Check out our church website and tell us what you think!
www.newlifechurchok.com
Our series on "Have a New Kid By Friday" by Dr. Kevin Leman is going well. The first session focused on what we, as parents/grandparents/teachers/friends, need to do in order to provide the right environment for our kids to flourish. The second session began to focus more on the kids themselves. It also asked us to compare how we were parented with how we parent our own children/grandchildren. Have we taken the best and laid aside the worst? Are we "there" for our kids when they need us? Are we paying attention to subtle changes in their attitudes and behavior? Plenty of good food for thought there! The workbooks are $7 and the complete book by Dr. Leman is being sold for $12, courtesy of Cowboy Junction!
Also, if you missed our annual 4th of July Fish Fry, you missed another great meal prepared by the men and women of New Life! In The Home Experience, we learn about the spiritual and emotional power of breaking bread together at the family meal table -- and our Fish Fry definitely brings people in and makes them want to linger for the good food and great fellowship. We'd love for you to be a part of the family!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Final Reminder for our HawaiianLuau!
Aloha Ladies,
It is time for our Hawaiian Luau and Smart Choice #6, Choose to Make a Difference. We want you to be there! It just wouldn’t be as much fun without you.
We are serving a Hawaiian Haystack Dinner, Mandarin Orange Cake and Tropical Drinks.
I have the most amazing door prizes! (Like the hot pink polka dot apron I was wearing Sunday at the Fish Fry)
Sammy Prince has some fun and games that are sure to make us laugh!
Dr. Lee Hilliard from the Crisis Center will be sharing briefly about what is available for abused women in NE OK and how we can help.
Please let either me or your team leader know right away if you can be there and who your guests are! We want to set a place for you at the table because you are important to us.
See you Sunday night at 5 pm! Wear your grass skirt if you have one or just fun summer clothes and flip flops! Mahalo nui loa!
Blessings,
Shannon
“The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17
It is time for our Hawaiian Luau and Smart Choice #6, Choose to Make a Difference. We want you to be there! It just wouldn’t be as much fun without you.
We are serving a Hawaiian Haystack Dinner, Mandarin Orange Cake and Tropical Drinks.
I have the most amazing door prizes! (Like the hot pink polka dot apron I was wearing Sunday at the Fish Fry)
Sammy Prince has some fun and games that are sure to make us laugh!
Dr. Lee Hilliard from the Crisis Center will be sharing briefly about what is available for abused women in NE OK and how we can help.
Please let either me or your team leader know right away if you can be there and who your guests are! We want to set a place for you at the table because you are important to us.
See you Sunday night at 5 pm! Wear your grass skirt if you have one or just fun summer clothes and flip flops! Mahalo nui loa!
Blessings,
Shannon
“The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Mandarin Orange Cake
Hi girls,Here is the Mandarin Orange cake recipe....I usually make it in a 9 x 13 pan instead of 3 layers and it works just fine. This is what we'll serve at the Luau!
Mandarin Orange Cake
INGREDIENTS:
1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
1 (11 ounce) can mandarin oranges, juice reserved
4 eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 (16 ounce) package frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 (15 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 (3.5 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
DIRECTIONS:
Mix together cake mix, canned oranges with juice, eggs, and oil.
Pour batter into three greased and floured 8 inch round pans.
Layers will be thin. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until cake tests done.
Cool layers on wire racks.
Mix together whipped topping, drained pineapple, and instant pudding mix. Fill and frost the cooled cake.
Refrigerate until ready to eat.
Mandarin Orange Cake
INGREDIENTS:
1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
1 (11 ounce) can mandarin oranges, juice reserved
4 eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 (16 ounce) package frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 (15 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
1 (3.5 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
DIRECTIONS:
Mix together cake mix, canned oranges with juice, eggs, and oil.
Pour batter into three greased and floured 8 inch round pans.
Layers will be thin. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until cake tests done.
Cool layers on wire racks.
Mix together whipped topping, drained pineapple, and instant pudding mix. Fill and frost the cooled cake.
Refrigerate until ready to eat.
Choose To Make A Difference!
Aloha! It's time for Luau Night!
Our next W31 ladies meeting is Sunday, July 12 from 5 to 7 pm.
Wear your W31 t-shirts along with other Hawaiian attire.
My message will be "Choose To Make A Difference" and will touch on how powerful and uplifting offering our acts of service to others can be. Jesus said, "When you've done it unto the least of these, you've done it unto Me." In our "Smart Choices" series, we are learning how to become the women of God that He has called us to be. When we give of our time, we are mirroring Jesus. Serving others makes a difference, not only in the lives of those we serve, but also in our own lives!
In addition to my message, we will also have a spokeswoman from the Community Crisis Center will speak to us about ways to help women dealing with abusive situations. Candie McSpadden will share about Grand Lake Community Ministry. These are just two local opportunities that are available that are both simple enough to become a part of, but also will profoundly effect families in our area. It's time to serve, time to share, time to make a difference!
Join us!
Organic Intelligence
Thinking of switching to organics?
Whether you are on a budget and need to prioritize your organic purchases, or you would simply like to know which type of produce has the highest pesticide residues—and which do not—the following guide from the Environmental Working Group will help.
If you just buy organics in these 12, you will eliminate up to 80% of your exposure to pesticides from fruits and vegetables.
12 Most Contaminated
* Peaches
* Apples
* Sweet Bell Peppers
* Celery
* Nectarines
* Strawberries
* Cherries
* Pears
* Grapes (Imported)
* Spinach
* Lettuce
* Potatoes
12 Least Contaminated
* Onions
* Avocado
* Sweet Corn (Frozen)
* Pineapples
* Mango
* Asparagus
* Sweet Peas (Frozen)
* Kiwi Fruit
* Bananas
* Cabbage
* Broccoli
* Papaya
It is recommended that if you are wanting to go organic, meat, dairy and produce are the most important to eat.
Whether you are on a budget and need to prioritize your organic purchases, or you would simply like to know which type of produce has the highest pesticide residues—and which do not—the following guide from the Environmental Working Group will help.
If you just buy organics in these 12, you will eliminate up to 80% of your exposure to pesticides from fruits and vegetables.
12 Most Contaminated
* Peaches
* Apples
* Sweet Bell Peppers
* Celery
* Nectarines
* Strawberries
* Cherries
* Pears
* Grapes (Imported)
* Spinach
* Lettuce
* Potatoes
12 Least Contaminated
* Onions
* Avocado
* Sweet Corn (Frozen)
* Pineapples
* Mango
* Asparagus
* Sweet Peas (Frozen)
* Kiwi Fruit
* Bananas
* Cabbage
* Broccoli
* Papaya
It is recommended that if you are wanting to go organic, meat, dairy and produce are the most important to eat.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Turning -Negative into +Positive
There is no situation so chaotic
that God cannot from that situation,
create something that is surpassingly good.
He did it at the creation.
He did it at the cross.
He is doing it today.
-- Handley C. G. Moule
Monday, June 15, 2009
We Love the 918 Coupon Queen!
If you missed our latest W31 meeting, you missed a GREAT night!
We had a delicious variety of healthy and decadent snacks to enjoy while learning "Choose to Turn -Negative into +Positive". This lesson took portions of previous "Smart Choices" and applied them to situations we face every day. Will we choose to be a victim, an Eeyore, a whiner? or will we stop and pray, seeking God's wisdom in how to get His best for our lives from whatever is thrown our way?
Sarah Roe, the 918 Coupon Queen, is the perfect example of someone who took what the enemy intended for evil and turned it around (using God's Word) to bless not only her own family but thousands of others! Sarah's testimony inspired us all.
Sarah's class included explanations on the definition of peelies, blinkies, catalina, tearpads and much more. She shared how to begin watching the sales rhythms of the stores we shop in order to find the week that would be most beneficial for making purchases. She also shared numerous websites and organizations that help us become more efficient coupon-ers. It was a LOT of information and insight for only $5! She also sold coupon organizers that included $50 worth of coupons, definitely a bargain.
If you have the opportunity, attend one of Sarah's classes. They are also available online at www.918moms.com, just look for the Coupon Queen.
I'll leave you with Sarah's verse of provision:
We had a delicious variety of healthy and decadent snacks to enjoy while learning "Choose to Turn -Negative into +Positive". This lesson took portions of previous "Smart Choices" and applied them to situations we face every day. Will we choose to be a victim, an Eeyore, a whiner? or will we stop and pray, seeking God's wisdom in how to get His best for our lives from whatever is thrown our way?
Sarah Roe, the 918 Coupon Queen, is the perfect example of someone who took what the enemy intended for evil and turned it around (using God's Word) to bless not only her own family but thousands of others! Sarah's testimony inspired us all.
Sarah's class included explanations on the definition of peelies, blinkies, catalina, tearpads and much more. She shared how to begin watching the sales rhythms of the stores we shop in order to find the week that would be most beneficial for making purchases. She also shared numerous websites and organizations that help us become more efficient coupon-ers. It was a LOT of information and insight for only $5! She also sold coupon organizers that included $50 worth of coupons, definitely a bargain.
If you have the opportunity, attend one of Sarah's classes. They are also available online at www.918moms.com, just look for the Coupon Queen.
I'll leave you with Sarah's verse of provision:
You will have plenty to eat until you are full
and you will praise the name of the LORD your God
Who has worked wonders for you.
Joel 2:26
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Needing to trade-in for a new model with fewer quirks?
Then join us on June 17th at 7 p.m. !
We'll be starting the DVD series,
We'll be starting the DVD series,
"Have A New Kid By Friday",
featuring Dr. Kevin Leman.
Have a New Kid by Friday will take parents through a six-lesson parenting "boot camp" with practical ideas and strategies that they will use for the rest of their child's growing years. Through each lesson, Dr. Leman helps parents understand why children behave the way they do, points out mistakes that parents make to encourage bad behavior, and helps parents develop the courage to do what is best for their kids.
Workbooks will be selling for $7.00
Now see, you don't have to trade yours in,
Have a New Kid by Friday will take parents through a six-lesson parenting "boot camp" with practical ideas and strategies that they will use for the rest of their child's growing years. Through each lesson, Dr. Leman helps parents understand why children behave the way they do, points out mistakes that parents make to encourage bad behavior, and helps parents develop the courage to do what is best for their kids.
Workbooks will be selling for $7.00
Now see, you don't have to trade yours in,
Monday, June 8, 2009
Butter Bar Recipe (Southern Girls' Delight!)
1 yellow cake mix
1 stick of butter
1 egg
1 8oz pkg cream cheese
2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla
1 box (1 lb) of confectioners sugar
Mix together butter, 1 egg, and cake mix. Pat into the bottom of a 9x13 pan. Cream together all other ingredients. Pour over the top of the other mixture in the 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 for 35 minutes.
1 stick of butter
1 egg
1 8oz pkg cream cheese
2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla
1 box (1 lb) of confectioners sugar
Mix together butter, 1 egg, and cake mix. Pat into the bottom of a 9x13 pan. Cream together all other ingredients. Pour over the top of the other mixture in the 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 for 35 minutes.
He Restoreth My Soul....
Laughter
is the hand of God
on the shoulder
of a troubled world.
- Candis Goodwin
Choose To Turn Negative Into Positive!
Choose To Turn -Negative Into +Positive! is this month's lesson for our W31 women's ministry.
We will be meeting at 5 pm at New Life for snacks and our lesson, followed by Sarah Roe, the 918 Coupon Queen. Dress casually, bring your favorite snack, and ask a friend to join you. Sarah's class will cost $5.00 but it is worth every penny!
If you watch the news, read the paper, or listen to talk radio, you've heard enough NEGATIVE to last a lifetime. Join us on Sunday evening, June 14 at 5 pm and let us help you find ways to turn all that negative into positive!
You'll positively LOVE it! ;)
We will be meeting at 5 pm at New Life for snacks and our lesson, followed by Sarah Roe, the 918 Coupon Queen. Dress casually, bring your favorite snack, and ask a friend to join you. Sarah's class will cost $5.00 but it is worth every penny!
If you watch the news, read the paper, or listen to talk radio, you've heard enough NEGATIVE to last a lifetime. Join us on Sunday evening, June 14 at 5 pm and let us help you find ways to turn all that negative into positive!
You'll positively LOVE it! ;)
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
From Shame to Significance
Subscribe to this newsletter here <http://strangmail.com/newslettersignup/>
A Special Word for Women: Ruth's Journey from Shame to Significance <http://charismamag.com/index.php/fire-in-my-bones/22148-a-special-word-for-women-ruths-journey-from-shame-to-significance>
Tuesday, 02 June 2009 09:16 J. Lee Grady Newsletters - Fire In My Bones
If you think your past has disqualified you, take courage from the life of this Gentile widow.
It is truly profound that Ruth's name appears in the royal genealogy of Jesus Christ. The gospel of Matthew tells us: "Boaz was the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse. Jesse was the father of David the king" (Matt.1:5-6 <http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt 1:5-6&version=31&src=tools> , NASB).
In Old Testament times women's names rarely appeared in genealogical records. Women were invisible. They were not valued for their gifts or talents; they simply faded into the background—even though they worked hard, served their husbands and raised children. Women had no voice.
"We have ignored the message of the book of Ruth—and as a result many women have remained spiritually barren."
For that reason alone it is amazing that Ruth's name appears in this biblical list. Yet it is more shocking that a destitute Gentile widow from the land of Moab ended up in the lineage of Christ. If normal cultural rules had been observed, Ruth would have been disqualified. She had too many strikes against her.
First she was a Moabite. These people traced their lineage to the incestuous relationship between Lot and one of his daughters (see Gen. 19:30-38 <http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Gen 19:30-38&version=31&src=tools> ). Ruth was carrying a huge load of family baggage, as well as the shame that is attached to sexual impurity.
Second Moabites had been cut off from the assembly of the Lord because of the way they had treated the nation of Israel during their wilderness journey. Deuteronomy 23:3 <http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy 23:3&version=31&src=tools> says the idolatrous Moabites were alienated from the Lord's presence to the 10th generation. Ruth must have felt a deep sense of rejection.
Third Ruth was not only a widow but was probably considered barren. She had been married to her husband, Mahlon, for several years yet she never had a child. In Old Testament times women were expected to produce heirs immediately after they married, but Ruth remained childless until her husband's untimely death. Widowhood and barrenness placed a doubly depressing stigma on her.
Yet against this sad backdrop the book of Ruth presents a beautiful picture of Christ's redemptive power. When Ruth pledges her loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, she takes a courageous step of faith and chooses to serve the God of Israel. In response to both of these women's faith, God not only provides for them in a miraculous way but also enables them to find a place in His salvation plan. By the end of the story, Ruth marries into a Jewish family and she gives birth to an heir; meanwhile Naomi's tragic emptiness is turned to joy.
What does their story mean to you today? No matter how many strikes are against you, God wants to use you in His awesome plan. If He can do it for Ruth, He can do it for you!
If you want your life to count for God, all you have to do is participate with His grace and follow the same steps Ruth took:
1. Leave your shame behind.
Walk away from your past by trusting fully in the blood of Jesus to forgive and cleanse you. Even if you have experienced abortion, rape, sexual abuse, domestic violence or addiction, you can leave your Moab and move to Bethlehem, the "house of Bread." God has made it possible for you to transfer from darkness to light.
2. Turn away from your idols.
Ruth had to leave Moab even though her sister-in-law, Orpah, chose to stay in that land of idols. Sometimes we have to make hard choices when following God. But you must make a clean break. Don't give in to the temptation to compromise.
3. Get out of your comfort zone.
It was not easy for Ruth to go with Naomi to Bethlehem. It was a foreign land and she had no guarantee of provision. Yet when she took the risk she discovered the amazing goodness of God. Many Christian women today have been living in the same spiritual ruts. You must get out of the pew and take a risk. God has a spiritual adventure for you, but you won't find it if you just sit there. Like Ruth, you will find your destiny in the harvest field.
4. Find a mentor.
God never intended for us to walk through life alone. He provides us with spiritual mothers and fathers as well as friends to encourage and counsel us. Ruth chose to serve the Lord because she saw God's kindness reflected in Naomi. And it was Naomi's counsel that prodded Ruth to go to the threshing floor of Boaz where she found God's ultimate purpose.
As I travel I find so many women full of spiritual potential who feel trapped by depression, disappointment, grief, shame and physical pain. Yet when they look to the church for help they often find that the patriarchal attitudes of the Old Testament are alive and well.
The church has failed when it comes to helping women discover and implement their spiritual gifts. Women's ministry has focused on trivial things like fashion shows and recipes when God desires to train His daughters to win souls, disciple new believers, start and run businesses, fund kingdom enterprises and transform communities. We have ignored the message of the book of Ruth—and as a result many women have remained spiritually barren when it was God's intention that they become dangerous weapons that make the devil tremble.
Women please hear me. Jesus has included you in His plan! Allow Him to reveal to you how much He loves you and how He desires to use you. He wants you to leave a spiritual legacy, just as Ruth did. May you be filled with the same courage, faith and determination that marked her life.
J. Lee Grady is editor of Charisma. He preached this message last Friday at a women's conference at Hatfield Christian Church in Pretoria, South Africa. You can find him on Twitter at LeeGrady <http://twitter.com/LeeGrady> .
A Special Word for Women: Ruth's Journey from Shame to Significance <http://charismamag.com/index.php/fire-in-my-bones/22148-a-special-word-for-women-ruths-journey-from-shame-to-significance>
Tuesday, 02 June 2009 09:16 J. Lee Grady Newsletters - Fire In My Bones
If you think your past has disqualified you, take courage from the life of this Gentile widow.
It is truly profound that Ruth's name appears in the royal genealogy of Jesus Christ. The gospel of Matthew tells us: "Boaz was the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse. Jesse was the father of David the king" (Matt.1:5-6 <http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matt 1:5-6&version=31&src=tools> , NASB).
In Old Testament times women's names rarely appeared in genealogical records. Women were invisible. They were not valued for their gifts or talents; they simply faded into the background—even though they worked hard, served their husbands and raised children. Women had no voice.
"We have ignored the message of the book of Ruth—and as a result many women have remained spiritually barren."
For that reason alone it is amazing that Ruth's name appears in this biblical list. Yet it is more shocking that a destitute Gentile widow from the land of Moab ended up in the lineage of Christ. If normal cultural rules had been observed, Ruth would have been disqualified. She had too many strikes against her.
First she was a Moabite. These people traced their lineage to the incestuous relationship between Lot and one of his daughters (see Gen. 19:30-38 <http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Gen 19:30-38&version=31&src=tools> ). Ruth was carrying a huge load of family baggage, as well as the shame that is attached to sexual impurity.
Second Moabites had been cut off from the assembly of the Lord because of the way they had treated the nation of Israel during their wilderness journey. Deuteronomy 23:3 <http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy 23:3&version=31&src=tools> says the idolatrous Moabites were alienated from the Lord's presence to the 10th generation. Ruth must have felt a deep sense of rejection.
Third Ruth was not only a widow but was probably considered barren. She had been married to her husband, Mahlon, for several years yet she never had a child. In Old Testament times women were expected to produce heirs immediately after they married, but Ruth remained childless until her husband's untimely death. Widowhood and barrenness placed a doubly depressing stigma on her.
Yet against this sad backdrop the book of Ruth presents a beautiful picture of Christ's redemptive power. When Ruth pledges her loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, she takes a courageous step of faith and chooses to serve the God of Israel. In response to both of these women's faith, God not only provides for them in a miraculous way but also enables them to find a place in His salvation plan. By the end of the story, Ruth marries into a Jewish family and she gives birth to an heir; meanwhile Naomi's tragic emptiness is turned to joy.
What does their story mean to you today? No matter how many strikes are against you, God wants to use you in His awesome plan. If He can do it for Ruth, He can do it for you!
If you want your life to count for God, all you have to do is participate with His grace and follow the same steps Ruth took:
1. Leave your shame behind.
Walk away from your past by trusting fully in the blood of Jesus to forgive and cleanse you. Even if you have experienced abortion, rape, sexual abuse, domestic violence or addiction, you can leave your Moab and move to Bethlehem, the "house of Bread." God has made it possible for you to transfer from darkness to light.
2. Turn away from your idols.
Ruth had to leave Moab even though her sister-in-law, Orpah, chose to stay in that land of idols. Sometimes we have to make hard choices when following God. But you must make a clean break. Don't give in to the temptation to compromise.
3. Get out of your comfort zone.
It was not easy for Ruth to go with Naomi to Bethlehem. It was a foreign land and she had no guarantee of provision. Yet when she took the risk she discovered the amazing goodness of God. Many Christian women today have been living in the same spiritual ruts. You must get out of the pew and take a risk. God has a spiritual adventure for you, but you won't find it if you just sit there. Like Ruth, you will find your destiny in the harvest field.
4. Find a mentor.
God never intended for us to walk through life alone. He provides us with spiritual mothers and fathers as well as friends to encourage and counsel us. Ruth chose to serve the Lord because she saw God's kindness reflected in Naomi. And it was Naomi's counsel that prodded Ruth to go to the threshing floor of Boaz where she found God's ultimate purpose.
As I travel I find so many women full of spiritual potential who feel trapped by depression, disappointment, grief, shame and physical pain. Yet when they look to the church for help they often find that the patriarchal attitudes of the Old Testament are alive and well.
The church has failed when it comes to helping women discover and implement their spiritual gifts. Women's ministry has focused on trivial things like fashion shows and recipes when God desires to train His daughters to win souls, disciple new believers, start and run businesses, fund kingdom enterprises and transform communities. We have ignored the message of the book of Ruth—and as a result many women have remained spiritually barren when it was God's intention that they become dangerous weapons that make the devil tremble.
Women please hear me. Jesus has included you in His plan! Allow Him to reveal to you how much He loves you and how He desires to use you. He wants you to leave a spiritual legacy, just as Ruth did. May you be filled with the same courage, faith and determination that marked her life.
J. Lee Grady is editor of Charisma. He preached this message last Friday at a women's conference at Hatfield Christian Church in Pretoria, South Africa. You can find him on Twitter at LeeGrady <http://twitter.com/LeeGrady> .
Monday, June 1, 2009
Praying for your Children
Nancy Campbell of Above Rubies sends out wonderful devotionals. I thought you might especially enjoy this one!
START BEFORE BIRTH
Judges 13:8, 12, "Then Manoah entreated the LORD, and said... teach us what we shall do unto the child that shall be born... How shall we order the child, and how shall we do unto him?"."
This prayer is from the story of Samson, when the angel came to Manoah and his wife to tell them that they would have a son. Manoah's wife was infertile and unable to conceive so this was a great miracle. God also told them that this son was to be dedicated to God as a Nazarite from his birth and that he would rise up to deliver their people from the Philistines who had subdued them for the last forty years.
There are three things I notice about Manoah's prayer:
He entreated the Lord. This was not a formal prayer but an imploring, a beseeching and a desperate plea to know what to do. How we need God's wisdom and anointing as we parent our children. Cry out to God for your children, dear mother. He will hear your cry. When you ask for wisdom, He will give it to you. (James 1:5)
He prayed for the child before he was born.Don't wait until your child is born to start praying. Start praying for your child as soon as you conceive. Bathe your unborn child in prayer. Lay your hands upon your womb and pray over him/her. Read the Scriptures to your unborn child. Seek God for the destiny of this child. This will help you in the naming of your child, too. You don't even have to wait until you conceive to get a vision for children and to pray for your future children. God gave Abraham a vision for children when there was no earthly hope of him having children. God told him to look at the stars in the heavens and try to count them. "So shall your seed be," God told him. And Abraham believed God's inconceivable promise and it was counted to him for righteousness. (Geneses15:3-5) God gave Jacob a vision for children when he was a young unmarried man. He didn't have a girlfriend at that time and wasn't even thinking about marriage. God said to him, "Thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed." (Genesis 28:13-14)
He sought guidance for the order of his life.The margin of the King James Bible and all other translations write the question in verse 12 as, "What will be the boy's rule of life, and his work?" The word rule or order as in the King James Bible is the Hebrew word, mishpat, which is usually translated justice. Justice means the use of authority to uphold what is right. It relates to all functions of government. Justice is a very important part of parenting. As parents, we must seek to know and understand justice. We must have a true knowledge of what is right and wrong in the eyes of the Lord so we can train our children to know justice. We must execute justice in the training of our children or they will not know the true knowledge of God. God's favor was upon Abraham because ordered his household in the ways of justice. God said, "Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do... For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment." (Genesis 18:17-19) Because justice is a primary attribute of God, it is important to him. It is important in the raising of our families.
NANCY CAMPBELL
PRAYER: "Oh God, please teach me how to train my children in your ways. Help me to teach them justice. Help me to raise children who are not "wishy-washy" but strong in their convictions. Amen."
AFFIRMATION: I am seeking to understand justice so I can execute it rightly.
Many women like to save these devotions. They print them out and keep them in a folder to read over and over again. Some print them out and pin them on the fridge with a magnet to read through the week. If you are printing this devotion and need it to be smaller, highlight and change to a smaller font.
If you know others who would be blessed by these devotions, you are welcome to forward them or let them know they can subscribe by sending a blank email to mip://038c8b90/subscribers-on@aboverubies.org <mailto:subscribers-on@aboverubies.org> To unsubscribe from the Above Rubies Devotional, send a blank email to mip://038c8b90/subscribers-off@aboverubies.org <mailto:subscribers-off@aboverubies.org> PO Box 681687, Franklin, TN 37068-1687, U.S.A.
START BEFORE BIRTH
Judges 13:8, 12, "Then Manoah entreated the LORD, and said... teach us what we shall do unto the child that shall be born... How shall we order the child, and how shall we do unto him?"."
This prayer is from the story of Samson, when the angel came to Manoah and his wife to tell them that they would have a son. Manoah's wife was infertile and unable to conceive so this was a great miracle. God also told them that this son was to be dedicated to God as a Nazarite from his birth and that he would rise up to deliver their people from the Philistines who had subdued them for the last forty years.
There are three things I notice about Manoah's prayer:
He entreated the Lord. This was not a formal prayer but an imploring, a beseeching and a desperate plea to know what to do. How we need God's wisdom and anointing as we parent our children. Cry out to God for your children, dear mother. He will hear your cry. When you ask for wisdom, He will give it to you. (James 1:5)
He prayed for the child before he was born.Don't wait until your child is born to start praying. Start praying for your child as soon as you conceive. Bathe your unborn child in prayer. Lay your hands upon your womb and pray over him/her. Read the Scriptures to your unborn child. Seek God for the destiny of this child. This will help you in the naming of your child, too. You don't even have to wait until you conceive to get a vision for children and to pray for your future children. God gave Abraham a vision for children when there was no earthly hope of him having children. God told him to look at the stars in the heavens and try to count them. "So shall your seed be," God told him. And Abraham believed God's inconceivable promise and it was counted to him for righteousness. (Geneses15:3-5) God gave Jacob a vision for children when he was a young unmarried man. He didn't have a girlfriend at that time and wasn't even thinking about marriage. God said to him, "Thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed." (Genesis 28:13-14)
He sought guidance for the order of his life.The margin of the King James Bible and all other translations write the question in verse 12 as, "What will be the boy's rule of life, and his work?" The word rule or order as in the King James Bible is the Hebrew word, mishpat, which is usually translated justice. Justice means the use of authority to uphold what is right. It relates to all functions of government. Justice is a very important part of parenting. As parents, we must seek to know and understand justice. We must have a true knowledge of what is right and wrong in the eyes of the Lord so we can train our children to know justice. We must execute justice in the training of our children or they will not know the true knowledge of God. God's favor was upon Abraham because ordered his household in the ways of justice. God said, "Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do... For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment." (Genesis 18:17-19) Because justice is a primary attribute of God, it is important to him. It is important in the raising of our families.
NANCY CAMPBELL
PRAYER: "Oh God, please teach me how to train my children in your ways. Help me to teach them justice. Help me to raise children who are not "wishy-washy" but strong in their convictions. Amen."
AFFIRMATION: I am seeking to understand justice so I can execute it rightly.
Many women like to save these devotions. They print them out and keep them in a folder to read over and over again. Some print them out and pin them on the fridge with a magnet to read through the week. If you are printing this devotion and need it to be smaller, highlight and change to a smaller font.
If you know others who would be blessed by these devotions, you are welcome to forward them or let them know they can subscribe by sending a blank email to mip://038c8b90/subscribers-on@aboverubies.org <mailto:subscribers-on@aboverubies.org> To unsubscribe from the Above Rubies Devotional, send a blank email to mip://038c8b90/subscribers-off@aboverubies.org <mailto:subscribers-off@aboverubies.org> PO Box 681687, Franklin, TN 37068-1687, U.S.A.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Rewarding your diligence
You will eat the fruit of your labor;
blessings and prosperity will be yours.
Psalm 128:2
Stop & Smell the Roses!
In Devi Titus' book THE HOME EXPERIENCE, she discusses the "Use-What-You-Have Principle." So many times we see advertisements on television or in magazines, encouraging us to spend, spend, spend to buy the newest, the latest, the hottest fad. The message is "You deserve it!" "You're worth it!"
What does God say?
He says you are priceless beyond measure! You are worth more than rubies! But He also reminds us to be wise stewards. Some people think that means we should live totally austere lives, devoid of color, style, or design.
Those people obviously haven't read God's book. :) He is quite the interior decorator and clothing designer! (Check out the book of Exodus and His design for the tabernacle of Moses and how the priests were to be attired. Then go read about Solomon's Temple! "No good thing will He withhold!")
So how do we balance this desire for beauty with being good stewards? Devi shares some great thoughts on that subject!
She reminds us to repent for having an ungrateful heart, for using our possessions only for ourselves and our family. She then urges us to make a list of how to improve what we already have. How can you share what you have with others?
Sometimes having "fresh eyes" helps, too. Perhaps you have a friend who is good at seeing the possibilities in what you already have. It may be a coat of paint, a different way of using the item, the addition of a few plants, slipcover, pillows, or repositioning that will make all the difference. Creativity is our way to mirror God's image!
Look around your house with those fresh eyes today. What do you see that can be used in a new way? Look in your yard -- what is in bloom? Is there something pretty you can put on your table today? Ask God to help you see how to create a Haven of Peace and Beauty in YOUR home TODAY!
What does God say?
He says you are priceless beyond measure! You are worth more than rubies! But He also reminds us to be wise stewards. Some people think that means we should live totally austere lives, devoid of color, style, or design.
Those people obviously haven't read God's book. :) He is quite the interior decorator and clothing designer! (Check out the book of Exodus and His design for the tabernacle of Moses and how the priests were to be attired. Then go read about Solomon's Temple! "No good thing will He withhold!")
So how do we balance this desire for beauty with being good stewards? Devi shares some great thoughts on that subject!
She reminds us to repent for having an ungrateful heart, for using our possessions only for ourselves and our family. She then urges us to make a list of how to improve what we already have. How can you share what you have with others?
Sometimes having "fresh eyes" helps, too. Perhaps you have a friend who is good at seeing the possibilities in what you already have. It may be a coat of paint, a different way of using the item, the addition of a few plants, slipcover, pillows, or repositioning that will make all the difference. Creativity is our way to mirror God's image!
Look around your house with those fresh eyes today. What do you see that can be used in a new way? Look in your yard -- what is in bloom? Is there something pretty you can put on your table today? Ask God to help you see how to create a Haven of Peace and Beauty in YOUR home TODAY!
Foursquare Convention & June 14 W31 Meeting
http://www.foursquarechurch.org/convention/2009/
Kevin and I are at the Foursquare Church convention this week, along with Lisa Taylor, Louis & Alicia Osten, and Holly Darnell. Katie is also here as part of the Ignite team, while Seth is helping out with J12! It's like a family reunion! :)
Brian Prince will be in charge of the Wednesday night service, so this will be a week of refreshing for all!
Our June 14th w31 meeting will be "Choose to Turn -Negative into +Positive". Sarah Roe, the 918 Coupon Queen will also be there!
We'll meet in the fellowship hall from 5 p.m. to 6:15 -- please bring a friend and your favorite snack. I already have the cute summer paper goods.
Sarah is booked from 6:30 to 8:30. The cost is $5 per person and will be open to the public. We've spoken with other people who have attended Sarah's classes and they've said you get much more than $5 worth of good solid information on how to save money on everything from groceries to prescriptions to magazines and more!
Here's Sarah's information, you'll enjoy her testimony!
http://www.918moms.com/pages/918_coupon_queen.html
Kevin and I are at the Foursquare Church convention this week, along with Lisa Taylor, Louis & Alicia Osten, and Holly Darnell. Katie is also here as part of the Ignite team, while Seth is helping out with J12! It's like a family reunion! :)
Brian Prince will be in charge of the Wednesday night service, so this will be a week of refreshing for all!
Our June 14th w31 meeting will be "Choose to Turn -Negative into +Positive". Sarah Roe, the 918 Coupon Queen will also be there!
We'll meet in the fellowship hall from 5 p.m. to 6:15 -- please bring a friend and your favorite snack. I already have the cute summer paper goods.
Sarah is booked from 6:30 to 8:30. The cost is $5 per person and will be open to the public. We've spoken with other people who have attended Sarah's classes and they've said you get much more than $5 worth of good solid information on how to save money on everything from groceries to prescriptions to magazines and more!
Here's Sarah's information, you'll enjoy her testimony!
http://www.918moms.com/pages/918_coupon_queen.html
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Got Prodigals? :)
Here's a good verse to pray over them...
Isaiah 49:22
This is what the Almighty LORD says: I will lift my hand to signal the nations. I will raise my flag for the people. They will bring your sons in their arms and carry your daughters on their shoulders.
Let's pray them back home!
Isaiah 49:22
This is what the Almighty LORD says: I will lift my hand to signal the nations. I will raise my flag for the people. They will bring your sons in their arms and carry your daughters on their shoulders.
Let's pray them back home!
Notes on our Jewel Heist Mystery Tea Party
In spite of the flood waters that surrounded our church, over 60 women attended our Jewel Heist Mystery Tea Party.
Sherla Combs, the greatest master mind in solving crimes, introduced herself and then began the investigation. Throughout the three course tea, different "characters" in the Jewel Heist Mystery entertained us. They were all arrayed in their finest attire -- from Lady Diamond Worthalot wearing furs and jewels to Ruby Ring's more um..."colorful" attire as the mobster's girlfriend! Opal Winfree was repeatedly interrupted by cell phone calls, most of which seemed to be requests for money. Sapphire Blue, the Southern Belle, lamented the loss of her daddy's jewel collection, while Jewel Reebox spoke of losing her numerous awards for her skills as an actress. Goldie Locks, carrying her faithful teddy bear, was saddened by the "very bad person" who made off with her jewels.
After a lively exchange between Dr. Whatstone and Jewel Reebox, we were given the explaination as to both the loss and the recovery of the missing items. With that mystery solved, we were ready to embark on that evening's teaching:
I spoke on the six building blocks to change and the importance of prayer and allowing the Holy Spirit to help us make the necessary changes in our lives. Once we've realized we need to make a change and have sought the LORD'S help in doing so, we "study to show ourselves approved" to learn about those necessary changes then find an accountability partner to help us stick with the plan. Even though there will be times that we'll slip, it's important to remember that every step IS progress -- and that God will be faithful to help us complete the transition if we will be faithful to Him.
In our "Ten Smart Choices A Woman Can Make To Improve Her Life", we are intentionally choosing the very best God has for us. The following excerpt fits so well!
Sherla Combs, the greatest master mind in solving crimes, introduced herself and then began the investigation. Throughout the three course tea, different "characters" in the Jewel Heist Mystery entertained us. They were all arrayed in their finest attire -- from Lady Diamond Worthalot wearing furs and jewels to Ruby Ring's more um..."colorful" attire as the mobster's girlfriend! Opal Winfree was repeatedly interrupted by cell phone calls, most of which seemed to be requests for money. Sapphire Blue, the Southern Belle, lamented the loss of her daddy's jewel collection, while Jewel Reebox spoke of losing her numerous awards for her skills as an actress. Goldie Locks, carrying her faithful teddy bear, was saddened by the "very bad person" who made off with her jewels.
After a lively exchange between Dr. Whatstone and Jewel Reebox, we were given the explaination as to both the loss and the recovery of the missing items. With that mystery solved, we were ready to embark on that evening's teaching:
Choose To Embrace Change
I spoke on the six building blocks to change and the importance of prayer and allowing the Holy Spirit to help us make the necessary changes in our lives. Once we've realized we need to make a change and have sought the LORD'S help in doing so, we "study to show ourselves approved" to learn about those necessary changes then find an accountability partner to help us stick with the plan. Even though there will be times that we'll slip, it's important to remember that every step IS progress -- and that God will be faithful to help us complete the transition if we will be faithful to Him.
In our "Ten Smart Choices A Woman Can Make To Improve Her Life", we are intentionally choosing the very best God has for us. The following excerpt fits so well!
Think Cream!
"What do you expect to do when you get to America?" asked a fellow passenger of a woman who was crossing the Atlantic about a century ago.
"Do? Why raise governors for them."
And she was as good as her word, for she became the mother of General John Sullivan, the chief magistrate of New Hampshire, and of James Sullivan, governor of Massachusetts.
She who thinks skim milk will transmit skim milk; she who thinks cream will transmit cream. This woman thought cream and lived it and transmitted the best to her children.
Taken from "What a Young Wife Ought To Know" by Emma F. Angell Drake, M.D.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
A good word in due season...
"Do not withhold good from those who deserve it,
when it is in your power to act.
Do not say to your neighbor,
'Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow' --
when you now have it with you."
Proverbs 3:27-28
Would you like a spot o' tea?
Hi Ladies,
Are you ready for our next big event?
We are having a Tea Party and Jewel Heist Mystery Play this month right along with our 4th Smart Choice, “Choose To Embrace Change”.
Please come at 5 pm ready for a great night of the Word, friends, food and fellowship. You are free to dress up or not, hats or not, gloves or not, jewels or not....we just want you to come and enjoy yourselves.
Please let either me or your Team Leader know if you will be attending and the names of any guests that you will be bringing.Also be sure to ask you team leader what YOU can bring and what YOU can do to help!We will have childcare if you need it.
Looking forward to seeing you all on May 3rd!
PS. T-shirts are here! We are all wearing them Sunday Morning, April 26th!
Blessings,
Shannon
Are you ready for our next big event?
We are having a Tea Party and Jewel Heist Mystery Play this month right along with our 4th Smart Choice, “Choose To Embrace Change”.
Please come at 5 pm ready for a great night of the Word, friends, food and fellowship. You are free to dress up or not, hats or not, gloves or not, jewels or not....we just want you to come and enjoy yourselves.
Please let either me or your Team Leader know if you will be attending and the names of any guests that you will be bringing.Also be sure to ask you team leader what YOU can bring and what YOU can do to help!We will have childcare if you need it.
Looking forward to seeing you all on May 3rd!
PS. T-shirts are here! We are all wearing them Sunday Morning, April 26th!
Blessings,
Shannon
Monday, April 20, 2009
Trust in Him today!
"You guide me with Your counsel,
leading me to a glorious destiny. "
Psalm 73:24
NLT
Jennifer Powell at Curves
Jennifer was in church on Sunday! :) We're so glad she joined us.
Don't forget -- you only have until the end of this month to go in to Curves and sign up for the "W31 Special" of no membership fee (that's a $75 savings!). Be sure to mention the W31 Spa Night & meeting and you'll only pay the monthly usage fee.
It's another smart choice!
Don't forget -- you only have until the end of this month to go in to Curves and sign up for the "W31 Special" of no membership fee (that's a $75 savings!). Be sure to mention the W31 Spa Night & meeting and you'll only pay the monthly usage fee.
It's another smart choice!
Nichols' Soaps-N-Stuff
Brenda Nichols of Nichols' Soaps-N-Stuff was at our W31 Ladies group Spa Night. You may remember that she set up in Pat's office. Brenda has been creating soaps, lotions, and ointments using a variety of natural products -- including emu oil -- for years now.
At a table leaders' meeting, Pat mentioned that she has been using the lotion and facial scrub that Brenda created. Pat said it is absolutely WONDERFUL!
Another family at New Life uses Brenda's soaps to help get rid of poison ivy.
You can reach Brenda at 918 256 3169 or at crz4art@junct.com Her shop is on the way to Nowata.
At a table leaders' meeting, Pat mentioned that she has been using the lotion and facial scrub that Brenda created. Pat said it is absolutely WONDERFUL!
Another family at New Life uses Brenda's soaps to help get rid of poison ivy.
You can reach Brenda at 918 256 3169 or at crz4art@junct.com Her shop is on the way to Nowata.
Passover Seder at New Life
The Passover Seder that was held at New Life on April 15, 2009 reminded us of what we are learning in THE HOME EXPERIENCE classes.
The sanctuary had been bathed in prayer and praise while we set the tables. Black table cloths, gold chargers with ivory pillar candles surrounded by fresh green and purple grapes, whole almonds scattered across the tables, the special Seder plates, the wine carafes -- all blended together to bring about one of the most powerful and beautiful events we've experienced at New Life!
Several of our church women worked alongside one another that day, cooking, cleaning, setting the tables for the beautifully prepared meal. As we served together, my friend Margie Pezdirtz explained the meanings behind each prepatory step and food item. As she mentored us, our excitement grew. We knew this night would be different from all others!
From children to great-grandparents, families gathered at the tables. Pastor Kevin washed the hands of the men who represented each family present. Those men prayed over their wives, children and even the "strangers, widows and orphans" seated at their table. Mitzvahs or "good deeds" such as that are especially important during the Seder Meal.
Several of our children and men of the church participated in reading the Hagaddah (the story and order of the Passover meal). At each step we were given new insights into how the meal itself reveals Jesus -- even though it was established during the time of Moses! There were moments of laughter, moments of tears, and many moment where we found ourselves turning to one another in astonishment as we realized how deep and powerful the symbolism of the Seder Meal truly is.
The sanctuary had been bathed in prayer and praise while we set the tables. Black table cloths, gold chargers with ivory pillar candles surrounded by fresh green and purple grapes, whole almonds scattered across the tables, the special Seder plates, the wine carafes -- all blended together to bring about one of the most powerful and beautiful events we've experienced at New Life!
Several of our church women worked alongside one another that day, cooking, cleaning, setting the tables for the beautifully prepared meal. As we served together, my friend Margie Pezdirtz explained the meanings behind each prepatory step and food item. As she mentored us, our excitement grew. We knew this night would be different from all others!
From children to great-grandparents, families gathered at the tables. Pastor Kevin washed the hands of the men who represented each family present. Those men prayed over their wives, children and even the "strangers, widows and orphans" seated at their table. Mitzvahs or "good deeds" such as that are especially important during the Seder Meal.
Several of our children and men of the church participated in reading the Hagaddah (the story and order of the Passover meal). At each step we were given new insights into how the meal itself reveals Jesus -- even though it was established during the time of Moses! There were moments of laughter, moments of tears, and many moment where we found ourselves turning to one another in astonishment as we realized how deep and powerful the symbolism of the Seder Meal truly is.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Needing daily reminders?
Change isn't easy -- especially when we're busy! One of the biggest challenges to making beneficial changes in our lives is finding ways to stay focused.
If you need daily reminders on cleaning and organizing your home, try FlyLady! There are about 10 emails per day that help you focus on morning, afternoon and before bedtime chores. One week will be devoted to the entrance of your home, another to the kitchen, and so on.
Go to http://www.flylady.net/ and check it out!
Another recommendation is Lisa Whelchel's site. You pick what area of your life you want to work on -- Praise, Prayer, Bible Study, Organization, Health, Beauty, etc. -- and Lisa will send out daily reminders to help you develop better habits. These tie in with Lisa's book, Taking Care of the Me in Mommy. If you don't own this book, borrow it from the library. It is filled with great ideas that anyone can use!
http://www.lisawhelchel.com/momcoach/index.htm
Although this next site is not about daily reminders, it does have many good ideas on keeping grocery costs very low. Recipes, menu planning, grocery lists are included. Don't let the name fool you, you won't be cooking possum for dinner. :)
http://www.hillbillyhousewife.com/
http://www.hillbillyhousewife.com/half/
If you need daily reminders on cleaning and organizing your home, try FlyLady! There are about 10 emails per day that help you focus on morning, afternoon and before bedtime chores. One week will be devoted to the entrance of your home, another to the kitchen, and so on.
Go to http://www.flylady.net/ and check it out!
Another recommendation is Lisa Whelchel's site. You pick what area of your life you want to work on -- Praise, Prayer, Bible Study, Organization, Health, Beauty, etc. -- and Lisa will send out daily reminders to help you develop better habits. These tie in with Lisa's book, Taking Care of the Me in Mommy. If you don't own this book, borrow it from the library. It is filled with great ideas that anyone can use!
http://www.lisawhelchel.com/momcoach/index.htm
Although this next site is not about daily reminders, it does have many good ideas on keeping grocery costs very low. Recipes, menu planning, grocery lists are included. Don't let the name fool you, you won't be cooking possum for dinner. :)
http://www.hillbillyhousewife.com/
http://www.hillbillyhousewife.com/half/
Today's Lifeline
“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence
is in Him. For he will be like a tree planted by the water that
sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat
comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a
year of drought and never fails to bear fruit!”
Jeremiah 17:7-8
is in Him. For he will be like a tree planted by the water that
sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat
comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a
year of drought and never fails to bear fruit!”
Jeremiah 17:7-8
Sunday, April 12, 2009
W31 Spa Night "Choosing To Love Yourself"
The reports back from Spa Night are still coming in -- and they're glowing!
**Don't Forget, the "special" at Curves will only last through April!**
Combining our lesson on "Choosing To Love Yourself" with Spa Night was a wonderful way to reinforce the importance of setting aside time to take care of ourselves, too. Many women today are so busy focusing on family, work and home that they put off doing those things that keep them at their best.
When we shortchange ourselves, we're actually shortchanging God and our families! If we fail to spend time in God's Presence, we do not have the level of internal peace and joy that we need to draw upon throughout the day. We set the tone of our homes and clearly need that peace and joy as the banner of victory (Jehovah Nissi) that proclaims, "As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD!" Consider what banner your home displays right now...
How can we give our families our very best if we are exhausted and irritable? We must work toward getting adequate rest and proper nutrition. It's okay to say "No." Really, it is! I give you permission! You do not have to answer every call for help. Finding balance in your life may be as simple as marking your calendar. Do you have time set aside for your immediate family only? Are you spending more time helping others than you are with your own family? What is most important to you? Does your calendar reflect that?
One thing you may have noticed about our W31 meetings is that we vary the responsibilites for each group. We trade jobs around, giving each table something different to do for our meeting. We want to guard against anyone being overworked month after month. That would be the opposite of what we are trying to learn! Would that concept work in your home? If your children aren't too excited about the idea, remind them that they need to learn it all for the day when they move into their first apartment! *GRIN*
Our Spa Night gave us all the opportunity to be pampered just a bit. Whether it was advice on what hairstyle would work best for us, a hand massage and manicure, eyebrow waxing, make up tips, or learning how to more naturally soothe and heal our bodies, we can all use a little inspiration and encouragement! Taking the time to look and feel our best blesses us -- but also blesses those we love.
Remember, you are a child of God! Be good to yourself today!
**Don't Forget, the "special" at Curves will only last through April!**
Combining our lesson on "Choosing To Love Yourself" with Spa Night was a wonderful way to reinforce the importance of setting aside time to take care of ourselves, too. Many women today are so busy focusing on family, work and home that they put off doing those things that keep them at their best.
When we shortchange ourselves, we're actually shortchanging God and our families! If we fail to spend time in God's Presence, we do not have the level of internal peace and joy that we need to draw upon throughout the day. We set the tone of our homes and clearly need that peace and joy as the banner of victory (Jehovah Nissi) that proclaims, "As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD!" Consider what banner your home displays right now...
How can we give our families our very best if we are exhausted and irritable? We must work toward getting adequate rest and proper nutrition. It's okay to say "No." Really, it is! I give you permission! You do not have to answer every call for help. Finding balance in your life may be as simple as marking your calendar. Do you have time set aside for your immediate family only? Are you spending more time helping others than you are with your own family? What is most important to you? Does your calendar reflect that?
One thing you may have noticed about our W31 meetings is that we vary the responsibilites for each group. We trade jobs around, giving each table something different to do for our meeting. We want to guard against anyone being overworked month after month. That would be the opposite of what we are trying to learn! Would that concept work in your home? If your children aren't too excited about the idea, remind them that they need to learn it all for the day when they move into their first apartment! *GRIN*
Our Spa Night gave us all the opportunity to be pampered just a bit. Whether it was advice on what hairstyle would work best for us, a hand massage and manicure, eyebrow waxing, make up tips, or learning how to more naturally soothe and heal our bodies, we can all use a little inspiration and encouragement! Taking the time to look and feel our best blesses us -- but also blesses those we love.
Remember, you are a child of God! Be good to yourself today!
Friday, April 3, 2009
W31 Ladies Meeting & Spa Night! Join us!
Are you ready for this, girls?
Here is the line up for Sunday night, April 5th.
Dinner and "Choose to Love Yourself" from 5 pm to 6 pm.
Each table will bring an assortment of salads to share with the group.
We will pray together and start the serving line at 5 pm sharp! As soon as everyone gets their food, I will begin our third "Smart Choice: Choose to Love Yourself" lesson. I hope to be finished by 6 pm so we can start the Spa Treatments!
In the sanctuary, we will have presentations by Dr. Scarlett Custer, D.O. of The Herb Garden. She will give 3 fifteen minutes talks each hour. Those topics will be "Bio-identical Hormones", "Sick All Over", and "Weight Loss?". Bob Stalcup, Herbalist will also be along to answer questions and further explain how to experience better health.
Brenda Nichols of Nichols' Soaps-N-Stuff will be in Pat's office. She will have a variety of soaps, lotions and other items for you to try.
Jennifer Powell with Curves will be conducting Body Fat tests in the south end of the foyer.
In the nursery, we will have 5 Minute Makeup Makeovers by Britni Selby from Britni & Company, as well as Deonna Whitworth -- Smokey Eyes, and Sydney Grimmett.
In the preschool room, Profile Salon with Stephanie Smith and crew, will be available for eyebrow waxing.
In the J12 Room you'll find 4States Beauty Academy doing hand massages and nail polish color changes. Have your old polish removed, bring the color of your choice and have it applied professionally.
Roni Grimmett of Salon Roni will be in the upstairs Girls' Room. Her topic will be "Choosing a Hairstyle for Your Face Shape".
At the coffee bar, Allison Greggs of Misty's Salon will have various beauty products displayed.
Finally, in the Youth Room, we will have "5 Minute Massage Therapy Sessions" by Jodi Briley and Kristy Davis of Sun's Up and Rochelle Lewallen of Britni & Company.
Please come in comfy attire! Relax, Restore, Refresh and REJOICE! :)
*You may ask what any of this has to do with THE HOME EXPERIENCE. Devi Titus created this series of lessons on "Smart Choices". When we set aside time to come together as women of God we can better mentor and encourage one another. These lessons show us how to become the women God has called us to be -- in an atmosphere that is fun, inspiring, and creative. As we break bread together, we partake of a sweet and sacred time of fellowship with women of all ages. Learning how to take care of ourselves is another way we honor God and bless our loved ones!
Join us! We want you to be a part of this blessed time together!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Links I Love (and you will, too!)
This is the perfect day to stay inside! In between enjoying your family, doing a little straightening up around the house, and getting something cooking, check out these helpful websites!
http://www.918moms.com/
Here's some information from their site:
918moms.com offers a variety of options for moms in the 918 area code who are looking to connect with other moms, swap stories and share advice. In addition to the mom to mom forums, we offer blogs, a calendar of events, directory with a ratings system, photo gallery, contests and you can enroll in the 918 Coupon Queen University.
My personal favorite is the Coupon Queen, Sarah Roe. You can hear her testimony here:
http://www.918moms.com/pages/918_coupon_queen.html
http://www.5dollardinners.com/
The $5 Dinners Mission
To make dinner for my family every night for $5 or less! To prepare healthy meals using natural and wholesome ingredients! To encourage and inspire others to do the same!
http://www.918moms.com/
Here's some information from their site:
918moms.com offers a variety of options for moms in the 918 area code who are looking to connect with other moms, swap stories and share advice. In addition to the mom to mom forums, we offer blogs, a calendar of events, directory with a ratings system, photo gallery, contests and you can enroll in the 918 Coupon Queen University.
My personal favorite is the Coupon Queen, Sarah Roe. You can hear her testimony here:
http://www.918moms.com/pages/918_coupon_queen.html
http://www.5dollardinners.com/
The $5 Dinners Mission
To make dinner for my family every night for $5 or less! To prepare healthy meals using natural and wholesome ingredients! To encourage and inspire others to do the same!
Friday, March 27, 2009
My Newest Favorite Magazine & A Recipe You Should Try!
The February/March 2009 issue of Sandra Lee's Semi-Homemade magazine is great! Check out the website at www.semihomemademag.com
Here's the recipe that I tried and love:
Pamela Owen's Ravioli Lasagna
Makes about 8 to 10 servings
1 (26 oz) jar prepared spaghetti sauce, divided
3 cups frozen cheese ravioli, about 1 (16 oz) package
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided, Sargento brand is suggested
1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
3 cups frozen beef ravioli, about 1 (15 oz) package
1 (8 oz) package shredded mozzarella cheese, Sargento brand is suggested
Garnish: chopped fresh parsley
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 13X9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Spread 1 cup of sauce evenly into bottom of the prepared dish. Top with a single layer of cheese ravioli. sprinkle with 1/2 cup Parmesan. Top with spinach. Top with a single layer of beef ravioli. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan. Spread with remaining 1 cup sauce. Top with mozzarella. Cover with foil, and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil, and bake for 15 minutes longer, or until bubbly and cheese is lightly browned. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
The Power of Your Words
Speak Gently
Speak gently! It is better far
To rule by love than fear;
Speak gently; let no harsh words mar
The good we might do here!
Speak gently! Love doth whisper low
The vows that true hearts bind;
And gently Friendship's accents flow;
Affection's voice is kind.
Speak gently to the little child!
Its love be sure to gain;
Teach it in accents soft and mild;
It may not long remain.
Speak gently to the young, for they
Will have enough to bear;
Pass through this life as best they may,
'Tis full of anxious care!
Speak gently to the aged one,
Grieve not the care-worn heart;
Whose sands of life are nearly run,
Let such in peace depart!
Speak gently, kindly, to the poor;
Let no harsh tone be heard;
They have enough they must endure,
Without an unkind word!
Speak gently to the erring; know
They may have toiled in vain;
Perchance unkindness made them so;
Oh, win them back again!
Speak gently! He who gave his life
To bend man's stubborn will,
When elements were in fierce strife,
Said to them, "Peace, be still."
Speak gently! 'tis a little thing
Dropped in the heart's deep well;
The good, the joy, that it may bring,
Eternity shall tell.
--Anonymous
Slow Cookers To The Rescue!
The Proverbs 31 woman had handmaidens and so do we! Our slow cookers! Here are those recipes I promised:
http://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,1712,130188-249197,00.html
CROCK POT ROAST BEEF
4 pound pot roast
1 package of Lipton Onion Soup Mix
1 can stewed tomatoes
1/2 cup flour
1 can whole mushrooms
1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup
2 tablespoons Kitchen Bouquet
3 tablespoons olive oil
Roll roast in flour. Sear roast in 3 tablespoons olive oil. Place in Crock-pot along with soup, tomatoes, mushrooms, the package of onion soup mix and Kitchen Bouquet. Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.
Submitted by: Tania
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Slow-Cooker-Chicken-and-Dumplings/Detail.aspx
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
SUBMITTED BY: Janiece Mason PHOTO BY: Allrecipes "This is an easy slow cooker recipe that cooks while you are at work! It is wonderful on a cold, snowy day. I have four children who are picky eaters, and they LOVE this! Enjoy!"
RECIPE RATING:Read Reviews (2,264)
Review/Rate This Recipe
PREP TIME
10 Min
COOK TIME
6 Hrs
READY IN
6 Hrs 10 Min
SERVINGS (Help)
Servings
US
METRIC
INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
2 tablespoons butter
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
1 onion, finely diced
2 (10 ounce) packages refrigerated biscuit dough, torn into pieces
Add to Recipe Box
DIRECTIONS
Place the chicken, butter, soup, and onion in a slow cooker, and fill with enough water to cover.
Cover, and cook for 5 to 6 hours on High. About 30 minutes before serving, place the torn biscuit dough in the slow cooker. Cook until the dough is no longer raw in the center.
http://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,1712,130188-249197,00.html
CROCK POT ROAST BEEF
4 pound pot roast
1 package of Lipton Onion Soup Mix
1 can stewed tomatoes
1/2 cup flour
1 can whole mushrooms
1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup
2 tablespoons Kitchen Bouquet
3 tablespoons olive oil
Roll roast in flour. Sear roast in 3 tablespoons olive oil. Place in Crock-pot along with soup, tomatoes, mushrooms, the package of onion soup mix and Kitchen Bouquet. Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.
Submitted by: Tania
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Slow-Cooker-Chicken-and-Dumplings/Detail.aspx
Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings
SUBMITTED BY: Janiece Mason PHOTO BY: Allrecipes "This is an easy slow cooker recipe that cooks while you are at work! It is wonderful on a cold, snowy day. I have four children who are picky eaters, and they LOVE this! Enjoy!"
RECIPE RATING:Read Reviews (2,264)
Review/Rate This Recipe
PREP TIME
10 Min
COOK TIME
6 Hrs
READY IN
6 Hrs 10 Min
SERVINGS (Help)
Servings
US
METRIC
INGREDIENTS (Nutrition)
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
2 tablespoons butter
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
1 onion, finely diced
2 (10 ounce) packages refrigerated biscuit dough, torn into pieces
Add to Recipe Box
DIRECTIONS
Place the chicken, butter, soup, and onion in a slow cooker, and fill with enough water to cover.
Cover, and cook for 5 to 6 hours on High. About 30 minutes before serving, place the torn biscuit dough in the slow cooker. Cook until the dough is no longer raw in the center.
The Dignity & Sanctity Of The Home
Our homes should be treasured assets -- not for what they contain, but for those they contain: our families! The world tells us to pursue careers, higher education, and social advancements -- yet those do not promote love and peace in our homes...and often cause more stress and division! Families rushing in and out, trying to keep up with the demands and pressures of this world often come home to a cluttered environment, with only fast foods or cereal for dinner, and the television as the only "family time."
What about YOUR home?
Does the atmosphere make you feel welcome? Is there a comfy place to sit? A meal simmering in the crockpot?
Let's try a couple of small things today, okay?
Load/Unload the dishwasher and don't stress about the pots and pats, just get them soaking.
Find a laundry basket and when you're watching the news, fold the laundry that's been piling up on the couch. Take it out of the living room. *Makes a pretty good visual impact, doesn't it?
Where's your crockpot? Do you have a roast or a chicken you can put in there tonight? It's okay if they're frozen. I'll add a couple of recipes in the next blog!
Refill that drink (water would be REALLY good for you right now) and let's grab your calendar!
Mark everyone's appointments and activities first...
then through this next week, list out what each person does for the rest of the day: computer time, television time, talking on the phone, texting, playing, visiting friends, etc. We're going to go over that list at the end of the week, sorting each person's day into categories of how they spend their time. Once that's done, it's good to pray about it and ask the LORD if the categories need to change according to what is the biggest priority for your family. Is there too much play and too little work? Too much work and not enough family time? Too much entertainment and not enough spiritual growth? Share the results with your entire family and encourage change where it is needed.
No beating yourselves up -- just resolve to try to do better!
Where Do I Start?
The best place to start is at the feet of Jesus! You can't go wrong there!
Begin this journey by asking Him to give you ears to hear and a heart to receive His Truth as we learn how to become the women He has called us to be! Don't let the enemy beat you up by reminding you of the times you've failed, the laundry mountain nearby, or the "Past Due" notice you received in today's mail! This is a new day and time for a fresh start!
Now grab your favorite drink (Dr. Pepper for me!) and let's learn a bit more about The Home Experience...
For over 40 years, Devi Titus has been a pastor's wife, renowned conference speaker and mentor. She is the founder of Virtue magazine, The Mentoring Mansion, and THE HOME EXPERIENCE. Devi realized that while conferences were a blessing to the women who attended, they did not have the life-altering impact that woman-to-woman mentoring has. As she sought the LORD, He began to teach her what His Word says about the Home.
Devi shares this knowledge in her book and DVD series, THE HOME EXPERIENCE. I was privileged to attend The Mentoring Mansion to take THE HOME EXPERIENCE classes with Devi as my mentor. What I gleaned from my time with her continues to be a priceless treasure for myself and my family. We have experienced so much overflow of blessing that I am delighted to be able to bring these principals to you! Not only do I teach THE HOME EXPERIENCE classes, but I will also share with you in this blog. Won't you join me?
Begin this journey by asking Him to give you ears to hear and a heart to receive His Truth as we learn how to become the women He has called us to be! Don't let the enemy beat you up by reminding you of the times you've failed, the laundry mountain nearby, or the "Past Due" notice you received in today's mail! This is a new day and time for a fresh start!
Now grab your favorite drink (Dr. Pepper for me!) and let's learn a bit more about The Home Experience...
For over 40 years, Devi Titus has been a pastor's wife, renowned conference speaker and mentor. She is the founder of Virtue magazine, The Mentoring Mansion, and THE HOME EXPERIENCE. Devi realized that while conferences were a blessing to the women who attended, they did not have the life-altering impact that woman-to-woman mentoring has. As she sought the LORD, He began to teach her what His Word says about the Home.
Devi shares this knowledge in her book and DVD series, THE HOME EXPERIENCE. I was privileged to attend The Mentoring Mansion to take THE HOME EXPERIENCE classes with Devi as my mentor. What I gleaned from my time with her continues to be a priceless treasure for myself and my family. We have experienced so much overflow of blessing that I am delighted to be able to bring these principals to you! Not only do I teach THE HOME EXPERIENCE classes, but I will also share with you in this blog. Won't you join me?
Welcome To My Home Experience!
Would you like to make your home a Sanctuary of Love and a Haven of Peace?
That's really a desire of all our hearts, isn't it? We'd love to come home to a place where we and those we love would feel cherished, protected, and restored! But how do we accomplish that with everything else we have to do? How do we, when we're already running on empty, manage to find ways to create that Sanctuary of Love? How, when we're so rushed for time, do we bring about a Haven of Peace?
The Bible tells us, "By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasure." Proverbs 24:3-4. Obviously we all need wisdom, understanding and knowledge in order to create the environment we crave for ourselves and our families. It sounds like a tall order, doesn't it? For some it may even seem completely unobtainable. Is it even worth all the effort?
God placed women in position to be the keepers or the guards of the home. Titus 2:3-5 is very clear in letting us know what He has called us to do! It is our calling to watch over what enters into our homes -- guarding against anything that will assault that Sanctuary of Love or attempt to steal our Haven of Peace. As guards, we not only watch for these attacks, we also sound the alarm to alert the troops. We issue the call to action! We defend our homes as fiercely as warriors in battle.
But wait, did you even know you were supposed to do that? And if you are, HOW? Is it already too late? No matter how late it may seem, don't despair and don't give up! We will work together, step by step, to begin making the changes God desires and your heart yearns for!
http://www.mentoringmansion.com/
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