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ByEmily
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Sticky Hands: This Is The Stuff

So we all have days where every little thing makes us crazy and as the day goes on, things just get worse.

Whoever said that spilled milk wasn't worth crying over was wrong.

You’re running late and you have a million things on your to-do list, not to mention you need to call Sis. So-n-so to tell her you missed her at church last week and you need to run by the Post Office to mail in a bill and your gas light’s on cause your car’s on empty and you only have about $10 in your bank account so you might be able to get 1/500th of a tank with that $10 considering today’s gas prices and you have no idea what to cook for supper, your 2-year-old is pulling your hair, you have on 2 different shoes, you forgot to brush your teeth and you can’t remember the last time you washed your hair.

Overwhelmed yet? Cause there’s a whole lot of times that I’m overwhelmed and I know that I’m not alone. I came across a song the other day called This Is the Stuff by Francesca Battistelli that pretty much summed up my everyday life (and I’m sure yours, too). I wanted to post her song along with the lyrics and encourage all of you (this includes me) to stop and remember how big we’re blessed and thank God for everything He’s done for us. Of course we always thank Him for the big and major things, but what about the little things, too? If we can go crazy over little things like running a few minutes behind and this and that, then we should be able to thank God for the little simple things He does for us day to day. For example, waking us up in the morning, giving us the green light on our way to work, allowing us to have the extra $1 for a McDonald’s sweet tea (oh yeah!), and a bed to lay down in each night.

In the middle of your little mess, don’t forget how big your blessed. 🙂

Lyrics to This Is The Stuff :
I lost my keys in the great unknown
And call me please ‘Cuz I can’t find my phone

This is the stuff that drives me crazy
This is the stuff that’s getting to me lately
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I’m blessed
This is the stuff that gets under my skin
But I gotta trust You know exactly what You’re doing
It might not be what I would choose
But this is the stuff You use

45 in a 35
Sirens and fines while I’m running behind
Whoa

This is the stuff that drives me crazy
This is the stuff that’s getting to me lately
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I’m blessed
This is the stuff that gets under my skin
But I gotta trust You know exactly what You’re doing
It might not be what I would choose
But this is the stuff You use

So break me of impatience
Conquer my frustrations
I’ve got a new appreciation
It’s not the end of the world
Oh Oh Oh

This is the stuff that drives me crazy
This is the stuff
Someone save me
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I’m blessed
This is the stuff that gets under my skin
And I’ve gotta trust You know exactly what You’re doing
It might not be what I would choose
But this is the stuff You use

 

ByAngie
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How To Build Your Own Lemonade Stand Step 3: Accept

1 To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven:2 A time to be born, And a time to die; A time to plant, And a time to pluck what is planted;3 A time to kill, And a time to heal; A time to break down, And a time to build up;4 A time to weep, And a time to laugh; A time to mourn, And a time to dance;5 A time to cast away stones, And a time to gather stones; A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing;6 A time to gain, And a time to lose; A time to keep, And a time to throw away;7 A time to tear, And a time to sew; A time to keep silence, And a time to speak;8 A time to love, And a time to hate; A time of war, And a time of peace.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 NKJV

So, now that you have gone through the processes of grieving and forgiving, it is time to accept.

Definition of ACCEPT

transitive verb
3 a: to endure without protest or reaction <accept poor living conditions>
b: to regard as proper, normal, or inevitable <the idea is widely accepted>
c: to recognize as true :believe <refused to accept the explanation>

This, obviously, does not always come easily. Our flesh tells us to live in denial. Pretend it never happened. If we don’t acknowledge something, then we can pretend everything is hunky dory and just go on. Unfortunately… it doesn’t work that way. Especially with women. We bottle things way deep down inside only for it to come back up later. Sure, we can live in our make believe little world where bad things and bad days never happen for a time. However, you will inevitably have to face what you are avoiding eventually. Better sooner than later!

What do I mean by telling you to accept what happened? I mean for you to tell yourself, “This happened, and that is just the way it is. God loves me regardless and I will rely on him for mercy and blessings for all of my days.” instead of screaming and throwing a tantrum, “It’s not fair! Why is God allowing this? Why didn’t he do things differently? I want my way and I want it NOW! Waaaahhhh!” (Okay, I got a little dramatic there, but you get the picture.) I never said this would be simple… It may even be brutal. But without it, your lemonade will be bland.

Am I saying to let this event define who you are? Not at all. Will it change you? Possibly. But that could be a good thing depending on the situation. Being that we are covering many different possibilities with a general blanket here it kind of makes this part hard to touch on. Once again, in order for your lemonade to turn out sweet and tasty, you’re going to have to give up a lot of time in prayer. We are supposed to be letting God lead us on how to make his recipe, not ours. Okay, time to wash our hands and prepare for the next step….

Personal note: Before going on any further with this series, I do want to let you know I have been through some very upsetting, traumatic experiences. I’m not some bozo just sitting here saying “Chin up” without an experience myself. I know that EVERYTHING I am telling you is easier said than done. Like I said, depend a lot on prayer and our Savior… He’s the only way to truly make it through!

ByAngie
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Where Does My Legacy Begin?

Knowing how to go about being a Godly example that will be kindly remembered is not easy for all. Especially for those who did not have an example set before them as they were being raised. It’s really not a difficult thing to do, but figuring out where to start can be a challenge, as with anything unfamiliar.

My personal advice would be to start praying with your children. Not just for them or quick bedtime, illness, or meal prayers. All of those prayers are important also. However, when you pray with them you are teaching them how to pray and feel comfortable praying in front of others.

Another idea that would be wonderful is to begin a family devotion time. Whether it be daily or weekly, it gives you a chance to sit and discuss the Lord with your children. Think your little ones wouldn’t enjoy? You might just be surprised! There are quite a few options as far as devotional books and Bibles go for kids and families of all ages. Even toddlers!

The obvious suggestion: Attend church and take your children. This will give them a good habit to have when they’re older. “Sunday means church time” will be instilled in their hearts and minds.

I know all of these things seem so simple, but they really do make a world of difference!

How about you? Is there anything you’re doing to help create your legacy? I’d love to hear about it!

 

ByAngie
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Creating A Legacy

Isn’t it funny? There are a million books and websites you turn to when you find out you’ll be a mother. You’re worried about everything from what to eat, how to decorate the nursery, making sure you set a Godly example, sleep routines, safety, and fashion. Sadly, in the midst of most mainstream books, blogs, and websites the whole subject of passing on your family legacy or even creating one is left out. (Notice I said “mainstream”, there are a ton of resources, just not “popular” ones.)

For a lot of you, this may come easily. Others, not so much. Maybe you came from a family where legacy wasn’t important or a broken home and you were left confused. Or, perhaps, unfortunately you didn’t know your parents. Some of you may have had a wonderful legacy as far as family, but you’re parents did not instill Christian values. Just where does one start or even begin?

What does “legacy” mean? Webster defines it as:

Definition of LEGACY

1: a gift by will especially of money or other personal property : bequest
2: something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or from the past

A legacy can include teachings, morals, traditions, thoughts, property, name, etc. It literally covers just about everything, as long as it is passed down. The goal is to make it a worthy legacy. Something that your children’s children will say, “I am who I am, because of my legacy, and for that I am grateful.”

How do you do this, exactly? Well, it’s certainly not simple. In a nutshell, think of what is in your life that you want to pass down and amplify that. Think of what you do not want to pass down and bring that to a halt. Children are sponges, soaking in every thing we put out whether good or bad. (Ouch, huh? It hurt me to type that last part, probably more than it did for you to read it. 😉 )

I, personally, grew up in a Pastor’s home. My Grandparents were very Godly and amazing to our family as are my parents. However, even so, there are things that I want to pass down that are “my own” but still of Christ.

I wish I could fit this all into one post. I’m sorry. I know I have 4 other series going right now, but when God says to write, I write. So here it is: On Fridays I will be writing “Creating A Legacy”. Please remember that I am no expert, just somewhat experienced and still learning. Feel free to chime in at any time with comments, questions, suggestions, etc.

God bless and have a great weekend!

ByAngie
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Sticky Hands: DANCE PARTY!!!

Taking your children to a disco is NOT endorsed by Raising Sticky Hands To Heaven

Here we are again, it’s Thursday already!!! Yikes!

Have you had a hard time finding time for prayer, praise, and worship this week? I know I have. So I pulled an old trick out of my sleeve. “Dance Party”.

This is really difficult, so place close attention:

  1. Turn on fast, upbeat, fun Christian music.
  2. Gather the kids.
  3. Tell the kids to dance fast. Dance with them. Make it fun, be silly!
  4. While it’s going, sing along, pray, praise, & worship our Creator.

Wait, that’s not at all difficult, is it?

The best part is the list of benefits. Exercise for all, prayer time, you set an example, everyone has fun, and the kids get all their wigglies out. In fact, your littles may nap right after if you keep it up long enough!

If you’re family is large enough, you could start practicing to do a Christian flash mob. (Totally kidding… but hey, it’d be fun!)

Keep doin’ the good work, Moms. Keep praying as you go, raising those sticky hands as often as you can. Store up your treasures in Heaven, and in still the importance of God in your children’s hearts.

Disclaimer: Don’t have a dance party right after lunch. If you do, next thing you know you might be having a puke party. Just sayin’…

ByDiania
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No Time For Sissies!

Lets start this by saying this week has been one whirlwind of events. The sickness in our church has taken a toll on me. Saying I have been discouraged is an understatement. So I decided it was time to get specific with my prayer, this was no time for sissy prayers.

I let God in on what my heart has been feeling, stating to him that I need to see the hand of God move. After months of praying up against brick walls and seeing nothing happen , it was time for hitting the knees and telling Him I need more. One can only endure so much, and that was where I was.

I don’t believe I was alone in my feelings. For the last couple years we have seen more sickness, the most some have endured in a lifetime. To say the least we have been attacked by the enemy, and it was time to take back what he has stolen from us. I can definitely say when Dean was, frustration filled me to the core. Standing back with sissy prayers was not going to be acceptable. What we needed was a team of serious prayer warriors standing in the gap for a brother in Christ, and that’s exactly what we got.

I love the living testimony of people walking by seeing where we put our trust. In our Lord and savior, the only true physician who could heal beyond what any man could do. I pray those people know where real healings come from.

I never doubt what my God can do, I may get discouraged but He is still in the healing business, and that is what I stand on. Promises of a God that cannot lie, and will not lie. I know for a fact that Dean is on his way to a full recovery. Tonite I sat in his chair and asked God to restore him back to a wholeness of wellness. In the name of Jesus I prayed for every illness Dean has, from allergies to back pain. Get ready Dean your gonna be better then ever, like I said,

You will arise and go forth, in the name of the Lord of host, for he has conquered every foe by his name, by his name, I will declare he is the Lord I will trust and not be afraid I will arise and go forth by his name…………….

I put my faith in God, he came thru once again. Amen……………..I love you Lord, and again I give you the praise…..

 

Originally written by Diania on April 14th, 2011… In reference to Angie’s Dad, Dean… You can read more about the situation we were all in here.

ByAngie
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A “Simple” Calling: The Ministry Of Motherhood

Okay, first of all: We’re all mommies here, so we all know that to call motherhood a “simple” calling is really kind of a joke. Being a mom is one of the most difficult and most rewarding jobs one can ever have. But my point can be explained here.

Some of us knew from a young age that we would one day answer the call. We played with dolls, dreamed of having a family, and played “house” every chance we got. Others? They had no idea that motherhood would be a part of their life’s journey. Either their perspective changed or it “snuck up on them”, so to speak. At the same time, some of us came about it very easily and for others it was a full on battle to acquire.

Angie with her 2 oldest children in August of 2006

Regardless, the call is still the same. In reality, it is not simple at all. We are responsible for a new generation that will take over after us. The future is literally on us. The morals that the next generation will have or not have are in our hands. Should we not do our best to bring them up right, we will be the ones who have to answer. Like I said, far from simple.

Let me stop right here and point out I am NOT an expert. I don’t even consider myself an amazing mother. I do my best from day to day, and pray that God leads me to what he wants me to do in this ministry to my children.

So while we are not leading millions to The Lord, we are making a big impression. What can we do with this ministry? Well, here are just a few things, in no particular order…

  • Pray. Without ceasing. Pray for your children when you wake up, when you make their breakfast, when you wash their clothes/dishes, when they are well, when they are sick. Pray when they go to bed, pray when you go to bed. Pray for guidance, and for their souls.
  • Study. Mostly the Bible. But also, Dr. Dobson, Dr. Kevin Leman, and many many others have written many wonderful books on the subject of Christian parenting. I don’t know how many times just studying a true experts suggestions, prayers, findings, and opinions have helped me in my own journey.
  • Teach. Read Bible stories to your children. Make sure they learn manners. Have a weekly memory verse. Give them appropriate chores. Your child learning about Jesus, morals, and character development are imperative. I’m not saying pull your kid out of school and teach them everything at home. To each their own. Do it in your daily life, read a couple picture books with your younger children. Talk about it with your older children. Refer above to “pray” & “study”.
  • Be patient. They are only children. They are still growing, learning, and are constantly adapting. Cut them a little slack. Don’t be too strict.
  • Love. Most importantly, because if you don’t show God’s love to your children, who will? They thrive on love, and as their mother, they need it from you.
  • Discipline. Don’t be afraid of it. However, keep it appropriate and within reason. Once again, I suggest “study”.
  • Make time. Quality time goes a LONG way. Little things like house work can wait. For years many told me this, only as my oldest has turned 10 this year am I realizing I missed out a lot on the first few months of his life while I obsessed over the state of my home.
  • Be an example. Don’t be a “Say as I do, not as I do” mom. Give them something to aim for, not to settle for.

Yeah, I know this all looks great in print but another story in reality. Trust me: I have 5 kids, 2 of which I do not have full time physical but only joint legal custody over. In addition, my other 3 that live with me are all ages 3 and under. I definitely know. Some of this that I’ve listed are really things I’ve only learned recently. Others, things I’m learning right now. Some, I knew from the beginning. But ALL are a challenge.

Once again, motherhood is not easy. But it is call of God. Never think otherwise. Do your best, as it’s all you can do. Before you know it, our babies will be grown and have babies of their own… and we’ll miss this. Deeply.

Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 NKJV

 

A very special THANK YOU to Diania for her insight on this post… You’re the best!

ByDiania
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Jars Of Dreams

Ever have a dream you know you will never live? A dream just placed in a jar with all the other dreams that are unreachable? I’m not talking about something you may want in life, but know it’s unattainable… Most dreams are that way anyway. But one so close. So real. That’s the dream I’m speaking of.

What stands in our way of making that dream come to life? Is it fear, failure, or just plain negligence on our part for not reaching out hard enough to make that dream come true? Your dream could just be a place or someone you want and know is impossible to have. You still know deep down inside it’s never going to be. There’s a hidden pain that stays with that dream that only you and God knows. And next to it is sorrow for him having to tell you it’s untouchable. If this was just a dream from sleeping you could just wake yourself up, shake it off, go on with life, and face reality again.

Someone asked recently:

“What has God done for you lately?”

God has done a lot for me, so I feel selfish knowing I have dreams that will never be attained. But to lie and say I don’t want those dreams would be lying to my heart and to God.

And lately? I have beat myself up enough, so deep inside, in my heart anyway. I’m going to be honest with him and myself. If nothing is hidden from him then how can I expect him not to know my every thought and dream?

Who knows? Maybe someday God will line everything up and make those dreams reachable. Until then, I will keep them between him and myself, hidden right here in my heart. Untouchable by anyone else. It’s like our own little secret, between the two of us.

Love,

Originally written by Diania on June 23, 2010

ByDiania
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My Child

While working one day, I stopped to pray
Cause things were bringing me down
As I bowed my head, thought of things I dread
I felt my knees hit the ground

As time went by, I started to cry
The Holy Spirit filled the air
He said, “My child, let go”
I felt the tears flow
And my sins I started to share

As He held my hand, He said I understand
My child, you’ve been forgiven
The weight you carry is why I tarry
And now you can go on living

There’s a reason I’m here, to dry your tear
There’s joy to restore in your heart
You’re part of my plan
I hope you understand
You have been from the start

All you go through is planned out for you
It’s a season for you to grow
I won’t walk away or let you stray
But there are things you need to know

My Word is your light, so you need to fight
Stay strong in all that you do
Never give up, just lift your cup
And know I’ll see you through

If you need to see where I might be
My child, just open your eyes
I’ve told you before that I love you more
That should come as no surprise

After all my child
What more do you need
Then a Father who gives His best
If you come to me first and seek my face
I’m sure I can handle the rest

Nothing you do can turn me away
I’m the maker of the air you breathe
Till you take your last breath
And I carry you home
I have no reason to leave

So hold on my Child, till I call you home
And remember I’m always near
There’s no reason to worry
If your prayers reach home
I assure you I’m always here

All that you’ve done I keep in my heart
You’re a treasure in Heaven above
So open your life and allow me back in
And I’ll fill your heart with love

Written by Diania Comstock on August 20th, 2011
ByKaren
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What You Talkin’ ‘Bout Willis?

While speaking this way to a Jackson or Drummond might be funny, probably not the best or most recommended way to speak to Jesus. Just sayin'...

I know, I know. I watch too many re-runs of “nostalgic” television…

Anyhoo, has anyone been hearing from God lately? Seems like when you need Him to speak the most, He is ever most silent. Not true though. Most people want to hear an audible voice so bad, that they miss out on the little things that God is trying to tell them. Then others just hear what they want to hear. If it’s not the answer they want, they didn’t “really” get an answer now did they?… hmmm

 

The Bible is God’s word; His life plans laid out for us to follow. He leaves visible answers to prayers for us everyday. It’s all in how you look at life and the situations that are given to us.
Which brings to mind a real life story of a boy, who was in an automobile accident. He received severe head trauma and such in this wreck. As he underwent several test, scans showed that he had large tumors on his brain that were life threatening. Since all of his test were done at a large children’s hospital, he was able to receive the immediate medical attention that he needed, so that he could have a full recovery. If the wreck had not happened, would he have been able to have that full recovery? Only God knows. But this accident was a blessing in disguise. It’s all how you look at it.
When Jesus told the leper to dip in the water 7 times, I can see him now saying, “say what? Did He just tell me to dip in the river?” It’s hard to believe that something so simple, could change your entire life. It’s like an “I could’ve had a V8” moment.
When God speaks, whether it’s audible, written, visible, or just the still small voice in your spirit man, don’t be surprised if it makes no sense whatsoever! You have to keep in mind that His thoughts are not our thoughts and His ways are not our ways. The wreck mentioned above, could be looked at as a sad situation, but God turned it around for the good of that family.
So if God gives you an answer that is unconventional, don’t say, “What You talkin’ ’bout God?” Just go with it. It’s for your own good! =)

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