April 22, 2009 by Kelly.

Not to long ago our pastor spoke on taking up our cross, so I found it interesting when my personal studies at the time took me to the book of Jonah.

Back in Old Testament times, there were specific people called by God to be prophets. These guys heard God’s voice plainly (how I long for that!) and everyone knew it– being a prophet was their occupation. As a prophet, they said “no” to self and gave up their Right of Ownership to their own lives. Prophets received plenty of rejection, from kings, political leaders, and people in their community. They knew it wouldn’t be easy to be a prophet, and they knew they wouldn’t be the most popular person at times. Prophets surrendered all they had to God.

Jonah was a prophet in spirit and occupation. But, one day he decided to quit…

Imagine you have a vile, mean neighbor. For some of you that may not be too hard to imagine. This neighbor kicks his dog, screams at his children, let’s his trash blow into your yard, and calls the police whenever you have company and your guests park in front of his house. We won’t even talk about the language he uses, the pictures he has in his garage (which is often open) or the type of trash that is blowing into your yard.

One day, during your quiet time, as you read your Bible, a thought occurs to you: “Tell your neighbor about Me.”

“Excuse me?”

“Tell your neighbor about Me.”

“Oh, Lord, anything but that! I’ll serve in a soup kitchen, I’ll paint the homeless shelter, I’ll even pass out tracts on the street corner, but don’t make me talk to my neighbor!”

“I love him, just like I love you. Tell him about Me so he has the opportunity to repent.”

“Love him? Lord, are we talking about the same guy?!”

“Tell him about Me.”

And so the conversation goes, with you giving excuses and God persisting in His command to tell. Do you talk to your neighbor, or do you avoid the chair where you were sitting the day you heard God’s command?

Jonah chose to run away. Nineveh was full of evil people. I haven’t looked into it, but it’s been suggested that the people of Nineveh would partake in the destruction of Israel at a later time–Jonah knew this and wanted God to condemn them now so they wouldn’t have the chance to destroy Israel.

No, Jonah didn’t like the people of Nineveh. He didn’t want them to have the opportunity to repent and be saved. He was so full of hatred for them he failed to see them through God’s eyes. God loved them. He didn’t like how they lived, but he loved them nonetheless. He wanted them to repent and be saved, and He told Jonah to go and cry out against them.

You know what happens next. Jonah flees. He quits his job as prophet and hops a boat for Tarshish. But, God wants Nineveh to hear of Him, so He whips up a storm. Jonah does a little repenting himself and offers himself as a sacrifice to the sea. He’s thrown overboard, and the waves calm. Jonah sinks into the depths of the waters… probably thinking, this is my punishment–death. But God still wants Nineveh saved, so he sends a fish to swallow Jonah and thus begins a three day “time out.”

Can you imagine the conversation Jonah has with himself in the belly of that fish?! When he realizes he’s alive, he probably figures he’ll get out of the fish real quick. As time goes on (and remember, there’s no light in there, so he has no way of keeping track of time) and he realizes that he may be in the fish for awhile, perhaps he started bargaining with God.

Eventually, Jonah gets it through his head that he is a prophet, a job given to him by God. He cannot run away from God. When God wants something done, He makes it happen! Thus Jonah came to the point where he surrendered his life–again–to God. He submits to God’s will for his life, and after getting out of the fish he goes on to Nineveh and the people repent.

Are you waiting for a fish to swallow you? What has God told you to do lately that you just don’t want to do? Perhaps God has asked you to give of your time to a particular church Ministry. Perhaps He wants you to pray daily for the participants of a Mission Project. Perhaps He wants you to get involved in the lives of those in your Sunday school class, or your children’s Sunday school class. Perhaps you play an instrument or sing and He wants you to join the Worship Team.

Maybe God just wants you to smile at somebody. Smile, say “hello,” and be Jesus to someone. Maybe it’s your neighbor. Maybe it’s someone at work or the store. Maybe it’s someone you’ve never seen before in church.

Take that step. Reach out. Because if God wants you to do this, and you don’t do it, the step you take in the opposite direction could lead to a fish!

Posted in Devotions | 1 Comment »

April 15, 2009 by Kelly.

It always amazes me when God weaves together a lesson, a sermon, and my own studies of His Word. For example, one Sunday morning our pastor spoke about team work and the importance of the attitude of each team member. King David was an excellent example of a team player, but at times his attitude caused problems. Later that same morning our Sunday school class finished our study of II Thessalonians — a letter which encourages a church to work as a team.

Times were different back in David’s day, and in Paul’s day, too. People’s lives were centered around their beliefs. They worked not only for food, but for the welfare of the community. They didn’t have satellite dishes, cell phones, or other technology. They didn’t have cars, wash machines, or power tools. When they weren’t working, they were either with their family/friends or worshiping–sometimes both.

As the New Testament church began to take shape, Paul reminded them that the Lord had not called them only to become Christians but to be Christians.

When Jesus called the twelve disciples in Matthew 10, He didn’t say, “Okay, I’ve taught you how to be my followers, now you can go home and relax for the rest of your life.” No, He expected them to use that training to preach, teach, heal, and to help other people in and out of the church. Often the disciples went to the people–they met them where the need was. Other times, the people came to the disciples because a friend invited them.

Jesus also didn’t tell the disciples to only work one, two, or four days each week. They were expected to work–to serve God–on a daily basis. (Technically they didn’t “work” on the Sabbath, but I truly believe their thoughts continued to be focused on God that day.) All work was done with a focus on God (”Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might” Ecclesiastes 9:10a), regardless of whether it was for payment, for food, or for free. Paul lived this way daily. He wasn’t a free-loader; we shouldn’t be, either.

You may be reading this and thinking I don’t have a clue about your job and what you’re expected to do. True, but I know those people you work with are God’s creations. Their goals are the same as yours: to earn money to provide for their families’ needs. Those whom you work with who are believers are also earning money to tithe with, to further the Kingdom. How you interact with others, how you perform your job, is a direct reflection of your heart. Is your heart full of and seeking God? As you work, do others see Jesus in you? James 1:22 reminds us that we are to not only be hearers and learners, but doers of the Word. Once we know how to be like Christ, we need to do it daily.

The final thread of this tapestry God has woven is my personal studies. I just began the book of Matthew. Chapter two speaks of the time immediately after Jesus’ birth, when the Wise Men were seeking Him. I noticed the difference in how the Wise Men (Gentiles) and the chief priests and scribes (Jews) reacted to His birth. The Wise Men were aware of God, and they listened to His voice. The chief priests and scribes had gotten so used to their way of doing things, they were no longer seeking God’s voice or His face. One group had a team mentality, which focused outside of themselves. The other group was focused on their own desires–they weren’t on God’s team, and their attitudes reflected it.

Whose team are you on? What skills do you possess? Are you using those skills in and out of the church to further God’s Kingdom? Is your attitude one God is pleased with? If you are unsure of where you can best serve God contact your church. They’ll work with you to identify your skills, talents, and abilities; They’ll help you find a place to serve–on God’s team!

Posted in Devotions | No Comments »

April 8, 2009 by Kelly.

We have a new addition to our church’s Welcome Center: The Eutycus Cafe. This is going to be a great way to show hospitality to our visitors who don’t get down to the gym for coffee and donuts between services! Our new cafe will be salt and light to our visitors.

I had always been a little unsure of what “salt and light” actually meant. Earlier this week I was reading in Matthew 5. Verse 13 talks about being the salt of the earth. Why would Jesus use this comparison for His followers? What is it about salt that fits the analogy so well?

Salt is a mineral, and it dissolves easily. If you’ve ever picked up a piece of salt, put it down, and then touched your fingers to your lips, you’ll taste the salt residue left behind. Salt also enhances the flavor of tastes. I believe these two features are what make salt the perfect analogy.

Jesus expects us to touch people’s lives, and leave a Christian residue. When you meet someone new, do they remember you the next day? Have you left a residue in their life that enhances their outlook? When your friends need something, do they think of you as being able to help?

Verses 14-16 talk about light. Light is different than salt. Whereas salt is an after effect, light precedes us and is seen from a distance. Do people see you from a distance, helping others, and think “there’s something about that person”? Do people you come into contact with at the store/bank/school see you as a person of integrity? When you are introduced to someone, do they say “I’ve heard good things about you”?

How bright is your light? Are you leaving a residue behind for Jesus? Reach out… be a light… learn… volunteer… be salt.

Posted in Devotions | No Comments »

February 19, 2009 by Kelly.

I joined Facebook about six months ago and have been collecting/finding friends ever since. Old friends from high school, writing and homeschooling friends from around the country and the world, local friends from church, and local homeschoolers. It’s also proven to be a fantastic way for me to stay in touch with my oldest who is now in college!

Whenever I’m on FB, and a writer friend finds me, they always ask, “what are you writing these days?” Plenty!

I am helping to maintain our church’s FB page, and that gives me plenty of writing opportunity. Other than that, I’m mostly journaling things that God is speaking to my heart about during my quiet time. I’ll be posting those thoughts here, and on other blogs I have.

Posted in Daily Life | No Comments »

October 24, 2008 by Kelly.

I’ve been away from writing for a few months now. Oh, I still make household lists, take notes at church, write emails, and that sort of daily-life writing; but I haven’t written an article in over three months. Why? Priorities.

My family is my first job. I believe my children are given to me by God, and it is my responsibility to raise them, teach them, love them exactly as He desires. My husband is my forever friend. When the kids are grown and gone with families of their own, he’ll still be here by my side, laughing with me, talking with me, and spreading God’s love with me. He’s stuck with me, so I need to make sure he likes me.

I spend a lot of time in the car this year, transporting a child to a few key classes. He is the oldest at home right now, and I will do whatever it takes to prepare him for graduation in 19 months. Even if it requires worktexts for this year.

I’ve also gotten back into crocheting. This allows me to watch TV with my family in the evenings. Before, I was squirreled away in my office, writing. My focus was on creating, editing and submitting. Now it’s on creating, talking and enjoying. It’s time I found a happy medium between writing and family life.

My friend Karen suggested I take just 15 minutes each day to write something. Blog posts count, so here I am! Fifteen minutes is not too much to ask. I can rough out an article in 15 minutes. I write half an article (more or less) in 15 minutes. I can edit a short article in 15 mintues. I should be able to research markets in 15 minutes, too. Karen is right: I don’t have to do everything all at once. Just 15 mintues each day…

Posted in Writing, Daily Life | No Comments »

July 18, 2008 by Kelly.

Some of my best inspiration comes from reading my Bible or another inspirational book, or from listening to a sermon. I cannot sit through church services without jotting notes about what is being said. I often use a pencil or pen (whatever is handy at the time) to mark in the margin of a book I’m reading if something jumps out at me.

When I jot down my own thoughts on a sermon, I will remember it better than if I just sit and listen. When I read a book, I remember key points better if I underline or note the section some way. Many of my notes have become devotionals.

One of my clients reviewed a devotional book for writers. I just may have to get a copy and see how it inspires me!

Posted in Writing | No Comments »

July 18, 2008 by Kelly.

Do you see it over there? I added a Blogroll, on the left. You have to scroll down a little to see it, but it’s there. I added my first link to it today. Jennifer is married to the Youth Pastor at our church, and she’s written a book called Royal by Blood. I don’t know if she has done any other writing as I’ve not had a chance to really talk to her yet. She has kids, I have kids; she’s busy, I’m busy. We just kind of smile in passing right now.

But, someday…

Maybe I’ll invite her to drive with me to an FCW meeting sometime! In the meantime, check out her blog!

Posted in Writing | No Comments »

July 2, 2008 by Kelly.

I say ’small’ but it feels huge, really. And it’s actually two steps. I’ve starting taking those steps to move forward in my writing career. I’ve begun submitting to regional parenting publications (RPPs), and I’ve become a contributing writer at Suite101.com. Now I just need to keep going. The next steps are: to find a few RPPs to contribute to regularly and strike up a relationship with the editors so that I’ll be assigned articles (better pay), and to become a feature writer at Suite101 (better pay).

Hmmm… sounds like I’m just in it for the money!

So far I’m enjoying the challenge that comes with both types of writing. One is print and doesn’t mind simultaneous submissions or reprints. The other is online and has a one-year exclusivity contract on each article.

I’m really looking forward to the next few months!

Posted in Writing | No Comments »

June 29, 2008 by Kelly.

Taking the next step can be hard. Whether it’s a child learning to walk or an adult getting married or anything else… it’s hard! I know why: it’s scary. Usually the next step deals with the unknown, or uncertainties. That child doesn’t know if his wobbly legs will support him, or if he’ll come crashing down on his bottom. As adults, we don’t know what the future holds. We know what we’d like the future to hold, but we understand that sometimes things don’t go as we plan. Just like that child, we know we must keep moving forward, or we won’t get what we want.

Writers are no exception. We must keep moving forward in our writing to get what we want. I want to glorify God. I feel He has given me this talent with words and He expects me to use it to bring Him glory. Yet fear keeps me in my secure little world. I have written extensively for the Internet, and there’s nothing wrong with that; however, I cannot help but feel the need to be published in a print publication.

Is it my own selfish desire? I don’t think so. I’m not even sure where He desires that I submit. I’m trusting Him to let me know when I find it. It could be my own church bulletin, or it could be a book, or it could be a national publication or a regional publication. Wherever it is, I wish to be ready when God says, “That’s the place!”

Getting ready–taking that next step–is the hard part. I must reach out to publishers and editors I do not know personally, people I’ve never met, and offer them my work. I must carve time out of my busy schedule to write and not let it interfere with my first ministry of being a wife and mom.

How do others do it? How do people take that next step? With lots of encouragement! I have a group of cheerleaders who keep me going: family, friends, and other writers. Because of them, I can take that next step with a little less fear. I have an inkling of what lies ahead, and I feel ready to move forward–as long as I take just one step at a time.

Posted in Writing | No Comments »

June 18, 2008 by Kelly.

That was the title of the email, along with the telltale “Fw” in the subject line. Another one of those… an email-go-round… a tear-jerk story, a warning, a chuckle-producer… I didn’t know which this would be, but I guessed the first. I was almost right.

The email was an excerpt from a book titled Eat That Frog by Brian Tracy. The author states, “your ‘frog’ should be the most difficult item on your things to do list, the one where you’re most likely to procrastinate; because, if you eat that first, it’ll give you energy and momentum for the rest of the day.”

I must admit, most mornings my “frog” is my Bible and my quiet time with God. Sometimes I won’t understand what He’s saying to me through my Bible, other times I hear Him loud and clear and don’t want to listen. (Most days I do– I’m just like you.) It’s so much easier to just start my day and leave my Bible sit on the table.

But, yeah… it stares at me, and calls to me… I know I need to pick up my Bible; but I don’t want to be convicted to change anything about myself, so I avoid my quiet time. Then my day(s) start to go bad, and I know I MUST crawl back to God and apologize for neglecting Him.

He always takes me back–no questions asked–because He loves me. The quiet niggling in the back of my mind tells me that I’ll ignore Him again someday soon–and then the niggling laughs…

Lord, draw me closer to You every day!

Posted in Daily Life | No Comments »