Today is the official last day of my service as leader of Heart 2 Heart Women's Ministry. I have been so pleased and honored to have been the Lord's servant for these past ten years. I want to thank all of you who have supported and encouraged me over the years, and I especially want to thank those in leadership (both of the church and of the women's ministry) who have trusted me to lead this important ministry. I appreciate the assistance of the women who have served with me in leadership, and know that none of what we've accomplished would have been possible without you.
As you may or may not know, I am being called into full-time employment in public education. I begin classes this week that will enable me to earn a teaching certificate in special education. I will begin substitute teaching in the local school district in a few weeks, so I will be unable to devote as much time as Heart 2 Heart deserves. I feel confident that God is calling a woman to leadership even now, and that the good work that has been going on in women's ministry at FBC The Colony will continue.
If you are a follower of this blog, rest assured that it will continue. I will be looking for team members to post articles and information here, and I will never be too far away. I will be sharing things from time to time, as well. In the meantime, I will be chronicling my journey as I enter a new season of life at my new blog http://www.jennifercottle.blogspot.com/. Already, God has provided the set up for an exciting adventure. I'll be sharing more about that soon in my new blog.
Thank you, again, for your support and encouragement, and may God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Why Women's Ministry Is Important
Very soon, I will be stepping down as women's ministry leader. I have been chronicling my return to full-time work in previous posts, so hopefully this will not come as a shock. As my tenure as leader comes to an end, I would like to post my speech to the ladies of FBC of The Colony. I gave this speech in January of this year, and call it my "Women's Ministry Manifesto."
Enjoy!
Why Women’s Ministry Is Important
By Jennifer Cottle
Ministry to women, just like any other ministry work, has its challenges. One of the most difficult aspects of ministry to women involves the misconceptions of those on the outside of women’s ministry. Oftentimes, those not involved in this type of ministry view women’s ministry as the ‘party planning committee’ or the ‘kitchen crew’. While fellowship and hospitality are often key aspects of ministry to women, these are not the only roles that women are limited to. No matter what area of ministry that you serve in, your service touches the lives of women. It is for this reason that I would like to share with you three reasons that women’s ministry is important in the life of the church.
First of all, Jesus ministered to women, and we should do as Jesus did. Remember that in Jesus’ time, it was unseemly for a rabbi to be seen with a woman. Women were to not to be taught God’s Word in the same way that men were. Boys went to school and studied the Torah, and girls stayed at home and learned to care for the home and the children. Jesus permitted women to not only serve Him in ministry, but to sit at His feet and learn the Scriptures! We are all familiar with the story of Mary and Martha in the Gospels. We know that Mary is praised for her desire to learn the Word of God. We also see that Martha is gently admonished for her worry and distractions. Martha is a model to women all over the world in that she heeds Jesus’ admonishment and later confesses His deity and her faith in Him as recorded in John 11:27. For me personally, I appreciate the story of the woman at the well in John 4. I like that Jesus took time to speak to a woman who was an outcast and who others looked down upon. He took the time to minister to her where she was, in her culture. He showed her the truth gently and without condemnation. By revealing Himself to be the Messiah to her, He allowed her to receive salvation. By showing her the sin in her life, He gave her the opportunity to repent. In turn, she ran—not walked—to the other people in her town in freedom and in victory declaring the coming of Christ. What a beautiful picture of how ministry works: We take a moment to relate to someone, we listen for their needs, and we share the Truth of the Gospel with them. The Gospel message frees and liberates those who receive it.
The second reason that women’s ministry is important is that in our culture, children exist within the context of women. When I was called at nineteen by God, I was called to work with children. It may surprise you to know this, as I have been serving in women’s ministry for ten years now. The realization that Bible study made me a better wife and mother came only shortly before I realized that I should share this realization with other women. That other women needed to be liberated from the same worries and fears that I had: Fears for the health, safety, and well-being of my husband and children. Just as Bible study gave me the wisdom to raise my children in the fear and admonition of the Lord, and it enabled me to give my husband good counsel, it could raise other women up no matter what their age, role, or cultural background. The truths found in God’s Word are timeless and priceless and are capable of helping us in whatever role that we may find ourselves in, and –better still—whatever predicament we may find ourselves in.
My professional career was spent in Early Childhood Intervention. What I found pretty quickly was that there is no better—or earlier—intervention than women’s ministry. Think about it: Children are born of women, raised by women, and taught by women, in general. We know that men are both necessary and integral in the lives of well-rounded children. However, practically speaking, men are not involved as often as women are in the daily lives of children. Whether a child is raised by his stay-at-home mother or grandmother or is cared for daily by a nanny or a child care worker, most likely the role of primary, day-to-day caregiver is being filled by a woman. When a child enters school, he will most likely be taught by a woman. Yes, there are male teachers. Yes, there are male administrators and coaches. But, the field of education is mostly filled by women. In essence, ministry to women makes for stronger children. This is why women’s ministry, preschool ministry, children’s ministry, and youth ministry should work together. Together, we make stronger families. We help to prevent divorce. When catastrophic things happen, we can help to empower moms and dads to manage them.
In the culture in which Jesus lived, the man was primarily responsible for the care and education of the child once he was weaned. Daughters stayed with their mothers, and the little boys learned the Scriptures from the rabbi and their vocation from their dads. In our time, boys and girls learn together in school. A boy learns to be a man under the watchful eye of a woman, and in the evenings and weekends with their dad—if he is able. Far too many homes are led by single moms. This means that women must fill in the gap for absent dads. When the world has not provided a father figure, the Lord has. As women in ministry to single parent homes, we can direct single moms to Jesus and can show them how God desires for men to be through His Word.
In no way am I suggesting that men’s ministry is not as important as women’s ministry. I am not saying that women are superior to men, either. I am simply acknowledging the reality of the world in which we live and am encouraging us to remember that we can make a difference in the lives of families.
The third reason that women’s ministry matters is that the world gives unrest to the hearts of women. Jesus said in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” The peace of Jesus gives peace to us. The world gives us unrest and discord.
A month or so ago, I was visiting with one of the teachers at preschool. She was sharing with me that she was not going to go to a women’s business club anymore. She related an unpleasant experience that she’d had at one of the meetings. As a stay-at-home mom, she was made to feel bad about her choice because she was not working full-time outside of the home. I cautioned her that she could not go to a worldly event and expect to receive validation there. The world does not give peace to us. Look around while you are at the mall or the grocery store. Look at the visuals as they are related to women: Thin, busty women with heavy make-up and revealing clothes. The magazine covers are gossipy and devalue the women that they sell to. Women’s pictures are airbrushed into impossible proportions and appear to be ageless. It is all lies, meant to steal our satisfaction, contentment, and joy. Television is no better. Satisfaction comes from career or sex. Commercials vacillate between food and weight loss ads. Women dance in bikinis on beer commercials, or they are seen dancing around their kitchen with a mop. News shows reveal a dark and scary world in which children are preyed upon—certainly this takes away our peace. But remember that Jesus said that we should not let our hearts be troubled and that we should not be afraid! How can a woman experience peace when there is so much unrest around her? By staying grounded in the Word of God. I receive so much comfort from God’s Word. The truth found there gives me hope and keeps me sane. My desires are put in their place when measured against the Bible. I can face the uncertainty of daily life when I am connected to God through prayer and His Word. You know what else keeps me grounded? The fellowship of other women! As a younger mom, I sought out the perspective of mature, godly women. They helped me to see that the trials with my children were only temporary. They gave me a sense of peace with their godly counsel and wise words.
If we are wise as women in ministry, we will bring hope to the hopeless. We will bind up the brokenhearted and set the captives free. Becky is bringing hope and freedom to the real-life captives through prison ministry. Celebrate Recovery seeks to bring hope to the hopeless. Divorce Care desires to bind up the brokenhearted. By the same token, for women in bondage to worry, fear, financial stress, past abuse, or simply to sin can be released from their shackles and can walk in victory through the blood of Jesus Christ.
Feminism has done a number on the hearts of women. Practically speaking, it has taught women that sexuality can be used casually or to get what we want. It has taught us that men and women are no different, or that women are superior to men. It has devalued our ability to bear children in a thousand different ways. It has taught women in our society that mothering has very little intrinsic value. Now, I realize that the rights to vote, for women to be able to work, and for women to have equal rights to men were won by the diligence and perseverance of women—many of them Christian women. However, I do not think that our foremothers ever intended for us to devalue the beautiful gift of femininity. Women’s ministry must also be about challenging the worldview of secular humanism and feminism. It must be about teaching women the truth, and showing them how that truth is practically applied to their lives. It must be about challenging the philosophies and ideologies of secular education, and it must be about revealing false prophets in the church. God’s Word is our Sword of the Spirit, and we must do battle.
We have a responsibility to the generations that are coming up behind us to teach them godly principles and to model for them virtue and truth. We must overcome our own strongholds and come alongside the girls who are in our church and community to teach them to be strong—strong in their faith and strong in their chastity. We must be unflinchingly honest about self-discipline, about character, and about true beauty. The pitfalls that lie before the girls in our church are many. The temptations that we faced as young women are nothing compared to the snares that are set for our daughters. However, if we work together, we can raise women who are like the Proverbs 31 wife. We can raise them up to be women of valor—women who can face adversity and can be discerning.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Enjoy!
Why Women’s Ministry Is Important
By Jennifer Cottle
Ministry to women, just like any other ministry work, has its challenges. One of the most difficult aspects of ministry to women involves the misconceptions of those on the outside of women’s ministry. Oftentimes, those not involved in this type of ministry view women’s ministry as the ‘party planning committee’ or the ‘kitchen crew’. While fellowship and hospitality are often key aspects of ministry to women, these are not the only roles that women are limited to. No matter what area of ministry that you serve in, your service touches the lives of women. It is for this reason that I would like to share with you three reasons that women’s ministry is important in the life of the church.
First of all, Jesus ministered to women, and we should do as Jesus did. Remember that in Jesus’ time, it was unseemly for a rabbi to be seen with a woman. Women were to not to be taught God’s Word in the same way that men were. Boys went to school and studied the Torah, and girls stayed at home and learned to care for the home and the children. Jesus permitted women to not only serve Him in ministry, but to sit at His feet and learn the Scriptures! We are all familiar with the story of Mary and Martha in the Gospels. We know that Mary is praised for her desire to learn the Word of God. We also see that Martha is gently admonished for her worry and distractions. Martha is a model to women all over the world in that she heeds Jesus’ admonishment and later confesses His deity and her faith in Him as recorded in John 11:27. For me personally, I appreciate the story of the woman at the well in John 4. I like that Jesus took time to speak to a woman who was an outcast and who others looked down upon. He took the time to minister to her where she was, in her culture. He showed her the truth gently and without condemnation. By revealing Himself to be the Messiah to her, He allowed her to receive salvation. By showing her the sin in her life, He gave her the opportunity to repent. In turn, she ran—not walked—to the other people in her town in freedom and in victory declaring the coming of Christ. What a beautiful picture of how ministry works: We take a moment to relate to someone, we listen for their needs, and we share the Truth of the Gospel with them. The Gospel message frees and liberates those who receive it.
The second reason that women’s ministry is important is that in our culture, children exist within the context of women. When I was called at nineteen by God, I was called to work with children. It may surprise you to know this, as I have been serving in women’s ministry for ten years now. The realization that Bible study made me a better wife and mother came only shortly before I realized that I should share this realization with other women. That other women needed to be liberated from the same worries and fears that I had: Fears for the health, safety, and well-being of my husband and children. Just as Bible study gave me the wisdom to raise my children in the fear and admonition of the Lord, and it enabled me to give my husband good counsel, it could raise other women up no matter what their age, role, or cultural background. The truths found in God’s Word are timeless and priceless and are capable of helping us in whatever role that we may find ourselves in, and –better still—whatever predicament we may find ourselves in.
My professional career was spent in Early Childhood Intervention. What I found pretty quickly was that there is no better—or earlier—intervention than women’s ministry. Think about it: Children are born of women, raised by women, and taught by women, in general. We know that men are both necessary and integral in the lives of well-rounded children. However, practically speaking, men are not involved as often as women are in the daily lives of children. Whether a child is raised by his stay-at-home mother or grandmother or is cared for daily by a nanny or a child care worker, most likely the role of primary, day-to-day caregiver is being filled by a woman. When a child enters school, he will most likely be taught by a woman. Yes, there are male teachers. Yes, there are male administrators and coaches. But, the field of education is mostly filled by women. In essence, ministry to women makes for stronger children. This is why women’s ministry, preschool ministry, children’s ministry, and youth ministry should work together. Together, we make stronger families. We help to prevent divorce. When catastrophic things happen, we can help to empower moms and dads to manage them.
In the culture in which Jesus lived, the man was primarily responsible for the care and education of the child once he was weaned. Daughters stayed with their mothers, and the little boys learned the Scriptures from the rabbi and their vocation from their dads. In our time, boys and girls learn together in school. A boy learns to be a man under the watchful eye of a woman, and in the evenings and weekends with their dad—if he is able. Far too many homes are led by single moms. This means that women must fill in the gap for absent dads. When the world has not provided a father figure, the Lord has. As women in ministry to single parent homes, we can direct single moms to Jesus and can show them how God desires for men to be through His Word.
In no way am I suggesting that men’s ministry is not as important as women’s ministry. I am not saying that women are superior to men, either. I am simply acknowledging the reality of the world in which we live and am encouraging us to remember that we can make a difference in the lives of families.
The third reason that women’s ministry matters is that the world gives unrest to the hearts of women. Jesus said in John 14:27, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” The peace of Jesus gives peace to us. The world gives us unrest and discord.
A month or so ago, I was visiting with one of the teachers at preschool. She was sharing with me that she was not going to go to a women’s business club anymore. She related an unpleasant experience that she’d had at one of the meetings. As a stay-at-home mom, she was made to feel bad about her choice because she was not working full-time outside of the home. I cautioned her that she could not go to a worldly event and expect to receive validation there. The world does not give peace to us. Look around while you are at the mall or the grocery store. Look at the visuals as they are related to women: Thin, busty women with heavy make-up and revealing clothes. The magazine covers are gossipy and devalue the women that they sell to. Women’s pictures are airbrushed into impossible proportions and appear to be ageless. It is all lies, meant to steal our satisfaction, contentment, and joy. Television is no better. Satisfaction comes from career or sex. Commercials vacillate between food and weight loss ads. Women dance in bikinis on beer commercials, or they are seen dancing around their kitchen with a mop. News shows reveal a dark and scary world in which children are preyed upon—certainly this takes away our peace. But remember that Jesus said that we should not let our hearts be troubled and that we should not be afraid! How can a woman experience peace when there is so much unrest around her? By staying grounded in the Word of God. I receive so much comfort from God’s Word. The truth found there gives me hope and keeps me sane. My desires are put in their place when measured against the Bible. I can face the uncertainty of daily life when I am connected to God through prayer and His Word. You know what else keeps me grounded? The fellowship of other women! As a younger mom, I sought out the perspective of mature, godly women. They helped me to see that the trials with my children were only temporary. They gave me a sense of peace with their godly counsel and wise words.
If we are wise as women in ministry, we will bring hope to the hopeless. We will bind up the brokenhearted and set the captives free. Becky is bringing hope and freedom to the real-life captives through prison ministry. Celebrate Recovery seeks to bring hope to the hopeless. Divorce Care desires to bind up the brokenhearted. By the same token, for women in bondage to worry, fear, financial stress, past abuse, or simply to sin can be released from their shackles and can walk in victory through the blood of Jesus Christ.
Feminism has done a number on the hearts of women. Practically speaking, it has taught women that sexuality can be used casually or to get what we want. It has taught us that men and women are no different, or that women are superior to men. It has devalued our ability to bear children in a thousand different ways. It has taught women in our society that mothering has very little intrinsic value. Now, I realize that the rights to vote, for women to be able to work, and for women to have equal rights to men were won by the diligence and perseverance of women—many of them Christian women. However, I do not think that our foremothers ever intended for us to devalue the beautiful gift of femininity. Women’s ministry must also be about challenging the worldview of secular humanism and feminism. It must be about teaching women the truth, and showing them how that truth is practically applied to their lives. It must be about challenging the philosophies and ideologies of secular education, and it must be about revealing false prophets in the church. God’s Word is our Sword of the Spirit, and we must do battle.
We have a responsibility to the generations that are coming up behind us to teach them godly principles and to model for them virtue and truth. We must overcome our own strongholds and come alongside the girls who are in our church and community to teach them to be strong—strong in their faith and strong in their chastity. We must be unflinchingly honest about self-discipline, about character, and about true beauty. The pitfalls that lie before the girls in our church are many. The temptations that we faced as young women are nothing compared to the snares that are set for our daughters. However, if we work together, we can raise women who are like the Proverbs 31 wife. We can raise them up to be women of valor—women who can face adversity and can be discerning.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Fall Retreat Preview Part 2
In my last post, I gave you a sneak peek at Lakeview Conference Center, specifically the areas that we will be staying in. Earlier this year, I held a women's ministry leadership conference where I received some excellent feedback regarding the fall retreat. I was pleased to hear from some of the ladies who attended last year that they wanted to have more opportunities for strenuous activities at the retreat, as well as quiet, restful places to stay. In keeping with this, our retreat this year will feature opportunities for those of you who are more, um, adventurous. Interested? Check out the climbing wall in the activity center:
Do you see the running/walking track that goes around the perimeter of the gym? How about a closer view:
Perhaps you'd like to do a little cardio with the girls on Saturday. Jennifer Nelson is planning to lead us in a work-out designed to get the heart rate up. We'll be taking classes in the room across the hall:
There's more: Friday night will feature a hayride down to the campfire across from the lake, after our introductory Bible lesson. We'll do our usual songs and roasted marshmallows by the light of the fire. I promised everyone that we would do the Bedtime Blessing again this year.
On Saturday, we'll have breakfast at 8:00, then head over to our conference room for worship and our first session, Trust and Friendship, led by Monica Richardson. We'll take a break and come back for our second session, Healthy Relationships & Expectations, led by Chelli Morrison.
For our afternoon free time, you'll have lots of options: A crafts workshop led by Kassy Alexander, a workout led by Jennifer Nelson, rock wall climbing (by reservation only), or swimming at the indoor pool from 2-4. Of course, you are always welcome to play games, read, or take a nap. : )
After dinner on Saturday, we'll have our third session, Unity in the Church & Friendship, led by ME! : ) We'll be trying something new for our ministry afterwards: A time of confession and renouncing, led by Monica. I'm looking forward to seeing how the Spirit moves this year!
Spaces are filling up, so I encourage you to sign up soon. We've had a lot of fun the past few years, and friendships have developed as a result of the time spent with one another at past retreats. This year's focus will be on friendship specifically, so I know that we will all be blessed by strengthened friendships and new friendships.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
A Sneak Peek at the Fall Retreat!
Yesterday, Jennifer Nelson, Allison Perry, and me and three of my children went down to Lakeview Conference Center in Waxahachie. This is the site of our Heart 2 Heart Women's Ministry fall retreat. For the past three years, we have gone to Prothro Center in Pottsboro, but I found this facility a couple of years ago and had wanted to try it out. We went to check out our rooms and the amenities of the facility, and we were not disappointed. One of the comments that we heard from the ladies in the past is that they wanted more outdoor/physical activities. I am pleased to report that we will have lots of activities for those of you who want more physical challenges. For those of you who want to relax and take a nap--well, those rooms are pretty nice, too!
Let's start our tour, shall we?
Want more? In my next post, I'll preview some of the outdoor areas and the activity center. I'll also give you a little more information on what we'll have going on at the retreat. Don't forget to register! We are over half full already. The retreat will be October 8-10, so the weather should be nice. Even if it isn't, we'll still have lots of options. To register, simply sign up at the women's ministry bulletin board in the main hallway near the restrooms. You can also pick up a registration form at the welcome center. Or, contact me and I will send you the forms you need. Don't miss it!
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Let's start our tour, shall we?
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| This is McDonnell Lodge, where we will be staying. We will also be having our lessons in the Lone Star room on the second floor. You'll register here, in the common room directly across from those main doors you see under the porte cochere'. |
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| Here is one view of the common room. You'll notice a kitchen to the right of the television, in case you'd like a little snack. |
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| Jesse and Lily have graciously offered to model in one of the rooms, to show you the comfort of the beds. As you can see, the rooms have queen size beds, so if you plan to share with more than one friend, make sure you're ok with sharing a bed. : ) |
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Hungry? This is Bridges Dining Hall, where we will be enjoying our meals together.  |
Want more? In my next post, I'll preview some of the outdoor areas and the activity center. I'll also give you a little more information on what we'll have going on at the retreat. Don't forget to register! We are over half full already. The retreat will be October 8-10, so the weather should be nice. Even if it isn't, we'll still have lots of options. To register, simply sign up at the women's ministry bulletin board in the main hallway near the restrooms. You can also pick up a registration form at the welcome center. Or, contact me and I will send you the forms you need. Don't miss it!
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Friday, July 23, 2010
Serving With Love--and a Smile
"If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing." 1 Corinthians 13:3.
I was just blessed. Not in the usual way--not by someone giving me a gift or telling me something encouraging. I saw something that blessed me greatly, because it blessed the Lord. Today, the kids came back from youth camp, and I went to the church to pick them up and to participate in the parent meeting that always occurs after the kids return. After the meeting, my children and I left to go get some lunch. On the way out, I passed by Becky Boydston, who was bringing in the food and supplies for the church breakfast this Sunday morning. Some of the young men were helping her unload the things to take into the kitchen, and as I sat in my car to prepare to leave, I saw the most extraordinary thing: She was beaming--smiling radiantly--as she unloaded the eggs and fresh fruit. She had obviously just been to a warehouse store and had bought blueberries, strawberries, and cantaloupe, and the biggest box of eggs I've seen, among other things. And yet, I could tell that she was so happy to be serving the Lord. She was happy to be shopping and preparing for our breakfast! Love was all over Becky as she was working, and her countenance conveyed it.
Now, why did this bless me? Because I have seen--too often--folks serving in the church with an unhappy, unloving attitude. It is clear from their words, actions, and countenance that their service to the church is a chore. 1 Corinthians 13:3 tells us that if we give away everything that we have to feed the hungry and surrender our bodies to death for any other reason but for love, that we gain nothing. All of our service, all of our surrender, means nothing if we don't have love. Unfortunately, the people that we serve see when we don't love them, and that is a dire thing, indeed.
As wives and mothers, our mission fields are often our homes. How many of us can honestly say that we shop for necessities and prepare meals with a loving attitude and a radiant countenance? Well, Becky's attitude is convicting to me, as well as a blessing to me. I should always be a smiling, shining example of God's love--most especially to the people who are most precious to me, my family. I pray that when I am shopping and when I am preparing, that I will radiate God's love. I pray that when I am serving, others will see the love of God all over me and will feel it from me, as well.
If you haven't heard, this Sunday, July 25, we will be having breakfast from 8:30 to 8:50. Please come and have fellowship with us, and bring a friend. Becky is working hard on the breakfast, so be sure and give her a word of encouragement when you see her. Smile when you say your good word. I guarantee she'll smile back.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
I was just blessed. Not in the usual way--not by someone giving me a gift or telling me something encouraging. I saw something that blessed me greatly, because it blessed the Lord. Today, the kids came back from youth camp, and I went to the church to pick them up and to participate in the parent meeting that always occurs after the kids return. After the meeting, my children and I left to go get some lunch. On the way out, I passed by Becky Boydston, who was bringing in the food and supplies for the church breakfast this Sunday morning. Some of the young men were helping her unload the things to take into the kitchen, and as I sat in my car to prepare to leave, I saw the most extraordinary thing: She was beaming--smiling radiantly--as she unloaded the eggs and fresh fruit. She had obviously just been to a warehouse store and had bought blueberries, strawberries, and cantaloupe, and the biggest box of eggs I've seen, among other things. And yet, I could tell that she was so happy to be serving the Lord. She was happy to be shopping and preparing for our breakfast! Love was all over Becky as she was working, and her countenance conveyed it.
Now, why did this bless me? Because I have seen--too often--folks serving in the church with an unhappy, unloving attitude. It is clear from their words, actions, and countenance that their service to the church is a chore. 1 Corinthians 13:3 tells us that if we give away everything that we have to feed the hungry and surrender our bodies to death for any other reason but for love, that we gain nothing. All of our service, all of our surrender, means nothing if we don't have love. Unfortunately, the people that we serve see when we don't love them, and that is a dire thing, indeed.
As wives and mothers, our mission fields are often our homes. How many of us can honestly say that we shop for necessities and prepare meals with a loving attitude and a radiant countenance? Well, Becky's attitude is convicting to me, as well as a blessing to me. I should always be a smiling, shining example of God's love--most especially to the people who are most precious to me, my family. I pray that when I am shopping and when I am preparing, that I will radiate God's love. I pray that when I am serving, others will see the love of God all over me and will feel it from me, as well.
If you haven't heard, this Sunday, July 25, we will be having breakfast from 8:30 to 8:50. Please come and have fellowship with us, and bring a friend. Becky is working hard on the breakfast, so be sure and give her a word of encouragement when you see her. Smile when you say your good word. I guarantee she'll smile back.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
The reason for my absence...
It's been over a month since I posted on this blog, and I've been thinking about why. Because a blog is public, I have to be cautious about what I post. For the past few months, our family has been going through a significant amount of stress. I know that God is using all of the circumstances to bring us closer to the likeness of Jesus. I often meditate on God's goodness and His Word as these relate to what we have been experiencing. It would be wonderful to share the lessons that God is teaching me, but sometimes the circumstances of our situation are too personal to share. I live my life as an open book--hopefully, leading others to Christ. Unfortunately, there are some things that can't be shared publicly.
I am prepared to say in this blog that God is moving me in a new direction. Presently, I am studying for a test that I will be taking for admission to a teacher certification program. I hope to work in Special Education for the public school system. This will help out our family in a number of ways, most notably, the added source of income. I have been out of the professional working world for over fourteen years. I am looking forward to this new adventure and to the things that God will be showing me in the months to come.
What does this mean for Heart 2 Heart Women's Ministry? Well, the good news is that there are several ladies who are committed to seeing the ministry continue. We have Bible studies ongoing this summer, and our fall retreat plans are underway. (This year's retreat is October 8-10 at Lakeview Conference Center in Waxahachie.) I will not be unavailable, but I will be less able to direct the affairs of the ministry. Pray for God to raise up a woman to take over the reigns of the ministry so that I can concentrate on the needs of my family and the new career.
May God's richest blessings pour over you,
Jennifer
I am prepared to say in this blog that God is moving me in a new direction. Presently, I am studying for a test that I will be taking for admission to a teacher certification program. I hope to work in Special Education for the public school system. This will help out our family in a number of ways, most notably, the added source of income. I have been out of the professional working world for over fourteen years. I am looking forward to this new adventure and to the things that God will be showing me in the months to come.
What does this mean for Heart 2 Heart Women's Ministry? Well, the good news is that there are several ladies who are committed to seeing the ministry continue. We have Bible studies ongoing this summer, and our fall retreat plans are underway. (This year's retreat is October 8-10 at Lakeview Conference Center in Waxahachie.) I will not be unavailable, but I will be less able to direct the affairs of the ministry. Pray for God to raise up a woman to take over the reigns of the ministry so that I can concentrate on the needs of my family and the new career.
May God's richest blessings pour over you,
Jennifer
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Happy Mother's Day!
I have been blessed with a wonderful mother. She is a godly, Christian woman who taught me the true meaning of perseverance and love. She was always willing to go to bat for my brother and I, and I love that it taught me that I was worth fighting for. She has always been a hard worker, and has modelled for me the noble wife of Proverbs 31. Now that I am grown, I am proud to call her my friend.
Mom broke her wrist two days ago, so I am sending her extra special prayers and wishes for a quick recovery. I spoke with her this afternoon, and she didn't sound like she was hurting too much. Pray that she will have her wrist set without too much trouble.
I have also been blessed with godly grandmothers. My paternal grandmother went home to be with the Lord in November, 2005. I still miss her, but am grateful for all her love and good counsel. She was a wonderful lady, and I am grateful for her encouragement throughout my life. I wish she were here to know her great-granddaughter!
My maternal grandmother is 98, and she taught me to sew. I thank God for her everytime I sew, because she taught me something that has brought me so much joy. I have to also give my mom credit for teaching me to read patterns and to cut out fabric, too. I have definitely been blessed by the creativity of my mom and grandmothers. They taught me so much, and now I am teaching my own children. The legacy continues.
I love you, Mom and Mamaw, and thank God for you!
"Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." Proverbs 31:28-29.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Mom broke her wrist two days ago, so I am sending her extra special prayers and wishes for a quick recovery. I spoke with her this afternoon, and she didn't sound like she was hurting too much. Pray that she will have her wrist set without too much trouble.
I have also been blessed with godly grandmothers. My paternal grandmother went home to be with the Lord in November, 2005. I still miss her, but am grateful for all her love and good counsel. She was a wonderful lady, and I am grateful for her encouragement throughout my life. I wish she were here to know her great-granddaughter!
My maternal grandmother is 98, and she taught me to sew. I thank God for her everytime I sew, because she taught me something that has brought me so much joy. I have to also give my mom credit for teaching me to read patterns and to cut out fabric, too. I have definitely been blessed by the creativity of my mom and grandmothers. They taught me so much, and now I am teaching my own children. The legacy continues.
I love you, Mom and Mamaw, and thank God for you!
"Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all." Proverbs 31:28-29.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Monday, April 26, 2010
Serve Well
Yesterday, my husband, Brian, and four other men from the church were ordained to serve as deacons. The charge put forth by the pastors was to "Serve well." Part of serving well is emptying oneself of all pride. The pastors washed the feet of the deacons to be ordained, and Brian said it was a very humbling experience. It was a tremendous honor to have the pastors serve them in such an intimate and humble way.
For myself, the ordination service was an emotional time. Brian and the other men shared their extraordinary testimonies of how they came to believe in Jesus as their Lord and Savior. To me, it would be impossible not to believe in God after hearing the ways that God saved each man. When it came time for the ordained men of the church to lay hands and pray over the deacon candidates, my dad got to participate in Brian's ordination. My dad was ordained as a deacon over twenty years ago at our home church in Waco, TX. This was so special to our family, and it was difficult to keep from crying. In fact, none of my pictures of my dad and Brian during this portion of the ordination are clear--all are blurry.
I had hoped to post pictures this evening of the ordination service, but tonight my computer refuses to load the pictures. Perhaps I will be able to tomorrow...
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Monday, March 29, 2010
Jesus Clears the Temple
"And as he taught them, he said, "Is it not written: 'My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations'? But you have made it 'a den of robbers.'" Mark 11:17.
Yesterday was Palm Sunday, the anniversary of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, and the beginning of what is known as Passion Week. Passion Week is the week leading up to Jesus' crucifixion (commemorated on Good Friday) which culminates with Resurrection Sunday, or Easter. As I am preparing myself for the holiday, I am spending time in the Gospel of Mark, reading about the events of Passion Week. Today I read Mark 11:12-19, which corresponds to the Monday before his crucifixion. As I was reading, I was struck by the passage from Isaiah that Jesus quotes in verse 17. It is an interesting dichotomy: A teaching vandal. Jesus is overturning the tables of the money changers and the benches of the people selling doves for sacrifice in the court of the Gentiles. This was an area reserved for Gentiles (non-Jews) to enter the temple. The Jews had allowed this area to become a noisy, smelly marketplace. Jesus was rebuking the Jews and was teaching the people that God had intended to make a place for the foreigners to worship God, a 'house of prayer for all nations.'
Isaiah 56:6-7 says: "And foreigners who bind themselves to the LORD to serve him, to love the name of the LORD, and to worship him, all who keep the Sabbath without desecrating it and who hold fast to my covenant--these I will bring to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations." Essentially, Jesus is revealing not only that the temple of God has been defiled, He is showing that the Gentiles are being shut out of the blessing. They are not being shown God's love or His offer of protection and acceptance. They are being taken advantage of in this context.
I love that Jesus is disciplining His people and revealing the truth of God's Word to the Gentiles. What does God's Word reveal as the response of the people? They are 'amazed at his teaching' (v. 18). This fits in very nicely with the topic of suffering that we learned about at this past weekend's Bible conference. Suffering has purpose, and sometimes, that purpose is discipline.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Yesterday was Palm Sunday, the anniversary of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, and the beginning of what is known as Passion Week. Passion Week is the week leading up to Jesus' crucifixion (commemorated on Good Friday) which culminates with Resurrection Sunday, or Easter. As I am preparing myself for the holiday, I am spending time in the Gospel of Mark, reading about the events of Passion Week. Today I read Mark 11:12-19, which corresponds to the Monday before his crucifixion. As I was reading, I was struck by the passage from Isaiah that Jesus quotes in verse 17. It is an interesting dichotomy: A teaching vandal. Jesus is overturning the tables of the money changers and the benches of the people selling doves for sacrifice in the court of the Gentiles. This was an area reserved for Gentiles (non-Jews) to enter the temple. The Jews had allowed this area to become a noisy, smelly marketplace. Jesus was rebuking the Jews and was teaching the people that God had intended to make a place for the foreigners to worship God, a 'house of prayer for all nations.'
Isaiah 56:6-7 says: "And foreigners who bind themselves to the LORD to serve him, to love the name of the LORD, and to worship him, all who keep the Sabbath without desecrating it and who hold fast to my covenant--these I will bring to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations." Essentially, Jesus is revealing not only that the temple of God has been defiled, He is showing that the Gentiles are being shut out of the blessing. They are not being shown God's love or His offer of protection and acceptance. They are being taken advantage of in this context.
I love that Jesus is disciplining His people and revealing the truth of God's Word to the Gentiles. What does God's Word reveal as the response of the people? They are 'amazed at his teaching' (v. 18). This fits in very nicely with the topic of suffering that we learned about at this past weekend's Bible conference. Suffering has purpose, and sometimes, that purpose is discipline.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Training a Younger Princess
I was watching the movie The Princess Diaries this evening. I had seen the movie before, as had my older children. However, the youngest two had not. Lily was intrigued by the story of the young, awkward misfit who finds that she is truly a princess of a far-off land. Being only 4, she does not yet understand the intricacies of the story--why the popular girls are cruel to the main character, Mia, and why Mia cries when the boy she likes is unkind to her. What she did understand was the transformation that Mia undergoes as her grandmother, the Queen of Genovia, teaches her to be a princess. She liked the scene in which the hairdresser reveals the lovely, made-over Mia.
In the movie, Mia wants to hide from the people around her so she carries herself in such a way that no one will notice her. It works very well until her new-found identity is revealed. Her grandmother teaches her how to behave politely, how to stand and sit correctly, and how to carry herself like a lady. I found myself overcome with emotion at a key moment in the movie: The queen introduces her newly crowned princess to the rulers of the world at a lavish ball. As the two ladies enter the room, the queen extends her gloved arm to Mia, who places her hand atop her grandmother's. The queen escorts the princess into the room, and they both smile at one another as they make their grand entrance. I actually teared up!
Why did this scene affect me so? Perhaps it is because of the young princess-in-training sitting close to my right watching with me. I feel a sense of responsibility to teach Lily how to carry herself and how to be brave. I hope that I am teaching her well. I think that it also hit me how important it is for the older generation to lead and guide the younger. I have begun mentoring a young lady that I have known for several years. She has recently been married, and approached me to mentor her. To prepare for this, I began reading Titus 2:3-5. I am teaching her to love her husband, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to her husband so that no one will malign the word of God. It is rewarding to see how the Lord is working in both of our lives through this relationship. I think that the movie reminded me of something precious that is often not shared: Wisdom. As I saw the queen regard her granddaughter, I was struck by the truth and beauty displayed in such a simple scene. When an older woman invests her time and wisdom in a younger woman, the young daughter of the King benefits greatly.
I benefitted from the godly wisdom of my mother, grandmothers and older mentors in church. No matter who you are, you will benefit from a mentoring relationship--whether you are the mentor, or the one being mentored.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
In the movie, Mia wants to hide from the people around her so she carries herself in such a way that no one will notice her. It works very well until her new-found identity is revealed. Her grandmother teaches her how to behave politely, how to stand and sit correctly, and how to carry herself like a lady. I found myself overcome with emotion at a key moment in the movie: The queen introduces her newly crowned princess to the rulers of the world at a lavish ball. As the two ladies enter the room, the queen extends her gloved arm to Mia, who places her hand atop her grandmother's. The queen escorts the princess into the room, and they both smile at one another as they make their grand entrance. I actually teared up!
Why did this scene affect me so? Perhaps it is because of the young princess-in-training sitting close to my right watching with me. I feel a sense of responsibility to teach Lily how to carry herself and how to be brave. I hope that I am teaching her well. I think that it also hit me how important it is for the older generation to lead and guide the younger. I have begun mentoring a young lady that I have known for several years. She has recently been married, and approached me to mentor her. To prepare for this, I began reading Titus 2:3-5. I am teaching her to love her husband, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to her husband so that no one will malign the word of God. It is rewarding to see how the Lord is working in both of our lives through this relationship. I think that the movie reminded me of something precious that is often not shared: Wisdom. As I saw the queen regard her granddaughter, I was struck by the truth and beauty displayed in such a simple scene. When an older woman invests her time and wisdom in a younger woman, the young daughter of the King benefits greatly.
I benefitted from the godly wisdom of my mother, grandmothers and older mentors in church. No matter who you are, you will benefit from a mentoring relationship--whether you are the mentor, or the one being mentored.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Bluebonnets and hopscotch
As you can see, Lily had a ball!
Lily will be starting Kindergarten in the fall, which means that our days of fun together will be shortened considerably. I have enjoyed being at home with all of our children, and am curious to see what God has in store for me as our youngest child begins her education in the public school. God is good, and I am certain that He has big plans for me. In the meantime, I am remembering to "consider the lilies" as Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:25-32. Each day has enough trouble, and so there is no use worrying about what will happen months ahead. I find that this phase of my life requires great patience. I am learning to wait on the Lord, and to focus on each day and the joys and tasks that each one brings. Those who know me well know that I am a big planner. I am notorious for scheduling. These days, I find that I am scheduling minimally. I am learning to trust God for each day, and to plan only as much as necessary. The more I plan ahead, the more I discern that I am attempting to control the circumstances of my life. This "letting go" is very alien to me. However, a dear friend tells me that this surrender to God will bear much fruit in my life.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." Psalm 3:5-6
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Monday, March 22, 2010
Happy Spring!
The first day of spring here in The Colony brought with it cold, wind, and snow. Today, though, it is sunny and in the 60's. I love this time of year with its promise of sunshine and blooms. Examining my garden this afternoon, I noticed that the roses and blackberry vines are putting on new growth, and the peach trees are blooming. The fragrance of the peach tree blossoms is lovely, and I especially love that they hold the promise of fruit in the summer. Honestly, I've planted blackberries and peaches in the yard because I so love the cobblers that I make with the fruit. Mmmmm....just thinking of them makes my mouth water!
Last week, just before spring break, I planted bluebonnets in my front beds. When those are blooming, I will post pictures. I think this weekend I'll work on my vegetable beds. I am determined to get some tomatoes, peppers, and strawberries out this year. My husband is going to build me a new raised bed that I intend to fill with purple hull peas and okra.
I hope that you're enjoying the beautiful weather, and I hope that it reminds you of the Creator who spoke all things into being with His powerful Word.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Monday, March 1, 2010
Meditations on the Bylaws: Myths About Covenant
It has been some time since I have written, and I have been promising for some time that I would write on the myths about covenant that have been put forth in the process of introducing our work on the church's Constitution and Bylaws. As you may know, the church elected a Bylaws Team in August of 2008 to review our current Constitution and Bylaws and recommend changes. I serve on this team, and have written about how this came together in an earlier blog post. In the course of our work, we noticed that churches are utilizing covenants as a part of their membership process. Our church currently has one in our Bylaws, but our team proposed having a new membership covenant to be signed by prospective church members before they join the church. In our current draft of the Constitution, we have a place for a signature. The goal is to have prospective members be thoughtful about the commitment that they are about to make with regard to joining the church. My generation and younger have not had a good track record with regard to commitment; the proposed covenant outlines the expectations of church membership (praying for one another, attending, giving, and loving one another).
During the town hall meetings that we had in 2009 when we first introduced the proposed Constitution, I heard some folks express some misconceptions about the idea of covenant. I would like to dispel those here, and hope to encourage the members of our church to delve deeply in God's Word about covenant.
Myth #1: "My covenant is with God, throught Jesus Christ. I cannot enter into a covenant with anyone else."
Truth: It is true that our covenant with God is cut in Jesus, literally. The Hebrew word that we translate as "covenant" is beryth (which means "a compact made by passing between pieces of flesh")1. When this word is used to speak of an agreement between God and man, it is accompanied by signs, sacrifices, and a solemn oath that cements the relationship.2 Our bond with God has been made by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ--His precious blood poured out on our behalf and His miraculous resurrection from the dead. So, in essence, we do have a covenant with God. However, this covenant with God does not preclude making other covenants, or entering into covenant relationships. One may be a Christian and be married, for example. The wedding ceremony signifies a covenant that is enacted between a man and a woman. In addition, it is permissible for a person to enter into a covenant of friendship or loyalty, such as David and Jonathan did. This is recorded in 1 Samuel 18. 1 Samuel 18:3 says: "And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself." Jonathan agreed to look out for David and to be loyal to him. The next verses in chapter 18 reveal the aspects of the covenant ceremony and the implications for Jonathan: The giving of his robe, the giving of his tunic, the giving of his weapons--all meant to signify that Jonathan was willing to take on David's enemies; he would defend David. There is rich treasure in studying covenant, and how the covenants of the Bible reveal truths about the character of God. Our covenant relationships on earth should draw us closer to God, as well. In short, there is no Biblical restriction to Christian brothers and sisters entering into covenants with God's people.
Myth #2: "I can't keep a church covenant, and will fail, so I mustn't enter into one."
Truth: In our own power we can do nothing. We can do all things through Christ, who enables us to do them (Philippians 4:13). Will I make every effort to pray? Will I know what to pray? Of course, you will--through the power of the Holy Spirit! God is the might and the power of the universe. He gives us life, heals us, enables us, and is our provider. We diminish His might when we say, "I can't keep a covenant." This also reveals our lack of faith, and our own selfish tendencies. God is in control, and we can enter into a covenant or commitment to His Church because it is a righteous thing to do and He will enable us to carry out that commitment.
Myth #3: "I can't say 'I will pray' or "I will attend". I would rather say 'I will try to', or 'I will endeavor to'."
Truth: In the Bible, there are no covenants that the people of God enter into where God's people say "I will try..." in response to God's covenant promises. God's chosen people demonstrate for us a model with regard to our response to God: "I will." In Exodus 24, the Israelites confirm the covenant offered to them by God at Mt. Sinai by saying, "Everything that the LORD has said we will do (verse 3)". Either we will believe God, and do what He asks, or we don't, and we won't. Again, the idea is not that we are perfect, but that God will enable us to do great and righteous things for His Kingdom.
There is an element of faith in all that we do. We must believe that God is who He says He is and that He will do what He says He will do. Our faith is demonstrated in the commitments that we make and keep. If our actions and relationships are marked by fear and distrust, then we must examine our faith. We are not our own as Christians. We belong to God, and He expects us to love Him and one another. I hope that this brief treatise on covenant myths and truths has been informative and helpful to you.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
1Arthur, K. Our Covenant God (WaterBrook Press: Colorado Springs, Colorado, 1999), p. 31.
2Ibid.
During the town hall meetings that we had in 2009 when we first introduced the proposed Constitution, I heard some folks express some misconceptions about the idea of covenant. I would like to dispel those here, and hope to encourage the members of our church to delve deeply in God's Word about covenant.
Myth #1: "My covenant is with God, throught Jesus Christ. I cannot enter into a covenant with anyone else."
Truth: It is true that our covenant with God is cut in Jesus, literally. The Hebrew word that we translate as "covenant" is beryth (which means "a compact made by passing between pieces of flesh")1. When this word is used to speak of an agreement between God and man, it is accompanied by signs, sacrifices, and a solemn oath that cements the relationship.2 Our bond with God has been made by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ--His precious blood poured out on our behalf and His miraculous resurrection from the dead. So, in essence, we do have a covenant with God. However, this covenant with God does not preclude making other covenants, or entering into covenant relationships. One may be a Christian and be married, for example. The wedding ceremony signifies a covenant that is enacted between a man and a woman. In addition, it is permissible for a person to enter into a covenant of friendship or loyalty, such as David and Jonathan did. This is recorded in 1 Samuel 18. 1 Samuel 18:3 says: "And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself." Jonathan agreed to look out for David and to be loyal to him. The next verses in chapter 18 reveal the aspects of the covenant ceremony and the implications for Jonathan: The giving of his robe, the giving of his tunic, the giving of his weapons--all meant to signify that Jonathan was willing to take on David's enemies; he would defend David. There is rich treasure in studying covenant, and how the covenants of the Bible reveal truths about the character of God. Our covenant relationships on earth should draw us closer to God, as well. In short, there is no Biblical restriction to Christian brothers and sisters entering into covenants with God's people.
Myth #2: "I can't keep a church covenant, and will fail, so I mustn't enter into one."
Truth: In our own power we can do nothing. We can do all things through Christ, who enables us to do them (Philippians 4:13). Will I make every effort to pray? Will I know what to pray? Of course, you will--through the power of the Holy Spirit! God is the might and the power of the universe. He gives us life, heals us, enables us, and is our provider. We diminish His might when we say, "I can't keep a covenant." This also reveals our lack of faith, and our own selfish tendencies. God is in control, and we can enter into a covenant or commitment to His Church because it is a righteous thing to do and He will enable us to carry out that commitment.
Myth #3: "I can't say 'I will pray' or "I will attend". I would rather say 'I will try to', or 'I will endeavor to'."
Truth: In the Bible, there are no covenants that the people of God enter into where God's people say "I will try..." in response to God's covenant promises. God's chosen people demonstrate for us a model with regard to our response to God: "I will." In Exodus 24, the Israelites confirm the covenant offered to them by God at Mt. Sinai by saying, "Everything that the LORD has said we will do (verse 3)". Either we will believe God, and do what He asks, or we don't, and we won't. Again, the idea is not that we are perfect, but that God will enable us to do great and righteous things for His Kingdom.
There is an element of faith in all that we do. We must believe that God is who He says He is and that He will do what He says He will do. Our faith is demonstrated in the commitments that we make and keep. If our actions and relationships are marked by fear and distrust, then we must examine our faith. We are not our own as Christians. We belong to God, and He expects us to love Him and one another. I hope that this brief treatise on covenant myths and truths has been informative and helpful to you.
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
1Arthur, K. Our Covenant God (WaterBrook Press: Colorado Springs, Colorado, 1999), p. 31.
2Ibid.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Singing in the midst of the storm...
Today my sweet Lily spent the day in her new pink swimsuit. She danced happily around the house and sang little songs while I wrote away on the computer and answered the phone. The articles for our women's ministry e-newsletter needed to be done by noon, and I was woefully behind. My mind has been clouded by the turmoil that my husband has been experiencing at work lately. I alternated between writing and listening to my sweet little bird sing. She sings songs about Jesus while I pray for wisdom. She dances sweet dances to the music in her head, while I wonder if I am doing what I am supposed to, if my counsel to my husband is wise, and what will happen next. She dances, and I fret.
Oh, that I could praise God unfettered while the storm swirls around me! God is big and wise, and I am small.
Oh, that I could praise God unfettered while the storm swirls around me! God is big and wise, and I am small.
Dear Lord, forgive my anxious heart. Forgive my attempt to control the circumstances you place me in. Help me to dance to the rhythmn of the wind and the rain. I want to give you glory. I want to give you the praise that you deserve. Make me a servant who sings your praises, even when the thunder peals and the lightning rolls.
Your humble servant,
Jennifer
Monday, January 4, 2010
Meditations on the Bylaws: Thoughtless Words
In my last post on the Bylaws, I mentioned that I would be writing about some of the myths regarding covenant. I have been thinking a lot about this topic and am anxious to share my thoughts. However, another subject weighs heavy on my heart today, and I feel that I must share this, instead.
Surely, we all have heard words of major importance that have shaken the foundation of our well-being. Words like, "I'm so sorry, but she didn't make it," or "I'm so sorry, but it's cancer." For me, the top two phrases of heavy importance are, "I'm so sorry, but there is no heartbeat," from August 21, 2001. The other is from September 5, 2007: "Daddy's been run over by a tractor." Both sent me into an emotional tailspin, and I can still feel the weight of those words all these years later. Major life events change everything, but to a certain extent, we come to realize that these things are inevitable. We allow ourselves to acknowledge them and to process them in order to move on.
In 2009, one of the things that I learned with regard to words is that thoughtless words can have tremendous power. Jesus said in Matthew 12:36, "But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken." Certainly, I learned a long time ago that words can hurt, and I also learned to not take to heart the careless things that children and teenagers say. What I have seen over the last year; however, is how powerfully careless words affect others.
For example, I've learned that one disgruntled person has the ability to sway other people to their point of view. Passion can have a tremendous impact on how others feel and can spread like wildfire. Passion without reason is madness. I have heard some of the most impassioned, most heartfelt pleas from people that have had no basis in reason or logic--worse still, no basis in Scripture. I have learned to be very careful not to allow my emotion to sway my judgment. Practically speaking, what this means is that if I feel very emotional and impassioned, I wait before sending my e-mail response or before confronting someone until I have had an opportunity to calmly assess the situation. By the same token, trying to reason with someone who is overtaken and in the throes of emotion is an exercise in futility. It is better, when it is possible, to allow the impassioned person some time to "cool off".
Another thing that I have learned is that before we take sides in any situation we should:
1) Evaluate what Scripture has to say first, before we take sides. Consider the Apostle Paul's plea in Philippians 4:2: "I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord." Paul does not take sides with either woman; he implores them to agree with each other in the Lord. This is especially important in the church, because disagreement on an issue can lead to hurt feelings and even to dissension or factions. Disagreement on an issue is not wrong, but charity in all things is what we should strive towards. We must always remember that our testimony bears witness in the heavenlies (Ephesians 3:10).
2) Consider seriously the viewpoint of the one who has a complaint. It can never be assumed that members of the same church have the same view of things. The key to discerning a person's viewpoint is to examine how he or she feels about God's Word. Does he consider it to be infallible? Does she consider God's Word to be sufficient? Does he spend time in God's Word on a regular basis and pray regularly? Is the testimony of the person consistent with a humble follower of God?
3) Remember that Matthew 18:15-17 explains how to deal with conflict within the church. This is a very practical way to handle conflict, and should be remembered when one deals with a person bearing a grudge or complaint. As a fellow brother or sister in Christ, we must encourage those that we are in fellowship with to go and confront the person or persons that they are having problems with. Likewise, we may also encourage those who have hurt others to go and be reconciled to the ones they have hurt (Matthew 5:24).
4) Finally, it is wise to be cautious anytime one deals with another who bears a complaint. Most of the time, what I saw over the course of the last year were people who had genuine concerns for the spiritual well-being of the church and who wanted to see Christ glorified in our church. What concerned me greatly was seeing those few who did not seem to be interested in seeing Christ glorified, but who wanted to get their way--at any costs. This was evidenced by a focus on self--not a desire to see what God wants but an insistence on what is wanted by "me".
For myself, I evaluate the motivation and the meaning behind the messages that I hear. If someone tells me their opinion, I tend to evaluate their words and look for the meaning behind them. It is one of the keys to success in ministry, because oftentimes it is possible to hear hurt or bitterness in the words of another person. Fear, anger, and hatred are often masked with words of control and manipulation. It is possible to hear beyond the words that are spoken in order to plumb the depths of the heart.
In my next post on the Bylaws, I will discuss the myths about covenant. In the meantime, stay rooted in God's Word, which will help you to stay rooted in God's love. It is difficult to be swayed by careless words when you are strengthened and armed by the sword of the Spirit (Galatians 6:17).
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
Surely, we all have heard words of major importance that have shaken the foundation of our well-being. Words like, "I'm so sorry, but she didn't make it," or "I'm so sorry, but it's cancer." For me, the top two phrases of heavy importance are, "I'm so sorry, but there is no heartbeat," from August 21, 2001. The other is from September 5, 2007: "Daddy's been run over by a tractor." Both sent me into an emotional tailspin, and I can still feel the weight of those words all these years later. Major life events change everything, but to a certain extent, we come to realize that these things are inevitable. We allow ourselves to acknowledge them and to process them in order to move on.
In 2009, one of the things that I learned with regard to words is that thoughtless words can have tremendous power. Jesus said in Matthew 12:36, "But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken." Certainly, I learned a long time ago that words can hurt, and I also learned to not take to heart the careless things that children and teenagers say. What I have seen over the last year; however, is how powerfully careless words affect others.
For example, I've learned that one disgruntled person has the ability to sway other people to their point of view. Passion can have a tremendous impact on how others feel and can spread like wildfire. Passion without reason is madness. I have heard some of the most impassioned, most heartfelt pleas from people that have had no basis in reason or logic--worse still, no basis in Scripture. I have learned to be very careful not to allow my emotion to sway my judgment. Practically speaking, what this means is that if I feel very emotional and impassioned, I wait before sending my e-mail response or before confronting someone until I have had an opportunity to calmly assess the situation. By the same token, trying to reason with someone who is overtaken and in the throes of emotion is an exercise in futility. It is better, when it is possible, to allow the impassioned person some time to "cool off".
Another thing that I have learned is that before we take sides in any situation we should:
1) Evaluate what Scripture has to say first, before we take sides. Consider the Apostle Paul's plea in Philippians 4:2: "I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord." Paul does not take sides with either woman; he implores them to agree with each other in the Lord. This is especially important in the church, because disagreement on an issue can lead to hurt feelings and even to dissension or factions. Disagreement on an issue is not wrong, but charity in all things is what we should strive towards. We must always remember that our testimony bears witness in the heavenlies (Ephesians 3:10).
2) Consider seriously the viewpoint of the one who has a complaint. It can never be assumed that members of the same church have the same view of things. The key to discerning a person's viewpoint is to examine how he or she feels about God's Word. Does he consider it to be infallible? Does she consider God's Word to be sufficient? Does he spend time in God's Word on a regular basis and pray regularly? Is the testimony of the person consistent with a humble follower of God?
3) Remember that Matthew 18:15-17 explains how to deal with conflict within the church. This is a very practical way to handle conflict, and should be remembered when one deals with a person bearing a grudge or complaint. As a fellow brother or sister in Christ, we must encourage those that we are in fellowship with to go and confront the person or persons that they are having problems with. Likewise, we may also encourage those who have hurt others to go and be reconciled to the ones they have hurt (Matthew 5:24).
4) Finally, it is wise to be cautious anytime one deals with another who bears a complaint. Most of the time, what I saw over the course of the last year were people who had genuine concerns for the spiritual well-being of the church and who wanted to see Christ glorified in our church. What concerned me greatly was seeing those few who did not seem to be interested in seeing Christ glorified, but who wanted to get their way--at any costs. This was evidenced by a focus on self--not a desire to see what God wants but an insistence on what is wanted by "me".
For myself, I evaluate the motivation and the meaning behind the messages that I hear. If someone tells me their opinion, I tend to evaluate their words and look for the meaning behind them. It is one of the keys to success in ministry, because oftentimes it is possible to hear hurt or bitterness in the words of another person. Fear, anger, and hatred are often masked with words of control and manipulation. It is possible to hear beyond the words that are spoken in order to plumb the depths of the heart.
In my next post on the Bylaws, I will discuss the myths about covenant. In the meantime, stay rooted in God's Word, which will help you to stay rooted in God's love. It is difficult to be swayed by careless words when you are strengthened and armed by the sword of the Spirit (Galatians 6:17).
May God's richest blessings flow over you,
Jennifer
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