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!

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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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These Hands

I tiptoed my way toward the crib hoping to steal one last look before going to sleep. Crumpled up in his bed like a kitten slept the little man who was placed in my care. This baby, though only a few months old had already been through the valley of the shadow of death, but by the grace of God he lives—by the stripes of our Savior he’s healed. With such a marvelous glory before me I couldn’t help but to brush his cheek with my hand before leaving.

Standing outside in the hall, I looked down at the palm of my hand, still feeling his warmth. This hand was a familiar one that I had seen somewhere before—adorned with a simple wedding band, marked with a touch of arthritis, and clothed with lines and creases liken to roads of years traveled—what I recognized were the hands of a mother.

A vintage suitcase marked with stamps collected through journeys, my hands have traveled to far away places. Now bursting with riches they can hardly contain, these hands hold a treasure of memories locked deep inside.

They held my own mother’s arms that pulled up my trousers, while I felt the warmth of her breath on my neck. They curiously turned the handle to peer at my father while he undressed for the shower—yes, the same hand that stifled a giggle as I ran from his voice. They held their first cup of milk careful to not spill a drop, and later their first glass of Coke as the bubbles jumped from the cup.

My hands have waved high in the air, hoping that one would be seen and be heard. They've held the hands of fair maidens in the kingdom of friendship. They held the hand of new love, and took another in marriage. They've placed coins in the hands of the poor, and received coin when times have been rough. They’ve felt the coldness of death and the warmth of a newborn’s first grasp. They've reached out in the dark to give and get love.

They've pushed the back of a swing that soared through the air, and tied the laces on skates making sure that each leg was tight. They've learned to hold on and let go.

Then I see a different pair of hands, but unlike mine, they've been scarred from the journey. These hands have held his mother’s arms as he felt the warmth of her breath on his neck. They've been used to stifle a giggle and place coins in the hand of the poor. They've held hands of royal princes in the kingdom of God. They've reached out in the dark to give love, and bring life. They felt the coldness of death and the power of life. These hands are familiar ones that I can only imagine to see—the hands of a Savior—my Jesus.

My little man, Graham is twelve years old now. Living and breathing against all the odds. I have seen him so near to death that a team of doctors rushed to his crib late at night, and the same child so near to the glory of God that his face reflected the light.

Herein lies the power of life—the hands of a savior—my Jesus.

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Sin Today - Salvation Tomorrow?

Drawn from my archives

I received a question from a reader that recently had a discussion with a friend of hers about sin. This friend had been having an affair with a married man for some time now, but because of his faith—and advice from his pastor—he decided to break things off with her.

There were a lot of details that I won’t go into, but what I will do is address the question that was at the root of the letter. That question is this, “If God forgives us for everything, how come we can’t be together and make it right with God?”


That’s a good question. Why can’t we sin today and ask for forgiveness tomorrow?

We don’t always understand why God doesn't give us the things we desire, but the bottom line is that we don’t have to understand. God's wisdom exceeds ours, and we are called to accept that. This is what’s known as giving up our will for His.

The minute that we start to question God's wisdom and say things like, "MY God is compassionate, he wants me to be happy and understands that I have to be with this man..." Then we are taking the true image of God--according to His wisdom laid out in scripture--and forming it into a golden calf that we can worship.

It's so much easier to worship something that molds to our idea of what God should be.

We aren't called to walk an easy life. In fact this very thing might be a test that asks, "Are you willing to give up your life for mine?" That's what we're called to do.

When Abraham was asked to sacrifice Isaac, he didn't say, "MY God wouldn't want me to harm this child, MY God is compassionate." He was willing to give up anything and everything he loved without having to understand why. It was counted to him for faith.

Christians live by faith. Taking up our cross daily means that we are fighting a constant battle against the flesh so that the Spirit will win. That's what walking in the Spirit is.

The flesh isn't merely our skin. It represents our human nature along with our passions and desires.

For they that are after the flesh domind the things of the flesh; but theythat are after the Spirit the thingsof the Spirit.~ Romans 8:5, KJV

But when we’re in love with someone or something, everything in our body is telling us that this is right--that this can’t be wrong or we wouldn’t feel this way. That’s where we err. The heart is deceitful above all things, therefore we need to keep our eyes fixed on the Lord at all times and ignore the passions that the heart is longing for. Even temptation this great will eventually flee.

But the root of the question was this:

“If God forgives us for everything, how come we can’t be together and make it right with God?”

I'm going to share a verse that I shared with another lady about a week ago, because it's an incredible piece of scripture that addresses this issue.

And the LORD said unto Cain, Why artthou wroth? And why is thy countenancefallen? If thou doest well, shalt thounot be accepted? And if thou doestnot well, sin lieth at the door. Andunto thee shall be his desire, andthou shalt rule over him.~ Genesis 4:6-7, KJV

God was giving Cain a warning here, saying “If you do good, you will be accepted, but if you don't do well, sin will rule over you.”

Choosing to follow your sin puts you in a dangerous place where Satan has a foothold. It opens a door for something potentially worse--much worse.

Cain eventually killed his brother, which shows us the power that sin has to drag us deeper into the pit of death.

This verse explains it well:

 But each person is tempted when theyare dragged away by their own evildesire and enticed. Then, after desirehas conceived, it gives birth to sin;and sin, when it is full-grown,gives birth to death.~ James 1:14-15, KJV

I experienced that living death, and it was a dark, cold feeling of separation from God unlike anything I've experienced in my life. It's only by His grace that I have recovered. Nothing--and I mean NOTHING--on this earth is worth giving up for the sake of our faith.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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The Power of Humility - And a Titus 2sday Link Up!

In humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. ~ Philippians 2:4, NIV

Humility is found in many forms such as modesty, meekness, humbleness, lowliness of mind, and submission. These are all things that go against our natural desire to excel  and be seen in this world. We are driven by a need to be right, to be in charge and to come first, and time and again, our flesh deceives us into thinking that settling for anything less is a sign of weakness.


Take a look at this quote from GotQuestions.org, it sums up why the Jews refused to accept Jesus as the Messiah:

The Jews rejected Jesus because He failed, in their eyes, to do what they expected their Messiah to do—destroy evil and all their enemies and establish an eternal kingdom with Israel as the preeminent nation in the world. The prophecies in Isaiah and Psalm 22 described a suffering Messiah who would be persecuted and killed, but they chose to focus instead on those prophecies that discussed His glorious victories, not His crucifixion. ~ Got Questions?org

They wanted a king, who would be triumphant over their enemies, but instead they saw a man who was oppressed and afflicted and brought as a lamb to the slaughter. They wanted strength, but what they found was a weak and broken man who refused to strike back.

It's amazing what people miss out on when they refuse to open their eyes. What they failed to see, is the same thing that many people fail to see today which is the incomparable power that humility holds.

Humility, submission, and lowliness of mind can only occur when the soul is triumphant over the flesh--when our desire to come first is put aside for the good of another. Or in the case of our Savior and Lord, His desire was put aside for the good of mankind.

Let's take a look at the following verses:

Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father. ~ John 10:17-18, KJV

Do you see the power in those two verses? It's incredible! There wasn't a single moment during His life when Jesus was under the thumb of mankind. Every step that He took to the cross was a willful  and deliberate act of service to His Father.

In the same way, submission is a willful and deliberate act of service that we bring to the Lord. Our flesh wants nothing more than to be in control, to win every argument, and to put ourselves first. Those who exercise humility take up their cross daily by laying down the desire of the flesh for the good of another.

Did you notice the word I used there? Exercise. Just like athletes who are training for a race we must train ourselves to be patient, hold our tongue, give up our need to be right, and choose joy. The stronger we get the more power we have over the flesh.

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. ~ Matthew 16:324, KJV

The next time you're told that submission is a step back for women, remember that every step that you take to the cross is a willful  and deliberate act of service God.

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

For comments or questions, contact me at:

darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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A Woman Who Fears the Lord, She Shall Be Praised

I live up in Manitoba, Canada where spring is deceptive at times. We can have beach weather one day, and as soon as everybody exchanges their warm clothes for flip flops and tank tops, we discover that we're expecting two inches of snow.


I'm cautious when it comes to planting my garden, because I've learned over the years not to trust the warm weather. But I wasn't always this smart--we've had several years where I planted early in the spring and spent countless nights covering my plants with bed sheets and table cloths due to frost warning.

My yard looked silly at times with several bed sheets draped over the plants, and of course I looked ridiculous because I was the only woman on the block that was too anxious to follow the one rule of thumb, "Wait until May Long Weekend to plant."

When it comes to plants, I love the beauty of annuals. The colors and the variety of flowers take my breath away. Once the garden is full, I can hardly resist buying yet a few more, but I've come to discover one thing--their beauty fades quickly. I put the flowers in on May long weekend and they start fading by August.

Each spring I'd invest in more flowers, until one day I discovered perennials. The beauty of perennials is that their strength lies beneath the face of the earth. It doesn't matter how severe our winters are or how many feet of snow cover the garden, they return each and every year stronger and healthier than they did the year before.

Perennials can withstand frost in the early spring because their root remains untouched. Long-lasting beauty and strength add to their value, much like the heart of a woman who is grounded in Christ.

A woman who's heart takes root in the Lord possesses a beauty that lasts longer than her youth ever will. She is a strong force in the face of tribulation and trials because she knows that her heart is safe in the hands of the Lord. The beauty within her, draws the heart of her husband close to her own.

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. ~ Proverbs 31:30, NIV

"More of you, Lord, less of me." Those are the transforming words of a beautiful woman. Words that hold the power to unlocking a treasure that lies beneath the skin of this fading world.

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You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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I'm over at Roo Mag today where I share a post about enjoying treats in moderation.

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Desiring God - And a Titus 2sday Link up!

Drawn from my archives

I was recently asked what advice I might give to women who are desiring a closer walk with the Lord. I like this question because the answer to it has been on my heart.

I think that the key to deeper intimacy lies in the way that we approach our relationship with Christ. Some women have an affection for God, while others combine that affection with action.

Brethren, I count not myself to haveapprehended: but this one thing I do,forgetting those things which are behind,and reaching forth unto those things whichare before, I press toward the mark forthe prize of the high calling ofGod in Christ Jesus.~ Philippians 3:13-14, KJV 

See the difference? The goal calls us to action, while fuzzy warm feelings call us to rest.

Goals are looming mountains that beckon us to overcome them. We have one goal in mind, which Paul refers to as the "mark for the prize of the high calling," and every step we take in faith brings us one step closer to that goal.

How sad it is for those who give up, turn around and climb back down the mountain, because the cost is too high. They'll never experience the reward that those who persevere will once they reach the top. The rich young ruler in Luke 18 is a prime example of that. He was interested in following Christ, but the minute that he was asked to give up something he loved, the Bible tells us that he walked away sorrowful.

I saw a movie last year starring James Franco, called “127 Hours.” Aron Ralston, an experienced twenty-seven-year-old outdoorsman, was on a day’s solitary hike through a remote and narrow Utah canyon when he dislodged an eight-hundred- pound boulder that crushed his right hand and wrist against the canyon wall.

Emerging from the searing pain, Aron found himself completely stuck. No one knew where he was; no one was coming to rescue him. With scant water and food, and a cheap pocketknife his only tool, he eliminated his options one by one. On the fifth night, wracked by delirium and uncontrollable shivers, Aron scratched his epitaph into the rock wall, certain he would not see daylight. (Description from Amazon)

Like the rich young ruler, Aron started out with a will to live, but it wasn’t until the sixth day that he made a life changing decision and puts his will into action, thus gaining his life.

And if thy right hand offend thee,cut it off, and cast it from thee:for it is profitable for thee that oneof thy members should perish, and notthat thy whole body should be cast into hell.~ Matthew 5:30, KJV

Over time I have discovered that it’s the sacrificial steps we make that draw us closest to Him. I can study His word for days on end, but unless I’m willing to take that step of faith where His will overrides mine in every area of my life, then my study isn’t doing me any good.

We are given choices every day, whether big or small that require us to choose the wisdom of God over our desire for personal satisfaction or comfort. I believe that in choosing God we conform to Christ and as a result are drawn into that place of intimate relationship with Him.

That I may know him, and the power ofhis resurrection, and the fellowshipof his sufferings, being madeconformable unto his death;~ Philippians 3:10

I pray that we celebrate the death and resurrection of our Lord by reflecting His life in all that we do--whether it be dying to ourselves daily or worshiping at the foot of the cross. I can't think of a better way to celebrate Easter, can you?

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Are You Strong Enough to Be My Friend?

Dear Darlene,

I am not good at this but I am going to try anyways – I am lost, confused, scared and FULL of bitterness and resentment.  I am afraid that I will lose my husband over all of this. 

I cannot keep my life on track, I fall back into my old ways of being lazy and selfish and out of control.  I want a better life for myself and my husband, unfortunately I have no idea where to start or what to do.  I am   a blueprint type person, where I need specific instructions on how to do something.  I like structure and schedules... but life is not necessarily like that.  I have been searching for so long to figure out what is missing in my life, however I think I have come to the conclusion that I am missing God and I am living a life I want and have no regard for making my life one based upon God. 

I need to know how to start living a life that is God-based, not self-based. I would like for someone to help guide me as to where I need to start and what I need to do. I believe in God, but I do not think before I act or before I speak.  I have become “rotten” to the ones I love and I fear I have become the worst version of myself.  

Do I need to read the Bible every day?  Do I need to attend church?  How do I stop myself from being upset?  How do I become a good Christian? 

Any advice you can provide me with would be so very much appreciated.  I need to get my life right with God and I need to know the detailed steps to take on a daily, almost minutely basis. 

Thank you,

Lost and Confused

Dear Lost and Confused,

Think of yourself like a fire. What do you need to get it burning? You have the spark and that is incredible, I love that. But yes I'd say that in order for us to know and understand God's will for our lives the Bible is a vital part of growing. It's the fuel that keeps the flame alive. Sermons, books, and blogs are wonderful to help you along but I look at all of those things as being spoon fed. So many people go off track because they are fed the wrong message. So while you can enjoy those things and grow from them, see your relationship with God as precious enough to read the Bible and bring it to prayer so that you can ensure the teaching is right.

When I was researching health and diet for Reshaping it All I discovered the power that the subconscious mind has when it comes to mirroring the behavior of others. For example if your friend orders dessert, you're likely to order it too. If your friend pushes her plate away and says, "I'm stuffed." You are more likely to do the same than not.

That's not a serious issue when it comes to things like an extra brownie or a chicken finger, but when it comes to the more serious matters of faith and family, we need people around us who are strong enough to sharpen us and encourage us to grow even in those moments when we don't notice that they are doing so.

You know what I did? I was going to a good church out here--still do--but at the time I didn't feel like I was fitting in so well. I wasn't making any connections with women that I could call up to just go for a coffee or get my nails done. (Some of us women need that! *wink*) So I took a brave step and sought out a friend. I called a pastor's wife from another church that I felt a connection with and asked her to go for lunch. And being the open kind of person that I am I told her I need someone in my life who will sharpen me. I don't need her to be my BFF (although she probably is by now) I just need someone who I can fellowship with over a bowl of soup or a tear stained Kleenex. I need a woman who is strong enough to be my friend. Sounds like the title of a song—ha!

Another way I used to get connected was through a ladies morning out group. My son was about two at the time and the other women had young children too. It was through a good church and we did weekly Bible studies. I developed relationships with those women and they were there to encourage me as a mom, a wife, and a growing Christian.

If I lived in the US, the first place I'd try is Calvary Chapel because I know so many awesome women who attend, and it seems to have a solid doctrine. We don't have Calvary Chapel up here because I'm in Canada and only a few provinces have them. If that doesn't work, feel free to write me again with your location and I'll try to help you find a good church in your area. If you have children or plan on having children getting them connected with other believers that they grow with is such a gift that I've seen in some kids who are now twenty and thirty-years-old. They are so comfortable in the church because they grew up with these people.

And I'm also going to recommend a free online devotional to you. I loved this devotional long before it was free. I'd suggest reading it daily, and then taking the scripture reference that they provide and reading the entire chapter in its context. It's called God Calling.

Or you could start by reading a Psalm a day. But I will tell you where my personal favorite place to start is: Galatians. Here's why: that book and the ones following it are all short, so when I read them I feel like I've accomplished much! And most of the books following Galatians are also letters of conduct and encouragement written to the church.

Now you said, "I cannot keep my life on track; I fall back into my old ways of being lazy and selfish and out of control." Dear sister, that statement reminds me of the apostle Paul, who said of himself "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst." And, wow--I too can relate to that.

Paul also said this, “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer myself who do it, but it is sin living in me." ~ Romans 7:15-17, NIV

Paul was talking about his sinful nature that is at war with the flesh. It’s the heart and the passion of man that wants to overeat, oversleep, yell at our children and husband, lie, steal, facebook our ex-boyfriend, and the list goes on. It’s a struggle that we all face in the flesh.

But there’s good news, and it’s found in Romans chapter eight where Paul explains that life in Jesus Christ sets us free from that. It’s not always an automatic thing where you give your life to Jesus and your sinful desires fall away. For most of us it’s the process of renewing our hearts and minds through prayer, the Bible, and fellowship, while we take up our cross and fight against temptation. The more that we follow the Spirit and understand God’s plan for our life the less we desire to follow our lazy, self-centered flesh and the more we desire to live righteously. The first step is to repent of our sin, then we start walking in faith with the help of the Holy Spirit.

One more thing about the fellowship: remember that an ember alone will burn out much quicker than one that is placed close to the fire. Your goal is to keep that fire going strong!

I hope I have encouraged you in your walk.

If you want any more information about steps to peace with God, check out the link in my left sidebar and it will lead you to an article by The Billy Graham Association.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Who Needs Him Most?

Guest Contributor, Gina Smith, Keepin' it Real

The other day I saw an advertisement that read, "Become a Christian counselor and bring Christ to those who need Him most!"

Under the add was a picture of a man; he was dirty and dressed in rags. As I stared at the add, the thought came to me: "...to those who need him most??? As if some need Him more than others?"


At times it can seem that there's an unspoken rule in Christian circles that says we need to go feed the homeless, work in an orphanage in another country, minister to the homosexual community, or reach out to drug addicts, and if we have done that, we have reached out to those who have the biggest needs. We've stepped out of our "comfort zone."

Who needs Him most?
But really...who is more needful? The wealthy man who lives in a mansion and wears the designer suit, or the man who lives on the street and wears rags? The orphan in a foreign country, or the child sleeping in my own home? The devoted family-man who is living for his next pay check, or the substance abuser who is living for his next paycheck?

And who deserves the most recognition in the church? The person who feeds the homeless and shares the gospel, or the person who meets the wealthy man for dinner and shares the gospel? The person who raises support and spends the summer changing diapers in an orphanage, or the mother who spends her days changing diapers in her home? The person who reaches out to the family man at work and offers him "living water," or the person who reaches out to the drug addict and offers him "living water"...(John 4)?

"Comfort" zone?
Is it "comfortable" or "easy" to share the gospel in any of these situations? Is it really ever EASY to share the gospel? Is the homeless man more receptive than the wealthy man? The orphan more receptive than my own child? The family man more receptive than the homosexual? Shouldn't we be purposefully stepping out of our comfort zone?

Maybe it's a little simpler than we make it...
What I am finding is this: I wake up and step out. That's it. It is never easy or comfortable! God prepares hearts. God directs my steps. As I rely on Him, God gives me words to say. God gives assignments for each day. He asks me to meet needs in many different ways. I look to Him and offer Him my day, my comfort, my ease. The mission might be different each day, or it might stay the same for long periods of time. It might mean I go on a "missions" trip to another country, or it might mean I go on a "missions" trip to the mall. One day, I may have a person stop by my house who needs to be pointed to the cross. The next day, I may stop and pray in the grocery store parking lot with one of the cashiers we've befriended.

Not too long ago I found myself sitting in a clinic with a precious young friend who is being tested for HIV. This was my assignment for the day. There we sat: I, my husband, and our friend. Sobered by the consequences of sin; surrounded by young people who were all there for the same reason. All of us needful of the same thing. None of us better than another. All of us needful! Needful for Christ in our lives. Needful for a Savior. I didn't think about that place as being "out of my comfort zone" or as an opportunity for recognition. I just thought, "So THIS was my assignment today..."

If I can sit in that clinic and think that these people are more needful than I am.... If I can sit in my home and think that the person to who I'm serving coffee to is more needful than I am... If I can stand in the grocery store parking lot and think that the cashier is more needful than I am...then I don't know the truth about myself, and I don't understand the gospel.

I must view myself as a fallen sinner who has rebelled against a perfect and all-powerful Creator. That is the truth about who I am. That is the truth about all of us.

Because of this truth, we must see our need for the crucified and risen Messiah who came to earth and conquered sin and death. He is our only hope for salvation. That is the bottom line concerning every human soul.

It doesn't matter what the outside looks like: "polished and acceptable," or "dirty and unacceptable." The outside is merely a shell and a symptom of the need that is deep within every heart. We all need forgiveness. We all need a Saviour.

Whether it is at my kitchen table or at the clinic with my friend, it is a privilege to go wherever God wants me to go. I need no recognition; I am not doing anything that special. I am just doing what I have been called to do.

So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.' ~ Luke 17:10, NIV

Keepin' it Real,

Gina

Gina has been married to Brian for 23 years. Brian is a faculty member, and they both serve as deans at a Christian college. She and her family live on the college campus and work with the resident students. She has two children, Brianna (age 21) and Caleb (age 18) who are now both in college. In her spare time Gina writes and seeks to encourage women of all ages, through articles and by living life with them as much as possible! You can find her at her personal blog: "Keepin' it Real,"at "The Internet Cafe," and featured in several issues of "Best of Life" magazine.

Contact Gina through her website: Keepin' it Real

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Make Up? Shame on Me!

Out of the mouths of babes...

The other day my daughter got in my car after school and said, "Mom here's another reason I don't want to wear makeup: 18 billion dollars is spent on makeup a year, and 15 billion of those dollars could have fed and gave medical care to every child in the world for a year."

She had just learned some sobering facts about the excess that we spend each and every year on things like makeup, ice cream, perfume, golf, and military expenses, (www.weday.com) just to name a few. This got me thinking, what is the cost of beauty? I've always heard the phrase, "beauty hurts," but her statistics brought that reality to life it's more than getting your hair tangled in a brush it's saying yes to another lipstick when a child across the other world is being denied the basics of life like food and water.

Here's another one... 12 billion dollars are spent on perfume every year. Time for a "modesty" check ladies!

Let's look at the origin of the word:

1530s, "freedom from exaggeration, self-control," from M.Fr.modestie, from L. modestia "moderation," from modestus"moderate, keeping measure, sober," from modus "measure, manner" (dictionary.com)

I have to be honest here. I wear makeup, and when I think of modesty I've always tried to achieve a look that doesn't draw attention to myself--something that gives me a natural glow so I don't look made-up. But looking at my makeup bag (make that bags) and my makeup table I have to tell you that I've been anything but modest. The truth is my modesty has only gone skin deep.

I'm going to totally embarrass myself here by giving you an inventory of my cosmetics. And if you click off my website after reading it, I won't blame you. I am turned off too:

• 5 Lipsticks
• 3 Mascaras
• 8 Eyeliners
• 2 Press Powders
• Day cream
• Night Cream
• Oil of Olay Moisturizer
• Cream blush
• Powder Blush
• 2 Eye Shadows
• Lip Plump
• Concealer
• 3 Foundations in Puddy Texture
• 2 Liquid Foundations
• 13 Nail Polish Bottles
• 2 Foundation Primers
• Bronzer
• 7 Bottles of Perfume

And the hair:

• 2 Straightening Irons
• Curling Iron
• Hair Dryer
• Hot Rollers
• Anti-humidity Spray
• Extra Hold Mouse
• Texturizing Paste
• Heat Pro
• Body Amplifier
• Hair Putty
• Heat Protection Spray
• Iron Guard
• 2 Hair Spray
• Gel
• Blonde Spotlight
• Root Pump

I could use excuses like some of these were gifts, some were given to me when I worked at a drug store, and some of this is old inventory, but it's pretty obvious what the bottom line is--I haven't exercised self-control in this area of my life. Rather than stopping to consider poverty, I chose excess.

But who cares what I think, right? Let's look at what the Bible say about this:

I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God. ~ 1 Timothy 2:9-10, NIV

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. ~ 1 Peter 3:3-4, NIV

For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. ~ Titus 2:11-12, NIV

Put your best face forward and unwrap the spirit of Christmas--consider a child in need. www.worldvision.org

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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If you like this post, check out, "Are We Believing a Lie?" at Keepin' it Real.

Four, no, Make that Five Ways to Control Envy

And I saw that all toil and all achievement spring from one person’s envy of another. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. Fools fold their hands and ruin themselves. Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind. ~ Ecclesiastes 4:4-6

Reading this passage of scripture, I got to wondering what motivates me to write. What motivates me to blog? I couldn't help but wonder if that scripture is a gentle reminder to keep my envy in check.

Anytime we're motivated by jealousy we're merely chasing the wind, because those things that we seek outside of God's will for our lives can't fulfill us; they simply leave us empty and craving for more. Common sense will tell us that the wind can never be harnessed neither can a lust for this world.

Most writers desire to publish a book, most women would love the opportunity to write with a celebrity, and nearly every author I know hopes that their book will be a best-seller. Having accomplished all three of those things, I can tell you that they haven't satisfied my desire for greater achievement. I'm still the same blogger I was six years ago, with a desire to publish a book, but the minute I take my focus off of the purpose of my ministry, I naturally desire more.

Jealousy is a dangerous thing that can creep up unnoticed in any area of our life. It brings on stress, a feeling of inadequacy, and sadly it takes our eyes off of our Father's will for our lives. That's why it's so important to always keep it in check.

What if your blog brings in 10 readers a day, and you notice that "A Holy Experience" is attracting thousands? Does that mean that Ann Voskamp is doing something that you should be doing better? Does this tell you that a black template might be your thing? Or that you should change the style of your writing? Should you tweet more? Write more? Comment more?

What it should tell you is that God is blessing you in His own way. Follow His lead--which might be an entirely different path--and that's where you'll discover authentic success.

Many trainers believe that blinders (also known as winkers) are beneficial to race horses because they encourage the animal to pay attention to the race ahead. One of the biggest distractions in a race can be the crowd, another would be the other contestants.

In much the same way, we are far more productive when we focus on the plan ahead rather than checking out the competition and the crowds that they draw.

By controlling our envy, we can focus our energy in four ways:

• Focus on God's will for your life and seek to serve Him
• Realize the gifts that you have been given
• Do not compare yourselves with others
• Be aware of the dangers of envy and avoid any sign of it

With that said I should add one more given to us in a letter from Paul to the Philippians. I always consider this the "one thing I do" piece of advice. It's valuable!

One thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
~ Philippians 3:14b-15, NIV

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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Fruit, Meet for The Master

Drawn from my archives for the Women Living Well Challenge

When my sister Bonnie planted her last garden, she told her flowers in no uncertain terms, that they were created to please the Lord. And while they bloomed, she cheered them on. Ok, I'm not going to lie--my family is a little odd, but you should have seen her beautiful garden!

But He answered and said to them,
“I tell you that if these should keep silent,
the stones would immediately cry out.”
~ Luke 19:40

Yesterday I took a look at my garden, and I have to say that I was impressed. We've been experiencing a drought this summer to the point where my grass is crusty and dry, but somehow the flowers in my front garden have not only survived, they have thrived despite the weather conditions. Those blooms definitely have tenacity. Plants were created for the purpose of pleasing the Lord, and in producing good fruit they live out that purpose. How awesome is that?!

I got to wondering about my own tenacity. How well do I thrive when conditions are rough, and do I bear fruit despite the dry soil around me?

Galatians chapter five dictates what fruit I should bear:

• Love
• Joy
• Peace
• Longsuffering
• Kindness
• Goodness
• Faithfulness
• Gentleness
• Self-control

If creation itself can bear fruit that is meet for the Master, can't we? It's a crying shame when a crab apple tree produces more fruit in a year than it's owner, but it doesn't have to be that way. When we are walking according to the ordinances of God, and our delight is to do His will, we WILL produce fruit in abundance. There's no greater purpose than that!

He [the righteous] shall be like a tree
planted by the rivers of water, that
brings forth its fruit in its season,
whose leaf also shall not wither;
and whatever he does shall prosper.
~ Psalm 1:3

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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In participation with:

Candace Cameron Bure - Standing in the Gospel

Part 3 of 3 on Candace Cameron Bure's mission trip with Compassion:

Last year, Val Bure won the Battle of the Blades and donated $50,000 to keep a Child Survival Program in the Dominican Republic up and running for two years. Recently, he and his family, including his wife Candace Cameron-Bure, had a chance to visit the Child Survival Program in the Dominican Republic. Here are Candace’s reflections on that experience.

We’ve been sponsoring for seven years, and we’ve been huge fans of Compassion. But going on a trip and seeing exactly how the program runs, exactly what the projects do and meeting the children just made the difference for me. We already knew what a great organization Compassion is, and now I am so on board with it. This is the real deal.

My big revelation was on our first day. On the first home visit, we went into this little shack at the base of a garbage dump. It was a woman’s home that she didn’t even own because her home was washed away in a rainstorm. She shared this tiny little shack with three kids and father who was very, very sick. She was scared because he had a bad skin infection and worried that her children would get it. The conditions are just gross, and no one should have to live like that.

As we were standing in her home, listening to her story, asking her questions and praying with her, I couldn’t stop crying. My emotions were flooded from every direction. As we stood there praying for this woman and her children, I thought, this is really what the gospel is all about. This is the gospel right here.

That we’re praying for one another. That we’re helping one another. That we’re united in Jesus Christ. Through him, we’re helping one another meet our needs.

I speak at huge conferences with thousands of women, and I share the gospel message. And it’s not to take away from what I do when I share the gospel with people who come to the conferences, but I tell you, it’s a whole other thing when you’re actually going and living out the gospel.

At the conferences, we’re in cushy hotels having a great time. And we all have hardships, real hardships that we’re experiencing in our lives. But the reality is that many of those problems don’t even compare to the situations that people are living in who don’t have running water, a home, a toilet, who can barely get food and who have no medical attention. That was a big moment for me, and I realized this is what the gospel is all about.

One other thing I really took away was how important our letters are. Having talked to all the kids, they said without those letters and the relationship from the sponsors, they don’t know that they would be where they are or would have gotten through life. The letters brought hope and encouragement, just having people say, “I believe in you, and God says that you can do all things through Christ who gives you strength.” The children would go back and read those letters of hope and be able to carry on and pursue life and their dreams. When you’re surrounded by such poverty and hopelessness on a daily basis, I can only imagine what that one letter truly means to them. It might be the only piece of hope that they have to hang on to.

I really encourage all sponsors to have a relationship with the children they sponsor. My writing of letters has been more on a minimal basis of responding to the letters they write me. But now, I won’t go back to having a passive position in the relationship with my sponsored children.


Visit the Compassion Website: Click Here

Candace's website: CandaceCameronBure.net

Follow Candace on Twitter: @candacecbure

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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10 Ways to Use Facebook as a Ministry Tool

I remember reading an email about five years ago from a friend who told me about a "must-see" website. She insisted that I sign up to at least try it out.

For the first 48 hours I had no clue what I was doing, or why I was on there, but I had agreed to give it a test run. After about two days I got the hang of things, and once I realized the potential it had--I was hooked.

I've since come to realize that facebook can be an ally or it can be the enemy depending on how you choose to use or abuse it. I want to use it. In fact I'd like to see it used for the glory of God.

Certainly I enjoy connecting with my friends and relatives as I check out their photos and keep in touch with them over the years--I'll always enjoy that. But facebook also has the potential to be a great ministry tool for those who, like me, enjoy being connected online.

Let's look at ten ways that we can use it as a ministry tool:

1. Share scripture with your friends. If you're like me you probably have a mix of both Christian and non-Christian friends. But because all of my friends know that I'm a believer, they don't mind me sharing my faith. In fact they've come to expect it.
   
   Popular belief is that living a "good" life is enough of a witness, but as we see in the gospel the Word also needs to be preached. The Word is infallible--my walk is not.
   
   For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. ~ 1 Corinthians 1:21
   
2. Offer links to interesting videos or articles that might minister to your readers. There are so many inspiring videos and blog posts on the net just waiting to be shared.
   This doesn't mean that your entire content has to be filled with words of wisdom. Friends are interested in your day-to-day life, which might include photos of you at the park or funny status updates. I prefer to show my true character, which includes a mix of both. God created me to smile and laugh, which is a natural part of who I am.
   
3. Be friendly. Proverbs 18:24 says, "A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly." If you want to be effective online show a genuine interest in the lives of others. Comment on other statuses, send private notes of encouragement and always be ready to offer prayer--on the spot--when it's needed.
   
4. Be wary of status lines that slam other people, and don't get drawn into the gossip. Remember you're only reading one side, and more often than not, the person who is being slammed or insulted is reading the comments too. "By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." ~ John 13:35.
   
   Your love is a witnessing tool, therefore it's important that you nurture and protect your attitude. Avoid the gossip pools that tend to take place on facebook, blog comments, and message boards.
   
5. If you have a blog, set up "Network Blogging" through facebook. It's an app that is easy to use and will automatically publish all of your blog posts onto your facebook page. Here's a link: http://apps.facebook.com/blognetworks
   
6. Use Twitter Feed to have your facebook status automatically sent to Twitter. This doubles your exposure and offers yet another platform to share your ministry. The good thing about this app is that you can have a status line that is longer than a tweet. Twitter will prompt readers to click through to read the entire message. You can set that up here: http://twitterfeed.com
   
7. Create a fan "page" in about 5 minutes. Simply go to a page like mine at: http://www.facebook.com/timewarpwife and look for "Create a page" in the bottom left hand corner. You can create one for your church or any ministry topic that you like. I have created several of these and they are great for connecting and chatting with people. One of my favorite pages was created for Evangel Chapel called, "Evangel Chapel, Past, Present, and Future." Members of the church are connected there, and many who aren't attending church any longer still have that constant connection. Love it! I've also created one for my church and my friend's church.
   
8. Invite readers to a church event or a Sunday morning service and link to your church website. Just a general invitation in your status is enough. If they don't want to come, they won't, but you never know who might be interested or who might be waiting for a gentle nudge.
   
9. Create a fun or inspiring video and upload it to facebook. People love watching and sharing videos, so why not try creating your own? If you don't know how, find out what kind of webcam you have and check if YouTube has a tutorial. Facebook allows you to load the video directly to your website so that it's easily accessible to your friends and always in your sidebar.
   
10. Be willing to stand up for your faith, even when it feels like you are standing alone. If someone comments on one of your status lines and disagrees with what you said, that doesn't mean that you have to delete your status. You are entitled to say whatever you want to say, and there will ALWAYS be people who disagree. Even Jesus (especially Jesus) had people who disagreed with Him.
    
    Some words of disagreement may be worth considering and cause you to dig deep into the Word, but be careful that you aren't compromising your faith just to make everyone happy.

Watch this video. It's a little bit weird, but it teaches me how vital standing alone in our faith can be. It only takes one person to start a movement and make a change in this world.

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

For comments or questions, contact me at:
darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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1 Good Reason to Be Unpopular ~ Francis Chan

The next time I'm in the middle of a hate storm, I pray that I'm not only reminded of this truth, but that I take it to heart and cherish the value that this message holds.

And if you are in the middle of a storm, my friend, I pray that you will also find strength in these words. Not only today but also in future storms to come. We are riding together in this battle. You are not alone!




Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake.

Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets. ~ Luke 6:23-23

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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Coconut Cream Pie and Grace

Just yesterday, my mom mentioned that she and dad had been making pies. Knowing how sick my dad is, I got to thinking about a post I wrote almost four years ago.

Reading over those words, the gravity of his kindness seeps in before settling deep in my heart. These "baked offerings" from the hand of this incredible man are more precious than I realized then, and more precious yet than I realize now.

Drawn from my archives, October, 2007...

When I got to my parents place, it was a nice feeling to see that they both had my blog up on their computer screens.

It’s odd at times to see two seniors–who avoided ‘new fangled’ banks cards until recently–sitting in front of a PC. Make that ‘each their own PC’! When did they master the calculator and move on to a PC? They’re growing up too fast, before I know it, they’ll be moving out in search of a care home. Seems like just yesterday they were changing my diapers…

I wanted a pie. It’s been too long since I had a coconut cream pie. This reality was triggered by a question that my children asked me on Friday morning. “Mom, what’s your favorite pie?” Maddy asked.

“Is it berry pie?” Nathaniel wanted to know. “Do you like raisen pie, Mom?”

“No, I don’t like raisen pie,” I shivered thinking about the sugar that oozed from that pie. I was just about to answer ‘blueberry pie’, but then I remembered my ultimate favorites, which are Lemon Merangue and Coconut Cream. “I love coconut cream,” I answered, as a plan started to emerge in my brain...

So there I was, standing in my parents livingroom still trying to figure out how this plan to get a pie was going to unfold. I decided to start with mom, but after she explained to me that Dad is the one who makes all the pies, I took it up with him. “Dad, you haven’t made pies for a long time, and I’m dying for a coconut cream pie.”

“That’s right it’s been a while,” he said, trying to figure out why my sidebar wasn’t showing up on his computer screen.

He was close, but not committed, so I figured it was time to pull out the sympathy card, “I bet Bonnie would love a pie,” I said. Lucky for me, Bonnie’s back was so bad she couldn’t even get out of bed. It wasn’t so lucky for her–unless she had a hankerin’ for pie too–then it was lucky for both of us.

After Dad got Blogger to load my page, we went back into the livingroom to sit with Mom where they argued about whether real whipped cream or artificial whipped cream would be best for the pies. I sat around adding my two cents, sipping a diet Coke, and rubbing the belly of a pup whose leg shook in the air.

“The sooner you leave, the sooner you’ll get your pie,” Dad said. I left. At 6pm, the doorbell rang, and Dad was standing outside with a fresh coconut cream pie topped with real whipped cream. He didn’t have time to stay because he had another pie waiting in the drivers seat to be delivered to Bonnie’s kitchen.

When I sit down to write, I usually start with a single thought, and sometime the tapping of my fingers on the keys make a story come to life, while other times they don’t. I’m never quite sure what that story will be.

This week I discovered that my thoughts were on "grace." While writing this story about Dad, the first verse that came to mind was “by love serve one another.” I had no idea what context that verse was in, but after looking it up, I have no doubt that it was placed in my heart for a reason, and that reason is to open my eyes to pure grace in action.



Use your freedom to serve one
another in love; that’s how freedom
grows. For everything we know about
God’s Word is summed up in a single sentence:
Love others as you love yourself.
That’s an act of true freedom.
~ Galatians 5:14, The Message
I love it when a blog comes together. Thanks for the pie Dad, and thanks for your service of love!

You are loved by an almighty God,

Darlene

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darlene[at]darleneschacht.net

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