A Hindenburg Kind of Day

What do you do when you wake up to clouds? The sun is shining brightly. Birds are chirping poetically. The leaves are spinning a new bloom. Everything is basking in, "It's a glorious day", but in your heart the blinds are closed. You wanna shoot every bird whistling a tune to the new dawn. You feel as though your ready to burst in tears. What's wrong?

You venture outdoors, get into your car, and take a drive. This in hopes that you will smile. It doesn't work. You gather your purse and head into the store for milk. On your way in you pass the Walmart Greeter and you just want to slap that howdy do smile right off their face. You are just waiting for someone to step in your way so you can let loose. Oh, it would feel so good just to yell and expel all that hot air.

Nothing seems to make sense. It's Saturday after all. Shouldn't you be out and about with laughter in your heart and happy word to share? You look at all the people with their carts full and you wonder why you feel so empty. Your heart is breaking in side and life still goes on. Doesn't anyone know? Can't they notice you need a hug? No matter how much you fight it, you just want someone to reach out and grab you and say, "I know, honey. I know it hurts." But no one does. It's like everyone is just concerned with their own little world and you seem to be outside of it right now.

Have you had one of these Hindenburg kind of days? You can't put your finger on the reason you feel so mad, but non the less the anger is still there, reaping and sowing, bursting in side.

You grab your milk and head for home. Your so glad to be out of that store filled with people you that disgust you right at the moment. After all, your heading home to your family, your home, your pet who will greet you at the door with a smile and shake. Ugh..there's that smile again. Why is everyone smiling when all I want to do is scream?

Can I just say, I have had that Hindenburg kind of day. Yep, this girl who writes daily about encouragement, has those days where I just want to scream. Let's get real. Are you ready?

You wake knowing it's Sunday and the last thing you want to do is step into a church filled with fake, happy people. We all pass by one another with a smile and how ya do, and we paste on that look of joy as we say, "Oh, I'm doing wonderful, how about yourself?" We ask, but we really don't want to hear the fake answer we are about to receive. Because, see while you were out getting milk, you saw this family in the other aisle. You know their truths and the pain in their eyes when they don't have to put on a fake face and stand as though their family is absolutely perfect in every way. You wonder, "Why do we do it? Why can't we just be honest?"

It all seems as though it's a scam really. I can totally see how the outside world thinks Christians are just like a vase of fake flowers. Sure, their bright and bloomed, but they are growing. They aren't going anywhere. They don't even put off a fragrance.

I have sat in my car and screamed as loud as my voice will carry. I turn up the music and just get lost. Life can be hard. It is hard, so where is all that encouragement that is suppose to be surrounding us? Where is the love if your name isn't so and so and you don't fit in the circle any longer? Do those people around you even notice if your there? Sometimes I wonder if we can really see beyond that mask we wear. We don't want to feel our own pain, why do want to take the burden of another person's deep underling pain?

In all honesty, it took me a while to realize I could simply be myself and be real to everyone around me. I learned after a long time of trying to fake it, that when I'm real, other people around me can be real. I learned that when I share my life isn't perfect, others can then know, "Hey, I'm not the only one." Isn't that how we feel? We can even become jealous of those around us. Sure, we don't call it jealousy. We come up with other names for it, like admiring and inspiring. But when we can name it and claim it, life becomes different.

It's okay to scream. Yep, you heard me. Scream at the top of your lungs and get it all out. If that anger isn't removed, there is no room for joy. It's okay to ask, "Why is my life this way?", and "When is it going to get better? Get this, Satan is trying his best to sabotage everything in you and around you. He can only do so if we allow him in to our lives. Shut the door, folks. Don't even let him take hold of your thoughts.

The problem is, we try to do it alone. We wait for someone to come and rescue us and notice the pain we feel. But see the thing is, some of those people we care about have been asking how we are for years and we keep saying, "I'm okay". What do expect? We continue to wait for our husband to be perfect in every way. We wait for our children to make choices of perfection. We wait for our church to fill our every need. We even want perfect neighbors. Perfect hair. We want our house to be spotless and we want to shop every day. Listen friends, we are not going to find perfection outside of God.

This is what I have learned. I can't look to others to solve my problems and fix my life. I have to give myself room to make mistakes. I have to surrender ALL over to God and TRUST Him in every way. I can't just give Him some things and trust Him with a little. It's one of those all or nothing things.

Those people got on board the Hindenburg not knowing what was about to happen. They got aboard and then it burst into flames. Do you feel like your life is in flames today? Each and every day is a choice for us. We have the choice to let go or to hold on tight. The longer we hold on for control the higher our chances are of watching everything go up in flames. It's when we let go and trust God that flight happens.

It is a life time lesson of walking with God and trusting Him. It's a daily battle to let go and not hang on. In prayer I can find my way through the day. I can lift up each and every person I am trying so hard to hang on to and hand over the control strings to God. Prayer is powerful. Life doesn't always turn out how we plan, but we when give up control and trust God, we see His plan begin to take shape.

See, only God knows what the next minute has in store for us. If I'm so fixed on those minutes that have passed or am trying to transport myself to tomorrow, I am going to totally miss out on today and all God has for me.

Life is hard. We know this. We have bad days, but we also have good days. We have to learn a balance of what we have control over and what God has control over. I cannot control those around me. I can however control myself, my thoughts and my actions.

Surrender has a sweetness about it. Really coming to terms with knowing God wants the best for me, gives me room to breathe. Whatever today brings I can trust that God is going to handle it all and that what I have control over, He is going to give me the strength and power I need to face it and face it with grace.

When those Hindenburg days hit you out of nowhere, don't despair. Don't think it's the end and you have no choice in the matter. You don't have to be fake. Make the choice to be real and just trust that God is going to care for the rest. When we rest in Him, the tests of life will not destroy us, but bring us closer to Him.

"We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance developes strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love."

Romans 5:3-5



GREAT DAY EVERY DAY by MAX LUCADO

I have yet to read a book penned by Max Lucado I have not loved. This one is no exception. This book is simply beautiful. This book is a remake of his earlier work, "Every Day Deserves A Chance". As I began reading I thought, "Oh, this is so good. Gotta be my favorite part so far." I was wrong. Each and every chapter just got better and better. I usually write in my favorite selections and highlight areas that stand out to me. I just put my highlighter down. I would have had to highlight the entire book!

Seriously, it's that good. I missed this book the first time around. Clearly, the Lord knew exactly when to place this book in my hands. It is a treasure and written so beautifully. I loved the stories. Max Lucado shares in an early chapter about what the thief on the cross next to Jesus heard. He gives a glimpse of that day in a whole new perspective. I found myself reading aloud with tears streaming down my cheeks. It was so very moving.

We learn of forgiveness and grace. He challenges us to look at every day as if were our favorite day, no matter what the situation. It made such perfect sense, especially when we read the verse, "Always be joyful. Pray continually, and give thanks whatever happens.That is what God wants for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NCV)

We learn that gratitude is a choice. We see scripture come alive. Max Lucado pens his poignant words and shares stories of many men and women. "Navigating Life's Challenges with Promises and Purpose", is the theme in this book. I was very blessed and have added this book to my top five list of all time favorites.

This book was a gift from Thomas Nelson for it's review.

THURSDAY'S TREASURE with SHELLY BROWN

His Anvil

Written By

Shelly Brown

A few of years ago, I sat across from a close friend, sobbing. She waited patiently as she tenderly held my hands in hers. Finally, I looked up at her with a pain-ridden face, and through my tears said, “You know how when people are going through really difficult times, when they finally get through it, they say something like, ‘It was worth it. I wouldn’t trade what I went through for anything.’ Well, I will NEVER be able to say that!”

I had lost a lot in just a short amount of time, and I was hurting and broken. One of the things that at the time, seemed lost, was my ministry to women. It was as though God had put me on a shelf, and I wasn’t sure that He would ever take me off that shelf.

What I didn’t realize is that God hadn’t put me on a shelf. No. Not at all! The shelf would not suffice for His purpose. He had placed me on His anvil.

Think for a moment about an anvil. The blacksmith puts a rod into the fire until it becomes pliable and moldable and then he takes it out of the fire and secures it into the anvil where he then begins to hammer it. He applies pressure to it, shaping it, molding it until it takes on the shape and the likeness that the blacksmith desires.

It wasn’t long after that declaration to my friend, that I found myself face down on my bedroom floor in absolute surrender and brokenness crying out to God … “Okay Lord, whatever it is that you need to take me through, take me through it. Just whatever you do, would you change me? Please don’t let me be the same woman I am today when I get through this journey.”

And change me, He has! There is not one part of me that resembles the woman that was sitting across from her friend that day. He’s hammered out a lot of impurities in my life, healed a lot of brokenness, given me more insight into His truths, and He’s restoring my ladies ministry in ways I never dreamed possible.

I think of Isaiah 61:3 where it says, our ashes will be turned into beauty. What I’ve come to realize through my time on His anvil is that in order for there to be ashes, there first must be a fire. And the fire is excruciatingly painful, as is the time spent on the anvil. But, that fire is essential to bring out the beauty of Christ in our lives.

So, you know how when people are going through really difficult times, when they finally get through it, they say something like, ‘It was worth it. I wouldn’t trade what I went through for anything.’ Well … I can honestly say, “It WAS worth it!”

When we submit to His holy anvil, as painful as it is, we ultimately will be able to say what Job declared in the book that bares his name, Job 23:10 – “But he knows the way that I take: when he has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.”

Shelly Brown has spent the last decade sharing the hope and healing she has found in Jesus Christ with women of all ages. A life filled with hurt, abandonment, rejection and pain left Shelly emotionally damaged and longing for love. It was only through the redemptive power of God’s incredible love that she found restoration and wholeness. Shelly often uses humor and poignant details as she shares her life experiences along with solid biblical truths, revealing the hope and healing that only God can give. Her deepest desire is to be used by God to impact the lives of women by not just having their hearts stirred, but forever changed.

Website: www.shellybrown.com

Shelly, what a blessing. I am so tickled to have you guest write. I hope you will return soon and share more with us. I just love your spirit. I needed those words you have graciously shared. May your ministry continue to grow as you bless women all over the world. You are a willing vessel and a mighty encourager to women who just need to be loved on. I love the analogy you have brought us. It gives me a whole new perspective. It is my prayer also that I am a changed woman. We are a work in progress and through Christ we are made perfect. That's a pretty awesome gift. It is my prayer that just as you have blessed me and my readers, you too will have your cup overflowing.

 

Where Lilacs Still Bloom by Jane Kirkpatrick

Here is what WaterBrook Press says about this book:

One woman, an impossible dream, and the faith it took to see it through.

German immigrant and farm wife Hulda Klager possesses only an eighth-grade education—and a burning desire to create something beautiful. What begins as a hobby to create an easy-peeling apple for her pies becomes Hulda’s driving purpose: a time-consuming interest in plant hybridization that puts her at odds with family and community, as she challenges the early twentieth-century expectations for a simple housewife.

Through the years, seasonal floods continually threaten to erase her Woodland, Washington garden and a series of family tragedies cause even Hulda to question her focus. In a time of practicality, can one person’s simple gifts of beauty make a difference?

Based on the life of Hulda Klager, Where Lilacs Still Bloom is a story of triumph over an impossible dream and the power of a generous heart.

“Beauty matters… it does. God gave us flowers for a reason. Flowers remind us to put away fear, to stop our rushing and running and worrying about this and that, and for a moment, have a piece of paradise right here on earth.”

My Review:

I wanted to love this book. Jane Kirkpatrick is such a gifted writer. This book had a great message about having faith during our trials and stepping out of our comfort zone to see what's not always seen by others. It does teach us to pursue our dreams. Those dreams implanted in us by God. With Him everything blooms at the perfect time. 

I found this book to be very slow and I had a hard time staying with it. It just never really captivated me. The opening pages are simply beautiful. Almost poetic, but the story just never rose to my expectations. 

You may read this story and find great blessings. I hope you do give it a try. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this book penned by Jane Kirkpatrick. 

This book was a gift from WaterBrook Press for it's review.  

Keeper of the Light

Recently I was blessed to travel through West Virgina and the Allegheny Mountains with my husband. We happened to travel through at night. The roads twisted and curved, roller coasted up and down and wrapped around in such a way that at times I felt closer to the heavens.

What captivated my sight was the glow all across the valley. It was like a collection of giant fireflies scattered just trying to grab your attention. As my eyes settled on one light they were brought to another and another. I always pictured the mountain top of being the place where you could capture all without missing a thing. But as we drove through the valley the Lord showed me something that held even more beauty.

He is in the valley just as He is on the mountain top. On that mountain top He is there giving praise with us and blessing us with the words, "See, I knew you could do it all along". But it's in the valley that we find Him cheering us along. Washing us with grace and filling us with a strength we can't find on our own. It's in that valley that He lights up the world around us with the words, "Take your time, sweet daughter. Don't hurry through. I don't want you to miss anything".

The light cast  above the homes as if in protection for those underneath it's glow. It reflected off of the water as if you were breathing in a double portion of His love. It was simple beauty.

We look foreword to the mountain top times. It's on that mountain we can see where we have come and picture where we are going next. But it's in the valley where we see hope shining brightly. The hope of what's to come and the peace that can reach our soul if we will only sit a while and not hurry through. It's in the valley where we find the strength to climb. It's where we find the rest needed for the journey that is unknown.

He is the keeper of the light. He holds it brightly for us to see. No matter where we are in our journey His light can be seen. Just a little light casts out all darkness. Just a little light fills a heart with warmth.

In the next few days we drove through in the day light. It was then that I could see all the places that held light for the night sky. I could see all the homes scattered throughout the valley. I wondered about each home and if they knew the blessings that came from the light that they shared at night for travelers to see.

For me, it held more beauty at night. It was as if it was a reminder for me that when all seems dark around me, I need to not try to see through the dark on my own. It's then that I can't find my way and fear takes over. But if I focus on Him, His light will surely guide my way. To wait upon it and catch it's glow is when we learn to trust. Just like when I was little with my jar open wide catching fireflies. The dark was not intended to frighten me, but it was needed for me to open my imagination to capture all the light trickling around me. I need to take a breath and silent my fears and remember that as long as I remain focused on Him, His light is always present for me to see.

"Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for You are close behind me. Your rod and Your staff protect me and comfort me."

Psalm 32:4

My Walk Through Memorial Flight 93

Last week I found myself in Somerset, Pennsylvania with my husband. Pennsylvania is beautiful. The Allegheny Mountains took my breath away. There are parts that take on a  blue hue.The mountains seem to reach the sky.  The trees captivated me as we drove through the Pennsylvania State Park. At night it seemed as if I were closer to the stars. The air was clean and crisp. My husband had a great time taking me out and showing me everything he has uncovered while being there.

One of the places we visited was the Memorial for Flight 93. As we drove up my stomach felt as if it were upside down. I felt a silence in my heart that quieted my spirit. It really is a beautiful, serene place. I felt humbled and is if I were walking on hallowed ground. We parked and started walking forward. The day was chilly and the wind was unkept. My hands were cold as my husband placed his hand upon mine.

I stood still as I read each name. I searched each face. Imagined their lives. I spoke their names out loud as if they could hear. I found myself wiping tears away from my clouded eyes. I felt as if I moved to quickly I would dishonor them in some way. I didn't want to leave until my heart captured all God wanted me to see.

A huge boulder lay a distance away from where we were standing. I speak and say, "Is that where it happened?" My husband says, "Yes". I think he knows my heart is having a rough time. When my heart begins to stir I just get quiet. I felt a stillness that was unsettling. He lets me walk my own pace as I stop frequently just to ponder.

We pass the boulder and walk towards the wall carrying each of their names. The wall is amazing as it plays a visual game with your eyes. As you are walking up it looks as if it curves around, but as you walk closer, at some point, you see the wall is one continuous connection of names. I began reading the names all over again. I see a name and then the words, flight attendant, carved underneath. I keep walking and now flowers capture my vision. Flowers left in love and honor. I look up and see the name of a woman. I gently run my fingers over her name and I look down and there were the words that will be carved in my heart forever, "And unborn child". It felt as if my heart stopped beating for a moment.

Then the thought came to me, "When did they know? When did they realize they were not coming home?" They woke making plans. This wasn't on their list. As I walked away I couldn't remove that thought from my mind. It broke my heart. For the rest of the day I think my heart just ached.

On our walk back the sun broke through the clouds. I could hear the Lord saying, "Remember..Never forget and always be thankful."

Friends, we never know what will happen in the next moment. None of us know the time planned on earth for us. We take each breath for granted. Even the cruddy days that we wish we could do over hold treasures. We must remember to laugh, to love, and to hold.

This day started out to be a normal day. But it turned out to be a day that became imprinted on our hearts forever. I remember this morning. I was in bed, just home from the hospital, recovering from surgery. All my children were home and watching television with my mother. My daughter comes into the room and says, "Momma, turn on the TV. Something has happened". We all sat on the bed in horror at the sights before us. Tears streaming down our shocked faces.

As I sit here today tears are still fresh on my cheeks. All I can think is, "I am so thankful". As you leave the memorial you come into a shelter. Within this shelter is a wall with scrips of paper pinned across with penned emotions. I take a pen in my hand and reach for a square. As my husband is speaking with the guard I ponder of what I should write. I stood reading the other words before me. As I penned my words from my heart and placed the tack, all I could think was, "It's not enough".

The actions of those aboard that plane were actions of heroes and humbled souls willing to sacrifice. Again I wonder, "When did they know?" I find myself wondering if they knew the Lord. Did they feel His presence? Did they know of His love? My emotions are  jumbled and scattered in all directions not unlike the forest we had just visited. I feel a sadness and an emptiness. I remember the faces and the smiles they have as the shutter captures their soul. I find myself thinking about the legacy my life will leave behind. Will my life witness a love of God? Will others see Him through my words? I then find myself just wanting to go home and put my arms around everyone I love.

Friends, I walked away from the memorial with a changed heart. A heart more thankful and one that doesn't want to take one moment for granted. Take time today with those you love. Reach out to those you haven't shared time with for years. Don't wait for the perfect time or the right moment. The perfect time is now before it's too late. Spend time with those in your life and invite those you know to know the Lord as their Savior. Don't keep putting off what needs to be done today. Take this moment now and cherish all that it holds.

Are You Wearing Hand Me Downs?

What's your take on hand me downs? Sometimes it's great when you get passed a cool pair of jeans from your sister, but many times what's being passed down just doesn't seem to fit very well. Many times there is something we just can't wait to wear. We know it's going to fit perfect! But then again, sometimes it's best to skip the hand me downs and purchase new items that fit us.

Today we have resale shops of all kinds where you can find great buys. Little items you have been searching for that will make that outfit perfect. We too have stores that are high priced with items we know we shouldn't place on our credit card. I think the key is knowing what's right for us and what's totally wrong helps us when searching for that new bag. It's not so much the bag, but what we add to it.

Sometimes those items we get passed down are very costly. Even for the one wearing them brand new. Have you ever been given a bag of clothes and you open the bag and a smell comes waffering up catching us off guard? We are in anticipation as we see what we are about to receive, but once that bag is opened, the surprise leaves us feeling empty.

Generational sins is something for us to consider. Do we really reap the sins of our fathers? Those sins of our grandmothers from years past?

What parents do in moderation, children will do in excess. We can't live by the motto, "Do as I say, not as I do". The choices we make today will effect those around us. Sometimes for years to come. Just that one choice we think won't matter much brings calamity and sorrow to those who reap what we have sown.

In studying generational sins there is something important for us to remember. How we live effects those around us. Plain and simple. Many of you, just as me, who have come from alcoholic homes know the impact this left on you. If you have come from an abusive home, the scars remain evident.

I was not raised in a Christian home. I was taught right from wrong, but many of those right things I learned, really weren't right at all. It wasn't okay to have sex before marriage. It wasn't okay to go out drinking with the girls. It wasn't okay to live with that boy before marriage. It wasn't okay to do whatever I wanted as long as no one else got hurt. I can tell you, these were decisions I made that in my mind were right. In these very choices my children now reap those effects.

I now know those decisions I made were not correct. If I'm honest, I knew that before I ever did them. I was just leaning on the decisions and the teachings of my family who said they were okay. I still carry the scars from my choices as a young person. Praise the Lord for God's grace. He has taken my past and removed each sin. He washed me clean and renewed me. Even through His grace, those scars still remain. He took the sin away, but the reaping of my actions still remain.

As a Christian and through growth I make better choices today. I am more focused on the outcome of my decisions. I know they effect more than just me. But each and every day I make poor choices when I am focused on my flesh. It is a daily battle between my flesh and my walk with Christ.

We can't always fall back on the decisions of our parents. There comes a point where we can no longer blame anyone for our choices except ourselves. We must learn to be accountable for our choices. Too many times we place blame on others, when in fact, it was our choice.

I see my children make some of the mistakes I made when I was young. It's hard for a mother to see this and not be able to do anything. Let me correct that. I may not be able to make them see, but I can pray for the Lord to show them. I believe He will. Sometimes we just gotta learn on our own. I have taught my children, a mistake isn't a mistake if we can walk away and learn from it. Life lessons are powerful, but wouldn't it be nice to just listen to the Lord and follow Him, instead of ignoring Him and doing as we wish?

After I became a Christian I began teaching my children morals and virtues that came from the Word of God. I too taught them from my own life lessons. Yes, I was that parent who shared my mistakes. I never hide things from my children. I wanted them to see how my mistakes left a mark on me and how my life would have been if I had made better choices. Our choices are everything. One choice leads to another and another. If we are making poor choices we are in a vicious cycle.

We have a choice in how we raise our children. In how we live our lives. When we make wise choices those blessings fall upon those near us. Oh, how I wish I could go back and make things right, but I cannot go back. I can take those choices and learn from them. I can make better decisions today. I want to leave blessings for my grandchildren. I want to be that Nana they look up to. One in which they say, "I wanna be like Nana". I want my children to be proud of the mother they have. The mom who hasn't always made perfect choices, but one who knows there is something much greater than this life we have here on earth.

That brings us to ask, "What impact am I making on those around me?" When we focus on God, when we live out our faith, we make a lasting impact for generations to come. Our impact carries great importance. When we focus on self, and live a life that is out of character for what God has for us, that impact is lasting too. In fact, that impact is harder and it can take years, generations even, to overcome.

Our actions carry an echo. That echo travels far and wide. So, shouldn't we be more concerned with the fingerprints we leave behind?

"Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer. Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation."

2 Corinthians 4:16-19

"As for his father, because he practiced extortion, robbed his brother and did what was not good among his people, behold he will die for his iniquity. Yet you say, Why should the son not bear the punishment for the father's iniquity? When the son has practiced justice and righteousness and has observed all My statutes and done them, he shall surely live. The person who sins will die. The son will not bear the punishment for the father's iniquity, not will the father bear the punishment for the son's iniquity; the righteousness of the righteous will be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked will be upon himself."

Ezekiel 18:18-20

"Father shall not be put to death for their sons, nor shall their sons be put to death for their fathers; everyone shall be put to death for his own sin."

Deuteronomy 24:16

We have verses pointing toward our own responsibility for our own sins. The actions we make are in the end our own. We cannot blame another for the choices we have made. This is why we choose to walk with wise and to surround ourselves with others looking to the Lord for guidance. I know this now, but when I was younger I didn't live for the Lord. I lived for the moment. We must break our generational sins and live in such a way that our lives leave behind the good of Christ that touches generations to come.

The Israelites are a great example to us in living for God and living for self. They would follow and then they would leave, trying to make the way on their own. God brought great blessings to them and He also punished them for the choices they made. In some way each and every choice we make effects those around us. They walked in the dessert for forty years. They had the promise land before them. Some were allowed to enter and others were not. May we humble our hearts and search God for each step we make. For that step we take is just as important to those who will follow.

"If the Lord is pleased with us, then He will bring us into this land and it to us-a land which flows with milk and honey."

Numbers 14:8



May we be careful of the hand me downs we bag up and hand to another. It might be best if they were just tossed away. If you are wearing hand me downs that just don't fit, don't keep wearing them. Sometimes it's best not to even open the bag. Praise God, we can begin new. In Him we can find restoration and freedom. We can walk in new shoes on a new path filled with promise and joy.

THE MESSAGE OF PAIN (A Whisper of Hope) by DR. GAVIN W. HOOKS

First time author, Dr. Gavin W. Hooks, has brought us a poignant message on hope. Can one book really teach us about pain and healing? I believe so. This is one of those books that can change the world around us, beginning with our own heart. I am honored to do a review on, "The Message Of Pain". I attend church with Gavin and his wonderful family. He is not only a friend, but my brother in Christ. I have been blessed beyond words to see this book come to life through his willingness to be a vessel for the Lord. We reach others through our own experiences and Gavin shares his life with us in these very pages.

To be honest. For me, this book begins a little slowly. But it must. It is when we hurry through that we miss so much. Gavin brings us a book in rich format that helps us have a better understanding of pain. It is through that understanding that we can find healing. As you read each chapter you begin to understand why pain was part of God's design. This book only got better as I read. I found much of myself in these pages as I too have searched for answers.

Have you found yourself in pain? Have you questioned God? I mean just down right screamed out to Him the words, "Why"? We find ourselves in pain. We see others around us in pain. Our world is in pain. From the street we live on, to the very people across the lands, we see pain. Desperation on faces as we search for why.

We can find a whisper of hope in,"The Message Of Pain." Gavin has written a remarkable truth into understanding  pain. We see it. We feel it. Sometimes we are the ones hurting. We see our family falling apart. Friendships are in destruction and our nation is crying out. Sometimes it is in others that we see a deep pain that seems to control every breath. We search for healing. We want answers. But first, we must go back in time. Back to Adam and Eve. The garden, where they decided to make a choice. One choice that would effect them for the rest of their lives. Our lives. We must look at those very choices we make and understand why we are making them. We have a sin nature. That is where is it all begins. Praise God, that isn't where it must end. We can find healing. We can find forgiveness. We can find hope. It is when we surrender to Christ that He washes us in His grace.

Gavin takes us on a journey through his own life's painful remembrance of his parent's divorce and the choices he made. When we hurt we seem to hurt others. He brings stories of others who have touched his life. He shows us the circle of pain. Dr. Hooks gives us the knowledge of pain and the wisdom of how to find our way out. We travel to Israel. We visit David and Naaman. Gavin brings us God's Word and resources that diagnose pain and teach us not only to overcome, but to live a life of freedom in Christ Jesus, leaving our pain behind and looking to Christ for complete healing.

Friends, I encourage you to check out this new book. It is not only brilliant, but it is heartfelt. That is what makes it real and believable for me.

This book was a gift from Dr. Gavin Hooks for it's review. This book is published by WestBow and you can find it by just clicking on this link I have provided.

http://www.westbowpress.com/Bookstore/BookDetail.aspx?BookId=SKU-000193462

Dr. Gavin Hooks:

The truth is everyone has their own experience with pain. I have had mine. This experience and a refusal to move past it without a deeper understanding of it has led to this writing. My medical background aided in this understanding. I have been a veterinarian for 11 years now and continue to be amazed at lessons I learn from my patients and clients. My home is just west of St. Louis, Missouri where I was raised. After high school I left for college and finished my bachelor's degree in 1987. I spent 8 years working as a sales representative for an internationally known microscope company. After being fired from this job I returned to college to realize my dream of becoming a veterinarian. I finished my doctorate of veterinary medicine in 1999 from the University of Missouri- Columbia. I purchased my own clinic in 2001 and have been at my current employment for 10 years. Photography, reading, writing, and hiking are the things I love most to do. I have three children and a lovely wife. We have been together for twenty-five years and counting.

Patience Is As Patience Does

As women we can become hurt very easily. We tend to carry those hurts with us. At times not even realizing we are doing so. That is until something minor happens and we just explode as those tears start rolling about like a tidal wave. All I can say is, watch out and head to higher ground.

There have been times when my husband, son say something that should bring laughter, but somewhere comes a flood of emotions I wasn't ready to let go of and they sure weren't ready to receive. Ever been there with me?

I can hold those hurt feelings in and you know what? The only person I am hurting is myself. That person who said the hurtful words doesn't care they said them and many times they don't even know they have hurt me because I tend to just keep it all inside. Once those words are there they begin to churn like butter. They become thick and settle in my heart. The only difference is, they are not sweet like butter, but grow bitter and hard like plaque, causing blockages. Now there is no where for them to escape. It's almost as though I am holding them captive until I am ready to release them.

When you think of patience, what is it that comes to mind? For me, it's waiting on God. Having patience when I cannot see up ahead. Patience while He is at work in the construction zone of my life. Seems like there is always a yield sign in front of me. "Slow down as you pass. Injury could occur if too close." It's like when you are brewing tea on the stove top. That tea gets mighty hot. It begins to bubble. If your not careful you could get burned. You make sure that handle is turned so you don't bump it and turn that hot pan over on you. It takes a long time for burns to heal. That's me when I have hurt feelings. They brew inside and most likely whoever is next to me is going to get burned. Ouch!

"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh."

Galatians 5:16

"But if you are led by the Spirit you are not under the law."

Galatians 5:18

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."

Galatians 5:22-23

When we share the fruit of the Spirit we tend to leave off the last part of that verse.."against such things there is no law." That is an important aspect of this verse. See, when we carry these characteristics with us we don't need to add any man-made rules. We don't have to add on anything, because when we are walking in these characteristics we are walking in Christ. He shines through each of these and the amazing thing is, you can't carry out one without the other. They all go hand in hand.

So when I get my feelings hurt, I must remember, it is not that person, but Satan. Yep, that mean, ugly Satan coming to attack me through another. Friends, it doesn't have to be an enemy for Satan to use in his attack. That really doesn't hurt as much as if it's someone you love. Someone you have been friends with for years. He uses the very people we love the most to bring about an attack. This is why I say, most of the time, that person doesn't even realize they have hurt us. The words they spoke weren't meant as an attack, but that is how we accepted them. Oh, we can be our own worst enemy, can't we?

Patience is the ability to endure injuries inflicted by others and the willingness to accept irritating or painful situations.

I need more patience in my life. How about you?

This doesn't mean you stand there like a doormat and allow others to step all over you. This means to endure it, let it go, and allow God the room He needs to work in this area. I think of it as the construction zone. The road can be bumpy. There can be a huge drop off. Sometimes the path ahead is not easily seen.  During the construction you must take a detour or sit still until you can move on through. But whatever the situation, it calls for patience.

Jesus showed us how to endure painful situations. He showed this through His life, His ministry and His death. We have His example to follow. He didn't lash out to those mocking Him. He didn't fight with those who didn't want to accept Him or believe Him. He remained focused on His ministry to bring salvation to all.

We cannot change others. Many times we cannot even change the circumstance, but we can change ourselves. We can change our attitude and our reaction. Just what if we loved on that person attacking us. Would it really be an attack? Might it be an opportunity to allow them to see Christ in action through our lives?

When we remain in that angry state we are only hurting ourselves. That person who attacked isn't hurting inside. They go to bed at night and rest comfortably. Me? When I am attacked I stay awake all night drowning in my tears. I'm not doing anyone any good at all. In fact, I have just waisted a whole night on what I should have just given to the Lord. I could have spent that time praying for that person who attacked me. I could in fact, just let it go and trust God with the situation.

"With all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

Ephesians 4:2-3

It takes two people to have an argument and only one to bring peace. You can be the peacemaker just by speaking in love and refusing to allow anger to control your actions.

"So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you."

Colossians 3:12-13

Hurt people, hurt people. Someone hurts us and all we think about is, "How could they do that to me?" Friends, we don't know what that other person has been through that day or what someone else has said to them. Now, that is no excuse to bring hurt to another, but if we can stop and pray first, the situation will be under control, because we have now invited Christ into the situation and we are going to trust Him in how it turns out. Many times all we want to do is lash out to them. How calming is it to go the Lord and just ask Him to remove anger and fill us with the same grace He forgives us with daily? We don't always have to prove ourselves right. Sometimes it is better to just walk away.

"It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life."

1 Timothy 1:15-16

My Plans or His Plans?

There are times when we think we are moving no where, but that no where is somewhere to God. Think of Esther. Here is a woman of great beauty. She had plans of her own, but God's plans prevailed. Turns out, His plans saved thousands of Jews. Pretty cool when you think about how His plans always works out to bring glory to our Father.

Sometimes I think I get in the way of His plans for my life as I am constantly trying to do it my way. I can hear Him now. "Daughter, if you would just listen to Me, all things will work out just fine." I tend to push (no shove) Him out of the way when I don't think things are going well. God has to giggle at us sometimes as we think our way is best. I imagine Him saying, "Really? That's your move?"

Every choice we make leads to the next. If we could just follow the guidance of our Savior, each step would be in tune with His purpose for our lives. One wrong decision on our part can change the lives of many. Think about that and let it settle in for a bit. Each choice we make will effect those around us. Sometimes for generations to come. This is why it is so important for us to make wise decisions. Decisions that we have prayed over and sought out the guidance of God before we take a step in either direction. Praise the Lord for U-turns. I get off track and He is right there to lead me back on track. But if I would have listened to Him in the first place and followed His leading, there would be no need for a U-turn.

"Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails."

Proverbs 19:21

"For surely, O Lord, You bless the righteous; You surround them with Your favor as with a shield."

Psalm 5:12

Did you know in the book of Esther God is never mentioned? It's true. Even though God is never mentioned we can see Him there loud and clear. Esther was alone after the death of her parents. She went to live with her cousin, Mordecai. He loved her as his own child. She looked to him for guidance and for safety. Esther was that girl who walks into a room and everyone takes notice. She was breathtaking to all. I see her as uncertain. She had to be thinking, "Okay, what's next? What trial will I have to face next?" Ever feel that way? I do. It's like I am just waiting for the bomb to drop. When we do that, we lose focus and we start expecting the worse, when God has the best in store for us. Even when we have to face those trials we'd rather pass up.

She was forced to go to another country. Can you imagine? You lose your parents and now you lose your home too. She travels to a new land where she really stood out. The King has his eyes set on her, but she wants nothing to do with him. She could have been very bitter, but she was just the opposite. She fasts and listens for the guidance she needs to move forward. She was willing to sacrifice herself for the good of those around her. In her wise choices she saved thousands of Jewish people. She married the king and took the place of Queen Vashti.

See, Mordecai warned Esther of plans to have the Jewish people killed. Esther had to choose what to do with this information. You couldn't just go up to the king and start chatting. "Hey, how ya doing today? By the way, the Jewish people are about to be wiped off the face of the earth. Just thought you should know." If you went before the king without permission, you were as good as dead. But Esther, in all her courage, faced the king and shared of the plans of Haman. Well, the king listened and Haman didn't have the opportunity to make anymore plans. Yep, sure enough, he was killed right there on the spot. Esther, the woman of beauty, saved her people.

I am sure Esther could look back at her life and ask, "Why God? Why did my life carry such circumstance?" After all, she didn't end up where she thought she would be. It was every girl's dream to be queen, but not Esther. She was beautiful, well loved, obedient, courageous and wise. She faced danger, was a foreigner, orphan and married a king in which she didn't love, all for the people she loved. Can you see God there? This is exactly what our Savior did for us. Esther didn't have to follow God's plans for her life. She could have easily went the other way. But she didn't. She made her mark in history, not just for being beautiful, but for obeying and serving those around her. Even though she didn't think her life would bring about blessings, God had more in store for her than she could ever imagine. He too has a wonderful life filled with joy planned for you and me.

"For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me."

Jeremiah 29:11-13

A few weeks ago my son and I were chatting about life and our choices. I had shared with  my son that I had a full ride to SLU and I turned it down. I walked away from something that could have very well had me on a totally different path. My son says, "But Mom, if you would have done that than you may never have met Dad". I do realize I allowed blessings to pass by, but even so, God knew where I would be in my decision. Even in our choices that are made without wisdom, God can still bring blessing upon blessing. He has a way of turning ash into beauty. The point is, when we totally surrender to Him and seek Him first, His plans are made perfect in our lives. Those moments we think are small are huge to God and His plan for our lives.

I am sure I missed out on great blessings. But, as my son spoke of his father. It wasn't until I met him that I came to know the Lord. I think my path was right where God wanted me to be. As I look back at all that has touched my life I can clearly see how God has moved on my behalf. Even in my wrong choices, He has brought great blessings. Just think if I followed His leadership daily, moment by moment, the great joys that I could experience.

Bloom where you are planted. Esther blossomed in a foreign land and brought great glory to God through a life she didn't expect and didn't foresee. God has your life in the palm of His hand and there is no greater place to be than in His presence. It is there we see His mighty power at work and His gentle grace applied in all the right places.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take."

Proverbs 3:5-6