Amanda Stephan's Blog: God is Good, God is Great, page 55
April 10, 2012
Easter Reflections
No bunnies were there. No chicks were present. I didn't even have a jellybean to my name while I sat at the piano Sunday morning.
It was Easter.
[image error]
And, as happens every year, my heart was thumping, my thoughts were going a mile a minute, and my ice cold fingers were about to shake right off my hands as I played the intro for our first song. (I've been playing either the piano or the organ in front of a church congregation for 25 years. Yep. Since I was 13 years old and my brother opened his big mouth and announced to the preacher that I could play the organ. I could have choked him, but that's another story for another time. Anyway, I've never. EVER. been comfortable playing the piano or organ in front of people. All too often I see so many mistakes and it scares me to death.)
Victory in Jesus...
we've sang this very song hundreds of times before. I've always loved it, and it's one of my favorites to play.
But something was different.
I heard an old, old story. How a Savior came from glory.
How He gave His life on Calvary, to save a wretch like me.
I heard about His groaning, of His precious blood's atoning.
Then I repented of my sins and won the victory.
O victory in Jesus, my Savior for ever.
He sought me and bought me, with His redeeming blood.
He loved me ere I knew Him and all my love is due Him.
He plunged me to victory, beneath the cleansing flood.
Soprano. Alto. Tenor and Bass all combined together brought sweet, sweet music to my delighted ears. This congregation wasn't going through the motions. They knew what they were singing about, and...they were happy.
When people sing loud, it's an encouragement to me. I play louder. I play better. But still, the terror was present. People I didn't know were there. People that could probably play the piano better than I were there.
Oh dear Lord, what if I mess up?
The next song was announced, and I could almost feel Jesus lay His comforting hand on my shoulder.
Don't worry... He seemed to say. Don't be scared. I haven't given you the spirit of fear, but of peace. Just serve Me as best as you can. I'm here, and I know you love Me.
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross...
Again, not a new song. A lovely, spirit-filled song, but not new on my playing list. Doesn't seem to matter. The jitters have their claws in my heart, and I have to get through this song. Even if I mess up. The voices swelled in harmony and seemed to float right into Heaven as they began the third verse.
See, from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down:
Did e'er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?
Finally, the last song. Then I can go hunker down and hide in my seat. Please Lord. Please let me get through this next song.
Even today, I wonder how the rafters are still on the roof of our church when everyone started the last song. Moving. Beautiful. POWERFUL and even these words can't describe what it sounded like. The best I can describe it would be that all Heaven stopped and stood still to listen to these redeemed human beings praise the Lamb of God. To worship the real reason for Easter. Jesus's resurrection from the grave. His victory over death to provide a way for sinful man to share Heaven with Him.
The last song?
He Lives...
I serve a risen Saviour, He's in the world today.
I know that He is living, no matter what man can say.
I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer,
And just the time I need Him,
He's always near.
He lives! Christ Jesus lives today!
He walks with me, and talks with me
Along life's narrow way.
He lives! He lives!
Salvation to impart.
You ask me how I know He lives?
He lives within my heart!
I know Jesus Himself placed His nail-scarred hands over my own to play that song in front of all those people. Because I couldn't have done it any other way.
I hope you had a blessed, wonderful Easter, and may the wonder of the cross and His resurrection never become old to you. Because we have a reason to rejoice!
...Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures: And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures. ~ 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
It was Easter.
[image error]
And, as happens every year, my heart was thumping, my thoughts were going a mile a minute, and my ice cold fingers were about to shake right off my hands as I played the intro for our first song. (I've been playing either the piano or the organ in front of a church congregation for 25 years. Yep. Since I was 13 years old and my brother opened his big mouth and announced to the preacher that I could play the organ. I could have choked him, but that's another story for another time. Anyway, I've never. EVER. been comfortable playing the piano or organ in front of people. All too often I see so many mistakes and it scares me to death.)
Victory in Jesus...
we've sang this very song hundreds of times before. I've always loved it, and it's one of my favorites to play.
But something was different.
I heard an old, old story. How a Savior came from glory.
How He gave His life on Calvary, to save a wretch like me.
I heard about His groaning, of His precious blood's atoning.
Then I repented of my sins and won the victory.
O victory in Jesus, my Savior for ever.
He sought me and bought me, with His redeeming blood.
He loved me ere I knew Him and all my love is due Him.
He plunged me to victory, beneath the cleansing flood.
Soprano. Alto. Tenor and Bass all combined together brought sweet, sweet music to my delighted ears. This congregation wasn't going through the motions. They knew what they were singing about, and...they were happy.
When people sing loud, it's an encouragement to me. I play louder. I play better. But still, the terror was present. People I didn't know were there. People that could probably play the piano better than I were there.
Oh dear Lord, what if I mess up?
The next song was announced, and I could almost feel Jesus lay His comforting hand on my shoulder.
Don't worry... He seemed to say. Don't be scared. I haven't given you the spirit of fear, but of peace. Just serve Me as best as you can. I'm here, and I know you love Me.
When I Survey the Wondrous Cross...
Again, not a new song. A lovely, spirit-filled song, but not new on my playing list. Doesn't seem to matter. The jitters have their claws in my heart, and I have to get through this song. Even if I mess up. The voices swelled in harmony and seemed to float right into Heaven as they began the third verse.
See, from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down:
Did e'er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?
Finally, the last song. Then I can go hunker down and hide in my seat. Please Lord. Please let me get through this next song.
Even today, I wonder how the rafters are still on the roof of our church when everyone started the last song. Moving. Beautiful. POWERFUL and even these words can't describe what it sounded like. The best I can describe it would be that all Heaven stopped and stood still to listen to these redeemed human beings praise the Lamb of God. To worship the real reason for Easter. Jesus's resurrection from the grave. His victory over death to provide a way for sinful man to share Heaven with Him.
The last song?
He Lives...
I serve a risen Saviour, He's in the world today.
I know that He is living, no matter what man can say.
I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer,
And just the time I need Him,
He's always near.
He lives! Christ Jesus lives today!
He walks with me, and talks with me
Along life's narrow way.
He lives! He lives!
Salvation to impart.
You ask me how I know He lives?
He lives within my heart!
I know Jesus Himself placed His nail-scarred hands over my own to play that song in front of all those people. Because I couldn't have done it any other way.
I hope you had a blessed, wonderful Easter, and may the wonder of the cross and His resurrection never become old to you. Because we have a reason to rejoice!
...Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures: And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures. ~ 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
April 9, 2012
The Seasons of Change
About two weeks before Easter, my beloved dad went to be with his Lord and Savior. It was an unexpected journey that left my family feeling the grief and sorrow that any normal family would feel at the loss of a loved one, but through it all we have striven to remember these simple facts.
My Father is now in his eternal home where there exists no sorrow, no tears, no pain, and no fear.
Our loss is his gain as he walks hand in hand with Jesus.
We will see him again because death of our mortal bodies is not really death.
As my family began taking one day at a time and made the choice of joy instead of despair, I noticed that my brother's and my children, all under the age of ten, grieved for a day or two and then like rubber-bands snapped quickly back into their normal routines of laughter and play. As I thought about that, I was glad that they didn't have to work so hard at resisting feelings of depression, sadness, and grief. In all honesty, I wished that I too could so easily and quickly move passed what I was feeling.
God seems to have given children a resiliency that few adults possess which allows them to continue to learn and grow and it is our job as parents to do whatever we can to help them stay that way as long as possible. That is why I work so hard each day to move passed my grief and sorrow and and show my daughter that while I miss my dad I have joyful and wonderful memories. I don't want her fretting because she thinks I feel sad, I don't want her to be afraid of death, but I do want her to believe that God provides us with comfort and peace even though we don't see the bigger picture as clearly as he does.
All of this struggling to retain normalcy made me think of one of my favorite children's authors Laura Eckroat and her book The Life of Bud. Laura takes children expertly and gently through the journey of
birth, living, and dying with the story of a special bud named Bud. With
each passing season, Bud learns that each cycle in life, including
death, is a natural occurrence. When it comes time for Bud to say goodbye
to the life he has known, he learns that the essence of every living
thing is remembered and valued long after they are gone.
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.Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
April 8, 2012
Sundays with Kristi - Happy Easter!
Happy Easter!
Today is the single most important day in the history of history, so we're going to take a break from our study of the Fruit of the Spirit this week and instead focus on the message of Easter. Rest assured, we'll jump right back in to the Fruit of the Spirit next week with gentleness. If you're just joining us, this gives you a chance to click on the "Sunday" tab above and get caught up!
Easter, as I said earlier, is the single most important day in the history of history. Just days before the first Easter, the world's wrongs were paid for through the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. On the first Easter, with the resurrection of Jesus Christ, He completely conquered Satan and death. No more would they hold power over us.
Let's take a look at that incredible morning through the eyes of a woman who had been front and center for much of Jesus' ministry. She witnessed Christ's power that morning.
In John 20:1-17, scripture records Mary Magdalene going early to the tomb of Jesus. She had been a follower of Christ for a couple of years and once she was freed from her sins and Jesus forgave her, she rarely ever left His side. I imagine that for her, the crucifixion and death of Jesus had been tantamount to watching her own death. So, once the Sabbath day was over and the obligatory Jewish restrictions regarding travel and such were lifted, Mary headed out to the tomb to be near her Jesus.
When she saw the open tomb, she ran back to the disciples. She didn't walk, or saunter, or meander; she ran with purpose. The next few verses detail how Peter and John approach the tomb, enter, and see that it is empty. Then both of them leave wondering.
Mary stays. Mary can't leave; Jesus was her whole world. Where will she go? What will she do? As she stands there helpless, hopeless, and alone, she glances longingly back into the tomb.
Surprise of surprises, she sees eyes staring back at her. More than that, she sees the shimmer of white that is so bright and so pure, she can't even look at it straight. Mary is so drained emotionally and physically from the events of the past days that the Bible doesn't even record
that she is frightened when she sees them. The angels don't have to begin with their customary, "Do not fear." They simply ask her why she is weeping.
This is an interesting question to me. Have you ever been emotionally spent, cried so hard, felt at the bottom of despair, and wanted nothing more than to lay down and close your eyes and never wake up? On a couple of occasions I've been there. During those times for me, my thoughts become a jumble of dark emotion. All the negative thoughts that have ever been in my head come crashing down on me. Problems seem magnified hugely out of proportion. If it becomes dark enough, I can even start to lose track of exactly what started this downward spiral, all I know is the darkness.
I think this is where Mary was. When the angels asked this very simple, very practical question, Mary was forced to put a specific reason to her feelings. She was drawn back to the place where the only thing that mattered to her was her Lord and He was gone. She answered the angels, "They have taken away my Lord and I do not know where they have laid Him."
The very instant she was able to recognize her need of Him, Jesus was there. She turned around and there He was. Again, it is interesting that the very thing that she indicated she needed desperately, she didn't recognize. There are some thoughts that she was prevented from knowing who He was, which is certainly possible, but the Bible doesn't say that here. It just says that she didn't recognize Him. Jesus asks her the same question.
This time, her answer is a little different, she has moved from a place of knowing what she wants to actually asking for it. She asks Jesus if He knows where Jesus is. Obviously, He knows exactly where He is. He does the one thing that will break through to her, He calls her by name. "Mary."
Just that one word, that one familiar, knowing word took Mary from despair to hope. Her response was immediate and is seen based on Jesus's next statement. He asks her to stop clinging to Him. Mary wanted to hold on to Him and never let go, much like a drowning man and a life preserver. She had been given the one thing that her heart desired more than anything else. She had been through a journey. She was despairing to the point of not even being startled by two angels. She had finally been able to state to herself exactly what she needed. She asked for what she needed, and once she had it, she wanted to cling to it and never let it go.
This is the journey that Easter is all about. This is what Jesus's sacrifice paved the way for. We are all in despair and death without Him (Romans 3:23). We all need to come to the place where we see our need for Him (Romans 6:23), but it's not enough just to acknowledge our need. We must ask for the need to be filled (Romans 10:9-10). Then we hear Him call our name and we receive Him and cling to Him (Romans 10:13).
If you haven't made this decision, then know that He is waiting for You and He loves You. If you have, then remember the raw passion and overwhelming joy that you felt the moment you started to cling to Him. Easter is here and the tomb is empty!
Father, there are no words to describe my love for You. You are the answer to my every need. You are the purpose of my whole life. I will cling to You as I have before. I love You and I am so immeasurable grateful for all You have done through Easter. It is truly a privilege to share in Your amazing victory.
May you live out His Word today!
Kristi Burchfiel
Check out my daily devotions either on my blog or on my Facebook page
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
Today is the single most important day in the history of history, so we're going to take a break from our study of the Fruit of the Spirit this week and instead focus on the message of Easter. Rest assured, we'll jump right back in to the Fruit of the Spirit next week with gentleness. If you're just joining us, this gives you a chance to click on the "Sunday" tab above and get caught up!
Easter, as I said earlier, is the single most important day in the history of history. Just days before the first Easter, the world's wrongs were paid for through the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. On the first Easter, with the resurrection of Jesus Christ, He completely conquered Satan and death. No more would they hold power over us.
Let's take a look at that incredible morning through the eyes of a woman who had been front and center for much of Jesus' ministry. She witnessed Christ's power that morning.
In John 20:1-17, scripture records Mary Magdalene going early to the tomb of Jesus. She had been a follower of Christ for a couple of years and once she was freed from her sins and Jesus forgave her, she rarely ever left His side. I imagine that for her, the crucifixion and death of Jesus had been tantamount to watching her own death. So, once the Sabbath day was over and the obligatory Jewish restrictions regarding travel and such were lifted, Mary headed out to the tomb to be near her Jesus.
When she saw the open tomb, she ran back to the disciples. She didn't walk, or saunter, or meander; she ran with purpose. The next few verses detail how Peter and John approach the tomb, enter, and see that it is empty. Then both of them leave wondering.
Mary stays. Mary can't leave; Jesus was her whole world. Where will she go? What will she do? As she stands there helpless, hopeless, and alone, she glances longingly back into the tomb.
Surprise of surprises, she sees eyes staring back at her. More than that, she sees the shimmer of white that is so bright and so pure, she can't even look at it straight. Mary is so drained emotionally and physically from the events of the past days that the Bible doesn't even record
that she is frightened when she sees them. The angels don't have to begin with their customary, "Do not fear." They simply ask her why she is weeping.
This is an interesting question to me. Have you ever been emotionally spent, cried so hard, felt at the bottom of despair, and wanted nothing more than to lay down and close your eyes and never wake up? On a couple of occasions I've been there. During those times for me, my thoughts become a jumble of dark emotion. All the negative thoughts that have ever been in my head come crashing down on me. Problems seem magnified hugely out of proportion. If it becomes dark enough, I can even start to lose track of exactly what started this downward spiral, all I know is the darkness.
I think this is where Mary was. When the angels asked this very simple, very practical question, Mary was forced to put a specific reason to her feelings. She was drawn back to the place where the only thing that mattered to her was her Lord and He was gone. She answered the angels, "They have taken away my Lord and I do not know where they have laid Him."
The very instant she was able to recognize her need of Him, Jesus was there. She turned around and there He was. Again, it is interesting that the very thing that she indicated she needed desperately, she didn't recognize. There are some thoughts that she was prevented from knowing who He was, which is certainly possible, but the Bible doesn't say that here. It just says that she didn't recognize Him. Jesus asks her the same question.
This time, her answer is a little different, she has moved from a place of knowing what she wants to actually asking for it. She asks Jesus if He knows where Jesus is. Obviously, He knows exactly where He is. He does the one thing that will break through to her, He calls her by name. "Mary."
Just that one word, that one familiar, knowing word took Mary from despair to hope. Her response was immediate and is seen based on Jesus's next statement. He asks her to stop clinging to Him. Mary wanted to hold on to Him and never let go, much like a drowning man and a life preserver. She had been given the one thing that her heart desired more than anything else. She had been through a journey. She was despairing to the point of not even being startled by two angels. She had finally been able to state to herself exactly what she needed. She asked for what she needed, and once she had it, she wanted to cling to it and never let it go.
This is the journey that Easter is all about. This is what Jesus's sacrifice paved the way for. We are all in despair and death without Him (Romans 3:23). We all need to come to the place where we see our need for Him (Romans 6:23), but it's not enough just to acknowledge our need. We must ask for the need to be filled (Romans 10:9-10). Then we hear Him call our name and we receive Him and cling to Him (Romans 10:13).
If you haven't made this decision, then know that He is waiting for You and He loves You. If you have, then remember the raw passion and overwhelming joy that you felt the moment you started to cling to Him. Easter is here and the tomb is empty!
Father, there are no words to describe my love for You. You are the answer to my every need. You are the purpose of my whole life. I will cling to You as I have before. I love You and I am so immeasurable grateful for all You have done through Easter. It is truly a privilege to share in Your amazing victory.
What are some of your memories from that first moment when you came to Jesus?
May you live out His Word today!
Kristi Burchfiel
Check out my daily devotions either on my blog or on my Facebook page
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
April 7, 2012
Could It Be Satan?
Never a big fan of Saturday Night Live, I only occasionally watched the program in its early days. A lot of great comedians and characters came out of that show, though, and I thought it funny one day when a co-worker in ministry at my church dubbed me "The Church Lady." Although we no longer serve together, he still teases me with that nickname when we do happen to bump into one another at a pot luck dinner.
Although the SNL "Church Lady" skits were often bawdy and sacrilegious, I couldn't help but laugh when Dana would turn to the camera, crinkle up his mouth, and ask, "Could it be...Satan?" Given what a lot of us have been through lately that is a very good question to ask.
Last weekend two of my Sunday school members, one of them a pastor in our church, were taken by ambulance to the hospital on a critical day in the life of our church. Others in our class had felt extreme oppression the week before. Even I was seriously out of sorts, constantly angry but without good reason to be. After the Sunday morning service, several of us wondered, "Could it be Satan?" We all agreed that it was.
Satan knows that Jesus is coming back and that his time on this earth is short. If he is going to keep the lost away from the Cross and the salvation of Christ, then he will stop at nothing to distract us from fulfilling God's purposes in our ministries, places of work, and our families. I have long felt that much of the rebellion we see in our children is nothing less than the enemy's attempt to keep the next generation of believers from ever reaching the point of salvation or reaching their peers for Christ. Lest you doubt it, Satan is alive and well and working on planet earth to do all in his power (and make no mistake, he is powerful) to see that no one comes to a saving knowledge of Christ and that those of us who do, live as defeated, ineffective Christians.
Since the beginning of time, literally, our enemy has been busy trying to lure God's children away from the truth of God's Word and the peace and joy of walking in obedience, always presenting an attractive counterfeit to tempt us to believe that our sin isn't really all that bad. Yet he knows that every sin we commit drives a wedge between us and Jesus, and he is hell-bent on making sure that none of God's children enjoy the intimate relationship that Christ offers us.
Many of us face serious illness, loss, and financial struggles in the course of living daily in a fallen world. It is when we begin to feel the weight of oppression in our circumstances and sense that there is something bigger at work than ordinary illness or adversity that we come to realize that we may well be under the attack of our enemy. But faint not! Jesus sits at the right hand of the Father interceding for the protection of his own from the enemy (John 17:9, 15).
Jesus tells us, "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy" (Luke 10:19). No matter how closely you may walk with the Savior, know that Satan will do all in his power to steal, kill, and destroy any evidence of Christ in you. But as a saved child of God you can rest in this blessed assurance from Christ himself: "I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand" (John 10:28). Not even Satan!
Copyright © 2012 by Dee Dee Wike. All rights reserved. www.deedeewike.com
*********
If you have a question that you would like answered in next week's "Dear Dee Dee" column, please email deedeewike@gmail .com or write to:
Dee Dee Wike
728 Peterson Lake Rd.
Collierville, TN 38017-1851
Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
Although the SNL "Church Lady" skits were often bawdy and sacrilegious, I couldn't help but laugh when Dana would turn to the camera, crinkle up his mouth, and ask, "Could it be...Satan?" Given what a lot of us have been through lately that is a very good question to ask.
Last weekend two of my Sunday school members, one of them a pastor in our church, were taken by ambulance to the hospital on a critical day in the life of our church. Others in our class had felt extreme oppression the week before. Even I was seriously out of sorts, constantly angry but without good reason to be. After the Sunday morning service, several of us wondered, "Could it be Satan?" We all agreed that it was.
Satan knows that Jesus is coming back and that his time on this earth is short. If he is going to keep the lost away from the Cross and the salvation of Christ, then he will stop at nothing to distract us from fulfilling God's purposes in our ministries, places of work, and our families. I have long felt that much of the rebellion we see in our children is nothing less than the enemy's attempt to keep the next generation of believers from ever reaching the point of salvation or reaching their peers for Christ. Lest you doubt it, Satan is alive and well and working on planet earth to do all in his power (and make no mistake, he is powerful) to see that no one comes to a saving knowledge of Christ and that those of us who do, live as defeated, ineffective Christians.
Since the beginning of time, literally, our enemy has been busy trying to lure God's children away from the truth of God's Word and the peace and joy of walking in obedience, always presenting an attractive counterfeit to tempt us to believe that our sin isn't really all that bad. Yet he knows that every sin we commit drives a wedge between us and Jesus, and he is hell-bent on making sure that none of God's children enjoy the intimate relationship that Christ offers us.
Many of us face serious illness, loss, and financial struggles in the course of living daily in a fallen world. It is when we begin to feel the weight of oppression in our circumstances and sense that there is something bigger at work than ordinary illness or adversity that we come to realize that we may well be under the attack of our enemy. But faint not! Jesus sits at the right hand of the Father interceding for the protection of his own from the enemy (John 17:9, 15).
Jesus tells us, "I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy" (Luke 10:19). No matter how closely you may walk with the Savior, know that Satan will do all in his power to steal, kill, and destroy any evidence of Christ in you. But as a saved child of God you can rest in this blessed assurance from Christ himself: "I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand" (John 10:28). Not even Satan!
Copyright © 2012 by Dee Dee Wike. All rights reserved. www.deedeewike.com
*********
If you have a question that you would like answered in next week's "Dear Dee Dee" column, please email deedeewike@gmail .com or write to:
Dee Dee Wike
728 Peterson Lake Rd.
Collierville, TN 38017-1851
Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
April 6, 2012
A Hop a Release and a Hop!
Well, we're very busy over here at S.I.C. getting ready for Easter, as I'm sure you can tell by today's blog post! Be sure to follow the links and read the posts!
A Hop...
A Release...
and a Hop!
A Hop...
RSVP for a Titanic Party!
Enter Today and Save the Date-4/10!
By the Light of the Silvery Moon by Tricia Goyer
Book review by Amanda Stephan
About the Book
Amelia Gladstone's hopes are tied up in the Titanic--hopes for a reunion with her sister and an introduction to an admirer. But when she offers a spare ticket to a down-and-out young man, her fate is about to change.
Quentin Walpole is stunned when a sweet lady secures his passage to America--and even more surprised to find his wealthy father and older brother on board the ship. Suddenly Amelia finds herself caught between the attentions of two men, but who should she entrust her heart to? As the fateful night arrives, will Amelia lose everything to the icy waters?
My Thoughts
As the 100 year anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic nears, I find myself reaching and reading anything I can find about this ill-fated ship. What could have happened? How could have the people felt? Why didn't they find a lifeboat? What did the other people think of those men who did manage to survive when they had lost their loved ones?
All these thoughts swirl around in my head. Who can I ask? The last survivor passed away in 2009. Alas, my imagination runs wild! read more...
Hop aboard the Blog Tour Here!
A release...
Today, our guest is
Kristi Burchfiel,
and we're going to chat about her newest book,
The Decay Within: A Study of Amos.
If you're a frequent visitor here on the Sisters in Cahoots! blog, you've probably met Kristi before. If you haven't read her Fruit of the Spirit devotionals, you've really been missing out! You can find the links to them all here...
The Decay Within: A Study of Amos
**new book alert!**
What is your most recent book? Tell us a bit about it.
The Decay Within: A Study of Amos is my fourth published book and second Bible study. Often, people get focused on their outward appearance and how they appear to others. As a result, they often fail to recognize or address when there are significant problems inside their own lives. The people of Israel during Amos's time thought they had the best of everything: economic prosperity, peace with their neighbors, and even a thriving religious culture. Still God told Amos to give them a message that the people were not following God's commands and as a result of their disobedience, they were decaying from the inside out.
The Decay Within is designed to take the reader through the Biblical book of Amos step by step, analyze Amos's message to the people of Israel, and then apply the message to his own life. The book has ten sessions and can be easily adapted for both individual study as well as a small group setting.
Tell us something about yourself. (Where are you from, what is your background, how long have you been writing or anything we might find interesting about you?)
I grew up in the small town of Valley Center, Kansas. After moving away to go to college, I met and married my husband and he began serving in churches as pastor. I then went through a really difficult time in my life personally. Even though I had a relationship with Jesus Christ for many years, I found myself struggling to make sense of why God was allowing these circumstances in my life. Through my struggles and anger, I found answers and comfort through God's Word. Since then, I've been focused studying and learning from the Bible and then sharing those truths with others, which led me to start writing.
I also work full time and have several hobbies. I haven't met an art or craft project I didn't like, although I'm certainly better at some over others. I enjoy meeting and speaking with my local Toastmasters group. I also absolutely love spending time with my husband watching a movie or sporting event or just spending time talking. I have two young kids who keep me constantly laughing and busy running in lots of directions.
What inspired you to write this book?
I've always been fascinated by the lesser-known books of the Bible. I firmly believe that the message of the Bible is completely cohesive and seen throughout all the books. Even so, some books are more frequently referenced in sermons and studies. I chose the book of Amos because it's one of those lesser-known books, and it has an incredible message. Amos addresses a group of people who have ignored God and fashioned their own lifestyle which, on the outside appears successful, but when examined next to God's design for each us, fails to measure up.
So many of us have been in similar situations where we try on our own to make ourselves appear successful, while never feeling complete. This incompleteness is the decay that is within each one of us when we try to build our life on anything outside of God's plan for us through His Son, Jesus Christ. I want people to open their eyes to this decay and find the way to exchange it for God's promise of life throughout. The prophet Amos pointed out the warning signs to the people of Israel and he detailed how we can root out this decay through repentance and be made right with God, experiencing His promise.
What types of books do you like to read? Who are your favorite authors? Why?
I enjoy several genres of books including Christian fiction and romance, biographies, business strategies, historical novels, classic literature. I have a large number of outside interests and reading books in different areas tends to match my varied interests. I particularly like Terry Blackstock, Jim Collins, and C. S. Lewis. However, my all time favorite book would be Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. I really enjoy a well-crafted story where the author knows how to draw you in and keep you turning pages all the way until the end.
Are you working on your next book? What can you tell us about it?
I am always doing Bible study and reading. I write a daily devotional that is available on my website and my Facebook page. These are the basis for The Daily Devotional Series e-books. As for my next Bible study, I have begun research on the book of Philemon, which may or may not develop into the next study. I am enjoying my study through it and look forward to seeing whether God chooses to craft my research into something more.
What is the best advice you could give other writers about writing or publishing?
The most important thing for me was actually finding the answer to the question, "Why do I write?" Once a write finds their own answer to that question, they will be close to discovering their passion. It's important to realize that when people purchase your book, they're not buying a book, they're buying you and what you represent; your passion.
Each author needs to know their passion because it will dictate how you approach everything else regarding your writing and marketing. Whatever the passion, you must be able to define it. Why is this so important? People are drawn to passion. People recommend books because they feel a connection with the passion of the author. Your passion is the foundation for everything else you will do as an author.
Have patience and don't lose sight of your message. As I worked through the publishing process and things seemed to take longer than I had anticipated, it became easy to get distracted with frustrations. However, I believe in the message of my book. For everyone working through the publishing process, remember what your main message is for writing the book in the first place and hold to that.
Where can readers learn more about you and your book?
I have several places where I can be found online. The most frequent places to locate me are listed below:
Website – www.kristiburchfiel.com
Twitter – http://twitter.com/#!/kristiburchfiel
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Without-Regrets-A-Study-of-Ecclesiastes/122149427808582
Another Hop!
can you tell I'm excited for Easter?
In other news, we're involved in the
John 3:16 Marketing Network Giveaway Blog Hop!
What does that mean for you?
So glad you asked...
Only one month to go until the John 3:16 Giveaway Blog Hop –
May 7th – 14th!
Join over fifty authors and bloggers who will be offering great books and other prizes on their blogs during that week. As a reader, you just "hop" from blog to blog and sign up to win some great prizes at each blog.
But wait…you also have a chance of winning one of two Kindles!
How's that for fun?
Tell all your friends and join us May 7th – 14th for the
John 3:16 Marketing Network Giveaway Blog Hop!
Amanda's eBooksLonely Hearts - $1.99 on SmashwordsThe Price of Trust - $2.99 on SmashwordsLonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
A Hop...
A Release...
and a Hop!A Hop...
RSVP for a Titanic Party!
Enter Today and Save the Date-4/10!
By the Light of the Silvery Moon by Tricia Goyer
Book review by Amanda Stephan
About the Book
Amelia Gladstone's hopes are tied up in the Titanic--hopes for a reunion with her sister and an introduction to an admirer. But when she offers a spare ticket to a down-and-out young man, her fate is about to change.
Quentin Walpole is stunned when a sweet lady secures his passage to America--and even more surprised to find his wealthy father and older brother on board the ship. Suddenly Amelia finds herself caught between the attentions of two men, but who should she entrust her heart to? As the fateful night arrives, will Amelia lose everything to the icy waters?
My Thoughts
As the 100 year anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic nears, I find myself reaching and reading anything I can find about this ill-fated ship. What could have happened? How could have the people felt? Why didn't they find a lifeboat? What did the other people think of those men who did manage to survive when they had lost their loved ones?
All these thoughts swirl around in my head. Who can I ask? The last survivor passed away in 2009. Alas, my imagination runs wild! read more...
Hop aboard the Blog Tour Here!
A release...
Today, our guest is
Kristi Burchfiel,
and we're going to chat about her newest book,
The Decay Within: A Study of Amos.
If you're a frequent visitor here on the Sisters in Cahoots! blog, you've probably met Kristi before. If you haven't read her Fruit of the Spirit devotionals, you've really been missing out! You can find the links to them all here...
The Decay Within: A Study of Amos
**new book alert!**
What is your most recent book? Tell us a bit about it.
The Decay Within: A Study of Amos is my fourth published book and second Bible study. Often, people get focused on their outward appearance and how they appear to others. As a result, they often fail to recognize or address when there are significant problems inside their own lives. The people of Israel during Amos's time thought they had the best of everything: economic prosperity, peace with their neighbors, and even a thriving religious culture. Still God told Amos to give them a message that the people were not following God's commands and as a result of their disobedience, they were decaying from the inside out.
The Decay Within is designed to take the reader through the Biblical book of Amos step by step, analyze Amos's message to the people of Israel, and then apply the message to his own life. The book has ten sessions and can be easily adapted for both individual study as well as a small group setting.
Tell us something about yourself. (Where are you from, what is your background, how long have you been writing or anything we might find interesting about you?)
I grew up in the small town of Valley Center, Kansas. After moving away to go to college, I met and married my husband and he began serving in churches as pastor. I then went through a really difficult time in my life personally. Even though I had a relationship with Jesus Christ for many years, I found myself struggling to make sense of why God was allowing these circumstances in my life. Through my struggles and anger, I found answers and comfort through God's Word. Since then, I've been focused studying and learning from the Bible and then sharing those truths with others, which led me to start writing.
I also work full time and have several hobbies. I haven't met an art or craft project I didn't like, although I'm certainly better at some over others. I enjoy meeting and speaking with my local Toastmasters group. I also absolutely love spending time with my husband watching a movie or sporting event or just spending time talking. I have two young kids who keep me constantly laughing and busy running in lots of directions.
What inspired you to write this book?
I've always been fascinated by the lesser-known books of the Bible. I firmly believe that the message of the Bible is completely cohesive and seen throughout all the books. Even so, some books are more frequently referenced in sermons and studies. I chose the book of Amos because it's one of those lesser-known books, and it has an incredible message. Amos addresses a group of people who have ignored God and fashioned their own lifestyle which, on the outside appears successful, but when examined next to God's design for each us, fails to measure up.
So many of us have been in similar situations where we try on our own to make ourselves appear successful, while never feeling complete. This incompleteness is the decay that is within each one of us when we try to build our life on anything outside of God's plan for us through His Son, Jesus Christ. I want people to open their eyes to this decay and find the way to exchange it for God's promise of life throughout. The prophet Amos pointed out the warning signs to the people of Israel and he detailed how we can root out this decay through repentance and be made right with God, experiencing His promise.
What types of books do you like to read? Who are your favorite authors? Why?
I enjoy several genres of books including Christian fiction and romance, biographies, business strategies, historical novels, classic literature. I have a large number of outside interests and reading books in different areas tends to match my varied interests. I particularly like Terry Blackstock, Jim Collins, and C. S. Lewis. However, my all time favorite book would be Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. I really enjoy a well-crafted story where the author knows how to draw you in and keep you turning pages all the way until the end.
Are you working on your next book? What can you tell us about it?
I am always doing Bible study and reading. I write a daily devotional that is available on my website and my Facebook page. These are the basis for The Daily Devotional Series e-books. As for my next Bible study, I have begun research on the book of Philemon, which may or may not develop into the next study. I am enjoying my study through it and look forward to seeing whether God chooses to craft my research into something more.
What is the best advice you could give other writers about writing or publishing?
The most important thing for me was actually finding the answer to the question, "Why do I write?" Once a write finds their own answer to that question, they will be close to discovering their passion. It's important to realize that when people purchase your book, they're not buying a book, they're buying you and what you represent; your passion.
Each author needs to know their passion because it will dictate how you approach everything else regarding your writing and marketing. Whatever the passion, you must be able to define it. Why is this so important? People are drawn to passion. People recommend books because they feel a connection with the passion of the author. Your passion is the foundation for everything else you will do as an author.
Have patience and don't lose sight of your message. As I worked through the publishing process and things seemed to take longer than I had anticipated, it became easy to get distracted with frustrations. However, I believe in the message of my book. For everyone working through the publishing process, remember what your main message is for writing the book in the first place and hold to that.
Where can readers learn more about you and your book?
I have several places where I can be found online. The most frequent places to locate me are listed below:
Website – www.kristiburchfiel.com
Twitter – http://twitter.com/#!/kristiburchfiel
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Without-Regrets-A-Study-of-Ecclesiastes/122149427808582
Another Hop!
can you tell I'm excited for Easter?
In other news, we're involved in the
John 3:16 Marketing Network Giveaway Blog Hop!
What does that mean for you?
So glad you asked...
Only one month to go until the John 3:16 Giveaway Blog Hop –
May 7th – 14th!
Join over fifty authors and bloggers who will be offering great books and other prizes on their blogs during that week. As a reader, you just "hop" from blog to blog and sign up to win some great prizes at each blog.
But wait…you also have a chance of winning one of two Kindles!
How's that for fun?
Tell all your friends and join us May 7th – 14th for the
John 3:16 Marketing Network Giveaway Blog Hop!
Amanda's eBooksLonely Hearts - $1.99 on SmashwordsThe Price of Trust - $2.99 on SmashwordsLonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
A Hop and a Release...
The release...
Today, our guest is Kristi Burchfiel, and we're going to chat about her newest book, The Decay Within: A Study of Amos.
If you're a frequent visitor here on the Sisters in Cahoots! blog, you've probably met Kristi before. If you haven't read her Fruit of the Spirit devotionals, you've really been missing out! You can find the links to them all here...
The Decay Within: A Study of Amos **new book alert!**
What is your most recent book? Tell us a bit about it.The Decay Within: A Study of Amos is my fourth published book and second Bible study. Often, people get focused on their outward appearance and how they appear to others. As a result, they often fail to recognize or address when there are significant problems inside their own lives. The people of Israel during Amos's time thought they had the best of everything: economic prosperity, peace with their neighbors, and even a thriving religious culture. Still God told Amos to give them a message that the people were not following God's commands and as a result of their disobedience, they were decaying from the inside out.
The Decay Within is designed to take the reader through the Biblical book of Amos step by step, analyze Amos's message to the people of Israel, and then apply the message to his own life. The book has ten sessions and can be easily adapted for both individual study as well as a small group setting.
Tell us something about yourself. (Where are you from, what is your background, how long have you been writing or anything we might find interesting about you?)I grew up in the small town of Valley Center, Kansas. After moving away to go to college, I met and married my husband and he began serving in churches as pastor. I then went through a really difficult time in my life personally. Even though I had a relationship with Jesus Christ for many years, I found myself struggling to make sense of why God was allowing these circumstances in my life. Through my struggles and anger, I found answers and comfort through God's Word. Since then, I've been focused studying and learning from the Bible and then sharing those truths with others, which led me to start writing.
I also work full time and have several hobbies. I haven't met an art or craft project I didn't like, although I'm certainly better at some over others. I enjoy meeting and speaking with my local Toastmasters group. I also absolutely love spending time with my husband watching a movie or sporting event or just spending time talking. I have two young kids who keep me constantly laughing and busy running in lots of directions.
What inspired you to write this book?I've always been fascinated by the lesser-known books of the Bible. I firmly believe that the message of the Bible is completely cohesive and seen throughout all the books. Even so, some books are more frequently referenced in sermons and studies. I chose the book of Amos because it's one of those lesser-known books, and it has an incredible message. Amos addresses a group of people who have ignored God and fashioned their own lifestyle which, on the outside appears successful, but when examined next to God's design for each us, fails to measure up.
So many of us have been in similar situations where we try on our own to make ourselves appear successful, while never feeling complete. This incompleteness is the decay that is within each one of us when we try to build our life on anything outside of God's plan for us through His Son, Jesus Christ. I want people to open their eyes to this decay and find the way to exchange it for God's promise of life throughout. The prophet Amos pointed out the warning signs to the people of Israel and he detailed how we can root out this decay through repentance and be made right with God, experiencing His promise.
What types of books do you like to read? Who are your favorite authors? Why?I enjoy several genres of books including Christian fiction and romance, biographies, business strategies, historical novels, classic literature. I have a large number of outside interests and reading books in different areas tends to match my varied interests. I particularly like Terry Blackstock, Jim Collins, and C. S. Lewis. However, my all time favorite book would be Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. I really enjoy a well-crafted story where the author knows how to draw you in and keep you turning pages all the way until the end.
Are you working on your next book? What can you tell us about it?I am always doing Bible study and reading. I write a daily devotional that is available on my website and my Facebook page. These are the basis for The Daily Devotional Series e-books. As for my next Bible study, I have begun research on the book of Philemon, which may or may not develop into the next study. I am enjoying my study through it and look forward to seeing whether God chooses to craft my research into something more.
What is the best advice you could give other writers about writing or publishing?The most important thing for me was actually finding the answer to the question, "Why do I write?" Once a write finds their own answer to that question, they will be close to discovering their passion. It's important to realize that when people purchase your book, they're not buying a book, they're buying you and what you represent; your passion.
Each author needs to know their passion because it will dictate how you approach everything else regarding your writing and marketing. Whatever the passion, you must be able to define it. Why is this so important? People are drawn to passion. People recommend books because they feel a connection with the passion of the author. Your passion is the foundation for everything else you will do as an author.
Have patience and don't lose sight of your message. As I worked through the publishing process and things seemed to take longer than I had anticipated, it became easy to get distracted with frustrations. However, I believe in the message of my book. For everyone working through the publishing process, remember what your main message is for writing the book in the first place and hold to that.
Where can readers learn more about you and your book?I have several places where I can be found online. The most frequent places to locate me are listed below:
Website – www.kristiburchfiel.comTwitter – http://twitter.com/#!/kristiburchfiel Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Without-Regrets-A-Study-of-Ecclesiastes/122149427808582
The hop... In other news, we're involved in the John 3:16 Marketing Network Blog Hop! What does that mean for you? So glad you asked...
Only one month to go until the John 3:16 Giveaway Blog Hop –May 7th – 14th!Join over fifty authors and bloggers who will be offering great books and other prizes on their blogs during that week. As a reader, you just "hop" from blog to blog and sign up to win some great prizes at each blog.But wait…you also have a chance of winning one of two Kindles!How's that for fun?Tell all your friends and join us May 7th – 14th for the John 3:16 Marketing Network Giveaway Blog Hop!
Lonely Hearts - 99¢ on SmashwordsThe Price of Trust - $2.99 on SmashwordsLonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
Today, our guest is Kristi Burchfiel, and we're going to chat about her newest book, The Decay Within: A Study of Amos.
If you're a frequent visitor here on the Sisters in Cahoots! blog, you've probably met Kristi before. If you haven't read her Fruit of the Spirit devotionals, you've really been missing out! You can find the links to them all here...
The Decay Within: A Study of Amos **new book alert!**
What is your most recent book? Tell us a bit about it.The Decay Within: A Study of Amos is my fourth published book and second Bible study. Often, people get focused on their outward appearance and how they appear to others. As a result, they often fail to recognize or address when there are significant problems inside their own lives. The people of Israel during Amos's time thought they had the best of everything: economic prosperity, peace with their neighbors, and even a thriving religious culture. Still God told Amos to give them a message that the people were not following God's commands and as a result of their disobedience, they were decaying from the inside out.
The Decay Within is designed to take the reader through the Biblical book of Amos step by step, analyze Amos's message to the people of Israel, and then apply the message to his own life. The book has ten sessions and can be easily adapted for both individual study as well as a small group setting.
Tell us something about yourself. (Where are you from, what is your background, how long have you been writing or anything we might find interesting about you?)I grew up in the small town of Valley Center, Kansas. After moving away to go to college, I met and married my husband and he began serving in churches as pastor. I then went through a really difficult time in my life personally. Even though I had a relationship with Jesus Christ for many years, I found myself struggling to make sense of why God was allowing these circumstances in my life. Through my struggles and anger, I found answers and comfort through God's Word. Since then, I've been focused studying and learning from the Bible and then sharing those truths with others, which led me to start writing.
I also work full time and have several hobbies. I haven't met an art or craft project I didn't like, although I'm certainly better at some over others. I enjoy meeting and speaking with my local Toastmasters group. I also absolutely love spending time with my husband watching a movie or sporting event or just spending time talking. I have two young kids who keep me constantly laughing and busy running in lots of directions.
What inspired you to write this book?I've always been fascinated by the lesser-known books of the Bible. I firmly believe that the message of the Bible is completely cohesive and seen throughout all the books. Even so, some books are more frequently referenced in sermons and studies. I chose the book of Amos because it's one of those lesser-known books, and it has an incredible message. Amos addresses a group of people who have ignored God and fashioned their own lifestyle which, on the outside appears successful, but when examined next to God's design for each us, fails to measure up.
So many of us have been in similar situations where we try on our own to make ourselves appear successful, while never feeling complete. This incompleteness is the decay that is within each one of us when we try to build our life on anything outside of God's plan for us through His Son, Jesus Christ. I want people to open their eyes to this decay and find the way to exchange it for God's promise of life throughout. The prophet Amos pointed out the warning signs to the people of Israel and he detailed how we can root out this decay through repentance and be made right with God, experiencing His promise.
What types of books do you like to read? Who are your favorite authors? Why?I enjoy several genres of books including Christian fiction and romance, biographies, business strategies, historical novels, classic literature. I have a large number of outside interests and reading books in different areas tends to match my varied interests. I particularly like Terry Blackstock, Jim Collins, and C. S. Lewis. However, my all time favorite book would be Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. I really enjoy a well-crafted story where the author knows how to draw you in and keep you turning pages all the way until the end.
Are you working on your next book? What can you tell us about it?I am always doing Bible study and reading. I write a daily devotional that is available on my website and my Facebook page. These are the basis for The Daily Devotional Series e-books. As for my next Bible study, I have begun research on the book of Philemon, which may or may not develop into the next study. I am enjoying my study through it and look forward to seeing whether God chooses to craft my research into something more.
What is the best advice you could give other writers about writing or publishing?The most important thing for me was actually finding the answer to the question, "Why do I write?" Once a write finds their own answer to that question, they will be close to discovering their passion. It's important to realize that when people purchase your book, they're not buying a book, they're buying you and what you represent; your passion.
Each author needs to know their passion because it will dictate how you approach everything else regarding your writing and marketing. Whatever the passion, you must be able to define it. Why is this so important? People are drawn to passion. People recommend books because they feel a connection with the passion of the author. Your passion is the foundation for everything else you will do as an author.
Have patience and don't lose sight of your message. As I worked through the publishing process and things seemed to take longer than I had anticipated, it became easy to get distracted with frustrations. However, I believe in the message of my book. For everyone working through the publishing process, remember what your main message is for writing the book in the first place and hold to that.
Where can readers learn more about you and your book?I have several places where I can be found online. The most frequent places to locate me are listed below:
Website – www.kristiburchfiel.comTwitter – http://twitter.com/#!/kristiburchfiel Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Without-Regrets-A-Study-of-Ecclesiastes/122149427808582
The hop... In other news, we're involved in the John 3:16 Marketing Network Blog Hop! What does that mean for you? So glad you asked...
Only one month to go until the John 3:16 Giveaway Blog Hop –May 7th – 14th!Join over fifty authors and bloggers who will be offering great books and other prizes on their blogs during that week. As a reader, you just "hop" from blog to blog and sign up to win some great prizes at each blog.But wait…you also have a chance of winning one of two Kindles!How's that for fun?Tell all your friends and join us May 7th – 14th for the John 3:16 Marketing Network Giveaway Blog Hop!
Lonely Hearts - 99¢ on SmashwordsThe Price of Trust - $2.99 on SmashwordsLonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
April 5, 2012
Sometimes Less is More
I have a tendency to write long. I love words...not just any word, but that perfect combination that exactly portrays my thoughts. Sometimes that translates into wordiness. I think part of my preference for more comes from a negative reaction to reading A Farewell to Arms, with whole pages of short, choppy dialogue. (At least that is how I remember it--high school was ages ago.) On the flip side though, it's hard to keep a reader's attention when the sentences are three lines long!
So when I am editing, I look for phrases that can be replaced by one exact word that reflects my meaning. For example, instead of will have to, use must. Rather than will be able to, use can or enable.
If one word will suffice where you have three, use the one word. This will de-clutter your work with less unnecessary phrases. It will sharpen and improve your writing. Isn't that what we all want?
If you have some examples like this to share, please do so! I would love to see a list of alternatives to wordy, vague phrases!
By the way...I just used improve rather than make it better!
Happy writing,
Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
April 3, 2012
Excess Baggage
Perhaps one of the most expensive components of taking a vacation is getting to and from the place you are going.
It seems everything is a factor. Recently I have been checking on prices for rental cars. I tried looking up prices online and was astounded to see the current rate in the Fox Valley area was around $100 a day. I had to pick my jaw up off the floor and reattach it to my head! The price of fuel is through the roof.
Next, I looked at the airlines. It has been a while since I have flown. What amazed me was the fact that a traveler must pay extra to take baggage. It used to be a person could take two bags with and each had to be less than 50 lbs. Then, that changed to one bag at 50lbs. Now, American Airlines charges $25 for the first bag? Has it really been that long since I have flown? Yikes!
One thing led to the next and the next and as most of you who know me know, my brain can really jump from topic to topic. I ended up pondering the word baggage.
Baggage is defined as:
1. trunks, suitcases, etc., used in traveling; luggage.
2. the portable equipment of an army.
3. things that encumber one's freedom, progress, development, or adaptability; impediments: intellectual baggage that keeps one from thinking clearly; neurotic conflicts that arise from struggling with too much emotional baggage.
I started to wonder, what if God started charging us for all the extra baggage we insist on carrying with us all the time?
Why do we Christians insist on letting our past dictate who we are today? Yes, the events of the past should help us grow, become stronger and initiate change that is necessary for us to become the person/s God has ordained for us to be. Unfortunately, many Christians today choose to dwell in the past. We relive our painful pasts day after day. We let the baggage from our past keep us from the blessings God has for us.
Let's say we take a walk and we pass 100 people on our journey. It's guaranteed that each person we pass has a past that includes pain and trouble of some kind. The homeless man lost his wife in a fire while he was at work, now he faces each day with a bottle in a brown bag. The lady who is yelling at her kids doesn't know any different, she was abused herself as a child. The women in the business suit had three miscarriages. The man driving the fancy sports car is lonely and has not a friend in the world he can trust. The Word says we WILL have trouble in this life. Trouble is not unique to you and I. It knocks on everyone's door at some point in life.
The question is, what do we do with it once it knocks? How do we react? How do we let it affect us? How long do we let it affect us? Why should we Christians be different? The answer is as simple: Christ.
In John 16:33 Jesus himself says this: These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."
We should be finding our peace solely in Him. Not in having the perfect childhood, money, plenty of food or lots of material possessions. All those things are immaterial. They have no bearing on eternity.
When we accepted Christ, we were supposed to hand all of our baggage over to him. He took it all upon Himself when he willingly put himself on the cross. Why do we insist on taking it back?
When our world is falling apart around us, we need to look to Him. I ask you this, is there something you have been holding on to? Something you should have given Christ when you stood before the cross? He is still willing to take that thing. Give it to Him and know peace.
If God was charging for all the excess baggage you are carrying…how much would you owe?
Thanks for growing with me this Wednesday and have a wonderful Easter! DarleneLonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
It seems everything is a factor. Recently I have been checking on prices for rental cars. I tried looking up prices online and was astounded to see the current rate in the Fox Valley area was around $100 a day. I had to pick my jaw up off the floor and reattach it to my head! The price of fuel is through the roof.
Next, I looked at the airlines. It has been a while since I have flown. What amazed me was the fact that a traveler must pay extra to take baggage. It used to be a person could take two bags with and each had to be less than 50 lbs. Then, that changed to one bag at 50lbs. Now, American Airlines charges $25 for the first bag? Has it really been that long since I have flown? Yikes!
One thing led to the next and the next and as most of you who know me know, my brain can really jump from topic to topic. I ended up pondering the word baggage.
Baggage is defined as:
1. trunks, suitcases, etc., used in traveling; luggage.
2. the portable equipment of an army.
3. things that encumber one's freedom, progress, development, or adaptability; impediments: intellectual baggage that keeps one from thinking clearly; neurotic conflicts that arise from struggling with too much emotional baggage.
I started to wonder, what if God started charging us for all the extra baggage we insist on carrying with us all the time?
Why do we Christians insist on letting our past dictate who we are today? Yes, the events of the past should help us grow, become stronger and initiate change that is necessary for us to become the person/s God has ordained for us to be. Unfortunately, many Christians today choose to dwell in the past. We relive our painful pasts day after day. We let the baggage from our past keep us from the blessings God has for us.
Let's say we take a walk and we pass 100 people on our journey. It's guaranteed that each person we pass has a past that includes pain and trouble of some kind. The homeless man lost his wife in a fire while he was at work, now he faces each day with a bottle in a brown bag. The lady who is yelling at her kids doesn't know any different, she was abused herself as a child. The women in the business suit had three miscarriages. The man driving the fancy sports car is lonely and has not a friend in the world he can trust. The Word says we WILL have trouble in this life. Trouble is not unique to you and I. It knocks on everyone's door at some point in life.
The question is, what do we do with it once it knocks? How do we react? How do we let it affect us? How long do we let it affect us? Why should we Christians be different? The answer is as simple: Christ.
In John 16:33 Jesus himself says this: These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."
We should be finding our peace solely in Him. Not in having the perfect childhood, money, plenty of food or lots of material possessions. All those things are immaterial. They have no bearing on eternity.
When we accepted Christ, we were supposed to hand all of our baggage over to him. He took it all upon Himself when he willingly put himself on the cross. Why do we insist on taking it back?
When our world is falling apart around us, we need to look to Him. I ask you this, is there something you have been holding on to? Something you should have given Christ when you stood before the cross? He is still willing to take that thing. Give it to Him and know peace.
If God was charging for all the excess baggage you are carrying…how much would you owe?
Thanks for growing with me this Wednesday and have a wonderful Easter! DarleneLonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
Caught in the arms
of another man.
e. Little Miss Goody-Two-Shoes. Yes. I'm not joking, either. But before I proceed and you unfriend me on Facebook or stop following this blog or Twitter, may I beg your patience, please?
As some of you know me personally, you know I love a good laugh. I love to make people laugh. So it shouldn't surprise anyone that I'm often at the middle of an embarrassing moment or situation. Which causes the laughter. And jokes. And funny little pictures posted on my Facebook wall. (You know who you are, but just in case you're unsure, your first name is Daniel. And your last is Paul. And you're a BRAT.)
I not only like to make people laugh, I'm a girly girl. Yes, I know how to shoot a gun (and hit the target), use a garden tiller, roof houses, build chicken coops and sheds, play baseball, etc, but when it comes to going to church or going out, I want to look pretty. Very pretty. Heels, nice dresses, makeup, jewelry. The whole kit and caboodle. This past Sunday was no exception.
Donning my newest dress with a psychedelic pattern (turns out that was a great idea), my strappy heels, my hair, well, it was as nice as it was going to get with its attitude, and my makeup, I pronounced myself ready to go. The children and I load up the car (hubster was at work) and dooty-do, we go to church. No problems yet.
The problem started when I had to go to the bathroom. While I was young, my parents taught us that we never, ever, under any circumstances disrupt church. Which included getting up and going to the bathroom. So, still being in that mindset, I struggle and finally make it through Sunday school. Of course, when you have to go so badly that you know you're going to explode within the next few seconds if you don't hurry, you tend to walk a little, well, funny.
And there he was. The man. (As well as a group of people that I chatted with on my way to the ladies room.) All was going well until I got to the dreaded first step. You know the one. The first step is always the hardest, right? (Especially when you're already walking funny because heavens to Betsy, you're going to explode!)
Then it got me. Well, actually, the first step's lip grabbed my heels. Yes, you read that right. Plural. Not just one heel. No. We're talking both. And then I went lateral. Right. Smack. Dab. Into the arms of....
another man.
Who happens to be married to a fantastic friend of mine.
All in front of a GROUP of people I had just chatted with. Some of which were... men.
Oh dear, I looked like I was planking and using D to help me.
And the only thought I had?
Thank you DEAR JESUS, no one SAW my UNDERWEAR!
After righting myself, turning fourteen shades of red, yes it's possible, and laughing like a lunatic, I made it to the bathroom. Where I had to situate myself and of course, take care of business.
Hiding like a thief in the bathroom was not an option as I'm the church pianist, I ventured back in front of the group that had just watched my unladylike debacle, (oh goodness there were new people,) and proceed to warm up my cold, icy fingers for the morning worship service.
Please stand and turn to page 147...
What was the title, you ask?
Leaning on the Everlasting Arms. <~ no joke. God has such a sense of humor, doesn't He?
Proverbs 17:22 ~ A merry heart doeth good like a medicine; but a broken spirit drieth the bones.
Proverbs 15:13 ~ A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.
Psalm 128:1-2 ~ Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.
When I told my parents later that afternoon what had happened, between their gasps for air from laughing so hard, my mother asked if I was embarrassed. The honest truth? Absolutely, with out a shadow of a doubt, I was embarrassed. But one thing I've learned in my 38 years of living?
I'd be missing out on quite a bit of entertainment if I didn't learn to laugh at myself!
Lonely Hearts - 99¢ on SmashwordsThe Price of Trust - $2.99 on SmashwordsLonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
e. Little Miss Goody-Two-Shoes. Yes. I'm not joking, either. But before I proceed and you unfriend me on Facebook or stop following this blog or Twitter, may I beg your patience, please?As some of you know me personally, you know I love a good laugh. I love to make people laugh. So it shouldn't surprise anyone that I'm often at the middle of an embarrassing moment or situation. Which causes the laughter. And jokes. And funny little pictures posted on my Facebook wall. (You know who you are, but just in case you're unsure, your first name is Daniel. And your last is Paul. And you're a BRAT.)
I not only like to make people laugh, I'm a girly girl. Yes, I know how to shoot a gun (and hit the target), use a garden tiller, roof houses, build chicken coops and sheds, play baseball, etc, but when it comes to going to church or going out, I want to look pretty. Very pretty. Heels, nice dresses, makeup, jewelry. The whole kit and caboodle. This past Sunday was no exception.
Donning my newest dress with a psychedelic pattern (turns out that was a great idea), my strappy heels, my hair, well, it was as nice as it was going to get with its attitude, and my makeup, I pronounced myself ready to go. The children and I load up the car (hubster was at work) and dooty-do, we go to church. No problems yet.
The problem started when I had to go to the bathroom. While I was young, my parents taught us that we never, ever, under any circumstances disrupt church. Which included getting up and going to the bathroom. So, still being in that mindset, I struggle and finally make it through Sunday school. Of course, when you have to go so badly that you know you're going to explode within the next few seconds if you don't hurry, you tend to walk a little, well, funny.
And there he was. The man. (As well as a group of people that I chatted with on my way to the ladies room.) All was going well until I got to the dreaded first step. You know the one. The first step is always the hardest, right? (Especially when you're already walking funny because heavens to Betsy, you're going to explode!)
Then it got me. Well, actually, the first step's lip grabbed my heels. Yes, you read that right. Plural. Not just one heel. No. We're talking both. And then I went lateral. Right. Smack. Dab. Into the arms of....
another man.
Who happens to be married to a fantastic friend of mine.
All in front of a GROUP of people I had just chatted with. Some of which were... men.
Oh dear, I looked like I was planking and using D to help me.
And the only thought I had?
Thank you DEAR JESUS, no one SAW my UNDERWEAR!
After righting myself, turning fourteen shades of red, yes it's possible, and laughing like a lunatic, I made it to the bathroom. Where I had to situate myself and of course, take care of business.
Hiding like a thief in the bathroom was not an option as I'm the church pianist, I ventured back in front of the group that had just watched my unladylike debacle, (oh goodness there were new people,) and proceed to warm up my cold, icy fingers for the morning worship service.
Please stand and turn to page 147...
What was the title, you ask?
Leaning on the Everlasting Arms. <~ no joke. God has such a sense of humor, doesn't He?
Proverbs 17:22 ~ A merry heart doeth good like a medicine; but a broken spirit drieth the bones.
Proverbs 15:13 ~ A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance: but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.
Psalm 128:1-2 ~ Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee.
When I told my parents later that afternoon what had happened, between their gasps for air from laughing so hard, my mother asked if I was embarrassed. The honest truth? Absolutely, with out a shadow of a doubt, I was embarrassed. But one thing I've learned in my 38 years of living?
I'd be missing out on quite a bit of entertainment if I didn't learn to laugh at myself!
Lonely Hearts - 99¢ on SmashwordsThe Price of Trust - $2.99 on SmashwordsLonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://www.booksbyamanda.com
April 2, 2012
Nighttime Rituals and Bedtime Fun
As some of you already know, I have a seven year old daughter; and similar to children everywhere, she rarely wants to go to bed at her designated bedtime. When she was very small our nighttime ritual included rocking in her very own bedroom rocking chair until she fell asleep. I would hold her small body across me and it would stretch from one side of the rocker to the other. This of course, at her insistence, was accompanied by my singing. Although a cherished part of our evenings for several years, she eventually grew too large for me to hold with her long legs dangling over the edge. She also grew much too heavy for me to easily carry her and slip her into bed. So alas, we had to come up with a new nighttime ritual.
We graduated to her getting into bed and listening to an instrumental cd in her boombox. We would set it to play continuously and this seemed to help her sleep the night through. Of course before starting the music it was imperative to read a bedtime story. One of her favorites has always been Geraldine's Blanket which I read with a Southern accent that still seems to delight her to this very day.
Another favorite for both of us was Snuggle Up Sleepy Ones. There is one part of this beautiful rhyming lullaby that talks of monkeys begging for "five more minutes please". That always made both of us giggle because she constantly tried to get an additional five minutes before bed as well. 
This year, as she entered first grade and was required to read extensively for school and do homework, she has opted to skip bedtime stories so she can stay up until the very last minute. Weekends are a bit different; however, and she has recently started asking to read a book by flashlight once she has said her prayers and I have turned out the light. The first time she read a relatively short book and fell asleep soon afterwards. Last night she became a little more cunning about extending her reading time before bed as she informed me that she was going to pick a much longer book. She ended up picking out Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Suess. The rituals have changed as she has grown, but one thing remains the same. We always try to make bedtime fun and something to be looked forward to instead of dreaded. But even more important then that, we are making memories that will last a lifetime. What rituals and bedtime fun have become a part of you and your children's evenings?
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.Lonely Hearts ~ a sweet Christian Romance
The Price of Trust ~ Christian Romantic Suspense
http://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!
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