Five Minute Friday: Haven

There's a place I like to go.  It's normally quiet.  It's quite comfortable.  It's my own little spot.  It takes me to my haven.

I rise early in the morning. Make my coffee. Have a seat. Cuddle with the cat. Open the Good Book.

In this spot I read.  I'm taken beyond the Living Word and placed alongside my God.  My Safe Haven. My Rock. My Refuge.

Regardless of what is on my heart that morning, He tends to my soul.  In this spot, it's just me and Him.  Spending time together. Knowing each other. Loving each other.  Me listening and learning.  Him speaking to my heart.

I cherish this time.

It isn't always uninterrupted.  Sometimes it may come later in the day.  Some days it comes multiple times per day.

Always a safe space.

Always my haven.

I read His Holy Word.

I devour it.

It leaves an imprint on my heart, mind, and soul.

It's is a part of me.

His Word is living.

His Word is powerful.

His Word is what I crave.

His Word takes me to a place of love, mercy, hope, and comfort.

His Word is full of grace.

His Word is my haven.

If you've enjoyed my FMF post, stop over at Kate's to read LeeAnn's thoughts on the word Haven.  There are other great writers' links as well. 

I Draw Stick People

A while back, I began following certain people and online stores on Instagram and saw post after post of bible journaling.

I FELL IN LOVE.

The designs and colors were beautiful.  I absolutely loved the thought of doodling and coloring God's Word.

There's one thing though.

I don't consider myself very artistic when it comes to drawing and sketching.  Seriously, I draw stick people.  You should have seen my life cycle of a frog and butterfly diagrams when I taught fourth grade science.  They were quite comical to say the least.

Well, I'm one of those girls that sees something awesome and beautiful and want a piece of it.  So, for months, I considered buying a journaling bible.  I even carried one around LifeWay and then put it back. While in the checkout line, I sent my 13 year old son back to get it, but he brought back the wrong one. I decided against it. I was hesitant because I'm not very good at drawing.  I saw those beautiful pictures on Instagram and then on Pinterest and convinced myself I would never be able to make something so beautiful.

I talked to my coworker Jane about the journaling bibles (she's a former art teacher turned media specialist). She was in love too, and we encouraged each other to get one.  But still, I had this fear that I would mess it up.  I love my bibles. All of them. I highlight and circle and write and underline and draw clouds around certain verses.  I didn't want to risk ruining a bible with crayons and markers and stickers.

My mother-in-law got me a journaling bible for Christmas. I loved it and was terrified at the same time.  I let it sit. And sit. And sit some more.

Until one day.....

I decided it was time and created my first journal entry.

I admit that I was quite pleased even though it wasn't exactly like what I'd seen on social media. I didn't ruin it on the first try and that was a very good thing! And I realized.....

It's not supposed to look like the other examples on social media.

This is MY journaling bible.

This is MY artistic ability (or lack of).

This is MY time with God.

And that, my friend, is what is important.

I'm spending time in God's Word. I'm reading and listening. I'm creating from being inspired by Him. And I'm in love with it because I am in love with Christ.

How many times do we let our fears stand in our way?  We doubt our abilities and give up without trying.  We fear judgement from others and ourselves.  We don't believe we are good enough.  But we are good enough.  God says we are, even if we draw stick people or dance like a duck or sing off key.

Colossians 3:23 says, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men." 

Sometimes we forget that.  We judge ourselves before even getting started because we fear others.  But my bible time, that's for me and God. I don't have to post pictures of what I create during this time.  I shouldn't care if you like it or not.  I should care that my time was pleasing to the Lord.

Are you holding back from something?  Are you wanting to do something for God, but you're gripped by fear?  God will break those chains.  He loves you, and He doesn't care if you are like me and draw stick people.  Do what God calls you to do.  He will bless you when you are obedient.

It is all Important

Do you ever struggle through certain parts of the Bible?

I'll admit, that the genealogy listings can really cause me to zone out.  I find myself skimming and looking to see were the "begot" list ends.

I've come to realize, though, that every part of the Bible is important.  There are things I've read multiple times and never thought much about until one day.....BAM!  It hit me. It made sense. It connected to something else.

If we look at certain things in the Bible as nonsense or unimportant, we can miss out.  One of my favorite parts of scripture is found in a list of genealogy.

Read it with me.

"and Koz begot Anub, Zobebah, and he families of Aharhel the son of Haram. Now Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, "because I bore him in pain." And Jabez called to the God of Israel saying, Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!" So God granted him what he requested. Cheleub the brother of Shuhah begot Mehir, who was the father of Eston. And Eshton begot Beth-Rapha, Paseah, and Tehinnah the father of Ir-Nahash. These were the men of Rechah."

Did you see that?  Right there in the middle of 1Chronicles 4, there was something big in the midst of the who begot who list.

There was Jabez and his prayer..

Jabez was more honorable than his brothers.

In the entire genealogy for the family of Judah, Jabez was the only one described.  And he was described as more honorable than his brothers.

Jabez prayed.

He asked God to bless him.  No, I don't believe this is selfish.  Don't we all want God's blessings?  Yes, so we need to ask for them. Our Father wants us to ask.

God answered his prayer.

Jabez asked, and he received.  What an amazing lesson for us.  Matthew 7:7, Luke 11:9, and James 1:5 are other examples of when we are told to ask for things in God's name.

There is a book called The Prayer of Jabez by Dr. Bruce Wilkinson.  In this book, readers are challenge to pray The Prayer of Jabez wholeheartedly and await the results.

If we ask God to bless us, He will.

If we ask Him for opportunity to serve, He will provide.

If we ask of Him, in His Name, we will receive.


You see, God's Word is important. All of it.  I pray that as you read your Bible, that you'll hang in there through the parts that don't seem to matter.  It all matters.  And if you look and ask God to speak to you through His Word.....He'll do it.  Just listen.

How's your Bible reading/studying going on this 18th day of 2016?  Have you set any goals?  Do you have a specific Bible you are reading from?

I am currently reading through my One Year Chronologic Bible.  I started this last year, so I'm not on "today's" daily reading.

I am also beginning my ESV Journaling Bible. With a whole lot of reluctance,  I've made my first entry.

I am not artistic by any means, but I think I will enjoy growing in God's Word with it.  My initial fear was that I would mess it up.  I just have to understand that it won't be Pinterest Perfect, but it will show how God is speaking through me.  

Back Where I Belong

As the school year ended, I was really excited about sleeping in and then getting up, grabbing a cup of coffee and my Bible, and spending time with God each day.

I hate to admit that as excited as I was about not having to rush about my morning, I have FAILED miserably in spending time with Him this summer.

I can make excuse after excuse, but I won't.

Plain and simple truth?

I put things between us.

Whether it was sleep, TV, technology, the new house, whatever....I failed to spend quality time with Him.

Yesterday during Sunday School, our lesson was about Jonah's disobedience toward God and Ninevah's return to God.  You know the story....

God told Jonah to go to Ninevah and tell the people to repent or they would be destroyed.  Jonah didn't want to so he got on a boat to go far away.  Well, God got upset, caused a storm, and Jonah was confronted by the others on the ship.  Overboard he went, into the stomach of a fish. After 3 days, Jonah was vomitted out and then decided he should obey God.  God gave the people of Ninevah a second chance (and Jonah too).

Second chances.

They are nice aren't they?

When we've messed up big time or lost our way, we yearn for someone to wrap their arms around us, hug us tightly, and say, "It's going to be ok. I'm here and I love you."

God does that for us.

The thing about God is that He knows us....better than we do.  He knows what's in our hearts. He knows our thoughts. He knows our words before we even speak them.  He knows we are going to mess up.  He knows us, BUT He loves us anyway.

God is a giver of second chances.  He gives us a chance to get back where we belong.  And where is that?

With Him.

So today, I am dedicated....I am starting my "second-fortieth" chance.  You see....I've lost count of the number of times I've neglected my relationship with God.  But the thing about God is this....He never walked away from me. He's just been whispering to me and waiting for me to return back to Him.

And that's what I'm doing.

I want that intimacy back.  And what better way to get back there than to spend time with Him.

So today, I looked on my bookshelf and found this....

I started it a long time ago and never finished.  Today, I restart.  I take advantage of my "second-fifty-fifth" chance.

Jesus told the story of the prodigal son.  It is a story of second chances. And today, I return....the prodigal daughter returns to where she belongs.

But I am aware that Satan lurks nearby.  He already has his hand out ready to snatch me back, but God is stronger.  He led me to scripture this morning that I need to keep close to my heart.

As I was reading from Experiencing Spiritual Intimacy, I was instructed to read 1John 5:19-20 that talks about knowing God through Jesus.  But my eyes went further to verse 21

Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.

That hit me.  That....That is what has happened to me.  These idols, I have placed them between myself and God.  I came up with excuse after excuse without really knowing what I was doing. When God whispered to me, "You haven't spent time with me today," I answered him, "I know and I will in a minute. Just let me finish this."  Whatever "this" was, it took His place.  Many days, that idol made me lay down at bedtime and cringe, "Dear God, I'm sorry. I didn't spend time with you like I said I would. Tomorrow will be better."

Only it wasn't.

But thankfully, God is more faithful than I am.

He met me today, wrapped His arms around me, and gave me my "second-sixtieth" chance.  He is helping me get back where I belong.

Tour of Duty Bible Study

This was the last week for the Tour of Duty Bible study. However, my book will stay close by!  There are so many great resources within the book and the amount of scripture that relates to so much of life.....oh, my....it is wonderful.

So, below you will find my answers to the discussion questions for the last two chapters.  Feel free to comment.

Ch. 6 – Facing the Giants

Discuss your biggest giant that keeps your eyes off God. Is this giant a recent distraction, or is it a giant that keeps returning?

I think a mix of failure, worry, and time. I do have worries concerning deployment, I fear failing my family during this time, taking care of our home, raising the kids by myself, and messing up our finances. Time hit me today. It was only 11:30, but it felt well into the afternoon. I don't like days like that! The failure thing keeps returning, but the others are recent. I have found when these giants invade, I've been quick to turn them over to God. I hope I can continue to do that!


Do you agree with the statement “Giants require confrontation”? How have you confronted your giants lately?

I do agree with that statement. If you don't confront them, I think they grow bigger and become harder to confront them down the road.

Praying is a way to confront these giants, turning them over to God.


How does knowing that the enemy could be the driving force behind your giant change your perspective on it?

It shows that God is for us, not against his. The battle is the Lord's!


What part of the David and Goliath story hit home with you this week?

I think the part where Saul gave David the armor instead of fully relying on God as David did. I think sometimes we do that too. We say, "Ok, God, I trust you in this, BUT...." It's like we try to help God out a little...like He needs help! :)


Which of the bulleted items on page 93 is the hardest for you to remember and why?

Sometimes all of them.

We feel inadequate because of our experience (being reserve or guard instead of active duty) or because of our age (I'm too old/young for this).

I think the other two work together. If we don't recognize the giants God has already defeated in our lives, then we do fail to give Him the credit and it is hard to get that victory. We aren't really relying on Him.


Discuss these verses: John 15:4-5 and Isaiah 40:31. How do these verses both challenge and encourage you?

Isaiah 40:31
But those who wait on the Lord
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.

John 15:4-5
Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.

I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.

These verses are beautiful. I am reminded that I am nothing without God. He is my everything. Just this week, I had a handful of people tell me, "You will get through this because you are strong."

No, I am not strong. My strength comes from the Lord. He is my Strong Tower. I know I can't do anything without Him.


What would your life look like without God? How can you trust Him more fully this week?

Without God, my life would be a mess. I would have no where to turn. The thing is, you can talk to people, confide in them, get advice from them, but it just isn't the same as having Jesus as your best friend. Throughout this journey, I will lean on Him and His Word.


Ch. 7 – This is Your Time
This chapter started with some heavy questions about God’s purpose for your life. If you feel comfortable sharing, what were some of your answers?

God has given me sort of a happy-go-lucky personality. I don't really stress alot (I guess outwardly anyway). I can pretty much get along with anyone. I hate confrontation. I think, or like to think, that I am fullfilling God's purpose by being the best wife I can be. I try to be supportive to whatever my husband is called to do. As for my children, I try to be the best mom I can be for them. I am doing my best to raise them as godly children. I'd like to think I am helpful to others when they are in need.


What are your thoughts on Romans 8:28?

Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." It reminds me that if I am fullfilling His purpose, then things will work out for good. I may not always understand or see the immediate "good" but I can have faith that He is in control and loves me.


What’s the difference between self-created courage and courage that comes from God? What insights did you have as you read about courage?

I think self-created courage is fake. We put on a front. We surround ourselves with "good stuff." We don't let people see the real us. The courage that comes from God is real. It shows our fears and our weaknesses, but shows that we are fully relying on Him.


What did you learn from the story of Esther this week?

Like Esther, I am called to this. Knowing that God has a plan, that He has called me, makes things less frightening. I can take comfort in knowing that He is with me each step of the way.


How do you find yourself being courageous? In what areas of life do you struggle with this?

I think just "keeping on keeping on." It is hard. Like today, the boys were content sitting in front of the TV and computer. I was content catching up on some of my favorite shows, but I knew it would make for a long day, a long weekend if we just stayed put. So we left the house. I think sometimes, just leaving the house is going to be key for me. I hate getting out in the cold, so with winter approaching, I know that I need to get out even if it is running to Sonic to get a drink with the kids every once in a while.


What’s the biggest takeaway you’ve had from this study and sharing and hearing from the other ladies who have participated over the last 5 weeks?

I think just that all of this has a purpose. None of us are alone. God planned our deployments. He planned for us to do this study together. He is in control.

I know we had a conversation about some of us not having those military spouse connections because we are guard or reserves, and I thought of those that don't have those civilian connections. As for me, I work in the public school system. I have obligations at church. My children are involved in activities that require my support. I have  people that are here for me in my hometown, next door, down the road, across town. I am thankful for that. I pray that those that don't have that support system would find one. That others would reach out to them. Just know, ladies, that I am here for you. We may never be able to meet face to face, but we do have this cyber world where we are able to connect!



I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving, whether you are with your Soldier or not.

Book Review: The Girl's Still Got It

Are you looking for a new Bible study?  Here is one I think you will love.

It is Liz Curtis Higgs' The Girl's Still Got It.  This study covers the book of Ruth.

Higgs goes through the book verse by verse, using a narrative form along with commentary to supplement the scripture's message.  I have read Ruth before, but never like this.  Higgs makes the story come alive by placing the reader in the midst of Ruth's journey with her mother-in-law Naomi. 

As I read the book, I experienced the story of Ruth like never before.  Each chapter contains wit and humor. Higgs uses her own personal stories along with stories of other women in a section called Ruth in Real Life.  In the back of the book, you will find discussion questions and a study guide. This book would serve as an awesome personal Bible study as well as a group study.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review.



Tour of Duty Bible Study

Below are the answers to the discussion questions for Chapters 4 and 5. Please feel free to comment on anything even if you aren't participating in the study. I would love to hear your thoughts!

Ch. 4 – The Desert of Enough


1. Have you ever felt like no one understood what you were going through? How does this misunderstanding from others make deployment more difficult?

I think we have all felt that no one understands. In all reality, there are those that do. I think about the women before us who didn't have email, SKYPE, and texting. They had to wait and wait and wait and wait some more to hear from their Soldiers. Wonder if they think we don't understand?!?

Seriously though....it does make things difficult. I think maybe we let that misunderstanding make us feel entitled to a big pity party. We can stop reaching out for help (if we ever did in the first place). I think it can cause us to alienate ourselves from people who really do care about us and want to help us.


2. If you’re comfortable with doing it, describe a situation when you felt stuck in an emotional desert.

When my husband traveled to Japan (our first long trip away from each other), I was left home with my 2 1/2 year old. It was a very cold December. My son had locked himself in the bathroom with the water running earlier in the week. For a couple of nights our heat kept messing up. It would work throughtout the day and then stop at night. The last straw came when I woke up at 2 am and it was 53 degrees in the house. I cried and told God that I just couldn't do it. I couldn't pack up my son and somewhere to spend the night and then get up for work. I missed my husband and wanted him home. I wanted someone to have answers and to fix things because i just couldn't. God heard my cry and got me through that. The heat miraclulously came back on within minutes and my son and I slept warmly the rest of the night. I felt renewed by just handing it all over to God.

3. We talked in the chapter about finding shelter in God’s love for us. Have you experienced this shelter from God? If so, describe it.

Oh, yes! His shelter comes in so many forms. Having just enough money to pay the bills. A friend (or stranger) there when you need them. The words we need to hear from scripture or song. God definitely provdies for us in so many amazing ways.

4. We looked at some discouraging circumstances in the life of Noah, David, the Israelites and Hannah. With which of these situations could you most relate?

I have definitely wanted a child badly. It was one of those times when I told myself God would let us have a baby when he was ready and not being pregnant was ok. Only I found that I truly didn't believe it. I had gone to the doctor thinking/believing I was pregnant. When the nurse told me I wasn't, I practically ran from the office. My husband had to catch up with me. It was definitely discouraging, but I realized that my faith wasn't what it should have been. It took lots of prayer to get me where I needed to be.

5. Part of the journey of deployment includes emotional highs and lows. What can you do to combat this emotional roller coaster?

Prayer. Scripture reading. PRAISE GOD! It is important to realize that God is in control. This is His plan and that he will see us through. For me, not knowing whether or not this deployment was going to come was hard. I am a planner by nature. I needed to know one way or the other so I could have peace either way. God made His decision when we learned to accept His timetable.

6. We asked on page 63 for you to describe a time when belief in God’s absolute control over a situation encouraged you or someone you know. If you’re comfortable in doing so, share that time with us here.

My husband and I found ourselves in a financial mess after he returned from CH-BOLC. What was supposed to turn into a short trip (3 hour tour HA!) became the full course. At the time, we thought this was the end of the world. However, it was a blessing in disguise. We were able to get our vehicle payed off and figure out how to pay off some other bills in a timely manner. I like to think we are on our way to recovery!

7. Do you believe that God sympathizes and understands when we struggle? If so, how does that help you?

YES! YES! YES! John 16:33 says, "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

It is encouraging to know that God has control and power over all things and that He wants us to have peace. We can "feel better" about difficult times knowing that He stands with us.

8. In what ways can you make deployment easier on yourself by realizing you don’t have to be perfect?

It allows us a time to try to cut back on things that are not important. Honestly, does anyone other than ourselves expect us to be perfect. My husband (mom, mother-in-law, half of our church) reminded me this week to ask for help, to take care of me needs. It is helpful to have those closest to you remind you to do that. They are giving you the OK not to be perfect.

9. Which Scripture passage out of the ones that identify rest on p. 67 meant the most to you?

Psalm 4:8: I will both lie down in peace and sleep. For You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.


I don't sleep well when my husband is not home. The dog barks and I look out the window. I hear a creak and walk the house. Worries and stresses flood my thoughts. However, this verse reminds me that God provides me with true peace and rest. I can give my burdens to him and he will take care of me.

10. How does knowing that God will walk with you through the Desert of Enough help you today?
It is an amazing reminder that I am not on this journey alone.

Ch. 5 – Mountain for One

1. We’re in our fourth week of this study – only 1 week left!! What has God taught you recently through the journey of deployment? It can be big or small.

God has just been reminding me of things I know (things that I hope my faith will hold on to). I need to let go of some things, take care of myself, and just trust Him.

Everything is in God's timing. We can't rush things. We can't slow things. We are so not in control.

2. What did you think about this chapter this week? Have you found yourself on a Mountain for One recently? If you feel comfortable, share what that’s been like.

My Mountain for One has not yet come. Ask me again in a few weeks!!!

3. If you feel comfortable, share your response to the question on page 75 regarding a time when you wanted to give up.

I think sometimes the frustration of feeling like we have to do it all, or being in position when you didn't have support makes you want to give up. I remember wanting to give up on a church committee because I felt like I was the only one doing anything when it was to be a group effort. Giving up is the easy way out. I stayed on the committee after airing out my feelings to my husband and pastor, and that gave me a new outlook. I took the focus off of me and put it on God.

4. To which CAVE do you most often retreat in hard times?

I think maybe Apathy. It is easy for me to remove myself emotionally from situations.

5. What has God already done in your life that you missed because you weren’t looking?

I think I missed out on things due to fear. My middle school music teacher encouraged my to be in the high school color guard, but I didn't feel like I was good enough. I even backed out of living in the dorms in college due to fear, of what, I don't know. I just chickened out. When you lack self esteem fear grips you and you miss out on what God can offer you. Those things could have built my confidence and provided great experiences.

6. Read Philippians 4:8 and discuss your thoughts. What other verses has God used to encourage you?

When I read Philippians 4:8, I am reminded that whatever we set our thoughts upon is what we become. We can make excuses for ourselves about many things to make us "not look so bad." When we do, that becomes our lifestyle. One thing I am seeing now is that some women that I care about are convincing themselves they need a break from their husbands and children, so for them it is ok to go out to clubs just to get away. I think that is asking for trouble. I don't see anything wrong with some moms taking time to go to dinner to hang out to talk, but going out drinking to places where others are there to hook up, not so good. We have to be very careful of becoming worn out. We shouldn't view our families, our lives, or the season we are in as a burden, when we do, that is asking Satan to come on in and take over.

I love Psalm 118:24: This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. It reminds me that each day is a gift. We are not promised tomorrow, so we should make the most of today.

Music also touches my heart. We sang Spirit of the Living God at church recently and it really spoke to me.

Spirit of the living God, fall fresh on me;
Spirit of the living God, fall fresh on me.
Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me.
Spirit of the living God, fall fresh on me.

7. Like Elijah, what action is God telling you to do?

I think God is telling me to be in his presence. So many times I find myself slipping away from Him because I have made my life so busy and so unorganized. I need to focus on Him.

8. How has God been whispering encouragement to you this week?

God has definitely been whispering to me this week! I have felt and heard Him in the little things, cherishing the time with my family. He has definitely reminded that He is in control and urging me to trust Him.


9. How do you make reading your Bible a priority? When do you do this? What tips can you share with other women in the group?

When I feel like I am not as close to God as I need to be, I realize it is because I have not been reading my Bible. When thing I have learned to do is to keep a Bible near me, in my bag, by the recliner or bed, or even as an APP on my iPad or cell phone. Then when I have a down moment, I read scripture instead of magazines, playing games, or watching TV. I've done this early in the mornings before any one else is up, in doctor's offices, in the car while waiting for my husband to come out of a store, or at night while the kids are watching cartoons before bedtime. I had to acknowledge all the ways I waste time before I found the time. We all complain that we just don't have time, but if we assess our internet time, our tv time, etc, then we really do have the time, we are just choosing other things.

Tour of Duty: The Road Less Traveled

This is the official start of the Tour of Duty Bible Study. Last week was used as an introductory session. It was so great to "meet" some amazing women.  I am looking forward to growing and learning from this study.

Below are the questions that Sara gave us this week along with my answers.  Feel free to comment even if you are not taking part in the study.

Ch. 1 – The Road Less Traveled


1. What were your initial thoughts about this chapter/this topic this week? What’s one thing that stuck out to you?

I think we all need that reminder that this is all in God’s plan, that He chose us for this. We may say, “Whoa! I didn’t sign up for this!” but God says, “I’ve placed you hear for a reason.”

2. On pg. 11, what were your early expectations when you were first married or you first became a military wife?

When I my husband I and were first married, neither of us ever imagined being a military family. My expectation as a young married couple was that we would support each other and be there for each other.

Since becoming a military family, those expectations have not changed. I knew that I would be the supporter of my husband. I expected there to be difficult times.

3. What are some of the things you’ve done to prepare for deployment?

One of the first things we did was assess our priorities. We knew that our church nominating committee would be contacting us and we would have work commitments as well. We decided to say no to some things that would “ease” our schedules.

I began reading When Duty Calls which was provided to us by the NAMB. This helped me figure out some of the things that we needed to do. During this time, I also decided to do this bible study again.

4. In this chapter, we describe deployment as hills, valleys, sharp turns, U-turns, thick fog, desert heat and stormy wet roads. Have you experienced some of these conditions? Which ones? What are you experiencing now?

Let me just say, “Oh, my goodness!” We are riding right on that rollercoaster that has all the ups and downs, sharp turns and fog!

We were mentally preparing for this deployment. Then we found out that it wasn’t going to happen. Then we hear that it could still possibly happen.

Mentally, we are worn out. I think my husband more so than me. I’m a kind of go with the flow person, but just not knowing is hard.

5. In the section, “God has His best in mind for us” (p. 13), we talk about the big picture and “God’s best” versus “our best.” What is the difference? How have you seen this played out in your own life?

God’s best is for Him. Our best is for us.

Very seldom do we place ourselves in difficult situations on purpose. Human nature wants peace, happiness, and everything to be perfect. We usually avoid that which makes us uncomfortable.

However, God’s best will bring glory to Him. He will place us in situations that we can’t get through without Him.

When my husband was away over 3 months for CH-BOLC, I was basically a single mom of 3 boys, ages 8, 4, and 3 months. There was so much “drama” that happened during that time: my grandmother passed away, I got a flat tire, our electricity went out in one part of our house, our air unit messed up, school started back…..the list goes on. I had to learn to depend on others, including those two burly strangers at Target who changed my tire in the parking lot. I had to admit that I couldn’t do it all and that was ok. God changed me during that time. I became a different person because of Him. Without that experience, I would not have grown in my independence, coping skills, or in my relationships with others including my husband and God.

6. We talked about choosing bitterness versus trusting God. It’s easy to resent God for what He allows to happen to us. How can you trust Him despite your circumstances?

We definitely need to realize that we have a choice on how we react to God and the things he places before us. I think through prayer and scripture reading we can learn to trust him. We have to be honest with ourselves about our struggles and stop thinking we have to (and can) do everything.

7. Which letter of the SET acronym do you struggle with the most? What steps can you take to struggle less with it?

Equipped is a struggle for me. I think it is the simple fact that as a Reserve wife, I don’t feel connected to any one. My husband is with his 3rd Reserve unit (sort of in limbo). I have only met a few from the previous two. I don’t even have a relationship with his assistant’s wife. I do have my own support system at home, but I think having even the smallest relationship with other spouses of Soldiers he will be working with would be beneficial. Even being involved in an FRG would help, but currently that is not available to me.

8. What’s the hardest thing about deployment for you? What do you need to do to turn this fear/challenge/struggle over to God? (And how can the rest of us pray for you in this?)

The hardest thing for me currently is “Will there be a deployment?” The back and forth and up and down are hard. We just have to trust that God is using this time to prepare us for what is ahead.

Tour of Duty Week 1

Today was the start of the Tour of Duty Bible study I am taking part in, again. 

I really felt that God was leading me to this study.  When we learned that Jeff would be deploying, I put this study on my To Do list.  I got so much from this study the first time I did it and knew it would help me through the deployment.  Well, orders were rescinded, but I still considered doing the study.  Then came the email from Wives of Faith that the study was going to be online.  I knew doing the study was a must.

So this week, we are introducing ourselves.  For those of you that don't know me....

Hi, y'all!  I'm Natasha!

Never in my wildest dreams did I expect to be a military wife. 

Jeff and I started dating in 1991 and were married 8 years later. That puts at a 21 year relationship, married for 13 of those years.  It wasn't until about 4 years ago that we began this journey.  He is now a Chaplain for the US Army Reserves.

I can't speak for how I've dealt with deployment because Jeff has not been deployed.  I can speak, however, about how I've deal with long separations, anywhere from a long weekend to almost 4 months.  It isn't easy to say the least.  However, I have grown from those experiences. 

I have to admit, I've never really had really high self esteem.  I've always doubted my abilities, and still do to a point.  But, taking care of home and children alone places a person in situations you least expect. 

Proverbs 3:5-6 says
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

And lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths.

Separations have helped me to trust in the Lord.  They have caused me to put my emotions and feeling in check with God's will.  It is difficult to sometimes get up off the couch instead of brooding over our situation.  God wants to lead us, stretch us, strengthen us. We just have to let him. 

One thing I do struggle with is being a Reserves spouse instead of an active duty spouse.  I know that God has a plan in all this and maybe we may go active duty. Where He leads, I'll go.  Sometimes it just feels like I don't belong.  For someone who is often not comfortable in her own skin, this can pose a problem.  I don't know the in's and out's of the Army.  We've been on this journey for a couple of years now, but sometimes I feel just as clueless as when we started. I don't have any connections with local military wives. The only ones I know that are about my age have husbands that have previously served. I only meet people from Jeff's unit once or twice a year. Going to FRG meetings isn't really an option for us right now.  I think I would like to have those connections, especially with him being the Chaplain.  I feel like I should be there for the spouses. 

I am really excited about this study.  I am always open to what God has in store for me. This journey, although I have done it before, will bring new things.

Tour of Duty Bible Study

When we found out that Jeff would be deploying, I thought of doing the Tour of Duty Bible Study (again). I completed the study the first time back in May 2011 and found it very beneficial.

Each time Jeff is gone away for a long period of time either for his civilian job or for Army training, I find myself referring to topics and ideas from that study.  So, I definitely knew I would need to do it again during the deployment. 

Well, after we found out that Jeff was not going to deploy, I still considered doing the Bible study. After all, the Army does what they want and I knew there was a possibility that he could still go somewhere.  Shortly after Jeff's orders were rescinded, I got an email from Wives of Faith; they were going to host the Bible study online again! I couldn't turn it down. 

I feel like God is leading me to this study.  I look forward to the the community I will join online.  I will post here about it as well. 

The Frazzled Female Week 6: Near to the Heart of God

When I began this week's study (the final one), I had a very difficult time getting into it.  Quite a bit of it was about  depression, something I have not experienced.  I have had my share of ups and downs, a bit of the baby blue's, but never experienced true depression.  At first I couldn't understand how this tied into the last week of study (kind of depressing don't you think, to end talking about depression?)! 

I am by no means a medical expert and won't even attempt to give medical advice on the matter.  However, I will say that from what I have found 1 out of every 4 women will suffer from depression.  That would be the equivelent to 5 of the ladies I am doing this study with. 

Depression is not a weakness in character or spirituality.  It is not a cause for embarrassment.  It seems that depression is telling you that you have had enough. That emotionally, physcially, mentally you are empty.  You need to be refueled.

In 1Kings, Elijah had had enough.  He had been working for the Lord. He had been successful. When he was on his mountaintop after having the prophets of Baal done away with, Jezebel's threat became the breaking point.  He ran. He hid. He asked God to just let him die.

That was not the answer for Elijah.  It still is NOT the answer for us. 

Regardless of what pit we are in, regardless of how weak we feel. There is hope. There is an answer. It is found in Jesus!

Isaiah 40:29 says, He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might he increases in strength. Verse 31 adds, But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

In Isaiah 41:10, our Father says, Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Just because we are Christians, that doesn't mean our lives are going to be perfect, free from pain and suffering.  God never told us our journey would be easy, only that He would be there with us.

I know there are times that He seems distant. Our prayers aren't being answered. Things seem dim.  But there is Light!  God may not be ready to reveal Himself and His plan.  He may be readying us for something else.  During our Upward devotional today, we were reminded that God's ways are not our ways. When things seem to be taking forever or we seem to be in that pit, God is giving us time to think, time to pray, time to draw closer to Him.  We need to listen for that still small voice instead of seeking Him in the wind and earthquakes. 

The Lord is there. We just have to trust Him. We have to draw near to Him.

There is a scene in the movie Forest Gump where Forest is on his shrimp boat, and he sees Lt. Dan on the dock.  He waves and immediately dives in the water to greet his friend.  Forest was so eager to be near to Lt. Dan, that he plunged into the water and swam to him instead of taking the time to slow the boat down, guide it gently to the dock, and secure it.  We when watch that, we laugh and think how silly.

But get this....

Tonight, as I read John 21 as part of the Weekend Mini Retreat for my Frazzled Female study, I froze (and smiled) on verse 7: Therefore, that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment (for he had removed it), and plunged into the sea.

Peter's Friend, his Lord, Jesus was there on the shore. He couldn't wait for the boat to be rowed in and secure. He immediately jumped and and swam to reunite with Jesus. 

To me, that is a beautiful picture.

A picture we could learn from.

We should eagerly greet Jesus each day.  We should make him a priority the number 1 priority in our lives. Like Mary and Peter, we should stop what we are doing and find ourselves sitting at his feet.When we do that, we will find that He delivers us from those pits, those caves we find ourselves in.  He keeps His promises to guide us and protect us, giving us strength and hope.

The Frazzled Female Week 5: I Missed It!

No, that wasn't actually the title for the week.  I actually missed our group!  Is that even legal for the leader??? 

Carson, bless his heart, is sick.  So yesterday about 10am, I called to make an appointment to see his pediatrician.  When the lady answered the phone, I totally quit listening. All that I could think was, "That's strange. They never answer. It is always automated."  I told her, "I need to make an appointment for this afternoon for my son."

All was quiet. Then I heard, "Your sooonnn?"

"Yeeesss," I replied, wondering why she was stretching out her words.

"Ummmm..."

Then it hit me. "Oh, I have called the wrong doctor, haven't I?"

With laughter, "Yes, ma'am you have!"

Oh, girl, you didn't! Oh, girl, I did! I called my OB/GYN to make an appointment for my 5 year old son!  Yes, I did!

After the laughter died down, I finally got Carson an appointment to see his doctor at 4:30 yesterday.  We actually got in at 5:30. Finally got home at 7:00.  What a long afternoon. 

Thankfully, Hilarie and Edie took charge of bible study.  Thank you, my BFF and my big sister I never had! I can't wait to hear how it went.

Back to week 5....It was actually titled I'm Frazzled. 

Yes. I am. Are you?

The Defrazzler for the week was to make time to do something for yourself.  Oh, that was so hard for me.  I have this obsession with feeling guilty when I think of myself.  However, I decided since it was strict instructions, I could do it. 

I decided to take a LONG, HOT BATH BY CANDLELIGHT. Oh, I immediately thought of how relaxing that would be.  I was so excited, and a little guilt stricken, to tell Jeff what I HAD to do.

It

Never

Happened.

Not that he didn't try to help me. Jeff even asked me if he could run the water for me.  But it wasn't a good time.  The kids were still hog wild and I knew I couldn't relax with "MAMA!" coming from the otherside of the door.  So, it never happened. 

I actually tried getting in a little needed physical activity.  I got 5 whole minutes on the treadmill.  Carter threw a fit.  Wanted on there with me.  So, I got off. Guess it was bad timing.

I know I need ME TIME. It is just so hard to find it.

The rest of the week's lesson focused on me (or you if you are doing the study) as an individual. 

In 1 Corinthians 6:19, we are reminded that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. 

Stop and think about that.

THE HOLY SPIRIT LIVES IN YOU. YOUR BODY IS THE TEMPLE.

Now ask yourself, HOW ARE YOU TREATING YOUR BODY?

Are you getting enough sleep?  Eating and drinking well? Are you getting your daily exercise?  Are you stressed due to your schedule or unconfessed sin or burdens you refuse to let go of? 

So many things affect our relationship with Christ.  All of those things I just asked can affect your closeness to him.  Now I'm not the healthiest person in the world, but I know when I neglect my body, I am not connecting with God like I am supposed to. 

One thing that we need to be aware of as well is our unconfessed sin.  God will not bless us if we don't confess our sins to him. We can't grow spiritually without doing that. 

The last thing that really struck me was the last lesson: MY IDENTITY.  We had to think about who we are.  Here is how people know/recognize me:

Colin, Carson, and Carter's mom.  Do you know how many times I have heard, "Mom, that is (fill in the name of one of my kids) mama.

Jeff's wife

teacher

Barb and Jerry's daughter

Doug's sister
No one has ever said, "Yes, I know you. You are a child of God."  In reality, that should be the first thing people say when they hear our name. That should be what defines us. Not our careers, our hobbies, or our families. 

Each of us was knit together in our mother's womb. Each of us are fearfully and wonderfully made.  Each of us, if we have surrendered our lives to Jesus Christ, are a part of the family of God.  That alone is what should stand out about us.

As Christians, we must hold our heads a little higher, but not so high as to look down on others. As Christians, we must speak a little softer, encouraging others and leading them to Christ.  As Christians, we must remember how we got here, not by our works, but through the blood of Jesus on the cross.  As Christians, we must remember who we are.... We are sons and daughters of The Father, brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ. 

That is our identity.

The Frazzled Female Week 4: People are getting on my nerves!

Last night we had a wonderful meeting.  I have to say, I LOVE ALL OF MY FRAZZLED FEMALES!  We laughed, we shared, we cried.  How wonderful is that!

One thing I learned this past week is "GET OUT OF THE WAY."  Take mySELF out of the equation.  Focus on God and my people problems will work themselves out (He will be the one taking care of them, not me).

Hilarie put is so well last night when we were talking:  It isn't like people wake up in the morning and say, "I'm going to get on (insert your name here)'s nerves today," or "I'm going to hurt (insert your name again)'s feelings today."

What happens is we let them do that to us. 

One of Cyndi Wood's "problem solvers" was to MAKE IT NOT MATTER.  And you know what? That is a really good idea, to pray and ask God to make things that shouldn't matter to us not matter.

This Bible study has been so amazing to me for me.  I feel like I am growing. I hope it shows. 

by the way....the crash the Saturday was my elephant table. Either he tried escaping or one of the boys knocked him over.  What do you think?

The Frazzled Female Week 3

Week 3? Really?  I can't believe it! This is the halfway point of our study!

This week's study was entitled "I Don't Have Enough Time!"

Have you ever said that?  I think we all have.

One of the big things that I came away with was that I need to focus on God.  I was reminded of that this morning at church when we looked at Matthew 22: 37 when Jesus commanded, "You shall love the Lord your God with all of your heart, with all of your soul, and with all of your mind."

"What's that got to do with time?" you ask.

If I love God the way I am supposed to, if He is truly the center of my life, then I will be passionate about Him.  His thoughts will become my thoughts. His ways shall become my ways.  My mind will be occupied by Him.  If I do that, then I will know what things I'm involved in that I shouldn't be.  I will know when to say no, where to draw the line with extra activities.  I will be able to manage my time in a way that brings honor and glory to Him.

Our priorities should be:
1. God
2. Family (spouse then children)
3. Work

If I get my priorities out of whack, them my relationships will suffer. 

Satan is good in the fact that he takes our "I don't have enough time" excuse and uses it to break us.  He makes us believe that we don't have time for Bible study and prayer.  When we think this way, we are pulled away from God.  The other areas in our life begin to suffer.  But in all honesty, we should not have to make time for God.  It should not be an option.  Everything else can wait.  The laundry will always be there (trust me).  The toys will be gotten back out right after they are put away (trust me). We need to focus on storing our treasures in heaven.  We need to read our Bibles. We need to pray without ceasing. We need to worship God throughout our day.  Busy or not, God must be first in our lives. 

When we put Him first, God will bless us in the other areas of our lives.  He will help us become the mothers, wives, daughters, sisters, friends, and even housekeepers we are supposed to be.  When we have a passion for Christ, to become and remain intimate with Him, we can't lose! 

Matthew 6:33-34 says, "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you. Do not worry about tomorrow for tomorrow will worry about its own things."

This week, I encourage you to seek God's will. Study His Word. Talk to Him. Listen to Him.  Put Him first.  If you do, He promises to bless you in unimaginable ways.

The Frazzled Female Week 2

This week we have focused on keeping a positive attitude.

Oh, I'll admit, sometimes that is hard!

This past week a couple of things have happened that could very easily cause one to lose heart and be negative.

First, we had progress monitoring meetings at work. My meeting was set up on the second day. I had heard how horrible some of the other meetings had gone, that the teachers came out feeling attacked and worthless. I had a choice to make, I could either expect the worst and go in on the defensive, or I could go in with a positive attitude and roll with it.

I chose to go in with a positive attitude.

Now, I am not saying that the meeting was perfect and I was never attacked about my abilities as a teacher, but I was able to handle the situation and take it all in stride.  I didn't come away feeling disgusted and disappointed.

Now if I had gone in expecting the worst and having a clear dialogue as to how I would respond to negative comments, the meeting may have come out differently. I definitely would have come out feeling worse than I did!

The second thing that happened, didn't happen to me, but an elderly couple in our church.

Tuesday afternoon, severe weather struck our community.  We gathered our students in the hall until the all clear was given.  We thought everything was OK until I learned that a home in the county had been destroyed.  It was the home of Mr. Will and Mrs. Eleanor from our church.  Thank God they were not home, but in Nashville with Mr. Will's family.  However, rescue workers were searching for their bodies because both vehicles were home and the couple was no where to be found. 

When interviewed by the news stations, both Will and Eleanor were very positive and up beat about the situation.  Their church family and community friends had come to their aid, packing up what was not damaged and taking it to storage for them.  Mrs. Eleanor told us this afternoon that they have been offered 3 houses to rent while they rebuild.  She said, "Will and I are strong people, but this is all God. He is blessing us in so many ways. I don't know why this happened to us, but He does, and we just have to trust Him."

Now, this elderly couple has so much to feel negative about. We would almost expect them to with their home of 20 years and vehicles and so many personal items destroyed. But Will and Eleanor have chosen to be positive and see God at work through this.

My point is that we do have a choice. We can choose to be negative, or we can choose to be positive. Our attitude is a choice. 

Sometimes we feel entitled to our negativity, that so much has happened to us, and we are just so pitiful and don't deserve all that we have laid out before us.  I think we all have moments like that. If we do, that is fine, but we must move pass that....quickly.  We have to choose to see the beauty in the midst of darkness, the flowers among the weeds, the love behind the hurt. 

It is hard, but possible. We can do anything through Christ.  We must ask for His help.  We must make having a positive attitude a daily choice until it becomes who we are. 

***

I am so excited about meeting with our study group tomorrow night. I am so thankful I'm not sick anymore!  Most of the ladies should be there, although we had almost 20 last week, that wasn't the entire group. 

I do have a prayer request...

Please pray for our team of five (Brad and Brandy, Janice, Teresa, and Cindy), who will be leaving Saturday to help build an orphanage in Haiti. I am so excited for them.  Pray for their safety, health, and for lives to be changed!

My time is His time

I have been working very hard at spending my time wisely.  Trying my best to spend it in a way that honors God. 

I have done great keeping up with our E100 Challenge.  When I signed up on the military spouse webpage, that ensured me a daily email with the scripture attached.  That has come in handy when I am out somewhere having to wait.  I just pull it up on my email, read it, use the reflection questions, and punch my card.  The reflection questions have really helped me to take a bigger look at the scripture. I was even able to use the scripture one day for our first Bible study meeting!  So proud of myself!

Speaking of my Bible study...

I thought I was going to have to cancel the first meeting!  Last Thursday, I had a terrible stomach thing going on.  Thankfully, we had a snow day Friday, and I was able to take it easy.  Boy did I need it because we spent almost 12 hours Saturday at Colin's Robotics competition (I'll get to that soon).  I felt terrible all day Saturday and Sunday, even missing church Sunday morning.  Monday was MLK Jr. Day so we were out of school and I was able to rest some more.  With an aching body and temperature of over 100, I decided I couldn't cancel Bible study.  We had a great group of women there...almost 20!   During the middle of discussion, my fever broke!!  It was so crazy. 

The discussion of the week went so well. The other ladies had some amazing things to share. We have so many similiarities on our "stresses" and what keeps us distracted from the Lord.  It is wonderful to have the fellowship and support of these women. 

This week, our lesson is about positive attitudes.  How appropriate with a stressful week at work!  It has been helpful to have the study for a week like this.  Can't wait to share my thoughts at the end of the study.

As for Colin's Robotics competition.....well.....

Colin's team won 2nd place in the Innovative Solution part of the competion.  There were about 9 categories, including the overall champions.  A total of 42 teams from across the state competed.  It was a long, amazing day!  I am so proud of Colin and the rest of his team.  They worked really hard with their "coach" Mrs. Rowland.  She is an awesome woman (that's her behind Colin and the trophy).

If your school does not do the First Lego League program, I highly encourage you to get involved. I found out at the competition that you don't even have to be a school. The second place over all winner was a homeschool group.  There were neighborhood groups, church groups, and 4-H groups as well. 



The Frazzled Female Bible Study: Week 1

According to dictionary.com, frazzled means worn out; fatigued.

Does that sound like any of you?  I definitely fall into that category.

This past week, I began my journey with The Frazzled Female: Finding Peace in the Midst of Daily Life Bible study by Cindi Wood.

So, I will tell you, it has been a journey so far, trying to find peace when your almost two year old has decided to quit sleeping and you are coming down with something days before you lead the study in front of a larger than you imagined group of fine Christian women!

Whew! OK, girl, breathe!

But doing the first week's study, God has spoken to me (and if you let Him, He will speak to you too).  We must first make time for Him.  This is something He has really been after me about. 

Our first assignment for this week was a DEFRAZZLER: find a spot where you can rendezvous with the Lord each day.  Here is mine:

Now, it doesn't always look this good and I usually don't sit there alone. I don't even rendezvous at the same time each day. But it is my space.

Where do you go to spend time with the Lord each day?

As I continued my study this week, I came to realize that EVERYTHING I need comes from the Lord.  I just have to put Him first.

At the beginning of the week, we read about Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42).  I had first learned of these sisters during my first Bible study as a very new Christian. I was much like Martha. When people came to my house, I wanted to make sure that everything was as good as it could be.  When guests arrived, I would rush around making sure everyone was taken care of, the food was ready, and do whatever else needed doing.  I didn't take the time to talk with my guests like I needed to, to learn about them, become intimate with them.  Now, I am trying to be more like Mary, putting the important thing first. Jesus is the most important thing. 

And I think this story of Mary and Martha fits nicely with the closing scripture for the week, Colossians 2:1-7, specifically verses 6 and 7:

 I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally.  My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ,  in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.  I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments.  For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is.  So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him,  rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

I like to think that Mary was rooted in Jesus; she lived her life in Him by sitting at his feet. Therefore, her faith was strengthened.

That's how I want to be. 

Yes, I am the mom of 3 boys (the reason why I have been working on this post for about 3 hours now). I work fulltime. I have afterschool work responsiblities with my job. I teach Sunday school. My two big boys are playing basketball and have afterschool responsibilities as well. I have a toddler who decided 2 months ago not to sleep anymore.  Now add in all of my regular mom and wife duties. Many times we live out of clean clothes baskets and from drive through restaurants. I often don't spend time with my husband like I need to and can quickly lose my temper with my kids. 

Yes, I am frazzled, but if I stay rooted in the Lord and stay intimate with Him, then He will give me the strength I need to get through my daily life. He can give me peace. I must however acknowledge His desire for me and sit still long enough to hear Him speak to my heart.

I hope that you will join me on this journey of finding peace in the midst of everyday life.  I would love to hear from you if you are. 

There is so much more that I wish to say, but I've already unclogged the toilet this morning of sippy cups and sippy cup tops, broke up several fights, and caught a toddler do flips off the couch.

Tonight, I meet with a wonderful group of ladies at church, ladies in all seasons of life. Although I am the group "leader," I know that I will learn so much for them.  I can't wait to let you know how it goes! 

This Year I will LIVE

Well, the first day of the New Year will be coming to an end in just a few hours.  It has been an exhaustingly good day here.

We welcomed the New Year with a semi quiet evening at home with Hilarie and her family and Jeff's parents.  We enjoyed good food and played games.  The kids ran wild until well after midnight.  And then 9 AM Sunday school came very quickly! 

I hope you have some wonderful things planned for the year.

Our church is taking part in the E100 Challenge. In the next 100 days, we will read the 100 " big picture" passages from the Bible. I am really excited about this. I've read Day 1 - Creation: Genesis 1 and 2 and Day 2 - The Fall: Genesis 3. Following the daily plan, I should complete it around Easter.

On the 16th of this month, I will be leading The Frazzled Female Bible study at church.  I am excited at this as well. It looks like we are going to have a great group of women gathering for this 6 week study.  I would love for you to take part in it as well. I will be posting my thoughts and reflections throughout the study, so feel free to grab a book and join in! 

I recently read a post by Patti at Wives of Faith about her theme for the year.  It got me to thinking about life, about things I've been reading, about how I've been living. So, if I had to choose a theme for this year, I would choose LIVE. 

Why?

I've been reading Sara Horn's God Strong, a gift given to me by our church's youth group while Jeff was away at CH-BOLC. And so much of what she says has really struck a chord with me.  I must LIVE what I BELIEVE.

I trust God.
I know God is in control.
I know that God has a plan.
I believe that Jesus will walk by my side regardless of my situation.

I, however, don't know what this year holds for me and my family.  The Army Chaplaincy board will be meeting soon to decide whether or not Jeff will be a chaplain.  If he is, then there is always that possibility that he could be deployed. 

If he is deployed or my family is faced with any other type of hardship, I can't lose faith in my Jesus.

I have to LIVE my life by what I BELIEVE.  I have to LIVE my life being the best me that I can be.  I have to LIVE my life learning to say no and asking for help.  I have to LIVE my life focused on God.

So this year, I will LIVE.

I will LIVE the life God has planned for me the very best that I can. 

Happy New Year, friend!  May you LIVE a life pleasing to Him as well.

Ladies Bible Study Wanted

I am wanting to have another Bible study at the beginning of the year. I saw these at Lifeway the other day:

I thought this would be good since I did the 90 Days with Jesus devotional last year.

 I liked this because I AM FRAZZLED.

 And I thought this was kinda cool.  I thought it was a joke at first but then looked through the book and it made a lot of sense.

Just wondering what you think.  Have you done any of these? If I did another online study, would you join in?