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Encouragement in Line

Jeannie Waters17 Comments on Encouragement in Line

Lisa Kibler, dear friend and award-winning author, is sharing today’s post. You’ll find her writing entertaining, energizing, and inspirational. Please read her bio below and check out her amazing site. In addition to her experiences with widowhood, she shares exciting lessons from her life’s journey at https://www.lisakibler.com

Here’s Lisa’s post . . .

A while ago, a friend posted this graphic about introverts on Facebook:

I laughed and pointed at all of the truths about me and I thought, Wow! It’s not just me. I have company. And I laughed again. See “solo activities?” That key component makes me a poor mingler. Seriously! I’d rather sit in the corner and be a people watcher and eavesdrop, hoping to hear exciting fodder for a story or article (all names kept anonymous of course).

Going out to eat alone doesn’t bother me (I have been a widow for four years). Being a music lover, I even go to concerts teute seule (using a foreign language makes it sound daring, don’t you think?).

I’ve driven to a number of writers conferences all by my lonesome, as the old song says, loving the scenery and not worrying about detours to promising antique stores. When I arrive at a conference, I am happy to meet new people that share my love of all things writing, yet I usually get a single room because I am, well, me!

God had an interesting plan when He sent me to the 2017 Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference (let’s use the acronym, BRMCWC, shall we?) On the second day, I was in line for one of the yummy Southern meals (Hey! I am a southern girl who happens to have been born and raised in Ohio. Figure that one!), and a sweet Georgia lady and her cousin started talking to me.

As quick as sweet tea quenches thirst, Jeannie and Evelyn and I became friends. The line was long, and by the time we walked into the dining hall with our trays full of all things Rick Bragg would love, we had become beloved sisters-in-Christ. Yeah it happened that fast.

One evening after the day’s workshops and general sessions were over, we gathered in Jeannie and Evelyn’s room to shoot the breeze (although after a full day, my gun’s magazine was empty). These girls I love are extroverts—they are talkers extraordinaire—and I loved every moment of listening to their mesmerizing accents and family stories. They talked of their writing journeys and how they long for God to use their words for His glory.

They encouraged me. They were exactly what this introvert needed to move forward as a writing ambassador for Christ. I pray I am the same for them.

By the time the conference concluded, we cried and hugged and promised to stay in touch. I didn’t last through the next winter, and I flew to Georgia to reconnect and fill my soul with more encouragement (and more family members). My pastor would call it needing some Jeannieness and Evelynness. Our group is The Three Scribes, a moniker of mutual edification, encouragement, and accountability. I love us!

Looking at that graphic again, I see ways God uses Jeannie and Evelyn in my life: deep conversations, (we have extra long talks), text messaging (we regularly blow up each others’ phones), daydreaming (oh, the dreams of stories to write), and introspection (we pray for each other, a lot). Many times we have exclaimed that God brought us together.

Extroverts:

If you’re in a long line at a conference or any other venue, look for the introverts. We’ll be the ones staring at either our shoes or the far wall. We don’t bite, in fact, we love to chew on conversations with lots of people, one-on-one or even two-on-one. If you see me, I’m open for bribes of grits and/or sweet tea! 🤣

Introverts:

We need to be open for God-winks. They are unexpected and wondrous. Take a chance and let someone in. He or she could become a close sister/brother whom God will use to spur you both on to a deeper relationship with Him that in His time brings Him glory. And that’s what this life is all about.

Please share your thoughts in the comment section.

Lisa Kibler, Author

Author Lisa Kibler is an award-winning writer/blogger and international speaker. She has been published in Celebrate Gettysburg, CBN.com, Refresh Magazine, Almost an Author, Faith Beyond Fear, and is a contributor to Heart Renovation by Lighthouse Bible Studies. Lisa is a mentor for Word Weavers, Intl. and is president of the Kent, Ohio chapter. She is editor of the Northeast Ohio division of One Christian Voice and is member of the Jerry B. Jenkins Writers Guild, Tribe Writers. She has just completed Someplace To Be Somebody, the memoir of former black nationalist, Pastor Marshall Brandon. Lisa is represented by Hartline Literary Agency. Her website is https://www.lisakibler.com

The “Things Introverts Love” graphic is from positivelypresent.

Why New Year’s Resolutions Don’t Work

Jeannie Waters24 Comments on Why New Year’s Resolutions Don’t Work

Like most people, I made New Year’s resolutions for decades. Some of them lasted until April, and some of them . . . well, would you believe some ended January 2? Even with good intentions, the resolutions or promises we make to ourselves often disappear like wind-blown dandelion seeds.

Do these resolutions sound familiar?

  • Stop eating sugar.
  • Exercise daily.
  • Complete home projects.
  • Volunteer to help others.
  • Memorize Bible verses.

All worthy objectives, right? Sure. There’s not a bad intention on the list. Then why don’t we achieve them? I can only speak for myself.

3 Reasons Why I Failed at New Year’s Resolutions

Reason 1

Although I prayed for guidance, I often depended on my own strength and wisdom to achieve success. The energy of those power sources weakens quickly.

My solution

A few years ago, I decided to set annual and monthly goals after praying and asking God to reveal His plan for me. I now read books about planning and spend time reading my Bible daily. When I pray and trust God to lead me as I study His Word, I have His strength and wisdom.

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.

                                                                                                                                      –Psalm 32:8 ESV

Reason 2

A second problem I faced with resolutions was embracing too many goals and projects at once. I attempted too many “good things.” The lack of results brought frustration and fatigue.

My solution

God calls each born-again believer to love Him, to love others, to witness, to be kind, to help the poor, and to follow other Scriptural instructions. He also created us with unique gifts for His glory. Prayer, study, and conversations with trusted Christian friends can help us determine our gifts and the tasks we should accept or decline.

Eric Liddell, the famous runner whose story is told in the movie Chariots of Fire, said, “God made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.” 1 This 1924 Olympic gold medal winner knew how to focus on the call of God rather than that of men and thus refused to run on Sunday. His goals not only included winning numerous races, but he served God faithfully for many years in China. (The Final Race by Eric T. Eichinger, with Eva Marie Everson, tells the amazing story of this famous man of faith. See link below.)

I want to focus on God’s call for me as Eric Liddell did. I know that God called me to be a wife, mother, and Gigi to my grandchildren. He also called me to write and to participate in two ministries to small groups of women. When I accept too many responsibilities beyond these, I revert to fatigue and frustration.

The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.

                                                                                                                                                       –Proverbs 16:9 ESV

Reason 3

Another problem with my resolutions was lack of clear goals.

My Solution

Specific, measurable goals provide targets and the hope of hitting them. Large projects and goals can be divided into bite-sized pieces and specifically stated. For example:

  • By 5:00 each Friday, file important paperwork.
  • Organize linen closet by January 15 and donate unneeded items.
  • Work out for 45 minutes at the gym Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Take a 30 minute walk each Saturday.
  • Memorize one verse or short passage of Scripture per week.

These goals are specific and measurable, as well as easier to manage. (For more information, see the link below to Your Best Year Ever by Michal Hyatt.) Writing out your goals and checking on progress periodically are helpful practices. Seeking God’s guidance is powerful.

Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.

                                                                                                                                                      –Proverbs 16:3  ESV

Tips for Goal Setting and Time Usage

  1. Seek God in morning prayer as Jesus did. Read a devotional, read Scripture, and pray. I refer to this time as my “morning appointment with God.”
  2. Hold your plans loosely. Interruptions may be divinely appointed.
  3. Plan “catch-up” times in each week as you will surely need them.
  4. Commit to the Lord whatever you do. Talk to Him as you complete each task.
  5. Remember that people are more important than tasks.
  6. List tasks for the week and then each night select the ones that must or could be done the following day.

Are you thinking I have it all together and merrily check off my to-do list each day? No way! Not even close! Some days I become frustrated, pitch a little “hissy fit” with myself, and feel like abandoning my goals. There are days when I feel like I haven’t accomplished anything at all. However, I’m learning and improving as I practice trusting God for results.

My January Advice

Don’t set New Year’s resolutions. Instead, ask God to guide you as you set reasonable goals you were designed to meet. See links for books I like.

Please share in the comment sections at the bottom how you set goals and organize your to-do list. I’d love to gather new ideas from reader friends.

Resources I Recommend for a Brand-New Year

(Click on a book cover below.)

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you decide to purchase a book via my link, I’ll receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) which will assist with blog costs. Clicking on the link will simply take you to Amazon so that you can read about the book.

An Interesting Read

This World War II era biography tells the story of Eric Liddell, the 1942 Olympic gold medalist runner, whose story was featured in the movie Chariots of Fire.  Authors Eric T. Eichinger and Eva Marie Everson go beyond Olympic fame to reveal Liddell’s life of service to God in the face of trials.

Goal Setting, Planning, Time Use

Doing Busy Better helps readers prioritize goals and seek God’s best while ending the frustration that comes from over-doing.

Michael Hyatt, an expert on goal setting and planning, shares an action plan for success in this easy-to-read book.

Devotionals

Sarah Young wrote this collection of one page devotions as if God is speaking to the reader.

Lucinda Secrest McDowell, one of my favorite authors, bases each devotion on a single word and uses it to help readers grow in faith.

1 https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/802465.Eric_Liddell

Christmas Cleaning

Jeannie Waters14 Comments on Christmas Cleaning

Clean and Christmas just go together, don’t they?

  • We clean so that we can decorate, and then we clean and remove containers after decorating.
  • We clean before cooking delicious meals and baking, and then we wash the pots and pans until our fingertips turn into “raisins.”
  • We clean before company comes and then vacuum and straighten the house when they leave.,

So much cleaning!  Our homes should be diamond-sparkly this time of year. (Remember the old Mr. Clean commercials?)

Although our homes where people and pets live are rarely, if ever, spotless, we do like tidiness at holiday time. Before we decorate, cook, or entertain, we prefer cleanliness and order as a backdrop for our celebration, and we want our time with family and friends to be the best possible.

What makes Christmas time “the best possible?” An immaculate house with gourmet meals and beautifully wrapped gifts? Nope. Perfection is not an ingredient in the recipe for Christmas joy. In fact, perfectionism mixed with holiday prep can yield frustration, short tempers, and fatigue. (Can I get an Amen?)

I learned this lesson the hard way. After years of worrying about every detail and racing around in panic mode to have our home “ready,” I realized my husband and I began dreading the endless to-do list. We spent too much time on preparation and too little time on celebration. Had the luminaires on the driveway become more important to me than the light of Jesus shining from my heart?

The most important ingredient for Christmas joy is a clean heart focused on Immanuel, God with us. Unforgiveness, self-pity, selfishness, a judgmental attitude, perfectionism, and other sins clutter our hearts and occupy space that was designed for the peace and joy of Jesus during the celebration of His birth. I’m thankful He forgives us.

We still work hard to clean, decorate, and cook, but we’re enjoying the time more and reducing excessive planning in favor of focusing on the meaning of Christmas, family, and friendship.

As we clean and prepare our homes, let’s ask God to create a clean heart in us that we may celebrate His coming and the abundant life He offers to those who receive Him as Savior and Lord. Undesirable circumstances and difficult relationships may not change, but a clean heart promotes joyous celebration of His birth. His presence in a clean heart permeates homes at Christmas.

     Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.

                                                                                                                                                                Psalm 51:10 ESV

May the peace and joy of Jesus fill our hearts and homes as we prepare room for Him.

How do you prepare for Christmas?

Snapshots of Christmas

Jeannie Waters12 Comments on Snapshots of Christmas

 These snapshot recollections of Christmas helped shape my faith and my life. I hope they spark memories of yours.

Chocolate Covered Cherries and a $100 Bill

Each Christmas, my granddaddy gave my grandmother a box of this candy with a $100 bill on top. One year after opening presents, they realized the money was missing. After a thorough search, they concluded the crisp green bill had been crumpled with the wrapping paper and tossed into the fireplace. Although my grandmother was unhappy about losing her monetary gift, she looked past that to enjoy her family.

That memory reminds me how temporary material possessions are. We desire them, buy them, and gift them. And some bring pleasure or usefulness. But memories, ah those sweet memories and lessons of Christmas linger in our hearts for a very long time.

Quaint Little Church 

Our daughter-in-love gave us this quaint little church before she married our son. For years, we prayed for the girl who would join our family and for the parents raising her. See the cross on the top? To me, it’s a symbol of answered prayer, for she is a precious gift of God to our son as they raise children to honor the Lord.

Chickadees and Carols 

I gave this plate to my mom because she loved chickadees. The words printed on it remind me of my dad singing carols as my mom played the piano. The sound of hymn lyrics often filled the home of my childhood.  (The ornament beside the dish pictures Daddy as a young boy.)

Handmade Trees and Snowman Smiles

Our daughter crafted these lovely trees and painted the snowman salt and pepper shakers when she was a teenager. She has a talent for making others feel loved with her special gifts and warm smile. Our home is brighter when she is here with her wonderful husband and baby. I pray that as the Lord fills my heart with joy, my smiles and presents touch others this Christmas.

Missing Baby Jesus

When my granddaughter was seven, she helped me arrange our manger scene. I noticed Jesus was missing and lamented, “Oh, no! Baby Jesus is missing. I can’t find Him anywhere.”

This precious little one said, “It’s okay, Gigi. I know where He is.”

Lying on her stomach, she stretched her arm as far as it would go under the sofa and subsequently produced the missing figure. (Um—maybe I hadn’t moved furniture to vacuum?)

She continued, “I put Him there last year because I didn’t want you to put Him in the attic. I knew exactly where He was.” (The meaning of this memory is obvious.)

One additional comment:

Although we know the wise men did not actually visit Jesus until later, you’ll notice I left them close to the manger. The reason? One year our dog Cookie grabbed the camel and chewed off a leg. Now the three-legged animal must be propped against the stable to stand with the wise men. (Life’s not perfect.)

Summer Miracle 

During a summer visit to Germany, we purchased this simple ornament depicting the miracle of the Messiah’s birth. During that same trip, God performed a miracle in the heart of a family member causing all of us to rejoice. That moment. That miracle. I will never forget. God does work miracles. Trust Him with your need today.

Sibling “Rivalry” 

This picture of me hung on my mom’s tree along with those of my two brothers. Together, we turned the placement of the photos into a game. When I arrived, I’d place my ornament on the top of the tree and theirs on the bottom.

As each brother arrived, he would switch the pictures to ensure his was at the very top. Each of us claimed our mother had placed her “favorite” child on the top. Lots of laughter ensued as each sibling discovered a less favorable location.

Of course, our parents loved us equally. They were the first to teach us that Christmas was about Jesus, and they taught us that laughter with family and friends is to be cherished.

Peace at Home 

This dove, a symbol of peace, is resting under the gold wreath my mom purchased on a trip to Williamsburg, one of her favorite travel destinations. Its proximity to the dove reminds me that she lived a life of peace, rarely fretting about tomorrow. She dedicated her life to Jesus Christ at an early age and trusted Him. She made our home a peaceful and joyful place. I want to experience the peace of Jesus at Christmas and throughout the year.

You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.

Isaiah 26:3 ESV

Labor of Love

The tree itself wouldn’t be up without a labor of love. My sweet husband annually purchases a Frasier fir because it’s my favorite. He wrangles it into the living room, strings more lights than he prefers, tucks the wires, and with his servant heart shows love to me and our family. Thank you, Honey.

I hope you enjoyed my reflections. Please share a Christmas memory that shaped your faith or your life, and tell me how can I pray for you as Christmas approaches.

Echo of the Heart

Jeannie Waters7 Comments on Echo of the Heart

Yesterday, an echocardiogram revealed important information about my heart. I’m thankful the report was good.

During the procedure, I was amazed to see the inner workings of my heart on the screen. As the tech moved the probe around, some views showed all four chambers working in tandem, and some views showed how valves were operating. This technology enables cardiologists to assess heart health by observing the heart muscle at work and checking the efficiency of its pumping action.

Beyond the view of modern medicine, God sees into our heart of hearts.

. . . For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.

                                                                                                                                                             –1 Samuel 16:7*

God knows my heart as no other. That thought led me to ask:

  • What does God see when He probes the inside of my heart—the real me?
  • Is my Christmas preparation pleasing to Him? (Sometimes my heart churns with “so much to do.” At other times, it’s filled with wonder that God loved me enough to lie on manger hay and later die for me.)
  • Do my activities honor Immanuel, God with us, or simply fulfill the tasks I believe I must do?
  • Is my worship fitting for the King of kings?
  • Do I laugh enough and enjoy His presence and blessings?

Although sin must be confessed, the condition of our hearts should not create despair. Followers of Christ have the hope and assurance that God will continue to teach us and transform our hearts.

And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.

                                                                                                                                                     –Philippians 1:6

Another question I considered was, “What view of my heart is reflected to others?”

Whether engaging in conversation with me or glancing from a distance, do other people see the love, joy, peace, and patience of Christ, or do they see selfishness, frantic hurry, anxiety, and impatience? Do the yearnings of His heart shine through my countenance and words?

Father, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer” (Psalm 19:14).

One last question: What were hearts like at the manger?

 Joseph must have had a humble heart after his appointment as the earthly father for the long-awaited Messiah. Maybe he was a bit overwhelmed, too, with the responsibility.

Heavenly Father, give me a humble heart as Your servant. When I’m overwhelmed, remind me that You always promise guidance like you offered Joseph.  

Mary’s heart was filled with treasures as she pondered the happenings of that holy night in her heart.

Lord, speak to me from Your Word, and help me tuck the treasures you teach me deep in my heart so You may use them to echo Your truth.    

The shepherds’ hearts were filled with worship—true worship in an outdoor cathedral illuminated by a star.

Abba Father, as I complete daily tasks this month, give me a heart of wonder and worship.

 The busy innkeeper’s heart is unknown to us. Maybe he was indifferent to the traveling couple and the holy Child who occupied his stable. Did he hear the news later and regret missing the opportunity to sit at the feet of the Messiah? If so, did he spread the news to fellow businessmen?

Lord, I don’t want to miss an opportunity to praise and worship You due to seasonal rush. Lead me to take time to reflect and to share the good news.

 A Christmas Prayer

Lord Jesus, be at home in my heart this Christmas. Remove the tinsel and wrappings of sin that clutter the space reserved for You. May my heart and countenance echo the joy and peace of the night in Bethlehem when You became Immanuel, God with us. Seal the majesty of the manger in my heart.

Dear reader friend, please tell me how I can pray for you this Christmas, and add thoughts you want to share below.

*Scripture verses are from the English Standard Version.