God, Give Me Patience With This Child

It started last week, suddenly. At first I thought it was cute, but soon it started to be just plain scary.

My little boy has discovered his ability to destroy things and is fully enjoying it. I didn't really think anything of him crushing his goldfish crackers to dust between his thumb and index finger. I mean, it's harmless, right? Well, then he cracked the screen on my computer. Then the found out how to climb up on the counter tops. Then he smashed a rather large flowerpot to smithereens. Then he discovered where we keep the silverware. Then he shoved my phone into the sub-woofer. Thank goodness it's wasn't dead! I got it out after removing just a few screws. It's gone on like this for the past few days.

I get no rest when he's awake because I'm terrified that he's going to get into something dangerous and hurt himself. Suddenly he's gone from reading books and building towers to searching for breakable things to destroy. To be honest, I've been at my wit's end over the past few days. Stressed. I've raised my voice. I've tried so speak reason to a baby...he responded by looking at me and giggling like I was funny. I've felt like I've lost my mind.

Well, after he smashed my pretty flowerpot this morning, I had had enough! It was time to get out of the house and let him expend some of his energy elsewhere. I just couldn't take any more destruction! So we loaded into the car and I turned on my favorite Christian radio station...and what do you know...the most perfect verse came over the airwaves:

"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Ephesians 4:2

I just love those little moments when God puts things right in front of my face so that I can't possibly miss what He's trying to get me to see. Patience. Gentleness. Patience. Humility. Patience. Love. Patience. Bearing with one another. Patience. 

After all, as I sit here typing with this cracked screen, I've realized that it's just a screen. It can be replaced. I can replace the flower pot. I was able to find my phone. I can lock the silverware drawer. It's going to be okay. My precious boy, whom I love with all my heart and soul, is just learning boundaries and his new found strength. I can...and I must teach him those boundaries without getting so stressed out. I must set an example of humility, gentleness, patience and love even in the hard times.

Thank you, Lord, for this verse today, for putting my day in perspective, and for teaching me how to be a better mommy. And please help me remember it tomorrow.

Thankful

So many people are posting about all the things they are thankful for every day. I wish I could keep up with posting one every day, but it's just not possible in my current season of life...so here's my little thankful post for the season:

I'm thankful for big things in my life, things I can't life without. My Savior. He restores my soul. He forgives me. He loves me. He molds me continuously. He died and rose again so that I may spend eternity in His presence. I am undeserving and blessed. My husband, my perfect match. The only man on this planet who loves me just the way that I need it most. He's a strong man of God, quick to apologize and forgive, and an excellent father. I really don't know what I'd do without him. My precious son. My joy. Who knew how much richer life could be with a child? I can't even comprehend how much I love him and how thankful I am for his life. My family. From the youngest to the oldest, I love them all!

I'm thankful for extra comforts and blessings. Our fluffy puppy. My living foot warmer, companion, and constant watchdog. Our house. A continuous project that feels more like home with each project we complete. Our church. So thankful for pastors who preach the truth and members who have hearts to serve the Lord. My job. Oh, I have the best job title in the world: Wife and Mommy. Granted, it's 24/7 on duty, but worth every moment. True friends. They are hard to come by, but I am thankful for the ones I have. Distance and time can't separate us. We pick up right where we left off, no matter how long it's been since we last met.  New friends. It's always fun getting to know new people and finding new friends who have the strangest things in common.

I'm thankful for things I take for granted too often. Food. Enough said. Convenience. Thankful for things like a washing machine, microwave, and air conditioning. Can you imagine life without all the conveniences we enjoy today?  Prayer. Thank you, God, for listening to me. Christian radio. Because I don't want my kid listening to Miley Cyrus. Veterans. Thankful for those who have served in the past and who are serving now. They protect my freedom. They are so important. Freedom. I wonder sometimes why God allowed me to live this my life in this wonderful free country. What a blessing! May I not let my freedom go to waste. Opportunities to serve. It's incredible how many opportunities there are to pour love into the lives of others. It's overwhelming at times, but I'm thankful to be able help others.

I'm thankful for the small (big) things. My fireplace. Warm socks. Hershey's Kisses. Camping. Nights with no TV. Roses. Sweet smelling lotion and candles. Sweatshirts. Kleenex and Advil. Wireless. Sparkly nail polish. Long walks in the woods, on the beach, in my neighborhood (anywhere, really). Coupons, clearance, and free shipping. Swimming pools. Fast food. Not-so-fast food. Down comforters. Power steering and heated seats. Good movies. Luxury hotels. And my Mom's home cooking (especially Christmas tree cookies and made-from-scratch cinnamon rolls).

I'm especially thankful for that first group of Pilgrims who dared to leave all they knew, sailed across rough seas, nearly froze and starved, and watched their friends and children die of sickness and infection all so they could be free to worship our God without oppression and persecution.

It's not just about the turkey and football. Let's not forget.

Happy Thanksgiving! 

My Hope America with Billy Graham

Billy Graham, known as America's Pastor, celebrated his 95th birthday this week. Happy Birthday, Mr. Billy Graham! If you haven't watched his special message yet, please do.

Please join me in prayer for our great nation, under God, and for all those who are suffering and alone, without the peace of God in their hearts.

Seeing the Signs of Human Trafficking [2]

Last month, I wrote about how to know if your community is at risk for human trafficking. I learned that it's happening in my community, which absolutely horrifies me. Click here to read more about that.

When I attended a training recently, I learned of many ways to get involved and how to notify authorities. I'd like to share some of those with you today. The information I am providing was presented by Women At Risk International, during the Civilian First Responder Training that I attended.

How To Report Human Trafficking and Abuse:

• If you suspect a case of human trafficking, call the national toll-free Human Trafficking Resource Center: 1-888-373-7888.
• If you suspect sexually abused or exploited minors call The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children: 1-800-THE-LOST
• You can also call Women At Risk International: 1-877-END-SLAVERY.  
• Rape, Abuse, & Incest National Network: 1-800-656-HOPE

Helpful Websites: 

• Women At Risk, International
• FBI Child Abduction Rapid Employment Teams
• Cyber Tipline: Report Child Exploitaton
• U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services (Human Trafficking)
• End Child Prostitution and Trafficking (ECPAT)
• U.S. Dept. of State, Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons
• Polaris Project
• United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
• Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network

Here's a little of what you might learn at a Civilian First Responder Training:





Keep your eyes open and don't be afraid to report something that doesn't look right. You could be that one person who sees the unseen.

Why I Choose A Relationship Over Religion

Yep. I said it. I loathe stuffy, judgmental religion.

Religion says that I have to do certain things or act a certain way to gain the approval of God and other religious people. I can only have fun when doing [these things] but it's just plain wrong to do [these things]. You fill in the blanks. Here are some that I've come across over my years of meeting many religious people:

• You can have fun swimming, but only if you wear a one-piece swimming suit.
• You can listen to music, but only certain genres.
• You must wear shorts that cover your knees.
• You can use swear words, just not around your church friends.
• You can get drunk, just make sure to be at church and pay your tithe.
• You can "court", but "dating" is for heathens.  

And this list could go on and on.

It's stuffy.

It's hypocritical.

It's far from having a relationship with Jesus.

I choose to have a relationship with Jesus. I communicate with Him through prayer and His Word. He speaks to my heart, guides my paths, and takes care of me in ways I could have never imagined. He has restored me more times than I can count. You see, I don't pray to a statue or a dead man. That sounds pointless and silly. I pray to a living God who actually answers my prayers (although not always in the way I would prefer...but that's another topic entirely).

Jesus accepts us as we are. He loves me. Period.  He can look right into my heart and know where I have sinned when nobody else has a clue. He also knows that what some religious folks label as "sinful" is actually not sinful at all because He knows my heart.

Sin starts in the heart and shows itself through actions. Sometimes I sin in areas where others have no trouble, and I avoid doing certain things for the preservation of my own soul and relationship with Christ. I don't swear because it feels (and sounds) like the opposite of love, joy and peace. I try to follow God's laws and listen to the convictions that He places on my heart, rather than just following the church crowd's behavior. Of course I fail. But I try.

There are many verses in the Bible that guide us toward living a life for the Lord. There are verses about how men and women should behave, alcohol use, fellowship, and sin. There are verses about pride, envy, murder, theft, and adultery. There are  verses about lying, cheating, paying taxes, and loving money. Did you realize that it's possible to follow these rules and miss out entirely on a relationship with Jesus?

Isn't that religion by definition? Religious rules are a prison. A relationship with Jesus means FREEDOM.

Rather than worrying about the rules, I focus on drawing closer to God. Once I admitted my sinful nature and recognized that I am nothing and going nowhere without Jesus, I asked Him to dwell in my heart. I surrendered my life to Him. I asked God for forgiveness of my sins. I gave Him all of me. Ever since, He has been there with me. I am never alone, never hopeless, never forsaken. I am forgiven, loved, and made new. That, my friends, is a gift of grace than no man could ever give. There is nothing I can do to earn it. Only God can work in my heart this way.

He can work in your life, too. All you have to do is ask. It will change your world in ways that you'd never dreamed. It won't be easy all the time. In fact, you're guaranteed hardships. But...Jesus will be there to walk with you through it. You'll never be alone again. And at the end of this hard life, you'll see Him there at Heaven's gate, welcoming you HOME.

Parenting: Discipline

Click here to get the book for yourself.

It's pretty much official. We have a toddler. Honestly, I am loving the toddler phase for many reasons. He's more independent, he's developing a sense of humor, he is sleeping through the night, he is learning so much every single day, and he is starting to talk! I love it!

But there is one thing about this stage that is especially difficult...the temper tantrums. We (the newbie parents) are still learning how to deal with them. Thank goodness for our own parents who have been through these stages before and can help us figure them out!

My mom gave us a great book about learning to discipline in a Biblical way. There is one thing that we read that was particularly helpful to me.  So simple, yet so important. It's exactly the way I will explain our rules to our son.

Ready for it?

It'll go something like this:

"Son, I didn't make up right and wrong. God did. He gave us rules to follow. You have to obey them and I do, too."

So simple!  I didn't create right and wrong, but I will help my child follow God's laws. It's my God-given responsibility as a parent. Rules in our house will have an eternal and Biblical perspective. For example: no hitting is a rule in our house, but we have that rule because of God's word:

"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Ephesians 4:32

As I grow as a parent and encounter many instances where I have an obligation to discipline, I hope that I can continually explain why we have certain rules to my son. It will require me to be well versed in what the Bible says. It will challenge me to live according to God's laws in a much more conscious way.

Hopefully it won't create an authoritarian atmosphere, since God is the ultimate authority and our sweet boy will witness his parents submitting to God regularly. Hopefully it will help our son to understand God's rules are meant for our protection. Hopefully he will learn God's character and love in a way that will eventually lead to the most important decision of all: accepting Christ as Lord and Savior.

Have a great day!

Peace in Suffering

I had an opportunity to hear a woman's story that touched my heart and put my own trials in perspective.

This woman suffered from disease as a child, living in hospitals for much of her childhood, endured three miscarriages, lost her precious two-month-old son, contracted a debilitating disease in adulthood, and recently lost her husband to another woman. Talk about suffering! Yet she still spoke with hope and love and peace. She knows that God is using her suffering for His glory. I was touched by her story, but even more touched by her love for our Savior and the obvious refuge that He offers her spirit.

She spoke about the son that she lost. He was born with a heart condition and had a successful surgery shortly after birth. He was recovering so well that is doctor mistakenly decided to take him off his medications. Tragically, he died shortly after. In the midst of her pain and suffering, her friend (a songwriter) wrote a song about her precious boy and the Living God who wrapped His arms around her soul. Take a moment to listen to it:

This song has been a blessing to so many people grieving over the years This mom thanks God for using her son's short life in such a meaningful way.  When you take comfort in the Lord because of this song, it's a blessing to the mommy who lost her sweet baby boy.

I can't begin to imagine the sadness that this woman has endured. Life has been unfair to her in so many ways. Her message was simple: God can use our suffering for good. He is doing it in her life, even as her story is still being written. .

In this life we will have trouble. We will suffer. It's not fair, but it's just the reality of living in a fallen world. I am so thankful that we have Jesus to cling to in times of such intense pain.

My prayer is that He uses whatever suffering I endure during my life for His glory, that His light will shine through me in a way that others cannot deny Him.

If you are suffering today, cling to Jesus. He will hold you.

Goddess Tithe by Anne Elisabeth Stengl Cover Reveal

I have the great honor of sharing a special treat today, my dear friend's newest book cover! Anne Elisabeth Stengl writes wonderful fantasy novels intended mostly for young adults, but my husband and I have also greatly enjoyed reading them. You can find all of her books on Amazon.com or any major bookstore.

Title: Goddess Tithe

Author: Anne Elisabeth Stengl

Series: Tales of Goldstone Wood

Expected Release Date: November 12, 2013

Publisher: Rooglewood Press

Page Count: 130 pages

The Vengeful Goddess Demands Her Tithe

When a stowaway is discovered aboard the merchant ship Kulap Kanya, Munny, a cabin boy on his first voyage, knows what must be done. All stowaways are sacrificed to Risafeth, the evil goddess of the sea. Such is her right, and the Kulap Kanya's only hope to return safely home.

Yet, to the horror of his crew, Captain Sunan vows to protect the stowaway, a foreigner in clown's garb. A curse falls upon the ship and all who sail with her, for Risafeth will stop at nothing to claim her tithe.

Will Munny find the courage to trust his captain and to protect the strange clown who has become his friend?

Goodreads * Blog Page

You can learn more about Goddess Tithe, which novel it's connected to and read Chapter 1, here: 

About the Cover Design:

I had the fun of designing this cover—finding reference photos, inventing the composition, applying the text, etc.—but the actual artistic work was done by talented cover artist Phatpuppy (www.phatpuppyart.com), whose work I have admired for many years. It was such a thrill for me to contact and commission this artist to create a look for Goddess Tithe that is reminiscent of the original novels but has a style and drama all its own.

The boy on the front was quite a find. I hunted high and low for an image of a boy the right age, the right look, with the right expression on his face. Phatpuppy and I worked with a different model through most of the cover development stage. But then I happened upon this image, and both she and I were delighted with his blend of youth, stubbornness, and strength of character! It wasn’t difficult to switch the original boy for this young man. He simply is Munny, and this cover is a perfect window into the world of my story.

You can’t see it here, but the wrap-around back cover for the print copy contains some of the prettiest work . . . including quite a scary sea monster! Possibly my favorite detail is the inclusion of the ghostly white flowers framing the outer edge. These are an important symbol in the story itself, and when Phatpuppy sent me the first mock-up cover with these included, I nearly jumped out of my skin with excitement!

Anne Elisabeth Stengl makes her home in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she lives with her husband, Rohan, a kindle of kitties, and one long-suffering dog. When she’s not writing, she enjoys Shakespeare, opera, and tea, and practices piano, painting, and pastry baking. She studied illustration at Grace College and English literature at Campbell University. She is the author of the Tales of Goldstone Wood, including Heartless, Veiled Rose, Moonblood, Starflower, and Dragonwitch. Heartless and Veiled Rose have each been honored with a Christy Award, and Starflower was voted winner of the 2013 Clive Staples Award.

Facebook * Twitter * Website/Blog * Goodreads

Giveaway:

Anne Elisabeth is offering two proof copies of Goddess Tithe as prizes! (U.S. and Canada only) 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Seeing the Signs of Human Trafficking [1]

Before I begin, let me tell you that this problem seems so much bigger than me. I am just one small voice, but I feel compelled to at least try to make others aware, if nothing else. Modern day slavery is what they call it, but it seems much more like a living Hell for its victims.

I recently attended a training session that opened my eyes to evils of this world that I never really wanted to know about. I heard details of horrific conditions that thousands of women, children and even babies are sold into on a daily basis. Details so horrific, I don't even want to write the words. I heard from police in my own area about recent cases of sex trafficking that I never knew existed. I heard from a survivor who was kidnapped, thrust into sex slavery, escaped..and lived to tell about it. I left the conference with a heavy heart and a killer headache. It seems like such a hopeless world filled with so much unthinkable evil. I had a hard time processing what I heard, much in the same way I had a hard time processing the depravity of abortion.

Human trafficking is another terrible violation of basic human rights. People are bought and sold for various reasons, but the most common are labor and sex.  Thousands of children are sold daily here in the Land of the Free. They can be kidnapped or sold by their parents/caregivers. And not all traffickers are men. In fact, some traffickers are mothers and elderly women.

Human trafficking is a lucrative business where women and young children are ripped from their homes, beaten and raped repeatedly. It's sex abuse on steroids. The crazy thing is...it's not about sex. It's about power and money. Lots of money. Why is it so lucrative, even more than drugs?  Because drugs can only be used once but a woman or child can be used many, many times per day, like 30 times or more. I read that the average life expectancy of a sex slave is about 7 years.

Just think about that.

It's happening in America.

It's happening in my town.

Chances are, it's happening in your town, too.

At the conference, I was given resources to help respond if I ever suspect or witness human trafficking in my area. After learning what I learned, I have to share.

In my opinion, the first two steps in helping to stop human trafficking are:

1. Know what it is.
2. Understand your community's risk factors.

I learned that your town is at risk of human trafficking if you have any of these things:

• oceans
• ports
• major highways
• tourism
• military bases
• children
• drugs
• minority communities
• entertainment (massage parlors, bars, strip clubs, etc.)
• poverty 
• organized crime
• internet communication
• secrecy

So now you know (1) what it is and (2) if your community is at risk. Later this month, I'll post again about how you can get involved in your community to help fight this. 

However, if you can't wait for my post, check out Women At Risk International for ways to get involved. This organization provided the training session that I attended and they provide many ways for the average American woman (like me) to get involved. Watch their video below:

Just thinking about this topic makes my head swirl. I have to remind myself of my Precious Savior who said these words,

"...In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world." John 16:33

 How thankful I am that there is hope in Christ!

Seeing The Signs of Human Trafficking [2]

Power...in a Name?

Jesus Christ

Jesus, who lived about 2000 years ago, is still causing controversy all over the world today. Love Him or hate Him, the mention of His name evokes powerful emotions from virtually every walk of life. To me and fellow Christians, we find comfort, peace and rest in the name Jesus. Others are immediately on guard, defensive, obviously uncomfortable upon hearing His name. All around the world today, people are being persecuted and killed simply for professing faith in Him. Have you heard about the American pastor in Iran? How about the little girl shot for attending a Bible study in Egypt? How about the American  missionary imprisoned in North Korea? Perhaps you've heard about the churches burned in Sudan? Maybe you're aware of the attacks against Christians serving in the U.S. armed forces?

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? -1 Peter 4:12-17

Unfortunately, there are many more current stories of persecution going on today...all because of Jesus Christ, a man who lived and died nearly 2000 years ago. Why on earth is He such a big deal? Why do some people try so hard to get Christians to shut up about Him? Why do some people allow themselves to be tortured, imprisoned and killed for believing in Him? Why not just renounce Him and live? What's to lose?

And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death- even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow in heaven and on on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. -Philippians 2:8-11

I saw a bumper sticker yesterday that said, "God is too big for any one religion."  Interesting thought, right? If it's true that all religions are just different paths to the same end, why are Christians targeted so violently and relentlessly through history?  Who is waging such wars on the Buddhists, Hindus, Atheists...?

Jesus is “‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’ Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”-Acts 4:11-12

All of this stuff going on in the world today makes me even more confident that my God, Jesus Christ, is the One True God. It affirms my faith that He died and rose again, and lives today, just as the Bible has recorded.  His name is more powerful than any other name. He is God. I believe that every knee will bow and every single tongue will confess that He is Lord. I can't wait for that day! I get goosebumps just thinking about it. Persecuted Christians around the world are willing to die for the cause of Christ because they know what I know, that they are gaining eternal life. They know that their suffering will end and they will be welcomed into Heaven by Jesus himself, made new, and will never suffer again. They have received His love and guidance and know Him personally, just as I know Him.

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?” -John 11:25-26

Well, do you?



Read another way more thorough and interesting article about Jesus' name here.

"Don't Judge Me!" A Follow-Up

If you missed the first post on this topic, you can read about it here.

Perhaps the most wonderful thing about having a relationship with the Lord is how He is constantly molding me into the woman He wants me to become. He is a very real and living God. He guides me. He puts things on my heart to write about.

Yesterday, He put this on my heart:

When I originally wrote about this passage, I had come across three instances within a two-week period where I heard people use the same scripture out of spite or general misunderstanding. I stand by what I wrote, but I think I need to add to it today...particularly about the verse that says,

"Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye." Matthew 7:5

I believe that if we spend the appropriate amount of time examining ourselves, we will have little time to worry about how God "should work" in the lives of others. When I am feeling tempted to point out someone else's failures or wrongdoing, I must remind myself that I, too, have failed people. I have failed God. I received forgiveness, therefore I should be quick to forgive, quick to give the benefit of the doubt, and quick to understand that some things are better handled by God. After all, isn't He in just as much control of this whole wide world today as He was on the day He created it?

The bottom line is: we should spend more time examining our own hearts, motives, actions, etc...before worrying about others' mistakes. That alone can be an effective witnessing tool.  Also, it wouldn't hurt to spend way more time encouraging each other in the Lord and resting in the peace that He gives.

Have a great day!

Raising Rough and Tumble, Lovable Boys

My husband got me a fabulous book for Christmas last year. I've just now gotten around to reading it and I must say, it's been very helpful.

Bringing Up Boys by Dr. James Dobson

As a new mom, I was hoping that this book would help shed some light on how I can raise my son to be a God-fearing, family man. It does just that and more. I hardly think anyone could accuse Dr. Dobson of being a feminist sympathizer or politically correct (which is perfectly fine with me).  He shares hard truths, statistics, and sound, Bible-based common sense. This book had me laughing and crying at different moments. Above all, it has once again renewed my fervor in praying for my son's future and my beloved country.

Anyway, it's definitely worth the read if you are a girly-girl turned mommy to a rough-and-tumble boy.

Inhuman Project

Perhaps you have heard of the Kermit Gosnell case, the Philadelphia abortion doctor who was convicted (thank God!) for murdering a newborn baby during a botched abortion. If not, please consider taking some time to read this post: A Discussion Worth Having.  If you are familiar with this case, perhaps you were as shocked as I was to hear of his barbaric abortion methods. I was shocked at the unbelievable cruelty and lack of compassion, so I started digging a little deeper.

The Inhuman Project is presented by LiveActionFilms. A pregnant woman was sent undercover into several abortion clinics across the country, asking lots of questions about the abortion she was supposedly there to have.

Please watch at least one of these:

Arizona

New York

Washington D.C.

You don't have to watch long to get an idea of the depraved attitudes that these abortionists have toward unborn human lives. I believe that there are more Kermit Gosnells out there who need to be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. LiveAction is doing great work to uncover the horrific reality of abortion in America. 

Please consider getting involved with LiveAction at www.liveaction.org

What's Wrong With Abortion?

In my first post about the tragedy of abortion, I shared the literal words of what happens in a D&E procedure. Today I saw this illustration. It's gruesome and difficult to look at, but necessary to share. You can read more about the source of the photo here.

This breaks my heart. When I was 23 weeks pregnant, I knew that I was going to have a son. We were picking out potential names for him. We were buying his crib and getting the nursery ready. I could feel him moving all around inside me, kicking, waking me up at night. I had my maternity photos taken. We were so excited about this little life growing inside of me.

What's the difference between my baby at 23 weeks and one such as the baby pictured above? Nothing other than the fact I chose to give my baby life and many mothers, for whatever reason, choose to have their precious babies dismembered and ripped from the warm and cozy womb where they once lived. 

I can't understand how any mother could knowingly and willingly pay someone to kill her baby in this manner. Maybe they just don't understand what abortion entails?

Please consider joining the National Right to Life. Please don't turn a blind eye to the horrors of abortion.

Baby Boy Joy

Some days are easier than others in the life of a stay-at-home-mommy. Sometimes I feel like people see the most tired, worn out side of me (especially when I go anywhere after 5:00)... but I can't express how much joy it is to experience this life. I'm feeling especially thankful for it today. Not sure why. I'm just thankful.

I'm thankful for the ear-to-ear smiles that Baby Boy greets me with each morning, the time that I have to read him stories, rock him to sleep, take him on walks, show him new and exciting things...and so much more. He is starting to walk now, eat regular food (no more baby mush), and has developed an incredible love for the outdoors and our dog. I am seeing his little (big) personality unfold a little more each day, and I'm so proud to be his mommy.

This overwhelming love that I have for my son is teaching me so much about God's love for me. I am His child and His love is greater than any other. I just want to make Him proud and bring Him joy, as I am understanding more and more that He loves me far more than I can comprehend.

He loves you, too, even if you don't realize it yet. :-) 

Have a great day! 

Human Rights & Abortion

All through American history, people of all kinds have fought for equality and human rights. People have fought for equality of race, marriage status, disability, gender, and more. However, I am saddened about the human rights battle going on for those who cannot speak for themselves: the unborn.

There is currently a push in this country to pass more lenient laws concerning abortion. What is so wrong with this? Why is this so controversial?

First, we must understand what abortion is.

2nd Trimester Methods

Dilation & Evacuation (D&E): About 13 to 24 Weeks After LMP ^{26 (PP. 133-56), 33} 

The majority of second trimester abortions are performed using this method. The cervix must be opened wider than in the first trimester abortion because the fetus is larger. This is done by inserting numerous thin rods made of seaweed a day or two before the abortion and/or giving other oral or vaginal medications to further soften the cervix. Up to about 16 weeks gestation, the procedure is identical to the first trimester one. After the cervix is stretched open and the uterine contents suctioned out, any remaining fetal parts are removed with a grasping tool (forceps). A curette (a loop-shaped tool) may also be used to scrape out any remaining tissue.

After about 16 weeks, much of the procedure is done with the forceps to pull fetal parts out through the cervical opening, as suction alone will not work due to the fetus’ size. The doctor keeps track of what fetal parts have been removed so that none are left inside as this can potentially cause infection. Lastly, a curette, and/or the suction machine are used to remove any remaining tissue or blood clots, which if left behind could cause infection and bleeding. 

Medication Methods for Second Trimester Induced Abortion ^{26 (PP. 178-92), 34}

This technique induces abortion by using medicines to cause labor and eventual delivery of the fetus and placenta. Like labor at term, this procedure typically involves 10-24 hours in a hospital’s labor and delivery unit. Digoxin or potassium chloride is injected into the amniotic fluid, umbilical cord or fetal heart prior to labor to avoid the delivery of a live fetus. The cervix is softened with the use of seaweed sticks and/or medications. Next, oral mifepristone and oral or vaginal misoprostol are used to induce labor. In most cases, these drugs result in the delivery of the dead fetus and placenta. The patient may receive oral or intravenous pain medications. Occasionally, scraping of the uterus is needed to remove the placenta.

Potential complications include hemorrhage and the need for a blood transfusion, retained placenta and possible uterine rupture (splits open). Source: Gateway.

What's the difference between late term and partial birth abortion?  Here are the facts:

Late Term Abortion:

D&E When Live Birth is Possible (From about 24 weeks and up)^{26 (PP. 157-77)} 

This procedure typically takes 2-3 days and is associated with increased risk to the life and health of the mother. Because a live birth is possible, injections are given to cause the fetal death. This is done in order to comply with the federal Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003 which requires that the fetus be dead before complete removal from the mother’s body. The medications (digoxin and potassium chloride) are either injected into the amniotic fluid, the umbilical cord or directly into the fetus’ heart. The remainder of the procedure is the same as the second trimester D&E. Fetal parts are reassembled after removal from the uterus to make sure nothing is left behind to cause infection.

An alternate technique, called “Intact D&E” is also used. The goal is to remove the fetus in one piece, thus reducing the risk of leaving parts behind or causing damage to the woman’s body. This procedure requires the cervix be opened wider; however, it is still often necessary to crush the fetus’ skull for removal as it is difficult to dilate the cervix wide enough to bring the head out intact. Source: Gateway 

Partial Birth Abortion:

Partial-Birth Abortion is a procedure in which the abortionist pulls a living baby feet-first out of the womb and into the birth canal (vagina), except for the head, which the abortionist purposely keeps lodged just inside the cervix (the opening to the womb).  The abortionist punctures the base of the baby’s skull with a surgical instrument, such as a long surgical scissors or a pointed hollow metal tube called a trochar.  He then inserts a catheter (tube) into the wound, and removes the baby's brain with a powerful suction machine.  This causes the skull to collapse, after which the abortionist completes the delivery of the now-dead baby.  Source: NRLC

What is post-birth abortion?  It's basically killing the baby after induced labor. The baby is born alive and then killed. This can be done in a variety of ways; sometimes the baby is simply not given medical care when born alive during the process of a failed abortion. This process is more commonly referred to infanticide.  

Please take some time to listen to this woman, Alisa Laport Snow, a lobbyist from Planned Parenthood, who stood before Florida lawmakers this month:

The abortionists are hard at work in this nation. The complete lack of value for the lives of babies is apparent from this woman's testimony. Planned Parenthood released a statement later saying that this situation is hypothetical, highly unusual, and they clarified that they would support following the current laws by providing lifesaving medical care to the infant. 

However, there is an abortionist doctor form Pennsylvania who got caught. You may have heard of him, Dr. Kermit Gosnell, who is currently on trial, charged with 8 counts of murder. Please watch this short documentary about the abortion clinic that he operated. You will find that his practices align directly with the testimony from Ms. Laport Snow and contradicts the statement released by Planned Parenthood. 

You will not find much coverage of this horrific case on most news networks. Why? Because it is incredibly damaging to the political views and leftist ideals of the media. It's important to understand how abortion is damaging not only because it's the lawful (or unlawful) murder of an innocent baby, but it is also damaging to the emotional state of the mother, her future fertility, and in some cases, her life. 

I beg you, please care about this human rights tragedy in America today. Stay informed. Figure out a way to get involved. Speak up in love. Your one voice may be all that is needed to help save the voice of an unborn child. If you are considering having an abortion, please don't. Please give your precious baby life and consider adoption.

You can find out more from the National Right to Life.

Read more:  What's Wrong With Abortion? and The Inhuman Project

"Don't Judge Me!"

So very often, I come across people who profess to be followers of Christ, yet twist Scripture to serve their own purpose. If we profess to follow Christ, we are commanded to follow His laws as the Bible says. Perhaps one of the most distorted and misused verses in the Bible comes from the start of Matthew chapter 7:

Matthew 7:1-2: "Judge not, that you be not judged. ² For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you."

Yes, in these verses Jesus warns us directly not to judge others. If you continue reading Matthew chapter 7, you will see that this passage teaches us to examine our own hearts before we go around judging the actions of others. That is absolutely and undeniably true. Read verse 5 carefully. It does not prohibit Christians from making judgments, but we must first see our own sin clearly.

When we read the Bible, we must read it accurately. Otherwise, we become completely confused as to the meaning and make costly mistakes that can be easily avoided. This passage is the last of three chapters that make up the Sermon on the Mount. You can read all of it here. Chapter 7 is talking about salvation. When Jesus talks about not throwing pearls before swine, He is warning us not to throw the truth of God in the faces of those who are unwilling to hear it, "lest they...turn and tear you in pieces". You know the type, the ones who so adamantly hate God that they will say anything to make a devout follower of Christ out to be a complete fool. We should spend our time trying to reach people who are open to hearing the truth rather than engage in fruitless arguments. He also talks about how anyone who asks shall find. Now, this does not mean that God will magically grant all your wishes simply by asking. He is talking about salvation. If you ask for salvation...if your heart desires to know God, He will give you the desires of your heart. You are His child and He wants to bless you with eternal life, which is the greatest gift of all. He goes on to talk about how few people will actually become saved, that the gate is narrow. He even says that many who call, "Lord, Lord" and believe they have done good works for Christ will be turned away from Heaven (see verses 21-23).  Not everyone who claims to be a follower of God is actually saved. Jesus ends the sermon warning that anyone who hears these words and does not obey is basically a fool and will fall. It's definitely a stern warning.

Now that we understand the context of this passage, we can better understand the first part about judgement. Jesus is warning us not to judge a man's (or woman's) heart.  Only God is Judge. In the end, only He will have the final say. It would be a sin for you and I to say with absolute authority that someone is or is not saved. Why? Because we are not God.

But God does give us some guidance in chapter 7 to help us determine whether a person is likely saved or not:

^{Matthew 7:17-20: "}Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. ¹⁸ A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. ¹⁹ Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ²⁰ Therefore by their fruits you will know them."

You can read more about about the fruits here.  You see, Christians are not banned from making judgments about what is right and wrong.  It's actually quite the opposite. We are called to be the light in this dark world. Sometimes that means exposing sin and trying our best to help people overcome it. For example, if you know that your best friend, who claims to be a Christian, is enthralled in reading steamy, sensational erotica (which happens to be on the best seller list), is it right for you to keep quiet, or is it right for you to try to help your friend out of the sinful behavior?  You can find the Biblical answer here. I believe the two most damaging things you can do are (1) be silent and (2) condemn others with a "holier than thou" attitude.

The next time someone uses Matthew 7:1 out of context, use the good judgement that God gives to ask yourself if the person is trying to "trample your pearls" so to speak, or truly has an open heart and a genuine misunderstanding of what judgment truly means.  From there, examine your own sin. Repent. Only then will you be an effective judge of right and wrong in the lives of others.

In the meantime, let's keep studying God's Word and hiding it away in our hearts. Let's keep being bold in our faith and standing strong, but make no mistake- having the last word is not always the most beneficial. Perhaps even worse is being accurately accused of hypocrisy.

Too Few Hours...

There are so many good things that fill up literally every moment of my day, yet there is one thing that I am having the hardest time figuring out how to fit into my regular schedule as a mom.

Devotions. Ones that aren't crammed into a 15 minute session or follow a program. Devotions that leave me feeling so refreshed, comforted, and engulfed in God's love.  I miss those.

My days are packed. Starting around 6:00 a.m, I become a half-awake playmate for a busy baby boy. I feed him breakfast, lunch, make dinner for the family, wash-dry-fold endless amounts of laundry, clean my house, walk the dog, bake treats, change diapers, keep a tiny bit of a social life, spend time with my husband, and by the end of the day... I am spent.

Before having a baby, I had no trouble finding ample time for devotions regularly. Now, I'm lucky to get one decent session in any given week.

How can this be?

So I am once again re-thinking the way I do life. What should I spend less time on so that I can have more time with God? Maybe I should cut out time on the internet? But then I would miss out on so much going on with people, news, etc...Can't do that. Maybe I should do devotions when Baby Boy is sleeping? But that is my nap time, too! Such precious down time... Can't do that. Maybe I should stop watching the news? But I MUST keep updated on the latest world events! Can't miss that.  Maybe we should just get rid of TV all together.  But then the husband would miss sports and I would miss my design shows...Can't do that.

What exactly is the answer?  I know. I make excuses.

Each day, I wake up thinking that today will be the day that I devote a good amount of  time to individual Bible study...and the day passes...and I crawl into bed at night...and I haven't gotten around to that precious devotional time that I promised myself. And I feel convicted. I've let myself down. I've let God down. I think about my testimony as a Christian. Sure, I go to church and listen to the sermons. I go to small group and study with other believers. I meet with a group of friends for a Bible-based book study...and those are all good things that I love and keep me accountable, but I really, really miss having time to read God's Word on my own. I miss just getting lost in the Bible and forgetting completely about the time or any other responsibilities, knowing that I'm having quality time with my God and He is actively speaking to my heart.

So I write this post not to tell you that I've figured out the key to having a perfectly balanced life, but to  keep myself accountable. I can't make excuses. If God is absolutely the most important part of my life, my reason for existing, I can't keep spending so much time on other trivial things each day. I have got to make my devotional time a priority.

As I wrap up this post, I am heading straight for my Bible and my journal. I'm going to read about whatever God leads me to read. I'm going to write down what He speaks to my heart. I will make Him a priority today. It's a start, right?

And I plan to do it again tomorrow. And the day after that. And the day after that day. And so on.

Next week, I'll let you know what I've learned about being a new mommy with a jam-packed day and trying keep up with daily devotions.  Maybe I won't fall flat on my face...and maybe...just maybe I'll have learned something worth sharing.

Ephesians 6:11-17- "Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God"