Friday, September 14, 2012

Surviving Infidelity







   

Surviving Infidelity

                                                                   Surviving InfidelitySurviving infidelity and an affair IS possible. It may not feel like it if you have just revealed your spouse or partner infidelity. If you've just discovered the affair, or the suspicion of infidelity is so strong that they're driving you out of your mind, then, you know what I'm talking about. Nevertheless, there are certain steps or stages, mental shifts that will make you, that will push you through the crisis of infidelity. Survival may seem really fitting word. It really feels like an emotional, sometimes even physical survival. Fear and pain can be debilitating and excruciating. This strikes at the heart of who you are, or your mind. Surviving infidelity and cheating mean that you are going to make changes in your thinking. You see, there are many common misconceptions about life that makes life affair affair and healing and recovering from infidelity much, much harder. And, when you start making changes, you begin to survive an affair, began to feel relief and renewed confidence in your ability to say and do what you need to not only survive an affair but know what you can do to possibly stop the affair, begin the process of Your healing and maybe save your marriage or relationship.

* Avoid the Killer Mistakes Most Make to Prolong the Affair and their Misery
Shifting the affair should make in life is how they initially approached a cheating husband or cheating wife. In my free eCourse Killer 7 Mistakes lines that extend affairs, misery and suffering. This free e-course, start forming your mindset in a way that gives you the first step of change that will give you the personal power you need in life and finally overcome and thrive through the infidelity and affairs. For example, you will move past: say I love you .. and know exactly why you did it suggest counseling ... and know exactly why this does not work to say you've changed ... and can see the positive impact on him / her NOT to use these phrases and more. ... and begin to use words and actions that will have the greatest opportunity to end the affair and bring about healing.

* You CAN NOT DIRECTLY stop affair
In order to survive infidelity and cheating mean that you have to switch from thinking and efforts to stop the affair. Trying to immediately stop the affair is often a disaster waiting to happen. Sorry, but it's bad news. The good news: Many people often end up cheating by using the "indirect" approach. This strategy often works, with wonder offended spouse or partner. For example, you can learn the powerful strategy of "backward" when applied to a type of "My Marriage Made Me Do It" from the affair. Once again, congratulations infidelity means making some changes that now you might not even consider it to be possible.

* Overcoming Stigma and Isolation of a "Couple Injured"
Another shift in life is to reach an affair. Yes, it's often difficult, at least in the initial discovery of the affair to find support and encouragement from others. However, many people find support and a listening ear is needed - at least in the hours and days very early - in defense of infidelity and infidelity. As absurd as it seems, many people feel embarrassed and humiliated when they first discover that their spouse was having an affair. They do not want to tell anyone. (They also think that if the affair ends and the marriage is restored, it will not be very helpful to have other people know what's going on.) Thus, many people suffer in silence or make knee-jerk, uninformed decisions that harm the process.

Thursday, July 5, 2012

 Emotional Infidelity - Is It Cheating

 Emotional Infidelity

The traditional definition of cheating, or infidelity, is
that one person in a committed relationship is physically
involved with someone other than their spouse. Due to a
number of factors, cheating behavior has been reclassified
to include the traditional definition and a more
contemporary definition, known as emotional infidelity.
The Definition of Emotional Infidelity
Emotional infidelity is defined as any infidelity that
occurs through feeling or thought. During the late 1970s,
in an interview with Playboy magazine, former President
Jimmy Carter stated that occasionally he "lusted in (his)
heart" for women other than his wife. His thoughts were
equated with infidelity, and he was considered to be
unfaithful to his marriage, even though his statement
described emotional infidelity, not physical infidelity.
Since that time, and with the technological development of
cell phones and the internet, the definition of cheating has
been expanded to include the traditional definition, plus
the feelings and/or thoughts that comprise emotional
infidelity. Cheating now includes having intimate
correspondence with someone while on a cell phone,
meeting someone over the Internet and maintaining a
relationship, or viewing pornographic material through
 
 Emotional Infidelity
any available source.

The Difference Between Traditional Cheating and Emotional Infidelity
The primary difference between traditional cheating and
emotional infidelity is actual, physical contact.
Traditionally, cheating involves people meeting face to
face, and then engaging in physical intimacy. With
emotional infidelity, there may be a meeting, but it can
occur on a cell phone or a computer. There may be physical
activity involved, but it is conducted within the confines of
separate locations; the people involved aren't "actually" touching.
Many of the people who are emotionally cheating don't consider
it to be infidelity. Their rationale is that, because there is no
actual physical contact, the behavior can't be considered cheating.
For some people, there is no difference between traditional
and emotional infidelity. They view emotional infidelity as
having the same behavioral components and end result as
traditional cheating; therefore, any perceived differences
are a moot point. When someone cheats, they use flirtation,
discussion, seduction, and discretion - regardless of where
either person is located or what vehicle of communication
they are using. The end result is that the unfaithful spouse is
paying emotional and/or physical attention to someone other
than their partner, and they are removing themselves from the
marriage commitment.
Emotional Intimacy Can Lead To Physical Intimacy
Emotional infidelity begins with the exchange of personal
information. As the people involved get acquainted, the
information exchanged becomes more personal. When the
information becomes personal, it can lead to a face-to-face
meeting and, most likely, physical intimacy. It can be argued
that emotional infidelity is harmless because it is more of a
casual relationship than traditional cheating; however, the
intimate nature of the communication, plus the emotional
investment made by the people involved, places emotional
infidelity on the same level as traditional cheating.
Considering the wide-reaching capabilities of the internet,
the continuing advancement of cell phone technology, and the
various other communication devices available, the number of
people engaged in emotional infidelity will only increase. People
cannot be stopped from engaging in an illicit affair, but they
should consider the effect that cheating will have on the spouse.
They should also consider the possible consequences of
emotional infidelity, which can be the same as those of traditional
infidelity, including divorce.

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Friday Five - June 8th

It's Friday, and here are five of my favorites from around the web!


1. Make Subway Art for Under $10.00! From Lemonade Makin' Mama

I love this tutorial!! I've been seeing these signs everywhere, and they're awesome. Even more awesome is that you can make your own for less than ten dollars!

On another note, here is her bio... Don't you love her already?! :D

One day, during a really chaotic moment, I told a friend that, "Life was handing me lemons, and I needed to get them organized before I could make lemonade out of them!" A blog name was born in that moment. I adore Jesus and try to follow Him daily in ways that bless others. I am married to my dreamy high school sweetheart. I believe in deep talks, good cries, and contagious laughter. Stick around here long enough and you might get to experience all of the above.





2. Chore Charts With Printables

Just Another Day in Paradise offers a few creative ideas for moms who are training their children to pick up after themselves. If you like cute printables and ideas, check it out...


3. Cute Overload! 

If you like cute videos then this one is a must see! I can say without a doubt that it is the cutest video I've seen on a long time--maybe ever. I've been a fan of Marnie's for a while, but this one takes the cake (pun intended). 




4. Where Has the Time Gone? - Becoming a Strong Woman of God

Sonya from Becoming a Strong Woman of God has been an encouragement to me since I started this blog. I love her zeal for the Lord and her commitment to the body of Christ. Sonya shares a post on Time-Management...

If we sit and complain about where the time went, we will miss what is right in front of us. WE are in control of our time, WE add to much to our plate. WE make other things a priority. WE act like we have tomorrow... Read more...

time


5. Raspberry Lemonade Smoothies

These look so delicious, and so refreshing that I had to share them with you! 



You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Wednesday, June 6, 2012

FREE Printable - Proverbs 31 Recipe Cards

Last Saturday my daughter went to the mall with my husband and came home with a beautiful recipe box. It had been years since I owned one of my own, but I do remember those nights I spent many years ago--before the internet existed--combing through magazines looking for recipes to add to the box.

Now my daughter is searching for recipes of her own, in hopes that she'll fill up the box that I imagine will be a keepsake for many years to come. 

When I saw her doing this, I couldn't help but get the idea of printables. Not just any printables however, but rather a collection of four "Proverbs 31 Recipe Cards." 

Each one is detailed with a verse from Proverbs 31, encouraging us to joyfully serve: 
  • She is like the merchant ships bringing her food from afar. (14)
  • She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family. (15)
  • She sets about her work vigorously, her arms are strong for her tasks. (17)
  • She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. (20)

If you look at the sample below, you will notice that I haven't put a title at the top of the card. The reason I didn't is because I thought that some of you might decide to use these for menu planning or grocery lists. I think they would work just as well for that!

If you would like a copy of this printable, click the image below. It will take you to a high resolution image with four recipe cards/page. 

Note to subscribers: If you have trouble viewing the image, please click through to the blog.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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The Issue Of Infidelity

When you're taking into consideration the factors behind cheating, you might find that all of your system is dedicated to oneself and what you may or may not have done. The reality from the matter is that cheating, want it or otherwise not, is not the fault until you were the one who broke down and scammed. This really is a thing that many people basically don't grasp when they've identified their own partners have been being unfaithful on them. They question what they've got done or what they failed to perform and they brutalize by themselves over it. The facts with the matter would be that the mistake is with the person who scammed, not with the individual that was robbed on. You did nothing to pressure these phones slumber with another person, at whenever, they might have learned to you to definitely tell you whatever they have been experience. Once you have proven that it is not necessarily your own fault however (and also this may take a serious amounts of encourage yourself) in which creates this change add?When you are thinking about the causes for infidelity, you will find that there are some individuals who cheat since they're hooked on the strain of it. They may realize that what they're carrying out is actually incorrect or they really should not be doing the work, but the buzz of doing something and achieving absent from it can be intoxicating. This could cause them to a growing number of obvious cheating and quite often, after they obtain found, they will apologize and swear to avoid that once more.There is some belief that folks be unfaithful and also get it done within an away and also out coldness. The reality is, for many individuals the thought of being unfaithful is a that is a crime of chance. These people find that men and women often be unfaithful, during times when it is not within their best interests to do so. Many people do have bad impulsive handle, and so they could be affected with a situation. For instance, whenever someone is actually feeling prone, or even if they are in the place in which they're feeling needy, they will take first thing provides some type of instant satisfaction.One other reason that often areas whenever being unfaithful happens can be a propensity in the direction of self-destruction. Some individuals will have reduced sufficient self-esteem that whenever something great transpires with all of them, they issue this, and also feel that they almost have to destroy it of a a feeling of twisted fairness. Other people have a tendency to go into relationships entirely conscious of they will end poorly these types of this tend to goal toward dooming a romantic relationship right away.Any time with the variations in which being unfaithful might take, remember that there are numerous reasons why spouse might be unfaithful. There may be more than one; normally a mixture of aspects can lead as much as this kind of. Any of the elements in the list above could possibly be the concern, or perhaps it could be one which just isn't connected in any way. If you are looking for the causes of adultery, look closely at the connection and the cheating spouse for that solution; it is often a lot more complicated compared to you might see initially.

Monday, June 4, 2012

Titus 2sdays Link up Party!!



Today and every Tuesday, I want to invite bloggers to link-up any blog posts that will encourage women to joyfully live out their roles as wives and keepers of their homes I'm looking for posts on marriage, parenting, housekeeping, recipes, etc.

All you have to do is enter the direct link from your post into the linky tool below!

I'd also like to ask you to link back here with the Titus 2sday code (below) so that other bloggers can join in too!

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

If you'd like to leave a comment, join in the conversation on facebook: Click here

Author of The Good Wife's Guide, available as an eBook or paperback.

I'm Over at Roo Today


There is no such thing as hopeless when our eyes are fixed on God. God transforms the impossible into the possible. He offers the unpromising a promise. He gives strength to the weak. He encourages the discouraged. There isn’t one troubled marriage that God cannot fix. Is anything to hard for the Lord? Absolutely not! Read the rest over at Roo Mag...

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

If you'd like to leave a comment, visit Time-Warp Wife on facebook: Click here

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Pick up my book: The Good Wife's Guide: Embracing Your Role as a Help Meet


Why Was This All Necessary?

I sit here and wonder WHY was this all necessary? What was the reason that I had to go through all of this heartache and pain ?  Why did I have to suffer from him hurting me so much? ....the name calling, the lies he told and believed for a very long time, the worry of WHERE he was and the final break-up of my marriage and family. It seems that I can look around and see so many couples who make it through, and some that don't, and then there's just me. I wondered for a very long time if I had anything to do with his cheating.....but I know that I didn't.  I was always there for him, and sometimes think that I gave him way too much of myself.  I see him, right now, with his other woman, and he is also cheating on her...go figure.  That man just can't seem to find happiness within himself. Why did he even want to marry me or have a family with me if he wasn't happy?  Did he honestly try to be faithful?  So many questions, and you know what?  none of them will ever be answered, I know that already.....my question is WHY did I have to go through such pain?  Maybe one day I will find the answer.

Sunday, June 3, 2012

God is the Author of Marriage--He's Got it Covered


Marriage is a journey in which we either
trust the pilot enough to let go and let God,
or jump at the first sign of turbulence. 
- Time-Warp Wife

I'm a sleeper. I'm especially known to nap in the car, whether we're driving across town or taking a road trip. I just have to close my eyes and I'm down for the count. Last thing I remember from this afternoon is that we drove up to someone's house to drop off a guitar, the next thing I knew we were pulling up to Skinner's Diner in Lockport. I don't remember my husband getting back into the car or driving us there--I was out cold.

I also sleep on airplanes. In fact last November I stepped onto a plane in Hershey Pennsylvania and woke up in Chicago. I opened my eyes asking myself, "Are we taking off, or are we landing?" Seriously I had no idea if the ride was over or about to begin.

Maybe it's the steady hum of the motor that lulls me to sleep, or it could be that I have full confidence in the driver. My guess is that it's a combination of both. Like sweet and sour sauce, the mixture of the two make for one incredible blend.

So it is with life. The steady hum of the engine reminds us that the same faithful God who brought us this far can bring us much further yet. We're on a journey in which we either trust the pilot enough to let go and let God or jump at the first sign of turbulence.

Without realizing it, we rely on the provision of God each and every day of our lives. If we lose a nail we expect it to grow back, when we cut ourselves we expect that our body will repair it's own wound, and each time we take a breath we assume the next one is not far behind. The Creator knew exactly what He was doing when He designed you and me. Every part of our body, from our hair down to our toes was uniquely crafted by Him. Therefore we trust. 


What can we say then about marriage? About our marriage? If God is the author of marriage between man and a woman, then He's got it covered. Couples will fight, feelings get hurt, wives get ignored, husbands neglected, so how can we trust in a better tomorrow? 


Because the same faithful God who brought you this far can bring you much further yet.

Corrie Ten Boom once wrote, "When a train goes through a tunnel and it gets dark, you don’t throw away the ticket and jump off. You sit still and trust the engineer."

How many times have couples jumped ship? Looking at the divorce rates in Canada and the US, the answer  is a disappointing "far too often." Too many young couples have given up before they had a chance to experience what a mature relationship has to offer. Too many parents have given up on family before they experienced the joy of growing together as one. 

Herbert and Zelmyra Fisher, married 86 years (the longest married couple in the world) offer a few words of advice for young couples:
  • We are both Christians & believe in God.Marriage is a commitment to the Lord.We pray with & for each other every day
  • Everyone who plants a seed & harvests the crop celebrates together. We are individuals, but accomplish more together.
  • Agree that it’s okay to disagree, & fight for what really matters. Learn to bend - not break!
  • Remember marriage is not a contest – never keep a score. God has put the two of you together on the same team to win.
  • Respect, support & communicate with each other. Be faithful, honest & true. Love each other with ALL of your heart
taken from @longestmarried on Twitter

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

If you'd like to leave a comment, visit Time-Warp Wife on facebook: Click here

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Check out my book: The Good Wife's Guide: Embracing Your Role as a Help Meet

    


Secrets of Men That Women Should Know


According to psychologists, if a man is ever caught on some “innocent” lies, trust to him will be exhausted. Where should a woman know that all this afoot for her peace of mind? However, men do not hesitate following the advice of scientists and disclosing their little secrets. Let’s try to figure out why.

Secret number 1: A neighbor is a really good looking woman


But that does not mean a man wants to leave you for her. They are simply arranged this way - even while happily in love, they will automatically look at all pretty women around. It’s like a radar, which cannot be turned off.

Secret number 2: Sometimes a phrase “I’m going to watch football” means “I want some rest from you”


Quite often a visit to football (basketball, tennis, hockey, drafts tournament) is just an excuse to rest from his beautiful half. Of course, no wise man will say: “Honey, I’m tired of you, and I want to spend time with friends.” So he has to portray a hot admirer of tennis or handball.

Secret number 3: Obligations of any kind deprive them of courage


A rare man starts reflecting on a wedding, drawing a plan of family nest and thinking about the color of curtains in the nursery since the first day of acquaintance. The overwhelming majority of male population will require months or even years to come to terms with an idea that beloved woman is actually waiting for a proposal.


Secret number 4: Gender equality is fine, but man should earn more


“Syndrome of provider” reached men in the legacy of distant ancestors, who killed mammoth in one fell, dragged it into cave over tail, proudly awarded it to their second half and disposed of in the rest - waiting for honestly earned dinner. Since that time a man is hunting for mammoth (ie making money), and a woman is cooking dinner (ie, earns less). When a woman tries to enter a traditionally male territory and pursue mammoths (ie, earn as much as her man, if not more), family relations are steadily spoiled.

Secret number 5: In fact, they like working at home


In fact, men like working at home - because of internal feeling of superiority: she will not stand without me. Why do they hide it from women? Probably because all immediate household chores are formed in the most inopportune time - for example, during a favorite football team’s match (how can they miss it?).

Secret number 6: Over the years, they love their second half increasingly


Men’s emotional growth occur gradually, and reaches its peak in 40-50 years - so, at least, psychologists say. And most men agree with them. Over the years, men discover some new, previously unknown sides of their partners’ natures, with age an internal reassessment takes place and men are beginning to appreciate the qualities they have not previously drawn attention to. But none of them will say to a woman: “Honey, I love you stronger every day (month, year)”. She may decide he loved her less before.

Secret number 7: Sometimes they do not understand what women are talking about


This is one of the worst men’s secrets - well, who of sound mind will recognize he did not understood a word of his wife’s flaming speech? They will simply say: “Yes, I understand, of course, you’re right”.

Secret number 8: They are afraid of women behind the wheel


When a woman sits behind the wheel, a man in the passenger seat internally becomes a frightened boy. This traditional men’s territory is not intended for women, and the one that dared to violate the border and allowed sitting at the helm, does not receive a great deal of trust. Of course, he will never recognize this. But if, at a speed of 30 km / h a man suddenly says something like: “Honey, I think we are going too fast”, there is no doubt - he is frightened to a pulp.

Secret number 9: All men secretly wish they were 25 once again


But they will never in admit it. This is a women’s tradition, so no man will develop this theme.  Although, of course, it would be better, if they were 25. Well, at least, 30.

Secret number 10: Give him freedom - and he will give you eternity


A woman, sincerely respecting man’s freedom (be himself, go to a football with friends, go on holiday alone), is much more likely to win his heart and eternity with him, than a woman constantly tracking his every step.

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Friday Five - June 1st

It's time for the Friday Five, and here are five of my favorites from around the web:

1.This is Lennon 12 and Maisy 8 singing their version of Jason Mraz's I Won't Give Up. These girls are truly amazing. The Stella sisters :) When I saw their talent, I knew it was something that I had to share!




2. $2.99 or Less - 299orLess.net

I hope you don't mind if I share a link of my own? I just opened a second website called $2.99 or Less that offers affordable Christian eBooks. I thought it would be a great place to showcase authors while offering readers a great deal. All eBooks are $2.99 or less, and I'll be adding as many freebies as I can! 

If you want to receive regular updates, sign up to have them delivered to your inbox. There's a subscriber's form in the right-hand sidebar. 








3. Strawberry Jell-o Poke Hole Cake - Allergy Free

Doesn't this look like a delicious treat for summer? Yum!


4. Joy Sings "The Itsy Bitsy Spider." 

Grace Full Mama encourages women to give up on trying to do what everyone else is doing and embrace your God given talents. It's a good read for women who tend to compare. What's your thing?


5. Raspberry-Coconut Popsicles


With real fruit accompanied by naturally sweet coconut milk and honey, this is a homemade treat you can feel great about serving your kids. Or yourself. And you don't need popsicle molds to make them either, since these ones are made in dixie cups. Brilliant!


Raspberry coconut popsicles Raspberry Coconut Popsicles: Bring on the Summer!


You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Printable Calendar for June

The printable calendar is ready for June! The page has the month at a glance, plus the following sections to write in:
  • To Do's - Things you need to do today
  • Hope To Do's - Additional things you'd like to do if time permits
  • Prayer Requests 
  • Reminders 
  • Bible Reading - What you plan to read in the Bible or a verse that comes to mind
  • Groceries
  • Thinking Ahead - Goals or future commitments
  • People to Call
Each page is intended for daily use, therefore I'd recommend printing off several at a time.

And if you haven't checked it out yet, take a look at my weekly housekeeping schedule. It's a great way to get the house clean and keep it looking that way!

If you would like to view or download the printable,
just click the link below the image. (Original is a full-sized page).

If you are an email subscriber, and have trouble viewing the links, click through to the website at: Time-Warp Wife.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

If you'd like to leave a comment, visit Time-Warp Wife on facebook: Click here

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Check out The Good Wife's Guide, now available in paperback.

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

The Heart of Simplicity - Book Review

The Heart of Simplicity:
Foundations For Christian Homemaking

From the hearts of over a dozen Christian women…to yours





I was handed a copy of this eBook a few weeks ago when one of the contributing authors asked me if I'd be willing to review it. Knowing that Jennifer Ross was involved I was interested enough to at least check it out. I already enjoy her blog and I loved her homemaking DVD, which is why this book intrigued me, and besides that I recognized a few of the other writers as well.

First off, I have to say that whoever chose the writing team for this project is brilliant. She knows talent when she sees it and after reading through the book, so do I. In every chapter I found myself clicking through links to see who the author was.

I started highlighting some of my favorite parts, and when all was said and done I was left with little more than a yellow manuscript. I couldn't possibly share them all with you, but I will share a few of my favorite lines:

When we realize that we must come to the end of ourselves to gain through Him, our vision is clear, our strength is renewed, and our joy is made full. Homemaking truly is a beautiful calling that brings joy beyond words.


Men tend to have a great need to be respected and the Scriptures are very clear that wives must respect their husbands. The way we behave from day to day with our husbands says a lot about our love for them.

The issue here is not “his role vs. my role.” It’s forgetting that even though we fill different roles within the marriage, we need to fill those roles in such a way that our lives are intertwined with each other, instead of running next to each other, like parallel lines.


Our homes should be places of rest and security. In a hostile and busy world, marriage should be a sanctuary. The culture we live in has abandoned the sanctity of marriage, largely because we have abandoned God and His heart for marriage.

As mothers, our hope is to be clothed in strength for the coming days. As I age and the influence of my life continues on into my children and their children and their children’s children, my hope is that they will know their grandmother trusted in the Lord and had a heart towards heaven. 


And my favorite...


Instead of just raising “good little kids,” I pray that we will raise dangerous men and daring daughters who will expand the kingdom of God. Our kids are like arrows . . . but they need to be sharpened and aimed and released . . . so they can hit God’s bulls-eye mark.

From the Website...

Today’s typical lifestyle is marked by busyness, consumerism, and stress. We, as women, often complain that there’s not enough time to “do it all.”

Do we suffer from a lack of time? No. We suffer from a lack of eternal perspective.

How we invest our time on earth will impact eternity in a million ways. Join over a dozen Christian women as we learn how to simplify our lives from the inside out and build homemaking foundations focused on Christ.

When we are faithful to focus on what is truly essential in our homemaking, we can build an eternal legacy... one simple day at a time.

Find out more about the book and meet the writers at, The Heart of Simplicity:


You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

If you'd like to leave a comment, visit Time-Warp Wife on facebook: Click here

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Monday, May 28, 2012

God Equips Those He Calls


"God Doesn't Call the Equipped
He Equips Those He Calls."
~ Author Unknown

If you saw Women Living Well's post the other day you might have read that a few bloggers, including myself were approached by a production company who is interested in the possibility of doing a TV show or a documentary. At this point we're only in the "talking/thinking" stages. Whether anything will actually come of it is for God to decide. Where He leads I'll follow.

When the letter came in asking whether I'd consider the possibility, I brushed it off the same way I brushed off an interview from a New York magazine the week before until they approached me again. My first reaction was that it couldn't possibly be serious, and the second was that I'm inadequate to take on a task of this magnitude. About a week and a half ago the phone rang--it was them. They were indeed serious. After an hour long conversation they wanted to proceed to a Skype interview.

At this point I was impressed to leave the door open, but at the same time I had resolved that I didn't have it in me to do this, after all, I'm an average, middle-aged mom from the prairie. What could they possibly want with me? I'm not skinny enough, I'm not young enough, I'm not pretty enough, I'm not confident enough, I'm not experienced enough, I'm not eloquent enough... and the list goes on...

Friday afternoon I felt compelled to open my daily devotion. The feeling was stronger than it is most days--much stronger--I couldn't help but wonder if God was trying to tell me something. After reading it through I knew that He was.
God Calling May 25th

There will be no limit to what you can accomplish. Realize that. Never relinquish any task or give up the thought of any task because it seems beyond your power, only if you see it is not My Will for you. This I command you.

Think of the tiny snowdrop-shoot in the hard ground. No certainty even that when it has forced its weary way up, sunlight and warmth will greet it.

What a task beyond its power that must seem. But the inner urge of Life within the seed compelling it, it carries out that task. The Kingdom of Heaven is like unto this.
The bottom line in all of this is that I've learned an important life lesson: my strength doesn't lie in human wisdom, but in God's power alone. This life isn't about me it's about Him. It doesn't matter whether I'm skinny enough, young enough, pretty enough, confident enough, experienced enough, or eloquent enough, all that matters is that I'm ready and willing to be used as He desires to lead. Whether that means He calls me to further consider this or He leads me in a brand new direction tomorrow I must learn that's it's no longer I that liveth, but Christ that liveth in me.

You know what girl? That same message is here for you too. Don't ever let this world get you down. If you have put your faith in Jesus Christ, you are a vessel of an almighty God who is able to bring you to and through any situation that you come across. Whether a task is big or small, be ready and willing to answer His call.

Since Paul says it so much better than I ever could, I'd love to close with his words:
And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.

I came to you in weakness with great fear and trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power. ~ 1 Corinthians 2:1-5, NIV


Today and every Tuesday, I want to invite bloggers to link-up any blog posts that will encourage women to joyfully live out their roles as wives and keepers of their homes I'm looking for posts on marriage, parenting, housekeeping, recipes, etc.

All you have to do is enter the direct link from your post into the linky tool below!

I'd also like to ask you to link back here with the Titus 2sday code (below) so that other bloggers can join in too!

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Author of The Good Wife's Guide, available as an eBook or paperback.

Sunday, May 27, 2012

Quick 'N Easy Pasta Salad






Blessed is the home
of a woman who joyfully serves,
offering gifts
by the work of her hands.


When I'm asked to bring a salad to dinner, my first choice is usually my "Quick 'N Easy Pasta Salad." I have to say that it's one of my family's top five when it comes to the dishes I make, and the best thing is that it's probably the easiest dish to make too.

With a little help from my kids who enjoy washing veggies, chopping tomatoes and crumbling cheese, we can have this salad made in the time it takes to boil the pasta!

Ingredients:  

4 C dry fusili noodles (more if you want a larger salad)
1 C red pepper
1 green pepper
½ C red onion
2 cups of broccoli florets
3 tomatoes
500 ml feta cheese (because we like lots)
1 Bottle of Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing

Procedure:

Boil the pasta.

While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop your vegetables and put them into a large bowl.

Once the pasta is done, rinse with cool water and add to the vegetables. If pasta isn't completely cool, refrigerate for about 20 minutes before adding the feta.

Drain the feta, and crumble into the salad.

Toss all ingredients together.

Add salad dressing to taste just before serving.

Note: Some people prefer to add the dressing and let it sit n the fridge for a while. I prefer to add it just before or while serving.

Hope you and your family enjoy!

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Thursday, May 24, 2012

Friday Five! May 25th

It's a new week, and here are five of my favorites from around the web:

1. Knot No-Hem Shorts - Crafty Critique

Add some style to Bermuda shorts with Crafty Critique's Knot-No Hem tutorial. I love how cute these are!

These are SO EASY to make. Right after posting the blog I grabbed a pair of Madison's jeans and I was done in 30 minutes from start to finish.




I started having this strange feeling that something wasn’t right. I had my husband’s password to his account (because we trust each other and wanted to be accountable) on Facebook. So about 11:30am during the weekday(with a strong feeling), I logged on his account and looked at his messages. What I didn’t realize was he was chatting with her right then! I stopped breathing for a second, I felt my whole world spin out of control. Read more...


3. Mini Cherry Pies - How Adorable are These?

After taking a look at these mini cherry pies, my mind started to wander... apple pie, pumpkin pie, coconut cream pie... the possibilities are endless. I definitely want to try making mini coconut cream! 

Visit What You Giveaway You Keep for a recipe and tutorial on these babies!


4. Father's Day Cookies - Somewhat Simple

Somewhat Simple offers a few creative ideas for making Father's Day Cookies. So cute!


5. Humbling the Grumbling - Cross Moms

I am realizing that when I do clean up the house and cook dinner, etc… and I don’t receive the “praises,” I tend to exude a tit-for-tat attitude, and I take on a selfish tone when someone asks me to do something for them. I then justify my response by thinking that I’m not going to raise any lazy children who won’t do for themselves! If they’re not going to help me—huh! I’m not going to help them.

But here is where the frying pan recently whacked me over the head: Read more...



You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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5 Ways to Resist Temptation


The other day I got to talking to a married friend and young mother who told me that she was recently approached by an ex-boyfriend who wrote her a heart-felt letter. If that isn’t temptation wrapped in a bow and handed to her on a silver platter, I don’t know what is. But I do know that this happens more often than women are willing to admit. Social networking has opened the door to behind-the-scenes communication and easy access to temptation unlike anything we've seen before.

She isn’t the only woman who recently told me this. The next day I heard a similar story--the names were changed, but the details and the storm of emotions she felt resembled that of the other. Satan knows our weak spot and too often it’s found in matters of the heart.

The initial temptation is an external one, but the lies we start to tell ourselves are internal, and that’s why we need to protect our thoughts before they become action that we live to regret.

Desiring a closer walk with the Lord, both women have made a conscious decision to turn their back on the past and move forward. Praise God for their faithfulness!

I got to thinking about the sacrifice that they’ve made and the reward that God gives to those who diligently seek Him with a pure heart.
For before he [Enoch] was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. ~ Hebrews 11:5b-6
I think it’s important to emphasize the words in verse six, “He rewards those…” so that we don’t seek our reward from this world. Let me explain…

We often hear of people who make decisions like this but later they start to question whether that decision was the right one or not. If you give up the chance to be with a handsome, charming man, then start to notice that your husband is really getting on your nerves or isn’t quite as attractive as he once was, you might ask yourself. “What is the point? I’ve given up so much, but I’ve received nothing in return.”

The problem with that scenario—if it should happen, and I pray that it doesn’t—is that we are looking to our husbands for our reward, not our Lord. GOD is the one who graciously rewards those who diligently seek Him, not this world.

A biblical account of this is found in Genesis chapter 39 where Joseph refused the advances of Potipher’s wife. Out of respect to his master and to God, Joseph fled temptation and left. As a result of his loyalty, he was imprisoned by Potipher himself. But notice this portion of scripture:
But while Joseph was there in the prison, the LORD was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s care, because the LORD was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did. ~ Genesis 39:20b-23, NIV
See where I’m going with this? When we look for the praise of others we aren't keen on sensing God's presence. When our eyes are closed to the spiritual world, we don’t notice His favor upon us. And finally, when we look to the world for reward, we don’t see the gracious reward that the Lord is already placing before us.

While we're all dealing with differing temptations in our life. Let's look at five ways we can resist it:
  1. Recognize sin when you see it lurking. Don't toy with it.
  2. Flee temptation as soon as you realize that you are being drawn away.
  3. Study the Bible regularly so that you are equipped to destroy the lies with truth.
  4. Pray asking God to take the temptation away, and if possible confide in friend who will lift you up in prayer and keep you accountable.
  5. Keep a safe distance between you and those things or people that you view as a potential temptation. Or if you must keep them close as in the case of a working relationship, keep your communication out in the open.
You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Tuesday, May 22, 2012

31 Ways to Inspire Your Children


  1. Choose your battles wisely ~ give patience where patience is due, and continually ask God for wisdom in discipline.
  2. While your children are growing, pray often for their salvation, as the prophet Isaiah wrote, "Drop down, ye heavens, from above, and let the skies pour down righteousness: let the earth open, and let them bring forth salvation, and let righteousness spring up together; I the LORD have created it." ~ Isaiah 45:8
  3. Give children age appropriate responsibilities teaching them to care for the things God gives us.
  4. Each child is individual; pray that God will help you in developing that individual character.
  5. Listen to how your children speak, and encourage them to choose words wisely at school and at home. It’s important to teach them to bridle their tongue.
  6. Set standards for your children as you teach them the importance of modest dress. They should represent themselves as holy and acceptable unto God.
  7. Never forget to tell your children you’re proud of them. Don’t assume that they already know how you feel.
  8. Teach your child to tithe by suggesting that they take one tenth of their allowance to put aside for church offering. Also teach them that we can give in additional ways such as donating old toys and clothes to the poor.
  9. Pray often that your children will long to please God, and that they will desire to walk in His ways as the Psalmist wrote, "More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold, sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb." ~ Psalm 19:10
  10. Pray over your children while they are sleeping. With a heart like Hannah, give them over to God.
  11. Start notebooks for each of your children, and together journal the changing world around us. Take note of the tiniest detail in God’s creation. Babies. Snowflakes. Lady Bugs…
  12. Keep a running list of prayer requests and pray together as a family often.
  13. Bible reading is a wonderful way to spend time together as a family. Make it a routine in your home.
  14. Visit relatives often to show children the value of relationships.
  15. Choose a character from the Bible and after reading the story together discuss how that message relates to your child today.
  16. Give time to your children each day. The time you give makes the words you speak of more value to them.
  17. Bring your children to church and help them seek out ways to get involved.
  18. Be an example to your children of one who loves her neighbor as herself through random acts of kindness. Lend a helping hand to a busy neighbor, or take time out of a busy day to simply say hello.
  19. Try counting the stars on a clear night to show your child how vast God’s creation is.
  20. Laughter is medicine for the soul ~ laugh often with your children.
  21. Smile often, and let kindness be a cloak you wear as an example to your children.
  22. Don’t just tell your children that you love them ~ tell them what you love about them.
  23. Pray for purity in the hearts of your children, and the renewing of their spirit as the Psalmist wrote, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." ~ Psalm 51:10
  24. Take opportunities to give thanks by taking turns around the dinner table to express what you are thankful for.
  25. Encourage praise reports and prayer requests on a regular basis. 
  26. Be an example to your children in the way that you love and honor your husband.
  27. Enlighten your children to the world around them by supporting missions and teaching them that there is a world both hungry for food and hungry for God. Pray that they will have a heart for missions.
  28. Take opportunities to hug your children often, to hold their hands, or to rest an assuring hand on their shoulder.
  29. Show your children that you appreciate them by doing something special just for them, like making their favorite meal, or taking them out for an ice cream.
  30. As you watch your child grow, pray for meekness in that young spirit--a spirit that will grow in the likeness of Christ. As Paul wrote to the Ephesians in chapter 4:2, "With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love."
  31. Make it a habit to learn scripture together. Children learn best from example. 

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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