Sunday, October 24, 2010

"Do It Afraid"

"Do it afraid."
-Joyce Meyer

I love this quote.
I love it because I am often afraid.
I love it because it encourages me to move forward and to conquer my fears.
I love it because the woman who shared this quote is a Titus 2 woman.
This woman understands that we (moms) are often afraid to say "yes" to new opportunities.
She knows that we are afraid of many things..
of feeling rejected..
of being judged...
of failing..
losing..
and hurting...

but God's word says to "trust in the Lord, and do not be afraid" (Psalm 56:4)
because He has "plans that are good and not evil" (Jeremiah 29:11)...

So..
whatever it is that you are afraid of doing.. even though you know you have to..
"do it afraid"
because God will be with you.. and He will bless you.


A Child's Prayer for Morning

Now, before I run to play,
Let me not forget to pray
To God who kept me through the night
And walked me with the morning light.
Help me, Lord, to love thee more
Than I ever loved before,
In my work and in my play
Be though with me through the day,
Amen,
--Author Unknown

Friday, October 22, 2010

God Loves Us!

The Lord will never be boring or predictable in His loving pursuit of us. He is creative, and willing to meet each of us where we need to be met, in whatever circumstances we find ourselves. He will speak to us in ways that will surprise, delight and cause us to realize how much we need Him.

So be listening, watching and anticipating. The Lord is on the move.

-Pastor Ray Bentley

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Proverbs for Parenting

Proverbs for Parenting

Proverbs 2:1 ~ "My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you"

Thought:
"If I am to be a wise parent; I accept the Word of God as truth and I memorize it, so that it is in me, becomes part of who I am, transforms my thinking and gives me a godly perspective of everything. Storing God's Word within me does not happen over night, I need to become intentional, I need to do my part, while I am trusting Him, to do His part."

Challenge:
"Choose a verse each week, starting today! Memorize it with my child, so that it is within me and within them."

Prayer:
"Lord, help me to store up your commands, help my mind to retain your Word, keep me disciplined and accountable."

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Toys

Two highly recommended educational toys that have won multi-awards are Magna-Tiles and Wedgits. They encourage critical thinking and concentration. Magna-Tiles come in clear or standard colors and are fun for ages 3 and up. To find a store nearest you, go to the Magna-Tiles website by Valtech, and click on Store Locator.


There are Wee Wedgits for 1-3 year olds, Wedgits for 2-10 year olds, and Mini Wedget Building Blocks for 5-12 year olds. Cards are included with colorful configurations that will challenge your child. My son doesn't get tired of spending half an hour on them daily because there are so many fun designs for him to create. They're colorful and rewarding. Find it at Toys "R" Us, Amazon.com, or on the Wedgits website.

Tone It Up!


When people talk about working out, I laugh and think to myself, when would I ever have the time or energy to workout?! If I have any spare time, I would like to rest. Working out is not appealing to me at all. But then I read that women lose muscle mass every year, especially after having children. So I considered some sort of exercise. I've been hearing a lot of good things about this workout video by Jillian Michaels called the 30 Day Shred. I had a friend try it with me, and I was surprised how totally doable it was! There are 3 levels --(I'm still on level 1!) Jillian Michaels begins with warm ups, then cardio, muscle toning and strength. Not bad in 20 minutes. It didn't feel rushed or over the top. Afterwards, I felt light, energized and optimistic. If you'd like to check it out, Target carries the DVD in the sporting goods section for $9.00.

Friday, October 8, 2010

WORDS...

What are some things you remember your mom say when you were growing up? Did she say things like "I love you" or "You can do it!" that made you feel loved? Or did she often say things that discouraged you or made you feel guilty?

We need to be mindful of the words we use when we are speaking to our children AND when we are around them...because words can either hurt or lift them up. I hope and pray that my words would encourage my children.. that they would feel loved whether I am discipling, teaching, or cheering.. Lord, help me to select my words wisely and carefully.