Lyli Dunbar's Blog, page 15
December 6, 2018
How to Rest Like a Merry Gentleman This Christmas
On Friday, I got an unexpected text message that through me into a tailspin.
My Christmas mood immediately disappeared, and the spirit of Scrooge descended like a dark cloud.
I was neither merry nor bright.
I almost let the Grinch steal my Christmas, but thankfully I had 3 praying sisters who reminded me of the Truth.
I must confess I am easily discouraged. My enemy knows this, so he doesn’t have to do much for me to start seeing only coal in my Christmas stocking.
My accuser wants me to live defeated. He whispers, “Your world is dark, and it’ never going to get any brighter.”
But he is a liar. He is a liar from the pit of hell.
Because Light has come.
I need not dismay. Christ has come to dispel the darkness.
I can rest and be merry in the Light of His love today.
Maybe like me, you’ve had less than a holly jolly December. Perhaps you are hoping Santa will show up to pay that outrageous bill, or you’ve spent a few sleepless nights wondering if your prodigal will be home for Christmas. It night even be you who is living with a Scrooge without any Christmas spirit.
From the lyrics of a beloved Christmas carol, I discovered 3 reasons we can find peace and strength in the midst of the chaos. I wanted to share them with you this week because I am guessing at least one person reading this needs a Christmas miracle.
How to Rest Like a Merry Gentleman This Christmas
Recall Christ has saved you from Satan’s power when you were gone astray.
You don’t have to fight fear this Christmas because Jesus has already defeated the enemy. Remember you are on the winning team and walk with your head high.
“He has rescued us completely from the tyrannical rule of darkness and has translated us into the kingdom realm of His beloved Son.” (Colossians 1:13, TPT)
Rehearse the tidings of comfort and joy.
God has promised to fully restore and redeem your story. Every broken piece of your life He is going to beautifully repurpose. Very soon, Christ will wipe away every and forever destroy death and darkness.
“The Lord will surely comfort Zion and will look with compassion on all her ruins; He will make her deserts like Eden, her wastelands like the garden of the Lord. Joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and the sound of singing.” (Isaiah 51:3, NIV)
Remember to embrace one another in true love and brotherhood.
God has knit our hearts together as His children, and we need one another’s encouragement to stay standing. When we are going through a difficult season, the enemy tries to discourage us so that we stop stepping toward others for support. Isolation is how he defeats us. Resist the urge to hideout and reach out to your sisters for help.
“We know what true love looks like because of Jesus. He gave His life for us, and He calls us to give our lives for our brothers and sisters.” (I John 3:16, Voice)
To help you dispel the darkness, I’ve created a one-page printable for you with 15 Christmas Conversation Starters. Print these out and use them at your Christmas get togethers in December to start making those meaningful connections. Sign up today as a member of the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy in our Faith Fuel Library.
As we tune out the chattter in this chaotic world and listen to Savior , we will gain strength to rise above the crazy. He will give us His comfort and joy to keep us merry even in the midst of the messiest situations. The watching world will see our little lights shining brightly and ask us how we can stay so calm and bright.
Dispel the darkness this December by resting in Christ.
Dispel the darkness this December by resting in Christ.
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Are you feeling overwhelmed by your commitments and constantly running on empty? CHECK OUT MY COACHING SERVICES TO HELP YOU develop a plan to Refuel with rest and soul care.
Are you ready to fire up your faith?
Join the Wildfire Faith Community and get weekly #FaithFuel in your inbox.
You’ll receive “4 Surefire Ways to Ignite Your Faith” as my gift to you.
You’ll also get access to the practical resources and goodies in our private Faith Fuel library.
Have you written something challenging, encouraging, or inspiring lately? Link it up here! For best results, write the title of your post in the name box. 
November 29, 2018
5 Creative Ways to Celebrate Christ this Christmas
Christmas is almost here! The tree is up. The carols are playing. I am making a list of presents and checking my list twice to make sure I don’t forget anyone.
How are you doing at your house? Are you reading for Christmas? Maybe like me you are feeling a bit overwhelmed by everything you have to get done before December 25th.
In all the hustle and bustle of Christmas, I don’t want to forget the most important thing on my to-do list. I want to celebrate Jesus. My job is to share the story of His birth with those who have yet to receive Him. Every day, I rub shoulders with friends and family who don’t really understand the true meaning of Good Will and Peace on Earth. They desperately need to know the Jesus who came to save them. How am I going to invite those wandering in the darkness to come to Bethlehem and see the One who is Savior of the world?
I don’t want to spend more time decorating the tree than I devote to Jesus in December, so I brainstormed a simple ways wee can creatively say “Come and Behold, my Jesus” over the next 4 weeks.
5 Creative Ways to Celebrate Christ this Christmas
Pay it forward
Pay for the order of the car that follows yours at drive-through window. Have a Merry Christmas card ready with a written explanation that you are giving this meal in honor of Jesus, the Greatest Gift of all. If your church has a Christmas concert or service, slip in a flyer with that information.
Light up the stage
Get together with a couple of other believing families in your neighborhood and host a Christmas play in your yard. Invite all the neighbors with a postcard in their mailbox. Have your kids dress up and act out the Christmas story in your own living nativity. Bake some cookies and hand out hot chocolate as someone shares what the real meaning of Christmas is.
Celebrate a birthday
Buy the cake. Sing the Happy Birthday song. Explain that Christmas is Jesus’s birthday. Invite your loved ones to think about what they want to give Jesus for His birthday. Share what His birthday means to you and how you plan to live your life for Jesus (or have your kids share if you have littles. It’s a great way to teach your kids how to live out the Great Commission.).
Be a storyteller
Before your family opens presents, read the Christmas story from an easy to understand translation. If you have a child who loves to read, they might also want to read from a children’s Bible. Another idea is to read a Gospel-centered Christmas story for children like The Crippled Lamb by Max Lucado or The Legend of the Candy Cane by Lori Walburg.
Break the ice
Put together a list of Christmas icebreaker questions for your family meal. Hand out a question to each person. We included fun questions like “What was the most meaningful Christmas gift you’ve ever received?” and “What is your favorite Christmas tradition?”—But we made sure that my husband and I had the two important questions: “How are you remembering Christ this Christmas?” and “What does Christmas mean to you?”
To help you get started, I’ve created a one-page printable for you with 15 Christmas Conversation Starters. Print these out and use them at your Christmas get togethers in December to make room for Jesus as your table. Sign up today as a member of the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy in our Faith Fuel Library.
This Christmas, let’s be bold and share the Good News in creative ways. Someone in your circle of influence is ready to receive the King. Don’t stand on the sidelines. Step out and make Jesus known.
Choose creative ways to celebrate Christ and see the Spirit move this Christmas.
Choose creative ways to celebrate Christ and see the Spirit move this Christmas.
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If you are visiting from First 5 today,
welcome to my little space on the web!
Here you will find fuel for a wildfire faith to help you
LOVE DEEP: Fervently extend God’s kindness and grace to pesky people.
PRAY BIG: Go down fighting on your knees with fire in your bones.
HOPE FULL: Stay tethered to a confident anticipation that keeps your heart ablaze.
STAND STRONG: Rest courageously on God’s promises with red-hot resolve.
⇓
SUBSCRIBE TO RECEIVE WEEKLY FAITH FUEL IN YOUR INBOX.
YOU’LL GET A FREE COPY OF “4 SUREFIRE WAYS TO IGNITE YOUR FAITH”
and access the practical resources in the Fatih Fuel Library for members.
[image error]
⇓
I’m sharing a copy of My Pray Big Prayer Calendar with you. Join the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy in our Faith Fuel Library. Print out your copy and start each morning inviting God to strengthen your step and breathe fresh wind into your weary spirit.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your commitments and constantly running on empty? CHECK OUT MY COACHING SERVICES TO HELP YOU develop a plan to Refuel with rest and soul care.
Are you ready to fire up your faith?
Have you written something challenging, encouraging, or inspiring lately? Link it up here! For best results, write the title of your post in the name box.
November 20, 2018
When the Beautiful Lord Brings You Peace
In Florida we have a phrase we use every hurricane season whenever the weather man warns us a storm is a coming.
As soon as the wind starts to blow hard, we know exactly what to do.
Hunker down, girl.
You need a hideout when a hellish whirlwind is on its way. I personally like to hunker down in my bathroom with a battery operated radio and a package of double stuffed Oreos. Usually, I have a mattress near by in case I need to cover my head from getting crushed. (The roof has never actually blown off my house, thankfully. But I still find comfort in knowing the mattress is near.)
What is your first response when you are facing a terrible storm? I’ve never experienced a full-force weather event in my neighborhood, but I have walked through more than a few personal catastrophes. And, I am guessing the wind has swept though your life and caused some havoc as well.
The good thing about storms is that they are just passing through. So, if you are in the middle of a storm right now, remember to hold on to Jesus and remind yourself He will get you through this.
Last weekend, the winds of a oppressive spirit tried to knock me off my feet. As soon as I sensed the change in the atmosphere, I hunkered down by taking 3 helpful precautions:
Prayer Power
I sent a text message to my “prayer posse.” I am blessed to have a group of sisters in my life who know how to fight on their knees, so I reached out and asked for prayer cover. (This is much more effective than hiding under my mattress.).
“Then if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” (II Chronicles, 7:14, NLT
Rest Restoration
I cancelled all my crazy plans for the weekend and spent time refueling my empty reservoir. I filled up with the fuel of God’s Word, and I stopped trying to face the storm with depleted resources.
“God, the Master, The Holy of Israel, has this solemn counsel: ‘Your salvation requires you to turn back to Me and stop your silly efforts to save yourselves. Your strength will come from settling down in complete dependence on Me—The very thing you’ve been unwilling to do.’ ” (Isaiah 30:15, MSG)
Worship Zone
I closed my ears to the raging winds, and I raised my heart to the One who is still Lord of the wind and the waves. I purposefully chose to turn my face in a different direction and let the wind of the Spirit wash over me with peace and joy.
“But I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation. I will sing the Lord’s praise, for He has been good to me.” (Psalm 13:5-6, NIV)
Friend, even if you are not currently in a storm, you need to prepare for turbulence — because a disturbance will certainly be on its way when you least expect it. To help you get started with this project, I want to encourage you to read II Chronicles 20. And then, listen to these 3 songs to help settle your soul: “Beautiful Lord,” “Defender,” and “Praise Before My Breakthrough.”
Bonus: I’m also counting my blessings from A to Z on my Instagram and Facebook for the first 26 days in November, and I’d love for you and your friend to join me there and share yours.
When we make God our hiding place, the winds of adversity will never hammer us and leave us totally helpless. God will cover us and keeps us safe. Right now, God is singing a song of deliverance over your life. (Psalm 32:7) Stop listening to the enemy howl and tune in to God’s victory cry. Your God will speak “peace be still” over every storm in your life.
No matter how loudly the enemy howls, he cannot harm you if you hunker down in the shelter of your beautiful Lord.
No matter how loudly the enemy howls, he cannot harm you if you hunker down in the shelter of your beautiful Lord.
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⇓
If you are visiting from First 5 today,
welcome to my little space on the web!
Here you will find fuel for a wildfire faith to help you
LOVE DEEP: Fervently extend God’s kindness and grace to pesky people.
PRAY BIG: Go down fighting on your knees with fire in your bones.
HOPE FULL: Stay tethered to a confident anticipation that keeps your heart ablaze.
STAND STRONG: Rest courageously on God’s promises with red-hot resolve.
⇓
SUBSCRIBE TO RECEIVE WEEKLY FAITH FUEL IN YOUR INBOX.
YOU’LL GET A FREE COPY OF “4 SUREFIRE WAYS TO IGNITE YOUR FAITH”
and access the practical resources in the Fatih Fuel Library for members.
[image error]
⇓
I’m sharing a copy of My Pray Big Prayer Calendar with you. Join the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy in our Faith Fuel Library. Print out your copy and start each morning inviting God to strengthen your step and breathe fresh wind into your weary spirit.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your commitments and constantly running on empty? CHECK OUT MY COACHING SERVICES TO HELP YOU develop a plan to Refuel with rest and soul care.
Are you ready to fire up your faith?
Have you written something challenging, encouraging, or inspiring lately? Link it up here! For best results, write the title of your post in the name box.
November 15, 2018
When you Want to Move From Disappointment to Thanksgiving
Sometimes Thanksgiving is a time that leaves us at a loss for gratitude.
I remember when our family was in the middle of our adoption journey. We’d gone through 22 months of tumultuous ups and downs. After falling in love with a little girl and believing she was meant to be ours, we were told she had been given to another family. I grieved for months unwilling to surrender my vision and embrace God’s will. I allowed the grief to hold me in place unable to move forward toward whatever God might have planned for our family.
Until one evening amid 24-hours solo with God. It was Him and me – prayer, tears, and pouring out even the ugly parts of my heart, when I surrendered. I gave the child I loved back to God. I surrendered and accepted whatever story God may have for our family and my broken heart.
And that’s when the miracles began.
Through a series of connections only a miracle could explain, that little girl became ours. Not right away, but eventually it happened. In August of 2010 we traveled to meet her and declare our intentions before the Bulgarian Court. Our trip only confirmed the conviction I’d felt. This child was meant to be a Schumaker.
But then we had to go home empty handed. It was a two-visit process, and we had to leave our daughter behind and wait for paperwork to complete. They told us 3-5 months. However, by Thanksgiving of that year, we knew our wait would be longer. With every delay our daughter suffered without the love and care of a family.
She was hungry, sick, and longing for love. We’d told her we would come back, but after everyone who had let her down, would she or could she even believe what we said?
On Thanksgiving, as we filled our bellies with food and our time with family and love, our daughter lived in the gray world of a sterile orphanage.
I struggled to be thankful. I wondered where God was and why He would allow her to stay there.
Friend, have you ever been in that space that makes it difficult to be thankful? My guess is that at some point, you have. Life is difficult and provides much opportunity for disappointment.
Yet in the middle of those circumstances, God refines us. And on the other side of that refining we get a different glimpse of thanksgiving.
In my book, Surrendered Hearts: An Adoption Story of Love, Loss, and Learning to Trust, I wrote about the beauty I found through the refining fire.
The world of adoption has opened my eyes to some ugly and painful aspects of life. But it has also enabled me to see the power of God, the power of His love, and the power found in embracing who we are as His children.
-Lori Schumaker, Surrendered Hearts
Sometimes, friend, we get a happy ending, yet other times we simply do not. That’s when we wish we could take the pain away. It’s when we wish we could make it better in an instant, because that’s our instinct when we love someone.
But none of us can do that. What we can do, though, is assure you that God hasn’t left you. He is right there in the middle of the fire you are facing. And no matter the outcome, I can promise you that a day will come again where you will be able to lift up a heart of thanksgiving.
You’ll find joy…
….and because you have been refined by disappointment, you will be quicker to recognize your blessings.
The little things will make a greater difference in your life because taking things for granted becomes harder to do. Being refined by the fire of life grows us in our ability to recognize and give thanks for all that is good in our lives.
But I thank God, who always leads us in victory because of Christ. Wherever we go, God uses us to make clear what it means to know Christ. It’s like a fragrance that fills the air.
-2 Corinthians 2:14 GW
This week, as we prepare for Thanksgiving, let’s challenge each other to notice the good and thank our God who always leads us in victory because of Christ. Gratitude is a powerful weapon, sweet friends. Like a fragrance, it fills the air and passes from one to the other. May we be a part of that fragrance and begin a momentum of gratitude around us. Can we even imagine the world we would live in with gratitude at the forefront?
You and I? We will struggle at times to put forth a heart of gratitude. But when we fall off the gratitude wagon, we will get back up. Jesus made sure to give us re-do’s of every kind when He gave His life on the cross and then conquered death with victory.
So, let’s start today – one moment at a time toward living a life of thanksgiving.
Being refined by the fire of life grows us in our ability to recognize and give thanks for all that is good in our lives.
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As wife, adoptive and biological mom, teacher, writer, speaker, and coach, Lori Schumaker’s heart is to encourage others to meet the challenges of life with the hope of Christ. Wherever you find yourself today – walking through the difficult, longing to find your identity and follow your purpose, or simply experiencing a season of beautiful chaos, Lori’s blog found at www.LoriSchumaker.com is a place where you can find the encouragement you need today. In her first book she shares her family’s adoption story and lessons on surrender, trust, and loving well. You can also connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.
A lifetime of knowing. Decades of praying. Years of paperwork, research, and planning. Lots of tears. And the growing of faith in the waiting.
[image error]One look into a pair of sparkling brown eyes, and Lori and Bryan Schumaker fell head-over-heels in love with a beautiful young girl in Bulgaria. Certain this was the child God intended for them, they stepped confidently into the adoption process they’d been preparing for. They thought they knew what to expect, and they did—but there was so much more.
The application process moved smoothly ahead, and they began making plans for their daughter—only to be informed she’d been adopted by a family in Italy. Heartbroken, they struggled to move on, until, through a series of incredible events, they learned their daughter still languished in her Bulgarian orphanage. Turning heaven and earth, the Schumakers started over. Mix-ups, red tape, inexplicable delays, and a difficult judge threatened the adoption, but they were determined to bring their child home.
In a true story of learning that trust means surrendering your version of how the story should unfold, Lori and Bryan finally let go—of their dream, of their daughter, of their fears and frustrations. And in that relinquishment, God began to move.
Lori’s book Surrendered Hearts: An Adoption Story of Love, Loss, and Learning to Trust is available for purchase here.
The Refined Series
Fire refines. First God, breaks our pride into tiny pieces. Then, He melts away our impurities in a crucible of affliction. Every fleck of fleshy fluff rises to the surface and is removed until we reveal His image.
This year, I want to stop fearing the fire and pray:
Lord, refine me through the flame.
For 2018, I asked God to give me a word to guide my year, and He whispered the word “Refine.” For 10 months, Bruce and I have been walking through the fire and trying to not resist the refining work He is doing in us.
I am a very slow learner, and recently it occurred to me I should step aside and create more space to listen and learn during this season. I long to sit down for a heart-to-heart chat with a wise friend who will remind me the fire has a grander purpose. Thankfully, I am blessed to know several women who’ve walked through the fire and emerged beautifully refined, and I’ve invited them to share their story here with the Wildfire Faith Community once a month.
God has promised that the fire will not consume us, but transform us.
Sign up today as a member of the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy of the Refined Manifesto our Faith Fuel Library.
If you are visiting from Lori’s today,
welcome to my little space on the web!
Here you will find fuel for a wildfire faith to help you
LOVE DEEP: Fervently extend God’s kindness and grace to pesky people.
PRAY BIG: Go down fighting on your knees with fire in your bones.
HOPE FULL: Stay tethered to a confident anticipation that keeps your heart ablaze.
STAND STRONG: Rest courageously on God’s promises with red-hot resolve.
⇓
SUBSCRIBE TO RECEIVE WEEKLY FAITH FUEL IN YOUR INBOX.
YOU’LL GET A FREE COPY OF “4 SUREFIRE WAYS TO IGNITE YOUR FAITH”
and access the practical resources in the Fatih Fuel Library for members.
[image error]
⇓
I’m sharing a copy of My Pray Big Prayer Calendar with you. Join the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy in our Faith Fuel Library. Print out your copy and start each morning inviting God to strengthen your step and breathe fresh wind into your weary spirit.
Are you in the fire right now? CHECK OUT MY COACHING SERVICES TO HELP YOU develop a plan to Refuel with rest and soul care.
Have you written something challenging, encouraging, or inspiring lately? Link it up here! For best results, write the title of your post in the name box.
November 8, 2018
How to Get By With a Little Help from Your Friends
Earlier this week, my friend Susan took 5 minutes to send me a hug via video.
She gets me.
She understands my life is crazy.
She doesn’t try to fix me.
She listens.
Where would I be without my friends?
In the midst of this crazy life,I need women who will point me to Jesus.
Last week, while Bruce was out of town, my friend Lolita joined me for dinner, and then we went on an adventure to try on Halloween costumes. (Note: I don’t normally celebrate Halloween, but I do love dressing up.)
I’d spent the week immersed in crazy stress, and one night out filled with laughter and love healed my hurts. A good friend helps you find rest.
Part of caring for your soul and finding rest is making room for friendships.
Making Room for A little help from Friends Matters:
A good friend fusses over you.
Friends show up when you are down and uphold you. They consistently press in when you are overwhelmed, remind you God is in control. Create space in your crazy schedule for women who remind you God is good and will get you through whatever you are facing.
“Live in true devotion to one another, loving each other as sisters and brothers. Be first to honor others by putting them first.” (Romans 12:10, Voice)
A good friend fails to find fault.
A friend who is spiritually mature and healthy will never shame you. A sweet sister in Christ realizes she has lavishly received God’s grace, and so she is called to let go of offenses and live as a grace giver.
“So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.” (Colossians 3:12-14, MSG)
A good friend fills your life with laughter
Friends bring a lightness of being to heavy days by tickling your funny bone. They get silly and help you get the giggles to fight the gloom. Laughter and friends with a sense of humor are good medicine.
“Sweet friendships refresh the soul and awaken our hearts with joy, for good friends are like the anointing oil that yields the fragrant incense of God’s presence.” (Proverbs 27:9, TPT)
A good friend fights for you in prayer.
You need women in your corner who will cover you with love and prayer when you call. Share your burdens will warriors who cry out to God on your behalf.
“Be assured that from the first day we heard of you, we haven’t stopped praying for you, asking God to give you wise minds and spirits attuned to His will, and so acquire a thorough understanding of the ways in which God works. We pray that you’ll live well for the Master, making Him proud of you as you work hard in his orchard. As you learn more and more how God works, you will learn how to do your work. We pray that you’ll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul—not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy, thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that he has for us.” (Colossians 1:9-12, MSG)
I want to be a good friend to you, and I pray that every time you visit this space you will find encouragement and hope that points you to Jesus.
If you don’t currently have healing friendships in your life, I encourage you to pray for God to send those people in your life. Every Lucy needs an Ethel. Every Jonathan partners with a David. Jesus had Peter, James and John. The Apostle Paul was stronger because of friends like Barnabas and Timothy. God is our very best friend, but He sends us people to love us in His name. Your Savior will wash your feet by using a sweet friend if you let Him.
If you are a busy woman, you need to break away on a regular basis to break bread with a good friend. You will be a better version of you.
As iron sharpens iron, so a person sharpens his friend.
(Proverbs 27:17, NET)
I am so thankful that you read this blog and join me here each week to chat about how we can fuel our faith even when life is super hard. I love hearing from you — just reply back to any e-mail if you are subscriber, and it lands in my inbox. I promise I will reply. I’d love to know how I may pray for you and what you are struggling with right now. Do you have any questions you’d like me to answer? Is there a topic you’d like me to explore that is a real area of need? Please reach out and share your heart.
Maybe you are wondering where I go for encouragement when I need it. Well, I have a few friends whose blog posts land in my inbox on a regular basis. I am so encouraged by their words, and I want to introduce you to a few of my friends today.
I get by with a little Help from these amazing friends:
Are you asking “Where Are You, God?” My good friend Kristi Woods will help you remember God is watching over you. (I was so incredibly encouraged by her words!)
Is life crushing you right now? Kristine Brown shares 2 Providential gifts to help us start “Moving from an Overloaded Life to Overflowing with Hope.”
Jennifer Dukes encourages us to unplug from the noise and tap into His presence by developing “The Spiritual Practice of Tucking. Away.“
If you are a “do-er” who is constantly overwhelmed, you will find encouragement through Abby McDonald’s story: “Crushed by the Weight of My Expectations.“
Scarlett Hiltibidal provides a timely tutorial on how to create calm as we approach the crazy holiday season: “How to Rest in December.”
Betsy Cruz shows us how to pray when our mind is racing as a million miles a minute. Love her post: “How to Pray Simply When You Need Calm.“
Y’all, I must add this 15-minute podcast with Emily Freeman, which is a gift from heaven to my weary soul each week: Don’t Dread Your Weird Life.
Take time this week to make a new friend and to find encouragement from her story. Sharing stories with generous friends is good for your soul.
Reliable friends who do what they say are like cool drinks in sweltering heat—refreshing!
(Proverbs 25:13, MSG)
This week, I dare you to put girl time on your calendar and create ample space for rest and refreshment. You will never regret choosing to make room for friendship.
You could invite a few friends to join you in this month’s gratitude challenge! To help you get started, I’ve created a one-page printable for you to count your blessings from A to Z this month. You’ll have super fun working together on this sweet exercise to notice God’s extraordinary grace in your every day ordinary. Sign up today as a member of the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy in our Faith Fuel Library.
Bonus: I’m also going to count my blessings from A to Z on my Instagram and Facebook for the first 26 days in November, and I’d love for you and your friend to join me there and share yours.
Making room for friendship in our busy schedules helps us live healthier. We find strength by sharing our stuff and knowing we are not alone. We learn to laugh at ourselves. And, we discover that prayer in community makes a difference. Embracing relationships will plant seeds of joy and enrich every area of your life.
A little help from your friends will get you through the hard stuff.
A little help from your friends will get you through the hard stuff.
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Are you feeling overwhelmed by your commitments and constantly running on empty? CHECK OUT MY COACHING SERVICES TO HELP YOU develop a plan to Refuel with rest and soul care.
Are you ready to fire up your faith?
Join the Wildfire Faith Community and get weekly #FaithFuel in your inbox.
You’ll receive “4 Surefire Ways to Ignite Your Faith” as my gift to you.
You’ll also get access to the practical resources and goodies in our private Faith Fuel library.
Have you written something challenging, encouraging, or inspiring lately? Link it up here! For best results, write the title of your post in the name box.
November 1, 2018
The Promising Remedy for When Poison Reaches Your Heart
I almost poisoned six women at a pot luck.
I didn’t do it intentionally. I wasn’t even supposed to bake. Normally, I just buy a desert, but the gal who’d promised to bring the sweet treat ended up breaking a tooth. At the last moment, she had to back out, and I was short 1 tray of brownies.
I decided to go hunting in my pantry for a last-minute brownie mix. Surely, I’d find a box of Pillsbury something lurking in the back corner.
Now, I should warn you that our pantry is a mess. Bruce likes to buy in bulk, and the shelves are crammed full with too many cans of everything.
But, I was a woman on a mission. I needed brownies, and I needed them fast.
So, I asked Bruce to be brave and do a reconnaissance mission in the cluttered closet. “Find me a brownie mix. It’s hiding in there somewhere.”
I was delighted when he emerged 10 minutes later holding a box of double chocolate loveliness. I had eggs in the fridge, and we found a half empty bottle of vegetable oil on the top pantry shelf.
I declared a dessert victory and started mixing my ingredients. We would have double fudge yummy squares in 20 minutes. Yay!
The doorbell rang, and soon I had a house full of friends chatting away. My kitchen counter was covered with a hodgepodge of homemade dishes, and each woman walked through and picked her poison — piling up her plate for a fun night of food and fellowship.
At some point after we’d stuffed our faces, I opened up the Word and started to discuss our homework for the week. We gabbed like girls do — and I got lost in time.
An hour later, I finally remembered my duties as hostess with the mostest and realized I’d never served dessert. I’d left the chocolate goodness forgotten on the kitchen counter.
I walked over to the stove, grabbed the warm dessert and a knife and headed back to the table to share the sugary treat. I noticed one piece was already missing, and I guessed Misty must have stolen the piece in advance because she suddenly got the giggles and excused herself for a breath of fresh air.
I continued chatting away about our homework as I sliced the squares and served each woman still seated a piece.
The last square sat before me, and I took a bite and then continued with the lesson.
I posed a discussion question for the group and waited for a response. In the. meantime, I took another nibble of my brownie.
Normally, I devour a brownie in less then 20 seconds, but as I chewed and swallowed, I slowly realized something was awry. Underneath I could still taste the chocolate, but a bitter ingredient was overpowering the sweetness.
That’s when I realized everyone else had stopped eating. And, Misty must have left the table out of embarrassment. She didn’t want to tell me my brownies were inedible.
Let this be a lesson to you, friends: If you leave oil unused for an extended period, it apparently goes rancid.
The tainted oil left a repugnant aftertaste that nearly poisoned six beautiful women.
You will be happy to know I threw out the old oil, and then I cleaned out my pantry. As I tossed half-empty spice bottles, unused tea bags from 2008, and canned goods way past expiration, I contemplated the importance of stopping to take inventory. It’s a necessary exercise to clean house every now and then.
Here’s the thing: I can run around trying to produce a beautiful meal for my family. I can slave at the stove and spend countless hours planning, but if I am working with stagnant ingredients, the taste will always lack a fresh, savory taste.
Last week, I decided to take a few hours to slow down and examine the condition of my life. I grabbed a chair and sat outside in my backyard for a quiet afternoon with my Bible, my calendar, my journal, and my favorite pen. I spent the first few minutes just letting the fresh wind of the Spirit fill me up with His goodness and grace.
I need new oil. I must stop piling my plate high with poison and ask the Holy Spirit to pour a fresh anointing into my heart.
Is bitterness boiling over in your right heart right now? Rest is the remedy.
4 Ingredients to Counteract the Poison
Relationships
Conversation with good friends combats bitterness in our core. A regular coffee date with a friend who can pour grace into your life is needed. Make sure you make room for fellowship on your calendar.
“I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love. I want them to have complete confidence that they understand God’s mysterious plan, which is Christ himself.” (Colossians 2:2, NLT)
Exercise
Never forget your heart is an organ requiring continual exercise. Cardiovascular activity not only impacts your physical well-being, but this important ingredient also elevates your mood and mind. (And, you will sleep more soundly.)
“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” (I Corinthians 9:24-25, NIV)
Sabbath
God set the example for us — He created a masterpiece in six days, and then He set aside 24 hours to truly enjoy His handiwork. We need to make room for celebration and recalibration.
“So we conclude that there is still a full and complete ‘rest’ waiting for believers to experience. As we enter into God’s faith-rest life we cease from our own works, just as God celebrates His finished works and rests in them. So then we must give our all and be eager to experience this faith-rest life, so that no one falls short by following the same pattern of doubt and unbelief.” (Hebrews 4:9-11, TPT)
Thanksgiving
Complaining and comparison will quickly poison your life. Cultivate the fruit of gratitude in the garden of your heart. Take time each day to sow this seed by writing down how you see God at work in your surroundings.
“Let your hearts fall under the rule of the Anointed’s peace — the peace you were called to as one body, and be thankful. Let the word of the Anointed One richly inhabit your lives. With all wisdom teach, counsel, and instruct one another. Sing the psalms, compose hymns and songs inspired by the Spirit, and keep on singing—sing to God from hearts full and spilling over with thankfulness.” (Colossians 3:15-16, VOICE)
You can sweeten up your life by just adding more these 4 simple ingredients to your life. Don’t skimp on the serving size, friends. Measure wisely and be generous with yourself.
To help you get started, I’ve created a one-page printable for you to count your blessings from A to Z this month. Download a copy and grab a cup of tea. Then, find a quiet spot to sit down for a spell to reflect on how God has shown up for you in unexpected ways this past year. Sign up today as a member of the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy in our Faith Fuel Library.
Bonus: I’m also going to count my blessings from A to Z on my Instagram and Facebook for the first 26 days in November, and I’d love for you to join me there and share yours.
As we create room for rest in our week, the oil of the Spirit will penetrate our lives and overflow to sweeten up the world around us. Our lives will invite others in to taste and see that He is good.
Counteract the poison of bitterness by presenting your life to your sweet Savior.
Counteract the poison of bitterness by presenting your life to your sweet Savior.
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Are you struggling to find the sweetness in your life right now? CHECK OUT MY COACHING SERVICES TO HELP YOU develop a plan to Refuel with rest and soul care.
Are you ready to fire up your faith?
Join the Wildfire Faith Community and get weekly #FaithFuel in your inbox.
You’ll receive “4 Surefire Ways to Ignite Your Faith” as my gift to you.
You’ll also get access to the practical resources and goodies in our private Faith Fuel library.
Have you written something challenging, encouraging, or inspiring lately? Link it up here! For best results, write the title of your post in the name box.
October 25, 2018
When You are Refined by Change
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Tears began to form as I hung up the phone. My husband had called to let me know he would be working late again. I love my children, but I needed a break, they needed their dad and I desperately needed him home. I was 25 when I began praying a seemingly innocent prayer earnestly seeking God with a few simple requests: a new church, a new house and a new job for my husband. Even as I prayed, I was creating my own plan of how it should look. This prayer forever changed the trajectory of my life.
Have you ever prayed a prayer that brought significant change to your life?
Before we go any further I have a confession: I hate change! It’s a nasty five letter word that I dislike, or at least I used to. You see, I used to be a control freak. I was the type of person who had plans for the backup plans. If something was going to happen or go wrong with the original plan, I had another plan. I needed to be able to control the situation and change just didn’t fit in my vocabulary and if it did, it was never in a good way.
I’ve heard it said that frustration is a catalyst for change and I’ve learned it’s true. Frustration was the driving force behind my prayers back then. I wanted change, truly I did, but I wanted it my way, in my time and fitting into my plan. That is until God in His sovereignty decided it was time I needed refining and change was the vehicle He was going to use to bring it about.
Have you ever wanted something to change in your life, but then when it did, it wasn’t at all how you had pictured it?
Yes, God answered all three of my prayers at once, however, it wasn’t exactly in the way I had planned. His plan involved change in every area of my life. His plan involved moving us out of state from all our family, friends and everything I had ever known. What was God thinking? In spite of getting my prayers answered I was seriously angry at God. His plan left me feeling under pressure, discomfort and out of control. His plan required me trusting and becoming dependent upon Him. His plan seemed too difficult and I wanted to run.
John Maxwell says, “Change is inevitable, growth is optional.” It took two years for me to fully surrendered to the change and refining process God was inviting me to. I now know that change is the process God uses to refine us.
O Lord, we have passed through your fire;
like precious metal made pure,
you’ve proved us, perfected us, and made us holy. (Psalm 66:10 TPT)
God invites us to go through the refiner’s fire, not for His sake, but for ours. When something is refined it is to make it better by removing the flaws and imperfections. God’s refiners fire will pull out the impurities in our lives. His refining fire may seem difficult and painful, but it’s really meant to soften the hard places in our lives, so we become more like Him. It’s through the refiner’s fire that God’s power and sovereignty is displayed. He brings our imperfections and weaknesses to the surface and we become stronger once they are dealt with, healed and removed.
For me, the last twenty-five years and counting has been filled with seasons of constant change and refining. Not all bad, but all necessary!
A little over five years ago, my husband and I said “yes” to pastoring a local church. The minute we said “yes” was the minute “change” in every area of our life began again. If I began to list everything out for you, it would easily fill up several pages, but that isn’t the point.
As I look back at the last twenty-five years, and even the last five, I am not the same person I was then. His refining fire has changed me, shaped me and molded me into a vessel that can display His glory to others.
I will continue to submit to the refining process God wants me to walk through, because I know I will come out the others side with less flaws and imperfections and I will be made more holy.
The refiner’s fire and process of change in my life hasn’t always been pleasant, but it has been pivotal to my success moving forward and being obedient to the call of God on my life.
Is God inviting you to be refined by change?
If so, don’t resist, but submit. Submit to the refining process and allow Him to make you more pure and holy.
Change is not always pleasant, but it’s pivotal to our success.
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Debbie Kitterman is a natural born encourager who is on fire for God. She is passionate about equipping individuals to go deeper in their relationship with God, reach their God-potential and claim their Kingdom inheritance. Debbie is an author, pastor, speaker and the founder of “Dare2Hear,” ministry and d2htraining.com. Her writing and teachings inspire faith and build bridges for people to expect the impossible. Her book, The Gift of Prophetic Encouragement: Hearing the Words of God for Others, released August 21, 2018 with Chosen Books. Follow Debbie Kitterman here:Blog :: Facebook :: Twitter :: Instagram :: Pinterest :: FB Ministry Page :: LinkedIn :: Google+:: YouTube
The Refined Series
Fire refines. First God, breaks our pride into tiny pieces. Then, He melts away our impurities in a crucible of affliction. Every fleck of fleshy fluff rises to the surface and is removed until we reveal His image.
This year, I want to stop fearing the fire and pray:
Lord, refine me through the flame.
For 2018, I asked God to give me a word to guide my year, and He whispered the word “Refine.” For 10 months, Bruce and I have been walking through the fire and trying to not resist the refining work He is doing in us.
I am a very slow learner, and recently it occurred to me I should step aside and create more space to listen and learn during this season. I long to sit down for a heart-to-heart chat with a wise friend who will remind me the fire has a grander purpose. Thankfully, I am blessed to know several women who’ve walked through the fire and emerged beautifully refined, and I’ve invited them to share their story here with the Wildfire Faith Community once a month.
God has promised that the fire will not consume us, but transform us.
Sign up today as a member of the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy of the Refined Manifesto our Faith Fuel Library.
If you are visiting from Debbie’s today,
welcome to my little space on the web!
Here you will find fuel for a wildfire faith to help you
LOVE DEEP: Fervently extend God’s kindness and grace to pesky people.
PRAY BIG: Go down fighting on your knees with fire in your bones.
HOPE FULL: Stay tethered to a confident anticipation that keeps your heart ablaze.
STAND STRONG: Rest courageously on God’s promises with red-hot resolve.
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SUBSCRIBE TO RECEIVE WEEKLY FAITH FUEL IN YOUR INBOX.
YOU’LL GET A FREE COPY OF “4 SUREFIRE WAYS TO IGNITE YOUR FAITH”
and access the practical resources in the Fatih Fuel Library for members.
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I’m sharing a copy of My Pray Big Prayer Calendar with you. Join the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy in our Faith Fuel Library. Print out your copy and start each morning inviting God to strengthen your step and breathe fresh wind into your weary spirit.
Are you in the fire right now? CHECK OUT MY COACHING SERVICES TO HELP YOU develop a plan to Refuel with rest and soul care.
Have you written something challenging, encouraging, or inspiring lately? Link it up here! For best results, write the title of your post in the name box.
October 18, 2018
When You Need the Word to Refine You
Years ago, someone took a sledgehammer to my heart and left me shattered. The life I’d led splintered into a million pieces.
At the time, I thought I’d lost everything. But looking back now, I see how God used that time to empty me of everything that didn’t matter. I was left with nothing in my heart but God.
Empty is not always bad. Sometimes empty is a Providential gift to help you lose your pride and embrace the all-consuming fire of His presence.
This weekend, I remembered how it felt — how it felt to lose it all and find God was enough.
I smiled as I realized I’d lost my former life, but I’d found a God who is faithful.
When you end up alone holding just a Bible and your broken heart, often that is where the real work of refining begins.
How the Word Refines
The Word breaks up the stony hard places of our hearts.
William Kroll challenges: “Better a shattered heart than a hardened heart.” When we grow to love anything more than the the Lord, our God will sledgehammer our idols right off the altar of our hearts. A broken heart that tenderly bends to His will is best for us.
“Is not My word like fire?” declares the Lord, “and like a hammer which shatters a rock?” (Jeremiah 23:29)
Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! …The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:8 & 18)
The Word burns away any impurities cluttering up our heart.
Let’s face it — our hearts are easily distracted and led astray. God’s Word brings healing warmth when we are growing cold and need a gentle reminder, but sometimes, our hearts need a purging in the heat of the flames. Like David, we need to cry out and ask God to “create a clean heart in us and renew a steadfast spirit within us.” (Psalm 51:10)
“Come close to the one true God, and He will draw close to you. Wash your hands; you have dirtied them in sin. Cleanse your heart, because your mind is split down the middle, your love for God on one side and selfish pursuits on the other.” (James 4:8, Voice)
“For every word God speaks is sure and every promise pure. His truth is tested, found to be flawless, and ever faithful. It’s as pure as silver refined seven times in a crucible of clay.” (Psalm 12:6, TPT)
God is the Master Craftsman, and He is building something beautiful with our lives. The refining process is painful, but in the end we will emerge reflecting His glory. If you are in the fire and facing great affliction right now, I want to encourage you to get into the Word as much as possible.
I’ve created a one-page printable with 10 Blessings for the Student of the Word to help you get started. Download a copy and read through these sweet promises every morning to remind you God’s Word is powerfully at work in your life. Sign up today as a member of the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy in our Faith Fuel Library.
Introducing the Refined Series
Fire refines. First God, breaks our pride into tiny pieces. Then, He melts away our impurities in a crucible of affliction. Every fleck of fleshy fluff rises to the surface and is removed until we reveal His image.
This year, I want to stop fearing the fire and pray:
Lord, refine me through the flame.
For 2018, I asked God to give me a word to guide my year, and He whispered the word “Refine.” For 10 months, Bruce and I have been walking through the fire and trying to not resist the refining work He is doing in us.
I am a very slow learner, and recently it occurred to me I should step aside and create more space to listen and learn during this season. I long to sit down for a heart-to-heart chat with a wise friend who will remind me the fire has a grander purpose. Thankfully, I am blessed to know several women who’ve walked through the fire and emerged beautifully refined, and I’ve invited them to share their story here with the Wildfire Faith Community.
Next week, Debbie Kitterman will kick off our “Refined” series and share her heart on a subject I really struggle with — Change. Change is hard. Change is refining.
God has promised that the fire will not consume us, but transform us. The furnace of affliction serves a grander purpose..
God refines us to bring out the beautiful reflection of Jesus.
God refines us to bring out the beautiful reflection of Jesus.
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WANT TO GO DEEPER AND learn how to create space for a regular heart to heart chat with Jesus? CHECK OUT MY COACHING SERVICES TO HELP YOU develop a plan to Refuel with rest and soul care.
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Are you ready to fire up your faith?
Join the Wildfire Faith Community and get weekly #FaithFuel in your inbox.
You’ll receive “4 Surefire Ways to Ignite Your Faith” as my gift to you.
You’ll also get access to the practical resources and goodies in our private Faith Fuel library.
Have you written something challenging, encouraging, or inspiring lately? Link it up here! For best results, write the title of your post in the name box.
October 11, 2018
How to Remain Calm When Your World is Spinning Out of Control (Giveaway)
Stop freaking out. It’s going to be okay.
I am standing in the kitchen at the sink gripping the counter in hopes of steadying my heart. I’m giving myself a pep talk.
Everything will work out. Don’t worry.
My stomach starts making noises like an active volcano. Suddenly, I have the urge to run to the bathroom.
Five minutes later and five pounds lighter, I am standing at the bathroom mirror holding on to the counter.
Why am I such a mess? Stop thinking crazy thoughts, girl.
God is bigger than even this.
He is stronger.
He is wiser.
He is faithful even in the midst of this frenzy.
I need to remind myself what I know is true — because the enemy is whispering lies to me.
The enemy wants me to believe my situation is hopeless.
The accuser says I can’t and God won’t.
But, I know better.
I know God is bigger.
I just need to remind myself.
And so I stop clutching the bathroom counter, and I step toward the nightstand. I plop down on the bed and pick up the well-worn Bible sitting right where I left it.
I open up the pages and start reading the Promises.
I need more than a pep talk. I just need a person — and His name is Jesus.
When your world is spinning out of control, you must stop and speak His name.
When your world is spinning out of control, you must stop and speak His name.
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Friend, I don’t know where you are standing today. Maybe you are holding on for dear life and wondering when the scary rollercoaster ride of ups and downs is going to stop. If you’ve stood at the bathroom mirror trying to work up the courage to face the frenzy of your day, I want to encourage you.
Your God has not forgotten you.
Focus on Christ to find calm in the middle of any crazy situation.
4 Ways to Remain Calm in an out of Control World
Celebrate God’s goodness, choose a considerate disposition, and count your blessings
When the enemy is pestering you with negative thinking, the best remedy is to praise the One from whom all blessings flow. Realign your heart to remember He is faithful.
“Rejoice in the Lord always –delight, take pleasure in Him; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit–your graciousness, unselfishness, mercy, tolerance, and patience — be known to all people. The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:4-5, AMP)
Ask God to fill you with faith, acknowledge He is God, and attack your worries by worshipping.
Your heart cannot be consumed by concern if you choose to call out to God in prayer. Tell Christ everything and keep an open line of communication. He can handle your worries.
“Do not be anxious or worried about anything, but in everything — every circumstance and situation — by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your specific requests known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)
Loosen your grip on your life and let God lavish you with His peace.
God will fill you with His peace if you are willing to slow down and really stop trying to control your life. Just accept that you will never figure it all out, but God is faithful and knows the way. Focus on the God of Peace and pursue knowing Him, not the answers to your problems. Knowing Him personally and intimately is the best solution in every sticky situation.
“And the peace of God — that peace which reassures the heart, that peace — which transcends all understanding, that peace which stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus is yours. (Philippians 4:7)
Meditate on what is pure and practice what you preach.
Just say this whenever your mind starts spinning with crazy thoughts: “That is not true. I will not waste precious time rehearsing wrong thoughts. I choose life and peace. I will focus on God’s goodness and glory. I believe in Jesus who rose from the dead and can resurrect anything. His redemption is at work in my world.”
“Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things — center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart. The things which you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things in daily life, and the God who is the source of peace and well-being will be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9)
The world may be spinning, but you can set your mind on Christ and remain calm. Focusing on the Promises of God can help you plant your feet on solid ground and persevere through a crazy season.
Need a little inspiration?
I’ve created a one-page printable with 10 Scriptures to help you remember your God is bigger than bad days. Download a copy and read through these sweet promises every morning to help you remain calm when your world is spinning out of control. Sign up today as a member of the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy in our Faith Fuel Library.
The promises of God will arm us with power to keep moving forward. We will find renewed strength as we surrender our spinning world’s to the One who created the every corner of the earth and controls every second of our day. Not one moment escapes God’s notice, and He will empower us to stay standing. Once we get a firm grip on His goodness and glory, we will walk with a surer step and start helping others find a firm place to stand in Christ. People will wonder how you can stay so calm in this crazy world, and you can tell them: I surrendered all to Jesus. My Savior upholds my life.
When your world is spinning, keep calm by crying out to Christ.
When your world is spinning, keep calm by crying out to Christ.
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WANT TO GO DEEPER? CHECK OUT MY COACHING SERVICES TO HELP YOU develop a plan to Refuel with rest and soul care.
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Faith on Fire Spotlight:
Jennifer Dukes Lee
“It’s All Under Control is the gift your soul has been desperately seeking―to feel how His arms of love are under you, carrying you though it all.” ―Ann Voskamp, New York Times bestselling author of The Broken Way and The Greatest Gift
It’s time to get our control under control.
Jennifer Dukes Lee never thought she struggled with control. As long as everything went exactly the way she wanted it to, she was totally flexible.
But then Jennifer discovered what happens when you try to wrap your arms around everything, thinking it’s all on you: You get burned out on hustle. You toss and turn more at night, and you laugh less during the day. You’re so busy―caring, serving, working, and trying so hard―that you can’t even hear God’s voice anymore.
It’s All Under Control is a book for every woman who is hanging on tight and trying to get each day right―yet finding that life often feels out of control and chaotic. Join Jennifer on the journey of learning how to:
Overcome the anxieties and worries that burden your heart
Prioritize your busy life so you can make choices that align with God’s best for you
Find freedom through a new “Do, Delegate, or Dismiss” approach to your daily tasks
Let go of what God has not asked you to do, so you can shine at what he has
Discover a new way of living that will free you to be you, and finally experience the peace of knowing a God who truly has it all under control.
I write books. I embarrass my kids. I was once a mime. (True story). I attend a small country church where some Sundays you’ll find me spinning tunes as the church deejay.
I’m a big fan of dark chocolate, emojis, eighties music, bright lipstick, and Netflix binges. My husband and I are raising crops, pigs, a herd of cats, and two beautiful humans on the Lee family farm in Iowa.
My newest book, It’s All Under Control, releases in September. (There’s also a six-week companion Bible study.)
I wrote a couple other books: The Happiness Dare, and Love Idol.
I’m a journalist at heart. I used to cover crime, politics, and natural disasters as a news reporter for metropolitan daily newspapers. Now, I use my reporting skills to chase after the biggest story ever: the redemptive story of Christ. (That’s front-page news.)
I cling to the hope of a cross, and I’m passionate about sharing the Good News through story. I believe in miracles; I am one. I marvel at God’s unrelenting grace for stumbling sinners like me, who have been made whole through Christ. I believe in scandalous grace, and that the cross is the most priceless and costly gift the world has ever seen. I believe that it really is all because of Jesus.
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Giveaway
Y’all know I am a big book nerd. Other women buy shoes, but I buy books and Bible commentaries.
For everyone who asks me “what should I read next?” I now have a sweet list of my favorite reads for you to check out. Amazon created a space for social media influencers to share cv!
If you are looking for a good read to fire up your faith, then check out what’s on my nightstand here.
(Disclosure: Amazon will compensate me a little for anything you may purchase through this page. Thanks in advance if you do.)
I loved this sweet read from Jennifer Dukes Lee, and I had to share the love with you!!! I’m giving away one copy of It’s All Under Control this week. Leave a comment before Monday, October 22nd letting me know you shared this post on Facebook or Instagram to enter– and let me know what’s on your nightstand right now.
Note: You must live within the U.S. to enter today’s giveaway.
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Have you written something challenging, encouraging, or inspiring lately? Link it up here! For best results, write the title of your post in the name box.
October 4, 2018
5 Uplifting Books to Help You Create Sabbath and Soar
This past weekend, my hubby and I spent the weekend away and sitting by a pool under blue skies. A lovely umbrella protected us from the fierce sun, and a cool breeze magically appeared to sweeten the spot. The whole experience was like a kiss from heaven.
Here is what I accomplished last weekend: I rested. I remembered. I reflected. I refreshed my spirit.
Nothing on my to-do list got crossed off, but my soul is soaring. My eyes see with a fresh perspective. I am less weary of life.
Sabbath is super important. It’s not just a suggestion. Long ago, God commanded His people to set aside a day to do pretty much nothing.
God’s orders: You need to cease from striving.
For many years, I ran ragged and failed to slow down. And, I paid for it.
I paid with an anxious heart.
I paid with an increasingly critical spirit.
I lost my joy and paid with duty. Delight escaped me.
My health suffered.
My passion died.
I ended up empty.
Friends, if you are on a never-ending hamster wheel of busy, I want to encourage you to give yourself break.
Be still and know He is God.
To help you get started, this week I am sharing 5 fabulous reads that helped educate me in the way of Sabbath. Each of them is like a piece of the puzzle and part of my healing.
Need rest? Check out 5 Uplifting Books to Help You Create Sabbath and Soar
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5 Uplifting Books to Help You Create Sabbath and Soar
The Rest of God: Restoring Your Soul by Restoring Sabbath
This book was transformative for me, and I will re-read it again soon. Mark Buchanan argues that setting aside time for Sabbath in our lives creates space for God to replenish our weary souls so that we can live full lives. He invites us to stop striving and start listening for God’s still small voice in the stillness. As we attend to the presence of God, we gain a fresh perspective on our lives and our place in God’s kingdom. He challenged my thinking by stating: “A well kept Sabbath is a dress rehearsal for things above. In finding the rest of God now, we prepare for the fullness of God one day. In Sabbath, we anticipate forever” (p. 213) Without rest, I cannot purposefully listen for the voice of God because my life is just too busy and loud.
Rhythms of Rest: Finding the Spirit of Sabbath in a Busy World
I started thinking about Sabbath seriously after joining Shelly Miller’s Sabbath Society. You can sign up for her weekly Sabbath emails, and they land in your inbox reminding you that it’s important to slow down and breathe. Shelly believes Sabbath is a delight, not just a duty. She invites her readers to embrace the gift of rest by turning off the noise and tuning in to God. As we set aside time for the sacred, we will find renewal and greater passion for life. She explains: “Sabbath provides space between you and your problems, enabling you to see from God’s perspective, often with surprising results, like a word breaking through your questions about life and awakening you to something more important” (p. 47). Shelly shares her own story of putting Sabbath into practice as well as stories from members of the Sabbath Society. She started the book by sharing how her mother in law likes to say “I don’t do guilt” (p. 21). She argues that guilt is one of the main roadblocks to making Sabbath a reality. The stories and practical ideas in this lovely book helped me to see how Sabbath is not a guilty pleasure. It’s a necessary thing on my to-do list.
Note: This book is currently on sale for 99 cents in Kindle format. Such a steal!!!!
Playdates with God: Having a Childlike Faith in a Grownup World
The title of this book drew me in — because I remember playing as a child, but I’d forgotten how to do it as an adult. Laura Boggess shares how she draws into greater intimacy with her Father by setting a weekly “playdate” with her Abba. She rouses her readers to remember their days of innocence and to reengage with a child-like sense of wonder and freedom as they live out their everyday ordinary. Laura nudges you to get away with God: “To grow in my relationship with God, to step deep into an intimate relationship with Jesus… I must set aside regular time to meet with Him. Time to play and pray, the two parts of Sabbath” (p. 176). I loved reading about how Laura makes an intentional effort to look for God in her circumstances. She sets aside time to draw near to her God and connect with the beauty of His creation and character in a meaningful way. I want to have that kind of passion for my Father God.
Sabbath: Finding Rest, Renewal, and Delight in our Busy Lives
This book is a classic! Wayne Muller unpacks the spiritual practice of rest and renewal that helps us to quiet our hearts and remember the abundance God provides. He explains: “The world seduces us with an artificial urgency that requires us to respond without listening to what is most deeply true. In Sabbath time, we cultivate a sense of eternity where we truly rest, and feel how things can wait, and turn them gently in the hand until we feel their shape, and know the truth of them” (pp. 84-85). “Sabbath is an incubator for wisdom. When we allow the rush of pressure of our days to fall away, even for a short period of time, we are more able to discern the essential truth of what lies before us” (p. 165). This book has Sabbath exercises at the end of each chapter to help you to get started. Muller’s words reminded me that life is holy. I am prone to forget, and so practicing the spiritual discipline of Sabbath helps me to “be still and know that He is God.”
24/6: A Prescription for a Healthier, Happier Life
This was the first book I read on the subject of Sabbath and a great place to start. Dr. Matthew Sleeth proposes that the spiritual practice of Sabbath will benefit you and your family physically, spiritually, emotionally, and relationally. Living a “24/6” life is the prescription to a happier, healthier you. Sleeth declares, “The covenant [of Sabbath] was like a marriage agreement between God and His people. Breaking the Sabbath would be akin to a wife talking off her wedding band and throwing it in her husband’s face on national television” (p. 37). “People don’t save the Sabbath, it saves us” (p. 58). In learning how to rest, we actually gain the knowledge of Christ. We learn to be gentle and humble and to give up our pride” (p. 85). “God rarely shows up at the foot of our beds and wakes us from sleep. We must listen for God in the narrative of life. Stopping one day a week allows my hearing to improve” (p. 156). I was intrigued by how Sleeth and his family begin the Sabbath on Friday evenings and practice hospitality by inviting others in to their home for a meal. He linked community and Sabbath for me in a beautiful way that I hope to incorporate.
Are you ready to rest with your God? Friend, God doesn’t want you to live exhausted. He wants to meet with you and minister toy your weary heart. If you want to learn how to set aside time for Sabbath, one of these books is a great place to start.
I’ve also created a one-page printable with simple sentence prayers and Scriptures to help you create breathing room in your day. Download a copy and pray through these sweet promises every morning to help you surrender your busy day to the Lord. Sign up today as a member of the Wildfire Faith Community and grab a copy in our Faith Fuel Library.
Once you decide to slow down and rest, you will discover the secret: Sabbath doesn’t slow you down. Sabbath helps you soar. You discover a renewed sense of purpose and move forward with greater passion. All the busy people around you will wonder how you manage to choose joy even though life is chaotic. You will radiate God’s life and peace in the midst of this crazy busy life.
Start setting aside time for Sabbath, and soon you will soar.
Start setting aside time for Sabbath, and soon you will soar.
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