I have spent the last 3 days, did you hear me? THREE days! I have spent the last 3 days planning 2 weeks of the kids' school week. Trying to figure out what subject to learn and within that subject, what they will learn. Why? Because I am a homeschooler!
Unlike public school teachers who only have to plan for usually one subject, we as homeschool moms have to figure out ALL the subjects our kids will do and learn and then figure out when, how, and the best ways to teach that to our children. And, you have to do that planning with ALL your kids.
I tried to plan some of our lessons together, like history or science. But, Erin and Caleb are on such different levels academically that it was difficult. So, this year, we will go back to doing them separately. Caleb will get science and history at the co-op we are attending. Erin will get writing and history. I think it will be a great experience for both of them. My husband has some reservations, but has agreed to allow us to do this for this year. We will call it our trial period. I am committed from Aug. until May. After that, we will re-evaluate our plans.
Speaking of plans, how do you plan? I have searched everywhere online for planners. I have decided to just make my own. So far, so good! I am sure glad I only have 2 kids. I sympathize with those mothers who are teaching more than 2 at home. May God truly bless your school year- whether or not you choose to homeschool. Education is more than just academics. It's about their WHOLE body being taught. We need to teach our children about the word of God and that encompasses all aspects of our learning process. You can't take God out of science or most of history. Even in literature, he is woven through those pages. God gave us the spirit to learn. Let's use our brains to further His kingdom!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Friday, July 30, 2010
School Year Goals
Goals. They are always there. Whether of not you admit it, we all have goals. Small, long-term, short-term goals. Doesn't matter what kind. Personal, Spiritual, Physical.
Even for school, especially for us as homeschoolers. We have to have goals. Achieving those goals and keeping track of them are two different things. There are many goals that I have achieved but have not been keeping record of them.
My goal this year is to keep better track of our goals for the year- make that for the month. I have to start small so I don't feel overwhelmed. If I can keep track of this month-by-month, then hopefully I will have a better idea of what was accomplished throughout our school year.
Yeah, I've got their work to go by. I have workbook pages they have completed or reports they have written. I will treasure those items not just as school work but part of their lives.
It's not in our budget to purchase something but I would love a way to keep track of our year so I researched for some FREE ways online to keep track of our year. Here are 2 I have found:
http://www.donnayoung.org/
http://www.homeschoolskedtrack.com/
I plan to keep looking and if I come up with any others that are FREE or cheap, then I will post them.
Even for school, especially for us as homeschoolers. We have to have goals. Achieving those goals and keeping track of them are two different things. There are many goals that I have achieved but have not been keeping record of them.
My goal this year is to keep better track of our goals for the year- make that for the month. I have to start small so I don't feel overwhelmed. If I can keep track of this month-by-month, then hopefully I will have a better idea of what was accomplished throughout our school year.
Yeah, I've got their work to go by. I have workbook pages they have completed or reports they have written. I will treasure those items not just as school work but part of their lives.
It's not in our budget to purchase something but I would love a way to keep track of our year so I researched for some FREE ways online to keep track of our year. Here are 2 I have found:
http://www.donnayoung.org/
http://www.homeschoolskedtrack.com/
I plan to keep looking and if I come up with any others that are FREE or cheap, then I will post them.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Fresh Start to Our School Year
How many times have you ended the school year and been glad it was over? I mean, you as the mom and teacher, not the kids! We school all year long because we take breaks during the school year. But, I am always eager to start a new school year. Each year, it's always refreshing to know that even if the school year hasn't gone quite right that another one will come and we can start over. Even if you think you have the greatest year ever and nothing could compare, you get to start over! Each new year gives us some great goals to try to accomplish!
When we lived in Memphis, I had just gotten to the point to where I was planning well, making sure the kids got their work completed, AND graded. During the last few years, I started re-thinking how we school our kids. I focused so much on the academics that God was taking a back seat to our school. I want God to be our forerunner, then we will get "school" done.
Maybe it's because God has called my husband to be a pastor that I have gotten serious, but I would hope it's because I, as the mother of my children, and the primary educator, that I would want to make sure they are fully grounded upon the Word of God.
I have goals for this year. Will I accomplish them? Probably not!
But, by golly, I'm not gonna quit trying! I will begin each day anew.
When we lived in Memphis, I had just gotten to the point to where I was planning well, making sure the kids got their work completed, AND graded. During the last few years, I started re-thinking how we school our kids. I focused so much on the academics that God was taking a back seat to our school. I want God to be our forerunner, then we will get "school" done.
Maybe it's because God has called my husband to be a pastor that I have gotten serious, but I would hope it's because I, as the mother of my children, and the primary educator, that I would want to make sure they are fully grounded upon the Word of God.
I have goals for this year. Will I accomplish them? Probably not!
But, by golly, I'm not gonna quit trying! I will begin each day anew.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Hymns
It's those words that are put into a book and people used to sing. So many churches have thrown those books away and opted for the big screen and more contemporary songs. Have you listened or read the words to the songs written lately? I could sing them as a love song to my husband. They are not worship songs. I do not think they were intended to be used in a worship setting, however so many churches are "guilting" people with these songs. I used to feel so guilty during the singing of some of these songs. The lyrics of the songs were sang over and over until someone just couldn't stand it any more and would go down the aisle. It wasn't a new Christian walking the aisle. It was someone who felt so guilty about their life that they wanted to "renew" their life. But, what about those who aren't believers! How it must make them feel? I do think that God can use songs to teach us. But they don't save us! We need to make sure we disciple those who are in need. Not guilt them into changing!
God wants us to "walk that aisle" of life and choose Him every day. He wants us to take the worship and focus on Him. When we sing some of those songs mentioned above sometimes we take the focus off the Lord and place it on man. That is not worship! I don't know what it is, but it's not how the Lord would have us to worship. At least not at Christ Covenant Church in Olive Branch, MS.
I haven't always been a fan of the hymns. They were too "theological" for me. Some of them didn't make sense to me. Well, those thoughts have gone by the wayside and I embrace the words of those hymns now. I have many favorites! I know my husband does, who is the pastor.
I am not saying that all the contemporary songs out there are not good for worship. I like some of them and listen to many on either the radio or on CD. We take our worship on Sunday mornings seriously and that means we do our best to the best of our ability to do what we think is appropriate for worship. That means we use a hymnal.
God instructed us as parents to teach our children. That means in all aspects of life. Even in song. I want my kids to grow up and say, "Hey, I sang that as a child." I actually would like for them to know quite a few of them and not even need the book. I want them to have the hymns memorized. That would be my goal. If we can retain the word of God, along with words of hymns, then no one can take that away from us. No matter what situation we are in. He can use the song or the words of the songs to witness to others, to comfort us, to reproof us; why there are many things those songs can do for us! I already know they can be very comforting in time of need. And, God always knows what we need!
Jesus love me, this I know. For the Bible tells me so!
God wants us to "walk that aisle" of life and choose Him every day. He wants us to take the worship and focus on Him. When we sing some of those songs mentioned above sometimes we take the focus off the Lord and place it on man. That is not worship! I don't know what it is, but it's not how the Lord would have us to worship. At least not at Christ Covenant Church in Olive Branch, MS.
I haven't always been a fan of the hymns. They were too "theological" for me. Some of them didn't make sense to me. Well, those thoughts have gone by the wayside and I embrace the words of those hymns now. I have many favorites! I know my husband does, who is the pastor.
I am not saying that all the contemporary songs out there are not good for worship. I like some of them and listen to many on either the radio or on CD. We take our worship on Sunday mornings seriously and that means we do our best to the best of our ability to do what we think is appropriate for worship. That means we use a hymnal.
God instructed us as parents to teach our children. That means in all aspects of life. Even in song. I want my kids to grow up and say, "Hey, I sang that as a child." I actually would like for them to know quite a few of them and not even need the book. I want them to have the hymns memorized. That would be my goal. If we can retain the word of God, along with words of hymns, then no one can take that away from us. No matter what situation we are in. He can use the song or the words of the songs to witness to others, to comfort us, to reproof us; why there are many things those songs can do for us! I already know they can be very comforting in time of need. And, God always knows what we need!
Jesus love me, this I know. For the Bible tells me so!
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Chores and Lists
Cleaning the house. It's one of those chores that never ends. Just when you think it's all clean- by golly, someone's gone and messed it up again!
Here is my post for today:
Well, for a long time I have been taking Saturdays to clean. It all started because David works every other Saturday morning so we are usually home anyway. If, for some reason we will not be home, then we take Fridays to do the cleaning. It means that the house will be clean for any guests that might come on the weekend- which is rare these days!
Lists. We have lists. I am a list kind of girl. So, is my daughter. She might have learned it from me, but if I don't use a list, I will forget what I am supposed to do- and so would Erin. Well, Caleb would too come to think of it! I don't always look at my list of chores because I know what Saturday chores I need to do. The idea of a list was to just use it a few times to get the children used to what they were supposed to do. Well, we use them [lists] everyday for lots of things. I need them posted so that I know what chores they are to get done. For some reason, as I get older the more I forget. Alzheimers before I'm 40? Probably not!
When you homeschool, you need a "list." I have a list of subjects I expect the kids to complete during the school day. We have a chore list for during the week. I am going to implement a chore list that separates morning chores and afternoon chores, at least during the summer.
During the week our chores list looks like this:
*Clean rooms
*Put clean dishes away
*Light clean bathroom (wipe down toilet seat [we do have a boy in the house] and the sink)
*Feed animals (we have 2 dogs, 1 cat, 1 bird, 1 turtle, and 8 chickens) and give fresh water
You get the idea. Saturday chores are a more thorough cleaning of all rooms in the house. Each child has their own list. Caleb's is short as he is usually at work with his father when Daddy goes to work. He is learning to be a provider and Erin is learning to maintain a household. God designed it that way, so that is how we operate our own house.
Well, I'm curious. How do you clean? Once per week? Every day? Do you use lists? If you homeschool, how do you do school? I would love to know!
Here is my post for today:
Well, for a long time I have been taking Saturdays to clean. It all started because David works every other Saturday morning so we are usually home anyway. If, for some reason we will not be home, then we take Fridays to do the cleaning. It means that the house will be clean for any guests that might come on the weekend- which is rare these days!
Lists. We have lists. I am a list kind of girl. So, is my daughter. She might have learned it from me, but if I don't use a list, I will forget what I am supposed to do- and so would Erin. Well, Caleb would too come to think of it! I don't always look at my list of chores because I know what Saturday chores I need to do. The idea of a list was to just use it a few times to get the children used to what they were supposed to do. Well, we use them [lists] everyday for lots of things. I need them posted so that I know what chores they are to get done. For some reason, as I get older the more I forget. Alzheimers before I'm 40? Probably not!
When you homeschool, you need a "list." I have a list of subjects I expect the kids to complete during the school day. We have a chore list for during the week. I am going to implement a chore list that separates morning chores and afternoon chores, at least during the summer.
During the week our chores list looks like this:
*Clean rooms
*Put clean dishes away
*Light clean bathroom (wipe down toilet seat [we do have a boy in the house] and the sink)
*Feed animals (we have 2 dogs, 1 cat, 1 bird, 1 turtle, and 8 chickens) and give fresh water
You get the idea. Saturday chores are a more thorough cleaning of all rooms in the house. Each child has their own list. Caleb's is short as he is usually at work with his father when Daddy goes to work. He is learning to be a provider and Erin is learning to maintain a household. God designed it that way, so that is how we operate our own house.
Well, I'm curious. How do you clean? Once per week? Every day? Do you use lists? If you homeschool, how do you do school? I would love to know!
Friday, July 23, 2010
Do We Worship God or Worship Worship?
Do we worship God or Worship Worship?
(click on this link to see the entire article.)
Isaiah 28:13
Then the Lord said, “Because this people draw near with their words and honor Me with their lip service, but they remove their hearts far from Me, and their reverence for Me consists of tradition learned by rote.
Quoted from the link:
There is a fine line between worshiping God and worshiping worship. Worshiping God is to glory in the mystery of Christ who “was revealed in the flesh, was vindicated in the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory” (1 Tim 3.16). Such worship creates more longing to know and obey this Christ.
Please click on the link above to read more. I found it to be a very interesting article. I hope you do too!
(click on this link to see the entire article.)
Isaiah 28:13
Then the Lord said, “Because this people draw near with their words and honor Me with their lip service, but they remove their hearts far from Me, and their reverence for Me consists of tradition learned by rote.
Quoted from the link:
There is a fine line between worshiping God and worshiping worship. Worshiping God is to glory in the mystery of Christ who “was revealed in the flesh, was vindicated in the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory” (1 Tim 3.16). Such worship creates more longing to know and obey this Christ.
Please click on the link above to read more. I found it to be a very interesting article. I hope you do too!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
I Never Knew You
Matthew 7:21-23
"Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, 'Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name? And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you, depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!"
I recently had a conversation with a friend. Someone they know who professes to be a Christian does not live a Godly life. I got to thinking about this. If YOU personally lead someone to Christ and you KNOW at the time of their conversion that they were sincere but now they do not live for Christ, are they Christian? How do we know if someone is truly converted? That is not really for us to decide and we can not really know. The only way we as humans can know if someone is living for God is to go by their attitudes and actions.
*Do they read their Bible?
*Do they put others before themselves?
*Do they KNOW God?
*Do they want to learn more about God and His word?
*Do they want to tell others about the love of Christ?
*Do they want to learn more about God and His word?
*Do they want to tell others about the love of Christ?
*Do they show love and kindness to one another?
This is just a small list of questions. I could go on but am not sure I need to. This is where I would start. We are to disciple others, whether it is a church member, our own children, or strangers. But, what do we do if they do not live for Christ, what then? So many times people get caught up in the process of saying that prayer and forget to disciple. You can't lead someone to Christ and then pray they will find their way to Him without guidance. If we are able, then we need to come along side them and assist them in any way possible. That means, we can hold them accountable. We cannot MAKE them do anything, only Christ can give them that will. But, we do have choices. We can choose to defy or be obedient.
I want to be obedient. I want others to see in me the servants heart that Christ had. I am not perfect and I will stumble, but I will get back up, dust myself off, and begin again. I want to Honor Christ and give Him the glory.
Will you? Do you? Do you need encouragement today? Do you need the love of God in your life? I pray that He will give you the strength and wisdom you need this day. Please take time now to pray to Him. He will not forsake you!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
I Must Brag Again About Erin's Orthodondist!
Today, I took Erin to another one of her ortho appointments. The wire in the top braces had done it's job and was poking Erin in the cheek. It all started on Thursday and I just kept waiting. Finally, it was poking too much and causing Erin some discomfort. So, off to the orthodontist we go!
This trip, my niece, Lillie went with us. She has been bugging her parents, my sister and her husband, for braces. I was able to speak with Dr. Todd Gililland about someone who is closer to her. He was very accessible and the whole staff has been nothing but sweet and generous. I really could not speak any kinder about them.
I have not hesitated or regretted our decision to go to their office. I have many choices but I wouldn't choose any one or any other orthodontist!
This trip, my niece, Lillie went with us. She has been bugging her parents, my sister and her husband, for braces. I was able to speak with Dr. Todd Gililland about someone who is closer to her. He was very accessible and the whole staff has been nothing but sweet and generous. I really could not speak any kinder about them.
I have not hesitated or regretted our decision to go to their office. I have many choices but I wouldn't choose any one or any other orthodontist!
Friday, July 16, 2010
This Week In July
Monday, I did not go to the food pantry. That was good because that meant we were able to stay home and get some school work completed. This week was a good week for getting academic school work done. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday were full of doing school.
We also babysat Skye, our 2-year-old neighbor from Monday until Wednesday morning. Her grandmother who has custody of her wasn't feeling well and we were needing a Skye "fix." Skye is potty training. Boy, I had forgotten what that was like!
Wednesday, Erin and Caleb both went to the library where Erin volunteers. It was her last day of volunteering and Caleb wanted to go. That left Skye and me here at home to hang out. I have a hilarious video of her "playing" in my dryer. I'm glad she doesn't know how to completely close the dryer door! It's so funny, I thought about sending it to America's Funniest Videos.
This morning, we had the Aperite Libros Ladies' Book Club. This afternoon we went grocery shopping. I had to go get the items needed for Caleb's birthday party which is tomorrow. We got 6 cupcakes and a chocolate chip cookie (the large kind for parties) on clearance for his party. The cupcakes were $1.99 and the cookie was $3.99 for a total of $6. I was excited to get them at that price!
Caleb will be 10 on Monday, but we are celebrating this weekend. I will post pix later of our celebrations.
It sure is thundering outside! I hope it pours down. Our garden does sooo much better when it rains than it does when we water with the hose. I know that rain means that David and Caleb cannot get their yardwork done, but.... Oh well! We haven't had much rain... so I am praying for it!
Also, this week, I have been able to do some Bible study. I am still trying to weigh my options for the Purity study and determine God's will for it. Does God want me to use a book? If so, which one? Does He just want me to use the Bible/Scriptures? I think I have a "game plan" but want to be SURE.
Please be in prayer as I continue to struggle with where God is leading me.
We also babysat Skye, our 2-year-old neighbor from Monday until Wednesday morning. Her grandmother who has custody of her wasn't feeling well and we were needing a Skye "fix." Skye is potty training. Boy, I had forgotten what that was like!
Wednesday, Erin and Caleb both went to the library where Erin volunteers. It was her last day of volunteering and Caleb wanted to go. That left Skye and me here at home to hang out. I have a hilarious video of her "playing" in my dryer. I'm glad she doesn't know how to completely close the dryer door! It's so funny, I thought about sending it to America's Funniest Videos.
This morning, we had the Aperite Libros Ladies' Book Club. This afternoon we went grocery shopping. I had to go get the items needed for Caleb's birthday party which is tomorrow. We got 6 cupcakes and a chocolate chip cookie (the large kind for parties) on clearance for his party. The cupcakes were $1.99 and the cookie was $3.99 for a total of $6. I was excited to get them at that price!
Caleb will be 10 on Monday, but we are celebrating this weekend. I will post pix later of our celebrations.
It sure is thundering outside! I hope it pours down. Our garden does sooo much better when it rains than it does when we water with the hose. I know that rain means that David and Caleb cannot get their yardwork done, but.... Oh well! We haven't had much rain... so I am praying for it!
Also, this week, I have been able to do some Bible study. I am still trying to weigh my options for the Purity study and determine God's will for it. Does God want me to use a book? If so, which one? Does He just want me to use the Bible/Scriptures? I think I have a "game plan" but want to be SURE.
Please be in prayer as I continue to struggle with where God is leading me.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Time Management & Scheduling
OK, I am struggling with this one. In 2004, a good friend bought me the book, "Managers of their Home" and I had every intention of implimenting it. God placed it upon my heart that I needed a schedule and this was a perfect resource to get me started.
I want to schedule but most of the time we can get things done without a time managed daily schedule. We can study the bible, do our chores and school work, then enjoy the rest of the day. So, what's the big deal with scheduling? Why do I struggle with it and think we need it? Our days go fine without a schedule. Why is there this internal fight with schedule vs. just get the work done? I have no idea. Maybe one of my readers can enlighten me.
What I DO need is better time management. I also need better school planning and record keeping. My problem is I schedule things and then we either don't follow it or we fall behind. I need to make a plan and stick to it! I am just too flexible. Or, as one high school English teacher labeled me, "Miss Inconsistent." If one day we don't get something done, then I just add it to another day or we don't do it at all. Then we really get behind. Since we do school all year long, I keep thinking, "Oh, it'll get done. I'm not worried about it." I have bought more curriculum that I thought I needed, only for it to sit on the shelf and not be used.
But, I think I need to start "worrying" about it. Erin is going into 8th grade which means I need to begin to look at what requirements are for the state of Mississippi for her to graduate. I am hoping that with the kids taking these classes at L.I.F.E. it will help. Erin is taking a writing class. She and I both need that one. I cannot figure out how to grade her work so I am hoping this class will help her with the writing and somehow I can get some pointers on how to best grade her papers.
Caleb is taking a zoology class. He doesn't remember the Co-op I ran while we lived in Memphis and he is a little nervous about being in a classroom setting. I think he's afraid someone will find out he can't read or write well. I am going to talk to his teacher so that we can avoid any embarassing moments.
How do you manage your school day(s)? How do you manage your time? Do you wake early to spend time with the Lord? Do you have days you only do certain subjects? What if your days are different because you have different places to go? I welcome your comments.
Friday, July 9, 2010
"Whatever Things Are Pure"
God has placed upon my heart the desire to study holiness and purity. Why? Mostly for my children's sake, especially my daughter as she reaches the age where boys will become more and more interesting. The boys are probably already interesting but it's mostly the "cute" ones and they are famous and I don't have to worry 'bout them right now. HAHA I haven't noticed her staring at a boy or a boy staring at her yet, so I pray I still have a little time. I thank the Lord for the innocence of my little girl who continues to grow up before my very eyes even though I have told her to quit growing. Sometimes she just doesn't listen! LOL
I digress. Back on topic and let's get serious. This post is not going to explain holiness or purity. In fact, I could not if I tried right now as our study has not yet began. But, I have began to research scriptures on the matter. How am I going to teach and study purity? Through the scriptures. I pray now that the Lord will guide my thoughts and give me words of wisdom and also that my daughter is receptive to what I have to say and to what the Bible teaches. You see, I don't want her to think "I" want these things. I want her to feel the presence of the Lord teaching her. I want her to want these things for herself.
If you are so inclined, I would covet your prayers on this.
I digress. Back on topic and let's get serious. This post is not going to explain holiness or purity. In fact, I could not if I tried right now as our study has not yet began. But, I have began to research scriptures on the matter. How am I going to teach and study purity? Through the scriptures. I pray now that the Lord will guide my thoughts and give me words of wisdom and also that my daughter is receptive to what I have to say and to what the Bible teaches. You see, I don't want her to think "I" want these things. I want her to feel the presence of the Lord teaching her. I want her to want these things for herself.
If you are so inclined, I would covet your prayers on this.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Are Youth Groups Biblical?
So many churches have them. That's how they "attract" the youth. But, I want to question where the idea came from. Just whose idea was it to separate the children from their parents? Can you please show me where in scripture you see this demonstrated?
Our family struggled with the youth group idea early in our child-rearing years. Our daughter was very out-going and loved being around other kids her age. Erin actually thrived in the environment. Caleb on the other hand, could care less. He preferred to be with us. It was at that same time that David and I began to consider why we would even want him somewhere else. Why would we leave him screaming and crying just to be taught by someone else? It didn't make sense. And with that, God was teaching us (mainly me) that we should keep our children with us at all times.
Believe it or not, there are models in the bible that teach us how to have "church." And, I personally do not see anywhere where they had Children's Church, Youth Groups, Summer Church Camps, or Vacation Bible School. I understand we need to evangelize. And, society has neglected the youth because fathers are not leading their families in a Godly way. We are self-absorbed and not thinking about what it's doing to our children. And, if I had to guess it was because of this very reason that someone started the above outreaches.
What's to say that if you even get the kids in the door that it will penetrate their brains? And, let's just say you are able to disciple the kids, where does the Bible say that the kids are supposed to teach the parents? Again, I am not saying there's anything wrong with a child trying to "teach" their parent if the child is a believer and the parent is not. I expect persons in those kinds of outreaches think that if they can just get the kids into the church building then they can get the parents. I am just saying it's all wrong and backwards.
So, what's the alternative? What if you don't have a youth group to attract the children? Then you focus on the adults and teach them. Men can disciple men, and older women can mentor the younger. It should be that way even if you aren't in or at church.
Our church, Christ Covenant Church, has had several visitors. Many come and go. We meet at a local hotel in their conference room. Because we meet there, you can imagine that we do not have the mainstream indulgences like other churches. But, we don't have them because we don't want them. We would prefer to be faithful in our walk, in what we preach, and in our worship. Those things are the most important aspect of worship and church for us and our family.
Our family struggled with the youth group idea early in our child-rearing years. Our daughter was very out-going and loved being around other kids her age. Erin actually thrived in the environment. Caleb on the other hand, could care less. He preferred to be with us. It was at that same time that David and I began to consider why we would even want him somewhere else. Why would we leave him screaming and crying just to be taught by someone else? It didn't make sense. And with that, God was teaching us (mainly me) that we should keep our children with us at all times.
Believe it or not, there are models in the bible that teach us how to have "church." And, I personally do not see anywhere where they had Children's Church, Youth Groups, Summer Church Camps, or Vacation Bible School. I understand we need to evangelize. And, society has neglected the youth because fathers are not leading their families in a Godly way. We are self-absorbed and not thinking about what it's doing to our children. And, if I had to guess it was because of this very reason that someone started the above outreaches.
What's to say that if you even get the kids in the door that it will penetrate their brains? And, let's just say you are able to disciple the kids, where does the Bible say that the kids are supposed to teach the parents? Again, I am not saying there's anything wrong with a child trying to "teach" their parent if the child is a believer and the parent is not. I expect persons in those kinds of outreaches think that if they can just get the kids into the church building then they can get the parents. I am just saying it's all wrong and backwards.
So, what's the alternative? What if you don't have a youth group to attract the children? Then you focus on the adults and teach them. Men can disciple men, and older women can mentor the younger. It should be that way even if you aren't in or at church.
Our church, Christ Covenant Church, has had several visitors. Many come and go. We meet at a local hotel in their conference room. Because we meet there, you can imagine that we do not have the mainstream indulgences like other churches. But, we don't have them because we don't want them. We would prefer to be faithful in our walk, in what we preach, and in our worship. Those things are the most important aspect of worship and church for us and our family.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Words in Anger
Growing up in the way I did, I was not taught the biblical way to handle things- situations, emotions, surroundings. I was a girl and along with that came a time when emotions would run rampant. I was the oldest of 2, and I had a sister. So, my poor father had to deal with 3 raging hormones at one time or another in our teens. Without words, I was taught that it was OK to throw a fit or say things in anger. I thought, "I am a girl and this is how it is."
Well, getting married to the wonderful man God had for me, showed me that "I" wasn't the center of the universe and "I" did not always get my way. I was to control my emotions and not control my husband. It was a HARD lesson and I will admit, I did not like it at all. It wasn't until I truly allowed God to get a hold onto my life that I really began to see my sin. I did not see myself as sinning. I tried to justified my behavior. I would say things when I wasn't feeling well and with my selfish pride kept me from feeling bad about my behavior and if I didn't see myself as sinning I sure wasn't going to ask for forgiveness and repent from my transgressions.
Why is it that we let our emotions get the best of us? Why is it that we react instead of act? Why must we even show others our emotions? Society has made us such a "it's-all-about-me" people that I fear we have lost our way. It's what I want, when I want it, how I want it, and no one can tell me different. That is not Christian.
We are to die to self. That is a foreign concept to so many people. It was to me! I learned that lesson far late in life. I pray my children will learn it early. I pray for my children's future spouses now, Lord, that they may be perfectly paired. My husband complements me, not with words but spiritually. I pray I may, "Bless him in the gates." I pray I never use anger as an excuse ever again. Yeah, I may sin, but Lord, please show me my sin that I may ask forgiveness and repent.
Well, getting married to the wonderful man God had for me, showed me that "I" wasn't the center of the universe and "I" did not always get my way. I was to control my emotions and not control my husband. It was a HARD lesson and I will admit, I did not like it at all. It wasn't until I truly allowed God to get a hold onto my life that I really began to see my sin. I did not see myself as sinning. I tried to justified my behavior. I would say things when I wasn't feeling well and with my selfish pride kept me from feeling bad about my behavior and if I didn't see myself as sinning I sure wasn't going to ask for forgiveness and repent from my transgressions.
Why is it that we let our emotions get the best of us? Why is it that we react instead of act? Why must we even show others our emotions? Society has made us such a "it's-all-about-me" people that I fear we have lost our way. It's what I want, when I want it, how I want it, and no one can tell me different. That is not Christian.
We are to die to self. That is a foreign concept to so many people. It was to me! I learned that lesson far late in life. I pray my children will learn it early. I pray for my children's future spouses now, Lord, that they may be perfectly paired. My husband complements me, not with words but spiritually. I pray I may, "Bless him in the gates." I pray I never use anger as an excuse ever again. Yeah, I may sin, but Lord, please show me my sin that I may ask forgiveness and repent.
Monday, July 5, 2010
WOW!
Well, in my last post I told you were going to Southaven, MS to see some fireworks. We went with another family who are our good friends. I must admit that it was rather nice. MUCH nicer than the ones we have seen in the past. We have been to Bellevue Baptist Church's which is in Memphis, TN but that was a LONG time ago! And to tell the truth, I don't remember the fireworks as much as the looks on my very young children's faces while watching them for the first time. Last year was the first time in a long time that we went to see fireworks as we normally just buy them ourselves. Last year we went to Olive Branch, MS to watch the fireworks. We weren't very close to them. They were OK, but I would have wanted to be closer. They also did not last very long. This year was different.
Last night, we got to Snowden Grove Ampitheater around 6:30. The music was to begin around 7 pm. There were 3 bands, Christian, who played some music. Two of the bands were from local churches and played with the intention of attracting visitors. I am guessing it was their way of evangelising? I am not real sure. They were OK, but not what I would call worship songs. They were just Christian songs, kind of like you would have heard on the radio station, K-LOVE.
The fireworks started and I had my camera in hand. I took LOTS of pix and will upload them shortly and will eventually post them on here. I stopped taking pictures for a while because I felt I was focusing on the pictures instead of on the show. It was great. They played some country music and traditional Lee Greenwood at the end. There were about 5 songs and there were fireworks to every song. That's a LOT of fireworks! And money, I might say. Anyway, it took us 30 minutes to drive to see them and I will say it was well worth the trip. I will want to go there again next year. The worst part was the crowd and traffic afterwards. We waited an hour to get out to make sure we weren't fighting traffic. In fact, our families (men and kids) got a Nerf football game going and before we knew it, we were the last ones there. It was funny! They had even cleared the stage! There was NO ONE there. LOL.
It was very fun and I am glad we went. God truly blessed us yesterday. We heard a powerful sermon on Isaiah 40. Everyone from church stayed afterwards for bar-b-q sandwiches, chips, slaw, fresh cucumbers, watermelon, cake and ice cream. The kids went swimming. We had great fellowship. Then, we went home to nap. Before too long, we got back out to head to Southaven. Yes, it was a memorable 4th of July!
Thank you to all the men and women who put their lives on the line for the "Independence" we now have.
And, most of all, Thank You Lord, for such a blessed day!
Last night, we got to Snowden Grove Ampitheater around 6:30. The music was to begin around 7 pm. There were 3 bands, Christian, who played some music. Two of the bands were from local churches and played with the intention of attracting visitors. I am guessing it was their way of evangelising? I am not real sure. They were OK, but not what I would call worship songs. They were just Christian songs, kind of like you would have heard on the radio station, K-LOVE.
The fireworks started and I had my camera in hand. I took LOTS of pix and will upload them shortly and will eventually post them on here. I stopped taking pictures for a while because I felt I was focusing on the pictures instead of on the show. It was great. They played some country music and traditional Lee Greenwood at the end. There were about 5 songs and there were fireworks to every song. That's a LOT of fireworks! And money, I might say. Anyway, it took us 30 minutes to drive to see them and I will say it was well worth the trip. I will want to go there again next year. The worst part was the crowd and traffic afterwards. We waited an hour to get out to make sure we weren't fighting traffic. In fact, our families (men and kids) got a Nerf football game going and before we knew it, we were the last ones there. It was funny! They had even cleared the stage! There was NO ONE there. LOL.
It was very fun and I am glad we went. God truly blessed us yesterday. We heard a powerful sermon on Isaiah 40. Everyone from church stayed afterwards for bar-b-q sandwiches, chips, slaw, fresh cucumbers, watermelon, cake and ice cream. The kids went swimming. We had great fellowship. Then, we went home to nap. Before too long, we got back out to head to Southaven. Yes, it was a memorable 4th of July!
Thank you to all the men and women who put their lives on the line for the "Independence" we now have.
And, most of all, Thank You Lord, for such a blessed day!
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Independence Day
This Sunday just happens to be the 4th of July. Our church plans to celebrate after our services with swimming and bar-b-que and good fellowship! Our family also plans to celebrate in 2 other traditional ways. Saturday night we are going to host our own "Fireworks Display" and on Sunday evening, we are going to enjoy the city of Southaven's fireworks. We have not been to Southaven's but we have been to Olive Branch's fireworks. We will see for ourselves which one is best. We have several friends who have been to Southaven's and highly recommend it!
Independence Day. That is what this day is called. It is the day that Americans remember our "independence" from bondage. A day that we celebrate our independence as a nation. Our founding fathers I think would roll over in their graves should they even glance at what our nation has become- self-serving, prideful, arrogant, greedy, godless heathens! The men and women in leadership up on Capitol Hill, in Washington, in our own backyards do not live to glorify our Lord. They have forgotten Who gave them their "Independence." It wasn't man but God!
Have a Happy 4th and May the Lord bless you this day and every day coming!
Independence Day. That is what this day is called. It is the day that Americans remember our "independence" from bondage. A day that we celebrate our independence as a nation. Our founding fathers I think would roll over in their graves should they even glance at what our nation has become- self-serving, prideful, arrogant, greedy, godless heathens! The men and women in leadership up on Capitol Hill, in Washington, in our own backyards do not live to glorify our Lord. They have forgotten Who gave them their "Independence." It wasn't man but God!
Have a Happy 4th and May the Lord bless you this day and every day coming!
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