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Showing posts from 2017

Battle

Recently,  I read an article about how soldiers prepare for war in the desert. I was intrigued by the necessity of intense preparation for a battle of this nature. Being completely ripped out of the environment they are comfortable in and throw into unfamiliar territory with drastically different living conditions and survival means, requires steadfast determination and devotion to their training program. Learning to conceal themselves in desert environment, becoming undetectable to their enemy, training with endurance to clothe themselves in garments that protect them from war elements, but cause great discomfort due to the heat and climate in the desert are only a small portion of the lengths they go to in preparation of what’s to come. Learning to fire weapons in the hottest part of the day in order to become accustom to “heat haze” and migraines, familiarizing themselves with the enemy’s attack strategies. Learning what motivates and how their foe operates, gives them a clearer sen

Watch

About two months ago, we moved into our new home. One of the biggest and most unexpected blessings about that, has been having neighbors with children our boys' ages. No stress of prearranged play dates or meeting places, the front yard will do just fine. We get home earlier than the neighbors, and each day, without fail, one and usually both of my boys eagerly await their homecoming. Typically, the anticipation of their arrival begins from the moment we pull into our driveway, which is usually a good two and a half, sometimes three hours before the neighbor family comes home. (Praise Jesus for teacher hours!). "When will the neighbors be home?"  If I had a dime for every time I've heard that since mid-August, I could seriously retire early. Like now. They know the answer. It's the same every day. So, they fill the first hour with a snack, some screen time and homework. At this point, the excitement is kicked up a notch. Time is getting closer, to when they will

When Happy Places Become Hurting Places

Last Sunday, very quickly, I came down with some violent fashion of a stomach bug. Hours later, just before I was going to attempt to snuggle up in my super comfortable bed and fall asleep, Walker started with it too. It began for him in such a way that demanded he and Will vacate their bed. We drug a twin mattress into the living room for Walker and moved Will to our bed to sleep with Cliff. In an attempt to isolate the sickness, we decided I would sleep on the couch right next to Walker's make shift bed on the floor. That night, my head laid directly in the spot I call "my happy place" in our home. Next to it sits an end table where my Bible, journal and current study find their home. I sit there, sipping my coffee, spending time with my Lord under the illumination of one of my favorite lamps as the morning rays shining in on me. Usually, I curl up under my pink bunny blanket my daddy gave me as a little girl and the dog snuggles up beside me. I love this place. A lot o

Empty Things

An empty tank of gas won't get you to work. An empty container of shampoo won't clean your hair. An empty pantry won't feed your hungry brood. (I actually happen to know those last two to be fact from just this past weekend). An empty bank account won't pay the bills. Empty promises leave you disappointed. Empty nesters often feel lonely. Empty bags of chocolate contribute to the onset of depression. (I kid). Empty toilet paper rolls leave you, well.... poo. Empty stomachs yearn to be filled. Empty thoughts reveal ignorance. Empty hearts long for fulfillment. Empty: 1). containing nothing; not filled or occupied. 2). lacking meaning or sincerity When we encounter empty things, typically we experience a lack of productivity, fulfillment and satisfaction. I never enjoy finding the chocolate ice cream container empty in the freezer. Ever. Empty things don't provide. Empty things disappoint. Last night, my husband stood on the plot of land where our old church building

While I Wait

I've been in a place of steady wait for a little while now. Over the course of the last few years, I've heard the Lord speak to me about a direction He will take my life. Others, who knew nothing of what I'd felt Him speak to me, have confirmed through their words to me, that they see the Lord moving me in that direction as well. I've dipped my toes into the waters of what's to come, and it's exhilarating. Those moments where the tides of change rushed over me, gave me a new sense of living. New passions ignited, opportunities given, and words of affirmation spoken over me in those moments gave me glimpses into what will be. Then, as quickly as the tides of change rushed in, the waters pulled back. Thus began the season of now, the season of wait. It's not been easy. In fact, it's been quite frustrating at times, including now, if I'm being honest. I'm hungry for more. I thirst for fulfillment of what's been revealed. I'm ready to be us