Real Life Experience Archive
The LOVE AND RESPECT MARRIAGE CONFERENCE is truly mind challenging. I hope by the end and with a lot of practice afterward, I can say it is mind changing.
In a way I wish this was not called a marriage conference, but a people conference where men and women get together and learn about the other half. If I knew even a little bit of Emerson's teachings on communication when my stepfather was alive, maybe I would have had a relationship with him instead of treating him like the guy who moved in with us for 15 years. I am praying that I can take some of this and apply it to my good-but-not-great relationship with my dad.
Clearly much of this seminar is geared to husbands and wives, but I can see the value in using the communication aspect and changing the way I talk with men. Just last night Trevor pointed out to me that my thinking is so "pink" oriented. Pastor Jeff asked why all the cupcakes were pink and blue was not being represented. In my head I'm screaming DUH!!! Valentine's Day is this week. Trevor tactfully pointed out that it was only Sunday and Valentine's Day was Thursday and most men were not thinking of Valentine's Day yet since it hasn't happened. There is so much I have to learn!
POSTED BY MEGHAN T. AT 1:42 PM
Hey everyone!
As always, I have so much on my mind but don't know where to start. This is also how I feel when I want to say something during the worship time. I look out and all of you are staring at me (and why wouldn't you be, I'm talking) but when I see you listening I suddenly panic and feel like it has to be something really important. I can usually get out what I am trying to say after about 3 tries so sorry if I confuse you.
Anyway, I am SO excited about this "Passages" series that we have been going through. I love to hear people's stories. I can't stop thinking about Mike's passage on Love. I felt like he summed up for me, what we've been learning (or re-learning) over the last 2 years. I never got before Real Life........it's not about following the rules (and I knew that) although they keep us on track, but I guess I just became too focused on checking the box. I read my Bible today, check. I prayed today, check. I invited 10 people to Christmas, check. You get the idea. I used to get freaked out if I didn't get all 10 invited. Jeff said 10 so I have to invite 10. No, I don't. It's not about that, it's about Love. I know so many who are still stuck in the world of Black and White Christianity, where I was and still am in ways and I so bad wanted them to hear that.......but, God reminded me that I needed to take that message for me and let it happen for them when it does.
Second thing, Deb. Whoa! What a woman! Could I be just a little like her when I grow up? If any of you women haven't had the chance to come to Monday nights............SO GOOD! You all got to hear her story last week, amazing. God is using the fine lady in incredible ways. What she has done at our church has been revolutionary........it's simple, but revolutionary. She has dug deep and shared her life with us. Not just the pretty and happy stuff, but the Real stuff, the stuff that hurts, the stuff she is still dealing with. She's not on the other side yet but is sharing the "right now." When we share real things it those things lose power in our lives. Satan wants us to keep them to ourselves (cause we are the only ones who have ever done or thought those things - ha!) he wants us to be alone and feel extreme amounts of guilt. Deb has created a platform for honesty. Thank you for getting the ball rolling. It's something we'll need to keep working at though.
Thanks for listening. I am really excited about what God is doing at our church and can't wait to see more lives changed for HIM!
POSTED BY CHRISTIE S. AT 7:30 AM
Monday, January 21, 2008
Thanks for all the prayers and well wishes. Beth is recovering slowly. She is on a high dose of anti seizure medicine, which makes her very tired. It sounds like physical therapy will be going at a snail's pace and simple things like eating are being taken day by day. Trevor will be going up next weekend to visit. It's nice to be home for now and I found myself zipping along the road, keyed up with anticipation yesterday morning as we headed to church. The Passages series is wonderful. Thank you to all the speakers who have been (and who will be) honest with themselves and us in sharing incredible stories of God's work in their lives. At times like this, it is empowering to hear other's stories and know I will be okay.
At Word for Women this evening, Deb shared 1 Corinthians 10:13 (The Message). I will hold on to this, knowing it's the TRUTH no matter what is happening.
"No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it."
POSTED BY MEGHAN T. AT 10:43 PM
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Great, service this morning. I am sorry for those that missed out.
The Bible says that God is love. This is the equal. God = Love. Without God we cannot experience true love or give true love to others. I also find that true love causes us to care for a hurting and mislead world. I often find my heart broken, knowing that much could be gained by the simple acceptance of God's love and what he has done for us, and did for us, and gave for us. But isn't that the only "MUST DO" accept God's Love unconditionally? Isn't after this then we see change in our life and the fruit.
POSTED BY PAUL G. AT 12:42 PM
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Decisions, decisions… Which blog to post to??? I don’t have the energy to make any decisions right now. This is My Experience and not a New Life, so here I am.
Tomorrow Trevor’s mom, Beth, is having her fourth brain surgery. I don’t know when the first one occurred, but I was there for the second one four years ago and so little was made of the third surgery back in June, only Trevor went up to Everett to be there. Things are different this time around. As of 5-8 weeks ago there were no new growths. Last Friday, Beth had an MRI and there is a new mass in the same location as the one four years ago. The doctor’s have said it is “aggressive,” which explains her sudden decline over the past month to immobility and inability to communicate. We were up in Everett last weekend to be with Trevor’s parents. Beth had been hospitalized in Everett, and then was transferred to Swedish Hospital Saturday night. Tomorrow we will head to the hospital and wait. After the hospital there will be more waiting. Waiting to see what the biopsy says, waiting to see what type of treatment is recommended, waiting to see how she responds to treatment…
I just want to spend a few nights in my own bed. I want Keatt to sleep in her crib and not the small Pac n Play. I want Trevor to go to work and not jump every time the phone rings. I want to attend church on Sunday. God clearly has other plans for us. I’ll steal from Maggie’s post, "trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight!" We leave tomorrow morning and will have no internet access, but Jeff will know how the surgery turns out.
POSTED BY MEGHAN T. AT 10:17 PM
Monday, January 7, 2008
Wow.... 2008!
So, it was my official first day of '08 at school today (my first day after the long break) and i was hearing many "interesting" stories around school about different peoples "vacations" aka parties. i just wanted to say that i am so grateful for the life that i have and the church family that God has blessed me with! I know that life isn't always easy for me... its not always the best felling or easy being the "bible thumper" or the girl who "just wouldn't understand" but in a sense i should be grateful for this reputation that i have... and i know that life is hard for other people right now too (i'm praying for you Meghan!!) but it is always a relief to know that what i am doing puts a smile on God's face!
Thanks daddy for teaching our entire real life family that even when life gets tough we always can rely on God and if we truly seek HIM then He will show us what to do.... and Ric thank you for teaching us about trust and even when we have a bad day we can trust that God will never allow something to happen that we cannot handle! "trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight!" amen
POSTED BY MAGGIE A. AT 4:08 PM
Hey Meghan!
Someone is out here reading...hoping that there will be something written on here! Thank you so much for writing and sharing! It is so exciting to see God growing and stretching and challenging you! It is such a encouragement to me, I love/desire to see God moving throughout our church. It helps me to keep going, keep pushing, keep holding onto the hand of my God and SAVIOR.
Have fun in NY, baby, we'll be there too!
Love Kelly
POSTED BY KELLY A. AT 4:41 PM
No one has been posting since the fast ended, but I have wanted to share since Nov 25. It’s okay if no one reads this I just want to give praise to God publicly, without being arrested out on the street.
I fasted (somewhat), prayed, journaled, posted, and prayed for 21 days sometimes wondering if God was listening, I often felt him near, but with so much going on, it was hard to see if answers or solutions were coming. Keatt is napping again, giving me much needed relief during the day.
Even better than that, there is a free-feeling, light heartedness, and overwhelming joy in my soul. When I hear certain music, my hands want to reach out to the heavens; whereas, in the past, I kept them firmly at my side or right in front of me. At church I have never wanted to block the person’s view from behind me or make anyone feel uncomfortable or be noticed at all. I realized I was missing out on my own worship time. Now when the spirit moves me, my hands and arms respond. I lift my hands up to God at home and in the car. I need to be a little more careful sometimes, depending on what I’m doing at the time, but God is worthy of praise and my hands are ready.
Life hasn’t become perfect since the fast (I can hear Keatt NOT napping right now) and my mother-in-law isn’t well, but God is there for us, we have to move closer to him.
POSTED BY MEGHAN T. AT 12:25 PM
I wanted to share Ben's blog entry with ya'll...
The Bible is awesome!
I'm really trying to dig into the bible right now. This is always hard for me because I get to a point were I just want to be doing something else. I lack what you might call DISCIPLINE.
As an artist and musician I'm always looking for inspiration.
What better inspiration than Divine inspiration!
I think God set the standard for inspiration with the bible. He left it to men to write the greatest book ever written. That is a gift. God gifts us all with different things.
What is your gift? Where is your inspiration?Feel free to respond here or on his blog! (see above link)
POSTED BY RIC G. AT 8:00 AM
Happy Thanksgiving!
What a blessing this has been to share this fast with all of you. Thank you from my heart for sharing yourself with me. I have really felt connected with you through this experience and your sharing. Thanks be to God, and thank YOU!
POSTED BY DENISE W. AT 4:10 PM
Well, we made it!
Does ordinary food seem different? What's ordinary anyway? What a great day to give Thanks to God. Although this is a day that most focus around Food and the dinner. This day is really about drawing close to God and thanking Him for providing for us in the last year.
Often we focus on what has been taken away or the negative things. I am learning how to focus on what has been given. During the fast, I learned if I focused on what I had to eat, instead of what I was missing out on, it made things much better. Even when the Texas Pecan Pie kept saying Y'all come back now, ya hear. I also learned after eating that, the food I was waiting on was a little disappointing, how about you?
I am craving the relation with God, more and relations with God Creation and his children that he loves. I am also craving serving him more. How about you?
Has the fast changed me? Yes. Was it about the FOOD? No.
PS: Where is all that Halloween Candy : )
POSTED BY PAUL G. AT 12:51 PM
Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!
God is so wonderful! Look at the glorious day that he has given us today! It is so beautiful outside, and all the wonderful fall colors are blending so beautifully together. I love fall as I love our God that gave us the beauty in the world to enjoy.
This morning has been amazing for me and I have to share it with you all. I was given a vision in January of what I need to be doing with my life. I didn’t accept that vision fully until May 18th but still up until today I would question it. Question mostly why God would choose me for such a thing. He has blessed me with several visions of what I was suppose to do and I being the broken person I am would question it and ask for another sign that is what I need to be doing.
You see.. The vision is huge! It is to help people in the community and it is very involved so I won’t go into too much of it now but to start it takes lots of people. He has shown me through visions that he will supply the people and not to worry.
This morning I wake up and all of a sudden I feel so very much at peace. I start seeing what I need to do again, what steps I need to take and it is such a feeling of wonder. I know that I need to talk about it and get moving. Anyone that wants to hear more about it, please let me know. I would be happy to share the whole story with you but today is the time to enjoy our day with our families and our wonderful God.
I want to share my very favorite verse that hit home to me after baptism. Jeff has quoted it a lot, it is in Matthew 5:13-16 (NIV). "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt looses it’s saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."
I feel that light again, shining so very brightly inside me today! The fast was so worth it to me even though I ended it a day early. God is leading me back into the world to do his work for his glory. It is going to be an amazing journey! Thank you God for gifting me with a way to lift you up and praise you in heaven!
As a side note, I want to thank Ric as well for all his hard work in reading all my very long postings and not complaining a single time :o) You have made it possible for us all to share our journey and I thank you!
POSTED BY TINA M. AT 9:55 AM
I have learned a lot about my relationship with God these past 21 days. Jeff said it best when he said God is always there. I have to move towards God. I have to make the time. It is up to me. I am a procrastinator, but I am beginning to understand.
I love my daughter. I want to cry sometimes, I just want to hug her and give her kisses and be with her all the time. The last time I was with my mom, she told me the same thing. She still feels that way about her three daughters, even though we are all beyond being hugged and smooched on. More than once I have heard people say God feels that way about us (maybe He won’t do the whole huggy/kissy thing). He wants to be with us; that blows my mind.
While you are with your families this holiday, don’t hold back. Even if hugs are not your thing, just tell them you love them; tell them you’ll be there for them and that God is there for them. Time is precious—share the love.
POSTED BY MEGHAN T. AT 2:56 PM
Ok, who is counting down?
What am awesome day God gave us to finish the fast. Look at the sunshine, the frost was cool, It is Autumn, November and we have sunshine, awesome.
9.5 hours, God is good. Congrats to those that are still running. Like the Stephen Curtis song says: Keep on looking ahead, we are not home yet.
It would be nice to hear from some of the family, also.
POSTED BY PAUL G. AT 2:37 PM
Sandi and I would like to thank Ric for his diligence with this website; for the editing of the devotionals and especially the numerous postings! We appreciate your time, energy, and creativity. - -also, WAY TO GO MAGGIE JANE FOR BEING FEARLESS! Isaiah 11:6 "...and a child will lead them..." We thank God with you that all went well!
POSTED BY JEFF M. AT 1:51 PM
Hello Everyone!
Well this has been a really interesting journey, hasn’t it? I have learned so very much about myself, other’s who have posted as well as grown much closer to God. For me, the fast ends today for the most part. I was really beating myself up about it and then I now feel a sense of peace that it is ok. I am proud of myself for what I have accomplished.
I am a major stress eater. When I am stressed out, I eat. Anything made with sugar that does not involve nuts (with the exception of peanut butter cookies), raisins or coconut I am in heaven. Well until I realize just how much of that stuff I ate and then comes the let down. During the holidays, I bake. People request things and I enjoy baking them to bring joy to them while coming up with some new unique desert that I haven’t tried before. Today is my baking day for the holiday so I can give my daycare families goodies to enjoy over the holiday. It is one of my ways to say thank you for trusting me with your most precious gift from God.
This said, stress has been piling on like crazy this week, well since last week really. Some of you know the stress that my family has faced this year, on January 11th, our mom had a stroke and it has been in and out of the hospital, one scare after another and every minute of every day could be the end. Of course it is like that with anyone but we dread it as well as long for it to see her out of her unimaginable pain. She also has a terminal illness, Amyloidosis and it has been very hard watching her slowly die, in a lot of pain with limited movement now that she has had the stroke. Of course she has had other issues as well, and we will be up at the hospital and sure that God is going to call her home this time to only have her continue in the painful state that she is in. It is so hard to watch someone you love die slowly and in pain. Well then this last April our grandfather passed away too so Thanksgiving will be hard without him there this year. So it is has been a rough year, and if those things were all that have affected me, well then I would be so very grateful. Of course, that is not life, lots of other things have happened to make this my most difficult year to date.
So since Sunday, Mom has had a steady decline. She is in major pain and we are struggling with the home that she is in for her to get proper care. Really expected each evening since Monday to say she has either gone back into the hospital or she has gone home to be with her parents and Jesus in heaven. Sleep is becoming a memory.
Needless to say my weakness in avoiding sugar these last 20 days (only cheated once and didn’t even like it so that is good) has come to a horrible end. Thankfully I am not alone, that has never been more apparent then it is today. I have my family, my friends, my church family and God is there always. He never sleeps through my fears, he is there holding my hand and my most faithful encourager. So even though I only made it 20 days, I am here to encourage you all on, on the sidelines at the finish line standing with God so proud of you all along with anyone else who didn’t quite make it to the finish line!
POSTED BY TINA M. AT 11:06 AM
Hasn't this been a Marathon?
I have run marathons and to me this has been quite similar to running a race. Everyone is invited, some register but don't show. Some people are there to run, some are walkers. All intend to compete and all intend to finish. Throughout the course there are different challenges, hills, both up and down, twist and turns. Along the route people encourage you, there is always those water stations. (don't drink, just cool, a full bladder is not good to run with)
At the start everybody is with the group then you began to separate by speed and abilities. The pains come, the sweat begins, hot or cold. When you are ahead of the pack there are times you feel totally alone. There are always a time when the burn is so bad you want to quit, but you don't, you keep pressing and keep a pace.
Then as you get towards the end, you begin to count the short distances, the next corner, the runner ahead, the next station all with the thought of getting to the end. Then always for me there has been the smell and sight of the finish. An anxiety and excitement for the celebration to finish, you have to finish strong. People are watching, dig deep, get the wind, kick, kick, kick you are almost there; steady don't burn out. Breath, Breath the blood taste and air as it feels your lungs and the burn. See the flags, see the crowd, here the counter, you are almost there and then the sweetness of crossing, hearing your number, your time, your finished. It doesn't matter at that point if you had the best time, it matters that you finished and finished strong.
This fast has been all, for me. There has been times when I feel that maybe we are the only ones, sticking to the course. There has been the frustration of what the next course is going to be, what is the next challenge.
2 Tim 4:7 "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course (Race). I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."
We are not there yet, Down to less then 32 hours. Kick, breath deep finish for the prize that God is seeking in you.
POSTED BY PAUL G. AT 5:29 PM
Day 20 of our Fast.
I am holding on, and "holding fast". That was a great devotional by Sandi and a great response by Shelley. Thank you for sharing. I love this opportunity to share devotionals and experiences.
I am feeling much better. Resting, staying warm and your prayers all have helped send the bronchitis on its way. Thank you. And thank you God for the opportunity to not only fast from food, but also from my normal lifestyle. This has really been a chance to reflect for me.
The fast has caused my body to be submissive to limited food choices, which in turn has helped me to become aware of the other choices I am making in life. God has revealed to me that I have been a poor steward of my time in relation to a very special gift that He has given me.
Here's the story: You may know that I am an artist. What you probably don't know is that I had no idea I had an artistic gift until I was 21 years old. Not knowing what I wanted to do with my life, I tried many subjects at college. Nothing really captured my attention until I took an art class. And voila! I could do it, and understand it, and I enjoyed it!!! So much so, that I finished college majoring in art, and went to graduate school (by the way, while there I met Rod, who is my great encouragement and support).
All well and good, but here's the problem...I was never one of those artists who grew up "drawing all the time". I had no habits established outside the classroom, with the result that I did very well in a classroom, or on a specific project that had a deadline. Outside of that, I just allowed everything else to take precedence. I mean EVERYTHING. I would put my husband and kids first, and I have always been pretty regular in my devotional and prayer time, but I allowed other things such as television, computer video games, reading, sudoku, crosswords and housework (though you wouldn't know it by looking at our apartment!) to use up my time. There is an infinite supply of enjoyable distractions with which to squander time.
Days, then weeks and months have gone by without my doing any art, unless it was a deadline-related project. I never felt good about this, I was just always under the compulsion of my rebellious flesh. But today, I have great news! Through this experience of submitting my body to the fast, and having to limit my activities due to the bronchitis, I have become very aware of this issue, and have started hearing God's still, small voice when I am wasting time. He is nudging me away from the distractions and toward time with Him. And I am responding by putting down/turning off/leaving behind the distraction and going to my studio to paint. There are no deadlines, no goals, except to paint what is pleasing to Him. And to glorify Him. He wants to express Himself through my gift, and I want to give Him that opportunity.
This has been a challenge for me for over 30 years. I thank God that I have had this breakthrough, and I pray that I will continue to heed His voice when He calls me to be with Him through painting, so that I can fulfill His purpose for my life.
POSTED BY DENISE W. AT 12:19 PM
God has began a new good work in me during this fast. I have been set free from the god of my stomach, to my loving Savior. I have been set free from negative thinking to joy, and a new perspective.
This morning as I read Randy's devotional I cried like a baby. My very strong faith had turned into doubt through life's circumstances. Oh how I long to have that kind of faith again.
Then I am reminded in Philippians 1:6 "...being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
This fast may be almost complete, but God's work in our lives is only beginning.
POSTED BY FAITH G. AT 8:20 AM
As I read the devotional from Sandi this morning, I couldn't help but marvel at the title of the song she chose to share with us, "Hold Fast". For 19 days we have been on a FAST which the dictionary defines as "to abstain from all or certain types of food" and then there's the word FAST in the title of the song which means "not liable to fade or change; strong, close, and steadfast; firmly attached, fastened or fixed".
It seems that one type of FAST brings the benefit of the other type. I've "abstained" from certain types of foods for a little while in order to seek God. And in that short period of time I've not only found Him, but I am closer to Him than I have ever been. And in that closer relationship, I am "not liable to fade" away from Him because I am "stronger" and more "steadfast" than I have ever been. Because of the amazing time I have spent in His presence, getting to know my Savior and friend better, I am most definitely more "firmly attached, fastened or fixed" to Him and His ways instead of the ways of the world.
Like Jeff said yesterday... I have a new fortitude and I am never going back! I am not going back to my old unhealthy eating style because I know my physical well being has benefited - don't get me wrong, there will be some pumpkin pie consumed on Thanksgiving :) And I am not going back to my old shallower, less intimate relationship with my God or with the people of our church because my daily life is so much richer and fuller and filled with a constant underlying sense of joy and peace.
So thank you Sandi for sharing the truth found in God's word and in the words of the Mercy Me song. It was just what I needed today. Let's all HOLD FAST...to our God and to each other... because we do not have a hopeless end, we have AN ENDLESS HOPE!
“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23
"Hold fast, help is on the way, Hold Fast; He’s come to save the day What I’ve learned in my life, one thing greater than my strife, is HIS GRASP…So Hold Fast" (Mercy Me)
POSTED BY SHELLEY A. AT 7:45 AM
Well, I'll go solo today...
As I reflect on the day, I feel so blessed. What a sweet time with the Lord together this morning. God is soooo good!
Have a GREAT WEEK this week!!!
POSTED BY RIC G. AT 11:08 PM
Pecan Pie!!! Thick rich Pecan Pie. Pecan Pie with big pecans on top and goooey! How about Pecan Pie hot with some Vanilla Ice Cream and a Hot Steamy Latte!!!
How about Pecan Pie endorsed by The Oprah Magazine as "Perfect, crunchy, gooer... mmm, delicious."
Sorry, just had to share my temption last night.
I don't know about you, but throughout this fast, where the temptations come from, and when they come, is not what I expected. Most have been from people that care, some even from the Church family. Some even from friends.
My temptation yesterday came in a box, from Texas, from the BBQ, Hall of Fame. I thought, when I saw the box, ut oooh, I sense temptation, hope its not smoked meat. Hope its maybe some BBQ Sauce or seasonings. But, no, it was the World's best Pecan Pie, from Texas, one of my favorite pies. Yes, it came as a Thank You, from someone who encourages me, someone who cares. How, can I not let them down and eat this pie now.
Isn't this how temptation comes? "Adam, you are going to really like this Apple Pie, ala mode, try it, it will make you healthy". "Eve, now are you really going to die". Friend, "come on its really not going to hurt you, besides, I have done it lots, and I am doing goood." Or the best, "No one said we couldn't, I am sure they would have said something, if we couldn't right."
Overcoming temptation has always been a struggle, especially when there is a easy justification.
As for the Pie, I will wait, good things come to those who wait. Besides, there is no ice cream and coffee in the house. Might bring it to Church, so you can share in my temptation. Isn't there still Ice Cream in the fridge?
POSTED BY PAUL G. AT 10:33 PM
It's early saturday morning and I just opened my Bible to the book of Daniel. As we're nearing the end of our fast, I decided I wanted to know more about the outcome of the end of Daniel's fast. Here are a couple of verses that stood out to me:
Three days after Daniel's 21 day fast was over he had a vision where a man appeared to him and said, "Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them." (Daniel 10:12)
Then the man goes on to tell Daniel, "Many will be purified, made spotless and refined, but the wicked will continue to be wicked. None of the wicked will understand, but those who are wise will understand." (Daniel 12:10)
Daniel fasted for 21 days. God spoke to him on day 24. I know God will continue to speak into my life even after this fast is over.
Daniel was assured that even though he may not have received immediate answers, God heard his heart's cry from the moment "he set his mind to gain understanding and humbled himself". I am holding tight to the truth that God has heard me and my prayers over these last 17 days and in His way and in His time He will respond!
Daniel was told that "many will be purified, made spotless and refined". I believe that same thing is happening in my life, in the lives of my family and in the lives of our church!
Daniel was also reminded that unfortunately some people will continue to keep their eyes on the ways of this world instead of turning towards God and because of that they will miss the the truth that He has for them...the truth that can set them free. I don't want to miss it!
The past 17 days has caused me to "taste and see that the LORD is good" (Psalm 34:8) and I hunger for more of HIM! When day 21 arrives, it will not be an end of something for me, but a brand new beginning! I can't wait to see how God is going to show up and "respond" to me, to my family, to our church!
POSTED BY SHELLEY A. AT 8:56 AM
Thankful...
I am so thankful for all of you sharing your hurts and pains and joys and achievements! All of you are inspiring! Thank you so much opening up and giving us glimpses of yourselves. I feel closer as an amazing body of Christ! This has been such a great experience! It makes me look back 2 and a half years ago, where were you? Has God dramatically changed your life since you've been here at Real Life? My life is completely different! Every aspect of my life is different! God has a plan for all of us and I know without a shadow of doubt it was God's plan for my family and for all of you to be here at Real Life! I am at a place of thankfulness and peace. I trust God completely! Look what God has done.
This is the time of year to give thanks...
I am thankful for our HUGE God who cares about the little things.
I am thankful for my precious family.
I am Thankful for all of you!
I am thankful for our great leaders of this church!
I am thankful for the beauty around us, the mountains, the trees and the fruits and veggies God has given us!God Bless you! Have a wonderful day! What are you thankful for???
POSTED BY KELLY A. AT 8:06 AM
A little treasure I read today; " Perfect obedience would be perfect happiness if only we had perfect confidence in the power we were obeying."
POSTED BY MINDY H. AT 4:07 PM
Have you seen the new Jennie-O turkey commercial? She is struggling to get the turkey out of the sink. She yanks and yanks until it finally gives way... and then slips out of her arms and onto the floor. Then before you know it... it slips our of her grip and flies out the window and hits the guy on the back of the head?
That's how my ENTIRE week has been. My *entire* week!! Nothing goes right, nothing seems right and things keep getting wackier with the tic of the clock.
I've been learning a lot of things about myself through this time of fast and prayer. More than I wanted to know, I'm definitely NOT basking in all of my amazing, wondrous and intellectual glory. I make stupid decisions and I don't always give great advice. I'm human. Give Up. Give Up and Give God.
Give up your old ways, Give God a fair chance. This is my lesson this week. And even though the calendar week ends very soon, I feel like it's monday. I don't like mondays.
Ever feel like you're on an uneven playing field? That's where I am. I seek balance in my life. I seek stability. Some of the people I have surrounded myself with (business wise) have that front to begin with and then change their game face during half-time. Am I stupid?
I have been relying on God, more than I have in a really long time. I am seeking him in new ways. I am finding that I am still very much a babe in Christ. While any phase in your journey with Christ is a good one (as opposed to one without him) this new path for me is hard. I'm still dealing with a lot of raw emotions, but doing better.
Through this trying week, I am realizing the blessings I do have in my life. I am finding myself saying "Thank You, God" more than I have in a long time. Despite having a rough week, I know it will end soon. I know that at the end of the week starts a new week and stands more tests and even more blessings. I just pray that I pass each test. I know that as long as I let God work in his wondrous ways... I will be just fine.
We only have a few more days until we get to have a feast. I look forward to indulging. I am so Thankful for all of you. God Bless!
POSTED BY CHRISTINE I. AT 9:07 AM
I've encountered this thought more than once from different sources during my fasting/diet change/quest ...God is less concerned about my comfort than He is about my obedience!... this is as important in other aspects of my life as it is my diet!
POSTED BY JEFF M. AT 10:18 PM
I went into this fast wanting to become closer to God. Well the fast started on the first of November and it was fine, although I got some grief from some fellow classmates, the day went fine. My last meal that I ate for my surgery was grilled polenta covered in marinara sauce with some steamed veggies. I didn’t really eat anything for the next six days other than fruit smoothies, some Malt-O Meal, and milk...Mmmm I know what your thinking "yummy?!?!" So basically I was trying really hard to stick to the fast... but after losing seven pounds in 6 days my mom said, "Maggie... the important thing is that you are healthy. You NEED to eat" My big day was Thursday the eighth. It was the day I had my first meal... organic tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich. After eating that I felt sort of like I had failed the fast... I was still reading the daily devotions and experiences but with my parents never cheating... it was kind of intimidating.
Up until a couple nights ago I really had something heavy on my heart. It has been on my mind for quite a while... and after a little break down I had (I know I am emotional but I am a teenage girl... what'd you expect..???) I prayed about it and talked it over with my mommy and since then that weight has been lifted off my heart. I have felt so free and happy! I think that God has truly answered my prayers... even though i cheated a little on the fast... he still loves me!! He has taken away this pain that I have been carrying around for way too long..!
Reading Meghan's post made me really appreciate our church so much more! It is so true how sometimes when we just feel like crying and breaking down all we need to do is ask God for strength. I love Meghan, Keatt, Trevor, and the soon to be SSOOOO much along with all of Real Life! I love this little community we have built. This place where people can truly come as we are... A place where we can feel loved and accepted! God has truly shown me how blessed I really am.
POSTED BY MAGGIE A. AT 10:08 PM
Today, has been an interesting and weird day.
As parents, we decided to allow the kids to eat their, Thanksgiving dinner at school. Sorry, if that is failure. We also met them at school but did not eat, just sat there and chatted. A mom that Paul played baseball with her son was there, and it was funny to see her and her daughter eating salad. If you met this couple, you would believe they just left Woodstock. (Sorry for those who don't know about Woodstock, uggh maybe it is good you don't know about Woodstock, Peace man, anyway, don't check out on me).
I was sitting there thinking here is a couple we have been trying to reach and that we should be reaching too. I know they are hurting, I have spoken to them. I found that when people are hurting they close up, want to fix it themselves, and unfortunely don't want to open up, because of the fear of being hurt worse. I am glad that we have a Church Family that is not too clickish, that does have a community, and will accept the hurting.
After the lunch, man I got the munchies, worse I have had in days. Came home, had a salad then decided that the kids could have chicken, tonight. I have been cooking gourmet veggie chicken and kosher dishes when we do this. The kids requested some Middle Eastern food. I made Taboli (Greek Style) with Mediterranean Orange Chicken and some eggplant with a red dipping sauce. (No fouls on this one) The hard part tonight was man it looked so good and smelled so good. Sitting at the table the kids, rejected the Taboli. I explained how to eat it with the Chicken. I wanted so bad to demonstrate. I am sure I could have justified it, easily. We have had a lot of Garden of Eden moments lately.
I have been amazed at the justifications that come up for not doing what we are suppose to do. I am proud of my kids they have been holding up excellently. I know they would have given up the lunch today, but oh well, it's not about the food, right?
p.s. Since Jeff wants Pancakes, 1st thing, how about some men meet a 11:00 PM at a Sharis on the 21st, have an hour of devotion and reflection, When the Clock Strikes Midnight, go for it, Pigs in the Blanket, Pancakes, butter and syrup. Butch you can have you Biscuits and Gravy. Anyone in?
POSTED BY PAUL G. AT 8:37 PM
Hello Real Life!
I wasn’t sure I was going to post again because to be honest, was embarrassed about my last post yesterday. As you could probably tell, it wasn't an easy day. I guess my whole thought process was geared more toward like on that Casting Crowns song, Stained Glass Masquerade in that I need to hide who I am really. If you have never heard the song, here are the lyrics…
"Stained Glass Masquerade"
Is there anyone that fails
Is there anyone that falls
Am I the only one in church today feelin' so smallCause when I take a look around
Everybody seems so strong
I know they'll soon discover
That I don't belongSo I tuck it all away, like everything's okay
If I make them all believe it, maybe I'll believe it too
So with a painted grin, I play the part again
So everyone will see me the way that I see themAre we happy plastic people
Under shiny plastic steeples
With walls around our weakness
And smiles to hide our pain
But if the invitation's open
To every heart that has been broken
Maybe then we close the curtain
On our stained glass masqueradeIs there anyone who's been there
Are there any hands to raise
Am I the only one who's traded in the altar for a stage
The performance is convincing
And we know every line by heart
Only when no one is watching
Can we really fall apartBut would it set me free
If I dared to let you see
The truth behind the person that you imagine me to be
Would your arms be open or would you walk away
Would the love of Jesus be enough to make you stayI remind myself all the time that this church family is not like any other church family I have known. I don’t think we are happy plastic people at all anymore, but some of us, like I said before are very broken people. It is hard to remember sometimes that you are not alone in very trying times in life, at least for me.
This fast has been a struggle for me as I have said before but it doesn’t take much time at all now to remind myself that even though I was mortified at my last post because I thought, oh great! Everyone is going to think I have huge bag of marbles rolling around in my head now! I use to think more like this song, that it was more going through the motions and then I found this church and God shining his light so brightly through me after being baptized this last Easter. Anyone who has not done it, I highly recommend it. For me, it was life altering, no other way to put it. Sure sometimes that light seems to dim because life just happens and my focus is sometimes on worldly things, not on what God wants me to be focused on. When I pray, and hear him gently nudge me and remind me that everything happens for a reason, which helps make that light stronger when it dims.
I don’t do well talking in front of people or at all being the center of attention. That is going to change though because God has shown me my purpose in life, or at least one of them and I have to force myself to talk to a lot of people. So I know how scary it is to take that step to stand up in front of church and get baptized. I did it with my family this last Easter. The focus was on what God was doing for me, and I didn’t worry at all about the people looking at me.
So in closing this really long message, if you are considering rather to be baptized at all, talk to Pastor Jeff, or feel free to even come up to me and ask me anything as well, I would be happy to share my experience with you. It was amazing and I would love to have anyone out there who hasn’t experienced the power of the amazing love that over flowed through and all around me that day experience it too.
I also want to thank Lynelle for the wonderful story and daily devotion today, it was inspiring.
Meghan, I also want to thank you for being brave to share your story. I know the pain of loosing a baby…. I have lost two and I know the fear of possibly loosing another when I finally got pregnant with my son, who I almost lost as well. Remember, you are not alone! Thank you for sharing... it is nice to remember that we are people sometimes struggling and comforting to know we don't have to struggle alone.
POSTED BY TINA M. AT 8:31 PM
I don’t know where this post will go. I have so much to say, so much to share and I’m scared. Scared you won’t read it if it’s too long, scared that Trevor will think I’ve lost my mind if I write everything that’s on my mind and my heart this afternoon. I will start by saying Real Life is a community church. The support I received on Sunday was remarkable. People asked how Keatt was doing with her napping and offered suggestions or simply a smile with “they all go through that” and “you’ll get through it.”
After church we drove to Everett to be with Trevor’s parents. Trevor’s mom deals with brain tumors and seizures; between the medicines to stop the seizures that make her loopy and the daily localized seizures that leave her weak, my in-laws are practically house bound. There is no community because she’s embarrassed and doesn’t want people to know what her condition is. I spoke with my sister in law yesterday and she had no idea how poorly her mother is doing. That’s her choice, but I could never live like that.
When we found Real Life, I wanted a community to belong to. Both of our families are far away. Trevor said he would support me, and he has. Trevor suggested we do the fast and went into it with a question he wanted answered. I went into it wanting to get closer to God, and I wanted to do what everyone else was doing. Monday I asked Trevor why he was fasting. He told me he was doing it to support me and to vary our diet. I told him to stop fasting, support me at dinner, but eat a sandwich for lunch! Personally, I have broken every rule of the fast, even the relaxed rules we made for ourselves. Why am I still fasting?
Intellectually, I know God is strong; but, my faith is not. Last night Trevor was warming up some vegetable stew and I was begging him to serve it with a side of cheese raviolis I bought for Keatt. I was near tears. He told me to ask God for strength. Just as I was ready to say forget the raviolis, he was getting ready to cook them for me; the raviolis were skipped last night. Today, I am exhausted and Keatt still has a gross cough. I have had very little time with God, and almost no time with His Word. My mind that was brought up in the sciences is telling me bring back meat—you are not a vegetarian and have not been getting the necessary nutrients to sustain life. That sounds very dramatic, but there is a serious internal battle in my head. I’m no longer failing forward, I’m giving up. The struggle is too much for me.
Through this fast, I’m realizing my God time comes when I hug Keatt. He’s there with me when I step out for fresh air. It comes in little increments and there is peace. He has given us the biggest blessing in Keatt and has blessed us again. I was waiting to share this news with everyone until we heard the heart beat. We lost a pregnancy since having Keatt, but I cannot keep this to myself anymore. The morning sickness, the exhaustion didn’t happen last time, but it’s happening now. This baby is real to me even though I keep telling myself to not get too attached. It was hard to call my mother last time and say you’re going to be a grandma again and then call to say never mind. It was harder to go to church and be sad without telling people why.
Real Life is my home, my community. It’s amazing what happens when you really feel you belong. I am still praying for everyone to come forward and share. I love what Tina said about belonging and acceptance yesterday. The people at Real Life love God and each other. It’s a true gift; I have never been part of an organization for so long that has radiated this kind of love and acceptance. It’s not a Mary-Poppins-sugar-coated-gag-me kind of love; it’s real and it’s there for everyone.
POSTED BY MEGHAN T. AT 4:53 PM
From Pastor Jeff's blog:
God promises that when we seek him we will find him. What a promise!
I was reading about Phillip and the Ethiopian. He was seeking God and Phillip helped him find Christ. The man said "what prevents me from being baptized now" Phillip said "nothing" and he was baptized right then.
I have talked with a few people in the last week who are holding back from being baptized.
Reasons like:
fear
uncertainty of their relationship with God
never really thought about itLet me encourage everyone right now about baptism...
1. It's a celebration about new life we have in Christ.
2. It is an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to Christ(doing what he says to do.3. It is a great encouragement to others to seek, find, and trust God.
If you have made a decision to follow Christ or if you have come back to Christ then celebrate with baptism. There is a blessing waiting for you and all of RL church when you do. Let me know (pastorjeff@seekreallife.com) if you want to celebrate with me on November 25th.
POSTED BY JEFF A. AT 2:24 PM
This fast has been an eye opener hasn't it? The one thing I thought would be hard, hasn't been. Me go without meat? Shear craziness!
I have become aware of how much I have taken things for granted. The love of my wife. The love of family. And the everlasting love of our God. But, thankfully our God is awesome isn't He. As I allow him to work with me ( I can be a wee bit mule headed. O.k. a lot mule headed.) He has opened my eyes and made me aware of the things that with His blessings I can change. He has truely blessed me with my church family. I thank Him for bringing me to you.
The highlight of my day is coming to the website and reading about how God has blessed us in this fast.
POSTED BY CRAIG O. AT 5:17 AM
This fast has been an experience that I am not soon to forget, that is for sure! I find that in the last two days, I have struggled more then anything with many different things. Food isn’t really an issue anymore, and I don’t think about it much at all unless someone brings it up. I have to say, the biscuits with butter sounds more then yummy but for me, add some gravy and it would be close to ambrosia :O)
I find that I am struggling with things that I felt that I needed to delve into from my past and I find myself sort of feeling lost and not sure what to do. I have thought about two major things in the last few days. Yesterday it was more along the lines of all the broken people out there. I am a broken person, I acknowledge that and I know that there are so many people out there that feel that they are also broken. I also thought of the different degrees of loneliness that a person feels. This time of year is especially hard for me being a single parent of a special needs child. Not that there is anything new about that, I adopted her single and have had her more then 6 years now but so much has happened this year, makes it all that more difficult. This time of year is hard for a lot of people; I am not unique in this.
Now what does this have to do with what I am thinking today and what revelations I feel God has bestowed on me? Well I realize that when I started this church, I came to it a very broken person. I had no idea what to expect, could be like the last place that we were and be a totally negative experience and that would have ended my search because I would have given up. What I found though was acceptance. Didn’t matter that I was broken, didn’t matter that I was alone and hurt from many things. Nothing mattered; I was accepted for who I am, not who I should be or what I should be. So many people in the world are broken for so many reasons and so many different levels of brokenness. It is when we climb the ladder I think, out of our broken hole that we can see the light. At the moment, I am at the bottom of the well... looking for the light again and each rung that I climb, something else is there to make the ladder slippery and difficult to grasp. It is the steady climb of the ladder I think that can help heal the broken bits of me, make me whole again.... if I was ever whole to begin with.
God has done this for me, made it worth keeping up the steady pace and keep climbing. I will get up that ladder and see the light and then slip again but I know that my church family has made it safe to climb, knowing that I am not alone and I will get to the top. My point is that it is like Jeff says, everyone needs to feel needed and welcome, no matter who they are. I will make sure that I do my part in welcoming new people so they can see the hope that I feel, and feel the love of God to make that climb worth it for them as well. We are not meant to do it alone and I am so glad that I am not alone in the world…
POSTED BY TINA M. AT 3:45 PM
First and foremost, I would just like to make a public thank you to Mindy Hoffman for providing that very delightful story about the goggles!!! I haven't stopped laughing for like an hour! :) I can just see it... oh silly. It's great how God works. He is a fun God.
Secondly... I would like to make a public thank you to GOD. He is so good. I'm not really sure what He is trying to tell me, or what I am suppose to do next, or whether or not I am even on the same page as Him some days... But... throughout this fast it has been so apparent how awesome He is. I notice things I never noticed before.
Like the shapes of the clouds in the sky and how HE decided that one cloud would look like a dragon. Or how the Moon glowed so perfectly last night and HE had that planned. Or how the desk I am at right now is in perfect view of the planes coming and going from the airport and HE knew I would enjoy it. Or how each day I have watched the mountain turn from shades of blue to shades of white and gray and HE is the one making the snow...
He has really opened my mind to the beautiful things he made. Not the materialistic things like purses and jewelry and ipods and cameras.. but the things that have beauty all the time. We have such an incredible unchanging God, who has created so many beautiful things.. seasons.. animals.. people.. who all change! I feel so blessed to be alive. To be on earth, as corrupt as it is, and to experience the wonderful things God has made.
My third thought is this: As much as I miss chocolate. or pizza. or confetti cake... How much more would I miss my time with God??? I would choose Him over confetti cake any day. The taste of confetti cake lasts all of what? 15 minutes? if that. The taste of the Lord lasts forever!
POSTED BY EMILY C. AT 2:01 PM
Homemade Biscuits. Hot. With butter.
OK, that's enough of that. Day 14 of the fast. My cold has become bronchitis. I am required to rest, drink plenty of fluids and stay warm so that my body will heal. A real life opportunity to spend lots of time with God. But will I? Or will I fritter away the time with reading books and watching "Friends" reruns?
God obviously is trying to get my attention. I was a vegetarian for two years (a LONG time ago), so the fast has been not that challenging for me, foodwise. So I think my Father has added a little required quiet time to the mix. He wants to speak to me. Am I willing to set aside the easy reading of this earth, and spend some time in His gracious presence? Why is that so hard for me to do? I ALWAYS love it when I am with Him. I loved what Sarah W. said about God and the comparison to the yearning she has for a pumpkin spice latte (no whip). That is exactly what I am talking about. Running to God, full-out, arms flung wide open to embrace Him fully, and just BE with Him...joyfully, wholeheartedly, and unreservedly. Why is it easier to pick up Tom Clancy than my Bible?
Help me, Father, to move beyond the block of earthly desires, and to use this time that You have given me in a way that honors and glorifies You and You alone.
POSTED BY DENISE W. AT 10:15 AM
It is funny how when I become aware and start paying attention, just how many times God will take some situation that I typically would think nothing of and use it to show me something that He is trying to get through to me. Sometimes He wants to simply reinforce a truth that has already been revealed to me. They are God’s word pictures to me. I was given one of these “word pictures” the other day when I was making Thick and Creamy Corn Potato Soup.
Zach was helping me with the task of chopping the stuff that needed to be chopped. When it came to the task of chopping the onion, I had the bright idea that we should wear the kids’ swimming goggles with hopes that our eyes wouldn’t be watering and stinging for the next twenty-five minutes. Mike gave me the, “Did I really choose this woman for my lawfully wedded wife?” look. I, of course, ignored him and Zach and I proceeded with our blue-tinted, Speedo goggles. We were happily taking turns chopping away with our little food chopper when I looked over at Zach, who was taking his turn. It struck me with a tremendous fit of the giggles when I realized that he still had a giant, yellow snorkel attached to his pair of goggles. He couldn’t figure out what was so stinkin’ funny. “What?” he asked, “They work!” He had come prepared, was ready for the battle with the eye-burning onion and it was working!
2 Timothy 4:2 “Preach the Good News. Be ready at all times, and tell people what they need to do. Tell them when they are wrong. Encourage them with great patience and careful teaching, because the time will come when people will not listen to the true teaching but will find many more teachers who please them by saying the things they want to hear.”
Just like Zach and I were ready for the onion, I need to be ready to tell people the Good News to let them know that there is a God who loves them so much that He gave up His life for them. This verse also tells me to stand up for, and speak out about what is right. I can’t be afraid to speak out, but I need to be loving about it. If I’m not prepared and know what I believe and why I believe it, I can be sure someone from the other side is; and thinking about that is enough to make my eyes water.
POSTED BY MINDY H. AT 9:58 AM
This fast has been exactly what I needed. In the past couple of years I have been the furthest from God that I can remember. I have missed his presence. I have called out to him and still felt a distance. I thought that it must be because I have less solitary time. In other words it's the kids' fault. God let me know in the first week that the kids were not the reason.
Since the fast started I have been going out to my car for breaks and lunches at work instead of spending them in the Cafeteria. On November 8th I went out to my car for a little food and a lot of God time. When I went back to work I noticed how negative everyone was. I had gotten so accustomed to the negative atmosphere that I didn't even notice it anymore. It had seeped into my soul. It had rubbed off on me. All of a sudden next to God's presence it was so blatantly obvious.
God let me know that this is why we hadn't been so close. I knew I was weak, but began asking God to not let this negativity become a part of who I am.
Today after reading the devotional, I was compelled to read the entire book of Philippians. Ric and I read it together. Chapter 2:14-18 jumped out at me:
"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life-in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing. But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you. So you too should be glad and rejoice with me."
Stars shine so brightly against the black of space. This is what God wants for me. Instead my light was like a child’s night light with an added dimmer switch. I will be different. There will be contrast. God will shine brightly in me again. I am so in love with Him and getting closer every day.
POSTED BY FAITH G. AT 11:13 PM
I am in the middle of the hardest, busiest stretch of work I have ever had. Ironically, it started around the same day we began the fast. It has been long, long days, working Saturdays and Sundays and all the while no lunches, no Starbucks and lots of scheduling conflicts, equipment problems and unhappy customers. It has been so challenging, but I have found myself over and over again, turning to God, for support, answers and strength.
For a while into the fast, I didn't feel anything. I actually thought I was doing something wrong, but now that we are on day 13, I think I can see clearly that God has allowed me to draw closer to Him. I still feel unworthy, but I can feel the connection, and the change inside of me. What an awesome God we serve. He loves us so much and with the smallest effort on our part, He will show us more than we can ever expect.
Work is still crazy. I am half convinced it will return to normal on the same day the fast ends, but my stress has been replaced with a peace. I have gained so much, and we still have 8 days to go...
POSTED BY RANDY E. AT 9:26 PM
I have really wanted something caffeinated from Starbucks today. I mean, I have REALLY wanted something all day. When I went to work, I was very aware of all coffee based businesses between my house and my office. Starbucks at Fred Meyer, Sunrise Bagels and Kaffeine Karla's, Starbucks by Home Depot, Starbucks by Olive Garden, little coffee stand in the gas station parking lot, one in front of the bowling alley. If I could just get a tall (or maybe grande or maybe venti) pumpkin spice latte (no whip), I would be happy and satisfied and I could conquer the universe (or at least the world...or just the dirty dishes)!!!!
So why isn't my soul as hungry for the Lord and His Word as my body is for coffee (that sweet, sweet elixir of morning)? Why don't I anticipate the time I spend reading my Bible or my small group book or long for the time I spend being quiet and allowing His presence to envelope me?
Lord, help me to hunger after You. Only You can satisfy me... and You never get cold like my coffee.
POSTED BY SARAH W. AT 5:16 PM
Yesterday I had a blue day at work. My usual way of dealing with depression is having a candy bar and a Pepsi to pick me up. When my husband picked me up from the bus I said twelve days down and I really want a Pepsi now. I was able to think about the three precious children God has given me and the craving went away. I felt really good. I am finally getting it. This morning I got a bottle of water at work and it suits me just fine.
Hang in there everyone. We are on the down hill slide only 8 more days to go.
POSTED BY TERESA P. AT 11:55 AM
I WOULD NEVER TALK TO SOMEONE ELSE THE WAY I TALK TO MYSELF. God, help me to stop doing damage --physical, mental, emotional-- to your precious child. Give me even the tiniest glimpse of the way You see me.
Thank you, Meghan, for the encouragement to share (Nov 10). I was doubting the significance/relevance of my few words, and had waited several minutes to hit submit, until I read your post.
POSTED BY LIZ C. AT 7:23 AM
Hi everyone!
Wow. This meat, potatoes and mayonnaise gal has made it to day 12! And, I feel GREAT!
Tonight, I stopped at Trader Joe's and found some Brown Rice pasta (organic, with no other ingredients!) and got some Traditional Marinara Sauce (no sugars, etc.). And, Oh my gosh, it was fabulous spaghetti! Nothing was missing except processed foods, calories, etc. Really, it was that good! (I did add a few spices to the sauce...oregano, basil, roasted garlic, dried crushed red peppers.)
Somewhat like the spaghetti is how I am feeling spiritually. I am being stripped away of all the additives, the cliches, the comfortableness, the norm... and, finding that what is left, while not the same, is really more pure, more healthy, more real.
My heart is embracing that our God is an awesome God in a way that it never has before. I am realizing that I have had a safe faith. And, I want to have a dangerous faith. Meaning walking the edge, demanding truth in myself, being open to the hand of God and not arguing about comfortable. Ah yes, as the rest of this week unfolds, let me be God's kid in a way that I do not control. Do not challenge Him. Just breathe and do the next right thing. The next perfectly right thing. With Him, really nothing is impossible!
POSTED BY DEB S. AT 7:33 PM
Day 12 of the Fast. (It's very handy that we started on the 1st, I don't have to do any math to figure out what day it is!) I have had a cold since Day 4.
I have stuck relentlessly to the fast, even though I have spent several days at Deb Culbertson's, preparing dinner and yummy baked goods for them, as she continues to recuperate from major surgery. (She covets your prayer for her continued recovery :) The first day that we were on the fast, I made a huge pot of chili-with meat. I tasted it, to check the seasoning, realizing it was meat, but justifying that I was helping them. Since then, I have made several yummy dishes, and will not list them all here. (You're welcome). Subsequent to the chili, in all of the dishes I have made, I have not tasted to check seasoning, I have just wafted the flavor and inhaled it. You would have to know how I cook to understand what a risk this is. I don't use recipes, so, yeah, usually a taste is REQUIRED. But God has improved and heightened my sense of smell, and WOW! It's cool. I don't have to taste in order to get it seasoned right!
Spiritually speaking, I am feeling more at peace in general. I am also feeling more thankful for all the things that God has provided. And His presence continues to bless me moment-by-moment.
I have made it past the half-way point. Praise-the-Lord. And thanks for reading this!
POSTED BY DENISE W. AT 4:57 PM
I was honestly hoping by this time in the fast that I would be thinking less about the food but, I'm not! The low protein diet is leaving me a little sluggish but I am hopeful that my body will eventually adjust. I have really been longing for something in the "sweets" department whereas Ben has been longing for something of the "meat" variety. I haven't gotten any comments on the use of cocoa powder yet so I am thinking it's OK. So you can heat rice or soy milk on the stovetop and whisk in some honey and cocoa powder to taste for a nice cup of cocoa. Or you can mix in a little cornstarch and water to thicken it to make pudding and then if you so desire you can freeze it to make Daniel Fast Ice Cream. I admit it wasn't quite the same as my Chocolate Moose Tracks Ice Cream but it did do the trick to satisfy my sweet-tooth.
I love how people are writing about being satisfied by the "food" that God has to offer. I am not there yet. I want to be there but it's a work in progress and I'm OK with that. Sandi, you talked about the pizza, chips and birthday cake......doesn't even sound good. Like you said, it might taste good for a while but it wouldn't satisfy. It's strange how the things that normally call to me (ice cream, starbucks, and anything else sweet) are not so enticing. I am finding that they were more or less habits, and not cravings.
Does the mind rule the body or the body rule the mind?????
I am finding out just how much my body rules my mind through this fast. It's so good to have my eyes opened to so many things. I am thankful for this opportunity even though it's hard!
POSTED BY CHRISTIE S. AT 4:44 PM
Since I have been focusing on giving up complaining rather than meat (I hate meat), I have come to the conclusion that it is very difficult to focus on NOT doing something. I think it makes more sense to focus on the DOING instead of the NOT DOING. Does that make sense to anybody out there?
I was reading today Phil 4:8 "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Well I can't say I do that all the time but I can say I would rather focus on that and "seek" that......like Pastor Jeff was saying today. If a complaint sneaks out of my mouth, it will only be because I am not focusing on doing what Phil 4:8 says.
This past week it has become very clear to me that I have not guarded my mind very well most of my life and therefore controlling my words was a very difficult task. Seeking God's word this past week and a half has really taken my heart and head in a much deeper place. I can't even explain it right now. I wasn't expecting this. Verses I have read so many times before are jumping out and grabbing me.
Wow! God is so good!!
POSTED BY BONNIE O. AT 8:47 PM
Sarah's question from yesterday kept going through my mind: Don’t you think I can sustain you for three weeks? WOW! God gave me life and gives me breath everyday. Of course He can sustain me for three weeks. Whether we are fasting or not God is allowing us to live, whether we believe or not He is in control of life. This is how our faith grows. Isn't it great. I struggle with a lack of energy and different desires, but this discipline is rich!
Worship was definitely sweeter for me this morning. (Thanks Worship team, you're the best!) Maybe because last night I stood before a table full of pizza and chips and cheese/crackers and candy and soda and birthday cake and thought all of this is just a CHEAP IMITATION! For once I didn't even want it because I knew without a doubt it would NOT SATISFY ME. It doesn't and never will satisfy me.
God has truly satisfied my heart and mind and soul during this time of fasting. Tears of peace and joy fell down my face immediately after we started worshiping together in song. (If you knew my past and my inability to cry for years you would high five me for just that simple blessing:). God has done so much in my thinking processes through this time of discipline. It's like the mind of my soul is so much clearer! I struggle to put words to what I'm realizing and feeling. Music always seems to speak to me. This morning the words to an old hymn tucked into a chorus summed it all up for me.
"Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His Glory and Grace."
Seeking and finding a glimpse of Jesus puts everything into perspective. Thanks for sharing and I am also praying for each of you as we finish this race together!
POSTED BY SANDI M. AT 8:28 PM
Hello out there in REAL LIFE!
Today's message was awesome, thanks Jeff. I have to say that when I wrote about my failure I did not expect responses but, the ones that I did receive, thank you immensely, I am so happy that I am a part of such a wonderful family. This is such a wonderful thing to be sharing, I have to say, that I had to give up the food part of the fast, I do apologize but, I feel that if I continue, I will be setting myself up for failure. I have prayed on it A LOT and I feel good with my decision, this has brought such openness to my life that I am finding myself seeking help in the strangest of ways and to know that there is someone listening it is such a blessing to know that.
I will be continuing on in my search for answers and help in different ways, I am still going to journal, I am still going to read the blogs and personal experience and I will still not have any caffeine, (which is way harder than the food). I could use the excuse of my family for not continuing on the food portion of this but, really, it boils down to me. I have certain medical issues that make me worried if I choose to continue and it sends me into anxiety issues thinking on "what could happen" and I am so picky that I don't eat much (which is another personal issue) but, I am so full of the lord. He brings me up, he makes me feel like I am something. Does this all even make sense or am I just babbling. Well, anyways, I wish everyone that continues this path luck, and I think this has made me a much better person on the inside as well as on the outside.
You all are wonderful. I couldn't ask for a better extended family.
POSTED BY SHERIE S. AT 7:59 PM
I Love My God
(An original work)I love my God!!
I do! I do!
I love my God!!
How about you?I love my God!!
I do! I do!
I’ll even eat tofu!Apples, oranges,
And bananas,
What was it like
To eat all manna?Chicken, beef,
Even fish,
I’ll do without
If that’s Your wish.Cookies, Candy,
I’ll give it up.
Even coffee,
Not one cup.Broccoli, spinach,
Tomatoes, leeks.
Oh good grief!
It’s only been a week!I’ll let God’s love
Be my umbrella.
I’ll even eat
A portabella.Kale, okra, mustard greens,
I’ll admit-I’ve never tried it.
But if I had,
I’m sure I would have fried it.Parsnips, turnips,
Lettuce, chard,
Oh good grief,
This is getting hard.No more burgers.
No more fries.
Maybe I’ll lose
These thunder thighs.Beans and watercress
Are great food.
But I’ll confess,
I’m not in the mood.Lentils, peas,
Brussel sprouts,
Some water-Quick!
Rinse my mouth out!What will I drink
To quench my thirst?
Will I make it to
The twenty-first?No more coffee.
No more tea.
No more soda.
NO MORE ME.I used to think I depended on God
To sustain me through each day.
I now wonder if it is food I turn to
To help me find my way.It seems so easy to give up
A piece of meat each day.
But it’s still so hard
To find time to pray.I love my God!!
I do! I do!!
The Amazing thing-
He loves me too...POSTED BY DAWN M. AT 7:00 PM
Had a good morning this morning... it was joy to worship with ya'll!
Some of you may want to see the posts that Jeff referred to in his talk this morning... Mindy H.'s post can be found HERE, and Sarah W.'s post can be found HERE.
Have a wonderful Sunday!
POSTED BY RIC G. AT 3:06 PM
Another great day and Yes, we are counting down. This morning when the radio came on a modern version of the following hymn (Yes, I know we don't often do hymns) by Wesley was on the radio in the modern version that adds: Amazing love, oh what sacrifice, that I might live, my destiny,
My thought is to share some of the words with you today.
And Can It Be
And can it be that I should gain
an interest in the Savior’s blood?
Died he for me, Who caused his pain?
For me, who Him to death pursued?Amazing love!
How can it be that Thou, my God,
shouldst die for me?He left His Father’s throne above;
so free, so infinite his grace.
Emptied himself of all but love,
and bled for Adam’s helpless race.'Tis mercy all, immense and free,
for, O my God, it found out me.Long my imprisoned spirit lay
fast bound in sin and nature’s night;
thine eye diffused a quickening ray,
I woke, the dungeon flamed with light.My chains fell off; my heart was free.
I rose, went forth, and followed Thee.No condemnation now I dread;
Jesus, and all in Him, is mine!
Alive in Him, my living Head,
and clothed in righteousness divine.Bold I approach the eternal throne,
and claim the crown, through Christ, my own.POSTED BY PAUL G. AT 7:39 AM
We are doing this fast as a way to sacrifice for God, right? If you stop and think about it, it is one of the smallest sacrifices in the world. So I don't get my Starbucks or Diet Pepsi for a few weeks, so I am hungry for awhile, so what? Am I so meaningless that this is the best I can do for the very Creator of all that there is?
Sadly to say, yes it is. There is nothing that I can do that comes close to being worthy of Jesus Christ and what He has done for me. Yet I do it, just like all of you.
I feel so insignificant and so unworthy sometimes, but I know that God loves me. He understands my faults and my shortcoming and He loves me more completely than I will ever understand. If what I have to give is minor and meaningless, but it is what I can give, then God takes it, He honors it and He loves me, just like all of you.
POSTED BY RANDY E. AT 4:58 PM
I am happy to report the amount of chocolate in my apartment is holding steady; however, the population of pop tarts has declined. The cold I have been battling is still with me, I am still exhausted, and Keatt is taking crazy late day naps—no matter what time her day starts! There’s nothing I can do for this cold, except wait it out; it’s now turned into a gross cough that leaves my stomach hurting (and I’m willing to admit that pop tarts have magical powers when it comes to settling my stomach). Trevor is completely over his cold, but this morning Keatt started coughing.
When I last wrote on Wednesday, I was ready to lose my mind. Crying baby, hunger and a murky perception were bringing me down. I asked for clarity and received it. The answer was simple—go to the grocery store and find more foods that fit in the framework Trevor and I decided upon. One thing we made an allowance for is oil from plants—pure oil, not chemically altered or evasive “vegetable oil.” I found my new best friend in the organic aisle; organic blue corn tortillas from Garden of Eaten. Yum. That helped as did finding some recipes that did not include lentils. I have to share this chili recipe with everyone; it’s from Rachael Ray at foodnetwork.com, Veg-Head Three Bean Chili. Holy crumbs, it was even better the next day and we made enough to freeze some for next week! We omitted the cheese, but found everything else to fit our rules, even some tasty vegetarian refried beans. Making a few changes helped me from losing my mind.
Thank you Chris for your prayers on Thursday; I was able to sit and read, spend time journaling, and ask God for help. Sherrie, your comment about not having support from the people that mean so much to you, really touched me. I have prayed for your loved ones to be touched by God, have their curiosity peaked, and their hearts opened. Many of us have similar experiences. The attitude I get from my family is, “You go to church?!?” (Which is weird, I really haven’t changed, I just don’t wear that much black and I’m a tad more social.) Trevor promised his support from the beginning—he did not say he would seek after God, just go with me since I wanted a church community to call home. I know God’s working on Trevor, just as the Lord will work on your loved ones.
For everyone who is reading these posts and unsure if they should write, I am praying for you to share in this Real Life experience. God has guided you to this site, now take the initiative to share. Whether you’re failing forward or munching on veggies, doing great, there’s an experience there to share. God has given this community the humility to accept each other as they are and He is doing amazing things here. Can you feel it?
POSTED BY MEGHAN T. AT 4:45 PM
Good afternoon, Real Life...
I'm the site administrator and have to go to work tonight, so I won't be able to update your posts until after 11 pm. Feel free to share your experience and I'll get them up as soon as I get home tonight in the order that they come to me.
Thanks again for sharing the journey God's led you on over the last week and a half.
See you in the morning!
POSTED BY RIC G. AT 3:50 PM
Hi all!
I guess everyone is busy for the weekend (no blogs), so I will help fill in.
We're almost halfway there! Good job everyone!! Thank you Lord for helping us through this. Thank you all that have blogged here. I have really enjoyed reading all of your blogs and your experiences. They all help me remember that we are in real life and not pretending that everything is wonderful and we're all perfect. I really enj
