tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87907080919521917572024-02-07T21:22:52.759-06:00Thoughts on the Divine by AmyAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-12462442108337370912015-09-30T07:40:00.000-05:002015-09-30T07:40:17.324-05:00The Prince Who Was Just Himself<br />
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
Hi! My name is Amy! I just thought an introduction was necessary since it has been sooooo long since I have posted here. Things have been happening at warp speed around here, so I haven't taken the time to blog. But when I had the chance to review a couple of great books for<a href="http://handlebarpublishing.com/" target="_blank"> Handlebar Publishing</a> I realized that it was time to get back on here. I will try to catch you up on the details of the past year later on. :)</div>
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Y9Z%2BFUPQL._SX387_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Y9Z%2BFUPQL._SX387_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="249" /></a><b><i>The Prince Who Was Just Himself </i></b>is a wonderful children's storybook. The illustrations are bright and cheery. It is the story of a royal family who has a child, Prince Noah, that is different than the others. The differences that others sometimes criticize or misunderstand turn out to be the things that make him the hero when the kingdom is faced with a villain. The differences that Prince Noah exhibits are due to the fact that he was born with Down syndrome. This book displays the beauty found in all children. The author, Silke Schnee, has a son with Down syndrome. He inspired her to write this book for children to help them understand the joy and love of her son and others like him. </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://scontent-mia1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10999327_1631262537117673_2794933427000602002_n.jpg?oh=e71ec1b4882e690a1364730f7836639b&oe=56979A1A" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://scontent-mia1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/10999327_1631262537117673_2794933427000602002_n.jpg?oh=e71ec1b4882e690a1364730f7836639b&oe=56979A1A" width="225" /></a>I had a special interest in this book because my nephew has Down syndrome. Caden is a joy to everyone who meets him! <a href="http://jeniferparris.com/" target="_blank">I also have special friends who have children with Down syndrome.</a> The extra chromosome these kids have makes them extra special and extra lovable!<br />
<br />
This book isn't just for those who have a friend or relative with Down syndrome though. It is for all children (and adults) to learn that those who are different than us are special in their own way no matter what that difference may be!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-17639452202475154302014-08-11T11:31:00.001-05:002014-08-11T11:31:38.173-05:00Quitting<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Quitting</b>..... It's what's on my mind today. My pastor, Mark Scott, said about his son going to seminary two states away:<b> "You can't listen to your mind. It's going to change."</b> That rang so true to me. This afternoon I am planning to go to orientation to begin my Master of Divinity degree. I have been wrestling with this for over a year now. Back and forth my mind has gone. </span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I'd love to do it!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I can't afford to do it!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I could learn so much!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There's no way I can go back to school!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">How can I ask my family to sacrifice for me to do this!</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Finally, <b>The Lord</b> <b>spoke </b>and said <b>this </b>is <b>My plan</b> for <b>you</b>. Now I have the choice, follow The Lord's plan or not. That decision is not an easy one to follow through on. I have said, and I am sure you have too, if The Lord would just show me I will do it. I thought it would be that simple, easy even. I am realizing it is not simple or easy to follow The Lord's path, even when the trail is blazed. Even though my heart knows the right way, my mind is still changing. Just this morning, I decided with my mind this isn't a good idea, and I could still back out. I could go get a job that would put money in our bank account instead of going to school and taking money out. I would still be able to do all the things my current schedule allows me to do if I don't have classes to worry about. Why add all this stress to my life, when I don't even know what I am going to do with this degree once I get it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">All of these questions lead me round and round in circles. They don't allow forward movement, just self-focus. What I really need is to remember what The Lord said... GO. Not go round and round, not go if you feel like it, but go where I lead you, where I told you to go. So tonight at 5pm I will go to NOBTS Birmingham to get oriented to this way The Lord has set before me. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hebrews 10:35-39 (NLT)</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">35 So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! 36 Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.</span></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">37 “For in just a little while,</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">the Coming One will come and not delay.</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">38 And my righteous ones will live by faith.</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away.”</span></b></div>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">39 But we are not like those who turn away from God to their own destruction. We are the faithful ones, whose souls will be saved.</span></b><br />
<br />Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-59157095640358715592013-01-12T20:33:00.001-06:002013-01-12T20:33:02.752-06:00 <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBWh18NCGOqe3LavjbZ3KmaNqMXFJf3sMlhm5XDI3E-XC3dws1_QqFOXvD9ekDVej5beehQB-_8Mqn3A0Z0PpOzwaS6t4qv7JB5-Ie0BapRLo1t-FrfiEyyMbZZenQ9qC68UQXTR1F10E/s640/blogger-image--2094811778.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBWh18NCGOqe3LavjbZ3KmaNqMXFJf3sMlhm5XDI3E-XC3dws1_QqFOXvD9ekDVej5beehQB-_8Mqn3A0Z0PpOzwaS6t4qv7JB5-Ie0BapRLo1t-FrfiEyyMbZZenQ9qC68UQXTR1F10E/s640/blogger-image--2094811778.jpg" /></a></div>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-89843834396775393152012-11-03T20:53:00.001-05:002012-11-03T20:57:48.097-05:00The High Calling<a href="http://www.thehighcalling.org/" target="_blank"><img alt="The High Calling" height="82" src="http://www.thehighcalling.org/sites/all/themes/custom/thc/images/logo.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
Some of you may know, but probably not, that I have started work full-time. This has been a great change but very different for both me and my family. I have been a stay-at-home mom for the last 10 years. I think we are adjusting well. Not so sure the blog has adjusted as well. I have relatively no time to read or write reviews. So I have been turning down opportunities that I have hated to say no to. But this week I was given the opportunity to review "The High Calling" blog for Handlebar Marketing. This blog is all about using the job that you find yourself in to live out your calling in Christ. I LOVE IT!!!! This opportunity was so timely for me. I have devoured many of the articles. They are written by various writers including Ann Voskamp, Mary E. DeMuth, Donna VanLiere, Ed Gungor and many, many others. The articles are encouraging and informative. From their About page:<br />
<br />
<em>Welcome to <a href="http://thehighcalling.org/">TheHighCalling.org</a>, an online magazine and community founded on
the belief that God cares about our daily work. On our site, you’ll discover a
broad range of articles, interviews, devotionals, and inspirational stories—all
specifically created to help you find God in your work, family, and the broader
culture. Our writers and bloggers tell engaging stories crafted to encourage you
in the high calling of your daily work.</em><br />
<em>
</em><br />
<em>Honoring God in our daily work is much more than mere evangelism. Our work
itself should be a testimony to our creator. That is why we encourage each other
to remember the high calling of our daily work.</em><br />
<em>
</em><br />
<em>The High Calling is also a safe place to ask difficult questions about work,
leadership, culture, family, and faith. Our community of Christ followers shares
differing opinions about matters of faith and doubt. We believe in the power of
open dialog, and aim to be a safe place to raise difficult issues. We simply ask
that each person be respectful of others, rooted and grounded in love.</em><br />
<br />
The High Calling in more than a blog, it is a community of people encouraging each other to live up to the potential God has placed in each of us.They also have a <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheHighCalling" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> where they post inspirational photos like this:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151266005928694&set=pb.52000808693.-2207520000.1350929493&type=1" target="_blank"><img alt="" src="http://www.thehighcalling.org/sites/default/files/458576_10151266005928694_421204626_o.jpg" style="height: 332px; width: 500px;" /></a><br />
<br />
I hope you will go and get a dose of encouragement to make it through the work week. I know I will be a regular!<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I received compensation for my review from Handlebar Marketing. I did not agree to post a favorable review. The opinions expressed are my own.</span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-41570626834023653782012-10-24T09:20:00.001-05:002012-10-24T09:20:25.462-05:00A Sudden Glory by Sharon Jaynes<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img height="219" id="il_fi" src="http://sharonjaynes.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/a_sudden_glory_cover.png" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="140" /></div>
<br />
<span lang="EN">Wow! It has been a long time since a book has caught my soul like <u>A Sudden Glory</u>, by <a href="http://sharonjaynes.com/" target="_blank">Sharon Jaynes</a>. From the first chapter describing "The Glory Ache" until the last explaining how we will go "From Glory to Glory," I was riveted to the heart of this message that God is all around wooing us with glimpses of His Glory as we "live and move and have our being in Him." Sharon does a wonderful job of casting a vision for what living out that verse from Acts 17:28 looks like. Just reading through the book made me more aware of the "glory moments" all around me and made me desire to experience more and more of the relationship that Jesus came and died to have... with me! Sharon encourages the reader to seek God for more than mediocrity and to expect a greatness and depth in our relationship with Christ. She doesn't sugar coat life and act as though hard times will never come. She faces the issue head on in the chapter titled, "Trusting God in Tough Times." One of my favorite quotes from that chapter is :<br />
<br />
"Trying to analyze His [God's] omnipotence is like an amoeba attempting to comprehend the behavior of a man." It's simply not possible. But there is one thing we can be sure of. "All the ways of the Lord are loving and faithful" (Psalm 25;10), whether we understand them or not.<br />
<br />
I am looking forward to re-reading this book with my Bible Study Girls and doing the study questions that are included at the end of the book! I hope you will get <a href="http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/catalog.php?isbn=9781601424082&format=book" target="_blank">this book</a> and study it with a couple of friends as well.<br />
<br />
I received this book for free from <a href="mhtml:{41E815FA-9473-4552-891B-4529FBEC3227}mid://00000038/!x-usc:http://www.waterbrookmultnomah.com/"><span style="color: #661000;">WaterBrook
Multnomah Publishing Group</span></a> for this review. </span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-38549809255707771152012-08-27T11:33:00.002-05:002012-08-27T11:33:56.732-05:00Chris August, The Upside of Down<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggU59IWRj4gF0vFOxF5VM4MLMJabs6Gn55QEBxLXvGw3KChK6dEMu-x2sn7VBBGm9DDI8Chct9X_S5IH27TQHvZyx4z1DrbEyqYjHhYrvcK1iWU0F_s6grvUFqgavmedD5QmvgctHIA8/s1600/Chris+August-The+Upside+Of+Down+Cover+Art.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggU59IWRj4gF0vFOxF5VM4MLMJabs6Gn55QEBxLXvGw3KChK6dEMu-x2sn7VBBGm9DDI8Chct9X_S5IH27TQHvZyx4z1DrbEyqYjHhYrvcK1iWU0F_s6grvUFqgavmedD5QmvgctHIA8/s200/Chris+August-The+Upside+Of+Down+Cover+Art.jpg" width="200" /></a>I have a new LOVE in the music world! Chris August has just released his new album "The Upside of Down" and let me tell you it is fantastic!!!! I know that you all think that I write kind reviews about everything no matter what, but my enthusiasm is not feigned in the least over this album. See what you may not know about me is that I have quite a varied palate when it comes to music. I like just about anything and everything that is indeed good music. And I also think I am a pretty good judge of good music. (if u agree with the TV judges :0) ) Anyway, all that said, I love this new album. Every song has a slightly different sound so you don't feel like you are listening to the same three songs over and over again. They range from soulful to pop-py and some gospel thrown in for good measure. One or two sound similar to the Chris August hit "Starry Night." </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
My very favorite, and the one I was singing as I sat down to write, is "I Believe." The lyrics go like this: <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
I don't need a rainbow to know who made the rain<br />
Don't need the waters parted to know who made the way<br />
And I don't need a healing to know who is the cure<br />
Of this I'm sure<br />
<br />
<i>[Chorus:]</i><br />
I believe that there is something more than I can see<br />
I believe that there is someone holding onto me<br />
Sometimes I won't feel it, but that don't change a thing<br />
'Cause it's by faith that I believe</blockquote>
<br />
This song and others on this album so completely describe where I am currently or have been recently in my walk with Jesus. And this is definitely an album about Jesus. Some "Christian" music never even says His name, but Chris is "Unashamed of You" Jesus. <br />
<br />
Now in his own words, here is Chris telling about the inspiration and writing of this project.<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/bq9PJMoCwY8" width="560"></iframe>
Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-20079967811812797202012-08-22T14:44:00.002-05:002012-08-22T14:44:52.298-05:00Greater by Steven Furtick<a href="http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/images/covers/9781601423252.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Greater" border="0" class="noInsight" height="200" itemprop="image" src="http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/images/covers/9781601423252.png" width="137" /></a>I was super excited to hear that <a href="http://www.stevenfurtick.com/" target="_blank">Steven Furtick</a> was about to release a new book. {I am addicted to the Elevation podcast!!} So with high expectations, I read this most recent release, Greater. I must say, I was not disappointed!!! It was inspiring, convicting, fun, deep, and full of Jesus much like most of the content that Pastor Steven puts out. <br />
<br />
The premise of the message is to seek great-er lives. Not to be confused with seeking greatness, or settling for good enough. Greater is "The life-altering understanding that God is ready to accomplish a greatness in your life that is entirely out of human reach. It's beyond anything you see in yourself on your best day, but exactly what God has seen in you all along." Pastor Steven <strike>preaches </strike>tells the stories of the events in the life of Elisha, the prophet of God, to explain how to pursue this "Greater" vision of our life. Through Elisha's ups and downs Pastor Steven chronicles how that we too can see God do great things all around and through us.<br />
<br />
As I said, I was greatly inspired and convicted by this book. I think every person who claims Christ publicly should read it and be challenged to live above the line of mediocrity, but not in a worldly get all the money and fame you can way. More like a get all the Jesus and Spirit you can! I believe more people would be won to Christ if more of His followers lived "Greater" lives.<br />
<br />
Here's a sneak peek at the book: <br />
<br />
<a href="http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/blog/2012/04/01/sneak-peek-greater-by-steven-furtick/">http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/blog/2012/04/01/sneak-peek-greater-by-steven-furtick/</a><br />
<br />
I received this book for free from <a href="mhtml:{41E815FA-9473-4552-891B-4529FBEC3227}mid://00000038/!x-usc:http://www.waterbrookmultnomah.com/">WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing
Group</a> for this review.Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-65731765044399414332012-08-13T09:26:00.001-05:002012-08-13T09:26:21.915-05:00Mercy Me "The Hurt & The Healer"<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Eyn1YbFA0-g?rel=0" width="560"></iframe>
<br />
Several months ago, I was able to see Mercy Me at the<a href="http://www.ewomen.net/" target="_blank"> EWomen</a> event in Birmingham, AL. I can't put into words how fabulous they were that night. They introduced several of the songs from their new project "The Hurt & The Healer" that night. Usually, I hate when a band plays new music that I don't already know in concert. This was definitely an exception to that rule for me. These songs are so personal and from the heart that they instantly hit the mark somewhere deep inside me. <br />
<br />
I was thrilled to return home to an e-mail from my friends at The Media Collective
offering me the opportunity to hear the new album "The Hurt & The Healer" in its entirety. Every song on this album is a hit! The heartfelt lyrics really spoke to me and echo some of the same thoughts and questions I have faced. Musically this album is a little different than some of their earlier projects and the songs vary greatly so surely there is at least one you would enjoy!<br />
<br />
Now, Mercy Me has released a short film, <u>The Making of "The Hurt & The Healer,</u>" which I also had the opportunity to review. It is awesome! There are interviews from the band members and producers which not only explain the process of making the album, but explain the heart behind many of the songs. I love to hear about how a songs lyrics were put together and what the artist was going through when they wrote a song. For instance "The Hurt & The Healer" was written about the passing of Bart Millard's cousin and the heartache that followed. I would definitely recommend both the album and the video!!! Go to <a href="http://www.mercyme.org/" target="_blank">www.MercyMe.org</a> right now to get both!Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-70877211894251094642012-07-24T06:40:00.001-05:002012-07-24T06:40:48.862-05:00Raising Your Kids to Love the Lord<u style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://www.booksneeze.com/art/_140_245_Book.641.cover.jpg" /></u><u>Raising Your Kids to Love the Lord</u>, by Dave Stone, is a wonderful reminder of what it takes to raise a family. Through story and basic biblical teaching, Stone carefully reminds us that it is our own authentic relationship with the Lord that will have the greatest effect on our children. There is no condescension or accusation but a honest appeal to parents to make God THE priority in our own lives in order for that decision to be made by our kids. Stone covers many areas of parenting from time management and consistent discipline to bible reading and supportive community. <br />
<br />
In each chapter I felt that I really could do the thing that he was suggesting instead of hopeless, like many parenting books leave me feeling. This isn't some quick fix, go step-by-step and your kids will turn out perfect angels book. Stone clearly states that the results are in the hands of God. He reminds us, though, that it is our responsibility to place our children in God's hands by our lives lived before them.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: #76a5af; font-size: xx-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I
received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a
positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this
in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides
Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in
Advertising."</span></span></span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-53093135073493344412012-07-05T10:02:00.002-05:002012-07-05T10:02:32.035-05:00Letting Go of Perfect<br />
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="Letting Go of Perfect: Women, Expectations, and Authenticity" height="200" id="coverImage" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1328764416l/13219270.jpg" width="133" /></div>
This book by Amy E. Speigel is all about looking at our expectations for our lives as women. Although I don't agree with every conclusion drawn by Amy, I certainly see her point in more closely examining our lives and what we are striving for. Many times I find myself following along with the crowd instead of searching to see who God created me to be. <br />
<br />
Amy uses many real life stories of her life and family to show the kind of inspection our lives deserve. She tells many of the choices she has made for herself and her family, not in a way to make you feel that you must make the same choices but to encourage the reader to actually think about it and make a choice instead of following culture. She covers topics like how we dress, how we face hardship, relationships, prioritizing time and commitments, and other issues that affect our well-being. <br />
<br />
The ideas and information in <u>Letting Go of Perfect</u> are eye-opening and thought provoking. I however had a hard time following Amy's train of thought to a succinct point in many of the chapters. I probably wouldn't choose to read it again because of her writing style, but I am glad to have gained another's perspective on life.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: #76a5af; font-size: xx-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I
received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The
opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with
the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of
Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."</span></span></span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-25983875667551710052012-06-11T07:54:00.003-05:002012-06-11T07:54:44.448-05:00anything<br />
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="" class="rg_hi uh_hi" data-height="277" data-width="182" height="277" id="rg_hi" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR42FqxW9VkJbnHYJiBsGcy3ZzwzMGDtf4x3SZtAtpU0UcBHlN3Lg" style="height: 277px; width: 182px;" width="182" /></div>
<br />
<span lang="EN">anything..... Sounds interesting, doesn't it? What if you were given the opportunity to receive anything, be anything, or do anything? Would you hesitate to sign up? On the other hand, what if you gave someone the permission to take anything you have, use anything you own, or mess with anything you hold dear? That is the premise of <u>anything: the prayer that unlocked my God and my Soul</u>, by Jennie Allen. In this book, Jennie Allen opens her prayer life up to us to see how the prayer of offering anything to God changed her life in both small and big ways. She encourages readers to lay aside "everything keeping us from anything" in order to "pray anything" and go on to "live anything."<br />
<br />
Jennie was moved by the story of another woman who offered God anything. Through the blog of Katie Davis, Jennie saw the effects of truly offering one's entire self to a God who will use those wholly surrendered to Him. With her husband, Zac, Jennie began to pray "anything." The events that followed that surrender are both inspiring and slightly scary. I encourage, no I dare you to read <u>anything</u> see if your heart is ready to pray "anything" to a God who desires to change the world through your life. </span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-12224231433514738462012-05-16T11:17:00.000-05:002012-05-16T11:17:47.247-05:00Simple Secrets to a Happy Life<br />
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img height="200" id="il_fi" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg_hXRrKVpzbnDlcrthIg4ScheYM9eaVZIz6S8M8meelu9LnVHJo8cDZGfnyksbWmTjujl0xRVDn0C_EDUbq_nB5ZmiWzMOu8aoCvHHNKz73cQJr6iCWeTNJEjsWrLPyu279zY4uGgREt1/s200/114134229.jpg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="133" /></div>
<br />
Simple Secrets to a Happy Life, by Luci Swindoll lived up to its title well. It is a collection of short essay type writings on various topics from "Honor Your Father and Mother" to "Write Down the Important Things." There isn't much that is weighty or very theological just simple, good living. I found the format to be great for a quick something to read because each chapter is independent. Luci Swindoll is full of life and has a fabulous outlook on life. She shares what has made her life fulfilling and "happy." Themes that seem to run throughout the book are being generous, gracious, and grateful. I guess the "secret" is out! I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a reminder that it is in the simple things we find most joy and what those simple things consist of.<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: #76a5af; font-size: xx-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book
free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program.
I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are
my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's
16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in
Advertising."</span></span></span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-48324379152338899192012-05-01T14:45:00.000-05:002012-05-01T14:45:25.685-05:00Update & A Heart Like His by Beth Moore<span lang="EN">Well, it has been a day or two, or maybe that was month or two, since I last wrote anything for the blog. Wow, time really does fly when you are living life and having fun at it! My family has been very busy lately. Basketball, baseball and dance, oh my! Not only that, I have managed to stay quite busy with work for the <a href="http://www.thejbf.org/" target="_blank">Jesse Brooks Foundation</a>. If you haven't checked them out, or even if you have, I hope you will <a href="http://www.thejbf.org/" target="_blank">click to see the new website</a>. It is awesome and so is the work being done to help the area of Alfao, Ghana in West Africa and to bring Glory to Jesus in the process. That is my personal update, now on to Beth Moore....<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1433677164/ref=cm_cr_rev_prod_img" id="reviewedItemLink" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="A Heart Like His: Intimate Reflections on the Life of David" border="0" height="130" id="reviewedItemImage" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41sxRkRz3dL._SL500_OU01_SS130_.jpg" width="130" /></a>My Sunday School class has been studying the kings for the last several months. We had just started our study of the portion of scripture about the man David, who becomes the second king of Israel after much trial, when I was given the opportunity to review the re-release of <u>A Heart Like His: Intimate Reflections on the Life of David</u>, by Beth Moore. I jumped at the opportunity. I was sure this book would add another layer of depth to my Sunday School study. I was not disappointed! I have gained a deeper perspective about the life and thoughts of David as we read them in the Old Testament.<br />
<br />
The book is formatted to be read along with scripture passages. Chapter by chapter Moore rehearses the life of David beginning with "David's Back Story." From the people of Israel's insistence on having a king and the naming of King Saul all the way to King David's last breath and hope of resurrection, Moore helps the reader look past the surface events to the heart and motives of all the characters. She highlights the Psalms that David wrote during the events that take place and relates where David reflects the heart of God and where he painfully falls short of his description of having a heart after God's own heart. In the process of telling David's story, Moore leads readers to search their own story with God to gain a greater depth in their walk with Him. The end of the book has discussion questions for each chapter to help you think more deeply about the subjects broached. <br />
<br />
I would highly recommend this book to anyone seeking to learn more about the life of David. The sneak peek at the end of the book of the Bible Study workbook that correlates to this book made me eager to go even deeper with Moore into the study of this fascinating man who has so much to teach us in our walk with God.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>I received this book free from the publisher</em><em>. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <</em></span><a href="http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html"><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html</span></em></a><em><span style="font-size: xx-small;">> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span></em></span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-38169585993353104712012-03-08T09:09:00.000-06:002012-03-08T09:09:40.887-06:00Going Deep, Gordon MacDonald<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://booksneeze.com/art/_140_245_Book.514.cover.jpg" /></div><br />
A quick book review for a not so quick book. This is a hefty book, but at the end I wasn't ready to be finished. I love the way Gordon MacDonald uses a fiction format to give us a plan to take our churches and selves to a deeper faith. Instead of a boring how to book about planning meetings and what material to cover, MacDonald builds a story around a fictional pastor (himself) and church. Through the characters he succinctly lays out a plan of action to lead a group, most likely a church, into a deeper relationship with each other and with God. Using the "discipleship" method of Christ, the fictional pastor and his wife choose participants for a program to grow "deep people." The group studies people and portions of the Bible as well as more contemporary Christians' lives. Each member of the group is stretched beyond what they thought possible in their walk with Jesus. <br />
<br />
I love the challenge this book presents. Are we satisfied with the level of our depth in Christ or is there room to go deeper? Could we be the catalyst in the life of another to encourage them to a deeper walk? I would LOVE to be part of a group like this! Reading the book, I felt like part of the group written about but, also, felt a great desire to have this kind of accountability and encouragement. I hope if you have any leadership role in an organization you will read this book for inspiration to lead your group Deeper!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <</span><a href="http://booksneeze®.com/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://BookSneeze®.com</span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <</span><a href="http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html</span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-32186665191730218692012-01-30T09:25:00.000-06:002012-01-30T09:25:05.768-06:00Christmas All YearI seems to me that it is such a shame that we only celebrate the birth of our Savior for one month out of twelve. So I am going to make it my goal to celebrate all year in 2012. I am listening to my Christmas music right now. <br />
<br />
<span style="color: #007c00;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><strong>Matthew West’s <em>The Heart of Christmas </em></strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">is playing as I type. This is a great CD! Who says Christmas has to end on Dec 25th? The music that West has on this CD is perfect year 'round. The opening tune, "Come on Christmas," on the album says,</span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><a href="http://www.faithvillage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Matthew-West-The-Heart-of-Christmas-2011.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" id="il_fi" src="http://www.faithvillage.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Matthew-West-The-Heart-of-Christmas-2011.jpeg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="200" /></a> I left the lights up all year ‘round<br />
I just couldn’t bear the thought of takin’ ‘em down<br />
I’ve been singing “Jingle Bell Rock” since July<br />
All the neighbors look at me like<br />
I’m crazy but I<br />
I, got a feeling that I just can’t shake<br />
You see it’s lasted three hundred sixty four days<br />
And now I’m too excited, I can’t sleep a wink and<br />
I stare at the snow outside my window just thinkin’<br />
Come on, Christmas</blockquote>The song "Leaving Heaven" featuring Vince Gill is definitely one not limited to December playing. It is about the choice Jesus made to leave Heaven in order to save you and I. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://quenchshops.files.wordpress.com/2011/11/david-crowder-band-oh-for-joy.jpg?w=617&h=374" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="121" id="il_fi" src="http://quenchshops.files.wordpress.com/2011/11/david-crowder-band-oh-for-joy.jpg?w=617&h=374" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="200" /></a>Another album I am loving is <span style="color: #007c00;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><strong>David Crowder*Band’s <em>Oh For Joy.</em></strong><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong><em> </em></strong><span style="color: black;">I love David Crowder Band! Their unique sound is fabulous no matter what they are singing. This collection of Christmas tunes is no exception. Each song is a classic with a distinct twist that makes it a hit. Since it has that updated sound it is a great choice to bring the Christmas spirit to your everyday. </span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
An added benefit to choosing Christmas music after Christmas is that you can probably find great deals on these and others too! I am wishing you all the JOY of Christmas each and every day this year! CELEBRATE CHRIST!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from media Collective</em></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255<</em></span><a href="http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em><span style="color: #661000;">http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html</span></em></span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</em></span> </span><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"></blockquote>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-39652468314438389192011-12-18T08:26:00.000-06:002011-12-18T08:26:10.445-06:00Good for Everyone<sup class="versenum" id="en-NLT-29886">3</sup> Once we, too, were foolish and disobedient. We were misled and became slaves to many lusts and pleasures. Our lives were full of evil and envy, and we hated each other.<br />
<sup class="versenum" id="en-NLT-29887">4</sup> But —<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><span style="font-size: large;">“When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, <sup class="versenum" id="en-NLT-29888">5</sup> he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. <sup class="versenum" id="en-NLT-29889">6</sup> He generously poured out the Spirit upon us through Jesus Christ our Savior. <sup class="versenum" id="en-NLT-29890">7</sup> Because of his grace he declared us righteous and gave us confidence that we will inherit eternal life.”</span> <br />
</blockquote><sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">8</span></sup> This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. These teachings are good and beneficial for everyone.<br />
<br />
Titus 3:3-8 <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">www.biblegateway.com</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="0" id="stSegmentFrame" name="stSegmentFrame" scrolling="no" src="http://seg.sharethis.com/getSegment.php?purl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fpost-create.g%3FblogID%3D8790708091952191757&jsref=&rnd=1324218113867" style="display: none;" width="0"></iframe><div class="stwrapper" id="stwrapper" style="left: -999px; top: -999px; visibility: hidden;"><div class="stclose"></div><iframe allowtransparency="true" class="stLframe" frameborder="0" height="350" id="stLframe" name="stLframe" scrolling="no" src="" style="left: 0px; top: 0px;" width="353"></iframe></div>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-11833981239079315942011-12-13T09:31:00.000-06:002011-12-13T09:31:37.506-06:00HonestyIs it ever hard for you to be honest? I'm not talking about telling lies versus the truth, but honest about your weakness in a way that shows God's strength. I confess it is hard for me. Even within the safety of friends I know love and care for me, it is hard to be open. God has done many amazing things for me. He saved my soul from hell, and my life from the pit. Over and over again He has released me from traps that should have been my undoing. Still it is hard to name them aloud. Abuse, depression, fears... and the list goes on. I must name them though. That is where He receives glory from my life. Not in how great I can look to those on the outside, but how great a work He has done on the inside. I hope to get to the point Paul was in 2 Corinthians 12:9- <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">Each time he said, "My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness." So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.</blockquote><br />
If boasting about my weaknesses makes the power of Christ more evident to a lost world, let me be found weakest of all!Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-5219590422018369492011-11-29T10:11:00.000-06:002011-11-29T10:11:33.273-06:00A Little TOO Gung Ho...So maybe you have noticed my once a day writing hasn't gone too well. Maybe jumping from once a month (mostly) to everyday is a bit much for little ol' me. My brain just doesn't have that much to say... well not in typed words that someone might want to read anyway. So my newly reworked challenge to myself will be to write at least 2 times per week. Maybe I'll even be inspired for 3 every now and then. :0) Thanks for hanging in there with me!<br />
<br />
With LOVE,<br />
~AmyAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-12615985908284479332011-11-24T21:35:00.000-06:002011-11-24T21:35:47.860-06:00Happy Thanksgiving<span style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large;">Just wanted to say Happy Thanksgiving today. I am thankful to my Lord Jesus for all of His wonderful gifts! May God Bless you richly as well.</span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-77117655000375481542011-11-23T22:39:00.000-06:002011-11-23T22:39:17.260-06:00TOBYMAC Christmas???<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/images/B005FT2MK2/ref=dp_image_0?ie=UTF8&n=5174&s=music" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="AmazonHelp"><img alt="Christmas In Diverse City" border="0" height="300" id="prodImage" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51h7VbE8OIL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" width="300" /></a>I usually don't do Christmas <strong><u>at all</u></strong> until after Thanksgiving, but when TOBYMAC's <u>Christmas in Diverse City</u> came in the mail from my friends at The Media Collective I had to try it out. I was totally sceptical. TOBYMAC isn't who I think of singing "Silent Night" or "Away in a Manger." And he didn't sing either one..whew! He did hit some great classics like "The First Noel" and "Little Drummer Boy" (my favorite BTW.) <br />
<br />
A warning however... This ain't your Grandma's Christmas album. It was great though! I can see myself listening to these songs year-round. They have that distinctive TOBYMAC sound and thump. He has invited several artist to join with him on this one as well: Leigh Nash, Owl City, Jamie Grace, and Nirva Ready just to name a few. If you like a little spice in your Christmas music, I highly recommend you get this one. If you don't, you better sit it out. I understand some that can't stand to change the classics, but I for one love it!<br />
<br />
With LOVE,<br />
~AmyAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-38293652868592658812011-11-22T23:29:00.000-06:002011-11-22T23:29:47.472-06:00Greater Glory<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts. Haggai 2:9</span><br />
<br />
Right now, halfway around the world, a work is being done to help orphaned children gain a life. They are being given a chance at life they could have never gotten abandoned to the streets of Aflao, Ghana. Not only are they given the simple gift of a safe, well-fed life with schooling, but a chance to hear the Good News that God Loves THEM and Jesus Died For THEM. Amazing! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpBgUk814lrxnQZrmmsV5m4-9ioAEZq3BZ7q0vCXITRwO5ixo6yFu2fdI7DnjxxLSbG06lQRXXWnMb-pGP27aW6wuex7fcFZZ5MeRYKJOMSY1g3nS5ImzMwhZ7sMl7sBaz_CIaNUQ2ms/s1600/IMG_3134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpBgUk814lrxnQZrmmsV5m4-9ioAEZq3BZ7q0vCXITRwO5ixo6yFu2fdI7DnjxxLSbG06lQRXXWnMb-pGP27aW6wuex7fcFZZ5MeRYKJOMSY1g3nS5ImzMwhZ7sMl7sBaz_CIaNUQ2ms/s320/IMG_3134.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Even as great as all this, is there is a need for new housing and, PRAISE GOD, He is providing the need. Haggai 2:9 speaks I believe of this new home. It will be greater in bringing Glory to GOD. But not only that HE will give peace there. Hallelujah!!! Peace... It's what I desire and you desire and those sweet children desire as well. God Is SO Good!<br />
<br />
With LOVE,<br />
~AmyAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-67780383573580253742011-11-21T22:38:00.000-06:002011-11-21T22:38:31.911-06:00Today...OK. Writing everyday may be harder than I realized. Some days are so busy I get to the end and it dawns on me that I have made this commitment and I better get to the keyboard. Like today. Well, not really like toady, I have been thinking about it all day but I never had some great thing to say. It is humbling not to be able to come up with a single inspiring or heart-stirring thing to say, but here I am anyway. I hope all 4 of my readers don't leave me for my lack. :0) <br />
<br />
I started this challenge so that I would HAVE to write something everyday. I had in mind, though, that my posts would exponentially grow in depth and gain great audiences as people just had to share my great insights with all their friends.Oh, how I love a good dream. Here in reality though, I am learning that it takes longer than 4 days to make someone a "writer" and it's not as important how many read but that you share your heart with whoever is reading. So this is it for today! Thanks for reading.<br />
<br />
With LOVE,<br />
~AmyAmyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-38520627933028166732011-11-19T22:18:00.001-06:002011-11-21T22:40:47.324-06:00Fear Not, Only Believe<span style="font-size: large;">But Jesus, not heeding the word spoken, saith unto the ruler of the synagogue,<em><strong> Fear not, only believe.</strong></em> </span><strong>Mark 5:36</strong><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Oh, how often this has been Jesus' words to my heart! Yet again tonight as I read these words spoken by Jesus to Jairus, the ruler of the synagogue, <strong>they prick to the core of my soul</strong>. All week I have been praying for a specific answer to a need. I can't say that I have asked boldly without wavering. Begged over and over would be more accurate. <strong>I really want to believe</strong> that God is in the process of answering this prayer, but my faith is wearing thin. Tonight though as I read these words in my Bible <strong>my faith has been rekindled</strong>. Even if His answer to my prayer doesn't come like I think it should there is no fear! Jesus has it all under control. He has my back and that is my security. <strong>He is my security</strong>. John says it best, "Perfect love casts out the fear."(1Jn4:48) <strong><em><u>Jesus is PERFECT LOVE</u></em></strong>. When our faith, or belief lies in Him, He throws away the fear, all of it.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> <span style="font-size: large;">Praise His </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Precious Name!</span></span></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">With LOVE, </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;">~Amy</span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-12526154275781890052011-11-18T17:19:00.000-06:002011-11-18T17:19:22.851-06:00What Women Fear by Angie SmithIf there is a book title that could catch my eye from across the room, it is this one. I have always had a struggle with fear. Several years ago, <strong>God miraculously freed me</strong> from the bulk of my greatest fears, but <strong>if I am not careful to guard my heart</strong>, they attempt to take over my thoughts again. As I read this book, I realized that I am not alone. I could relate on so many levels with the topics Angie Smith covers in her book,<strong> <u>What Women Fear.</u></strong> <br />
<br />
Angie covers the basics of <strong>death, abandonment, rejection</strong>, and <strong>failure</strong>. But she doesn't stop there. She digs deeper into the realms of the<strong> "What ifs"</strong> and the fear of <strong>being found out</strong> (<em>that we aren't perfect...gasp!</em>) One that I often still struggle with is the fear of <strong>not being significant</strong>. Angie describes tit like this:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><div style="text-align: center;">I don’t think I have ever met a single person who could honestly say that they never cared about anyone else’s opinion of them. There may have been situations where they were able to dismiss feedback, but it seems that no one is immune. We may be talking, working, parenting, advising, teaching, or any other number of things, but as we go through the motions we don’t know how to silence the fear: </div></span><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: Adobe Garamond Pro,Adobe Garamond Pro; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Adobe Garamond Pro,Adobe Garamond Pro; font-size: small;">"Am I important?"</span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Each chapter is devoted to a fear that I am betting most people have struggled with at some point or another in their lives. <strong>She approaches each topic with much grace as she tells stories from her life interwoven with stories from the Bible</strong>. There are moments of laughter to go along with the seriousness of this topic. She also includes a prayer from the heart at the end of each chapter. I highly recommend this book to you even if you are "fearless" maybe it will help you understand the rest of us!<strong> :0)</strong> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8790708091952191757.post-78083100957284228992011-11-17T12:55:00.000-06:002011-11-17T12:55:12.019-06:00Do Not Be Like the Horse or the Mule...<sup><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Psalm 32:8-11</span></sup><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><sup>8</sup> I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; <br />
I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. <br />
<sup class="versenum" id="en-NIV-14365">9</sup> </span><em>Do not be like the horse or the mule, <br />
which have no understanding <br />
but must be controlled by bit and bridle <br />
or they will not come to you. </em><span style="font-size: small;"><sup class="versenum" id="en-NIV-14366">10</sup> Many are the woes of the wicked, <br />
but the LORD’s unfailing love <br />
surrounds the one who trusts in him. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><sup class="versenum" id="en-NIV-14367">11</sup> Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous; <br />
sing, all you who are upright in heart!</span></span> <br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This week, as I prepared for my Tuesday Bible Study class, I came across this portion of scripture. We are studying the book, <u>How to Know God's Will</u> by Charles Shepson. (Which is a great book.) In the first section, the author discusses the issue of our <strong>wanting to know God's will</strong> and if He wants to reveal it to us. Psalm 32:8 states that, of course, <strong>the Lord desires to reveal His will to us</strong>. It is up to us to be receptive to Him and His instruction. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Verse 9 really stuck out to me as I read this, so I did some study of <strong>the role of the bit and bridle</strong> in horse training. First I confirmed what I already knew. The horse ins controlled by the bit when it is placed in its mouth to apply pressure to turn the head of the horse to point it in the direction the rider wishes to go. <strong>The idea is to only apply pressure, not pain</strong>, to the horse's mouth. If the horse will not respond to pressure though the bit is pulled harder, to the point of pain, to get the horse's attention.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This method of training seemed to correlate to methods the Lord has used in my life at times. There is pressure to go the way of His instruction. Just a gentle push at first and <strong>if I do not heed, the pressure increases until the pain is such that I relent to go the direction I have been resisting</strong>. But this verse reveals there is a better way! Praise the Lord! </span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPDPBj2T3iPnM9l6aKzT-7q2upZtF_T5_Gc9Yx9dPV_3bhWzd83IP_gY80-7fCvCsjZcXZf5HO4lZoyYIYpSOf_mecSs2dbe4xT5R46Vlw6AMd-T02F8ogrKNIZcb2L94vxT5uI5q5we4/s1600/stylish4-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPDPBj2T3iPnM9l6aKzT-7q2upZtF_T5_Gc9Yx9dPV_3bhWzd83IP_gY80-7fCvCsjZcXZf5HO4lZoyYIYpSOf_mecSs2dbe4xT5R46Vlw6AMd-T02F8ogrKNIZcb2L94vxT5uI5q5we4/s400/stylish4-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Note the lack of bit or bridle!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">In my study of the bit and bridle I also found a forum discussion of<strong> riding without bit or bridle. </strong>It is possible with horses and I feel it is possible with us too. The horse must learn to "hear" the communication of the rider. Maybe that is a gentle nudge in the ribs, or the way the rider leans his body or stands in the saddle. <strong>The key is that the horse is very aware of the riders instruction and trusts the rider enough to do whatever he says, even if the horse doesn't want to. </strong>In the same way, we must trust the Lord and listen closely to His instruction in order to be lead in a more gentle manner. I pray that I might be able to <strong>hear and respond</strong> in such a way that He need not use pressure and pain to achieve His purposes in me, only the gentle nudge.</span>Amyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11582846645311242997noreply@blogger.com0