Monthly Archives: July 2016

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When you don’t know what to do…

Our 11 year old son, Britton, came to me with a question tonight.

While the decision wasn’t too difficult to talk though, I could tell that the question had bothered him for quite some time.

But we discussed it for a couple of minutes, talked about his options- and he made a decision on how to move ahead.  B walked away happy and content.  I, too, was happy…happy that he came to me for advice- and happier that I helped ease his mind.

Who do you go to?

We all have similar situations, don’t we?  We are faced with difficult circumstances.  We are presented with tough questions and choices.  We struggle with potential consequences.

If you’re lucky, you’ve got people to ask for guidance.  Maybe it’s a relative or close family friend.  Perhaps it’s a teacher or mentor from your profession.

I have these people in my life, yet pride often won’t let me admit that I just don’t have the answer.

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.  James 1:5

I often wrestle with choices.  I struggle with trying to do the “right” thing that’s best for everyone involved.  And when I do this- I often forget that I have a loving, all-knowing God that wants to help.

Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.  2 Timothy 2:7

Understanding.  In everything.

My prayer this week is to seek God’s advice more frequently.  I want to present my mouth to God’s ear when I struggle with obstacles and challenges.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.  Proverbs 3:5

And let me know how to pray for you.

God bless.

 

 

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Future

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I often find myself thinking in “fast-forward.”  That scares me.

With three young children and busy jobs, Hollianne and I are constantly trying to make decisions on the fly. Decisions that impact the future for our kids, household and careers.

We wonder if our choices are the right ones.

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah 1:5

This verse from the book of Jeremiah gives me comfort, however.

While I tend to worry about decisions- I need to remember that God already has a plan.

He has a plan for me. He has a plan for Hollianne. He has a plan for each of you. All of us are “consecrated” – or set apart for service.

Instead of worry, I need to pray for wisdom and guidance- and trust in the Lord for support along the way.

My prayer for today is to have the faith and assurance to let go of the worry focused on the future…and to trust in the Lord.

What causes you to worry about the future?  Whatever it is, give it to God.

Let me know how I may pray for you.

God bless you.

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Award winners

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Last night I attended the awards dinner for the Tennessee Press Association.  The majority of Tennessee’s leaders from the news industry were present…from Memphis to Mountain City.

We celebrated excellence in media across Tennessee.  I presented awards for captivating photos, insightful editorials and quality writing.  It was a fun night.

What impressed me the most were the photos, articles and pieces that DIDN’T win.  It’s obvious that we have some talented media professionals in state- and unfortunately only the best of the best could be recognized as a “winner.”

Everyone enjoys being recognized for their work.  A life with Jesus gives us that opportunity.

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.  Colossians 3:23-24

You might teach, you might build, you might work in a service industry…but whatever our vocation- we are commanded to do our best.

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.  Hebrews 11:6

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.  Galatians 6:9

The world may never recognize our service, but Jesus grants us an “inheritance as your reward.”  And that, my friends, is the ultimate prize.

Thank God.

Please pray for me to do my best for my workplace and my family everyday.  And let me know how I may pray for you.

God bless.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Outside


I went outside to pray this morning. 

It was just before daybreak. There were no signs of the sun or stirring animals. The only other presence I felt was the rustling sound of leaves from a cool breeze. 

As I worked through my prayer list I slowly noticed the emerging signs of a new day. Birds began to chirp. Crickets started to call out in a pleasant rhythm. The deer and squirrels made faint noises as they began to stir around deep in the woods. 

On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate. Psalm 145:5

And then the sunrise. 

The light quickly chased the darkness away. Colors of grey, blue and orange pushed back remnants of the nighttime sky. 

The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Psalm 19:1

I didn’t go outside this morning to intentionally take in God’s handiwork. But it became an overwhelming experience for me. It brought me peace. It let me focus. It warmed my heart.  It calmed my broken spirit. 

I challenge all of us to change up our prayer routine this week. Get outside and go to a different spot. Read from God’s word and meditate on His love for you. And then meditate and pray while surrounded by God’s creation. 

And remember that you are the greatest example of God’s handiwork. 

I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. Psalm 139:14

Please let me know how I may pray for you this week. 

God bless you. 

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Tough love


It’s been a mixed bag of experiences for our family this week.  

On one hand- we’ve been on vacation. It’s been a great trip for us, as my recent work schedule and the kids’ activities have propelled our family in opposite directions.  We’ve had an incredible opportunity to spend lots of time together- making new memories and laughing about old ones. 

Conversely- our trip has come during a time of great sadness across our country. This week’s headlines have been filled with violence and sorrow. Innocent lives have been lost and nerves are frayed. 

It’s hard for me to understand. I can’t imagine how hard it is for my children to process.

“Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” ‭‭1 John‬ ‭4:11‬ ‭

I guess the best response as parents is to continue to teach love. 

“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” John‬ ‭15:12‬ ‭

Love is the greatest command. Along with this command comes honor and respect for others. 

“Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.”‭‭ Romans‬ ‭12:10‬ ‭

“Now concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another,…” ‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭4:9‬ ‭

So who is our brother?  It’s our neighbor. It’s the person living in a different neighborhood across town. It’s the teller in the supermarket line. It’s the person that doesn’t dress like us or talk like we do. It’s the people in our lives that have hurt us and caused us pain. 

Our neighbors are everywhere. 

Everyone has value. Every person has worth. And just as Jesus loves us, we are called to love others. 

It’s hard sometimes, but it’s our responsibility. And it’s our responsibility to teach love and honor to our children. 

“And this is his commandment, that we believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us.” ‭‭1 John‬ ‭3:23‬ ‭‬‬

Let’s look for ways this week to get to know our neighbors…and engage with different people in new and meaningful ways. 

I need prayers for guidance on how to help my children process these tough events. Please let me know how I may pray for you. 

God bless. 

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