Puzzles

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I enjoy reading facebook posts from my friends. I have friends who make astute observations about life.  Some are serious, some are tender and heart-warming, and occasionally some are just hilariously funny.  Today, my friend Brian had a post I absolutely loved!  Here is what he wrote:

My elderly neighbor called and asked “Could you please come and help me? I have a killer jigsaw puzzle, and I can’t figure where to start.” I asked, “What’s it supposed to be when it’s finished?” She said, “Well, the picture on the box, is a rooster.”
I decided to go help with the puzzle. She let me in and showed me the puzzle spread all over the table. I looked at the pieces , then at the box, and turned to her and said, “First, no matter what, we won’t be able to assemble these pieces into anything resembling a rooster.” I took her hand and said, “Secondly, I want you to relax. Let’s have a nice cup of tea.” Then I said with a deep sigh …………”Let’s put all the Corn Flakes back in the box.”

 

Lessons Learned:

Sometimes things aren’t always what you perceive them to be.

Sometimes it doesn’t hurt to ask for help when you can’t figure something out.

Sometimes it’s best just to put things back in the box.

Sometimes it’s good to just sit and have a cup of tea.

And, always, it’s good to be able to laugh

 

Losing One Black Hole in My Heart

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This morning I got righteously angry. My husband and I had driven 45 minutes to attend a 15 minute parent – teacher conference. Our child was attending a new school and we had lots of questions about the transition to a more difficult curriculum. When we arrived, the teacher was running about 10 minutes late. Once we got settled in for our conference, there was the usual ‘small talk’ about what a joy our child was to have in the class…yada yada. Then the principal broke in over the loud speaker, calling our teacher by name and stating that the conference was over, our teacher had been running behind and needed to move on.

We’d only gotten five minutes and hadn’t even gotten to the meat of the conference! I was stunned. My husband could see that I was frustrated and he quickly walked me out past the parents who were arriving for their conference. I fumed all the way home.

Now most of you who are parents are probably ranting a bit along with me! The nerve! You would have stormed into the principals office and demanded your 15 minutes, right? Or at least written a letter of dissatisfaction. I’m sure you agree I have a right to be angry.

The problem with all of this is that it happened when my oldest daughter was in third grade. She is now 26 years old and a second grade teacher herself, pregnant with our first grandchild (I know that first grandchild part has nothing to do with the story, I just had to throw that in).

So why in the world did that anger rear its head again this morning? For all I know, that teacher has passed on. And I know for sure my daughter survived that year with no ill effects. I obviously have not effectively forgiven either the teacher or the principal. What a way to waste ten minutes of a beautiful morning.

This started me thinking. I thought I was “forgiven up”. If you asked me, I would tell you that there was no major grudge or awful thing I was angry about, no one I wasn’t speaking to because of a wrong they had done. But God reminded me that just below the surface there lie things that can quickly regenerate the same emotions I had the day the incidents happened. My heart has black holes of unforgiveness that must be addressed.

God tells us that we must let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from us. And we must be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave us. (Eph 4:31-32)

I pray that God will remind me of all other instances where I have failed to forgive, so I may turn the ‘black holes’ in my heart to prisms of light.

Practice What You Teach

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We have all heard the saying, “Practice what you preach.” But this week I have had to remember to practice what I teach!

I have been teaching Philippians in our women’s Bible study and last week we completed our study.  It has been a great journey and all of us have learned new things. Philippians has always been my favorite Pauline epistle and every time I teach from it, I am convicted of new ways to grow in my Christian walk.  His focus on finding joy in the Lord is amazing considering his own circumstances when writing the letter.

But today, I was particularly convicted by the phrase “with thanksgiving.” In all honestly, this past couple of weeks have been difficult for me and I have had to focus on thanksgiving and living what I have been teaching. I have spent more money than I even want to think about this during the last two weeks!  I had foundation issues on one side of my house which required piering, (which is very costly).  My washer quit and had to be replaced, my car headlight had to be replaced, and my car air conditioning had to be repaired (I have severe asthma and no air conditioning can trigger problems).

At first it all seemed overwhelming, but God is amazing for putting people in my path who “just happen” to be able to help.   Yes, I had to tap into my IRA, but I am thankful to have an IRA.  Yes, I had to have piering work done, but my neighbor owns a company that does piering and waterproofing and he gave me an excellent price for the work.  Yes, my car needed work, but the cost was way less than I anticipated because a fellow classmate from college, who happens to be an awesome Christian, owns an auto repair shop.  And yes, I needed a new washer, but I hit a great sale and spent less on a new washer than the “dent and scratch” one I was looking at–plus I got free delivery and haul-away!

Living a life of thankfulness in the midst of adverse circumstances is a challenge for me.  But I have discovered that when I look on the positive side and become grateful for the bad, I always find the good in there somewhere.  I think that is one of the secrets of joy that Paul found on his journey in the Lord.

Studies have shown that people who live with an attitude of gratefulness and positivity are happier and find more satisfaction in life than those who do not.  The challenge today is to choose to be thankful–in all circumstances.

“Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:4-7

A Little Chocolate and a Lot of Philippians

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Today as I was reading my April 2012 issue of FamilyCircle magazine, I read something that I have known all along.  “According to a new study, subjects who ate chocolate (as opposed to nonsurgary food or nothing at all) were more likely to feel agreeable and help others in need.”  Don’t most of us already know that from experience?  Most women I know (and a lot of men) readily admit to the fact that they are chocoholics to some degree.

Recently I have been leading a study in the book of Philippians, and I realized that Paul has addressed this same issue of being agreeable and helping others in need.  And it doesn’t even involve chocolate!  In Philippians 2:3, he asks the church to, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.”  In 2:14, he says, “Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may be blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe.”

When we consider others first, have a positive attitude, and look to God as our compass point, it is easier to find joy in this life.  When we find joy, it is easier to have a positive attitude and become more agreeable and helpful.  A little chocolate is fine, but when we read the words of Philippians and take them to heart, we can find way more joy and pleasure–and it doesn’t add calories!

Other interesting facts noted:

  • Americans spend more than $2 billion on Easter candy annually.
  •  90 million chocolate bunnies are produced every year (76% of people eat the ears first- I am one of them).
  •  Marshmallow Peeps (my favorite and I am a Peeps purist) are the most popular non-chocolate treat.

Leaders Learn

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Lately I have read some leadership blogs and articles about the value of a leader who is also a learner.  When you think about it, a leader who is continually learning not only has more to share, but she also learns throughout the process.  For example, I am teaching a Bible study on the book of Philippians right now.  Because of that, I am digging deeper into the Word, studying on a level I might not have done otherwise.  In the process I am learning more.

I receive the quarterly Lifeway publication, Facts and Trends, and usually read it from cover to cover because they always have interesting information that is applicable for anyone in ministry. The Winter 2012 issue caught my attention with an article written by Thom S. Ranier entitled, “Great Leaders Are Continuous Learners.”

While the article was about upcoming events Lifeway will be offering, Ranier noted, “In his book The Shape of Faith to Come, Brad Waggoner notes that Christians who read their Bibles daily are more likely to give generously to the church, be active in small group or Sunday School class, share their faith more often, spend great time in prayer, attend worship services regularly and be involved in local ministries and international ministries.”

There are definite rewards to being a leader who learns.  As Christian leaders, we need to learn from the best and I can’t think of a single resource better than God’s Word.  The Bible provides us with a way to know God intimately, to learn His nature, and to see His faithfulness through generations.

My friend, Diane Stortz, has a blog that focuses on being in the Word. (Networked Blogs). Her challenge to readers is this:”How about reading the Bible simply to get to know God? No worksheets to answer. Nothing to study. Just read, keeping the focus on a single question: What does this tell us about God?” Wouldn’t it be amazing for those of us who are Christian leaders to keep the focus on knowing God?  That comes from spending time in His Word.

To be an effective leader we also must be an effective learner. It is a life-long process that never stops.  While I applaud the opportunity to participate in conferences and workshops to expand my knowledge, be inspired, and be challenged, I know that the place I truly learn the most is being immersed in His Word.

What about you?  What is your primary source of learning about God? Is it commentaries, books, and articles?  Or is it by spending time in His Word, getting to know who He is, how He works, and what He desires?

Do you want to be an effective leader? Be a learner.

 

Troubles

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My family has a strong history of skin cancer that has struck each generation.  I have had three skin cancers removed and at the suggestion of my dermatologist recently had photodynamic therapy or a “blue light” procedure done on my face to remove my many facial actinic keratosis (pre-cancer cells).

While I had been told of the possible side effects, I had not anticipated having every one of them to the extreme.  The first day of the procedure I just had slight redness and I thought, “This isn’t too bad.”  The next day I had more redness and discomfort, but it was still manageable.  By the third morning, however, my face was swollen to the point where my eyes were tiny slits and the redness almost had a purple tinge!

By this time I was starting to panic just a little and realized maybe I needed some help.  I called the doctor’s office and was subsequently put on Prednisone (which I hate taking, by the way) to relieve the swelling. I am happy to say that this morning I woke up and can actually see my eyes and look somewhat human again!

Most of us understand that sometimes in life we are going to have trials and challenges.  We anticipate them.  But then life throws us the unexpected; all of the possible side effects of trouble become reality and we must deal with them.  We don’t like them.  Not one little bit.

That is when we need to understand that while trouble comes to us all we do not have to face them alone.  The Lord is certainly available to help us during our troubles.  We just need to call on Him.  We are given many scriptures that encourage us to look to him as a refuge and a rock during our times of trouble.

Psalm 9:9: “The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble”

Psalm 27:5: “For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock.”

Psalm 34:19: “The righteous person may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all.”

John 14:27: ” Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Troubles will come to us all.  As Christians, we will not be immune from Satan’s attacks. In fact, the closer we become to the Lord, the more frequently he will try to thwart us and bring trouble down on our heads.  But we know that we have a heavenly Father who can ease our hurts and help us in times of trouble.

I enjoy Ray LaMontagne’s song Trouble.  If you think about it, instead of being saved by the love of a woman, we have been saved by the love of Christ.  All of the troubles and worries we have can be eased by being in His presence. Trouble

The Secret of a Joyful Journey

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I am currently teaching a Bible study based on the book of Philippians. Many of you may know that the letter to the Philippian church has a special place in my heart. Of all of the recorded letters we have from Paul, this one speaks the most to me.  It is full of words of wisdom and encouragement and I find myself turning to this small letter over and over again.

This one little epistle can start us on a journey of joy in our Christian life if we take it to heart.  In actuality, our joy is not dependent on our circumstances, but on our relationship with the Lord.

Occasionally, however, when I turn to this book, I read something I really don’t want to know.  Take for example chapter 2, verse 3, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.”

Really?  Really??  I have to do that??? Man, there are days sometimes when that seems so difficult to achieve!  In all honesty, I am a self-centered individual and it’s difficult to break that habit.  It’s easy to become selfishly absorbed in my little world and how everything impacts me.  So, no selfish ambition or vain conceit . . .

And then there is 2::14-16a, “Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without faith in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life.”

I’m not supposed to complain and argue?  While I am not a person who argues frequently, some days it is easy to fall into the complaining trap.  It is especially easy to do when you are somewhat of a perfectionist (those who know me well would probably say more than somewhat) and things aren’t up to your standard.  So. . no complaining or arguing . . .

Then we have Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Do not be anxious, but be thankful?  It is easy to become anxious when life is pressing in on me; money is tight, relationships have problems, health problem abound, and so forth.   And yet Paul knows the dangers that lie in constant anxiety.  He also knows the joy that comes when we can find an attitude of gratitude.  So, do not be anxious and do be thankful . . .

This is actually a very simple list but when you look at it and implementing Paul’s advice can lead us to a much more fulfilling, joyful life.  It is proven that people who have a positive attitude, who are considerate of others, and who are thankful, are much happier, healthier, and yes, even wealthier, than those who grumble and complain, and live self-absorbed lives.

The secret of a joyful journey?  It’s really simple and complex at the same time.  Living a life rooted in Christ.  When we do that, our joy is not dependent on our happiness or the circumstances surrounding us, rather on our relationship with our Creator.   Always easier said than done, but with the help of the Lord and our Christian family who can hold us accountable for living these standards, we can achieve true joy in our journey of life.

 

Love Lies At My Feet

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It occurred to me this morning that Jesus is a lot like my dog. Now stay with me for a minute — I don’t want to be disrespectful in any way to God. As I was in the bathroom brushing my teeth I looked down and saw my faithful little Scamper lying on the floor waiting patiently for me to finish. As I put down the toothbrush and turned off the water, she got up and dutifully followed me into the bedroom, plopping on the floor to watch as I made the bed.

Sometimes she nudges me to remind me that she’s there and that I should pay her some attention, but mostly she is just very close and ready in case I ‘need’ her. All I have to do is look her way and she immediately perks up her ears and wags her tail as if to remind me “I’m here, and I love you!”

Occasionally she has to get a little more demanding. If I am not paying her enough attention she will physically push her snout under my hand until I’m in the right position to show her some affection. Other times she is required to bark before I realize that action on my part is required.

Really, now, isn’t that just like Jesus? He is always there for me, waiting patiently to prove his everlasting love — all I have to do is look to him. He follows me everywhere I go, quietly with little fanfare. Sometimes, when I’ve been focusing too much on myself and this world, he gently but firmly nudges me to remind me that I need to look only to him for approval and advice.

And, unfortunately more often than I’d like, he occasionally needs to be more vocal in getting my attention away from the worries of the world so I can walk in the right way — his way.

Deuteronomy 31:8 reminds us that, “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” I hope that Scamper will be another earthly reminder to me of God’s constant closeness and incredible love.

Open the Eyes of My Heart

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I have a confession to make and honestly, I debated if I should share this.  Lately, I’ve been really struggling.  Since I became a Christian, I have always been sure of one thing–and that is God loves me.  Deeply, sacrificially, loves ME.  Flawed though I am. Sinful though I may be.  He loves me.

But lately, I have let so many doubts creep in.  I look at my flawed, imperfect life and wonder occasionally if I am worthy of His love?  In all the ways that count, I will never be “worthy” enough. Satan wants me to believe that my relationship with Christ is built on my worthiness.  Thank God, it is not. The blessing is that he loves me–despite my flaws.

Today God used a couple of things to reveal to me that I need to make some changes.  I think God was speaking directly at me as I read a missionary friend’s newsletter and she talked about her struggle in finding her joy not in things or circumstances, but in the Lord.  It really struck a chord with me and helped me realize that I, too, have been depending on my circumstances to make me happy.  Lately, I have been so focused on myself and my hurts, my disappointments, and my life, that I have closed my eyes to the hand of God working every minute in my life.  I wept as I realized I had let myself forget the wonderful new creation I experienced when I became his child. I wept as God revealed to me that I have let myself get so distracted by my circumstances I have let them interfere with our relationship.

Yep, God and I had a conversation today and he reminded me that I need to remember  my joy and my satisfaction doesn’t come from the things I have in my life.  It isn’t because I have a job, or enough money, or no worries.  My joy needs to be in Jesus, through all of my circumstances.  Only then, will my eyes be open to see Him in all of His glory.

In Ephesians 1:17-19, Paul says, “I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.”  I pray that I may never lose sight in my heart.  I pray that the eyes of my heart will always be open to God.

Sometimes life gets hard.  But if I keep my eyes open to the great love of Christ, I know that my joy will come from Him.

“Open the eyes of my heart, Lord.  Open my eyes to recognize your great and wonderful works in my life.  Help me to remember that you have a glorious future in store for me.  Help me to remember that not only are you working here on my behalf, but you are working in the heavenly realms with all authority and power and dominion. Open my eyes, Lord, and let me see you.”

I love this version of the song, Open the Eyes of My heart because it is sang by one who we would consider flawed.  But God in His mercy, used this young man to touch the lives of many.

 

I Did Not Sign Up for This . . .

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I didn’t sign up for this.  No, I didn’t. Those were the words I repeated angrily to myself the other day as I was trying to stretch a budget that cannot be stretched any further.

I didn’t sign up to be a widow struggling to make ends meet each week.

I didn’t sign up to have a house that needs a new everything–including roof, furnace, air conditioner and foundation repairs. Continue reading →