actually real, send someone to tell me?" . What if I would have been self absorbed and didn't share Gods love with her? Even worse, what if I would have judged her, and disregarded her feelings because I was miserable with myself like the other customer? What if that girl decided..there are no good people on this earth, God is not real, and ended her life? Extreme thought?... yes... it is, but we are living in extreme times...extreme hurt, extreme depression, extreme despair.... On my way home, I prayed..." God, please, do what ever you need to do to my heart..don't ever let me become like that woman. Please let me see other people through your love, help me to always be sensitive to those around me that are hurting, and in need of you.".

     I was thinking about the other woman, the church lady... what is her deal? Wonder what was going on in her life...I couldn't quite put my finger on it, but I knew that that was not the spirit I wanted...

It wasn't till this week that this scripture really popped out at me

Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.Prov 18:12

WOW! It was a haughty spirit.....that's what was going on with the lady at the store.."God, help me to never take on a haughty spirit".....with out God, I am nothing, with God I am still only a servant......

     After reading this chapter and referencing a few other verses( I recommend a study on this..very encouraging) I started thinking about a dear friend of mine...Camille....Camille and I have known each other for 15 years. Camille is that lady that you always want to be around. Camille is beautiful, great hair. She's got the beautiful house, perfect kids, great husband, educated, great cook, and just all around fun!....But that's, not what draws you to Camille. What draws a person to Camille is her spirit...regardless of your situation, how you feel about yourself, whether you are friend or stranger.....she has this ability, to make you feel important...do you know why? its because she has the spirit of Humility.....see Camille can encounter a person, and she might have a nicer house, or maybe her family has more stability, but she will always share Gods love....she will always relate how, she too has had situations that she's had to work through with God. She has put away from her a haughty spirit and taken on a spirit of humility.... WOW...you make her sound like a saint, you might be saying. Thats not my intent, I am pointing out that , through the love of Christ she has allowed herself to be used, just by being humble and showing kindness in the simple things... I want to be just like this... I want to be the lady who draw people to Christ through my spirit.... and I always want to be humble before God....

I want to leave you with one challenge today.... when you are out and about, find one person, that you can encourage. Let them see the love of Christ through your humility.... you never know their situation, you never know just what it took to get that person to that place where they are in your path today.... don't waste a oppertunity on a haughty spirit....

God Bless You,

J

     

 

My Perfect Princess.......Madison Malee

 Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice.....

This is what little girls are made of .... at least most girls are... Plenty of sweetness, with the right pinch of spice to keep you on your toes....or your knees.....lol

I'll never forget the day...."It's a Girl" our Dr said.. Daniel and Dan gave each other a high five. Dan was beaming, Daniel said "Mom, its gonna be a girl baby, an I gonna yub it, and kiss it". Total and complete happiness.....

My pregnancy with Maddie was perfect. Nothing unusual to report. Everything progressed normally. We prepared our nursery, shopped until the stores were practically empty, and just waited...

Dan was thrilled...I was a WRECK!!!!!!! What if I didn't know how to take care of a little girl? Everything is different...besides that, what if I didn't know when I was in labor???

See, things were different when Daniel was born...I was induced, I had an epidural at 3cm...I had no idea, what a contraction felt like.....Oh my word ! I was freaking out... I talked to everybody, getting their opinion, and oh my, did I ever get some opinions....I got one opinion, I wont name names,( her initials are T.H. and she lives in Texas, and she has some kids named Cody & Hannah)  but she said "you wanna know what contractions feel like?, okay I'll tell you, H- E- DOUBLE HOCKEY STICKS !!!!  Thats what ! " .

Yeah, I was pretty clear on the fate of my near future....ouch!

Well, the pregnancy progressed, the time approached, last appointment, Doc says "yeah, could be any day, but if not we'll induce on Monday... (gotta love my Dr. induces around the football schedule).

So Saturday morning, Dan leaves for work around 11:30 am...I am making the bed, just a quick stitch in my side..."hummmm".....pick up some shoes, another quick stitch.....hummmm.... 

I called my Mother, cause Mothers ALWAYS know best...."Call Dan immediately...you need to go to the hospital" I....

"What???? I am not ready, I have laundry, and I haven't packed, I am hungry"..... Well, I called Dan... Heres how the call went..."Good Morning, CCA, This is Lt. Martinez",  "Hello, this is Joy Godwin, my husband is on his way to work, could you send him home when he gets there?", "Is everything okay Mrs Godwin?", "Well, yes it's fine, I am in labor", "Oh, my God!, my wife was in labor once!, do you need an ambulance?", "No, I need you to calm down, and breath, are you alone in the control center?' "No ma'am, there are two of us", "Okay, I am gonna hang up now, just send my husband home okay?" "Yes ma'am"..........wheeeeeewwww.....men! 

Well, I really did have things to do...We got to the hospital in an hour or so, checked in, got the monitor, however, Dr wasn't there, out on an emergency.....

So the head L&D Nurse decides to "evaluate" the situation....." I'll be right back" she says, with that "Oh my word! smile plastered on her face, as she calmly runs from the room..... In the hall I hear her say "Get a Podiatrist, Ophthalmologist,  or a Psychiatrist.....anybody with MD after their name immediately......See apparently in Texas, an MD must be present when a baby is born...and a baby was gonna be born any second...

The nurse came back...."your contractions are ridiculously high, you must be in massive pain, and an epidural will slow your labor, so we are gonna do that right now, okay?"......hummm.....I really felt not much of nothing so far.....

Barely, got that epidural, when Maddie says, "No, I am not waiting...." 

To this day, I can still hear my Dr (the fill in) "skidding" literally skidding in flip flops, bathing suit top, and denim cut offs down the hall... someone helped her on with gloves and a coat.....and Maddie was born....

Welcome to the World

Madison Malee Godwin

June 28th, 1997

7lbs 5oz

19 in

She was gorgeous.....perfect in every way....dark brown hair, dark eyes, the pinkest cheeks and the perfect pouty mouth....The perfection of God's creation all bundled up in pink....

Dan was ecstatic, Daniel thrilled to be a big brother, and once again I was overwhelmed by Gods amazing grace on our family.. 

I couldn't help but think, she was mine for a moment, but her destiny is predetermined by God. I could care for her and love her, but ultimately, she belong to God, only mine on loan. I thought of all the things I would teach her, the special times we would share, and the memories we would make, but one day, she too would be a mommy and hold her own precious creation like I was now holding her. What a wonderful responsibility was birthed in me that day...I would be her closest example of what a Godly woman should be... could I pull it off?

Madison, like any other little girl, grew into a bouncing, giggling, little pink blur...She was her Daddy's Princess.. In fact, I distinctly recall a special treat that was given to sooth heart wrenching sobs, when a "really mean, smelly boy, who couldn't even read", told her "your not a real princess, or else you would live in a castle, and your dad wouldn't work!". She was devastated, and vowed never to return to Kindergarten again..

She's a Daddy's girl... he's the man in her life...don't get me wrong, they butt heads now and then, but she cherishes him and he her. Although, he taught her to ride a bike, tie her shoes and a mean left hook...the most important lesson he has taught her, is what a Godly man is... what traits to look for in her "Prince Charming"......when the time comes, until then..... Daddy has a gun!!!!....lol

I couldn't believe how time was flying... as if life was determined to shorten my time with her... before I knew it, I was sending my daughter off to Jr High, Senior Youth Camp, Youth Services....What is up with this aging thing????

There were trips to the mall for things like high heels and perfume.... what happened to Johnson & Johnson baby lotion?, that smells great! Phrases like "mom, I am gonna do my own hair for tonight" and " mom, I don't wear ruffles and bows", once again reminded me... she is growing up....

Maddie is a very talented girl... She reads music very well, she plays piano, clarinet, and violin. Madison actively participates in Praise and Worship, and loves singing.. She is a team player, and will be on just about any team.. She likes sports, games, acting, anything fun...she wants to be involved. Maddie is very strong minded. She is not very easily swayed, and is relentless in reaching her goals.... Maddie loves God and is very strong in her convictions, I am very proud of her.

My precious girl is a Freshman in HS now. I can't believe it. The last 14 years of her life, have unfolded like a whirlwind. Where has the time gone? I know that there are so many wonderful things in store for Maddie, and I am looking forward with anticipation to guiding her the rest of the way.....

Although its with bittersweet feelings, I am looking forward to teaching her to drive, and how to manage a check book. I am looking forward to setting Maddie up for college. I am looking forward to meeting the man of her dreams, the man that God is molding and developing for her even now, I am looking forward to wedding plans and phone calls of why doesn't this turn out, and how do I make this.....giggling girls and little cowboys.... I just want time to slow down... I want more time, more time to experience Gods wondrous power in her life, and to cherish my little bouncing, giggling, pink blur......

I love you Madison, You will always be my little girl

Mom

"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. John 8:36"

Today I witnessed an event of nature so closely paralleled to sin, I thought I had to write about it.....

While I was coming up my side walk, I enjoyed and  appreciated the beauty God had created, especially thankful for my perfectly manicured lawn  and gardens. Spring is simply beautiful in the High Desert.

I notice however, a poor, little caterpillar had gotten himself caught in a spider's web...I watched him wiggle around for a couple seconds before I realized, he is stuck and no way could he be set free on his own...

I grappled with the whole "circle of life" thing for a moment and thought..."now that is just down right mean"..I picked up a stick, and tried to help him out..Almost as soon as I touched that web, I notice the unmistakable legs of a Black Widow Spider creep out of the shrub that supported the web..You should have seen her grace and agility as she moved instinctively to protect her prey...

Of course, I decided..I have stuck my nose..or rather, my stick, where it didn't belong... I put the stick aside and watched nature and it's intricacy and was once again in awe at how every little detail of life has a lesson to be learned...

This perfectly marvelous creature that God had created, began spinning around the caterpillar at an incredible speed, spinning more glistening web around her catch...binding him to the web, tighter until he could barely move...

I noticed that the web its self was gently billowing in the breeze, when the sun would catch it, it shimmered just right, you know that real pretty iridescent white color..it was almost hypnotic...It made me wonder if the caterpillar unknowingly walked into the web, or did the beauty and shimmering effect attract him....did he knowingly walk into the web, knowing its danger, but thinking he was strong enough to get out when he was ready to leave?

Isn't this just like Satan? Doesn't he spin such a pretty web for us, billowing and glistening ever so lightly, hypnotizing us with beauty, enticing us with a little danger, only to leave us bound and unable to move or free ourselves when we realize that we are stuck?

The spider didn't kill the caterpillar, she just trapped it, making it miserable, left it struggling to be free....Struggling for life....

That is just what Satan does to his victims. He lures them with pretty things, enticing words, and then binds them until he can claim them as his, but he, like the spider doesn't want to kill his prey right away...he just wants to hold them captive...Struggling for life...

I couldn't save that little fuzzy caterpillar, nature is nature, but, if you find yourself bound in a web of sin, there is hope for you. YOU do not have to be bound, struggling for life..YOU can be set free, by our Savior.

"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. John 8:36"

THE PERFECT WIFE IS POSSIBLE......

Hummm.....The Proverbs 31 Woman....can we achieve this? 

I have had lots of discussion with friends at different times in my life, regarding the Proverbs 31 woman. The opinion fluctuates quite a lot, but one feeling is always consistent, and that is; we all want to be her...

I think the Proverbs 31 woman is very achievable for all of us...But can we be all things at one time? I don't know. I do know the bible says ; " To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:" Eccl 3:1 I have found in my life, that at times I have had different traits of the Proverbs 31 woman, but not all things at one time...

I decided as a personal bible study, I would take on this chapter scripture by scripture, and apply it to my life...Here's where I am today:

  " She makes her own bedspreads.
      She dresses in fine linen and purple gowns.
   Her husband is well known at the city gates,
      where he sits with the other civic leaders.
    She makes belted linen garments
      and sashes to sell to the merchants."

Proverbs 31:22-24

So, I, like many, many of the women in my life can completely relate to scriptures 22 & 24. We have become so crafty, and have learned so many amazing ways to show our God given talents...We have learned to decorate our homes to look like show places, we have created flowers, bows, headbands, shoe doo dads, accessories of every kind. We have created clothes in every shape, size and style.....Okay Sistah...we have ACHIEVED 22, & 24........

But what about scripture 23....? " Her husband is well known at the city gates, where he sits with the other civic leaders"... Are you setting your husband up for success amongst his peers? When people see you, what does that tell them about your husband. Is he respected at the "Gate of his City"?

I try, and I say try, because I am not perfect..I have not ACHIEVED this one...lol, I always try to behave in a way that will do my husband proud. Have you ever known a lady who maybe is a little less graceful than she should be, and it reflects in her husband? Now, I am not talking about someone who is kinda clumsy, or likes to cut up and have a good time. I am talking about the woman who acts without regard of how her behavior will reflect on her husband....

When your husband sits at the City Gate with other Civic Leaders, it requires a certain amount of grace and dignity on your part. Others watch you, they are learning how to live. You essentially have become a leader amongst women. I want to be that lady, who people say, "Oh that's Dan Godwin's wife". I want people to say or think, "she must run a good household, or take good care of her husband, because he is a great, and respectable man". And ready for this one ?????....."She must really respect the "chain of command" as outlined in the bible, (Eph 5:22-31) because it shows in her husband"....I know friends... I almost said the "S" word....SUBMISSION !!!

Can you believe it..? In my blog, I am talking about the "S" word ??? I think my followers just decreased..lol

The "S" word is hard for a lot of women...there have been "seasons" in my life, where it was down right impossible...lol. But through God, we can do all things..Examine your life and heart, what can you do differently...? Support him Spiritually, Encourage him emotionally, Engage him Intellectually , and Affirm him Physically (see a Dr. about all the headaches.......lol)

Vow, to set your husband up for success...

Maybe you are not in a place in your life where you are willing to take on this challenge..but I want all I can get from God. I want to be all I can be for him. I have found the more I pursue God, the easier it is for me to achieve the traits of the Proverbs 31 woman..and honestly...it's enjoyable.

I hope you will be inspired to pick up your bible today, turn to Proverbs 31, and start a new adventure in your life...you'll be amazed at the change in your household, family, and your marriage...and before you know it, you will feel a new sense of pride in the woman you are....

God Bless You...

J

Pig Tails, Tantrums, and Alien Invasion....Prepare Yourself For Battle.....

So, I am just gonna start this post like we were recently interrupted, during a completely peaceful and relaxing cup of coffee between two friends............

As you know I am a stay at home mom of three "practically perfect" children, whom I home school. I have a pretty structured learning schedule, so we don't get out of the house as much as you might think.. Things tend to get a little "stuffy" from time to time, so you can imagine my delight recently when I was able to "escape" while "wonderful hubby" and 3 children were sedated with Benedryl and Tylenol......

I decided a trip to my 4th favorite place (Church, Texas, Disneyland, and Target, in that order) Target, after a quick stop for a Quad-Shot Iced White Chocolate Mocha, was just what the Dr ordered..

As an avid reader, I quickly found myself in the book section of my favorite retailer, enjoying my peace and quiet, when out of no where~ an alien with springy pig tails, freckles, and light up Dora tennis shoes erupted my bubble ! YES...it was a KID..!!!! And worse than that, she had brought her well trained parent with her....

I thought I had heard "Little Miss Bossy Britches" a few isles back, but I just dismissed it as a bad trick my mind was playing on me, but NO..there she was in all her glory....smiling at me. I smiled back, and complimented her shoes, "Hello, I said". "I like your Dora shoes, they are very cute". (because my mom always taught me to be kind to others at all cost)......."I KNOW" she replied.....

...........hmmmmmmm...........

My attention turned to the mom, mostly as a distraction, and so I could refrain from sticking my tongue out at the kid !

My heart instantly softened, the moment I laid eyes on this poor unsuspecting mom, I knew it.... She had come to the same place as an escape, for some peace and relaxation... I felt for this mom right away.  This alien had sucked the very life out of her......

You know the mom that I mean, same pair of denim Capris, colored T-shirt with a vague kool-aid stain, broken down flip flops, hair a mess, barely brushed teeth....the kind of mom who's kids look great, and have the best, but her life is chaos, her priorities are out of whack, so there is no time to be the best she can be..? 

I prayed in my mind, "God, show her a better way to be a mom, show her she is important, give her strength to be her best everyday. God show her you love her..."

I meandered to the next couple of isles...when I heard the mom say, come on, I need to get a few more things. Instantly, the little girl resisted. "NO! I want to look at books". Mom replies, "Don't yell, maybe after nap time , we will go to the library, you can look at books there". The mom walk a little ways ahead, I suppose expecting the little one to follow, only she didn't.....not yet !! The mom, again said, "come on, I am leaving, lets go". In my heart of hearts I wanted the little girl to be obedient and follow, but I knew who was in charge here, and so did the ALIEN...!

All of a sudden, with a loud, piercing, through the teeth voice...taking one step with every syllable....." I SAID, I WANTED A BOOK...BRING THAT CART BACK HERE RIGHT NOW!".......

In my mind I prayed for that mom. "God give her the strength to correct the situation she created. Give her the wisdom and guidance to parent the way you intended...."

I waited patiently, to hear the response.....and I was devastated when it was delivered......

In a deep, growling, through the teeth voice, one step for every syllable, the mother turned the cart around and stomped back to the little girl and said "I don' like your tone of voice. When I say, lets go, lets go!" She picked up the little girl, put her in the cart, wheeled directly to the books and said, "you may pick out one book".......

WHAT!!!!!!....wait.....I wanted so badly to runnnnnn.....to the mom and say "you can win....don't give in, you will be fighting this battle for the rest of her life"...

Why, why why ? Why do so many good parents do this? Why do we take the very life God created and entrusted to us, and mess it all up? We take this completely new wonderful white canvas, and allow our lack of patience, will, structure, and effort to paint it, instead of drawing lines, and filling them in with the wonderful colors that God has given us. Colors of respect, love, discipline, boundaries.... 

I know it is hard to be consistent. Sometimes as moms and wives, we get tired, worn down, and frankly, we don't always have the energy to say one more time "No"...We have all been there. Can I tell you friend, it gets easier? The more consistency you apply to your child s life, the easier it gets. Kids need structure and boundaries. If you listen closely, they are practically begging for it...

Where should I start, you ask?

Start by taking care of yourself..get up before your kids.

"She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens".

Proverbs 31:15

Have time to yourself. Prepare yourself for your day, in some cases...Prepare your self for battle....lol. But seriously, be up early, shower, dress for your day. I am not saying you have to look like Mrs. America, but wear something that is ironed and stain free..take pride in yourself. Fix your hair, even if it is just a pony tail, or a little twist in the back. Eat a good, healthy breakfast.

Secondly, start your day with God. Spend some time in prayer and reading your bible. I haven't always done this, because like other moms and wives, I didn't have my priorities straight. I rolled out of bed late, rushed my kids through morning preparations and rushed them to school, so I could rush to work...

Relax, slow down, spend time with your maker....even if this means getting up an hour early....it will change your life!

Finally, your ready to wake your aliens....oooppps, I mean children. Don't yell at them from the door way....go into their room. Wake them with a pleasant, respectful voice, you know, the kind you want them to use with you....BTW....if your kids are 7yrs or older, get them an alarm clock...YES MOMMY, they are old enough to wake themselves.....IT'S OKAY...it is not mean!

Teach your kids to prepare for their day just like you prepared for yours, cause, heres something you don't want to hear...BUT....if your kids go to school outside of their home.....they are preparing for battle...war, spiritual war...do you want the last voice they heard to be you yelling how late they are, or God's voice?

It's just a start....but you have to start some where...Trust me, your kids will thank you for it..maybe not now, but one day, your kids will look back and they will think, wow, I have a great mom. She really loved me, and cared for me. She cared enough for me to disapline me and teach me about God.

"Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her". 

Proverbs 31:28

 

If you find yourself here today, don't fret friend, God will be with you. He has given you all the tools you need...Until you figure them all out, there is always Target and Quad-Shot Iced White Chocolate Mochas.....