Read Through the Bible in 90 Days: A Challenge

From Keeping The Kingdom First:

In Amy’s words, a guest post:

Have you ever thought about reading the Bible… the whole thing, from start to finish?

I thought about it for years, and even attempted a few times on my own, before I discovered Bible in 90 Days, joined a group at my church and read the whole thing without stopping, cover to cover.

I was so blown away by the experience that I offered to facilitate it at my next church and have since facilitated several more times, trained facilitators and now plan to host an online community via my blog, MomsToolbox.

If you have ever considered reading the whole Bible, I cannot recommend strongly enough that you join me January 1- March 31, 2010, as I read and blog through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, bit by bit, in order, every day.

If you would like to join our online community, here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Plan to set aside about an hour each day from January 1- March 31 for an incredibly enriching experience.
• Get your hands on a Bible in 90 Days Bible (only $14.39 on Amazon) or from your local Christian bookstore.
• Consider also purchasing the Bible in 90 Days Participant’s Guide which offers weekly questions for you ponder to gain more insight from your reading. (I’ll be using these questions for our weekly Twitter meet-ups.)
• Consider purchasing the Bible in 90 Days Essential Bible Companion, which offers a snapshot of information to help you make it through each week’s reading without getting distracted by researching on the internet.
• Bookmark my site, www.MomsToolbox.com, and plan to visit January 1- March 31 after you have completed each day’s reading to see what I learned and report in that you have read for the day.
• Follow me on Twitter (@MomsToolbox) and plan to be on Twitter every Monday night of the program from 9-10 CST (much like a study meeting—just online!) when we can ask and answer each other’s questions. Use and look for the #B90Days hashtag for our group discussion (not required to participate).

I would bet some of you are asking “Why this particular Bible?” Here’s why:

The official Bible in 90 Days Bible is an NIV Bible, so it is an easy-to-read direct translation. This edition has large type, minimal footnotes and indicates where you should start and stop reading each day. Sure, you could accomplish this goal using your own Bible, but the statistics point to a huge success ratio for those using this official Bible… and not so much success for those who choose to use a different one. And don’t you want to succeed this time?

Although we won’t be meeting in person, my prayer is that via almost-daily online communication on my blog, as well as on Twitter we can still hold each other accountable, helping each other to accomplish our goal to read every word of the Bible attentively in 90 days.

I’d love to encourage you in this endeavor. It has been life-changing for me.

I cannot express how much reading the bible in 90 days has helped me with every study I have participated in and every sermon I have heard since then. I now know the context of the stories. I know where to find them… and I can clearly see how they are related. And to read about Christ and the fulfillment of countless prophesies just after you’ve read about those prophesies is amazing!

If you’re up for the challenge, I’m up for encouraging you every step of the way.

Pray about it. Think about it… And click on over to MomsToolbox.com to let me know if you’d like to join in the challenge and to learn more. But do it soon so you’ll be ready to start 2010 in His Word… all of it!

Hope to see you there!

** If you still have questions, plan to follow me on Twitter and join me for our first Twitter chat this Monday, December 21 from 9-10 CST. I’ll be there ready to chat about the program and would love to answer any questions you may have.

My thoughts:

I really did not stop to think long about this. I know I need this. While I read most evening before bed, I tend to be lazy at times about it. I need to be held accountable for my reading and study period. That's why I'm signing up. I hope you'll join us as well.

Sherry

Weekly prayer

Father,

I lift Eddie to You. Please be with him this week. Give him a sense of peace, especially during this busy holiday season. Thank You for bringing such a spirit filled man to me as my mate. Please continue to speak to his heart, guiding him in Your ways. May he bring You glory and honor in all he says and does. In Jesus' most precious name. Amen.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

~Galatians 5:22-23 (NASB)

Weekly Prayer - Forgiveness

Forgive your husband. Find a quiet spot and prayerfully look through your heart for any areas where you have hard feelings toward your husband. Ask God to help you forgive him. (Realize that forgiveness does not necessarily mean a rebuilding of trust or a settling of important issues, just that you have released him from any debt toward you.)


Father,

I ask You to search my heart and show me any areas I may have hard feelings hidden toward Eddie. I ask You to also help me to forgive him for anything I may be holding against him. Create in me a clean, forgiving heart.

In Jesus' most precious name,
Amen.

Weekly prayer - Relationships

This week's prayer is about relationships. Please pray for your spouse's relationships with his/her extended family.

Father,

I lift Eddie to You. I pray for his relationships with his extended family, especially those that seem strained. Please open the hearts and minds of all parties to let go of any hurt or pain they may be holding onto. Give them peace and joy in their lives. May each one seek You and leave any hard feelings at Your cross. In Jesus' most precious name, Amen.

30-day Giving Challenge Day 3

For day three of the 30-day Giving Challenge I stuffed a small amount of cash into a friend's bag after over-hearing her speaking to someone else about a need she had.

Isn't giving fun? I'm having a blast already!

The 30-Day Giving Challenge: Day 2

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
~Galations 6:9

For day two of the 30-day Giving Challenge I picked up a co-worker that does not have a car and took her around town to do her shopping and other errands. I was immediately blessed by a great time of fellowship with a Christian sister!

The 30-Day Giving Challenge: Day 1

Alyssa with Keeping the Kingdom first has started the 30 day giving challenge.

I'm a few days late getting started (as usual), but here's my contribution for day one:


The picture below is my stockpile of "deals" from CVS or Walgreens. These have been bagged and are headed to our church were they will be boxed and sent to one of the missionaries we support. He is collecting items for one of the Indian Reservations in South Dakota.

Weekly prayer - Peace

This week's subject is peace, which, of course, is one of the Fruits of the Spirit -

The fruit of the Spirit is ... peace ... Galatians 5:22 (NIV)

I can say honestly, that I usually remember this in my prayers for my husband. : )

Father,

I lift my husband to you. Please surround him in Your love and fill him with Your peace each and every moment of the day. May Eddie's words and actions be pleasing to You, bringing You glory and honor.

In Jesus' most precious name,

Amen

Thinking about Christmas Cards.

Today I received in my email a post from Keeping the Kingdom first:
6 Ways to Save Money on Christmas Cards

This brought prompted my thought as to where I hid the cards I bought in one of the after Christmas sales last year. (number three on the above post. make sure you click on the link and check out the rest!)

I wanted to add what our church does:

We have "mailboxes", one for each letter of the alphabet, in which we place our cards for each other (placed in the letter for last name). This saves the postage we would have spent mailing them to each other.

We also have a "bank" in which each family gives as the Lord prompts. The money we save on postage can go there and then is donated to a needy family within the church or community.

Happy Birthday Honey!

Today my sweetie turns 50.
Here's a pic of my handsome man taken the day our son, Scott married beautiful Amy.

Happy Birthday baby, I love you!

Update

Wow, I can't believe I've been absent three months, or so.
Life here is good. The Lord has provided us with a lower house payment, almost three hundred dollars less a month! This is nothing short of the Glory of God. We were on the verge of losing the house and HE directed me to the right person at the mortgage company, who then rewrote our loan at a three percent lower interest rate. Praise Jesus!

Eddie and I are still working at our respective employers. I get a few more hours a week now than I did in the beginning. I'm still praying for full time either at McD, or another place of employment. HE will provide in HIS timing.

I'm afraid I'll probably still be hit or miss here (more miss than hit). We are currently dealing with dial up at home, which is definitely testing our patience. But, we are grateful to have that. Trying to make it to the library or church with our schedules was too difficult.

In the mean time, remember that the Lord will provide all our needs.
He is my rock and my refuge!

Weekly prayer

I don't know about you, but prayer is the one area of my life that needs improvement. Oh, sure, I'm good at praying when things are tough, most of us are. But what about the good times too? While I try to start my prayer sessions praising and thanking God, I know I forget a lot of things. So, in order to strengthen myself in this area, I've decided to make it a weekly topic in my Children's Sunday School class.

Each student, no matter their age or writing ability, has their own journal, which they decorated on the first week. Each week they write out a prayer, or just the person's name and need. They also have to add a praise. I have my own book, in which I keep track of their requests and praises, as well as my own. I want these kids to have a better handle on this at my age than I do.

That being said, I'm also going to try to have a "prayer journal" here each Sunday. I got this idea from Lori at The Generous Wife. Check her out, lots of good tips, plus a couple of wonderful message boards!

This week's tip:

Pray Practical

Posted: 23 Aug 2009 02:30 AM PDT

Pray practical. What does your husband want, need, or desire? Maybe it's something simple like energy for the day or maybe it's serious like a new job or the healing of a relationship. Just take a few minutes, think about your husband, and pray.

I urge that ... prayers ... be made on behalf of all men. 1 Timothy 2:1 NAS

Be generous! Lori <><

Dear Heavenly Father,

Please be with Eddie as he starts a new work week. 
Give him physical strength and stamina.
Give him wisdom and knowledge.
May he have favor with those around him.
Give him a positive spirit and patience.
May he be Your salt and light.
Please bless the work of his hands.
Keep a hedge of protection around him
Keeping him safe from harm and temptations.
In Jesus' most precious name,

Amen.

Thankful Thursday - Friends

You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.
~John 15:14-15


Iris from Grace Alone started this week's Thankful Thursday with the thought that Jesus calls us His friends. I, too, agree that this is something to be very thankful for. With a friend like Jesus in our corner, we need not fear anything!

So, my list (a short version) this week:

• I'm thankful for having such a friend in Jesus. (doesn't that bring a song to your mind? Or, maybe I've spent to much time in Children's Ministry?)
• I'm thankful for my husband, Eddie, whom really is my best friend in the world. I am very blessed to have a husband who truly loves, worships, and follows Jesus!
• I thankful for long time friends who I can call or email anytime. Wendy knows everything about me, and still calls me friend after over 30 years. Such friends you can't see very often because of the miles and other life circumstances, but they are always there for you.
• I'm thankful for Internet friends, such as Gidget, Moon, and Lisa. I know I can email (and some call), with anything and they are there, praising, praying, or crying with me. Again, I am very blessed.
• Last (on this list), is all the friends (sister and brothers) in Christ whom I have not "met" but run across from time to time on their blogs or message boards. Having a common faith in Jesus is always about friendship.
  

Question of the week #30

This week's question ...

What time of day do you like to read the Bible?

My answer:

I like to start the day with at least a chapter. I also like to end the day with as much as I can still read and keep my eyes open.

My sound "weird" to some, but I have found that starting my day with scripture helps me keep my focus while I'm at work. I work in a fast food place with a lot of teenagers. So, you can imagine some of the conversations that go on. By starting my day in The Word, I have a sense of peace and strength that helps me either keep my mouth shut (as I often have to), or give my opinion when asked. By ending my day in scripture, I have found I have less nightmares than normal for me. (I've been plagued with this problem since I was a young child.) A wonderful friend once told me how reading scripture just before bedtime helped her son with the same problem. Thanks Lisa!!

Question of the week #29

How do you balance reading Christian books--bibles, nonfiction, fiction--with your other reading? Does your Christian reading get pushed to the side at times? Why or why not?

My answer:

I actually just read whatever I have available. Right now I'm about out of Christian non-fiction to read, and my local library has a poor selection and is slow to get them. Since I'm only able to access my email a couple of times a week, I've but my "paperbackswap" account on hold, so I won't be ordering anything soon either. I don't feel right ordering books, when I'm not able to send any out at this time.

That said, I prefer Christian books, because I can avoid the language found in most fiction these days. I also like the scripture references found in most Christian books.

Question of the week #28

This week's question:

Are you involved in a Bible Study or Sunday School class? Do you want to be?

My answer:

Yes, I teach the kids Sunday School class - up to age 12. I enjoy it very much. I just recently stepped down from doing Children's Church as well. I need to take some time to be fed and refreshed as I have been doing both for over two years now.

Question of the week #27

What do you think is the best starting place for those that are new to reading the Bible or for those wanting to get reacquainted with the Word?

My answer:

I definitely agree with Becky on this one:

The Gospel of John!

Question of the week #26

How is your Bible reading going? Are you meeting the goals you set earlier in the year? If you chose to go with a Bible reading plan, how is that going for you? Are you sticking with it? Have you experienced any setbacks along the way? Have you made Bible-reading a habit, a discipline? What have you learned along the way? Do you have any words of wisdom you'd like to share?

My answer:

My Bible reading is going well. Right now I'm reading through the Chronological Bible (NIV) each morning, and am actually ahead of the suggested reading schedule.

I think my next "task" for my evening reading will be a search for verses about a particular subject. I'm just not sure which one to choose. I'm thinking faith. But then, maybe that's too broad? Would definitely be a good one though.

No words of wisdom here. Heaven knows I don't have room to give someone else opinions in this area. Am I the only one that struggles with staying on task? I do pretty good for a time, then something will come up and throw me off schedule. I just can't seem to keep myself organized for any amount of time. Ugh!

Question of the Week #25

Do you like to talk about the Bible with other people? Do you like to have biblical discussions? debates? arguments? passionate ramblings?


I love to discuss the Bible, mostly with my husband or the kids at church. I'm not very good at debating, and definitely do not want to argue, since I sometimes feel like my knowledge is too poor, always wanting more. Passionate ramblings? More with myself, or, again, the kids and teens at church. I want them to experience a passion for The Word. Something I missed out on at their ages.

I liked Becky's idea of a game of 20 questions, based on the Bible. As a treat, the kids get a game of Bible Trivia on X-Box every month or two.

Question of the Week #24

This week's question...this week's question comes from Worthwhile Books.
At what age did you earnestly start to read the Scriptures? What motivated you?

My answer:

Honestly, not until I was almost 40.

This is part of my testimony, but...

On March 31, 1999, the house my boys and I were living in at the time caught fire. (believed to be faulty wiring in the kitchen). My youngest son, then 13, was home alone. I was at work, and my older son was at school. (different schools, different spring break schedules)

Whle we lost everything we had but the clothes on our backs, the Lord spared my son's life. I knew I had strayed far from HIM. I still feel this was his was of getting my attention. It still took me over a year to get a Bible and start reading it earnestly. But, praise Him, I did and have never had greater joy in my life.

Just wanted to share this video

One of our members sang this song Sunday. I had forgotten how much the words move me, so I thought I would share with all of you.

Absence

Just wanted to leave a little note, just in case anyone still come by here.

My husband lost his job a month ago, and we have disconnected the cable and the internet for now. I can pop in from time to time from the library or church, but it won't be consistent.

Praise the Lord for His provisions. We can have to tighten our belts, so to speak, but have been able to get by. Eddie's unemployment came through today, so we will be able to met our basic needs. God is good!

Wordless Wednesday - I still say this is strange!

Yep, he's actually putting the lawn mower together in the dining room - minus the oil that is!

Question of the Week #23

What are your goals for the summer? These can be general goals or reading goals or whatever :)




My answer:

Reading:

• Read more Christian non-fiction
• Read at least one more chapter in my Bible each night with my hubby

Blogging:

• Keep up with the weekly memes
  
• Post more prayer requests and praises each week
• Journal my Bible reading

Life:

• Call my parents more often
• Send mail to my grand daughter more often
• Eat healthier
• Continue to look for a better job and check into schooling

How about you? Head over to Becky's and join in the fun!

Prayer request

From a friend on facebook:

Please put Ben on your prayer list. Ben returned from 3 tours in Iraq as a marine. He suffers from PTSD. Thank you for your Christian witness. Thank you for caring.

Please lift Ben by name. Please add any others you may know, for just all our military personnel.

God Bless!

TSMSS - My Best Friend by Tim McGraw

This week I'm doing something a little different. Hubby and I have had a rough week, not relationship wise, but emotionally and financially. The enemy is working overtime in St. Joseph, MO! Anyway, I thank the Lord each day for bringing Eddie into my life. He was the first to treat me like a person, a person of worth. He is my hero, the one I look to for strength and guidance here on earth. Even when I fail him, he's there for me.

Be sure to head over to Amy's for more TSMSS!

Thankful Thursday - Trials

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
~James 1:2-8

Thankful for trials? I have to admit, the first few times I read this passage I could not imagine it! Seriously, do we think of hard times as wonderful or full of joy? I know I don't. This week has been a shining example of trials, one after another. Did I rejoice through them? No, not while I was going through it. Let's just say I was a shining example of how Jesus would not have acted. (deep embarrassment here) But, as I sit here and think back on what happened, why, and how I should have acted, I can see how much I have learned in a short period, and how to act (not react) in the future. I gained some insight to my relationship with God and my husband. So, I'm thankful for:

• Trials that open my eyes, help me learn and grow
• A loving God that helps me through these times, even though I would have given up on myself long ago
• A wonderful, patient, supportive husband that loves me despite my short-comings
• That I live in a country where I can still stop and pray to Jehovah when I need (at least for now, but that's another topic)
• For those that have, do , or will, fight for my right to continue to enjoy that and other freedoms
• My Lord provides all my needs
• My Savior died for me, and all came before, and will come after, me
  

Wordless Wednesday - "Did you say mouse?"

All About You - Letter N

• My mother's name is NORMA
• I have two NEPHEWS
• I also have four NIECES
• My dad was in the NAVY for twenty years
• My father-in-law was also in the NAVY
• Our daughter in-law is getting ready to start NURSING school
• I love NUTS but cannot have them
• I would like to visit NAPLES
• Scott is in the Air NATIONAL Guard
• The road to Heaven is NARROW

What are you thankful for this week? Have you taken time to count your blessings lately?

My answer:

I try to participate in "Thankful Thursday" each week to publicly share my blessings. I also try to remember to thank the Lord for each blessing He gives us - from the big unexpected ones to the every day, ie: a roof over our heads, food to eat and the very air we breathe. I do forget sometimes, which makes me feel terrible!

Please head over to Operation Actually Read Bible and join us!

All About You - Letter M

• I am happily MARRIED
• I am a MOM
• My oldest son is MATTHEW
• MISSY is one of our cats
• I live in MISSOURI which is in the MIDWEST
• I lived in MILTON, Florida many years ago
  
• I have been to MARYLAND, but not MICHIGAN
• My sister-in-laws name is MAE
• I would love to have a MAID
• I love getting MAIL
• I have worked as a MANAGER for several companies
• I did the MAYPOLE dance in high school
• I love MILK and MUFFINS

TSMSS - Every Move I Make

This is one of the songs we often do in Children's Church. The kids ( and I ) love it, hope you do too!

Update on Stephen

I received the following in my email:

To Let you know STEPHEN IS HOME NOW! Praise the Lord!! I will give more updates later. I'm a little tired right now. I will talk to you later. Thank you for praying. I know Tiffany and Stephen appreciated it. But please continue to pray! Thank you! Love and Hugs!!

Please continue to pray for continued healing.

All About You - Letter L

• My middle name is LINN
• I LOVE my husband
• I like LEMONADE and LIMEADE
• I once worked in LEE'S SUMMIT
• I have been to LOS ANGELES but not LAS VEGAS
• I like LEEKS in my potato soup
• I once wanted to be a LIBRARIAN
• I really dislike LIVER
• I don't play the LOTTERY
• I adore scented LOTIONS
• I am very LAZY when it comes to housework
• I love to LEARN

Thankful Thursday - The Voice of God

Lynn at Spiritually Unequal Marriage could not have picked a better topic for this week than Obedience. Several posts down you can read about the disappointment my hubby and I are working through.

"And this is love: that we walk in obedience to His commands. As you have heard from the beginning, His command is that you walk in love."
~ 2 John 1:6 NIV

I'm not really sure how to put my thoughts into words today, but I'll try.

• I'm thankful that the Lord loves me, just as I am.
• I'm thankful that God led me to my husband
• I'm thankful that my husband is the spiritual leader of our home
• I'm thankful that I have the opportunity to follow God's will for my life
• I'm thankful that my husband loves the Lord and follows His will
• I'm thankful that God provides all our needs
• I'm thankful to have such a wonderful church family that loves us, flaws and all

Summing this up: Even though a group of men in Wichita don't feel my husband meets their "criteria" for a licensed minister, God knows my husbands heart. He knows how much we both love, adore, and worship HIM. We will follow God's will for our lives, even without a piece of paper. We will continue to fellowship with, disciple, and/or teach in our current church home until He calls us somewhere else. While I'm not the best at obedience, God sent me a wonderful husband to help me when I fall. Praise HIM!

Question of the Week #21

How about a question about questions this week. What kinds of questions--if any--do you want to see asked for this Question of the Week feature? Are there any kinds of questions you don't want asked? Is the lack of participation due to bad questions? Are my questions too shallow? too deep? too personal? too irrelevant? too repetitive? too mindless? too boring? If you want Question of the Week continue in the future, think of a few questions you'd like to see presented at a future date on Question of the Week. I'm asking you to take a few minutes of your time and give back. Be honest. I can take it. Really. If there is zero interest in this feature, then I'll stop this one. I might think of something to replace it. Another interactive type feature that is more open-ended than answering a specific question. So make that question two or three. Would you be more interested in stopping by weekly if it was not a question feature but more of a chatty free for all?

My answer was actually posted on her blog. If you have any ideas, please click here to help Becky out, thanks!

Question of The Week #20

Do songs ever make you cry? Do you have a song (or two) that makes you teary-eyed every time?

My answer:

What a good question for the girl that can cry over a tv show, book, or even a commercial! Of course I do!

How about John Michael Montgomery's "Little Girl"





Or, Martina McBride's "Concrete Angel"

Question of the Week #19

Do you like to read different translations of the Bible? Why or why not? Do you have one dependable and/or beloved translation that you use all the time? Or do you like to keep things fresh by adding different translations to your rotation?

My answer:

I do like reading different translations of the Bible. I think this helps me grasp what the author is saying. Some translations are more of a song, such as the King James Version. Some are more blunt, such as the Literal Translation. Either way, I enjoy reading a passage in several versions.

The Bible I use most is in the NIV version. I tend to use this one more, because it is a Pentecostal study Bible. As a member of an AG (Assemblies of God) church, this is preferable to me. I don't believe one translation is more dependable than another. I believe God is all-powerful, therefore is powerful enough to ensure the Bible is correct and properly written. It's man that misreads or misinterprets things incorrectly. Only the Holy Spirit can convict you in this area, not man.

I do like to keep things fresh by using different translations. As I said, I believe it helps me to see where the author is coming from and saying.

Quick update

Well, I've been MIA for a couple of weeks.
Eddie and I have been dealing with a small disappointment, and I'm ashamed to say I've gone into my shell for a couple of weeks.

We traveled to Wichita, Kansas on May 10, 2009. We met with a few members of the Kansas District office for the Assemblies of God. Background - Eddie has been taking classes through Global University in hopes of obtaining his Ministerial Certificate by the end of this year. Most know that both Eddie and I have been married previously. We are a blended family. - Anyway, we met with three members on Monday, May 11, 2009, in hopes of receiving the okay to apply for certification through the Assemblies. This was a no go. Seems they did not agree that his previous marriages/divorces were pre-conversion.

Anyway, that's my excuse. I'm still working through this. We both know this does not change God's plan for our lives. We also know that a piece of paper does not actually mean a person is more qualified. However, as humans, we are still hurt. We feel like we both have this big scarlet letter on our foreheads, like we are damaged goods or something.

So, in short, we need your prayers to continue to work through the disappointment. As of now, I've put my plans to start working towards being a children's pastor on hold as well. No sense in spending the money on the classes if I cannot get licensed, eh?

Prayers needed

Just received this in my email. Please keep Stephen in your prayers:

Please keep Stephen, Tiffany's husband in your prayers. He is in the hospital. Has been since Sunday. The docs are really not sure what is going on with him. He does have a blood infection and he was on antibiotics. Then this morning they did a lung biopsy on him and tomorrow they are going down his throat with a camera to check out his heart. He does have a heart murmur. They just dont know what is causing all of this. We pray that the biopsy comes back ok. If you can ask people to pray for my brother in law, we all would greatly appreciate it.

All About You - Letter K

• My in-laws live in KINGMAN
• Our church is in KANSAS
• I have lived and worked in KANSAS
• Char's middle name is KAY
• Both of my boys took KARATE
• I think KANGAROOS, KITTENS and KOALAS are cute
• I like KIT-KATS
• I use sugar-free KOOL-AID at church
• I love to KISS my husband
• I call Cassie's daughter KUTIE
• I'm still trying to learn to KNIT
• I'm looking forward to the day I see my KING in His KINGDOM

TSMSS - 3 Wooden Crosses by Randy Travis

I really like Randy Travis, and his song "3 Wooden Crosses" always chokes me up! So, if you are a weeper, like me, have some kleenex handy!

I dedicate this to all moms! None of us are perfect, some have a "checkered" background, but we love our kids!







A farmer and a teacher, a hooker and a preacher,
Ridin' on a midnight bus bound for Mexico.
One's headed for vacation, one for higher education,
And two of them were searchin' for lost souls.
That driver never ever saw the stop sign.
An' eighteen wheelers can't stop on a dime.

There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway,
Why there's not four of them, Heaven only knows.
I guess it's not what you take when you leave this world behind you,
It's what you leave behind you when you go.

That farmer left a harvest, a home and eighty acres,
The faith an' love for growin' things in his young son's heart.
An' that teacher left her wisdom in the minds of lots of children:
Did her best to give 'em all a better start.
An' that preacher whispered: "Can't you see the Promised Land?"
As he laid his blood-stained bible in that hooker's hand.

There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway,
Why there's not four of them, Heaven only knows.
I guess it's not what you take when you leave this world behind you,
It's what you leave behind you when you go.

That's the story that our preacher told last Sunday.
As he held that blood-stained bible up,
For all of us to see.
He said: "Bless the farmer, and the teacher, an' the preacher;
"Who gave this Bible to my mamma,
"Who read it to me."

There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway,
Why there's not four of them, now I guess we know.
It's not what you take when you leave this world behind you,
It's what you leave behind you when you go.

There are three wooden crosses on the right side of the highway.

All About You - Letter J

• My youngest son is JOSHUA
• My youngest sister is JENNIFER
• My mother's middle name is JEAN
• My older half-sister is JERYL
• My ex and step-son are both JEFFREY
• I don't like JALAPENOS
• I've never been to JAMAICA or JAPAN
  
• One of my sisters was born in JUNE
• Another sister was born in JULY
• I've never tried JAMBALAYA
• One of our cats is named JASMINE
• I like JAM, JELLY, and JELLY BEANS
• I love JESUS!
  

All About You - Letter I

• My family lives in INDEPENDENCE
• I lived in IMPERIAL Beach, CA as a child
• My boys have American INDIAN ancestry
• I have been to IOWA and ILLINOIS
• I love ICE CREAM
• I like my drinks ICE cold
• I would like to go to ITALY and IRELAND
• My youngest son was born in INDEPENDENCE
• My ancestry is IRISH and ITALIAN
• Nothing is IMPOSSIBLE with God
• I was born on an ISLAND
• I've never been able to ICE SKATE
• I don't like INSECTS
• I love INFANTS
• I do not like to IRON clothes

Thankful Thursday - Mom

As one whom his mother comforts,
So I will comfort you;
And you shall be comforted in Jerusalem.”
Isaiah ~ 66:13

Perfect topic as this Sunday is Mother's Day. One of the many things I'm thankful for in this life is my own mother. I don't get to see her, or talk with her, as much as I'd like. You'd think as a mom myself it wouldn't bother me too much. It does. My mom has been my pillar of strength and my best friend through most of my life. No matter how much I messed up, she was always there to comfort me and help me pick up the pieces.

I'm also thankful for the opportunity to be a mom. If you are a mom, you understand. There is no other greater joy in the world than holding a newborn child. While my oldest child is 25, I still remember the fear I felt just before the doctors put me to sleep - my son had his cord wrapped around his neck three times and was blue. I also remember the great joy at hearing his cries when I awoke.

As a step mom, I have had the joy of marrying into a "premade" family. This, to me, is a great gift. To have a child welcome you into a family with open arms and give you love unconditionally is a true gift. I have been given that privilege times six! I am truly blessed!

I've also been blessed with two different mother-in-laws. My first was supportive and loving. She helped me in so many ways I could not begin to mention them all. She accepted me into her family willingly and kept me as part of the family long after her son and I divorced. My second is loving and raised a man who loves the Lord with all his heart. They are both spectacular women!

All About You - Letter H

• My dad's name is HAROLD
• I love HONEY
• My HUSBAND does not have much HAIR
• My HAIR is very long
• My boys had two HAMSTERS as pets
• My HANDWRITING is HORRIBLE
• I was born in HONOLULU, HAWAII
• I love my HOUSE
• I look forward to HEAVEN
• I think HEDGEHOGS are cute
• I like the song HOLY, HOLY, HOLY
• I pray none of our family or friends go to HELL
• Our God is HOLY
• So is the HOLY Spirit
  

Question of the Week #18

Spiritual insights. Realizations. These little insights "aha" moments can pop up anywhere and everywhere as you're living life. And they can often be found in unexpected places: Life. Music. Books. Movies. TV Shows. Family. Friends. What have you learned (realized) lately?

My answer:
I've thought on this question for over a day, and just can't come up with much. How sad is that? The only thing that pops into mind is when I was playing a game of spider solitare. Sometimes the game seems to be going so bad, you just know you're going to lose. Yet, in the end, you win. Just the opposite, sometimes it seems to be going your way, and BAM! you loose. Life is the same. Never, ever give up, or get too confident. Always remember we serve an Awesome GOD. No matter how good (or bad) things seem, GOD is in control. Never judge a book by it's cover.

Sorry I don't have more. Please share if you have an AHA! moment! Head over to Becky's and share with all of us!

All About You - Letter G

• I like GRAPES
• I do not like GRAPEFRUIT
• My FIL's name is GEORGE
• My boys' last name is GAGE
• I have been to the state of GEORGIA
• I love GELATTO
• GIDGET is an awesome friend!
• White GRAVY is my favorite
• I love to hear children GIGGLE
• We have three adult and three young GIRLS in our family
• I wear GLASSES
• I thank GOD for His GRACE
• I am a very GIVING person
  

All About You - Letter F

• I lived in Milton, FLORIDA for three years as a child
• I have arthritis in my FINGERS
• My second FAVORITE season is FALL
• I have a FRIEND that lives in FINLAND
• I sleep with my FAN on
• I like to eat FIG newtons
• I don't like FOOTBALL
• I miss my FAMILY
• I have FAITH in my Heavenly FATHER
• I like FRENCH FRIES
  

TSMSS - You Are Everything by Matthew West

This week I've chosen "You Are Everything" by Matthew West. I love this artist, and this song touched me deeply today. We (like most people these days) are still struggling to get our bills caught up and just put food on the table. But, in the end, all that matters is our relationship with God. HE is our everything!

All About You - Letter E

• My hubby's middle name is EDWIN
• My youngest son's middle name is EDWARD
• My dad's middle name is also EDWARD
• Both of my grandfathers had the middle name EARL
• My church is in ELWOOD, Kansas
• I own the book E is for EVIDENCE
• Both of my EARS are double pierced
• I rarely wear EARRINGS
• My EYES are brown
• Although I lived in California for over seven year, I never EXPERIENCED an EARTHQUAKE
• EASTER is my favorite holiday
• I have had a couple of ECHOCARDIOGRAMS
• I like to EAT EGGS
• I do no like to EAT EGGPLANT
• I've never been to EGYPT
• One of my friends from church was born in ENGLAND
• My ELBOWS are very sharp
• I love the song EAST to West by Casting Crowns
• My stepdaughter ERIN lives too far away
• I like EASTER Lilies
• I also like EVERGREENS
• I call my hubby EDDIE

What's your worship style? Do you prefer hymns or praise songs and choruses? Or perhaps a blend of the two? Do you have a favorite hymn or two that uplifts you? How about praise songs? Do you have any favorites?

My answer:

Uplifting praise music would be my favorite, but I like all forms of worship music. I have so many "favorites", I couldn't possibly list them all. I think my top hymn would be "Amazing Grace". The words say all there is to say. When I fell and broke my ankle (June 2004), I sang this hymn in my head for over an hour to keep my mind off the pain. I can't tell you how much of my sanity that saved!

I also sing when I have trouble going to sleep (again, in my head). Usually short choruses. "Shout to the Lord" comes to mind as well as "Awesome God". "I like Majesty as well as "I Lift Your Name on High"

Some other miscellaneous songs: "You are Everything", "Nothing But the Blood of Jesus", "Majesty (Here I Am)", and "Give Us Clean Hands"

Of course, my favorite would be from Casting Crowns. I'll post a video below.
Please visit Becky at Operation Actually Read Bible and join in with us!

All About You - Letter D

Today's letter is D

• My hubby's first name is DAVID
• I love DONUTS
• Sadly, I don't eat many, because I'm DIABETIC
• Which means I see my DOCTOR way too much!
• I've never eaten DUCK
• Our yard is becoming a DANDELION farm
• I have a huge fear of going to the DENTIST
• I really want a DISHWASHER
• For those that don't know, my DAD stopped DRINKING
• I DIVORCED my first husband in 1989
• I fight DEPRESSION most days
• My DAD built me a DOLLHOUSE as part of my high school graduation gift
• I love wearing DRESSES
• I love DOGWOODS
• I like to play DOMINOES
• I flew to DENVER with two friends many years ago
• My oldest son was born in DALLAS
• My first new car was a DODGE colt
• I dislike DRIVING anywhere
• My oldest (step)DAUGHTER is DIANA
• I have four (step)DAUGHTERS (still counting ex's daughter)
• I was once hospitalized for a week with DIVERTICULITIS
  
• I cannot call my Heavenly Father DADDY
• Jesus (my Savior) is from the line of DAVID

Thankful Thursday - Courage

Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”

Deuteronomy 31:6

Today Laurie at Women Taking A Stand talked about courage. I, too, had the same thought. Me, courageous? No way! My husband likes to tease me because I'm afraid of birds. (more so than spiders!)

But, honestly, looking back, I've been through some scary stuff. Husband #1 hit me hard enough to break my glasses, give me a bloody nose and fat lip, not to mention the bruises up and down my back. I was brave enough to pick up my son and walk out.
I was brave enough to drive from Missouri to California with two small boys (in a Chevette), just the three of us, and try to start new. (with the help of a very dear friend, thanks Wendy!) I was also brave enough to admit I made a mistake and pack us up a year later and move back to Missouri because I needed my families help.
I was brave enough to handle a robbery at a fast food place I was managing, identify the thief, and testify against him in court. (though I did quit my job several months later to start babysitting at home)
I was brave enough to stand up to a school principal and tell him one teacher was not grading my sons papers properly and he did not deserve the good grades he was getting. I stood up to a second principal when she told me I should put my other son in a home and leave him there. (he's Bipolar) Even though it broke my heart, I had the courage to commit the same son to mental inpatient stays four times in his life.
I had the courage to move on when our house burnt and my sons and I had nothing but the clothes on our backs.

So, I guess I'm not so bad.
But, my Lord is my Courage. Would I have the courage to send my only Son to die for the world? No, sadly, I wouldn't. Would I have the courage to be the one to be beaten and then nailed to a cross? No, sadly I would not.

So, I thank my Lord for His courage!

Please join us in sharing what you are thankful for this week!

All About You - Letter C

• My last name is CREMER
• I have two CATS
• I love my CHURCH family
• I lived in in CALIFORNIA several years as a CHILD
  
• I have two biological CHILDREN
• I have four (step)CHILDREN
• I have a sister named CYNTHIA
• My (step)daughter is CHARLOTTE
• I really dislike COMMERCIALS
• I'm hooked on CSI (mostly miami)
• We really need a new COUCH
• I love CELERY even though my hubby hates it
• I've never been to CANADA or CHINA
• I'm a proud born-again CHRISTIAN
  

All About You - Letter B

Lots more things come to mind for the letter B

• I have Brown eyes
• I like to Bake
• I love Bananas
• I do not like Baseball or Basketball
• I have two Boys
• I really like Bacon
• I love Beaches and would live near one if I could
• I love and collect all types of Books
• I'm fairly new at Blogging
• I've been Bought by Jesus' Blood
  

All about you A to Z

Heart of the Matter is having a fun meme:
All about you from A to Z. Though I'm not a homeschooler (no kiddos at home), I receive their newsletter because I get lots of good info for Sunday School and just fun information as well.

So today's letter is A

• I love Apples
• I've ridden in an Airplane several times
• I do not like Asparagus
• Nor do I like Avocados
• I've never made a homemade Apple pie
• I am terrible with any form of Art
• I once lived in Alameda, California
• I love April, even though my Allergies go crazy
• I dislike August because of the heat

Praises!

For quite some time now, I've been whining to the Lord: "I'm burnt out Lord, I need to be fed." You see, I teach Sunday School and Children's Church. Due to transportation problems, I'm not able to attend Wednesday night study, and our church is so small we have not had a Sunday evening service for some time.

Our God is alive and faithful! We had our first Sunday evening service in over two years tonight. Other than our Wednesday morning prayer service, this is the first time in months I've felt open enough to allow the Holy Spirit envelop me and refresh me. (I've always felt it "my duty" to keep an eye on any kids in the worship service to know when to take them out if necessary) I can't tell you how excited and refreshed I feel today! Hallelu Yah!

TSMSS - Whom Am I by Casting Crowns

To celebrate the fact that my favorite group, Casting Crowns received the Group of the Year Dove Award, I'm posting the first song I ever heard from them: Who Am I. Please stop and think about the lyrics to this one. Whenever I think I'm not good enough to do (insert your own phrase here), I remember this song.

Thankful Thursday - Provision

For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.

Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men.

~Romans 5:17-18 NIV

What greater provision can be provided than that of eternal life? I'm SO thankful to my Savior for His sacrifice that provides eternal life to all whom believe in Him.

My Lord provides all I need in life:

• I have a home to live in
• We have cars that are paid for
• We have food to eat
• Plenty of clothes to wear
• Air to breathe
• Water to drink

So, while I've spent a great deal of time whining this week, I offer my praises to my Lord and, again, beg His forgiveness. I am truly thankful that I have all I need to survive, the rest is never guaranteed, and, in the end, is just worthless stuff we cannot take with us.

Question of the Week #16

This one may seem a bit out of place, but I'm going for it anyway. Do you participate in reading challenges? Why or why not? Would you be interested in participating in more reading challenges? Perhaps Christian-related reading challenges. Perhaps Bible-related reading challenges. I've been contemplating having mini-challenges--nothing certain, nothing planned out yet. And I was curious if they'd be any interest. If there's not that's fine :) Do you have any ideas of what you'd want to see in a mini-reading challenge?

My answer:

I have never participated in a reading challenge, because I've never had the opportunity. I'd love to give it a try though!

TSMSS - The Word is Alive by Casting Crowns

Today I've chosen "The Word is Alive" by Casting Crowns. This one reflects how I've felt this week. So many things change day to day in our world, but The Word stands yesterday, today and tomorrow. No matter what this world throws at us, God will get us through it, Hallelu Yah!