A Moment with M.O.M.

Where are YOU?

2011-11-23T16:03:00.000-06:00

Was the question I've been asked recently so I thought I would let everyone know that the blog has moved over to www.amomentwithmom.com Please join us there for some heart to heart conversations, morning devotions, special moments in our home and more!

Oh, and in case you hadn't heard yet... the Wood family was blessed with another baby! Daniel Justice Wood came into the world June 21st 2011; he came into our hearts through adoption just a few days later! We have been very blessed.

With much love,
Mrs. Joseph Wood

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 8 14

2011-06-08T06:15:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 8:14,

“Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength.”

Have you ever thought about what Christ reflects? He is the wisdom and power of God! He is the sound wisdom we must seek to carry us through our daily walk and he is the power of God to carry us through any circumstance we might face.

Christ is known as Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). He is the Wisdom of the ages and he desires to show us the riches of his grace (Ephesians 2:7-8). And by him we are saved through faith!

Christ is understanding; through his word we gain all understanding needed to walk upright before him and we gain strength in resisting temptation’s hold upon our flesh as we seek his counsel. It is he that makes us perfect in every good work to do his will, working in us what is well pleasing in his sight; all to bring Glory and Honor to the name of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 13:21).

Prayer: Hear our voice, O LORD: we ask that you give us understanding according to thy word. We lean upon your heart, let us hear your gentle voice as we meditate upon your precepts. LORD, we call to you to show us how to live so that every work we do is your good work. We desire to be pleasing in your sight. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Happy Birthday Girls

2011-06-03T20:51:00.000-05:00

Today, we celebrated the lives of my daughters Bethany Joy Wood and Sarah-Grace Wood. One who God brought forth from my womb and the other that God brought forth from my heart through adoption. I am honored to be their mother! We spent the day shopping, laughing, going to yard sales, and a very long seven hours later found our way back home. It was a delight being with the girls. They are so fun. Full of giggles, heart conversations and hugs... lots of hugs. Such grateful girls.

Beth Joy (16) and Sarah-Grace (11)

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 3:6

2011-06-03T08:05:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 3:6,
“In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

With the knowledge we have available to us today and the books and software available to search out just about anything that causes us to wonder, there is the problem that we seek to find solutions on our own. Not that it is wrong to do so as long as we have been guided by the Holy Spirit to do so and that we FIRST took it to God for His direction. We fall into the hazard of excluding God from our decision making, perhaps its being in a hurry to get the task done, or because we think others will think less of us if we don’t get the job done immediately. But the warning is if we step out in our own strength, we may find that we’re picking ourselves up from a disaster.

What parent has not warned their child to be careful, to seek counsel and to give it time to think over before making a decision? What adult has not wished they had waited before they made a decision that turned out badly…perhaps giving it a few hours, days or weeks to consider and pray over would have resulted in a better outcome?

When we seek the LORD in our walk; we find that HE SHALL DIRECT OUR PATHS.

We make the mistake of depending on God to help us only when we need help, we do not rely upon Him for all things. We must abide in Him and He will abide in us. The key to this verse is “in all thy ways acknowledge Him”. Consider this, if you do not do so already, to keep the decision making to the LORD’s word in your heart, instead of making the decision yourself and finding yourself at a loss for wisdom.

Prayer: The LORD will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know His name will put their trust in Him. The LORD does not forsake them that seek Him. All who seek Him have reason to rejoice; for His love and salvation are continual. May the LORD be magnified through our dependence upon Him and may His name be given glory and honor for our walk before Him. We will not lean on our own understanding, but we will trust in the LORD with all our heart; and acknowledge Him in all our ways. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 2:20-21

2011-06-02T14:05:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 2:20-21,
“That thou mayest walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous; for the upright shall dwell in the land, and the perfect shall remain in it.”

When we follow the steps of the righteous and stay on the path of righteousness, we will find life! As we set standards for our lives through God’s Word, we do not reject the sinner, but we reject the path they walk. We cannot partake of their lifestyle even in the least way as it leads to sin that the LORD called us to flee (2Timothy 2:21-22).

We are told in Psalms 1 that if we do not follow after the ungodly we are blessed. This is because our lives will find delight in God’s Word and we will be steadfast and produce spiritual fruit that will create a firm foundation upon Christ.

We must look to those who have gone before us as examples of walking after the righteous and we must pass their walk of faith along to our children and grandchildren; this will bring rest to our souls (Jeremiah 6:16). Those who walked by faith are now a great cloud of witnesses (Hebrews 12:1); that are our example. We must look at their walk of faith, focus on the integrity they lived by and live as they lived in uprightness. In so doing, this will contribute to our settled minds, guide our footsteps, gain good-will of our neighbors and please God. Even our families will rejoice and benefit in our walk as they learn the paths of righteousness and take their own walk before the LORD.

Prayer: Your Word tells us that if we walk uprightly, work righteousness and speak the truth in our hearts, then we abide in you. LORD, help us to take the paths of righteousness before you. Teach us the lessons of those who have been examples of faith so that our walk is straight before you. As we walk before you, your loving kindness is our faithful companion. LORD, let us reach out to those lost in sin, but keep our hearts through your Word so that our feet do not stumble in the path they are walking. LORD, you are the giver of abundant life; thank you for your precious love. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: 1:5

2011-06-01T09:46:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 1:5,
“A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels”

A wise man will hear. Proverbs consistently tells us to “hear”, “listen”, “obey”, “give ear to my instruction.” And a wise may will, but the foolish think in their own heart that they know best, they need not pay attention to warnings or good advice. The wise grow wiser when they listen, the foolish would do likewise if they would open their hearts and ears.

I remember teachers who said, “you can never learn too much”, of course they were talking about school subjects but as I’m older, I like to think the same about God’s Word. The wondrous thing about His Word is that it is appropriate for every moment, it nourishes and it provides what we need as we apply it to our hearts.

God’s Word tells us in Daniel 12:3-5, that in the last days knowledge will increase and as we see evidence of that today, which of us are not marveled at the knowledge at our fingertips through the internet and other electronic devices…but beware, the passage does not say God’s Word will increase. Sadly, our knowledge of God’s Word and the wisdom that lies within seems to be fading. People are no longer memorizing His Word and children can no longer recite the scriptures I learned as a child at the hand of my grandmother and Sunday School Teacher. Truly, worldly knowledge has increased, but our knowledge of Wisdom from God’s Word has not.

In Acts 2:16-18, God speaks of pouring His Spirit upon all people, so that the daughters will prophesy, young men will see visions, old men will dream dreams. Let us call upon the LORD for His Word; Let us marvel at the Wisdom within, Let us lean closer to our LORD and receive His knowledge into our hearts and minds.

Prayer: LORD thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my down sitting and mine uprising, thou understand my thought afar off. Thou compasses my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it. Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. Thank you for your Word and the knowledge and wisdom you offer to your beloved. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 27:19

2011-05-27T10:31:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 27:19,
“As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.”

This verse tells us that the heart reflects the real person, just as water reflects the face of the onlooker. The heart is a mirror of the inward person, what we may not see on the face of man, God sees on the heart of man.

Therefore, it is important that we examine our motives, affections and intentions constantly. God’s Word tells us that the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?
"I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds." (Jeremiah 17:9-10). He sees the intent even before we have consciously formed the thought; God saw our heart at work before we succumbed to the sin that enticed our heart.

We must do more than listen to God’s Word. We must do as it instructs, otherwise, we are only fooling ourselves. If we listen but don’t obey it will be like looking at ourselves in a mirror, walking away and forgetting what we saw. But if we look at His Word, it sets us free, and when we do what He says, we don’t forget what was heard and our heart reflects Him (see James 1:23-25).

Prayer: Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my thoughts. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, oh, LORD, my strength and my redeemer. You are great in counsel and mighty in deed. Your eyes are open to all the ways of the children of man; rewarding each one according to his ways and according to the fruit of his deeds. O LORD, you have a steadfast love and you know the inward heart. Help us to reflect your image. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

A special Note:

Friends, enjoy your Memorial Holiday; remember those who gave their lives for our freedom, and especially praise God for the freedom He brought us through His Son Jesus Christ. I will return again on Tuesday, May 31^st.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 26:4

2011-05-26T07:28:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 26:4,
“Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.”

Have you ever tried to reason with a foolish person? God continues to call us to wisdom throughout the proverbs and in so doing, he teaches us not to argue with a fool or try to set them straight. We must be taught to be wise through the Word of God. We must be ready to defend our belief (1 Peter 3:14-16) and the only way to do that is to make ourselves workmen that need not to be put to shame as we divide the Word of truth. The only way we can do this is by studying His Word. This gives us the opportunity to not only witness to those in darkness but to reveal the light to those who are foolish (2 Timothy 2:15-16).

We must sanctify our LORD in our hearts and be prepared to answer those who challenge or question our devotion. The Word of God is profitable for reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. But we must be sure that the LORD has called us to stand before man and give forth the wisdom of His Word. We must wait upon the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts and minds or we will foolishly join the foolish and sound like clanging cymbals to those who hear us. Our convictions must be sure, they must be true, and they must be wholly fixed on our LORD and Jesus Christ. Without His direction and His blessing our words will be in vain. Wisdom is justified when it comes from God. There will be times when speaking is called for; there will be times when silence is more powerful; and there will be times when living our lives before them as we trust the LORD for our portion will be the greatest testimony.

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). He is the one who directs the heart; the footsteps; the speaker and the hearer. Wait upon Him by being prepared when called.

Prayer: LORD, help us to be prepared to share your Word when the opportunities present. Father, help us not to argue your Word but reason with the hearer. Let us not cast our pearls before the swine, but let us scatter seed to fertile ground so that you will claim a great harvest of souls for the kingdom of God. Thank you LORD that you would use us and thank you that you have provided your Word so that we can learn from it. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 25:13

2011-05-25T07:42:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 25:13,
“As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refreshes the soul of his masters.”

Friends, we are messengers of this great message left to us to share with those who are in the dark concerning eternal life through Christ. God uses willing servants to spread the knowledge of Christ. Those who are saved take the knowledge and learn, apply, and mature; but those who are lost perceive the message differently until the Holy Spirit makes His way into their hearts.

What message are you carrying? It is important to be faithful messengers that bring refreshment to those who are thirsty. We are to bring truth from His Word, not our own doctrine. A solemn warning is spoken in the Gospel of Matthew 5:17-19, that reminds us that we must not change the message; but we must deliver it intact and as it is written.

As we share the truth with those God brings our way, let us be faithful to use the talents He has given us to be diligent in spreading His story. “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!” (Romans 10:14-15).

Prayer: Father, do we bring refreshment to the weary soul as we share the Word you have given us? Do we bear the truth before those who have not heard? Are we willing to speak up when the Spirit directs us to share your love? Do we walk in faith that you will fill our mouth and our minds with the Words we have meditated upon? LORD, if we are lacking in any of these areas, then teach us to be faithful messengers of your kingdom so that souls are refreshed, restored, and born into eternal life through Christ Jesus. We pray in Jesus’ name, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 24:1-2

2011-05-24T07:18:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 24:1-2,
“Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them. For their heart studies destruction and their lips talk of mischief.”

We are not to envy sinners or wish we could have what they have, lest we forget the greater blessings we hold for living righteously. I often hear people complain about those who “get-away” with their crimes or moral misconduct, but what they don’t see is the end result of living their lives for this world instead of the Kingdom of God.

Their sensual appetites may be indulged for now, but their hearts are empty. They truly are empty vessels that have lost their purpose. Each of us who choose to follow God’s Word and set our hearts to live righteously are setting up our riches for eternity. Our pockets may be empty in this world, but our hearts will be full now and in eternity. There is nothing to envy of those who will spend eternity without God, their accounts they stored on earth will be spent by others or lost in courts while lining the pockets of lawyers.

There is no sin in having riches in this world, for God blesses both the saved and unsaved with his generosity; but when we place our heart upon the things earned in this world and lose sight of God’s purpose for the blessings He gives, we are poor indeed.

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also (Matthew 6:19-21).

Prayer: LORD, teach me to turn my eyes upon Jesus, let me look in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace. Father, let this be our song today, to remember not to envy those who have more or those who escape the penalty of our justice systems. Let us turn our eyes upon you and follow in wisdom and grace as we seek your Word for our daily living. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

Real Moments with M.O.M.- I’m learning therefore, I must be living!

2011-05-23T22:04:00.011-05:00

Hello Friends!

I’ve been praying for many of you. The Lord seems to bring you to mind as I drive, work on the farm, or lay my head on my pillow. I am honored to pray. It has made me mindful of the fact that it’s been awhile since I’ve shared.

Life has been full in the home and on the farm. As I told a friend tonight, “I’m always learning… it must mean I’m living!” Learning just seems to be a daily activity over here. This last weekend, my Joe and I took a drive together and discussed failure as part of success. The children had lost all but four of our meat birds due to a communication error between them. One told the other to give the chickens water. That child, not familiar with chickens, gave them water but forgot to open their cage to let them get the water. It was disappointing for everyone. Money was lost as well as our hopes of putting some chickens up in the freezer and yet, all was not lost. Everyone in the home learned something, something we can take with us as we continue to care for God’s creatures.

When we have moments like this in our home it’s vital for us to keep the family attention on how we can learn and do better instead of beating one another up. I’m happy to say that while everyone understood the gravity of the situation there was no angry words spoken, loud voices, or criticism spoken. Again, something we’ve learned… controlling our tongues in times of crisis brings control to an out of control moment.

We’ve got the back pasture fence done so that the animals can freely walk about and eat. That brings my heart so much happiness to see. We’ve been working hard on this project. While we do have two more pastures in the works… this one is done and for that we will praise God! Another lesson we’ve learned, praise Him and those around us for the work that IS done instead of grumble about what still isn’t finished.

Samuel took the position as shepherd today as he guarded the sheep to make sure that they didn’t find holes in the new fence. I watched him and thought about how much he’s grown. He’s a little boy we’ve adopted that has FAS. Doctors and specialists have told us not to expect much and yet, my Joe and I have learned another lesson: God can do what man says is impossible! I’m sure you’ve heard me say it before, Duty is ours, results are God’s. We’ll teach him and train him and leave the results with God. I must also tell you God has done GREAT things in Samuels life. We are richly blessed with this treasure of a little boy that God has given us.

Talking to mom tonight, I was sharing with her what we’ve learned from chickens. She was telling me about the stress at her work and how people act so carelessly toward one another when under stress. I told her, “I don’t know if they would understand this analogy but here on the farm we have a saying.” When we’re under stress and tension is mounting if I witness the children behaving poorly I’ll tell them, “We are Christians NOT cannibals!”

Have you ever watched Chickens? I’ve witnessed them peck one another to death under two conditions. If there is a chicken that is different than they are or if a chicken is injured they will peck at the chicken until eventually they kill it. We’ve had to separate chickens just for this reason on more than one occasion. I’ve often thought about how humans are the same way. It seems like when people are different than us or hurting that is when you see others “peck” them to the point of death. Let us be careful as Christians that we do not behave in such a way! “We’re Christians NOT cannibals!”

I’ve learned, 23 years and ten children later that my boys love to hear me screech when they put plastic bugs around the house. I’ve learned to count those times as precious and cherish them…. They’ll end before I know it.

The list could go on and on of things I am learning, have learned, and still have to learn. I guess that proves it, I’m living!

Enjoy this slide show of some of the moments in my life today!

"Picnik Show"

Create a free slideshow with Picnik!

With much love,
Mrs. Joseph Wood

A Moment In Proverbs: 23:19

2011-05-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 23:19,
“Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.”

Train up a child in the way they should go and when they are old they will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6). This passage is one most parents know who have applied God’s word to their hearts. Even parents who have not followed God will want their children to grow into moral people who are successful in their dealings with the world; but the Christian has this hope, that if we do our part in teaching our children the wisdom from God’s Word, we are giving them something they will carry with them forever. And when they grow old they will have it even still. As parents, we pray that our children will not only be successful in their dealings with the world, but that they too will take on the mantle of teaching their children God’s Word.

Throughout Proverbs there are many calls to the heart of the son; here we have the father calling to the son and saying listen and be wise and guide thine heart. Wisdom just as faith comes from hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17). In order for our sons and daughters to gain wisdom they must hear the word of the LORD so that they can be called to faith. If we as parents, grandparents and guardians of youth do not do our part in presenting the gospel to them, then how will they believe (see Romans 10:14).

Wisdom, does not come from enticing words of man’s wisdom but only from hearing the word of God (see 1Thesalonians 2:13). Are our children hearing the words of wisdom? Are we proclaiming the Word of God in such a way that they can hear and respond?

Prayer: Open our eyes LORD, we want to see Jesus; to reach out and touch him and say that we love him. Open our ears LORD and help us to listen. Open our eyes LORD to your Word and your instruction. Open our ears LORD and apply thy Word to our hearts. Open our understanding LORD so that we can teach others. Open our hearts LORD so that we see generations follow you in wisdom. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 20:27

2011-05-20T11:21:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 20:27,
“The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly.

When we commit our ways unto the Lord, nothing will have the power to destroy the Spirit’s work within us and all of our thoughts will be established.

At the beginning of the week, I posted this sentence and I have had an opportunity to post it with each of our devotions this week. As I come to a close this week, I am considering this verse as the core of this sentence; for the spirit of man is the candle of the LORD.

When we commit our ways unto the LORD the light of our lives shine through and that light is not our own, but that of the LORD’s; it is the inspiration of God. Just as the disciples committed their life to Christ, they were given the inspiration of God and we are to benefit from their writing as the inspiration of God (2Timothy 3:15-17).The inspiration was so that those who followed God and committed their ways unto Him would be thoroughly furnished unto all good works. Showing forth the light of Jesus Christ to all who they meet.

Our spirit was made after the image of God and He is the source of all knowledge, in fact, He is called the Father of lights (James 1:17-18). Since he is our Father, it is because of Him that we were created; and in Him we have the word of truth; therefore we have His light within.

Dear friends, NOTHING will have the power to destroy the Spirit’s work within us! This light is realized only when we commit our lives to Him. Have you decided to follow Jesus? Remember, He said, “I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” (John 8:12)

Prayer: The LORD is my light and my salvation. The LORD is the strength of my life. The LORD is King forever and ever. The LORD is our refuge. I will love thee, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised. In Jesus’ name, we commit our ways unto the Lord, nothing will have the power to destroy the Spirit’s work within us and all of our thoughts will be established. We pray in Jesus’ name, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 19:3

2011-05-19T07:58:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 19:3,
“When the wicked cometh, then cometh also contempt, and with ignominy reproach.”

People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the Lord. As we act foolishly before the LORD, humiliation and dishonor are our reward and our integrity is discredited.

When people are contemptuous it does not stay within their boundaries but exudes into the lives of others. When this happens, their contempt goes forth and becomes so for God, his people and the ministry. Nothing less can be expected from those who hold foolishness as their shield and weaponry.

But the wise are not so, they have made the LORD their strong tower and they seek His purpose. Even though life may have challenges they know from whence cometh their help (Psalms 121:1-3). The wise are given God’s grace to deal with those things which we bear; and when we partake of His grace we inherit His glory (Proverbs 3: 34-35).

With a fool, everything is centered on their personal whims; not so with those who trust in the LORD. Discretion is the life-giving fountain and those who trust in Him are found to posses hearts that are committed to God’s will for their lives.

When we commit our ways unto the Lord, nothing will have the power to destroy the Spirit’s work within us and all of our thoughts will be established.

Prayer: LORD, wisdom strengthens the wise in their walk before you. You have said that the righteous, and the wise, and their works, are in the hand of God. So this day, we commit our ways unto you our LORD and we know that you will keep our feet from stumbling into the path of a foolish man’s contempt. LORD, we do not want to be as those who ruin their own lives by their foolishness and then blame others in their contempt. Forgive us and correct us so that we do not walk in the way of foolishness. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 18:14

2011-05-18T11:50:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 18:14,
“The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but a wounded spirit who can bear?

Do you know anyone who has fought cancer? Do you have friends who have succumbed to disease? Do you have family who are afflicted with physical handicaps? Do you live with an ailment that limits your productivity or abilities? These things, the infirmities, are a part of life in this world. They are not pleasant to bear but with the spirit trusting in God, we can bear them. Even in the most difficult trials of health, we can have joy in Christ for the work He will do in our lives and in the lives who hear our testimony.

I have been taught many lessons from brothers and sisters in the LORD who have endured trials that encouraged me and helped me get through my own struggles. I thank God for those who testified of God’s faithfulness during their experience; it is through their testimony that I learned God sustains, strengthens and teaches His people in all areas of their life. I love how Matthew Henry’s Commentary says, “If the spirit of man will sustain the infirmity, much more will the spirit of a Christian, or rather the Spirit of God witnessing and working with our spirits in a day of trouble.”

I think of Paul in his testimony about his own ailment when he said, 2Corinthians 12:8-10, “I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, ‘my grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.”

Then we have those who are grieved in their spirit; they walk with a heavy burden. You’ve seen the results of a crushed spirit; a person who has no hope, one who is in despair, one who sees no relief for their suffering. They are bitter, apprehensive, indignant, emotionally disturbed; completely wounded and without the glimmer of hope for what they cannot bear. These are the people who have lost their way. They have put their trust in man or in their self. They have not sought the power of God to work in and through them. I am not speaking of those who are chronically depressed because of some chemical imbalance in their body; I am speaking to those who have not committed their way to the LORD. Those who have rejected the Word as their guide, rejected the wooing of the Holy Spirit, rejected the Son of the Living God; these are the ones I speak of who suffer the journey alone and look for no resolve in Christ. When we put our trust in the LORD it is not a mask or remedy to undo the bad things that come into our lives, it is the power possessed to overcome the strangle hold of that which would crush our spirit without Him.

When we commit our ways unto the Lord, nothing will have the power to destroy the Spirit’s work within us and all of our thoughts will be established.

Prayer: Father, we know it is of the LORD's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 17:27-28

2011-05-17T07:51:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 17:27-28,
“He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.”

In these two passages we see two men, both considered wise. The first who is truly wise does not boast of his knowledge, he uses his words sparingly. But the second is a fool who holds his peace and keeps his mouth shut; he too is considered wise because he didn’t share the nonsense of his heart and mind.

A wise man considers his words before he speaks them, just as the man who is slow to anger is mighty, so is the man of wisdom who keeps himself controlled in what he reveals and what he does not.

But even when a fool holds his words and appears wise, God knows his heart! What are we? Have we learned to control our passions? Do we speak before we have prayed about it? Do we render righteous judgments? Or have we been found to have mouths with words that flow as a spring run-off? Do we tell all to impress and show our true being? Do we condemn quickly? (Proverbs 29:11)

When we commit our ways unto the Lord, nothing will have the power to destroy the Spirit’s work within us and all of our thoughts will be established.

Prayer: Father, we do commit our thoughts and our speech to you this day. We ask that you open our mouth at the right time and allow the words of our mouth and the meditation of our hearts to be acceptable in thy sight, Oh, LORD, our Strength and our Redeemer. Bridle our tongue when our flesh wants to respond; keep us from foolish ranting. LORD, we commit this day to you and seek your understanding. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

Real Moments with M.O.M. - Tell me the story…

2011-05-17T01:13:00.001-05:00

Psalm 30:4

Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.

Hello Friends!

Today is a very special day of remembrance for the Wood family. In our family, we have days of remembrance. Days when we recall a specific work that God has done in times past. We believe strongly that these days of remembrance are critical for our children to learn and pass onto their children. We must remember God’s faithfulness to the previous generations so we are strengthened in our current generation! Below you will find a recording I made to share Elisha’s story. I have also included Grandma Connie’s account of Elisha’s birth! We invite you to join us today as we celebrate the Faithfulness of God.

Listen to me recall the events that took place:

REMEMBERING THE FAITHFULNESS OF GOD ON MAY 17, 1993

From Grandma Connie (As she recalls the events of that season of life):

It was a beautiful spring day in California; excitement filled the room as women gathered to celebrate the expectation of birth. The clothes line was strung with diapers and clothes pins; the party favors had been distributed and the games were well underway. As I watched my daughter laugh and engage with the other women, I remember thinking how blessed we were to celebrate this moment.

There had been difficult times in the previous months when we heard the news from the doctors that our baby boy had died; he could find no heart beat. Deep regret filled my heart as I heard my daughter give me the doctor’s verdict. He wanted her to have a clinical procedure that would remove the baby that he claimed was dead. As I heard her unravel the accounts of the visit, she ended the conversation that she did not believe the doctor was right. Even though she could not feel the baby move, even though the doctor could find no heart beat, she BELIEVED the child was alive. Jeanette and Joe kept a vigil of prayer as did we all; and God spoke to them; and because of what He told them, Jeanette believed the child would be called Elisha and she prayed for a double portion for this child, just as the original Elisha had asked of Elijah, “I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me” (2Kings 2:8-10).

The next visit to the doctor revealed a heartbeat. I praised God for His unfailing love to us. The months wore on and now we were celebrating the expected birth of the child within weeks. The Shower was a success. Baby boy clothes, toys and all the things necessary for a little one joining the family were received from our friends and family.

That night as I cleaned the room, I could still hear the laughter of the women and I could still feel the joy of the day’s celebration.

The next morning, we received a call that Jeanette was in labor; hurry to the hospital. As I arrived at the hospital I saw the nurses wheeling my daughter down the hall, the scene was horrific, she was pale, the doctor calling out orders; the memory of his words still give me chills as I write about them, “HURRY, we’re going to lose both of them!”

“Lovest thou me?” Yes, LORD, I love you, but…”Lovest thou me?” Yes, LORD, but…”Lovest thou me?” Yes, Lord. I sat for the next several minutes as I waited to see someone come from the delivery room, I dreaded, I prayed, I begged God to keep them alive. God reminded me during those moments of all the times through my life and that of our family that He was and is now still Faithful!

What seemed to be hours upon end, we got the word that we could see our daughter and our grandson. As we entered the room my daughter was trying desperately to see her child through the lingering anesthesia; as I looked through the plexi-glass enclosure, a still, small life was being transferred to a children’s hospital for expert neonatal care.

For weeks, we could only visit him through an outdoor window; we watched as he was attended by specialty nurses and physicians. We knew this child who was given life had a purpose. Each day he survived gave him a better chance of survival.

The day came when we could bring him home. Many things happened over the months that he lived in the hospitals; but the day of joy arrived when we brought him home.

Now, 18 years later, this young man stands as a testimony to God’s Faithfulness. Elisha has been given a double portion of many blessings. His talents are still unfolding and we stand in amazement at the things He has learned and is learning. His life is dedicated to God and He has an intimate relationship with his LORD. Elisha is an example to many! In fact, I would say that it is us, the family of Elisha that has received the double portion; we are the ones who have been given the blessing of this young man.

I, the Grandmother of Elisha testify of these things, I have been doubly blessed by the gift of Elisha. LORD, may he continue to grow in stature and wisdom; may he continue to lean upon you for his understanding; may he engage many with the truth of your Word and may he be a blessing to thousands upon thousands and he shares Your Faithfulness! In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

A Moment In Proverbs 16:32

2011-05-16T07:29:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 16:32,
“He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.”

We are more than conquerors when we do not walk after the natural substance of the flesh. It is not easy to put our passions aside when in the heat of the moment of being provoked; it takes control and a deliberate will to follow after the spirit. When we respond with our flesh and erupt in anger, destruction follows. But when we allow the spirit of Christ to dwell in us, life and peace are our reward.

To rule over our passions is an act of war upon our flesh but the one who learns to do so has accomplished much. Reflect on this; a freight train running down hill without breaks will surely cause destruction in its path; but the same train controlling the breaking system and making a deliberate descent will arrive safely and soundly. We must learn to live after the Spirit of God to have the control in matters that entice reactions from our flesh; whether they are passions of anger or passions of lust. When we came to God through Christ, we were living after the flesh, but that was put to death and we were raised again to life through the Spirit because we became the children of God. (Romans chapter 8).

When we have obtained mastery over our brute reactions; we have gained a great victory! Those who would have suffered because of our rash of anger are not harmed; foolishness is not the brand upon our forehead; but instead we wear the crown of grace and mercy as the Spirit rewards our efforts.

When we commit our ways unto the Lord, nothing will have the power to destroy the Spirit’s work within us and all of our thoughts will be established.

Prayer: LORD, we have been saved by hope! We know that our flesh wars against us constantly, but we have this confidence in you that the Spirit of God helps us in our struggle with the flesh. When we are caught off guard, the Spirit is there to intercede for us and our hope is realized through the application of your Word. Father, help us to master our passions. Teach us the wisdom to overcome the desire to respond in anger. Help us to obtain victory over this area of our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 10:14

2011-05-10T08:24:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 10:14,
“Wise men layup knowledge: but the mouth of the foolish is near destruction.”

Wise men do not layup their treasures on earth where destruction awaits, but they layup their treasures in heaven. Those treasures are found in God’s Word where we have a wealth of wisdom pouring from the pages as we come to Him for knowledge (Matthew 6:19-21).

The knowledge we find with our sacred Bibles restores and enlarges the heart of man as we apply the wisdom therein. I delight in God’s Word, especially when I read a passage again perhaps weeks or months later and the knowledge I receive is just what I need for the occasion. The endless supply of wisdom that comes from His Word is like a pasture that replenishes itself as the cattle and sheep are feeding upon it. When the animals have gone through the pasture, they return to find new pasture growing where they had consumed it only weeks ago. God’s Word tells us in John 10:9 that Christ is the door and anyone who enters in will be saved; and when we go in and out we will find pasture. What a bold confidence we can have; to study His Word today and glean all the rich knowledge He has available for us and we can return and find new nourishment for the circumstance we are living.

This confidence does not hold true for those who are foolish. They have no hiding place; no strong tower; no fortress to protect them during their storms of life. They reject wisdom and destruction awaits them. But God’s children have stored up knowledge for the day it is needed and the Holy Spirit brings it to mind and heart as we seek His Wisdom.

Prayer: LORD, teach your children good judgment and knowledge, for we have believed your commandments and desire to abide in you. Father, reverence for you is the foundation of true knowledge and by reading and meditating upon your word we find wisdom. Thank you for your replenishing supply of knowledge and wisdom as we come to your Word. LORD, place a desire in our hearts to thirst for your Word and embed it into our hearts and minds so that it can always be with us. Thank you for the freedom to worship you. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs 9:12

2011-05-09T13:53:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 9:12,
“If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.”

Simply put we are the ones who benefit when we act and live in wisdom; and we are the ones who will suffer if we scorn wisdom. I’ve often heard people relent that they never thought it would happen to them; whatever they were going through at that moment had happened to others, but in their minds, they never saw it happening to them. Often, when I see this kind of mindset, there are many warning signs that came along the way that “it could happen”, but those warnings were not heeded. We profit for the good when we set our trust in the LORD and lean on his understanding instead of our own. When we go about our “marry” way, we turn deaf ears to sound wisdom and we are “scorning” wisdom. But we are the ones to bare the shame and blame of the suffering we do because we would not heed to wisdom’s cry in the beginning.

God prepares us through His Word; we are nourished when we depend upon Him. In the midst of trials we can be assured that God is there if we have acted in wisdom. But if we have fallen to folly and we’ve ignored the prompting of the Holy Spirit we have no one to blame but our self.

Prayer: Father, teach us to embrace wisdom; show us how to walk in wisdom so that we do not fall to ruin and shame. LORD, when we step out in our own strength, draw us back and call us away from the direction we are going. LORD, open our hearts and help us to hear you prompting us. And LORD, thank you for your Word, for the testimonies of old and for the testimonies of those you’ve placed in our lives. Thank you for this new day. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

Real Moments- A Wet Warrior

2011-05-07T10:40:00.000-05:00

It’s been a long week, one that I’ve learned God equips me for today’s work and then offers new mercy each day for the next day’s work. I’ve talked to many people this week, worked on our business, ministered to families, been ministered to, encountered words of encouragement and words of discouragement and met each one with the portion of grace I had been given by our Father. As I sit here in my office, I’m surrounded by large windows overlooking my yard where my family works and plays. It is here that I reflect on God’s bountiful treasures given to his handmaiden. I watch my son Josiah as he tends to my garden in hope that the plants that were damaged in the frost will be nurtured back to health. As this young man stands with his back to me I see the “First-Strike of Battle” about to take place. I’d love to warn him that it’s coming but the stealth movement of his younger brother is precious to watch. As he approaches his towering brother armed with a “cup” of water, Josiah is focused on his duties. There! The strike takes place, water is poured down the back of Josiah! Matthew, the valiant warrior, retreats in laughter. But, a very big miscalculation of the opponents weaponry was made. As Josiah turns calmly to see the retreat of his opponent, he simply raises the hose flowing with water and drenches his brother. The battle is raging new weapons are fashioned by the now dripping Matthew and frustration is building as he grabs what he can to win this battle…to his disappointment, he is overcome by strength and strategy.

As I watched this unfold, there comes this thought about how I faced this week. I was much like this little warrior at times as I tried to accomplish more than I was given. My battle plan was to win the war on my tasks at hand. What seemed to be a mountain of work and interactions could not be dealt with all in one day, but I ran into the day with my cup of water to attack. I was reminded, that my life is not my work. No, my life is in Christ. I must wait for his strength and strategy to equip me for each day and each task. Whether I’m dealing with an issue between sisters in my house or customers at my door; God has given me what I need to encounter each circumstance with grace. The “First-Strike of Battle” will happen each day and as I become equipped through His Word each day, I must remember just as the soldier preparing for battle; I do not know how God will empower me to stand, but I am confident He will!

Now as this dripping little soldier and his loving opponent end their “war of water”, I remember these are the moments I am refreshed by, God’s New Mercies and His faithful treasures.

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 6:20-22

2011-05-06T10:02:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 6:20-22,
“My son; keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck. When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleep, it shall keep thee; and when thou awake, it shall talk with thee.”

The Word of God is light and the law. Our understanding of the Word is the light that shines within us and removes the darkness that lived there before we came to Him. It reveals truth and it is the authority to which we submit our wills.

The Law that comes from the Word was manifested in Christ’s redemptive act of love on the cross. All was perfected through Him because we could not adhere to the Law perfectly and we could not carry the light within to perfect our walk. So Christ came as the Light of the World and His gift of eternal life found in His resurrection completed God’s redemptive plan for mankind.

This light we carry once we come to the Father through Christ is continually perfecting our walk. We must keep the Word of God and the instructions that reside therein to equip us for the work He has planned for us. If we bind His Word upon our hearts; it will be our guide. And it will lead us in the paths of righteousness; it shall call out to us “this is the way; walk in it” (Isaiah 30:21).

Prayer: Father we are blessed when we do not walk in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stand in the way of sinners, nor sit in the seat of the scornful. Our delight is in the law of the LORD; and we meditate upon it day and night. We are like a tree planted by the rivers of water and as we abide we bring forth your fruit in our lives at the appointed time. We will not wither as we keep your commandments. How precious are your thoughts toward us, O God! How great is the sum of them! If we should try to count them, they are more in number than the sand. When we sleep you are there and when we awake you are still with us. Oh, how precious is your love toward us that we are ever in your care. Thank you for this confidence in the Light of your Word. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 5:7-8

2011-05-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 5:7-8,
“Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth. Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house”

DO NOT APPROACH THE BORDERS OF SIN!!! This verse screams at us this warning, it pleads to us that we do not turn our hearts away from the Word of God to chase after the forbidden enticements of sin. The entire chapter speaks of the strange woman as the sinful grappling hook after the hearts of the young men, but I caution you women, that sin in any form is as adultery to our LORD. As you read through the many recounts of history, God says to his people that they are an adulterous nation (Jeremiah 3:6-25).

We are not to tempt temptation; we are not to put our thoughts toward evil; and we are not to desire the fruit of sin. But when we turn away from the teaching of the Word, we are slipping out the door in secret and testing our strength to overcome and by doing so, we are ensnared by the sin which we knew we should not embrace. Once fallen to sin, we find shame and a broken relationship with the Father, because we know the steps to resist Satan but we did not take them (James 4:6-8).

God’s Word is given to us to keep us from sin (Psalms 119:10-12). Sin should be looked upon as a plague that destroys life and purpose. If we do not hate sin, then we will fall victim to it again and again.

Prayer: LORD, we are overwhelmed with joy in your presence. When we received your pardon from our sin, we became your eternal bride; you have dressed us with the clothing of salvation and draped us in robes of righteousness. We are like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with her jewels. We praise you with our hearts and we give our minds and bodies in service to your purpose. LORD, forgive us when we seek pleasure from sin instead of pleasing you by living holy lives. Father, thank you for your eternal mercy, that even when we have turned away, you have said if we will humble ourselves and ask forgiveness you will hear us and heal us from our unrighteousness. LORD, thank you for your longsuffering and grace. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 4:18

2011-05-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 4:18,
“But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.”

The way of the righteousness is light. Jesus said “I am the Light of the World” (John 8:12). So as we live justly by the light we reflect the light of Christ. In him was life and the life was the light of men. And those that walk in darkness can’t understand (John 1:4-5). When God establishes His Word in our hearts, light (understanding) is shown across our path. We begin being guided by the word as a lamp unto our feet (Psalms 119:105). We walk in the light as He is in the Light (1John 1:6-7 & Revelation 21:23-25).

Remember the song “This little light of mine”? It must shine; we must let our light shine so that it glorifies God in Heaven, not for our own glory, but so that the world will know who sent Him (Matthew 5:16). When we walk in the light of His Word we have a security and a serenity of mind that the world cannot know without Him. Friends, this light is ever-growing and ever-shinning more and more, because it is not like the light of a candle that burns dim; it is like the rising sun that continues to brighten our planet day after day. It brings us joy each day as we walk in the light and it brings honor to the Father as we continue to walk there in. And in the last day we shall see the light of His face and rejoice ever more (Matthew 13:43).

So therefore, walk in the Light as Christ brought us the light and honor God your Holy Father. Abide in Him and He will abide in you.

Prayer: Father, we commit our way unto the LORD; we trust also in him; and have confidence that He shall bring it to pass all that He has promised. And He shall bring forth righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday. We will rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him: we will not fret because of those who prosper in their wicked devices. We will walk in the light and we will trust the light to guide us and protect us. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 3:25-26

2011-05-03T08:50:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 3:25-26,
“Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh. For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.”

Confidence in the LORD…I’d like to ask, do you have it? Every day, every moment, does confidence in the LORD reside within you? When life is going smoothly I see how easy it is to be confident in the LORD because we’re not being tested by surprises that give us no time to react. It’s when those surprises happen that really show us how much we still have to grow or how far we have yet to travel in our journey of understanding and trusting God. Confidence in the LORD is not meant to be only during the “good times”, it’s meant in the moments when fear strikes hard; it’s meant when your heart beats rapidly and your mind cannot focus on clarity of thought; Confidence in the LORD sustains us during those times where we have no control over life or death.

As a young Christian, I would look to this passage and mistakenly think that a “Christian” doesn’t have to go through these things, only those who didn’t love God would go through tough times. But I soon learned that rain falls on the just and the unjust and the sun will shine on both as well (Matthew 5:45). So what is this passage saying to us?

I believe by what I find in God’s Word that He is telling us that when desolation does come; we can take confidence in God that because we are His children we will not be destroyed. Judgment will not consume us as it does the wicked; we have been pardoned – set free!

We may experience growth and discipline because of those things that bring us discomfort; but God will not allow those things to consume us. We may find ourselves apprehensive when we face trials; but we have hope that the LORD will be our protector and He will keep us safe. We can be of good comfort in all things as the LORD spoke to those who needed healing and forgiveness; we can have confidence in Him our faith is kept intact and our hope is secure (Psalms 23:3-5).

When you next face the trials that are sure to come; ask yourself, “Where is my confidence?” And remember His faithfulness in all things (Deuteronomy 7:8-9).

Prayer: Father, Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised); and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works. You are our comfort in all things, you are our guiding light, you are our security, you are our protector, and you are our Confidence. Thank you, LORD! In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 2:1-5

2011-05-01T10:50:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 2:1-5,

“My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; if thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.”

I have often enjoyed working with my granddaughters and daughter teaching them the recipes from our family collections. I’ve taught them that the secret to a good outcome is to follow the instructions; when we didn’t follow instructions our dessert or main dish was a flop. I’ve also been the witness to my husband as he put together a bike or dollhouse or some wonderful device the grandchildren would love at Christmas time. He would read the instructions and re-read them as he proceeded through the building of his project. Had it not been for the instructions, we laugh, how would it have looked? An instruction manual or recipe for knowledge is found in our passage today. Just as Solomon is teaching here; his instructions must be followed and his son will find the greatest riches known to man; the knowledge of God and the reverence of the LORD.

When we step out in our own strength and wisdom to find God we often try to reason with what we know about life to fit God into our understanding. But God has called us to commit our thoughts and understanding to him and he will renew our minds and our understanding. It’s when we go back to the “recipe/instruction manual” provided in these verses that we begin to understand.

When we come to him, we are given instructions to follow in our growth and daily living. We must start with the most important ingredient, and that first ingredient is coming to Him and hearing Him and then we begin applying His wisdom to our lives. This week, we’re going to go where the LORD leads in His instructions to us, and for today, I’d like to share some passages that serve as recipes for continued growth. When you have a moment to sit and listen to the LORD, turn to these passages of how to walk and live with the LORD and gain knowledge of God and understanding of our LORD: Romans 12:1-3; 2 Corinthians 4:15-17; Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:9-14; and Titus 3:4-6.

Prayer: LORD, as we come to you this week, teach us of your wisdom and knowledge. Create in us hearts that are clean and renew in us a right spirit to learn from you. Draw us back to you if we stray away. Let us learn that there is no reward in finding knowledge or wisdom in our own strength. Cause us to hunger after your counsel instead of the counsel of this world. LORD, give to us the understanding for living a life pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

Three things I’ve learned to prevent the Reality/Bliss Collision

2011-04-28T10:04:00.001-05:00

I love doing things home made, from scratch, simple, environmentally friendly, and God honoring. Yet, there are times, (more often than I'd like to admit) when my dream life and my reality collide. In fact, in our home we have a phrase said often, “It’s another reality meets bliss moment.” You know those moments don’t you? It’s when you’re adoring an infant and realize they’re not smiling at your silly faces they’re about to get sick… only problem is you realize it one millisecond too late. Or what about when you stay up all night making home made soap to surprise the family only to have it fail… yet again. To make matters worse, before you can warn the family, someone thought you had made brownies and takes a bite of the lethal product and goes screaming and gagging through the house to the bathroom. Of course there are the reality/bliss collisions half way through the year when you realize your dream garden is actually worse than a nightmare. Despite all the money and time you’ve invested you won’t have much more than a bowl of greens to offer the family. Then there are the moments when you’re sure you can do something but then have the realization that you’re not as fit as you once were. Again, the realization never seems to come before you find yourself in a painful position you can’t get out of. Oh, the list of my ‘reality meets bliss moments’ are abundant.

Here are three things I have learned over the years to prevent these train wreck moments:

1. Prudent Preparation is critical- To have healthy food on hand is something I have to prepare for it’s not just going to happen at the last minute. I need to have my yogurt made, my bread starter growing, cheese making, kefir grains living, and my garden plotted, tilled, and soil tested. For our family we’ve found a schedule to be very effective. Monday is cheese making day (actually includes all kinds of dairy products), Tuesday, bread baking, Wednesday, is weeding the garden day, Thursday, we deep clean the house, Friday, we organize the barn and so on. I can’t think of one time that I have ever done something on a whim and found it to be successful. I must be wise to consider details, time, financial resources, and my skills.

2. Know (and accept) my limitations- I can’t do everything that everyone else is doing. I can only do what God has for me at this very specific time of my life. In fact I find there are times I can make homemade bread without skipping a beat and other times it gets put on the back burner. If I have limited resources our menu must adjust. I can’t try to buy the ‘goodies’ that we don’t’ have the resources for. I need to carefully evaluate what the budget is and then buy healthy food within the means of those blessings. I don’t buy into the concept that healthy food isn’t affordable. I believe it is very reasonable and practical even in a large family like our own. It’s just that adjustments might be needed. If I have time limitations, like this year. I might find that buying my starts from Sarah’s Starts is a much more practical idea than starting all our own seeds (even though we’ve started our own for years). When I ignore my limitations I often find the reality meets bliss trains heading full steam ahead for the train wreck of a lifetime!

3. Back up plans are essential- I don’t typically buy store bought cereal for my family however, when reality moments have prevented me from having home made granola on hand I have back up plan. One back up plan, pulled out only in morning emergencies, is a variety of the organic cereals that Azure offers. When I accidently ‘murder’ my kefir grains I provide them with Nancy’s Kefir (which they all LOVE). If I had a baby in cloth diapers and found the experience to not be what I had wanted or what I have time/energy for my back up plan would be non chlorine, hypoallergenic diapers. If I found that my schedule didn’t allow any time for my home made laundry cleaner I would reach in the cabinet and pull out some environmentally friendly detergent and use it without guilt! When I have moments that keep me from having home made bread I pull out a loaf of Ezekiel bread or maybe a loaf of Rudi’s 14 grain bread. Is it my first choice, no. It’s my back up plan that keeps my family from slipping into the pit of the SAD (Standard American Diet) all over again.

Reality meets bliss moments are sure to happen. I just need to make sure I don’t find myself going the wrong direction when all the debris settle.

Until our next chat…

Mrs. Joseph Wood

The 31 Day to Clean Challenge... will you join us?

2011-04-27T18:48:00.002-05:00

My daughter, Rebekah, has been talking about this book ever since Sarah Mae let the cat out of the bag that it was in the works.

31 days to clean isn't about us having perfect homes. It's about us learning to do all things unto the Lord and for the Lord's glory! Learning about our God of order and displaying his character instead of being burdened by the chaos! Sarah Mae is quick to tell us this isn't just a how to dust our shelves book... this is a look at our hearts and our homes!

I was delighted today when I leanred that it was available on her site! Go on over, take a look, and if you decide to join us let me know! It's always more fun to clean with friends!

Weeds With A Purpose: Dandelions

2011-04-27T06:09:00.000-05:00

Hello Friends!

During this time of year, we have a abundance of those “annoying little dandelions!” But have you ever considered that maybe they have a purpose? A very very yummy and healthy purpose? Well I am delighted to tell you, that they DO!

Dandelions are beautiful in salads, they are a wonderful source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron and calcium, and they make delicious jam!

When I first heard that people use dandelions for jam, I thought it would taste bitter and I was quite hesitant. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how sweet this jam is! After I tasted this delicious jam I knew I had to share it with you all.

You will need:

1 quart of dandelions (with stems and green parts removed)

2 quarts of water

Juice and zest of 1 lemon (#QP058)

4 cups of organic cane sugar (#SW139)

1/2 cup of Pectin (#BP060)

Mix 2 quarts of water with 1 quart of rinsed dandelions.

Let boil for about 3 minutes on your stove for about three minutes.

Strain the remaining ‘tea’.

Pour the remaining tea back into the pan and add lemon juice and cane sugar.

Bring to a boil and add pectin. Let boil for about 3 more minutes.

Sterilize your jars by putting them in VERY hot water for 5 minutes. (Warning: Be careful when taking the jars out of the water).

Carefully pour the jam into the jars (note: it will not be as thick as jam at this stage).

Place lids on jars and set upside down on a dry towel until it is sealed(it won’t pop down when you press on the jar if it is properly sealed).

Simply open a jar when it is cooled and ENJOY! Once opened this should last up to a few weeks in the fridge.

Until our next chat,

Beth Joy

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Our “Staycation”

2011-04-25T09:16:00.001-05:00

Good Morning Friends!

As you know the Wood family took a vacation last week and didn’t go anywhere but home. I didn’t’ answer the phone and only checked prayer requests that were sent online. I had one local friend write me and ask how our “staycation” was going. I had never heard that phrase yet it summed up our experience perfectly.

As a family we love being at home. There is so much we each enjoy doing here on the farm. This time away from the typical work of the week allowed us to enjoy new work and new projects that we had on our list for this year. We also had some very special guests join us. There were so many highlights to this week however, my most favorite was a new budding relationship with a young momma in our community. As I shared in my last note, I was reminded that I need to be asking those that cross my path if they are ready for the Lord’s return. Now, I agree that we must do this with discretion and boldness led by the Holy Spirit and not out of our own strength. We must remember that no one will be saved by persuasion or a good debate. However, we are each saved by HIS saving power; it is the Holy Spirit that convinces us of Truth. At the same time we are commanded to be ready to give an answer for the Hope that lies within us! With that said, I had the wonderful opportunity to share His love with a woman at Sam's Club. As I was checking out we began talking about our Resurrection Sunday plans she shared a little bit and then I simply asked, “Are you ready for the Lord’s return?” Quickly she said yes and then just as quick she corrected herself and said… “honestly, no! No, I’m not. My life is a mess.” There were no people behind me in line… I found that a miracle alone. In a few moments I shared with her HIS love for her and then asked, “May I hug you?” She agreed and as I hugged her I told her… “You are precious in the sight of God. He loves you!” Tears ran down her cheek, she hugged me back tightly. I left telling her that I would be praying for her and wished her a wonderful week. Later that week I had to make another stop for a real quick item. As I checked out I looked around… was she here? I told the Lord I would love to see her again just to let her know I had been praying. As I walked out, sure enough! I found her working. I waited patiently as she finished up with a customer…. she didn’t see me at first…. when she did make eye contact with me instantly she smiled and tears filled her eyes again. “I was just wanting to stop real quick and give you a hug.” I told her. She stopped what she was doing, hugged me tight and said in my ear, “I haven’t stopped thinking about what you said since I saw you last.” I smiled (now with tears in my eyes) and replied, “I haven’t stopped praying for you and I’ll continue!” We parted paths. It was a quick exchange of Love right there at the end of check out stand number 3. I pray that eternity was impacted and that one day I will celebrate HIS Faithfulness with her at his Throne.

There were other wonderful moments of our ‘staycation’. Such as a week long visit with a friend of my husbands, a new rock fireplace built by the two men and my boys, ALL brand new appliances bought debt free and installed in my kitchen (a gift to me from my husband and parents), my parents surprised us with a last minute weekend visit, orchard trees were plotted out, storage shelves were made just not installed yet, I watched the sun rise with my Joe, had lunch with him on the front porch, worked with him on the farm mowing pastures, picked up a new Jersey bull, made dandelion jelly, built fences for new pastures, and made my Joe some of his favorite meals. We enjoyed story time together as a family, bon fires, sharing dreams and so many other simple moments that were precious. I have put a few pictures below.

Until our next chat may the Lord continue to increase and each of us decrease… all for HIS Glory!

With much love,

Mrs. Joseph Wood

BEFORE picture of the fireplace

Brothers in Christ working along side each other…. I love the friendships my husband has with other men. They are precious!

The so far finished fireplace. We still need to put the stove in but must wait a week. Josiah will also be finishing the grout work this week.

I knew our boundary lines have fallen in pleasant places… I should have known this was the end of the rainbow.

My new stove/oven and microwave

My new dishwasher

My new refrigerator.…. I even got a new garbage disposal!

Beth Joy and I working in the garden.

Where my Joe and I enjoyed our lunch “date”.

Dandelion Jelly cooling… I wish I had a picture of the little boys going around with their red wagon picking the dandelions. It was so cute! They counted each one and would come ever so often and yell out, “I have 362 is that enough?” “Now we have 435 will that do?” As soon as we emptied their wagon they asked if they could go do it again!

Animals enjoying the pasture we’ve seeded for them.

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 21:21

2011-04-21T09:24:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 21:21,
‘’He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honor.”

I’ve been thinking about the celebrations that are taking place right now in honor of the Passover and in honor of Christ’s Resurrection. The foreshadowing of the Passover reminds us that as they were condemned to die, the slaying of the lamb, shedding of the blood, and the doorposts bearing the mark of the blood was salvation for the children of God that night. And now as we celebrate Christ’s Resurrection, we too were condemned to die, so the slaying of the Lamb of God, the shedding of His precious blood and the doorposts of our hearts bearing the mark of the blood is our salvation as the Children of God. Even though the chosen of God sought after righteous living and following their traditions and holding the ceremonies commanded by their priest, they still missed the Messiah (Romans 9:30-33).

It is not enough to live righteously.” This is something my daughter and I have discussed this past week. Even if we live “good lives”, even if we never do harm to another, even if we don’t lie, steal, cheat, covet, bring dishonor to our parents, even if we do all these things, we can still miss the Messiah.

Our righteousness is as filthy rags, imagine, no matter how good we try to be or how we try to respect our traditions; every ounce of energy we put into being righteous is as filthy rags compared to the sinless life of Christ and the Holiness of God (Isaiah 64:5-7).

As we enter this Holy time of celebration, let us remember that those who follow after righteousness shall find righteousness, but those that follow after God will find Him (Jeremiah 29:12-14). As we set our hearts to seeking after God, righteousness, honor and life will be found in Him (Isaiah 55:2-4).

This will be the last devotion of this week as we take time to celebrate the Resurrection with our family. I trust as you celebrate in your own way, that you will reflect on the Word and remember that the price was paid 2,000 years ago for you and I. The Son of God became flesh and dwelt among us; He died as a ransom for our condemnation and for every sin known to man; He took it to the grave with Him, He overcame death and rose again and now He reigns in Heaven with the Father. But it’s more than that, He lives in the hearts of those who will receive Him. It is more than living a good life, it is receiving Christ as the Son of God, it is believing what he said is true, and it is abiding in Him that we will know the Messiah. I pray that each person reading this today knows Christ in a very personal way. I pray too that if you or your loved ones do not know Him, that you will consider these verses and pray to receive Him as your Savior. If you want to know more about Christ and what it means to receive Him as your personal Savior, I would be honored to talk with you privately. Please feel free to email me. Don’t be one who has missed the Messiah.

Prayer: Father, I share these verses with our readers today in hope that one day they will find you as a personal God who loves them where they are. That all the cleaning up or righteous living they do or can do will not bring salvation to their soul. But believing in you will bring them eternal life. So this day, I lay before them your Word. Use it to draw them to yourself. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Romans 3:23 – Admit that you are a sinner; Romans 6:23 – understand that you are condemned for your sin but God offers you life eternal; Romans 5:8 – you can “do” nothing of righteousness to be saved, he died while you were a sinner; Romans 10:13 – everyone who calls on His name will be saved; Romans 10:9-10 – Confess with your mouth, believe with your heart and you will be saved.

Friends, Christ said in Revelation 3:20, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock, if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him.” I pray that if you have not already done so, that today, you will open your heart’s door to Christ. God Bless each of you this Holy Resurrection Season.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 20:

2011-04-20T11:18:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 20:5,

“Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out. “

Those who share all they know too soon become less heard and they are considered “talkative” while those who hold their tongue and speak when the Spirit leads are thought of as wise. God has given us understanding of His Word throughout the ages and even now we are still learning as we come to Him to seek His wisdom. But man has learned to ply comments out of the wise before it was due time to share and sadly, the results are often used as weapons or insults to the hearer. We must be careful when sharing and be sure that it is what we’ve been called to do. Then, we will know that God will take what is sown and He will reap the harvest of souls.

Even while Jesus was walking this earth, he said, “I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you.” (see John 16:12-14). Let us seek to be more like Christ, let us consider what is in our heart when we are confronted with those who seek our counsel. Let us be wise to offer them only that which the Holy Spirit will allow them to digest.

Prayer: Father, we delight in your counsel. Thank you that your Word is the same today as it was yesterday. Thank you that we can plant it within our heart and you will cause it to grow and produce fruit for others to be nourished. LORD, help us to offer the wisdom that lies within us at the right time and at your leading. Thank you that we have the Holy Spirit to guide us in all things. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 20:5

2011-04-20T10:13:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 20:5,
“Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.”

How often have you held something in your heart that you felt would benefit the hearer? Were you afraid of what they might think? Did you hold onto the knowledge you had in fear of repercussions? It is good to hold our voice before speaking what we have learned from the Word, but when the Holy Spirit prompts us to move and share, then we must step out in faith and give the treasures that are hidden in the deep waters of our hearts.

Those who share all they know too soon become less heard and they are considered “talkative” while those who hold their tongue and speak when the Spirit leads are thought of as wise. God has given us understanding of His Word throughout the ages and even now we are still learning as we come to Him to seek His wisdom. But man has learned to ply comments out of the wise before it was due time to share and sadly, the results are often used as weapons or insults to the hearer. We must be careful when sharing and be sure that it is what we’ve been called to do. Then, we will know that God will take what is sown and He will reap the harvest of souls.

Even while Jesus was walking this earth, he said, “I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you.” (see John 16:12-14). Let us seek to be more like Christ, let us consider what is in our heart when we are confronted with those who seek our counsel. Let us be wise to offer them only that which the Holy Spirit will allow them to digest.

Prayer: Father, we delight in your counsel. Thank you that your Word is the same today as it was yesterday. Thank you that we can plant it within our heart and you will cause it to grow and produce fruit for others to be nourished. LORD, help us to offer the wisdom that lies within us at the right time and at your leading. Thank you that we have the Holy Spirit to guide us in all things. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 19: 8

2011-04-19T06:49:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 19:8,
“He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good. “

This passage tells us that anyone who loves his own soul seeks and gains wisdom. They treat wisdom with honor and by doing so, they bring honor to their soul. Not only does the one who seeks wisdom benefit, but those that are around them benefit and find comfort for their own souls as wisdom is dispensed upon them. People who cherish understanding and wisdom prosper in life. As you read this don’t assume that the word “prosper” is talking about financial prosperity; even though that may be true as God blesses you monetarily, but the word prosper means that it will go well with your soul. When we keep his statutes and commandments and abide in His Word not only will we prosper but our children and the generations that follow will prosper for the legacy that we leave them through our faith in Christ (see Deuteronomy 4:39-41).

Once again I turn your thoughts to Psalms 1:1-3 “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” To gain this wisdom, we simply need to abide, delight our self in the law of the LORD and meditate upon His Word day and night.

Prayer: LORD, your word tells us to teach others the things we have learned from your Word; we are to be an example to all believers in what we say, in the way we live, in our love, our faith, and our purity. We are to be focused on reading the Scriptures to the church, encouraging the believers, and teaching them. We are not to neglect the spiritual gift we received and we are to give our complete attention to these matters in the Word and living a life that seeks after wisdom. So this day, as we set forth, we want to share the life we’ve found in you and seek to be wise in understanding; so that those we come into contact with will find the life we have found through Christ. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding still

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 18:4

2011-04-18T08:06:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 18:4,
“The words of a man's mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook.”

Let’s take a moment to look at the picture painted in this verse. When I consider “deep waters”; I think of the deep waters that make no noise but they never run dry, they are teaming with treasures of life in the deepest parts. What a perfect example of a life dedicated to the precepts of the LORD. As we meditate upon His Word and apply it to our lives we have treasures of life in the deepest parts of our hearts. It’s when we have His Word hiding in our heart that we can overcome sin and we can give an answer to those who question our beliefs and ask about the hope that lies within(see Psalms 119:10-12 and 1Peter 3:15). As we are pressed for answers or confronted with situations that call on wisdom’s advice we find a treasure of information ready to spring forth from the deepest parts of our heart through the leading of the Holy Spirit. It is He who brings to mind the things we’ve stored deeply in our hearts and it is He who we can thank when the Word of Life is readily available.

Now let us consider the wellspring of wisdom as a “flowing brook”. A flowing brook immediately takes my mind to the first Psalms 1:3, “And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” The springs or flowing brook become the spoken words of what lies within; we find life, security, growth and prosperity as we live out our testimony to the Words upon our heart. God’s word flows naturally from our hearts with freedom and healing to those who hear it. The flowing water is refreshing and cleansing to the hearer and brings life to them as well.
Friends, as you consider His Word today, what pictures reflect in your mind? Do you have this wellspring living in you? Do you have the deep treasures of His Word abiding within?

Prayer: Father, with our whole heart we seek thee; let us not wander from your commandments. We have hidden your word in our hearts so that we will not sin against you. LORD, teach us your statutes. We rejoice in the testimonies of your word, they are great treasures to be cherished. LORD, we will meditate upon your precepts and hold them securely in our hearts to be used when you call upon us in times of speaking truth and sharing our testimony. LORD, help us to not forget your word, but keep it ever present in our minds so that we can be flowing brooks of life to those who are thirsty. LORD, you are the living water that lives within us; thank you for abiding with us. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 15:33

2011-04-15T16:39:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 15:33,
“The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honor is humility.”

Yesterday, we discussed the fear of the LORD as a fountain of life; today we learn that to submit to God and reverence Him is the beginning of wisdom. Remember, that the word fear means an awe of God or a reverence of Him.
Psalms 34: 11-15 tells us how we learn the reverence of the LORD; by keeping our tongue from evil and our lips from speaking guile; we are to depart from evil and do good; we are to seek peace and pursue it. When we have done these things we are told that the eyes of the LORD are upon those who are righteous and His ears are open to our cry.

We learned before that the beginning of wisdom is from our reverence of the LORD. He sent redemption to his people, he has commanded his covenant forever and as we learn of Him, we strive to live by his statutes (see Psalms 111:9-10)

As we tune our ears toward the wisdom found in His Word and concentrate on understanding, we become thirsty for insight and understand, which drives us to abide closer still with our LORD. To understand what it means to fear the LORD is like finding hidden treasures as He reveals himself to us more each step of our walk with Him. As we gain knowledge of Him, He grants us wisdom and common sense. We understand Him as our shield as we walk with integrity and He guards our path as we walk where He leads. Throughout our journey he protects us as we allow wisdom to enter our heart.

Prayer: Father our hearts are filled with joy as we learn to reverence and trust in you. We know that, the commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight for living. Reverence for the Lord is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the Lord are true; each one is fair. They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb. LORD, teach us to reverence you. We praise you! In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

Raspberry Almond Muffins

2011-04-14T12:34:00.001-05:00

We recently stumbled upon a book by Carrie Vitt. Today I would like to share with you one of the recipes from Carrie’s book, Deliciously Organic.

~Raspberry Almond Muffins~

You will need:

2 mixing bowls – electric hand mixer – measuring cups & spoons.

Ingredients:

3 cups of WW pastry flour #FL051 1 tbsp. of coconut oil #OL096

1 tbsp. baking powder #BP005 3/4 cups of Sucanat #SW061

1/2 tsp. baking soda #BP008 2 large eggs #DPO86

1/2 tsp. of sea salt #BP112 1 tsp. vanilla extract #BP019

8 tbsp. of butter, softened #DP051 1 tsp. almond extract #BP192

1 1/2 cups butter milk #DP012 1 1/2 cups of raspberries #FG050

Bake at 375.

(Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt in a bowl and then set aside)

(In different bowl, cream butter, coconut oil, and Sucanat for 2 minutes on medium high speed with your hand mixer)

(Add eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract and blend)

(Add half of your flour mixture, blend together, add milk, blend together again, and add the rest of the flour mixture)

(GENTLY fold in the frozen raspberries. Then fill muffin pans half way full with the batter. TIP: For darker colored muffins use hand mixer to mix in the raspberries)

Bake at 375. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden.

Cool for 5 minutes and ENJOY!

Until our next chat,

Beth Joy

A Moment In Proverbs; Proverbs 14:27

2011-04-14T08:45:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 14: 27,
“The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.”

Yesterday, we discussed the law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death and today we learn that reverence “fear” of the LORD is a fountain of life! We learn from Psalms 36:7-10 that those who put their trust in God are abundantly satisfied because we have found the fountain of life in Him!

To have reverence of the LORD is to put our confidence in the abilities and sovereignty of God. We learn to walk, wait and live in peace no matter what happens. God gives us a boldness and confidence that we did not have when we trusted in man or our self. The children of God experience the promises of His Word as we depend upon Him to meet our needs, provide refuge in the storms of life and teach us to abide through His Word. The love that our Heavenly Father has for us is met as we humble ourselves before him.

When you picture a fountain do you see a spring of water gushing forth from the ground for only a moment or is the picture in your mind an over-flowing and ever-flowing spring? I believe the fountain of life is an attribute of an eternal God; it was there in our past, our future, and the future of the generations to follow. His fountain of life is our antidote against sin and temptation; sin may tempt us but we will not be swallowed up in its death. This is the confidence of those who have received the Son who proclaimed that he was the giver of living water (John 4:9-12).

Prayer: LORD, those who trust in you shall hunger no more, neither thirst anymore; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes. This is the promise to those who fear the LORD. We will find eternal living fountains of water in the company of our LORD and God when He calls us home. We praise you for these promises and we look forward to your return. For those of us who will see death before your “second-coming”, we praise you that we still have this promise of the fountain of life. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

Back to the Fire...

2011-04-13T10:46:00.000-05:00

Our family has lived off the grid for many years of our marriage. We've cooked over fire, lived without refrigeration, washed our clothes in a creek, used outhouses, lived in a tent while we built a cabin, and all the other lifestyle tasks that come from living in such a setting. Since we moved to KS we've enjoyed the simple farm life we love with the ease of modern conveniences. I don't think any of us think of it as "better" it's just different.

Within the last few months all of my kitchen appliances have 'died'.

First it was a mouse that ate the wires to the dishwasher. That's fine we'll just wash dishes by hand.
After that I noticed the garbage disposal was leaking. I was delighted to find one at a yard sale. Joe went to all the trouble to hook it up for me only to discover it leaked also! We decided a bucket underneath it would work just fine for now.
Then we had the refrigerator start to leak. Again, no biggie! We'll just disconnect the ice maker and water function.
After that it was the stove which we replaced with a look alike from craigslist. It wasn't in the house 24 hours when someone cracked the glass top when a spice jar fell from the cabinet above.
Then we had the microwave that decided to just go asleep and never wake up. No problem, I didn't use it for much except heating water from time to time.
The coffee pot also decided to 'die' on me. Maybe that was for my own good I thought.
Then a few days ago one of the children tripped and in an attempt to catch themselves slammed their hand right through the top of the glass stove top.. AGAIN! He was okay, just a couple of cuts on two fingers but nothing serious. (Thank the Lord!)

So, that makes it official ALL of my kitchen appliances have 'died'! I could be upset, grumble, and complain or I could just embrace it with a smile and bring back some memories of 'yesterday' for my family. I choose to do the later.

Last night we cooked some pasture raised chicken from Azure (Item number: MP003) over the fire pit in the back yard. We had two fires going and the children had a fun competition on who could cook up the best tasting dish. Mashed potatoes were also made over the fire using Organic Russet Potatoes (Item number: QP140) This morning we made a breakfast dish that was inspired by a like minded friend Wardeh, also an Azure Standard customer. You can visit her at: GNOWFGLINS

Let me share with you the ingredients and then the 'how to' pictures. Enjoy!

Ingredients: (all can be purchased at Azure Standard)

5 lb bag of organic russet potatoes, sliced (QP140)

1 yellow onion, chopped (QP018)

1 package of sweet peppers (QP306)

1/2 cup of Salsa (CO043)

Real Salt to taste (BP064)

Organic Pepper to taste (HS435)

1 dozen Farm Fresh eggs (DP087)

2 cups of Raw Organic Cheese (CH095)

1/4 cup of Coconut Oil (OL095)

Prepare your fire safely and wait for it to 'settle' (no longer just getting started, not roaring, but burning consistently). This fire is still not quite ready. We waited for it to 'settle' but forgot to take a picture of that.

In a cast iron pan put your coconut oil and sliced potatoes together and cook till tender. Then add your onions, sweet peppers and cook for a few minutes.

In a bowl crack your eggs and beat together, add in your salsa, salt, pepper, and finally the cheese

Pour egg mixture over your veggies in the cast iron pan and let cook covered for about 15-20 minutes (it will depend on your fire) cook until egg is done. Tip: I use a round pizza stone to cover my cast iron pan. This way I don't need to pull out my dutch oven. Also note, that if you're fire is too hot you'll burn the bottom before you ever cook the top of the dish. So make sure your fire is not dying or just been stocked with hot burning wood.

The finished product:

Cooking over fire really isn't that difficult, especially when we do it with a smile! It can be a lot of fun and create some fun family memories. You may want to try it even if all your appliances are still working. Now, just for the record, I did suggest to my husband that now might be a good time for that kitchen remodel we've been talking about. :-)

Until our next chat,
Mrs. Joseph Wood

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 13:14

2011-04-13T08:42:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 13:14,
“The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.”

When we walk by the law of wise council and righteousness we chose to walk in life. Through the Word of God we receive all that is needed to reach our potential in Christ Jesus. We find our purpose and we reap a harvest for the Kingdom of God. God’s Word and the wisdom that is gained from His word is a fountain of life to all who will seek its living water. The closer we walk to Him the more sure our footsteps are as we face trials and endure hardships. His Word becomes a constant comfort and peace in every circumstance life has to offer. As we partake of this fountain of life, we are preserved from the temptations of sin, even though sin will continue to try and ensnare us, we will have all that is needed to overcome that temptation, if we drink from this fountain of life.

Brothers and Sister, we will never reach a point in this life that sin will not seek our fall; we will never have a day that sin is asleep, but we will always have the Holy Spirit within us to confront, resist and have victory over sin. As children of God, we are no longer captive to sin; but we are free in Christ Jesus and through Him we no longer must pay the wages of sin (Romans 6:22-23).

Prayer: Oh, LORD, How excellent is thy loving kindness, O God; the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings. They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures. For with thee is the fountain of life: in thy light shall we see light. LORD, continue thy loving kindness unto those that know thee; and thy righteousness to the upright in heart. Teach us to draw from the fountain of life for all of our needs and keep us from the snares that wait to entrap us. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment with M.O.M.- Are you Ready?

2011-04-12T19:49:00.001-05:00

Spring is almost here, are you ready?

It’s 8:45, Church is about to start, are you ready?

As the young woman prepared to walk down to aisle her father said, “Are you ready?”

Everywhere around us people are asking or being asked, “are you ready?” Are your ready to give your presentation? ready for the baby you’re expecting? ready for your dinner date? and the list could go on. However, the most important moment in History is about to take place and yet I don’t hear people rushing around the streets, not even calling their friends and family to ask, “Are you ready?”

Ready for what you ask?

Are you ready for the second coming of the Lord?

Several years ago I had a dream where I was with an angel and we were rushing around from door to door as I was pounding on doors and exclaiming, “Get ready! Get Ready, get ready, get ready!” I was frantic trying to get to everyone in time… I was very aware that time was running out. I had only a brief moment to plead with people to be ready for the return of the Lord! I awoke from my dream. It was in the wee hours of the morning and immediately I called my husband who was working the night shift. I shared with him, we prayed together and then we agreed that we would help each other keep our eyes fixed on Christ instead of this ever distracting world. I woke my older children and asked them, “are you ready?” They replied, “Ready for what Mommy?” as they rubbed their sleepy eyes. I explained to them my dream and told them it was so important to mommy that they were ready for the return of the Lord. We talked about His return with excitement and went back to sleep for the rest of the night. The next day we talked about how we might be able to help others be ready. We talked about living out our faith in front of others, being an example, judging ourselves and not others and then…. then we came up with a fun and creative idea that we did up until our move to KS. We would all agree that we would ask 5 people every day if they were ready for the Lord’s return. If they said yes, we would tell them what we were doing and ask them to prayerfully consider asking five people each day too. If they didn’t know if they were ready we would ask if we could share more with them. We’ve had a variety of responses over the years. Many of the people we still continue to pray for. Some we ended up being blessed to build a relationship with them. We’ve prayed with others and even been able to buy one man his very first Bible. That was quite an honor!

I don’t know why we forgot about this when we moved. I was reminded of this a few days ago and decided that it was still a profitable habit for us to get back into. SO… I guess you’d say this blog entry is my question to you…. ARE YOU READY? Really Ready for the return of the Lord?

If you answered yes, I would like to encourage you to prayerfully consider sharing on your blog… consider taking on the challenge that we do as a family and ask 5 people every day.

If you answered no or you’re not sure. Would you take a moment to write me so I could share with you the Hope that lies within me? Would you allow me to share with you about the never ending love that the Creator has for YOU? I would be honored if you would allow me such an opportunity.

May the streets ring out with HIS people proclaiming to all, “Get ready, get ready, GET READY!”

With much love,

Mrs. Joseph Wood

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 12:25

2011-04-12T07:09:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 12:25,
“Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.”

Do you have an anxious heart? Do you feel weighed down by the burden? Then you know very well how an encouraging word is like marrow to the bone. The kind words of a friend lift you when you were down cast and the Good Word of God’s Word strengthens you to go on. God’s word delights our soul, no matter what state it was in, after His Word is applied our soul finds comfort (see Psalms 94:19).

His word revives us as we bring our needs to Him (Psalms 119:24-26). God is our hiding place and in Him we can place our Hope. He has given us this confidence through His Word, yet we so easily forget it as we allow our trials to burden our hearts. We often forget this important message, but we also forget the message that we are to be servants reaching out to others and ministering to them through kindness and sharing His Word with them. Remember that a timely word spoken in season is good for the hearer (Proverbs 15:22-24).
Prayer: Father, with our whole heart we seek you; let us not wander from your commandments. Your word we have hid in our hearts so that we will not sin against thee. O LORD, teach us your statutes and remind us of your unfailing love as we encounter trials and the weight of this world in our daily lives. Then, LORD, help us to encourage others as they encounter life’s trials. Place in our hearts the words we have stored from your word so that we can give them sound words of comfort. LORD, make us sensitive to those in need. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 11:28

2011-04-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 11: 28,
“He that trusts in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.”

Remember Christ’s statement to us in John 15:1-5? He states that He is the true vine and we are the branches; he goes on to remind us that without Him as our vine we cannot bring forth fruit; but if we abide in Him then we will be fruitful.

When we take root in this world; we put or trust in the riches and the acknowledgement it offers. All that we can possess is worthless unless we are part of the Holy Vine. Every effort and everything we might accomplish will be stripped away if it was obtained or done without Christ.

We cannot flourish on our own; we need support to develop our fruitful harvest for the LORD and the only way to get that is to abide in Christ.

Consider this as you enter this day: Is the work that I’m busy about accomplishing this day for the good of the Kingdom? Do I trust in Christ to help me accomplish all that I believe is my calling? Am I more concerned about the riches I’m storing than the testimony I’m leaving for future generations? And finally, Am I abiding in the True Vine?

Prayer: Father, these questions can be asked of each of us and they are sobering when we consider how you look at the busy lives we’ve created for ourselves. Lord, prune us. Create hearts that are dependent upon you for our strength and our growth. LORD, if we were to gain all the wealth of this world we would be empty without you. We praise you that you are our living vine and we are branches of your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Blueberry Planting Days

2011-04-08T21:14:00.001-05:00

As we plant blueberry plants you can see the unfinished fence project that we are working on simultaneously. That just seems to be the way it is on the farm.

Sammy loves to help. In fact as the sun was setting and we were calling it a day he said, “Thank you for letting me work with you mommy.” I was blessed… I want that to be my attitude to God. “Dear God, thank you for letting me work with you today.” Yes, I think that sounds like a great way to finish off the day!

Timmy and I working on planting our fragile plants. I was teaching the children gentleness in the process of planting. It was something I had to keep reminding them over again and again and again. Perhaps, tomorrow they’ll have it down.

Timothy assured me that we didn’t need to measure in between the plants. “I’m EXACTLY 4’7”” He said, “Plant them that far apart!” The books say 5 feet but I think the reminder of him being so excited that the plants were spaced the exact distance that he is tall was a much better idea than the book had to offer. Memories… lots of memories were made today.

Samuel helping pour the dirt in all the “perfect” places. It was a delight to work along side my children. It is as if the world disappears and all that is real is the moment that I am living in… I am blessed to be their momma! Truly, God has blessed me!

Until our next chat…

Mrs. Joseph Wood

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 8;17

2011-04-08T08:55:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 8:17,
“I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.”

Christ said, “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.”(John 14:21). The benefits of loving God’s Word and the wisdom found within is that we have this promise that He loves us!

Isaiah 55:6 and James 1:5 remind us that seeking God will not be in vain, for those who seek after Him and His wisdom will find Him. Remember that all we need to do is ask Him and He will be faithful to reveal Himself to us.

In all matters of life we can turn to the treasures of wisdom and knowledge through God’s Word and we will find the redemption of Christ for our salvation, we will find the riches of His grace abounding toward us and we will find a faithful God who loves us beyond what we are capable of understanding.

Prayer: Father, we are your children. We long for you and seek your leading where ever we journey this day. Your power is too great for us to understand and your unfailing love is better than life itself. We praise you for your abundant love so freely given. LORD you have promised those who seek you that we will find you and as we use the hands, minds and hearts you have given us, help us to spread your message to others who are seeking and not knowing what they are seeking. Help us to turn them to you so that they too will find you and your gift of eternal life through Jesus. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 7:24-25

2011-04-07T08:15:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 7:24-25,
“Hearken unto me now therefore, O ye children, and attend to the words of my mouth. Let not thine heart decline to her ways, go not astray in her paths.”

You can hear the earnest call of Solomon as he pleads to those who will listen; do not go that direction! From Proverbs 6-27 we read the story of a harlot captivating a young man and dragging him into her snare. Yet the fault does not lie with the harlot, it lies with the young man who stepped out on the street and headed in her direction. It is he who looked upon her and lusted after her enticing words. He was enraptured by the taunt of sinful moments spent in secret. He dared to consider the temptation and it lead to impurity. Just as we allow enticements into our own lives that we think we can handle, until the day we realize it was the wooing of sin all along that drug us down into the pit of shame.

Solomon’s plea is to turn away, to not even go near the dangers that lie before us; whether it be the sin of adultery, covetousness, lying, stealing….the list goes on, we are to refrain, turn away, don’t even look at the false picture being painted. When we give in to temptation, we are disregarding God’s commands and when we have been tempted and sinned, we have broken the sweet fellowship God offers to those who walk upright. So we need to daily seek His help to keep away from temptation; we need to keep our eyes open to the snares spread before us; we need to avoid all mental, emotional or physical contact with those things that draw us away from God (1 Corinthians 10:12-13).

Summarizing Matthew Henry’s statement on this passage; we need to beware of sins that are said to be pleasant sins. These sins are more dangerous because they easily gain the heart and close it against repentance.
If you know the things that entice you to sin, tell them to God and ask Him to remove them from your path. Seek Him when you are tempted. Resist Satan and he will flee from you (James 4:7-8). Repent of the sin if it holds your attention because holding the attention of the lust is as though you’ve committed the sin already (Matthew 5:27-29).

Prayer: Father, you have called us to be your people. Show us how to walk in the Spirit so that we do not lust after the things of the flesh. Lead us by your Spirit so that we reap the fruit of the Spirit. LORD, help us to live and walk in the Spirit so that we are a testimony to your faithfulness. LORD, we turn our eyes upon Jesus, we look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace. Let us carry this song in our hearts today as we keep our eyes upon you instead of the things of this world. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.
Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 6:6-8

2011-04-06T08:03:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 6:6-8,
“Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, provides her meat in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest.”

We are given the example of the ant and told to consider her way and be wise. From my early years as a non-believer into my adult years as a committed believer, I’ve read this passage and put these words to the practical thoughts of “do not be lazy people”, however, today I see so much more than the obvious picture painted. I’m looking at the spiritual aspect of not being lazy about our walk before the LORD, we are to work diligently toward building lives of faith, because without faith it is impossible to please him and we are rewarded, just as the ant is rewarded for her labor, when we diligently seek him (Hebrews 11:6).

Diligence develops wisdom and wisdom reflects the duty that is every man’s calling. God uses the ant which may appear to be an insignificant part of creation to teach us that even they know what they need to be doing for their life; yet, we, as humans, wander around in spiritual darkness, not sowing, not yielding fruit, not harvesting souls for eternity and not growing into mature Christians.

We are to set our heart and souls to the purpose of seeking the LORD (1Chronicles 22:19); we must be committed in what we believe and seek Him diligently (Hebrews 11:6); we must be people of virtue and knowledge as we develop our faith (2Peter 1:5); our work before God must include keeping our heart from bitterness (Hebrews 12:15); we must make diligence our calling (2Peter 1:10); in the work to be done in our lives and those lives that the LORD places in our paths, we must be steadfast, unmovable, and abounding in the work of the LORD so that any and all the work we do is not done in vain, but is done in and through the LORD.

Brothers and Sisters, take heed of the diligent ant! Are we working now for the kingdom of God? Is the winter approaching when it is time to finish the harvest? Will we be caught off guard or will the storehouses of the Kingdom be full and ready to give praise and honor to our LORD because of the work we completed in His name?

Prayer: LORD you came to complete the work your Father called you to do and now you ask us to complete the work you are calling us to finish. We know that we can do nothing without your blessings and direction, so we ask that you bless the works of our hearts and hands as we go about this day serving you. May the harvest of lives be the reward of our labor for you as we give testimony of your faithful love for your people. LORD, call to our hearts and spirits so that we continue to search your Word for truth and direction. LORD, if we seek you diligently and will do what is right in your sight, and give attention to your commandments and keep all your statutes; we know that you will direct our paths. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 5:21-23

2011-04-05T08:02:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 5:21-23,
“For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings. His own iniquities shall take the wicked himself, and he shall be holden with the cords of his sins. He shall die without instruction; and in the greatness of his folly he shall go astray.

God sees everything man does, even in the secret parts of the heart and mind, God sees it sees it clearly! When we follow after sin, we are held captive; it’s as if we have ropes tossed about us and they’re being pulled ever so tightly against our will to repent of the sin, so we continue to sin easier each day. If we allow this, we will die in our sin because of our lack of self-control; and be lost to the blessings we could experience with repentance.

Remember the prodigal son who chose to follow his lusts and took his inheritance and squander it in sin and free living? He found himself in squalor with the pigs before he could humble himself and return to his father in repentance (see Luke 15:11-24). Here is what God’s Word says about our old nature; Roman’s 8:6-8: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him”.

Believers, we have been redeemed; the life of the flesh was cast upon the cross of Jesus Christ; by our union with Christ through faith we are secure! Are we walking in the flesh or in the Spirit? Have held onto the old nature or are we exercising the freedom of the new nature given to us by grace? God will not be tested by our unwillingness to submit to righteous living. He will chastise those whom he loves.

Having the Spirit of Christ dwelling in us means we must turn our minds to the mind of Christ. We must cast off the lusts of the flesh and quit dabbling in sin. We cannot continue to allow our sinful nature to control our minds; we must allow the renewing of our minds to be controlled by the Spirit (Romans 12:1-3).

Prayer: Father, your mercies are beyond our comprehension, yet you are waiting to restore relationships with your people if we will but humble ourselves and repent from our foolish sins. LORD, we present our bodies this day as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable before you because of your Son’s great price paid on Calvary. LORD, teach us how to resist this world so that we are not conformed to its way of thinking. And transform our minds through your Word so that we abide in you. LORD, take our lives and make them yours, clean our minds and hearts of the old nature and renew a right spirit within us. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 4:12

2011-04-04T08:02:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 4:12,
“When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not stumble.”

Immediately, when I read this passage in Proverbs, the word of Isaiah comes to mind when he said, “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31).

The Word of God embedded in our hearts is our only resource in any circumstance. Often we hear ourselves and others say, in a matter of fact, the only thing left to do is pray. But when we have His Word in our heart and we have His faithful promises, praying or spending time in the Word should be the first thing we do in any circumstance. But we often seek elsewhere for our answers before we find resolve in Him. No wonder we stumble, no wonder we find ourselves in a state of confusion when facing trials. It is so clear in His Word that if we put Him first and we hold fast to the wisdom He gives us through His Word we will be strengthened, renewed, refreshed, and given power to overcome!

The phrase above that says “thy steps shall not be straitened” simply means you won’t be held back. God will make the path clear for you so that nothing holds you back if you depend upon Him and trust His will for your life.

Brothers and Sisters, as you enter this week, seek God’s face and His Word and ask Him about those things you’ve felt held back by; listen to His Word and abide in His presence and ask Him to break the chains that so easily entrap your steps (see Hebrews 12:1-3).

Prayer: Father, those who love your instructions have great peace and do not stumble. If we do not lose sight of your Word that gives us wisdom, common sense and discernment; and if we cherish them as treasures to be guarded; they will refresh our soul. You will keep us safe as we journey this life. It’s because of your Word that we can sleep soundly without fear of what tomorrow will bring, because we know you have already seen our tomorrows and you are already there. Thank you that we have this great hope in you. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro, ©

A Moment In Proverbs: 1:24-29

2011-04-01T09:23:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 1: 24-29,
“Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; But ye have set at naught all my counsel, and would none of my reproof: I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh; When your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you. Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me: For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD:

Oh, what a horrible place to be; yet millions face eternity everyday and do not waiver in their stubbornness to seek the LORD and His counsel. The idea of being without God is an awful thought to me, yet I am a sinner who was saved by His grace, just as many of you have been.

Do you remember when you walked without Him? I remember my journey and I was headed for destruction just as this passage states. But He was long suffering and continued to call me to Himself and one day, He got my attention. In that moment, my receiving Christ was the most important thing I had ever done, yet even though I accepted that I was a sinner and that I needed Him, I lived another 15 years without having a personal relationship with Him. I remember reading these verses from time to time and cringed each time I thought about the anguish of having him laugh at my calamity had I not received Him and met Him face to face without making that important decision.

Even though there was a 15 year period that God continued to work with me, He never left me, He was always faithful, and He continued to bless our family. I did not purpose not to have a relationship; I just didn’t understand what it was supposed to be like. Until one day, I met a dear woman who showed me the way. Actually, as I look back over the years, there were several faithful women of the Word that impacted my life. But I especially am grateful for those who taught me to seek His Word each day and how to study His Word. I guess I was a slow learner, but today, when I hear Him call me through His Word, I know it is His voice and I listen.

I’d like to encourage each of you to consider your walk with the LORD. Are you meeting Him personally each day and seeking His leading? Or are you picking up your Bible and running to church to hear what others are saying about Him. Until you sit at His feet and lean in close to Him and seek His Word with all your heart; confessing your weaknesses; admitting your faults and asking His forgiveness for any rebellion that lies within your heart, you won’t grow in the LORD. You’ll gain knowledge and you may even experience His grace through His abundant blessings. But until you know Him personally and are willing to turn your life over to Him, you will be like I was and like Paul talked about when He said, “I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able.” (Read 1 Corinthians 3:1-3).

Prayer: LORD, you have so much to teach your people and we are often too preoccupied with self and the world around us. There are many who have received you, perhaps even years ago, that are still babes in the Word. Is it because of our dull hearing or are we still holding onto portions of our life that we’re not willing to relinquish? LORD, teach us your principles and the oracles of God. We want to be mature children before you, skillful and desiring to live in the Word of Righteousness. Thank you for our salvation and thank you for your long suffering. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 31:10

2011-03-31T08:17:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 31:10,
“Who can find a virtuous woman; for her price is far above rubies.”

Today, I’m giving you an assignment to seek God’s truth for yourself about these passages. Set aside the time to look at the virtues of this Proverbs woman and compare passages throughout the Bible to those women who were virtuous. Proverbs 31:10-31 has been our resource to learn about the virtuous woman since it was written thousands of years ago. As I was studying this passage today, I realized that the New Testament speaks in compliment to this passage. It’s the first time I looked at these passages in this way and I hope this brings light to your understanding as it did mine. Just a side note; virtuous woman is also translated as woman of strength.

Women of the Bible are an interesting study, from the pure of heart to those who are examples of what not to be. As you begin your personal time, look to references of other women in scripture such as: Ruth, Esther, Dorcas, Deborah, Priscilla and others.

These 22 verses found in Proverbs describe all the virtues of this godly woman. And as we move into the New Testament, we see such passages as 1 Timothy 2:9-12 that support the characteristics described in Proverbs with comments such as: modest apparel; sobriety; professing godliness with good works; learns in silence with subjection. And we see in 1 Peter 3:1-6 comments such as: under the authority of the husband; chaste conversation coupled with fear (reverence); implied inward adorning not outward adornment; and trusting God. Even comments in 1 Corinthian 7:34 describing the virtues of a virgin and a married woman and their purpose to please the LORD and their husband compare to the passages in Proverbs.

There are many more scriptures that speak to the older woman, the younger women, women who were loved by those she served, women who were mentors and women who served the LORD. I would encourage you to find a quiet moment and spend time in the Proverbs for today and compare the New Testament with the truths that are still true today.

Prayer: LORD, favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman that feareth the LORD, she will be praised. LORD, you have given us standards to follow throughout your word and they are things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, good report and full of virtue. LORD, if you returned today, we pray that you would find your people full of virtue, busy about your work in serving you and others. We pray in Jesus’ name, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 30:2-3

2011-03-30T12:42:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 30: 2-3,
“Surely I am more brutish than any man, and have not the understanding of a man. I neither learned wisdom, nor have the knowledge of the holy.”

There’s so much to learn from this chapter and I found it difficult to focus on just one key element to talk about today. I find that God continues to bring me back to the thoughts of these verses and I’d like to share what I’ve learned about them.

In my study, I learned that Agur is the author of this particular passage and from what I’ve learned from others, is that he was a collector of wise sayings. Some believe this is why he says I have not learned wisdom myself in verse 3. And so this lends us to believe that he was a reader of wise sayings and a collector of those things he found worthy. Much like you and me, as we read those things in scripture that are not of our wisdom; but that of others who have lived before us. Through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, they have written the book of wisdom we call our Bibles. As we apply this wisdom to our lives we often claim hold to it as our wisdom, but in reality, it is God’s wisdom dwelling in us!

Agur makes it clear that he knows the wickedness of his own heart and confesses that he acknowledges the sin that lies within. Do we know our hearts or are we blinded by what society says when they teach us to not be so introspective? It is good for us to identify those things within us that cause us to sin against our LORD. If we are aware, we strive harder to keep righteous living our goal. This is not a call to be defeated; this is a call to be proactive! Christ overcame the penalty of sin by providing us with life eternal and through him we have overcome because he lives in us (see 1 John 4:3-5). Without Christ, we are nothing, we have nothing and we know nothing. Let us remember that though Him we have life.

Prayer: LORD thy word is pure and we love abiding and learning from it. Teach us your precepts. Guide us in your everlasting righteousness. Draw our hearts to your law for it is truth. Even when trouble and anguish take hold of us, your commandments are our delight. Your testimonies are everlasting; give us understanding and we shall live. When we cry out to you with our heart; you hear us. Our hope is in your word. We meditate on your word for our nourishment for righteous living. You are faithful to hear us and your loving-kindness is abundant. LORD, you are near to those that draw near to thee and you have established your Word forever. Thank you that we can come to your Word and learn your wisdom in all matters of life. We praise you this day, in Jesus’ name, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment with M.O.M.–Women’s Ministry

2011-03-29T12:58:00.001-05:00

I’ve often been asked what I think about Women’s Ministry, in fact several times recently. Please consider the author of this note and my heart behind the message. Remember, I am a Sinner working out my Salvation with fear and trembling, walking humbly before the Lord. I am NOT an “expert” or an “all knowing walking reference”. With that said, a deep breath, and long prayer… these are my thoughts:

I understand that our thinking can be easily distorted by the climate we live in. Therefore, we must carefully and attentively go to the Scriptures to hear what God says about each subject of life. Women’s Ministry, as I understand it through my study of the Scriptures, “It is the personal investment a woman makes into the life of another woman for the advancement of the Kingdom.” Throughout the Scriptures we have countless examples of women investing in the lives of other women for the glory of God. Consider: Elisabeth and Mary, Ruth and Naomi, as well as the “older woman to the younger woman”. Clearly women were/are effective in the advancement of the Gospel as they fulfilled their God ordained position as a woman. Women did not preach as commanded in Scripture (I believe this commandment is still valid today) rather, it was by their acts of charity and hospitality that the Gospel was advanced. We would be wise if we took the time to PERSONALLY INVEST in the lives of other women that God brings across our paths. I believe that Women’s Ministry has been clearly laid out for EACH OF US in Titus 2: 3-5 . Let’s take a look at that all too familiar passage… taking time to really read it and consider it’s practical application!

Titus 2:3-5 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; that they may teach the younger women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands that the Word of God be not blasphemed.

In this chapter Titus is setting out the establishment of government for believers. He first talks to the men and then directs his attention to women and their role in this Biblical order. Let’s take a look at the very first words, “the aged women”. The term actually means; Old, aged, lived long. Yet, so many of these “aged women” have neglected the post to teach the younger. Just as disappointing I have seen women fail to invest in the lives of others because they aren’t “old” enough. However, in our home we believe that even our daughters can minister to the ‘younger’ women that God brings across their paths in this Biblical format of government. As we grow in age we should also grow in the realization of Gods grace. This transformation should inspire us to minister to those that are “younger” in years of walking in that grace!

πρεσβύτις
presbutis
pres-boo'-tis
Feminine of G4246; an old woman: - aged woman.

Take a look at the next comment, “that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness”. This is always bringing me to my knees in prayer. My behaviour, does it reflect holiness? What a high calling each of us as women have!

“Not false accusers” I see this as an easy pit for women to fall into. Not simply the act of gossip or slander, but the pit of ‘stirring the pot’ of conflict! As Titus 2 women we should refrain from slander, arguing and gossip (or as some put it… “ the sharing of their thoughts about another person or persons actions”). I often tell my daughters, “Don’t’ get caught up in telling people or even hinting to people what you may think of someone else. Instead always let your conversation be seasoned with grace and your lips be the residence of kindness” Don’t ever become so ‘comfortable' with another person that you feel the freedom to ‘speak freely'. It is my prayer that when people speak of me they speak of the kindness and the grace that I daily strive to show toward others. Not for my glory but because it directed their attention to HIS glory!

“Not given to much wine” As Titus 2 women we don’t get caught up in the parties of our society where “much wine” is in practice and we surely do not partake in “much wine”.

“teachers of good things” I love this part of the passage because it reminds me of my duty to live in such a way that it teaches good things! That each time I talk, blog or Facebook it is a deliberate action to “teach good things”! What are those “good things”? Well, if we continue reading we can see exactly what they are!

By the grace of God, my careful attention to behave as “becometh holiness” in doing all the above will teach the younger to be sober, love their husbands, love their children, discreet, chaste, keepers at home, and obedient to their own husbands. If the younger are to learn these things, I am first required to teach these things, and to honestly teach these things I must be living these things!

In my opinion, Women’s Ministry isn’t something that is done in a conference hall in front of thousands of women. It isn’t a mountain top experience for the weekend. Real Biblical Women’s Ministry is the day in and day out living of Godly women who personally invest in the lives of others without any other motive than to see the Kingdom of God advance! We don’t pick and chose who we minister too. Who I share with and when I share is all part of God’s plan, not mine! I have found so much peace and freedom in this realization. God is Sovereign! There are no accidents; He sets people in place for HIS purpose!

So… there you have it dear friend! Those are my thoughts on Women’s Ministry!

With much love,

Mrs. Joseph Wood

A Moment In Proverbs: 29:1

2011-03-29T06:47:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 29:1,
“He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.”

Have you known obstinate people? Many of us have experienced obstinate family members, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. These people bring us much grief. There seems to be a propensity to object or reject commonsense. And sadly, some of us have been obstinate in matters of the heart and our walk before the LORD.

Even though obstinate people are reproved by those in authority, they stiffen their bristles and put up walls to cling to their way of thinking. The unfortunate consequences to their actions is that often, their decisions to be obstinate is their own undoing.

God hates vanity and pride, and behaving in an obstinate manner is pride in action. Closing the ears and heart before listening to the suggestions offered to resolve conflict or chose a different methodology of approaching a complex situation, leaves the obstinate member frustrated but often more determined to have things their way.

God calls this hardening their neck or stiffened neck. When dealing with someone who’s obstinate about their sin, we encounter people who will not succumb to the Holy Spirit’s leading. They refuse reproof, despise it, and hate it! (See Proverbs 10:17; Proverbs 5:12 and Proverbs 12:1).

Obstinacy is rebellion and rebellion destroys the soul. Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry (see 1 Samuel 15: 23). As God’s word reminds us today, if those who are obstinate/rebellious; they shall be suddenly destroyed, in the midst of their security and without remedy.

Prayer: LORD, do you know us as a stiff necked people? Have we turned our hearts toward rebellion? Forgive us, if we have not been sensitive to your leading or to the instruction of those who speak in wisdom. LORD, it is easy for us to see these behaviors in other people, but when we look at our own hearts, we often try to justify our rebellion. LORD, show your people the sins of rebellion in their lives. Teach us to flee from this sin and repent from this wickedness. LORD, we thank you that you are a loving God who is constantly working in our hearts to perfect us into the reflection of Jesus Christ. Take our hearts LORD and mold them so that they become pleasing vessels of your handiwork. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 28:7

2011-03-28T12:06:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 28:7,
“Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shames his father.”

Wisdom is found among those who keep God’s Word/Law. When we make a conscientious effort to apply God’s word to our daily lives the benefits are found in our sound judgment and choices to follow wisdom.

Bad company will do the opposite; but it’s not just persons that can be bad company, but the books we read, the TV we watch, the internet we search and the music we listen to. Any one of these can be riotous companions. If they are not centered upon God’s Word, they will lead us to ruin. We cannot compromise our faith by such as these.

Our prayer to God should be, “thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word. Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.” And our message to those things that would call us away from His Word should be, “Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.”

Brothers and Sisters, as we enter this week, let up keep our heart turned toward God. Do not listen to the wooing of the worldly offerings. Keep in mind that He is always present, always watching and always wanting you to abide in Him. We live in this world, but we must not be partakers of the sins of this world.
Prayer: LORD, you know your people and you know the things that tempt their hearts away from you. Teach us what the riotous things are in our lives that tug at our hearts and minds and show us in your word how we can overcome these temptations. LORD, cleanse our hearts and minds and make them wholly yours. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.
Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment in Proverbs Proverbs 25: 2-3

2011-03-25T23:00:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 25:2-3, “It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honor of kings is to search out a matter. The heaven for height, and the earth for depth, and the heart of kings is unsearchable.”

It is the glory of God to conceal a thing…I guess one of the biggest questions we ask or hear others ask about God is, “What is His will in the matter?” or “What or why is He allowing this?” God does work in mysterious ways; He has a plan that is not always clear to us, but always perfectly clear to Him. Nothing is hidden from Him, the depth of his knowledge about us and what concerns us is greater than any of us can fully comprehend. Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!” Romans 11:33.

We see and experience God’s work in our lives but we don’t always understand that work. Perhaps because we are often caught up in the “why me/poor me” syndrome or perhaps because we do not understand that His thoughts are higher than our thoughts (see Isaiah 55:8). Imagine this; part of God’s awesome power is that He never needs to search into a matter, because he already knows about it. As trials and tribulations have sprung upon us, they were no surprise to Him. He knew before you were born that this day would come, and He planned every day of your life (Psalms 139:15 LVB & KJV).

Now on the other hand, we are limited to His great knowledge but this passage tells us that honor is developed as we search out matters of God’s heart. As we come to His Word to seek His wisdom and direction, we find peace in our situation; we find comfort in our trial and we find wisdom to carry us though. And yes, as we draw closer to Him each day of our lives, we may even find that His mysterious ways are not as mysterious as they use to be. We may find that we have greater understanding because we are abiding in His Word. And we may find that in abiding, the questions are answered with a question of our own, “If God be for us, then who can be against us” (Romans 8:31). What a great place to be…abiding with the King.

Prayer: LORD, you have blessed us by your work in our lives; it is by your hands that we have victory. O LORD, how great are thy works and how deep are your thoughts for us. LORD, you have searched us and know us so well. You know when we are resting and when we are at work; you understand our thoughts even better than we understand ourselves. You understand our intent of heart and deeds and there is nothing hidden from you. LORD, the words yet unspoken by our lips are known by you before they are formed. LORD, your hand shall hold our hand through this life and into eternity, there is no time when we are alone in this life. Even if we perceive all is lost; even then, you see things clearly and your glory and knowledge will lead us. How precious are your thoughts toward us; how great is the sum of them, if we should count them, they would number more than the grains of sand. Thank you that we have this confidence in you as we abide in you. We pray in Jesus’ name, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

Proverbs 24:12 Guarding our hearts…

2011-03-24T05:59:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 24:12, “If thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works?

As I go to work each day, I have about a 45 minute drive that is often spent in prayer. Today, I met the LORD in personal confessional prayer. I said to Him, “LORD, I know you know every thought of my mind and heart, you know how quickly I can turn to wickedness and you know my inner most being; forgive me for these hidden sins that only you and I know about. Remove them far from me and draw me close to you.” As I continued to drive in silence, I felt His presence and with clarity, and I felt Him say, “Guard your Heart!”
I thought about this several times today and spoke to a sister in Christ that I work with about the matter and the question arose, “What does that mean?” “How deep and intricate is the guarding and what is the process to do so?” It gave me much to think about today and this statement “Guard your Heart” sprung to mind several times.

So, tonight as I enter devotional time for Proverbs, I was reminded of this passage. I remember it from the last time we looked at the passage, but as I come tonight with these thoughts on my heart I see that the message is that God ponders the heart and keeps the soul; and it is my responsibility to guard my heart by keeping it open to Him. He sees the emotions that drive me and He sees the secret thoughts. I am an open book before Him. Jeremiah 17:9-10 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.”
As I continue to ponder this statement today, I begin with confessing my thoughts, motives, and need for righteous living. Proverbs 4: 20-27 gives us instruction on how to guard our hearts and what we must do to begin this process of guarding our hearts, “My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart; for they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. Put away from thee a forward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee. Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand or to the left: remove thy foot from evil.” If we begin here by attending to His Words, then we have begun our course to guard our hearts. I ask that each of us come before the Father and seek His leading in teaching us how we are to guard our hearts.

Prayer: LORD, you alone are our inheritance, you are our blessing. You guard all that we are and have. You guard us and hide us in the shadow of your wings. You defend everyone who surrenders their life to your keeping. LORD, take control of what we say, think and feel. Teach us to guard our hearts against sin and the temptations that are constantly before us. Father, we guard our hearts for you to abide within. As you enter in, may you be please with what you find. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.
Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

Proverbs 23:17-18 Do not envy…

2011-03-24T00:01:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 23:17-18, “Let not thine heart envy sinners: but be thou in the fear of the LORD all the day long. For surely there is an end; and thine expectation shall not be cut off.”

We often see a blatant statement, of the “Rich and Famous” who say, “look at me, see what I’ve accomplished, now watch me sin and see how I enjoy it.” Their recent escapade, the jilted loved ones, the abandon morality is spread across the tabloids. The media seeks to send the most outrageous stories across our news counters and magazine racks while within the content of their story, they are condoning or making the outlandish, sinful behavior acceptable.
Oh, precious children of God do not be envious of sinners; turn your hearts to God and turn your ears, eyes, and hearts away from the preaching of the social immorality we see in our world at every turn. Are they rich, even though they have no hope? Are they prosperous without God’s love? Are they satisfied without His blessings? We have so much more! We have hope in our LORD, we have His blessings and we daily experience God’s Love!
We are to be a peculiar people; this means we have come out from the world’s way of thinking and acting. We are following after the LORD and we have a holy reverence of His leading. We must be devoted to only one god; and that must be our LORD Jesus Christ and all that He stands for. When we follow after His will and comply with His Word; we find riches that do not compare to financial, social, or personal gain.
The way of the wicked will meet an end and all that they have accomplished in this life will be empty hands and a future of complete loss when they meet God face to face. But those who serve God will be rewarded with the crown of life eternal and abide with Him forever.

Prayer: Father, help us to see sin for what it is. Cause our hearts to mourn any broken relationship with you and draw us back to you. Do not let us be children looking at those in the world who live as they want without consideration for their souls. Teach us from your Word about your great reward for those who follow closely to you. Father, we love you and we ask that you cleanse our hearts and minds so that we seek after you instead of the fleeting treasures of the wicked. We pray in Jesus’ name, amen.
Abiding Still,
Connie Renfro ©

A Moment in Proverbs- Proverbs 18:24

2011-03-18T13:47:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 18: 24 “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. “

Yesterday, I shared a practice our family believes in and that is in sharing a smile with those we meet; but today we talk of friendship and showing genuine friendship. We must be interactive with people to cultivate friendship; we must show ourselves as friendly. But we must also be cautious about what kind of friendships we cultivate. Let me explain. My daughter and I were talking about showing mercy to others and offering friendship and our discussion led to “Who are we friendly to?” I love what my daughter said, “mom we love everyone, even the man living in the box; we don’t ask him to shower and get cleaned up before we treat him with God’s love, we love him where he is.” That’s so true! We don’t go out to make friendships to mold people into what we think they should be; we reach out to people because we are treating them with the love the LORD expects us to share. I look at all the examples of our LORD reaching out to the lepers; the socially lost; the unlovely; the poor; the sick in body and spirit and even to the spiritual leaders. Some passages you might read are: John 8:3-11; Matthew 11:1-6; Matthew Chapter 8; Luke 17:11-19; John 4:4-42; and John 3:1-21.

To those who walked in sin, he did not turn them away; instead he healed them and commanded that they turn from their sin. Our LORD befriended 12 sinners he called his disciples, but he changed their lives in the process; yes, I believe he even changed the life of Judas; how sad our LORD must have been that he lost this one (see John Chapter 17).

All of this is mentioned to say, we must remember it is our reasonable service to share God’s love through friendship, but in sharing, we must be careful to not take on the sins of those who refuse to turn away from their life of sin. We offer them the LORD who brings them eternal life; we minister to them as though we are ministering to our LORD (see: Matthew 25:34-45); we must show ourselves friendly without compromising our own walk.

As you encounter people in the days ahead, ask God to show you how you can show yourself friendly by offering the love the LORD wants from you. Who knows, you may find that you have just made acquaintance with a future brother or sister in Christ. Christ is a friend to all believers; it is He that sticks closer than a brother; let us introduce those people God brings into our lives to this friend we know as LORD and Savior.

Prayer: Father, thank you that you loved us when we were yet unlovely. Thank you that you saw us and wanted us to become your children. Open our eyes LORD so that we may see those around us who need you too. LORD, use our lives to minister to the lost of this world. Use our lives to edify those you have claimed as your own and use our lives to reflect your love. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 17:22

2011-03-17T08:12:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 17:22,
“A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.”

One of the things I teach each of my grandchildren is that we all have something we can give to people that costs us nothing, but when given, it provides the receiver with great riches. When they first hear this they wonder what it is and I simply look at them and say, “Your smile”, it costs you nothing to give, but when you give it, it might be the most important gift that person received that day.

I firmly believe that a cheerful countenance is something that each of us, as God’s child, must share with this world. Have you ever watched the cars passing or the people in stores? Look into their faces, see their eyes; what do you see? Take time the next time you go into public and take notice of the faces you encounter. Make a point of making eye contact and giving them your smile. Watch as they react to your smile; if you receive a smile in turn, you are blessed; but most likely, the person will look around to see if you’re smiling at them or they will cast their eyes downward or away; or worst of all, you may receive a scowling look.

But continue to smile, even those who give those terrible looks will remember “that person who smiled.” Trust that the LORD will use that gift of grace to reach their heart that day. Take that opportunity to pray for their pain; ask the Holy Spirit to minister to them. There are so many hurting people that grope through each day and there are even more who just move through life too fast and forget that they live in a world of people.

I’m sure you’ve heard this passage rephrased by the world “the best medicine is a merry heart”, but it’s not just a heart that is happy all the time but it is a heart that is rejoicing in God and His mercies that is medicinal to our souls, our minds and our bodies. A heart that takes the life and circumstances God has provided and shares His grace with others through even a simple smile is blessed.

The smile God has given you may be the very thing the broken spirit you encounter needs for this day. Do not be stingy with your smiles; give them to everyone. You never know who needed this precious treasure to make it through the day. And notice at the end of your day, that the smiles you gave blessed you too; you just can’t out give God; He will bless you for being a messenger of His love.

Prayer: Father, we come unto your altar this day and we are filled with exceeding joy; we will praise you through our reflection of your love in us. Our souls will not be downcast and we will not remain quiet; we will share your love with those who need to be reminded that God loves them. LORD, the joy we have in our hearts is health to our bones and we ask that our countenance reflect your mercies to those we encounter. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro, ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 15:3

2011-03-15T08:02:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 15:3,
“The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.”

God is omnipotent (Revelation 19:5-7)! What an awesome promise it is to those who are going through trials or facing hardships; and to know that God is omnipotent. Nothing is overlooked and nothing gets by His attention (Psalms 1:6); He sees all and cares about all (Psalms 33:13-15). But not only does He see; but the word omnipotent means He is actually in every place as well.

We sometimes forget that not only does He live in the universe, but He also lives in the heart of man and knows the intent of our heart and mind for every action, every prayer and every word we speak or don’t speak (Psalms 139:1-18). So we have this comfort that the wicked will not go unpunished, nor the righteous go unrewarded. Nothing is hidden from Him. You are not alone in your suffering or rejoicing; you are not hidden when you sin; and you are not forgotten. Once you have received Him, there is nothing that can separate you from His love (Romans 8:38-39). Nothing can cause His eyes to stray from you. You must remember that you are His child and He is ever watchful of you.

Prayer: We praise you, our God, as we assemble at your feet this day. We sing hallelujah to your name for you are God omnipotent and you reign in justice and truth. We rejoice and give you honor for the promises yet to come and for those that have already taken place. We look forward to your Word being fulfilled in Christ’s return for your Church. LORD, today we prepare our hearts to worship you; for you are omnipotent and your mercies endure forever. In Jesus’ name we praise you, Amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 14:26

2011-03-14T17:45:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 14:26,
“In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence; and his children shall have a place of refuge.”

One of the common misconceptions about being a Christian in our world today, is that many believe that since they were born into a Christian home that in itself, makes them a Christian. But those of us who have made the personal decision to follow Christ know that it must be an individual choice to have a relationship with our LORD.

As we come to the Word today and learn of the blessings to those who are born to families who have a strong confidence in the LORD, we find that they will have a place of refuge. It is through our commitment to Christ that our children will learn that they too can have this confidence to endure whatever happens; knowing God will provide what is needed. It is not by our “personal decision” that they are saved, but by our example that they learn to make the choices to be lead by faith and make their own personal decision that they too have a place of refuge.

This passage reminds us that by faith anyone who makes God their confidence can be encouraged that God will be God to the next generation and He will extend His mercy and love to them as He did for us. God’s love and mercy does not have a limit; it is a continuous fountain that we can draw from for generation to generation. Our responsibility then, is that we teach our children that the decision to follow Christ must be their own decision. We are called to be an example to others so that they can see God’s work in us.

Prayer: LORD, you are our rock and our fortress; it is by your name that you lead and guide us. Father, teach us how we can be a living example of your love to the next generation so that they too will find you as their fortress, deliverer, strength, buckler, salvation and high tower for refuge. LORD, we trust in your promises and we know that you desire to have a personal relationship with each of us. Help us to walk in such a way that the next generation seeks the hope we have found in you so that they too will find you as their God and personal savior. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 11:30

2011-03-11T20:33:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 11:30,
“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.”

Let’s look at the fruit of righteousness today. I was taken by this phrase as I read the Word. Here are a few passages for us to consider this day as we spend time with the LORD.

We learn through His Word that we are filled with the fruit of righteousness when our love abounds. “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God (see Philippians 1:9-11).” When we share the truth with others, our love abounds toward them and they receive the tree of life which is in Christ Jesus.

The fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth; it proves what is acceptable unto to LORD and we grow in wisdom as we cultivate this fruit in our lives. The fruit of righteousness is also sown in peace by those that make peace because the fruit of righteousness is wisdom, it is pure, peaceable, gentle, full of mercy, without partiality and without hypocrisy (See James 3:17-18). As we turn our hearts toward God and lead others to the LORD; we are being fruitful for the Kingdom of Heaven. And according to our passage for today, “He that wins souls is wise.”

Prayer: Father, teach us how to win souls for you. Give us a desire to bear the fruit of righteousness and gain wisdom through your encouraging Word. LORD, as your Word ministers to our hearts and minds, help us to share it with others, so that we too can be “fishers of men.” In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 10:20-21

2011-03-10T08:02:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 10:20-21,
“The tongue of the just is as choice silver: the heart of the wicked is little worth. The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.”

Today’s questions: Are you well nourished or are you starving? Are those around you nourished or are they starving?

Even though we may not have monetary riches to feed the poor, we do have riches through the Word of God. It’s is by sharing those riches that we are nourished and those among us are nourished. Our sharing of God’s word is like sharing choice silver; it is sincere and free from dross or sinful design. Those who speak God’s words and are faithful are fast disappearing. We don’t challenge each other to be accountable with our words. Neighbors lie to each other, flattering words and deceitful hearts are exchanged over the phones, as we walk in the streets and as we come to work; instead of sharing the Word of life and the truth spoken in love. The LORD will bring each of us to accountability for what we did or did not say. His promises are pure, His Word is like silver refined in a furnace and purified seven times (See Psalms 12).

So again, I ask, are you well nourished or are you starving? Have you picked up His Word and filled your heart today? Have you set His word upon the doorposts of your homes? Have you fed His Word to your children, your spouse, and your family members? Or is everyone starving without the Word of God?

To those whose hearts are clinging to this world, they will find only empty souls. They speak of earthly things and they do not understand nor wish to understand the things of God. They are caught up in tickling of the ears and speaking flattering words to get them by. They have little worth because they have found nothing of value to store in their minds or hearts (2Timothy 3:1-9). Their storeroom is empty. Therefore, those who come in contact with them walk away as empty as they arrived. They may think they found nourishment until it is put to the test of time and learn they were handed words that vaporize before them. And they starve because no one fed them with sound doctrine which is our bread of life (1 Corinthians 2).

Prayer: Father, you have told us to preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine and to give your Word to all who will listen. LORD, if we have been guilty of starving ourselves or those among us, teach us to come to your Word and drink from its fountains and eat from its rich pasture so that we will be filled with wisdom and understanding. LORD, as we go about our day, show us the lives that are starving and if we look into the mirror and see that our own reflection is in need, pierce our hearts and help us to be nourished with your Word. LORD, thank you for the freedom to share, to read, and to live your Word. We pray for those who are persecuted daily for their walk before you; we pray for those who preach in the midst of the enemy; and we pray for those imprisoned who have shared your Truth. Thank you for their faithful example to feed the hungry souls among them. We pray in Jesus’ name, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Random Moment with Beth – A Journey through the Scriptures

2011-03-09T12:26:00.001-06:00

Why is it so important that I bridle my tongue when others get to say whatever they want?

This is a question I had a hard time answering for myself. I knew it was the right thing to do but I still wanted to know why anyways so into the Scriptures I went!

Today, I will share with just a few of the places I found my answers. First is James (one of my favorite books of the Bible). In James 1:26

“If anyone among you seem religious but bridleth not his tongue, but deceives his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.”

Being a horse person I understood what James was talking about when he used the word “bridle”. When you put a bridle in the horse’s mouth, you can turn about it’s whole body. When we bridle our tongues, we change the way we speak and also the way we treat others.

In verses 5 and 6 or chapter 3 of James and also 8-9 and 10 James is speaking to the church (in his letter he refers to them as brethren and sisters) and speaking of how dangerous a tongue, unbridled is. He says to them “ the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity.” And also “ the tongue no one can tame, it is unruly, evil and full of deadly poison.”

It sounds to me like the tongue sure is a dangerous thing when we let it and our thoughts run loose. What do you think would happen if we just it run wild? Not any good. That is for sure!

The Matthew Henry Commentary is a great help in understanding these passages of scripture. If you have one available to you , I would suggest using it in your daily Bible study or for at least helping understand Scriptures.

Now I have answered the reason why we shouldn’t let our tongues run wild…but what about when what you have to say is true but your parents still have told you not to say it. If it’s true then why can’t we just come out and say it?

I find this answer is Ecclesiastes 3:1 “to everything there is a season, a time to every purpose under Heaven.”

There is a time for us to speak what God has laid on our hearts and there is a time to be quite and wait for God and wait for His okay before going forward and speaking to the person about whatever it is that is on your heart. Sometimes we have the okay to speak right away and other times we have to wait weeks, months or even years before we can speak to the person and that’s good. As long as we are doing what God wants us to do then everything else will work out.

Its always a good idea to talk with your parents too if you are not sure how to reply to a email or talk with someone. God put them in authority over you to protect and guide you and it is your duty to trust that. It always a good idea to get your parents input.

I hope each of you have enjoyed this time we spent “together” and thanks again for accompanying me on yet another Journey through the Scriptures!

Until His return,

Beth Joy

If you ever have questions about something that I have shared, feel free to email me at missbethwood@gmail.com

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 9:17

2011-03-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 9: 17,
“Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.”

Things obtained by ill-gotten manner are thrilling to the flesh. Just as it speaks here that stolen water and bread eaten in secret are so much better than honestly obtaining that which Wisdom offers. When sin has matured in the heart it is easy for the sinner to shun the words of wisdom and delight their self in the follies of the sin. We see it around us every day! Those who are known as “stars” and those who are touted as famous, walk their “own way” and most often get away with it. Their morals are considered right in their own eyes because they have delighted in the pleasures of sin. But God’s law says that the sweet water He offers is through receiving Christ our living water and through abiding we are nourished like nothing the world can offer.

Just because sin is in the world and we are prone to what is forbidden; we cannot blame our flesh for falling to sin at a whim. Just as Eve desired and took of the fruit in the garden, she made a purposeful decision not to listen to the words of wisdom through God’s voice; no, instead, she turned her ears toward the enemy who enticed her with “worldly logic” and promises of acceptance and she fell to sin’s temptation. Sin’s appetite cannot be satisfied. The sweetness and pleasantries were not enough, now Eve had to have a partner in crime and so sin entered into the lineage of mankind, through her words of enticement to Adam.

Sin entered by a man listening to the enticement of the enemy and forgiveness entered by a man’s obedience to God. Through Christ (God’s Man), we were given sweeter water and more nourishing bread than the world could ever offer. Through Him, we were offered eternal life; where the world could only offer us death. Christ triumphed over the enemy and as we abide in Him we see the absurdities of running after sin. But when we fall away from abiding close to Him; the influence to sin gives us a false reasoning for acting on our sins.

Just one bite of the forbidden fruit is all it took to cause death. But Christ, through His redemptive power, brought us back to life.

Prayer: We praise you for your redemptive power to restore our lives. Thank you for your forgiveness and your Word to encourage us to walk close to you. LORD, as we are enticed by the world’s immorality and its running after forbidden fruit, remind us that we have been bought with the price of your dear life. LORD, if there are those among us that are not your children, we pray for them and ask that you will bring them to yourself by making them aware of your precious gift of life. LORD, we ask that you cause our hearts to be repulsed by sin so that we will turn away from it immediately. And guard our hearts so that we are not caught off guard and enticed to enter into the bondage of sin. LORD, we seek after your living water and we trust you as our bread of life. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 8:34

2011-03-08T20:05:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 8:34,
“Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.”

Blessed are they who listen (Luke 6:46-48 and John 5:23-25)to the Wisdom of the LORD; blessed are they who watch for His Wisdom daily (1Peter 4:6-8 and Revelation 3:2-4)) and blessed are they that wait patiently for His return(Psalms 37:7; Psalms 40: 1-3 and Psalms 130:5-7). As we draw closer (James 4:8) to the LORD, we will be found waiting for His wisdom to be imparted on us through His Word. Often the LORD speaks to His people, but they do not hear because they are not being attentive (watchful at the gates) to His Word.

As we wait upon His Word we are blessed in our waiting, we find the door is opened to us through Christ (John 10:7-9 and Revelation 3:19-21) and we find what we are seeking (Proverbs 8:17). These are all promises of our LORD and His wisdom.

Questions to ask ourselves as we enter each day: Am I listening attentively or is His voice muffled by the noise of the world? Am I watching for His leading or am I going about my business without Him? Am I waiting patiently upon Him or am I taking matters into my own hands? Am I enjoying the blessings afforded to me or have I refused His riches? Am I ready for His return or will I be found unprepared?

Prayer: LORD our prayer this morning is of a very personal nature and you know each heart and mind that is coming before you. So we wait patiently upon you to impart your wisdom to our hearts and minds. LORD, where there is hunger in our souls; fill them with your love; where there is darkness from sin; bring your light of forgiveness; where there is lack of knowledge; fill us with your wisdom. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 7:3

2011-03-07T08:20:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 7:3,
“Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.”

I’m often amazed at what new message the LORD provides as we consistently abide in His Word. Even though we may read it often and repeat reading it time and again, the freshness of His Word continues to nurture our souls and administer healing to our hearts and minds. Today, is one of those days for me, as I read this passage, once again, I saw something written within this verse that I had not thought of before.

As we bind His Words upon our fingers it is so they can be a constant reminder of His covenant with us; much as the covenant in a marriage and exchange of rings between the life partners. The ring is a symbol of eternal love and the covenant made between a man and woman as they enter marriage. And so with God’s Word; if we are constantly reminded of His covenant for us, then His Word is also written upon our hearts as an eternal promise of faithfulness.

Where once sin was written, now the Word of God is written as He promises (Hebrew 8:10). We will become intimately acquainted with God if we keep His Word close to our hearts. We will learn to dread sin when it knocks at our door. We will learn to resist Satan so that he will flee (James 4:6-8).

Let the Word of God open our hearts and minds to His wisdom and let us keep His covenant of love as His People; His Bride; and His Church.

Prayer: Father, through your Word pluck our feet from the snares that so easily entangle us. Remind us that we have a precious eternal covenant with you. Open our eyes to the wonders of your Word. Restore us when we stray and remind us of our relationship to you as your bride. LORD, may we be found ready for your return; abiding in you. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 4:18

2011-03-04T08:27:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 4: 18,
“But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shines more and more unto the perfect day.”

I just read about someone struggling with sin and it made me think about how sin has a way of making it feel like we’re walking in darkness. In fact, the next verse tells us that the way of the wicked is like deep darkness and those who walk in that way don’t know what makes them stumble. Isn’t that just like sin? We commit the sin and then wonder, why in the world did I do that!?! We grope around and wonder how did I fall to that temptation and how can I avoid it in the future?

But when we repent of our sin, there is a feeling of relief, a lifting of our burden. It is like verse 18 says, it is as the shining light!

You know, my friends; there are no small or insignificant sins. Each sin is wicked, no matter how much value we place on it. God cannot look upon sin for He is Holy (Psalms 99:4-6). But He is ready to forgive us of our sins and He is able to cleanse us from all of our unrighteousness if only we come to Him and confess with a humble heart (Philippians 3:20-21; 2Timothy 1:11-13; Hebrews 2:17-18 and Hebrews 7:24-26).

As I opened this devotion today, the question was asked, “How can I avoid it (sin) in the future?” Abide in Christ is the answer. Cling to His Word and if you fall to sin because of your flesh; make short accounts, don’t let it go for hours, days, week, months or years before you confess. Paul wrote, and this is a paraphrase of what he said, So the trouble is not with the law, for it is spiritual and good. The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. I don’t really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do what I hate. But if I know that what I am doing is wrong, this shows that I agree that the law is good. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. But if I do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it. I have discovered this principle of life—that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God’s law with all my heart. But there is another powerwithin me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death? Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our LORD. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God’s law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin (See Romans Chapter 7).

Paul is not excusing us for being human, He is not saying sin anyway, but what he is saying is that Jesus our LORD can free us from our sin. We need only ask Him and seek Him moment by moment and we too will find the path as the shining light.

Prayer: Father, when we fall to sin, because we were not seeking your Word or depending on your grace and mercy to resist our enemy, forgive us. Help us to keep short accounts and restore us as we come to you. The shame and burden grows heavier each day we live without your forgiveness. Teach us from your Word what those sins are in our lives that keep us from walking in the light you would have us to walk. LORD, thank you for your mercy; thank you for your saving grace; and thank you for your longsuffering and your gentle spirit. We praise you for being our friend, our Savior and our King. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 3:1-2

2011-03-03T08:15:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 3:1-2,
“My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.

Have you noticed all the commercials that speak of living longer and more beautiful? It seems to be the hot-topic, no matter where you go; stores with signs the size of houses, pharmacies with sure cures for worry reducers, wrinkle reducers and old age remedies; and billboards showing models that are 14 year olds that are dressed like 30 year olds and touting the newest “fountain of youth” procedures and medications for long life.

But they’re all temporal, they don’t last, they take our resources and they leave us depleted, disappointed and some even shorten our lives (just watch the law firm commercials for those). But God’s word says that if we do not forget his teaching and keep his commands in our heart then these things will prolong our life many years and bring us peace! Can you think of anything more beautiful than a face that has peace written in every line? Have you seen a blessed saint who has died and they look like they are at complete peace? I can think of nothing more age defying nor more beautiful than the face that beholds the LORD at their departure of this world. Now about a longer life, those aren’t my words, these are the Words from God’s Word…for the length of days and long life and peace, shall they add to thee…there you have it! We are promised if we keep his commandments and apply His Word to our hearts, we will have these blessings.

No amount of marketing, no new medicine, no new exercise or no fountain of youth will give us what the Word of God gives (see Proverbs 10:27; Proverbs 19:23; and Proverbs 9: 10-11; 1Kings 3:13-14). Now don’t forget that a godly man can still face disaster and death, even though he is righteous before the LORD (see Job 1-2). But even in these circumstances, God is faithful to provide, equip, restore and bless even in the midst of turmoil. We must remember that those who love the LORD will never walk alone and our number of days are in His hands (See Romans 8:27-39 and Psalms 139).

Prayer: LORD, you know us so well; you know the measure of our days and what our days will hold. You know how frail life can be and yet you are the one who can add to that life. LORD, you have made our days and age is nothing before you because time does not control your universe, you our LORD control time. LORD, help us to not get caught up in what the world offers for all is vain, but let us become engrained in the Word of God so that our days will be full of your blessings, no matter how old or young we are when you call us home. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Connie Renfro ©

Real Moments with M.O.M.- Vanishing Spoons!

2011-03-03T05:03:00.000-06:00

Now, before I continue with this story I must say that half the family thought I should keep names out of the post to protect the innocent until they had been justly proven guilty. The other half thought I should include the names so that everyone would know who was NOT at fault. I finally decided a post without names is the way we would share it.

Have you ever had moments like this?

As I was making breakfast this morning I noticed that all my spoons had vanished…. and I do mean vanished! Not one spoon was in the drawer! I checked the house for spoons that had been forgotten, looked in all the other kitchen drawers, searched the sink, and asked any one in earshot where the spoons had gone to. No one knew! Simply put, our spoons had vanished. I don’t know why I didn’t’ push the issue. Typically when things like this happen we all stop what we’re doing and find the missing item however, today I just went on, making due with the utensils that I did have. The day got busy and in all honesty, I forgot about our vanishing spoons. It wasn’t until someone asked for the sugar bucket that we discovered the spoon hideout!!

I suppose that a young child decided they needed a spoon of sugar. Although I don’t know when that ‘need’ would have arose. Especially since we don’t use sugar unless it’s for a specific item. I do find comfort in the idea that at least I didn’t find these spoons in the honey bucket… in some strange way that brings me comfort.

At any rate, spoons have somehow found the sugar bucket that we ‘never’ get into…. and if you look closely you’ll see that they are also covered in sugar which leads me to one conclusion… someone’s been snacking on the sugar and leaving their spoon in the bucket each time they do! I’m glad we’ve found the spoons and I’m glad we’ve discovered that someone has been in the sugar. I think about the guilt that child or children carry when they know they’ve done something wrong and hide it instead of ask for accountability and prayer. I pray that God lets me discover my children’s sin. I know it sounds like a strange request yet I have learned over the years how vital it is to my parenting. I need God to show me when and where my child struggles I want to know their sin so that I can talk them about their sin, pray with them through the process of repentance and encourage them through the process of transformation. It would be all to easy as a busy mom to just say, “okay whoever did that don’t do it again!” and move on. However, this would be failing our children. We need to let them know there is nothing done in secret and while eating sugar is not a sin… stealing the sugar and concealing the matter is!

May the Lord show us our children’s sin so that we might encourage them in righteousness. May He give us the wisdom to know when and what to say and the courage to always do as He leads no matter how busy or tired we might be!

All for His Glory,

Mrs. Joseph Wood

Seven Step Dinner in thirty minutes!

2011-03-02T07:59:00.000-06:00

RECIPE:
4 chicken breast
½ flour
2 eggs, beaten with ¼ cup of milk, or water
1 cup seasoned Italian bread crumbs
¼ cup olive oil
2 cups tomato sauce, homemade or prepared
4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
¼ cup parmesan cheese
1 small package of angel hair noodles
1 loaf French bread

HOMEADE SAUCE:
1 can tomato sauce
1 TBLS parmesan cheese
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
½ clove garlic, minced
1 TBLS parsley

How-to:
* You will need, three bowls, a frying pan, and a casserole pan.
Add flour to bowl #1, eggs to bowl #2 and bread crumbs to bowl #3
* At this point turn your frying pan on medium heat with oil.

Step One- Boil Four Large chicken breast until thoroughly cooked.
Step Two- Drain the water and clean the chicken.
Step Three- Cut chicken breast in half.
Step Four- place chicken in flour, then eggs, back in flower and then into the bread crumbs.
Step Five- place chicken in frying pan browning each side and place into your casserole pan.
Step Six- Generously pour sauce over the chicken and top with mozzarella cheese. Bake at 350 for twenty minutes or until cheese is melted.
Step Seven- After removing chicken from the oven place chicken on a plate along with your noodles and bread and top it all off with a little bit of crushed parsley!

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 2:5a; 2:9a

2011-03-02T07:53:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 2:5 a,
“Then thou shalt understand.”
Proverbs 2:9 a,
“Then thou shalt understand.”

Today, I take part of two verses within this passage that say exactly the same thing and make a promise that so many of us miss or forget is available to us. Over the years I have heard people ask “How will I know?” Or “When do I know?” They are seeking understanding from God and it is readily available if we make ourselves available to Him (John 15:3-8).

Just today, a sister in Christ and I were sharing about knowing God and I was reminded of a mentor who told me that I would never know God intimately until I stopped gathering information about Him from other sources and started personally seeking Him. Yes, I could learn, I could be blessed by those that shared His Word, but I would not have the intimacy I desired until I got to know Him myself. And so, we come to today’s study in the Word and these two verses are unfolding the benefits of wisdom.

The first states that we must accept His Words and store up His commands in our hearts and give our ear over to the wisdom we learn and apply those things to our walk before Him; in fact we are to call out to Him for understanding and search for it…and “Then thou shalt understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.”

The second passage states that if we walk in His guiding, He will be a shield to those who walk upright and He will guard our course and protect the faithful…and “Then thou shalt understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.”

The beginning of knowledge is learning to reverence the LORD (Proverbs 1:7) and we must take time to learn who He is and what His promises are for those who seek Him (Proverbs 8:17). Everything you need to know, everything you need to survive, and everything you need to grow is at your fingertips (2Timothy 3:15-17). It is God’s Word, and through His Word, you will find confidence to know when God is speaking to you; you will learn His voice; you will know His will and you will know the secrets of the LORD (Psalms 25:13-15).

Prayer: LORD, show yourself to us through your Word and instruct us to follow after you. Father, you have made a covenant with your people; you have placed your Word in our hearts and you are our God and we are your people. LORD, we want to know you deeply and we desire to come into an intimate relationship with you, so that we know your voice and we understand your Word. LORD forgive our sins and refresh our spirits. We wait before you this day in submission to your plan for our lives; help us to understand. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 1:23

2011-03-01T08:35:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 1:23,
“Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.”

Yesterday, I spoke to you about speaking truth to those who are heading in the wrong direction and about hearing those who speak truth to us. Today, we’re going to talk more about hearing reproof and how we handle it when it comes our way.

We don’t often want to be buffeted for conduct that we didn’t think was of any harm, in fact if we honestly looked at our heart motives, we don’t want anyone to tell us that they see sin in our lives, even though we know sin dwells there. We say, “That’s my business, or I’m offended if they speak to me about my sin.” How sad we are if we will not hear the words of wisdom and love from family, friends and spiritual mentors.

The promises to those who will open their ears and hearts to reproof are many and blessings are waiting as soon as the prideful heart is humbled. God is in the business of forgiving, restoring and building into the lives of His people. He often uses people to sharpen people while we learn to hold one another accountable. I read my granddaughter’s blog Monday night and it gave me such pleasure to hear her say that she has chosen to be under the discipline and guidance of her mother, father and elder siblings. She said, “Consider, what happens when you have two lost people and they get together? They are both still lost…neither of them knows which way to go to get where they need to be. They need someone to guide them and show them which way to go…Someone who knows the way!” We are not in this world alone, God has placed mentors, teachers, guides, leaders, family and friends in our journey who call us to a straight walk before Him.

We have the Spirit which has been poured out upon us in abundance! We need only to ask Him to teach us the way and to guide our steps. Yes, that even means if we need to open our ears and hearts to those He sends our way to instruct us. God stretches forth His hand in many ways, often He uses ways that are puzzling to us, but He can use those things we think are foolish or weak to teach us great and mighty things about Himself (see 1Corinthians 1:26-28).

God will make known His words to us; not only by speaking them to us but making them known by giving us understanding for them. It is by His grace that He empowers us to understand His great treasures. All we need to do is deny our sin and humbly seek His leading through whatever means He decides to use to set us on the right course.

Now, let me say, there are many who want to lead us, yes, lead us astray, so we must be careful to whom we listen to. We must consider what has been said to us and try it against the Word of God, if then it still stands as His wisdom; we need to take heed and ask God to lead us. If it fails the test of His Word, then we can reject it without ramifications (1John 4:1-2).

Prayer: LORD, help us to hear your wisdom and instruction, even when we are being reproved. Your Word is like a fountain that constantly refreshes and strengthens the reader and hearer. We ask that you bless those you have placed in our lives to instruct us unto righteousness. Give them courage to speak the truth when the truth is being drowned intentionally by the hearer or unintentionally by the sounds of the world around us. LORD, let us to hear your Word above the clanging of this world and the disturbances of our own hearts and minds. We submit ourselves to your loving grace and we pray in Jesus’ name, amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 28:23

2011-02-28T06:35:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 28: 23
“He that rebukes a man afterwards shall find more favor than he that flatters with the tongue.”

Have you ever had a situation where you were prompted by the Holy Spirit to speak truth to a friend or family member, that you knew could cause them to be angry toward you? But you knew that you must speak what was on your heart to save that family member or friend’s life or turn them from a direction they were going?

This passage tells us that it is better to speak up than to give flattering words, for when the results of the wrong doing have manifested, the questions may come, “Why didn’t you warn me?” or “Why did you lie to me?”

It is often easier to turn our back on the sins or shortcomings of others than to call them out from their blindness; but the Word tells us that favor is found if we are truthful. And if we are the ones who receive instruction or rebuke from another, it is often easier to become angry and turn away from the faithful friend, until we meet the results of our sin or shortcoming. Then we must humble ourselves and be restored through God’s forgiveness.

In both cases we have no excuses. For those who withheld the wisdom of the Holy Spirit because they were afraid to speak out; we are held accountable for the work that was left undone. For those who resisted the wisdom of those who revealed truth to us, we are held accountable for the sin of rebellion.

Prayer: Father, help us to open our mouth in love when the Holy Spirit prompts us to speak to our friends and family. And help us to hear when someone speaks truth to us through the Holy Spirit. LORD, an offended brother is harder to win than a fortified city, but if speaking the truth in love will save their life; strengthen us and give us courage to speak out. Thank you that your Word is Truth and we ask that we will apply the wisdom to our hearts. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still

Connie Renfro©

A Random Moment With Beth- Journey Through the Scriptures

2011-02-28T01:00:00.000-06:00

I would like to invite each of you on a journey though the Scriptures with me. As we journey I hope to tackle those hard questions that many of us stay at home daughters face.

Feel free to ask questions along the way, I will try to the best of my ability to answer them for you as we go.

Why have you chose to be a stay at home daughter?

I wrestled with the idea of being a stay at home daughter for a long time. It wasn’t until I looked to the Scriptures and my parents guidance that I found the answers I was looking for. If you are wrestling with the idea of being a stay at home daughter I would encourage you to seek your parents guidance and look to the Scriptures for answers.

In Titus 2, Paul, when he is writing to Titus, he addresses the woman. He tells them to instruct the younger generation and teach them to be “discreet, chaste, and keepers at home”. The older generation has more experience than us and that’s why Paul told them to instruct us. They have already gone through the same things we are going through and they know how to get through them without compromising our faith. If we are not living and working at home, how are our mothers supposed to teach this to us? Consider, what happens when you have two lost people and they get together? They are both still lost…neither of them know which way to go to get where they need to be. They need someone to guide them and show them which way to go…Someone who knows the way! Just like us..we need someone to show us which way to go. We need a older and wiser woman to give us encouragement and guidance as we walk through this life. I can’t find the type of wisdom and guidance I need outside of my home because God has put all the people I need in my family. He put us together to lift each other up and He put me over the younger children because I have something to offer them as they walk through life, God put my older brothers and sisters in my life because they have guidance to offer me as I walk though life too! J

Another benefit I reap from be a stay at home daughter is the guidance of my father and the examples from my older brothers. It would be much harder for me to find the guidance I was needing if I was gone all day away from home.

My father is always ready to give me guidance when I am struggling with anything from emotional purity to how to start the tractor up. Because I have chosen to stay at home I have the freedom to research, learn, ask questions. I so enjoy researching in our library that my momma and papa have been adding more and more books to over the years..another opportunity I wouldn’t have if I was gone away all day.

I not only learn how to submit to the authority of my parents but it is preparing me for the day I will marry the man the Lord has created for me. I must learn to submit to authority now and learn how respect the leaders the Lord has placed over me otherwise I will end up like Eve, causing my husband to fall. It I can’t submit to my father how in the world would I ever be able to submit to my husband? In Ephesians (6:1-4) we are told to honor and obey our parents. This is also the fifth commandment that the Lord gave Moses in Deuteronomy 5:16. The fifth commandment is also the first commandment with a promise (that thy days may be prolonged and that is may go well with thee in the land the Lord your God has given you). Some daughters may live in homes that the only way they can honor their parents is by leaving home. For me, the best way for me to honor my parents is by staying home. The choice I made isn’t the choice every daughter will make but each of us will have to make a choice at one point or another.

If you would like to hear more on this subject please feel free to email me with any questions that you may have.

I hope I have encouraged you today to search the Scriptures for the answers that you are seeking. Include your parents in the search for your answers and ask them for their opinion too.

Until we meet again,

Beth Joy

M.O.M.’s Mailbox- Adoption

2011-02-26T20:49:00.000-06:00

I’ve been asked multiple times the last few weeks about our adoption. I keep praying about this post and putting it off only to have another family request information or ask about our personal story. I found myself saying, “Okay Lord! I hear you! I’ll tell our story!” I guess I hesitate because adoption can be such a personal story. It’s much like a birth story with many of the same emotions. The trying, the expectation, the waiting, the labor and the ‘delivery’ when the judge finally says it is done. I guess for me the hardest part is sharing so openly with people who have faces hidden behind the computer screen. I can’t read your body language or know if you understand the depth of my love and the journey we have been on that brought four of our blessings into our home. It would be much different if I were to share with you face to face but at this time God has not allowed that opportunity so it is here, on the blog, that I will share with you our precious, tender, very personal adoption story. Remember, I share as a mother, not an authority, agency or professional.

May the Lord be glorified by all we communicate… for His glory is the reason I live!

Mrs. Joseph Wood

Joe and I talked about having children before we were married. We knew that we wanted to adopt children as well as give birth to any children the Lord would bless us with physically. There was never a time that we were in disagreement about the subject, and never a time our biological children didn’t talk with us as we planned to adopt. We spent many years praying about it, talking with grandparents and other extended family members about the subject, and waiting for His timing. The children and our family joined us as we prayed for this child we had yet to meet.

While adoption was never a question to us, timing was. As I look back it still seems like a whirlwind that just swept us up. In 2000 my Joe and I owned and operated a Christian bookstore. We had friends that were missionaries in Lesotho, Africa that were going to come and share their testimony with our customers. After the night of conversation they stayed in our home, shared stories with us and braided my daughters hair, a moment she still remembers with fondness. We began praying and exploring our options for an international adoption. It was a few weeks later when a woman came into the store and somehow we got on the topic of adoption. I shared with her about our desire and Lesotho when she asked, “Why don’t you adopt a child from the states?” I was caught off guard by her question and quickly replied, “I didn’t know there were children that needed adoption in America. I thought there were more than enough families.” She gave me the name and number of a local agency. I can’t even tell you how much time went by; I know everything happened very fast. It was a surprise to everyone involved just how fast we had our home study complete, fingerprints done, and classes taken. While our agency worked with reuniting foster children with their families they knew that we wanted a child for adoption. It was just a matter of weeks when we welcomed our sweet Sammy into our home. Sammy has FAS. At the time he needed multiple visits from nurses and therapists. The events that took place over the next year had ups and downs. I learned a great deal through the experience and at the time thought it was challenging. Looking back I don’t regret it for one moment and after our second adoption I know that Sammy’s adoption was a walk in the park!

Sammy’s adoption was finalized in Oct of 2003. We were enjoying the moments with our ‘official’ new addition. I find that whole finalizing process a challenge. It is as if we are waiting for ‘man’ to finally agree with what God has already spoken in our hearts but, that’s just me. For our second adoption, I can still remember the day. The way the sun was shinning in the room while I vacuumed, and how Joe and the children were playing in the backyard. It was January 7th 2004 when the phone rang. “Hello?” I answered. “Hello, I know you don’t know me but I heard about you and your family when you adopted your son, Samuel.” “Yes” I said skeptically. “I am a social worker for the county and am at the hospital. We have a baby being born that is expected to have FAS. It’s a little boy. Would you be interested?” I didn’t know what to think. I took her number and told her I would call her back. I called our agency and told them what had happened. They agreed it was quite unusual for someone to contact me and not go through the agency first. Our worker at the agency would check into the details and get back to us. I called everyone together and told them about the bizarre call. The next day the phone rang again. It was the weekend and the worker assured me she would take care of all the details with our agency and asked if I would meet her at the hospital. I was able to talk to the birth mom and be in her room with her. I remember asking her before I left if there was anything she wanted me to do for her. She simply replied, “love him like you love all your other children.” The nurses walked me through all the baby basics and even wheeled me out to the car as I held the baby. I was told this was their policy and found it strange at the time. Looking back I see it as precious. Precious of those nurses…. precious of the Lord to let me enjoy the wheelchair ride to the car with my baby in my arms.

Time went by and finalizing the adoption was getting closer. Doctor reports were submitted to the county and all those involved. A grandmother learned about the baby and petitioned the court for custody. In a moment and without any previous warning we were being told that we would have to give our baby boy over to a woman who had never met him. He was about nine months old at that time… precious days of peek a boo with baby and rocking chair lullaby's at bed time. To say my heart was broken does not begin to describe how broken I was. I remember driving away after unloading the car of the baby crib, rocking chair, favorite blankets and going over a list of favorites with the family. I remember the tears that came on so strongly I couldn’t drive and feared crashing. I pulled over to the side of the highway. I sat praying for what seemed like hours. I don’t honestly know how long I sat there praying. Within time I felt a peace, a peace that passes all understanding. I know that it wasn’t an audible voice but I heard in my heart, “If you give him to me I’ll give him back.” I didn’t even understand how that could be possible. A few days went by, walking down the hall was heartbreaking. The entire family was hurting. It wasn’t long before my phone rang again and this time it was the grandma. She was busy and wanted to know if I would babysit the baby and his half brother and sister that she cared for. A relationship developed where we would care for the children anytime she was busy and I thanked God that He allowed me to invest in this little one’s life, even if it was only on weekends.

More time elapsed, we moved, and our home study was soon to expire. It was about 10:30 at night when Joe got a call from a social worker informing us, once again, that we didn’t know her but she knew who we were. She briefly told us about the situation at hand and that the baby we had loved and cared for was about to be removed from the home along with the siblings. Joe and I talked and without hesitation agreed we would adopt all three children. No sooner did we talk when the phone rang again. This time the grandma was on the phone, telling us her side of the story. She knew they were going to remove the children and wanted to bring them to us instead. Early the next morning she arrived with our baby boy and soon to be daughter (the older brother was in the hospital with some serious injuries). Information was uncertain, state and county agencies were not talking and we found ourselves in the middle of a power struggle between the two. I’ve looked back over the events that took place, the decisions people made, the agenda that was put in front of the needs of the children, the lies, the discrimination against our family simple because we had seven children and were Christians who homeschooled. Yet, through all those dark moments I see God’s amazing Grace. I will not write out the heartbreak, the troubling events and the struggle. Instead let me make clear that God was always with us. He never left us! He was my strength and my comfort when we couldn’t trust anything we were hearing with our ears or seeing with our eyes. I’ll never forget the day we finalized our adoption. I sat at the table, before the judge, wrestling to hold back the tears as I realized that the harassing, the threats, and the fears were coming to an end! No matter how hard I tried to hold back the tears they flowed down my cheeks. What must that judge have thought as she sat in front of me? The journey we had just traveled… did she know?

After everything we went through we decided we all needed time to heal. We didn’t trust many people yet, we had learned who we could trust. We feel very complete. Very settled. The experience is behind us, it is in the past and we can say God was and still remains faithful! Today our hearts are ready and expecting the Lord to bring us a new addition. We don’t know if the child will come to us through physical birth (although that would take a miracle) or through adoption! However, we don’t feel led to go through the state, at least not at this time. We have instead finished our home study and hired an attorney for a private adoption. International adoption is not something we are against and we keep praying if it might be God’s plan. At this time, we just keep getting the sense that we’re to wait. Our family feels very complete. It’s not that our days aren’t full or we have this unhealthy motivation to adopt. We aren’t looking for a child; we believe that if God has another child for us He will bring her/him to us. We simply have everything required by the laws of our land so that we can accept a child should the Lord bring one to us. Often, you’ll hear someone in the house talk about when God is going to bring us a child and even now we pray for this little one we have not yet met. I don’t know how many children the Lord will bring us or from where. I am thankful that He would allow me to pour my life into even one child much less ten!! I am blessed!!! (P.S. The above picture of our adoption you can see our family along with Grandma and Grandpa on the end and my brother and his wife in the back near my Joe and I)

Each day I watch my children run, play, hear their belly giggles I praise God that He picked me to be their momma. We are a very close family. If it were not for hair and skin color you would never know which child God brought through adoption and which ones we gave birth too. I love being a mother; each season has it’s joy. I realize they are growing up… time is flying by… these are precious days!

All the children along with my Joe and I. November 2010

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 25:25

2011-02-25T10:52:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 25:25,
“As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.”

A person who receives good news feels like they’ve just been given cool water from a babbling brook. It’s natural for us to want to hear good news and when bad news comes, the heart grows heavy; even if it is for just a moment, as we process and relinquish it to the LORD. Life is not about how good things are or how little or great we must bear, but it is about how we respond to those days when “bad” news comes our way.

Often when I hear someone is praying for me, I feel the refreshment that only the LORD can give, in knowing that God has spoken to a heart to keep my name before the throne. Isn’t it a comfort to know that people are praying for our needs? It’s a joy to pray for others, so both parties are being blessed in the process.

As I think on this passage, I think of the glad tidings the angels brought to the world through Jesus’ birth. Truly, he was the water for our thirsty souls and his arrival was good news from a far country (see Luke 2:9-11). And again, let us think on the glad tidings of Jesus’ resurrection (Acts 13: 33).

Friends, we have the water of life in Christ Jesus (John 4: 9-12; John 7:36-40); are we offering it to those who are thirsty? Let us be people who bring good news to the world, so that they too, will no longer thirst!

Prayer: Father, you have said that whosoever drinks of the water that Jesus gives will never thirst again; in fact, we will be as a well of water springing up into everlasting life. LORD, help us to share your living water with those around us; keep us ever aware of the thirsty souls and teach us how to offer your good news to their parched souls. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment In Proverbs: Proverbs 24:30-34

2011-02-24T07:08:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 24:30-34,
“I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down. Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction. Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travels; and thy want as an armed man.”

Each time I come across this passage, my mind presents an image that I believe will always be mine to treasure. As I joined my husband’s family, I came to realize the importance of doing a job right. My father-in-law was a man of great strength and wisdom. He loved the LORD and prepared well for his family. He was a good father and a righteous man who supported his church, his community and his extended family. He did all things as unto the LORD. But little did I know or understand just how much he believed God’s Word to be his compass and his gage on a job well done. My father-in-law was also a farmer, and I can proclaim without any fear of over exaggeration, that his fields were the cleanest in the country side. Just as our verse speaks here, about the slothful man’s field being full of thorns and weeds, my father-in-law’s property was free of weeds and thorns. We use to tease that a weed was afraid to sprout in his field. He was relentless with his watching guard over the thief that would steal nutrition and water from his vines, trees or lawns. Besides his vineyards being in prime condition, his home was kept neat, clean and repaired. Even when he was in his 80’s and living in a mobile home, we found him often working to devise a better way for water to drain away from the home, sealing all the openings in the seams so that bugs could not get in and faithfully ensuring there would be no leaks in the roof as he would climb his ladder to once again inspect and paint the roof of his mobile home with water sealant.

So how does this story apply to our passage today? You can see that a diligent man will do all he can to take care of the work at hand, where the slothful man lets the enemy take root. Nor does the diligent man allow his home to fall to disrepair. And I believe, just like my father-in-law did, that even meant that we don’t let our family’s spiritual life fall to disrepair. We are to be examples of encouragement as we call our family members to accountability. We do not allow sin to slip in the back door or look the other way when sin tries to steal the heart of our loved ones. Just like weeds that are allowed to grow and finally take over, so will sin. We must stand watch and apply faithful diligence to guarding and nurturing our family, both in their physical needs and especially in their spiritual needs.

This passage refers to the slothful man, as someone who, perhaps, has too much on their mind to be bothered, or someone who is fearful of hard work, or someone who is tired of the consistency it takes to keep what God has given them. Let it not be said of God’s people that we were slothful in our calling to duty. Let it not be said that we were fearful of the work He equipped us for and do not let us grow weary in well doing (see Galatians 6:8-10).

Matthew Henry says, “Our souls are our fields and vineyards, which we are every one of us to take care of, to dress, and to keep. They are capable of being improved with good husbandry; that may be got out of them which will be fruit abounding to our account. We are charged with them, to occupy them till our LORD come; and a great deal of care and pains it is requisite that we should take about them.”

Prayer: Father, as we enter this day of new mercies, let us seek your Word for the repairs, weeding and nurturing we need to work on in our lives and the lives of those we live among. And at the end of the day, let us reflect on the good work you gave us to do. Instruct us in wisdom, and help us to apply what we have learned from your Word to keep our homes clean from the enemy, restored from the sin that so easily besets us and nurtured in your Word. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 23:15-16

2011-02-23T17:52:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 23:15-16, “My son, if thine heart be wise, my heart shall rejoice, even mine. Yea, my reins shall rejoice, when thy lips speak right things.”

There is no greater joy than to know that our children are walking with the LORD, and no greater sadness to know that they don’t. As God placed our children under our care, we were given a great honor to build into the lives of the next generation. It became our service unto God to raise them up in the admonition of the LORD so that when they grew, they would walk upright before Him.

So where do we start? At the beginning is a good place. From the moment the child will be ours to care for, whether by birth or adoption, we must begin praying for them. Don’t worry that you don’t know the child yet, God knows them and the Holy Spirit knows exactly what that child will need to grow into godly character. The moment you have the child in your arms, pray for them and proclaim a blessing upon their heads; asking the LORD for His will to be done in their lives. The moment the child enters your home, begin the instruction of God’s Word. Even before the little one can read, write, walk or talk, read God’s Word to them every day as you would during your own personal study time. As the child grows, they learn that these moments are holy and to be common practice for each day. As soon as the child can understand speech and return conversation, engage them with God’s Word. Tell them stories, and make them aware that God is all around us and wants to be a part of our lives. As the child continues to grow, minister to their spiritual needs and instruct them in righteousness, apply wisdom with discipline and correct them when they falter (just as our Father corrects us – Proverbs 3:11-13).

Share the gospel and plan of salvation early in your child’s life. Encourage them to spend time alone with God as you have demonstrated from their early years. Be available to your child to answer questions about salvation, stories in scripture, and difficult passages to understand. Admit to your child that you are a sinner saved by grace and that you too must submit to God and seek His forgiveness for your own sins. Lead your child to the LORD through your example and walk before God.

Now you may ask, “What if I didn’t do any of those things and now my children are older and are rebelling?” My answer, God can do anything and His Word is the most powerful gift we have available to build and restore relationships. Take the time to quietly sit before the LORD and talk to Him about how to build and restore what the enemy has stolen. Ask the LORD to show you how you must change and what areas of your own life need God’s discipline and correction. Seek to set right the things in your own life so that as you begin your ministry to your rebellious child, you will be covered with the Word of God. Before you begin your conversation with the rebellious child, spend many hours in prayer asking for God’s wisdom, peace, and sound mind. God may ask you to reach out to the child in ways that may not be familiar to you; if that’s the case ask God to help you. Seek wisdom from parents who are committed to walking before the LORD and ask their help through prayer and holding you to being accountable in your own walk before the LORD. Begin the restoration with your child. Be prepared to face a battle, for the enemy has clutched the rebellious heart and will not relinquish it easily (See Ephesians 6:10-18).

Again, you may be saying, “But what if I have no children?” You can be a ministry and powerful influence to children around you. You need only to ask God for His direction in serving His people. Step out of your comfort zones and be taught from His Word so that you can minister when the opportunities arise. You may be called to speak to the fragile hearts of preschoolers; or to that of teenagers; or even to those hearts of older children who have estranged relationships with their parents; perhaps they are adults who need an ear to hear and heart to minister to them.

It is the responsibility of each of us to minister to the next generation. Even if we have not been given children by birth or adoption, we can reach and impact the lives of many if we open our hearts to God’s leading. Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to everyone that asks you the reason for the hope that is in you (see 1 Peter 3:14-16).

Prayer: Father, we thank you for the wisdom you give your children; and we praise you for the children who grow in the admonition of your Word. LORD, we know that even if our children stray, you are faithful to bring them back to yourself if we have been faithful to raise them in the way they should go. LORD, help us to come along side of our brothers and sisters who are struggling with rebellion in their family and help us to encourage them with your Word and through prayer. Show us if there are children in our midst that need instruction, prayer and guidance. Equip us with your wisdom and grace to impact the lives before us. Great are the blessings of your people who walk righteously before you. We praise you! In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs- Proverbs 22: 20-21

2011-02-22T08:38:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 22:20-21, “Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge, that I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that though mightiest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?”

I learned while studying this section that there are 30 units or instructions given over the next several passages from Proverbs 22:20 through Proverbs 24:22. Many of the sayings are two or three verses long. And this in itself would be a wonderful study as “Sayings of the Wise”.

Today, however, I would like to talk to you about something many of us face; unsaved family and friends. Many of us are placed strategically in the midst of unbelievers and we are called to live out our lives in such a way that God is presented to these members on a daily basis. How are we doing? Are we not encountering any opposition? Then be on the alert, Satan still has their hearts. It’s when we see opposition to our walk that we know we are making a difference in the hearts of those God has put before us. We don’t need to purposely stir up the strife but the opposition will come when our lives are impacting the hearts of others.

Truth opposes lies of our enemy and he will not stand quiet when he is challenged with truth. Just today, I prayed for a sister who is facing such a trial in her own family. She is being conceived as a fanatic; someone who has gone overboard; and it was even suggested that she see a doctor because her walk and belief is so opposing to theirs. Truth makes a difference! Truth is our greatest tool to win the lives of others to Christ! Truth is contrary to our World and will be challenged at every turn!

But I rejoice with my sister as she proclaimed, “I just praised the Lord for the good work that he was doing through me, that I should be persecuted for speaking His truth. You know Satan wouldn't bother turning their hearts if God's work wasn't being done.”

Our living Truth is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; for it is by him that all are brought to the saving knowledge of the Truth; There is one God, and one mediator between God and men, and that is Jesus Christ. So let us speak of Him; for He is the truth and the life and the way; and by no other way will man receive salvation.

Are we speaking Truth in our daily living? Grace and Truth come by Jesus Christ and as He dwells in you, you become the vessel of Truth to others. Remember that even our Brother Paul was called crazy by Festus as Paul proclaimed the Truth (see Acts 26:24-26).

Prayer: Father, when true worshippers worship the Father in spirit and in truth you are pleased. For those who trust in Christ, bring praise and glory to your name. We have trusted, and we have heard the word of Truth. We have believed and we are sealed with the promise of the Holy Spirit. LORD, help us to continue walking and speaking your Word of Truth to this world of unbelievers; open the ears of those who reject your Word and help them see the Truth of Christ. We pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 22:1

2011-02-21T18:31:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 21:1, “The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.

This week celebrates the personal and political lives of two of our country’s leaders, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. As we study both of these men’s lives we see their dedication to God in their writing and in their leading of the country. Their hearts were in God’s hands; for he directs the hearts men and leaders of men. Remember, that a man’s steps are directed by the LORD (see Proverbs 20:24). And God can change man’s mind through His divine intervention to serve His purpose for His people. Yes, even the hearts of wicked rulers are in the hands of God, such as Nebuchadnezzar (See Daniel 4:31-35); and most certainly the hearts of leaders such as Cyrus to bless God’s people. God will show His hand and intervention in the hearts of rulers far and wide (see Isaiah 45: 1-25).

So how does this mold into our lives today? Look around, it doesn’t take long for us to see how God is allowing leaders, both righteous and evil to rule countries, and nations who are serving or turning away from God. Freedom and blessings come to the nations who put their trust in God and seek Him as the leader of their lives. Where slavery, discord and unrest reside, these are the results of those who have turned away from God.

Man can make his plans, but God is the one who allows the plan according to the heart of His people. It is God who puts His plans into the hearts of His people to fulfill His Will. Even in Revelation 17:17; God’s plan to turn a wicked kingdom over to the beast will be fulfilled by God’s ability to direct man’s hearts and plans.

So as we celebrate this week of two righteous leaders of our past, let us remember that our nation was built upon God’s Will and it was lead by God’s Plan, during a time when God’s people sought His help in all matters.

Prayer: Blessed be the LORD God of our fathers that filled the hearts of our leaders of old. Blessed be the LORD God of our fathers who extended mercy to our rulers and counselors as we established our nation. Blessed be the LORD God of our fathers who has not forsaken His people but calls out to us to return to Him in humility. Heal our land of its ignorance and shame and bring into power rulers and counselors who seek your face. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 17:3 Examine me oh Lord!

2011-02-17T08:01:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 17:3, “The fining pot is for silver, and the furnace for gold: but the LORD trieth the hearts.”

God is at work in each of our lives daily. He is not only concerned about proving our hearts, but improving them as well. He works with us individually and so what might be my test of faith may be someone else’s test of obedience; but He works with each one at His appointed time. Even when we think we’ve come a long way in one of the attributes the LORD desires in us, there is always room for more growth.

Have you endured hardship and felt God’s hand guiding and sustaining you through the event? This is the proving process. And then the next time that hardship was upon you, you found that your faith was wavering again even though you were stronger than before? This is the refining process.

The Lord searches every heart and He examines our secret motives and reactions and He gives us our due rewards according to what our actions deserve (see Jeremiah 17:10)

The Lord tries our hearts by using affliction and through the process we grow, mature and become the vessels He desires (see Psalms 66:10-11, and Isaiah 48:10). We can trust that while this process is underway, it is God’s sovereign heart that is at work in our hearts. His will for us is to grow closer to Him and to reflect His mercy and grace in our lives.

As you find yourself in the furnace of affliction or in the refining process, you can trust that His eyes never leave you. He is always watching and knowing exactly what you need and at the time you need it. He is a faithful father who is full of compassion. We can trust and abide in His care.

Prayer: Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. LORD your Word is quick and powerful and sharper than any two edge sword and you can see the soul and spirit of man. In your wisdom, you can refine the heart to bring forth the things that you purpose for our walk before you. LORD, thank you that you are the discerner of our thoughts and the intents of our hearts; for we are often puffed up and blind to our need to continue growing. LORD, we commit our walk to you and ask that you do with us as you see fit; and we will trust your hand. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 16: 1-3 Making Decisions….

2011-02-16T11:44:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 16:1-3, “The preparations of the heart in man and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD. All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weighs the spirits. Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.”

We often think we are the one who is making the decisions. But it is God who works in us both to will and to do. It is He who causes our hearts to hear and respond. We also think we may be living righteously and yet withholding those areas that we “just can’t let go of” and think that it brings no harm to others to “hold onto them”. So we go about our way believing in our righteousness and find that we are lacking because the LORD reveals our heart and calls our pride sin. (See Philippians 2:13 and Psalms 10:17). We can plan, we can scheme and we can think on our own, but God is the one who allows us to move forward; without His blessings, devastation stands in the way. If we consider our plans only after we have sought God then we can know that we will find direction. Even those things that are not His plan will be revealed in such rich ways that we will see His truth in amazing ways. God is concerned for us and He desires that we walk in the Truth. He always weighs our motives and always gives us instructions accordingly.

Even though we may be allowed to follow our well laid paths to destruction by trusting in ourselves; God is there to dispense His grace as we humble ourselves (see James 4:10).

Prayer: LORD we commit our works to you this day. We roll our heavy burdens onto your shoulders and ask that you clear our minds so that we can see your plan for our lives. We believe your plan is for our benefit and we hold fast to your Word. Keep us straight to the path so that we do not trust in our own work. Remind us to double check our motives and keep us from stumbling. We pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 15:6 Treasures?

2011-02-15T09:20:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 15: 6, “In the house of the righteous is much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is trouble.”

Are there treasures found in our homes? Even though there may be little wealth, but peace and contentment fill the halls, we find riches. When our heart is content and we have placed our hope upon the LORD, then we have great treasures in our homes. Blessings continue not only through our home, but into the homes of our children, our other family members and the visitors who cross our threshold. They too find treasures within our homes. When we store up treasures in our heart, then our homes reap the benefits. God’s Word is the greatest of treasures we can store; imagine being able to address all matters of the home with His Word. And by this we bless our homes by teaching them too that the scriptures are the inspired Word of God which is able to make them wise unto salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” So when we guide our homes with righteousness, there will be much treasure.

Let us not reap the revenues of the wicked and find ourselves and our families in dire straits when the wolf comes to the door. We are told in 2 Timothy 2:15, “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” Herein lays the greatest treasures to mankind.

Prayer: You love those that love you and those that seek you find you. Riches and honor are found in the homes of the righteous. Your riches are greater than gold and your revenue is better than choice silver. LORD, lead us in the way of righteousness and the path of your judgment. Keep our hearts stayed on thee and teach us to build our homes upon you. We desire to inherit your great treasures awaiting those who trust in you and we pray for the generations that come from our homes, that they too will be rich in truth and deed. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 14: 1 What builds a home?

2011-02-14T11:35:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 14:1, “Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.”

Strength, diligence, prudence and love for God builds a home; but a home that that is willful, wasteful, indulgent, selfish and has no fear or regard of God will fall in ruin.

Today we speak to the women of our group, but men can apply this as well to their families. As women of the home we have a great responsibility! By the state of our heart and walk with God we can be a great blessing to our families. Proverbs 31:10-31 passages on the wife of noble character gives many examples of a woman who has placed her reverence in the LORD and purposed in her heart to build her home in wisdom. Last week we saw how wisdom built and prepared her home for those who lived and visited in Proverbs 9:1.

Today’s passage illustrates the wise and foolish and gives us the outcome of both.

I have been witness to both of these women within my own family. I have had examples placed before me of the wise women who strive to serve their families and the LORD and even though there may have been struggles in their lives, they have built their homes to serve God and when the storms of life come, their families are well prepared to trust in God and wait upon His plan for their lives. Their husbands honor them with trust in all matters of home, finances and business. Their intimate and extended families calls them blessed. These women have built their homes on a firm foundation.

I have see the foolish women who are self centered, seeking only those things for their selves, manipulating situations and people in order to make their self the center of attention. I have seen the corruption that has crept in the door of their homes and the scars that their children bare because of their selfishness. Their husbands cannot trust them with finances, personal matters or matters of the heart and their children bare the shame of these women’s sins. Their extended family members mourn the destruction they see being brought upon their families. Truly, they have torn down their own homes with the works of their hearts and hands.

As I study this passage, I’m reminded of Christ’s story about the two builders; one built his home upon the rock and the other built his home upon the sand. Matthew 7:23-27, “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.” Friends this passage speaks to those who will hear the Word of God and trust on it or reject it. It is an example to us that as men or women, if we build our “homes” upon His Faithful Word our homes (lives) will be solid, but if we build our homes (lives) without Him, we will fall.

Prayer: LORD, we proclaim that we place our trust in you this day. We pray that our walk before you will be wise and centered on your will for our lives and the lives of our families. Father, we see a great devastation of homes across our world that suffers because the parents have lost their way. They have turned away from your Word and plan for their lives and they have become self serving at the ruin of their homes. Forgive us if we have partaken of this culture and restore us to the foundation of Christ living in and through us. Remind us of the character of wisdom and strengthen us through your Word. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

M.O.M.’s Mailbox- Homeschool Curriculum Ideas?

2011-02-14T01:35:00.001-06:00

I have been asked multiple times this last week for curriculum suggestions, how we homeschool or ideas for beginners. I have prayerfully considered what to write each person and finally decided that I would just share here on the blog. This post is quite long since I was trying to answer everyone’s question. Please understand that raising our children for the Glory of God is a personal and incredible responsibility. I love to share with you and trust you will keep in mind that you don’t have to do what I do to have success. Just do what God directs you to do!! With that said, let me share my testimony with you and yes… I promise to also tell you what we use for homeschooling too.

It was1988 when I had a baby in a sling as I sat on the bookstore floor reading a ‘radical’ book called, Homeschooling for Excellence by David and Micki Colfax. I love to read and use to cruise bookstore aisles, so I have no idea except that it was God who led me to this specific book (I don’t believe I had even heard the term homeschooling before that). I read without the notice of time. I was overwhelmed with a confidence that this “homeschooling” was exactly what God’s plan was for our family. Time went on and my baby grew. At four years old he faced a mother who had read too many books to count on all the “how’s” and “why’s” of homeschooling. I had attended two homeschool conventions, listening to a variety of speakers on multiple topics. I subscribed to a handful of home educating publications, joined HSLDA, and joined our local support group. I had went to college, I was smart, determined, and committed to my son’s education. I had goals, charts, and all the best curriculum that money could buy. According to my “plan” he should be in the best colleges in no time! It wasn’t but a few months later when everything finally came to a halt. My son hated homeschooling and so did I! He dreaded learning and I dreaded giving him another lesson! Nothing was going as planned! I had wanted to give my child a love for learning. I wanted him to gain a fascination with life as our relationship was cultivated by our journey together. That was my blissful idea; the reality wasn’t even remotely close to that! At this time my son was four and half years old. I also had a active, smart and bouncing 16 month old little girl, AND I was unknowingly about to deliver my third child prematurely. Most days both my son and I were in tears by the end of the day. I couldn’t wait till nap time much less bed time. My laundry was piling up, my teaching notes were far behind. I was losing any peace I had and my home was showing it! This is when my husband and I finally had a good heart to heart chat with the Lord. We started asking ourselves the questions of, why are we homeschooling? What’s God to say about homeschooling? What would HE want them taught? There were literally a hundred more questions from our hearts that started to pour forth in our prayers. We put the curriculum we had paid way too much money for aside. We went to our son and apologized for the stress and for trusting a lesson plan to tell me what to require each day instead of God. We made a commitment 17 years ago that we have been faithful to keep, that each day we would go before God and ask for the “lesson plan”. We were confident that God, the One that knit each of my children in the womb, knew them! He would never require too much or too little! Like I mentioned earlier, my third son was born at 25 weeks and soon our daily life as we knew it changed. We decided to not do any formal education until our oldest was six. In this time I found a book called, Charlotte Mason Companion by Karen Andreola. I also learned of a company called, Konos. As I read through each of these resources I knew this was the direction that we wanted to go for our family.

Over the next several years, children were added to the home and multiple moves took place. Life never seemed to stay the same yet, each year our home thrived as we lived out our obedience and discovered more and more about God through the daily life activities. The relationships in the home were fruitful, school lessons were accomplished, children were learning, and yet I still felt like something needed to change. I went for a walk in the woods and just talked with God. Once again I found myself asking, “what do I teach?” I know it wasn’t an audible voice none the less, I felt I had a clear direction. God was telling me to teach the children what they need to know should He return tomorrow. I remember stopping right where I was and pondering what that would look like. That was four years ago and I’m still working out what it looks like on a daily basis. I’ve been very happy with the fruit of my labor thus far. I trust God will continue being faithful to bless the works of my hands as long as it is for His Glory and His will! Here’s what a homeschool day looks like for the Wood family:

Bible study always happens as a family this is on top of their personal Bible time. We read through the Bible from cover to cover. We use the KJV or the New Geneva. No curriculum needed. We discuss what we read, look up words they may not have been familiar with in our 1828 Noah Webster's Dictionary (my favorite dictionary). Look up key words in our Strongs Dictionary, and read notes by Matthew Henry, in our commentary, if desired. All the children take turns using the references which are great language art skills and will are quite useful in their personal study time. We talk about studying His Word.. not just reading it. “2Ti 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

The children also stand up in front of the family and recite passages of the Bible that they are working on in their free time. Each memorize their “birthday proverbs” (A 'birthday proverbs’ is the chapter of Proverbs that goes with the day they were born. For example a child born on the third day of the month would have Proverbs 3 as their ‘birthday proverbs’). After that is committed to memory they memorize any book of the Bible they desire. This not only helps them hide His Word “Psa 119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” in their hearts but also helps them learn public speaking skills and encourages their memory work and recitation.

For handwriting, the Wood family writes out the Bible (starting in Genesis and working through it till they get to the end someday). Each child has a notebook and with some instruction on how to hold their pencil and properly form their letters I let them start their copy work. They give careful attention to how hard they’re holding their pencil, to their spacing, no ‘floating’ letters, or letters misplaced on the line. They make sure this is in their best hand writing. No curriculum, just my instruction and a note book.

For writing, we have used a variety of resources over the years. I have my children currently taking Mrs. Morecrafts class online through a webinar. As a family we enjoy it!! You can learn more about that by visiting: HERE The current course is found HERE

For mathematics, I use Horizons Math. It’s just the program that has worked best for my children when they were PK-6th. After that, I’ve used a variety of resources depending on each child’s interest. Recently the Lord led a Christian woman to us that tutors higher math classes and science classes. I have one of my boys utilizing that resource as God has provided.

For younger children we learn science beyond any requirements a curriculum would require just by living on a farm. My children do all the activity of the farm. They know how to test soil, milk goats, create feed recipes with proper protein content, treat infections, care for ill animals, help deliver newborn animals, they keep records for expenses on the farm as well as the production of milk or eggs collected. They calculate how much our meat cost us, the dangers of GMO, the benefits of pasture raised animals and how to build a pasture that will provide health. As they get older, they are asked to research and put into practice a new skill or project on the farm. My youngest children have learned how to identify native plants, harvest them and how to use them. My nine year old might build a moveable chicken coop, research what chickens we are needing and then help me order them. My girls make cheese, butter, bread and other home made goodies as soon as they like. Typically by the time they are 10 they are able to do these things and love doing them! Where my 13 and 17 year old are currently designing a year around greenhouse that could sustain plants year around in KS in the most earth friendly manner. I told someone the other day, “My children learned in 15 minutes what took me an entire semester at college to learn!” Besides this real life science activity I have read them an assortment of biographies of Christian scientist. They also LOVE to listen to Jonathan Park and have learned an incredible amount through those CD’s.

For History, we have watched and listened to countless resources from Vision Forum. I would encourage you to look there and find treasures that no only tell you the history but create a hunger in your children to want to act it out and learn even more!

For Geography we read missionary stories. We love to use our globe to see where they traveled. As the children got older they would want to do more and more research on some of the places we were reading about. They love to learn! At 16 they are blessed to go with grandma and grandpa to a state of their choice for a two week tour where they learn a great deal. Grandma requires them to answer 100 questions about the information they learned and provide a variety of reports and projects.

For music, we have loved the people God has brought into our live to teach our children different instruments. We love to hear them play so they love to play for us. They practice on their own motivation and delight in bringing the family music. I also read from the Classical Music collection as a story time after our lunch. The children love to hear the stories and listen to the songs included.

Throughout our day, no matter what happens, the peace is present! I guard the peace of this home with all vigilance. I say no to outside activities that would draw our hearts away from home or each other. I deny my selfish desires that would take my attention away from the needs of my family and home. We work on communication and daily strive to live out our lives for the glory of God… right here in our home! We each strive to glorify God, show one another forgiveness and love unconditionally as He loves us.

It’s been 17 years that I’ve been homeschooling, two children have graduated so far and another one getting ready to graduate. I was asked how much we spend on homeschooling. To answer that I would say, I use to keep it under 500 but the last few years we’ve been going over that. I would say we typically spend between 500-1000.00 a year for ALL the children combined for the year. This includes all our tutor classes, Vision Forum resources, books, and other goodies for the year. I was also asked for helpful tips. I guess my only real helpful tip after saying to do all you do with much prayer, would be to encourage you to join the Home School Legal Defense Association! You can learn more about them HERE

I hope this helped. I am always learning. I am confident that as God transforms me, he transforms our home school design as well!

With much love,

Mrs. Joseph Wood

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 11:25

2011-02-11T08:43:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 11:25, “The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

This is a paradox for many, they can’t see how being generous to others will bring prosperity. It may seem a little backwards to be giving our money, time and resources to others instead of hording it for our rainy days, but life shows us that when we give from our storehouses, we will find prosperity rather than ruin.

It’s true that we must take care of our families and meet the needs required, but what many forget is that the luxuries that we think we cannot live without; those things that are enslaving us to debt are not “meeting the needs of our families.” Meeting the needs of our families does not mean we cannot have fine homes, clothes or cars, but in the process of providing those things are we neglecting the widow among our congregations? Are we neglecting the needs of the fatherless? Have we supported those less fortunate with food, warmth and friendship?

Malachi 3:7-10 is a brash warning from God about not giving, but a promise if we give liberally; “Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. But ye said, wherein shall we return? Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

This passage is not to be taken with purpose of giving to receive; oh, God forbid, do not be fooled, the LORD knows your heart; just as he knew the hearts of those casting their money into the temple treasury in Luke 21:1-4.

Money is not all we have to give one another, there is time, resources and sometimes just friendship provided to someone who is unlovable by common standards. I love what Luke 6:38 said about giving, “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” We can’t out give God; we can’t imagine the rich blessings in store for us if we give from our hearts with no intent of receiving back. God will not let it go unnoticed; He will repay you for your kindness and generosity. Remember He is watching every generosity of spirit, wealth, and resources. Just as those in Matthew 25:34-40, heard the King say, “Verily, I say unto you, inasmuch as you have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”

Prayer: Father, we know you are full of compassion and grace. Your storehouses are too numerous to count and you are the owner of creation and the creator of all things. Blessed be your name this day as we learn to trust you with our resources. LORD, show us how we might serve you with the bounty you have given us. Teach us to reach out to others and meet needs that don’t require money, teach us that time and other resources are often more important than money. LORD, thank you for all we have, whether it is great or small, you will provide everything we need. We trust you with all we have. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs- Proverbs 10:7 Leaving a Legacy

2011-02-10T07:59:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 10:7, “The memory of the just is blessed: but the name of the wicked shall rot.”

Reflecting on legacies in my life today, this passage gives me pause to think of what they left behind. You see, no matter if you are a righteous person or a wicked person, you will one day die. How will you be remembered; or will you be remembered?

Think of those who made the biggest impact on your physical life and spiritual walk. What was it about their lives that you think on when the LORD brings them to mind? Let me share the blessings of a couple who have impacted my life. Let me first say, they were human and yes, sinners, not perfect, but forgiven by the same LORD and Jesus Christ that saved me. When I think of my grandmother, I think on how she raised me as her daughter and I am grateful for all that I learned at her knee and at her kitchen table where we spent many weekends together talking about life, future plans and God’s mercy. When she died, it was a release from her suffering and even though I missed her I knew she was where she wanted to be; in the arms of the LORD. My grandfather was a man of few words, but he loved the LORD. He gave me a strong foundation and loved me with discipline and a gentle hand. When he died, the loss was great, but again, he was released from suffering and now resides with our LORD. When I think of him, I remember his laugh, his good name, and his love for me.

These are only two of the people in my life that have left a legacy that points back to God. Those who brought harm, those who brought neglect and those who were not saved have no memory to survive them. Good men are spoken well of; that is their blessing; but those who are unjust will be forgotten.

A good name is like precious ointment (Ecclesiastes 7:1). Those who honor God will be honored through our memories and by the legacies they left behind (see Psalms 112:3; 112: 6 and 112:9). It’s the faith and the endurance under trials that we can point to when we remember their names (see Hebrews 11:2). By their example we learned how their faith carried them through and by their example our faith began to grow.

How many of you have spiritual mentors who are building a legacy with you now? How many of those spiritual warriors have gone home to be with the LORD. How do you remember them, I’m sure with honor and I’m sure with joy as you reflect on their impact upon your life. How many of you are building your own legacy with other men or women; with your children; with the families and children of your community; and with your own families? Consider how your name will be remembered when you are resting with the LORD, what legacy will you leave?

Prayer: LORD, we give you honor and glory this day and we remember those who have impacted our lives for your kingdom. Thank you for the Sunday School Teacher who taught us truth. Thank you for the grandparents and parents who whispered your precious words into our hearts. Thank you for the friends who ministered to us in our hours of need. Thank you for the mentors you put into our lives. Thank you for the pastors who speak truth and minster to the congregations of your people. LORD, create in us a desire to leave a legacy of hope, love and joy. Help us to create memories that are purposeful and powerful. Father, so many of your saints have already come to your arms and we praise you for their journey. Thank you that they were an example to us! We praise you for all you’ve placed in our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 9: 1 Seven Pillars

2011-02-09T09:28:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 9:1, “Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars:”

Have you ever read something and it caught your attention and you wondered, what? Wisdom built her house and she hewn out seven pillars. This was something I had “never seen before” even though I’ve read it many times. But today, I’d like to talk to you about those seven pillars. After researching this I’ve come to understand that the first 7 Beatitudes are considered the 7 pillars of wisdom or the 7 aspects of wisdom; and they are: Poor in Spirit (Humility); Mournful (Hates all that is contrary to God); Meek (A prudent Spirit); Seeker of righteousness (One who is committed to obedience); Merciful (Compassionate); Pure (Free from corruption); and Peacemaker (A seeker of resolve). With these we could make an entire week-long study about each pillar of wisdom. But we won’t do that at this time. Perhaps the LORD will call to you in personal time to consider these 7 pillars of wisdom.

What I’d like to talk to you about concerning this passage is that Wisdom has prepared a place for us to “get wisdom and knowledge”. That place is in the Word of God. Through Him and by Him we have all the resources we need to reflect His Wisdom to this lost world and to walk in Wisdom. As we look to the rest of the chapter, we find that wisdom has not only prepared a place for us to join her, but she has prepared a meal and drink so that we will be filled completely. In reading, I was reminded of Christ’s proclamation that Heaven was being prepared for those who believe and that a “supper” would be placed before the believer and we would partake together at the marriage feast (see John 14: 1-4 and Revelation 19:7-9).

All that God has prepared for us is beyond our comprehension, yet, we are welcome to come and partake of the best fruits of Wisdom and knowledge. Let us partake of His rich gifts this day. Let us learn more about the 7 pillars of wisdom that have been hewn out for us.

Prayer: Father, teach us humility so that we can hear your Word; teach us to hate evil and all that would turn our eyes from your glory; teach us to be meek and seek your wisdom with a prudent spirit; teach us to seek after righteousness and obey your commands; teach us to be merciful and full of compassion for those who are lost; teach us to free our hearts and minds from corruption; teach us to be peacemakers and seek to bring peace to those in turmoil and teach us to listen as you call us to your banqueting table. We pray these things in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 8:22-31

2011-02-08T17:01:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 8: 22-31, “The LORD possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old. I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water. Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth: While as yet he had not made the earth, or the fields, or the highest part of the dust of the world. When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth: When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep: When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth: Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him; Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men.

As I read through these passages today, I couldn’t help but recognize the attributes of Christ portrayed in Wisdom. This passage 8:22-31 is actually a hymn describing wisdom’s role in creation and it is being personified, just as it is in Proverbs 1:20-33; 3:15-18 and 9:1-12.

Today, let’s look at some of the comparisons:

· Wisdom Involved in creation (Proverbs 8:22-31); however, Christ is identified with the Father who brought creation to pass (John 17:5, 24; 1 John 1:1 and Revelation 1:8)

· Wisdom was brought forth from the LORD as the first of His works (Proverbs 8:22); however, Christ was already there; Christ was from the beginning and is eternal before creation but was with God and was God before anything came to pass (John 1:1-3).

· Wisdom was created by him (Proverbs 8:30); however Christ was the express image of His person (Hebrews 1:3)

This passage has much to say about the creator and how wisdom was intertwined, but we must remember even though we may identify attributes of Christ in these passages; Christ stands with God; and Wisdom was brought forth from God (see Ephesians 3:9; Hebrews 1:2; and Colossians 1:15-17).

So how do we apply this knowledge to our day? The attributes of Christ are eternal from everlasting to everlasting. When we come to know Him, we have Him living in our hearts and through Him we gain the wisdom this chapter speaks of. As the Chapter winds up it says this; blessed is the man that hears me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. For whoso finds me finds life, and shall obtain favor of the LORD. So apply wisdom to your heart and you will find life.

Prayer: LORD, we incline our ear to your Wisdom through Christ. Teach us to apply our hearts unto wisdom. As we come before you each day place a thirst in our hearts for your wisdom and understanding. Let us be like the deer who pants after water and teach us more about yourself and the wisdom you have for those who seek it. We praise you for the work you are doing in our lives and we ask that you apply your Word to our hearts and minds this day. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 7 The walk of the wise…

2011-02-07T08:56:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 7 – Entire Chapter – Please take the time to read the entire chapter

As I read through this chapter this weekend, something struck me about the message to the son to avoid the Adulteress. As I prayed about the passage, I felt the LORD was speaking to me about how His people have turned to the Adulteress World and fallen to its enticing words and crafty intent. I realize that at every corner the World’s deception calls out and often, it takes hold of us before we know it, because we have not been cautious about our walk before the LORD.

The passage is progressive as it says he saw a young man who lacked judgment walking down the street near the corner of the harlot. A warning to not even go in that direction was given!

The world’s moral decay and its lust for violence, selfishness, jealousy and pride are waiting to pull us in. And like the warning that was given – with persuasive words we are led astray, we are seduced with the smooth talk and we become like the ox going to slaughter. We are totally oblivious of the fate that awaits us when we get caught in the web designed. Following after the world and its offerings is a highway to the grave.

So how do we avoid the call from this harlot? How do we build a defense against her siren voice? How do we keep our hearts from falling to the enticement of her sin?

The first verse in this chapter tells us to store up His Commands within for His Word is His Law and the Word of God must be a treasure we keep safely so that we are not robbed and left shamed by the sin that so easily besets us. We are told to keep His commandments and we will live. We are to live with the Word of God in such a way that we could not imagine facing a new day without His Word pressed against our heart. We must keep guard over His commands as though they were the very apple of our eye and protect it as we would our eyes from foreign objects being aimed at us. Would we not dodge, close our eyes and turn away if we saw something coming close to hitting us in the eye? Then so much the more, we should hold the Word of God and protect it as we would our own bodies. God’s Word is the light; the law in the heart is the eye of the soul; we must carefully guard our hearts. We are told elsewhere to let the Word of God dwell richly within us (see Colossians 3:15-17). We must make the Word of God a partner to our soul; we must seek it when we have questions, we must lean on it during our time of need and we must cling to it to equip us as the world calls to us.

Prayer: LORD, with our whole heart we seek thee; let us not wander from your commandments. Help us to hide your word in our hearts so that we will not sin against thee. LORD, we bless your name and ask that you teach us your statutes. LORD, we will meditate on your law and respect its teaching; we will delight in your statutes. Help us to not forget your Word so that we may live to keep your Word in the face of trials. LORD, establish your Word in our hearts. Thy Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. Thank you for your Word! In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

The Wood Family's Going to Virginia!

2011-02-05T22:34:00.001-06:00

Greetings Friends!
This is just a short post so I could share some exciting news with you. Lord willing, the Wood family will be going to Virgina to celebrate the "best revolutionary war conference in America". If you would like to attend, I just heard this evening that I can share a special friend discount code so that you can enjoy a 35% savings off the normal price! Please email me at: mrsjosephwood (at) gmail (dot) com and I will get you the code you need.

I invite you to learn more about this event by visiting, http://www.patriotsball.com/

The Wood family would love to have you there if the Lord would open doors for such an occasion!

With much love,
Mrs. Joseph Wood

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 4:7 With all thy getting…..

2011-02-04T09:39:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 4: 7, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.”

Seeking and finding wisdom is one of the most important things we can do in our walk before God. Obtaining the wisdom, we gain understanding. Though the gaining of wisdom and understanding may cost all we have, it is of the greatest benefit to us. Matthew 13:45-46 talks about the Kingdom of heaven likened to a merchant who was seeking goodly pearls and when he found that one pearl of great price he sold all he had and bought it. This should be our motive, to gain wisdom and do everything we can to obtain it. It should be our prayer each morning that we will grow in wisdom to know God better.

I’m reminded of Solomon when God told him to ask anything he would and God would grant it to him. And the most important thing to Solomon could ask for was wisdom! Let’s review 2 Chronicles 1:7-12, “In that night did God appear unto Solomon, and said unto him, Ask what I shall give thee. And Solomon said unto God, Thou hast shewed great mercy unto David my father, and hast made me to reign in his stead. Now, O LORD God, let thy promise unto David my father be established: for thou hast made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude. Give me now wisdom and knowledge that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people that is so great? And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honor, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king: Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honor, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like.

Imagine the desire for wisdom Solomon had, that he sought only wisdom and knowledge to rule the people. And because our God gives liberally to those who seek and ask of Him, Solomon not only received the wisdom; God gave him great riches, wealth and honor.

As we come before the LORD this day, let us seek after wisdom with our whole heart. Let us lay down those things in our lives that encumber us and let us pick up His Word to lead and guide us.

Prayer: Father, when we abide in your Word and seek after wisdom the meditations of our heart is open to receive your great gift. LORD, open our minds and hearts to receive your wisdom and cause us to thirst after your Word to learn more each day. Cause us to desire truth in our innermost being and purge us from our sins and cleanse us whiter than snow. LORD, you sent redemption to your people; you have commanded your covenant forever; you are holy and your name is honored. LORD, you have told us that the reverence of the LORD Is the beginning of wisdom and those who obey you will gain understanding. We praise you for your promises. Grant us wisdom as we walk before you. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

Fluffy whole wheat pizza? I think yes!

2011-02-04T09:12:00.001-06:00

Ingredients:

CRUST:
1 teaspoon white sugar
1 1/2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon freshly shopped Rosemary
2 tablespoons parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
3 1/2 cups whole wheat flour

Directions:

Pre heat oven to 425

1) In a large bowl: warm water, sugar and yeast (stir sugar until it’s dissolved then add yeast. Make sure to give your yeast a little stir as well so it’s all covered with warm water). Cover and let sit for
TEN MINUTES.

2) If your yeast has doubled in size you can now add: Salt, olive oil, parmesan cheese, rosemary. Lightly stir until well mixed.

3) Start adding ONE cup of flour at a time until the dough starts to form. After dough has formed slid out onto a flour dusted surface.

4) Do not over knead but make sure all the outside flour has been worked into your dough and you have a nice round ball. IMPORTANT, make sure when forming your pizza ball you keep all cracks on the bottom. If they’re on the top you pizza dough will not rise very well.

5) In another large bowl take 1 teaspoon of olive oil and lightly grease the sides. Give the pizza ball a little rub down as well to prevent sticking while rising. Let sit in a warm area for 45-1hr or until doubled in size. .

6) Has it doubled in size?! Yippie, that means you’re 20min away from amazing pizza! Now we need to get it shaped and dressed- Roll a ball of dough with a rolling pin until it will not stretch any further. Then, drape it over both of your fists, and gently pull the edges outward, while rotating the crust. When the circle has reached the desired size, place on a well oiled pizza pan. Top pizza with your favorite toppings, such as sauce, cheese, meats, or vegetables.
Bake for 16 to 20 minutes (depending on thickness) in the preheated oven, until the crust is crisp and golden at the edges, and cheese is melted on the top.

Happy pizza eating my friends!

Bekah

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 3:13 Finding Wisdom

2011-02-03T05:32:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 3:13, “Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.”

Seeking diligently for wisdom has been our course for this week. If we constantly pursue wisdom, we will find it. Our passage today says “Happy is the man that finds wisdom” (see Psalm 19:10; Psalm 119:72 & 127). There’s absolute joy to our souls when we have wisdom guiding us. The next passage states that wisdom is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.

In studying this passage, I’ve turned to the NIV and learned that this verse in addition to the next 5 verses is actually a poem praising wisdom. And from the translation of the NIV, the passage starts in verse 13 with the word blessed and ends in verse 18 with the word blessed. I think of the passage in Matthew that says, “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled” (Matthew 5:6). Our lives are complete when we thirst after God and seek His wisdom.

I’m trusting as we speak on wisdom this week that you understand the wisdom we’re seeking is God’s wisdom, not our own or that of the world. Paul reminds us in 1Corinthians 3:18 – 20 that we’re not to deceive ourselves with the wisdom of the world; for the wisdom of the world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness and again, the LORD knows the thoughts of the wise and they are vain! So, as we come before Him today, are we seeking knowledge and wisdom for ourselves or for God’s Glory?

Prayer: Father, help us to experience your peace as it rules in our hearts. We have been called in one body through Christ and we are thankful. Cause us to turn to your Word to allow Christ to dwell richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing us through psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in our hearts to the Lord. LORD, whatever we do in word or deed, we want to do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God. Cause our hearts to thirst for wisdom and seek its precious treasures. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs- Proverbs 2: 4-6 Hearing Wisdom

2011-02-02T05:56:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 2:4-6, “If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.”

Yesterday’s scripture talked about how wisdom calls out to us from every possible path we cross and every place we lodge, “Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets: She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates.” There’s just no place that we can travel that wisdom will not be our guide, if we only seek it. And today we see that those who earnestly seek after wisdom as one would fine ore or hidden treasures, will find her and in so doing understand the fear of the LORD and the knowledge of God.

I’m often asked, “how do you know you’re following God’s leading, or How do you know God spoke to you and even, How do you know you’re in His will?” I simply reply, it’s always a struggle when we’re faced with trials to pull ourselves away from our concentrated efforts to survive this test, but the best avenue to travel is back to the Word. For, my friends it is there that you will find the answers to your questions. God does not hide from His children; He does not play games and try to make it difficult for us to understand. It is our responsibility, however, to seek Him in all our ways and He will be faithful to show us His leading.

“Where is wisdom found and where does it come from?” God knows and He will reveal it to you if you attend to His Word. We are reminded in the Old Testament as well as the New Testament that we are to keep His Word upon our hearts and abide in Him (see: Deuteronomy 6:7-9; Deuteronomy 11:18-19; Proverbs 6:20-22; Proverbs 7:24; and John 15:3-10; 1John 2:23-29). We must continually seek Him for all things, let not one day go by without communing with Him; we must sincerely desire His Word (see 1Peter 2:2). We must take the treasures we receive from Him and hide them in our hearts so that we will not sin against Him and through the meditation of His word we will find the wealth of wisdom!

And finally, if you lack wisdom, you need only ask of God, but ask in faith, expecting His answer (see James 1:5-6). Friends, I can tell you all about my personal relationship with God and I can share scripture with you; but until you walk with Him and you seek His Word you will not fully know Him.

Prayer: LORD you are calling your people to your side. You desire our fellowship and you are ever ready to express your Love to us. LORD, remind us to turn to your Word when we find ourselves wondering about your will, about wisdom to guide us and about your voice. Teach us through your Word as we apply it to our lives. Bless us LORD as we place your Words upon our hearts and help us to meditate upon them day and night. We pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Abiding Still,

A Moment in Proverbs: Proverbs 1: 20-23 Wisdom Cries out for YOU!

2011-02-01T21:01:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 1:20-23, “Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets: She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying, How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? And the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.”

How dangerous is it to not hearken to the calls of God? So many Christians play with the roulette wheel when it comes to sins. Do we think that God does not care about the lack of obedience to the laws of our land? Do we think the He isn’t looking or didn’t mean “exactly” what He said in His Word? Why do we toy with rebellion, don’t we realize that rebellion will lead to ruin…yes, even “little rebellions.” Why do we rate sin as a small sin or a little white lie, instead of calling it what it is…SIN?

God’s word calls to us to search for wisdom, to take hold of it and cling to it. Yet, as wise as we might act in some situations, we lack mightily in others. While wisdom is available at every turn (through understanding, the light of the law of nature, the powers and faculties of reason and the conscience or better known as the voice of God) we seem to ignore or not recognize the prompting of the Holy Spirit when we need it most. Is it because we are listening for a “still small voice” or do we recognize Him when He cries out?

God is calling out “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool” (see Isaiah 1:18). And when we hear, submit and respond, He is faithful to pour out His spirit upon us by making His will and His Word known to us. What a comfort we can have as His children, to know that no matter what temptation befalls us, He is there to give us wisdom.

Prayer: Father, you have not spoken in secret, your Word is not hidden from your people. You speak righteousness and it is life unto us. LORD, your Word is sound wisdom and discretion; it is life unto our souls and grace to our neck. In your Word we can walk safely, for our foot will not stumble if we abide in you. LORD, go with us this day and draw us to your Word as we encounter temptation. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.

Abiding Still,