Saturday, April 30, 2011

Flesh Or Spirit?

"Mom, can I have another piece of candy?  Can I have a dessert?"
"If you eat any more sweets, your stomach is going to hurt."

Of course my son does not heed my warning of a future stomach ache.  He continues to eat as many sweets as he can get his hands on.  Why not?  It is the holidays, a birthday party or celebration.  Later that night he reaches for a pepto and lays down moaning and groaning.  I do not dare say, "I told you so."

As children grow, they learn from their mistakes.  They realize their parents know a thing or two.  Children must understand that learning is endless and parents are a great source for knowledge.  Joy comes as they quit battling and rebelling against the truth us parents provide for them.

This applies to our relationship with God.  If we think we know it all and avoid all warning that our decisions go against His Truths, we lack joy.  We continue the battle alone, without any protection and live only to satisfy our flesh, whatever seem pleasing at the moment. 

"Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.  The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.  The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so.  Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God." 
(Romans 8:5-8) 

Every morning presents a new day, another opportunity to work for God.  Keep focus on the desires of the Spirit so as to experience joy and purpose in life.  God's Plans for each of us can only be fulfilled through obedience and surrender to Him.  He will take all our battles for us.  We need only to step in faith and enjoy all He provides. 

Through hardships, praise Him!  The greatest lessons come through tough times.  Hardships strengthen our faith and bond us closer to Him.  Think of the last time you and your family went through some trial or hard decision.  As you leaned on one another, cried together and prayed together, a stronger bond came.

Lean on God, cry with God and pray continually to Him.  Your relationship will grow and blessings will pour out till you overflow. 

God thank you for this day.  Thank You for guiding me through my every situation.  Take my daily battles and show me the lessons needed to learn from each one.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig  

Friday, April 29, 2011

Eternal Field Trip

My son came home last week with a  permission slip for an upcoming field trip.  The gym teacher planned a day at a local miniature golf course with McDonald's to follow for lunch.  My son appeared super excited and could not wait until the day arrived for this trip.  My husband and I signed the permission slip and my son paid the required fee. 

My son continued to prepare himself for this day.  We discussed his outfit, decided on a lunch choice and he even practiced putting on our WII last night. 

Well, today is the day!  He will wake up so excited, ready to go and keeping a huge smile on his face throughout the day.  Nothing will bring him down.

To see a child become so excited and prepare himself with such detail for this day reminds me of being a Christian.  We serve a God who planned our every day (see Jeremiah 29:11), our every step for preparation to meet Him some day (our glorious, eternal field trip).  We sign the permission slip by accepting Jesus as our Lord and Savior.  His only son paid the required fee through death on the cross.

So, what are you doing to prepare yourself?

The day this will occur remains unknown.  More reason to wake every day in excitement and to continue to work for Him, not knowing this could be the day!  God will lay the path which leads to Him.  We need only to continue stepping in faith, strengthening ourselves along the way and planting seeds with each person we meet.  The sad thing is that many people live OF this world and have no idea of the 'permission slip' which exists for our eternal 'field trip'.  Some lack any knowledge of the price already paid in full.  They continue to try and earn permission through works.

"know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified."
(Galatians 2:16)

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—  not by works, so that no one can boast.  For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
(Ephesians 2:8-10) 

God made us in His Image, to carry out His Plans.  My excitement for each day exceeds all I could imagine, knowing God prepared this day for me.  He cares for each of us so much as to give His only son to pay the price for me to spend eternity with Him.  Will you accept this gift?  Will you plant seeds in all you meet so God may water them?  Will you be His Hands and Feet?

Thank you God for this day.  Thank You for my every breath.  May I spend each day in preparation for my eternal life with You.  Guide me in the right direction, keep me focused on that day.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig    

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Only One Cure Exists

So far this year we managed to spend lots of dollars on health care.  Whether it be trips to ER, family physician, allergies or the common cold, we experienced it.  We were doing so well and the kitchen counter remained bare of medicine bottles.  Well, the counter now holds four bottles of medicine.

My kids and I caught whatever  virus going around at this time.  As I examine our symptoms, I am able to determine which medicine best suits each of us.  As I read the directions for dosage, I follow diligently.  One teaspoon for my daughter, two teaspoons for my son and two tablespoons for me.  We each line up every four hours and ingest the medicine.  With each dose we consume, the virus becomes weaker.

Let us turn this scenario to our spiritual lives.  When spiritual illness strikes and chaos wears you down, reach for the only spiritual medicine available - His Truths!  Whatever your symptom may be, the cure lies in Him.  Whatever lie from satan created our illness and fogged our focus must be treated properly with the promises of God.  With every dose of His Truths we consume, the lies become weaker.

We must be careful not to reach for the wrong medicine.  Worldly things may appear as the way to rid ourselves of  illness in our spirits, but these only mask.  By accepting worldly things and failing to follow Him with diligence, sickness remains.  We must ingest His Truths and apply them properly with just the right amount and at just the right time in our lives.

Our family lacked sleep this past week and kept running on empty.  This weakened our physical body so as to be more susceptible to a virus.  We must not be too busy in spirit either.  We must not deprive our minds of rest.  Exhaustion only allows for satan to grab a foothold in our weak state and create spiritual illness.  Let us not allow ourselves to become weary and lose focus.  

Our Great Physician's Orders: 
Medicate yourself daily with His Truths
(Joshua 1:8)
Rest your mind so to not grow weary
(Psalm 119:27-29)
Be quiet with God so you may listen
                     (Job 6:23-24)                           
Be thankful for the gift of grace
                        (Ephesians 2:8)                          
Love and build each other up
(Ephesians 4:29)
Study and pray together
(Matthew 18:19-20)

God thank you for today.  Thank You for the spiritual medicine you provide daily for me to consume.  Without Your Truths I am nothing.  May I continue to listen and hear Your Voice.  Guide my every move.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig
  

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Storm Radar

As I peer out the window, I see dark clouds above.  Since the past month brought numerous storms, I now possess a radar for when they are about to hit.  The wind picks up, the thunder roars and darkness hovers.  We protect ourselves by going indoors.  We prepare to go out in it by getting our umbrellas.  We listen to the weather channel to know when the situation is serious and we need to take cover.  We heed the weatherman's instruction.

The same works for the storms of life, trials we face.  Learn the warning signs, know your trigger situations and recognize satan's lies.  Heed the instructions of God.  Protect yourselves by running to God and speaking His Truths.  Prepare for these storms by putting on faith and love as a breastplate, clothing yourselves with Jesus (see 1 Thessalonians 5:8).  He protects, comforts, loves and heals. 

"Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you.  Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.  And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.  Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.

Rejoice always,  pray continually,  give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s
will for you in Christ Jesus." 
(1 Thessalonians 5:12-18)

The key factor in everything - PRAY CONTINUALLY.  Prayer is powerful.  God sits ready and willing to help, we need only ask and invite Him into every circumstance.  Even in struggling times, we should appreciate the strength and discipline God provides.  Thank God always!  Just as we love to hear thank you from our children or peers, God loves to hear thank you.   

Pay attention, focus on others so to see when encouragement is needed.  We must not remain idle, but stretch one another spiritually.  As we stretch, we strengthen our internal storm radar.   

No one is counted lost.  Be patient with those who may frustrate you.  God is working on them at their pace.  Lift them in prayer always.  Give that frustration to God so you may see the other person as God sees them.

God thank you for this day.  Keep my eyes looking to You.  May I love each of Your Children and speak words to uplift, not tear down.  May I encourage, love, comfort and spread Your Truth.  Use me God to work for You.  I am strengthened through You to face any storm in life.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig


Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Are You Available?

Resume

Sheree Craig
Objective: A highly motivated and dedicated individual looking for a position to help plant seeds in the lives of others.  I am available to love, learn and serve.  I am available to take on the smallest of tasks to the largest of tasks.  I am available.

Education: None.  I study His Truths and feed myself spiritually every day.  No classes or degrees have been earned through my studies.

Professional Experience: I have led two small groups at church.  Nothing big.  I know nothing about public speaking or writing.  I have accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior.  I am equipped with God's Truths.

Skills:  -Live an imperfect life
             -Sinned many of sins
             -Destroyed God's temple (my body)
             -Failed as a mother/wife
             -Being remade - Willing to learn - Softened heart - Loving spirit - Available

References: My Creator.  My Maker.  My Counselor.  My Healer.  God.

If a business reviewed my resume, I am sure it would quickly make itself to the recycle bin.  No wait, more like the shredder so as to never be seen by anyone else.  

Guess What!  God does not ask for a nicely framed degree hanging on your wall.  He does not ask for a B or higher on your report cards.  He does not ask for references.  He knows you.  He knows your heart.  He made you in His image.  

God calls on the available, the willing and the imperfect.  You need not have a huge testimony.  If you have accepted the gift of grace which God gives to all His Children, He will use you (see Ephesians 2:7-9).  He doesn't want your resume, only you.  We each were called here to further His Kingdom and obey Him.  God brought us here to love people, not to earn credibility, degrees, or trophies.

"In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
  Who, being in very nature God,
   did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 
 rather, he made himself nothing
   by taking the very nature of a servant,
   being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man,
   he humbled himself
   by becoming obedient to death—
      even death on a cross!"
(Philippians 2:5-8) 

Be an example everyday of Jesus.  Whether you were called here to be a mother, father, aunt, uncle, son, daughter, sister, brother, etc., complete this position to your fullest.  Show the ones you see daily God's Truths.  You need not preach the Bible or quote Scripture.  You need only to give yourself to God and love His Children.  He will take care of the details.  How simple! 

Follow God's Plan for your life, not yours.  You may want to go on a mission trip, travel the world speaking or take on every task coming your way.  Guess what - God may want you to stay perfectly still and touch the lives of the ones in your every day life.  Be still and listen.

God thank you for this day.  Thank You for the discipline I continue to receive from You.  May I listen and learn every day from Your Truths.  May I engage myself in Your Word.  May I be the Sheree You created and planned.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig




Monday, April 25, 2011

Avoid Recalculating

Easter came and went yesterday but not without one big lesson for me.  It seems God loves to speak to me on Easter.  Last year I took part in a cardboard testimony at church.  You walk up with a piece of cardboard and on the first side it states your bondage, then you flip it and the other side states how God set you free.  It is that day I truly surrendered my Anorexia to God.  I clearly saw that God gave His only son for me, so I may be forgiven.  I give all of me to Him so He may complete the plans He has for my life.

"For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit.  The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them."
(John 3:34-36)

I had been rejecting His Word and believing satan's lies.  That day, God opened my eyes so I could clearly see Him and know The Truth.  Thank you God for the lesson.

Fast Forward one year.

This Easter another huge lesson appeared before me.  God spoke to my heart and revealed the sin I chose to pick back up along the path somewhere.  It amazes me how easily I slipped without realizing. 

The weeks leading up to Easter, God provided numerous situations where I needed to stay strong and stand firm on His Truths.  The chaos around me was not to bring me down, only make me stronger.  It is important to get to know God, know His Word and speak it out.  Daily, the armor must be on so to be ready for each battle.  Resist satan!

"Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast."
(1 Peter 5:9-10)

The situations resulted in much needed growth.  I was reminded again what God did for me, He gave His only son to die for me so I may be forgiven.  As I saw my sin, confessed and accepted His love, I corrected my steps to continue in the right direction. 

Our GPS loudly tells when we drive off course by saying 'recalculating'.  We must then make the choice to get back on course or take a wrong turn so as to never reach our destination.  Don't allow satan's lies to cause a wrong turn preventing you to reach your eternal destination.  Keep God as your GPS so as to never hear 'recalculating'.

God thank you for this day.  Thank You for the lesson learned this Easter, for me to clearly see the steps I took were not the ones You had planned.  I will continue to listen to Your Word and study each day to know You even more.  This will assure me to hear You over satan's lies.  I will not allow satan to change my course.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig 
  

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Don't Get Distracted

Did the Easter Bunny visit you?  Okay, so maybe we are a bit too old for that, but we sure do a great job of sneaking candy from the little ones' baskets.  C'mon, I am not the only one who does that, am I?

Wow, how Easter grew to be a day about hiding eggs, eating candy and buying a new dress to wear.  The holiday brings those into a church who have not stepped foot in one since Christmas.  But do those individuals really understand the meaning behind this glorious day? 

"Jesus strictly warned them not to tell this to anyone.  And he said, “The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.”  Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me."
(Luke 9:21-23)

"For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,  that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,"
(1 Corinthians 12:3-4)

“We are witnesses of everything he did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They killed him by hanging him on a cross, but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen.  He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen—by us who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead."
(Acts 10:39-41)

Forget the chocolate bunny.  Wait!  I am a woman, so EAT the bunny and enjoy the chance to have some chocolate, BUT don't forget what this day really means.  God gave His only son to die for us so we may have life.  An abundant life which we are to use to further God's Kingdom and love His Children.  

God thank you for this glorious day.  Thank You for sacrificing Your only son to save my soul.  May those individuals who worship only a couple days a year be fed spiritually today so seeds may be planted.  Water those seeds and remove their blindness, so they may see You and know what You have done for them.  May I remember the true meaning of today and not be distracted by chocolate bunnies, eggs and marshmallow chicks!  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig 

Saturday, April 23, 2011

Lessons Learned

God is awesome!

Yesterday fell way short of being a glorious day for me.  As I grow in Christianity and mature my relationship with God, my struggles come with much more force.  I believe it is because now I must take them head on with the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God.  I can no longer numb out or run to poisonous things to ease the pain.  God asks me to stand firm behind Him and my faith that He will take care of me.

Last night as I laid down to try to rest my mind from the rough day, I began immediately to pray.  It was so nice to be quiet with God.  I prayed throughout the day, but just simple short prayers here and there.  These prayers I began to speak were from the depths of my heart.  I poured out my thoughts, my concerns and my hurts to God.  I cast all my anxieties on Him, for I know He cares for me. 

You've kept track of my every toss and turn
      through the sleepless nights,
   Each tear entered in your ledger,
      each ache written in your book.

  If my enemies run away,
      turn tail when I yell at them,
   Then I'll know
      that God is on my side.

  I'm proud to praise God,
      proud to praise God.
   Fearless now, I trust in God;
      what can mere mortals do to me?  
 (Psalm 56:8-11 The Message)

I must remember I am serving God, not man.  I am not to gain popularity amongst man or base my self-worth on things of this world.  I learned this last night.  In God I trust!  I praise Him!

God remained very busy last night recording my every toss and turn, entering my every tear in His ledger.  I asked Him to take my heart, take my soul and hold it in His Hands.  I crashed at His Feet.

Wow!  Did I receive comfort almost immediately.  He comforted me.  He did even more than I could have imagined - He sent my husband to comfort me.  I began building my 8ft. walls around me and my husband quickly came in, allowed God to use him and crushed those walls.  My husband showed concern and love for me.  I have never felt that depth of love from anyone else in my lifetime.  God works through people here on Earth to provide comfort.  I know this for I saw it last night. 

I am so proud of my husband.  He continues to allow God to work in his life.  He is my rock.  Thank you God for teaming me with my husband so we may go through every trial together with the guidance of Your Word.  I know many trials lay ahead, but I am ready with my armor and with the strength I receive through God, I will come out of darkness.

Thank you God for this day.  Thank You for the chance to begin anew.  Continue to guide me down the straight path.  May any trial my husband and I face be conquered through You and may we do that together.  Thank You for listening and answering my cries last night.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Friday, April 22, 2011

Death Into Life

December 18, 2003 I entered Nashville Hospital knocking on death's door.  The doctor layed it on the line: hospitalization or death

I remember this day like it was yesterday.  I began to panic and was unable to calm down.  I could not fathom placing my life in the hands of another.  How could I trust this man?  He just met me.  He did not know anything about me.

I ran to the bathroom to get away from it all for a minute.  I looked in the mirror and did not recognize the person staring back at me.  I saw a sick, lost, weak individual.  I saw what the doctor saw and I knew just as much about this person as the doctor knew.  Who had I become?  How did I get here?

REWIND

It began when I thought I needed to control my life because chaos existed all around.  It began when I searched for love through worldly things.  It began when I pleased man and sought approval from all I met.  It began when I felt I needed people to need me.  It began when I lived by my fears - rejection, loneliness, failure.  It began when I built my life around Anorexia.

Do you see a common theme in each of these statements?  The word I appears in each of them, along with my and people.  WOW, was I way off course.  No wonder I lost myself.  I lived a life searching for love and comfort in all the wrong places.  My body and spirit lacked nourishment.

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—  not by works, so that no one can boast.  For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:8-10)

FAST FORWARD

I now feel peace in knowing God is at my side.  I know He created me with such thought and for a purpose, to serve Him.  We each are His handiwork!  Just as we carry out a project or task until completion, God carries out His plan for us and never leaves us (see Philippians 1:6).  As we obey and serve Him, He blesses.  He saved  us through grace.  A gift from Him.  Will you accept it? 

I trust God.  He knows my every thought before I speak it.  He knows my heart.  He knows my path and leads me through every day.  Just as I laid my life in the hands of the doctor in Nashville, I lay my every day in His Hands.  He has my best interest in mind.  He feeds me daily with His Truths so I may never starve spiritually!  He found me and I found Him.  I now know who I am in Christ.

God thank you for this day.  Thank You for keeping me in Your Hands, though I rejected You.  Thank You for the forgiveness given for I once replaced You with things in this world.  I am here to serve only You.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig





  

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Never Too Old For Discipline

I reached over on my desk to grab a pile of papers with intent to clean them out.  Among these were discipline papers we used on our son not too long ago.  These were a way to try and change some attitude and actions which a seven year old did not need in his life.  Each time my son misbehaved he sat down and filled in the blanks to five simple questions:  What did I do wrong? - Why was it wrong? - Why did I get angry? - What discipline should I receive? - Next time I will . . .

I also kept some notes on his behavior because I worried about him and did not want to overlook any underlying issue which may need further evaluation.  Basically, I listed all his wrongs.  Wow, really?  At the time it seemed the right thing to do.  I did this only out of concern, not to read back to him or to remind him later of his failure to obey.

Guess what?  We serve a God that does not keep a list of our wrongs, yet He does discipline His Children.  He disciplines because He loves us (see Hebrews 12:6-8).  He forgives before we even sin and His mercies are new every morning (see Lamentations 3:22-23).

We must also confess our sin so as to receive mercy, find peace and learn.  Concealing our sin, avoiding the truth or justifying our actions only creates destruction!  Lack of obedience and honesty only stunts our spiritual growth.  God cannot pour blessings on His Children when rebellion exists and honesty is absent.  In the same way, we keep privileges from our children each time they disobey and sneak behind our backs.  We know they are up to something every time, but wait for the confession to come.  It is after the confession that we teach and then move forward.  Our children learn and the next time hopefully choose the right decision.

"Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper,
   but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
  Blessed is the one who always trembles before God,
   but whoever hardens their heart falls into trouble."
(Proverbs 28:13-14)

Let us take on each day with a soft heart.  May we accept His discipline and be diligent students.  Let us not think we know it all and our way is the best.  His Way is the only way.

So, the discipline papers my son filled out may be applied to our lives.  As God shows us a sinful action, let us evaluate the situation by answering three of the five questions - What did I do wrong? - Why was it wrong? - Next time I will. . .  Then ask for forgiveness and for strength to do the right thing next time the situation arises in our lives. 

God thank you for this day.  Thank You for caring about me enough to discipline me and show me the ways to go.  May I always receive discipline with an open mind and soft heart.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig 

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Emergency Plan Anyone?

So, last night a huge storm covered our area.  The radar displayed the severity of the storm with bright colors.  The electricity went out and it is then that my husband gathered the family up to move to the center of our home - the bathroom. 

The wind whipped around outside, the thunder cracked and the rain poured.  My daughter was scared and my son fired up, gabbing about all kinds of things.  He talks nervously when emergencies arise.  My husband walks around keeping stats on the chaos outside.  He continues to calm us down and plans our next move. 

A tornado by definition is a violent, dangerous, rotating column of air which contacts the earth and a storm cloud.  Tornadoes come in many shapes and sizes!

As we sat in the bathroom, we remained unsure of when or how strong the tornado may be once it reaches our home.  We also did not know which part of the house it could hit.  We sat in the center of the house fearing the unknown, clinging to each other and praying.  All we knew was this bathroom protected us. It was the safest spot in our home. 

"The LORD is my strength and my shield;
   my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.
My heart leaps for joy,
   and with my song I praise him." (Psalm 28:7)
 

In the same way the center room in a home protects in a storm, God will protect us through life's storms if we keep Him at the center of our every day.  When situations become rough, when life hits you with darkness and storm - run to God.  Keep God close and remember during trials what He taught you in the joyous times.  As long as God remains the center protection of our lives, we can face the unknown without fear.  He will guide our every move and calm our anxieties as we give them to Him (see 1 Peter 5:6-8).  Don't fight the storm on your own, it is too big.

"Show me your ways, LORD,
   teach me your paths.
Guide me in your truth and teach me,
   for you are God my Savior,
   and my hope is in you all day long." (Psalm 25:4-5)

Learn through each trial so as to be ready when another one comes your way.  We learned last night that our emergency plan and kit needed some upkeep.  Our flashlight lacked a strong battery, our radio broadcasted scratchy noises more than the voice of the newscaster and our children knew nothing of our 'storm plan'.  We were caught off guard. 

Have your emergency plan in place!  Stay God focused.  Keep your armor ready for the trials faced daily.  Study His Truths so you may cling to these when satan begins lying and working to gain a foothold.  Bring God in your every step so as to allow Him to protect you.  Praise Him through all storms of life. 

God thank you for this day.  Thank You for protecting our family last night.  We praise You daily for the love You provide.  May I keep You in the center of my life and run to You at all times.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

I Never Really Liked Pools!

This past week opened my eyes to the hardships we face as Christians.  It seems much easier to just continue to please our fleshly desires moment to moment and numb out rather than feel. I am adjusting to a healthy lifestyle, physical and emotional.  I run to God, not the world. 

In the past I buried all emotions, numbed out of life's trials and walked around with 8ft. walls around myself so no one could get too close.  These wall were built from all my fears.  I wanted to be invisible, left alone to swim in my 'pity pool'.

Well, you know what?  I began to drown in that pity pool.  No one was around to pull me out.  Or was there?  I was so blind that I could not see the lifesaver right in front of me, The Bible.  I needed only to grab hold of it and swim to safety through His teachings.

Accepting this lifesaver came to be my best decision.  He set me free and brought me from the depths of my 'pity pool' to a new life with Him.

To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.  Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”  (John 2:31-32) 

I hold tight to His Word and run to Him for answers.  I allow emotions to come and accept them for I now see there is a time for all kinds of emotions (see Ecclesiastes 3:1-10 ).  This is not easy for me, but God sees me through and teaches me along the way.  I love being taught by God. 

My walls crumbled out of faith, knowing this world will disappoint me BUT God never will.  He will not leave me nor forsake me.  Wow, He is awesome!

There are times I find the devil inviting me to a 'pity pool party'.  I take the invitation and shred it with God's Truth.  No good can come from swimming in those waters again. 

God thank you for today.  Thank you for bringing me through trials with Your Truth.  May I remember all I learned so as to take it and teach others.  Use me daily to spread Your love.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Monday, April 18, 2011

Carefully Choose Your Seed

Okay, so it is about 6:00pm and my daughter has yet to take her nap for the day.  My son woke up early this morning because he did not feel good and his ailments grew in strength throughout the day.  Both kids display attitude, short-tempers and very unloving words come from their little mouths.  Meanwhile, I continue to play referee and fall to their level of crankiness. 

Where did we lose the battle? 

Well, the devil knows a foothold exists when physical weakness appears.  The devil keeps his lies ready at all times to fire.  We fall victim to those lies and place a wedge between us and God.  Our minds become weary, causing words and actions to sow NOT A ONE good seed.  Do not give up!  We must learn which situations cause our defenses to fall so as to keep the devil at a far distance from us.  Keep God by your side so He may continue to speak Truth into your weary minds.

"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."
(Galatians 6:7-9)

Bringing others around us down to our mood level often times pleases our flesh at the moment.  The flesh loves company to join the negative 'party' going on in our mind.  If we choose to sow these negative seeds, we deprive ourselves from serving God.  You might be the one who receives the negative, rude, judging or attitude seed from another.  Be ready with the shield of faith and the sword of the Spirit to keep your mind focused on Him (see Ephesians 6:16-18).  When we lose focus, our foot may slip, causing a fall.  Lift the other person to God so as to not carry this burden allowing their negative seed a chance to grow in you.  Show them God's Love and do good to all His Children.

If we happen to fall victim to satan's lies, which we all will from time to time, go and rest during the night.  Wake refreshed in the morning and ready to work for Him.  His mercies are new every morning!!!  Ask for forgiveness and give it all to Him. 

God thank you for this day.  May I go through this day planting good seed and not grow weary or tired.  May Your Truths spread like wildfire to all I encounter.  I dress myself in the armor You provide so as to keep rotten seeds from planting in my mind.  I will lift those who spat negative words, judgemental words and poisonous words to you.  Bring to them peace and joy.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig   

Sunday, April 17, 2011

Beauty Not Flaw

Olay - 'Love the skin you're in'
Avon - 'The company for women'
Mary Kay - 'Enriching women's lives'
Victoria claims to have the 'secret' to portray a beautiful body.

These lines jump out at women every way we turn.  Numerous companies compete to provide a product for a woman to enhance her beauty.  These companies manufacture substances to cover up flaws we women 'believe' exist.  Who informs us of these flaws?
     -THE MIRROR
     -SATAN'S LIES
     -SOCIETY

A product to enhance your beauty?  What?  Our beauty is not skin deep.  True beauty does NOT lie in the eyes of the beholder.  True beauty is seen through God's eyes.  He created every little detail of every one of His Children.  He knew I would look beautiful with brown hair, blue eyes, a slightly bigger nose and standing no taller than 5 ft. 3 in.  He counted every freckle as He placed it perfectly on my face.  No product can bring the kind beauty that God provided.  He began in our mother's womb. 

For you created my inmost being;
   you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
   your works are wonderful,
   I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you
   when I was made in the secret place,
   when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
 
(Psalm 139:13-15)

Now don't go and raid your bathroom and throw out every beauty product you own.  I see nothing wrong in using them.  The problem lies when we search for self-worth through these products.  Let us turn away from the mirror and run to God's Word, the Bible.  Our self-worth is found only through His Truths, not the lies of the mirror.  Let us not criticize our Maker.  Let us praise Him for creating us.

Last night I fell victim to satan's lies.  My husband and I attended a wedding reception.  The lies began the minute I stepped into my closet to find an outfit.  It has been a while since I experienced such struggles.  This time around was different.  I knew who to turn to for help - God.  God and I walked hand in hand all night.  I did not combat all the lies, but I came through much better than in the past.  Before, I reached for alcohol, self-abuse or men's approval to combat the lies I heard.  Thank you God for seeing me through last night and loving me all the while.

God thank you for this day.  Thank You for keeping close to me always.  I know You made me with careful thought.  May I appreciate each and every feature and see beauty not flaw.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig
 

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Martha or Mary?

As I prepare for guests to come visit my home, I become somewhat anxious.  I create a list in my head of what needs to be cleaned and plan out the menu.  This must be completed or my mind cannot rest at ease and enjoy the moment.  In these times, I desire perfection.  Guess what?  It AIN'T gonna happen. 

I was reminded this morning about Mary and Martha.  How can you be a Mary in a Martha world?  Well, many women struggle with this thought (maybe the reason why a whole book was written on the matter).  It is funny this comes up in my study time this morning because I just spent the night before stressing and overwhelming myself with trying to complete my list I created in my head.  No good comes from me when my mind is focused on worldly things, such as a clean house.  My family suffers and I only bring more stress on myself because of the guilt from poisonous words I spat at the family. 

 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things,  but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42)

Wow, did that scripture jump off the page at me today.  Mary chose something better - to kneel at the Lord's feet and listen to what He said.  She was ready to hear what her guest had to say and focus all attention on Him.  Martha, on the other hand, continued running around cleaning, preparing the meal and completing all the tasks she saw fit.  She complained to the Lord and said, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” 

OUCH!! I believe I spoke those words just last night, only replace sister with husband.  My husband enjoys our home, plays with the kids and laughs the night away with them.  Meanwhile, I walk around the house 'perfecting' everything and cleaning until exhaustion.  Hmmm, which sounds better?

I am depriving myself of God's blessings by focusing on worldly desires and the approval of my guests.  I do not think my guests will arrive wearing white gloves so as to inspect my home and see if any dust or dirt appears.  If weather cooperates, they will only be in one or two rooms in my home.  Why do I focus so much on what others think of me?  I am here to serve God, not man (see Galatians 1:10) - one of my favorite verses which I need to read DAILY or HOURLY.

I need to check my focus today and assure it is on God and serving Him.  He wants me to enjoy my guests, enjoy the home He allows me to borrow while on Earth and the family He blessed me with.  What good am I to Him if I run around trying to win humans approval?  

Thank you God for today.  May I focus on You and take each step as You direct.  May all my actions serve You, not man.  May everything I do and say be all of You and none of me.  Be my hands and feet today so I may show others Your love and teach Your Truths.  Take all my anxiety away and allow me to enjoy Your blessings poured over me.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig 

Friday, April 15, 2011

My Best Friend

I never realized my heart would be stolen at a basketball game.  Yes, when I was in 8th grade the most handsome man I know walked into the gym.  I sat in the bleachers waiting for my game to begin.  The group with me knew this boy and beckoned him our way.  His smile was amazing and I believe I instantly fell in love.  WELL, his heart did feel the same.  I know, something must be wrong with him!

He finally came to his senses and we began our journey together a year later.  We travelled some rough roads and parted ways for a while.  But God had the whole plan mapped out for us.  He knew both parties needed to experience life apart from each other.  This allowed more appreciation for one another upon reuniting. 

When the time seemed perfect, we both sent letters to one another.  The letters must have crossed paths because we received them about the same time.  Both single at the time, it allowed us to go on a date.  I became leery at first, not sure I was ready to take the leap.  He was swept off his feet right away and thought, "Wow, I have been missing out".  ;)

The song by Rascal Flatts so describes our situation, "Bless the Broken Road". 

"That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife,
and they become one flesh." (Genesis 2:24)

It took me until recent to really 'get' this scripture.  One flesh?  How do you become one flesh with another?

We faced hardships and often I felt we were the total opposite of one flesh.  How could I find that feeling?  What was I doing wrong?  I simply had my priorities out of line.  Once God became my center focus, the bond became strong and the relationship real.  I had brought much baggage to the marriage.  I also still possessed the 'what about me' mentality.  Much work was needed, but I was on my way.  My husband stayed by me and waited patiently.  I thank God for this all the time.

My hubby and I accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior and our hearts and eyes opened.  The walls we had built out of fear due to our painful pasts began to crumble out of faith.  We have become one flesh, a team and each other's rock.  Without my hubby, I would be incomplete.  I know we will face many more trials in the future.  BUT, we now have God in proper place in our marriage and He will see us through any trial.  All the while He will strengthen our bond.

Note to married people:  Give one another to God in prayer (nagging will not produce change in the other person) - Spend time together (yes, married or not, you can still go on dates) - And always go to God together with all trials (satan loves to break up marriages). 

God thank you for today.  Thank You for each day I have with my husband, my best friend.  May every step we take together be one of faith and the words we say pleasing to You.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Take a Census Of You

As a woman, I often experience days where it would be best for others to run the other direction upon seeing me.  I am short-tempered and warn my kids that I woke up with NO PATIENCE.  Do they heed the warning?  Of course not, they are kids.  Quite the opposite actually:  They run around pushing all kinds of buttons which leads me to the desire to pull each and every one of my hairs out.

It is days like these where I know I must pray my way through.  I believe I manage these days a bit better than I have in the past (my husband's opinion on this statement does not count).  I know God will comfort me at all times.  His Truths promise comfort.

By the end of the day, I actually become angry with myself for the emotions I feel and the lack of patience.  My motto for these days often is, 'what about me?'  Selfish thoughts only lead to destruction.  I must look beyond myself and surrender these thoughts to God. 

  "then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.  Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,  not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."
(Philippians 2:2-4)

Yesterday, God guided me through two instances where my selfish ambition consumed my thoughts.  Both involved my dear loved ones.  God took my thoughts and turned them in the right direction.  I came out much stronger.  We must turn all poisonous thoughts into His Truths so as to move forward on the straight path.  As each circumstance is defeated with God, we find the next time around the battle weakens until it vanishes for good.

Though these days are far and few between, I must learn how to handle the emotions so as to not allow satan a foothold.  The 'what about me?' life is kicked to the curb, never to pick it back up.  I am here for God to work through me.  In order to do so, I must rid myself of me.  As Matthew West says in his latest song, move out of population me.  We must build each other up each day and look to help others with every opportunity.  God will take care of us if we work for Him and take care of each of His Children.  Our church mission statement says it all: Love God, Love People, Impact the World!

God thank you for today.  Thank You for revealing my selfish ways so I may increase my census.  Guide me each day down the straight path and may I plant many seeds along the way.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig   

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

No Carry-Ons Allowed

As humans, we hold onto past failings, past hurts, past disappointments, past, past, past.  The baggage we carry only prevents us from moving forward on the straight and narrow path laid before us.  In Matthew 7, we receive instruction to enter the narrow gate for wide is the gate leading to destruction.  How can we fit through the narrow gate with all our baggage?  We need not take any carry-ons with us, we need to check our baggage with God so He may take them in His Hands and keep them for us.

Remember not the former things in life, but allow God to work and bring new, exciting adventures for your every day (see Isaiah 43:18-19).  The path God lays for us is filled with beauty, blessings, glorious work and many friendships.  Keeping our past baggage only prevents progress on His Path.  God wants to take all this for you and lift the burden.  He heals all hurts and forgives all failings.

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." (Galatians 5:1)

There is no return policy on checking your baggage with God.  Do not try to take them back.  Stand firm, stay strong through His Word.  Continue feeding your spirit with His Truths.

I spent 10 years of my life allowing satan to hold the harness, leading me down a path of destruction.  My days were filled with sadness, anxiety, a dead spirit and self-abuse.  I want this life no more.  I want to live my life for my Lord and Savior.  May God use me every moment of my every day.

Let us not focus on the past, but look up and follow Him.  Do not remember the sinful life of your past, but remember the comfort received from God to come through it and shed your baggage.  May you take the comfort you received and spread the experience to others so they may also take steps in faith and receive comfort.  No matter where a person may be, God will meet them and carry them to the path He laid for them.  Plant seeds, God will water them.

God thank you for this day.  Thank You for leading me, for breaking my chains, for removing my harness so I may not be burdened any more.  May I teach others of Your unfailing love and forgiveness through my past experiences.  Yet, may I never go back there again.  May each step I take be one filled with faith and trust in You.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Sit Back, Relax

I cannot wait until I grow up.  I will let my kids do whatever they want.  I will own a beautiful house with my husband, drive a sports car and be careless.

Looks pretty in this picture, huh?

As children we cannot grasp all the details of adulthood.  Being a mother, wife, grown daughter, daughter-in-law, aunt and grown sister is NOT easy.  Many pressures exist as we try to live up to all our titles as adults.  How can we live up to all this?  This life is so overwhelming.  What happened to the pretty picture I painted for adulthood?

I fell often on the broken road I chose to follow into adulthood.  Reasons for my falls included - need for control, feeling unworthy, anger b/c others did not follow MY PLAN, unanswered prayers and total confusion of who I am.  I lacked the knowledge or know how to get through my trials.  I remained lost for years.

Looks ugly in this picture, huh?

My ugly life created a misery I no longer wanted to encounter.  I was ready to give up.  I had nothing to stand on, no hope, no where to turn except worldly things and people.

“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.  For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. 25 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self?  Whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels." (Luke 9:23-26) 

There is one simple answer to all our questions in life.  Take up our cross daily and allow God to lead.  God is the only fill for your void.  He will reveal your beauty, take all your anxieties away and fight your battles (see 2 Chronicles 20:15).  You need only to give it all to Him!

God answers our prayers in three ways:  yes, not yet, or I have something better.  Do not be discouraged in troubled times, for God is with you.  Sit back and allow Him to control your life.  Trust me, life is peaceful when the weight of decision making is off your shoulders.  Stay obedient to God and please Him (see Galatians 1:10).

God thank you for today.  Thank You for the chance to work for You today.  Thank You for restoring my life and relationships.  May I continue to give all control to You and remember You change other's hearts, not me.  You hold the plan for other's lives, not me.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Monday, April 11, 2011

One-on-One Time

As I sit and think about God I am amazed.  We serve an awesome God.  One who gave His only son to die for each of us.  He made the Heavens and the Earth.  He planned each of our days.

God took time to perfect every little detail.  He allotted time for us to go and live in this world and time for us to rest.  This rest allows our minds to focus again and be ready to work for Him.  How do we know what to do for Him each day?  Turn to the Bible for instructions.  Spend time with God so He may lead you.  

My quiet time with God comes each morning.  Without that precious time with Him, I feel empty and my emotions ride a wild roller coaster all day.  God looks forward to spending one-on-one time with each of His Children.  It is during this time where a strong relationship may be built.  Just as one-on-one time with a child, friend, family member or co-worker brings a stronger bond.

Quiet time allows God to speak so clearly to us.  It is hard for us to hear God among all the busyness of life if we do not learn the sound of His Voice.  We must not allow anything else to compete against our time with/for God.  Stay in the Word daily, meditate on it so as to know our instructions in life.

"Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.  Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:8-9)

A wonderful friend led me to this scripture and I truly love it.  I challenge you today: Log off FB, put down the remote, let the dishes wait, fold the laundry later and give God some quiet time with you.  There is no requirement on the duration of your time.  This is determined by you and God.  Keep Him with you as you go through all your day and hear His voice.

God thank you for spending time with me.  Thank You for blessing me and staying by my side all day long.  I know my rest is very important.  My body is ready for You to use today.  Be my hands and feet.  As I lay my head on my pillow tonight and recall my day, I know I did not do everything perfect.  But I do know Your mercies are new every morning.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Sunday, April 10, 2011

From Wound to Scar

I often wonder why my mom did not warn me about the hardships of parenthood.  I envisioned changing diapers, playing games, hugging much and keeping the bellies full.  WELL, not how it works.  I am finding life as a mom to be dramatic, exhausting, scary and just plain overwhelming.

My latest drama occurred last night when my little one decided to jump around on the couch (which was a rule but now will be enforced) and fell backwards.  Her head met the windowsill.  OUCH!  I did not realize the severity until I discovered a huge gash.  So, off the the ER we went. 

My little one continually stated she was okay, letting us know she did not want to go to the doctor.  On the drive to the ER (15 minutes - felt like 40), daddy tried to console her.  He let her know this is the best thing for her and she will be all better once the doctors stitch the wound and allow it to heal.

He prayed with her to ease some anxiety and give it to God.  She still cried off and on, but God guided her through each trying moment during our visit.  We took her for ice cream afterwards (which heals everything, right?)!

Let us take this episode and apply it to our own 'hurts'.  My daughter cried in fear - fear of doctors, of the outcome, of pain and of an unknown experience.  We often cry in fear of these same things when trials come at us.  We must turn those tears into prayers.  Cry out to Him and He will deliver you from your troubles (see Psalm 34:17).  Though we may experience many wounds, God can heal. 

 "The LORD builds up Jerusalem;
   he gathers the exiles of Israel.
He heals the brokenhearted
   and binds up their wounds.
He determines the number of the stars
   and calls them each by name.
Great is our Lord and mighty in power;
   his understanding has no limit." (Psalm 147:2-5)

Whether your wound  be physical or emotional, it will hurt.  But take heart knowing God heals.  We serve a God whose mighty power has no limit.  Turn to Him in all times and cast all your anxieties on Him.  My daughter needed to calm down and not fight the doctors so they could do their job and bind her wound.  In the same way, we must calm down and not fight God to heal our hurts.  Give it all to Him and see the healing process take place.  Know that God never wastes a hurt!

My daughter's wound eventually will become a scar, a memory.  Our hurts will leave scars, not for us to remember the hurt, but to remember the healing.  We build faith upon each of those scars, remembering the comfort we received and spreading that comfort to others.  God uses us as walking testimonies to show His comfort, love and care.

So my daily life does not always turn out as I would have it, but God has better plans for me.  So my parenting experiences are not easy going, but God is with me through it all.  I would not trade any moment of my life. 

God thank you for this day.  Thank You for showing Your love and mercy with each hard time we encounter.  May each event bring us closer to You.  May my children rely on You with each hurt so You may heal.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig   

Saturday, April 9, 2011

What Weapon are You Carrying?

The past week my beliefs have been questioned by others.  I became defensive in my thoughts, then worried I could be wrong.  The devil took this second of weakness to speak lies to me.  I quickly ran to God and asked why my beliefs would be questioned.  God simply answered, because I want you to stand firm for Me and spread to others My Truth.  God provided the opportunity to show my faith.

God is amazing.  We need only ask and He will answer, leading our every step.  Our God guides and teaches along the way (see Psalm 25:5).  Spend time getting to know God, so when He speaks you may know clearly His voice.

"For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does.  The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.  We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)

Waging war as the world does results only in blown out arguments with no truth to back you up.  In the past, my words were poisonous and walls rose in defense upon any confrontation.  I am a stubborn woman.  I thought I knew it all.

WRONG!!!

Now, I must fight that stubborn woman and run to God.  God provides the weapons needed in this world to demolish the devil's strongholds.  He provides Truth to stand on when confessing your belief in Him.  We will encounter others who question us as Christians.  Stand firm, put on the spiritual armor God provides.  Keep your sword in hand (the Word of God) and you will be ready (see Ephesians 6:13-17).

God thank you for today.  Guide me through all trials and I ask that all my thoughts be obedient to You.  I put on the spiritual armor daily and stand ready for You.  Be my hands, feet and mouth today so I may spread Your Truths.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig  

Friday, April 8, 2011

Crowned With Royal Beauty

So, my in-laws (AKA Nana and Papa) purchased one of the best gifts ever for my daughter on her birthday.  They gave her a book which recorded their voices to read the words to her.  She loves it.  We listen to this book every night during our 'book time' with the kids.  It's her #1 pick.

I held back tears as we opened it at her party.  We listened to each page and the words spoke volumes, even to me (an old woman).  The story describes my daughter as a princess and the daily experiences of a princess. 

One page read by Papa says, "Her mirror isn't magic, but it always is impressed, because believing in herself is what a princess does the best." 

"The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.  Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." 
(Romans 8:17)

Did you know you are God's princess?  We are heirs to the King.  How cool is that?  We are royalty, (see 1 Peter 2:9), and as my daughter's book says, our mirror isn't magic but ALWAYS impressed.  When looking in the mirror, see yourselves as your King sees you, a princess.  He created you with special features, special gifts to use with every opportunity that arises. Honor Him and display faith in Him.

 "Let the king be enthralled by your beauty;
   honor him, for he is your lord." (Psalm 45:11)
 

The final page read by Nana and Papa says, "A princess is a wish come true, believe me, I should know!  I've got one of my very own, I'll never let you go."

"No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you." (Joshua 1:5)

Too cool!  Keep in mind we are God's princess.  He will NEVER let us go.  He never gives up on His princess.  No matter  how lost we may feel, He is still there waiting for us to accept Him and run to Him.  He will heal any hurt, comfort always, love unconditionally and bless us abundantly.  God goes beyond the average 'royal treatment' which we know as humans.  He can do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (see Ephesians 3:20-21).  Glorify Him, praise Him!

God thank you for this day.  Thank You for breaking my chains and releasing me from Anorexia.  Thank You for healing me and not giving up on me.  May I teach my daughter to see the beauty You provide.  May I see in the mirror the person You see so I as to set a positive example for my daughter.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Thursday, April 7, 2011

One Wrong Turn

Where in life do you feel passionate?  What activities bring joy in your heart?  Are these passions or obsessions?  Where would you stand if life did not allow for these activities or passions to stay in your life?

A passion in life consists of something which causes a strong amorous feeling or desire, love of something.  An obsession in life consists of something which dominates our thoughts, feelings or haunts persistently. 
 
As a child I became passionate about basketball and softball.  I loved the sports.  I belonged to different teams, met many friends and had a reason to live.  Right before my very eyes, I became obsessed with sports and felt this was it in life.  
 
Devastation hit when trying out for basketball my sophomore year in high school.  My name did not make the list.  Rejection!  During softball season, I warmed the bench quite nicely.  Rejection!  
 
Here lies the turning point in life:  Do I believe satan's lies or lean on God to see me through.  Well, I made a wrong turn on the path.  I believed satan and grew in bondage to Anorexia.  Little did I know, God was still there for me.  I rejected Him and replaced Him with worldly things, obsessions, yet He still loved me and did not count me as lost.  
 
"The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them;
   he delivers them from all their troubles.
The LORD is close to the brokenhearted
   and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
 
  The righteous person may have many troubles,
   but the LORD delivers him from them all;
he protects all his bones,
   not one of them will be broken." (Psalm 34:17-20)

He protected me on the haunted, dark path I chose to walk.  I know God never wastes a hurt.  I see God brought me from the depths to beautiful life.  I cried out to Him and boy did He hear me!  I learned to lean on Him and know He is our ever-present help in trouble.  (see Psalm 46:1)  What an awesome God!  He says we will have many troubles, BUT He protects every bone so as to not break and delivers the righteous from all troubles.  Lean and rely only on Him.  I see The Truth now, God is the ONLY reason for life, not obsessions. 

God thank you for today.  Thank You for hearing me and delivering me from all my troubles.  Protect me through this day as I encounter any trials.  May I lean on You and not obsessions in this world.  I know I will never be alone or left with nothing.  I have You and Your Love.  This is all I need.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig 

  

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Salt Is Not Always Bad For You

As I watch my son walk out the door each morning, my mind floods with fear.  What if someone makes fun or him?  What if some tries to tear him down?  What if he is last picked at recess for basketball?  WHAT IF?

One of my fears recently came true.  A child spat poisonous words at my son on the bus.  So, what should I do as a parent to protect my child?  Do I begin driving him to school to avoid the contact with this boy?  Do I talk with the bus driver?  Do I call the school or the child's mother?  Where is my instruction book for my son?  I seemed to have lost it along the way.

"Start children off on the way they should go,
   and even when they are old they will not turn from it." (Proverbs 22:6)

Guess what?  God provides a universal instruction book for all, The Bible.  Wow, so simple!  I must start my children off with the foundation spoke of in The Bible.  As I continue to feed them His Truths, they gain the tools needed to come through any trial faced.  My children know God stays at their side and loves them always.  

God never leaves, gives peace and avoids giving as this world gives (pain, poisonous words, rejection, etc.).  (see John 14:27)  My son feeds his spirit daily by reading God's Word in a nightly devotion.   

My son and I pray also before he walks out into this world every morning.  We release all anxious thoughts to Him in prayer.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7)

My son works to be salt in this world, starting every morning on his ten minute bus trip.  As I sit and worry about my children, I must remember to give them to God and know He has their back.  I am here to be a soft place for them to fall and allow God to work through me to build these little blessings up.  If I allow my son to avoid any painful situation, I deprive him of growing through faith.

God thank you for this day.  Thank You for trusting me with two of Your Children.  You are amazing.  May the words that come from my mouth be pleasing to You and build my kids up to go and be in this world, not of this world.  May my son let his light shine and his faith spread like wildfire.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Who Are You Dialing?

Where would you run upon receiving bad news?  If you lost your job?  If your goals shifted out of your control?  If a friend said hurtful words?  If you just had a down-right awful day?

One answer may fit all these questions for most people - THE PHONE.  We often pick up the phone and call the one person we know will be on our side and provide much sympathy about our experiences.  Others may run to A DRINK (not chocolate milk), THE GYM, FOOD, SELF-HARM or HIDE UNDER THE COVERS and ISOLATE.

NONE of these will ease the pain, redirect our attitude or heal the wound.  All these are only temporary fixes.  Trust me, I tried all these and more to console myself.  I see clearly now, the only way to reach a peace about any situation is to run to God.  He cares so much for you and will provide the only solution. 

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
   I will counsel you with my loving eye on you."  (Psalm 32:8)

Calling on another person may be helpful because God works through His Children here on Earth.  The problem with running to the phone comes when we choose the person we know will agree with us and give pity.  We need to call upon someone who will weed through satan's lies and help us replace them with God's Truth.  This may result in being in the wrong or the finding that some pain must occur for us to learn and grow stronger in faith. 

"Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous;
   sing, all you who are upright in heart!"   (Psalm 32:11)

During trials our heart must remain joyous, for God is working.  God brings strength through trials.  Rejoice and be glad to see Him working in your life.  Call upon Him, not the phone.  (see Jeremiah 33:3)  In The Message, Psalm 32:11 instructs all honest hearts to raise the roof with joy!  I picture my daughter singing part of a popular song, "I throw my hands up in the air sometimes" (Dynamite by Taio Cruz).  We need to throw our hands up in the air in surrender to God on every trial and then again to praise Him through it all.

God thank you for today.  I know You have my every move already planned, thank you.  May I see clearly Your Path and follow diligently.  My heart sings in celebration that You would bless little ole me.  I love You.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig