There is no 92-year-old woman I love more than my Mema. She is the perfect combination of sweet yet feisty and quite hilarious. No trip home to LaGrange is complete without a trip to her clutter-filled, always hot, but always stocked with chocolate apartment. She sits in the only open spot on her couch, nestled between her beloved newspapers and magazines, while I take my place in the chair; I take hold of her hand while we catch up on life. She fills me in on the drama from the latest Food Committee meeting, any recent visitors, the happenings of the local birds and hummingbirds that frequent her corner apartment, the score from the latest Braves’ Game, and of course, she enlightens me to any important clippings from the LaGrange Daily News. I fill her in on all of Micah’s new tricks, any important happenings from our crazy family, and often lament on the challenges of bring a wife, mom, and teacher. She always pats my hand while reminding me, ever so sweetly, that “it will be alright.”
I’ll never forget the trip John and I made to LaGrange soon after confirming our first pregnancy. Oh, the excitement to finally tell Mema about our first baby. The tears in her eyes, the joy on her face, and the way we held hands for the longest time will be a memory forever etched into my heart. Her wrinkled, weak, arthritis filled hands. The same hands that stood at an altar and vowed to love my Deda through good times and bad, sickness and health. And did she ever live up to that commitment as she loved, cared, and fought for her husband as he battled against Alzheimer’s. Those same two hands that loved four children, a multitude of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and transformed a little white house into a comfy home. Speaking of which, she and my Dad, her youngest son, raised a duck in the upstairs bathroom unbeknownst to my grandfather. Yes, a real, live, quacking duck. To this day, my Dad gets the biggest grin on his face when he retells this story.
The list goes on and on. She is a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is a teacher, an artist, a hard worker, the best-bread-maker EVER, a wonderful listener, a generous giver, and a fighter. But most of all, she is a difference maker. She has made quite the difference in my life. Can’t wait to see her soon and hold those precious, tired hands.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Forever...
I clearly remember the day that doctors confirmed there was indeed life being knit together in my womb. My heart was immediately filled with sheer excitement and a touch of anxiety knowing that my life would be forever changed. The days following that life-altering appointment were filled with sharing our big announcement with those we love most.
Several important people in my life said the exact same phrase upon finding our exciting news...”This child will forever change your life.” Duh. I knew that sleeping would never again take such priority in my life and I would be forever responsible for getting two people ready instead of just myself. And while we are on the subject of fashion, I struggle with finding just one cute outfit for me to wear daily so the idea of now finding two outfits every.single.day was a bit overwhelming. Pajama days are a huge blessing around my house...amen! A year and nine months into this journey of motherhood, I’m beginning to understand the depth of that statement….”This child will forever change your life.”
No one could have ever explained to me that on February 14 at 7:02pm my heart would take up residence outside of my body. M’s life has left me astoundingly vulnerable because I take his joy, sadness, and every emotion in between so personally. I have never prayed over someone with such diligence and intensity before this child became mine. I pray that he will grow to love the things of the Lord, for God’s protection to follow him all of his days, that his future wife will be madly in love with Jesus, that the manners I attempt to daily teach him will eventually take root in his mind and heart, and for his life to make a difference in the Kingdom of God. Oh, yes, this child has forever changed my life. Every tragedy I see on the news or hear about from a friend makes my heart momentarily stop because what if that was my child. My heart knows no greater joy than watching him experience something for first time or the belly laugh that ensues when his Daddy walks thru the door after a long day at work. I never knew someone so small and innocent would make me doubt my every decision. Although I have loved my parents for 20-something years, this little being makes me appreciate them more than ever.
As I listen to friends chat about their desire to love a child as their own or when that exciting phone call comes to share the news that a dear friend has finally gotten the miracle she has prayed for my heart merely whispers, “this child will forever change your life.” What a beautiful yet exhausting calling motherhood is for many but with each passing day and milestone, I'm realizing the truth of just how incredibly much this child has already changed my life.
Several important people in my life said the exact same phrase upon finding our exciting news...”This child will forever change your life.” Duh. I knew that sleeping would never again take such priority in my life and I would be forever responsible for getting two people ready instead of just myself. And while we are on the subject of fashion, I struggle with finding just one cute outfit for me to wear daily so the idea of now finding two outfits every.single.day was a bit overwhelming. Pajama days are a huge blessing around my house...amen! A year and nine months into this journey of motherhood, I’m beginning to understand the depth of that statement….”This child will forever change your life.”
No one could have ever explained to me that on February 14 at 7:02pm my heart would take up residence outside of my body. M’s life has left me astoundingly vulnerable because I take his joy, sadness, and every emotion in between so personally. I have never prayed over someone with such diligence and intensity before this child became mine. I pray that he will grow to love the things of the Lord, for God’s protection to follow him all of his days, that his future wife will be madly in love with Jesus, that the manners I attempt to daily teach him will eventually take root in his mind and heart, and for his life to make a difference in the Kingdom of God. Oh, yes, this child has forever changed my life. Every tragedy I see on the news or hear about from a friend makes my heart momentarily stop because what if that was my child. My heart knows no greater joy than watching him experience something for first time or the belly laugh that ensues when his Daddy walks thru the door after a long day at work. I never knew someone so small and innocent would make me doubt my every decision. Although I have loved my parents for 20-something years, this little being makes me appreciate them more than ever.
As I listen to friends chat about their desire to love a child as their own or when that exciting phone call comes to share the news that a dear friend has finally gotten the miracle she has prayed for my heart merely whispers, “this child will forever change your life.” What a beautiful yet exhausting calling motherhood is for many but with each passing day and milestone, I'm realizing the truth of just how incredibly much this child has already changed my life.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
2013: Expectant...
Ah, goodbye 2012 and hello 2013. Fabulous yet challenging...yes, that would be an accurate summary of our year. On February 14 our world was completely rocked by that bundle of joy that was born at 7:02pm. July brought about a move to our new hometown with a five-month-old in tow and the overwhelming decisions that come with building a new home. Next, August brought the closing on our very first home and the following months were filled with the challenges and immense joy that come with serving in the place where you know God has called your family.
So, 2013…how are you going to beat that?!? My heart is expectant of many things in this New Year…an intimate walk with the Holy One, God-ordained moments to serve others, the life-changing experience of discipleship, a love for memorizing scripture to fill our home, lots of laughter, raising a little one to love the things of the Lord, both connections within the Body of Christ and outside of the walls of the church, and multiple opportunities to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!” -Ephesians 3:20-21
So, 2013…how are you going to beat that?!? My heart is expectant of many things in this New Year…an intimate walk with the Holy One, God-ordained moments to serve others, the life-changing experience of discipleship, a love for memorizing scripture to fill our home, lots of laughter, raising a little one to love the things of the Lord, both connections within the Body of Christ and outside of the walls of the church, and multiple opportunities to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!” -Ephesians 3:20-21
Sunday, December 2, 2012
Freedom
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” –Galatians 5:1
Freedom. Christ came to give life abundantly. Therefore, He never intended for us to live enslaved. Let that sink in. Not enslaved to people, comparison, money, pride, busy schedules, food, or anything else. When I surrender all at the foot of the cross, I gain freedom. Perfect freedom to be His servant…such glorious irony.
Freedom. Christ came to give life abundantly. Therefore, He never intended for us to live enslaved. Let that sink in. Not enslaved to people, comparison, money, pride, busy schedules, food, or anything else. When I surrender all at the foot of the cross, I gain freedom. Perfect freedom to be His servant…such glorious irony.
Monday, October 1, 2012
My Story...
The Women of Faith Conference in Atlanta last weekend spoke truth to my heart, rejuvenated my soul, and challenged my mind. The line-up of speakers included Sandi Patty, Kelly Minter, Patsy Clairmont, Brenda Warner, and many others. Each of these ladies shared some of their deepest hurts that included abuse, divorce, tragic accidents, and adultery. Seriously, their transparency and willingness to share their darkest moments with thousands of women spoke strength into my heart BUT it also made me doubt the power of my testimony. Would God ever use my story despite the lack of tragic events in my life?
In Mark 5, the demon-delivered man begged to go with Jesus and while the Savior refused, He gave the man a clear command. And Jesus did not permit him but said to him, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.”
As I have wrestled with the heart of God this week, He whispered a strong, clear answer to me. Yes, I have a story to live out. One that includes highs and lows, defeats and successes, doubting myself and doubting God, and a heart that daily chooses to trust the integrity of God. You see, comparison has stolen much of my joy over the past 10 years.
Ah, the subject of comparison. It is that pesky voice that whispers things like:
- You’re not as smart as…
- She is a better minister’s wife than you…
- Your house is not as fabulous as…(thank you, Pinterest!)
- She is a better mother than you…(hello mom guilt!)
- Your walk with God is not as strong as…
- She is a better friend than you...
- You're not as funny as...
And the list goes on and on and on. Indeed, comparison is the thief of MY joy.
“Comparison is the thief of joy.” -Theodore Roosevelt
The lies of comparison steal my joy of friendship and my ability to be content. Furthermore, it steals the gift of genuine joy when I rest in the sovereignty and integrity of my Heavenly Father. Instead of believing the lies of comparison, I will tell the world how much He has done for me and of the perfect mercy He has given.
Monday, August 27, 2012
Feeling Unworthy?
Life is crazy busy for us. A church flock to love and lead, a six month old to care for, a new house to make a home, a marriage to nurture, families to stay connected to, new friendships to cultivate, and precious friendships that span numerous miles to keep thriving.
Unfortunately, my flesh longs to appease every person God places along my path and meet every.single.expectation placed upon me. It is definitely not my best quality but an ever-present struggle in my life. Attempting to earn the love of God and those around me is beyond exhausting.
And just when my feelings of inadequacy begin to overtake my thoughts, the Word of God breathes life into my weary soul…
- Moses was marked by a severe speech impediment.
- Noah was 500 years old when he built the ark.
- Ruth was a widowed outcast.
- Paul killed Christians.
- David was an adulterer who committed murder AND was overlooked by his
own earthly father when he gave consideration to which son could become king.
- Gideon was a scared coward.
- The twelve disciples were less than perfect and often doubted Jesus, even
though He lived among them.
- Sarah bore a child in her ripe old age after doubting God would ever knit life
together in her womb.
- My own SAVIOR was born to a young girl and a carpenter in a stable surrounded
by animals.
I’m forever grateful to serve a God who chooses to use His imperfect followers. If God could use these seemingly useless characters in the Bible, then watch out world, because He will continue a mighty work through those of us who feel completely unworthy.
If God is for us, then who can be against us?
Romans 8:31
Unfortunately, my flesh longs to appease every person God places along my path and meet every.single.expectation placed upon me. It is definitely not my best quality but an ever-present struggle in my life. Attempting to earn the love of God and those around me is beyond exhausting.
And just when my feelings of inadequacy begin to overtake my thoughts, the Word of God breathes life into my weary soul…
- Moses was marked by a severe speech impediment.
- Noah was 500 years old when he built the ark.
- Ruth was a widowed outcast.
- Paul killed Christians.
- David was an adulterer who committed murder AND was overlooked by his
own earthly father when he gave consideration to which son could become king.
- Gideon was a scared coward.
- The twelve disciples were less than perfect and often doubted Jesus, even
though He lived among them.
- Sarah bore a child in her ripe old age after doubting God would ever knit life
together in her womb.
- My own SAVIOR was born to a young girl and a carpenter in a stable surrounded
by animals.
I’m forever grateful to serve a God who chooses to use His imperfect followers. If God could use these seemingly useless characters in the Bible, then watch out world, because He will continue a mighty work through those of us who feel completely unworthy.
If God is for us, then who can be against us?
Romans 8:31
Friday, July 6, 2012
3 Years Later...
After J proposed on November 17, 2008, we set out to plan a worship service to honor the Lord and join our hearts together in marriage.
I am forever grateful to my mom, an event coordinator at heart, who helped me see every single detail that had to be planned, laughed with me until we cried many times, and made it such an enjoyable experience. I love you, Daddy, and will always be grateful you set the standard so high for how my husband would love me. You will always be the first man I ever loved!
We spent the Friday before finalizing the details, loving on family and friends, rehearsing for the big day, and reminiscing at the rehearsal dinner.
Saturday morning FINALLY came and after getting ready at a sketch hotel, my girls and I headed to LaGrange for the bridesmaid’s breakfast, hair appointments, and a trip to Wal-Mart. While all of this was happening, J and his boys were shooting skeet in LG.
While J and I were enjoying the day with our family and friends, a precious friend from church, who is a decorating genius, was putting the final touches on decorations for the ceremony and reception while my talented aunt was busy putting the flowers together.
J and I chose to see each other before the wedding, so when the moment we had reverently prayed for finally came, my heart was beating out of control. It was a moment filled with tears, smiles, laughter, and praises to our Heavenly Father.
The next several hours were spent taking pictures, laughing with our wedding party, and waiting on 5:30pm to finally arrive.
Two things I will forever cherish about our wedding:
1. J composed the piece the musicians played as my Dad walked me down the aisle.
2. My veil was handmade from my grandmother’s wedding dress. Mammy and Pappy enjoyed fifty years of marriage, loved the Lord and His church, raised four children, and spoiled nine grandchildren. What a legacy!
After a wedding reception filled with music, yummy food, a coffee bar, and sweet family and friends, it was time to say goodbye.
Three years into our marriage, we have added a baby, moved four times, and made incredible memories together. What a blessing that God has chosen us to experience a journey that represents His love relationship with the church!
“I have found the one whom my soul loves.” Song of Songs 3:4
*Photo Credit: Daniel Menacher
I am forever grateful to my mom, an event coordinator at heart, who helped me see every single detail that had to be planned, laughed with me until we cried many times, and made it such an enjoyable experience. I love you, Daddy, and will always be grateful you set the standard so high for how my husband would love me. You will always be the first man I ever loved!
We spent the Friday before finalizing the details, loving on family and friends, rehearsing for the big day, and reminiscing at the rehearsal dinner.
Saturday morning FINALLY came and after getting ready at a sketch hotel, my girls and I headed to LaGrange for the bridesmaid’s breakfast, hair appointments, and a trip to Wal-Mart. While all of this was happening, J and his boys were shooting skeet in LG.
While J and I were enjoying the day with our family and friends, a precious friend from church, who is a decorating genius, was putting the final touches on decorations for the ceremony and reception while my talented aunt was busy putting the flowers together.
J and I chose to see each other before the wedding, so when the moment we had reverently prayed for finally came, my heart was beating out of control. It was a moment filled with tears, smiles, laughter, and praises to our Heavenly Father.
The next several hours were spent taking pictures, laughing with our wedding party, and waiting on 5:30pm to finally arrive.
Two things I will forever cherish about our wedding:
1. J composed the piece the musicians played as my Dad walked me down the aisle.
2. My veil was handmade from my grandmother’s wedding dress. Mammy and Pappy enjoyed fifty years of marriage, loved the Lord and His church, raised four children, and spoiled nine grandchildren. What a legacy!
After a wedding reception filled with music, yummy food, a coffee bar, and sweet family and friends, it was time to say goodbye.
Three years into our marriage, we have added a baby, moved four times, and made incredible memories together. What a blessing that God has chosen us to experience a journey that represents His love relationship with the church!
“I have found the one whom my soul loves.” Song of Songs 3:4
*Photo Credit: Daniel Menacher
Monday, July 2, 2012
10 Things I Have Learned About Parenting…
1. Watching your husband become a father will only multiply your love and admiration for him. There is no sound sweeter than M and J playing together.
2. When you think you have nothing else left to give, you just dig deeper than you ever have before, and find more love and compassion to bestow, even when you have only slept for three hour increments throughout the night.
3. A little bit of air freshener goes a long way when changing a poopy diaper.
4. And since we are on the subject of poop…celebrating a poopy diaper with your husband takes the relationship to a whole new level.
5. Putting M on a schedule from day 1 was more for my sanity than anything else. A happy mom means a happy baby!
6. Murphy’s Law of Naps states that a baby WILL wake up if you decide to shower during nap time.
7. One has not fully lived until you instinctively catch throw up in your hand to protect whatever piece of furniture or toy the baby happens to be enjoying at that moment.
8. Becoming a mother only makes you appreciate, respect, and love your own mom more than you ever thought possible.
9. The Lord will teach you some of the hardest yet sweetest lessons about your own life through the little bundle of joy.
10. It is the toughest, sweetest, most challenging job in the world that I would not exchange for any other blessing.
Thank you, Lord, for allowing me to be a mom. Love my M!
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Forgiveness…
Last Sunday, I listened to an intriguing sermon by Dr. Stewart Sims on the scary and often times ignored concept of forgiveness. I walked away feeling a bit intimated yet challenged. Forgiveness is not really my forte as I am filled with a ridiculous amount of selfishness and my heart is entirely too self-centered but I serve a Lord who loves me far too much to leave me in such a lifeless place. Choosing bitterness over forgiveness equals death. Dr. Sims made the clear connection between forgiveness and life. I choose life. I choose to die to my selfish ways, to cling to the cross where love and forgiveness flow freely, and to be merciful so that I may be shown the mercy I so desperately need.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5:7
Forgiveness is a command. The amount of forgiveness God has shown my sinful heart at the foot of the cross is far more than any amount of forgiveness He will ask me to bestow on others. Thank you, Dr. Sims, for that reality check.
“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to give others, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Matthew 6:14-15 NLT
“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5:7
Forgiveness is a command. The amount of forgiveness God has shown my sinful heart at the foot of the cross is far more than any amount of forgiveness He will ask me to bestow on others. Thank you, Dr. Sims, for that reality check.
“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to give others, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Matthew 6:14-15 NLT
Monday, June 20, 2011
perfectly us...
Big, comfy chair + a decaf caramel macchiato + my favorite quilt = ready to blog!
After almost two years of being married, I have decided it is time to write down our story. It is perfectly us.
Summer of 2008: I worked as a Children’s Ministry Intern and J came as the new Associate Minister of music. The church secretaries worked quite diligently to convince the two of us there was a love connection.
August 2008: They finally succeed when both J and I accompanied the youth group to a Braves Game the night before I left for a mission trip to Canada.
This would be the night he asked for my number and I received numerous funny, encouraging, and crazy text messages and phone calls during my mission trip to Canada.
Next, he came home for dinner with my family which consisted of a game of Apples to Apples and my parents mother convinced him to join us for my surprise 21 birthday party at the lake house.
our first picture together
This would be the night Dad's boat almost sank and J earned his place in the family by helping the boys save the beloved boat.
September 2008: J and I flew home to Deland, FL to spend the weekend with his family. First time J spoke those three really important words to me: i love you. Sweet memories.
October 2008: For my 21st birthday, J bought me tickets to see Wicked at the Fox. Such a fun night.
October was also the month that God confirmed that marriage was in our future. Crazy. Lots of time in prayer along with recieving a blessing from both sets of parents and some very important friends meant J started planning the proposal and he went ring shopping with my mom.
November 17, 2008: Operation Proposal
Proposal: LaGrange College Park
After Party: The Warehouse at FBC
TSFs
With just eight months before I became Mrs. Spencer, the days were filled with sweet memories of wedding planning with my mom, attending seven wedding showers (so blessed!), a beach trip with my girls, and fun times with J as we prepared for marriage. Some of my favorite memories!
Coming up next: Wedding Post!
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Numbered Days
Life. Death. Legacy. Kingdom Ministry. Random, I know, but in my mind each of these are closely related. The death of person, young or old, sick or healthy, is never easy for me to process. Yes, I believe God is sovereign and He has numbered each of our days, and though I will never fully understand His ways this side of heaven, I trust His perfect wisdom. Watching people I love deal with grief is heart wrenching, yet, it makes me ponder how I shall live out my numbered days. Are we called to live like we are dying? If so, what does that even look like? I have this desire to spend all of my time cultivating relationships with the lost, sharing the perfect love of my Savior, and learning more about my Savior while spending time among the Saints. But, the other things of life seem to stand as distractions to these. And what about our legacy? When my time in this world ends, do I want people to speak of my clean house, or my clothes, or any other earthly idea? No, I want them to speak of my imperfect love for my perfect Savior, my devotion to my husband, my time in Kingdom Ministry not just merely church ministry, and my imperfect way of loving those God put in my life. I want them speak of my perfect God. Unfortunately, I devote the majority of my time to school work, e-mail, facebook, cleaning my house, church ministry, and so on. When I finally see my Savior face-to-face I long to hear these words, “well done, my good and faithful servant.” Whatever my remaining days look like, I will live with Philippians 1:21 in mind.
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. “ Philippians 1:21
*This entry was written on 4-1-2010*
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. “ Philippians 1:21
*This entry was written on 4-1-2010*
God's Perfection vs. My Imperfection
My desire for perfection often stands more as a hindrance opposed to being a help in my life. I can often accept other’s shortcomings easier than my own, yet, I am gaining a bit of understanding into why our Heavenly Father created us as imperfect beings. J asked for my hand in marriage in November and I set about to plan the most perfect wedding day in just eight months. It was my desire to give J and our precious family the most perfect marriage celebration known to man. During this journey the Lord revealed many life lessons to me, especially in my pursuit of perfection. Despite my efforts, our journey to July 11, 2009 was not perfect by worldly standards,but our day came, and the Lord was honored, two families were brought together, and our marriage was sealed. Yes, we did not pack for our honeymoon until almost 11pm on the night before our wedding, my mother, mother-in-law, sister-in-law, and myself spent the entire Friday morning before our wedding ironing every tablecloth that would be used at the reception, J’s family stayed at our house the weekend of the wedding so we played host and hostess along with being the bride and groom, and my girls and I spent the night at a sketch hotel on the night before my big day, but I learned valuable lessons I will never forget. By Friday night or more like early Saturday morning, I was exhausted in my pursuit of perfection, but the Lord honored my desire to give J and our family and friends a Godly wedding celebration, and Saturday was absolutely perfect for us. Without a doubt, it was the day we had reverently prayed for and we saw firsthand the Lord honor our desire to come together as one. No matter how much I long for perfection here on earth, my goal will never be met, so I am continuously learning to take a deep breath, accept imperfection, and watch my Heavenly Father bless my life in ways I will never deserve. Each time I look at our wedding album or watch the video footage from that day, I am reminded that while I will never reach perfection this side of heaven, our Heavenly Father longs to bless my imperfect being. Along with the wedding day of my dreams, God gave me a faithful family consisting of Godly parents and in-laws whom I would not trade for the world. So the reoccurring lesson here is to embrace my imperfections as they continually allow me to see my immense need for a perfect God.
Precious Lord, I am daily learning to trust you more as I let go of my own desires to gain a better understanding of your plans for my life. I stand in awe of the perfect love your pour down on my imperfect self, and while I feel so unworthy, I gladly accept it.
Psalm 100:3 Know that the LORD is God. It is He who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
*This entry was written on 2-2-2010*
Precious Lord, I am daily learning to trust you more as I let go of my own desires to gain a better understanding of your plans for my life. I stand in awe of the perfect love your pour down on my imperfect self, and while I feel so unworthy, I gladly accept it.
Psalm 100:3 Know that the LORD is God. It is He who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
*This entry was written on 2-2-2010*
The Journey from Bride to Wife
Today J and I celebrate 203 days of marriage and yet I realize I am still becoming a wife. After sealing our love before friends and family on July 11, 2009, I wore the title of wife with pride yet I knew very little about being one. Yes, I was a glowing bride, but the road to becoming a wife is an on-going journey that I had just begun on that precious day. My first moments as a wife came when we made our first big and difficult decision together and when we packed up our home to move hours away from everything that was comfortable to us. It also came in the small moments when I stood in line at the Driver Services office to upgrade my license with my new last name and when I ordered my first box of checks that proudly proclaimed not only my new last name but also my husband’s name to signify my first ever joint-checking account. Or the many times I admitted my faults in our communication struggles and strived to improve and the times I slaved in a kitchen to ensure my husband came home to a full meal cooked with love. Then there are the times I find myself overtaken with pride for the man of God I married as he leads our flock in pure worship of the Lord. My journey to becoming a wife will continue when I become a mother and he a father and when we face the difficult times of saying goodbye to those whom we love immensely. It will continue with the daily challenges of grocery shopping, doing laundry, leading and loving those in our flock here in Hartwell, and so on. Yes, I am 203 days into my journey of becoming a wife and I understand better now than ever, that it is not merely an experience or a moment that makes a woman a wife, but instead it comes through walking the daily journey.
Lord continue to lead me on this lifelong journey of becoming a Godly wife. It is my desire to lead the life of a Godly woman and wife through every stage of life.
*This entry was written on 1-30-2010*
Lord continue to lead me on this lifelong journey of becoming a Godly wife. It is my desire to lead the life of a Godly woman and wife through every stage of life.
*This entry was written on 1-30-2010*
Thanksgiving...
Today as I was leaving the church, I drove past our AO House and was astounded to see the huge crowd gathered around the door in hopes of finding food, clothes, and other personal items. I know of the huge need our society is facing due to these tough economic times, but nonetheless, seeing this crowd formed of many races and ages pulled on my heart a little more than usual today. My experience this morning and the holiday season has urged me to take a step back, count my blessings, and offer thanks to a holy God who has given me much more than I deserve.
Here are just a few of things I am thankful for:
1. A Heavenly Father who covers me in his perfect love even though I deserve none of it
2. A handsome, witty, intelligent husband who serves as the spiritual leader of our home
3. A mom and dad who offer consistent love and support through life's journey
4. In-laws who love me as one of their own and offer their consistent support through life's journey
5. Hilarious brothers who bring such joy to my life
6. Precious brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws, especially John's sister, who is like the sister I never had
7. Sweet TSFs who understand me better than any other friend, despite the distance that separates us
8. A giving church family that functions as the body of Christ
9. Nieces and Nephews and shopping for their Christmas presents - love it!
10. A comfortable bed to sleep in and wonderful pillow to lay my head on
11. Our home
12. The lake house and the wonderful memories made there
13. Two working cars that are paid for
14. Our trip to the aquarium and ice skating plan for tomorrow and sweet memories made with J
Thank you Almighty God for the many, many, many blessing you have given me despite my sinful ways. May I never take them for granted and always be mindful of the gracious love you have poured out on my life.
*This entry was written on 11-24-2009*
Here are just a few of things I am thankful for:
1. A Heavenly Father who covers me in his perfect love even though I deserve none of it
2. A handsome, witty, intelligent husband who serves as the spiritual leader of our home
3. A mom and dad who offer consistent love and support through life's journey
4. In-laws who love me as one of their own and offer their consistent support through life's journey
5. Hilarious brothers who bring such joy to my life
6. Precious brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws, especially John's sister, who is like the sister I never had
7. Sweet TSFs who understand me better than any other friend, despite the distance that separates us
8. A giving church family that functions as the body of Christ
9. Nieces and Nephews and shopping for their Christmas presents - love it!
10. A comfortable bed to sleep in and wonderful pillow to lay my head on
11. Our home
12. The lake house and the wonderful memories made there
13. Two working cars that are paid for
14. Our trip to the aquarium and ice skating plan for tomorrow and sweet memories made with J
Thank you Almighty God for the many, many, many blessing you have given me despite my sinful ways. May I never take them for granted and always be mindful of the gracious love you have poured out on my life.
*This entry was written on 11-24-2009*
My Steps are Determined
"We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps."
Proverbs 16:9
Proverbs 16:9
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