Deborah L. McCarragher's Blog, page 23

Oh No! Not the "S" Word…

[image error] Submission – The act of lowering or coming under; the condition of being submissive, humble or compliant; to yield to authority.
Is submission a "dirty" word in your eyes?   Do you cringe when you come across Scripture that references submission ?  You shouldn't...
Submission in MarriageThe Apostle Peter was not only a Jew, but was married.  He was well acquainted with Jewish customs and how the young church needed spiritual instruction. I Peter was written to Jewish believers.  His emphasis on submission was to appeal to the church to have an attitude of submission in a Christ-like way to promote harmony and true freedom.  It was also to be a witness to the world outside of the church.
In Chapter 3 Peter discusses submission in the marital relationship.  He says, "Likewise, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear."  [Paul also admonishes wives to submit to their own husbands as to the Lord in Ephesians 5:22]  This ordinance was meant for the wife to submit to the authority of her husband, not all mankind in general.  Ephesians 5:23-24 states, "For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body.  Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything."  According to God's command one would lead, and the other submit . 
In Genesis 3:16 God said to the woman, "Your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you."  Eve had used her persuasive powers and lorded them over Adam in the garden.  She exerted influence that was misused and it harmed their standing with each other and with God.  Her "desire" was to lead their relationship, but now God was instructing her that Adam would take on that role and lead in their marriage.
Peter also writes, "For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands, as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror."  Sarah trusted the character of God.  She submitted to her husband and so gained favor in Pharaoh's eyes (Genesis 12).
Submission in SocietyI Peter 2:13-15 tells us to, "submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake, whether to the king as supreme… For this is the will of God…"  Submissiveness is required in all aspects of society: the government, military, workplace, church and family.  Citizens submit to civil leaders, subordinates to military leadership, workers to employers, laypersons to clergy, wives to husbands, and children to parents.  I Peter 5:5 states, "Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility…"  The church should model submission in honor, reverence and love.
Submission in ChristWhen we "humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God" we place ourselves under His Sovereignty.  We come under His umbrella of spiritual safety.  We have all seen the TV commercial with a large red umbrella that "covers" what is being insured.  Biblical submission brings us "under" His mighty hand of protection, provision and placement.  By way of submission we choose to place ourselves under His care.  As long as we remain under the umbrella of grace and submit , we gain His favor and blessing.

Submission in Everyday Life"Therefore submit to God.  Resist the devil and he will flee from you" (James 4:7). Don't give the devil a foothold. Submission involves our mind, will and emotions.  We are to take our thoughts captive and submit them to God.  Submit your imagination, words, actions, fears, insecurities, hopes, and plans to Him. 
Submission in itself is a good thing.  After all, Jesus submitted to His Heavenly Father intentionally.  As Paul wrote in Philippians 2, "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus…He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross."
Submit yourself to Scripture's example and glorify God…






 Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com  

Guest Author Lorilyn Roberts & her book Children of Dreams

Children of Dreams and the God of Hope by Lorilyn Roberts


[image error] When I took the introductory class for my Masters in Creative Writing, one of the books I had to read was Writing for Story by Jon Franklin. The fourth chapter in the book, "Stalking the True Short Story," was based on two famous stories he wrote, one of which was his Pulitzer Prize-winning entry, "Mrs. Kelly's Monster."

Because everybody would love to win a Pulitzer Prize, his comments are worth noting. To quote Jon Franklin on page 81: "One of the best ways to teach positive lessons while entertaining at the same time is to write stories about how people successfully cope with the world, endure, and even sometimes win."

I have thought a lot about that. Much of what I report as a television captioner is mundane news to a world that hardly blinks an eye at the everyday, run-of-the-mill, shoot 'em up, rob-him blind, dope-addicted, shoddy moral, or over-spending bureaucratic figure news story which people scoff and ignore if it doesn't affect them directly.
[image error] In contrast, Jon Franklin dug deep for the motivations, the conflicts, the resolutions, and the redemptive endings in his books and articles. In the same vein, when I wrote Children of Dreams, I wanted to share a part of me that no one else knew. I risked being venerable, revealing traits and values that I knew some would not understand. I am not perfect, and did I really want to reveal my failures, confess by doubts, and admit my flaws?
Our lives, particularly if we are memoir authors, must be real or we will come across every bit like the superficial news stories that I alluded to above—irrelevant to the reader. Too much of our time is lived at a frenzied pace with quick posts on Facebook and Twitter, or text messages written in code, risking little, and only recognizable enough to make us feel we have value in the world of cyberspace.
If you have been forsaken by your family, hurt by others, stuck in a job you hate, gone through a divorce, experienced major health issues, sacrificed your own lost dreams, or struggled in your Christian walk, I share unabashedly with profound honesty how God helped me through these tragedies. This is the "true story" within the story in Children of Dreams. There is no superficiality—only raw emotion and truth. I had to get permission from my kids and family. There are still open wounds that God will have to heal. There was a price to pay and I am still dealing with it now. Do I regret it? No. I know God will eventually redeem all which is broken.
The typical reader, much like a typical reporter, will see Children of Dreams as another adoption story; give it a cursory glance, and move on. The sensate reader, who reads for deeper meaning, will experience God's profound love and redemptive hope, knowing without any doubt, God is the fulfiller of dreams.
My desire is that the reader will be stirred—emotionally renewed and batteries charged, believing if God can do the impossible for me, he can do the same for him. God can heal infected wounds, redeem broken dreams, and convince the skeptic to believe in miracles. None of us should live as though we have no hope, and Children of Dreams is a testimony to God's grace, reassuring the reader that where there is God, there is always hope.

Lorilyn grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, and currently lives in Gainesville, Florida, with her two daughters, four cats, and two dogs.  She is pursuing her Master of Arts in Creative Writing from Perelandra College.
Lorilyn is a media professional, providing broadcast captioning for television, but makes time to pursue her passion for creative writing.
[image error] She has homeschooled her daughters for the past fifteen years. 

Lorilyn has published two books, The Donkey and the King and Children of Dreams; is president of the Gainesville, Florida, Word Weavers Chapter; and the founder of the John 316 Marketing Network.
[image error] Lorilyn's personal website can be found at http://lorilynroberts.com and you can follow her blog at http://lorilynroberts.blogspot.com/ and Twitter at https://twitter.com/#!/llwroberts . You can check out her Facebook fan page where she shares writing tips at http://on.fb.me/mqTpZs.

To learn more about the John 316 Marketing Network, visit http://www.john316mn.blogspot.com/.



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Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.godmissionpossible.com/

Daddy's Little Girl

                                                                I am His little Princess He lifts me up on His shoulders He kisses my boo boos He gives me a big bear hug He has tea and cookies with me He gently places a ladybug in my hand He offers his wisdom and guidance He wipes away my tears He presents me to my betrothed I dance to a waltz with him

This Father's Day I was reminiscing about my Dad when I was much younger.   I did not grow up in a traditional Christian home.  My mother believed in God, but my father wasn't interested.  Although I attended "church" on occasion – I didn't meet the Lord Jesus Christ until I was 33 yrs. old, and the mother of a toddler.  Nonetheless, my Dad was a wonderful father .
He was a career US Naval aviator and later on taught high school.  He was a great role model growing up.  He gladly helped my Mom out around the house, played hide and seek outside with my sister and I, and he read us stories at bedtime when we were little.  I vividly remember marching around our living-room overseas in our pajamas, singing to Mitch Miller's "The Yellow Rose of Texas" (on a record player console) as we paraded down the hallway for my Mom to see.  I remember my sister and I dressed up as a doctor and nurse with our little bags – tending to our Dad's "broken arm" and "high fever".   He taught me to have the confidence to ride solo on my first bike ride without training wheels.  He tutored me in math, went over my spelling words with me, and helped me practice my role in a school play (pretending to be the male part).  He has always been my greatest supporter and cheerleader in life.  I even recall the joy in his eyes as he held his first great-granddaughter, who was just a day old at the time.

As children of the Living God, we have the perfect Heavenly Father . When Jesus spoke to the crowds about worry, wealth and judging, He began His teaching on the topic of asking and giving.  In Matthew 7:9-11 Jesus states, "Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent?   If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!"  
The Apostle Paul writes to us in Romans 8:14-15 about our adoption as sons (and daughters) of God.  He says, "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, 'Abba, Father'."  In Galatians 4:6 Paul says, "And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, 'Abba, Father!'"  The Aramaic word "Abba" is a term of endearment for Father .  We have all the privileges given to us as the adopted children of the Most High God.  He loves us and cares for us as His children in a most tender and compassionate way.
In I Thessalonians 2:10-12, Paul is addressing the church about the tenderness with which he and others nurtured the congregation during its infancy.  He says, "You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe; as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father does his own children, that you would have a walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory." 
Although your relationship with your earthly Daddy might not have been ideal – your Heavenly Father wants the best for His children.  Your Heavenly Father longs to love you, provide for, and protect you.  He will never leave or forsake you. He offers you wisdom, discernment and correction. He is merciful and gentle. He delights in you.  You can trust Him.  He is the perfect parent now and forever.


 This is a great photo of my Dad holding his great-granddaughter - born October 30th 2009 (thus the pumpkin outfit)







Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com
 

If You Follow Christ – What Will It Cost You?

Living in an unequally-yoked household is never easy.  It's Sunday morning again and you're dreading what's ahead.  Do you get yourself and your child ready for church and head out the door, knowing full well that you might have another confrontation when you return?  Maybe you don't even get a reply when you ask if your spouse would like to accompany you to church.  Whatever the scenario at your house – it can be costly…
Read the following contemporary rendering of Matthew 10:34-39 from The Message –
"Don't think I've come to make life cozy. I've come to cut – make a sharp knife-cut between son and father, daughter and mother, bride and mother-in-law – cut through these cozy domestic arrangements and free you for God.  Well-meaning family members can be your worst enemies.  If you prefer father or mother over me, you don't deserve me.  If you prefer son or daughter over me, you don't deserve me.  If you don't go all the way with me, through thick and thin, you don't deserve me.  If your first concern is to look after yourself, you'll never find yourself.  But if you forget about yourself and look to me, you'll find both yourself and me."
…and Luke 12:51-53 from The Message –
"Do you think I came to smooth things over and make everything nice?  Not so.  I've come to disrupt and confront!  From now on, when you find five in a house, it will be-Three against two, and two against three;            Father against son, and son against father;Mother against daughter, and daughter against mother;Mother-in-law against bride, and bride against mother-in-law."

Wow! Could it be any clearer?   Is it just me, or doesn't it sound like we might as well be prepared for some rough days ahead at home.  A spiritual battle rages as we step out in faith to live our lives for Christ.  There will be turmoil.  There will be indifference.  There will be distain for your love of the Lord.  Get used to it!
I'm not trying to be ugly here.  No, I'm trying to get your attention!  You must be spiritually prepared for the day to day challenges of living in a marriage where you don't see eye to eye. You must stay "prayed up" and battle ready or your enemy will take advantage of your situation.  That enemy is none other than Satan – the one who is the father of lies, and he wants you to think that your marriage will never be any different than it is right now.  Lies!
One thing that got my attention was the word "cut".  The New King James Bible version says, "Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth, I did not come to bring peace but a sword."  The significance of the verse is not in doing violence to those with whom you disagree, but a realization that you will be challenged by the power of the gospel to separate yourself unto Him.  There must be a severing of any relationship that gets between you and Jesus Christ.  The sword is the Word of God and it will be the arbitrator in any spiritual disagreement.  Scripture tells us that Jesus Himself was divisive and provoked many to rage.  The Word cuts to the core of our being – and it hurts!  It reveals the hidden things of the inner man.
Hebrews 4:12 says, "For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."
The following paragraph is from my book Mission Possible Chapter 1  You've Embraced Christ – Now What?  
The spiritual skirmish had begun. Don't underestimate the enemy. I did not fully understand spiritual warfare and would learn about that as time progressed.  I began to grow in my understanding of God's Word and how Satan opposes a couple's holy union.  I would learn about "putting on the whole armor of God" (Ephesians 6:10-19).  I would learn that "standing firm" was mandatory - - not an option.  My spiritual clothing was necessary for survival as "half of a saved couple".  God desires for you to become "one flesh" – at the altar and in the spirit realm.  Satan can't bear the thought of it.  This is where your perseverance plays a huge part.

So – what does following Christ cost you?  Probably not your life.  Most likely not your marriage.  But it will cost you something...  Jesus is worth whatever it is in light of eternity. You may have some spirited disagreements and tearful pleas.  There may be lonely periods in the days ahead as you embrace your spiritual destiny.  Jesus knows your struggles.  Grow in grace with Him and leave the results in His hands.   








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible".  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.  http://www.Godmissionpossible.com

 

Do You Wrestle With God?

The definition of wrestling is this: to contend by grappling with and striving to trip or throw an opponent down or off balance; to combat an opposing tendency or force (wrestling with his conscience); to engage in deep thought, consideration, or debate.

I was listening to a Christian radio program while driving home the other day, and I started thinking about how often I struggle with things I cannot control. How many times do I argue with God's sovereign decisions and exert my pride in the form of suggesting a "better way" for Him to move in a particular situation? Am I alone here? Do you wrestle with God? Sometimes that can be a good thing!

Many of us know the story of Jacob in Genesis chapter 32. Jacob was returning to his homeland in Canaan with his two wives, Rachel and Leah. On the way, he sent messengers to his brother Esau to appease him. Remember, this is the brother he cheated out of his birthright. His servants told him that Esau was coming to meet him with four hundred men. Jacob was distressed and divided his people, flocks and herd into two companies. He begged God to intervene and protect him from harm. He reminded God of His promise to bless him and make his descendants innumerable.

During the night, he took his two wives, his servants, and his sons and crossed over the river Jabbok. Genesis 32:24 says, "Then Jacob was left alone; and a Man [Jesus] wrestled with him until the breaking of day." Jacob had struggled and held his ground – keeping the Angel at bay. His faith was not shaken, nor did he relent in the heat of the heavenly engagement. Hosea 12:4 declares, "Yes, he [Jacob] struggled with the Angel and prevailed; He wept, and sought favor from Him. He found Him in Bethel, and there He spoke to us- That is, the Lord God of hosts. The Lord is His memorial." That very day Jacob saw God face to face. He wanted God's blessing, but God let him "struggle" that he might truly see who he was in the sight of Almighty God.

Jacob had been a deceiver and a scoundrel much of his life. God asked him, "What is your name?" It was a rhetorical question… Jacob knew who he was. God was causing Jacob to be off balance – that he might dig deep into the recesses of his soul and take inventory of his life up to that point. However, though Jacob persevered, he could not gain and maintain a superior position. During the struggle the Angel of the Lord touched him, placing his hip out of socket, and giving Jacob a limp for the rest of his natural life as a remembrance.


This supernatural encounter also gave him confidence for the difficult days ahead. Jacob had to face the harsh reality regarding his estranged brother and the reception he would soon garner. God now presented him with a new name – Israel – which literally means "Prince with God". Jacob named the place of his struggle Peniel, which means "I have seen God face to face and my life is preserved."

Sometimes God allows us to struggle with Him in prayer, and we are often crippled for our own good. Spiritually speaking, our view of ourselves and our problems need to be bent and dislocated in order for our struggling to cease. Our pride and bad judgment can cause us to live a life that distorts what God has planned for us. He desires for us to "walk a different way" after we have wrestled with Him and He has prevailed.

Submitting to God's plans often involves grappling with our own ideas and remedies. This is evidenced in the lives of some of the Bible's great heroes. Abraham's faith was tested when he dialoged with God about the wickedness in Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18). Moses pleaded with God on behalf of Israel when they began worshipping a golden calf and foreign gods (Exodus 32). We read about Elijah and his struggle with depression. After God miraculously displayed His power on Mount Carmel, Elijah withdrew into the desert to die. While hiding in a cave, and wailing "woe is me", God revealed Himself to Elijah in a small, still voice (I Kings 19.) David was alone and often lived on the run during his darkest days. He lamented to God in many of the Psalms including 35, 55, 56, 57, and 59. David despaired of his life and longed for the peace of death. Praying to God for deliverance seemed to be a lesson in futility.


Prayer often represents the anguish of the soul in the presence of God. Wrestling with God in prayer exerts tremendous energy and positioning. Ultimately, as we bend our will to His, we allow Him to "pin us to the mat" of our struggles and claim victory in His Name. In Colossians 4:2 the Apostle Paul admonishes the church to "continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving", and in Colossians 4:12 he tells them that Epaphras, one of their fellow servants "always labors fervently for them in prayer".

The bottom line is this:   prayer and petitioning God is often engaging and deliberate. It's emotionally draining and often exhausting. It's exhilarating and soul-satisfying as we wrestle with a Holy God who sees our frailties and embraces our humble efforts to gain His Blessing.

What a mighty God we serve…

Prince Charming or a Frog?

Do you ever look at your spouse and think, "Aren't I supposed to end up with a Prince Charming? Isn't that what fairy tales are all about?"

Whatever happened to hopes and dreams and ideals? Did we really think we'd end up living in a make believe world? Were our expectations unrealistic when we said, "I do"? Short of being swept away by a knight in shining armor – I'd say many of us would settle for the frog, as long as we had a chance of having it turn into a prince, right?
The world collectively held its breath as we watched the pageantry of the royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. We anxiously waited for the magic kiss as they stepped onto the palace balcony before thousands of loyal subjects, eager to share in their marital bliss.
Let's get real here… most of us will never marry a prince, much less see one. But there is a subtle parallel between a famous fairy tale and the fact that we are royalty – daughters of the King of Kings.

In the story The Frog Prince, by the Brothers Grimm, we have a recital of love in an unlikely pairing.  The tale began when the young princess took a walk by herself in the woods and rested by a cool spring of water. She had a particular golden ball which she favored as a play toy, and as she was tossing it into the air and catching it, the ball rolled into the water. Crying, she lamented that she would give everything up – her fine clothes, jewels, and all her riches in order to have it back again.

While she was speaking, a frog's head emerged out of the water and inquired as to reason for her weeping. She was startled by his presence and with distain she said, "Alas! What can you do for me, you nasty frog? My golden ball has fallen into the spring."


The frog merely stated that he was not interested in her riches, but if she would love him, and allow him to reside with her, eat with her and sleep in her bed chambers, he would retrieve her prized toy. She agreed and the frog dove into the water and came up with the ball in his mouth, placing it onto the edge of the spring.


As it happened, when the princess saw her golden ball, she ran to pick it up, forgetting all about the frog and his honorable deed. The next day, as she sat down to dinner, she heard a strange noise – as if something was gently knocking at the door. It was the frog! He said:


"Open the door, my princess dear; open the door to thy true love here! And mind the words that thou and I said,
by the fountain cool, in the greenwood shade."

The King, her father, seeing that something was wrong, asked her what it was. "There is a nasty frog at the door," she said, "that lifted my ball for me out of the spring yesterday morning." "I told him he should live with me here, thinking that he could never get out of the spring; but here he is – waiting at the door."



The king said to the young princess, "As you have given your word – so you must keep it; so go and let him in." She obliged her father the king and opened the door. The frog hopped into the room, then up to the table where he insisted on sitting next to her to share in her meal. Afterwards, he asked to be carried upstairs to be put into her bed. At daylight, the frog disappeared. Thinking that he was gone for good, she resumed her day.


But she was sadly mistaken; for when night came again, she heard the same strange noise as the day before. Tap, tap on the door and the same plea as before. Again she let the frog accompany her to the dinner table and upstairs to bed. And as before, at day break, the frog disappeared once more. The third night repeated the whole scenario – right down to the frog laying its head on her pillow.


But, when the princess awoke on the following morning she was astonished to see, instead of the frog, a handsome prince, gazing on her with the most beautiful eyes she had ever beheld, as he stood at the head of her bed. He told her that he had been enchanted by a spiteful fairy, which had changed him into a frog. His fate had been to remain a frog until such time as a princess should take him out of the spring, and let him eat from her plate, and sleep upon her bed for three nights.


"You," said the prince, "have broken this cruel charm, and now I have nothing to wish for but that you should go with me into my father's kingdom, where I will marry you, and love you as long as you live."


The young princess was not long in saying 'Yes' to all this; and as they spoke, a stunning coach drove up, with eight beautiful horses, decked with a golden harness and plumes of feathers. The king gave his blessing and they departed for the prince's kingdom, where they lived happily ever after.





So – did I miss something here? What about the princess placing a well-planted kiss on the frog's lips? Maybe that was another fable – but nonetheless – there is a moral to this story: Next time there's a frog at your doorway – you might want to let him in! No, seriously; let's look at this story from another prospective: Who is your prince charming? Should we really put that weight on the shoulders of our husband, or someone else who can handle the weight of the whole world?

There is a Prince [Charming], who not only laid His life down for you, but who also wants to spend eternity with you in His Father's Kingdom. It isn't any ordinary kingdom – but a place where the streets are pure gold and precious gems line the walls of the Celestial metropolis. There are mansions dotting the landscape and a crystal clear river running through it. Jesus Christ Himself prepared this place for us and He will usher in His Bride to their everlasting abode.


Our Prince knocks at the door of our hearts – waiting for the invitation to dine with us and abide with us. He desires fellowship with us; that we might enjoy the closeness He has with His Father. We are unaware of His beauty until we behold His Face and gaze into His loving eyes.

Make haste and kiss the Son. He is your Prince of Peace and King of the universe. He who cherishes His betrothed will come for her soon. Say "Yes" to His proposal and receive the blessing of His Father. You can live happily ever after for all eternity with Jesus Christ.

 (Ref:  John 14:1-3; Revelation 3:20; Revelation 21-22)  


 






Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible". It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion. It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together. http://www.Godmissionpossible.com  
 

Are You Making a Mountain Out of a Mole Hill?

"There you go again" I thought to myself "making a mountain out of a mole hill". My husband had just "unloaded on me", all because I wanted to spend the next ten minutes sitting on our balcony, looking out into the calming waves aboard our vacation cruise instead of packing.

He is not a procrastinator, and he wanted me to finish putting my dress clothes into the hanging bag so he could complete his project. Remember, men are task oriented, and they usually prefer only one at a time. His "task" was packing early enough on the last night of our cruise so we could enjoy dinner, watch the finale parade, and have fun with our friends before going to bed. Was his request unreasonable? No. What almost turned this "mole hill" incident into a mountain?

You might say I jumped the gun by retorting that I only wanted to go outside for about ten minutes and enjoy sitting on that balcony we paid for. It was probably the "tone of my voice" that he didn't like, because he immediately ranted that I had already spent too much time on the internet, walking around with my friend on the promenade deck window shopping, and doing what I wanted to do earlier in the day.

WOW – I could hardly believe what I was hearing! My blood started to boil as I sent up an SOS prayer and slowly began to compose myself. If I ever needed the fruit of the Spirit to show through – it was now! I remember saying very calmly that I had only spent about fifteen minutes on the laptop checking emails, and I started grabbing my clothes and putting them into the hanging bag as he "huffed and puffed" around the room. I didn't say another thing… I just packed.

I conversed with the Lord in my mind: "Lord, this isn't fair", I muttered… "all I wanted to do was to sit out on that balcony one more time". I kept packing. I kept thinking about his unreasonable request at just the wrong time. I kept going back to his selfishness. Then the Lord spoke to my heart, "You can make a mountain out of this mole hill, or you can leave it alone". I chose to leave it alone.

The fruit of the Sprit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. So far – I only managed to display a few of them. Satan sure knows when to ruin a good thing, doesn't he? This was the last night of our vacation that was an early celebration of 30 years of marriage. I had to do what I could to redeem the remainder of time we had left and get a quick "attitude adjustment".

God quickened my Spirit to be sweet and defer to my husband on this matter. I decided as a deliberate act of my will to obey, and my body language improved as a result. I submitted to the Lord, and in doing so, submitted to my husband with a Godly attitude. When I finished packing as much as I could before we got ready for dinner, I realized that he was right to give me a nudge to finish up, and thus prevent a melt-down later on that evening. We knew that we would be getting up very early the next morning. His goal was to reduce our stress then by completing that one task that was on his schedule.

Below is an excerpt of Chapter 4 - Painful Reality from my book MISSION POSSIBLE

John 15:5 says, "I am the vine, you are the branches. He [she] who abides in Me, and I in [her] bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." God's Spirit draws your mate to Himself. Your spiritual fruit is what is visible when you are abiding in and drawing life from God.

Your husband will unknowingly be drawn "to the things of God in you" completely unaware of God's sovereignty in all circumstances. Your fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23) all serve to point your husband (unaware) to God. He will notice the difference, but not be able to pin-point when it happened or why. He might never verbalize the change he sees, but he will notice. Let's not fool ourselves, we know we don't live 24 hrs. a day with spiritual fruit hanging all over us – come on. Nonetheless, let us strive to display fruit here and there to pique the lost to curiosity ! Proverbs 31:25-27 says, "Strength and honor are her clothing; she shall rejoice in time to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness. She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness." Let us strive to be godly women of worth.


I ask the Lord frequently to help me to be the kind of wife I need to be in order to bring harmony and peace into our relationship. I have held my tongue, captured my thoughts, and given myself a swift kick in the pants on more than one occasion. I suspect I'll face more trials and snags in our marriage, as does any married couple. I also know that I have a Savior Who loves me and guides me with His eye upon me. He will continue to give me the grace I need to display the love and gentleness that is expected of me.

And yes, my husband did apologize for his remarks, and I apologized for my behavior. I never did get to sit out on our balcony, but that's okay. Our last cruise night turned out for the better because I listened to that still small voice of the Lord instead of the enemy's lies. Can you relate to this scenario? Don't make a mountain out of a mole hill. Give it to God instead…









Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible". It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion. It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.

http://www.Godmissionpossible.com  

New Book "Inspired Women Succeed" Highlights Christian Women in Business

CHRISTIAN WOMEN IN BUSINESS REDEFINING SUCCESS
A New Book Shows How You Can Too

Wichita Falls, TX – Today's success-driven culture often puts a pressure-cooker demand on Christian women in business. Countless women struggle to succeed—to be, do, and have it all.

Whether we acknowledge it or not, the way we determine success greatly impacts our lives, according to the newly published book Inspired Women Succeed by Diane Cunningham and Jo Ann Fore.

As they seek to redefine success, the authors challenge readers, "What scoreboard determines true success? Must we be famous? Rich? Well-credentialed experts?"


My personal endorsement:

Nina Newton , Founder and Sr. Editor of Ruby for Women – a Christian social media site and online magazine - is one of the forty women featured. She has tirelessly worked to promote Christian women and their businesses, books, ministries, and life pursuits. Her role model is one that is to be commended and emulated in the Christian community. I am honored to know her and call her friend. You can read her compelling story along with many others in this one of a kind book.


This Chicken Soup for the Soul®-spirited book features a collection of 40 real-life inspirational accounts that are designed to prove success is an individual experience. "For Christian women, success is inspired from a sense of calling; measured by a loyalty to God in spite of life's circumstances or outcome," Cunningham said.


Co-Author Jo Ann Fore elaborates, "Inspired Women Succeed leads readers on an inspirational journey; a journey which teaches women how to entrust the hard spots of life to a sovereign God who has a plan. The book is about real women doing real life. Through a vulnerable transparency, the stories of this book offer women a permission to be real; to confront the tough issues of life with a new perspective. We want women to reframe life experiences which may have blocked their progress—those same experiences can be used as a catalyst to success."

Inspired Women Succeed is a book of courage and hope. You will connect with forty, brave-hearted Christian women entrepreneurs who faced unfathomable trials with heroic faith. And this passionate group of women authentically shares their life-transforming stories.

Authors Cunningham and Fore model authenticity, as intimate details about the tough spots of their own lives are woven throughout a book that consistently recounts the transformation of difficult circumstances into a successful life—success on God's terms, that is.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Diane Cunningham is a Business Therapist, whose calling is to help women grab hold of their dreams and make them happen. She is the founder and president of the National Association of Christian Women Entrepreneurs (www.nacwe.org), an organization with more than 165 members across the United States and Canada.

Jo Ann Fore (www.JoAnnFore.com) is an inspirational author, Writing Coach, and certified Life Coach who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of women. Most noted for her faith-filled messages, Jo Ann mentors both emotionally-wounded women and budding writers.
  To arrange for a book signing, interview, or speaking engagement email info@inspiredwomensucceed.com. Inspired Women Succeed is available on Amazon.com, Barnes&Noble.com and at most major retailers.
For a free download of the first chapter, and a chance to win a FREE copy of Inspired Women Succeed visit www.inspiredwomensucceed.com. Each person who downloads a copy of the first chapter during our release week (5/18-5/25) will be entered in a drawing to give away two free copies of the book.

Purchase Information:
INSPIRED WOMEN SUCCEED
ISBN: 9 871450 767804
Price: $14.95 Pages: 264, Paperback
Pub Date: May 2011

http://www.inspiredwomensucceed.com/
www.tinyurl.com/InspiredWomenSucceedBook







Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible". It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion. It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together.

http://www.Godmissionpossible.com  




Do You Have The "Abigail Syndrome"?

Do you often feel that if you could just "dump" your husband - everything would be okay? No - really... Is he the real reason you just can't be happy in your marriage or serve God how you'd like to? Suppose you could just go back in time and redo the whole marriage thing - of course I'm talking about after you became a Christian... If we're honest, many of us would say "YES". But that would be erroneous and sinful, wouldn't it?

When I became a Christian at the age of 33 yrs. old, I had already been married for seven years. As time went by, I began to grow more and more unsettled. I was a new creature in Christ. I had new interests and desires. But God stopped my flawed thinking and convicted me of what I was plotting. I believe God told me I would get a new husband with the same man!

"For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife…For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband?" (I Corinthians 7: 14, 16)

Here is a little background history on Abigail and David:
After King David had commanded several successful military campaigns, he mercifully spared King Saul's life in a cave in the region of En Gedi. David then journeyed into the wilderness of Paran following Samuel's death and burial. Samuel had, under God's direction, chosen and anointed David as the future King of Israel.
By this time David had already taken Saul's daughter Michal as his wife; a gift from the King to David for a crushing defeat of the Philistines in exchange for his bride's dowry, as vengeance on the King's enemies. David and his men were in the wilderness when he heard that a man in Carmel named Nabel, whose sheep were being sheared, might have provisions for him and his young warriors (I Samuel 21-24).
Below is an excerpt from  MISSION POSSIBLE - Chapter 4 "The Abigail Syndrome".  Mission Possible is a book for women who are unequally-yoked in marriage. Using God's Word, it offers the reader hope and encouragement, while applying Biblical truths.

The traditional story of Abigail in I Samuel 25 is a familiar one. Abigail was married to Nabal, a man of means who treated her and everyone else like dirt. Though Nabal was descended from Caleb, he shared none of his virtues. When King David heard that her husband Nabal reviled his men, he was ready to kill him and his household. Abigail went out to meet David with humility and gifts. David highly praised Abigail's courage and advice. Nabal soon died upon hearing what took place after his drunken binge. Abigail became David's wife when he proposed after learning of Nabal's fate. Abigail would now reside with the King in a "fairy tale" ending.

Not so fast… Don't be "caught up" in the Abigail syndrome . I believe God has a New Testament application for those of us who stand in the gap for our unbelieving husbands. Let's look at what this passage does not represent:

We don't pray that our husbands will "drop dead" so we can marry a believer as that would not be in God's perfect will for us. Neither do we hope he'll die from a heart attack to "pay him back" for his evil ways. God has a better plan. I believe this would be the God honoring scenario for the wife who believes for her husband's salvation.

Abigail was a woman of good understanding. (I Samuel 25:3). Godly wisdom and understanding promote knowing God's will. Isaiah 11:2 is a picture of the Holy Spirit for us today: "The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon [us], the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord." We must be in tune with what God would have us do with regards to our mate. Daily prayer and being in God'sWord helps us to know God's will.

Interestingly, when David sent his men to ask favor and provision from Nabal, he was indifferent and inquired: "Who is David, and who is the son of Jesse?…Shall I then take my bread and my water and my meat … and give it to men when I do not know where they are from?" (I Samuel 25:10-11). Likewise, your husband, just as Nabal, doesn't know the King yet.

Often times it is difficult to tithe, attend every church service, or be at every Bible study or function because your husband doesn't see a need for you to participate or share you with God. Be patient. He must see your commitment and desire to be with God's people and in God's presence.

Nabal was a self-made man who was very prideful and greedy. Reading Jesus' parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-20, we see similarities. Nabal was not thankful for anything, nor recognized God's hand of provision at all. Your husband may be "rich and full of worldly things." His equating "good things & provision" to GOD are foreign. Only GOD can change his heart and priorities as you pray for his spiritual enlightenment (Ephesians 1:18). Pray for God to woo him by His Spirit into a curiosity and awareness of the things of God.

Unlike King David who planned to wipe out Nabal's lineage, God has compassion and mercy on our spouses. He is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" (II Peter 3:9). God wills that your spouse join you in "holy union." The apostle Paul states in I Corinthians 7:14, 16 "for the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife …for how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband?"

When Abigail heard what Nabal had done, she quickly prepared an offering for King David. Our offering brought to our King is a humble heart, a willing & submissive spirit, and unwavering obedience. We intercede on our husband's behalf by meeting the King of Kings.

King David praised Abigail for her good sense and devotion: "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who sent you this day to meet me! And blessed is your advice and blessed are you , because you have kept me this day from coming to bloodshed… unless you had hastened and come to meet me, surely by morning light no males would have been left to Nabal" (I Samuel 25:32-34). David would have wiped out Nabal's name but it was God's desire to "promote a Godly lineage." Abigail's actions and attitude spared Nabal but Nabal didn't recognize her sacrifice. Our sacrifice on our spouse's behalf is unwavering faith and persistent prayers offered up to the Throne of Grace. GOD always takes notice of devotion!

God cherishes the soul we carry to Him in love when it's "one flesh" we seek.










Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible". It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion. It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together. http://www.Godmissionpossible.com  

Guest Author Paulette Harper & her book "Completely Whole"

Oftentimes, many people try to seek fulfillment from money, relationships, accomplishments, or material things. Others choose to cope with difficult problems by using drugs or alcohol, but they often come up short and soon have to realize that such things do not bring true happiness and fulfillment in life. How then can we successfully solve the problems that we face and find true happiness and peace in our lives? Well, author, Paulette Harper, in her latest book, Completely Whole , shows readers how to overcome suffering caused by alcoholism, substance abuse, poverty, and other obstacles blocking the path to a life of wholeness in spirit, soul, and body.
In her well-written, resource-filled guide, Harper provides readers with practical and biblically-based solutions to overcome everyday problems. Completely Whole features prayers, meditations, and powerful scripture passages to allow readers to interact with the text and to apply it to their own lives. Harper uses personal experiences and biblical principles to place readers on a path to be in connection with God. This life-changing book will help readers to transform their spirit, soul, and body through Jesus Christ, so they can live a life of peace, joy, and fulfillment.
Special Today Only - May 9th!  Buy a copy of Completely Whole by Paulette Harper and get immediate access to amazing Free Bonus Gifts and contest giveaways!

Visit this link for more details...      http://bit.ly/CompletelyWholeBookLaunch

 About the Author
A sought after speaker, certified life coach, minister and author. As an inspirational and motivational speaker, Paulette's desire is to motive women to reach their God given potential through conferences, workshops and seminars. As a writing coach, Paulette is the visionary behind "Write Now" (releasing the word in you) literary workshops designed to coach aspiring writers in the areas of creativity, development and publication of Christian books. Paulette has authored such books as That Was Then, This Is Now , This Broken Vessel Restored . She is the co-author of Victorious Living for Women and just released Victorious Living for Moms .

What others are saying…..

Author Harper is to be commended for the useful compilation of thoughtful chapters, application of scripture and use of her personal experiences to assist the reader(s) in their quest for spiritual wholeness. Whether you are at a crossroad of your life or seeking to strengthen your walk with Christ, you will find valuable inspiration, encouragement and most of all, assurance that by choice you can become COMPLETELY WHOLE.
-  Dr. Linda Beed, Author


"COMPLETELY WHOLE" is a guide one can refer to over and over again during times of need. Ms. Harper's grasp of real life and her method of dealing with these situations truly make this guide a learning tool that can be used over and over again.
-  Tamarra Bryant, Literary Wonders Reviews

Excerpt from Completely Whole by Paulette Harper © 2011 Thy Word Publishing

Celebrating
I will confess and praise You for You are fearful and wonderful and for the awful wonder of my birth!
Wonderful are Your works, and that my inner self knows right well" (Psalms 139:14 AMP).


I'm celebrating me because I've come to know that I'm all right—regardless of what you think about me, or how you feel towards me. I celebrate that I am a whole person—spirit, soul, and body. I am who I am because of what God has declared about me.


I'm celebrating the woman God has designed, destined, and called me to be. My celebration continues even if you don't want to rejoice with me. I recognize that the celebration only needs a select number of people. These people will celebrate my freedom, my achievements, and my progress, because they are not intimated by my success.


I'm celebrating my freedom. I'm free from the bondage and the oppression of others. People that are not liberated tend to want to harness others that are progressing and moving forward. My celebration comes from years of struggle—struggling with self and the image within. The picture I see now is not the same one I saw years ago.


Because I allowed others to form and shape me; I became who they wanted me to be. But that is no longer the case, praise God! I have been set free from the stigma and the mindset that others try to put on me. I love me. I know-what a statement! If you can't say that about yourself, then something is wrong.



  You can purchase a copy of Paulette's paperback book at Amazon here:     COMPLETELY WHOLE








Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled "Mission Possible". It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn't share their passion. It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God's promises for their spouse and future together. http://www.Godmissionpossible.com