At the Well- Having a "Mary" Christmas!

Today our host is Tracy @ Thirsty for Him. She asked some questions about Christmas. Check our her blog post on it.

• Do you find yourself stressed each Christmas, trying to "DO" all of the activities of the holiday, only finding yourself depleted and wondering if your family celebrated the true meaning of Christmas?


• What are practical tips and ideas you can share that celebrate Christ and simplifies Christmas?

Actually, I've never tried to do much,but I've only been married for 2 years almost and been a mother for 10 months. So that may have something to do with it. We used to go out looking at lights as a family,but other than that we didn't do many activities. We had our family get togethers and went to church. I do pray that my family now will remember Christmas isn't about receiving,but giving. It is okay to receive,but not something we should expect. I want to teach Daniel that concept.

I really like to read the accounts of Jesus' birth from the Gospels on Christmas Eve night and Christmas Day. We have done it the past 2 years and it's been wonderful. I would also like to do Advent next year. I read of one family having a present under the tree for Jesus and I love that idea. My nieces(Mike's biological ones) have a birthday party for Jesus and sing to him Christmas Day. I think that is a good idea too. I'm not real creative though. We purchased The Nativity Story last year and watched it. I'd like to do that each Christmas Eve too,along with go to Christmas Eve service.

I love to carol,but Mike doesn't. We used to go with our youth group to the nursing homes. I wouldn't mind taking Daniel to do that when he's older. I want to reach out to those who are shut in,don't have family,or are alone this time of the year. I want to show them a glimpse of God's love. Yes, I want to do it all year long,but this time of the year is really special to me. I just love the feeling in the air. It's almost magical really. I feel like a little child during December.

Our traditions vary depending on Mike's schedule. The first year we stayed home,since he worked both Christmas Eve and Day. Last year, we made it over to both families homes. We also have a fellowship with a ministry we used to be a part of. Friendship Youth Ministry. They usually have a time of worship,then play Secret Santa,and just reflect on old times. It's really special now since most of us have families and some have moved away. This year it will be so wonderful to have Daniel with us. Most of the couples are married and have babies/children now and we just love going there the week of Christmas. We also exchange one gift on Christmas Even night,which I love! Some argue about the gifts giving during Christmas and how you should do it all year long. And yes, I agree,but for us it's easier to save up for holidays or birthdays and budget for it. I am thinking about mentioning a new gift idea to Mike. I read about it in the Focus on the Family magazine and another friend had mentioned it (Cynthia). Giving 3 gifts to each family member to imitate the Magi's gifts for Christ. I think that would be very neat.

So there are some of our traditions,my ideas,and go visit Tracy @ Thirsty for Him.

Just random thoughts

Tomorrow we are taking our truck to the mechanic to get the heater fixed. We're so grateful that God led us to a man who said he would fix it for $350 opposed to $600. Thanks to those who prayed. Mike is also off 2 days and we will enjoy them. I'm not sure when everyone else puts up there Christmas tree or whatever you put up ( I know some families who put up a cross). We like to do ours on Thanksgiving Eve,but Mike was working. So we will be doing that tomorrow or Tuesday. I'm very excited,though I just hope Daniel doesn't try to turn it over on himself! I've been teaching him the word easy when he goes to hit (just playing,but still) us in the head or when he goes to tear books up. He's catching on,but forgets too. It's amazing to watch him learn. I really don't know what else to decorate my house with,any ideas? I have my table mats that are Christmas themed and some candle holders,but other than that I just don't know what to put out. Believe it or not we do not have a Nativity Scene. We are getting one this month though. Some of ya'll know how much we have struggled with money since we have been married,but thanks be to God this year we haven't struggled so much. We actually had money early on and I started shopping for gifts the first of November. I only have a few more to get and I'll be done. I love to give to others. I love Christmas and birthdays particularly. I love to see the expression on others face when they receive something they really want or need. We are also going to do a Christmas package for a few children with Voice of the Martyr's. It is $25 per box and it contains different materials.

My mother-in-law and sister-in-laws have been coming to church with us the past few Sundays. They have really enjoyed it too. We're so glad! We love our our church! They are so mission minded,but not only to overseas missionaries. They do so much reaching out in the community. They are so abundantly blessed too. When you give,God will bless you and they are living proof. We love our worship leader(they call him minister of music) and the choir too. We both were raised in smaller churches that only had one man leading music so it's different,but in a good way. I wasn't accustomed to loud music until I started going to the Full Gospel church and I love it loud! (not too loud,I like to not have a head ache haha) The choir at church is amazing! I would love to sing in it once Daniel is older. We also love our Pastor. He used to be a high school football coach,youth leader,and has pastored for quite awhile. We knew the first time we visited there,that it was the church God wanted us at. Bro. Terry preaches with conviction and if God changes what they have put in the bulletin for his sermon,he follows God's leading. He blesses us each time we are there. He is doing a series on Signs of the Times right now. It's the 3rd Sunday into it. Last Sunday he preached about Israel and this Sunday he preached about the reviving Roman Empire. It is really scary and at the same time exciting,to see how close we are to the return of Christ! The clock is really ticking down. I am not sure if a lot of Christians know that or not,but we are very close to the the return of Christ. I am not even sure if some would admit it or really ponder on it. It's something we've been thinking about a lot this past year. I do believe I'll see the Antichrist arise in my generation (I believe in the rapture,I'm just saying in general it'll be in my lifetime) and Christ will return before I die. That used to scare me. But now it doesn't. With all that is going on and what will be going on in the future with our newly elected president, I long for Christ return. Not only for those reasons,but I simply love Jesus. It will be wonderful to finally see this man that I have put my faith and trust in. To see the God who created me in my Mother's womb. This God who has healed me,protected me,provided for me,and loved me, I will finally meet. I will be no longer distracted by the world,but will be totally focused on him and there will be no distractions. How glorious is that?! How awesome is that?! Too much for my small for my mind to really fathom.

Have a blessed week!

Oh and our 2nd wedding anniversary is coming up on December 4th! Wow,it's been an amazing journey!

Happy Thanksgiving!

This was me last Thanksgiving! Wow, I was having a bad hair day and make up day! ha! I was pretty big by then!




This is me near this Thanksgiving. I forgot my camera when I went to my parents,so I didn't get any this year.




I pray you all had a lovely,blessed Thanksgiving Eve and Day. We sure did! How could we not? We're so abundantly blessed! Yesterday, I decided to go to my parents. Mike wasn't going because he had to be at 4,but I went on with Daniel Paul. Anthoney,Amanda,Tabitha,Marley,Haley,Landon,Ms. Judy(Haley's MIL),my parents,and Granny Eta Mae (Daddy's step Mom) were all there. We had some good eating too! I forgot my camera though,so no pictures! Haley let me take some with her phone(she's got a hi-tech one) and I'll try to post them soon on my picture blog. It was so great seeing Daniel playing with the girls and Landon. He just loves children! We don't do much dishes and such. We had ham,dressing,chicken and dumplings,hillbilly baked beans,green beans,rolls,yams,sweet potatoes,and some desserts. It was a great meal and a wonderful time! Last night I baked my Impossibly Easy French Apple Pie so I wouldn't have to do it this morning. So today we had a ham,corn,rolls,macaroni and cheese and the apple pie. Before we ate, Mike prayed and then I read Psalm 100. We also shared somethings we are thankful for. It was very nice and I want to do it each year! The food was wonderful! The pie was just great! I'll have to post the recipe. I was so excited that Mike loved it! He loves ham more than turkey and I've never done a turkey,so we just had ham. It was a already cooked and sliced one and was very small. Later one we decided to go see his family, he wanted to see him Mama. So we rode over there and ate with them also. His cousin Junior and his family were down from north Mississippi along with Junior's parents. It was fun! Maycie,Brooke,Sadie,Tripp,and Daniel had fun. They always have so much food too! Goodness! Turkeys,hams,dressings,desserts,and much more! I particularly like turkey over ham,so I was a very happy woman! We had a good time,but it was short since Mike had to go into work. So that was our Thanksgiving. It's hard to believe last year Daniel was in my womb and now he is here with us. Wow, he is a blessing indeed!! He is 10 months and 1 day! He ate some sweet potatoes and green beans,which he loved! Now, Christmas is coming up and it should be just as wonderful,if not better!

This was my first official Thanksgiving as a Mother and I'm thankful that I am a Mother. I just wanted to share something I wrote earlier.




And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
II Corinthians 12:9




I'm learning more that God's grace can help me through the days. I used to think doing "big" things for God, was the only time I needed this type of grace or strength. Now, that I'm a Mother I face many challenges and I am realizing I need that type of grace in the "small" things too. Breath by breath I need God's grace. Being a stay at home Mom can be very challenging,along with taking care of your husband and home. You have so much more to consider and you have to rearrange your schedule daily. Knowing that when I am weak,Christ is yet strong is very encouraging. When I fail, he is there to forgive me. When I need encouragement, the Holy Spirit speaks a word to me. Many don't look highly on the role of a Mother anymore. Instead, women are encouraged to pursue a career,leave their kids in daycare, and tell their husband to pick up the slack. They're encouraged to not deprive themselves of wants,needs,and even selfish desires just because they have a small infant at home. I was recently told this by a lady at our home church. Most women in our society bring outside stress that wouldn't be there, if they'd stop running to and fro and just be a wife and Mother. It takes women dying to self and daily asking to be used by God and to be filled with His spirit. When we are strong in ourselves, we can't boast of God. Instead we glory in our own pride and ambition. I wonder and ask God often why can't I get this or that just right? He reminds me that if I got it right every time,I wouldn't need His strength or grace. So this verse is taking new meaning for me. I'm a first time Mom and I mess up daily,but I can be assured God will be strong through me if I allow Him too.

So on this thankful Thursday,though we didn't have the actual blog one. I am very thankful that I am a Mother. I do believe the role of wife and mother are the 2 highest callings. Whether you have biological children or not,you are a Mother. Be thankful! Embrace the calling God has put before you. Love your children,play with your children,teach your children,train your children,and set a Godly example for your children. I want mine to arise and call me blessed one day.





God bless!



Impossibly Easy French Apple Pie


Ingredients Filling:

• 3 cups sliced peeled apples (3 large) -side note: I used 3 small ones and it was more than enough,hopefully not too much.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup Original Bisquick mix
• 1 tablespoon butter or margarine (softened)
• 2 eggs

Streusel:

• 1/2 cup Original Bisquick mix
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts -side note: I didn't use nuts
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons firm butter or margarine

Mixing and Baking Directions:
1. Heat oven to 325 Fahrenheit. Grease 9 inch glass pie plate. In medium bowl, mix apples,cinnamon, and nutmeg; place in pie plate. ( I used a pie crust and it still turned out good)

2. In medium bowl, stir remaining filling ingredients until well blended. Pour over apple mixture in pie plate.

3. In small bowl, mix all streusel ingredients until crumbly; sprinkle over filling.

4. Bake 40-45 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes and store in refrigerator.

Taking care of the sick

I wanted so badly to participate in At the Well yesterday,but I had 2 sick men at home. Mike actually took off because he felt so badly. Daniel was sick too. So I was taking care of them. Please keep them in your prayers. Mike is going back to work tonight and feeling better. Daniel is feeling better,but coughs when he lays down. I hate seeing my baby sick. I pray everyone has a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving! I know we will! We aren't traveling to see families due to Mike working and Daniel under the weather. I'm going to cook us a small Thanksgiving dinner Thursday and try my hand at my first semi-home made apple pie. It's called the Incredibly easy French Apple Pie. It'll be my first time to try to do anything remotely close to this! So say a prayer for it! I still remember those wonderful times at Mawmaw and Pawpaw's house. Oh what joy! I miss them so much! Once they went to the nursing home we started having the dinner at my parent's house and I was still living there. Once Mike and I got married and moved to Alabama,just across the state line. The county we lived in before marriage and the county we live in now are actually neighboring ones,but in different states. It's only a 45 minute drive to either home. That's not too far,but with Mike's job it does make it difficult. The first year we didn't go over for Christmas,but went over the weekend before. Last year he was off both holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas) so we made it both times. It does make it difficult,but sometimes you just have to do what you have to do. I will miss my family and his this Thanksgiving,but we will see them Christmas.

I am such a blessed woman! I am so grateful for my Savior who continually interceedes on my behalf and who will one day come to take me froem this world. OH how I long for that day! Who else longs for the Savior's return? It really hit me Sunday during worship service,how much I long to see his face! I am so thankful for my husband,Mike. Oh words cannot describe how much I respect him,love him,and adore him. He is the one for me,no doubt! He is such a man of God and sometimes I tend to forget that. But God reminds me and shows me how much he works through Mike. I love him so much! I am also blessed because of the lil' bundle of joy,Daniel Paul. He is so amazing! He is so smart! He is so loving! He is just what I needed. I am SO glad God gave him to us and we had no idea he would come so soon! That only begins on my blessings. I have a wonfderful family,extended family,in-laws,and friends! I will miss them dearly this Thanksgiving,but they are in my heart. I could not really ask God for anything else. I could die a happy,joyful woman today or tomorrow and not ask for more. Some days I get frustrated at things in my life or in my day,but truly what do I have to complain about? Nothing. I have it all really. I have Jesus,Mike,Daniel,family,and friends. Not to mention a home,food,clothes,eyes,ears,all of my body parts,a vehicle,and much,much more. I take it foregranted so many times too. So take some time tomorrow or Thursday and just thank God for the small things we don't thank Him for every day.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!!!


1 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
2 Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.
3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.
Psalm 100

Thankful Thursday

Since Thankful Thursday will not be going on next Thursday I will post about Thanksgiving today. Iris @ Grace Alone is the host for Thankful Thursday.

I love Thanksgiving! It is my other favorite holiday. I love getting together with family and eating! What can I say? It's a time to just slow down,rest,and enjoy your family. I remember we used to go to my Mother's parents for Thanksgiving. Oh it was a great time! My Mama only has 1 brother,but it was so much fun! I loved going to MawMaw and Pawpaw's for holidays. MawMaw would start preparing food a couple days before the actual day. Her house smelt so delicious inside! We always had a wonderful time there. I'm thankful for those memories with her and PawPaw. They're both with the Lord now. I miss them dearly and am sad they couldn't see Daniel,nor my husband. We also went to my Daddy's parents. It was always full of children! With 5 sisters and 2 brothers who had many kids,it was so much fun! I'm thankful for and cherish those memories too because most all of the grand kids have babies of their own. I can't believe this will be our 2nd Thanksgiving together,but now with lil' Daniel Paul. Wow! I have MUCH to be thankful for every day I wake up.

So I'm thankful for:

• Time with family around the dinner table
• Freedom to celebrate with family and friends
• Jesus, if not for him, I would not have anything
• My parents, they are so wonderful and I am just so blessed!
• Just life itself, I cannot ask for more really.
• God's provision,which He continually gives us.
• My nieces and nephew. I miss them like crazy!
• Mike, he is just so trustworthy. He knows just when we need to do things,I'm blessed.
• Robyn, my SIL. She is such a huge help to us when it comes to Daniel.
• Mama, she is so real and so silly at the same time.

There is so much more I'm thankful for,but that's just some. Two things I want to praise God for and be thankful for I will mention. I mentioned we needed our heater fixed in the truck. Well, Mike called the man we wanted to do it,but he was busy. So we waited,now I will admit, I was getting frustrated with Mike,but I should have knew better. He calls me today and tells me some wonderful news! He met a mechanic that is friends with our Pastor and another Trooper friend that said he will fix it for $350 opposed to $600! That is a huge blessing for us!! We are just so thankful God took care of us and I am so thankful that Mike knows when to wait and when to act. That's why I married him. Even when I don't understand why he doesn't just do things or understand why he does them, I still trust him. The second thing is dealing with Robyn,my SIL. Our 2nd wedding anniversary is coming up December 4th,but we'll have to go out December 13th. We didn't think anyone was going to be able to keep Daniel. We love taking him places and he goes everywhere with us,but we wanted a date without him. Robyn let us know this week she could keep him! We were thankful and excited! Oh I miss time with my hubby. Just us alone being husband and wife without distractions (not meaning Daniel,washing/cleaning/etc.). So we are going out and I am so excited! Oh I miss those dating days, when I'd wait for him to pick me up. We still act like we're dating,but we live in the same house soo ya know. Anyways! I am so happy about it!!

This was long,thanks for reading it all! Check out Iris @ Grace Alone for more on Thankful Thursday.

Award and Tag

Jennifer @ Through The Storms of Life gave me this award last week. Thank you so much! That was very sweet of you. I don't get to write much,but when I do I pray it touches someone.

Marie Antoinette ~ A Real Person Award

The rules for this award want you to reflect who awarded it to you, display the icon, and pass it along to seven (7) other bloggers. - I'm doing 8!

1. Sunny @ A Damsel No Longer In Distress
2. LaureLee @ LaureLee's Lifesong
3. Stefanie @ Sparkle o' Joy
4. Adrian @ Baby Makes 3
5. Kim @ Homesteaders Heart
6. Cynthia @ The Hippie Housewife
7. Christina @ For this child we prayed...
8. Adrienne @ Saved By Grace

I love all your blogs! They are all very dear to me!

Tagging:
Jennifer @ Through The Storms Of Life also tagged me a couple weeks ago and I'm just not getting around to it,sorry Jennifer!

Let's play some tag...
These are the rules for tagging…

1) Link back to the person who tagged you and share the rules on your blog.

2) Share 7 facts about yourself

3) Tag seven people and list their links in your post

4) Tell those 7 people by commenting on their blog!

7 Facts About Me:

1. I love to talk! I talk like non-stop,my poor husband.

2. I love to write about my life and about God's work on and in me.

3. I am scared VERY much of spiders,insects,or anything creepy crawly.

4. I used to be scared of the dark,still am sometimes. hehe

5. I will be 26 February 20th.

6. I wear contacts and occassionally glasses upon my husband's request.

7 . I love taking photo's of nature and my family,as you can tell.

I'm taggin' you...

1. Named Alicia @ Confessions of a Snowflake

2. Liberty @ Oatmeal Kisses

3. Adrienne @ Saved By Grace

4. naejeirual @ Thinkin'

5. Christina @ For this child we prayed...

6. Korey @ Little Lady,Big World

7. Ashley @ Putting God First Place

Holidays approaching-real life update

Wow, it's been a busy weekend for us. I was not online for 3 days total I think. Probably the longest I have not been online in awhile,sad I know. I just don't have any friends here and the ones I have stay busy with their kids. I am sort of a loner anyway. So I haven't read any post from those days I don't think. I also keep up with another site,it's a forum, with a group of women who I've known for awhile now.

Well, our weekend was fun! Mike had off Friday-Sunday. I love Thanksgiving and Christmas! Mike is working Thanksgiving Eve and Thanksgiving Day. I am going to cook us a small Thanksgivng dinner Wednesday. I am going to attempt to bake a homemade apple pie,somewhat. What are everyone's plans for Thanksgiving?

Friday morning I got up early and went to finish some of our Christmas shopping. They are my 2 favorite holidays,besides Easter. I found some great deals at Wal-Mart. I got all the bags,wrapping paper,bows,and tissue paper I needed. I also got gifts for Maycie and Brooklynn's (Mike's 2 nieces),Landon,Daniel,Mike,Mama,Tabitha and Marley(my nieces),and Daddy's. I still have to get Tabitha and Marley a kids worship cd a piece,get ammo for the men,get Mrs. Glenda(MIL) some plates,and get the rest of Mike's. I really want Mike's to be special. The first 2 years he hasn't gotten much because we didn't have much money,so he spent mostly on me even though I protested. I bought him a pair of Cargo pants and a dress shirt Friday. I looked for the 22 Marlin rifle,but they were out of them. The lady said she had ordered some,so I have to check back. He's also getting the new Brian Doerksen cd and a book called No Atheists In Foxholes. He loves military books,especially ones talking about how God moves among our troops. He is going to be so thrilled about he 22 Marlin! I am hoping I can find one. Guns are not as easy to get as they were a year ago,well even 6 months ago,neither is ammunition. So I am just praying I can get it for him. He's a gun man and I'm a gun woman. I like the mini-Glocks and 22 Marlins. So I was happy to get most of our shopping done. Mike said Daniel was not happy when he woke up and I wasn't there,poor baby. If ya'll haven't caught on we co-sleep still,have since he was born. We've adjusted pretty well to it and I wouldn't do it any other way. Friday night was my time to play match maker ha! The previous Sunday we had Ivan Parker do a sing at our church and a friend of Mike's showed up. He sat with us and we went to Cracker Barrel afterwards. He is a Trooper also and is single. He mentioned something about finding a Christian woman to date,but he made it clear he is dating to marry,not just to date. My brain started churning and I thought of Robyn,Mike's oldest sister. So I mentioned to him I'd like to introduce them and he was fine with it. Sooo Friday they met us at the house and we went out to eat. We then went mini-golfing or goofy golfing. We had a blast! Daniel,of course,went with us. He pretty much goes everywhere with us. There is one time we went out without him,that was to see Fireproof. They both said they want to do it again,so we'll see. Ultimately, God will show them if they are to date or not. I just want everyone to have what Mike and I have and I get all excited about match making!

Saturday was another busy day. Mike and 2 other guys went to the local gun show. Robyn came down and we went shopping,more like she did. She did some of her Christmas shopping. We had a good time,it was just so cold! We went to church Sunday morning and Robyn came with us. It was a wonderful time! I just love our worship time and to hear Bro. Terry preach. I had to take Daniel in the foyer though because he wanted to talk and jabber. He got a little irritable,but we just stayed out there. I have been going to the nursery with him,but he got a cold last week from a baby in there. I just don't want him sick all the time because parents bring their babies/kids sick to church and drop them off in the nursery. We have opted not to leave him in the nursery by himself,I just don't like that idea. We get weird reactions to that all the time and it does get discouraging to me mainly. I feel like people just don't understand some of our decisions and truthfully they don't. When Daniel can walk,talk,and use the potty by himself then we'll let him go to Sunday school or children's church, if they are being taught something. If not he'll sit out front and learn there. He'll be learning the majority of the Bible at home,like it should be. Ok, I will not rant about all that. Just be praying for me mainly,that I will not feel intimidated by others or not as capable as other Mothers. Sunday afternoon we relaxed. They had communion,but only Mike would be able to go,since Daniel disrupts the service. We went over to a friends house instead and visited.

17 Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me. 18 When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. 19 Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul. 20 Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumbling-block before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand. 21 Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man, that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul.
Ezekiel 3:17-21

I have started reading Ezekiel and it can be somewhat hard to understand,but I love the O.T.! These verses are pretty easy to interpret I think. Many people wonder why the religion of Christianity preaches about sin. This verse pretty much says it. Some people even completely do away with the O.T. since Christ came for the remission of our sins. This is why we have to let others know what sin is and if they are committing it,of course lovingly. Jesus was harsh to those who knew the law,but twisted it to fit their own agenda. He was not so harsh with those who were clueless to the law. I try to deal with people that way. Maybe I shouldn't say harsh,but very blunt. I just found these verses interesting and I've never read Ezekiel before. I also finished a chapter from a sample of Iran: Desperate for God. Wow. Amazing. The chapter was called The Fanatic. It is about former Muslims who convert to Christianity. Most other religions are so dedicated,way more than Christianity. It's rather odd,ya know? They worship false gods or doctrines,but they put so much more into their faith,on the flip side we worship the true God,yet don't put so much into our walk. Anyway,just a thought. Muslims literally worship allah. It just hit me as I read about how this young girl would bow 400 times a day to pray. I felt ashamed. I felt ashamed. Now, they do it out of legalism I think because you have to do certain things to go to heaven or paradise. But just think, if we as Christians (speaking to myself too) truly worshipped in the sense they do. Worship means state or condition of worth, hence the term "his worship," meaning his worthyship. Wow, what could we do as the Body of Christ? Ok I won't get on that rant either. I'll leave this verse with you though. 30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. Mark 12:30

So that's what we have been up too. I am going to update my picture blog also! So check it out!

At the Well- Standing For Your Marriage

I did not get to post early like I usually do for At the Well. It's been a busy day and I'm just getting around to bloggy land. Chelsey is our hostess today. She is talking about standing for your marriage,which is an awesome topic. She shared some great insight on marriages that may struggle in certain areas. She talks about what it means to stand for our marriage. Standing for my marriage means showing my husband the love of Christ and submitting to him as I do the Lord. It means dressing modestly so I do not entice other men and to show interest in my husband romantically. It means to defend the home front when he is not home through what I let come on our radio,t.v.,my mouth,and my mind. It means showering him with love,adoration,and respect. It means to support him in what he does and not to down his dreams and expectations. We are coming up on our 2 year wedding anniversary and I am just so blessed. I will never forget that cold day on December 4th.

I'm learning to listen more and when I think I know more to just be silent. I married Mike because I trust him to hear God's voice. If I think he isn't, I should talk to my Father about it. I am also learning that I can't react according to Mike's actions. Mike just isn't a sensitive guy. He is very blunt and honest. Sometimes it can hurt people's feelings,including me. He tries not too,but sometimes he does. He has a hard time expressing his feelings and usually when he does he says it hurts someone,so he just doesn't express them. So I am learning that I have to keep that in mind and instead of just running to the bathroom crying,I should let him know that hurt my feelings. 90 % of the time he doesn't even know he hurt my feelings. He says he can't read my mind and I usually try to hide my feelings,I know very bad. I just watched my Mother do it for so long that I do it. We haven't been married long,but we have had bumps in the road,thankfully they weren't too big. I've never thought of leaving my husband nor him doing that to me. So I thank God everyday that we haven't been in those shoes. God is showing me to just be silent and not have to get the last word in on conversations or disagreements. I want to honor God in my marriage and that means honoring my husband. I have to be filled up by the Holy Spirit each day, so I can pour out to my husband. If I am dry,then it is not good for my husband. I cannot do it alone in the sense of not having Christ's strength.

Here are some questions Chelsey asked:

What does commitment in marriage mean? Commitment meant just what the vows say. For better or worse,for richer or poorer. The days when he drives me up the wall, I still won't leave him. The days when he has hurt my feelings, I still will love him. I chose to commit my life to Mike as his wife, it wasn't forced on me.

What kind of wife are we called to be to our husbands? The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;
That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,
To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. Titus 2:3-5. I am to be a submissive,chaste,sober,loving wife for my husband. This verse is the best one I can find to describe my role,duty,obligation,whatever you like to call it. That pretty much sums it up. I can't base how I should act on how he acts.

What are ways that we can Biblically stand for our marriage? We can pray our our husband and our marriage. That is the best thing to do. Sometimes saying something to our husbands about an issue or attitude won't change things,but pray always does! I find that is the best thing for me to do. We can also encourage our husbands with kind words. When they through an idea out there that maybe far fetched(like my husband does), we can listen and not just bash it. We can encourage them in the Lord when they are down in their walk or down due to their job. Find something that makes your husband happy and do it.

I am sorry I haven't gotten around to reading any one's blogs lately. I'll try to get to it this week,it's just been busy. Don't forget to check out Chelsey @ Joyfully Living For His Glory.

Thankful Thursday

It's time to be thankful! Iris @ Grace Alone is talking about life,physical and spiritual.



For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
John 3:16

That's a deep subject that a lot do not put thought into. I started my physical life on February 20,1983 in Lucedale,Mississippi. A very small rural town. I'm thankful for the life God gave me as a child,teenage,and young adult. I am thankful I had a good childhood with loving parents and loving siblings.

My spiritual life begin in 1993,not sure the day. I'm thankful for the walk God has allowed me to walk. I have hit many bumps,but mostly because of my own decisions. I've had many ups and many downs. I'm thankful for them all. It has made me who I am today.

Iris asked questions about what are we doing with our life? Do we live it for others or ourselves? That's some good questions. I live my life for Jesus and I try to be a servant to my family. I know I fail,but I am getting better at it. I don't want my life to be a testament of myself,but who I was in Christ.

Speaking of physical life, it's hard loosing loved ones,even if they are brothers and sisters in the Lord. My first experience with death was my Pawpaw Pal,who died in 2001. I wasn't that close to him,but it still was strange. My second experience was when my cousin,Adam, died suddenly. He was 20 years old and killed suddenly in a motorcycle accident on his way to church. That was very hard to deal with. My Pawpaw then passed away and then my Mawmaw. Both were hard,but I knew they were suffering and would be in heaven. The hardest death was my sister's brother-in-law whom I went to church with. He fell while working construction and died in 2006. It was so hard and I thought I would never get over it. So we never know how much more life on earth we have. We should live it to the fullest and for the glory of God. He is the giver of life and we should serve Him. Our spiritual lives should flourish and we should grow closer to God. We should not stay on the milk forever,but taste the meat of God's Word. Jesus came so we could have life more abundant! The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. John 10:10 So live your life to the fullest and abundantly in God's riches!

I'm thankful for...

• My wonderful husband who provides for me physically and spiritually
• My playful son who loves me unconditionally
• My gracious Savior who gave me the life to live
• My home,which I love to be at
• That I can stay at home with Daniel
• I have clothes on my back and food in the pantry
• I can talk and can hear
• For God's Word which cleanses me and refines me
• For all my friends on the Internet that bless me!

I pray you all have a wonderful Thursday! Don't forget to check out Iris @ Grace Alone.

Sharing the Love- Award

I received this from Kim @ Homesteaders Heart yesterday. Thank you,Kim! That was too kind of you and I'm very humbled. I haven't known most of you ladies,but for a few months now. I am very glad I am getting to know some of you better. So I will pass on the award as the rules state.


This award acknowledges the values that every blogger shows in his/her effort to transmit cultural, ethical, literary, and personal values every day.

The rules are:
1. Accept the award and post it on your blog along with a link to the person who has awarded you.
2. Pass the award on to 15 other blogs that are worthy of this acknowledgment. Remember to contact each of them to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

Here are the blogs I picked:

1. Joyce @ Joyfull Living
2. Sheila @ Meditations and Confessions of a Homemaker
3. Ashley @ Putting God First
4. Jennifer @ Through the Storms Of Life
5. Kim @ Homesteaders Heart
6. Laura Lee @ LaureLee's Lifesong
7. Patti @ Fill Me With Beauty
8. Laurie Ann @ A Magnolia's Heart Beats
9. Korey @ Little Lady,Big World
10. Cynthia @ The Hippie Housewife
11. Chelsey @ Joyfully Living for His Glory
12. Melody @ Transitions of an Overachiever
13. Rebecca @ Oceans From the Rain
14. Laurie @ Women Taking A Stand
15. Jo @ Princess Warrior Lessons

They aren't in any particular order. I love many more blogs,but it was limited to 15. I tried to read consistently,but sometimes it's hard. So bear with me if you happen to give me an award and it's a few days before I get to your blog. Thank you all for being great women of God.

At the Well- Getting To Know Me

This morning Chelsey is hosting us at the well. She decided for the subject to be getting to know each other better. I am so glad because I am looking forward to learning more about some of you ladies.

So about Heather. Hmm... Don't run,promise! Let's see. I received Christ when I was 10 years old in my bed with my Mama right beside me. I was baptized Easter Sunday of '97. We attended a small Missionary Baptist church. I really didn't know all I know now. I have grew a lot in my faith and relationship with Jesus. He is precious to me. My parents are still living and married to one another. I have a brother,Anthoney, and a sister,Haley. Both are married with children of their own. My brother has 2 girls and one on the way; my sister has 1 little boy. My family goes to Riverside Full Gospel in Mississippi,where I'm originally from. My brother is Sunday School Superintendent and the Private School Superintendent there. They're all very involved. My Daddy just started going to church and got saved! He started for the first time since 1973 last year. My Mother was patient,loving,and kind towards him. She never nagged him or downed him for not going to church. She simply lived her life for Christ and was submissive to my Daddy. That coupled with lots of prayer and seeing his children and grandchildren serve the Lord brought him to the Lord. It's an awesome testimony! We are ALL so thrilled! He is an amazing man,much like my husband. I only have 2 living Grandparents. My Daddy's Father passed away in 2000,then my Mother's Father passed away in 2002,and my Mother's Mother passed away in 2006. My Daddy's biological Mother and Step-Mom are alive. I have a huge extended family. We are a close family. My Daddy has 5 sisters and 2 brothers,they all have like 3 or more children and most of them have babies now. My Mother has 1 brother with 3 children and they have lots. Her extended family is huge. We're of German descent on both sides. My maiden name is Fryfogle Hahaha try to say it correctly! My Mother's maiden name is Mergenschreor. I am very thankful that I don't have to spell out my last name now haha I love my family!

I've been married for almost 2 years ( December 4th) to my best friend and soul mate,Mike. We met when I was 22 and he was 24,but were not dating or pursuing a relationship at the time. I actually started dating his best friend and he was dating another girl. I was always looking for my prince and knew what I wanted,so I tried fitting every guy I dated into the armour. Wrong idea. I ended up with a lot of heartache and giving a lot of heartache. Oh how I wish I could change that part of my life. I longed for a love that never went away. I dated casually and had some very serious relationships. I was even engaged in 2004. Yep, I knew Trent for 4 months and he proposed,why I said yes, I do not know. It was only by the grace of God that we broke up 2 months later. I just couldn't understand to be patient and God would bring who HE wanted for me. I thought I was. I am a romantic at heart,so that really messed me up while waiting. When I graduated high school I did not go straight to college. I just wanted to be a wife,but had no husband. So I babysat some and stayed at home with my parents. I then went on a mission trip to Honduras in 2003 that changed my life. A heart for missions was birthed in me. While on the trip I got offered a job by a Pastor who had a construction business. I took him up on it and then was led to Southeastern Baptist College in Laurel,MS. I enrolled there for the fall of 2003. Wow, my journey of life really begin there. God had so much in store for me. I was still searching for my husband. On the way of searching for him I made many wonderful friends at college. I got to minister to a group of girls that I will forever hold in my heart. God stretched me there and begin molding me. I was also on the drama team at Riverside Full Gospel called the Joshua Generation. Oh wow, what an experience. That was a special time in my life. We went all over South MS and AL doing drama's and ministering through music. God really grew me and I grew so much in Him. I was still in college and dating a guy that I knew I did not need too. He wasn't a bad guy,but he was not the man God had for me. I was in disobedience for almost a year until I broke it off.

After reading a few books by Eric and Leslie Ludy, I decided I would let God take control of my love life. Fine time too huh? I was 23 by now. I completely fell in love with Jesus and did not focus on finding my husband. I continued in college and on the drama team. The fall of 2005 is when Mike and I begin to date. We had been friends since we meet in 2002 and always kept up with one another. He had married someone he knew he shouldn't have and had a nasty divorce. His wife at the time had committed adultery for the 3 months they were married and seeing the same guy while they were engaged. It was a huge wake up call for him. Reconciling was not an option for her,she just wanted out once he found out about it. He tried to reconcile with her because he said that it was the Biblical thing to do,but she wouldn't. So he just moved on. He believes now that he should had married me to begin with,but God doesn't force His will on us,we choose to follow it or not. Wow, there's so much in our story,oh I wish I had time to explain it all. Maybe one day I can,it may make more sense ha! Mike was a Sheriff's Deputy in the county we both lived in,but had applied for a job with the Alabama Highway Patrol. He got accepted 2 months after we begin dating. So in January of 2006 he went to Selma,AL for 6 months,while only coming home on the weekends and few holidays during the week. We couldn't talk on the phone at all. It was so hard,but drew us so much closer to God and one another. God knew what He was doing,like He always does. I was in my last semester at SBC pursuing my Associates in Business (was there 3 years total) at the same time he was in training. Wow, it was a growing time for us. I graduated May 12,2006 from SBC and on June 2,2006 Mike proposed. I knew he was going to do it and had even went with him to get the ring. I was still so nervous and so was he! He proposed to me in front of the Macaroni Grill before going in to meet with our friends. Oh it was one of the happiest days of my life!! I love that man! He finally graduated from academy on June 22,2006. Wow, that time was over finally and we could start our lives together. We decided to not have a "wedding". I just didn't want to go through all the stress one brings,even a small one. I'm a very odd girl haha We searched for our home and God led us to the perfect apartment for us. I,of course, didn't move in until we got married. On that cold,cold day of December 4th Bro. Lance married us in our apartment with his wife to witness it. It was another happy day of our life!! Oh it was wonderful! I'll never forget that day. He is the love of my life,my best friend,my lover! He is so funny,sweet,caring,discerning,and Godly. I love Mike so much! I am so glad that I did not just marry on my own will. Mike did,but it's never got in my way of loving him. He was man enough to say I messed up and I'm sorry.

We attend First Baptist of Wilmer. God is moving there and it's really great to see people receive Jesus. We love our Pastor and the people there,though we don't know a lot of them. It's a huge church with over a thousand on roll,but only about 700 on Sunday's and Wednesday's. We have a passion for missions and proclaiming the gospel. I have a passion to tell young women to wait on the man God has for you and not just "date" to date. I also have a passion to help women see their God given,Biblical role as a woman and wife. Right now, my passion is my husband and my son. I long for Daniel to love God and Jesus more than life! I long to teach him scriptures and tell him all about God and have him ask us questions about Jesus.

The next season of our life begin. Pregnancy. We weren't married very long and we found out we were expecting. In May I found out I was pregnant. I was terrified,horrified,and scared to death. Oh how I did not think I could handle the labor and delivery part. I just wasn't good with babies,kids,or any sort. I wasn't patient enough and all the kids I saw were just so horrible. I thought God,what are you doing? Again second guessing the One who put the heavens into place. God finally took the fears away and we enjoyed the pregnancy. To read the labor and delivery of Daniel go here. On January 26,2008 Daniel Paul Strickland was born. God really taught us to trust Him not matter what and He would supply our every need. Wow, I'm telling you,when you truly let go and let God it is amazing what He will do. He gave us free rent,paid for Daniel's way here without insurance,and wrote off all the bills after the c-section. We have such a testimony in only the 2 years we've been married. Our life verse is Philippians 4:19 "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." We have decided to let God decide how many little ones we have. We did a lot of things different with Daniel and don't regret it. We don't do things just because it's what you do,we research and seek God's guidance and counsel. It's caused some rifts in the water,but we will do what God says and not man. Our commands come from God. We are happy to be trail blazers,as my Doula called us. So we're just seeking God's direction in our life. Wherever He leads we will go.

God is just so awesome! He is my Provider,my Healer,my Refuge,my All in all. He is everything I need and want! I'm so thankful for the life He has blessed me with.

Don't forget to check out Chelsey @ Joyfully Living For His Glory

Thankful Thursday-Stability & Music

Iris is the host for Thankful Thursday. She named several things she is thankful for,go to her blog for more.

What am I thankful for?

I'm thankful for God's stability. He is stable at all times. He is in control at all times. He is all knowing. When we think one way, He knows the way. When we wonder what the future holds, He knows what it holds. Like the old hymn goes, "Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,Because He lives, all fear is gone;Because I know He holds the future,And life is worth the living,Just because He lives!" He is our rock and strong tower. I love the song by the rock group Kutless. "You are my strong tower Shelter over me Beautiful and mighty Everlasting King You are my strong tower Fortress when I'm weak Your name is true and holy And Your face is all I seek" When the stock markets are shakable,God is unshakable. When the economy is crashing down,God is lifted up. He cannot be shaken. Like the Phillips,Craig,& Dean song says, "You are God alone from before time begin. You were on Your throne,You're God alone. And right now in the good times and bad. You are on Your throne You are God alone. Unchangeable,Unshakable,Unstoppable,That's what You are."When I think I cannot go anymore, God is my source of strength. His joy shall be our strength. God cannot be moved. Another comfort is if we are righteous,then we cannot be moved. Though the mountains be shaken and the earth crumbles, if we stay in God and Jesus we will not be moved or destroyed. We maybe shaken,but not moved. Another song I love is the one by Darrell Evans, "I'm pressed but not crushed persecuted not abandoned Struck down but not destroyed I'm blessed beyond the curse for his promise will endure And his joy's gonna be my strength" So what do we have to worry about? Nothing really. God is God,no matter what may come or go. He has been for centuries.

My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and he in whom I trust; who subdueth my people under me.
Psalm 144:2

Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.
Psalm 55:22

I am also thankful for music. I love music! Praise and worship,contemporary,rock,anything Christian just about. Music ministers to our souls,it does mine. I love to sing in the truck,in the house,in the stores,or at church. I just love music. I'm thankful for the artist who make cd's and do concerts so we may worship with them. Don't forget to go to check out Iris @ Grace Alone today.

a marriage made in heaven

I am still reading Created To Be His Help Meet by Debi Pearl. I'm on chapter 13 called The Great Mystery. She starts off with his verses: "This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband." Ephesians 5:32-33. In the beginning of this chapter she is talking about how we are supposed to reverence our husband and how our marriage reflects Christ and his Bride. I truly believe that and do believe that was the intention of God when He created Adam and Eve for marriage. Of course, along with other intentions,which are stated in Genesis 1:27-28 "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. " Debi makes this statement, 'Submission reverence,and honor are virtues God seeks to establish in His Son's Bride. Your marriage to your husband is preparing you for your marriage with Christ.' How true is this! We learn how to relate to our husband the way we relate to God and vice versa. We're even told in Ephesians 5:22 "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord."

Being married to our husband is preparing us for service and marriage to Christ. Wow that just really sunk in with me last night. When I honor and reverence my husband, I am doing so to Christ. How amazing is that? Debi always says this, 'Knowing that my role as a wife typifies the Church's relationship to Christ has molded my life. As I reverence my husband, I am creating a picture of how we, the Church, should reverence Christ.' I never looked deep in the reverence issue,as I did the submission. Now, are we to worship him as God? Why heavens no! That would be against the first commandment in Exodus 203-6, "Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. " Reverence means to "revere, to be in awe; fear mingled with respect and esteem.

We are to respect our husbands and hold them in high esteem. Through my salvation I've learned most of the time we cannot go on our feelings. Oh boy, those will get us in trouble! Sometimes I may not want to hold my husband in high esteem or respect him if he says something that hurts my feelings. What if he forgets my birthday,anniversary,or Valentine's Day? Doesn't that ruffle your feathers? We still, I still, have to reverence him,respect him,and honor him. Debi touches on the feelings issue. She says, 'Obedience,submission,and reverence are all acts of the will and are not based on feelings. Showing deference toward one's husband is an act of reverence toward the God who placed you in that role.' She goes on time define obedience,submission,and reverence in her own words, 'Obedience is doing what you know the other person wants you to do. Submission is your heart giving over to the other person's will. Reverence is more than just doing what a man expects or demands. It is an act of the woman's will to treat him with a high degree of regard and awe.' Pretty simple and true I think. So do you reverence your husband? In what ways? He's human too. He may say things sometimes that are not God honoring,but don't you? Don't I? We cannot look at him as if we're always holy and pure in heart. That is prideful and much like the Pharisees did.

On another note related to marriage I will go. This is why I strongly believe legalizing same-sex marriage is so dangerous. How does that represent Christ and his Bride?! It doesn't. God doesn't condone homosexuality by any means. He loves the person,but he hates the sin. He calls man lying with man an abomination,see for yourself. "Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination." Leviticus 18:22. Some have stated that same-sex couples marrying does not threaten their marriage. That's fine if you buy into that lie. It does threaten your marriage. Marriage is a holy sanctioned relationship ordained by God,not men. It is to be between a man and a woman. Not two women or two men. It is a holy picture of Christ and his Bride. The Bride will be redeemed and white as snow and a virgin for her Groom. How can same-sex marriage be so? I really pray for God's continued mercy on this nation,but not sure how much longer mercy will be extended.

Just wanted to post what was on my heart. Thank you for those who read my blog. I am blessed by you.

At the Well- God Honoring Schedule

Today At the Well, Sunny @ A Damsel No Longer In Distress is our host. She always blesses me with her post. She is a very wise woman I think and always uses the Word instead of her opinion. She is talking about God honoring schedules today. Which is something I love to do,schedule or have a routine.

I've always been an organizer,planner,scheduler, and so on. Well, when I married Mike that changed,not his fault,but it was due to his job. He is a State Trooper and well they have shifts like many people in the medical field. It took some adjusting to get used to it. I adjusted as best as I could and I got pregnant. Wow, that threw me for a whammy. Hurting,sickness,and other sorts put a kink in my plan. I figured after I had the baby that things would go right back to normal. That was my small minded thinking. Now, I had to try to get Daniel on a schedule of some sort. Like Laurie said you have to have them on a sleeping schedule and eating schedule(to an extent). Oh, for months there was no such thing as a schedule. Slowly one started to form,but babies are babies and they constantly changed. It was beginning to drive me nutty! Now, we're on a better schedule,but things still don't always go as planned. I'm really having to still just be patient. I take time with the Lord each day,take care of my husband,and then Daniel. I've gotten better at not thinking the house has to be spotless. If Daniel wants me to play with him, I stop what I'm doing and play with him. He is more important than dishes,laundry,or the bed. Thanks to you ladies and my other dear friends,reminding me that Daniel will only be this age once. Not saying that I don't get those things done,but it may wait to be done later in the day.

I used to be involved very much at the previous church I attended. I was on the drama team and we traveld around doing drama's and worship. Wow, I loved every minute of it! I did that for almost 2 years while I was in college. It was a very special time in my life. I grew a lot in the Lord. Some days I crave to be a part of the women's Bible study at church or other various things. There's nothing wrong with being involved,but at this time in my life my ministry is Daniel. I want to train him in the admonition of the Lord and Daniel needs me. I have friends who run here and there doing ministry and dragging their babies to grandparents,day cares,or even the church daycare. I feel bad for those babies. I am glad God showed me,with the help of friends, that Daniel is my ministry. Mike and Daniel are my main ministry. I can pray for the various other ministries daily and that is being involved too. I want to do mission work so badly too! But right now it's not the time. I'm glad God doesn't let me get ahead of myself all the time. He is gracious.

With me I know God was trying to get me to let go of my scheduling to the point that it would cause arguements between Mike and I. And yes it did,especially when Daniel was smaller. I believe I was too much of a planner and when things didn't go as planned I literally lost it. There has to be a medium and balance. Sunny shared an outline of what a Godly woman shared with her. It was perfect and the balance we need.


1. GOD FIRST: Matthew 6:33 & 10:37-39; Luke 14:33; Mark 12:30-31; Proverbs 31:30; Psalm 88:13; Psalm 1:1-3;

2. SPOUSE SECOND: Genesis 2:18-20, 3:16; Ephesians 5:22-24; 1 Corinthians 11:3, 8-9; 1 Timothy 2:13, 3:4-5; Titus 2:3-5

3. CHILDREN THIRD: Psalm 78:3-5; Titus 2:4; Deuteronomy 6:7; Proverbs 10:1; Proverbs 13:24; Proverbs 19:18; Proverbs 29:17; Malachi 2:15; Hebrews 12:8

4. HOMEMAKING FOURTH: Proverbs 31:10-31; Titus 2:3-5

5. "MINISTRY" FIFTH: Volunteering (at church & childrens' school), work, others (extended family, church family, friends) & Hobbies: 1 Timothy 2:10, 5:9-10; 1 Corinthians 12:7: Acts 9:36; 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12; Romans 12:10 & 13: 1 Peter 4:9-11)

That is what Sunny shared and I really like it. I'm going to print it out and the verses too. So as of now we just go with the flow. My husband is very much that way and I'm thankful God uses him to not let me stress if things get altered. He keeps me sane and to realize that I need to stop to smell the roses.


Have you ever planned your day, week or month, then regretted making the commitments you’ve made, wondering if your plan was the right one? Yes,now I don't make any commitments unless I know I can follow through.

Have you ever wondered if you should’ve said “yes” to one person and “no” to another and just weren’t sure what the best thing to do was? Yes I have.

Who or what does your schedule represent? Does it represent you, your affinities, or your love for Christ? Right now it represents taking care of Daniel. He is my ministry and in my care. Some days it represents me and I remember that I am to be a servant to my family and others.

Thank you Sunny and the others who contributed! I love Monday's! Don't forget to check out Sunny @ A Damsel No Longer In Distress.

To spank or not to spank?

I just read CWO article on spanking and wanted to share something I was sent a few months ago along with the CWO article.

He started out with this verse:

24He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes.
Proverbs 13:24

A noted child and family psychologist says spanking a child can be an effective form of discipline, despite a recent study that states otherwise.

A new report titled "A Violent Education: Corporal Punishment of Children in U.S. Public Schools" shows that more than 200,000 children received corporal punishment in U.S. schools. Texas accounted for the majority of the cases, although 21 U.S. states allow the use of corporal punishment. The study was conducted by Humans Rights Watch and the American Civil Liberties Union.

According to a Reuters article on the study, "liberal groups regard corporal punishment as a barbaric relic of an unenlightened past that harms self-esteem and promotes violence." But Dr. Bill Maier, vice president and psychologist in residence with Focus on the Family, has a different perspective.

"Appropriate disciplinary spanking, done in the context of a loving parent-child relationship, is not abusive," he states.

Although Maier says Focus on the Family does not take a position on the use of spanking in school, he does say the practice has positive results when used properly in one's home.

"If it's done in a loving context, if it's followed up by an explanation, there is no evidence that it would harm their self-esteem," he explains. "In fact, we have some evidence that kids who grow up in an extremely permissive environment, in which there are no boundaries, no limits, and no guidelines, ...have a great deal of difficulty with their self-esteem -- and particularly later on in life, because they have such a sense of entitlement that basically the world owes them everything on a silver platter."

Dr. Maier also referenced the American College of Pediatricians, which has done extensive studies on the subject of spanking one's child. In a study posted on its website, the group agrees that disciplinary spanking of young children is an effective tool for parents.


Here is the CWO article:

Question: Hi Candace, I have a question for you. What "discipline" technique do you employ or recommend? I too am a Christian. However, I am quite concerned that many people who want to follow Jesus' teachings are misled. Jesus went against many of the practices that are laid out in the Old Testament. He was a pacifist. Why is it then that Christian parents are taught to hurt their children when it’s clearly not what Jesus taught?
The reason that I ask is because on Kirk's site he promotes the book and videos of Shepherding a Child's Heart, and your forum also talks about the book.
The book demands that the child be hit each time they do something that the parents object to, even when a baby cries about having their diaper changed!

Page 154 “Rebellion can be something as simple as an infant struggling against a diaper change or stiffening his body when you want him to sit on your lap. The discipline procedure is the same as laid out above. You have no way of knowing how much a child a year old or less can understand of what you say, but we do know that understanding comes long before the ability to articulate does….When our oldest child was approximately 8 months old….Obviously he was old enough to be disciplined.”

"Spanking" is a cutesy word for hitting. If an employer spanks his employee he would be arrested.I respect you and wanted your insight--I couldn't ask Kirk about it because he doesn't have this type of forum.

Answer: First I would suggest that parents read Shepherding a Child's Heart for themselves and come to their own conclusion. You pulled an excerpt that sounds misleading. When read in the context of the whole chapter—and the entire book—you would see that there is absolutely, without question, NO abuse. That excerpt was simply talking about our defiant nature—even as young as a baby. It DIDN’T go on to say they should be spanked for not wanting their diaper changed.
A spanking is NEVER done in anger or in rage. It is a loving correction done with explanation and prayer to simply teach a child right from wrong. And please understand that a spanking is not the first resort. When a child is asked to do something and defiantly refuses, it is then that they would be lovingly corrected. As small children, often a second asking is good—something like, "Sara, Mommy asked you to put your toy in the basket." If not responded to again, then correction would be appropriate.

Do you ever have to teach your child to say, "NO! That's MINE! Gimme!"? Of course not. That is the sin nature we are all born with—a selfish, defiant attitude. We have to teach our children to share, to be kind, and unselfish. The Bible fully supports "the rod of correction," but again, never in abuse, anger or for a parent's selfish reasons to control his children.
Jesus did not come against the teachings of the Old Testament, but He fulfilled the "Law," and the practices that the law entailed. We must keep in mind that Jesus is the same God “Yesterday, today and forever.”

I discipline my children by spanking when the situation calls for it. Once a toddler is walking around and getting into things, a slap on the hand is one way they respond to correction. It shouldn't hurt as much as be a surprise, and discomfort to them. This prepares them that the word NO comes with a consequence. Once my children were around 18 months old, and we knew that they could understand our instruction, they were spanked on the bottom if they disobeyed. As my children grow older, we find more creative ways to discipline, allowing the punishment to fit the crime. These types of disciplines are effective and biblical when done in love. It is the responsibility of all parents to teach and train their children.

I sincerely hope you would read Shepherding a Child's Heart in its entirety. The title is so appropriate, because it is a WONDERFUL book that in no way teaches us to abuse our children. It's all about getting to the heart of the matter and guiding them to understanding Godly submission.

Of the 19 chapters in this book, only one is dedicated to "the rod" even explaining common objections.

I hope this has shed some light on my view.

P.S. I also read an interesting article that Dr. James Dobson wrote for Focus on the Family titled, "To Spank or Not to Spank." In it He writes: "Contrary to what you have read in popular literature, this firm but loving approach to child rearing will not harm a toddler or make him violent. To the contrary, it is most likely to produce a healthy, confident child."

So what are you views,opinions,or experiences with disciplining,training,or correcting a child? I'd love to hear,because we are in that process right now.