Moms don’t typically feel like princesses. Day in day out, the duties of motherhood sometimes cloud over the fact that we are one of God’s precious daughters. Today I want to give you just a little reminder of the beauty and wonder of being a part of God’s family and a follower of Christ.
The Bible says if anyone is in Christ, she is a new creature. Old things are passed away, behold all things have become new. That’s a big change! We are talking about a major transformation, a total overhaul, a complete new creation. It’s kind of our own personal Cinderella story. What does it mean to be a new creation? The Bible tells us that when we place our faith in Christ:
We become children of God and a part of His family (John 1:12)
We become citizens of Heaven (Philippians 3:19)
We become God’s possession (Ephesians 1:13)
We are holy and dearly loved (Colossians 3:12)
We have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us (Ephesians 1:13)
We are declared righteous (Romans 1:17)
We are no longer controlled by our sinful nature (Romans 7:9)
We are no longer condemned (Romans 8:1)
We are forgiven (Colossians 2:13, Ephesians 4:23)
Paul put it this way, he said as Christians we have taken off our old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. I’m thankful for the difference Christ’s presence makes in my life. You know in Biblical times, Roman citizenship was highly honored and revered. People paid large sums of money to acquire the right to be a Roman citizen if they were not born into it. Those who were Roman citizens were proud of it and were expected to live up to the honor.
We have the great privilege of being citizens of Heaven. Our citizenship was bought at a high price, the blood of Jesus. May we walk in a manner worthy of our calling, our high calling as daughters of the king. Take some time today to thank the Lord for calling you to Himself and the great honor of becoming a new creation and a part of His royal family.
Positive Mom Moment: Declare a Royal Day. Let the kids make crowns and play dress up to become princes and princesses for the day. Make a castle by draping a sheet over the kitchen table. Ride stick horses and go on a royal adventure around the house or neighborhood. Then take some time to talk about the royal transformation God does in our lives when we follow Christ using some of the scriptures listed above. Remind them that as followers of Christ we are citizens of heaven and a part of God’s family.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Snowy Surprise
We just celebrated the first day of Spring, yet oddly here in Dallas we received several inches of snow last night. This is not typical weather for March 20 in Dallas Texas. We expect sunshine and warm breezy days, not this. But isn’t that just like life? Surprises happen all the time. How many times have you said the words, “This isn’t what I had planned?” Whether it is a day that started off with a normal routine and ended up in the emergency room, or your life that seemed to be going in one direction and now doesn’t look at all like what you had hoped or planned.
Surprises happen. Things Change. Plans get sidetracked. The question is how can we passionately live the life we didn’t plan? I believe it is important to grieve the loss of the old plan, but don’t stay there. Begin to ask God, what He has in store for your in the new plan. Ask for his help to navigate the new road ahead of you.
Some surprises are good and happy, but many can catch us off guard and be a bit scary. The apostle James said, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” But he didn’t leave us standing there saying “What do I do now.” James went on to say, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”
So if you find yourself in the life or situation you didn’t plan, ask for God’s wisdom and direction to make it a great new plan. Pray together as a family and be open to the ways He may be directing you. Sometimes He leads us through His Word, or through circumstances or through a wise and trusted friend. Sometimes He leads us through His still quiet voice. Take time to listen to pray and to listen to His direction.
I hope you enjoy your day today. As for me, I’m going to go play in the snow. Watch my show on http://www.webtv4women.tv/
Monday, March 15, 2010
A Season of Change
March is a time when I am reminded of changes. During this month we experience some dramatic changes in the weather from winter to spring and even a time change on the clock. Life often brings about change. In fact very few things in life remain constant. We are always growing, learning and adapting as we face new twists and turns in life whether it is changes in relationships or changes in job or changes in our kids lives.
How do you handle change? Do you welcome it and embrace it, or do you buck against it and resist it. Not all change is good, and yet some changes can be delightful. We may not be able to control the changes that take place in our life, but we can control our response to them. I want to give you three points to ponder when it comes to the changes you face in life.
1. Remain flexible. Recently I read an article which studied the qualities of happy people. It stated that happy people are creative people because they can always think of new and positive ways to adjust when change happens. Be consistent, but don’t be so immovable and stuck in your ways that you get angry every time plans change.
2. Enjoy the Detours. Once you realize you are not on the road you had always planned to travel, it is important to choose to enjoy the detour. Plan B may be even better or more beautiful than the original plan. Look for the good, decide to enjoy the change and find fun in every turn.
3. Find your refuge in God. The Bible reminds us continually that God is our refuge and our strength. He is our strong tower. He is our Good Shepherd. We can turn to Him for guidance, wisdom and strength in the midst of the difficulties.
I’m reminded in James 1 that God does not change like shifting shadows. He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Although the changes in life may be shocking to you, they are no surprise to God. He is close beside you and will navigate the road ahead. Pour out your heart to Him for God is our refuge.
Positive Mom Moment: The best way to teach your children to be flexible is through teachable moments and your own example. When plans change talk to your kids about the fact that is it disappointing (don’t’ ignore the reality that there may be sadness in changed plans), but God is in control and let’s ask Him to direct us as we do something different. Pray together for God’s leading through the changes you face. Most importantly show your kids how to positively adapt to change by having a positive attitude yourself. Don’t complain, but rather look expectantly at what God will do.
How do you handle change? Do you welcome it and embrace it, or do you buck against it and resist it. Not all change is good, and yet some changes can be delightful. We may not be able to control the changes that take place in our life, but we can control our response to them. I want to give you three points to ponder when it comes to the changes you face in life.
1. Remain flexible. Recently I read an article which studied the qualities of happy people. It stated that happy people are creative people because they can always think of new and positive ways to adjust when change happens. Be consistent, but don’t be so immovable and stuck in your ways that you get angry every time plans change.
2. Enjoy the Detours. Once you realize you are not on the road you had always planned to travel, it is important to choose to enjoy the detour. Plan B may be even better or more beautiful than the original plan. Look for the good, decide to enjoy the change and find fun in every turn.
3. Find your refuge in God. The Bible reminds us continually that God is our refuge and our strength. He is our strong tower. He is our Good Shepherd. We can turn to Him for guidance, wisdom and strength in the midst of the difficulties.
I’m reminded in James 1 that God does not change like shifting shadows. He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Although the changes in life may be shocking to you, they are no surprise to God. He is close beside you and will navigate the road ahead. Pour out your heart to Him for God is our refuge.
Positive Mom Moment: The best way to teach your children to be flexible is through teachable moments and your own example. When plans change talk to your kids about the fact that is it disappointing (don’t’ ignore the reality that there may be sadness in changed plans), but God is in control and let’s ask Him to direct us as we do something different. Pray together for God’s leading through the changes you face. Most importantly show your kids how to positively adapt to change by having a positive attitude yourself. Don’t complain, but rather look expectantly at what God will do.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
The Treasure of God's Grace
When’s the last time you received one of those gifts that was less than thrilling? After you wrote your thank you note, I’m guessing you either put the lackluster gift in the “gift closet” to pass on to someone else down the line, or you took it to Goodwill in order to get a tax write off. Let’s admit it, we’ve all received a few gifts that weren’t quite our favorites.
On the other hand, each of us has also received a few gifts that we would consider treasures. We really enjoy them and use them. They make us smile. There are some gifts that are “keepers” with all certainty. The Bible talks about one gift that is the best by far. Paul called it “God’s unspeakable gift.” In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul urged them not to receive God’s grace in vain (2Corinthians 6:1). The word vain means uselessly. Paul is telling them not to take the treasure of God’s grace lightly or to live as though it is worthless (as we would if we had received a bad gift). Instead we are to take the grace of God seriously, recognizing the true treasure it is to us.
George Barlow said, “Grace is what all need, what none can merit and what God alone can give.” Oh how precious the grace of God. Because of His grace we have hope. Because of his kindness we are forgiven, redeemed, transformed, reconciled and made new. God’s grace is the greatest treasure we can ever receive. It is not a throw away gift, yet how often do we treat it as such? Do we value God’s gift with our lives? Do we live in gratitude each day for the treasure we have received? Do we share this gift with others? Let us not neglect so great a salvation!
May we live each day with thankful hearts for the great treasure God has so lovingly granted! Jesus gave His life so that we may have life. My friend if you have never received this gift through faith, I encourage you to put your faith in Christ who gave his life on the cross for you and for me. He rose again giving us promise of eternal life. “Today is the day of salvation,” Paul said in this very same passage. If you have already received this gift, I want to encourage you to take time today to thank God for His kindness. It is my hope that each of us will reflect the glory of His grace in our daily lives as we radiate the joy of the greatest gift ever given.
Positive Mom moment: Take some time today to talk with your kids about some of their favorite gifts they have ever received. Talk about how they enjoyed their gifts and played with them and used them. Then talk about the greatest gift ever given to this world was the gift God gave. Because he loved the world so much He gave His son Jesus, so that those who put their faith in Him will live with Him one day in Heaven. Pray together thanking the Lord for sending His Son Jesus. Talk about how each day we can live with the joy of knowing we have received the wonderful gift of God’s grace.
On the other hand, each of us has also received a few gifts that we would consider treasures. We really enjoy them and use them. They make us smile. There are some gifts that are “keepers” with all certainty. The Bible talks about one gift that is the best by far. Paul called it “God’s unspeakable gift.” In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul urged them not to receive God’s grace in vain (2Corinthians 6:1). The word vain means uselessly. Paul is telling them not to take the treasure of God’s grace lightly or to live as though it is worthless (as we would if we had received a bad gift). Instead we are to take the grace of God seriously, recognizing the true treasure it is to us.
George Barlow said, “Grace is what all need, what none can merit and what God alone can give.” Oh how precious the grace of God. Because of His grace we have hope. Because of his kindness we are forgiven, redeemed, transformed, reconciled and made new. God’s grace is the greatest treasure we can ever receive. It is not a throw away gift, yet how often do we treat it as such? Do we value God’s gift with our lives? Do we live in gratitude each day for the treasure we have received? Do we share this gift with others? Let us not neglect so great a salvation!
May we live each day with thankful hearts for the great treasure God has so lovingly granted! Jesus gave His life so that we may have life. My friend if you have never received this gift through faith, I encourage you to put your faith in Christ who gave his life on the cross for you and for me. He rose again giving us promise of eternal life. “Today is the day of salvation,” Paul said in this very same passage. If you have already received this gift, I want to encourage you to take time today to thank God for His kindness. It is my hope that each of us will reflect the glory of His grace in our daily lives as we radiate the joy of the greatest gift ever given.
Positive Mom moment: Take some time today to talk with your kids about some of their favorite gifts they have ever received. Talk about how they enjoyed their gifts and played with them and used them. Then talk about the greatest gift ever given to this world was the gift God gave. Because he loved the world so much He gave His son Jesus, so that those who put their faith in Him will live with Him one day in Heaven. Pray together thanking the Lord for sending His Son Jesus. Talk about how each day we can live with the joy of knowing we have received the wonderful gift of God’s grace.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Lessons from Nashville
“The serene beauty of a holy life is the most powerful influence in the world next to the power of God,” Blaise Pascal.
This past weekend I was in Nashville for two conferences: Women in Christian Media and National Religious Broadcasters. I spent time with dear friends not only from Dallas, but from all over the nation. Over the years we have formed a heartfelt bond in our common goal to bring the message of Christ to the world. It was a tremendous time of fellowship and learning.
This year I am coming home with a personal charge to pray more intently and speak the message of Christ more boldly. As I felt a spark of urgency to speak the truth, I also watched on television as another devastating earthquake hit Chile. Our world is being shaken to the core, but we do have a rock to stand on. Our rock is Jesus and He is the answer to the fears this world may hold.
How do we get the message of truth to a culture who doesn’t seem to want to listen to Christians any more? We must speak in genuine love. We must speak with compassion meeting them where they are. We must speak with truth in terms they can understand and relate to in their own lives.
Praying, praying always. In Nashville as I talked with woman after woman who prayed intently and watched God lead them, guide them and answer them, I was encouraged to seek God’s face in all I do. Moment by moment everyday, with my eyes on Him is where I want to be. To know Him more, to desire Him with all my heart is my daily prayer.
May this world be changed because Christians faithfully reflect the radiance of Christ because they know Him intimately. Let us reflect His love, his humility, and his willingness to suffer on our behalf. Shine brightly for Him!
“Let your light so shine among men that they may see your good works and glorify the Father.”
This past weekend I was in Nashville for two conferences: Women in Christian Media and National Religious Broadcasters. I spent time with dear friends not only from Dallas, but from all over the nation. Over the years we have formed a heartfelt bond in our common goal to bring the message of Christ to the world. It was a tremendous time of fellowship and learning.
This year I am coming home with a personal charge to pray more intently and speak the message of Christ more boldly. As I felt a spark of urgency to speak the truth, I also watched on television as another devastating earthquake hit Chile. Our world is being shaken to the core, but we do have a rock to stand on. Our rock is Jesus and He is the answer to the fears this world may hold.
How do we get the message of truth to a culture who doesn’t seem to want to listen to Christians any more? We must speak in genuine love. We must speak with compassion meeting them where they are. We must speak with truth in terms they can understand and relate to in their own lives.
Praying, praying always. In Nashville as I talked with woman after woman who prayed intently and watched God lead them, guide them and answer them, I was encouraged to seek God’s face in all I do. Moment by moment everyday, with my eyes on Him is where I want to be. To know Him more, to desire Him with all my heart is my daily prayer.
May this world be changed because Christians faithfully reflect the radiance of Christ because they know Him intimately. Let us reflect His love, his humility, and his willingness to suffer on our behalf. Shine brightly for Him!
“Let your light so shine among men that they may see your good works and glorify the Father.”
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