Self-pity or Peace and Joy

The rash is back on my face now that the prednisone treatment is completed. My low grade fevers are back as well. My pain levels have been more intense lately. I could wallow in self-pity. Yet, God has given me such amazing peace and abundant joy. I could allow life to pass me by and miss out on precious moments with my son. Instead, I am choosing to look at all of the blessings in my life each day rather than focusing on all of the problems in my life. When I lay my burdens at God's feet, I am freed to enjoy cherished times with my son and my heart soars. Your heart can soar as well. You can experience God's amazing peace and abundant joy, too! Ask Him to carry your burdens and then leave them there. Focus on the simple everyday blessings He is already bestowing upon you. See if changing your perspective doesn't change your life for the better.

"The Lord himself will fight for you; you need only to be still [just stay calm]." - Exodus 14:14

Hurtful Words or Healing Words

We all, myself included, need to be very cautious about the words that come from our mouths. The Bible says: "The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." Proverbs 12:18 When we become frustrated, angry, or hurt, we do not always take the time to think with our minds but merely hurl words that tumble from our wounded hearts up through our mouths. The scripture verse says that each word we utter, has the potential to hurt or to bring healing. Words do indeed cause pain deep within a person's soul. Words leave wounds on our hearts that no one can see. But, those wounds are real and can take a lifetime to heal. Yet, words also have the power to heal. Words can encourage, infuse hope, reflect joy, bring blessings, restore beauty, and demonstrate sincere love. These are the words God desires to hear pass through our lips. These are the words our children long to hear from us. These are the words our loved ones and friends look forward to sharing with us. These are the words that can help a lost soul find the way home and God's immense love. Let us be cautious when we speak! May we choose words that bring healing, hope and love!

Parenting by Example

As parents, we are entrusted with the most precious treasures...our children. For them, we need to set the best examples. Not examples of how to keep the cleanest house, be involved in the most activities, or working hour after hour to make the big money. Rather, let us be examples in how to commune with God in prayer and through His word and how to live boldly for Him by being examples of His love and choosing to do the right thing even when no one else is. It is a tremendous responsibility but an unmeasurable joy and blessing as well. Thank you, Father God, for this precious gift!

"Parents, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." Ephesians 6:4

My Thoughts on Sunday's Mother's Day Sermon

Society says that it is okay to take tiny steps into sin. But God has called us to be set apart. For in His infinite wisdom, God knows that in our weak sinful natures once we start allowing little slivers of sin to enter our lives, we give the Devil a foothold and start on a dangerous slippery slope that will draw us deeper into sin and farther from God and His perfect will for each of us! This is why we must make every effort to be in His word and commune with Him in prayer daily! It is essential to our spiritual health and survival. 


"Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” 1 Peter 1: 13-16


My insight from Sunday's sermon, "Living Before God Our Father, Set Apart for Him", by Wendy Mbakop.


Audio link to the sermon