Confidence

Psalm 57:7 in the Amplified Bible says, "My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is steadfast and confident! I will sing and make melody."

Joyce Meyer comments about this verse in her devotional about confidence in her book, The Everyday Bible. I have discovered that staying confident at all times is vital to a successful ministry and to an overcoming life. The mind is a battlefield, and the devil lies to us by putting wrong thoughts in our minds. He is constantly trying to steal our confidence. We can be confident by faith because our confidence should be in Christ, not in ourselves. No matter how I feel, I still believe that I can do whatever I need to do through Christ who strengthens me.

We, as mothers especially, need energy and confidence because we are teachers to our children and companions to our husbands. We can all make lists of our weaknesses, but we must choose to focus on the strengths of our Lord Jesus Christ and His power through us to accomplish His will. And go about our day with an attitude of worship.

Celebrity Ministry

The breaking news of Michael Jackson's death hits hard for most people because it is so unexpected. Of course, we're all hoping he's moon walking in heaven. However, it makes me think about all the other celebrities who are suffering from sickness, loneliness, and/or depression, like John and Kate plus Eight who are going through a difficult divorce.

The world of fame shelters celebrities from a supportive community. They are surrounded by paparazzi who are quick to point out flaws & star struck fans who put them on pedestals and view them as perfect.

As we pray for our husbands and children, our unsaved loved ones and those suffering overseas, let's also pray for our fellow celebrities who are often overlooked.

And the prayer of faith shall save the sick [those in need],
and the Lord shall raise him up . . .

James 5:15a

Dear Baby...

I have kept a journal for my girls (one each) since I was pregnant with them. It has been neat writing to them while they were still growing inside me... I decided to journal through their first year, documenting all my thoughts, prayers, and even fears about their lives and how they have changed mine. I plan on giving them the journal as gifts when they are teenagers... when it's challenging to understand how much your parents love and care about you..

Journaling is fun because there is no structure and you can write whenever you can (which is great for us moms). You can also:

-write about how you felt when you first heard their heartbeat
-note all the things they liked (or disliked) as a baby
-document your child's milestones
-jot down answered prayers
-paste pictures
... it's all up to you!

It's never too late to journal to your little ones. As you know, our kids grow so fast, and we forget the sweetest moments too easily... So grab a journal and whenever you think "I want to share this moment/story with my kids when they are older"... write it down!

A Thing of Beauty...

My daughter loves Mary Poppins... In fact, we were just watching the movie this morning (while she is recovering from a yucky stomach bug) and I heard this quote...

"A thing of beauty is a joy forever."
-Mary Poppins

This quote reminded me of how important for us Mamas to be constantly exposed to and surrounded by "things of beauty" or things that inspires us, lifts us up and brings us a lot of JOY. For me, examining beautiful artwork often slows down time, relaxes me and takes me to a place where I don't have to think about what chore to do next, what meal to prepare, etc. Whether it's photography, nature, sewing, baking, singing.... whatever your favorite hobbies or things may be... Surround yourself with beauty and share them with your little ones too!

Promises and Prayer for Children

I will teach your children and make them successful.
Isaiah 54:13 (CEV)

Worship only Me, the Lord your God. I will bless you with plenty of food and water and keep you strong. Women will give birth to healthy children and everyone will live a long life.
Exodus 23:25-26

...we always pray that God will show you everything he wants you to do and that you may have all the wisdom and understanding that his Spirit gives. Then you will live a life that honors the Lord, and you will always please him by doing good deeds. You will come to know God even better. His glorious power will make you patient and strong enough to endure anything, and you will be truly happy.
Colossians 1:9b-11

Emphasize the Fun in Reading Books

There is a subtle gem in sitting still and reading books. Not every child immediately wants to pick up a book and read. Some need a little encouragement.

Read books with fun topics of interest–giraffes, airplanes, bulldozers, ice creams . . .
Read books that encourage your child to participate through tactile experience with flaps and textures or visually associating pictures with words, for example the Learn To Read Series by Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing.

Read books at a consistent time each day so that you child will expect and look forward to story time.
Mom should read books as well. Be an example to your child. He or she will copy you, just like your other actions -talking on the phone or cooking with pots and pans. You’ll be surprised that over time your child may find a book and join you!

Toy Swap

One of the BEST ways to save money is to do a "toy swap" with family members, friends and/or neighbors you trust.

My girlfriend and I have been swapping toys about every other month since the beginning of this year and it has been a lot of fun! Our kiddos love it whenever we bring home "new" toys.. and we don't feel bad or guilty at all if they get tired of them after a few days (some times after a few minutes!). It has also been a great way for me to figure out what toys I can/should invest $ in.

You can also save a TON of money by swapping clothes! These are all things our kids grow out of and tired of SO QUICKLY! So save money by SWAPPING!