Hosanna Emily's Blog, page 24
October 31, 2016
Farewell October
First of all, yes, I do realize that this is my third post this week. How did that even happen? Well, I promise that I won't post again for a solid week. =) hehe. Enjoy your Hosanna-free time. =P
October was such a busy time. School seemed to predominate most of my waking time, but there were also wonderful memories and sweet family-time that highlighted the month. =) Even though it's the last day of October, it still feels like summer outside. *sigh* What a delightful autumn God has blessed us with. ♥
Adventures in Life:
My family got to watch two plays/musicals together! =) Both Little Women and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory were well done and enjoyable ways to hang out with family and friends. *memories of past performances rush in* =)Three birthdays passed! (yes, three! hehe)I did a little bit of redesigning on my blog, had my first vlog post, and hosted a giveaway!I went to my first circus ever! (imagine two elephants, performing lions, juggling, trampoline flips, dog tricks, etc.) =) My baby sister still raves about how she touched a real elephant on his ear. =) "Me hike elefants." (Isn't toddler language the cutest?!)My family also went to the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga for an afternoon. That place is really fun. =)We got closer to moving. =P (moving didn't actually happen like we had hoped... maybe next month.) *shrugs*I got to meet JORDY!!!! *ahem* Well, it was a video chat, but that counts, right? I saw her face to face, heard her lovely voice, and met her sweet siblings. ♥ Let's just say that I was bursting with excitement when I clicked the "video call" button. hehehe. Yes, be very jealous. ;)Tonight we are going reverse trick-or-treating! =) Even though my family doesn't celebrate Halloween, we enjoy going to town to pass out Jesus DVDs, fun Gospel tracts, and comic books that tell the story of Jesus. It's such a fun way to share the Good News! (though I will admit that the costumes that people wear... *shudders* Why would anyone want to put them on?? But it's worth it for us, and I pray it changes someone's life.) =)I rode on a 4-wheeler for the first time. =)
Books I Read: 5+
5 Pillars of Christian Growth by NR JohnsonOne Thing You Can't Do in Heaven by Mark CahillRevenge of the Dragons by Ed DunlopSet Apart Femininity by Leslie LudyElsie's Endless Wait by Martha Finley
And a bunch of short stories that I read for my college class including...
A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery O'ConnorA Rose for Emily by William FaulknerBattle Royal by Ralph EllisonThe Rocking Horse Winner by D.H. LawrenceTo Build a Fire by Jack LondonThe Open Boat by Stephen CraneThe Yellow Wall-Paper by Charlotte Perkins Gilmoreetc. =)
My Favorite(s):Both One Thing You Can't Do in Heaven and Set Apart Femininity are great, impacting books that encouraged me in my walk with God. They were also very interesting with real-life examples from the authors' lives. =) But as for fiction, Elsie's Endless Wait will always be a fond favorite from my childhood days. ♥
My Least Favorite(s):Basically...almost all the short stories I was required to read. =/ Many of them had "iffy" content. Others just weren't interesting or had weird story lines. But they were part of school...so... =|
My New Creations:
School was crazy this month. =) Other than writing short stories, essays, and poems for my classes, I didn't have time to write "for fun." It was a challenge to find time for blogging as well. Thus...my novel still awaits editing. =)
Blog Friends:
God Incidences From Apples of Gold by Jessica
My Fear as a Writer From The Left-Handed Typist by Abi
The Pilgrim Wants - a Poem From Becoming Lost by Hannah
Blog Posts:
How was your October? What were some of the blessings God gave you this past month? Comment below!
October 28, 2016
A Vlog Post
Guess what day it is...????? =)
My very first vlog post is now here! Go ahead and see what I look like in front of a camera. ;) hehe. This was actually so much fun...if you are wondering if you should make a vlog post, do it. Please. And then send me the link 'cause I want to watch it too. I want to see all your faces. =)
Thank you for "forcing" me into this. Haha. =) That's what readers are for, isn't it? And all the wonderful questions... I wish I could answer them all! But anyway, I'm keeping you from the whole point of this post. And you probably skipped reading this far anyway. Well, be that way. =P
Without further adeu........
Hmm? Do you want me to make a sequel vlog post to answer the rest of the questions? =) *rubs my hands together* Did anything about seeing me in person surprise you? =)
As a side note, just in case you didn't notice, I have started making some subtle changes to the blog's design...if you see more changes within the next few days, please forgive my untidiness. =) I'll do my best to get this done quickly and painlessly. hehe.
AND GUESS WHAT? We now have giveaway winners! I'm so, so, so, so excited to announce...
The winner of The Mystery of the Midnight Trespasser (paperback) is... Savannah P!
The winner of Set Apart Femininity is... Abi E!
And the international winner of The Mystery of the Midnight Trespasser (ebook) is... Diana!
Congratulations! *throws confetti* I will be contacting you soon with information on how to receive your prize. =) And thank you to everyone else who entered... I only wish that I could send you all a gift. But because I can't, here is a virtual hug for being such amazing readers. *hugs* I really am so very thankful for you all.
Thoughts???? =)
October 24, 2016
Their Desperate Plea
If you missed my last post, remember to sign up for the giveaway that I'm hosting! There are only a few short days left... =)
Marlene stands at the bus stop, tapping her foot and pulling her thick, wool jacket tighter around her thin shoulders. A brisk wind blows through the air, grabbing the rain and throwing it back into her face like hundreds of tiny bees stinging simultaneously. Grumbling to herself, she folds her arms. Her eyes scan the road before her for the hundredth time. Every vehicle imaginable rushes by, splashing dark mud onto the edges of her coat. Every vehicle - except the bus.
She almost doesn't notice the nudge at her elbow. Another teenager stands there, glancing down at the iPod in her hands. Neon earplugs block out the sound of the street as she takes a quick moment to glance up and down the road. Marlene watches as she steps off the sidewalk.
It happens all at once. Marlene sees a car turn onto the road at the last second. The glaring headlights shine into her eyes through the bitter rain. She sees the young girl push on, unaware of the danger. In only seconds, a million thoughts rush through her brain. The girl will die. I could reach out and grab her back. I could save her life. No one else is close enough. It's one step...or death.
But the mud, the freezing air...and what if someone sees me and thinks I'm weird? Marlene turns her eyes away. She glances down the street, a smile lighting her face as she finally sees the bus making his way up the road. But her decision comes with a cost.
A scream. A squeal of tires. A deathly silence. And then all at once, a dozen bypasses rush onto the scene, yelling, screaming for help. But it's too late. They all know that as they stare at the still body. The person who would never move again. Never smile. Never see a sunrise. Never feel a gentle, spring breeze rustle their face. Never feel love glowing in their heart.
Marlene trudges onto the bus. She shrugs. It wasn't her fault. Surely, if the girl was meant to live, God could have sent someone else to save her. It must have just been her time.
The growing darkness embraces the bus as it rushes into the distance and away. Away from the tears, the pain, the death. Away from the memories. The nightmares.
Away from her costly decision.
Every one of us should leave that story with a similar description of Marlene in mind. Morbid. Repulsive. Selfish. She definitely isn't someone who we would want to be like. Who in their right mind would willingly let someone suffer - or die - when we could prevent it? If all it took was one little step, who wouldn't take that opportunity to save a life?
What if I told you that we are like Marlene?
You are like her. I am like her. I have willingly let someone walk by me who was headed towards death. I have made the decision to let that person leave without warning them. And why? It's more comfortable. It's easier.
There is an important truth that we so often miss: 10 out of 10 people die. Everyone around you - your family, friends, strangers, enemies - they will all die. What's next?
As Christians, we hold the answer to that question. We have hope! JESUS is the reason we don't have to fear death. He is the reason we can have joy, peace, and true life. He is the reason that the future doesn't have to be a bleak, scary horizon, full of doubt and fear.
Christians hold a priceless treasure in their hands. The Good News is a key. We are all held captive by the chains of death. Sin. Fear. Evil. Yet there is hope! The Good News of Jesus' measureless love for us can break those bonds. It can loosen our fetters so that we walk free! Free forever!
But why is the area of witnessing one that we tend to avoid? Why do we look at it as a "duty" or a horrible task that comes along with being a Christian?
When Jesus ascended into heaven, He gave us a clear-cut command, "Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature." But what else did He say? "I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (see Mark 16 and Matthew 28)
Yes, witnessing can be uncomfortable. But why do we fear what man thinks of us when we know that God has commanded us to share His love? We might be rejected, but God is still honored. And do you think that there is any chance, any chance at all that you will get to heaven and hear, "You were a great person, but you shared My love too much?" No...I think most of us will get the exact opposite words. Why wouldn't we be sharing God's love as much as possible? What could hinder us from this honor? The honor of representing Jesus on this earth as His messengers?
I know that many of us struggle in this area. When we think of sharing the Gospel, we make excuses. Our fear often grabs our tongues. We remain silent. I struggle with this often, but we need to remember He is with us always. We can do all things through Christ! What great news this is. We don't have to rely on our own strength, ability, or intelligence. We only need to trust Him.
Will you step out and share the Good News? Or will you let them walk straight towards death without uttering a warning?
As a side note, if you are struggling with witnessing, I really recommend a book by Mark Cahill that was very encouraging in this area in my own life. One Thing You Can't Do in Heaven is full of practical tips, encouragement, and real-life examples that impacted me, making me want to share God's love to everyone. =) It might change the way you view witnessing as well.
Can you think of lost people around you who need to hear the Gospel? How can you take definite steps today to encourage them towards a relationship with God? Comment below!
Marlene stands at the bus stop, tapping her foot and pulling her thick, wool jacket tighter around her thin shoulders. A brisk wind blows through the air, grabbing the rain and throwing it back into her face like hundreds of tiny bees stinging simultaneously. Grumbling to herself, she folds her arms. Her eyes scan the road before her for the hundredth time. Every vehicle imaginable rushes by, splashing dark mud onto the edges of her coat. Every vehicle - except the bus.
She almost doesn't notice the nudge at her elbow. Another teenager stands there, glancing down at the iPod in her hands. Neon earplugs block out the sound of the street as she takes a quick moment to glance up and down the road. Marlene watches as she steps off the sidewalk.
It happens all at once. Marlene sees a car turn onto the road at the last second. The glaring headlights shine into her eyes through the bitter rain. She sees the young girl push on, unaware of the danger. In only seconds, a million thoughts rush through her brain. The girl will die. I could reach out and grab her back. I could save her life. No one else is close enough. It's one step...or death.
But the mud, the freezing air...and what if someone sees me and thinks I'm weird? Marlene turns her eyes away. She glances down the street, a smile lighting her face as she finally sees the bus making his way up the road. But her decision comes with a cost.
A scream. A squeal of tires. A deathly silence. And then all at once, a dozen bypasses rush onto the scene, yelling, screaming for help. But it's too late. They all know that as they stare at the still body. The person who would never move again. Never smile. Never see a sunrise. Never feel a gentle, spring breeze rustle their face. Never feel love glowing in their heart.
Marlene trudges onto the bus. She shrugs. It wasn't her fault. Surely, if the girl was meant to live, God could have sent someone else to save her. It must have just been her time.
The growing darkness embraces the bus as it rushes into the distance and away. Away from the tears, the pain, the death. Away from the memories. The nightmares.
Away from her costly decision.
Every one of us should leave that story with a similar description of Marlene in mind. Morbid. Repulsive. Selfish. She definitely isn't someone who we would want to be like. Who in their right mind would willingly let someone suffer - or die - when we could prevent it? If all it took was one little step, who wouldn't take that opportunity to save a life?
What if I told you that we are like Marlene?
You are like her. I am like her. I have willingly let someone walk by me who was headed towards death. I have made the decision to let that person leave without warning them. And why? It's more comfortable. It's easier.
There is an important truth that we so often miss: 10 out of 10 people die. Everyone around you - your family, friends, strangers, enemies - they will all die. What's next?
As Christians, we hold the answer to that question. We have hope! JESUS is the reason we don't have to fear death. He is the reason we can have joy, peace, and true life. He is the reason that the future doesn't have to be a bleak, scary horizon, full of doubt and fear.
Christians hold a priceless treasure in their hands. The Good News is a key. We are all held captive by the chains of death. Sin. Fear. Evil. Yet there is hope! The Good News of Jesus' measureless love for us can break those bonds. It can loosen our fetters so that we walk free! Free forever!
But why is the area of witnessing one that we tend to avoid? Why do we look at it as a "duty" or a horrible task that comes along with being a Christian?
When Jesus ascended into heaven, He gave us a clear-cut command, "Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature." But what else did He say? "I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (see Mark 16 and Matthew 28)
Yes, witnessing can be uncomfortable. But why do we fear what man thinks of us when we know that God has commanded us to share His love? We might be rejected, but God is still honored. And do you think that there is any chance, any chance at all that you will get to heaven and hear, "You were a great person, but you shared My love too much?" No...I think most of us will get the exact opposite words. Why wouldn't we be sharing God's love as much as possible? What could hinder us from this honor? The honor of representing Jesus on this earth as His messengers?
I know that many of us struggle in this area. When we think of sharing the Gospel, we make excuses. Our fear often grabs our tongues. We remain silent. I struggle with this often, but we need to remember He is with us always. We can do all things through Christ! What great news this is. We don't have to rely on our own strength, ability, or intelligence. We only need to trust Him.
Will you step out and share the Good News? Or will you let them walk straight towards death without uttering a warning?
As a side note, if you are struggling with witnessing, I really recommend a book by Mark Cahill that was very encouraging in this area in my own life. One Thing You Can't Do in Heaven is full of practical tips, encouragement, and real-life examples that impacted me, making me want to share God's love to everyone. =) It might change the way you view witnessing as well.
Can you think of lost people around you who need to hear the Gospel? How can you take definite steps today to encourage them towards a relationship with God? Comment below!
October 17, 2016
Blogiversary Announcement!
How long have I been away from this little blog? Has it only been one or two weeks? I've missed you all so very much! You don't realize how close you grow to your delightful readers until you take a break from blogging. *sigh* Even so, I hope that this announcement will make up for one less blog post last week. =)
Yes! I'm announcing some fun things that are coming up in my blogiversary celebration! =)
First of all....
Blog Changes! I'm working on designing a potential new blog banner as well as making some other changes. After creating several designs, I sent them to a handful of friends...and everyone gave me a different answer. =P *sigh* So...it's up to me to decide. =) I hope to have the designs final this month without getting grey hair. ;) Let's see if this actually works out like I'm hoping it does... hehe.
A Giveaway! I'm actually hosting three giveaways, all presented below! *throws confetti* I'm actually super excited to be giving these away...I can't wait to see who is the winner and gets to be blessed. =) These are some great books...just saying... =) hehe. They include two paperback books for local readers (USA please!) — my novella The Mystery of the Midnight Trespasser and a nonfiction book by Leslie Ludy that convicted me on several levels called Set-Apart Femininity: God's Sacred Intent for Every Young Woman (see my full review here). Even if you don't win these books, I do recommend them for future reads. =) For my delightful international readers, I am giving away an ebook edition of my novella. =) I hope that whoever wins these books are blessed by them and that they help you to grow in your relationship with Jesus. ♥ I would send these books to every one of you... but money would be an issue. =(
As a note, yes - I am only doing free entries! There is no need to share this giveaway, subscribe to my blog, add the books on Goodreads, etc. BUT... (there's always a but, right?) feel free to do so if you desire! The more who enter the merrier. =)
a Rafflecopter giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Lastly, after numerous readers requested it, I will be hosting a Q & A Vlog! =) If you have some questions that you would like me to answer, go ahead and write them below! I will then answer them through a video! However, I do retain the rights to pick and choose which questions I will present in my vlog. (thus, if you ask stalker-ish questions like, "When is your birthday and where do you live and what is your bank account number?" I might not answer) =P I have put 5 slots for questions on this questionnaire, but if you want to submit a second or third, feel free to do so! *whispers* Ariel, I'm talking to you... ;)
Loading...
Let me know if you have any questions! I hope to post my vlog and the winners of the giveaway sometime near the end of October. I'll leave you there wondering when the special date will be. ;)
I hope you have fun and are blessed through my blogiversary celebration. =) You are such a blessing to me, and I am thankful to know each and every one of you. As always, let me know if I can be praying for you. ♥
October 3, 2016
Changes in the Air
It's October! And with October come a change in the air. The warm, embracing, summer air disappears as a crisp, colder wind blows in. Leaves blow through the heavens in scarlet and golden hues. Like the air, my blog will be having some changes that you should be aware of. Be forewarned! =)
First of all, this is my one-year blog anniversary!!!!!!! My first blog post was posted on the third of October in 2015. =) I hope I can say that my writing and blogging skills have improved since then. =) I can't believe a whole year has passed...how did this happen? It has been an amazing time, and I have been blessed beyond imagination! Thank YOU all so very much for reading all these posts and just being...well, you! =) I have met so many amazing, creative, and talented individuals through my year of blogging. ♥ I hope to come up with something to celebrate the anniversary this month...any ideas? Please??
I have made some changes to my blog. The first is that I will not be posting book reviews anymore. But wait! All is not gloom! If you want to read my book reviews, feel free to add me on Goodreads. I just want to replace my book review posts with something more interesting, impacting, and inspiring. I will still be posting an occasional movie review here and there because I think they are enjoyed more than book reviews. =) (and I like posting them) ;)
Instead of eliminating my "book reviews" page forever, I am replacing it with a "contact" page! If you have any questions, prayer requests, comments, or just want someone to chat with, you can send me an email. =) I am looking forward to hearing from you. ♥
Another change is that I will not be writing tagged posts as much anymore. Like book reviews, I would like to replace them with more meaningful posts. This doesn't mean I won't throw a tag in every once in a while, but please don't be offended if you tag me for something that I don't end up doing. I will have one last tag post soon, and I may have more in the future. However, I would like to cut down on the number that I post.
Lastly, and I hesitate to share this, I will not be posting as much as usual this October. Life has been crazy...and I don't want to be staying up late Monday nights every week to write these posts. If I have something written, I'll post it...however, I may skip weeks or post on a day other than Tuesday. I warned you, so don't panic. ;) hehe. I can be unpredictable, can't I?
Oh dear...I can't end a blog post on such a depressing note, can I? Okay...so I'll give you one more update. (this really IS the last one) I *might* be updating the look of Having a Heart Like His this month! I am going to contact some of my awesome readers and some bloggers that I greatly respect and ask their opinion on some designing ideas. =) I'm still not 100% certain if my blog's design will change much or not...but I will warn you. =)
Thank you so very much, my dear readers! I appreciate you more than you may ever know. Now hop off this post and shoot me an email! I want to hear from you. ;)
What should I do for my blog anniversary? Ideas?? Can you help suggest some design changes for my blog? Comment below!
September 29, 2016
Farewell September
What a month. September was full of ups and downs, busyness and school, smiles and tears. However, I can say that I learned so much this month. ♥
Looking back, it might seem that we didn't do anything... but school. School has to count for something though. That was my September life... school, school, school. But it's fall! Horray for that! =)
Adventures in Life:
Precious Kalem went to be in Jesus' arms forever. ♥Two siblings and I went with some friends to watch a play called Street Robber about the life of George Müller, one of the most devoted prayer-warriors of all time. =)A lot of birthdays... =)Autumn began! Fall weather is here! Crisp breezes, cool air, dropping temperature, colorful leaves, pumpkins... *happy sigh*I survived school for another month! Woot! =P We got to spend last Sunday swimming in the lake with some great friends! What a way to end summer! =DDecluttering! Yes, we spent the month downsizing a lot! It feels so good to have an organized house. =)I had my first discussion post! Thank you to everyone who participated in it! Wow...I was just blown away by all of your impacting and convicting answers. =) I know I won't look at books the same way again. ;)Coming up in October...my family is moving! I would appreciate prayers that everything goes smoothly...and for all of our sad goodbyes. =(
Books I Read: 8
The Golden Dagger by Ed DunlopReturn of the Dagger by Ed DunlopThe Isle of Dragons by Ed DunlopBartleby the Scrivener by Herman MelvilleSet-Apart Femininity by Leslie LudyTaking the High Places by Terry Snow and Jemimah WrightHeart of Darkness by Joseph ConradThe Lady with the Little Dog by Anton Chekhov
My Favorite(s):All the books by Ed Dunlop have been a personal favorite for years. =) As for non-fiction, I found Set Apart Femininity a very convicting and inspirational read. I could really relate with the topics the author covered. It is an amazing and challenging read for any (and every!) young woman who wants to grow in their relationship with God.
My Least Favorite(s):The Lady with the Little Dog was a completely inappropriate read. The whole story is based off of two married people having an affair and being unfaithful to their spouses. It was horrible. (I only read it for a college class...so I had to finish it) =P Heart of Darkness was another tedious read that didn't make any sense. The author rambled quite a bit. After reading the whole book, I still feel like I missed the plot. Or was there a plot in the first place? I'm not sure.
My New Creations:
With the craziness of life, I didn't get much writing or editing done. =( Even finding the time to write here on my blog was hard. However, I did start the editing process on Emblem of Hope! I hope to be able to spend more editing time this next month, if school permits. =)
Blog Friends:
God in Three Words From Apples of Gold by Jessica
Marks of Love From Faith Warrior Films by Josiah
Prayer - an Unused Yet Powerful Weapon From Becoming Lost by Hannah
Wisdom vs Foolishness: Which is Better? From Jordy Leigh
Blog Posts:
Here are the archives!
What was your September like? How's school going for you? Comment below!
September 26, 2016
Why Everyone Needs a Little Brother (or two)
Today, on a very rare occasion, I decided to take advantage of the splendid, chilly weather and go running. *gasp* Me? Running? hehe. Like I said, it was a rare occasion. After I pulled on my running shoes, I went out to ask which of my 8 siblings would want to accompany me. Sadly, three of them were busy building a sheep-house, while the others were feasting on Mom's delicious taquitos. None of them wanted to go tire themselves out with me. (whaaat?) None of them, that is, except my youngest, 5 1/2 year old, golden-haired, little brother. We gasped, panted, and tried to convince each other that we didn't need to take a break as we raced down our country road. As we neared the quarter-mile mark, his little tongue came out as he strained forward, always making me laugh. To make a long story short, he made my running "trial" enjoyable, full of silly faces and giggles.
Afterwards, he decided to come with me as I went outside to be by myself and pray about what I should write in this blog post. As I tried to be still and speak to God, he comes up and pokes me in the side saying, "I was praying. I prayed about poking you!" In the end, I decided to write about how awesome little brothers are.
Everyone needs a little brother. (or two, or three, or more)
Just in case you didn't already know, little brothers never stop making silly faces (see above), trying to tickle you, poke you, scare you, and do everything they can to get your attention and love. If you're being pulled down by the cares of the world, they show you the bright side of life by just being themselves. They are always willing to play on the piano for you (which may sound more like banging on the piano) or take you out on one of their adventures. Ultimately, they make the world brighter, funnier, and so much more fun.
Can you imagine having a quiet house? A house void of any human laugh, cry, or speech? I sure can't. How dreary and lonesome it must be, hearing your own voice echo against the bare walls! If you have little brothers, there is no need to fear a quiet home! Their singing, music making, wrestling, screaming, banging, and thousands of other "little boy" sounds ring throughout every room. Every. single. room. I promise that if you have little brothers, there will be no lack of noise. =)
When I cook, I am NEVER lacking a partner. No way! I always have an olive chopping, dough mixing, egg cracking, ingredient getting, little boy by my side, wearing a slightly too-large apron. Instead of laboring by myself in the kitchen, I have an adorable helper who never stops chattering away while we work together. It makes the task that much more enjoyable. Aaaand we can both lick out the bowl and taste the results together. ♥
Little brothers LOVE hugs (depending on their unique personalities, of course). ;) They need a hug in the morning after they wake up. They need one after they fall off their bike and scrape their knees. They need one while you curl up on the couch and read a book to them. They need one before bedtime. They need one in the middle of the night when they're scared. If that's not enough, they also need some in between! =) Yes, there is NO lack of hugs in this house.
The list could go on and on. There is always someone wanting to play checkers, have a tea party, sit on your lap, tell stories, go on a walk, play in the rain, catch lightning bugs, and paint a picture with you. You'll never be lonely. Little brothers are pretty amazing. =) I hope you think so too.
Psalm 133:1 "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"
Do you have a little brother? What are your favorite things to do with him? Comment below!
Afterwards, he decided to come with me as I went outside to be by myself and pray about what I should write in this blog post. As I tried to be still and speak to God, he comes up and pokes me in the side saying, "I was praying. I prayed about poking you!" In the end, I decided to write about how awesome little brothers are.
Everyone needs a little brother. (or two, or three, or more)
Just in case you didn't already know, little brothers never stop making silly faces (see above), trying to tickle you, poke you, scare you, and do everything they can to get your attention and love. If you're being pulled down by the cares of the world, they show you the bright side of life by just being themselves. They are always willing to play on the piano for you (which may sound more like banging on the piano) or take you out on one of their adventures. Ultimately, they make the world brighter, funnier, and so much more fun.
Can you imagine having a quiet house? A house void of any human laugh, cry, or speech? I sure can't. How dreary and lonesome it must be, hearing your own voice echo against the bare walls! If you have little brothers, there is no need to fear a quiet home! Their singing, music making, wrestling, screaming, banging, and thousands of other "little boy" sounds ring throughout every room. Every. single. room. I promise that if you have little brothers, there will be no lack of noise. =)
When I cook, I am NEVER lacking a partner. No way! I always have an olive chopping, dough mixing, egg cracking, ingredient getting, little boy by my side, wearing a slightly too-large apron. Instead of laboring by myself in the kitchen, I have an adorable helper who never stops chattering away while we work together. It makes the task that much more enjoyable. Aaaand we can both lick out the bowl and taste the results together. ♥
Little brothers LOVE hugs (depending on their unique personalities, of course). ;) They need a hug in the morning after they wake up. They need one after they fall off their bike and scrape their knees. They need one while you curl up on the couch and read a book to them. They need one before bedtime. They need one in the middle of the night when they're scared. If that's not enough, they also need some in between! =) Yes, there is NO lack of hugs in this house.The list could go on and on. There is always someone wanting to play checkers, have a tea party, sit on your lap, tell stories, go on a walk, play in the rain, catch lightning bugs, and paint a picture with you. You'll never be lonely. Little brothers are pretty amazing. =) I hope you think so too.
Psalm 133:1 "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"
Do you have a little brother? What are your favorite things to do with him? Comment below!
September 22, 2016
The Pray for People and Country Tag
Wow!! I was tagged to do a praying post! A tag to encourage people to pray more? No way! This makes me incredibly excited. =) Thank you so much, Rebekah Ashleigh! Whoever started this tag had a wonderful idea.
Presenting...
The Rules:
– Thank the blogger who tagged you. – Copy and paste the rules.– Pledge to pray for one person and one country or city every day for two weeks. – Tag two bloggers. – Have fun!
#1 - One Person: I'm going to be praying for my dad who has a busy schedule right now as we are building a new house and getting ready to move in soon and the stress that comes with that. ♥ Love you daddy!
#2 - One Country or City: I'm going to disobey this rule. =P Instead of picking a country, I want to pray for the members of ISIS. They need Jesus. =(
I tag...
//Faith//Savannah Grace
If you also want to participate in this tag, I would love if you let me know in the comments! =)
Presenting...
The Rules:
– Thank the blogger who tagged you. – Copy and paste the rules.– Pledge to pray for one person and one country or city every day for two weeks. – Tag two bloggers. – Have fun!
#1 - One Person: I'm going to be praying for my dad who has a busy schedule right now as we are building a new house and getting ready to move in soon and the stress that comes with that. ♥ Love you daddy!
#2 - One Country or City: I'm going to disobey this rule. =P Instead of picking a country, I want to pray for the members of ISIS. They need Jesus. =(
I tag...
//Faith//Savannah Grace
If you also want to participate in this tag, I would love if you let me know in the comments! =)
September 19, 2016
Bookish Thoughts || Discussion
"What are your favorite fiction books that have really impacted you?"
I stared at the email, thinking, pondering. My eyes scanned over the question again. What is a fiction book that has really impacted me? The question caught me off-guard. Impacted me? When does a book actually change your life? Aren't books for relaxing and enjoying yourself?
Ephesians 5:15-17 says, "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is."
I've heard so many times that movies are a waste of our time. Video games are a waste of our time. The internet is a waste of our time. Worrying is a waste of our time. The list goes on and on.
It seems like anything you do that fails to inform, uplift, or bring you closer to your friends/family in some way is useless and time wasting. But there's one thing that no one mentions...
Books.
As my friend threw the question at me, it got me thinking. Already God had put this thought on my heart, but now I was forced to dig deeper.
How many books have actually made a difference in my life? As I sat down to think about the question, I was shocked. I could only think of THREE books that had impacted me. Three.
I have read hundreds - maybe thousands - of books. From easy reads like Charlotte's Web to never-ending novels like The Scarlet Letter, I've spend days of my life just sitting on the couch with a book in hand. But for some reason, no one ever told me that I could be wasting my time. I was learning, right? I was learning vocabulary, spelling, grammar, and how to create my own stories. Doesn't that prove that reading is a good usage of my time?
What if those hours were wasted?
No, I can't say that reading is worthless. Books can do incredible things! Several ones in particular have pointed me towards Jesus, encouraged me, and shown me Biblical truth. They have change my life for the better. Helped me love Jesus more. Shown me areas where I could pray and ask for a heart more like His. Books also DO teach you how to become a better writer. You can gain knowledge from the authors who have gone before you! You can learn how to create unique characters and fast-paced plots. I am very thankful for my childhood of reading and pouring over written words.
But I realized that so many of the books that I have read were truly a waste of my time. They didn't change my life. They didn't point me to Jesus. They were only there to fill my time and provide entertainment.
Think of books like Little House on the Prairie. I really enjoyed those books as a young reader. They threw me into the pioneering days with Indians, covered wagons, and simple, humble people searching for a home. But did those books change my life? Other than teaching me about history, did I gain anything from reading them?
I've noticed that so many others are under the same impression. We have to read books to fit in. We don't want to be the odd ball that only reads Christian books. We want our Goodreads to constantly be updated with our newest updates. We want our peers to see all the awesome books we are reading. We want to impress them. And, after all, reading is fun!
Perhaps you haven't been convicted of this. That's fine! If this is not a struggle that you experience, I congratulate you. =) But I think that we, as Christians, should take the time to examine our books and reading life.
Are the books we read glorifying to God?Could the time we spend reading be used in a better way?Is reading becoming our idol?Is it pulling us away from the real world around us, our family, or God?Are we choosing books that will impact us and point us towards our Savior?Do the books we read show sin as being "okay" and "acceptable?"
I don't have all the answers. As I think and pray through this in my own life, I would love to start a discussion in the comments. I would be delighted if some of you would share what God has been showing you in this area. In the process, we could all get to know one another and share what He has been showing us.
Here are some discussion starters, but ultimately please share what God has put on your heart.
What is your take on reading? Is it a good usage of your time? Overall, should we be spending hours every day on this pastime?
What are your standards on books? What factors immediately make you put a book down? Have you ever been "forced" to read an ungodly book, such as for school? How do you honor God in your reading?
I encourage you to comment on one another's thoughts as well. =) This is supposed to be both fun and encouraging!
Bookish Thoughts | Discussion
"What are your favorite fiction books that have really impacted you?"
I stared at the email, thinking, pondering. My eyes scanned over the question again. What is a fiction book that has really impacted me? The question caught me off-guard. Impacted me? When does a book actually change your life? Aren't books for relaxing and enjoying yourself?
Ephesians 5:15-17 says, "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is."
I've heard so many times that movies are a waste of our time. Video games are a waste of our time. The internet is a waste of our time. Worrying is a waste of our time. The list goes on and on.
It seems like anything you do that fails to inform, uplift, or bring you closer to your friends/family in some way is useless and time wasting. But there's one thing that no one mentions...
Books.
As my friend threw the question at me, it got me thinking. Already God had put this thought on my heart, but now I was forced to dig deeper.
How many books have actually made a difference in my life? As I sat down to think about the question, I was shocked. I could only think of THREE books that had impacted me. Three.
I have read hundreds - maybe thousands - of books. From easy reads like Charlotte's Web to never-ending novels like The Scarlet Letter, I've spend days of my life just sitting on the couch with a book in hand. But for some reason, no one ever told me that I could be wasting my time. I was learning, right? I was learning vocabulary, spelling, grammar, and how to create my own stories. Doesn't that prove that reading is a good usage of my time?
What if those hours were wasted?
No, I can't say that reading is worthless. Books can do incredible things! Several ones in particular have pointed me towards Jesus, encouraged me, and shown me Biblical truth. They have change my life for the better. Helped me love Jesus more. Shown me areas where I could pray and ask for a heart more like His. Books also DO teach you how to become a better writer. You can gain knowledge from the authors who have gone before you! You can learn how to create unique characters and fast-paced plots. I am very thankful for my childhood of reading and pouring over written words.
But I realized that so many of the books that I have read were truly a waste of my time. They didn't change my life. They didn't point me to Jesus. They were only there to fill my time and provide entertainment.
Think of books like Little House on the Prairie. I really enjoyed those books as a young reader. They threw me into the pioneering days with Indians, covered wagons, and simple, humble people searching for a home. But did those books change my life? Other than teaching me about history, did I gain anything from reading them?
I've noticed that so many others are under the same impression. We have to read books to fit in. We don't want to be the odd ball that only reads Christian books. We want our Goodreads to constantly be updated with our newest updates. We want our peers to see all the awesome books we are reading. We want to impress them. And, after all, reading is fun!
Perhaps you haven't been convicted of this. That's fine! If this is not a struggle that you experience, I congratulate you. =) But I think that we, as Christians, should take the time to examine our books and reading life.
Are the books we read glorifying to God?Could the time we spend reading be used in a better way?Is reading becoming our idol?Is it pulling us away from the real world around us, our family, or God?Are we choosing books that will impact us and point us towards our Savior?Do the books we read show sin as being "okay" and "acceptable?"
I don't have all the answers. As I think and pray through this in my own life, I would love to start a discussion in the comments. I would be delighted if some of you would share what God has been showing you in this area. In the process, we could all get to know one another and share what He has been showing us.
Here are some discussion starters, but ultimately please share what God has put on your heart.
What is your take on reading? Is it a good usage of your time? Overall, should we be spending hours every day on this pastime?
What are your standards on books? What factors immediately make you put a book down? Have you ever been "forced" to read an ungodly book, such as for school? How do you honor God in your reading?
I encourage you to comment on one another's thoughts as well. =) This is supposed to be both fun and encouraging!
