Learning from our Teacher

I have learned more during the launch of my nursing career than the whole two years attending school.  The learning did not come from books or lectures; but, real life in-your-face situations.  This selfish woman began a new career and a transformation into new attitude toward each day.  I would like to share four things I learned thus far. . .

LIFE is not for me!  Yes, before I believed each day existed to reach contentment and fulfillment.  Well, I was wrong.  With each sunrise opportunity to help another arises.  Avoid fleshly desires/comfort and grow your heart beyond what can be imagined.  Changing thoughts from self to others keeps Satan at a distance.  Taking each moment to help another allows Jesus’ light to shine through.     

“Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 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 2:1-4

PHYSICAL strength will not sustain you!  My body screams after twelve hours standing, walking, bending, pulling and pushing.  It crashes for six hours only to get up and repeat same situations.  After three nights continuing this pattern, I question if I can do anymore.  Physical strength fails each us often; therefore, we must not rely on our own strength to persevere.  God can do more than we can even ask or imagine as we lean on Him for strength, guidance and help in the most difficult situations.  It is only through Him we will find the straight path leading to eternal life in Heaven.    

“The Lord is my strength and my defense;
    he has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise him,
    my father’s God, and I will exalt him.” Exodus 15:2

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart
    and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
    and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

ATTITUDE makes all the difference!  This powerful statement will carry you to mighty places and grow faith tremendously.  Approaching a difficult situation with a conquering attitude brings success rather than dread.  Success leads to changing lives of all you meet.  And changing lives proves the reason our Father sent us here! 

^“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:5-6

A SMILE goes a long way!  “Kill them with kindness.”  True Dat!  Those with illness develop frustrations, anger and even depression as the days go along without them able to do the skills done before arriving in a facility.  Think back to a time when you were bedridden, weak and feeling terrible. . .what if that continued for weeks or indefinitely?  I am sure my emotions would plummet and my words may not always be kind.  Therefore, I realize the individuals I encounter need a smile.  A smile spreads like wildfire.  A hug heals the deepest hurts.  A kind word wipes out negative attitudes.  Instead of judging or criticizing, we need to love and comfort.

“When I smiled at them, they scarcely believed it;
    the light of my face was precious to them.” Job 29:24    

AND ALWAYS. . .

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

Fickle Spirits

Preface: I love my daughter with all my heart and know fully she is an angel sent to our family to bring joy, laughter and beauty.  Now, that being said, she can drive me batty from time to time.  Seems like she learned just the right buttons to push which send momma into frenzy mode!  Going through a phase?  I hope so.  Daily, we battle it out through our differences.

Okay, example scenario: clothes always get laid out the night before and chosen with the help of my daughter.  She knows full and well the items to be worn and even tries them on when new to assure that she will like them.  Pre-planning creates smoother mornings – or so one would think!  Morning time comes and 99.9% of the time something about or on the clothing bothers her.  Grant you we tried them on, looked them over and picked them out TOGETHER.  Now we have an upset child demanding a new outfit all the while time ticks closer to the arrival of the bus. 

But wait. . .there is more.  We will purchase a food product she loves to go in her lunches.  Same product, same store, same ingredients!  The lunchbox returns with uneaten food.  She claims to dislike the particular item that she loved the week before.  Often times it is a product no one else can eat due to our current meal plans.  Fickle little spirits and taste buds lead to wasteful living.

This OCD mother grows weary with such indecisive, unprepared and fickle lifestyle she currently leads.  I like to have it all out and ready to go so the kids can sleep as late as possible and still catch the bus.  Button #1 is pushed when I believe we will be late.  As time ticks, my nerves increase.  I don’t like rushing around making all kinds of decisions which could have been made the night before.  Button #2 is pushed when change comes around.  Why change, when things run smoothly? 

Thankfully, my daughter forgives indefinitely; because, hindsight reveals a mother overreacting and the situation working out just fine in the end.  Kids get on the bus in time and my daughter does not go hungry at lunch.  I grow through each scenario and a better reaction occurs each time.  Once I have it right, she will venture to another phase pushing yet another button of mine.

I believe God looks down on us with love through each phase we encounter as growing Christians.  He makes a way each day for us, providing all we need and more.  Yet, we wake up and venture out finding something wrong or disagree with a situation.  We spend our time fighting against the decisions which seem uncomfortable, out of reach or those taking more time.  What we don’t see is God already prepared the way and laid out enough grace to cover all encountered along the path.  Life may present crazy, tough situations; but, we can remain stable in Him and complete immeasurably more than ever thought of by our carnal minds. 

Life cannot remain the same day in and day out.  Stress increases, finances plummet, loved ones pass, exhaustion reaches a plateau, illness strikes or depression overtakes due to loneliness.  Where is the DISLIKE button?  Rest assured my friend that God remains the same throughout it all.  His promises ring true in every situation.  Watch out for fickle spirits running for fleshly comfort.  Reaching for desires of the flesh leads to wasteful living.  Temporary pleasures find us empty inside and stationary on the path laid out for our lives. 

Each day we are handed ONE choice: Whom will you serve?  Serving our Lord Jesus Christ will eliminate the unprepared, indecisive and fickle lifestyle.  You simply say yes, Lord, here I am; use me in mighty ways this day.  Of course, there is some planning on our parts done daily to remember Who we serve.  Reading His Truth will equip you for anything the enemy may throw in to deter you off the straight path.  The enemy knows just the right buttons to push, sending you into frenzy mode.  Beginning the day with prayer strengthens your relationship with God which then allows for conversation to better be heard throughout the day.  He remains the same – we must avoid fickle little spirits!

As for my daughter. . .this momma must take a deep breath, embrace the morning with love and. . .

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

Void Satan's Ticket. . .

Beginning a new career creates a rollercoaster of emotions.  Through orientation the excitement builds equivalent to a coaster climbing that first hill.  Following orientation you dig into the routines, policies and procedures of the facility only to find days when emotions plummet.  Similar to the coaster falling full force down the steep hill, learning a new routine and skills may lead to downward spiral of emotions.  Mistakes occur taking a stab at confidence.  Exhaustion results after long hours of learning which steal away all patience.  Strength arises when success can finally be seen and the learning revealed when remembering what to do for that day.  The rollercoaster begins climbing the next hill.  Excitement filters back in along with confidence and rest. 

Hard work, exhaustion and moments of despair all led to the career I began as a nurse.  Excitement shot through the roof as I began caring for patients and performing skills learned in school.  After a week of training, emotions plummeted and I felt failure creeping into my spirit.  Mistakes led to questioning the decision to be a nurse.  Adjusting to twelve hour shifts led to exhaustion and short temper with loved ones.  I crashed one night for an eleven hour getaway to sleep the week’s events off.  After wakening, I realized what went wrong the past week. . .

It was not that I don’t have the knowledge, passion or ability to perform said career.  It was that I held tightly to self for strength and courage.  Relying on self creates a rollercoaster ride of emotions.  Satan sat right next to me and enjoyed every moment of the ride.  Well, I made a decision to kick Satan out and void his ticket into my spirit. 

Have you ever ridden a rollercoaster and let go of the handlebars?  As we hold tightly to the handlebars, relying on our own strength to get us through the ride, it ends with pain, weakness, frustration and no desire ever to step foot on the ride again.  Raising hands high, letting up on the tight grip allows freedom to enjoy the ride.  We know we are safe although valleys, peaks and turns lay ahead on the ride.  Excitement remains despite the speed changes and bumps felt throughout.  The difference being our source of strength and courage. . .

Numerous times in the Bible, God reminds Joshua to be strong and courageous throughout his journey.  God did not ask Joshua to approach things through his own strength or rely on emotions to see him through.  God asked Joshua to take Him along for the ride, let go of the handlebars and allow Him to maintain excitement for whatever the path may present.  Placing our trust in God for strength and courage keeps Satan at a distance.

Life may seem like a rollercoaster ride that you did not buy a ticket for nor did you have a desire to even approach the entrance gate.  Rest assured because God provides strength beyond what can be imagined.  Courage builds by looking upward knowing He is by your side to help.  Let go of the tight grip, raise hands high and be amazed at the accomplishments made with His strength dwelling inside you.  Be strong and courageous! 

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. Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.

“Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.  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 1:5-9

Don’t focus on the ups and downs of life. . .read His Truth to maintain and be stable.  We are NEVER left alone or FORSAKEN.  Gain and deepen your relationship with God.  Get to know Him by reading His Word.  This alone will void Satan’s ticket into your spirit; for Satan slithers around waiting to steal our focus on the rollercoaster of life.  Satan wants to join the ride and destroy your strength!  REMEMBER. . .

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

Warning: Dense Fog Ahead!

Driving to work typically comes easily; but, one morning a thick fog covered the land just at eyesight.  A few factors increased the danger of such conditions.  I drove a borrowed vehicle exceeding the size of the van I typically use.  Eyesight seemed to diminish in this rather large vehicle.  The windows continuously fogged with defrost failing to assist.  Still dark outside, I took off for my destination.  Prayers released the entire trip for safety and help with clear vision of those wonderfully painted yellow lines.  I hugged them, but not too tightly and drove slow around each curve in the road.

Inability to see more than five feet in the distance filled me with fear.  Anxiety arose in knowing curves existed, but unable to realize the timing until right upon them.  I drove with headlights cutting through the fog slightly praying others did the same.  Coming to the crossroad, I trusted other drivers to use headlights to make their presence known.  I turned praying no vehicle was coming.  A ten minute drive felt like an hour.  My desire to be at work NOW was overpowered by the need to be safe and drive slower.  Careless driving would lead to destruction and pain.  Relying on my strength would lead to accidents and suffering.  My decisions not only affect me, but all others on the roadway.  Cars trailing behind must drive careful as I lead the pack to better lighting and straighter roads.  As I pull into the driveway at work a prayer in appreciation for safety raises. 

Overall decisions come easily and life moseys right along just fine.  But, seasons may appear along the way presenting a thick fog hindering our eyesight.  Factors arise and increase the danger of such conditions.  Some include stress level increased, lack of sleep, malnourishment, failure to spend time with God, self-condemnation, death of loved one, divorce, depression, etc.  Darkness surrounding the situation only decreases ability to see any way out of such fog.  We take off on daily destinations hoping for safety and courage just to get by.  Going through the motions, placing a fake smile on and hiding behind the fog opens doors for our enemy to creep in and work to destroy our spirit. 

The overwhelming circumstances lead to careless ‘driving’ resulting in destruction and immense pain.  We rely on our own strength to see us through resulting in crash and burn situations.  The enemy loves this forecast and works diligently to lead us away from the only Source of help.  Old habits creep back in which we grab hold quickly for any type of relief even for just the moment.  Not only affecting ourselves, we lead others wrongly with each failing decision. 

When the fog of life comes in, remember Who can be the light which leads to safety.  Hug tightly the One providing Truth which to guide the path.  ‘Drive’ slowly paying close attention to each curve the enemy may throw in your path.  Crossroads may appear along the way; rely on others God may send to aide in deciding which way to turn.  Decrease any factors that increase the danger of such conditions.  Reach out for help.  Our desire to be out of this season NOW must be overpowered by His plan for our lives. . .  

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.  “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”  Isaiah 55:8-9   

One season may seem like a lifetime; but, rest assured God is working diligently to grow faith, increase prayer life and turn all situations out for the good of those who love Him!  Avoid hiding behind a forced smile. . .ask for help and prayer from trusted friends.  Veer away from going through the motions carelessly. . .increase focus as each decision is made.  Rely on Him for strength to lead to the path laid for your life.  You will find then, joy can still remain even through the thickest of fog.   

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

Construction of a Ministry

With construction coming to an end, I was able to put my house in order.  Cleaning actually lasted for more than one day and décor strategically placed creating a homey feeling.  Excitement filled while walking on the new carpet where drywall dust once laid.  I no longer had to wear shoes in the basement and fear my kitchen being dusted white each night.  The washer and dryer sparkled and I could actually leave folded clothes on it for a short time-frame.  Oh, to have a clean home, no construction in site! 

Although without going through the pains of construction, I never would have enjoyed the transformed basement.  Once open, unfinished, now gorgeous and inviting.  Each wall built allowed for more beauty to develop.  Nail by nail, it all came together and renovation came to an end.  My husband and father-in-law did all the work, but not without my grumbling and complaining each and every moment.  No end in sight appeared in my mind.  The only piece I seen to the puzzle was mess after mess after mess.  I missed my husband each evening and although I love my father-in-law dearly, I dreaded seeing his white truck in my driveway.  Their hard work paid off tenfold.  The basement looks amazing!

This scenario does not reveal the first encounter of grumbling and complaining while under construction.  My past, full of sin, continues to go through periods of construction.  Since becoming a Christian and following prompting of the Holy Spirit, daily messes continue to reveal ready for cleanup!  Thankfully, God provides the means and material to complete such a hefty project.  Without going through the pains of facing past hurts I would never enjoy the peace through forgiveness.  God revealed to me over the years that each sin redeemed builds a beautiful ministry.  He reminds me that nail by nail, He washed all of my past away. 

Days may not go as I intend, pain may arise from the past or health concerns remind me of wrongful choices; but, God overpowers them all and works mightily to create a clean home!  I welcome Him in and rejoice when seeing His mighty hand at work.  I have learned that grumbling and complaining only hinders the process depriving my soul of any learning along the way.  Too bad for my husband and father-in-law that I am a slow learner!  I continue to catch myself grumbling and complaining in this world.  Results never change – frustration, hurt and disrespect.  Oh, but I will learn and God will provide strength to close my mouth and rejoice in progress knowing the end result far outweighs the momentary concerns. 

Just as the Israelites grumbled for 40 years, we may catch ourselves doing the same.  Without seeing the land of milk and honey, only feeling the fleshly pains of hunger, fear and doubt; the Israelites delayed their arrival when failing to trust and keep their eyes on the prize.  Along the way, God revealed Himself numerous times.  He allowed Moses to part the sea to cross on dry land while the Egyptians drowned behind them.  He provided enough manna for daily nourishment.  He presented clean water to ensure hydration.  He kept health among them.  Although revealed numerous times, the Israelites grumbled and doubted.  Slowly, they understood and arrived at the land promised.  Their sins build a ministry to current Christians.  We learn from their story and experiences. 

Let us take this moment and ask for forgiveness!  Ask God to provide strength to combat grumbling and complaining as He works mightily in our lives.  Keep your eye on the prize and this momentary trouble will seem minuscule.  Construction must occur so we can put our home back in order.  Cleanliness will last and your souls will sparkle.  Oh, the day we meet our God, renovation will come to an end!  We will rejoice in His presence.  Let us enjoy the trip!  

Keep praying harder than the devil can work!

Sheree Craig             

It is Okay to be Homesick

First grade brings troubles to the days of a precious little girl I love.  Think about it, the day includes coloring pages, drawing pictures, lunch, two recesses and hanging out with some cool kids.  Sounds rough, right?  Well, to my little girl whose mind can only focus on being away from her home for seven hours straight it is rough.  The thought overwhelms and fear consumes.  In no way can she imagine making it through without breaking down and calling home.  Our mornings fill with tears, hiding backpacks, refusing to put shoes on, remaining in pajamas and clinging to the seat in the van for dear life.  I am not exaggerating in the least bit!

So, I have to be the bad guy and sternly inform her that she must get ready and proceed through the morning.  I gently let her know staying home is not an option.  I try every mommy tool in the box; yet, most mornings none works to fix the sadness.  Prayers shoot straight to Heaven.  Sadness, confusion and frustration still remain in her heart.  I call in help from the loving staff at school to peel her away from the vehicle and enter the building.  I then leave in tears, wishing I could take her back home with me and never let go. 

The girls at work gave me a fantastic idea. . .buy something that represents you for my daughter to take to school and know you are with her throughout the day.  I loved the thought.  I presented it to my daughter and she became so excited.  While at the store we decided on matching necklaces.  We ventured to the jewelry department and skimmed through all the boxes containing necklaces in our price range.  One particular box stood out amongst the rest.  It was purple while all other were gray.  I picked it up and there it was. . .the perfect choice.  Two necklaces, each with a butterfly charm; one engraved mother, one engraved daughter.  The only one in a sea of choices; coincidence, I think not?  Special gift from Someone Greater. . .I think so.

Homesickness ranks high on the list of painful situations.  I experienced it many times as a child.  I would not say that I have overcome the pain, but learned to push through it.  I still long for my mom and the comforts of living under her roof; yet, I now have a family of my own and created comforts to satisfy in the intervals without my mom.  Since my new birth and becoming a Christian, another Homesickness developed which I must process daily.  This will last until the day I get to meet my Lord and Savior.

Thankfully my Father provides Truth as a reminder He is with me at every moment.  Trials and tribulations seep into the hours of each day.  Sadness, confusion and frustration dwell in my heart.  The thought of making it through often overwhelms and Satan uses that to flood me with fear.  Refusing to face the day, running away or hiding out never works.  Ultimately, I still must face this world.  Quickly, I remember Who is with me.  God would love for His children to come Home and hold them in His arms.  But, He has work for us to do here to grow His Kingdom.  Therefore, He often calls in help from loving Christians to peel us away from the enemy’s hold and help see clearer.  We then remember this world is our temporary home and Truth promises He waits for us when our work here is done. 

Thanks be to Jesus for dying on the cross so that we now have the Holy Spirit dwelling within to confidently know He is with us.  God holds our hand and guides us through this world.  Cling to Him, wear His Word daily on your heart and spread that Truth to others experiencing Homesickness. 

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever”

John 14:16

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”  John 15:5

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”  Hebrews 13:5

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig

The Perfect Location

In our new home my son landed the perfect location.  His room sits on the backside of the home next to a full bath.  He takes full advantage of the space and created his own little “apartment” (too bad his parents are not receiving any rent)!  Most days consist of him hanging out in his loft bed.  It appears to be comforting, relaxing and peaceful. 

But wait, there is more. . .he also recently became a new owner of a fancy scooter that sparks with one slight move of foot.  We now have a yard which allows for baseball playing.  Our neighborhood is safe and my kids can ride bikes throughout the day.  The kids have much to offer throughout the day and I have not heard the phrase “I’m bored” since moving.  As a parent, I fill with joy knowing memories continue to be made daily.  Since moving, the kids actually play together 80% of the day without arguing.  Too much fun occurs to pitch any fits.  My son even invites his sister into his man cave to hang out. 

Oh, to travel back in time and be 6 or 10 again; to have a comfort place, a relaxing environment and a peaceful hour of the day. . .to have a sidekick willing and ready to be there for and with you at any time of the day.  Don’t forget playing; seems there comes an age where the word playing loses all meaning in an adult’s life.  I remember running amuck in my neighborhood from house to house hanging out, riding rollerblades, bikes, playing basketball, creating skateboard ramps, climbing trees, playing baseball, swimming, etc.  Why do joyous, relaxing times have to be buried by bills, work, responsibilities, guilt, shame, etc.?

Guess what, my friend; joy and peace are readily available no matter the age.  Living the Christian lifestyle brings freedom!  God asks that we look to Him for peace in this world.  Do not conform to patterns surrounding you – depression, stress, anxiety, addiction or crime.  But be transformed, by what?  His Word – Truth which stands against all the evils of this world.  Live in the world, but not of the world.  Current times could turn the most joyous personality into sorrow.  But, His Word heals the worst of situations.  Truth replaces all lies, building the strongest faith in the lowest of times. 

In our new home as Christians we land the perfect location – in His arms.  Take full advantage as His son/daughter and create a lifestyle reflective of Him.  Become His hands and feet each day.  In His arms you will have comfort, relaxation and peace.

But wait, there is more. . .He offers blessings beyond imagination, safety to allow His plan for your life to succeed and a life filled with joy.  Don’t get me wrong, trials and tribulations will still occur; but, you now have a new home with which to stand sturdy through the worst of storms.  Your home is built on His Word and daily you put on armor for protection.  Enjoy life here knowing that He waits for you once your purpose here is complete.  Invite all you meet to know Him so they too may build a new home for themselves.      

And always. . .

Pray harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig