Anniversary Party!

It's very exciting to have come this far by God's grace and we were glad to celebrate it with family and friends.

To some, 7 years is not a long time, to others, it's a very long time, and for us it's hugely significant, because in scripture - 7 is the number of completion. And we believe God completed a lot of foundational things in us, during this 7th year. And it ain’t been easy! We can be two selfish and carnal people sometimes, if we're not in the Spirit. Accountability, friends, prayers from others, books, and conferences have helped, and still help us maintain the union of marriage, that only by God’s strength and grace, can be sustained! Thank you again!

See the story and photos from the anniversary party below..

Favorite authors and resources
Jimmy Evans - http://www.marriagetoday.org/

Gary & Barbara Rosberg - http://www.americasfamilycoaches.com/

Kevin Leman - http://www.drleman.com/

Linda Dillow and Loraine Pintus - http://www.intimateissues.com/

Click Here to see Book Recommendations



Back Then

Back Then

Now!

Me, Mom & Sisters back then!

Bubba and Granty

Me and Kay

Hey Ya Ya!

And finally, the disco boy!

Above, we were dancing to some shuffle song, I'm sure!

Click Here to See More Wedding Photos

Our Story
We were introduced almost ten years ago, in July of 1997, by our mutual friend, Paul “Clay’ McClinton. We and our other comrades, Clay, Shirrelle, Kim, Jay, Marcus, Gwen, and others, hung out as single Christians, in a platonic friendship, for over two years. For us, the friendship was like none other we had ever had. It was the opportunity to get to know members of the opposite sex, and know and fellowship with them merely as brother or sister in Christ. Our first date on Friday, September 24, 1999. It was that evening that we also agreed to give our lives to one another in marriage. We became officially engaged on November 20, 1999 and married June 24, 2000, exactly 9 months after our first date.

On June 24, 2007, we celebrated 7 years of marriage and in those seven years we have been blessed with 3 children, many valuable friendships that have been sustained since before our marriage and many new friends who have been brought into our lives.

The first Valentine’s Day we celebrated was in February 1998 – before we ever dated. We celebrated Valentine’s Day at the Covenant Church Singles Ministry Valentine’s – Old School Party! And that’s why our anniversary party was just that – an Old School Party!!

We had fun and went back to some of the good ol’ days. We couldn’t play all of the songs from back in the day, since we all know that some of the songs from the past, need to be left there, in the past!!! So we sifted through them and selected some of the mildest ones from the eras where grew up.

To my friend, on the subject of dating....

Below, is an edited response to a friend:

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I know there are tons and tons of good resources out there about this, but this is just my words from the heart......

I would start with two simple things, that will not change over the years. There will be more details and more ways that you have to consider things and make decisions based on the circumstance, but these are two underlying principles that come to mind. Don't forget them.

1. Honor the Lord above all
2. Guard your heart

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I placed the scriptures below and a link under each scripture which give a little more information regarding the passage of scripture. I included the link because I'd like you to research things like this, and sift through it and determine what you will take away from it.
I think you should hear advice but also search out the Word of God and determine what is right, based on what God says.

The Two Principles
1. Honor the Lord
1 Corinthians 6:19-20, "What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's."
http://lurasbookcase.com/honoring-god.shtml

2. Guard Your Heart
Proverbs 4:23 says, "Keep (or guard) your heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."
http://www.biblicalstudies.com/bstudy/expostudy/heart.htm
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My take on principle #1 Honoring the Lord:
When you choose to do this, you will definitely stand out and be different from others. There are people who are Christians and either really do not know what all it means to honor the Lord, or know what that means and just don't do it.

The passage, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, speaks of honoring the Lord with your body and also glorifying God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. This is more than not being physically intimate with someone. It's dealing with your body and your spirit. It's helping you to understand that everything about you belongs to God and He is in control of every aspect of your life. Even this season of your life that you are seeking God regarding "dating".

As you make decisions like this, the Lord is looking down on you with incredible pride. That you want to honor him in your relationships. He wants you to intimately know HIM before you intimately know anyone else. Not just physical intimacy. Before you give your heart to anyone else, the Lord wants you to be totally in love with him. So much so, that when you meet someone, your love for God and your commitment to him stand out. Not in a loud, shouting, manner, but in an honorable, respectful way. Some people will see you and recognize that there is something about you. That your heart is somewhere else first (with the Lord) and not wanting. And just wishing that someone would love you and want to be with you.

That part, the heart, will be further explored in the next principle. Guard your heart.

As you are honoring the Lord, and building your relationship with him, focus on what it is the Lord has gifted you to do, in the body of Christ and passionately pursue that. That's what you were put on earth to do, to bring glory to him by using your gifts to bring others to Christ and edify the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:12 "equipping the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ."

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Before we go to guarding the heart, let's detour just a shade..... and explore, the correct definition of friend.

Many people will call someone who they go out with, their friend, just because they don't want to make a committment to them.

That's not the way to define friend.

What do you do with friends? Things like talking on the phone (but not too late at night, and not about things that will cause you to think unGodly).

If you go out, try to go out with another couple or in places where there are other people.

As a precaution, you may NOT want to go to their house alone or have them come to your house alone, or be somewhere alone with them where there are not other people around.

Another note about friends. Friends do the same things that a brother and sister would do. If you wouldn't say it to your brother or sister, or do it with your brother or sister, don't do it with a friend.

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Principle #2 Guard Your Heart
The verse, Proverbs 4:23, says keep your heart or guard your heart with all dilligence. It also says, out of it flows the issues of life. Issues!!! When you think about it, most of the issues that you see people caught up in, have something to do with a matter of the heart. Someone who was supposed to love them! and didn't, someone who left them, or hurt them, or cheated on them, lied to them, abused them, etc. And they all have to do with matters of the heart. Matters that initially drew us in by our hearts. We trusted someone, loved someone, committed ourselves to someone, you name it.

So God says guard your heart!! Not just calmly but agressively. He says, guard your heart with all dilligence. Think about how you dilligently study something, or dilligently look for something that you've lost. That takes time and effort! That's what you have to do regarding your heart.

When you meet someone that you even half-way like. You begin to feel something in your heart, right? Well, at that point you have to check it! Check yourself and make sure that you're not allowing yourself to go down a path of fantasy, wondering, wishing, hoping that you could be with this person more, or hoping they will like you or accept you, or even when they will call you again. Wontin' and wontin' like the lady on The Nutty Proffesor said! You must guard your heart! Because if you don't, you can guarantee that you will find yourself badly caught up in one of the many issues in life. I know I did, back in the day!

Following this principle will not make you totally immune from issues. But it will help you avoid self-inflicted heart wounds.

Homeschool Journey

It's getting closer! It's official now that they've been notified..... I will be leaving my current job outside the home, at the end of the summer!

One step closer..........

Next step is to finalize the curriculum and order it.

Our final choices are Trivium Pursuit (http://www.triviumpursuit.com/),
Heart of Wisdom (http://www.heartofwisdom.com/) and My Father's
World (http://www.mfwbooks.com/)

We may do a combination of two or three of them, based on what works
best for our situation.

See book recommendations here.

In the grip of Grace,

Leslie

"To be the father of a nation is a great honor, but to be the father of a family is a greater joy." Nelson Mandela, Autobiography of Nelson Mandela

CTI Graduation Statements

These are the statements and photos that we submitted for our graduation ceremony, which summarize how our CTI experience has changed our lives:

Jeoff Thompson

"After completing CTI, I have been able to wrap up the loose ends of the pieces of my life and I have been able to bring it all together, giving me clarity in my life's purpose. The picture of my life is much clearer.

During this season, I've come to realize that in order to have the greatest impact on the world at large, I must first impact those who are closest to me - my wife and my children. Instead of viewing purpose as solely pursing my gifts as a preacher/teacher/musician, my approach now is to minister, as priest and provider to my family first, and only then will I be able to properly use those gifts to serve others. "

Leslie Thompson

"Through CTI, I have learned that being in ministry is not just about the service and the work you do for the Father, to build and strengthen the kingdom. It's about character - as was so emphatically stated in the first class of my first year. It's about submitting your life to be scrutinized and broken down, and then rebuilt and strengthened, by the only one who can truly do so. This is done in order that everything you learn through that experience, may be used in your ministry, to provide answers and hope to others.

After going through the school of ministry program, I have solidified my passion for ministry to my husband, our 3 kiddos through nurturing and homeschool, and to women, regarding our biblical roles. I plan to use what I have learned in CTI, to build up those areas, and in that order."

Here's one of the things we're working on

Also, see the following post, for more information regarding the graduation, our plans, and more.....

CTI Graduation

After the ceremony.


(more details to come, this was just a start......)





What did you all get out of CTI? What type of ministry will you do?

It's a long story because it turned out to be much different than when we set out to join the program. But at the same time we joined, knowing that we were submitting ourselves to the Lord for that two years, for him to teach us about what ministry is, and to show us his direction for us.

Some we've learned through the classes (Hermeneutics, Apologetics, Systematic Theology, Old and New Testament Survey, Church History, Church Administration, Spiritual Gifts, Life Languages, Hearing the Voice of God, Vision Development, Public Speaking and Missions along with Prayer and Worship workshops sprinkled throughout this last year of the program -- I think that's everything but I may have left something off), and some we've learned through experiences that He placed us in BECAUSE we were in this season.

The second year included an internship that we did together, and the focus was on writing & producing music.

For us, the end of it is that we will first apply it at home and make sure we are in order with worship and leading our children at home, carrying out our roles at home, singing and writing songs with our kiddos. And we will teach these theological principles that we have learned, to our children to better equip them to impact the kingdom. We believe that as we are faithful there, the Lord will direct us further into any additional ministry areas.

That's the spiritual part of it, the practical part of it, is that it is a huge faith journey where we are really going to have to step up to the plate in a lot of areas to carry this out and we know it won't be easy!!!

Word on graduation, from our classmate Jay

Our friend, and classmate, Jay Pointer, shared with us after the graduation, regarding Pastor Hayes' prayer for us at the end of the service.
_________________________________________________

He said he saw each one of us being given a crown. The crown was gold and covered in red, blue, green jewels and diamonds. He said they were placed on our heads, followed by a gold ring with a red stone that was placed on our right hands.

We were confirmed of our efforts and were rewarded naturally with the ceremony, but as all things in the Kingdom, there are spiritual implications to what we do, and last night God rewarded us as well.

God has given us all greater power, authority, recognition and responsibility.

A new chapter has truly begun.
_________________________________________________

Thank you for this word to encourage us, Jay!!!

Winding Down in the Fire

(this is a repost)

The house is quiet (except for the dryer with the nap blankets for tomorrow -see previous post entitled, "Crystals" all over the wash load), now it's time to wind down with a nice quiet devotional book. So I grab "Moments Together for Couples" by Dennis and Barbara Rainey. Jeoff is working on something on the computer in the other room so our minds are not exactly in sync at the time. But I have this picture in my head of a wonderful, peaceful time of devotion, intimate discussion, and prayer.

After a long long weekend and a long day for both of us, we were in a good position for a test. After a few minutes, we nestle closely and begin reading the scripture and accompanying devotional text. It's encouraging and reassuring, we feel good and we have hope.

Then come the questions at the end that challenge us to, what? Apply what we just heard.

The topic for the day, July 30, is Mid-Faith Crisis. The question asks us to share a time that we experienced our own mid-faith crisis. Now, we could have shared some surface, "loddy-doddy" story to get the question answered but shifting to the place of vulnerability takes shaking off all of the junk of the day and getting past the stuff that's blocking the doorway to the intimacy that we both so desire.

So before we got there, we went through a non-peaceful exchange that initially resulted in something on the other end of the spectrum from what we read the devotional for.

That probably sounds horrible to some but hey that's what we have to go through sometimes to get past the flesh, kill it and experience true intimacy.

After that was over we were made all the better for it. That was God's purpose in the test.

Someone told us once that God doesn't place us in marriage to make us happy, but to make us holy!

If we had chosen the surface, "loddy-doddy" story to end out the night, we would have had an uneventful night with lots and lots of sleep, but we had a test to take and some more sharpening that had to be done. More refiner's fire!

Only My Mama

Only my mama had the heart to tell me that I spelled Deuteronomy wrong on the top of my blog! It was spelled Deueronomy. I know, everyone else probably just didn't notice.

Alright, okay I'm back

So the last post Where Did the Weekend Go? was one of those venting type posts. I wrote it after I felt like I had been swept into the office and all of a sudden "whoooosssshhhh". I'm back at work and there is no more weekend left, where did it go!

I'm back from my shock now.

In my blog posts, I have to balance between
1) those types of moods/posts (the venting ones) and
2) the ones that provide encouragement and hope and excitement.
Because excess on either end of the spectrum is either not real or not healthy!

Where did the weekend go?

Note: This was a weekend, that was not filled with activities and lots of places we had to be. I don't know when I'll dare to write out all the details of one of those!


- Come home from work on Friday evening, excited that the end of the week is here, ready to "lay it down" and just relax for a change.

- But, walk in the house, and there's plenty to do. Folks are hungry. Things need to be put a way that were not put away before leaving the house this morning.

- Should I sit down and try to enjoy a movie or wash a few loads of laundry or do both?

- I do neither. Because merely filling stomachs and cleaning bodies wore me out. It's already 10 o'clock. I'm going to sleep.

- Saturday morning, it would be nice to sleep in and enjoy the sound of the rain but a gang of people are hungry and need fresh clothes.

- So you better get up, make sure the smallest one has not swallowed a penny or a spider or something like that, while you were hitting the snooze button.

- Before we know it, after we've had some fun listening to music and dancing, it's lunch time then Thank God it's nap time.

- Should I take a nap too? Not unless I want this entire day to slip by with a house full of dirty clothes. So I don't. I work while they nap and get as much done as I can.

- I need to go to the store and get groceries for the week but I'm too tired. Try to get more work done when everyone's up from nap. But they're hungry again. Fix something quick and simple.

- Finally enjoy a movie at the end of the night. "Over the Hedge" Very funny. At least the part I heard. (I fell asleep after about 53 minutes.)

- Enjoyed Sunday worship service. Enjoyed time with family after. Helped Dad set up the printer on his new computer.

- Back home. Kiddos napped. I broke away to the grocery store.

- Back home. Folks are hungry again. Dad fixed a quick dinner/snack, while I finish drying and folding and putting away allllll the clothes. And dressing the beds.

- Let the kids watch the 2nd half of "Over the Hedge" AGAIN. While I lay out the clothes for the next day.

- Wha! Wait! Is it almost Monday again!!???

CTI Graduation Dinner

Tonight was the CTI graduation dinner. We had a nice meal, a word from Pastor Ralph Holland, on 8 Sure Ways to Fail in Ministry, and How to Avoid Them, including Poor Time Management, and Lack of Integrity.


After Pastor Holland spoke, we received brief words of wisdom and encouragement from our instructors Michael Boos, Melanie Brondo, Pastor Daniel Erickson, Ken Loomis, Sue Loomis, Charles Rosson, and Prakash Wright, and the CORE Leaders - Alynna Jiminez & Christy Tizo.

After the program we took lots of pictures, met classmates' family and friends, and talked and talked and talked! These folks are truly like family!

My girl's big day!!

This weekend was the big recital we've been working hard for all year! She was so excited and they had a lot of fun!!!

Of course the mommies were more tired and pooped than the girls were but it was all worth it!

www.danceinstituteofdallas.com

Salamanders!

Does anyone have a solution to share with me? I found one under my daughter's crib when I moved it to clean, today and I completely FREAKED OUT!!!

That's me and how freaked out I was

(just being silly by posting this here!!!)

I took IT'S picture when it was all over and placed him below.

I hate creep crawling anythings!

I managed to scurry over to the bathroom in time to grab my Scotch Brite long-handled scrubber, twist the sponge off, find him snuggled against the wall, and whack him with the handle.

That only took care of his tail though! Oh my goodness! Now I've lost him! Maybe he's dead since he has no tail.

Well I want to be sure of that!! So I push the bed all the way back. I'm sweating now and looking all around to be sure he doesn't get away! And I find him coiled up in a ball. But I don't know for sure whether he's dead or not. So I whack him again!

Now, upon his death, he has the same freaked out look that I had! Ha!

Victory!

But I don't want to see them anymore!!! I didn't find much when I searched online other than, "don't kill them" (too late) and one or two other suggestions. I'm looking for someone who knows what works!

Please let me know!! Seriously.

Book Recommendations

Click any of the books below to see more information. They are excellent recommendations on marriage, parenting, homeschooling and more!

Also, click here to see my new online bookstore





Great Homeschool Resource





Great book by Dr. Gary & Barbara Rosberg, of America's Famiily Coaches





Jimmy Evans, one of the best teachers on marriage, ever!





Great Book for women. Questions we're sometimes afraid to ask.



Kevin Leman. Great to hear this kind of teaching from a Christian!

Frustrated with Reading

I was off work today and out of all the things I could do on a day that I have completely to myself, one of the things I chose was the library.

I got a new card for this area, and was informed that there is not a limit for the number of check out items, for new card holders.

It had been so long since I'd been to the library, that I went a little overboard. I got a set of reading books for my kinder girl, a book on How Boys Learn, Montessori from the Start, Reading Can Be Fun, Love and Logic Solutions for Kids with Special Needs, The First Year of Homeschooling Your Child by Linda Dobson, Simeon's Gift by Julie Andrews, How Computers Affect Our Children's Minds - for Better and Worse by Jane M. Healy (Author of Endangered Minds) and an Eyewitness that covers Planets becuase we have taken a break from all other TV/Videos/Movies for a while.

I brought them home, knowing that this would be a rare day that I have so much free time, and I literally tried to read one of them (The Mind of Boys) in its entirety while I ate my Colter's baked potato in the parking lot.

Much to my dismay, I did not finish the book in that setting. I looked up and it was already 2:30PM! I have so much more to do when I get home, and won't have much time at all to read this afternoon.

I wanted to get all those books in, in one day and then some! At least the ones primarily for adult readers. :-)

If I could I would complete all manner of research on the internet that I want to do as well. All before 5PM. But I cannot.

So I became frustrated!!

I'll get in what I can fit in and the rest will be worked in later.

CTI June - There's No Place Like Home

Man, this is a crazy, wonderful time of clarification and direction. I've said before (and have been saying for about a year) that the time we spent in CTI (School of Ministry) has been the best for our marriage.

I am still seeing more and more reasons for why that is true.

Month after month, we've had new challenges, new things happening that stretch us and that bless us as well.

The latest has been regarding the imporatance of building a solid foundation at home, for our children. I see even more clearly, after the past few months, that there is no place like home!

I realize that there are things each of us will be shown and will be convicted of and I never want to push my convictions on anyone else, so if you're reading this, know that it is me sharing what I have learned and how I will apply it -- but at the same time it is important for you to examine the scriptures and see it for what it is.

There is no place like home. What does that really mean? And if I believe that is true, what am I going to do about it? I'll tell you about my quest. You can be a Berean and sort it out as well.

There's no place like worship at home. Worship and Bible Study are important and are necessary. It is important for us to worship corporately and to assemble together with others, but the most imporant worship and modeling should take place at home. This is something Jeoff and I have recommitted to and have developed a very strong passion for, culminating with the completion of CTI. I don't think it's coincidental at all. We are to be equipped to do the work of the ministry and our equipping was done to carry it out here. It was designed to happen this way. Our true passion, our call to ministry is to raise up these soldiers, here, in our house and to model the roles of priest and nurturer before them, so they don't have to search for those answers outside of our walls. Father is called to teach his children the word of God at home and to carry out worship there. That is so much clearer to us now. Those are the qualifications of the Elder. (I Timothy 3). He is able to teach at home. He manages his household. He leads us in worship. This training we have received, will be applied at home first. Before we set off on any other journey, or mission, or meeting. When (and as) it's done right in here; we can be qualified to do so, even better out there. Some of the resources that have solidified that can be found at www.TriviumPursuit.com, specifically the audio on Family Worship.

There's no place like having home on my mind. I am so much more convicted and passionate about focusing my mind on the things of my household. Keeping my home, taking care of my husband and my children well. And not as just a duty or as something to fit in. But making it my first priority! Titus 2 - to love my husband, love my children, and be a worker at home, so that the word of God will not be dishonored. One of the resources that has solidified that, is the Mother's Day message from Dr. Tony Evans on May 13, 2007.

There's no place like teaching at home. I am so much more convicted now, to teach at home. Convicted to bring my children up in the ways of the Lord. To mold their character. To direct them with the rod of discipline. Deuteronomy 6: "You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up." It will be very difficult for me to do that and do it well, if I continue to get up early in the morning and leave my house and come back to my house in the evening with only a few hours to fit all that in. I realize that doesn't read "thou shalt homeschool." But if we are to teach them, I believe we can pray to Him for a plan and for the provision to be their primary teachers. There's more I can say on this, but in making this decision, we also researched how "state school" came about, in our culture and the trends that have come about as a result. It all points us back to, what is the primary responsibility (Biblically) for the parent and for the home. One of the resources I found helpful - www.HeartofWisdom.com.

So, that's where I am right now and where we're headed, and it's so much more clear. I look forward to the rest of the journey!

Make Your Statement

What You Believe about Life & Marriage?

After a friend asked me some questions, specifically realted to some of the intimate issues in marriage, I wrote the proclamations below when to remind me of the standard that I believe God wants me to have. They help me when situations come up in marriage and in life in general.

I encourage you to write something similar for yourself, and if you don't mind, let me know if you did.


Each of the 4 points, a through d (listed below), build on each other so please read all of them to understand how it relates to intimacy in marriage and meeting needs.


The statements in a proclamation solidify who you are - and it's important to have them written somewhere. It's interesting to go back and read it after you've written it. Especially years later. (You may have already done this. If not, considering doing it. If you have maybe it's time to review and update it.)

Feel free to comment on what I wrote, if you want, and share yours with me when you write it!

I will be updating, editing, and improving mine from time to time..............................

___________________________________

This is what I wrote to my friend

Thank you for even thinking to ask me these questions. I need to hear them as much as possible because they challenge me as well, to look at my own relationship and solidify my convictions and motivations.


So before I comment on the questions, let me first say that there are some general principles that I find helpful in marriage and as a Christian which when I really think about it, can be applied to any situation. Here they are, and mind you, I'm not writing this from an attitude of one who always does this. These are proclamations to remind me of the standard that I believe God wants me to have and I have to work hard daily to press toward it; and attain it!! After you read it, and after you read my comments to the questions, I encourage you to write something similar for yourself. And reread it and rewrite it from time to time, to keep it renewed in your heart and in your spirit. They will help you when almost any situation comes up that you find to be difficult in your marriage, and perhaps in your life as a whole.


a. What is my life for?
As a Christian my life is to be modeled after the life of Jesus Christ. What did Jesus do and what does He want us to do? He served others, He drew strength from the Word and from the Father. He forgave and always sought for others to be healed. He stood for righteousness and truth, and did not waver or compromise those things. In doing all these things, his needs were met, He was fulfilled, he was given the honor that he was due (side note: the honor was given to him by those who were walking in line with the kingdom; he didn't receive honor from those who were not walking in line with the kingdom; but his actions didn't change because of that; He did what He did based on his character, not based on anyone else's actions)


b. What principle of giving do I believe in?

I believe that the Lord desires that I am a giver. A giver of my time, my resources, and my affections. When I give: I should not do it, in order to receive something in return. I should not do it in order to receive thanks or praise. I should not do it because I feel it is a duty or obligation. I should give out of love. If I am finding it difficult to do this out of love, I need to pray and read what the Lord says in the Word about giving and ask Him to give me a change of heart. Just like financial giving, giving in any other area should be done freely and not of necessity. And it should also be done cheerfully.


c. Why am I married?
(If you're not married change this to why do I want to be married or whatever fits your situation. If you're not married and you desire to be, it's important to solidify your expectations and commitments to it)


I am married for several reasons. 1) I "fell in love" with the man I believe God prepared for me. 2) I was destined to be with him and serve him for life 3) We were placed together to accomplish things for the Kingdom of God and to raise Godly children. 4) God uses our marriage to make us holy, not to make us happy 5) Now that we, as husband and wife, have children, our marriage is also designed to be a model before our children, to raise them up in the way of the Lord and to become mature Christians, themselves, to assist them in finding their calling, following their passions, and building strong families in their own right.



d. What is my commitment in my marriage?
(If you're not married change this to what will be my commitment in marriage or whatever fits your situation; or completely omit this section and add a different one which expresses the importance of your role in life, as a Christian)


I am committed to my marriage. That means I am committed to the vow that I have made to the Lord in this Covenant called marriage. That vow to the Lord, includes my vow to my husband to honor and respect him. I honor both the Lord and my husband by fulfilling what the Lord has written in his word about my role as a wife and as a mother. If anything, even a job, is getting in the way of me fulfilling those roles, I need to seek the Lord about ways to remove that which is in the way. If your job outside of the home is in the way, does it need to be removed? For me, that is the case. (More on that, if you're interested in hearing about it).


When I made the covenant of marriage, I became one in the Spirit with God and my husband. Not just with my husband. I understand the God is the only part of the oneness who is perfect. I still got some flesh in me. And my husband still has some flesh in him. The Lord is perfect and he is not wanting, he has no lack. My husband and I are not perfect. We do have lack, we have needs we have to have each other to make up for our imperfections in character (by praying for each another, holding each other accountable, supporting each other, encouraging each other, etc.). We also have to meet the needs that we are designed to meet, for each other - sex, affection, conversation, recreation, financial support, domestic support, etc.


Regardless of where we are lacking, regardless of whatever other stresses and responsibilities that we face in the other areas of our life - whether it's work, children, church, bills, parents, etc - we still have to meet each other's needs.


It's the largest commitment that I will ever make in my life, other than the commitment I made to Jesus Christ, to accept him in my life and walk as his disciple.

CTI - Importance of Family

About this time we are really seeing just how important family is, in carrying out ministry to others. How badly do I want to be used of God to minister to others? How badly do I want to share the gospel of Jesus and the love of God with others who don't know Him?

Really really bad. I want to share with women, mothers, wives, young ladies, older ladies who I can provide an answer or hope to, marriages to-be, homeschool families, those seeking to homeschool, mothers seeking to stay home with their chidren, unreached people groups in far away countries, unbelievers in my neighborhood, youth, and more.

But:

1) I don't wait until I'm in an official position to do that. I do some now, and I think about it at various times throughout my day and night. I (we) am (are) passionate about sharing and ministering to others. And we will continue to do it.

2) I don't want the percentage of outside ministry to outweigh inside ministry. Ministry inside my home. Four things have stood out regarding this. a) I have heard Pastor Hayes mention several times about one prominent Pastor in another country who has a church of hundreds of thousands of people (one of the largest in the world) but his children do not serve the Lord. b) I also heard recently, an author on the radio, who read the following quote from Nelson Mandela. "To be the father of a nation is a great honor, but to be the father of family is a greater joy." - Nelson Mandela, Autobiography of Nelson Mandela. In his autobiography, Nelson Mandela shared that his children believed that, when he was released from prison, they would get their father back. Unfortunately, that did not happen. The majority of his time was still spent in running the affairs of the country and leading the nation. c) a friend recently sent me an article by Audrey Broggi, where she spoke of the importance of women understanding that we should view what we do at home as ministry (rocking, changing diapers, first-aid, discipline, molding, nurturing, hugging, cleaning, teaching them the word of God, how to live in Christ, how to exhibit the fruit of the spirit, etc.), instead of saying that once we get through that stage of motherhood, and lastly d) An audio message from Harvey Bluedorn regarding the importance of Fathers leading worship at home, and the qualification of an Elder which include mangaging his own household.

These all have helped us as we solidy our family foundation!

I talked to some of the students in CORE today and received their feedback on this, the importance of family, as they read the words of the songs they wrote, and thought of someone in their own family that they could minister that message to. I shared with them, our personal story of how we have had to balance our family life with our ministry work through these last two years and how, in this final year, we have been convinced that, while we will minister in the areas of evangelism, marriage, music, and more --- ministry will start at home first.then we can do real ministry. and lastly d) We heard in an audio message from Harvey Bluedorn regarding the importance of Fathers leading worship at home, and the Biblical qualifications of an Elder which include mangaging his own household, by carrying out the duties that God has outlined for Fathers in the home.

These all have helped us as we solidify our family foundation!

I talked to some of the students in CORE today and received their feedback on this, the importance of family, as they read the words of the songs they wrote, and thought of someone in their own family that they could minister that message to. I shared with them, our personal story of how we have had to balance our family life with our ministry work through these last two years and how, in this final year, we have been convinced that, while we will minister in the areas of evangelism, marriage, music, and more --- ministry will start at home first.

Happy Birthday - "Cakes"!!!

Happy Birthday!

Fun in the sand

Hanging out with the fam, at the park. Don't we all love wiggling our toes in the sand!!!???

CTI Expectations Review (April)

Note: Written after one Tuesday evening after Hermeneutics class, reflecting on the past months in CTI and looking forward to this school year coming to a close (honestly, it's been very intense).

One huge point that God reminded me of at this point in the program, is that our expectations should not be on any individual or set of individuals, not Pastor Hayes, not Pastor Erickson, not Andy or Stacy, not any of the teachers, but from the Lord.

He is the reason we're int he program and He is the one who is going to reward us for our efforts, and He is the one who is going to bring out any junk in us that needs to be brought out!

Our expectation should be from Him!

I love my Mama!

I talked to my mom on the phone the other day and it was such a sweet conversation. Over the past couple of years, my conversations with her have changed. We have conversations about deep topics (spiritual and non-spiritual) , sometimes I ask her questions and sometimes she asks me questions. It's really cool, and I cherish those conversations so much.

The other day we talked about the 'notion' of Jeoff and I having more children (or not) and we both shared our perspectives on the possibility. I told her how much I respected and valued her opinion and told her I would take everything to heart.

I won't forget the last three words of advice she gave me.

She said no matter what, if you have more than the three you have now :

• make sure you don't get so overwhelmed that you don't keep your house up


• make sure you keep yourself together especially for your husband, and
  


• make sure you take time for yourself!

I don't ever want to forget that. I could read something like that in a book, a magazine, online, or hear it from a speaker, but it was nothing like hearing it from my very own mommy.

Thank you Ma!!

Been a Long Time

It's been another forver since I've posted.

Eventually I'll get back in here and post some updates about CTI but for now I entered some below with brief tidbits. I also updated where I am on my health quest!

Today I'm starting with hittin' the keyboard about the weekend. It was pretty laid back which is not the usual for us.

Friday night was the ACS Relay for Life. The oldest little mama came with us to the relay. It was fun! Our team raised about $500 this year. We hope to do much more next time!!! It was a good year to learn about how the relay works.

Saturday day we looked at some more houses, and the night, we hungout at home for a bit. Grandma (Jeoff's mom) came to visit. Jeoff & I got out for a bit just to have a little couple time. We went to CompUSA, DSW and Famous Footwear ....shopping ......but it was nice to be out together.

The rest of the weekend was pretty laid back as well. Maybe too laid back because I didn't finish my Hermeneutics homework yet!

CTI March

In March, our class for 2nd Year students was Apologetics II but I am retaking Hermeneutics from last year (since the smallest little mama was born this time last year and I missed it).

I'll talk a little here, when I get another minute to post, about my renewed fire for apologetics and evangelism, although I'm not physically in the class.

Another 21 Days - Interesting perspective

Starting again with healthy eating today. I like starting fresh each month. It keeps me on my toes!

This time it's not just for healthy eating but it's actually a fast the Jeoff & I are doing together.

We're starting with this week - Holy Week. The week leading up to Jesus' crucifixion and ressurection!

It's interesting because when it got tough today, we thought about what it must have been like for Jesus this week in history! Our little suffering with not eating until 6PM, is NOTHING compared to what He suffered this week!!!

CTI February

In February, the class for 2nd Year students was Hearing the Voice of God. It was an incredible class, taught by Charles Rosson.

Mr. Rosson is 79 years old and heads up one of the Prophetic Life Teams at Covenant. His wisdom and experiences were invaluable. In the next to last class session, he brought his team with him and divided us into 4 groups. His team members prayed for us one by one. It was amazing because many of themsaid they were new at prophecy and they were really just allowingthe Lord to speak through them.

Everyone student I spoke to said they received a personal, encouraging, and "on-point" word from the Lord. Regarding either where they are today, where the Lord has brought them, or where He is taking them!

For us the Lord spoke about our current concerns, specific steps, and our future direction.

It was so exciting!

We're supposed to get a CD of the prophecies so we can play it again (as many times as we want) to remind ourselves of what was said.

We are all called to prophesy! Prophecy is declaring the Word of God over our selves, our circumstance, and over others!!!

Sound of the Dishwasher

I'm sitting at home in my family room, typing on the computer. It's 2PM on a Saturday afternoon, and al I hear is the sound of the dishwasher. Such a nice sound!

I never thought I would enjoy the sound so much. It's sorta like the sound you hear in the house when the TV is off all of a sudden. My mom reminded us of that sound one day at her house when all of the grandkids were there, and all of her four daughthers, we were all around the dinner table running our mouths and to add to the noise, the television was blaring in the background. Mama yelled (yes she yelled) "turn that tv off." After someone obeyed her command, she said "now, that feels good." And it really did feel good.

That's the feeling I have today. On that day I totally agreed with her but I didn't understand it the way I do now. I don't think I had any children at all that day but today I have almost as many as her. The contrast between a loud and a quiet home is huge to me now and right now I'm very appreciative of the quiet sound of the dishwasher, scrubbing away all the dirt of today's and yesterday's used dishes.

Another 21 days

Today I am starting again with another twenty-one day push for cleansing/healthy eating.

Last time I got through about 60% of the time period with no compromise and I'll keep trying until I get to a 100% run.

So today I'm starting with my breakfast of eggs and sausage.

Good Start - Update January 25

I haven't sent an update in forever.

Let's basically say that I've learned that if I don't get a good start each morning with an immediate breakfast of something like eggs and sausage, and multivitamins.

I'm doomed for the rest of the day!

Cravings and all kinds of thoughts creep in!!

So here and there I've had some coffee, some pizza, and even a few cokes!!

The 21 days with Covenant Church, ends this Sunday. I hope to do well between now and then start up with another go at it.

I can say that I HAVE lost about 8 pounds through all this! Yipee!

Good Start - Update January 15 - 17

The last three days. Okay, I'm getting behind.

** Monday 1/15 **

I can't remember exactly! But I know I did pretty good this day.

Something like eggs in the morning, salad for lunch, etc, etc.


** Tuesday 1/16 **

The beginning of the day was fine. Had chicken strips for dinner, which is a borderline decision.


** Wednesday 1/17 **

I fell off the wagon for breakfast today because I didn't eat any before I left and we stayed out that morning until almost 11am. So at 10:28 I rolled into Chik-Fil-A! And had coffee with Hazel Nut and some chicken minis!

The rest of the day I did good.

CTI: Holy Highway Outreach Event

The event this past weekend was incredible. Not only was it a chance for Jeoff to minister through music and for me to sing with him and the other participants, but it was an incredible move of God.

The ladies there at the facility were so touched by the princess makeovers they received and the messages from Pastors Derozette and Cyd, and not to mention the one on one ministry they received from all of the ladies who travelled to Pickton from Covenant Church.

It was an experience I'll never forget, and hopefully one the girls won't forget either.

Good Start - Update January 14

Eating today:

Protein shake
Caesar salad
Apple

Omega 3s
Multivitamin

Good Start - Update January 13

Eating today:

Protein shake
Two slices of pizza
Chips and queso
South Beach snack bar

(Not so healthy today!!)

Good Start - Update January 12

Eating today:

South Beach Snack bars (I brought those with me out of town, since I wasn't able to do my normal routine)

Chicken Strips
Protein shake
Orange

Omega 3s
Multivitamin

Good Start Update - January 11

Eating today:

Protein shake, caesar salad

Omega 3s, Vitamin supplements

(I know I should have eaten more today)

Rosberg Marriage Resources

Click here to see som of Gary and Barb Rosberg's resources on communication and conflict resolution

Good Start Part 5

Today's eating:

Breakfast - Eggs, sausage

Lunch - Protein shake

Dinner - Chicken strips and caesar salad

Snacks - Apple, Peanuts

Good Start - Part 4

Today was a pretty good eating day.

I started with breakfast (albeit late) including eggs and sausage, with a portion of an apple.

For lunch I had a caesar salad with croutons and cheese.

With peanuts as snacks in between.

For dinner I had a protein shake.

Throughout the day I had multivitamins and Omega-3 supplement.

CTI January

At some point I'm going to have to compile all of the notes I've taken over the course of CTI this past year and half but here's an update for January 2007.

This weekend we will be going to an outrech event for Holy Highway Home for Girls. Jeoff will be playing and I will be singing along with some really great ladies who sing a lot more often than I do! I count it a priveledege and it'll be a great experience.

I'm especially excited that Jeoff has met some great new musician friends who love the Lord and love their craft.

This home we are going to is for girls who have gone through difficult times in their lives and had to be sent there for rehabilitation. The theme of the weekend is "A Night with the King". We are praying that these girls truly have an encounter with the king that weekend and that his impact brings about a change in their lives that will last forever.

In January we are beginning a 3 week class, entitled Biblical Leadership.

And we will also be working with the CORE students on the original songs they have written. During this first month of the semester we will begin developing the musi for their songs and move forward toward production!

Good Start Part 3 (Eating Update)

For the past 4-5 days, I have been having eggs and sausage for breakfast, salad with croutons for lunch and a protein shake for dinner. With peanuts to snack on here and there. I've also had a multivitamin to supplement.

On Friday Jeoff bought some of the To Your Health and I've had 1 oz of that each day since then. I'm not sure how long I'll continue that because I don't want to be dependent on it.

I will also change up my choices of foods at some point but for now I'll stick with this because it has gotten me going and has helped me get the coffee and sodas out of my diet.

More updates later.

Good Start Part 2

The new series that my pastor started for the month of January is very much on point with my cleanse/health plan.

He gave a challenge for us to eliminate something from our diet for the next 21 days. And suggested that it be something like sugars or carbs.

That was very exciting to hear.

I know there's a lot of talk about new year's resolutions and fun made of them, but I will definitely take advantage of the momentum that a new year's brings.

Also, since it's something that the entire church is encouraged to do, it's great for accountability.

Thank you for visiting!

Everything here is not about the same topic. There are updates on CTI, healthy eating, thoughts and struggles, and wonderful things about kiddos and life in general.

If you see a post that doesn't look interesting, keep reading, you might find me off on another tangent talking about something else.......

It's the things the Lord brings to mind to keep me going!!!

The things I thank Him for!

So I Blog for Life!

In the grip of Grace,

Leslie
www.myspace.com/jeoffsrib

p.s. Leave me a comment and let me know you stopped by!!

CTI December

In December, we finished up our Public Speaking class and I had to make up the Church History class since I missed it during maternity leave during my first year.

Public Speaking was one of the most fun classes I've taken yet.

We were given the opportunity to share a 3-5 minute testimony during the last class. I'm going to copy and paste mine here soon.

It was a great time to learn things about our classmates that most of us knew nothing of!

Good Start

I'm excited, yet again! This time it's because I now have the momentum I've been praying for to get back started on the candida cleanse I tried to start back in October of last year.

Since December 28th. I've been faithful to the plan of having no sweets and very little carbs. The toughest part has been omitting my usual cofee with plenty of hazelnut creamer, sodas, and any kind of breads like Schlotzky's sandwiches, burgers, mexican food, etc.

My Myspace Page

After all these years I've heard about Myspace, I never went there until a few weeks ago. So of course I created a page. Much like the other pages I've created with pictures and stuff, this is a great tool to share memories with friends.

It's also a great witnessing tool and a place where many ministries and Christian artists share the love of Christ.

Here's the link to mine

www.myspace.com/jeoffsrib

The Montgomery Girls A Few Years Ago

CTI Update: Since Life Team Transition

Shortly after we moved from the Young Marriage Senior Life Team leadership role, our baby girl was born. We knew that even in the naming of our daughter, some things were about to change in our marriage and our future. The Lord had spoken to me at the beginning of the year, that I needed to step back in trying to figure out names for our daughter and that instead, Jeoff would name this child. He said this would be a turning point in our relationship and it would represent a new season of leadership in his life. Shortly after her birth, we finished up year one of CTI and spent the summer resting some (from classes) and preparing for the internship year. That was a long process.

We initially thought we would intern in separate departments, Jeoff in Worship-Arts-Media or Education, and me in Children's Ministry, AHA or Education, but after meeting a few times with Andy Yonas, Director of CTI, we made the decision to intern together, with CORE Music. It was a little rocky getting to that decision because there were so many areas that we were interested in and felt would be good places to serve, but ultimately we made the internship decision based largely on the fact that music is deeply ground in both our hearts, and is a very large part of our passion. CORE Music was not something that had ever entered into our minds but was actually presented to Jeoff from Andy, as an opportunity to tailor the internship specifically to what his interests are. How cool is that?!

Since we made that decision, the Lord has opened up so many doors of opportunity, not positionally but just doors that have enabled us to serve and create together; and through this it has allowed Him to show us how closely he desires us to work together as a couple. For this season it's in the area of the arts.

Someone made the statement which has become a common saying that goes - "If mama ain't happy, ain't no body happy." I don't disagree with that statement but there is another side to it. While mama's happiness, contentment, and security is directly related to the atmosphere in the home, Daddy's purpose, fulfillment, and success is directly related to the couple's overall obedience to God's will and the effectiveness and legacy of the family. Jeoff said the other night that sometimes it's takes more faith to sit back and let things happen than it takes to "do something." That was mostly for me. There are times, of course, when it's appropriate to go out aggressively after something but in this season, as I've shared before, the biggest lesson I'm learning is to let the Lord move through my husband. There are things that I'm seeing in him regarding his passions, that I have never seen. The last two years of marriage have probably been the toughest, but they have absolutely been the BEST! Making the decision earlier this year to follow my husband's heart and trust what the Lord is doing through him was one of the best decisions I have ever made. and I know without a doubt that it is making lasting impressions on our effectiveness, unity and legacy.

We can't thank the Lord enough!

As mentioned earlier, our baby girl was named by Daddy. Her name Jadyn Ja'el, means "God has heard our prayer to ascend." That's what we believe. He has heard our prayer to ascend. It took courage to lose our fears and to embrace his call. But because we took this step of faith we are able to see things spiritually we were never even aware of.

Really, What ARE the Best of Times?

What ARE The Best of Times?

There are many times throught out life, marriage, career and ministry where one believes they are in the best of time. There are other times that an individual is striving for that time in their life, marriage, career, ministry or other.

I took some time to step back and look at these aspects of my life recently and I can truly say that I am in the best of times!

Not because everything is perfect. Not because I am in that place I want to be ultimately. Not because I have become the perfect wife, mother, or Christian. And not because I have achieved a certain position in ministry.

Well why do you say dat you're in de Best of Times?

Here are the reasons:

1. Stretching

It's a time of being stretched. Being in a place of commitment that is a little beyond what I think I can accomplish is actually a good place. When I'm in a place where I am choosing to do things that I have confidence in myself to complete, I don't think that's actually enough. There's n number of things I can do in my own strength but there's 10 times n that I can do in His strength. During this season in my life there are some choices I've had to make and some responsibilities that I have accepted that are stretching me beyond my natural capabilities.

That's a really good place to be! It will not be pretty, but it will force me to depend on the Holy Spirit and not myself.

2. Growing

It's a time of growth. First, as it pertains to my knowledge of the Lord and the Word; and secondly as it pertains to my knowledge and understanding of covenant marriage.

After a season four and a half years ago, where there was an abundance of time available to spend reading and studying the Bible individually, in corporate settings, or in small groups, I came to the season I am now in, where many more home demands are required. During this season it is actually an aspect of my growth as an individual to seek out ways to continue a form of study that can be accomplished even in this busy-working-mothering season. I'm learning more of the value of accountability and appreciate the courses that I am taking through CTI (School of Ministry) to provide this for me.

In marriage, because we have gone through and are still somewhat going through, a period of tremendous transition, there are countless opportunities for growth. I heard someone say that marriage is not designed to make us happy, but is designed to make us holy. So because of that refining process, it would not be wise of me to trip out when circumstances present themselves that are not pleasing me. What should I do? Line that emotion up with the Word and how it applies specifically to that which I am feeling. It's hardly related to what my husband has done or the amount of stress that this situation has placed upon me that I think is about to make me break. It's all about what the Lord wants me to do at that moment with that emotion I am feeling. What's my output going to be from that? Is it going to be a good fruit ..... of the Spirit......or a stinky, rotten spoiled fruit that's only going to make me sick?

That's the type of growing that's going on in me right now. But why you gotta be all deep? It's either deep or shallow and flaky. But I have to choose. And I hope more and more often I will choose the deep.

It's been one of the most challenging seasons for both of us but this 7th year has been absolutely the best year! Because of this type of growh and stretching. Making U-Turns and Knowing Who We're Truly Dealing With. Not the ugly that sometimes rises up when attacks ensue, but knowing the heart of who we married, and what (and Who) is at the heart of the Covenant we've made.

3. Faith Fueling

This has been a faith fueling time. Mostly because of what we see around us. It's exciting and faith fueling to see what is being done in the lives of others around us that we know and love, and the body of believers we love and serve. So many things have been prophesied over Covenant Church, the family we are sown into. From multiplication, to elevation, to territory enlargement! There are individual things we see in those we know which would be too many to name. That fuels my faith! Not to mention the step by step revelations the Father has made to us, each time we step out on something that doesn't make a lot of sense at the onset.

So I'm just ready! Ready to step out more. Ready to see more that's being done in others. Beyond what can be done to bless me and my household, I'm excited to see what will be done in those around me as well!

I need to ask myself from time to time, before I begin to label the "time" I am in.   Questions to ask myself: a.Are you comfortable in what you're doing with your gifts and talents, it may be time to stretch myself.  b. Are you stagnant in your growth, it may be a time to readjust some things so I can get in a place to learn more.  And know that that may also invlove some difficult journeys.  c. Are you discouraged or doubtful about your future, I may need to look around and see some of the things the Lord is doing around me and let that fuel my own faith for what He'll do in and through me!

The Best of Times. Is it all it's cracked up to be? It's that and it's more! It may take some going "toe to toe" but after the big dance there is a graceful bow. Not in our own honor. But in honor of the one Who is making it all happen!

 

O Lord My Strength and My Redeemer

The words from Psalm 19:14 are most often heard as someone recites it as a prayer. And often times as a prayer before speaking or preaching.

"Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. "

But the other day I began to reflect on it for my own personal encouragement.

The Lord brought it to my attention again tonight. As I prepare to turn in from another long day. This word from God's word provided just what I needed.

There again was a Thought Exchange (see previous post entitled His Thoughts are Not My Thoughts).

I gave to him my frustrations of the day........what could have been complaints (if I had dwelled on them) about what I did wrong or what I did not get around to accomplishing.

I exchanged that for thoughts of praise to my God, my King. For my life, my limbs, my sanity, my family, and my purpose (which is really His purpose). Just to name a few.

His Strength is made perfect in my weakness

My Redeemer Lives

".....Oh Lord my strength and my redeemer."

With those thoughts, I can go to bed in peace and I can be more effective for him....

8/2/06

The Last Rubber Band

It's 11:58PM and on the table, there lies the scattered group of rubber bands I just removed from Moriah's hair.  I am noting this because from here on out (as long as I can stand to do otherwise) I plan to place no more rubber bands in Moriah's hair. 

 

I read information all the time about the damage that rubberbands to the hair but had not seriously looked into alternatives (other than the cloth ponytail holders I use from time to time) until tonight, after I had picked them up from a babysitter and saw Ja'el's hair in twists.  It was so cute,  and I didin't mind that the sitter did it.

 

So I looked into this option for Moriah after sitting down at the end of a  long day and researching online.

 

Speaking  of the day it was a great one!

 

The first 'outing' of the day for me was CTI Worship.   Second year school of ministry students, CORE students, and any first year and school of business who want to join - participate once a month in a worship seminar held by the Intercessory Prayer Ministry. 

 

Today, Pastor Tim led us in worship, taught a lesson on worship, then continued with more worship. 

 

Among many things, we learned about the parallel between the Outer Court, Inner Court, and The Holy of Holies, with Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs (Ephesians 5:19, Colosians 3:16).   Very powerful word.

 

We were taught that when we sing psalms we are at an experiential level, in the soulish realm, the Outer Court, talking about what God has done for us, what He is doing, and so on (Can't Nobody Do Me Like Jesus, What Do You Know About Jesus?  He's Alright).  Often times if we're not careful, we're more into the groove, the beat, etc.  Not always, but often. There's nothing wrong with psalms, but the Lord desires that we go further.

 

When we sing hymns we're delcaring the doctrines of God, we move to the Inner Court, we're speaking of His nature (You Are The King of Kings, You Are the Almighty Creator, Our God is an Awesome God).  Often times, but not always, we're affected by the feel-good-ness of the song, and that in itself is not bad. 

 

Oh, but when spiritual songs are written, and when we sing spiritual songs.  We have taken the next step into the Holy of Holies.  The veil is removed, and we are naked before the Lord with all of our issues, hangups, we're transparent before him and we begin to allow him to move in our hearts.  But in order to go there we have to go beyond the veil that's blocking us from being totally free to become intimate with him.

 

Worship is not just what we sing, it's what we do.  It's what we were created to do.  It's not only about music.  It's also how God reaches out to fellowship with us - unlike no other religion!  We no longer need a priest to go to the Father for us, we have full access becasue of the work that Jesus did on the cross.  Hallelujah!

 

The rest of the morning and afternoon was spent hanging out with the kids, cleaning up, administrating nap times, visiting with Julie about life and Internship with CTI/CORE Music and Worship, visiting with Jatoya,  getting dance clothes for Moriah from the outlet dance wear store, and returning home for wind-down, bathing, and prayer with the kiddos before they turned in.

 

Long after Moriah was fast asleep, I went back to her room, brought her to the family room couch, and began to remove the tight rubber bands from her hair, much like the areas that block us from beig free and open for intimate fellowhip with the Father!

 

I pray her hair will be much more free to breath and grow now! As we are when we remove the barriers that are blocking us from this freedom.

 

When was the last time you removed one of those tight rubber bands?

 

(p.s. I plan to follow the online instructions in the morning, for putting her hair in twists.  We'll see how it goes.  If I really like how it turns out I'll post a pik.  If I'm not too thrilled, I'll hold off on the picture until I take her to a pro!)


Update 10/21: I have a picture to post but I cannot figure out how to get one on here again!!!


In the meantime here's a link to it Moriah Twist Pik

 

 

The last rubber band was removed from Moriah's hair at approximately 11:40pm.

 

 

 

 

New Life Part II

Had a mini-slumber party tonight with Kourtnei, Moriah and Monte. K came over while her parents were at Imari's football game. They BEAT Hebron High (last year's 4A State Champions), 42-6!! Go Longhorns. They are now 2-0 for the season.

We had homemade burgers and watched Leap Frog's - The Storybook Factory.

They finally went to sleep after bath time, Moriah fussing about wanting to sleep in the middle and reminding me that I needed to give her a kiss-hug-and-love before she could go to sleep.

Now getting ready to turn in for the night.....

But before I do, here's another tidbit from New Life Live, that I've been wanting to write for the past two weeks (See post entitled "New Life" for background on this):

The last time I tuned in, the hosts were sharing with a caller about relationships, dealing with flaws in ourselves and our mates, etc.

One thing that stuck with me was when they told this lady who was dealing with some severe issues with her husband - that when dealing with those types of things it's never about the behavior itself. Whether it's an affair, gambling, a sexual addition, anger, physical abuse, you name it. The question one must ask is, "what is the underlying condition that is causing the person (or you) to exhibit this behavior?" The behavior is just a manifestation of the person not being healthy.

If we're Christians, our spirit man is perfect and righteous. When we are married, we become one in the spirit with our spouse. We are joined with the Father. After a period of time being married, we most often begin, or continue, to see more of the flaws and sins of our mates. When there is sin or hurt that has not been dealt with, we become more and more unhealthy, more and more broken. If it is not dealt with, this sickness can manifest itself through the behaviors mentioned above - emotional or physical affairs, addictions, physical abuse, excessive spending, prolonged unforgiveness or bitterness, and others.

The counselors on the show encouraged those who find themselve in these situations to find out through prayer and/or counseling, what the root of these behaviors are.

We must also remember that this behavior does not represent the true identity of the individual. If the person is in Christ, we can be assured that he/she can be renewed by the Spirit of God, back to our God-ordained state of righteousness. If it is us, we must know that we can be renewed by the power of the Holy Spirit! When Father God looks as us, He sees purity, because Jesus Christ is our mediator.

When we enounter these situations, we can have confidence in, and speak over our lives and the situation, the words of Ephesians 6:

"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints"

Chapel at 7:30AM tomorrow! Can we make it????

Why am I awake?

Because I told Moriah that I would lay down in her room with her for a while.....until she went to sleep. The sleep got pretty good I guess, because I 'just now' woke up!

We had a pretty good day today.

I actually took about a two hour nap!! What?

Hallelujah!

Shampooed Moriah's hair and gave her a hot oil treatment.

Shampooed lots of clothes. :-)

Watched Madagascar,.....again.

"I like to move it move it!"