Grace: The Power Of The Gospel
By Andrew Wommack

The Gospel is the most basic, foundational message of the New Testament, yet it’s the most misunderstood. Today’s religious system is not preaching the same Gospel that Paul did. They mix it with the Law, and that isn’t the Gospel at all.

The book of Romans was written to explain the Gospel so that anybody could understand it. Paul, the writer, made it so simple that you’d have to have somebody help you to misunderstand it. And, unfortunately, we’ve had a lot of help!

Paul started off with this statement in Romans 1:16:

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

That is a radical statement. This word “gospel” in the original Greek is a word that was seldom used at the time this was written. Nobody talked this way, because the word literally means nearly-too-good-to-be-true news. It referred to news that was so awesome, nothing really justified using it. Nothing was nearly too good to be true.

But Paul said he was not ashamed of the Gospel. Why? “For it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” The Gospel is the power of God, and that’s talking about grace. Acts 20:24 and Galatians 1:6 both use the terms “gospel” and “grace” interchangeably. It’s saying that when you understand the Gospel, or the grace of God, it’ll release the power of God into your life. That’s huge!

The next verse in Romans 1 says,

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Notice that righteousness is not revealed from Law to Law, from good deed to good deed—it’s revealed from faith to faith. Here’s a good piece of information to consider: Sin won’t stop the power of God for salvation in your life but trusting in your own good works will. That’s what “the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith” means. You receive the righteousness of God by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8)! God won’t withdraw His power because of sin in your life. That’s why it’s nearly-too-good-to-be-true news.

When you talk like this, people with a religious mindset immediately say, “Well, what about sin? This sounds like you’re just giving people a license to sin.” Not so! Last I checked, people were sinning without a license! I’m not advocating sin. But, see, this is the immediate reaction when you start talking about righteousness by faith. They think you need to make people aware of their sin and the wrath of God.

But that’s why Paul said in the next verses,

For the wrath of God is [already] revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; [19] Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

Romans 1:18-19, brackets mine

Notice it says it’s manifest in them, not to them, for God has shown it unto them. God has put in every single person who has ever breathed an intuitive knowledge that they are a sinner and that they deserve rejection instead of acceptance. You don’t need to tell people this; they already know it.

We aren’t called to convict people of their sin but to convince them that the only way they can obtain righteousness, or right standing, with God is through putting faith in what Jesus did for them, not through something they’ve done. That’s why I spend so much of my time on this, and it’s what many of my teaching materials are devoted to.

Let’s look at Luke 18:9-14 to verify this:

And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: [10] Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. [11] The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. [12] I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. [13] And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. [14] I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

This is a powerful parable. Let me ask you: Are you like the Pharisee or the publican? I’m not talking about your actions but your trust. Do you trust in what you do for the Lord or what He has done for you? If a person is putting faith in all of their religious acts—all of their holiness—then that will actually block them from righteousness and relationship with God. But the person who maybe hasn’t been as good, yet they’ve humbled themselves and cried out to God, this is the one who enters into right standing with God.

 

That’s what it says in Romans 9:30-32a:

What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith. [31] But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. [32] Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law.

This says there are two types of righteousness: a faith righteousness and a righteousness that comes by the Law. Righteousness by the Law is a righteousness based on performance. Another way to say it is “self-righteousness.” The truth is, nobody can perform well enough to get Law righteousness, because the Bible says in Isaiah 64:6 that “all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.” And James 2:10 says that if you keep the Law and yet offend in one point, you are guilty of breaking the entire thing. In other words, if you did ninety-nine out of a hundred things right and one thing wrong, according to the Law of righteousness, you would be unrighteous. BUT! If you put your faith in Jesus, you would receive His righteousness—faith righteousness—even though you did ninety-nine out of a hundred things wrong! What a deal! 

There are many people today who wouldn’t consider themselves to be seeking after Law righteousness, but they really are. Their only hope of entering into heaven instead of hell is that they go to church, they try to be good, they live up to some standard of morality. That’s what this is talking about when it says the Jews weren’t seeking righteousness by faith but by the Law. They were trying to earn what God had given as a gift.

The rest of Romans 9:32 says,

For they stumbled at that stumblingstone.

It is offensive to people, particularly if they have a lot of holy actions to their names, when you tell them that all their good deeds don’t make them righteous before God. Then when you tell them sinners who only put faith in God are more righteous than they are (Matt. 21:28-32), that really puts them over the top!

They say, “You mean I’m not any better than the person who’s been out living in sin?”

That’s exactly what I’m saying. That’s exactly what Paul and Jesus said.

“Well, what have I been doing all this for?”

Good deeds will help you, to a degree, in your relationships with people, but they won’t give you any clout with God. You could have more holy acts than anyone you know, but who wants to be the best sinner who ever went to hell? All have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23).

We need a Savior! The only thing we have to offer is faith. We just believe the nearly-too-good-to-be-true news that Jesus died for us and paid a debt we couldn’t pay and gave us a righteousness we couldn’t earn. It’s faith righteousness!

“Well, I believe in Jesus, but I believe I also have to live holy to be accepted by God.”

That’s saying Jesus’ payment for sin wasn’t enough—that you have to add to what Jesus has done—and I believe that is the greatest sin of all! Jesus either paid for it all, or He paid for nothing at all! It’s not Jesus plus you; it’s Jesus or you! It’s not you doing the best you can and then Jesus making up the difference with grace and mercy. If you try to mix the two, you have totally polluted what Jesus has done. It’s either faith righteousness or your righteousness, but not a combination of the two (Rom. 11:6). 

It takes a supernatural revelation by the Holy Spirit to be able to understand this. But once you do, it’ll transform the way that you view God, the way that you relate to God, and the way that you receive from God. The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation. I encourage you to just humble yourself and ask God for a supernatural revelation of this truth. It’s tremendous.

When you truly get a hold of the grace of God, I guarantee you, it sets you free from sin, not free to sin. You’ll wind up living holier accidentally than you ever have on purpose. You’ll serve God out of love stricter and stronger than you ever would have out of legalism.

Jesus said you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32). It’s not truth that sets you free; it’s the truth you know that sets you free. But before you can know it, you’ve got to hear it. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God (Rom. 10:17).

I Knew You Before

The Servant had been traveling for many miles. 

He was given a purpose to fulfill and he was determined to complete the plan his Master had mapped out for him.  He tired to dodge pot holes in the road and sidestepped falling boulders and fallen trees in his path, but occasionally he would fall.  The servant reflected on his last fall. He'd sustained only minor bruises and was able to brush himself off and continue on the path...but it could have been avoided.

He'd asked for wisdom for his journey and understanding to find the way. His eyes had become clearer from lessons he'd learned along the way. 

"Master, why is it that I know the way but I continue to stumble over the boulders in the road? Why can't I get it right?"  The servant asked looking toward heaven..

The Master smiled, "My child, I knew you'd never be perfect with that human body you have."
 

"You knew?" The servant asked in surprise.

"I knew you. Before you were born, I saw your precious heart. I knew you desired to love and serve me in truth. I knew you would need a Savior and sent my Son, Jesus. I made provision for your humanness at the Cross of Christ; who died that you might live. 

Your humanness will be remembered no more. I knew you would need an intercessor, and sent you my Holy Spirit. 

The Enemy tried to destroy you. He tried to cripple you to prevent you from completing the plan I designed for you; but continue on, My child. My Holy Spirit will intercede on your behalf. He will guide you all the way. 

Keep your eyes on me. I will keep you from falling. I will lift you up above it all, on wings of eagles. 

Stay close to me as I whisper my hearts desire to you. Call on me for all your needs and I will supply them all. Your cup will run over. I won't reject you when you stumble. I'll be there to pick you up and set you back on solid ground. 

I chose you with your imperfections to manifest My Perfection. 

When they see you, they will only see Me. I will be glorified!"

Written by: Joy Miller

A beautiful picture of the love that God has for us. Beloved if you are tired and feel like giving up. Won't you let Him carry you!? 

First Episode at Grace Talk Live

First Episode of my new radio show ~ "Grace Talk  Live" with Eddie Snipes who wrote the book: "It is Finished" Stepping out of condemnation and into the finished work of the cross. Enjoy God's grace as you listen and know that God loves you and wants to give you true freedom and joy in you walk with Him !!

Check Out The Bible Podcasts at Blog Talk Radio with Grace Talk Live on BlogTalkRadio

Milk & Honey Time

2 Corinthians 6:7-10      

New Living Translation (NLT)

 

 

⁷ We faithfully preach the truth. God’s power is working in us. We use the weapons of righteousness in the right hand for attack and the left hand for defense. 

⁸  serve God whether people honor us or despise us, whether they slander us or praise us. We are honest, but they call us impostors.  

⁹ We are ignored, even though we are well known. We live close to death, but we are still alive. We have been beaten, but we have not been killed.  

¹⁰ Our hearts ache, but we always have joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual riches to others. We own nothing, and yet we have everything.

The Dugger's on Parental Guidance

I have learned so much from Michelle Duggar.

Learning to quiet my voice and speak in a graceful tone. 

 Amen!!!
There is always a proper way to discipline our children.
Just because we are their parents does not give us the right to push and demand our children to do what we want. 

We need to daily encourage our children by example...follow me as I follow Christ.
 If we are not setting out to live our own lives with Christ at the center we cannot expect our young learning children to do this always... Parents can become proud and puffed up with their authority - God says: "I will resist the proud and give grace to the humble."

 I have added Michelle's life verse and motto in to my life and flagged this verse in my bible and use it when I feel like I am failing as a parent or wife.

2 Corinthians 12:9

 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. (and I say to Him) . . . Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

May this be a Blessing . . . Let Go and Let God help you become the best parent HE has for you to be.   

I AM Second ~ Kathy Ireland

Kathy Ireland's Testimony

Beautiful!!

It is Finished...

Join me

Monday -  April 14th, 2014

I will be sitting down with

Eddie Snipes

book: "It is Finsihed"

We will be discussing Grace and what it means in our lives.

He will be on my show

"A Quiet Place of Grace"

Grace Talk with Eddie Snipes

 "God’s love is not dependent upon your performance. God’s love is the expression of His nature, and He delights in taking sinful people and replacing human failure with His divine favor. ...Your failure is not a barrier to God. Once you learn to believe in the love God has for you, sin will drive you to His righteousness instead of into defeat. In Christ, it is finished. Once you learn to trust in God’s gift of grace, you’ll never view life through the old eyes of human performance again. Enjoy the fellowship you already have been given!"

Christina

Fragrant Fried Rice

    

Whitney's Wild Honey Blog

Fragrant Fried Rice

Serves 4.

Ingredients:

1 cup jasmine or basmati rice

¼ cup vegetable oil (olive oil is too strongly flavored for this)

4 eggs, beaten

salt and pepper

2 green onions, thinly sliced

1 small onion, thinly sliced

½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced (seeing a pattern here?)

3 carrots, peeled and diced

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 15.5 oz. can white beans (such as Great Northern), drained and rinsed

½ cup frozen peas

2 tsp. ground cumin

½ tsp. crushed red pepper flake

4 T soy sauce

chopped cilantro, for garnish

Add rice and an equal amount of water (1 cup) to a small saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.  Cook, covered, on medium-low heat, about 20 minutes.  

Fluff with a fork.  Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 T of the oil over medium-high heat.  

Season eggs with salt and pepper and cook, in one sheet if possible, flipping once nearly set, and cooking on other side a couple of more minutes.  

If this sounds a bit too involved, feel free to just scramble them as usual.  

Roll and slice if in a sheet, and set aside.  

 

Return skillet to the heat with 1 T of oil and crushed red pepper flake and sauté onions and carrots until nearly tender, about 8 minutes.  

Add red pepper, green onions and garlic and cook another 5 minutes, stirring often so the garlic doesn’t burn.  

Add frozen peas and canned beans and cook until heated through, just a few minutes.  

 

Set aside vegetable mixture and return skillet to the heat a third time.  

Heat remaining oil with the cumin, stirring until fragrant, on medium-high heat.  

Add rice and cook, pressing down to fit the pan and crisp the bottom, 5 minutes.  

Add soy sauce and break up rice.  

Add egg and vegetable mixture, tossing well to combine and heat through.  

Add green onions and cilantro to garnish, if desired.  

If you abhor cilantro, sweet basil works well, too.  

You will now have a heaping skillet full of fried rice goodness.  

Add more soy sauce to taste, and grab some chopsticks and enjoy. 

Alone, Yet Not ALone

One of my favorite songs to listen to this year has been "Alone Yet Not Alone." It is featured in a movie that will be coming out this summer (June 13).  You can learn more about the movie at www.aloneyetnotalone.com.

"Alone Yet Not Alone" is sung by Joni Eareckson Tada, and she did a absolutely beautiful job! Because she is a quadriplegic her lung capacity is limited. In the video you will see her husband, Ken, pressing on her diaphragm to help her hit the high notes. What a great team those two make!

Ever since October 2012 my life has been on a journey of rediscovery, one of sorrow and triump.  I have had to deal with loss and pain, between my health and our living situations it has caused my faith to rise in such a way that I did not know was even possible in me.

Because of this journey that my Heavenly Father has allow me to walk through, I am learning the truth of  living in the unforced rhythms of grace by leaning into HIS grace.  This song touches my heart in many ways.  It has reminded me that NO MATTER WHAT  happens in my life, NO MATTER if I walk it alone of if I  AM alone ... that I am NOT truly alone. God is ALWAYS by my side, and this song is a beautiful reminder of that.

Beloved, I dedicate this song to all of you who are going through something in your life right now. If you are having health issues, or taking care of someone who is really sick. If you are homeless and have no where to call home. Of if you have lost someone near and dear to you. Whatever your facing right now...

This song is for you.

 How blessed we are to have a God who loves us so richly and deeply that we can truly say, even when we are alone, we are not truly alone. He is with us, always."

Be Blessed!

I'm alone, yet not alone.
God's the light that will guide me home.
With His love and tenderness,
Leading through the wilderness,
And wherever I may roam,
I'm alone, yet not alone. 

I will not be bent in fear.
He's the refuge I know is near.
In His strength I find my own.
By His faithful mercies shown.
That so mighty is His shield
All His love is now revealed. 

When my steps are lost.
And desperate for a guide,
I can feel his touch,
A soothing presence by my side. 

Alone, yet not alone.
Not forsaken when on my own.
I can lean upon His arm,
And be lifted up from harm.
If I stumble, or if I'm thrown,
I'm alone, yet not alone. 

When my steps are lost.
And desperate for a guide,
I can feel his touch,
A soothing presence by my side. 

By my side! 

He has bound me with His love,
Watchful angels look from above.
Every evil can be braved,
For I know I will be saved.
Never frightened on my own,
I'm alone, yet not alone.
I'm alone, yet not alone.

Composer: Bruce Broughton
Lyricist: Dennis Spiege

Monday Morning Meditations

Five Minute Friday

the 5 minute word prompt is :  

WRITER

5...4....3....2...1

GO!

". . .  I am a writer...

Words move through my mind like water running through empty space.

I am a writer. . . my world is a sketchpad, my fingers to the typewriter - my pin to paper. . . waiting for me to paint the picture in thoughts, words and phrases. Pregnant with moment.

Not wanting more time. . . just enough time for this moment. Time to breathe . . .  in their laughter, time  to smell. . . salty caramel chocolate, time to see . . . squirrels chase one by one, time to laugh . . . children silly living free without hate in heart.

I am a writer... in my world there is textures, smells, foods to savor and joys to embrace. I seek to choose words that cause another to be present in my scenery. To be right where I am. . .seeing, hearing, touching, tasting. . . 

I want to remain here fully all here, time slow, attention full, the river of my life moving slow. Making blind eyes see, deaf ears hear. . . giving thanks for every moment He allows within my life.

I am a writer. . . breathing in moments, turned sacred, to tell their story not knowing whats next.  A God moments framed in words.

Moments . . .abc's . . . how they are added together to make words, phrases, imagery and places. There’s something magical sweet about lining up letters into words into phrases to find the very thing you want to say. . .suspended time in moments described in words

Words are delicious . . . 

I love words. I’m a verbiage collector.

I am not just one who writes. . .to talk or to share such as in facebook and twitter. . .

I am a writer. . .one who becomes vulnerable . . .

I am a writer. . . chameleon like. . . I fashion images with my words...tease speech from oceans deep.

I am a writer. . .spilling my soul out on blank pages. . .seeing poetry everywhere I go. . . a broken vase, a feather lost. . .

 ex. (bird feather 4/8/14)  . . .

little one perched up so high
your feathers fall from the sky
spiral down to the forest floor
today you rest tomorrow you soar

feathers many I see below
a loss in order to cause new growth
little one do not stop your song
soon you will see that for which
you've longed

up so high standing on your perch
new feathers fluffed I watch you search
I see you there beautiful one
today you've rested tomorrow your gone.

I am here, I am present to a very present God fully holding life as long as I can, my fingers to the typewriter - my pin to paper. I write. I give thanks and receive more time in the moment.

I breathe deep watch little ones sleep . . . I give thanks . . . I give grace for another day . . . tomorrow I pray they too choose grace for one another.

I am not one who writes. . .I am a writer one who gives you my heart, my spirit, my soul. . . 
   until then I remain silent. . .waiting. . .looking. . .for the next moment to share.

“Silence is the sleep that nourishes wisdom.” Francis Bacon

I am . . . a writer"

Letting Go of the Try Hard Life

Emily Freeman   Be BLESSED!!  

Life Can Be a Mess

But give it all to the MESSiah!

He will take care of it all.

Abide in Him and He will cover all the messes in our life.

Dear Papa

I look around and see many of your wounded children. I ask what shall I do. I can only respond with this:

"Papa, give me your eyes that I might see the wounds of your children, your hands that I might touch them gently, your words that I might bring wisdom, and healing into their lives. Your feet that I might lead them into grace, into the freedom that your Son died for...but Papa, most of all I ask for your heart. Show me how to see, know, feel and understand them. I want to respond with truth, of course in love, showing them your grace.  Papa, teach me how to walk in the Spirit."

Seeking your heart,
Your Beloved Daughter,
 Christina

Forgiveness

"We need to forgive and be forgiven every day, every hour ... unceasingly." ~ Henri J.M. Nouwen
  Henri Nouwen reminds me that ..."we are all wounded people. Wounded by those whom we love and those who loves us. When we fell rejected, abandoned, abused, manipulated, or violated, it is mostly by people very close to us: our parents, our friends, our spouses, our children, our neighbors, and even our pastors."
Yes, that is the tragedy of life. When those so close to us hurt us, it makes forgiveness that much harder.  Making it sometimes so impossible, but we know that nothing is impossible for God. The God that lives deep within us will give us the "grace" to go beyond our wounded selves and say, "Because He has loved me and forgiven me, I choose to love you and forgive you."   Forgiveness is really about forgiving others for not being God!  We want so much from people, for them to fulfill our every need, and in reality there is only one who can truly satisfy that hunger...and that 'One'  is our Father, God.  

"Forgiving is one of the most difficult and complex gestures and yet, like love, it is one of the things which defines the essence of our humanity. In fact, the contemplative dimension of forgiveness reveals that at its core, forgiveness is a divine gift of love, a movement of love so profound that it reveals the truth of our nature ~ fully human and enlivened with the divine potential. How important forgiveness is can't be exaggerated. One way of putting it is 'to be at peace with everyone.' It means being prepared to take everyone into your heart, willing to share every one's pain and joy as if it were your own...This oneness is so close that we are more one than individuals. And so the spiritual journey can't always be just a privatized set of practices, because whenever you start the spiritual journey, the whole of humanity, and perhaps creation, goes along and shares the journey with you. " - Fr. Thomas Keating

Forgiveness is the great spiritual weapon against the 'evil one.' As long as we remain victims of anger and resentment, the power of darkness can continue to divide us and tempt us with endless power games. But when we forgive those who threaten our lives, they lose their power over us... Forgiveness enables us to take the first steps toward healing. 
When we acknowledge that humans cannot offer us what only God can give.  We begin to step into our own story and live the life that God has called us to live...a life with Him by our side.  It is the greatest step one will ever make.  
Life therefore needs to be lived in the unforced rhythms of grace, the cross of forgiveness one to another, and to our Father in heaven. This is how a community survives the temptations that are set up by satan. Demons lose their power when we confess that we have been in their clutches! The more deeply we confess our wrongs one to another,  the more we will "experience" forgiveness and the grace of God ~ community life encourages the love of God in each of us. Only until we learn to except each other for who they are and for what they can offer, forgiving them for their weaknesses and their shortcomings, will we ever understand the truth of God's grace for us.  
Beloved, forgiveness by grace through love, is the Father's heart ~  this is the Good News!
Christina

Breakfast Idea ...

FRIED GREEN TOMATO BACON BUSICUT

"Life Is A Gift" Official music video

Free Giveaway...

Happy (Book) Birthday, Lisa-Jo! 

Today is the day! 

 

You can order your copy from Amazon HERE! 

If they sell out, and you cannot wait (who can, really?) 

you can also purchase a copy at any of these locations: 

Barnes & Noble 

DaySpring 

 LifeWay 

 CBD 

Walmart

Happy (Book) Birthday, Lisa-Jo!

No More Sleeps... today is the day!  
You can order your copy from Amazon HERE!
If they sell out, and you cannot wait (who can, really?) you can also purchase a copy at any of these locations:
Barnes & Noble 

DaySpring

LifeWay

CBD

Walmart - See more at: http://abidingloveaboundinggrace.blogspot.com/#sthash.h4qMEktW.dpuf

Happy (Book) Birthday, Lisa-Jo!

No More Sleeps... today is the day!  
You can order your copy from Amazon HERE!
If they sell out, and you cannot wait (who can, really?) you can also purchase a copy at any of these locations:
Barnes & Noble 

DaySpring

LifeWay

CBD

Walmart - See more at: http://abidingloveaboundinggrace.blogspot.com/#sthash.h4qMEktW.dpuf

Lisa-Jo Baker

GIVEAWAY 5 COPIES OF MY BOOK AND 5 TEA SETS: I am thrilled to be giving away five copies of my new book today — Surprised by Motherhood: Everything I Never Expected About Being a Mom. AND five sets of Daily Grace Teacups and Teapots.
 

To be entered to win simply leave a comment sharing one thing about motherhood or about your own mom that has surprised you.

To read the first 3 chapters of the book for free, click here.

To purchase a copy for you, a friend, your mom, the ladies in your MOPS group,  just click here.

I will share my comment that I left...

Grace ...the overwhelming reality of grace 

that we give our children no matter what they have done. 

My children (which are 8) have taught me a whole lot about my Papa's grace and unconditional love.  

Motherhood has taught me to slow down and enjoy life with all it's ups and downs, joys and sorrows... 

I have come to pause and embrace the piles of laundry, sink full to the brim with dishes that bare witness to little nourished bellies, small shaped hand-prints on the walls tell stories of siblings that are many, one little sock with no match at the end of the laundry basket, 2 ounces of juice left in the container. 

These little moments of life that to some may seem ordinary, but in my life, they are mine and they are sacred. 

For it is in these moments that I see the face and hand of God.  

These are the moments that one day will lie with me when my time has ended and my life is lowered to rest in the ground awaiting the presence of God, but through the skill of my pen left within journals piled high, it is my way of giving my children memories unforgotten.

Sacred Parenting ...

“By God’s marvelous design, few life experiences humble us quite as effectively

 as parenting…This tiny tyrant is providentially placed in our house with one grand program: to mold his or her parents into the image of our Lord. The way up spiritually, is by looking down physically.” 

~Gary Thomas, 

Devotions for Sacred Parenting

"Surprised by Motherhood" ~ Bible Study Begins... 4/11/14

Please Join Me for Bible Study Beginning 04/11/14

I’m giving away THREE copies of Lisa-Jo’s book!

Enter here!

This should give you enough time to purchase the book, especially via Kindle.  

I am so excited to dig into this book. I have heard such rave reviews... (some listed at the end) 

I am a mother of 8 and boy oh boy was that a surprise in my life.But even in all the somewhat graceful chaos I wouldn't have it any other way!

"You are not failing. You will sleep again. You are not the only one who thinks she’s doing it all wrong." 

                                                                      -- Lisa-Jo Baker

Surprised by Motherhood is the brand new book that’s ignited a movement of real mothers being real honest about real life with kids.

When you forget who you are, why you are, and where you are going — these are words that falls as gently and right as blossoms, a trail of grace for every mother.

  Lisa-Jo Baker is a soul sister. She whispered to me quiet when her last pregnancy test turned pink. I’ve stayed up late with her laughing and praying and eating M&Ms. I’ve slept on her couch. She awakens us all to glory with these life-giving pages.

Straight from the hip honest, straight out hilarious, and straight from His Heart, this book is pure page-turning relief. Pages I didn’t want to end. Pages I will turn to again and again.  ~ Ann Voskamp

 A lawyer with a well-stamped passport and a passion for human rights, Lisa-Jo Baker never wanted to be a mom. And then she had kids. Having lost her own mother to cancer as a teenager, Lisa-Jo felt lost on her journey to womanhood and wholly unprepared to raise children.

Surprised by Motherhood is Lisa-Jo’s story of becoming and being a mom, and in the process, discovering that all the “what to expect” and “how to” books in the world can never truly prepare you for the sheer exhilaration, joy, and terrifying love that accompanies motherhood.

Set partly in South Africa and partly in the US (with a slight detour to Ukraine along the way), Surprised by Motherhood is a poignant memoir of one woman’s dawning realization that being a mom isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present.

Highly recommended, Must-Read: 

Surprised by Motherhood.

 The following was taken from Lisa-Jo Baker Official Website:

It was not something I ever imagined doing.

Writing a book. Or becoming a mother. Most people who talk about motherhood start out by telling you how much they always wanted to be a mom. That is not my story. I was the girl whose mom died a week after she turned 18, the girl who swore off motherhood, the girl who believed her story had to be bigger than just being someone’s mother.

Today I’m the woman who believes that God doesn’t ask us to trade who we are for the label of “Mom.” Rather, he builds all the courage and calling of a lifetime into a story line big enough and rich enough to encompass kids, passion, work, creativity, and dreams that don’t end in the labor and delivery ward.

I’m also the girl who believes that Jesus saved the best till last when I finally became a mother.

 But I’m just as convinced He would have loved me the same whether I ever had kids or not. It’s right there on the front dedication page of the book. This is my broken, backwards journey from losing a mother toward becoming one. This is my testimony that all the “how to” and “what to expect” books in the world can never truly prepare you for the sheer exhilaration, joy, and terrifying love that accompanies motherhood.

 This book is a reminder that being a mom isn’t about succeeding at some parenting checklist — it’s about what motherhood prepares us for while we’re busy preparing for it; how a new identity brings new meaning for our future and new appreciation of our past; and how there is wonder to be found in the daily merry-go-round of dishes, laundry and tiny humans.

This book is the one I wish I’d had in my hands nine years ago when I was certain I was failing motherhood.

This isn’t a “how-to” book, it’s simply my “you can” story. This is the book I wrote for me. And for you.

Read more at her site:

SURPRISED BY MOTHERHOOD

Lisa-Jo Baker

Top 10 reasons moms are saying you should read this book:

Because you need something to read when you are locking yourself in the bathroom for some quiet time – Angie  

It’s a heart-to-heart from a friend who “gets it”- the hard, the hurt, and the heights of this mysterious messy miracle called motherhood. – Katie  

Because no matter how old you are or how old your kids are, it still feels pretty fantastic to have someone tell you that motherhood (and you) deserve a medal, a superhero cape, and likely, a chocolate sundae. – Rebekah 

Because it’s a reminder you’re doing holy work & also it’s OK to cry a bit when they get out of bed AGAIN. – Alia

Because sometimes you need your friend to sit you down and tell you that what you’re doing right now – all of it – will build the love in our kids. – Andrea 

Because it’s better than fried chicken. – Kate 

Our mothering either comes from our own mom’s or in spite of them – Lisa-Jo’s journey is a beautiful combination of both. – Susan  

Because Lisa-Jo really gets it… she gets the whole loving your kids and at the same time wanting to throw yourself on the floor and throw a tantrum of your own. – Julie 

Because Mom’s need a guidebook, to go with their afternoon chocolate, while waiting in the school pick up line. – Kashoan 

Because in my crazy, try harder life, I need a reminder that I really don’t want this mothering thing to be over. – Lori

- See more at: 

SURPRISED by MOTHERHOOD

Kathryn Scott - I Belong

* Remember NOTHING can seperate you from You Father ~ Remain in

His Love ~ Abide in Him, in His Word, His love, & His Grace. *

God is Love...

Love at its deepest level does not begin in the heart of man, but it begins in the heart of Papa God. It is a love that gives without compromise or reservation. It is a love that is motivated by the choice to do the highest good for another person. Papa doesn't have this love; rather, "HE IS THIS LOVE." There is no impure motives in Papa's love. It is holy love. His love for you is consistent with everything that is good and right for you.

God's love has no limitations. It will not wear out, fade out, or tire out. It does not play favorites, or respond only when responded to.  God does not love you today because you have been good, or because you are a nice person. He loves you because "HE IS LOVE."

One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp

Here is the review that sold me on this book. 

The review alone is...just beautiful. 

 Thank You Brooke for such inspiring words. 

Because of your thoughts on this book, 

I plan to snuggle deep into my duvet, sip on some warm tea, and begin Anne's journey.

Walking in Grace,

 Christina 

Brooke's Review: 

"Anything but a light read, Ann Voskamp's One Thousand Gifts; A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, has left me undone...only to be reformed by the Hand of my Master. Join me as I share a small piece of how the Savior has used it in my life.

Captured immediately by Ann's incredible gift of pen, I learned that life dealt her several seemingly cruel hands. The book begins with the story of the loss of Ann's sister, Aimee, who was literally crushed in front of her family by a trucker who simply didn't see her. As a mother of young children, the sheer angst of Ann's telling made me want to crawl in bed with my little ones and hold them close to me forever. A mother's heart wants to protect...and yet with raw authenticity Ann cracks open the question we all have asked at one time or another, "How can a good God..."

Her answer comes in what I found to be a most unlikely place. Thanksgiving.

I always thought of myself as a thankful person before reading this book. I know I have been blessed...or at least I can look at my life and see good things I call blessings...and they outnumber the bad things I call something else. But Ann made me think beyond my limitations...in fact urging me to put on a whole new set of eyes to see the deep thankfulness in both the good and the bad. A task not humanly possible.

But nothing is impossible with God. She calls it Eucharisteo. And I admit to letting it roll off of my lips in those sacred moments of deep thanksgiving.

And so I began, with great excitement, counting my blessings with Ann. Little gratitudes found along the way. A soft little cheek here, a song lyric there...Before I knew what was happening, I began seeing thanksgiving in things I had overlooked for a lifetime. In a recent blog post, I wrote these words describing this new way of seeing:

"I'm seeing them EVERYWHERE of late...picture must needs! And me with no real camera! I'm eaten inside with the desire to capture the deep thanksgiving...the things the Lord seems to be doing just for me in the sky...with those clouds...and those mountains and when, tell me WHEN, did those mountains I've loved all my life begin looking so glorious in the fall? Someone MUST needs take a picture!"

Indeed...the Lord seems to have given me a new set of eyes. And rather than calling only the good the blessing, I now clearly see the radical, hard thanksgiving in the bad.

Though I say that with a hint of fear.

Because a part of me still lives in fear that if I invite God to bring me wholly into Him, great sacrifice...loss...will be required of me to get there. I know that in this world we will have troubles...and I know that suffering is means God uses to draw us unmistakably to Him. I know He can be trusted. I know He is good. But the fear remains. What if God must take something (someone?) from me to bring me to Him most fully? I cannot ask that of Him.

Angie Smith, at a recent conference said (paraphrased) about the loss of her infant daughter , Audrey Caroline, "for all that her death has brought me...the understanding of God, the opportunities to comfort others and show them God's grace...I would still rather have Audrey." And my heart nods in agreement. This describes the words of my heart.

Beautifully and fully, Ann weaves comfort to my fear when she says, "It is impossible to give thanks and simultaneously feel fear" (p. 203). And now I know the reason for the thanksgiving...the counting of the blessings...graces. So many times God calls us to remember and give thanks, for as we remember His good works, His salvation, His provisions, protection...we give thanks...and are built up, given peace and hope that He can do it again. Knowing this helps me take one step closer to the fullness of Him and realize it as an area where He continues to work.

His work is grace.

And I can not only count my gratitude, I can actually BE grace to those around me. "A life contemplating the blessings of Christ becomes a life acting the love of Christ" (p.184). And "to give the thanks away. That thanks-giving might literally become thanks-living" (p. 192).

I am not the same. Upside down in a right-side-up world and wanting to stay there. Seeking the thanksgivings of each day with a fully devoted heart knowing that I'll have to read it again...and probably again. So many are the thoughts of my heart right now...so many are the ways I feel challenged to look beyond circumstances for the thanksgiving in life. So fully have I decided to live in this dare of the right now...that all I have to say to Ann Voskamp (and to my Savior) is:

"One Thousand Thank-You's friends."

 Brooke Mc Glothlin,

Visit her site below:

A Life in Need of Change

What is the Gospel?

What is the Gospel?? 

 Religion says that you should trust in what you do as a good moral person. The gospel says that you should trust in the perfectly sinless life of Jesus because He alone is the only good and truly moral person who will ever live.

Religion ends in either pride (because I think I am better than other people) or despair (because I continually fall short of God’s commands). The gospel ends in humble and confident joy because of the power of Jesus at work for me, in me, through me, and sometimes in spite of me.

Listen closely, I have good news to tell you. There is hope. Together let’s understand this light which came down for you.

^{John 1: 14}The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

This Jesus, who brings with him all the light and life you’ll ever need, he came. He’s the One and the Only, there is no other. He is the one you’ve been waiting for. And he comes, not bringing with him laws and rules and do’s and don’t's.

He comes full of grace. That means there’s forgiveness with him. There are second chances with him. He brings power and strength with him. He brings unmerited favor with him. If you can deserve grace, then it wouldn’t be called grace now would it? He didn’t come with things we have to earn or deserve. He came with grace- gifts that we can never earn but he wants to give freely anyway. That’s the good news.

He also comes full of truth. So whatever lies the enemy has placed in your mind about Jesus or his father, he came to dispel that. Whatever lies the enemy has tried to fool you into thinking about yourself or the way God sees you, he came to dispel as well. 

My prayer is that this blog will be full of truth for you.  And you’d be set free from wrong thinking the way we were recently 

(I’ll tell you my story somewhere along the way).

The Good News is Grace. The Good News is Truth. The Good News is Jesus. And Jesus is Here. And everything will never be the same.