Malachi 3:3 says ; 'He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.'
This verse puzzled some women in a bible study and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God. One of the women offered to find out the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible Study.
That week, the woman called a silversmith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest beyond her curiosity about the process of refining Silver.
As she watched the silversmith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities.
The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot; then she thought again about the verse that says: 'He sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.' She asked the silversmith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed.
The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silversmith, 'How do you know when the silver is fully refined?' He smiled at her and answered, 'Oh, that's easy -- when I see my image in it.'
If today you are feeling the heat of the fire , remember that God has his eye on you and will keep watching you until He sees His i mage in you.
'Life is a coin. You can spend it anyway you wish, but you can only spend it once.'
-Author unknown
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Fireproof...a must see movie
I couldn't wait to see this movie. It had been recommended to me by quite a few people, so I anxiously counted down until the movie was available on DVD. I had ordered it in December...and just had to wait for it to arrive. I had also bought "The Love Dare" but with block leave and Christmas in Pennsylvania, I have not had time to read this book, let alone put it into action.
I sat down one afternoon last week to view the movie. It was great! I cried...and cried some more. I know of some couples, whom I have been praying for, that are struggling in their marriages. I'm not sure if that is why I was a bit emotional or not. I have recommended this movie to one of those couples. If you are at a point of giving up or think there is no hope for your marriage, I encourage you to view this movie. As you do, have an open heart to let God speak to you. Maybe you need to commit to doing "The Love Dare" as a step of faith for your marriage. I have witnessed the work of the Lord in friend's marriages, that looked very hopeless.
I think many times we feel we can fix it (our relationships) on our own and we leave God out of the equation. But let me tell you, God needs to be the center of it all. Without Him and the love He has so freely given to us, we can not love others.
Monday, February 9, 2009
31 Ways to Pray for our Military
For those who are interested, I finally have an address where Angel can receive mail. If you did not get this yet and would like to have it, email me and I will forward it to you.
Please continue to keep Angel and his unit in prayer as they serve this next year in the sandbox. I came across of list of Ways to Pray for Our Military and I wanted to share this with you.
31 Ways to Pray For Our Military
1. Protection
a. Psalm 34:4 - I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
b. Psalm 32:7 - You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.
2. Wisdom
a. James 1:5 - If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him
3. Peace
a. John 14:26 - But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
b. Philippians 4:7 - And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus
4. Presence of God
a. Psalm 46:1 - God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
5. Inner Strength
a. Ephesians 3:16 - I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being.
6. Clear Mind
a. 2 timothy 1:7 - For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
7. Security
a. Psalm 17:8 - Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.
8. Health for Physical Body
a. Philippians 4:13 - I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
9. Courage
a. Joshua 1:9 - Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
10. To help others
a. Philippians 2:3-4 - Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
11. To be aware of God’s love for them
a. Psalm 42 - As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God.
12. Family Concerns
a. 1 peter 5:7 - Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
13. Rest
a. Mathew 11:28-29 - "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
14. Adjust to time change, sleep
a. Psalm 4:8 - I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
15. Unity in purpose
a. 1 Peter 3:8 - Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic,love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.
16. Loneliness
a. Deuteronomy 31:6 - Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
17. Children of Military
a. Isaiah 54:13 - All your sons will be taught by the LORD, and great will be your children's peace.
b. Psalm 68:5 - A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.
18. Spouses of Military
a. Isaiah 40:11 - He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.
19. Patience while waiting
a. Psalm 33:20 - We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield.
20. God directing their steps
a. Psalm 32:8 - I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.
21. Diligent in their work
a. Colossians 3:23 - We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield.
22. Resist temptation
a. 1 Corinthians 10:13 - No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
23. Discernment
a. Philippians 1:9 - And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight,
24. Traveling safety
a. Psalm 121:7-8 - The LORD will keep you from all harm he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
25. Fighting Depression
a. Pslam 42:5 - Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and Protect from evil
26. Protection from Evil
a. 2 Thessalonians 3:3 - But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.
27. Encourage those around them
a. Proverbs 11:25 - A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.
28. Personal Prayer life
a. Jeremiah 33:3 - 'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'
29. Deliverance from the enemy
a. Psalm 31:15 - My times are in your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me.
30. Angels to guard them
a. Psalm 34:7 - The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.
31. Persistence for the task
a. Galatians 6:9 - Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Please continue to keep Angel and his unit in prayer as they serve this next year in the sandbox. I came across of list of Ways to Pray for Our Military and I wanted to share this with you.
31 Ways to Pray For Our Military
1. Protection
a. Psalm 34:4 - I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.
b. Psalm 32:7 - You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.
2. Wisdom
a. James 1:5 - If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him
3. Peace
a. John 14:26 - But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
b. Philippians 4:7 - And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus
4. Presence of God
a. Psalm 46:1 - God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
5. Inner Strength
a. Ephesians 3:16 - I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being.
6. Clear Mind
a. 2 timothy 1:7 - For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
7. Security
a. Psalm 17:8 - Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.
8. Health for Physical Body
a. Philippians 4:13 - I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
9. Courage
a. Joshua 1:9 - Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
10. To help others
a. Philippians 2:3-4 - Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
11. To be aware of God’s love for them
a. Psalm 42 - As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God.
12. Family Concerns
a. 1 peter 5:7 - Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
13. Rest
a. Mathew 11:28-29 - "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
14. Adjust to time change, sleep
a. Psalm 4:8 - I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
15. Unity in purpose
a. 1 Peter 3:8 - Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic,love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.
16. Loneliness
a. Deuteronomy 31:6 - Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
17. Children of Military
a. Isaiah 54:13 - All your sons will be taught by the LORD, and great will be your children's peace.
b. Psalm 68:5 - A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.
18. Spouses of Military
a. Isaiah 40:11 - He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.
19. Patience while waiting
a. Psalm 33:20 - We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield.
20. God directing their steps
a. Psalm 32:8 - I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.
21. Diligent in their work
a. Colossians 3:23 - We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield.
22. Resist temptation
a. 1 Corinthians 10:13 - No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
23. Discernment
a. Philippians 1:9 - And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight,
24. Traveling safety
a. Psalm 121:7-8 - The LORD will keep you from all harm he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
25. Fighting Depression
a. Pslam 42:5 - Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and Protect from evil
26. Protection from Evil
a. 2 Thessalonians 3:3 - But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.
27. Encourage those around them
a. Proverbs 11:25 - A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.
28. Personal Prayer life
a. Jeremiah 33:3 - 'Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'
29. Deliverance from the enemy
a. Psalm 31:15 - My times are in your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me.
30. Angels to guard them
a. Psalm 34:7 - The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.
31. Persistence for the task
a. Galatians 6:9 - Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
25 Random Things about Me
I was tagged by a friend on facebook to write 25 things about me, so I have copied it and placed it here. Maybe you'll learn something new about me or laugh about something you remember.
25 Random Things about Me
1. I was born in Baltimore, MD but my parents moved to Pennsylvania when I was 5 years old. I have called PA home until last year, when I became a Texan.
2. I met my husband at college. We got married and finished college as married students. If I remember correctly, the only class we had together was Preaching Doctrinal Issues with Dr. Leach.
3. I love to help people with budgets, finances and advice on saving money.
4. I am a stay-at-home mom, who periodically works from home doing billing for an anesthesia practice in PA.
5. I have attended Catholic School (St. Joseph’s in Dallastown, PA) and public school (Southern York County School District) but currently I homeschool my own children.
6. I will celebrate my 15th Wedding Anniversary this May, but my husband and I will be on two different continents.
7. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Pastoral Ministry.
8. When I was a teenager, I spent two summers doing missions work. The first summer was in NYC and the next was spent in India.
9. I love to organize and do administrative work.
10. I like to read…..and usually have a good murder mystery with me on vacation or a parenting/homeschool/self-help book on my bedside. Currently I am reading The Family You’ve Always Wanted by Gary Chapman.
11. I get a thrill from finding a good deal on things…especially something I need. I love saving money.
12. I have thought about going back to school for nursing, but my children are my focus right now. Who knows, maybe someday.
13. I have one sister, with whom I talk to almost everyday. We used to not get along very well, but once we both started our families, we had more in common. Love ya sis!
14. My dad and I were both college students at the same time… same college. He retired from the police department after 20 years and went back to college. I think we had one class together.
15. I am a first born. I am not a risk taker. I have learned though that sometimes I need to move out of my comfort zone...whether I like it or not.
16. I took 5 years of Spanish classes through high school and college but really can’t speak it. Part of the reason is that I don’t use it regularly, the other reason is fear.
17. I learned to play the flute in 5th grade and played through middle school in the band. After many changes in band directors during that time, I gave up playing in school and played for the worship team at church.
18. I love to watch police, investigative TV shows, like CSI, NCIS and Law and Order. Maybe it’s in my blood (my dad was a police officer for 20 years).
19. Almost two years ago my husband made a change in his career…he was on staff at the same church for almost 10 years and we left there for him to pursue his dream to be a Chaplain in the U.S. Army. We no longer live near family, but 1500 miles away from them.
20. I am a single parent but happily married (deployment will do that to you).
21. My favorite nighttime snack is Homestyle Popcorn with a little bit of extra butter on it and a can of Pepsi.
22. I have four beautiful daughters, Marissa (11), Katelyn (8), Victoria (will be 4 soon), Breanna (2), who keep me on my toes..and laughing.
23. I love to help women become better mothers and wives through encouragement, teaching and sharing my experiences.
24. I do once a month cooking…though my freezer is a bit low on meals right now. Since the holidays and vacations are over, I need to start planning my next shopping trip.
25. Even though I am in the middle of a deployment, I am content where I am, learning to lean on God and trust Him for ALL things.
25 Random Things about Me
1. I was born in Baltimore, MD but my parents moved to Pennsylvania when I was 5 years old. I have called PA home until last year, when I became a Texan.
2. I met my husband at college. We got married and finished college as married students. If I remember correctly, the only class we had together was Preaching Doctrinal Issues with Dr. Leach.
3. I love to help people with budgets, finances and advice on saving money.
4. I am a stay-at-home mom, who periodically works from home doing billing for an anesthesia practice in PA.
5. I have attended Catholic School (St. Joseph’s in Dallastown, PA) and public school (Southern York County School District) but currently I homeschool my own children.
6. I will celebrate my 15th Wedding Anniversary this May, but my husband and I will be on two different continents.
7. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Pastoral Ministry.
8. When I was a teenager, I spent two summers doing missions work. The first summer was in NYC and the next was spent in India.
9. I love to organize and do administrative work.
10. I like to read…..and usually have a good murder mystery with me on vacation or a parenting/homeschool/self-help book on my bedside. Currently I am reading The Family You’ve Always Wanted by Gary Chapman.
11. I get a thrill from finding a good deal on things…especially something I need. I love saving money.
12. I have thought about going back to school for nursing, but my children are my focus right now. Who knows, maybe someday.
13. I have one sister, with whom I talk to almost everyday. We used to not get along very well, but once we both started our families, we had more in common. Love ya sis!
14. My dad and I were both college students at the same time… same college. He retired from the police department after 20 years and went back to college. I think we had one class together.
15. I am a first born. I am not a risk taker. I have learned though that sometimes I need to move out of my comfort zone...whether I like it or not.
16. I took 5 years of Spanish classes through high school and college but really can’t speak it. Part of the reason is that I don’t use it regularly, the other reason is fear.
17. I learned to play the flute in 5th grade and played through middle school in the band. After many changes in band directors during that time, I gave up playing in school and played for the worship team at church.
18. I love to watch police, investigative TV shows, like CSI, NCIS and Law and Order. Maybe it’s in my blood (my dad was a police officer for 20 years).
19. Almost two years ago my husband made a change in his career…he was on staff at the same church for almost 10 years and we left there for him to pursue his dream to be a Chaplain in the U.S. Army. We no longer live near family, but 1500 miles away from them.
20. I am a single parent but happily married (deployment will do that to you).
21. My favorite nighttime snack is Homestyle Popcorn with a little bit of extra butter on it and a can of Pepsi.
22. I have four beautiful daughters, Marissa (11), Katelyn (8), Victoria (will be 4 soon), Breanna (2), who keep me on my toes..and laughing.
23. I love to help women become better mothers and wives through encouragement, teaching and sharing my experiences.
24. I do once a month cooking…though my freezer is a bit low on meals right now. Since the holidays and vacations are over, I need to start planning my next shopping trip.
25. Even though I am in the middle of a deployment, I am content where I am, learning to lean on God and trust Him for ALL things.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Deployment Update
I have been wanting to write about deployment, but have not had the time to put into my post, so today I will just give an update and hopefully finish what I want to write and post it next week.
Most, if not all military families will experience a deployment in their soldier's career in the military. Sometimes they last for week....or a few months.... to those lasting a year or longer. The manner in which a spouse or family approaches the deployment varies greatly. Some embrace the change to take place in their lives, while others are in denial that the deployment will or is happening to them.
The Army offers a vast number of resources available to soldiers and thier families to help them succeed through not only a deployment but military life in general. Unfortunately, most people are not aware of what is available to them.
We are facing this deployment with anticipation and embracing all that it has to offer...the good, the bad and the ugly. BUT our faith in God gives us hope that no matter we will face this next year, He will be with us, even if we are 7500 miles apart.
Trust in God today for whatever you may be facing. Know that He will not leave you or forsake you, but He is with you. Trust in His Word and promises! Sometimes I think I will never survive a year without my husband, but I need to look to God to fill the longing in my life and heart during this time. My husband is an added gift to my life and not all that I need..... GOD IS ALL THAT WE NEED!
Most, if not all military families will experience a deployment in their soldier's career in the military. Sometimes they last for week....or a few months.... to those lasting a year or longer. The manner in which a spouse or family approaches the deployment varies greatly. Some embrace the change to take place in their lives, while others are in denial that the deployment will or is happening to them.
The Army offers a vast number of resources available to soldiers and thier families to help them succeed through not only a deployment but military life in general. Unfortunately, most people are not aware of what is available to them.
We are facing this deployment with anticipation and embracing all that it has to offer...the good, the bad and the ugly. BUT our faith in God gives us hope that no matter we will face this next year, He will be with us, even if we are 7500 miles apart.
Trust in God today for whatever you may be facing. Know that He will not leave you or forsake you, but He is with you. Trust in His Word and promises! Sometimes I think I will never survive a year without my husband, but I need to look to God to fill the longing in my life and heart during this time. My husband is an added gift to my life and not all that I need..... GOD IS ALL THAT WE NEED!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
He's in the Sandbox
Just wanted to let you know that Angel has made it to the "Sandbox". All is safe and well with the "kids". Thank you for your prayers! We will covet them this next year.
Once I have a address for snail mail, I will forward that to those who are interested. Be blessed!
Once I have a address for snail mail, I will forward that to those who are interested. Be blessed!
Saturday, January 10, 2009
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