Chatty Kelly...Sometimes Teaching, Always Learning

Giving the Gift of Grace

2012-01-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Last Friday I spent the day moderating comments on my guest post at Michael Hyatt's blog, and it was a great day. Comments poured in, not only on his blog, but on mine, as well as on Twitter and Facebook. Nearly all the comments were positive, except one. One woman expressed her disappointment on my Facebook page, "I do have to say tho (sic), that I am a little disappointed thatyou described yourself as a writer, speaker and then a mom and wife. I thinkthe latter two are more impressive and exciting."

In the past, when I allowed my sense of worth to come from other people's opinions, this one comment would have crushed me. But now, I was able to gently respond to her and let it go, for one simple reason. She doesn't even know me.

She doesn't know that my husband and I worked together creating my Disqus bio tag line, "Christian: Writer, Speaker, Wife, Mom, Leader." She doesn't know that I've been married 15 years and this past year of marriage has been our best ever. She doesn't know from the time I was a little girl all I ever wanted to be is a mom. She doesn't know the years that I battled infertility, the pain, the disappointment and the financial cost. And she doesn't know that I have been a stay home mom for 12 years, every moment precious to me. Yet, she felt entitled to inform me of her disappointment in the order that I placed 5 descriptive words (in no particular order) about myself.

I have noticed this sad trend on the way we judge each other in the media. Last June, my sister experienced the tragedy of the accidental death of an infant in her home. Devastation does not come close to describing what she went through. Yet people felt free to put heinous comments about her family in the comments section on media reports.

A local boy in my community was paralyzed by striking his head on a rock as he dove into the river. Someone commented on the media news page he must have been drunk to do something so stupid. His life is changed forever, and that comment (a lie) is just another crushing blow.

Just read any news story that allows comments and you will be disgusted by the sometimes vicious, and always judgmental, way people attack those already down. Why do we do that? What do we judge other's situations so harshly? Why don't we show grace, especially when we have no first hand knowledge?

The Bible is clear that the measure by which we judge is the measure we will be judged by. Judge not, lest you be judged. This isn't an excuse to ignore the sins of others. We are to speak to our friends, in private. We are to speak the truth, in love.

The comments I've been reading lately in the media are not spoken in love, but in hatred. This practice has become so common place that the word "Haters" has been coined to describe people who do it.

I don't know the solution. But I do know, that my new goal is to assume the best about people, giving them the gift of Grace, with the help of God. No one is perfect. Especially me.

Have you ever judged someone harshly, or left a negative comment? How do you feel about that now?

A Life Without Blinders

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

I rushed to the checkout counter at the department store. I had just enough time to ring up my purchases and pick up my daughter from school on time. Thankfully, there was only one young man ahead of me. He chatted away to the check out clerk. Obviously, he was not running late like I was. I became more anxious as he took his time.

I checked my watch again as they worked through his transaction. He began to count out his money. My annoyance rose. If he didn't hurry up, I was going to have to leave my purchase. He came up short with his money. "Good grief," I thought, "Just hurry up!" He left his purchases on the counter. Relieved, I checked out and jumped in the car to pick up my daughter.

On the drive, I reflected on the situation. I'd missed an opportunity, because I'd had blinders on. I don't remember how much money he was short on his purchase, but I could have given him the dollar or two he needed. I remembered what he had been saying. "A new shirt for my new job." He was excited. I'd missed an opportunity to show a random act of kindness; to show him the love of Jesus.

Now, I strive to live a life without blinders on. Here are some tips that help me.

1. Slow down. I was a big hurry. That was my first mistake. I didn't plan my own time better, so suddenly my running late was his fault. If I hadn't been in a hurry, I would have been relaxed and able to engage in what he was saying in the moment, rather than in hindsight.

2. Don't focus on yourself. It was all about me that day. When I was so focused on myself, I couldn't see the young man. In hindsight I realized how proud and excited he was about his new job. It was probably his first job. I missed the chance to share in, and increase his joy, because I couldn't take my eyes off myself.

3. Be intentional. We have opportunities to help those around us every day if we just take our blinders off. Now I am more intentional about looking and seeing those around me.

4. Pray. Yes, pray, and ask God to open your eyes. God places people in our path that need to see his light, and we have the chance to reflect it. Be the light.

I am sorry for my actions that day at the store. I am thankful that God is never too busy to see me, and for his amazing grace when I blow it. Those blinders made me blind...but now I see.

For this people’s heart has become calloused; theyhardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwisethey might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand withtheir hearts and turn, and I would heal them. But blessed are youreyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. Matthew 13:15,16

Are you intentionally seeking opportunities to shine God's light or participate in random acts of kindness?

Why Who You Associate With Matters

2012-01-23T06:00:00.001-05:00

Are you concerned with the lifestyles of those around you? You should be. Whether or not you admit it, the actions of those you surround yourself with influence your life.

As a Christian married mom, I surround myself with like minded friends to hold me accountable in my thoughts and actions. But what about in the workplace? Think this doesn't apply to you?

That's probably what Joe Paterno thought. A Penn State football coach for 46 years, he holds the record for the most football victories by an NCAA Division I football bowl subdivision. Yet, his legacy is tarnished by his association with the Jerry Sandusky scandal. And sadly, as his Sunday death is mourned, that scandal will be continue to be associated with Paterno's name.

That's not to negate the power of your influence. Just as you are impacted by those around you, they are impacted by you as well. There is real power in influence. That is why your main associates should be with those you respect and admire. Then make time for those that you choose to mentor as well.

My mom used to say, "Birds of a feather flock together." Who we surround ourselves with is critically important to who we are, who we become, and the legacy we will leave behind.

When I {God} say to a wicked person, "You will surely die," andyou do not warn them or speak out to dissuade them from their evil ways inorder to save their life, that wicked person will die for their sin, and Iwill hold you accountable for their blood. But if you do warn the wickedperson and they do not turn from their wickedness or from their evil ways, theywill die for their sin; but you will have saved yourself.

Again, when a righteous person turns from theirrighteousness and does evil, and I put a stumbling block before them, they willdie. Since you did not warn them, they will die for their sin. The righteousthings that person did will not be remembered, and I will hold you accountablefor their blood. But if you do warn the righteous person not to sinand they do not sin, they will surely live because they took warning, and youwill have saved yourself.
Ezekiel 3:18-21

Are YOU What is Holding You Back?

2012-01-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome! If you are visiting from Michael Hyatt's blog today, Thank You! I hope you will consider subscribing to my blog, or coming back to visit on a regular basis.

When I read that Michael Hyatt accepted guest posts on his blog, I thought, "Maybe I should submit something." Almost immediately however, came the next thought, "Why would he publish anything written by you?" However, I've come to recognize that second voice for the liar that it is.

Over the past year, I've come to realize that the main thing holding me back was me. I've come to recognize the voices in my head, and identify them for who or what they are. No, I'm not schizophrenic. I'm talking about the running dialog in my head. Maybe you have it too. Learning to recognize the voices can help you stop holding yourself back.

1. The Voice of Lies. Whether you call it an overactive conscience, the pessimist in you, or even the devil, the liar is always there to tell you that you can't, you'll fail, and you're not good enough. I've learned that if I respond to the liar with reality, the lies go away. This takes a lot of practice, especially if you've been listening to the lies for a long period of time.

2. The Voice of Reality. When the Liar said, "Why would Michael Hyatt publish you?" The Voice of Reality could honestly respond, "I'm a regular reader of his blog, I think I understand what he's looking for, and because he is the father of 5 daughters I believe he will appreciate my viewpoint from the home front." The Voice of Reality even whispered, with more hope than reality, "You are a good writer." The Voice of Reality is you, the real you who understands your capabilities. It honestly states your abilities with neither ego nor self deprecation.

3. The Voice of Truth. Whether you call this one your intuition, or (as I believe) the Holy Spirit, the Voice of Truth is different than the Voice of Reality. Reality is from our own perspective, while Truth is bigger than reality. Max Lucado illustrates this point in his story of The Woodcutter's Wisdom. We can't always recognize the bigger picture. But the Voice of Truth directs us. When the Voice of Truth warns us not to do something, it is not because we are not worthy. It is often because what we are doing is not worthy of us. The Voice of Truth spurs us on in wisdom.

What are you stopping yourself from doing by believing the Voice of Lies? What does Reality say? What does Truth say? Keep taking your leaps of faith. Eventually you'll stick the landing.

What steps will you take to stop negative self talk from holding you back?

Me? A Leader?

2012-01-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

Be sure and read the exciting news at the end of this post!

I've never considered myself a leader, which is pretty funny in hindsight. My husband has always said that I end up leading every group I join, which is true. I was president of the church's women's ministry when I was in my mid-20s. I was head of my Junior Woman's Club and Mother's of Preschoolers group, and I led a Bible study for over 10 years. Still I always considered that I was just doing a job that no one else wanted.

The same was true with my writing. Most of those leadership positions came with writing a newsletter article each month. When someone would tell me how much they enjoyed the article, I chalked it up to interesting subject matter. I thought they were just being kind. I never dreamed it could mean that I was a good writer.

So when I saw the Michael Hyatt, Chairman of Thomas Nelson Publishing (which happens to be the world's largest Christian Publisher), accepted guest posts on leadership on his blog, I didn't immediately think I should send something in. A housewife doesn't seem like a leader. But that is exactly why I decided to send something in. And he accepted it!

On Friday, I will be guest posting at the blog of Michael Hyatt, and his nearly 182,000 subscribers will read my work. Because anyone can be a leader, even a housewife. Even me.

Visit my post on Friday at www.michaelhyatt.com.

My One (2, 3) Word

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Chatty Kelly could not come up with just one word. "My One Word" is an experiment designed to lose the long list of changes and resolutions you want to make for 2012 and instead pick one word. I couldn't only pick one, but I did narrow it down to three. Here's what I'm thinking about for 2012.

CLOSER - In 2012, I want to become closer to my husband, my children, my family and friends. This means letting my guard down more, becoming more vulnerable. As someone who has been hurt (and haven't we all?) this can be a hard thing to do. But we can't get close to someone with walls around us. Most importantly I want to become closer to God. That relationship will improve all the others.
Come near to God and he will come near to you. James 4:8

BETTER - Who doesn't want to be better? For me, I want to be a better wife and mom. I want to be a better writer and speaker. I want to be a better friend, a better student of God's word, and a better child of God. I want to be better.
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:48

FEARLESS - Ironically, this is the one that scares me the most. I am not fearless. It's easy to live a safe life and never take take chances. There is no risk of failure if you don't put yourself out there. But can you call it success if you never try? Failure would be success if I put myself out there, taking the risk, whatever it may. Because I don't have to be perfect.
I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears. Psalm 34:4

What is your One Word this year?
And what Bible verse can you claim to help you achieve your goal?

Friday the 13th

2012-01-13T08:30:00.001-05:00

Today is Friday the 13th, a day that is supposedly bad luck. I don't believe in such superstitions, and I especially like the quote I read the other day that said, "Friday the 13th is actually a lucky day, because it is always followed by a Saturday!"

Man-made practices of good and bad don't hold any weight with God. Recently my 7 yr old came home from school and told me if you hold up your middle finger it means you don't love God. Then she asked me, "Is that true?" "Do you love God?" I asked her. She assured me she did. "If you hold up your middle finger will you still love God?" She said of course.

I shared with her that God made every part of her, and he loved every inch of her, including her middle finger. But people have tainted things making up the idea that raising a middle finger means something ugly or perverted, when God didn't make it that way.

Yet the very things God has said are not okay, and even calls sin, are readily accepted in society as the norm. We live in a mixed up world. We have to be alert, keep reading the Bible, and keep our eyes on God. I am thankful for a God who loves all of me, even my middle finger, and who loves me the same every day, even on Friday the 13th.

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow anddeceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principlesof this world rather than on Christ. For in Christ all the fullness of theDeity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who isthe head over every power and authority” (Colossians 2:8-10).

The Power of Your Influence

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000-05:00

Never underestimate your influence.

I recently ran into a gentlemen who was running for office in my locale. I had met him previously at a social event. He said, "Do you remember me?" And I said of course I remembered meeting him at the event. "No," he responded, "Do you remember meeting me at your mom's?" Shocked I said I hadn't. As I searched my memory over when I could have possibly met him at my mom's, he made a remark I missed about rudeness. "My mom was rude to you?" I asked. Laughing, he answered, "No, you were! But then I was just a friend of your little sister." I still didn't remember, the event happened 20 years earlier. But 20 years later he still remembered I had been rude.

Never underestimate your influence.

Recently, I got an email from a former co-worker. I haven't worked outside the home in 12 years, so literally I have not seen this person in 12 years. We did exchange a few Christmas cards over the years, and I sent a congratulations card once over a promotion.

The email asked me to pray for my co-worker's family as they went through a medical crisis. I was honored to do so.This person hadn't seen me in 12 years, but remembered that I "believed in the power of prayer" 12 years later.

What you do, how you act, what you say, leaves an impact on people, good or bad.

What influence are you, and your faith, leaving?

A New Year

2012-01-02T08:30:00.000-05:00

A new year, a fresh start, a clean slate. The new year holds such promise. We set goals and make resolutions. And these are really good things. As Bill Copeland said, "The trouble with not having a goal is that you can spend your life running up and down the field and never score." Goals are important.

But we needn't wait for a new year to start fresh. As this January moves into February and the days fly by, as the do seemingly faster each year, we will make mistakes and fail at goals. That's okay! God's mercies are new every day. So you don't have to wait until January 1, 2013 to get your fresh start. Or even a Monday! Take it daily.

We may have many plans, but the plans of the Lord prevail. Why not include Him in your goal setting this year, and see what you can do together.

What goals or resolutions have you set for 2012?

Is Blogging Dead?

2011-12-27T10:13:00.000-05:00

Is blogging dead? Only you know the answer to that question, as it relates to my blog. Some blogs flourish and grow, others dwindle. I have some ideas to spruce up my blog in 2012. However, I need your help. My blog's goal is pretty broad, to share how God influence's my every day normal (and not so normal) life in the hope that you will notice God in your every day life too.

What would you like to see on my blog that would keep you engaged and coming back on a regular basis? What changes could I make that would make you encourage your friends to read my blog? What other blogs do you read and why?

I'd love to hear what you think. If you are not comfortable leaving your answer in a comment, please email me at chattykelly@comcast.net

Thanks!

Christmas Bells

2011-12-25T14:00:00.000-05:00

Christmas is "the most wonderful time of the year." Yet, for so many it brings heartache. I can't help but think about the new reality for so many people at this Christmas. A family whose young son is paralyzed after a diving accident, so thankful to be home for the Christmas, but to a new reality. Families who have lost children and wait longingly to be reunited with them in heaven. Families out of work, families fighting illness, families with loved ones at war.

Last year after Christmas I was wondering where God was during all of this. I read this from the Jesus Calling Devotional...a devotional written as if Jesus were talking to you.

"As this year draws to a close, receive my peace. This is still your deepest need, and I , your Prince of Peace, long to pour Myself into your neediness. my abundance and your emptiness are a perfect match. I designed you to have no sufficiency of your own. I created you as a jar of clay, set apart for sacred use. I want you to be filled with my very being, permeated through and through with Peace."

And I heard this beautiful song, below, by Casting Crowns, based on the Henry Wadworth Longfellow song of the same title. "God is not dead, nor does he sleep." God is with us, God is for us, God is in us.

There is pain. But there is peace in knowing Jesus. May you know the Peace of Jesus at Christmas and forever.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T09:05:00.001-05:00

As you go on your way may Christ go with you. May he go before you to show you the way; May he go behind you to encourage you; Beside you to befriend you; Above you to watch over you; Within you to give you peace.

Merry Christmas!

Christmas is about Presents

2011-12-14T08:08:00.002-05:00

"What did you get for Christmas?" No doubt, that question will be asked a lot in the next few weeks. Let's face it, Christmas is about the presents, right?

No doubt, my family loves gift giving! We sponsored a young man through social services and bought his Christmas gifts, as we have for the past several years. We send gifts to children through our church mission, and make donations through our school. And of course we give and receive gifts from each other. We love presents!

But the truth is, many folks think Christmas is JUST about the presents. And that isn't true. Christmas is about Jesus. We do love to give gifts. But the gifts are to draw our attention to the gift of eternal life we received through Jesus coming to earth as a baby on the first Christmas, growing up, dying on the cross, taking our sins with him, rising up from the dead and conquering death for us all.

Presents are what the wise men brought to young Jesus to honor him. Gifts are not a bad thing. But when you think Christmas is only about the presents you get confused. Christmas is about Jesus, and the fact that he came to earth, and gave us His presence. And through the Holy Spirit we can always have His presence with us. Christmas really is about presence!

Advent - Waiting

2011-11-30T07:00:00.003-05:00

The season of Advent began on Sunday, (Nov 27). Advent is defined by the arrival of something that was awaited, something we were waiting for. The world was waiting for a Savior who arrived on Christmas, and we Christians are waiting now for his second coming.

Waiting…what does that word mean to you? Sometimes it can be nerve-wracking; in a small way - like waiting in line in the grocery store when you're in a hurry, or in a big way - like waiting for that phone call with the test results. Sometimes it can be exciting like waiting for your vacation or birthday. The Bible says we should be ready, waiting for Jesus to come again. What exactly does that mean - - waiting?

Dictionary.com offers several different definitions to the word wait. Which definition expresses how you are WAITING for Jesus to return? The first definition is “to remain inactive until something expected happens.” Like waiting for a bus. So are you inactive, just living your life the way you want, until Jesus comes?

Another definition is “to remain neglected for a time,” like a matter that can wait. Are you neglecting Jesus, not giving a thought to him or his second coming?

The third definition is “to look forward to eagerly.” That is a great definition of the attitude we should have as we wait for Christ.

But, if you dig deeper, you’ll find some archaic or ancient definitions of the word wait. One is “to be in readiness for”…we are to be ready for the return of Christ. Do you think you’re ready? If you knew Jesus was returning tomorrow, what would you do today? Why aren’t you doing it?

Finally comes the definition “attend upon, as a sign of respect.” We should be attentive to Jesus. How? By reading his word (the Bible), praying, and following his will as a sign of our respect. That is the real meaning of waiting for Jesus to come again. So which definition of wait will you use?

And how will it define you?

"Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like men waiting for their master to return…. You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not
expect him." Luke 12:35-36a, 40

It's the Holiday Season!

2011-11-22T08:32:00.001-05:00

With the whoop-de-do, and hickory dock...are you ready for the holidays? The holidays are a time of great joy, although for some they are a time of stress, or even sadness. I feel blessed that the holidays do not bring me any sadness, but only joy. However, even in the joy I do feel stressed.

Shopping, wrapping, baking, and decorating are all things I enjoy! But it can get overwhelming when coupled with all of the day-to-day things like laundry, grocery shopping, cooking and cleaning. Several years ago I made a decision. So I could fully focus on my family and the "reason for the season" I took the month of December off from blogging. It was a great time of relaxation and joy for me.

At the time I took the blog break, I had almost 100 daily readers and averaged 25+ comments a day. However my blog never recovered from that break. Now on average I have about 35 daily readers and get a comment or two on occasion. Do I regret my decision to take the holiday season off? Well, honestly, a little.

Yet, I knew I did was best for me personally, as well as my family. A wise person once said, "writing may be your gift, but your family is your ministry." My family is my ministry. And so I always try to put them first. In doing so, I am honoring God who gave me both the gift of writing, and the bigger gift of my family.

So, if you notice the blog posts coming less frequently during over the next month, don't be surprised. I'm honoring God and my family, and taking a well earned rest. After all, it's the holiday season! So whoop-de-do!

The "Joy" of Church

2011-11-14T08:13:00.001-05:00

"Church should bring you joy...not suck it out of you."

I had to laugh at the above quote, on a church sign no less! As I drove past, I kept laughing. What a funny quote. And, is "suck" a church word? Cause we don't use that word at our church. (*smile*) As I continued pondering, I realized that while it's a nice thought that church should bring you joy, and mine certainly does, I don't want to attend a church that only brings me joy.

I want a church that challenges me, convicts me and pushes me to grow...sometimes even when I don't want to! In the book of John, chapter 6, Jesus preaches some hard teaching. It says many of his disciples left him that day.

On hearing it, many of his disciples said, “This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?” Aware that his disciples were grumbling about this, Jesus said to them, “Does this offend you?" From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. “You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve. Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.” John 6:60-61, 66-68

Today, so many of us want a "feel good" message and we certainly don't want a church that is going to point out our sin and challenge us to change. However, Jesus' preaching offended many, and he was willing to lose disciples over it. But those closest to him realized that only he had the words of eternal life.

So, I'm thankful for my church, which is willing to preach the hard lessons, and while it might not bring me joy on every Sunday, the end result is eternal life. And that brings true joy.

Reflection Question: Would you rather attend a church that shares an easy message each Sunday, or a church that challenges you (encouragingly) to grow?

The Bitter Aftertaste

2011-11-10T12:59:00.002-05:00

Coca-Cola Blak was going to be the next big thing. Introduced in 2006, this drink was a mix of Coke and coffee. Immediately I was allured. Coke? Coffee? What's not to love? A sugary, sweet, caffeinated delight. I couldn't wait to try it.

I bought my first Coke Blak, and took a big sip.

"Coke...Mmmmmm! Coffee...Mmmmmm. What? Blech!"

The drink had 3 distinct flavors when you tasted it. The first two, coke and coffee were delicious. But the after taste was so repugnant, I had to take another sip to see if I had imagined it. Yuck! Still there! I joked that instead of calling it Coke Blak, they should name it Coke Blech! Evidently I wasn't alone in my opinion, as the drink was discontinued in 2008.

It reminds me of the allure of forbidden fruit (sin). We often seek things that look pleasing to the eye or that seem like they may delight, so we take a sip. At first we may encounter sweetness, but make no mistake. Forbidden fruit always, always, always comes with a bitter aftertaste.

What is tempting you to take just a sip? It's not worth the bitter aftertaste. Do not try the fruit that is tempting you. Because like Coke Blak, if you avoid it long enough, eventually it will be discontinued.

"No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." 1 Corinthians 10:13

Light in the Darkness or Light in the Light?

2011-11-07T06:00:00.004-05:00

Last week I blogged about being in the world, but not of the world. It's a difficult balance, as Christians, to be relevant to those outside the faith while still standing apart from worldly things. Too often in our efforts to avoid being of the world, we cease to be "in" the world as well. But how can we be salt and light to the world, if we never enter into the world?

Have you ever shined a flash light during the day. It doesn't do much, does it? But turn on the same light at night and it makes a huge impact. If, as Christians, we only "shine our light" to other Christians, yes we will still be a light, but nothing compared to if we shine our light into the darkness.

Jesus associated with the tax collectors, lepers, prostitutes, and sinners. He shunned the pharisees (religious leaders) of his day. He offered salvation to all, and loved us while we were still sinners.

My world is small, and I am surrounded by light. It is easy to shine in this environment. Am I courageous enough, and relevant enough, to dare to face the darkness, and shine my light there? Are you?

You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16

Speaking the truth in...laughter!

2011-11-03T06:00:00.004-04:00

Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. Eph 4:15

You've probably heard the above verse about speaking the truth in love. Well this week someone spoke the truth to me...in laughter! It seems my pastor was ~~stalking me on facebook~~ reading through the scrolling timeline on facebook, and saw I had commented on a video entitled "Should Christians participate in Halloween?" The video talked about how our culture is becoming desensitized to evil, and I commented, "The desensitizing toward evil (vampires particularly) is already happening or happened."

Seeing my comment, my pastor watched the video. He commented how the most interesting thing about the video was the "Elvira" beside it. I was confused. I had watched the video but I hadn't seen it. "Not in the video, beside it," he laughed. After I moment, I realized he meant me! Embarrassingly enough, I had changed my profile photo for Halloween to one of me in 1998, where I'd won a costume contest. This is the photo:

When I realized what he was talking about I couldn't help but laugh. He was laughing too, and said he literally laughed out loud at the irony. He than said jokingly, "Hypocrite!" I laughed too, but indeed he was speaking the truth (in laughter).

As I mentioned on my blog on Monday, I am conflicted about Halloween. My pastor (who readily admits to being a hypocrite as well) made a great point that if we turn everything over to the devil for evil, then evil abounds. But if we reclaim and redeem things, we can make them for good. Halloween is a controversial subject, and I certainly do not have all the answers! But I am thankful for a pastor who speaks the truth in laughter.

It is a delicate balance to be in the world, but not "of" the world. To be a light to the darkness, we have to step toward the darkness. But we cannot become the darkness, but rather shine the light of God there. And as Christians I think we sometimes get so stuck on Oct 31st, that we forget the evil that is happened the other 364 days of the year. Even in looking at my own life, dressing up for Halloween is one of the least sinful things I have done. I am thankful for a God who redeemed and reclaimed me!

So, when do we stand and fight? When do we redeem? When do we boycott? All we can do is pray for wisdom in our decision making, and mercy when our decisions are wrong.

How do you balance being in the world, but not of it? And who can you gently speak the truth to today, perhaps even in laughter?

Halloween: Trick or Treat?

2011-10-31T12:07:00.000-04:00

My kids - 2009

Get together a group of Christian moms and ask them about Halloween and you'll get as many different answers as there are women. Some adamantly are against it as the devil's day. Others don't trick or treat, but do alternate "Fall Festivals" complete with costumes and candy. Finally, there are some that say "it's all in fun" and anything goes.

I don't know where I fall. On one hand, I trick or treated as a kid. I loved it! I love Jesus a lot and don't see how I was scarred by trick or treating. At the same time, the bible says to avoid every kind of evil, and that witch craft is evil.

This is one of those gray areas. Another is shows like "Wizards of Waverly Place" and books like "Harry Potter." They are about witchcraft, so I don't let my kids watch them. But I watched Bewitched as a kid, loved it, and played wiggling my nose to create magic spells. It was fun and pretend. Of course, we also pretended to smoke, complete with candy cigarettes! But today I am a non-smoker (and have never smoked). So where do you draw the line?

Some churches recommend using Halloween as an evangelism tool, giving outChristian tracts along with candy. Remember what is meant for evil, God can turn for good. My friend Sharon shares what her family does here. While Susan participates in a reverse trick or treat. You can read about that here.

Finally, I encourage all of you to read Romans 14. It is an excellent example of folks believing different things in Christ (some eat meat, some don't). I believe you could insert "celebrate Halloween" in these verses to get the same result. Verse 13 sums up the chapter when it says "Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way."

This is a controversial subject. I'd love to hear what your family does in conjunction with Halloween. What I encourage everyone to do, it not to judge their neighbors decisions to participate or not. Listen to God's prompting for your family life, and make your decisions accordingly.

1 Thessalonians 5:22 -- Avoid every kind of evil.

This post originally ran Halloween 2008.

Capturing Lies

2011-10-28T06:00:00.011-04:00

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.2 Corinthians 10:5

Are you ever plagued by self doubt? You know that little voice in your head that says, "you can't do it," "no one cares," or "why did you do that?" I hear that little voice. It puts me down and makes me feel bad about myself, causing me to feel like a failure. Instead of the truth, perhaps "You shouldn't have yelled at your husband," it says, "You are a horrible wife." And I used to believe it.

But then a friend shared that her little voice tells her she is a bad mom, and fat. I couldn't help but laugh because I have that little voice too. And that's when I realized that the devil couldn't even come up with a new lie. He whispers the same old lies to many of us. This woman is neither fat, nor a bad mom...and neither am I. And that is when I began to realize that I needed to start taking my thoughts captive.

When the voice says, "You are a horrible wife," I respond, "No, I am a good wife who had a bad moment." And then I ask my husband and God for forgiveness, and they give it. When the voice says, "you are fat," I respond, "No, I may not be fit, but I am not fat. As a matter of fact, according to the CDC stats for 2008, 34% of the population is overweight and another 34% is obese. Because I am neither, I am smaller than 68% of the population. Fat? Ha!"

When I argue with the voice, with the thoughts, with the lies, they stop. They can't fight the voice of truth.

What lies are you believing today? Take every thought captive, and speak the truth to it. God loves you, forgives you, redeemed you. Listen to the voice of truth, the one that says you are dearly loved.

Love Notes

2011-10-24T06:00:00.004-04:00

Last Friday I went out of town for the women's retreat where I spoke. But before I left, I did what I always do when I go away overnight. I left my family love notes.

Whenever I need to travel overnight, I get an old eye pencil I keep just for this use, and I write notes on their mirrors. For my girls, I write something I love about them, a term of endearment I call them, an area I want them to work on, and "I love you." I might say, "I love you ladybug, you are special and kind, Be compassionate." I include hearts and drawings (perhaps of a ladybug, etc.) I also leave a love note for my husband on his bathroom mirror.

The purposes of my notes are many. I want them to remember me and think about me when I'm not with them. I want them to know of my love for them. I want them to have guidance, even in my absence.

As I was sharing this with a woman at the retreat, it occurred to me that the Bible is just like God's love note to us. He wrote it so we would think of him while we are not with him (in heaven). He wrote it so we would know of his love for us. He wanted us to have guidance, even in his absense.

My family views these love notes in a special way, and leave them up on the mirrors for long periods of time even after I'm home. Because they love me as much as I love them.

Do we love God that much?

Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates, so that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land the LORD swore to give your ancestors, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth. Deut 11:18-21

Grace or Discipline?

2011-10-19T06:00:00.001-04:00

"I forgot my lunch. Will you bring it for me?"

I couldn't help but sigh. I guess the fact that my daughter called while I was unloading the dishwasher, her job, that she'd also "forgotten" to do before she left for school. And the fact that I had asked her, before she left, "Do you want me to pack your lunch?" But she had wanted to do it herself. Now she was calling for me to pack and bring her lunch which would force me to change my plans.

"Can't you buy your lunch?" I asked. She didn't like what they were having. I signed again and said, begrudgingly, that I would bring her lunch. "Nevermind, I'll just buy." Now I'd hurt her feelings. *sigh!* I told her it was no problem, and that I'd see her by lunchtime.

Grace? Discipline? Which applied here? Should I have made her buy her lunch, teaching her a lesson in responsibility? Should I have cheerfully agreed, showering her with grace? There are no easy answers! She isn't characterized by forgetting her lunch, in fact this was her first time, and she has a brand new Vera Bradley lunch box she wanted to bring, so I guess I made the right decision. Although I did inform her that next time she forgets, she will be buying her lunch.

I'm thankful for a heavenly father who knows just when to give discipline, and always acts in grace. I'd elaborate more, but now, I need to pack a lunch and run an errand.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love. 2 John 1:3

Feedback

2011-10-17T08:12:00.014-04:00

Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galations1:10

This weekend I spoke at a women's retreat for my home church. Being vulnerable at a speaking engagement is easy when you know you never have to see the ladies again. But being vulnerable before your home church is a little bit harder. These are the ladies who you'll see again and again, who you want to love and respect you. Yet, I knew God was calling me to be share my story, warts and all.

I shared with them my struggles with perfectionism, and being "good enough" but failing. I told them of the grace God showers on me and my failures; grace that I often cannot give to myself.

The retreat could not have gone better, in my opinion. Because I knew I was being obedient to God in sharing my story, I felt confident! (or more accurately God-fident!) After the retreat, I handed out surveys to get feedback from the ladies. Later today, I plan on going through them.

I want to know what the ladies felt, if they feel it went as well as I did. I want the helpful critiques of ways I can improve. However, I also want to maintain my "God-fidence." I know that I walked in faith and did what God wanted. The fact that I felt no anxiety (the first time ever in my speaking) when I should have been filled with anxiety (because it was my home church) showed me that God was there.

Feedback is important to improve my speaking. And already I saw a very helpful critique as I collected the forms. I want to honor those who were brave enough to "speak the truth in love.*" But regardless of the critiques I receive, I want to rest in the God-fidence that I was obedient, and God is pleased. It's a balance, and for me sometimes a hard one. Seeking approval from God alone, when I so desperately want the world to tell me I am "good enough."

So before I look at the feedback forms, I want to make sure that I will not be crushed by criticism, or filled by approval, but simply look to improve my craft of speaking.

God already redeemed me. I don't need feedback forms to do it.

Reflection Question: Are you looking for worldly approval or God's? How do you balance accepting the "truth spoken in love*" but still maintaining your worth as a child of God?

*Ephesians 4:15

Love is a Verb

2011-10-13T06:00:00.000-04:00

On October 1st, New York Times Best Selling author, Gary Chapman released his latest book, Love is a Verb devotional. I was so excited to see it released, because this book is extra special to me. You see, MY devotion can be found published within the pages of this book.

December 3 has my devotion, "God's Rules Rule!" I'm so excited to be included with the other talented writers that Gary Chapman chose to be in his latest book.

If you should by a copy, be sure and look me up! And to God be the glory! Thanks.

The J Factor

2011-10-10T06:00:00.001-04:00

The X Factor is a special talent or quality that makes you stand out from the rest. What gives someone the X Factor? No one knows, and that is exactly what the "X" stands for. It's that "thing" that makes you stand apart from your counterparts, what ever that thing may be.

Singing competitions are looking to separate the simply really good singers, from the singers with the X factor. Publishers are looking for that writer with the X Factor as well. It's the thing that will make people want your product. There are millions of great singers and writers, but the X factor determines their success. As a matter of fact, if you look at the very successful, often they aren't the best singers or writers, but the most entertaining because of that X factor.

That's why it's so hard for us, as Christians, to not try to earn God's love. The world says, "You don't have the X factor." You have to be the best. There's only space for #1. Jesus says, "who ever believes in me has eternal life." WHOEVER! You don't need the X factor, you don't need to be the best. You just need to believe in Him. And that's confusing to us who are used to living in a world that only looks out for #1.

I don't have X Factor. But I do have J Factor - Jesus. It's for all the rest of us. I'm not the best, but I believe in the one who is. I'm not perfect, but Jesus thinks I'm to die for. And he feels the same way about you.

Would You Be A Martyr?

2011-10-05T06:00:00.000-04:00

“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. If they persecuted me, they will persecute you.” John 15:18-20 NIV

The national news has recently reported about an Iranian pastor who is facing execution for converting others to Christianity and refusing to denounce his Christian faith.

As I read the stories about this pastor, I can't help but wonder would I be willing to die for my faith? This man is just 32 years old, and has two young children. Yet, according to all accounts, he is risking and may in fact lose his life for his faith.

Biblical and historical accounts tell us that John the Baptist, Peter, Thomas, James and most of the apostles were martyred. But as Americans we take for granted the religious freedoms we are given every day.

So today I challenge you with two questions:

1. Would you be willing to give your life for your faith?

2. If it were a crime to be a Christian, would there even be any evidence to prosecute you?

It's something to thing about, isn't it? Pray for the Christians throughout the world today.

“In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” 2 Timothy 3:12 NIV

Relationship vs. Request

2011-10-03T06:00:00.000-04:00

"And Lord, please let the electricity go out again. Amen."

I didn't know whether to laugh or groan at my 7 yr old daughter's prayer request. After being without electricity for several days in August, due to Hurricane Irene, the electricity had finally come back on. But evidently too soon for her. She'd enjoyed the extra outside play time, and fun of "roughing it," although honestly since we have a generator we weren't roughing it too much. We had refrigeration and lights, but no air conditioning, television, phone or Internet. Other people had suffered far more than we had. Thankfully God said no to her prayer.

But how many times have I prayed for something that made God laugh or groan? Things that seem just perfect in my little world, not realizing the impact that it would make on the world at large. Not realizing others suffering, or that they would suffer if my request got a "yes" answer.

The best prayer is "Thy will be done." But so often I pray "MY will be done!" Not literally, no. But certainly my requests seem that way.

Even if I tried, I can't see the big picture like God can. And that is why relationship is so much more important than requests. God wants to know our hearts desire, just like I want to know my daughter's. But that doesn't mean either of us are guaranteed to say yes. It's the relationship that matters, even when we say no.

Spend some time today building that relationship with God through prayer. And remember that sometimes he loves you so much that he answers no.

Prayer Requests - Blessing or Burden?

2011-09-26T06:00:00.003-04:00

Have you ever inwardly cringed when someone asked you to pray for them? Come on, admit it. Sometimes prayer requests seem more like a burden than a blessing. What if you forget? How long do you have to pray for this person? What if you really aren't concerned about their request? How shallow is that?!?

I think the problem is we have taken the reverence away from requesting prayer. I joined a Christian writer's facebook group. There were hundreds of ladies in the group (most I did not personally know). The focus of the group left writing and turned to prayer. Not even prayer for the individuals, their family or writing. But many were more like, "Please pray for my brother's cousin's sister's aunt's nephew's best friend's sister who is looking for a job." I needed a org chart or diagram just to figure out who I was praying for!

Prayer is an act of reverence, a chance to come before our God, Lord and King and sit at his feet! It is a chance to WORSHIP him. It is a chance to adore him. It is the place we were are supposed to confess our sins, and the time we thank him for the things in our lives. Then, and only then, do we present our requests. And if our requests are a laundry list of items, many for people so far removed for our lives, how can we sincerely bring them to our Lord?

At the same time, I was recently emailed by a co-worker to pray for a medical need in his family. I hadn't spoken to this person in 12 years! But I was honored that he knew I was a woman of faith, and he knew that he needed God in this situation. I prayed faithfully.

I believe it is a honor and a blessing to pray. However, I think when we blanket message boards with prayers for things far removed from every one's life, it is more of a burden than a blessing. It's not that I don't want to pray for every one's request. It's that it would be impossible to do so.

When someone asks me to pray for them in person, I like to pray immediately, and if they agree with them. That way I am honoring them by covering them with prayer, and knowing I am faithful to my word to pray. If it is not possible to pray at that time, I pray immediately after leaving them, and then as often as they come to my mind.

So how do you manage all the prayer requests you receive? When you pray, do you take time to adore God, confess your sins, and thank him...or do you simply present your laundry lists of items for him to "fix?" What are you thoughts on prayer?

As for me, I am trying to focus more on the reverence and relationship of prayer...and less on the requests.

Bonus Blooper Blog Corrected Link

2011-09-24T06:00:00.003-04:00

Just for fun...here is a blooper from the video blog I did yesterday. Of course the topic was meditation.....

Meditation Experience

2011-09-23T06:00:00.000-04:00

Here is my video blog on my meditation experience.

Please note, Christian meditation is not without controversy. However, even if this was purely imagination, it is not against scripture - that God is love, and wants me to love him, and that he loves me, so I can rest comfortably either way. Reading God's word is the best way to hear from him, and prayer is the best way to communicate with him.

Meditation

2011-09-21T06:00:00.002-04:00

Just mention the word meditation to a Christian, and you're liable to see them get all worked up. After all "we" Christians shouldn't meditate...should we?

What does the psalmist say?

But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. Psalm 1:2

I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds.Psalm 77:12

I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. Psalm 119:15

These are just a few of the references to meditation in scripture. This is not to be confused with Eastern meditation which focuses on clearing or emptying your mind. Christian meditation is all about focusing your mind on God, his word, and his law.

In my Sunday School class, last week we did a meditation exercise. We read a story from scripture, and then focused on it. Everyone had their own quiet time. In this case, we read John 6, Jesus feeds the 5000. Some people may have imagined themselves as the boy who donated his lunch, others as one of the disciples, still others as a member of the crowd.

Another option, was just to imagine yourself as you, but imagine that you had an encounter with Jesus. Imagine that he says, "What can I do for you?" Meditate deeply on what you would answer. Then imagine you say to Jesus, "What can I do for you?" Meditate on his answer to you.

Some might call this pure imagination. But Robert Foster (who wrote Celebration of Discipline - The Path to Spiritual Growth, the study we are working from) says, "To believe that God can sanctify and utilize the imaination is simply to take seriously the Christian idea of incarnation."

I had a pretty exciting experience (to me anyway), and will share that on Friday. I don't know whether it was my imagination or God's Holy Spirit in me, but I got a very real message! Can't wait to share it with you all.

See you Friday!

Knock, Knock, Knock....

2011-09-19T06:00:00.000-04:00

Think I better knock, knock, knock on wood.
Think I better knock, knock, knock on wood.
Think I better knock.
Knock on Wood, Amii Stewart, 1979

Have you ever prayed for something and not gotten it? Chances are very real this has happened to you. It can be confusing, especially if what you're asking for seems like a good thing. Why wouldn't God heal a child or redeem a marriage? After all, doesn't the Bible say "“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." (Matt 7:7). Then why don't we get it?

I read a different translation of that verse (other than the NIV above) the other day, and I really liked it. It said, "Keep asking, and it will be given to you. Keep searching, and you will find. Keep knocking, and the door will be opened to you." It's not just asking or seeking or knocking once. We need to keep at it. Think I better knock, knock, knock....

Still even with persistent knocking, seeking and asking, we don't always get what we want. That is when we need to trust that our God is still a good God. Sometimes it's hard. But we must believe he loves us. Like the song says, "it's like thunder, lightening, the way you love me is frightening." God loves us so much, but His ways are not our ways.

There aren't any easy answers. But God does tell us His will for us. Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thes 5:16-18).

Be joyful always. Pray (ask, seek, knock!) continually. Give thanks in all circumstance.
How are you following God's will for you?

Honoring Loved Ones

2011-09-15T09:59:00.004-04:00

My dad hosts a family dinner about every six weeks. All his children and grandchildren meet for dinner at a pizza place near his house. My dad is like a mother hen, so happy having all his chicks in the nest together. Even though it is chaotic, with so many people, he loves it. And while you can only talk to the those seated around you, and miss lots of the conversation, my dad takes it all in.

One of the extended family members doesn't like the restaurant. "Why do we always have to go there, the food is terrible. And we can't even all visit with each other," she complains. The funny thing is I don't particularly care for the food there either. But what I do love is my dad.

The restaurant is close and convenient to his home, and reasonably priced. I don't go for the food, I go for my father. My dad is 75 years old. So I savor these dinners of chaos and craziness, because I know one day, we won't be having them.

And when that day comes, I won't remember the rubbery pizza. I'll remember the contented look on my dad's face when everyone finally got there...right on time, but because he was 10 minutes early (as usual) he was worried someone would forget. I'll remember how he lined the grandchildren up, youngest to oldest, and gave them each a $20 bill. And I'll remember the time he surprised them and gave them all $100 bills. And I might even want to go eat at the pizza place again, just to remember.

And one things for sure, I know I won't ever say "I wish I had eaten at a better restaurant." I will say, "I wish I could eat that rubbery pizza, with my dad, just one more time."

Who can you honor today by putting aside your own desires, and meeting them where they are?

"Honor your father...." Exodus 20:12

Validated!

2011-09-12T06:00:00.000-04:00

Recently I had to park in a parking deck. I was surprised at how much parking costs, but since there was no street parking, I didn't really have a choice. I parked and went inside the building.

But there at the front desk I received a surprise. "We validate parking," the sign said. I simply presented my card, the woman gave it an official "validated" stamp, and when I left the lot, I simply showed my stamp and I could leave, with my debt paid.

In real life, I have spent so much of time at "front desks" seeking people to stamp me with their "validated" stamp. According to dictionary.com, validated means to give approval to. I volunteer for positions, and work hard and do a good job, yes in part because I am a hard worker, but also because I was seeking the validation stamp, that "good job," that approval that I am a good person.

But something has changed over time...it's me! God has been working through me. Recently the Bible study class I attended ended as the leader decided to take a break. Ordinarily I would have immediately volunteered to take over. Then everyone could see what I great job I would do. Everyone would see what a hard worker I am. Everyone would validate me. And while that first impulse did rise up in me, I was able to hold it in check, evaluate if this position was truly something I should take, realize my schedule is too full, and walk away from it, without guilt!

I was also recently asked if I would serve on the women's ministry at church. "I've arrived!" That has been my goal since I began attending this church several years ago. Because at the time we joined, that would have validated me. But since I've grown, I didn't feel the need to immediately say yes. Again, I am taking the time to see if this ministry is something that fits into my schedule and that I can bless.

I wish I had a formula to share with you how my validation happened. I don't! I have known all along that Jesus validated me, signed in blood, since I accepted him as my Savior. But this change in me has taken years of study, prayer and growth.

It's nothing I did, but Christ working in me. If you are feeling the need for validation, the need for approval from others, I urge you to continue to draw close to God. There is no secret formula...but God promises that if we draw near to him, he will draw near to us. Then one day, when you least expect it, you will realize the growth and change that he has made in you. To God be the glory!

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:8

Guest Post: Back to School...Pray!

2011-09-06T06:00:00.000-04:00

Back to School ... Pray!

By Carla McDougal

Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.

Deuteronomy 6:5,7

Excitement’s in the air! Anticipation rises. It’s that time of year when the kids go back to school.

Who can forget watching your child go to "big school" for the first time? I remember those bittersweet moments as each of my four children kissed me good-bye. I always knew that day would arrive, but nothing prepared me for the moment.

Elementary school seemed to fly by and almost overnight they were in junior high and then high school. And in a blink of an eye, they were off to college. Where did the years go?

I learned early on that when my children were away from home, praying for them comforted me. By turning them over to God I experienced a calm peace. Year after year my prayers intensified, yet remained the same…

Elementary School – Will he make a friend? Will he eat all his lunch, or just the cookies and chips? God help him to love You with all his heart.
Junior/Senior High –Will he make the right friends? Is he paying attention to the teacher? God, help him love You with all his soul.
College - Will he make some forever friends? Is he making the right life decisions? God, help him to love You with all his strength.

Just as our children face challenges, we as moms face our own set of challenges…

To pray over our children no matter where they are in life.
To be on our knees for those God entrusted to us.
To ultimately pray for each child to love Jesus with all his heart, soul, and mind!
Finally, to let them know we are praying for them each day! What a blessing it is to pray for our children.

I ask you to take advantage of this new season too. Do you need a fresh start? Where are you in your relationship with God? In my Bible study, Reflecting Him – Living for Jesus and Loving It, I encourage you to find Jesus in your everyday activities. He is there for us 24 hours a day, and He wants to hear our everyday prayers!

Author Bio

CARLA MCDOUGAL is founder of Reflective Life Ministries headquartered in the Houston, Texas area. Her true passion for her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, shines brightly, whether she is speaking or writing. She shares experiences from her own life to encourage women to live every day for Him. God is sending Carla around the world to speak to women from all walks of life—those living in the best of circumstances to those who have hit rock bottom.

Carla’s book, Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving It, is a 10-week study that encourages you to open your eyes to God’s daily life lessons. The more you ask God to be in your life, the more you will recognize His hand on everything you do. For more information on a growing number of products from Reflective Life Ministries, and to see about booking Carla for an event or interview, go to www.reflectivelifeministries.org.

Top 10 Reasons I Don't Video Blog: Vlog Post

2011-09-02T14:20:00.002-04:00

Okay, well here is it! My first video blog entitled the Top 10 Reasons I Don't Video Blog. Let me know what you think. :-)

So Many Gifts

2011-08-29T11:06:00.003-04:00

Today I am without power, internet, phone, cable, and on and on, as a result of Hurricane Irene hitting our area, in Virginia. I spent hours yesterday raking debris out of the yard, and again this morning. The tree man is expected today to come with a crane to take the tree off of our roof, and cut it and haul it away.

Yet, if I really consider it, I have nothing to complain about. A generator hums in the backyard, powering our fridge, lights, stove. We have water. And while the a/c isn't on, a cool breeze is in the air, and while its about 81 degrees in the house, it's not miserable.

My family is safe, we are unharmed in any way. We are inconvenienced. And yet so many of the conveniences that we are missing, are things that other people don't have every day. And yet, we feel the right to complain, we are to be privileged and not inconvenienced.

No. Lord, help me remember how blessed I am. Let me be like the apostle Paul and learn to be content in all circumstance. Let me be grow through this, and be more like Jesus.

10 Blessings:

1. The cool breeze outside.

2. Neighborhood friends to play with my kids.

3. A generator!

4. No structural damage to our house.

5. Fresh fruit, veggies, and an abundance of food.

6. Portable DVD players to watch movies.

7. A chance to slow down and not be in such a rush, live in the moment.

8. Insurance companies who come by your house on a Sunday, and give you a check.

9. A husband who rewires the generator so that you can run the dishwasher. *love him!*

10. Children who pitch in and help, and don't complain about what we don't have. *love them!*

Thank you Jesus for my blessings, help me see them as the gifts they are!

Pterodactyls, Gorbachev & the Beach

2011-08-25T10:28:00.004-04:00

Seagulls fly low, their shadows passing over large like pterodactyls.

I sit in a low chair, running sand through my fingers like a sieve.

The 7 yr old digs a hole with a giant sand wall around it, with the help of her engineer daddy. And while I watch the waves come around the wall, I can't help but think of Reagan, "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!"

When the 7 yr old gets in the water, she dances, fingers snapping, hips shaking, to the sound of the surf or maybe the music only she hears in her head.

The 12 yr old spends her whole time in the ocean, riding waves, and bobbing in the surf, a mermaid. Her arms ache by day's end from riding the boogie board.

Our family vacation. We relax and renew together. And in the wind and waves I feel God's presence and his power. And I am so thankful for my life.

Vacation!

2011-08-22T06:00:00.000-04:00

Vacation, all I ever wanted.

Vacation, had to get away.

Vacation, Go-Gos, 1982

It's about time for my family to head out of town on vacation. I can't wait! We've got our bags packed, the house sitter is scheduled to take care of the dogs, and all is well. Sometimes it's hard to get away. Life is busy, and there is always something we could be doing, other than vacationing.

However, God himself implemented the very important task of resting. Resting doesn't seem like a task. It seems more of an anti-task. Yet, the Bible tells us on the 7th day, God rested. If the all-powerful creator of the Universe made it a point to rest, shouldn't we?

The Bible goes on to tell us that Jesus will provide us his rest, which is peace. If your soul is troubled, your faith in Jesus will give you the peace that passes human understanding.

I'm so thankful for my faith in God! He provides me peace. And I am so thankful for his example to take a physical rest too.

VACATION - here we come!

Which Disciple Are You?

2011-08-15T08:52:00.003-04:00

Let your gentleness be evident to all. Phil 4:5

If you ask people to describe Chatty Kelly they might say fun, funny, loud, or bold...but I can't imagine anyone would say gentle.

This used to bother me. How can I call myself a Christian if I'm not gentle? Even the fruit of the spirit includes gentleness. Digging deeper into the scriptures, I find different translations of the same verses. The fruit of the spirit refers to humility, and the Philippians verse refers to your spirit in dealing with others.

But the best example I found is to look at the disciple Peter. Peter, the loud, outspoken, good intentioned though often wrong directed disciple. I am like Peter.

Peter, who jumped in front of Jesus and cut off the soldier's ear in the garden. How often to I run ahead of Jesus, and mess up his plans?

Peter, who after Jesus told him to feed his sheep asked referring to John, "What about him?" How often do I compare myself with others?

Peter, who loved the Lord with all his heart, yet sank in the water because of his lack of faith. How often does my lack of faith cause me to sink, even though I love Jesus?

I'm not gentle, but neither was Peter. And Jesus said to him, "On this rock I will build my church."

Look at the Bible today, and find the disciple that is like you. Then realize that Jesus loved them in spite of their human flaws, in spite of their mistakes, in spite of their sin. Then realize he feels the same way about you. Which disciple are you?

Hosta La Vista!

2011-08-11T06:00:00.000-04:00

On the walk up to my front door grow 5 of the biggest, heartiest, most beautiful hostas you have ever seen. Every year anyone who comes to visit comments on them. They were show pieces. And my response to everyone who asked what I did to make them grow that way, was always truthfully, "nothing."

This year, without warning, the voles ate the roots of my beautiful plants. I noticed first they were browning at the tips of the leaves. I thought they needed water, but watering didn't do anything. Then as I touched leaves, I realized they could be pulled up without any roots attached. The voles had eaten the roots.

All of my beautiful plants have been destroyed. "Hosta" La Vista! I took them so much for granted, that I never even took a photo of them.

Sometimes we have other "show pieces" in our lives. Our marriage, our children, even our faith can look beautiful on the outside, but if we are doing "nothing" to maintain them, we can't expect them to stay healthy. Evil is waiting to burrow into the roots of our relationship destroying them.

Spend time with your loved ones telling them they are appreciated. Pray for them. Spend time with God praying and studying His word. Be vigilant looking for the one who comes to steal and destroy. When we appreciate those things dear to us, we worry less that they'll say "Hasta la vista." We can honor our relationships, pray for them, and watch them grow with the power of the Son.

Never Let Them See You Sweat

2011-08-08T08:56:00.003-04:00

Put your game face on. Put your best foot forward. Never let them see you sweat. These phrases demonstrate our society's attitude toward showing vulnerability. In fact, showing weakness can be considered a sign of weakness.

Last week I blogged about my self-doubt. I, in fact, let you see me sweat. But something wonderful came from that. So many women told me how they could relate!

Even though our society says not to show weakness, I think that when we share our vulnerabilities in a safe place it allows other women to realize they are not alone or unusual in their thought process. When we show that we are not perfect, it allows those around us to safely be imperfect as well.

It's funny that the deodorant Secret, used the catch phrase "Never let them see you sweat." Because when we hide our weaknesses, not letting the world see us sweat, we are in fact keeping a secret.

2 Corin 11:30 states, "If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness." Sharing our weaknesses, not keeping the secret, opens the way for us to experience the superabundant strength of God's grace.

So while it's true that I have weaknesses, flaws, struggles and doubts, I also have a God who loves me anyway and raises me beyond what little I can do and be, to what He wants me to do and be. So do you. Together let's focus on who we are in Christ. For he said, "My power is made perfect in weakness."

When I am weak, then I am strong.*

*2 Corin 12:9,10

Good-bye Self Doubt!

2011-08-05T07:58:00.009-04:00

Those who know me may see a woman filled with self confidence...but behind that mask is a scared kid full of self doubt. That little voice that whispers, "You're nothing. Why would anyone care about what you have to share. They won't like you." The thing that surprises me every time, however, is how God ministers to my doubt with His perfect timing!

After much encouragement from friends I submitted my first article, sure it wasn't good enough, but with a tiny glimmer of hope that maybe my friends were right. Maybe I was an okay writer. It was accepted for publication. God knew if it had been rejected, I would have never submitted another thing, but buoyed by that success, I continued writing for publication. Good-bye self-doubt.

In 2009, after a writers conference I decided to stop writing for a while. I wrote this post, explaining that I was tired of rejections, and felt like there were so many better writers. But the day before I posted it, I got an contract for a piece that the editor had already rejected! It had already been rejected! But God...he knew I wasn't going to keep writing, so he encouraged me that my writing is His plan. Good-bye self doubt.

Yesterday was a self doubt day for my speaking. While my She Speaks conference was excellent, all those self doubts came back. There are better speakers, I don't want to risk rejection, why did I agree to do a women's retreat?!?! And so yesterday, I told a friend that I might stop speaking after I do the women's retreat in October. Self doubt.

My mouth said, "I don't want to speak again." My heart said, "Why would anyone want to listen to me? I have nothing to share. What if they don't like me? I can't do it."

And this morning, in my email inbox was a request to speak at a women's event. No self-promotion or seeking on my part, just God whispering to my heart, "You have something to say, I believe in you. Share My Word." Good-bye self doubt.

Why doubts are plaguing you today? Why not turn them over to God. He can turn your self doubt into God confidence! Then you too can say, "Good-bye Self Doubt!"

I am the LORD your God. I am holding your hand, so don't be afraid. I am here to help you. Isaiah 41:13 (CEV)

Sticky Messages

2011-08-02T20:07:00.002-04:00

Several folks have asked me to elaborate on "sticky messages," which I posted last week was my favorite topic at She Speaks. I wasn't sure if I could, because each page of our manual clearly states it is COPY PROTECTED material, and belongs to P31.

But YAY for us, because the woman who taught the class, Lysa TerKeurst is blogging about it today and tomorrow. So head on over there and read what a sticky message is and how to appy it to your speaking.

http://lysaterkeurst.com/2011/08/sticky-messages/

Being Small for Jesus

2011-08-01T06:00:00.001-04:00

Have you ever thought "I want to be BIG for Jesus!" I must admit, I have! I want to write books, and speak to conferences and be BIG for Jesus. But what if Jesus is calling me to be small?

At the recent conference I attended, they put on a great skit. The woman in the skit received a gift from Jesus, a mini-coke. She loved her gift, until she saw her friend had received a 12 oz coke. She begged Jesus to also have the 12 oz coke. "But I picked your gift especially for you, because I love you." Jesus told her. She still wanted the 12 oz coke. Then another friend came by with a 20 oz coke. Now she was really mad at Jesus!

At that point Jesus gave her a 12 oz coke, "just like you asked me for, because I love you." But now the 12 oz wasn't enough, and again she was discontent. And the look on her face when the woman with 2 liter coke came on stage? Priceless!

What if God is calling me to be a mini-coke? What if my blog, and my devotional additions to compilation books are what he is calling me for? What if speaking to 50 ladies is all he wants from me?

In the parable of the sower, Jesus tells about the seeds that fall on the fertile soil. "But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” (Matt 13:23)

Notice that all the good soil did not produce the same crops. While all the seeds were on good soil, some groups produced a hundred, some sixty, and some thirty times what was sown. What if God is only calling me to a crop yield of 30?

Can I be happy with that? Can I be content? Am I willing to be small for Jesus, if that is what he is calling me to do?

What is Jesus calling you to be? And even if it small, or you willing to do it? We must, if we are to ever find contentment. So I keep spreading the seeds, as he has called me to do. And the crop, well I won't know that until it grows. But may I praise him for it, no matter what the bounty is.

Chatty Kelly's She Speaks Meme

2011-07-25T08:44:00.007-04:00

Wow. How can you elaborate on 3 days of worship, knowledge, fellowship, food and fun? It was overwhelming, but it a good way. So I thought it would be fun to create a She Speaks meme for anyone who wants to participate. If you do, simple blog the answers to the following questions at your blog, and link back here, adding your link below, so we can all share our experiences together.

Be sure to mention this post in your blog post in case other She Speaks attendance who read your blog, but not mine, want to participate.

Here are the questions to answer:

1. What was the best advice you got at She Speaks?

2. What was the best lesson you learned in a session?

3. What are you going to do with what you learned/what is your next goal?

4. Anything else you want to share? (Good, bad or ugly?)

Now write your post. Come back here and enter your information, and let's read and support one another. No blog? Answer the questions in my comments section. I'll leave this post up all week.

(I will write my own post separately and link here too.)

Enjoy!

She Speaks 2011- Meme Answers

2011-07-24T21:00:00.001-04:00

The Chatty Kelly She Speaks Meme for She Speaks attendees:

1. What was the best advice you got at She Speaks?

"Even if you think some else has already said what you want to say, and even if they've said it better - say it anyway. YOU might be the one they listen too." - Emily Freeman, Blog to Book Deal.

2. What was the best lesson you learned in a session?

Lysa TerKeurst's "sticky message" (speaker track) was the best lesson I learned, and I plan to start implementing it right away in my speaking! When I gave my 5 minute talk for evaluation several people noted that I was using the "sticky message" and I hadn't meant to! I wrote it before attended Lysa's session. How exciting to learn that I had "accidentally" (or perhaps intuitively) done something right!

3. What are you going to do with what you learned/what is your next goal?

I am speaking at a women's conference in October. My current focus will be working on those talks. I also plan to create a new tag line for my blog which better explains the focus of my ministry. And I hope to keep blogging and connecting with new bloggers and She Speaks attendees.

4. Anything else you want to share? (Good, bad or ugly)

The Ugly: My clothes! Well, not exactly ugly, but Friday when I came down in my business casual outfit and saw everyone in their cute outfits, I suddenly felt very insecure. I'd like to say I went back up to my room and prayed over it, got over it and moved on. *But* what I really did was convince my room mate to make an emergency trip to the outlet mall, where I bought a cute new top. Now I was ready to take on the world!

I'm so glad that I have a God who loves me not matter what I'm wearing, and puts up with my silly insecurities. And can I say, you She Speaks ladies are some sharp dressed gals! You looked marvelous!

Following Directions

2011-07-19T09:43:00.003-04:00

"You have arrived at your destination."

My car's GPS system announced I was at the address I had entered, a large hotel in North Carolina where I was attending my first writer's conference in 2008. My actual surroundings differed however. I was right in the middle of a neighborhood, late at night, and very confused.

I turned around and headed to the closest convenience store to park and call the hotel for directions. They got me going, and soon I had truly arrived at my destination. It was strange, I had followed the GPS directions perfectly, but it hadn't gotten me where it stated it would.

The world often gives us directions on how to get to heaven. The world says all good people go to heaven. Or there are many ways to to get to heaven. Or even there is no heaven. If we follow the wrong directions, even when they seem as reliable as my GPS, we might end up in the wrong place...and very confused.

This week I'm going to another writers conference at that same hotel. Only this time I am not trusting my GPS. Instead, I've printed directions off of the hotel website. The hotel knows directions to the hotel, by definition. It will get me there safely.

Obviously, God knows the way to heaven. I can find accurate printed directions in the Bible. Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. He is the only way, regardless of what the world's GPS might say.

If you want reliable directions to heaven, don't trust the world's GPS. Go directly to the source, the Bible, to find directions right to God's door.

She Speaks 2011 - Perspective

2011-07-15T06:00:00.000-04:00

In less than 1 week I leave to head to She Speaks Writers and Speakers conference. I am very excited. What's not to love about having all your meals cooked for you, served to you, dishes cleared and washed by someone else? Your bed made (by someone else) every morning and the bathroom cleaned every day! As a housewife, this is a close to heaven as it gets on earth!

Then there is the camaraderie of being with 649 other Christian women praising God and having daily worship. Wow.

Then there is the education, learning how to be a better speaker and writer, how to be a brighter light for the Lord.

It's ironic, usually I would be so nervous and freaked out about going. I have to give 2 talks while I'm there, a 3 minute testimony and a 5 minute teaching talk, which will be reviewed and judged by my peers and a professional speaker. While that's nerve-wracking, I am completely peaceful.

After the loss my family has experienced in the past few weeks, I realize that what I'm about to experience is small in the big picture of life. It is certainly not something to worry about. It is something to enjoy and rejoice about. What a great perspective to take with me.

Are you going to She Speaks? Let me know, I'd love to connect with you.

Is God Enough?

2011-07-13T09:03:00.002-04:00

In the past couple of weeks, my family experienced a terrible tragedy; a six-month old infant died, and the family was left shocked, saddened and confused.

At a time like this, you are left wondering why. Why would God allow such a terrible thing to happen to someone so young? Where was God? And is God the same "good" God he was before?

To find out the answer, join me over at Titus 2 in Action, by clicking this link:
http://titus2inaction.blogspot.com/2011/07/is-god-enough.html

Don't Look Back

2011-07-04T06:00:00.001-04:00

I was recently riding in the car as a passenger in the front seat. I sat sideways and chatted with the people in the back seat. After a few minutes, however, I became quite nauseous. I think I was car sick. I turned back around and looked out the front window, and my stomach settled. I tried to look back again to chat, but found that looking back made me sick again. I had to keep looking forward to feel better.

Often in our lives we have done things that cause us pain and regret. Whether those things are accidental or not, continuing to look back can make us sick. To feel better, we have to keep looking ahead.

That's not to say you never glance back. Glancing back in the car enables you to change lanes and travel safely, so you don't hit anyone else. Glancing back to glean wisdom from your past mistakes, to come to terms with them is a good thing. As long as you are just glancing back and not looking back.

Look forward. Or better yet, look up. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Just don't look back. It will make you sick.

I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1,2

I'm NOT okay.

2011-06-30T19:32:00.004-04:00

Up until this point in my life, if anyone asked me, "Are you okay?" the answer would be a resounding "YES!"

Kelly, your mom tried to kill herself again. Are you okay? YES!
Kelly, a family member has been hospitalized. Are you okay? YES!
Kelly, {insert any situation here}. Are you okay? YES!

The answer was always, "YES, I'm okay," because to not be okay would be less than perfect. I had to have perfect faith, and be perfect, and act perfect, and be perfectly okay.

But this week something has shaken me to my core. The tragic death of a young infant in my extended family. It was an accidental death, and the family has huge grief. And while we all know Jesus and love him, the pain is overwhelming.

And so I need you to know 2 things.

1. I am not trying to be perfect anymore. I am just me. *and*
2. I am definitely NOT okay.

The World is Looking for Leaders

2011-06-23T15:16:00.003-04:00

The world is looking for leaders. That was the message at church last Sunday. My skit debuted. The actors and director did an excellent job of bringing my thoughts to life. Thoughts that no matter who you are you have moments that you feel overwhelmed, and that no one understands. Thoughts that everyone needs a mentor, advisor, coach, leader or friend.

We can all be that person to someone. With the help of God, we can all help lead someone else. Whose life can you change today, by being that person of influence for them?

Here is the link to the skit if you'd like to watch: Looking for Leaders.

Fearless

2011-06-17T11:03:00.002-04:00

I've been gardening lately...much to the surprise of my family and friends. You see, I am not an outdoorsy girl. I don't like outside. It is hot. And buggy. And there is wildlife, and I don't like wildlife. I don't like snakes, and truth be told, I'm not a fan of birds either. Birds on the other hand, love me. I'm like Snow White. I go outside, and birds flock to me, much to my fear.

Fear. I'm discovering that I've been living in fear. Fear of failing, messing up, getting hurt, getting scared, whatever. So I don't try new things. Because I don't want to risk not being perfect. But writing has helped me become fearless.

To write means to risk rejection. Well, more accurately, to submit your writing means to risk rejection. But to seek publication, one must submit. And I'm getting acceptance! Yes, rejections come too. But the funny thing is, they don't hurt so much. So I don't fear them anymore.

The gardening? The first week I saw 6 snakes! Literally I haven't seen a snake in years, and SIX?? Was that the devil saying "get back in the house!" I don't know, but I kept "digging." I've also had 3 ticks. But I'm fearless.

And yes, the stupid voles have eaten some of what I've planted. But so what! I'll keep digging. Because the end result doesn't have to be perfect. The important thing is I'm doing it.

The only thing that's been holding me back is me. And I'm letting me go. And I'm trusting God. And I'm fearless.

Summer Time!

2011-06-03T06:00:00.000-04:00

It's almost summer vacation. Next week my elementary schooler has something fun every day, like picnics, parties and movie days, then she is out of school for the summer. The following week is filled with exams for my middle schooler but then she too will be done.

Summer will be filled with trips to the pool, swimming in the lake, visits to Busch Gardens, a beach vacation...and yes, some chores in between. I don't know, however, how much time will be spent blogging.

I'm definitely going to write from time to time, but I can't commit to a schedule. So, the best thing to do, is look over to the right where it says SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL, and then subscribe! Then every time I blog, you'll receive the post right in your email inbox! You don't have to worry about missing a thing.

I hope you'll consider it. Have a great summer!

God Bless the USA

2011-05-31T08:33:00.003-04:00

I'm proud to be an American,
where at least I know I'm free.
And I won't forget the ones who died,
who gave their life for me.
God Bless the USA, Lee Greenwood, 1984

Yesterday was Memorial Day. This day is a day set aside to remember those who gave their lives for our country. This is a serious holiday for my husband, who is a Vietnam Veteran. His college (USMA) roommate was killed in Vietnam. Many of his classmates were killed as well, and he fought in Vietnam. He well knows the sacrifice.

The Bible tells us that "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13) Our service men and woman show great courage and love for their country every day by offering their life not only for their "friends" but for all people of our country.

Lee Greenwood goes on to sing in his song, "the flag still stands for freedom, and they can't take that away." Truth is, freedom is fleeting and our country has to be vigilant to defend our freedom. There is only one freedom that we have that is permanent.

That is those of us who have been made free in Christ. We are no longer slaves to sin, but free to receive eternal life. The Bible says, "So if the Son sets you free, you are free indeed." (John 8:36). True freedom comes from Jesus. And HE is the man who showed the greatest love by laying down his life for all mankind, if only they accept him as their savior.

It is a wonderful sentiment to say "God bless the USA!" But my prayer is that not only will God bless us, but that we may rise up and call him blessed as well. Amen.

End of the World, REM

2011-05-23T06:00:00.000-04:00

It's the end of the world as we know it,
It's the end of the world as we know it.
It's the end of the world as we know it,
and I feel fine.
End of the World, REM, 1987

This past Saturday was designated by a "Christian" group to be Judgment Day. According to this group, the Rapture would occur at 6 p.m., followed with Earthquakes, and within 6 months the world would end.

This prediction led to lots of discussions on end times in the media. My local paper suggested that we should smoke unfiltered camel cigarettes and eat Big Macs. I guess the thought process behind that was consequence free actions, a very hedonistic attitude. It did cause me, however, to think what I would do if I knew it was the end times, my last day on earth.

My actual Saturday would have changed somewhat. I definitely would not have bothered with the laundry. I would have made phone calls to my non-believing family members to try once more to encourage them to follow Jesus, as well as give them instructions on how they can still believe after the Rapture, and receive eternal life. And finally, I would have made sure that my immediate family was all together at the designated time, hugging each other one last time with our earthly bodies.

However, when I looked at the "bigger" picture, about how I would have lived my life differently, I really couldn't find any changes. I don't have any things I wish I'd done. I have no regrets, no relationships I need to restore. I am at peace with my life, my friendships, my marriage, and most importantly my relationship with God. He has offered me His grace and salvation, and I have accepted them 100%. And it feels completely satisfying to know I am living my life in such a way that ANY day can be Judgment Day, and it's okay.

So when the time comes I can say, "It's the end of the world as we know it...and I feel fine." How do you feel about end times? Are you ready? What changes do you need to make so that when your time comes to stand before the Lord, you can say, "I feel fine."

Why Sign Language Makes Me Cry

2011-05-20T06:00:00.001-04:00

Last Sunday at church the children sang and did sign language to the song. As usual, the sign language made me cry.

Sign language has always evoked emotion from me, and I even felt strongly that I should learn it. I remember about 18 years ago telling a coworker, "I feel like God wants me to learn sign language." I even added, "I feel like if I don't learn it, I'll have a deaf child." She said, "Well you better learn it!" And I think I said something like, "I know!" Yet I dismissed it.

I was not at a place in my faith to know what to do what such a feeling, with an impression on my heart from God. And so I ignored it. I got married, and had child #1, and then child #2, "Cici." When Cici was 12 months old she wasn't talking yet. The average 12 month old should have 3 words, with one of them being "mama." She had none.

At 16 months, the peditrician suggested intervention. We had a hearing test. As I sat there in the chair, I worried. Would she be deaf? I remembered that "feeling." Thanksfully, she was not but still no words by 18 months, and so she entered the early intervention system. To help with the frustration level of not being able to communication, we began...sign language.

By the time Cici was talking, she knew 80 signs. We communicated smoothly and effectively with sign language. And when she was tested at 3 years old, while she still scored low in the expressive speech (the ability to talk) she scored very high in receptive speech (the ability to understand). They credited her off the charts receptive speech to the signing.

As the years have gone by, we don't sign anymore. There is no need. But every time I see sign language, it makes my cry. Because it reminds me of the grace and mercy of a loving God who forgave me, when I ignored the feeling to learn sign language. And while he still made me learn it through a speech delayed child, his forgiveness, his love is what overwhelms my heart.

And every day when Cici leaves for school, there is one sign we still do. It's the sign for "I love you."

I'm Not Athletic

2011-05-18T06:00:00.001-04:00

Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. Galatians 6:4

"I'm not athletic."

"Wait a minute," my new neighbor stopped me, "You're not athletic, you're not domestic, you're not...." She trailed off, and suddenly I felt very embarrassed. I'd only spoken with her 3 or 4 times since she moved into the neighborhood, and her comment made me realize I'd said something I "was not" every time I'd spoken to her.

The truth is, I'm not athletic. She was sharing about her hobby of running, and doing a high powered exercise program similar to what the Navy Seals do. I realized in that moment that subconsciously I must have been feeling inferior to her. And in my normal "chatty" way, I verbalized it, without even meaning too. "I'm not athletic."

To find out what I did next, meet me over at Titus 2 in Action, to read the rest of the story.

Fame, Part 2

2011-05-15T08:59:00.001-04:00

Remember my name, (Fame).
I'm gonna live forever,
I'm gonna learn how to fly, (High).
Fame, Irene Cara, 1980

Early this year I wrote a blog post about "Fame." I wanted people to remember my name, so to speak. I want to take my writing to the next level. I wanted "fame."

Recently in one of my devotionals, I read these words of God from Jeremiah 45:5, "Should you then seek great things for yourself? Do not seek them." The devotional went on to say that Baruch (the person who the Lord addressed in the verse) was worried about his own safety, and he was also looking for FAME somehow. Wow. The fact that the devotional used that word hit me hard.

While we all want to be noticed, it is enough to be noticed by God! My name is written in the book of life (Rev 20:15), and inscribed in God's very hands! (Isaiah 49:16).

I don't need fame. I don't need people to know my name.
I need Jesus! He knows my name.

Shop Around, Smokey Robinson

2011-05-09T06:00:00.001-04:00

My mama told me...
you better shop around.
Shop Around, Smokey Robinson, 1960

On this Monday after Mother's Day, it's a great time to reflect on things our mama's told us! Some things may have saved our lives, like "Look both ways before you cross the street." Some things were socially important, "Chew with your mouth shut." Others were important at the time, "Stop crying, or I'll give you something to cry about."

Yes, mothers have a way about them. A mother's job is raise her children. The Bible gives us examples of mothers. Jacob's mother was an example of a mother who want it all for their child at any cost. Samuel's mother was a wonderful example of a mother praying for their child. Ruth showed loyalty to her mother (in law).

There are versus that tell us to honor our mothers, and verses that teach us how to be mothers (train up a child in the way they should go).

Even if you feel like you missed out on the 'perfect' mother, you can be blessed in knowing God fills that void. "As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you," the Lord says in Isaiah 66:13. And even if the relationship was bad, we rest assured in knowing, "Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me." Psalm 27:10

I am blessed to be a mother of 2 daughters. My prayer is that they will grow up and say "My mama told me...about Jesus." It is my prayer that they will grow up to know and love the Lord, and that even though I will not always be on earth with them, that I will forever be in heaven with them.

I love my children, and I pray I am a good mother to them. I'm not a perfect mom. But I pray for my children, and thank God for them. I am blessed because of the gift of my children. And I pray that they are blessed because of me.

"Her children arise and call her blessed." Proverbs 31:28

Hallmark

2011-05-06T08:14:00.003-04:00

I've never been a fan of those store created holidays. Reading Mother's Day cards reminds me of all I have missed over the years. "Thank you for always being there for me." "Thanks for supporting me and loving me unconditionally." "You molded me to the person I am today."

I had a bit of a "hallmark moment" in the middle of the Hallmark store this week. (A hallmark is an official mark or stamp indicating a standard of purity, or any mark or special indication of genuineness and good quality.)

I didn't have a hallmark family, but I have been adopted into a new family, the family I received when I accepted Jesus as my Savior. Because of that I have my own hallmark (a mark of good quality).

Ephesians 1:13 says "Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit." When God looks at me, he doesn't see my sin or weak attempts to do good. Instead He sees my Hallmark, given to me through Jesus by the Holy Spirit.

I'm not a fan of those Hallmark (store) holidays, but with my Hallmark of Christ, I really have a reason to celebrate. God...He cared enough to send the very best: Jesus.

Ephesians 1:13-14 -- And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession—to the praise of his glory. (NIV)

Romans 8:15 -- So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” (NLT)

Galations 4:4 -- You can tell for sure that you are now fully adopted as his own children because God sent the Spirit of his Son into our lives crying out, "Papa! Father!" Doesn't that privilege of intimate conversation with God make it plain that you are not a slave, but a child? And if you are a child, you're also an heir, with complete access to the inheritance. (The Message)

5 Things About Marriage

2011-05-03T13:43:00.003-04:00

Today is my 15th wedding anniversary. Though I was 28 when I got married (old by many standards), I feel like I was just a kid. I know I still have a lot to learn, but here are some of the things I have learned. I hope they may help you as they've helped me.

So, join me over at Titus 2 in Action where I am a guest contributor today, to find out the 5 things that can help your marriage.

Singing in the Rain

2011-05-02T06:00:00.000-04:00

I'm singing in the rain, just singing in the rain,
what a glorious feeling,I'm happy again!
Singing in the Rain, Gene Kelly, 1952

Singing in the Rain is one of the great movie classics. Long time blog fans know I love musicals! The musical hit song, "Singing in the rain" has Gene Kelly singing and dancing, happy again. Are you able to sing in the rain?

Let's face it, real life is tough stuff. We often get caught in the rain. Sometimes just a shower, but other times we are hit hard with the storms of life. Where do you turn in life's storms?

In Matthew 8, Jesus and the disciples were in a boat when a storm came. In great fear, the disciples thought the might die. But Jesus rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was then completely calm. The disciples were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!”

There is a Christian song that talks about life's storms. The lyrics state, "Sometimes he calms the storm. With a whisper, 'Peace be still,' he can settle every sea...but that doesn't mean he will. Sometimes he holds us close, and let's the winds and waves go by. Sometimes he calls the storm, but other times he calms his child."

Being a Christian doesn't mean we don't have storms. But as Christians, we know that Jesus is near, even in the storms.

Did you know there is an additional verse in the Singing in the Rain song, not used in the musical? It goes like this,

Why am I smiling and why do I sing?
Why does September seem sunny as spring?
Why do I get ups each morning and start?
Happy and head up, with joy in my heart
Why is each new task a trifle to do?
Because I am living a life full of you.

Yes, I have storms in my life. But I'm able to sing in the rain, because happy and head up, with joy in my heart...I am living a life full of Jesus. Here's praying that with Jesus you can be singing...and dancing...in the rain.

Why I Didn't Post

2011-04-29T07:40:00.002-04:00

Here it is Friday already, and I haven't posted a blog post yet! I suppose I could run a "rerun," but instead I thought I'd let you know why.

This week I submitted 7 devotionals to a devotional book scheduled to be published in 2012. I won't hear anything back until late July, but I'm hopeful. Writing takes a lot of time, so I decided to focus my time this week on seeking publication.

In case you haven't heard, a devotional I wrote has been accepted for publication in Gary Chapman's latest devotional book called, Love is a Verb, which is scheduled for publication in late summer. I'm very excited about it!

Seven devotionals in one week! Whew, I'm tired. So that's why I didn't post today.

Have a great week!

How Sweet It Is, James Taylor

2011-04-25T06:00:00.000-04:00

A few Sunday's ago, my church had it's own "Musical Monday" type of experience. That is, they took a popular, secular song, and brought it to a spiritual meaning. That song was How Sweet It Is, by James Taylor (1975).

They changed simply one word in the song. The word Baby, was replaced with the name Jesus. That is all. And the song had an entirely different meaning.

When we need the shelter of someone's arms, there He is.
When you need someone to understand your ups and downs, there He is.
With sweet love and devotion, deeply touching our emotion.
Why not STOP, and thank Him, (JESUS!) Stop, and thank you Jesus!

Today, on this Easter Monday, I invite you to listen to the words of this song, and sing along if you'd like, dedicating the words to Jesus. Because how sweet it is, to be loved by him.

He is risen indeed!

(
if you received this blog post via email, visit www.chattykelly.com to see the video).

The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Friday

2011-04-22T08:15:00.001-04:00

Today is "Good Friday." I can't help but cringe at the name for this religious day. To call it "Holy Friday" is one thing. But Good Friday? Good? The day they crucified our Savior, good?

If you've read the account of Jesus crucifixion in the Bible, you know it was a bad day.

Matthew 27:28-30 -- They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand and knelt in front of him and mocked him. "Hail, king of the Jews!" they said. They spit on him, and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again.

"Struck him on the head again and again." With a staff (that is a stick, pole or rod). Again and again. Good Friday?

They mocked him and forced him to carry his own cross. He was hung there. He experienced great pain, and he eventually died there. Good Friday?

He was put into a tomb.

However, soon came Sunday, and a great and marvelous thing happened. Jesus rose from the dead! Because of this we may have eternal life if we believe. See the cost (wages) of sin is death, eternity away from God. But Jesus lived a sin-free life. He didn't deserve death. But on that terrible Friday he died, paying the price for our sins. And when he rose again, he opened the doors to heaven so that all us sinners could have not death, but eternal life.

That was a very Good Sunday. Resurrection Sunday. Easter Sunday. That Friday was an important day, the day our Savior died for us. But to me, the GOOD day, the great day was Sunday.

John 11:25 -- Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies."

*This is a reprint of my Good Friday post last year.

What Have You Done for Me Lately?

2011-04-18T06:00:00.003-04:00

What have you done for me lately?
ooh, ooh, ooh, yeah. What have you done for me lately?
ooh, ooh, ooh, yeah.
What Have You Done for Me Lately, Janet Jackson, 1986

What does your prayer list look like? Mine is a hodge-podge for family and friends, health concerns, job concerns, wants, needs, and requests. God does tell us to bring everything to him in prayer, but in thanksgiving. (Phil 4:6).

Thanksgiving probably doesn't enter our mind as we are praying for that person with cancer, or who lost their job, or who is getting a divorce. If we're not thankful, then bitterness can sink in.

We look to God, and think, "What have you done for me lately?" When God doesn't answer prayers the way we want, we can even get angry. Why God!??! Haven't I served you? Haven't I loved you? Haven't I...?

Here is the truth. God sent His Son, Jesus, to die for us to redeem us. We no longer have to spend eternity separated from God, but may have eternal life with Him. If He never did one additional thing for us on this earth, THAT ONE thing was enough.

Don't get caught up in a "what have you done for me lately" thinking. God did enough. Everything else from there is blessing. Count your blessings, and give thanks.

Resurrection Rolls

2011-04-15T06:00:00.000-04:00

Ingredients:

1 Tube Pillsbury Crescent Rolls (Big and Flaky)
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, melted (you will not use all of the butter but it makes it easier to have enough to dip the marshmallows)
8 large marshmallows
3 tablespoons sugar mixed with 3 teaspoons cinnamon
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil and spray with non-stick cooking spray.

Separate crescent rolls. (Note: This is much easier if you can find the “Big and Flaky” variety. If you can only find the regular size, trim off about a quarter of the marshmallow.)

Give each child a triangle of crescent roll. The pastry represents the cloth that Jesus was wrapped in.

Give each child a marshmallow. This represents Jesus.

Have them dip the marshmallow into the melted butter and roll to coat evenly. This represents the oils of embalming.

Roll the buttered marshmallow in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat. This represents the spices used to anoint His body.

Place the coated marshmallow at the short straight end of the crescent roll. Bring the two corners up to the top of the marshmallow.

Roll up (away from you and toward the point) the crescent roll with the marshmallow and seal to make sure the marshmallow is not showing (or it will leak out when baking). This represents the wrapping of Jesus’ body after death.

Place two inches apart on prepared cookie sheet and place in preheated oven for the length of time indicated on the crescent roll package (around 10-14 minutes or until golden brown). The oven represents the tomb.

Remove from oven and cool slightly. Break open or bite into the rolls and discover that Jesus is no longer there, HE IS RISEN! (The marshmallow melts and the crescent roll is puffed up, but empty.)

It’s a wonderful reminder of The reason we celebrate. Hallelujah!

*This recipe was copied with permission from www.shecooks.org.
Visit or subscribe to see more delicious recipes.

Informer, Snow

2011-04-11T06:00:00.003-04:00

Informer, ??????
?????? boom, boom, down.
Informer, Snow, 1992

Watching VH1's One Hit Wonders is a guilty pleasure of mine. I love that show! Well, I've only seen it twice. Because the videos are always at least PG, I don't watch it when my kids are home, and when they're not home, I'm usually working around the house, or out myself. But the other day I was under the weather, with nothing to do but lay on the couch and watch...One Hit Wonders of the 90s! Woo!

I enjoyed each song as it played, but one of them made me laugh out loud. The song Informer was a big hit of 1992, spending seven weeks at number 1. I had to laugh as the DJs talked about how no one knew the lyrics! So when the song came on, everyone would sing, "Informer! da, da, da, da, hmmmm, hmmmm, hmmmm, a boom boom down!" You just couldn't understand it! But that didn't keep you from singing along, (well as best you could.)

I've even included the video below, so you can listen. The chorus starts at 17 seconds, see if you can figure out the words. Now we have google. I was able to look up the words, although even seeing them they didn't make complete sense. They were "Informer You know say daddy me snow me-a (gonna) blame. A licky boom-boom down." What?! Still, the song is a fan favorite.

Sometimes people say they can't understand the Bible, but they don't put as much effort into figuring it out, as they do trying to understand song lyrics. The Internet can offer interpretations of scripture, as can Bible studies, friends, and your pastor.

God states clearly in the Bible, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." (Jer 29:13). It's not enough to just "hum along" with God's Word. You need to look up the lyrics so you can sing every word. What if like "Informer" you can't understand all the words, after you look them up?

The wonderful thing about our loving God, is that he doesn't expect you to understand it all. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." (Is 55:8-9)

Still, when you study God's Word, and seek a relationship with Him you will get a better understanding. Romans 12:2 states, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

Once you are informed about God, then you can be an informer for him. Tell the world about Jesus.

With this ring....

2011-04-08T06:00:00.000-04:00

“Why don’t you wear your wedding band any more?”

He’d noticed. I wondered how long before my husband would notice, and now he had. I answered truthfully. “It doesn’t fit anymore.” There I’d said it! Fifteen years and two kids had rendered my finger bigger than my wedding band. I didn’t want to admit it, and had just been ignoring the problem, hoping my husband wouldn’t notice it.

“Well, go get it sized.” His answer seemed so simple. I had avoided telling him because I didn’t want him to know I wasn’t that svelte woman he’d married. Yet I’m sure he’d noticed, just as he had noticed I wasn’t wearing my wedding band. He just had the good sense not to mention it. Now that it was out in the open we could resolve the problem.

There was a second problem however. My band had beveled edges. I dreaded having the jeweler cut my band and ruin the wonderful edging I’d loved so much when we selected our bands, and still loved. Remarkably, the jewelry took a look at it and said, “We can just ream it out.” I only needed it to come up a quarter size, and my band was thick enough that they could take some gold from the center, leaving my beveled edges in tact. Two problems, solved immediately once I was willing to deal with them.

What problems are you ignoring, hoping they’ll just go away? Is there something that you are hoping no one will notice, but in your heart you know they will? God already knows what’s troubling you. Talk to Him. Who knows how easy your solution may be, once you are willing to take action.

A Little Less Conversation, Elvis

2011-04-04T06:00:00.001-04:00

A little less conversation,
a lot more action please...
Little Less Conversation, Elvis, 1968

As Christians we can sometimes get stuck in church. You know what I mean, we are going to church on Sunday, attending a Bible study, going to Wednesday night dinners, and yes, even peppering our daily conversation with appropriate Bible verses.

Do you ever feel like God is saying, "A little less conversation, a lot more action please"? The Bible puts it this way, "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." (James 1:22).

It's true that to be doers of the Word, we have to hear it first. But it's when we only hear, and not do, we are fooling ourselves. We need to have a little less conversation, a lot more action.

So Come on, come on, come on, come on! Let's get busy living a life of doing what God asks. Once you're doing the good works that God planned in advance for you to do, you'll find nothing else can satisfy you. When I'm living the life God calls me to live, nothing else can...Satisfy me, Baby!

Take Your Vitamins

2011-04-01T06:00:00.000-04:00

A vitamin regimen requires daily action. You must take a vitamin every day to keep consistent doses of each vitamin in your system. Doing so maintains proper health and keeps your energy levels strong.

You couldn't just take 7 vitamins on Sunday and call it good for the week. Yet, so many of us do just that for our spiritual health. We get a little dose of God on Sunday and call it a week. Or worse, we attempt to make up for lost time taking in large doses of scripture that instead of giving us teachable moments, overdose or overwhelm us.

When I take in daily doses of the Bible I maintain a steady communication with God, and maintain my spiritual health and energy. If I try to take in a huge dose once a week, I lose the opportunity to see daily glimpses of God in my every day life. I need to be consistent.

Next time you hear someone talking about vitamins, consider if you've had your Vitamin B (Bible!) for the day!

Don't Stop, Fleetwood Mac

2011-03-28T06:00:00.001-04:00

Don't stop thinking about tomorrow,
don't stop, it will soon be here.
It'll be better than before.
Yesterday's gone. Yesterday's gone!
Don't Stop, Fleetwood Mac, 1977

I have a past. I have alot of things in my background I'm not proud of. I'm sure I could make many Christians shutter with tales of my sinful life. But that sinful life is a testimony to God's grace. God's love has changed my life and I will never be the same again!

Looking at my background, I have two choices. I can continue to condemn myself and never be one of God's workers, because I'm not good enough. Or, I can think about the person I am now, and use that past history as my testimony.

The devil accuses me, and makes me embarrassed of my past, and not want to share it. But Jesus says, "Yesterday's gone. Yesterday's gone!" So I won't stop thinking about tomorrow. It WILL be better than before!

Fleetwood Mac's song, simply echoes the words of Paul, "Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13,14.

Forgetting what is behind...yesterday's gone! Straining toward what is ahead...don't stop thinking about tomorrow!

Don't let your past hold you back. Yesterday's gone. Look forward to tomorrow, and celebrate today. God loves you and has a plan for your life. Don't stop!

Which Way?

2011-03-25T06:00:00.002-04:00

Have you ever had too many ideas, and not sure which way to go? I have lots of blog ideas. I have titles and tidbits written on little pieces of paper. I have a sentence or two written in saved blog posts to remind me of what I want to blog about. And they are good ideas. Yet, I'm unable to pull these good ideas into a post. It's like I'm not in the "zone."

I know what I want to say, and almost how to say it. The words would fly from my finger tips onto the keyboard into a post that teaches a lesson while holding the readers interest, making them laugh, or contemplate or say "Oh, yes, I get that!"

I am thinking about skit writing, women's retreat talks, conferences, Spring Break, our family schedule, Bible study completing, and more. My mind is a jumble of thoughts. I need to step out, but on which path?

Like Martha in the Bible, I feel myself bothered about many things. But like Mary, I need to know that only one thing is needed. Only one thing is necessary. The One. I need to put my focus on Jesus. He will clear my thoughts. He will calm my soul. He will show me the way, because He is The Way.

Help From My Friends, Beatles

2011-03-21T06:00:00.002-04:00

Oh I get by with a little help from my friends...
Mmm, I'm gonna try with a little help from my friends.
Help From My Friends, Beatles, 1967

I hate asking for favors! Just the thought of that I can't do it myself in my fragile mind evokes the feeling of weakness, or worse, failure. I am (after all) woman - hear me roar! I can do anything, I am strong, I am invincible, I am woman! Okay, it's a Musical Monday WITHIN a Musical Monday! Where was I? Oh yes, getting by with a little help from my friends. Helen Reddy will be back with I am Woman another day. Today, it's the Beatles.

Last week with the death of my mother-in-law, and subsequent travel of my husband, I was forced to ask for help. Because the truth is, I'm not invincible. Only God is. I am flawed and in need of help, especially when my helpmate (husband) is gone.

I am thankful for Christian friends who come along side me, and help with meals, carpool, childcare and emotional support. It's been a hard week, no doubt. But I got by with a little help from my friends. I still don't like asking for help, but I'm gonna try with a little help from my friends.

Proverbs 27:10
Do not forsake your friend or a friend of your family, and do not go to your relative’s house when disaster strikes you— better a neighbor nearby than a relative far away.

Tears in Heaven, Eric Clapton

2011-03-14T06:00:00.004-04:00

Would you know my name, if I saw you in Heaven?
Would it be the same, if I saw you in Heaven?
Tears in Heaven, Eric Clapton, 1992

It is never easy when a loved one dies, regardless of the situation. My mother-in-law, Mary, died yesterday. (Not to be confused with my sister with the same name.) My mother-in-law was more than ready to go. Her body had betrayed her in the last few years, first sending her to walker, and finally to a wheelchair. She had rheumatoid arthritis.

Last year she said she didn't know why God was making her stay on the earth, she was ready to go home. She and her husband, Joe, had to move to the nursing home. Her independent spirit didn't like her increasingly dependant situation. She'd had a long good life, she loved Jesus and she was ready, at the age of 86.

So, it isn't with sadness that she is now walking on her own two feet into the presence of Jesus. She is filled with joy. I can't help but think of the children's song, "He went walking and leaping and praising God, Walking and leaping and praising God, 'In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.'" Though she was never one seeking attention, I picture her walking and leaping and praising God. And it's a good thought.

But still we are sad. We will miss her. Having never had a loving mother figure of my own, she helped fill that void. She loved me, not because I was John's wife, but because I was Kelly. She encouraged me to be the strong woman I am.

She took in a scared 11 year old boy, who was my husband, and raised and loved him as her own. Her headstone, which she & her husband pre-arranged, is engraved with the words, "Parents of Richard and John." He was their son, regardless of birth.

I know there are no tears in heaven. But excuse me if I shed a few on earth. Still, I know I'll see Mary again and we'll be reunited...in heaven.

Charged Up

2011-03-09T09:16:00.002-05:00

His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness. 2 Peter 1:3

I HAVE A RECHARGABLE VACUUM that is great for quick cleanups around the house. I say quick cleanups because while it starts off strong, after a while the motor begins to slow down, and the vacuum requires a recharge. It has to be plugged in for its battery to get more power. After a recharge its power is increased, and it’s ready again.

Our faith is like that vacuum. To find out how, join me over at Titus 2 in Action where I am a guest contributor today.

She Speaks Entry

2011-03-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

"Kelly is a top student, when she isn't talking."
"Does good work, but could cut down on talking."
"A pleasure to have in class. Talkative."
"Kelly is talkative!"

Those who know me well would not be surprised by these actual comments on my high school report cards. It seems I've always had a big mouth, and liked talking. And no surprise, my blog is called Chatty Kelly. It just fits.

But who could have imagined all those years ago in high school, that my "gift of gab" could actually be a gift from God? Not my teachers, certainly! Who could blame them?

Yet here I am! Just a chatty girl who loves Jesus! And who is using that "big mouth" to tell people about Him. And that's why I'd like to win the scholarship to attend the She Speaks Conference, Speakers track.

Three years ago, an older woman encouraged me that I should try to be published. She'd read my article in the Mothers of Preschoolers newsletter and saw something in me I had never seen in myself...potential. At first I thought she was just being nice, but after some more encouragement I sent off my first query letter to my favorite Christian women's magazine, P31 Woman. Imagine my surprise when they responded they liked my article...but it was too long!

Imagine that, "too wordy," they said. Me? Chatty Kelly? I cut the article by nearly 900 words, resubmitted it, and my first article was published, called "My Perfect Parent" in the November, 2008 issue. I've continued writing, but now hear the call to start my speaking ministry.

Proverbs 31 is very near and dear to my heart. I started blogging because I wanted to participate in Lysa TerKeurst's (P31's president) "swap and hop." I became a Lysa TerKeurst "groupie." My first article was published in P31 Woman magazine. And I attended She Speaks 2008 on the writer's track, where I learned the nuts and bolts of effective writing, which led to more publications, including a recent publication in Guideposts Extraordinary Answers to Prayer, Closer to God.

She Speaks sounds like the perfect place for me, because when people think of Chatty Kelly, they think "She speaks!" Seriously, I'd love to have the opportunity to fellowship with other Christian women who feel the same call in their life, and have a chance to learn from the gifted and talented P31 staff and their conference guest speakers.

I hope to be able to win the Cecil Murphey Scholarship this year. God gave me the gift of gab, and I want to use it for His glory.

If you'd like a chance to win this scholarship, visit Lysa TerKeurst's blog post. To learn more about the conference, visit She Speaks.

Rain or Shine?

2011-03-07T06:00:00.002-05:00

"You have taken off your old self with its practices and have put
on the new self." Colossians 3:9, 10

THE SKY POURED down a warm summer rain. My girls slipped on their boots and raincoats, and skipped out to play in the puddles. Soon their boots were filled and their clothes were covered in muddy water. I called them in, stripped off their muddy clothes, and put them straight into the bath. After they were washed, they put on clean, dry clothes. It would have been unthinkable to put back on their wet dirty clothes. It would have been like they’d never bathed.

As children of God, we too have been called in from worldly things. We have had the filthiness removed from our bodies, and put on our “new self.” Too often, however, we do the unthinkable. We put back on the filthiness. Lust, greed, anger and lying are some examples of our muddied past, our old self. Once we’re no longer clean, we have no incentive to stay out of the puddles of sin.

Accepting Christ means focusing on Him. No more mudslinging. We have to clean up our act. Instead of dressing ourselves in the muddy clothes of our past, we must instead clothe ourselves in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. This requires daily cleansing through confession, repentance and God’s forgiveness.

Then we’ll no longer be tempted by the puddles, but instead will bask in the Son.

Spend some time basking in the Son today, even if it’s raining.

This devotion by me originally appeared in Light from the Word. Check out their devotions on-line!

*Musical Monday is taking the day off. It will be back next week.*

The ME Project, Giveaway & Blog Tour

2011-03-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

The Me Project is an exciting new book by Kathi Lipp. I'm proud to be part of her blog tour, and give you information about the book and about the giveway. Enjoy!

GIVEAWAY INFORMATION:
To enter, leave a comment by 9 pm EST March 3rd. A name will be randomly selected from my blog and sent to Kathy Carlton Willis Communications, where THEY will draw the prize winner and give away the prize. Your comment here enters you to win a CHANCE to be entered in their grandprize drawing.

Grand Prize Giveaway:
Deluxe Starbucks Coffee Gift Basket
Three 2.5-oz. bags of Starbucks coffee
(Sumatra, House Blend, and French Roast)
Tazo black tea
Starbucks marshmallow cocoa
Almond roca
Almond roca buttercrunch toffee cookies
White chocolate and raspberry cookies
2 Starbucks mugs
Keepsake black bamboo basket
$62 value

The BOOK: The ME Project

The Me Project - 21 Days to Living the Life You’ve Always Wanted
Publisher: Harvest House Publishers
ISBN-10: 0736929665, ISBN-13: 978-0736929660
Release Date: February 1, 2011
Paperback: 224 pages, Retail: $12.99

Book Summary

(San Jose, CA) Has that rush to make (and break) New Year’s resolutions already waned? According to Daniel Pink, author of Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, taking small steps every day will not only help you stay committed to your goal, but will also help you ultimately achieve that goal when obstacles come up. Author Kathi Lipp wants you and your friends to live out those dreams—and have some fun along the way.

As women, we forget the goals and dreams of our younger years. The busyness of everyday life gets in the way. To-do lists replace goals. The Me Project provides women with fun and creative ways to bring back the sense of purpose and vitality that comes with living out the plans and dreams God has planted in our hearts. Kathi Lipp’s warm tone and laugh-out-loud humor motivates women to take daily steps toward intentional goals. The end result? We get back our lives and enjoy living in the confidence of a purposeful life in spite of our chaotic schedules.

This handy guide coaches women to do one simple thing toward achieving our goals each day for three weeks. A woman experiencing the exhilaration of a rediscovered life offers more as a wife, mother, friend, volunteer, career woman.

Finding the balance between living day-to-day with purpose while pursuing the passions God has placed in our hearts is a delicate pursuit. In this refreshing, insightful book, Kathi lays out a doable plan that makes sense and helps make our God-given dreams a reality. Never stop dreaming, because women who dare to dream do make the world a better place.
—Jean Blackmer
author of MomSense: A Common Sense Guide to Confident Mothering
Publishing Manager, MOPS International www.MOPS.org

Author Bio

Kathi Lipp

Kathi Lipp is a busy conference and retreat speaker, currently speaking each year to thousands of women throughout the United States. She is the author of The Husband Project and The Marriage Project, serves as food writer for Nickelodeon, and has had articles published in several magazines, including Today’s Christian Woman and Discipleship Journal. Kathi and her husband, Roger, live in California and are the parents of four teenagers and young adults. For more information visit her website: www.kathilipp.com

You Can't Always Get What You Want

2011-02-28T06:00:00.001-05:00

You can't always get what you want
You can't always get what you want
You can't always get what you want
But if you try sometimes you might find
You get what you need.
You Can't Always Get What You Want, Rolling Stones, 1969

We've been studying prayer at church lately. Some of us treat God like a genie, or Santa Claus, presenting him with our lists of "I wants." God does want us to ask for our needs. We know this because Jesus said so when he taught the disciples how to pray. "Give us this day our daily bread," is part of the prayer Jesus used to show the disciples how to pray.

Daily bread. Bread for the day. Why should we only pray for DAILY bread? In Exodus 16, God rained down manna from heaven each day for the Israelites. And he caused it to mold if they tried to save it for more than 1 day. (The exception was they could save enough the day before the Sabbath to last through the Sabbath so they wouldn't have to work on that day.)

Why daily? So they would have to put their faith in him every day. They'd have to keep their eyes on him every day. God wants our attention daily, and our tendency is to look to God when we are hungry and turn away when we are full.

It's been said that God provides for our needs, but not our greeds. It's true that we can't always get what we want. But with God we always, always, always - get what we need.

The Tight Rope Walker

2011-02-25T06:00:00.000-05:00

Once there was a tightrope walker. He strung a rope across the Grand Canyon as a large crowd gathered. "Who believes I can walk across the canyon on this rope?" The crowd cheered, "We do!" The man easily walked across on the rope.

Next he asked, "Who believes I can walk across the canyon on this rope, carrying a chair?" The crowd again cheered, "We do!" Again, the man easily walked across the rope, this time carrying the chair.

Next he asked "Who believes I can walk across the canyon on this rope, carrying a chair with another person sitting in it?" The crowd cheered, louder than ever, "We do!"

Then the man asked, "Who is willing to sit in the chair?" The stunned crowd went silent.

It's easy to say you believe in God. But true belief means you are willing to sit in the chair. Do you believe?

Why Dig Deeper?

2011-02-23T06:00:00.001-05:00

Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Ruth 1:16

The above verse is one about unconditional love. There is even a new Chris Tomlin song based on this lyrics called, I Will Follow You. It always makes me chuckle when I hear it in weddings, however. I wonder if the bride reciting this verse to her husband,realizes the context of the actual verse. You see, it was said by a daughter-in-law, to her mother-in-law.

Young Ruth had lost her husband. Her sister-in-law (Orpah) and her mother-in-law (Naomi) all lost their husbands too. Naomi told her young daughters-in-law to go back to their own families. It only made sense. The other daughter-in-law returned. But not Ruth. Ruth professed her love to her mother-in-law, and promised to follow her wherever she went.

Before you get the idea that perhaps Ruth had the perfect mother-in-law, listen to this. Naomi told everyone to no longer call her Naomi (meaning pleasant), but to call her Mara (meaning bitter) because her life was so bitter. Would you profess you love to your bitter mother-in-law?

Scripture sometimes has two meanings. The obvious meaning in the passage, and often a deeper spiritual meaning. The literal meaning in the story of Ruth is steadfast love. According to scholars, the deeper meaning Ruth foreshadows the gentiles becoming a part of spiritual Israel, the church; and is a story of redemption. Digging deeper into scripture is important.

To hear the reasons why, meet me over at Titus 2 in Action, where I am a guest contributor today.

Love is Alive, Gary Wright

2011-02-21T06:00:00.003-05:00

There's a mirror moving inside my mind
Reflecting the love that you shine on me
Hold on now to that feeling
Let it flow, let it grow, yeah, yeah
Love is Alive, Gary Wright, 1976

In a recently Bible study, the pastor asks how we would describe God's holiness to someone. After some thought I came up with this: We are the moon, Jesus is the Sun; we shine only when we reflect Jesus. You see, even though the moon is the brightest object in the night sky, it does not make its own light. The light we see from the moon is actually sunlight that is reflected from the moon's surface.

Such is the goodness people see in us. When we have Jesus in our life, we reflect his light. There's a mirror moving inside my mind, reflecting the love that you shine on me. Hold on now to that feeling. Let it flow, let it grow, yeah, yeah. The more time we spend growing in relationship with Jesus, by reading the Bible and in prayer, the more we grow, and the more that reflected love flows from us.

Jesus is alive. His love for us is alive. And we should love him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. We should be singing the chorus, "My heart is on fire. My soul's like a wheel that's turnin'. My love is alive, my love is alive."

With Jesus in your life, your love will be alive. You soul will be alive. And most importantly, you will live. Jesus brings eternal life for us. Love Jesus, and live.

(I have some friends who "need more cowbell" in their Musical Mondays. So today is for them. Watch the video to get more cowbell.) *Those who receive this post via email will not be able to see the video without logging into http://www.chattykelly.com *

Walking Partners

2011-02-18T06:00:00.002-05:00

I've started walking a couple of days a week with two different friends. One friend is probably less fit than I am. I encourage and push her on to keep going a few more laps. She's ready to quit at 2 miles, but I can usually push and encourage her to 2.5. My other friend is in better shape than I am. She walks fast, and my legs burn as a strive to keep up. We walk 3 miles in no time, as she encourages me to go farther.

Our Christian "walk" should mirror my fitness walk. We need walking partners in Christ too! We should come along side some people who aren't as far in their faith as we are. We should encourage them in their walk with Christ and help them become more spiritually fit. It's not just a suggestion, but a mandate, "Go, and make disciples," Jesus said. (Matt 28:19,20)

At the same time, we should have Christian mentors who are equally or more spiritually fit than we are, to encourage us and help us deepen our relationship with Christ. Whether it's in our marriages, parenting or daily life, having someone to push us to do what is right is a blessing!

Having someone to walk with makes me more accountable to my exercise plan, no matter what their fitness level. The same is true spiritually. When I'm mentoring someone else, I am careful that I don't have the appearance of sin in my life to lead them the wrong direction. And likewise, when I'm with a mentor, I strive to live the life that they are, doing the right thing.

Who are you walking with in your Christian walk? Don't walk alone.

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.
Proverbs 13:20

I'll Be There, Jackson 5

2011-02-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

You and I must make a pact,
we must bring salvation back.
Where there is love, I'll be there
I'll Be There, Jackson 5, 1970

Do you ever wonder if God and Jesus had a conversation about the fall of man, and how they would handle it? Was it before Adam & Eve sinned, or after the fact? Whose idea was it? When I heard this Jackson 5 song the other day, I wondered if the conversation between God & Jesus sounded something like that:

You and I must make a pact, we must bring salvation back. Where there is love, I'll be there.

The Bible tells us that God IS love. ( John 4:16) Where there is love, I'll be there. Together they agreed (or made a pact) that they would offer mankind another chance at salvation. Jesus would die on the cross to pay the price for our sins.

But a relationship with Jesus offers more than salvation, not that just salvation isn't enough!

Let me fill your heart with joy and laughter
Togetherness, well that's all I'm after
Whenever you need me, I'll be there

We also get a change to have a relationship with Him! He will fill our heart with joy and laughter! The joy of the Lord! (Nehemiah 8:10) Togetherness is what He is after. Whenever we need Him, He will be there! Never will he leave or forsake us. (Joshua 1:5)

I'll be there to protect you,
with an unselfish love that respects you
Just call my name and I'll be there

We can pray to Him, be comforted by Him, learn by His Word in the Bible! He'll be there to protect us, and give us an unselfish love...unconditional love. And He wants us to love Him back. (Deut 6:5, Mark 12:30)

I'm so blessed to have a relationship with Jesus, and he offers a chance at that relationship to all of us. (John 3:16)

Just call His name. He'll be there.

Don't Act Like An Ass

2011-02-11T06:00:00.003-05:00

In Matthew 21, we see the story of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on the back of a donkey colt. As he rode into town, the people threw down palm branches and shouted praises.

A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted,
“Hosanna to the Son of David!”
“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”
“Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
Matthew 21:8,9

Imagine if the donkey had any level of intellect to understand what was going on. Here he is riding through town with people shouting praises. Would he have thought the praises were for him? After all, he was the one doing all the work. Jesus was simply riding. The donkey was the one walking and carrying Jesus. The palm branches were thrown on the ground. Would he have thought they were protecting his steps? Honoring him? It's crazy to even imagine it, isn't it?

Yet, how often do we do the same thing? Maybe we're volunteering at church; singing for the praise team or choir, going on a mission, donating to a food pantry, or writing a devotion. When people offer praise, do we think they're praising us? We're the ones that did the work, aren't we?

Or, isn't it more that we are just doing what Jesus asked us to do, like the donkey. Jesus is the one that should be receiving the honor and glory. Not us. The donkey simply had the honor of carrying the Messiah, and while it was an honor for the donkey to do so, the Messiah was the ONLY one who deserved the praises.

So the next time you do something at church or as a mission, and someone tells you "Great job," remember who is holding the reins. Don't be confused. It is an honor to do work for Jesus, but we aren't the ones who deserve the honor. Don't act like the donkey.

All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, "Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass." Matthew 21:4,5 KJV

Choose Joy

2011-02-09T08:58:00.002-05:00

Habakkuk 3:17, 18 -- Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. (NIV)

Given our current economy, it is easy to be unhappy. In a recent Bible study I learned that anything that can rob your joy (the joy of the Lord) can be an idol. You see it isn't any great tragedy that I let steal my joy, but daily irritations.

Join me at Titus 2 in Action, where we'll talk about choosing joy.

Satisfaction, Rolling Stones

2011-02-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

"I can't get no satisfaction,
I can't get no satisfaction.
'Cause I try and I try and I try and I try.
I can't get no, I can't get no."
Satisfaction, Rolling Stones, 1965

I've discovered a delicious, sweet, and low calorie treat! It is Jello-O Rice pudding in Creme Brulee flavor. And it is mmm-mmm-good. It is sugar free and only 70 calories. I've been enjoying it each night as my evening dessert. It is completely satisfying.

The other night I sat out my pudding, and then proceeded to make each of my girls an ice cream cone. I took a lick off of the ice cream cone before I gave it to my daughter. It was sweet, creamy and so delicious. I then sat down to my "delicious, sweet pudding." Suddenly it didn't taste sweet at all. It was no longer the sweet, creamy treat I'd enjoyed all week. I was like Mic Jagger, unable to get any satisfaction...from my pudding!

Our lives are often like that. We're going along, happy and satisfied. And then we get a "taste" of what our neighbor has. Then we are no longer content. This can happen in an instant. We can drive home in our brand new 2008 vehicle, only to find out that our neighbor's 2008 came with the "Limited Package." Suddenly, joy can be stolen.

Maybe cars aren't your thing. If you're a mom, perhaps its the honor student or football hero next door that makes you and your mothering feel inferior. If you're married, maybe its the romantic trips "her" husband takes her on. It can be something as small and insignificant as another woman's beautiful french manicure that makes you & your natural stubby nails feel "less than." Suddenly you're singing, "I can't get no satisfaction!"

Paul (the Apostle) said he had learned the secret of being content. He learned to focus on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. (Philippians 4:8) Maybe I need to change my focus. From what I don't have to what I do. Then Paul says the God of Peace will be with me.

So, if you try, and you try, and you try, and you try - and still haven't found satisfaction, try God. He is the only thing that will ever truly satisfy.

Hebrews 13:5 -- Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."

Frozen

2011-02-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

Brrr, it's cold! Even in FL, the sunshine state, they've been experiencing colder than normal temperatures. I recently heard on the news that the strawberry crops were in danger of freezing. You see, strawberries can evidently handle the cold to about 28 degrees. A slight dip below freezing just makes them sweeter. But once it goes below 28, the crops are ruined.

When the farmers hear a deep freeze is coming, they do something that I found amazing. They turn on the sprinklers! As the water covers the berries, it freezes, creating a personal freezer around each berry - keeping it chilled at exactly 32 safe and sweet degrees. The ice actually saves the berries from colder temperatures.

Do you ever feel like your getting a big freeze? Maybe you think God is giving you a "cold shoulder" letting you go through some times that are hard as ice. I can't say for certain, but I do love the idea that by giving us a small does of a cold, hard time that God is protecting us from further ruin, like the ice protects the strawberry.

I don't know, but just thinking about it warms my frozen heart.

I've Got the Music In Me

2011-01-31T06:00:00.001-05:00

Ain't got no trouble in my life
No foolish dream to make me cry
I'm never frightened or worried
I know I'll always get by.
I've Got the Music in Me, Kiki Dee, 1975

Reading the lyrics above makes me think, wouldn't it be nice if life were really that way?

"Ain't got no trouble in my life." Truth is, my life is pretty good right now. My husband & I are nearing 15 years of marriage, and are quite possibly having our best year ever. I adore my kids, and have many, many great friends. I'm blessed! But I've had my share of deep troubles, I have smaller things that trouble me now, and I know that trouble will come again.

"Foolish dreams to make me cry?" Well, I haven't cried lately, but some of my dreams do seem foolish at times. Publish a book? Me? Be a dynamic speaker? Make a positive impression for Christ in people's lives? Sometimes it seems like a foolish dream to me and I can get down. Yet I know that God planted those dreams in my heart and I keep chugging along for His glory!

"I'm never frightened or worried." I have children! Enough said! I worry every day about my kids. I hate when they have to face adversity, mean kids, life's injustices, yet I know they are being made stronger through these things. Just like I am when they happen to me.

"I know I'll always get by." This one is true. I am so peaceful and feel blessed that I have faith in my Savior! Because He is in my life I will always get by! I am an over-comer! Every day brings new challenges, but I am up for the task.

And not because I've got the music in me, even though I do. While music does put a spring in my step, the real reason I know I'll always get by is because I have Jesus in me. I have Jesus in me! I have Jesus in me!!

Making God Laugh

2011-01-28T06:00:00.001-05:00

There is an old saying, "If you want to make God laugh, just tell him YOUR plans." The context is, of course, that God's plans prevail. Does God laugh? Yesterday, as I sat praying out loud to God, something funny happened, which made me realize two things. God does have a sense of humor. And we DON'T want him to laugh at us.

As I prayed, I asked God to help me be humble. I am preparing to speak at a women's retreat later this year, and I want to make sure the women see God, not me. But ironically, as I said the word humble, I stumbled on it, making it sound like, "Hummmmummmmble." It reminded me of when a TV character is trying to say something they don't want to. Consider Fonzie on Happy Days trying to say, "I was wrong." So after I said, "Help me be hummmummmble," I laughed out loud at myself.

As I went on to pray, I apologized to God for laughing, then went on to thank him for our sense of humor. I said, "Lord, I don't know if you laugh, but I do know we are made in your image and we have a sense of humor, so I suspect that you do too." After my prayer time, I went on to read my Bible. The day before I had read Psalm 90 - Psalm 93. I thought I'd pick up at Psalm 94. But then, I was drawn to go back and start at the beginning of Psalms. I would read Chapters 1-3.

Imagine my surprise when I read Psalm 2:4, "The One enthroned in heaven laughs." What? Really God! I had literally just asked God if he laughed, as much hypothetically than literally, and there it was in the Bible. Surely God did laugh at my surprise!

But as I studied the verse I realized that here the Lord was laughing in derisive laughter, or mockery. As I did a word study of the word LAUGH throughout the Bible, I realized most times that God laughed it was in mockery of the wicked. I definitely don't want to make God laugh at me like this!

Still, the Bible is clear, there is "a time to weep, and a time to laugh" (Ecc 3:4), and that because of our joy over the great things God has done "our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing." (Ps 126:2) It's okay for us to laugh!

Still, I don't want to make God laugh at me. Rather, I will strive to make Him smile.

Faith Like Noah

2011-01-26T06:00:00.001-05:00

The rain fell in torrents as I drove into the parking lot of my daughter’s school. We ran from the car to the doors, but were soaked by the time we entered the building. My clothes stuck uncomfortably to my body, and I felt every bit the drowned rat.

I dropped my daughter off safely in her classroom. As I was leaving I jokingly told the school's director “I’m off to build an ark!” She replied, “Well you better hurry because it’s already raining.”

That caused me to think....

To continue reading, join me over at Titus 2 in Action, where I am a guest contributor every other Wednesday.

Cruel to Be Kind

2011-01-24T06:00:00.000-05:00

You gotta be
Cruel to be kind, in the right measure
Cruel to be kind, it's a very good sign
Cruel to be kind, means that I love you
Baby, you gotta be cruel to be kind
Cruel to Be Kind, Nick Lowe, 1979

No one wants to hear what they are doing wrong. That includes me! It's true, I can get defensive when someone points out my faults. I want people to only see the best in me. But the truth is, I mess up! There I said it!

Christians, like everyone else, don't want to hear when they get it wrong. As a matter of fact, when confronting a Christian brother or sister about their sin, you're less apt to get repentance than you are to get told what YOUR sin is in return.

The Bible is clear, we are to speak the truth...in love. That means, when we talk to someone about their sin the first thing we need to do is a heart check. Are we pointing out the issue in anger, in pride, or is it truly love - that we care so much for that person we can't stand to see their sin.

Next, we have to check out our own behavior. You can't point out the speck in your friend's eye, if you have a plank in your own! If you are trapped in bondage to sin, its best to work on your own issues before pointing out someone elses.

Matthew 18 gives clear guidelines on speaking to someone about sin. First, “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over." Just between the two of you! This isn't a time of public humilation. It's a time to speak to someone privately. Matthew 18 goes on to further explain the guidelines if this attempt fails.

Some might think pointing out their sin to them is cruel. To that, we could sing you have to be Cruel to be kind, in the right measure, cruel to be kind, is a very good sign. Cruel to be kind, means that I love you. Make sure that you aren't cruel, but kind in speaking the truth.

Speak the truth in love...In the right measure...It's a very good sign...It means that I love you.

Look Up!

2011-01-21T06:00:00.005-05:00

Imagine my surprise the other day, when I glanced out at my bird feeder, to see this little golden finch trapped INSIDE of the feeder. How he got in there, I have no idea. If you look toward the bottom of the feeder, you can see the tiny opening where the food comes out. He somehow squeezed in, but could not squeeze back out. This was a job, for Super Chatty! (that's me).

Have I mentioned, however, that I am not a fan of birds specifically, nor wild life in general? Okay, anything that can be unpredictable. Or poop on you. (I realize I just described small children too, but in general I am not afraid of them.) I mean this was a wild animal! Have you ever seen, "What Happens When Animals Attack?" I was possibly only moments away from a bird mauling, I just knew it!

Still I knew I had to save the bird. So I got a long stick, and while the bird was fluttering madly inside it's Plexiglas cage, I knocked the red roof off of the bird feeder.

What happened next was surprising. The bird did not fly out of the feeder! No, it just kept fluttering madly and banging against the Plexiglas. If it would have just looked up, it would have seen it's pathway to freedom, but instead kept looking at and banging the Plexiglas.

Now I had to take desperate measures. I stuck the stick through the little opening at the bottom. The Plexiglas would not move. So I tried the next pane, behind the bird, and as I pushed the pane rose so the bird could escape. But the bird just kept fixed on the pane in front of it, fluttering away. Finally, with my arm wrapped around the house, holding the pane up with my long stick, I stood in front of the pane the bird was banging on. Startled, he flew backwards, and out of the bird feeder. Mission Accomplished!

I couldn't help but think, "What a stupid bird!" But then I thought about myself. How many times do I get myself into a jam? And then realizing my problem, I keep banging away trying to solve it myself. If I would just look up, look to God, he would provide me direction, and the way to go. But no, I keep banging away.

Sometimes God has to block my path, to make me realize I just need to turn around to find my freedom...in Him.

Don't be like me (or that stupid bird!) Look up, to God, and he will guide you in the right direction.

Proverbs 4:26 -- Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.

When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us. - Alexander Graham Bell

All Out of Love

2011-01-17T06:00:00.001-05:00

I'm all out of love, I'm so lost without you
I know you were right believing for so long
I'm all out of love, what am I without you
I can't be too late to say that I was so wrong
All Out of Love, Air Supply, 1980

My husband and I recently watched the movie, "Fireproof." (Yes, I know we're about 2 years behind the rest of you). In the story line of the movie, Caleb (the male lead) discovers that he can't truly love his wife, without Jesus in his life. His father tells him, "You can't love her, because you can't give her what you don't have." His father goes on to say, "Jesus changed my life, and that's when I truly began to love...."

Sometimes it's hard to love people. And the time when I find people the most unlovable is usually when I'm so grumpy that I am pretty unlovable myself! My "love tank" gets empty. I find that I'm all out of love. And when that happens I know why. It's because I'm not filling myself with Jesus.

Without Jesus I can't love. "I'm so lost without you." At some point we're all going to have to account for our lives to Jesus. What we've done or haven't done, and how we've shown love. When your time comes, don't be the one saying, "I can't be too late to say that I was so wrong." Commit your life and your love to Jesus. And then you won't be all out of love.

Radar Love, Misheard Lyric version

2011-01-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

On Monday I posted about the song Radar Love. That was a favorite of mine back in the day, although I must admit that now I couldn't sit through the whole song. Good grief those instrumentals are long! Anyway!

I was listening to a contemporary Christian song not too long ago and singing along. The second verse says, "Radar love is not a man." (or so I thought). Well, hmmm. Must be some kind of reference to that song Radar Love, right? And you can't get Radar Love from a man, only from God. Radar love is from God. Yup, that must be it, right?

Okay, so sometime later I realize the lyric ACTUALLY says, "GREATER love has not a man." OH! DUH! Anyway, the song is I've Always Loved You by Third Day and it is one of my favorite contemporary Christian songs. When I hear it I imagine God singing it to me and it refreshes my soul.

So radar love or not, God is always there, always available and always loving you! So, what is the funniest misheard lyric you've ever sung?

My misheard lyric can be heard at 1:20 in the video below. Come on, don't you hear Radar Love???

Doing it

2011-01-12T06:00:00.002-05:00

Nike, the famous athletic apparel company, coined the phrase “Just do it.” But life isn't that easy. Paul, the apostle, was more on target when he said, “I do not do the good thing I want to do, but I do the wrong thing that I do not want to do.”(Romans 7:19) We fail to do what we know we should.

Just as Nike would have you believe you can’t “Just do it” without their shoes, the Bible truthfully states that we can’t do it without Jesus.

To read more, visit me at Titus 2 in Action, where I am a featured contributor: