Blessings,
Showing posts with label encouragement. Show all posts
Showing posts with label encouragement. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
~be careful what you ask for....(passing on a post)~
I'm shamelessly passing on another post from my husband. This one is convicting - he preached on this a few weeks ago and I had to come home and soak my toes:) Enjoy!
Blessings,
Blessings,
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
~one, t-who, three~
My purpose for posting today is three-fold. First, I'd like to pass along another blogpost from my husband. This makes two in one week! I'm blown away that he found the time! This one's a little convicting, but you're sure to be blessed.
Secondly, and definitely on a more serious note, if you know of anyone affected by cancer, you'll want to read this blog. Julie Heppe is a local woman who has been battling breast cancer for 18 years and now the FDA is wanting to remove the drug that's been sustaining her life. Please check it out, then contact your representatives.
Lastly, I have been tinkering with my blog design and would LOVE some feedback! Who knew when I began blogging that the funnest part would be learning all the ins and outs of designing it? I am so far from knowing all about it, but have come a long way. I told Glen I thought I could honestly teach a class on this stuff. There's so much to learn! It's amazing that I haven't blown up my Google toolbar! I'm still needing help changing fonts in the text body and would like to make custom tabs that match my header, but baby steps! If you can give me some pointers or point me to some good websites that have helped you out, I would be so grateful!
Blessings,
Secondly, and definitely on a more serious note, if you know of anyone affected by cancer, you'll want to read this blog. Julie Heppe is a local woman who has been battling breast cancer for 18 years and now the FDA is wanting to remove the drug that's been sustaining her life. Please check it out, then contact your representatives.
Lastly, I have been tinkering with my blog design and would LOVE some feedback! Who knew when I began blogging that the funnest part would be learning all the ins and outs of designing it? I am so far from knowing all about it, but have come a long way. I told Glen I thought I could honestly teach a class on this stuff. There's so much to learn! It's amazing that I haven't blown up my Google toolbar! I'm still needing help changing fonts in the text body and would like to make custom tabs that match my header, but baby steps! If you can give me some pointers or point me to some good websites that have helped you out, I would be so grateful!
Blessings,
Friday, October 15, 2010
~shoes, water and elvis~
What in the world do shoes have to do with clean water? Well, last year, my brother told me of an organization near him that collects old shoes, sells them by the pound to retailers in developing countries, then uses the money made to purchase drills for digging wells. My brother manages a gym and they were working with this ministry, The Shoeman Water Project, and collecting shoes from their members.
I thought this would make an awesome service project for our homeschool group, but Glen said we should get the church involved. It's been a year, but we've finally gotten it together! Saturday, October 23 will be "Soleful Saturday" at Community Baptist Church. If you live in the area, please join us! Everything starts at 2pm. We'll have a bounce house for the kids, hot dogs and at 3pm, The Pullen Family will take the stage (or the porch, actually). After the Pullen's, The praise band, "1-4-G" will lead us in a time of worship. If you don't want to stay, but just want to drop off your shoes, that's also possible. We'll have many eager hands waiting to take your shoes as you drive up.
Today is Blog Action Day and the topic is clean water. If you'd like to blog about this subject, just link up here.
I must confess, God is working on me. I think I've been oblivious for far too long. It's easy to ignore problems of others and focus on my daily struggles (which are NOTHING in comparison). God has been dealing with me in this area for a little while. I blogged a little about it here and here. A few weeks ago, Grayson and I went to a Christian concert. The Make a Difference Tour, with Max Lucado, Third Day, Michael W. Smith, and Toby Mac. I knew there would be an opportunity to adopt a child, so Glen and I discussed it and felt it was worthwhile. We have thought about it before, but wondered where the money would come from - the last thing we wanted to do was leave a kid with no help. This time, we thought the same thing, but God seems to be telling us to take the step so He can show us how He can provide. World Vision helps families in developing countries with clean water and food - specifically families effected by AIDS. I prayed throughout the night for God to point me to the child He had for us. To make sure I walk up to the right worker and that the first child's folder she took out, would be ours. When I walked up to her, there was a man flipping through all of the folders and then handed them back and said he would look at more at the table. What was he looking for? When it was my turn, she asked if we wanted a boy or a girl. I knew it had to be a boy. Riley has been asking for a brother since he was 4! The first folder she handed me had the meanest little face on it! Scowling like he definitely did not want his picture made. When I looked at his name, I could feel God's sense of humor - Elvis. Elvis! How sweet! He's from Kenya and has 3 siblings and a single mom. No dad. Such a familiar story. When I broght the folder home and showed Riley, the first thing he said was, "He looks really mean!". Well, we'll tell him all about Jesus.
I have to say, every time I hear about "Elvis" - you know...Presley, I think about our Elvis. Elvis from Kenya - and I'm reminded to pray for him. Every time I pray for him, I can't help but smile.
If you would like to learn more about sponsoring a child, visit World Vision on the web.
For too many years I thought I didn't have enough time or money to help. God is showing ways that don't require "too much", but do require me.
Blessings,
I thought this would make an awesome service project for our homeschool group, but Glen said we should get the church involved. It's been a year, but we've finally gotten it together! Saturday, October 23 will be "Soleful Saturday" at Community Baptist Church. If you live in the area, please join us! Everything starts at 2pm. We'll have a bounce house for the kids, hot dogs and at 3pm, The Pullen Family will take the stage (or the porch, actually). After the Pullen's, The praise band, "1-4-G" will lead us in a time of worship. If you don't want to stay, but just want to drop off your shoes, that's also possible. We'll have many eager hands waiting to take your shoes as you drive up.
Today is Blog Action Day and the topic is clean water. If you'd like to blog about this subject, just link up here.
I must confess, God is working on me. I think I've been oblivious for far too long. It's easy to ignore problems of others and focus on my daily struggles (which are NOTHING in comparison). God has been dealing with me in this area for a little while. I blogged a little about it here and here. A few weeks ago, Grayson and I went to a Christian concert. The Make a Difference Tour, with Max Lucado, Third Day, Michael W. Smith, and Toby Mac. I knew there would be an opportunity to adopt a child, so Glen and I discussed it and felt it was worthwhile. We have thought about it before, but wondered where the money would come from - the last thing we wanted to do was leave a kid with no help. This time, we thought the same thing, but God seems to be telling us to take the step so He can show us how He can provide. World Vision helps families in developing countries with clean water and food - specifically families effected by AIDS. I prayed throughout the night for God to point me to the child He had for us. To make sure I walk up to the right worker and that the first child's folder she took out, would be ours. When I walked up to her, there was a man flipping through all of the folders and then handed them back and said he would look at more at the table. What was he looking for? When it was my turn, she asked if we wanted a boy or a girl. I knew it had to be a boy. Riley has been asking for a brother since he was 4! The first folder she handed me had the meanest little face on it! Scowling like he definitely did not want his picture made. When I looked at his name, I could feel God's sense of humor - Elvis. Elvis! How sweet! He's from Kenya and has 3 siblings and a single mom. No dad. Such a familiar story. When I broght the folder home and showed Riley, the first thing he said was, "He looks really mean!". Well, we'll tell him all about Jesus.
I have to say, every time I hear about "Elvis" - you know...Presley, I think about our Elvis. Elvis from Kenya - and I'm reminded to pray for him. Every time I pray for him, I can't help but smile.
If you would like to learn more about sponsoring a child, visit World Vision on the web.
For too many years I thought I didn't have enough time or money to help. God is showing ways that don't require "too much", but do require me.
Blessings,
Saturday, September 18, 2010
~growing pains~
This week has been a tough week. Not like you would think. Not much different than usual, except unusually spiritually and emotionally tough.
Last week was our first week at Bible Study Fellowship and it was wonderful. It's always good to come back after summer break and grow in God's Word with other women. This year we're studying Isaiah, a new study that they haven't done before. I was so excited to get my first lesson last Saturday morning at leader's meeting. Usually I come straight home and read the notes, but it was a busy day so I waited until Sunday evening. One of the first things the notes mentioned was that tradition says that Isaiah was "sawn in two in a tree he had taken refuge in." Really? That's when the weight of the book hit me. Not that I haven't respected God's Word before, but I've heard of the deaths of the New Testament writers. I honestly hadn't heard this one before, and if this is a man who is willing to hide in a tree and be sawn in two to pass on God's Word.....well, I'd better listen to him!
That night I dreamed of being chased through a forest and taking refuge in a tree. I wasn't sawn in two in my dream (thank goodness), but I woke up with a real sense of fear. I laid awake for a very long time honestly pondering whether or not to continue in the study of Isaiah. It seems silly, but I really wanted to just meet with God everyday, meet with women every week - no drama. After sleeping on it, I came to my senses and realized that simply meeting with God without "drama" probably equals no growth, as well.
I began to pray that God use this study of Isaiah to grow me (which should have been my prayer all along), but really had, and still have no idea what that means. All week I've thought of that dream and what it might mean. After reading Isaiah chapter 1 and reading about the corrupt leaders and national sin, I began to ask myself if I would be willing to speak Truth so boldly that I would have reason to fear for my life. Would I? I probably won't be put in that position, but what if God called me like He called Isaiah? No matter what the cost. It's a matter of life and death - either mine or the nation's.
Last night as I finished up my lesson and homiletics, God grabbed me this time and wouldn't let go. I had saved a question from a previous day. Not recommended, but it seemed like a heavy question for the day it was given. God knew when I would need it. The question was, "List specific situations of oppression and injustice and ways you can help." Easy enough, right? I began making the list, but God kept bringing other ministry ideas to mind. I realized quickly that this list is endless! As I read over the list, I realized that even though everything listed was dear to my heart (AIDS orphans, domestic violence, human trafficking, world hunger, providing clean water to areas of the world without it, helping with financial hardships for single or widowed parents....), I knew anything I've ever done hasn't even put a dent in the need. And I hadn't even finished the list, I just ran out of room. This list could go on and on. I wept. Not just a little. As Glen was studying at the church and the kids were in bed, I sat by myself on my bed and wept over the list God had given me. I texted Glen, "I quit. This is too hard!" He replied, "WOW, must be a tough study!" Yes, but after much pleading with God, He spoke to my heart..."Isn't growth tough?"
I don't know if God was testing me to make sure I'm ready for the ride, or if Satan was wrestling with me so I would quit. Whichever isn't important, only that I'm not quitting.
I spoke with Glen today about how burdened I am and we agree that our family has to do more. How much more is yet to be revealed by God. I don't know what He has planned for our family through the study of Isaiah, but I know I can't quit now. I'm so pumped!
Blessings,
Last week was our first week at Bible Study Fellowship and it was wonderful. It's always good to come back after summer break and grow in God's Word with other women. This year we're studying Isaiah, a new study that they haven't done before. I was so excited to get my first lesson last Saturday morning at leader's meeting. Usually I come straight home and read the notes, but it was a busy day so I waited until Sunday evening. One of the first things the notes mentioned was that tradition says that Isaiah was "sawn in two in a tree he had taken refuge in." Really? That's when the weight of the book hit me. Not that I haven't respected God's Word before, but I've heard of the deaths of the New Testament writers. I honestly hadn't heard this one before, and if this is a man who is willing to hide in a tree and be sawn in two to pass on God's Word.....well, I'd better listen to him!
That night I dreamed of being chased through a forest and taking refuge in a tree. I wasn't sawn in two in my dream (thank goodness), but I woke up with a real sense of fear. I laid awake for a very long time honestly pondering whether or not to continue in the study of Isaiah. It seems silly, but I really wanted to just meet with God everyday, meet with women every week - no drama. After sleeping on it, I came to my senses and realized that simply meeting with God without "drama" probably equals no growth, as well.
I began to pray that God use this study of Isaiah to grow me (which should have been my prayer all along), but really had, and still have no idea what that means. All week I've thought of that dream and what it might mean. After reading Isaiah chapter 1 and reading about the corrupt leaders and national sin, I began to ask myself if I would be willing to speak Truth so boldly that I would have reason to fear for my life. Would I? I probably won't be put in that position, but what if God called me like He called Isaiah? No matter what the cost. It's a matter of life and death - either mine or the nation's.
Last night as I finished up my lesson and homiletics, God grabbed me this time and wouldn't let go. I had saved a question from a previous day. Not recommended, but it seemed like a heavy question for the day it was given. God knew when I would need it. The question was, "List specific situations of oppression and injustice and ways you can help." Easy enough, right? I began making the list, but God kept bringing other ministry ideas to mind. I realized quickly that this list is endless! As I read over the list, I realized that even though everything listed was dear to my heart (AIDS orphans, domestic violence, human trafficking, world hunger, providing clean water to areas of the world without it, helping with financial hardships for single or widowed parents....), I knew anything I've ever done hasn't even put a dent in the need. And I hadn't even finished the list, I just ran out of room. This list could go on and on. I wept. Not just a little. As Glen was studying at the church and the kids were in bed, I sat by myself on my bed and wept over the list God had given me. I texted Glen, "I quit. This is too hard!" He replied, "WOW, must be a tough study!" Yes, but after much pleading with God, He spoke to my heart..."Isn't growth tough?"
I don't know if God was testing me to make sure I'm ready for the ride, or if Satan was wrestling with me so I would quit. Whichever isn't important, only that I'm not quitting.
I spoke with Glen today about how burdened I am and we agree that our family has to do more. How much more is yet to be revealed by God. I don't know what He has planned for our family through the study of Isaiah, but I know I can't quit now. I'm so pumped!
Blessings,
Monday, September 6, 2010
~passing on a post~
Just wanted to share my husband's latest blogpost. It's not often that he blogs, so I like to pass it on when he does:) Enjoy!
http://pastorglenc.blogspot.com/2010/09/barlow-girl-is-all-woman-christian-rock.html
Blessings,
http://pastorglenc.blogspot.com/2010/09/barlow-girl-is-all-woman-christian-rock.html
Blessings,
Monday, August 23, 2010
~slipping away~
I know, I know! It's been FOREVER since I've posted a blog! My summer was packed with activity! Grayson and Riley both played ball, which led into all-stars. Never have they both made an all-star team at the same time. I'm thankful they did, but I'm also thankful it doesn't happen often:)
In the last few weeks I have searched my heart and searched God's Word for answers for fears I've been having. I have felt inadequate in several areas. As a mom, I'm sometimes pulled in several directions, headed in every direction- except the direction I feel I should be. We started school today and I don't have everything planned out like I want it. This will inevitably lead to being unorganized. I have unfinished projects, the laundry's not caught up, the dog needs a bath, etc.
As I searched for what was bothering me, I realized I had been feeling anxious for a while. Probably months. I love homeschooling my kids, but can I really do as good as the school? (God quickly gave me a situation to relate to with a definite answer - YES!) I think my fears are coming from the fact that Grayson is turning 13 in a few weeks. Why am I stressing over a number? It seems like only yesterday I was singing to her in my belly, but 13 years? Wow! I started to feel as if I've lost control and time is slipping away.
There is a verse I use with a friend who has a son with chronic health problems. Philippians 4:6. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.." So I did. Another verse God led me to was Matthew 6:34. "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Why am I finding this so hard? The more stressed I became, the worse it got. Suddenly I was convinced that my sweet little girl would be caught up in all kinds of trouble - just like you see in the movies...or worse! As I sought an answer from God, he quieted me with the reality that nothing will go as I have planned, but He is faithful and He has a plan for her. Thank goodness I'm not in control! As long as I'm resolved to teach her and continue to lead her to Him, I should have no worries. Not that she will have a perfect life with no problems, but that she will learn to lean into Him when she struggles, just as He has taught me to do.
I'm looking forward to her teenage years! There. I said it. She is beautiful and smart and compassionate and loving. She's loud and fun and spontaneous! I'm excited for the years that await! How tall will she be? Who will she marry? Will she have children? How many? Will she work outside the home or stay home with them? Will she homeschool them?
She has kept me on my knees all of her life, and I'll continue to pray for her....that's what mom's do:) But I will take every day as God gives it...one at a time.
Blessings,
In the last few weeks I have searched my heart and searched God's Word for answers for fears I've been having. I have felt inadequate in several areas. As a mom, I'm sometimes pulled in several directions, headed in every direction- except the direction I feel I should be. We started school today and I don't have everything planned out like I want it. This will inevitably lead to being unorganized. I have unfinished projects, the laundry's not caught up, the dog needs a bath, etc.
As I searched for what was bothering me, I realized I had been feeling anxious for a while. Probably months. I love homeschooling my kids, but can I really do as good as the school? (God quickly gave me a situation to relate to with a definite answer - YES!) I think my fears are coming from the fact that Grayson is turning 13 in a few weeks. Why am I stressing over a number? It seems like only yesterday I was singing to her in my belly, but 13 years? Wow! I started to feel as if I've lost control and time is slipping away.
There is a verse I use with a friend who has a son with chronic health problems. Philippians 4:6. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.." So I did. Another verse God led me to was Matthew 6:34. "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Why am I finding this so hard? The more stressed I became, the worse it got. Suddenly I was convinced that my sweet little girl would be caught up in all kinds of trouble - just like you see in the movies...or worse! As I sought an answer from God, he quieted me with the reality that nothing will go as I have planned, but He is faithful and He has a plan for her. Thank goodness I'm not in control! As long as I'm resolved to teach her and continue to lead her to Him, I should have no worries. Not that she will have a perfect life with no problems, but that she will learn to lean into Him when she struggles, just as He has taught me to do.
I'm looking forward to her teenage years! There. I said it. She is beautiful and smart and compassionate and loving. She's loud and fun and spontaneous! I'm excited for the years that await! How tall will she be? Who will she marry? Will she have children? How many? Will she work outside the home or stay home with them? Will she homeschool them?
She has kept me on my knees all of her life, and I'll continue to pray for her....that's what mom's do:) But I will take every day as God gives it...one at a time.
Blessings,
Thursday, May 6, 2010
~community~
I have to confess, when I first started blogging, I did it solely for myself. To put down thoughts that were scattered, on something besides a notebook that would eventually be misplaced, forever unable to locate. Recently however, I've realized the effect other blogs are having on me. As I browsed for like-minded women's blogs, I became encouraged by the fact that most of them don't have it as together as they would like either:) Thanks for encouraging me!
I have great friends. I have always been blessed with good friends - even from a young age. When I started homeschooling my kids, the group of friends I had a lot in common with shrunk. Though I am still friends with many, I get encouragement and have the opportunity to share my joy and frustration with those who also homeschool. Without the homeschool moms in my town, I'd be lost! Thanks for encouraging me.
Since beginning to blog, God has started to fill a huge void in my life through the blogging community. I have many friends, but few are pastor's wives. As a pastor's wife it's so hard to find anyone who completely understands where God has me. There's nothing special about me because my husband's in the ministry (in fact, there's nothing special about him either! JUST KIDDING! He's special to me!), but I am viewed differently because of it. As easy as it is to say you think your pastor's wife is "just like you" (and she is), the second she slips up, many are ready to condemn her for her mistakes. This doesn't happen so much within our church (that I know of), but around town - friends of friends of friends, you know. I've even heard someone say, "but you're a pastor's wife"! Yes I am, but so imperfect. Those of you who've been my friend, even before the ministry know this all too well:) You're saying, "is this really an issue? I know you and I know you fail!". Thanks for keeping it real!
I have been so encouraged by blogs of other wives in the ministry, and am realizing that though my blog was initially for me, my everyday ramblings and goof-ups could encourage a wife that's new to the ministry. I'll continue to write for me - for my own sanity, but know that you are writing for me and I'm grateful!
God is once again proving Himself faithful to supply all of my needs. If you are a ministry wife and you're reading this, chances are you've encouraged me - thank you! If you're not, please pray for your pastor's wife and don't put her on a pedestal, she'll let you down. Remember, she's just like you and she needs encouragement, too!
Blessings,
I have great friends. I have always been blessed with good friends - even from a young age. When I started homeschooling my kids, the group of friends I had a lot in common with shrunk. Though I am still friends with many, I get encouragement and have the opportunity to share my joy and frustration with those who also homeschool. Without the homeschool moms in my town, I'd be lost! Thanks for encouraging me.
Since beginning to blog, God has started to fill a huge void in my life through the blogging community. I have many friends, but few are pastor's wives. As a pastor's wife it's so hard to find anyone who completely understands where God has me. There's nothing special about me because my husband's in the ministry (in fact, there's nothing special about him either! JUST KIDDING! He's special to me!), but I am viewed differently because of it. As easy as it is to say you think your pastor's wife is "just like you" (and she is), the second she slips up, many are ready to condemn her for her mistakes. This doesn't happen so much within our church (that I know of), but around town - friends of friends of friends, you know. I've even heard someone say, "but you're a pastor's wife"! Yes I am, but so imperfect. Those of you who've been my friend, even before the ministry know this all too well:) You're saying, "is this really an issue? I know you and I know you fail!". Thanks for keeping it real!
I have been so encouraged by blogs of other wives in the ministry, and am realizing that though my blog was initially for me, my everyday ramblings and goof-ups could encourage a wife that's new to the ministry. I'll continue to write for me - for my own sanity, but know that you are writing for me and I'm grateful!
God is once again proving Himself faithful to supply all of my needs. If you are a ministry wife and you're reading this, chances are you've encouraged me - thank you! If you're not, please pray for your pastor's wife and don't put her on a pedestal, she'll let you down. Remember, she's just like you and she needs encouragement, too!
Blessings,
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