Morning Reveals

October 3, 2016

Forfeiting Your Peace

“What a Friend We Have In Jesus”

I grew up singing this song. But Sunday morning we revisited it. I hadn’t sung it in quite a while and at first I started to just go through the motions, singing the comfortable words written on the recesses of my mind. What a Friend we Have in Jesus

But, half way through those familiar words began to prick my heart. After a difficult week where worry of the present and the future dominated my mind instead of prayer and thanksgiving, I came to the end of the week anxious, weary and at a lack of peace.

And then, as the melody swirled around me, these words came out of my mouth and then my ears finally had ears to hear.

“What a friend we have in Jesus. All our sins and griefs to bear!

What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!

Oh, what peace we often forfeit, Oh what needless pain we bear,

All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer!”

I have forfeited peace all week long. Clinging to my worries. Clinging to my boyfriend. Clinging to my family. Clinging to my friends. Clinging to my job. Clinging to everything but Christ.

Notice the song doesn’t say the troubles are taken away, it simply says that while in our trouble we are granted peace and a friend to lean on.

Prayer is personal and thats what God wants. He wants to have that relationship. He is our friend. He is our Savior. He grants us peace even as we deal with the hardships of life.

Dear Lord. You know I’ve been worried about the future. Family. Finances. Debt. Savings. Work…and the list goes on. Lord don’t let me forfeit peace anymore. Let me give you any sinful or irrational thought. Help me remember scripture more than I remember my worry. Help me to remember your promises before I dwell on my situation. Help me to turn from sin, while dwelling on your mercy, grace and hope.

Lord, let me choose your peace, your friendship over any difficult circumstance and any anxious thought. Let me wake each morning confident in your promises and go to bed each night having seen your faithfulness throughout the day.

Psalms 92:1-2

“It is good to give thanks to the Lord,
to sing praises to your name, O Most High;
to declare your steadfast love in the morning,
and your faithfulness by night…”

October 9, 2015

When News Overwhelms & Evil Seems To Win

Appalled yes…but why are we surprised? Over the last year, working in a news station, we have covered many sad and some down-right evil stories. A baby was left for dead in a dumpster, two journalists were shot and killed during live television. A man was welcomed into a church only to pull out a gun and kill minutes later. I was on my way to an evening of movies in the park, only to find it was canceled because a shooter was on the loose. Then, nine students shot in Oregon. Students. They wanted to better their lives, their understanding of the world and the subjects they loved. Their future snatched away from them. These stories overwhelm me, and there’s never an end. Every morning my phone alerts me to what is happening in my community or around the world. Sometimes I look right away and other times I roll over not willing to be pulled into the darkness of the world just yet.

What I continue to hear around the newsroom are sentiments like these: “man this is a crazy world”, “why are people so psycho?” “what is wrong with people?”…. I have asked some of these questions myself. But then, I realized I know the reason. You may roll your eyes with the Sunday School answer I’m about to give, but it is truth, no matter how simple minded it may sound. It’s sin. It all started in Genesis when we chose ourself over God, and ever since people have continued to make that decision over and over again. Free-will at its worst.

Sometimes this is on a small scale, in adultery and lust. Or even in our habit of binge watching tv (I have been convicted of this lately…after I watched all five seasons of a show in less than 2 weeks) We choose ourselves, our desires, wants, dreams over God’s will for our lives.

What is happening in our world today isn’t really new. People are starving. They’re torturing for a cause. They’re being killed for a cause.

People are dying.

And that hasn’t changed since Adam and Eve were banished from the garden. Don’t let yourself be fooled into thinking people’s hearts were ever better or worse than they are today. Cain killed his brother. His BROTHER. David sent his mistress’ husband to the front lines of battle to be killed. Paul before his conversion, murdered in God’s name, when really he was persecuting God and His people the entire time.

If back 2,000 years ago, people were better, there would have never been a need for Jesus to come and die. If people were so good 50 years ago, there would have been no need for Vietnam or the Civil Rights movement. Light People’s hearts are corrupt. God knows and so He gave us Jesus. He shouldn’t be an expletive or pun in our day to day lives. His sacrifice was so we could choose him to save us from ourselves.

So be appalled at the news of today…but don’t be surprised. The Bible tells stories of this happening for thousands of years. But I don’t say this to discourage you. The Bible also tells us how God continues to redeem people even after heartache, slavery, poverty, sickness, death, and the consequences of our own sin. Remember Job lost everything and yet continued to praise. Remember the apostles felt like they were up against the entire Roman Empire, and yet God allowed the Word to continue to spread in spite of Rome’s best efforts to squelch it.

God is a redeemer and He is ultimately victorious (Go read Revelation). So next time the world seems too much to handle and you just can’t understand where it all went wrong…remember it went wrong long ago, and it’s not our job to fix it. Let me repeat that. It is NOT our job to fix the world. But we are to be the light. You may feel consumed by the evil of the world; with “what can I possibly do?” screaming in your mind. But remember you were once walking in darkness too, but now God calls you to be the light, penetrating your corner of the world. “…you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light.”–Ephesians 5:8

September 26, 2015

7 Ways To Make Friends After College

The exciting days of college are becoming a distant memory and finding new friends just isn’t as easy as it used to be. Here are some ways that I forged new friends outside of college; forcing myself out of my comfort zone.

Be willing to be rejected. I’ll be honest, this one is hard. For me, I don’t send an invite unless I already know the answer will be yes. But, I’ve learned to make new friendships and to possibly meet my next date, I have to step outside my norm and be willing to receive a “no”.
Check out sites for things to do in your city or town. I am not from a very large city, but I have been surprised at how much actually goes on if I actively look for things to do. I subscribe to a website that gives local events and I’ve also found a group on facebook for young adults in my city. Both give me great ideas of free and cheap things to do throughout the week. I’ve become the girl who “always knows what’s going on around town.” Not a bad description.
Now, once you’ve found something to do…don’t be afraid to go alone. But first, ask a coworker you would like to get to know better. Or ask that new acquaintance you met at the last event you attended. Technology makes this easier because you can send a quick facebook or text invite. Enjoy your netflix and hulu time…but stop saying no to things just because you don’t want to go alone. (I’m still preaching this one to myself…baby steps right?)
Get plugged into a church. I know you hear this one all the time, but remember church isn’t for us to be served, but to serve. Anytime you’re able to serve alongside others you will naturally form relationships. I was reluctant to go to an all women’s Sunday School class…but now 3 years later I am so glad I did. I have learned so much from the 20 and 30 something ladies that I worship alongside every week.
Meet your neighbors. I live in an apartment complex, and I remember it was two weeks before I ever ran into anyone else. TWO WEEKS! I was used to meeting people on the stairs or the elevator in college, but here I had not seen a single person outside their door. I didn’t know what to do. One night, I heard someone come in downstairs and so I hurried to slip on my shoes and run to “get my mail”…only to find my aunt and uncle coming up the stairs to visit me. I was happy to see them, but was disappointed I would have to keep waiting to meet a neighbor. But, once I did, I made some lasting friendships. Whether your neighbors are elderly or your age, remember they may be lonely and looking for friendship too. I now hang out with two of my neighbors regularly and check in on some of my elderly neighbors, especially if we’re expecting bad weather.
If you’re in a relationship, don’t discount new single friends. They need you more than you know. If you’re single, don’t discount new couple friends. You will be amazed at how much fun you can have as a third or fifth wheel. For a while I felt in the way when I would tag along on one of my couple-friend’s dates. But eventually, I stopped feeling like I was being pitied and realized they did enjoy my company. Some of my best friends right now are married couples. Even though they are in a different stage of life than I am, we are both able to encourage and learn from one another. Also, as a woman, it’s always great to get a guy’s perspective about things when his wife and I are overthinking something (this doesn’t happen often or anything).
Once you’ve found a few people to start hanging out with, create a tradition. For me, I started a Bible study every week. It’s really become a lifeline for me. I know every week I have somewhere to be and people to invest in. Then, we try to make plans for other fun things to do, like going to ballgames or catching a drive-in movie. Or if your friends all love a certain show, ask them to watch it together every week, all of the comic book shows on right now make a great invite to get guys and gals together regularly.

The main thing to remember is you aren’t the only one struggling. After your school years, unless you work with them or go to church with them, it’s hard to form new relationships. Don’t be afraid to step out of your apartment (I know it gets lonely) and just say hello to someone new. You never know where God might lead the conversation.

September 26, 2015

Not Where You Thought You’d Be

In today’s economy working your dream job is usually just that… a dream. But, even if you have found yourself in a position you did not really want or (in my case) did not feel you were qualified for, there is still no reason for you not to do your absolute best.

Four years ago a local news station decided to take a chance on me. I had just graduated with a PR degree and had never run a camera in my life, but nevertheless, something struck my boss and she hired me. Since then, I have gone from knowing absolutely nothing about broadcasting to knowing… a smidgen about the broadcast business. This is not for a lack of learning, but is due to the fact there is just so much to learn.

So, even though I found myself in a job I was not technically prepared for, I have done some things I believe have helped me become established in my position.

Ask Questions. When I first started I mainly asked questions of my coworker and my boss, but as I have interacted with more workers at the station I have gradually built a better understanding of all the different departments. Generally, people like to talk about what they do. If you pinpoint what their specific job is, you can build a foundation of understanding for how their job contributes to the entire organization. If you do not see the value in every position, you will not truly grasp how the company works. Without this understanding, you cannot efficiently relate with those in and outside the company.
Observe, Read and Watch Tutorials–if they exist. As I said, I began a job I was not trained to do. I did not know how to run a camera, how to use After Effects, write broadcast material. So, google became my friend. I began reading up on camera terminology, watching tutorials on how to use different software, and then I observed my coworkers. All of this helped me build a foundation of knowledge that I am now expounding upon. Now, with my basic foundation I can explore more on my own, experimenting and being more creative instead of regurgitating what has been done in the past. This does not mean I am done learning. I still read articles, I still watch tutorials, and I still observe. But this step gave me the knowledge I needed to do my job and the courage to be creative.
Contribute the skills you already possess. Even if you feel completely lost in this new position, know that you would not have been hired if they thought you wouldn’t add to the organization. As for myself, I didn’t know the business, but I knew how to write, relate to my audience, and I had the drive to learn.
Enjoy what you do. No, it may not be what you always wanted to do but you can still enjoy your job. Make it a point to get to know those you work with. Challenge yourself to get to know them outside the work place as well. Remember you are there to get your work done, but that does not mean you cannot have a little fun. I have found my best ideas come when I am being a little silly and just throwing whatever comes to mind out on the table. Yes, you might have a few dumb ideas, but eventually you’ll hit jackpot.
Talk, Walk and See People. Depending on your personality, this one may not apply to you, but I love talking to people and in my current position my interaction is mainly over cubicle walls. There have been days of course where I am so swamped with work, that I have very little interaction (mainly through e-mail). But, I have the best attitude on days when I get out of my cubicle, talk to my coworkers, walk around the building and see what is going on in the life of the organization. What you do in your cubicle or office everyday is important, but don’t forget to step out of it every once in a while. I feel that when I do, I am able to focus better, feel more energized and overall am more excited about the job I am doing.

There are many things you can do to make your new position the best experience it can be. But, no matter how many articles like this one you read, the question remains: Will you choose to make this a great experience?

September 26, 2015

Making Room For New Growth

I like looking at flowers and my mom was gracious enough to plant me two beautiful arrangements. However…I am not very good at taking care of them. A few weeks ago I told her I thought they were all dying. To me it just looked like a pot full of decaying stems. She replied, “No I don’t think it’s gone just yet, but see this brown dried up part? You have to tear that off so something new can grow.” By the time she was finished there wasn’t anything but one green vine left in the pot and a few stubs. She said I would have more flowers soon but honestly I didn’t really believe her. There was nothing left in the pot!

But then, a few days later I went out on my balcony to eat my breakfast and there were two new fully bloomed Gerbera Daisies. I was amazed. Mom had cut away so much but God had raised such beauty from it just as she promised He would.
When we feel like that wilting pot of flowers it can be easy to just let your life, your spirit continue to wilt. But God may be allowing portions of your life to fall away so you’ll have room for new growth. When friendships and dreams wither away fear sets in. We hold fast to the wilting leaves in our life and they crumble in our fingers, leaving us bare and empty.

But don’t forget the God we serve. Don’t forget His promises. Even as current life seems to be fading away, He always leaves a portion of us still blooming. He provides new friendships, new opportunities and dreams. Do not despair if things begin to wilt. Hold fast to His promises and pray for the courage to embrace new growth.

September 9, 2015

Lazy In Our Freedom… (which we are FREE to do)

From the Archives:

Each year we set aside days to remember those who have sacrificed everything to give us the freedom that we hold dear. Today we gather with friends and family to celebrate all that we have been given due to our forefathers’ wisdom and willingness to take a risk; a risk that would unite not only thirteen colonies but eventually form a union that has held fast for 236 years.

A month ago I visited for the first time our nation’s capital, and during my visit I was amazed at the paradox of death and life resonating in and around the city. Arlington Cemetery gave testament to the thousands upon thousands who gave their life for our country… for me. I heard stories of wars, assassinations, disagreements and yet there before me sat the United States Capitol building, the Statue of Freedom standing proud on top of that dome. Walking that city I realized no matter how many trials our nation has seen, we have continued to move forward together.

But, as a new generation rises, my own generation and those after it, I wonder how many of us really grasp the importance of our own voice in the progression of this great republic.

I graduated with a bachelor degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. I understand the importance of the press. I understand our role in bringing truth to the masses so that the people can make educated decisions.

1786 August 13, From Thomas Jefferson to George Wythe “I think by far the most important bill in our whole code is that for the diffusion of knowledge among the people. No other sure foundation can be devised, for the preservation of freedom and happiness…Preach, my dear Sir, a crusade against ignorance; establish & improve the law for educating the common people. Let our countrymen know that the people alone can protect us against these evils [tyranny, oppression, etc.] and that the tax which will be paid for this purpose is not more than the thousandth part of what will be paid to kings, priests and nobles who will rise up among us if we leave the people in ignorance.” (more quotes by Jefferson)

Education is key and I believe the press’ responsibility is to act as one venue of education for the people, giving them the information (ideally without bias) so they can form their own opinion and decide what the wisest decision for the country is.

But, even if the press is doing this, (which I will be the first to say though many of us try, we do not always succeed) is our audience in a position to listen, understand and act? I do not believe we are. I do not like blaming the internet for where our nation is now. The internet has expanded many opportunities of learning, growth and communication. But I believe it has also lent a hand to information overload and a shorter attention span.

This being said, I believe my generation is becoming lazy in its freedom.

What are we doing to preserve our freedom? Do we even really understand how to preserve it? Is war our only understanding of preserving our rights?

In DC I also visited the Newseum, which is a museum dedicated to showing the power of the press. One thing that really stuck with me, was the Berlin Wall display and the gentleman in front of me who opened my eyes to an event in history I really knew very little about. He told his friend to look at the graffitied side of the wall (so of course I looked too). This side was completely covered with colorful words, not an inch of the concrete was plain. Then he gestured the man to follow him and they (well, we) walked to the other side where there was a plain, gray piece of concrete, with a watchtower behind it. And the gentleman said, “You can clearly see who had freedom of expression.” As I walked around and heard about what went on behind that wall, I began to realize how free I really am. I can hear both sides of stories and determine for myself what is the truth. Then I have the freedom to take that truth and decide what to do with it. I can talk about it, blog about it and share my opinion about it. I have that freedom, but do I actually do this?

And if I do not, does that put my freedom at stake?

Please understand this is more a confession on my part. I am not the ideal informed public that Jefferson said is so vital to keeping our rights. I listen and read just enough to get by but many times I allow others’ opinions and interpretations to drive my own. And this realization about myself worries me. If we all have this attitude, I think Jefferson would say it would be our own demise.

If we do not utilize our freedom today what do you think our nation will look like tomorrow? Would love to hear your thoughts/opinions.

September 7, 2015

Honor Them With Your Own Sacrifice

From the Archives:

Well let me tell you that staying back at the hotel sick on my vacation in DC was NOT on my agenda. But, when I finally felt well enough to at least get out of bed I decided to make the best of it and come downstairs (into some type of civilization) and write to you.

It has been quite a week and yet I keep thinking of all the things I still haven’t seen or done (which is why today has been so frustrating). But then I remember all of the things I have seen and done and I realize that even if I left today, I would leave changed.

Throughout the week I have been pondering a few questions. One, who am I becoming? Two, who is our nation, and my generation becoming? (I will ponder the second question in a later blog)

I have listened to story after story at the Holocaust Museum, at the National Archives Building, Arlington Cemetery, of people who have stepped up at the right time, in their story to make history. One girl, Sarah, wrote at the end of her life that she would be 23 next July but instead she chose something more important. She chose to help others escape the claws of the Nazis and in the process was eventually caught and sentenced to death. She never made it to her 23^rd birthday.

I will be 23 next month… July…. and I can say with certainty that if you read my journal you would not find anything but pages of me talking about me and my struggles, me…me…me. Where at 23, Sarah knew what was more important and chose that path instead of one that would be self preserving.

Then there was Mary Lee Fitzhugh Custis the wife of George Washington’s grandson. Upon marrying Mr. Custis, who had a plantation home (now Arlington House in Arlington Cemetery) with many slaves, she immediately began working on educating the slaves and also trying to convince her husband to free them. Even though others probably saw her actions as bizarre or not of her station, she did it anyway. She took a stand and later, in her husband’s will, the freedom of many of their slaves was included.

And then our founding fathers. Of course some of them were skeptical that declaring independence was the right choice for their newly formed union but they did it anyway. They took a stand and today, 236 years later, our nation stands tested, tried and still remains true.

But, let us imagine if one of these people had made a different decision. What if Sarah decided that it was too dangerous to help rescue Jews and had stayed home, where it was safe. She might still have died at 23 but it would have meant the ultimate death of thousands more, the thousands that she was supposed to save. Or what if all those buried in Arlington Cemetery had decided freedom would still be theirs even if they did stay home. They might have lived longer but we might not still be in a free, democratic state. Or what if Mary Custis had decided to treat slaves as many other plantation wives treated their… “property”. Those people would never have learned to read and write or learned about the Gospel, which Mary used as a teaching tool.

So today, let us ponder this first question, who am I becoming? Am I choosing to take hold of my story and follow God in making eternal history? We can honor and thank those who have sacrificed all day long. But wouldn’t they rather us remember them by making our own sacrifices? One of my favorite quotes is by Edmund Burke, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”

But, let us not look just to other good men for our guides, let us look to our God, to His sword of Truth. I challenge you, as I am challenging myself to begin memorizing the following scripture. It is popular but it is essential to how God has called us to live.

Read: Ephesians 6:10-20.

My verse to memorize this week will be:

Ephesians 6:10-11

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against all the devil’s schemes.”

(The reason I picked this verse is due to the truths that it reminds me of. 1. That our Lord is Mighty and we can be strong because of His might, not our own. 2. To put on the full armor which God has provided for us. You can’t put on armor that doesn’t exist, but God’s armor does exist, we just many times ignore our faith, the Holy Spirit and His Word. 3. That we can stand firm against evil if we do as God has instructed.)

So who are you becoming? I would love to hear your thoughts. Or share stories of others’ sacrifices that have inspired you to take hold of your own story.

August 22, 2015

Why Should Any One Man Care?

From the Archives:

Public places provide prime viewing grounds for all walks of life. Today, I sit at the library. The perception is only nerds like me use the library, but, at least in small town America, it has become a place to cultivate both education and community (which I think is why I love coming here so much). If you sit, listen and watch long enough (don’t be a stalker though ok?), you will see a protective mother and her cubs, the unemployed searching for that long awaited job, the older gentleman on oxygen who comes to read the newspaper every morning, just to get out of the house.

But then you also see some people you might view as a bit different. Such as the gentleman who walked into the “quiet room”, where I am sitting, picked up a newspaper saying in an English accent, “downed flights and shootings everyday, what is the world coming to? And why should I give a shit? Why should any one man?” He glanced at the front page, huffed and threw down the paper.

At first I was a bit startled, trying not to stare at him, as he stalked out of the room, replaying what he had said in my mind. I realized I understood his frustration on some level. Everyday, at 1:30 I sit in a meeting discussing the news of the day; the shootings, the rapes, the wrecks, the floods, the tornados. Destruction. Pain. Chaos.

And my apathy reigns. What can I do about it? Nothing? Ok, let’s move on then.

Is that not the same mindset as the gentleman at the library? We are not the only two who feel this way either. Many of us have stopped watching the news, stopped researching the issues plaguing our country, even refused to vote, because of our apathy. What do we want in a president? Answers to OUR issues. We complain because we feel they are disconnected from “The People”, but how connected are WE to “The People.” Do we even see each other as part of the national community, or are we clutching to our individuality, praying those elected will concern themselves with our problem more than the concern of our neighbor?

Back to the question at hand though, why should any one man concern himself with the world’s scars? Because Jesus does. Loving God, includes loving one another, which is why we cannot isolate ourselves from the world. Isolation, apathy and chosen ignorance is the easy way out. I am guilty of it, that’s for sure. But, Jesus did not run from the issues of the world, he faced them with love and perseverance. He knew what the political law was and followed it, he knew God’s law and followed it. If you’ll remember Pilate said he found no fault in Jesus. God saw no fault in him, the fault lay with us, his creation who chose to walk away. His creation who now trades truth and love for apathy, a simpler way of living, and yet, so unfulfilling.

We should care because Jesus cares. And if we really believe the Gospel and understand it’s importance and significance in this world, we will reject apathy and begin caring about the issues impacting not only our own lives but of our neighbor as well. People surround us all day long, with their own rules, perceptions, hurts, and cares. We may be curious about who they are, but it is time for us to begin caring enough to ask how they are and how we can help. It is time we understand who “THE PEOPLE” are, not only of our nation but of the world.

What are some ways you have rejected apathy and loved those around you?

March 28, 2013

Finding Hope In Suffering

Sorry I haven’t posted in a bit, I have actually been working on a video for my local church! I was so encouraged by these believers’ testimonies. God is so good and believe me when I say, He DOES make a difference. Watch it here.

March 8, 2013

Five Minute Friday — Home

(Today’s post is where I and a multitude of other bloggers free write for five minutes about one topic, Enjoy! Click the icon to see what other’s are writing about “Home”)

Home was always where family was. Where my room, was my only room. Where my brother and I spent mornings with the Power Rangers, afternoons being Power Rangers (I was the pink one!) and evenings watching lightening bugs light up in the jar as we sat and talked. Where I stood beside my mother stirring the big soup pot or covering the sugar cookies with sprinkles. Where I learned to be a carpenter’s, plumber’s, mechanic’s assistant as my dad kept our home going. Where we all sang together on the same pew every Sunday. Where I watched my parents waltz around the kitchen, anxiously awaiting my turn around the dance floor. Where I knew who I was. I was daughter, sister, friend. Now, home is a big question mark. My family and I are still quite close but as another big move looms I am unsure where home is for me. But then I remember, Jesus is my home. God is my father, friend, provider and there I will always know my identity, it will never change, for He never changes. He is home.

March 5, 2013

Old, Not Obsolete, Stories

Jesus sitting with all the children, scary lions pacing around Daniel, Joseph in his beautiful coat, Moses parting the Red Sea, all images that graced the walls of my childhood Sunday School class. We would sit and listen to the amazing stories of the Bible, they were told much in the same way as my fairytale books were read to me each night, filled with adventure. It wasn’t until just a few weeks ago I realized I had allowed myself to skip over many of these stories. I knew the premise of the story and had not bothered to go back and delve deeper into the truths hidden there…(continue reading)

1
3, Oct, 2016
Forfeiting Your Peace
2
9, Oct, 2015
When News Overwhelms & Evil Seems To Win
3
26, Sep, 2015
7 Ways To Make Friends After College
4
26, Sep, 2015
Not Where You Thought You’d Be
5
26, Sep, 2015
Making Room For New Growth
6
9, Sep, 2015
Lazy In Our Freedom… (which we are FREE to do)
7
7, Sep, 2015
Honor Them With Your Own Sacrifice
8
22, Aug, 2015
Why Should Any One Man Care?
9
28, Mar, 2013
Finding Hope In Suffering
10
8, Mar, 2013
Five Minute Friday — Home
11
5, Mar, 2013
Old, Not Obsolete, Stories

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To Be Brave

March 2, 2014

Falling

I was late. As usual. I was walking my “mall speed” as a friend always calls it, and I wasn’t paying attention. It was cold; colder than I’d felt it in a long time and all I wanted was to be in my car and on my way. But, in one blink my view changed from sidewalk to sky, with the ice breaking my fall. I was more startled than hurt, more scared of the realization of what had just happened than the actual occurrence. I, in my dress, high heeled boots and work bag, on my way to conquer the TV world had been beaten before I even reached my car.

Some days God is catching us when we fall, but most days He is preparing us for it. It’s not that He wants us to lose our traction, but He knows our minds and hearts so well He wants to give us every possible tool we can use to break our fall. Scripture acts as my cushion in every life circumstance just as my three layers of clothes, hat and gloves did when I was lying on a solid piece of ice this morning.

It can be painful when we are caught off guard and find ourself on our back wondering where it went wrong. When we fail, when our life seems to crumble before our eyes, it can bruise our pride and wreak havoc on our emotions.

But praise Jesus, God wants better for us! Which is why He left us two things here on this Earth: His Word and His Spirit. He allows us to be shaken up, but He promises to never let us go (Romans 8:37-39). And what is so amazing about God is that after we’ve been shaken up, pushed down, and are lying on our back looking up to the heavens…we learn once again just how big our God is. Through the experience we learn more about ourselves and the love He has for us. In the moment of control lost, we recognize our need, dependence and salvation in Him.

Posted by C on March 2, 2014 in Morning Reveals and tagged falling in God's grace, God prepares, ice, ice breaking my fall.

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July 26, 2013

Broken–five minute Friday

Broken

One of the most difficult things to overcome in any organization, business, even a family is broken communication. If everyone isn’t on the same page then goals cannot be met and efficiency will always be at a loss. But the greatest tragedy I think is having broken communication with God. The Old Testament Jews had to go through their priest to talk with God. With the bite of fruit off the forbidden tree, broken was our relationship. But, now, we have Jesus as our mediator, we have Jesus who has fixed our relationship. Our communication is broken now by our own choice and not our plight. God wants restoration, he wants redemption for His people and you are His people because He made you. Let us embrace our Savior and praise our LORD, for our relationship is no longer broken.

Posted by C on July 26, 2013 in Morning Reveals.

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July 21, 2013

Growth

Think back to when you were a child. Didn’t you always wish you were your older sibling’s age because then you could finally do what they do? Didn’t you wish you could be just a little taller so you could ride that one ride at the amusement park? Are you still wishing you were just a little bit different, in a different circumstance?

Tonight I sit reflecting on where I am right now in life and where I want to go. I’m looking back on all the times I said, “If only I were older, smarter, prettier, stronger…” and the list goes on. I’m reviewing some of the fears I’ve had even over the last few days and what has struck me the most is my fear of not being “there” yet. The fear of not having all the tough questions sorted out in my mind, of not having decisions about family, career and faith all made and tied up in a nice bow. I fear growing. I just want to be grown.

Growth is a process, not an instance. How I make decisions, how we all make decisions, is based on our experience and our influencers. But experiences are not gained if we never step out and do something; that just leaves us at the mercy of our teachers, parents and other influencing figures in our lives. I’m not disregarding the importance of their council, but in the end decisions are ours and ours alone.

I’m having to learn that growing is what God made us to do. Paul talks in Ephesians about how we should grow in the knowledge of Christ so we will no longer be like infants tossed about by the waves. God formed us in our mother’s womb so we might grow and one day know Him again. We were made to grow in grace and knowledge, we were made to grow, so why am I trying to stunt my own growth? It’s not that I don’t want to grow, it’s that I want to already be grown and so therefore allow myself to be forever in a state of limbo, wanting more but not seeking it. We must embrace the process allowing God to teach us and fill us with His Spirit, right now, in this moment. Growth is a process and today I choose to trust in God’s plan for my growth and His glory.

Posted by C on July 21, 2013 in Morning Reveals.

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May 3, 2013

To Be Brave

Five Minute Friday: where women from all over the blogosphere come together to write about the same topic for five minutes. Click on the icon to read more.

To be brave is to be vulnerable, something I am deathly afraid. I keep my emotions in check and gain control of situations. But the other day, I was vulnerable, and I didn’t know what to do. I broke down, I ugly cried in front of strangers. I was out of control and I felt my defenses crumble. For those who choose to be vulnerable and who are willing to let their guard down, who give up control, I applaud you for you are truly the brave ones. God is showing me to have true friendships, one day a strong marriage, I have to learn to be vulnerable– by choice. I have to learn to allow myself to be out of control, to be vulnerable, to be brave, holding nothing back from God.

Posted by C on May 3, 2013 in Morning Reveals.

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March 15, 2013

Five Minute Friday– Rest

As I shared with you a few weeks ago, a wrench has been thrown into my plans and so since then, I have been learning, failing, trying, to rest in Christ’s promises. I have been reading a lot of scripture, searching for answers, searching for clarity, and then my mother, my wonderful mother said, “You’ve been talking to God, but have you been listening Catherine?” You know it’s serious when she pulls out the full name. She was right though, I have been so busy doing, reading, talking, going over and over in my mind what could possibly be the answer that I neglected to wait patiently and listen. So for now, I am seeking rest in the God of Peace, my Jehovah Shalom, confident He will grant me peace and clarity of what the future holds in His timing. Verses to meditate on: Matthew 7:7-8, Philippians 4:4-7, 2 Peter 3:9, Proverbs 20:2

5minutefriday

Posted by C on March 15, 2013 in Morning Reveals and tagged #FMF, 1Peter 3:9, Five Minute Friday, God's plan, God's promises, God's timing, God's will, Matthew 7:7-8, Philippians 4:4-7, Provers 20:2, rest, Resting In God's Promises.

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March 5, 2013

Old, Not Obsolete, Stories

For the past year I have been a part of a Bible study group, doing a new devotional book every few months and though we had learned a lot from them, I know I was hungry for more. Hungry for the Word of God to speak directly. So, we eventually decided to begin reading the book of Daniel.

I confess I am not a theologian or a scholar. But I was so excited when I began reading this book, I just had to share some of my thoughts with you. So first off I encourage you to get out your Bible and turn to a passage you may not have read since you read it in your children’s Bible so many years ago. Read with me Daniel chapters 1 and 2.

Daniel 1:17: God gave Daniel and his friends, wisdom and understanding, but he also gave Daniel the ability to interpret dreams. Have you ever looked at a gift or talent and wondered, when on Earth will I ever use this? I just wonder if Daniel did the same thing. I’m sure he was glad he was able to understand the unexplainable and have knowledge of many things even while he was held captive by this people, but I wonder if he thought his ability to understand visions and dreams was odd. Was he surprised when the day came that his gift was actually needed? (skip to Daniel chapter 2) The King was determined to kill all his wise men if they were not able to tell him what his dream meant. Daniel had a choice to make. He could watch he and his peers die a brutal death. Or he could try to interpret the dream and if he succeeded all would live. Their lives lay in his hands. Sometimes I feel myself shying away from something God has called me to do because the thought of others’ lives being dependent upon me is almost unbearable. It’s too much pressure don’t you think? But Daniel knew he had a gift and he decided to ask God if He could use it so these people would be saved.
Daniel 2:17-18 – I love this. “Then Daniel returned to his house and explained the matter to his friends…He urged them to plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning the mystery…” He knew the challenge, he accepted the challenge, then he went straight to his friends so they could all go to the throne of God to plead for mercy. And God listened. So many times we think we have to go through a situation alone and we hide our struggles because we think we have to take care of it. We have to keep control of the situation. Daniel admitted right up front he wasn’t in control and knew only God could bring about the salvation of the wise men of Babylon. And so he went to his friends and asked for prayer. When was the last time you went to a good friend and confided in them a specific prayer request?
Daniel 2:30: “As for me, this mystery has been revealed to me, because I am greater in wisdom than any other living man. I was able to interpret the dream, O king so that you could see my greatness….” oh wait, that’s what I would have said, not Daniel! (just making sure you’re paying attention, seriously go read the book of Daniel!) Daniel 2:30 actually states: “As for me, this mystery has been revealed to me, not because I have greater wisdom than other living men, but so that you, O king, may know the interpretation and that you may understand what went through your mind.” How hard is it for you to give credit to the one who deserves all the praise? For me, at times it is like pulling teeth. I want to believe it is my abilities, my talents, my creativity that has succeeded, not God. But, who gave me those abilities? Talents? Creativity? Who gave me the opportunities to use them? God. He deserves all the glory and all the praise.
Daniel 2:39-49—Daniel interprets the king’s dream. The statue the king dreamed about was to prophesy the coming kingdoms that would crush each other until the ultimate kingdom, not made of man, would rule over all of them for eternity. God, through a dream to King Nebuchadnezzar, revealed Jesus’ coming! How cool is it that God, throughout all of the old testament revealed the promise of an everlasting kingdom, of a savior to come, to different people, prophets and even to those who did not know the Jewish God, Yahweh, Jehovah.

What did God reveal to you as you read with me today in Daniel 1 and 2? I’m so excited to begin reading Daniel 3!

Challenge: My Bible study group and I are memorizing the following verse, feel free to join us! (be sure to print it out and put it on your mirror or refrigerator, tweet me a picture if you do! @morningreveals)

Posted by C on March 5, 2013 in Morning Reveals.

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February 27, 2013

A Wrench In My Plan

Life threw a wrench in my plans and so my faith began to crumble.

Had I heard Him wrong? Had I done something or thought something that He’s punishing me for? Why can’t the plan just work like it was supposed to!

I realized, after my little pity-party, how easily I let truth slip away and let doubt and guilt engulf my life, shifting my focus from pleasing Him to myself. Just because a plan is not working does not mean I’m being punished or that I am going down the wrong path…it could…but even when I am seeking His guidance things can mess up; I am still in a world consumed with sin after all. Life will never be perfect, and yet when it isn’t I’m upset and go into pout mode. How well am I able to serve Him when I’m stuck in this attitude? I’m not able to. My focus has shifted from Him to me and when the focus is on myself His light isn’t being shown.

So when plans seem to change, when life seems to be teetering between greatness and failure, do you sit there on the ledge hoping it will land on the side of greatness? Or do you put all your weight into making this stage of life great for Christ? I don’t know what tomorrow will bring. My plans are crumbling and so I may end up where I started. But the difference is whether I end up back in the same location as the same person or as a person closer to Christ.

Many are my plans, but God’s purpose will prevail (Proverbs 19:21). And I have to hold on to that. My plans are not set in stone, life happens, sin happens, but, His purpose will win out. What is His purpose you ask? To beckon His people back to Himself so He can love us completely and bring more glory to Himself.

Now that I’ve had time to think, I do not believe that I made the wrong move. I do not think he’s punishing me for something. I think he is just allowing me to be tested, to see what I choose to do with this life I’ve been blessed with, even when things are not going as I had hoped and planned. I must hold on to truth. Even when I sit here with my heart heavy and my eyes weary, I must hold on to truth. That is I must hold on to Jesus for He IS enough.

Posted by C on February 27, 2013 in Morning Reveals and tagged failure, future, God's plans, greatness, plans, proverbs 19:21.

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January 15, 2013

Changing My Prayer

In all honesty, I never thought I would be here. Not a college graduate still living at home. Not in this job I’ve been blessed with, but didn’t really know how to do. Actually I never thought I would be back at the church I was dedicated in as a child, being discipled by a group of Christian women I am proud to call my friends. And yet, here I am in this small town that I have always called home feeling blessed and stuck at the same time. I am so thankful for all God has taught me since graduating and the time I’ve had to deepen my relationship with my parents, but this doesn’t discount the restlessness I hold in my heart. I am in mid-step, afraid to not step away from home and yet I am also afraid to step into the unknown. So I stand here frozen with one leg glued to safety while my heart yearns for something more.

This is not where I thought I would be, and so for months I have allowed fear and the failure I already feel consume me. Starting today though, my prayer is changing. (And believe me it’s taken me a good while to get here). I had been praying, “Oh Lord please tell me what’s next!” Which in my heart translates to, “Lord, show me a way out!” And that is not how I need to look at this season of my life. So, today, it is now, “Lord what is it you want me to learn while I’m here? You clearly have me here for a reason and a season so help me to make it according to your will and not my feelings. And when the day comes, help me to fully step into the next season with confidence, courage and no hesitation.”

I don’t know the next season God has for me, but I do know he is preparing me everyday if I allow Him. My days of my own little pity-parties are not over because I am me and I know myself. The days of wondering what is next will probably continue. But, today my prayer changes and so therefore God will begin changing my heart; showing me how I can glorify Him now, today, and every moment after, no matter the season.

Posted by C on January 15, 2013 in Morning Reveals and tagged change, Glorifying Him, God's plans, never thought I'd be here, plans changed.

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January 11, 2013

Dive (Five Minute Friday)

**This is the first week I’m a part of the Five Minute Friday blog posts! The following post is five minutes into my thoughts on the subject “Dive.”

I love diving into a new project. I feel exhilarated when I decide on that new thing to write about or design..

…..And yet in my mind right now I’m saying “big woop”, because what am I doing with my ideas? How are they helping anyone else? How are they pointing to my Savior? The Bible says that whatever I do should point to Him and yet I work so hard and for what? To make man proud of me. I’m diving into the quicksand of the world’s acceptance; because you see we will never be good enough for the world. There is always someone better, always something new to aspire too. We will never be the best, we will never be number one, even though isn’t that what we strive for everyday? We want to be the best career woman, the best mom, the best wife, the best friend, the best…at everything. Then, when we realize that isn’t possible, we realize just how small and insignificant we really are in this world. In that moment we realize our need for a Savior. In that moment we realize what we should really be diving into is what God has set out for us, not into our own pool of pride-filled accomplishments that have no eternal impact.

Posted by C on January 11, 2013 in Morning Reveals.

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January 9, 2013

Christ Is The God-Sized Dream Realized

I long for my life to be a love story, but what I fail to realize is that it already is. The problem is my focus and my pride. I look at everything in my life and wonder how it will lead me to the “one” and God looks at my life and wonders why everything in my life isn’t pointing to Him. It’s a God-sized dream for a human to put aside her sinful nature and have her eyes fixed solely on God. It’s a God-sized dream that He fulfilled in Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:17-21: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation:that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

Do you truly understand the God-sized dream God has already made real in you? I confess I do not, not fully anyway. He has reconciled us to Himself and now our ministry is that of reconciliation also. He has made us into a new creation where we are no longer bound to sin. However, it is too easy for me to hold back God’s powerful, sustainable and life changing Word, because at the root, I am afraid it isn’t as powerful, sustainable and life changing as I profess it to be. I lack faith and my expectations of His miracles, grace and mercy are low, because I hold my own human abilities above God’s. It’s called pride my friends. But then I remember His dream realized. His dream to see His people return to Him. His dream that a people who chose sin over a relationship with Him would find their way back to His side. Reconciled. I am reminded that I am a sinful woman who would be completely lost both mentally, emotionally and eternally without His Word, without Christ’s sacrifice and power over death. And right there is the hope.

Realizing this truth is what holds my faith steadfast and strengthens my ability to dream God-sized dreams. You see He’s already conquered the downfall of man, so what dream could possibly be too big for Him?

My desire for a man to love is still there and God knows that, but He is working in my heart to show me that true adventure, joy and happiness will not come with a wedding ring, but will come when I surrender fully to the God-sized dreams He has for me. With Him as my partner, leader, and guide, happiness will greet me, joy will shine through me and God’s adventures will redefine me.

Posted by C on January 9, 2013 in Morning Reveals.

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