by | May 16, 2012

Life’s Steps by Tasha Bossio

It is amazing to me the many steps of life. Some steps are very short when others seem incredibly long. Almost as though you need a ten foot long stride in order to be successful. Thinking through the years, I can come up with several “steps” that were remarkable and life changing.

My salvation: Though I was a mere babe in kindergarten, I can vividly remember asking Jesus into my heart. I remember the Sunday school teacher talking about how Jesus wants to live in us. He wants to make his home in our hearts. I was so intrigued by what she was telling us and asked my dad to give more details when we got home from church. It was on that Sunday afternoon that I asked Jesus to come and live in my heart. I could visualize Him knocking on a door and making Himself at home right in the center of my heart. He was there to comfort me, to protect me, and to guide me. The moment was made complete when my dad baptized me in front of the church a few Sundays later. A public display of my faith.

My graduation: My senior year was a life changing year for me. It was this year that I realized who God was in my life. He became real. The Word became alive, and it was as though it was my lifeline. It was a source of strength and hope. God’s words became extremely real in my life and gave me great direction as I was making decisions for the road ahead.

My marriage: This was a huge step; quite possibly the largest step that I had taken thus far. I am so glad that I took this step and have been immensely blessed by it.  I have learned a great deal about love, faithfulness and forgiveness. These are all vital to my relationship with the Lord. I am very blessed by this step.

My children: This is a step that I am still on. Being completely honest, I must say that I have struggled with this step in my journey. I have learned many lessons while camping here. I imagine that if my life were a staircase, this step would be extremely large with hidden crevices and bumps. There are days when it is dark. I have learned a lot of God’s timing while on this step. I have learned that there are many times when God keeps us on a step for a while because He has much better plans for us than we could even think or imagine.

There are times when we want to move on more quickly than God has planned. I have learned that it is these times when God is allowing us to rest. Those steps that are big enough to pitch a tent may be designed for just that, so we can rest in Him.

“As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things.” Ecclesiastes 11:5 NIV

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Blogger I.D.

Tasha BossioDo you have any fun plans for this summer?  I have a very busy summer ahead. Part of my plans includes a trip to South Korea with a group of educators. I am extremely excited!

Do you have any other “steps” that you did not mention?  Yes, how about those baby steps. Anyone familiar with Dave Ramsey should know exactly what I’m talking about. Baby Step 1 seemed so easy, #2 is taking much longer. God has been so faithful during our process of debt reduction. You don’t think about those student loans being such a burden when you’re in school.

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by | May 15, 2012

A Grand Adventure by Deanna Duncan

“I got the job in Seattle,” Wendy shouts into the phone.

Now, I am jumping up and down at this.  (While I’m excited for the job, what really has me pumped is the next two words I am about to scream out.)

ROAD TRIP!

She’s nervous, but my passion for adventure starts to well up.  After I assure her it is fine (we did the cross country drives all the time growing up), she begins to make plans.

Then I tell her the ultimate Road Trip rule–there are no plans.

So, as the sun peaks over the horizon and armed with 2 smart phones, a GPS and a Rand McNally full US map (I may be adventurous, but I’m not foolish), we begin our adventure.

I don’t know about you, but sometimes I become so involved with our crazy schedule that I move into “survival” mode.  It’s always, “just more more thing” or “wait a minute, I need to finish this.”

I feel like my Google calendar dictates my life.

John 10:10 states, “The thief comes to steal, kill and destroy.  I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”  Satan has become so good at adapting to the times.

Proverbs 16:9 shares, “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord directs his footsteps.”

Satan’s greatest trick is manipulating our calendar to the point where our courses are so planned that we aren’t free to to have our footsteps directed.

For five days, we were deliberately allowing God to direct our footsteps.  Without any reservations (literally),  we set out.  At a diner in Colorado, we decided to go and visit a relative in Utah.  (We found out this week she has lymphoma).  In Utah, we decided to trek over to the heart of Oregon to see my aunt.  A snowstorm blocked a mountain pass, so we skipped that one and instead were treated to some of the most beautiful rainbows ever.

We hiked, we ate, and we shared our hearts as we allowed God to romance us with the beauty of his creation.  In a matter of hours, we would see rugged mountains, dry deserts, lush rolling plains and everything in between.  It was amazing to think that God had a purpose in creating each one of them.

And we laughed.  A lot.

Phil 4:4 reminds us that we are to, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say rejoice.”

When I stepped onto the plane in Seattle, my heart dipped a little as I thought about going back to my Google life.

Then it hit me, I had Google the whole time I was on the trip.  I just CHOSE to allow God to direct my footsteps–even if it meant changing plans and deleting events (like the visit to Aunt Donna).  I don’t think my life will end if I miss a meeting, if we skip a practice, or even if we miss a game.  However, I do feel that tremendous damage may be done if we miss the Lord’s promptings.

So today, I encourage you to live your adventure.  It doesn’t require 5 days and 3,000 miles.  It just starts with opening our eyes to God’s handiwork and opening our ears to his voice.

Please excuse me, my daughter is calling.  I think she made me breakfast.  Not the kind that I normally eat (green smoothie with flax seed) but the kind that involves grease, fat, and loads of calories.  My dietary plan is telling me “no”, but somehow I think I should minister to my daughter’s heart, affirm her, and eat every single bite.  Who knows, I may even lick the plate.

Enjoy!

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Deanna Duncan

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by | May 14, 2012

Baby Steps by Meredith Mitchell

When we were given the topic of “The Next Step” for our blog, I do have to say that I felt pretty uninspired at first. The next step?  I feel like I’m walking backwards most of the time, so my mind can’t even fathom what the next step FORWARD might be right now.

Do you ever feel like that?  Like you’re a day late and a dollar short, or like you need 6 arms to be able to finish everything in front of you?  Yes, last year, I was that parent that called the school and said, “I’m really sorry to be THAT parent, but are our kids going on a week long trip next week?  Where are they going, and were we supposed to make a payment or something?”  Whew.  Not good, I know.  I can’t even think about making a big, important next step right now.  I just have to focus on the baby steps in front of me each day-check the calendar-map out every second of every day.  Malayna is graduating from pre-school on Wednesday, and Allen Jr will be in high school next year.  They are taking the big “Next Step”.  Makaela and Alex are both moving on to the next grade as well, but here I am taking my baby steps just to get through the daily to-do list.

This is the part where I have to say… Ok, time to take a breather.  This is the part where I re-read my blog from August about my New (School) Year’s Resolution:

Ephesians 4:23-24:

23”And be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh mental and spiritual attitude], 24And put on the new nature (the regenerate self) created in God’s image, [Godlike] in true righteousness and holiness.”

If I can just keep this in mind, then I know that even if I feel like I am taking baby steps, they are ORDERED baby steps. Steps for the Kingdom.  My baby steps are making a difference.  One day, I’ll be in a season to talk about what “The Next Step” is and what big move I’m about to make.  Today, I am happy with the baby steps that are laid out so carefully, in order, right in front of me!

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Meredith Mitchell

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by | May 12, 2012

Gloria Speaks

What is your favorite memory as a mother?  

Holding my boys for the very first time.  I can still remember their facial expressions.  It’s etched in my mind as if it happened yesterday.  I remember how they looked at me when I spoke to them.  It was as if neither of us wanted to blink; a true surreal moment between a newborn and a mom.  

In years past, how have you been celebrated on Mother’s Day?  

One of my love languages is ‘words of affirmation’.   When the boys learned to write, Carl instructed them on how important it was to tell those you love how much they mean to you.  Anything they ever buy for me pales in comparison to the things they say with a pen.

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What is the best Mother’s Day gift you have ever received?  

Two sons –and a lifetime of memories – it doesn’t get any better than that!  Wait, and a dream of a husband who made it possible for me to celebrate this day!

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Happy Day to all of you gals out there, whether you are a mom or not. We want you to know that you are special, and God has a plan for you.

EVERYDAY DETERMINE TO LEARN SOMETHING NEW ABOUT YOUR GOD THAT YOU DIDN’T KNOW YESTERDAY – I PROMISE THIS IS AN INVITATION TO BE WOW..ED!

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by | May 11, 2012

Mothering Daughters by Deborah Winkler

I love being a mom.  I have three kids: two boys and one girl.  I adore motherhood and every stage (so far).  I’d like to think it’s because I’m intentional and purposeful to enjoy it.  Not everyone goes through this season, so I’ve asked the Lord to show me how to be truly grateful for the opportunity I have with my three children.  Motherhood is a part of my DESTINY.  I choose to walk in its blessing everyday. 

My kids are lovely.  Each one is so unique; I can’t imagine life without them.  I especially appreciate the mother-son relationship.  The instantaneous bond is remarkable!  There is such ease in connecting with my boys.  They need me, which helps, but Josiah and Joshua have a sweet affection for me that is irreplaceable.  My relationship with them has always seemed so natural.

Then came Lucy…

Lucy, precious Lucy.  Her tenacity, joy, and friendly spirit are a gift to our home.  She challenges all of us to be better.  Lucy has an innate ability to make you give her the attention she desires.  She is persistent and does not stop talking until she receives relational interaction.  Lucy will follow you to every corner of the house just to be included.  Lately, she will defy instruction and smirk until she is faced with consequences.  Her spirit is steadfast – the makings of a great spiritual leader!

One day, as I was cleaning and doing light chores around the house, my little helper was right by my side.  Efficiency is the key to everyday tasks, and it was not very efficient to be stepping over a toddler as I tried to move.  She was clinging to me when I came to a stop.  I found myself becoming annoyed with Lucy.  I paused.  The Holy Spirit began to inquire of me:

               

                Why does it annoy you that she wants to be with you?

                What’s wrong with Lucy following you?

                Don’t you want her to chase after things?

                Isn’t Lucy designed to be a helper?

                Wouldn’t you want your daughter to embrace you?

I tried to argue with the questions, but they were spot on.  I needed a paradigm shift!  As I searched my heart (which included prayer and repentance), I fleshed out my deep desire to have a strong relationship with my daughter: I want us to be friends.  I want her to trust me.  I want her to emulate the life of Christ I strive for.  I want her to seek the things of God.  I want her to love being a mom and wife. 

Movement was required.

I need to develop that relationship NOW.  I must embrace her at this very moment to establish a profound unbreakable bond.  I have to show her the beautiful and creative woman God has designed her to be by including her in my process. This revelation was empowering!

It’s an honor to be given such an incredible opportunity – perfectly suited for a mom.

“Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3

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This month we are talking about Next Steps.  Have you taken any “steps” lately?  A resounding YES! (very big smile) I recently accepted a position as Director of Heartline Women’s Clinic.  This incredible ministry provides free, confidential services to women facing unexpected pregnancy, offers parenting classes to new and young parents making life decisions, brings healing through an abortion recovery program, and makes Biblical Life Coaching available to those in crisis.  I’m honored and thrilled to be serving at Heartline!

What are some ways we can be involved with Heartline Women’s Clinic?  PRAY!  We are so grateful for the opportunity to minister every day, but the battle against abortion is raging in our own community.  Abortions take place every week in Lubbock, so take a moment to specifically pray for the value of LIFE to be re-established.

Anything else we should know?  I’m so excited to announce that beginning June 18, we will host quarterly prayer meetings from 7:00 – 8:00pm at Heartline.  This will be a time of supplication and intercession to the Father on behalf of those affected by unplanned pregnancy and/or abortion.  We will pray for a powerful movement of the Holy Spirit, which will draw those who are hurting, lonely, or lost to our doors as a place of refuge. So, please mark your calendars and join us!


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by | May 10, 2012

Prize Imprint

I believe there is something for all of us to learn from today’s Prize Imprint.  We invited Lauriena Cruz to share with us what her daughter did this past weekend to help others.  Sweet Miss Kai shows us that no matter how big or small we are (or think we are), we can leave a big Imprint for the Kingdom!

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This past Saturday, May 5th, was National Lemonade Day.  The YWCA was helping the youth of Lubbock, TX, learn how to be entrepreneurs.  Our daughter, Kai, is only 4 ½ years old, but she has sold lemonade at our garage sales in the past.  We decided to create another opportunity for her to learn some valuable life lessons.  I also thought this would be a perfect opportunity to do the workbook lesson and help her grasp a little of what it’s like to be an entrepreneur. 

One of the goals of Lemonade Day was to teach the kids the importance of the saving, spending, and giving.  They are to make a decision on where their earnings will go.  Kai chose the amounts she would give, save and spend.  

She chose a swimming pool from Walmart that was $25 dollars to purchase. I told her if she raised half the amount for the pool, Papa and Mama would pay the other half. 

She wanted to give $20 dollars to a charity that we as a family decided on.  We chose Running to Rescue, the event that is raising funds to fight human trafficking.  During the summer, she wants to raise money for an organization that feeds children. Her Papa had the idea to put a donation jar on her lemonade stand to specifically designate money to Running to Rescue, and her total donation amount was $43 dollars!

I am so proud of her. I would say that is pretty impressive for a 4 ½ year old!

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Did you have a young one participate in Lemonade Day last weekend?  How did they choose to spend their earnings?

Are you and your family doing anything creative to raise money for Running to Rescue & the A21 Campaign?  We’d love for you to share!


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by | May 9, 2012

Faith-Training, part 2 by Starr Cliff

I’d say the Cliff household is pretty typical in terms of the fast-paced, nearly-every-minute-filled-up American way.  We try to only say “yes” to a limited number of things; but with three kids, (and usually a bonus foster kid), full-time ministry work for him, two part-time jobs for me, and speaking, writing and teaching schedules for both of us…..well, life is just busy.  I know that doesn’t make us special, and that you are nodding in understanding.

But in the midst of all this go-go-going we’re all doing, where do we make time for teaching our kids spiritual truths?  We think it’s right in the middle of the go-go-going.  After all, “God is not ‘a part’ of our lives; He is our everything.” -Craig Groeschel

In our house, we have adopted truths taught by Reggie Joiner and Carey Nieuwhof in the great book Parenting Beyond Your Capacity.  Based on Deuteronomy 6:7, the authors devote one chapter to “Creating a Rhythm” with your kids, so that spiritual discussions happen naturally, in the middle of every day routines.

Deut 6:7  Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road,

when you lie down and when you get up.

Use these four family times mentioned in Deut. 6:7 to create the following habits:

WHEN YOU SIT AT HOME: This is meal time.  I know it’s tough, but make meal time together a priority.  Make it a given that at least once a day you will sit together around the table and have a meal.  Just can’t do it at dinner? How about breakfast?  Make it happen, and you will be amazed at the conversations that happen freely around the table together.  At meal time be a teacher; look for opportunities to shape their view of the experiences they share.

WHEN YOU WALK ALONG THE ROAD: This is West Texas, so we don’t walk along the road, we drive.  Drive time is a time to be a friend. Listen.  Sing.  Laugh.  Just talk.  Don’t waste this time when you have them trapped in the car with you.  Engage them with conversation and not a DVD player.

WHEN YOU LIE DOWN: This is bedtime.  It’s so important to begin a routine of spending time with your kiddos in their room before bed.  You are entering their space.  As they age, their bedroom becomes their sacred space, and you want to have a routine of being welcome there in the evenings before bedtime.  Be a counselor.  Listen to their worries and dreams and pray for them and encourage them in this quiet evening time. Teach them of God’s heart for them and His incredible plans for their future.

WHEN YOU GET UP: This is the morning time, and this one is tough in our house.  Neither my husband or I are morning people, and would be quite content to not speak a work until at least 10:00am.  However, morning is a great time to be an encouraging coach.  My husband drives the kids to school every day, and he does not waste an opportunity to encourage.  He tells the kids “You were born for this day! You were made for this time. God created and made you to do the things that you are going to do today.  You are more than just another somebody.  You are a child of the living God!”

I encourage you that no matter where you are now, take the next step toward raising fully devoted followers of Christ.

source material: Regggie Joiner and Carey Nieuwhof “Parenting Beyond Your Capacity”

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These “routines” kinda make spiritual training seem easy-ish.  What’s the catch?  I have found the “catch”  is that my own walk with God must be healthy and intimate.  If I am seeking Him, praying, and reading His word, it’s easy to freely talk about Him throughout the day.  When my own walk with God is not where it should be, trying to have spiritual discussions with my kids becomes unnatural and forced.  And they know the difference.  

Anything else that can help me start spiritual discussions with my kids?  If your child attends Trinity Kidsplace, we have a couple great resources to help you get started!  You can sign up here to receive a weekly email that helps you continue the conversation your child hears at church when they are home with you.

And….there’s an APP for that!  If you have an iPhone or iPad, the ParentCUE App provides you with simple cues throughout the week that remind you to pause and make the most of everyday moments.  Trinity Kidsplace would like to make this app available for free to those that request it.  It is a $1.99 value, and in a day or less you can start using it with your family.  Click here to fill out the form on this webpage to get the ParentCUE app.

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sources:
www.jonathancliff.com
Parenting Beyond Your Capacity
Trinity Church Child Dedication Class


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