Sitting on the Edge of the Seat?

I sat on the edge of the seat after checking in at the desk.  I held all required paperwork tightly in one hand and phone in the other for time check.  I hoped for a quick in and out visit.  I know right, highly unlikely at a doctor’s office; especially when being a walk up visit.  I just needed a TB screening read to complete paperwork for school. 

Each time the door swung open and a lovely nurse peeped out to call a name, I sat up a little higher in hopes to hear mine.  I watched the population of the waiting room dwindle, leaving me alone to sit and twiddle my thumbs.  I picked up a magazine to try and pass time.  My thoughts consumed with worry, frustration and impatience.  It seems so difficult to be patient as a patient – CHEESY!  J 

I needed proceed on with my day and complete my itinerary.  The doctor’s office did not understand and left me waiting for what seemed like hours (it was no more than 40 minutes).  With all my ducks in a row, I would be fast as lightning with the nurse.  Why couldn’t they just call me back and get this over with?  It was my turn; I arrived before many of the others already called back.  As I fidgeted in my seat, the receptionist noticed I had not been called back yet.  She confirmed with the nurses to assure their knowledge of a patient waiting for a TB read.  My day lay at the mercy of the nurse’s schedule.  I lost control and increased in worry, frustration and impatience.  I couldn’t let it go and trust it would all work out. . .

Are you sitting on the edge of your seat right now?  Are you waiting for a door to open, hoping your name is called and your turn come to move on in the world?  Each time a door opens; someone else passes you by and enters.  Their name was called although YOU were ready with all your ducks in a row.  Why can’t it be you?  You are certain the current position held is not for you; therefore, unhappiness consumes each day spent at the office, school or home.  Each thought leads to depression, sadness, frustration and worry that your time will never come.  The current situation seems irrelevant in YOUR life plan.  God must have something better and bigger in store.  Isn’t it time yet God?  Can’t He see the perfect itinerary YOU created?  Can’t this season in life get over with?  Others called to better, bigger things arrived after us, haven’t done as much as us or don’t deserve the life dealt, right?

What do we do?  We fidget in our seats, ignore commands from God in the current season and miss out on the learning required before the door can be opened.  We try to pass time with meaningless tasks and fleshly pleasures.  God asks for us to be content in any and every situation.  Did you catch that? -> EVERY situation!  Nothing we go through is meaningless when we ask God to come with us.  He holds huge plans to further His Kingdom right where you are today.  Discontent in current situations lets God know that we cannot handle anything bigger than this.  He patiently waits for the work to be done, holding His hand out for us to give ALL of it to Him.  It is not up to us when OUR door will open.  He may be saving us from lots of turmoil, stress and frustration by keeping us in our current situation and not allowing advancement through the door we believe is best for our lives.

You can serve God right where you are!  Daily, He places those around us who need to see Him, hear Him and gain a relationship with Him.  His light and example cannot shine through frustrated, discontent, sad or stressed people.  He needs our hearts to be consumed with Him and His Truth.  His Truth will set us free from worry and anxiety.  His Truth will confirm that He holds huge plans for our future, intends to provide hope and prosperity.  He will never leave nor forsake us.  He will work all situations out for His good.  He will complete the work began in our lives and carry us to receive the prize.  The prize. . .that is what it all revolves around.  Each step taken with eyes on Him brings us closer to the prize.  Take a moment and imagine it!  All this here is only preparation for our Eternal life with Him.  Are you taking every opportunity to prepare or are you too focused on YOUR plan, waiting for that door to open?  Let go and let God.  Rid yourself of yourself and become His obedient child.  Love where you are at and be amazed at where He will take you.

AND. . .

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig   

Faith Builder

My knowledge continues to increase while in nursing school.  Yeah, I gain info on lots of medical terms, caretaking skills and how to properly wash my hands (yes, washing hands is an art which must be learned); but, the real lessons come not from a book or voice of my instructor.  The important learning takes place within, from my one True Instructor. 

I want to share one lesson which continues to show up throughout nursing school. . .

No matter how prepared you feel, your task list checked off completely and every book you own in your bag – you will always miss something, forget something or fail in some way to fulfill requirements for the day.  This fact messes heavily with an individual struggling with perfectionism and OCD.  Arriving to class feeling great about all you have done and prepared for, only to be crushed and clearly shown all your flaws. 

Take a first day of the semester experience for example:  I arrive way early as always, books in bag, notebook ready, PowerPoint saved to ipad, pencils sharpened, pens, highlighters, schedule, etc.  I travel up to the room which the schedule I printed (1 week prior to class) directs.  I sit down in my usual front row seat (yes, I am one of THOSE students), carefully place all materials out for use and wait.  And wait.  And wait.  About five minutes before class time, I begin to worry because I am the only person in the room.  Here we go with the scenario mentioned above.  I text a friend and sure enough, I was in the wrong classroom.  I quickly gathered all materials and rushed upstairs just in time (luckily my front row seat remained vacant for me!).  Class begins and sure enough, quite a few items pop up that I failed to do prior to class.  After class concludes, I rush out to complete the undone tasks all while trying to accomplish my original itinerary for the day. 

This is minor compared to past experiences.  With each day, I step into the unknown of nursing school.  I can never be prepared for what lay ahead.  Many days include heartache, defeat, rejection, sorrow, pain and frustration.  Emotions run the gamut.  Circumstances steal joy and create a foothold for the enemy.  The length of this season seems like forever.  I feel I cannot take anymore suffering through these uncertain, stressful and busy times.  Why all the suffering?  Can’t I just get through it with joy?

Well, not all circumstances in life paint a joyful picture.  Suffering may occur for a mighty purpose.  Difficult times may appear to strengthen faith.  Had I refused to embark on this adventure, I would miss out on important lessons from my Instructor.  My relationship with God would weaken.  Through each day in school, our relationship grows in strength beyond what I can describe.  Without Him, I could do NONE of this. . .    

“True joy is not the absence of pain, but the presence of the Lord Jesus in the midst of the pain.  Suffering is a pathway to sanctification, a doorway into greater intimacy with God.”  ~Nancy Leigh DeMoss

My example pales in comparison to the greatest example - the death of God’s only Son.  Pain, agony, humiliation, rejection, grief, sorrow, etc. entered the life of Jesus.  What did each situation render?  Was God absent through it all?  Why did He not just make them all stop this brutal beating, berating and blaming?  He is God, right?  He holds the power to change any course, protect in all situations and remove all pain in our lives. 

The key to that is if it be in His Will.  Suffering may occur to set an example for others to follow, encourage those living similar situations and to benefit His Kingdom.  He will take care of you, protect you at all times and erase the pain as our eyes remain on Him and the prize that awaits the course we travel.  I don’t know why others suffer in such ways.  I don’t know why evil lurks around every corner, waiting for a foothold.  But, I do know, as we set our eyes on Him, it all works out for His good and we feel the joy of being His servant regardless of the circumstance faced.  Our reward far outweighs any peace, joy or escape IN this world.  Our reward lasts for eternity and fills our heart, mind and soul with everlasting peace, joy and escape FROM this world. 

Suffering will not last forever.  God knows the length required in each situation to fulfill His purpose and plan for your life.  He will not take you further than His grace can cover.  He will not let you fall; yet, He who began a good work in you will carry it until completion.  In the end, He will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”  Those words alone make any suffering worth it.  The thought of hearing those words from our God motivate and remind that suffering lasts but a season, a blip in time compared to the Eternal life waiting for us!

Therefore, all this ‘suffering’ I feel I am experiencing is really strengthening me and preparing me for the reward which lay ahead.  Jesus did not say no to all the suffering; yet, He continued and received His reward.  What a great example to follow.  Thank You God for sending Your only Son to die for me and set the example I need to look to every day.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

Presence Alone is Enough

My husband and I volunteer in the children’s area at church.  Our classroom consists of third graders.  At one point during the morning, we gather with kindergarten through fourth grade classrooms to worship and hear a message.  During worship, dances accompany the songs.  Most kids eagerly arise and move all around to the motions required for the song.  Some stand there and watch the ones on stage performing the moves (my children fit this category).  And still others sit, refusing to stand or move an inch.  Controlling the amount of children present necessitates numerous leaders.  At least two adults per classroom remain at all times. 

Once worship ends, a teacher comes forth to present the message.  At this point, leaders must quiet the children, have them face forward and keep their attention on the teacher.  Well, some days this task comes with more difficulty than others.  It all depends on the mix of characters represented that day.  Overall, they do not pose a problem.  On the rowdy days, warnings fly out right and left of needing to be quiet and listen.  Should obedience fail to take place, they move to a different spot on the risers, come stand by me or I come sit by them.  None of the results sound exciting to them.  Usually, a warning is all it takes for them to listen and quiet down. 

But, then, kids will be kids and often operate according to their emotions.  If they feel rambunctious, a wild streak appears before us; if they feel sullen, calmness enters the room; if they feel irritable, rebellion stands firm before us.  Regardless, leaders adjust to the emotions and guide the children toward respect and following rules while in service and classroom.  In such moments when the prior warnings go in one ear and out the other, a leader decides to make their presence known.  We sit between the two children struggling to be quiet or sit still.  Or, we sit in front of the child struggling to keep feet and hands to themselves.  Our presence alone appears enough to enforce the proper way to act.  No word, just us sitting next to them, provides the example of how to act in such a setting.

Leadership remains throughout life.  No matter the age, a guide or government provides rules of how to act in given settings.  But, there is one Leader surpassing any here on Earth.  One Leader provides warnings, guidance and more importantly, the example to follow.  His presence remains at all times.  Cool part about our Leader. . .He placed all we need to know in one simple Book.  Any questions concerning character, direction, rules or support can be found through one source – our Bible.  Dust it off, open it up and delve into Truth.

Navigating through this life may come with difficulty from time to time.  It depends on the mix of characters represented and the emotions stirring inside due to surrounding situation.  We often operate according to the current emotion.  If feeling rambunctious, we tend to fly off the handle and reach for instant gratifications found IN this world; if feeling sullen, we may sit quietly at home, digging deeper into a depressed state; if feeling irritable, we may take everyone in our path down with us.  Regardless, God adjust to these emotions and He realizes our flesh will feel such things.  It matters what we do with these emotions God placed inside that counts.  He pays close attention, making His presence known more so than before.  Since warnings did nothing for us to remain focused on Truth and following His example, He moves in a little closer.  He grabs our hand, sits next to us or walks in front so we may follow His footsteps. 

His presence alone should be enough to quiet our emotions, contain our actions and help us focus on the prize which lay ahead.  No words needed, just His presence which fulfills every need and brings peace in any storm.  His presence never ceases.  We must remember, He always watches over us and walks with us through this world.  He is our Leader and we must follow through any season of life.  So, when you think no one is watching and you begin to let the emotions control your actions. . .remember His presence remains.  Filter those emotions through Him and let Him provide the example of how to act.  In the midst of any situation, His presence is enough.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig 

No More Thumb Sucking!

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.  Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.  Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom.  Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”  (James 4:7-10)

I drive past parks and see mothers exiting vehicles with a little hand holding tightly, excited to embark on the adventure of playing on the equipment.  I recall the times I experienced this scenario.  I park and prepare to enter a store when across the way I see a woman hopping out of the vehicle with a boisterous little girl by her side.  I take a look at my back seat and it is empty.  Let us take a moment and shed a few tears at this pity party I invited you to! 

Then, I think of how much growth each child of mine accomplished thus far.  The years fly by as children enter the picture.  Each milestone creates an indelible mark in my heart.  Each tear cried builds strength.  Each step taken produces learning and requires faith.  Each day spent with my children fills with blessings (even the times when they are at each other’s throats and want to disown the whole family).  Neither child could do anything that will lessen or increase the love my heart holds.  Though it saddens me to see their independence, growth and maturity; I also fill with joy as I stand back and watch them make the right decision, take that leap in faith and lean on God for guidance or comfort.  They still need me. . .but in different ways. 

I realized, while watching my daughter at swim lessons the other night, she no longer uses her thumb for comfort.  Before the first day of Kindergarten, her thumb instantly popped in her mouth at any sign of fear, sadness or frustration.  That first step into the unknown of school matured her in various ways, one being loss of the need to suck her thumb.  I believe she understood a different way to comfort herself.  Her prayer life deepened over the summer.  Her father and I continually pointed her to our One True Comforter and reminded her that His Promises say He will see us through anywhere He takes us.  He will never leave nor forsake His children.  I smiled as I realized this change in my daughter and thanked God for all He has brought her through thus far.  And though I don’t get to hold her hand tightly while approaching a playground adventure or keep her by my side through each day; I know she is in great Hands and now clings tightly to His Hand while approaching the adventure of life and stays by His side through each day.

Maturing in Christ can happen in a similar way.  Before that fist day as a believer and follower, we instantly turned to this world at any sign of fear, sadness or frustration.  We picked up the bottle, opened up the cabinets, cranked up the speed of a treadmill, rolled another, threw money on the table, scanned through dangerous sites on the internet, etc.  Our comfort came from this world.  Then, one day, it clicked.  Either we hit rock bottom in the pit we created or a situation opened our eyes.  We took that first step into the unknown, leaving the temporary comforts behind.  We discovered the Way to receive everlasting comfort.  Prayer life deepened and mentors surrounded that continually pointed us toward our One True God.  We explored His Word and found Promises that stood true every day.  Never left alone, comforted through any situation, overflowing with joy, loved, worth it, created for a plan and a purpose. . .the list is endless.  We discovered our One True Father – we understood that we are His child, not the world’s. 

The years fly by as followers of God.  He takes you places beyond imagination and always sees you through them.  Every tear cried builds strength.  Each step taken down His path produces learning and requires faith.  Every day brings blessings.  As we look to Him, believe in Him and trust Him – we cannot do anything that will lessen or increase the love He has for us.  We need Him at all times.  He is a proud ‘Poppa’ as He watches us mature, grow and believe in Him.

This life is FREE to anyone who chooses.  He created each of us with a desire for Him.  In order to feel complete and fulfill the plan placed in our lives, we need Him.  Without Him, temporary comfort exists, decisions lead down destructive paths and the devil holds your hand tightly (producing all kinds of playground for him to enjoy in your life).  Let go of the enemy, put away the instant gratification, say no to the addictions and say YES to the One who comforts at all times and leads you to a life everlasting. 

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig          

Deficit of Attention

Confession:  When striving to complete one single task, a slight deficit in attention exists.  My mind wanders in all directions.  I like to think of it not in a negative perspective, but that I am a deep thinker! 

I often group daily tasks together and finish several at one time.  Keeping focus on one job requires complete concentration, which I do not possess.  I perform best when the radio plays in the backdrop, someone joins me or attention can be spread out to more than one task.  The constant mind movement becomes exhausting most days.  A problem arises while driving. . .

Gorgeous weather lead to daydreaming, monotonous roads lead to multi-tasking while driving and quiet vehicles lead to thinking about anything but the road.  Here comes the big confession. . .more than driving occurs when behind the wheel:  filed nails – guilty, texted – guilty, looked in the mirror to fix hair – guilty, eaten – guilty, read a text – guilty, studied note cards – guilty, I better stop here or I might find myself with a citation!  I am fully aware of the issue at hand and work daily to quit doing such things (I know two sets of eyes watch my every move, one nearing driving age).  I constantly need to pull my focus back at the task at hand.  Oh, yeah and thankfully the handy dandy GPS came about because I have missed turns before due to daydreaming or some other attention grabbing task.  GPS loudly speaks to me, returning attention to prepare for a turn, twist or change in the road ahead.  The monotony of driving does not go well with the liveliness of my mind.  Now you can understand why my husband consistently drives and why I dislike driving so much. 

Correlation:  Ever feel like a slight deficit of attention exists in your spiritual life?  Following our One True God, studying His Word daily and keeping Him in your mind at all times requires complete concentration.  Peaceful moments lead to forgetting why such blessings occur, monotonous days lead to a desire for fleshly excitement and quiet minds lead to the devil seeping lies inside our thoughts.  So, have you ever:  chose a rebellious act just to excite the flesh, took a turn when signs clearly said stay straight, left the Bible on the shelf until Sunday during a season of peace, fell asleep in service believing the message is not meant for you or said no because the task seemed lame?  In truth, we all have experienced such times.  Becoming aware of such a deficit in our spiritual attention allows us to continually pull focus back to the path laid for our lives.  As Christians, numerous eyes watch our every move; therefore, we must keep our focus on Him and follow the path laid for us.  One way to keep focus is through studying His Word daily so our minds fill with Truth.  His Word gives direction, clear-cut steps to live here on Earth.  He guides our feet, loudly speaking to our hearts and grabbing our attention to prepare for a turn, twist or change in the path before us.  He paved the way and knows exactly what lay before us. 

Ignoring the deficit leads to destruction.  Should I continue to daydream, multi-task or think of everything else but driving I will someday find myself in a ditch or worse.  Should we continue to forget Him, please our flesh or listen to the devil’s lies we will find ourselves in a pit or worse.  Let’s turn up the worship (sing out praise at all times), join together (where two or more gather in His name, so He will be) and spread out to teach His Word to others (The Great Commission).  Volunteer at venues which spread His Word to others, daydream about winning the one true Prize and fill your heart with love for Him to keep the devil at a distance.  Learn the obstacles which increase the deficit in your spiritual attention.  Constantly pull focus back to Him and how you can serve Him, deficit and all.   

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig               

Teaching Left Behind

^“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.”  (Philippians 4:5)

I met her about five years back.  I held small conversations with her here and there, nothing of real substance or life changing topics.  I helped on very few occasions to serve alongside her.  I did not have the privilege to learn from her words or hear of her experiences.  I missed out on opportunities to serve as she did due to schedule conflict.  My contribution to her ministry fell short weekly.  Looking back, I wish I would have shared more conversations, served alongside and contributed more. . .

Although none of this took place, an indelible mark lay on my heart.  I am not one to go and join a conversation or bring attention to myself in any way, shape or form.  I observe and take in my surroundings.  The example set by this woman was not spoken or taught directly.  The learning occurred from afar.  I watched her smile with each encounter.  No matter the situation in her life, a smile lit every room entered.  A glad heart shined at all times. . . “A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed.”  (Proverbs 15:13)  Find joy in your heart when focusing on our God.  No matter the storm or calm facing your day, there is peace in Him.  Spread this to others with one simple smile. 

I watched her serve day in and day out, saying ‘Yes’ each time God asked. . .“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”  (Ephesians 2:10)  “In everything that he undertook in the service of God’s temple and in obedience to the law and the commands, he sought his God and worked wholeheartedly. And so he prospered.”  (1 Chronicles 31:21)  “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”  (1 Corinthians 15:58)  Serve without grumbling, complaining or dread.  Say yes when others say no.  Keep your eyes on the work God laid out for your life, fulfilling each task asked of you wholeheartedly.  Give God 100% effort all while shining His light onto each person encountered. 

I watched her joyfully care for a grandson.  She also worked in a school.  Knowledge cannot be bottled up only for ourselves.  She taught the next generation. . .“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.”  (2 Timothy 4:2)  The next generation needs us to show the way to Christ.  Pass down His Truth so they may come to know Him and follow His teachings.  Then, that generation will pass it down to the next.  The cycle will continue and God’s Kingdom will grow.  Be a part of it, start today sharing His Word and setting the example for the next generation to follow.

She sang beautifully in His name. . .“Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him.”  (Psalm 98:1)  Worship Him in song.  It prepares us for Heaven.  Don’t be scared - crank up the radio, roll down the windows and sing of His glory (okay, so maybe I am the only one who does this).  Your voice is nothing short of beautiful when singing praise to our God (at least that is what I tell myself). 

Down to her last breath, she set an example of strong faith, hope and love.  I may not have heard her speak much, but I heard her message loud and clear.  When I get to Heaven, I will find her and thank her personally for the example set for me.  I pray I can share that with others and that when I reach the pearly gates I will hear the same words she heard – “Well done, good and faithful servant”.

We do not realize who could be watching us from afar.  Be aware and with each move set an example worth following.  Ask, in every situation, ‘What would Jesus do’?  Then, do it!  Smile through it all, for this is only temporary and as one her last posts reminded me – “Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”  (James 4:14)  There is so much more than this.  Keep your eyes on the prize!  Serve wholeheartedly and give back to Him Who gave us everything that we did not deserve.  Share all you learn with the next generation, help them along the way and steer them so they may not turn to the left or to the right.  Help them stay the course by teaching them of all the obstacles you know about.  And sing His praise at all times.  Give it back to Him. 

AND. . .

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig 

Third Party Source

A smart phone arose with advancements in technology.  Really?  Wouldn’t the intelligence of an electronic be in the hands of the operator?  Anyways, time came for my slide out to hit the road and get upgraded.  I decided on a smart phone ‘because everyone else had one’.  This small piece of equipment challenged my intelligence.  The adjective ‘smart’ began to make sense now.  Funny thing. . .the brain behind the phone is female (just sayin’).  Her name is Siri.  She knows everything, if not, she directs you to various sources to find an answer.  I have come to like this woman; for she helps me navigate the phone features, directs routes and dials numbers.    

I found texting difficult.  A screen, smaller than an index card, displays the alphabet and area to type the conversation.  My club fingers often hit unwanted letters or auto correct chooses an undesired word.  In comes that smart woman Siri to help!  I tap a small microphone, speak and she transcribes.  After doing so, I must edit her work.  She processes at least one word wrong with each conversation, changing the whole idea.  I often think I would be better off to take an hour and type my own words or wash my hands of the whole text and call the person.  I experience a love/hate relationship with Siri.  Miscommunication causes confusion and undesired emotions.

She will also answer questions efficiently.  Often times, my family and I play games with Siri by asking silly questions just to hear her response.  She kicks back with an answer, but not always seeing the humor in our game.  Only one way she processes information – literally.  Being an electronic device, humor or sarcasm cannot be detected.  Confusion sets in, followed by ignoring.  Our conversation ends when she refuses to process any more of our questions.  Her emotions get in the way of seeking out what we truly mean in our conversation (remember, she is female).  The game ends with both sides left in confusion and no desire to speak to one another.  Miscommunication causes frustration and undesired emotions. 

Relate this one to life.  Nowadays, visiting a friend, calling on the phone, writing a letter or meeting for lunch (not for work) rarely occur.  We replace such events with emails, texts, skyping or conversing through social media.  Transcription of words shared among cyber/techno world lay in the minds of the recipient.  Using a third party such as Siri, computer, another person or a microphone attached to the device increases risk for miscommunication.  Like the game ‘telephone’ played years ago, the message may transcribe into undesired words.  Without meeting in person to explain or edit the words, the recipient could become confused and frustrated.  A simple statement written with love may be construed as apathetic.  If tension already exists or feelings are on one’s sleeve, words sent via cyber world process completely different than intended.  Emotions get in the way of seeking out true meaning of conversations.  All results with both confused, frustrated and consumed with undesired emotions. 

The cycle can be eliminated, corrected and prevented.  How?  Let us turn to the One true Source for a solution.  The One Who processes perfectly, knows our hearts, requires no editing and listens intently. . .

“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” (Colossians 4:4-6)

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Ephesians 4:29)

“But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.”  (Colossians 3:8)

Pray before communicating.  May your words be guided by God.  The risk for miscommunication decreases when you place God in the middle.  Our words pack meaning as Christians.  We set the example of what Jesus would say in every situation.  Carefully choose your words and the tone in which you speak.  Let Him be the only third party source used!  Look closely. . .did you see the word conversation?  This implies oral communication.  The best way to connect and discuss with one another is in person.  Don’t let an important discussion occur in cyber/techno world. 

Wholesome talk produces healing.  Anger cannot exist in the presence of Truth and words spoken in His name.  Process your own emotions before conveying them in conversation with another.  Think about how the other feels and choose words to reach an agreement on a situation.  Edit before speaking and assure that the words spoken clearly state what you feel.  Get rid of cyber/techno conversations.  Save them for simple, to the point statements (“be home in five”, “meet you in ten”, etc.).  Don’t let Siri control your words.  Don’t leave processing up to the recipient.  Converse in person or by telephone, allowing the recipient to hear or see your heart and process your words the way you intend.

And as always. . .

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

Emergency Kit

As my daughter embraced the new adventure of Kindergarten, she loved wearing new clothes, meeting new friends, playing at a never seen before playground, packing lunch and finally getting to do what her big brother has done for the past four years.  Sleep appeared quite difficult for this excited young girl.  Nightly, she tossed and turned unable to adjust to the new bed time and all the fun of the day still dancing in her head.  I should have seen it coming.  Lack of sleep, not feeling 100% and busy days = sensitive girl. 

One morning, it happened.  Second week into school and this girl had enough.  The newness wore off.  It no longer felt fun getting up at the crack of dawn, leaving the house (and baby dolls) for 7 hours and facing the unknown of each day.  She threw in the towel and demanded to stay home with me.  Tears flowed rapidly down her little cheeks.  We continued running (literally) around the house (typical school morning), scrambling to get every task done in 40 minutes.  Breakfast served, clothes on, shoes by the door, hair fixed and yes, still tears flowed.  I let her know I could not enter the school and walk her to class.  Besides, I don’t believe staff would appreciate seeing my mismatched pajamas and disheveled hair.

The drive to school seemed quite long.  It came time to pull out my mommy emergency kit.  I unlocked the kit with a plea and a beg for anything to ease the anxiety my child felt.  As I promised the world to one child, I threatened the other.  My son disagreed with showing her the correct gym to enter.  After the second day, it is so not cool to walk your little sister to the proper place.  While one child cried, the other huffed and puffed, growing in anger toward his momma.  Promises flew out of M&Ms brought after school, lunch date at school and whatever drink she would like after school.  Threats flew out concerning TV time and Kindle time taken away.  The emergency kit seemed to be working quite nicely.  My daughter began calming and against his will, my son agreed to walk with his sister.  It was time to leave the van and face this day!

Once that little purple/pink backpack left sight the flood gates opened for me.  I sat a cried, feeling helpless – a miserable mommy moment.  I made it home and quickly realized it was time to pull out another emergency kit.  I unlocked the kit with a cry out in prayer.  I needed comfort, peace and a big ole’ hug from God.  Scripture filled my thoughts, conversation continued between God and I and I felt His touch covering the situation.  He sent angels that day to watch over my little girl.  Being privileged to have an insider in the school system, I received update at lunch that my daughter found a friend and both were laughing in conversation.  Two particular angels in the form of teachers guided my daughter in the morning, comforted and wiped her tears.  God also sent His angels to watch over me that day.  I cleaned, kept in conversation with Him, called my mom (conversation with her makes everything better) and continued to use all items provided in my emergency kit. 

Do you have an emergency kit ready?  Have you replenished the supplies and kept them current?  Emergency kits need to be carried with you at all times; for, you never know when one might come in handy.  God provides various items throughout the Bible to fill our kits and the only key needed to open it – prayer!

Items provided:

Him -  “If you love me, keep my commands.  And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.” 

(John 14:15-17)  

Comfort -  “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort,” 

(2 Corinthians 1:3)

 Peace -  “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” 

(Philippians 4:6-8)

Many more items exist to fill your kit.  Make it your own and be ready to use it every day.  At the end of the day, as I prepared to lie down, I glanced at the clock – 8:28!  God works all things out for the good of those who love Him!  Yes He does.  My day filled with much emotion, but I grew closer to God that day and I know my daughter did as well.  Thank You God for all You did that day for my family.  I love You!

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig          

Help Exists

We sought out to advance the skills of our children a bit, requiring chores to be completed in order to earn allowance.  They dust, sweep, clean dishes, fold laundry and manage money received all while gaining skills needed in the future.  Both complete the chores successfully.  The first few weeks on the new job required training.  Neither could confidently take the tools given to clean and successfully complete the chore.  Folding laundry is an art which must be learned.  Our DNA makeup does not include a chromosome for such life skills as money management or house maintenance.  Both were great students and after week two, I no longer shadowed while they worked.  Along the way, they may find a way which works better for them yet still complete the required chore.  The chore becomes their chore, not mine.  That is fine, but at least they had a baseline to begin and should they ever forget, they have me around to ask for help.

Kids also play out real situations in life through toys.  Playing with baby dolls, building with blocks, using mini tool sets and learning basic driving skills while bike riding develops a thin base for all the knowledge needed when the ‘real’ thing comes in their journey.  Our children will seek help when they first sit behind the wheel, take another to a dance, apply for a job, experience heartache, receive a paycheck, find ‘the one’, bring home a child, etc.  No matter the age, life throws new experiences in our journey.  Often we have not the slightest clue how to react or where to turn.  Who better to reach for than someone who has been there, done that?  Those who have experience can inform others and share what worked, what did not work and how to handle all the emotions arising with this new adventure. No matter the age, the teaching/learning cycle never ends.  We must carefully guide our children and all who seek advice; for they will carry the torch forward and teach others how to accomplish specific skills or navigate through life.      

What about the skills needed in the toughest of trials in life?  Isn’t it nice to talk with another who understands, who knows how you feel?  Parents can take you so far, but sometimes others may come in to help along the way.  For example, illness can be treated by educated doctors and staff, but the emotional side needs more than a surgery or medicine.  Newlyweds start the journey filled with joy and love overflowing from their hearts, but when bumps begin appearing in the road traveled, it may be tough to dodge them.  Parenting appears smooth when all the child does is sleep, eat and need a diaper change; but, beyond that phase no book can help a parent through completely.  We need help!  We need guidance! 

Guess what. . .one Book contains all the help you will need to learn all the how, what, when and where’s in life (the why’s are not always answered immediately – you must trust).  Seek God in prayer and He will lead others to you for help.  He will send angels in the form of family, mentors, authors, church members, teachers and friends to guide you through His Truth and point you to Him.  Throughout His Word examples exist of how others persevered through, what actions they took in trials, when they knew to go/stay and where they turned at all times.  We may not experience identical situations, but we do experience the emotion turmoil and require strength and guidance to get through.  Well, my friend, it is all in One Source. 

Consult God first and listen closely to clearly hear who to turn to here on Earth for advice/help.  Confirm with God that what you see and hear all comes from His Truth.  Go to individuals here who have been there, done that and did so with God’s guidance.  They will help you see that God waits with open arms for you to run to in every situation faced.  No situation is too small that God will think it unimportant and no situation is too big that God will think it hopeless.  He is there at all times, loves at all times and comforts at all times.  Use His children and His Truth to guide through life.  Seek advice from those He built up to help, establish a baseline of knowledge from those individuals and then make the journey your own by listening to God and going the way He says.  Should you ever forget or feel at a loss, those individuals will still be around and God will quickly send them your way.

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

The Decision that Changed it All

I know this girl. . .she began life perfectly.  Her thoughts contained no worries, her self-image positive, purpose in life apparent and each day filled with joy.  Love stayed by her side.  She never boarded the emotional roller-coaster.  Only one rule existed in life to follow.  Then, one day a sneaky, evil one met up with her.  One lie believed changed her path forever.  The evil one twisted words, convincing this girl that rules were made to be broken.  So, the one rule bent slightly.  She did not want to be alone in this decision and surely did not want to take on any form of punishment without accompaniment. 

She ran to this guy I know. . .he began life perfectly.  He held the coolest position, performing the most interesting tasks daily.  Food freely arrived to him daily.  Life presented no stress concerning household maintenance or financial support.  Only one rule existed in life to follow.  Then, on that day, he fell.  He fell for the words of that girl and went along with bending the rule. 

The evil one painted such a beautiful picture to come, should they believe him and commit to his way.  Well, the evil one could not have been more wrong.  Instantly, the two felt shame, guilt, fear and sadness.  The two ran off and hid in hopes to avoid consequences.  Despite their greatest efforts, they were found by the King.  Upon interrogation, the truth revealed the two went against the King’s only rule.  One simple rule and they could not follow.  Each blamed the other, but in reality all committed the sin. 

Death became the ultimate sentence but not before living out their original plan in life.  Both went on as companions to bear children (not without painful labor), cultivate the land in order to eat, cover their bodies to hide in shame of their original form and both banished from a beautiful area in the land.  They bore two sons, only to lose one later due to family conflict.  Jealousy drove one son to kill the other.  Turmoil existed within the family.  Difficulty occurred due to that one decision of disobedience. 

Oh yeah, and the evil one, he still scours the ground, continuing to deceive all who walk it.  He would not leave the girl and guy alone either.  Lies continued to pour into their thoughts trying to lead them away from the one True King.  Lies concerning self-worth, power, image, money, parenting, prestige, etc.  Thoughts filled with shame, guilt, helplessness, unworthiness, defeat, etc. 

Can you relate?

Since the beginning, the evil one has been playing the same sneaky schemes.  Times change over the years, but the lies remain the same.  In today’s life, some may include:

If you cannot fit into a particular size, you hold no value in society and no one will find you attractive.

If your bank account does not hold a specific figure, you will never be happy.

If you don’t buy the latest __________ no one will like you or care to be your friend.

If you do not climb the ladder of success within a specific time, you are a loser and hold no pride.

The lies continue daily with the evil one choosing words specific to you in hopes to lead away from the one True King.  The evil one wants nothing more than to see you lead a life full of sin.  Sin holds bondage over your life and happiness never more than temporary.  Joy only comes when the chains break and freedom is gained.  The evil one conforms to current times and uses the latest and greatest schemes known to man.

Cool thing about our True King. . .He never changes.  Since the beginning, He creates humans in His image, so to rule over the Earth below.  He loves each creation and desires a relationship just as He did with that girl and guy I know.  In response to lies of the evil one, our King offers one Truth. . .John 3:16.  Death turned to life.  He saved us.  The answer came and all we need to do is believe in Him.  Trust Him each and every day.  We then will clearly see the falsehood of the words spoken by the sneaky evil one.  Read up on His Word, so to gain ammo against the evil one’s words.  Stand firm on His Word and know that He will fill your thoughts with love, joy and peace.  He will pour blessings over your life.  You are worthy and He desires you. 

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig     

Unclenched Fists

I love cleaning.  Call me weird, but it feels fantastic to look back and see progress, accomplishment and a job complete.  Cleaning and organizing allow visual results of success.  I could do both tasks all day long and be as happy as a lark (whatever that means).  The kids began a new adventure called school; so, I decided to organize and clean without two little hoarders following my every move.  Excitement arose at the thoughts of completing such a chore.  A purpose appeared to fill time spent in an empty house.  So the plan began to organize, purge, sell, redecorate and clean.  YEAH!  Come on, I know deep inside you feel excited just thinking about it!

I realized lots of junk crept into our home over the years.  The junk did not lie in the open for all to see, but hid in closets, cabinets and corners.  Well, this determined woman began scouring every inch of the house, finding items to give away, take pictures in hopes to sell or moving items straight to the dumpster.  I was on a role.  It appeared easy and refreshing to clean out the junk.  Then, something happened. . .the junk became personal.  It moved from meaningless (everyone else’s items) to memorable (my items).  The items told the story of my past.  Okay, parting with an item without a memory attached, I can do; but, letting go of the napkin from my wedding day is just painful (as if there is not a picture to remember it).  Then I found the sleeve which held our wedding night room key with the room number written on it (IKR, packs lots of meaning).  Oh yeah, then the metal from back in my athletic years, a love note from my husband written in high school (those were the days) or a shirt worn on a special occasion.  Deciding to let these go took a long time.  I realized the items held no use or meaning in the present.  I unclenched each fist and laid the items in the proper pile. . .

 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 

(2 Corinthians 5:17)

Reminds me of the day I gave my life to Christ.  My spirit contained numerous closets, cabinets and corners filled with items of no use to my present.  But, each item told the story of my past.  That is just it. . .my PAST.  When giving our lives to Christ, new creation forms.  Our past must remain there, our baggage dropped off at the cross and our spirits cleansed.  Often times our ‘junk’ does not lie in the open for all to see, but hides deep in protected closets, cabinets and corners.  Sure, it was easy to clean up my language, change the radio station, attend service regularly, participate in service projects and even join various Bible groups; but, somewhere among all the cleansing and change it moved from pleasant to painful.  You mean, I need to let go of control (every aspect of my eating disorder), humble myself in arguments with my husband, forgive those who wronged me in the past, quit blaming people for my decisions or emotions, run to God first for comfort (not alcohol or other fleshly pleasures) and say yes to God when all I want to do is run the other way.  Wow, this is tough. 

Guess what, my friend, it may be tough. . .BUT, it is the only way to freedom.  Unclench the fists, lay all of the past in the proper pile, at the cross!  Let God heal, renew and then use you in mighty ways.  All the past happened, it is gone.  Clenching tightly to the old, locking the cabinets, guarding the closets and hiding in the corners allows the devil to creep in your thoughts.  God cannot fully work in your life.  Though it may be tough at first. . .it all works out for your good.  Letting go lightens the load and allows energy to complete the plan and purpose God holds for your future.  Don’t let the past steal the purpose of your present and plans of your future!

Recall instances in the Bible when clenched hands held back progress. . .

Israelites on their journey to the Promised Land (Exodus)

Jonah refusing to go the way God asked (Jonah)

Paul and his conversion (Acts)

These examples only include a few.  Read up on some and gain inspiration to clean those closets, cabinets and corners.  You will come to love cleaning as much as I do. . .His Word promises!

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig