Amanda Stephan's Blog: God is Good, God is Great, page 31
February 13, 2013
He Loves Me How Much?
My husband and I recently made a fairly large purchase. No, it wasn’t a new car or a new house.
And for most people, the amount of money we spent wouldn’t be considered that large of a purchase. But, because of where we have been financially the past few years we carefully consider any purchases of items that are considered “wants.”
This item wasn’t even for us. It was for our son.
We purchased a used iPod Touch. It was about a hundred bucks. Could we have spent the money on something else, something wiser? Perhaps.
But you should have seen his face. You should have seen the joy.
He had been asking for one for quite some time. Our answer had always been a resounding NO.
Then, one day at church I walked out of the sanctuary to see four boys sitting across the couch in our entryway playing with their electronic devices and my son was standing there, watching. I now understood his desire. It broke my heart.
I am a parent. I love giving my children good gifts. It makes me smile when I see how much they enjoy the gifts we give them.
He hasn’t stopped smiling and his "vocals only" rendition of Beat It (he has ear buds in) is filling the house. I’m glad he can sing well!
Watching my son enjoy his gift, I can’t help but be reminded of God’s great love for us as well as His desire to bless His children.
Picture this with me. I love my children. I would, in a heartbeat, in a blink of an eye, give my life for either one of them. I consider that great love. How much more is God capable of loving us? He is perfect. He defines love. He not only gave His life for His children, but also for every man and woman ever to be born. He gave His life for the murderer, the thief, the liar, the adulterer, and the fornicator. He even gave His live for the despicable sinners; you know which ones I’m talking about. Like the child abusers and pedophiles. Those of us who are loving parents would throw those who hurt our children in the pit and throw away the key.
Yet God watched as His son was abused and sacrificed…and he still loved.
If He loves us that much, I can’t help but think of the good gifts He wishes to give us.
I’m looking forward to the blessings He has promised us. In fact, I’m much like our son in that I can’t stop smiling in sweet anticipation!
Matthew 7:9-11 “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!”
www.BooksByAmanda.com
And for most people, the amount of money we spent wouldn’t be considered that large of a purchase. But, because of where we have been financially the past few years we carefully consider any purchases of items that are considered “wants.”
This item wasn’t even for us. It was for our son.
We purchased a used iPod Touch. It was about a hundred bucks. Could we have spent the money on something else, something wiser? Perhaps.
But you should have seen his face. You should have seen the joy.
He had been asking for one for quite some time. Our answer had always been a resounding NO.
Then, one day at church I walked out of the sanctuary to see four boys sitting across the couch in our entryway playing with their electronic devices and my son was standing there, watching. I now understood his desire. It broke my heart.
I am a parent. I love giving my children good gifts. It makes me smile when I see how much they enjoy the gifts we give them.
He hasn’t stopped smiling and his "vocals only" rendition of Beat It (he has ear buds in) is filling the house. I’m glad he can sing well!
Watching my son enjoy his gift, I can’t help but be reminded of God’s great love for us as well as His desire to bless His children.
Picture this with me. I love my children. I would, in a heartbeat, in a blink of an eye, give my life for either one of them. I consider that great love. How much more is God capable of loving us? He is perfect. He defines love. He not only gave His life for His children, but also for every man and woman ever to be born. He gave His life for the murderer, the thief, the liar, the adulterer, and the fornicator. He even gave His live for the despicable sinners; you know which ones I’m talking about. Like the child abusers and pedophiles. Those of us who are loving parents would throw those who hurt our children in the pit and throw away the key.
Yet God watched as His son was abused and sacrificed…and he still loved.
If He loves us that much, I can’t help but think of the good gifts He wishes to give us.
I’m looking forward to the blessings He has promised us. In fact, I’m much like our son in that I can’t stop smiling in sweet anticipation!
Matthew 7:9-11 “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!”
www.BooksByAmanda.com
February 12, 2013
Spam
We all get it. Whether we like it or not, we all suffer through spam.
You know the ones. Those that make you blush. And your husband and children wonder what the heck you were looking at to even get those 'bigger, better...' etc. messages. Or, my personal favorite, (not) the 'lonely cheating wives in your area want to meet you' ones.
EEEEW. Gross! Do your homework before you start sending me a bunch of lonely cheating wife crap because, frankly, I ain't interested! Got it, chachi? I'm a heterosexual woman in a loving, monogamous marriage for crying out loud! What are four different ways to say ick right?!
So, before you inadvertently open an oh my word embarrassing email because you weren't sure who Alexandria is and why she'd be looking at your profile, let's do a few preparatory steps to keep those from cluttering up your spam folder in Gmail.
While I was searching on how to just completely bypass my spam box altogether so I would never, ever see another bigger better whatever email, I found many people just ignored it. But let me be frank for a moment. (Yes, when I'm done, I'll be Amanda again. Sorry. Little side joke, there.)
Temptation.
Pure and simple. Satan hasn't really changed his ways in the last, oh, shall we say, thousands of years he's been operating. One of the easiest, and most effective ways to get a Christian to fall is curiosity. Remember the adage? Curiosity killed the cat? There you go.
I know. Gmail has already set up a pretty good way of figuring out if your email is spam or not. Most of the time, they get it right, but there are times when a good email goes to The Box, so proceed with caution. I've found great pleasure in doing this. I feel as though I have conquered a humongous foe. I have beaten the giant, and my spambox is clean!
Win!
Here's what I did.
Open up your Gmail account.
Go to your settings tab in the top right corner of your email. Click, and a drop down menu appears.
Click on settings.
At the top, you'll find a filter tab. Click it.
At the very bottom, you'll find a link that says Create New Filter. Click. A pop-up box will open that looks like the picture below. (At one point in my Gmail experience, I was typing in all *kinds* of inappropriate words in the subject line. I'm not kidding. I had at least fifty ugly words typed in for my filters, and still they were coming through. This is where this post comes in handy.)
See where it says 'Has the words'? Type in:spam in that box. Next, if you just want to play with it for a moment and see what happens, go to the bottom left corner and click the magnifying glass search bar. See what comes up? All those ugly spam messages in your spambox. Now, if you tested it out, you'll have to hit your back button and retype in:spam in that particular box.
Next, click the Create filter with this search in the bottom right corner.
You'll get a little warning box. Press ok.
Another box will open that lets you decide what you want to do with those ugly emails. Me? I don't even want to see them, so I delete them. And they never. Ever. Enter my inbox, nor my spambox. Note: On the bottom, next to the Create Filter button, you can apply that rule to any existing emails in your spambox, and it'll wipe those out as well.
And your box will be clean.
What happens, is whenever Gmail suspects that a particular message is spam, it automatically pushes it to your spambox. But it still shows up in the sidebar. Call it OCD or whatever, I dislike immensely anything cluttering up my boxes. If it's bold, I need to take care of it immediately. That's just how I am. And it sidetracks me to have multiple messages in spam and it more than likely be something I don't want to see, or my family to see.
I have found there are several things to ensure that this doesn't happen to good emails.
One. If you sign up for something, like a writer's conference, for the first few days or so, disable the filter. (You can add it back later.) If you receive an email that is important in your spambox, mark it as important and add the sender to your contact list.
After you've added them to your contact list, those emails should never go back to your spambox. See? Easy peasy!
Abstain from all appearance of evil. - 1 Thess. 5:22
Amanda Stephan~Christian Author
BooksByAmanda.com
www.BooksByAmanda.com
You know the ones. Those that make you blush. And your husband and children wonder what the heck you were looking at to even get those 'bigger, better...' etc. messages. Or, my personal favorite, (not) the 'lonely cheating wives in your area want to meet you' ones.
EEEEW. Gross! Do your homework before you start sending me a bunch of lonely cheating wife crap because, frankly, I ain't interested! Got it, chachi? I'm a heterosexual woman in a loving, monogamous marriage for crying out loud! What are four different ways to say ick right?!
So, before you inadvertently open an oh my word embarrassing email because you weren't sure who Alexandria is and why she'd be looking at your profile, let's do a few preparatory steps to keep those from cluttering up your spam folder in Gmail.
While I was searching on how to just completely bypass my spam box altogether so I would never, ever see another bigger better whatever email, I found many people just ignored it. But let me be frank for a moment. (Yes, when I'm done, I'll be Amanda again. Sorry. Little side joke, there.)
Temptation.
Pure and simple. Satan hasn't really changed his ways in the last, oh, shall we say, thousands of years he's been operating. One of the easiest, and most effective ways to get a Christian to fall is curiosity. Remember the adage? Curiosity killed the cat? There you go.
I know. Gmail has already set up a pretty good way of figuring out if your email is spam or not. Most of the time, they get it right, but there are times when a good email goes to The Box, so proceed with caution. I've found great pleasure in doing this. I feel as though I have conquered a humongous foe. I have beaten the giant, and my spambox is clean!
Win!
Here's what I did.
Open up your Gmail account.
Go to your settings tab in the top right corner of your email. Click, and a drop down menu appears.
Click on settings.
At the top, you'll find a filter tab. Click it.
At the very bottom, you'll find a link that says Create New Filter. Click. A pop-up box will open that looks like the picture below. (At one point in my Gmail experience, I was typing in all *kinds* of inappropriate words in the subject line. I'm not kidding. I had at least fifty ugly words typed in for my filters, and still they were coming through. This is where this post comes in handy.)
See where it says 'Has the words'? Type in:spam in that box. Next, if you just want to play with it for a moment and see what happens, go to the bottom left corner and click the magnifying glass search bar. See what comes up? All those ugly spam messages in your spambox. Now, if you tested it out, you'll have to hit your back button and retype in:spam in that particular box.
Next, click the Create filter with this search in the bottom right corner.
You'll get a little warning box. Press ok.
Another box will open that lets you decide what you want to do with those ugly emails. Me? I don't even want to see them, so I delete them. And they never. Ever. Enter my inbox, nor my spambox. Note: On the bottom, next to the Create Filter button, you can apply that rule to any existing emails in your spambox, and it'll wipe those out as well.
And your box will be clean.
What happens, is whenever Gmail suspects that a particular message is spam, it automatically pushes it to your spambox. But it still shows up in the sidebar. Call it OCD or whatever, I dislike immensely anything cluttering up my boxes. If it's bold, I need to take care of it immediately. That's just how I am. And it sidetracks me to have multiple messages in spam and it more than likely be something I don't want to see, or my family to see.
I have found there are several things to ensure that this doesn't happen to good emails.
One. If you sign up for something, like a writer's conference, for the first few days or so, disable the filter. (You can add it back later.) If you receive an email that is important in your spambox, mark it as important and add the sender to your contact list.
After you've added them to your contact list, those emails should never go back to your spambox. See? Easy peasy!
Abstain from all appearance of evil. - 1 Thess. 5:22
Amanda Stephan~Christian Author
BooksByAmanda.com
www.BooksByAmanda.com
February 11, 2013
A Simple Valentine Craft
I know there are only a handful of days left until Valentine's day, but there is still time to make an easy craft with your favorite little people. All you need for this cute valentine bear is a paper plate, some craft foam or construction paper, two large google eyes, glue, sequins or paper dots, and a permanent black marker.We happened to have pink plates leftover from a birthday party so that's what we used. Since I had three plates, I actually cut the ears out of the center of the extra plates; but construction paper would work equally well. My daughter, Emily, has a set of heart shaped cookie cutters in various sizes so I used a small one to trace four red hearts (two for the ears and two for the bow tie). I used a small heart paper punch I had on hand to cut the three tiny hearts used for the bow tie knot and the cheeks and the smallest cookie cutter to trace the heart shaped nose. If you don't have cookie cutters or paper punches don't fret; simply hand cut paper hearts in the shape and sizes you need.
The only semi difficult part of assembling our bear was attaching the ears. The glue wasn't holding them well because of the plates curved edge, so I ended up using packaging tape to attach them on the back. We had self stick foam which allowed Emily to easily attach the hearts to the ears, the nose to the center of the plate, and hearts to the bottom of the plate. I cut the sharp points off of the two hearts she used for the bow tie so the ends would but up against each other. The tiny heart used for the knot covered the seam well.Emily had fun decorating the bow tie with some leftover sequins I found in our craft bin, she attached her google eyes and cheeks with some glue dots, and then I drew on the mouth. Very simple, but oh so fun and cute. And while you are in a festive mood don't forget to read something fun with your kids. I recommend Hugs and Kisses by Christophe Luopy.
Emily won this book two years ago when she completed her summer reading program her summer reading
program requirements. We loved it then and we still love it today. This
is one of those kinds of books that you want to re-read many times.
Hugs
the puppy sets out early one morning while his family is still
sleeping because he has something he needs to find out. The kind farm
animals along the way help him with his requests and when he returns to
the barn and his family he finds the answer for which he was looking!
So ends another episode of Kids Korner with me, Children's Author Aileen Stewart. Join me next week for another exciting episode same krazy time, same krazy channel. And feel free to drop by my personal blog Aileen's Thoughts any day of the week for even more on reading, writing, and life in general.
www.BooksByAmanda.com
February 9, 2013
Christian Devotional - Love, part 2
What is love?
Have you ever stopped to ask yourself that question? In the
English language especially, we use that word to mean so many different types
of love. I love my husband, I love my kids, I love my car, I love Italian food,
I love… you get the idea. While all of that may be true, I certainly don’t
demonstrate and act on that love in the same way.
This month we’re looking at love from the eyes of one who
came to be known as the disciple whom Jesus loved. John wrote the letter of 2
John to the church and in it we find some beautiful truths about love. Check
out last week’s devotional here. This we, we’re continuing and will see the definition
of love.
2 John 4-6 “It has given me great joy to find some of your
children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us. And now, dear
lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the
beginning. I ask that we love one another. And this is love: that we walk in
obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is
that you walk in love.”
There it is, clear as day. What is love? Love is that “we
walk in obedience to his commands.” Yep, walk, which requires action. We can’t
say that we love God if we are not doing actions. Plus, it’s not just any
action, we are to do what He commands us to do. This is not a new command. He’s
told us to do this from the beginning. He’s commanded us to do this. We are to
walk in love. How do we walk in love? By obeying.
It sounds so simple and really, it is simple. We just have
to do it. We can’t work up love. We can’t intend to love. We can’t even fake
love. Love is obedience to Jesus Christ. We love by being obedient. How am I to
love my husband? I love him by being obedient to Jesus Christ in every area of
my life. How am I to love my kids? I love them by being obedient to Jesus
Christ in every area of my life. By placing Jesus Christ first and loving Him
by obeying Him, I am able to love everyone else I am around.
Having problems in your relationships? Chances are it’s a
love issue. Are you loving Jesus Christ by being obedient to His commands? If
the answer is no, take some time and refocus on your love for Jesus. It will
make a world of difference!
Kristi Burchfiel, Christian devotional author and speaker
Living in the World – Living out the Word
Check out my website and daily devotions either on my blog or on my Facebook page
NEW BOOK OUT! "The Daily Devotional Series: 365 Devotions Through the New Testament" is now available as an ebook.
www.BooksByAmanda.com
Have you ever stopped to ask yourself that question? In the
English language especially, we use that word to mean so many different types
of love. I love my husband, I love my kids, I love my car, I love Italian food,
I love… you get the idea. While all of that may be true, I certainly don’t
demonstrate and act on that love in the same way.
This month we’re looking at love from the eyes of one who
came to be known as the disciple whom Jesus loved. John wrote the letter of 2
John to the church and in it we find some beautiful truths about love. Check
out last week’s devotional here. This we, we’re continuing and will see the definition
of love.
2 John 4-6 “It has given me great joy to find some of your
children walking in the truth, just as the Father commanded us. And now, dear
lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the
beginning. I ask that we love one another. And this is love: that we walk in
obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is
that you walk in love.”
There it is, clear as day. What is love? Love is that “we
walk in obedience to his commands.” Yep, walk, which requires action. We can’t
say that we love God if we are not doing actions. Plus, it’s not just any
action, we are to do what He commands us to do. This is not a new command. He’s
told us to do this from the beginning. He’s commanded us to do this. We are to
walk in love. How do we walk in love? By obeying.
It sounds so simple and really, it is simple. We just have
to do it. We can’t work up love. We can’t intend to love. We can’t even fake
love. Love is obedience to Jesus Christ. We love by being obedient. How am I to
love my husband? I love him by being obedient to Jesus Christ in every area of
my life. How am I to love my kids? I love them by being obedient to Jesus
Christ in every area of my life. By placing Jesus Christ first and loving Him
by obeying Him, I am able to love everyone else I am around.
Having problems in your relationships? Chances are it’s a
love issue. Are you loving Jesus Christ by being obedient to His commands? If
the answer is no, take some time and refocus on your love for Jesus. It will
make a world of difference!
Kristi Burchfiel, Christian devotional author and speaker
Living in the World – Living out the Word
Check out my website and daily devotions either on my blog or on my Facebook page
NEW BOOK OUT! "The Daily Devotional Series: 365 Devotions Through the New Testament" is now available as an ebook.
www.BooksByAmanda.com
February 5, 2013
Who's That Whispering in my Ear?
How sensitive are you to the Holy Spirit?
I mean, how clearly do you hear the voice of God giving you instruction, leading you day to day and helping you make the correct decisions based on His will for your life?
Instead of a New Year’s resolution, my husband and I have determined that we are going to listen to the voice the Holy Spirit. Not only are we going to listen for His voice, but we are also going to obey.
Sounds easy, right? Well, it’s not.
The flesh screams when it wants something. I mean really screams. Have you heard those little kids in the grocery store? They scream like their fingers and their toes have been cut off, you know the ones. Well, think louder.
We’re talking loud. And if I’m not listening, carefully considering, and waiting for the voice of the Holy Spirit, I’ll miss it. Because most of the time, my flesh is having a temper tantrum and it’s hard to hear anything else.
Here is what I have noticed since the Holy Spirit has started leading me.
1. My flesh doesn’t like it. My flesh is at battle with the Holy Spirit but my mind and my soul have determined that the flesh is no longer in control here. This temple is the dwelling place of the almighty God and this body is going to become the five star hotel it was meant to be.
2. My decision to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit has already impacted my life for the better. I am eating better yet I do not feel oppressed. I have lost weight. I have a better relationship with my husband and my children. I am getting more and giving more from/to my church body. The Word is alive to me. I weep at the sound of his voice. I feel loved and cherished. I am secure knowing I am in the safety of His arms. I am justified knowing His grace has covered all of my sins. I am confident that His plans for me are much better, greater and more fulfilling than anything I can think up on my own, therefore I will trust His leading.
3. Others have benefited from my decision. I have been more sensitive to His voice, therefore I am more aware of others and their situations.
God has used me several times, through a simple whisper, to touch the lives of those around me. I know beyond a shadow of doubt that had I not been listening, carefully considering and waiting for His whisper, I would not have had the opportunity to bless those around me.
I am full of joy because I know the Lover of my soul takes delight in spending time with me. Wow.
You know what? He loves you that much too. Make time to listen to Him today. He is waiting patiently for those he loves to curl up on His lap and cuddle in.
John 10:27-28 “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
Thanks for taking the time to grow with me this Wednesday!
Darlene Shortridge, Christian Author
www.darleneshortridge.com
www.darleneshortridge.blogspot.com
www.BooksByAmanda.com
I mean, how clearly do you hear the voice of God giving you instruction, leading you day to day and helping you make the correct decisions based on His will for your life?
Instead of a New Year’s resolution, my husband and I have determined that we are going to listen to the voice the Holy Spirit. Not only are we going to listen for His voice, but we are also going to obey.
Sounds easy, right? Well, it’s not.
The flesh screams when it wants something. I mean really screams. Have you heard those little kids in the grocery store? They scream like their fingers and their toes have been cut off, you know the ones. Well, think louder.
We’re talking loud. And if I’m not listening, carefully considering, and waiting for the voice of the Holy Spirit, I’ll miss it. Because most of the time, my flesh is having a temper tantrum and it’s hard to hear anything else.
Here is what I have noticed since the Holy Spirit has started leading me.
1. My flesh doesn’t like it. My flesh is at battle with the Holy Spirit but my mind and my soul have determined that the flesh is no longer in control here. This temple is the dwelling place of the almighty God and this body is going to become the five star hotel it was meant to be.
2. My decision to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit has already impacted my life for the better. I am eating better yet I do not feel oppressed. I have lost weight. I have a better relationship with my husband and my children. I am getting more and giving more from/to my church body. The Word is alive to me. I weep at the sound of his voice. I feel loved and cherished. I am secure knowing I am in the safety of His arms. I am justified knowing His grace has covered all of my sins. I am confident that His plans for me are much better, greater and more fulfilling than anything I can think up on my own, therefore I will trust His leading.
3. Others have benefited from my decision. I have been more sensitive to His voice, therefore I am more aware of others and their situations.
God has used me several times, through a simple whisper, to touch the lives of those around me. I know beyond a shadow of doubt that had I not been listening, carefully considering and waiting for His whisper, I would not have had the opportunity to bless those around me.
I am full of joy because I know the Lover of my soul takes delight in spending time with me. Wow.
You know what? He loves you that much too. Make time to listen to Him today. He is waiting patiently for those he loves to curl up on His lap and cuddle in.
John 10:27-28 “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.”
Thanks for taking the time to grow with me this Wednesday!
Darlene Shortridge, Christian Author
www.darleneshortridge.com
www.darleneshortridge.blogspot.com
www.BooksByAmanda.com
Win a $20 Starbucks Gift Card!
Several things today, so please bear with me
.
First, Ruby for Women has graciously offered to help me promote my Christian romance novel, Lonely Hearts, in honor of Valentine's Day. What better way to get attention than having a giveaway, right?
Three prizes. Three winners .
- A signed paperback copy of Lonely Hearts- A Kindle copy of Lonely Hearts - A $20 Starbucks Gift Card
What do you need to do?Just sign up using the Rafflecopter below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
In Other News...
My book, The Price of Trust , is up for a 2013 Book of the Year award. Yep, no kidding! I opened my email yesterday and saw a message from a member of the John 3:16 Marketing Network that it was on there. How cool is that?! Like a lovely chocolate covered piece of good news, it was...Filled my heart with joy!So, would you please consider voting for my novel? Here's the link:
Christian Small Publishers Association You'll find my book, The Price of Trust, near the bottom in the Romance category.
*When you get to the bottom of the page, don't forget to press the submit button so it'll register. There's also a place to opt out of receiving any email notifications if you'd prefer.*
If my book wins, you know what I'll do? I'll have a giveaway.Something special.Like...I don't know. Whaddya want?Leave me a comment and let me know!
Thanks in advance ~ I certainly appreciate it!
Amanda Stephan~Christian AuthorBooksByAmanda.com
and now a word from our sponsors...(just kidding. Always wanted to say that...)
Visit Ruby for Women
www.BooksByAmanda.com
First, Ruby for Women has graciously offered to help me promote my Christian romance novel, Lonely Hearts, in honor of Valentine's Day. What better way to get attention than having a giveaway, right?
Three prizes. Three winners .
- A signed paperback copy of Lonely Hearts- A Kindle copy of Lonely Hearts - A $20 Starbucks Gift Card
What do you need to do?Just sign up using the Rafflecopter below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
In Other News...
My book, The Price of Trust , is up for a 2013 Book of the Year award. Yep, no kidding! I opened my email yesterday and saw a message from a member of the John 3:16 Marketing Network that it was on there. How cool is that?! Like a lovely chocolate covered piece of good news, it was...Filled my heart with joy!So, would you please consider voting for my novel? Here's the link:
Christian Small Publishers Association You'll find my book, The Price of Trust, near the bottom in the Romance category.
*When you get to the bottom of the page, don't forget to press the submit button so it'll register. There's also a place to opt out of receiving any email notifications if you'd prefer.*
If my book wins, you know what I'll do? I'll have a giveaway.Something special.Like...I don't know. Whaddya want?Leave me a comment and let me know!
Thanks in advance ~ I certainly appreciate it!
Amanda Stephan~Christian AuthorBooksByAmanda.com
and now a word from our sponsors...(just kidding. Always wanted to say that...)
Visit Ruby for Women
www.BooksByAmanda.com
February 4, 2013
An Experiment And A Contest
Recently I had this great idea that combined my love of photography and writing. It's an experiment and a contest and you can even enter to win a copy of my book Fern Valley. It involves the old sayingA Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words and the experiment portion is to see if my readers and all of their friends can help me come up with 1000 words describing one of my photos. Each participant will leave five unique words which means, if I've done my math correctly, 200 should do the trick.
So if you think you are up to the challenge and want to show off your vocabulary expertise or if you just want a chance at winning a copy of my book, head on over to my personal blog Aileen's Thoughts, leave your five words in the comment section, and fill out the entry form; It's that easy!
So ends another episode of Kids Korner with me, Children's Author Aileen Stewart. Join me next week for another exciting episode same krazy time, same krazy channel. And feel free to drop by my personal blog Aileen's Thoughts any day of the week for even more on reading, writing, and life in general.
www.BooksByAmanda.com
February 2, 2013
Christian Devotional - Love, part 1
Love!
The month of February is traditionally a time to think
about love, especially with Valentine’s Day right around the corner. Over these
four weeks, we’re going to take a look at a book written by “the disciple whom
Jesus loved,” or John as he’s otherwise known. In his gospel he refers to himself by that
title and in his later writings it’s obvious the brother who once wanted to
call down lightning to destroy a town, has truly learned what it means to love
as Christ loves.
We’re going to study through the book of 2 John during
this month. This book covers some exciting and profound truths for only being a
scant 13 verses long. Let’s look at the
opening verses this week and set the stage for where John is leading us.
2 John 1-3 “The elder, to the lady chosen by God and to
her children, whom I love in truth—and not I only, but also all who know the
truth—because of the truth, which lives in us and will be with us forever:
grace, mercy and peace form God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s
Son, will be with us in truth and love.”
Love is the underlying theme throughout that entire
opening and greeting that John wrote. He could either be addressing this to a
particular leader of the church, or to the Church as a whole. We see two key
foundational ideas about love in these verses.
First, we are to love others in truth. No matter what the
relationship, love is to be grounded in truth. Real love cannot be built on a
lie. John indicates that he loved the church in truth and that others also
loved them in truth. How was he able to love them? The Truth, Jesus Christ
(John 14:6), lives in us and is with us forever. Love is built the Truth.
Anything less is not real love.
Second, grace and mercy and peace all come as a result of
love. These things come from God, but it’s interesting to note that they are
with each of us in truth and love. If we have love, then it will follow that we
also have grace and mercy and peace. Are we lacking in any of these areas?
Then, we can assume that we are lacking in love and the truth that love is
built on.
As we look through the rest of this book over the next 3
weeks, realize that everything John is going to talk about is focused on love.
He wants people to understand and know love. He wants love to be the foundation
for everything that they do and think as love is a reflection of the Truth of
Jesus Christ in our lives.
As a quick side note, I love my dear friend Amanda who, a
year ago had this brilliant idea to bring the Sisters in Cahoots together. I am
deeply grateful to have been asked to be a part of this wonderful group of
women. I am encouraged and strengthened in Christ with every post and every
interaction with all of you. Happy one year anniversary Sisters in Cahoots! I
truly love all of you in Jesus Christ!
Kristi Burchfiel, Christian devotional author and speaker
Living in the World – Living out the Word
Check out my website and daily devotions either on my blog or on my Facebook page
NEW BOOK OUT! "The Daily Devotional Series: 365 Devotions Through the New Testament" is now available as an ebook.
www.BooksByAmanda.com
The month of February is traditionally a time to think
about love, especially with Valentine’s Day right around the corner. Over these
four weeks, we’re going to take a look at a book written by “the disciple whom
Jesus loved,” or John as he’s otherwise known. In his gospel he refers to himself by that
title and in his later writings it’s obvious the brother who once wanted to
call down lightning to destroy a town, has truly learned what it means to love
as Christ loves.
We’re going to study through the book of 2 John during
this month. This book covers some exciting and profound truths for only being a
scant 13 verses long. Let’s look at the
opening verses this week and set the stage for where John is leading us.
2 John 1-3 “The elder, to the lady chosen by God and to
her children, whom I love in truth—and not I only, but also all who know the
truth—because of the truth, which lives in us and will be with us forever:
grace, mercy and peace form God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s
Son, will be with us in truth and love.”
Love is the underlying theme throughout that entire
opening and greeting that John wrote. He could either be addressing this to a
particular leader of the church, or to the Church as a whole. We see two key
foundational ideas about love in these verses.
First, we are to love others in truth. No matter what the
relationship, love is to be grounded in truth. Real love cannot be built on a
lie. John indicates that he loved the church in truth and that others also
loved them in truth. How was he able to love them? The Truth, Jesus Christ
(John 14:6), lives in us and is with us forever. Love is built the Truth.
Anything less is not real love.
Second, grace and mercy and peace all come as a result of
love. These things come from God, but it’s interesting to note that they are
with each of us in truth and love. If we have love, then it will follow that we
also have grace and mercy and peace. Are we lacking in any of these areas?
Then, we can assume that we are lacking in love and the truth that love is
built on.
As we look through the rest of this book over the next 3
weeks, realize that everything John is going to talk about is focused on love.
He wants people to understand and know love. He wants love to be the foundation
for everything that they do and think as love is a reflection of the Truth of
Jesus Christ in our lives.
As a quick side note, I love my dear friend Amanda who, a
year ago had this brilliant idea to bring the Sisters in Cahoots together. I am
deeply grateful to have been asked to be a part of this wonderful group of
women. I am encouraged and strengthened in Christ with every post and every
interaction with all of you. Happy one year anniversary Sisters in Cahoots! I
truly love all of you in Jesus Christ!
Kristi Burchfiel, Christian devotional author and speaker
Living in the World – Living out the Word
Check out my website and daily devotions either on my blog or on my Facebook page
NEW BOOK OUT! "The Daily Devotional Series: 365 Devotions Through the New Testament" is now available as an ebook.
www.BooksByAmanda.com
January 30, 2013
Today's Woman!
This week I was asked an interesting question. The question made me think.
What is God going to do?
Well, let’s back up a little bit and I’ll explain the context of that question. We were discussing my writing ministry and how sometimes, I feel as if I am looking into my own life from the outside. I feel as if it’s not really me doing what I am doing. In the conversation, I put it this way.
“It's funny because...I look at others and their ministries...and somehow what I am doing is sort of surreal.
And at the same time...I am not surprised, because I know what God is doing.”
The question then asked of me was this, “What is God doing Darlene?
Tell me here... what is He doing?”
I had considered many times what my calling is. I know I am to write, specifically for women. I know I am to primarily write for Christian women. But I didn’t compile a complete, thorough, thought out sentence until I was asked the above question.
Here is what my fingers replied with. “He is using me to pour words of encouragement out in story form...in order to reach women who are hurting and need healing...to learn to forgive themselves and others...in order to step out of their past and be fully able to embrace the calling on their lives for today.”
That, in a nutshell, is what I am called to do.
I look around and see women who are called, who are talented, who are strong, competent, beautiful, intelligent, resourceful, creative, caring, compassionate and yet they are not walking in these wonderful attributes of Christ because they are being held at bay by their pasts.
We as women need to learn to let go of our pasts, no matter how good or how bad they might be, and learn to operate in the here and now…which is exactly where God wants us to be. Today is where we are most effective for Him. Today is when we can accomplish His will for our lives. Today is where God dwells with us. When we turn and look back, we are turning away from God. How can we expect to fully live in the blessings He has for us if we are continually turning our back on the Giver of all good things?
Which is why I write what I write. I write stories that are relevant for today. I write stories that we can all relate to, stories that will cause us to examine ourselves, our hearts and our motives.
I am blessed. I am living today with all of my power…and then some because it’s God’s power that truly makes me who I am.
Are you living fully today? Or do you keep looking back? Remember, the past keeps us from today. And this is where God operates in our lives.
Give Him your past. He’ll take care of it. And make a promise that you will begin living today for all it's worth.
Thanks for taking the time to grow with me this Wednesday!
Darlene Shortridge, Author of Soul Searching Fiction
www.darleneshortridge.com
www.darleneshortridge.blogspot.com
www.BooksByAmanda.com
January 29, 2013
The Tutor's Daughter by Julie Klassen
Look. I'm going to be brutally honest with you here.
I didn't want to tell you about this...well...this fabulous release.
Because I'm selfish and I wanted to win this giveaway. You know how good my chances are without telling you?! Exactly!
Not very good! :)
So, let me share one of my all-time favorite authors with you ~ Julie Klassen.
I've never been disappointed with a Klassen book. I hope you enjoy it as much as I am!
Julie is celebrating by giving away one of the new Paperwhite Kindles, Downton Abbey (season 3) and hosting a fun Author Chat Party on Facebook. (January 31st)
One fortunate winner will receive:
A Kindle Paperwhite
Downton Abbey, Season 3
A Julie Klassen library (The Tutor’s Daughter, The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, The Girl in the Gatehouse, and The Silent Governess)
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on January 30th. Winner will be announced at "The Tutor's Daughter Author Chat Party on January 31st . Connect with Julie, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at the trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be great giveaways - gift certificates, books and season 3 of Downton Abbey!
So grab your copy of The Tutor's Daughter and join Julie on the evening of the January 31st for a chance to connect with Julie and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)
Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 31st!
About The Tutor's Daughter:
Filled with page-turning suspense, The Tutor's Daughter takes readers to the windswept Cornwall coast-a place infamous for shipwrecks and superstitions-where danger lurks, faith is tested, and romance awaits.
Emma Smallwood, determined to help her widowed father when his boarding school fails, accompanies him to the cliff-top manor of a baronet and his four sons. But soon after they arrive and begin teaching the two younger boys, mysterious things begin to happen. Who does Emma hear playing the pianoforte at night, only to find the music room empty? And who begins sneaking into her bedchamber, leaving behind strange mementoes?
The baronet's older sons, Phillip and Henry Weston, wrestle with problems-and secrets-of their own. They both remember the studious Miss Smallwood from their days at her father's academy. But now one of them finds himself unexpectedly drawn to her...
When suspicious acts escalate, can Emma figure out which brother to blame and which to trust with her heart?
My Thoughts About This Book...
There was a slight problem with getting a copy of this book from the publisher, so I haven't finished it yet, so I'll just share a few things I've noticed. After I finish it, I'll post my overall opinion and review.
It's no secret that Julie Klassen is one of my all-time favorite authors, and she didn't disappoint this time around either. Engaging and well written, I admire how she was able to write a heroine that is both shy, reserved, and yet faces her family's problems head on. Financial difficulties are looming overhead and there aren't any more students at her father's school. Her father, after the loss of his wife, is saddened and unable to attend to the duties that are rightfully his ~ so Emma, proper Emma, takes matters into her own hands. Suddenly faced with an uncomfortable option she hadn't expected, she must either accept that life is constantly changing and be thrust out of her comfort zone or run from life and let her father decide for himself what to do.
~ Remember, I haven't finished this book yet, as I received it very late (no one's fault, just saying) so my entire review will be forthcoming!
www.BooksByAmanda.com
I didn't want to tell you about this...well...this fabulous release.
Because I'm selfish and I wanted to win this giveaway. You know how good my chances are without telling you?! Exactly!
Not very good! :)
So, let me share one of my all-time favorite authors with you ~ Julie Klassen.
I've never been disappointed with a Klassen book. I hope you enjoy it as much as I am!
Julie is celebrating by giving away one of the new Paperwhite Kindles, Downton Abbey (season 3) and hosting a fun Author Chat Party on Facebook. (January 31st)
One fortunate winner will receive:
A Kindle Paperwhite
Downton Abbey, Season 3
A Julie Klassen library (The Tutor’s Daughter, The Maid of Fairbourne Hall, The Girl in the Gatehouse, and The Silent Governess)
Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on January 30th. Winner will be announced at "The Tutor's Daughter Author Chat Party on January 31st . Connect with Julie, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at the trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be great giveaways - gift certificates, books and season 3 of Downton Abbey!
So grab your copy of The Tutor's Daughter and join Julie on the evening of the January 31st for a chance to connect with Julie and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)
Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 31st!
About The Tutor's Daughter:
Filled with page-turning suspense, The Tutor's Daughter takes readers to the windswept Cornwall coast-a place infamous for shipwrecks and superstitions-where danger lurks, faith is tested, and romance awaits.
Emma Smallwood, determined to help her widowed father when his boarding school fails, accompanies him to the cliff-top manor of a baronet and his four sons. But soon after they arrive and begin teaching the two younger boys, mysterious things begin to happen. Who does Emma hear playing the pianoforte at night, only to find the music room empty? And who begins sneaking into her bedchamber, leaving behind strange mementoes?
The baronet's older sons, Phillip and Henry Weston, wrestle with problems-and secrets-of their own. They both remember the studious Miss Smallwood from their days at her father's academy. But now one of them finds himself unexpectedly drawn to her...
When suspicious acts escalate, can Emma figure out which brother to blame and which to trust with her heart?
My Thoughts About This Book...
There was a slight problem with getting a copy of this book from the publisher, so I haven't finished it yet, so I'll just share a few things I've noticed. After I finish it, I'll post my overall opinion and review.
It's no secret that Julie Klassen is one of my all-time favorite authors, and she didn't disappoint this time around either. Engaging and well written, I admire how she was able to write a heroine that is both shy, reserved, and yet faces her family's problems head on. Financial difficulties are looming overhead and there aren't any more students at her father's school. Her father, after the loss of his wife, is saddened and unable to attend to the duties that are rightfully his ~ so Emma, proper Emma, takes matters into her own hands. Suddenly faced with an uncomfortable option she hadn't expected, she must either accept that life is constantly changing and be thrust out of her comfort zone or run from life and let her father decide for himself what to do.
~ Remember, I haven't finished this book yet, as I received it very late (no one's fault, just saying) so my entire review will be forthcoming!
www.BooksByAmanda.com
God is Good, God is Great
A little of this, a little of that. I love doing many different things, but I'm going to share my love of good books, fun crafts, freebies, contests, and scrapbooking with this blog. Enjoy!
...more
- Amanda Stephan's profile
- 110 followers
