"Oh, your life is so perfect. I know you never worry about anything because you're married to the preacher." Have you ever had a similar comment made to you? I certainly have and my first thought is invite this clueless inidividual over for a month stay. Instead, I just fall on the floor laughing. In the course of our 30+ years of ministry, I can attest today my life is perfect and chocolate has no calories-IN MY DREAMS!
Do you sometimes wish you could allow the congregation or even the lost world to come to your home and experience the "perfect" bliss? Right now if people were to walk through the front door of my home they would immediately be bombed with the ripe odor of wet dog. Once you catch your breath, you would proceed into the kitchen and discover muddy paw and shoe prints on the aging white flooring which is rolling up. (Girls, it has been raining or snowing for weeks and my poor Swiffer mop needed a vacation.) Continuing to the living area you would discover that I have attempted to dust and vacuum but dog hair reigns (or rains) in our home. Upstairs you will find the laundry baskets overflowing and ironing has piled up as well. However, there will be one bed made and the bathrooms are clean. (Hey, at least something is half way done!) Oh but wait! Don't attempt to look our the windows. They're dirty.
Okay, so you do not keep a perfect house but you do have a perfect family. Well, I think my family came pretty close to perfect one day. Let's see I have a husband and one son who have the gift of prophesy so that means neither see a gray area only black and white. Boy, that sure makes life perfect in minister's home. Another son is a fun-loving, mischievous, sports-loving guy. He brings broken parsonage windows from balls and pranks of all kinds. I, being the sole female in an all male home, gave up the frilly, girly life long ago in order to be ready on a moments notice. Did you know that you do not wear high heels, perfect hair, and panty hose to ballgames? Instead a ponytail and comfortable tennis shoes work just fine. Yep, I think we are pretty close to the Cleaver family. Okay, I admit. I am not June Cleaver. Seriously, who wears pearls or a dress to cook? Plus, the Lee household know our meals are ready when the smoke detector goes off.
So see girlfriends, our lives are not perfect. I believe the only perfect person who will ever grace the face of the earth is Jesus. We are simply humans who get the awesome privilege of being called out to serve the Lord and spread the Good News. No, my life is not perfect but I would not change it for the world (or for all the chocolate in the universe).
Be Blessed!
"Okay Lord, I still would like to have my heavenly banquet table filled with chocolate." : )
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Encouraging Your Discouraged Husband
A couple of weeks ago I spent some time with a young minister's wife who asked, "How do I encourage my husband when he is ready to give up and quit ministry?" Since I did not have a package of Peanut M & Ms (my special nerve therapy and comfort food) to share with this sweet lady, I could only listen quietly as she shared briefly about a situation at their church.
I felt so inadequate offering my advice to this fellow sister. Each wife of a minister will face this stuggle in the course of ministry. We have to be our husband's cheerleader. Girlfriends, we are not just any cheerleader. We are the All-American, All-Star head cheerleader who must encourage their man to follow God's leadership to lead the church and draw the lost to the Savior. We have to remind our man that he is God-called. Just like in any football game where the discouraged home team is behind and there is only a few seconds on the clock, the cheerleader must keep her chin up and offer words of encouragement to rally the team to stay with the course and strive to win.
If you find yourself faced with a discouraged husband (and who hasn't), let me suggest a few ways to rally your man.
*Brag on him.
*Cook his favorite meal and you and your children make a card that expresses
love and encouragement to him.
*No kids at home? Sit down together and make a list of the blessings your family
has experienced through your years in the ministry.
*Name people in your church family that you know pray and support you. Take
time to thank God for those people.
*Pray daily, hourly for your husband.
*As a couple seek godly wisdom from a fellow minister/mentor who can give you
solid advice.
*When your husband states that he is ready to quit the ministry, ask him to tell
you about his call to the ministry. Help him to rediscover that call.
Sisters, these are just a few ways to encourage your man whom God has called to serve in His work. I know my sister who shared her heart with me will be reading this blog. What I am asking is that you share a comment on how you personally encourage your husband when he is ready to throw in the towel.
I felt so inadequate offering my advice to this fellow sister. Each wife of a minister will face this stuggle in the course of ministry. We have to be our husband's cheerleader. Girlfriends, we are not just any cheerleader. We are the All-American, All-Star head cheerleader who must encourage their man to follow God's leadership to lead the church and draw the lost to the Savior. We have to remind our man that he is God-called. Just like in any football game where the discouraged home team is behind and there is only a few seconds on the clock, the cheerleader must keep her chin up and offer words of encouragement to rally the team to stay with the course and strive to win.
If you find yourself faced with a discouraged husband (and who hasn't), let me suggest a few ways to rally your man.
*Brag on him.
*Cook his favorite meal and you and your children make a card that expresses
love and encouragement to him.
*No kids at home? Sit down together and make a list of the blessings your family
has experienced through your years in the ministry.
*Name people in your church family that you know pray and support you. Take
time to thank God for those people.
*Pray daily, hourly for your husband.
*As a couple seek godly wisdom from a fellow minister/mentor who can give you
solid advice.
*When your husband states that he is ready to quit the ministry, ask him to tell
you about his call to the ministry. Help him to rediscover that call.
Sisters, these are just a few ways to encourage your man whom God has called to serve in His work. I know my sister who shared her heart with me will be reading this blog. What I am asking is that you share a comment on how you personally encourage your husband when he is ready to throw in the towel.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Snoopy Dog Dance
Fling open the windows. Pull out the deck furniture. Spruce up the yard. Kick off your shoes and do the Snoopy Dog Dance! Woo Who it's springtime! Wait, you do know what the Snoopy Dog Dance is? Surely you have seen the Charlie Brown specials where his dog Snoopy gets happy feet and dances for joy. Well girlfriends, I just feel like doing the Snoopy Dog Dance barefoot through the green grass.
Now, I love wintertime with its snow and comfortable, snuggly clothes. Wintertime means delving into my favorite comfort foods like chili, homemade soup, and yes, chocolate. However, I can honestly say for the first time in my life I am ready for spring after this harsh winter we have had.
Spring means a new beginning. There is an expectation in the air. There is a hope that breathes in the gentle breeze. I believe it is time for the Spirit of God to renew our hearts and minds. I believe God wants to do something big beyond our human capabilities. For myself, I am praying that God will awaken my soul with a new freshness to carry out His will. I want to set aside the worries of the day and think about the good that God is doing in the world right now.
For example, in just the first three months of 2011, the world has experienced earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, death, war, and much more. The world, including myself, can get so caught up in the misery and dispair that we forget that God is in control. I believe that each earthquake, flood, or tsunami brings about an opportunity for Christians around the world to share the gospel and bring true hope to the lost world. Personally, I am so thankful to be a Southern Baptist where we cooperate with each other by pooling our resources. As a result we are able to send out diaster relief teams who go in to impossible situations and bring hope to hurting people around the world by providing for them physically and spiritually.
So girlfriends, kick off those winter boots and chunk those bulky coats. Step outside, breathe deeply, and do the Snoopy Dog Dance. Now your neighbors may think you have lost it but the bible says that if we do not praise the Lord then creation will cry out. Let's start expecting God to do something BIG!
Happy Spring!
Now, I love wintertime with its snow and comfortable, snuggly clothes. Wintertime means delving into my favorite comfort foods like chili, homemade soup, and yes, chocolate. However, I can honestly say for the first time in my life I am ready for spring after this harsh winter we have had.
Spring means a new beginning. There is an expectation in the air. There is a hope that breathes in the gentle breeze. I believe it is time for the Spirit of God to renew our hearts and minds. I believe God wants to do something big beyond our human capabilities. For myself, I am praying that God will awaken my soul with a new freshness to carry out His will. I want to set aside the worries of the day and think about the good that God is doing in the world right now.
For example, in just the first three months of 2011, the world has experienced earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, death, war, and much more. The world, including myself, can get so caught up in the misery and dispair that we forget that God is in control. I believe that each earthquake, flood, or tsunami brings about an opportunity for Christians around the world to share the gospel and bring true hope to the lost world. Personally, I am so thankful to be a Southern Baptist where we cooperate with each other by pooling our resources. As a result we are able to send out diaster relief teams who go in to impossible situations and bring hope to hurting people around the world by providing for them physically and spiritually.
So girlfriends, kick off those winter boots and chunk those bulky coats. Step outside, breathe deeply, and do the Snoopy Dog Dance. Now your neighbors may think you have lost it but the bible says that if we do not praise the Lord then creation will cry out. Let's start expecting God to do something BIG!
Happy Spring!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Yield and Learn
I spend a lot of time meeting with minister's wives. I love meeting with them and listening to their stories. Each woman is special and has her own strengths and struggles.
Recently I have been meeting with a wonderful young lady whose husband is waiting on God to lead him to a church. In other words, he is currently out of work. This is such a difficult place to be. His heart's desire is to preach, yet as they have been interviewing at different churches, God continues to shut the door.
In order to help with finances he has taken a job at a fast food restaurant. It is hard work for very little money. It is definitely not his heart's desire. It involves a little bit of humility.
As I visit with this young minister's wife, I see her faith growing and her love for God and her husband growing. She loves him for his willingness to work hard to support them, in spite of the job. She loves him because he has been unwilling to compromise his beliefs to fit a church. She loves him!
I know our Father in Heaven is also loving this young pastor. He is refining him and seeing him stand firm. He is testing and seeing him yield instead of resist.
Where are you in your service to God? Are you fighting or yielding? Are you learning or pouting?
Jesus is our example: Hebrews 5:8 "Though He was God's Son, He learned obedience through what He suffered."
Recently I have been meeting with a wonderful young lady whose husband is waiting on God to lead him to a church. In other words, he is currently out of work. This is such a difficult place to be. His heart's desire is to preach, yet as they have been interviewing at different churches, God continues to shut the door.
In order to help with finances he has taken a job at a fast food restaurant. It is hard work for very little money. It is definitely not his heart's desire. It involves a little bit of humility.
As I visit with this young minister's wife, I see her faith growing and her love for God and her husband growing. She loves him for his willingness to work hard to support them, in spite of the job. She loves him because he has been unwilling to compromise his beliefs to fit a church. She loves him!
I know our Father in Heaven is also loving this young pastor. He is refining him and seeing him stand firm. He is testing and seeing him yield instead of resist.
Where are you in your service to God? Are you fighting or yielding? Are you learning or pouting?
Jesus is our example: Hebrews 5:8 "Though He was God's Son, He learned obedience through what He suffered."
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Be Ready
I have been absent this week due to the fact that my computer lost Internet access. It is amazing how helpless you can feel with no Internet. I am able to check my phone for messages, but for some reason it was not updating!
I am grateful that I never lose access to my God. What an amazing gift to each of us from our Heavenly Father. He is always accessible and is beyond up to date.
I continue to watch the signs of the times with you. I want to encourage each of you to be on the alert for those God is calling to Himself. As you work along side your husband, never assume that the ladies you see at church are redeemed. I am finding people are more open to discussion and have many questions. I Peter 3:15 reminds us to be ready with the answer of the Hope that is in you.
II Peter 3:8-9 "Dear friends, don't let this one thing escape you: With the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord does not delay His promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance."
Sisters, open your hearts and eyes to those around you. He is coming soon!
I am grateful that I never lose access to my God. What an amazing gift to each of us from our Heavenly Father. He is always accessible and is beyond up to date.
I continue to watch the signs of the times with you. I want to encourage each of you to be on the alert for those God is calling to Himself. As you work along side your husband, never assume that the ladies you see at church are redeemed. I am finding people are more open to discussion and have many questions. I Peter 3:15 reminds us to be ready with the answer of the Hope that is in you.
II Peter 3:8-9 "Dear friends, don't let this one thing escape you: With the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord does not delay His promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance."
Sisters, open your hearts and eyes to those around you. He is coming soon!
Monday, March 14, 2011
Shaken
Unless you are in some kind of silent isolation you could not be unaware of what is happening in Japan. The earthquake there is on every station of radio, television and in every conversation as I walk through my day.
As christians, we know what God says about earthquakes, wars, famines, etc. We hear sermons about the 'signs of the times' on a regular basis. As a believer, you must be aware of the fact that Jesus is certainly returning, sooner than later!
How do you feel about that? Are you excited, scared, ready, have a few more things you need/want to do? I have to tell you that when I woke to the news of the earthquake in Japan, every plan I had for the day seemed unimportant. I could only think of one thing. My brother, still does not know Jesus! I picked up my Bible and began to read. As I was reading through my daily Bible plan, God clearly spoke to me. He reminded me of things He wanted me to get rid of in my life. I was reminded of His forgiveness and love. I was reminded that this life on earth is just a flash of time and eternity is ETERNITY - FOREVER AND EVER AND EVER!!!
Do you believe that? I have always heard that you do what you believe Soooo, I picked up the phone and called my brother in Florida. I did not expect him to be home, yet he answered the phone. He immediately mentioned Japan and I asked Him if he understood what was happening. He was raised in church and commented, "People have been saying Jesus is coming back as long as he could remember." We talked a long time and he promised to call me back later. I still haven't heard, but I am praying.
Do you have family members that need Jesus? Do you have church members that need Jesus? Do you need Jesus? It is time that we live what we believe. Jesus is coming and He wants us to be ready and be telling the Good News.
My brother did not accept Christ this week, but I am praying and will be calling again. He is looking for answers. Those around you are looking for answers and we have The Answer.
Psalm 62:1-2 "My Soul finds rest in God alone. He alone is my rock and my salvation, He is my fortress. I will never be shaken."
As christians, we know what God says about earthquakes, wars, famines, etc. We hear sermons about the 'signs of the times' on a regular basis. As a believer, you must be aware of the fact that Jesus is certainly returning, sooner than later!
How do you feel about that? Are you excited, scared, ready, have a few more things you need/want to do? I have to tell you that when I woke to the news of the earthquake in Japan, every plan I had for the day seemed unimportant. I could only think of one thing. My brother, still does not know Jesus! I picked up my Bible and began to read. As I was reading through my daily Bible plan, God clearly spoke to me. He reminded me of things He wanted me to get rid of in my life. I was reminded of His forgiveness and love. I was reminded that this life on earth is just a flash of time and eternity is ETERNITY - FOREVER AND EVER AND EVER!!!
Do you believe that? I have always heard that you do what you believe Soooo, I picked up the phone and called my brother in Florida. I did not expect him to be home, yet he answered the phone. He immediately mentioned Japan and I asked Him if he understood what was happening. He was raised in church and commented, "People have been saying Jesus is coming back as long as he could remember." We talked a long time and he promised to call me back later. I still haven't heard, but I am praying.
Do you have family members that need Jesus? Do you have church members that need Jesus? Do you need Jesus? It is time that we live what we believe. Jesus is coming and He wants us to be ready and be telling the Good News.
My brother did not accept Christ this week, but I am praying and will be calling again. He is looking for answers. Those around you are looking for answers and we have The Answer.
Psalm 62:1-2 "My Soul finds rest in God alone. He alone is my rock and my salvation, He is my fortress. I will never be shaken."
Friday, March 11, 2011
VERY URGENT PRAYER REQUESTS
-----Prayer Request # 1. I have a very URGENT PRAYER REQUEST. I teach sixth graders and one of our girls had a place come up on her arm four weeks ago. They went to the doctor and he burned it off. It came back so they cut it off and sent it to the pathologist. The results came back Melanoma. She has since had another surgery where they removed a larger chunk from her arm and removed a lymph node from under her arm. She has been diagnosed with at least stage 3 cancer.
The girl is scheduled for a complete body PET Scan today and they will meet with the doctors afterwards. Please PRAY that they do not find anything else. She will have to have at least one more surgery and then will have to undergo Interferon treatment three times a week for a month. Then, more tests to determine if it is helping.
Also, remember the rest of my Middle School in your prayers. We are a sixth through eighth grade small school, so as you can imagine this is impacting the entire school body. This is the first time most of the students have experienced someone close to their age with CANCER so it is scary.
Also, remember the rest of my Middle School in your prayers. We are a sixth through eighth grade small school, so as you can imagine this is impacting the entire school body. This is the first time most of the students have experienced someone close to their age with CANCER so it is scary.
BTW...I would like to brag on my homeroom class. It is probably because they know that I am a PW "preacher's wife" but they are the "most praying" little group of kids that I have ever seen. They had asked once if they could pray out loud in my class. I told them that by law I am not allowed to lead them in anything like that. (On their own, they meet outside my class and have prayer together most mornings.) When the little girl came back to school Monday, my class went over me (I've told them that if they ask I have to say no....smile) and asked her if she would come into our classroom and let them pray for her. One of my boys then prayed one of the prettiest prayers. He asked that God be with the girl during her next surgery and during all of her treatments and that God would help her not to be afraid. He also prayed for the doctors. What a witness!!
PLEASE add this young girl to your prayer list and have everyone you know to pray for her and her family. Her first name is Chrissy.
-----Prayer Request #2 - I have another student who is having severe pain in her hip area which is affecting her mobility. She has undergone lots of testing and even had the "shock treatment" this week to check the nerves. So far, they have not been able to find out what is causing this problem and it has gotten worse during this school year. Please remember Cora in your prayers.
-----Prayer Request #3 - One of our boy's mom has cancer and is going through chemo right now. Please remember her and her family in your prayers.
Thank you for the prayers. God bless you and have a great day!
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