Father - PLEASE use me!

Reading for this week
"When God sovereignly determines to revive His people, He usually begins by awakening one person. The history of God's people is studded with the names of solitary souls who refused to let go of God until He blessed them. Their spiritual tenacity was first granted them by God and then used by Him to ignite a field of other parched souls. The result is always a sweeping move of the Spirit in which God is exalted, His people revived, and the lost converted.
In the thronging masses of newly awakened hearts, however, never lose sight of that one solitary figure who became the torch of God to set His people ablaze once again. God is always prior. His first move in revival is always to find one willing heart and break it." John Kitchen, Revival in the Rubble. Pg.15

Dave Butts
Harvest Prayer Ministries and National Prayer Committee

National Day of Prayer Task Force

Latest Book Review

To be perfectly honest; I signed up to review Thumbing Through Thoreau: A Book of Quotations by Henry David Thoreau, compiled by Kenny Luck illustrated by Jay Luke & Ren Adams, because I don’t know a thing about the literary genus behind the work I knew if I “signed up” to review the book, knowing the person I am, I would HAVE to learn everything I COULD possibly learn about Mr. Thoreau (which would provide an amazing learning/growing experience)!

I received the book in the mail yesterday from Tribute books and immediately opened the package to begin exploring the text. At first glance, I began to panic. The reason for my panic was due to the “way” I process information. For example, when I read Scriptures in the Bible, I like to read the verses proceeding and following the referenced text. I like to have a complete understanding of what is being said and the context in which it’s being stated. (As a matter of fact, I even read every note printed at the bottom of the page and in more than one Bible translation! I don’t want to miss a thing!) It would be difficult to do with this book, as it is comprised of random quotations by the author. Mr. Luck does provide an explanation of his logic in the introduction of the book, but it’s difficult to teach this dog new tricks!

I mentioned my quandary to my co-worker, a well learned woman I highly respect, and she agreed with my assumption that I should state my opinion based on the text provided! In other words, without reading every work-which I may have to do now, I won’t know what was written prior to or afterward. I could base my review on what I gleaned from this text alone. I felt so much better; I can do this!

Stay tuned for my review on August 21st! I am really looking forward to the journey!

Memories from the past (but NOT forgotten)

I FINALLY DID something I have pondered for quite some time. As a matter of fact, the idea was given to me (from Above) during a time of internal conflict and prayer. While serving as a youth sponsor, at an amazing outdoor Camp that changed my walk with Christ (Camp Rudolph in Yale, Virginia), I was reminded of the numerous saints from Northside Christian Church that changed my life forever.

When I started attending Northside Christian Church in 1992, my life was upside down. Like Beth Moore, I don’t think the details are important; the fact that I was lost and searching for something (GOD) is much more important. HE placed me at Northside for numerous reasons; I’m convinced. But I’m certain it was mostly for the leadership and fellowship with genuine believers.

Just about every Sunday night, for many years, several of the long-time members would go out for dinner after the evening service. Not only did I have no where to go, but I had no money to go there with! These couples would invite my son and me to tag along. Not only did we share the most amazing fellowship I have ever experienced (except for the meals around our kitchen table growing up-when my parents shared many of the details of their lives), but they would pay the bill! EVERY WEEK, someone would pay our bill!

When I FINALLY approached this very special man to thank him in person, he responded with tears in his eyes, acting as if I had been the one to bless him! Can you imagine that? That is what BEING THE CHURCH is all about! That is what saving someone’s life for the Kingdom is about. I am so grateful to these members of Northside Christian Church and I always will be! Now it’s my turn to give back! FORGE AHEAD!

Raising a Modern-Day Princess (Book Review)

When I saw this book, Raising a Modern-Day Princess…inspiring purpose, value, and strength in your daughter by Pam Farrel and Doreen Hanna, as a book review selection by Tyndale House Publishers, I hoped God had provided this resource as an answer to prayer. To be honest, I wasn’t sure what type of information would be provided; or if the information would be valuable, applicable to my situation or even worth the time invested to read it. I was in a desperate tween-daughter drama and was pleading/searching/praying for His direction and guidance. I have learned to keep my eyes open to everything that crosses my path during these times, trusting completely He WILL provide an answer.

I was extremely pleased with this step by step curriculum resource for celebrating your daughter’s rite of passage to womanhood. In the first chapter, both authors share their relationship with their father and how important it is that daughters receive approval and acceptance from their dad (or father figure). I agree 100%; having experienced the same revelation in my own life. Chapter two explains what a rite of passage entails in various cultures. Chapter three reveals the power of words-and the importance of encouraging your daughter in every aspect of her life. Chapter four provides the critical topics to be covered on the journey to the Modern-Day Princess ceremony (which can be completed one on one with your own daughter, with a mentor, or in a small group environment). The program can be completed over a weekend or during once a month meetings; whatever works for your circumstances. You are even provided numerous worksheet resources mentioned in the book that can be copied and used just as they are. Chapter five provides fabulous advice for moms; to include traits all mothers should strive to perfect in their own lives, to serve as role models for their daughters. The authors remind mothers of the importance of Godly mentors to assist in moving young women forward in their life journey. Chapter six focuses on the role of a mentor-every aspect of mentoring was covered-how to choose a mentor as well as the qualities of serving as one. Chapter seven goes into detail on the Modern-Day Princess ceremony. Not one detail was over-looked; even providing options for individuals or groups, reminding us that it’s the thought that counts-NOT the cost. Chapter eight covers the important role a man’s blessing plays in the ceremony, as well as in God’s plan; all the way back in time to the Old Testament. The Dad, or father figure, will be called to proclaim a blessing over his Princess-which will produce intense spiritual growth for years afterward. Several blessing samples are provided to inspire the man/men in your ceremony. Chapter nine provides additional resource information and encouragement to get started! The authors remind us of the positive outcome for everyone involved: women, men, moms, girls, communities, families, leaders, school teachers and finally-that God anoints it!

You MUST get this book and start mentoring to a young lady today! Young women NEED this program-and we have been called to lead it! Absolutely every detail of the ceremony is provided, so you don’t have to create anything (or be afraid to get started!). This book is an outstanding resource, and motivated me to implement the program THIS Fall!

Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book, which in no way impacted my review of the contents.

Husband Prayer Calendar

One more Prayer Calendar from inspiredtoaction.com for your use!

I am SOOOO excited about these!

New Blog Resource for Moms

I just came across the MOST AMAZING blog for moms (thanks to the Holy Experience Blog) - please check it out here: http://inspiredtoaction.com/

I am posting this free resource for your use! I plan to USE IT every morning - after all, there's no such thing as TOO MUCH prayer, right!

Larry's Sermon yesterday

Our Pastor, Larry Jones - Northside Christian Church, is leading us on a summer study through the Book of John. Although I always enjoy his messages, yesterday he ended on a Scripture that really spoke to me! It's from the Book of Hebrews, and upon further reading, I will be posting a Scripture of two PRIOR to the one he read (using the New Century Version):

Hebrews 10
24 Let us think about each other and help each other to show love and do good deeds.25 You should not stay away from the church meetings, as some are doing, but you should meet together and encourage each other. Do this even more as you see the day coming.
26 If we decide to go on sinning after we have learned the truth, there is no longer any sacrifice for sins.27 There is nothing but fear in waiting for the judgment and the terrible fire that will destroy all those who live against God.

One of the many reasons I volunteer at Church is to MAKE ME ATTEND EACH AND EVERY SUNDAY! If I'm committed, I have to go! No excuse to sleep in or skip just ONE Sunday.

I know I have learned the truth - I NEED His strength to keep me in a state of obedience. The closer I get to Him, the more I understand what an amazing gift we have been given! He is the most faithful friend we will ever have!