Wow! It's been a while since I've blogged. There have been quite a few changes in my life. Well, first, I got engaged a couple of months ago. I'm getting married to a wonderful and Godly man who I just love and am hot for!!!! I know this is only because I fell in love with God and myself first and found my purpose in life. Because I stood on God's principlebs, I attracted a man who believes in what I believed and treats me the way I see myself. We are so excited and blessed. Just wait and see what the Lord is going to do in our relationship and how He's going to use us.
Being engaged or planning for marriage is work, but of course it doesn't compare to the work in marriage. We finished premarital counseling, and it was a special time and intimate time for us. This whole engagement period is a special and intimate time. I don't know how anyone could get married without it or how any so called Christian would go into a marriage without biblical counseling. Planning a wedding is work too, but to be honest, I'm more focused on my future marriage. We just want to be with each other and we rush through wedding planning conversations so we can talk about us and have fun. It's cute. I just love this man, and he loves me.
When I first started blogging, I wrote about being a single Christian woman. I could give advice, because I was single for 26 years. I had experience and knew what I knew to be true. I want the same to be true for marriage. It will be years, like a decade, before I profess to know anything about married life. But when that time comes, I know I'll have much to share and much experience. Who knows how God will use my marriage to teach others. However, I still plan to blog about issues Christian woman face and our walk, and share my personal walk. Stay tuned....
Love you!
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Love Is In the Air
Happy Valentine's Day!
Lord, I'm so thankful that you brought me to you. I'm so thankful that you allowed the circumstances for me to fall in love with you, because I know that through your love I saw the kind man and friends I needed in my life. Lord I love you, and you are my love song. Lord I praise you.
Lord, I thank you for the love of my family and friends. I thank you for unconditional love, honesty, and forgiveness. Who will ever love me like you do?
Lord, I praise you for the wonderful man you've sent in my life. You said that if I trusted in you and delighted myself in you, that you would grant the desires of my heart. Lord, I bow down to you, because you've allowed me to be found by a man who loves you in a world that is against your rules. These last seven months have been full of growth and really just practice for what you've called us to do in marriage. We honor you, and we thank you Lord for allowing the cirucmstances for us to meet.
Ladies, people laughed when I described the kind of man that I wanted. They said that he didn't exist, but I knew what God told me. And I knew what I needed. Some said that I should have held on to the man I dated who wasn't good for me, because he was better than having no one at all. If you are in a place where you are being strung along, giving your body to someone who isn't committed to you by law, or are begging for your man to propose, I urge you to leave and get hooked up with God first. That man who is bringing you uneasiness could be blocking you from the true blessing that God has for you. Don't be afraid to let go. I can speak on this because I've been there. I know that letting go isn't always easy, but I can tell you that the reward is GREAT!!!
Love, Be Loved, and Give Love,
Z.
Happy Valentine's Day!
Lord, I'm so thankful that you brought me to you. I'm so thankful that you allowed the circumstances for me to fall in love with you, because I know that through your love I saw the kind man and friends I needed in my life. Lord I love you, and you are my love song. Lord I praise you.
Lord, I thank you for the love of my family and friends. I thank you for unconditional love, honesty, and forgiveness. Who will ever love me like you do?
Lord, I praise you for the wonderful man you've sent in my life. You said that if I trusted in you and delighted myself in you, that you would grant the desires of my heart. Lord, I bow down to you, because you've allowed me to be found by a man who loves you in a world that is against your rules. These last seven months have been full of growth and really just practice for what you've called us to do in marriage. We honor you, and we thank you Lord for allowing the cirucmstances for us to meet.
Ladies, people laughed when I described the kind of man that I wanted. They said that he didn't exist, but I knew what God told me. And I knew what I needed. Some said that I should have held on to the man I dated who wasn't good for me, because he was better than having no one at all. If you are in a place where you are being strung along, giving your body to someone who isn't committed to you by law, or are begging for your man to propose, I urge you to leave and get hooked up with God first. That man who is bringing you uneasiness could be blocking you from the true blessing that God has for you. Don't be afraid to let go. I can speak on this because I've been there. I know that letting go isn't always easy, but I can tell you that the reward is GREAT!!!
Love, Be Loved, and Give Love,
Z.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
So, I’ve been in a relationship with a wonderful Christian man for about 4 months now. Anything that I ever went through in the past with guys was worth it if it meant that it was preparing me for the man in my life now. I haven’t written on the topic in a while, because it’s taken me a while to process everything. Let’s just say that when God moves, he moves. I’ve said it and heard it over and over again that while statistics say that 75% of African American women will never marry, the Lord grants the desires of 100% of the people who serve and are submitted to Him. He doesn’t lie.
This has truly been an amazing experience. I knew this was a man after God’s heart when:
I never had to ask where is this going, because he knows the exact dates of when we met, when we became exclusive, when he plans to propose, and he even has a financial plan for us in marriage. Ladies, when this is the man God has placed before you it’s not a matter of if we get married, but when we get married. This man brings up most of the conversations about marriage, because he is a planner.
I was to too and not the you, as in he said I love you first.
I don’t open car doors or pull out my own seat in his presence. To be honest, I don’t really lift a finger. He treats me like I’m a rare jewel. As a matter of fact, he calls me that.
He’s seen my weaknesses, heard my cries, and has even been through those irritable times of the month, and he still can’t get enough of me.
He respects my limits and even has his own, so nothing goes past kissing. Ladies, I realized that the guys that in the past couldn’t handle the no sex rule, because they didn’t see themselves marrying me anytime soon. They were probably thinking that they would be dating me 3 to 5 years without sex. Lol. But see this man, knows that within a year and half it will be all his, so he’s not even sweating it. He is a man with a plan.
He knows my thoughts before I say them. When I don’t know what to do about conflicts we may experience, I go to God, and it is so evident that this man is open to God, because it’s as if God tells him the very things I desire.
We started praying together every night after we became serious. He knows my needs. It’s beautiful. We were approaching a period where we wanted to make sure that we should continue dating. We wanted to hear God clearly about one another, so we fasted. We ended up on a completely different level after the fast. We are closer to each other and to God.
My car broke down on a highway and he was right there and even said that if I couldn’t get a car I could use his and he’d find friends to get him around.
I’ve accepted his weaknesses. We communicate well, so there isn’t much conflict. We talk things out and listen to each other.
I’m growing closer to God in this relationship. God is changing and molding me. I continue to die to myself.
His family feels at peace with me, and my family feels at peace with him.
The calling God has placed in my heart to pursue ministry work is louder than ever. The same is true for him. I feel that we are going to be a great force. God is working on us, and I accept the trials that come our way, because I know what the end result will be.
He desires our relationship to be an example to others. I do too. We have similar backgrounds and are striving to be that marriage that our family tree has never seen before.
So many other great things happened in my life as were dating. He didn’t take away from the quality of my life at all.
I feel so covered and safe.
I didn’t feel like I always had to put my best foot forward. I felt so comfortable letting him see all sides of me.
Before all this happened, I had a feeling that a man was coming soon. I just had no clue who this person would be. It was a surprise, and to be honest, I wasn’t really sure what to do about it. I thank the person who told me that I better go out with this man or else I would greatly regret it. Thank you!
This has truly been an amazing experience. I knew this was a man after God’s heart when:
I never had to ask where is this going, because he knows the exact dates of when we met, when we became exclusive, when he plans to propose, and he even has a financial plan for us in marriage. Ladies, when this is the man God has placed before you it’s not a matter of if we get married, but when we get married. This man brings up most of the conversations about marriage, because he is a planner.
I was to too and not the you, as in he said I love you first.
I don’t open car doors or pull out my own seat in his presence. To be honest, I don’t really lift a finger. He treats me like I’m a rare jewel. As a matter of fact, he calls me that.
He’s seen my weaknesses, heard my cries, and has even been through those irritable times of the month, and he still can’t get enough of me.
He respects my limits and even has his own, so nothing goes past kissing. Ladies, I realized that the guys that in the past couldn’t handle the no sex rule, because they didn’t see themselves marrying me anytime soon. They were probably thinking that they would be dating me 3 to 5 years without sex. Lol. But see this man, knows that within a year and half it will be all his, so he’s not even sweating it. He is a man with a plan.
He knows my thoughts before I say them. When I don’t know what to do about conflicts we may experience, I go to God, and it is so evident that this man is open to God, because it’s as if God tells him the very things I desire.
We started praying together every night after we became serious. He knows my needs. It’s beautiful. We were approaching a period where we wanted to make sure that we should continue dating. We wanted to hear God clearly about one another, so we fasted. We ended up on a completely different level after the fast. We are closer to each other and to God.
My car broke down on a highway and he was right there and even said that if I couldn’t get a car I could use his and he’d find friends to get him around.
I’ve accepted his weaknesses. We communicate well, so there isn’t much conflict. We talk things out and listen to each other.
I’m growing closer to God in this relationship. God is changing and molding me. I continue to die to myself.
His family feels at peace with me, and my family feels at peace with him.
The calling God has placed in my heart to pursue ministry work is louder than ever. The same is true for him. I feel that we are going to be a great force. God is working on us, and I accept the trials that come our way, because I know what the end result will be.
He desires our relationship to be an example to others. I do too. We have similar backgrounds and are striving to be that marriage that our family tree has never seen before.
So many other great things happened in my life as were dating. He didn’t take away from the quality of my life at all.
I feel so covered and safe.
I didn’t feel like I always had to put my best foot forward. I felt so comfortable letting him see all sides of me.
Before all this happened, I had a feeling that a man was coming soon. I just had no clue who this person would be. It was a surprise, and to be honest, I wasn’t really sure what to do about it. I thank the person who told me that I better go out with this man or else I would greatly regret it. Thank you!
Monday, September 24, 2007
Hello,
It's been over a month since my last post. Things have been going very well. I suppose I've been a busy body, so finding time to stop and write something meaningful has been difficult. I am now teaching and in school. It's been a month, and I am still adjusting to everything. There's so much I need to get out of my head and on to this blog about my experiences teaching, my walk, and dating the Christian way, and I promise to do that soon. I love you!!
It's been over a month since my last post. Things have been going very well. I suppose I've been a busy body, so finding time to stop and write something meaningful has been difficult. I am now teaching and in school. It's been a month, and I am still adjusting to everything. There's so much I need to get out of my head and on to this blog about my experiences teaching, my walk, and dating the Christian way, and I promise to do that soon. I love you!!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
I would be lying if I told you that your life as a saved person will always be happy. You should always possess joy, but you will experience grief, despair, heartache, and even anger. The truth is that just like the weather, seasons in our lives change. Even Jesus had to go to the garden to be alone. However, shortly after that "season," he resurrected and went from glory to glory. I believe that the key to surviving the dry seasons is knowing that "trouble don't last always," and living as if we are in and envisioning our harvest season. We must not let dry or cold seasons block us from our birthright to be heirs to the throne.
Today, I'm in a good season. The things that I believed for last winter and spring arrived this summer. I survived the rough times by knowing that my dry seasons couldn't and wouldn't last forever, because God had things to do. It was not in His purpose for me to stay in a season of lack.
I am also cognizant of the fact that my good season isn 't going to last forever. It could change tomorrow, so I've got to arm myself with the Word and the Lord's truths to be protected from the drought when it arrives. If you are in a dry season, know that it could change tomorrow! Thank you Lord for all you've done for me. Praise is my weapon. I'll live as if the kingdom depended on me, no matter the season.
Today, I'm in a good season. The things that I believed for last winter and spring arrived this summer. I survived the rough times by knowing that my dry seasons couldn't and wouldn't last forever, because God had things to do. It was not in His purpose for me to stay in a season of lack.
I am also cognizant of the fact that my good season isn 't going to last forever. It could change tomorrow, so I've got to arm myself with the Word and the Lord's truths to be protected from the drought when it arrives. If you are in a dry season, know that it could change tomorrow! Thank you Lord for all you've done for me. Praise is my weapon. I'll live as if the kingdom depended on me, no matter the season.
Monday, July 23, 2007
This is a Christian blog, so what I am about to say may sound different from what we are used to to hearing on finding, I mean being found by a man, and being in a healthy relationship and marriage. If he is cheating on you or abuses you, then you are not in a healthy relationship. There is no need to make it work if you are not married. The world says that 74% of African American women are single. Single includes women who are dating, but not married. However, the Word says to commit to the Lord in whatever you do, and your plans will succeed (Proverbs 16:3 NIV). It may not happen when or the way we want it to happen, but it will happen when we surrender to Him. I now know that there is a pattern to being found by a man after God’s heart
I fell in love with the Lord and gave Him my everything.
I served others more.
I forgave those who hurt me. God showed me that he wasn't going to bring a good man my way until I proved I could forgive those who hurt me the most, including my father.
I fought to get into my purpose, and took leaps of faith even when it didn't look
like the position was going to come up.
I submitted myself to the authority of Godly women who could provide sound counsel
and show me the ways of the kingdom.
I decided to crucify my my flesh, including the worry, doubt, envy, and fear.
I gave even when I didn't have to give.
I began doing things a woman in a relationship or marriage would have to do, even though I had no one.
I took time to nuture my appearance.
I kept the faith that God would grant all of the desires of my heart.
I will continue to do all of the above things for the rest of my life.
It's only after taking care of these things that the saved man we
hoped for can find us. We would mess it up if he came before then. Ladies, a man who is looking for a wife observes. He watch from afar before he makes his move. We never know who is observing us in hopes of wanting to get to know more about us. What would the men observing us say? I know these things because I've dated in the world and conceded on God's promises. Now I'm in a relationship with someone kingdom minded.
I fell in love with the Lord and gave Him my everything.
I served others more.
I forgave those who hurt me. God showed me that he wasn't going to bring a good man my way until I proved I could forgive those who hurt me the most, including my father.
I fought to get into my purpose, and took leaps of faith even when it didn't look
like the position was going to come up.
I submitted myself to the authority of Godly women who could provide sound counsel
and show me the ways of the kingdom.
I decided to crucify my my flesh, including the worry, doubt, envy, and fear.
I gave even when I didn't have to give.
I began doing things a woman in a relationship or marriage would have to do, even though I had no one.
I took time to nuture my appearance.
I kept the faith that God would grant all of the desires of my heart.
I will continue to do all of the above things for the rest of my life.
It's only after taking care of these things that the saved man we
hoped for can find us. We would mess it up if he came before then. Ladies, a man who is looking for a wife observes. He watch from afar before he makes his move. We never know who is observing us in hopes of wanting to get to know more about us. What would the men observing us say? I know these things because I've dated in the world and conceded on God's promises. Now I'm in a relationship with someone kingdom minded.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
I'm still here. Vacation bible school week, work, socializing, and trying to learn as much as I can from women who are where I want to be has kept me busy. I don't mind being busy. I am open to their advice in career/purpose, love, marriage, and appearance. Ladies,it's ok to try to look attractive. Many of the women in the bible underwent months of beauty treatments before they were presented to their husbands and/or were praised for their beauty. Let's not forget that men are physical. I know a feminist reading this right now wants to talk to me =). If you want a king, you have to be a queen. I received some great make-up advice and with the help of my mentor and a friend added a few items to my wardrobe. There comes a time in all of our lives when we have to step up our game. Life is good. Life is beautiful! There's been some excitement (wink).
Monday, June 25, 2007
I received this in a foward........
Golden Rules for Finding/Keeping Your Life Partner
When it comes to making the decision about choosing a life partner, no one wants to make a mistake. Yet, with a divorce rate of close to 50%, it appears that many are making serious mistakes in their approach to finding Mr./Miss. Right!
If you ask most couples who are engaged why they're getting married, they'll say: "We're in love". I believe this is the #1 mistake people make when they date. Choosing a life partner should never be based on love.
Though this may sound "not politically correct",there' s a profound truth here. Love is not the basis for getting married. Rather, love is the result of a good marriage. When the other ingredients are right, then the love will come. Let me say it again: "You can't build a lifetime relationship on love alone". You need a lot more!!!
Here are five questions you must ask yourself if you're serious about finding and keeping a life partner.
QUESTION ..1: Do we share a common life purpose?
Why is this so important? Let me put it this way: If you're married for 20 or 30 years, that's a long time to live with someone. What do you plan to do with each other all that time? Travel, eat and jog together? You need to share something deeper and more meaningful. You need a common life purpose. Two things can happen in a marriage:
(1) You can grow together, or
(2) You can grow apart
50% of the people out there are growing apart. To make a marriage work, you need to know what you want out of life! Bottom line. . .marry someone who wants the same thing.
QUESTION ..2: Do I feel safe expressing my feelings and thoughts with this person?
This question goes to the core of the quality of your relationship. Feeling safe means you can communicate openly with this person. The basis of having good communication is trust - i.e. trust that I won't get "punished" or hurt for expressing my honest thoughts and feelings. A colleague of mine defines an abusive person as someone with whom you feel afraid to express your thoughts and feelings. Be honest with yourself on this one. Make sure you feel emotionally safe with the person you plan to marry.
QUESTION ..3: Is he/she a mensch?
A mensch is someone who is a refined and sensitive person. How can you test? Here are some suggestions:
- Do they work on personal growth on a regular basis?
- Are they serious about improving themselves?
A teacher of mine defines a good person as "someone who is always striving to be good and do the right thing". So ask about your Significant Other . . . What do they do with their time? Is this person materialistic? Usually a materialistic person is not someone whose top priority is character refinement.
There are essentially two types of people in the world:
(1) People who are dedicated to personal growth and........
(2) People who are dedicated to seeking comfort
Someone whose goal in life is to be comfortable will put personal comfort ahead of doing the right thing. You need to know that before walking down the aisle.
QUESTION ..4: How does he/she treat other people?
The one most important thing that makes any relationship work is the ability to give. By giving, we mean the ability to give another person pleasure. Ask: Is this someone who enjoys giving pleasure to others or are they wrapped up in themselves and self-absorbed? To measure this, think about the following: How do they treat people whom they do not have to be nice to, such as waiters, bus boys, taxi drivers, etc. How do they treat their parents and siblings? Do they have gratitude and appreciation? If they don't have gratitude for the
people who have given them everything; can you do nearly as much for them?
You can be sure that someone who treats others poorly, will eventually treat you poorly as well.
QUESTION ..5: Is there anything I'm hoping to change about this person after we're married?
Too many people make the mistake of marrying someone with the intention of trying to "improve" them after they're married. As a colleague of mine puts it: "You can probably expect someone to change after marriage for the worse" If you cannot fully accept this person the way they are now, then you are not ready to marry them.
In conclusion, dating doesn't have to be difficult and treacherous. The key is to try leading a little more with your head and less with your heart. It pays to be as objective as possible when you are dating; to be sure to ask questions that will help you get to the key issues. Falling in love is a great feeling, but when you wake up with a ring on your finger, you don't want to find yourself in trouble because you didn't do your homework.
Another perspective. ...
There are some people in your life that need to be loved from a distance .... It's amazing what you can accomplish when you let go of or at least minimize your time with draining, negative, incompatible, not-going anywhere relationships. Observe the relationships around you. Pay attention... . Which ones lift and which ones lean? Which ones encourage and which ones discourage? Which ones are on a path of growth uphill and which ones are going downhill? When you leave certain people do you feel better or feel worse? Which ones always have drama or don't really understand, know, or appreciate you?
The more you seek quality, respect, growth, peace of mind, love and truth around you...the easier it will become for you to decide who gets to sit in the front row and who should be moved to the balcony of your
life. An African proverb states, "Before you get married, keep both eyes open, and after you marry, close one eye". Before you get involved and make a commitment to someone, don't let lust, pity, desperation, immaturity, ignorance, pressure from others or a low self-esteem make you blind to warning signs. Keep your eyes open, and don't fool yourself that you can change someone or that what you see as faults aren't
really that important.
Do you bring out the best in each other?
Do you compliment and compromise with each other, or do you compete, compare and control?
What do you bring to the relationship?
Do you bring past relationships, past hurt, past mistrust, past pain? You can't take someone to the altar to alter them.
You can't make someone love you or make someone stay.
If you develop self-esteem, spiritual discernment, and "a life", you won't find yourself making someone else responsible for your happiness or responsible for your pain. Seeking status, sex, and security are the wrong reasons to be in a relationship.
WHAT KEEPS A RELATIONSHIP STRONG ARE:
** Numero Uno - God - Putting God First in the relationship
1. TRUST
2. COMMUNICATION
3. INTIMACY
4. A SENSE OF HUMOR
5. SHARING TASKS
6. SOME GETAWAY TIME WITHOUT BUSINESS OR CHILDREN
7. DAILY EXCHANGES (meal, shared activity, hug, call, touch, notes,
8. SHARING COMMON GOALS AND INTERESTS
9. GIVING EACH OTHER SPACE TO GROW WITHOUT FEELING INSECURE
10. GIVING EACH OTHER A SENSE OF BELONGING AND ASSURANCES OF COMMITMENT
If these qualities are missing, the relationship will erode as resentment, withdrawal, abuse, neglect, dishonesty, and pain replace it.
When it comes to making the decision about choosing a life partner, no one wants to make a mistake. Yet, with a divorce rate of close to 50%, it appears that many are making serious mistakes in their approach to
finding Mr./Miss. Right!
Golden Rules for Finding/Keeping Your Life Partner
When it comes to making the decision about choosing a life partner, no one wants to make a mistake. Yet, with a divorce rate of close to 50%, it appears that many are making serious mistakes in their approach to finding Mr./Miss. Right!
If you ask most couples who are engaged why they're getting married, they'll say: "We're in love". I believe this is the #1 mistake people make when they date. Choosing a life partner should never be based on love.
Though this may sound "not politically correct",there' s a profound truth here. Love is not the basis for getting married. Rather, love is the result of a good marriage. When the other ingredients are right, then the love will come. Let me say it again: "You can't build a lifetime relationship on love alone". You need a lot more!!!
Here are five questions you must ask yourself if you're serious about finding and keeping a life partner.
QUESTION ..1: Do we share a common life purpose?
Why is this so important? Let me put it this way: If you're married for 20 or 30 years, that's a long time to live with someone. What do you plan to do with each other all that time? Travel, eat and jog together? You need to share something deeper and more meaningful. You need a common life purpose. Two things can happen in a marriage:
(1) You can grow together, or
(2) You can grow apart
50% of the people out there are growing apart. To make a marriage work, you need to know what you want out of life! Bottom line. . .marry someone who wants the same thing.
QUESTION ..2: Do I feel safe expressing my feelings and thoughts with this person?
This question goes to the core of the quality of your relationship. Feeling safe means you can communicate openly with this person. The basis of having good communication is trust - i.e. trust that I won't get "punished" or hurt for expressing my honest thoughts and feelings. A colleague of mine defines an abusive person as someone with whom you feel afraid to express your thoughts and feelings. Be honest with yourself on this one. Make sure you feel emotionally safe with the person you plan to marry.
QUESTION ..3: Is he/she a mensch?
A mensch is someone who is a refined and sensitive person. How can you test? Here are some suggestions:
- Do they work on personal growth on a regular basis?
- Are they serious about improving themselves?
A teacher of mine defines a good person as "someone who is always striving to be good and do the right thing". So ask about your Significant Other . . . What do they do with their time? Is this person materialistic? Usually a materialistic person is not someone whose top priority is character refinement.
There are essentially two types of people in the world:
(1) People who are dedicated to personal growth and........
(2) People who are dedicated to seeking comfort
Someone whose goal in life is to be comfortable will put personal comfort ahead of doing the right thing. You need to know that before walking down the aisle.
QUESTION ..4: How does he/she treat other people?
The one most important thing that makes any relationship work is the ability to give. By giving, we mean the ability to give another person pleasure. Ask: Is this someone who enjoys giving pleasure to others or are they wrapped up in themselves and self-absorbed? To measure this, think about the following: How do they treat people whom they do not have to be nice to, such as waiters, bus boys, taxi drivers, etc. How do they treat their parents and siblings? Do they have gratitude and appreciation? If they don't have gratitude for the
people who have given them everything; can you do nearly as much for them?
You can be sure that someone who treats others poorly, will eventually treat you poorly as well.
QUESTION ..5: Is there anything I'm hoping to change about this person after we're married?
Too many people make the mistake of marrying someone with the intention of trying to "improve" them after they're married. As a colleague of mine puts it: "You can probably expect someone to change after marriage for the worse" If you cannot fully accept this person the way they are now, then you are not ready to marry them.
In conclusion, dating doesn't have to be difficult and treacherous. The key is to try leading a little more with your head and less with your heart. It pays to be as objective as possible when you are dating; to be sure to ask questions that will help you get to the key issues. Falling in love is a great feeling, but when you wake up with a ring on your finger, you don't want to find yourself in trouble because you didn't do your homework.
Another perspective. ...
There are some people in your life that need to be loved from a distance .... It's amazing what you can accomplish when you let go of or at least minimize your time with draining, negative, incompatible, not-going anywhere relationships. Observe the relationships around you. Pay attention... . Which ones lift and which ones lean? Which ones encourage and which ones discourage? Which ones are on a path of growth uphill and which ones are going downhill? When you leave certain people do you feel better or feel worse? Which ones always have drama or don't really understand, know, or appreciate you?
The more you seek quality, respect, growth, peace of mind, love and truth around you...the easier it will become for you to decide who gets to sit in the front row and who should be moved to the balcony of your
life. An African proverb states, "Before you get married, keep both eyes open, and after you marry, close one eye". Before you get involved and make a commitment to someone, don't let lust, pity, desperation, immaturity, ignorance, pressure from others or a low self-esteem make you blind to warning signs. Keep your eyes open, and don't fool yourself that you can change someone or that what you see as faults aren't
really that important.
Do you bring out the best in each other?
Do you compliment and compromise with each other, or do you compete, compare and control?
What do you bring to the relationship?
Do you bring past relationships, past hurt, past mistrust, past pain? You can't take someone to the altar to alter them.
You can't make someone love you or make someone stay.
If you develop self-esteem, spiritual discernment, and "a life", you won't find yourself making someone else responsible for your happiness or responsible for your pain. Seeking status, sex, and security are the wrong reasons to be in a relationship.
WHAT KEEPS A RELATIONSHIP STRONG ARE:
** Numero Uno - God - Putting God First in the relationship
1. TRUST
2. COMMUNICATION
3. INTIMACY
4. A SENSE OF HUMOR
5. SHARING TASKS
6. SOME GETAWAY TIME WITHOUT BUSINESS OR CHILDREN
7. DAILY EXCHANGES (meal, shared activity, hug, call, touch, notes,
8. SHARING COMMON GOALS AND INTERESTS
9. GIVING EACH OTHER SPACE TO GROW WITHOUT FEELING INSECURE
10. GIVING EACH OTHER A SENSE OF BELONGING AND ASSURANCES OF COMMITMENT
If these qualities are missing, the relationship will erode as resentment, withdrawal, abuse, neglect, dishonesty, and pain replace it.
When it comes to making the decision about choosing a life partner, no one wants to make a mistake. Yet, with a divorce rate of close to 50%, it appears that many are making serious mistakes in their approach to
finding Mr./Miss. Right!
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Everyone wants to touch Jesus, but who is really touching him with faith?
A Dead Girl and a Sick Woman
(Luke 8: 40-56 NIV)
40Now when Jesus returned, a crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him. 41Then a man named Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, came and fell at Jesus' feet, pleading with him to come to his house 42because his only daughter, a girl of about twelve, was dying.
As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him. 43And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years,[d] but no one could heal her. 44She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped.
45"Who touched me?" Jesus asked. When they all denied it, Peter said, "Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you."
46But Jesus said, "Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me."
47Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. 48Then he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace."
49While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," he said. "Don't bother the teacher any more."50Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed."
51When he arrived at the house of Jairus, he did not let anyone go in with him except Peter, John and James, and the child's father and mother. 52Meanwhile, all the people were wailing and mourning for her. "Stop wailing," Jesus said. "She is not dead but asleep."
53They laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. 54But he took her by the hand and said, "My child, get up!" 55Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat. 56Her parents were astonished, but he ordered them not to tell anyone what had happened.
A Dead Girl and a Sick Woman
(Luke 8: 40-56 NIV)
40Now when Jesus returned, a crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him. 41Then a man named Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, came and fell at Jesus' feet, pleading with him to come to his house 42because his only daughter, a girl of about twelve, was dying.
As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him. 43And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years,[d] but no one could heal her. 44She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped.
45"Who touched me?" Jesus asked. When they all denied it, Peter said, "Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you."
46But Jesus said, "Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me."
47Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. 48Then he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace."
49While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue ruler. "Your daughter is dead," he said. "Don't bother the teacher any more."50Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, "Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed."
51When he arrived at the house of Jairus, he did not let anyone go in with him except Peter, John and James, and the child's father and mother. 52Meanwhile, all the people were wailing and mourning for her. "Stop wailing," Jesus said. "She is not dead but asleep."
53They laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. 54But he took her by the hand and said, "My child, get up!" 55Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat. 56Her parents were astonished, but he ordered them not to tell anyone what had happened.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
For a time such as this...
It's been a while since I've written from my heart. I suppose that much of it has to do with the fact that lately I've been feeling like I have nothing to say. It's as if I've been silenced. My heart wants to speak, but nothing comes out of my mouth. It's even taking a lot to write this. This started happening last month. I can't really explain it. I asked God to humble me and to increase wisdom, grace, meekness, and patience. I beleive He's doing and did just that for a time such as this.
This week I feel like I'm in the fight of my life for my life as I am trying to make a career change. There have been many random occurences in the form of negative people, making negative comments, and doing negative things. My heart feels heavy, but I haven't said anything or reacted negatively. God silenced me for a time such as this so I would just smile and let things go in one ear and out the other. He also silenced me so that I wouldn't become upset or call home for money when an unexpected financial matter arose. Instead He urged me to give, even when I didn't really have it and to sit still. The money was returned to me in a check a family member sent just because. Call me crazy, but everyday when I go to my mailbox, I beleive that there's a check in there for me with a note that says,"just because." Last year, I started believing for a random check in the mail for a million dollars, but then I realized that I need a check for billions of dollars to help and bless people the way I want to. So I now beleive for billions. A million would barely be enough for me =).
Every time I try to go to another level in life or make an important change, negative things start to occur, usually the week before. It's usually an illness, cold, or family drama, but this time it's been people and distractions. The great thing is that I'm aware of this pattern, so I"m able to walk through it already knowing why this happens. I knew this week would be weird, so I prayed about it beforehand. I'm able to stand, because I'm sure of the things hoped for and are not yet seen.
In addition to trying to make a career change, I'm also about to end a six month spiritual fast on June 13. The fast is centered around Knight In Shining Armor by Christian author P. Bunny Wilson. It's not one of those how to get a man books; rather it's more about surrendering to God, being intimate with Him, healing past wounds, how we want the Lord to view us, and living in excellence. The author stresses the importance of taking care of those things before one gets married, and she also discusses questions to consider when choosing a mate. During the 6 months the reader must abstain from dating, courting, and "talking to" guys, so that she can focus on the Lord's will for her life and get her life in order. My life has changed dramatically. In December, I started with a list of things that I wanted to change during the 6 months. All but one are are checked off. Yeah!!!! The other is on it's way. I haven't been on a date during this time, and I was able to cut ties with guys who weren't husband material (at least not for me). It was not lonely at all, and the quiet times really allowed me to find clarity about the direction of my life. I highly recommend this book. I'm excited about reaching this milestone, so of course the devil is going to try to trip me up before I get there. The saying new level, new devil is so true.
So although things are a little hazy, I stand because I'm sure of the things hoped for and are not yet seen.
Speaking of dating...I've been silent in that area too, and God is doing something different. I'm honest about this....Before I was saved, I would meet a guy, and we would go on a date. Before the date, there was usually a phone conversation in which the basics were discussed (where are you from, what do you do, are you married =), etc). Notice that God was not discussed, and the highlight was what he did for a living (so sad, I know). I confess that after the first phone call, I would be planning out my future with this guy. Seriously, I would think, "OK, he does x, y, and z, so he probably makes this amount, which means I could stay home after the children come, or I couldn't stay home when the children come, or maybe I'll be able to work part time. In my mind I had a picture of what life would be like with this guy. I'd tell my friends about my new excitement. Then during the first date, I would be so dissappointed that the guy I made him to be in my head, was not the guy presented before me. On top of that, I had to go back to my friends and tell them why he wasn't the one. What a mess.
Some people were trying to play matchmaker. I don't have any updates on that, but I realized how much I grew in that area. I realized that God silenced me for a time such as this. I didn't get overly excited and go into girlish romantic thoughts about the future. I didn't have much to say. God is doing this so my thoughts and expectations won't get ahead of me in my future dealings with guys, and so that I can see them for who they really are. His relationship with God and others has replaced the rank of what he does for a living. Lord, forgive me for being so shallow. Thank you for fixing that in my life. I"ve also fallen in love with the Lord, and I love myself.
Love and Be loved,
Z
It's been a while since I've written from my heart. I suppose that much of it has to do with the fact that lately I've been feeling like I have nothing to say. It's as if I've been silenced. My heart wants to speak, but nothing comes out of my mouth. It's even taking a lot to write this. This started happening last month. I can't really explain it. I asked God to humble me and to increase wisdom, grace, meekness, and patience. I beleive He's doing and did just that for a time such as this.
This week I feel like I'm in the fight of my life for my life as I am trying to make a career change. There have been many random occurences in the form of negative people, making negative comments, and doing negative things. My heart feels heavy, but I haven't said anything or reacted negatively. God silenced me for a time such as this so I would just smile and let things go in one ear and out the other. He also silenced me so that I wouldn't become upset or call home for money when an unexpected financial matter arose. Instead He urged me to give, even when I didn't really have it and to sit still. The money was returned to me in a check a family member sent just because. Call me crazy, but everyday when I go to my mailbox, I beleive that there's a check in there for me with a note that says,"just because." Last year, I started believing for a random check in the mail for a million dollars, but then I realized that I need a check for billions of dollars to help and bless people the way I want to. So I now beleive for billions. A million would barely be enough for me =).
Every time I try to go to another level in life or make an important change, negative things start to occur, usually the week before. It's usually an illness, cold, or family drama, but this time it's been people and distractions. The great thing is that I'm aware of this pattern, so I"m able to walk through it already knowing why this happens. I knew this week would be weird, so I prayed about it beforehand. I'm able to stand, because I'm sure of the things hoped for and are not yet seen.
In addition to trying to make a career change, I'm also about to end a six month spiritual fast on June 13. The fast is centered around Knight In Shining Armor by Christian author P. Bunny Wilson. It's not one of those how to get a man books; rather it's more about surrendering to God, being intimate with Him, healing past wounds, how we want the Lord to view us, and living in excellence. The author stresses the importance of taking care of those things before one gets married, and she also discusses questions to consider when choosing a mate. During the 6 months the reader must abstain from dating, courting, and "talking to" guys, so that she can focus on the Lord's will for her life and get her life in order. My life has changed dramatically. In December, I started with a list of things that I wanted to change during the 6 months. All but one are are checked off. Yeah!!!! The other is on it's way. I haven't been on a date during this time, and I was able to cut ties with guys who weren't husband material (at least not for me). It was not lonely at all, and the quiet times really allowed me to find clarity about the direction of my life. I highly recommend this book. I'm excited about reaching this milestone, so of course the devil is going to try to trip me up before I get there. The saying new level, new devil is so true.
So although things are a little hazy, I stand because I'm sure of the things hoped for and are not yet seen.
Speaking of dating...I've been silent in that area too, and God is doing something different. I'm honest about this....Before I was saved, I would meet a guy, and we would go on a date. Before the date, there was usually a phone conversation in which the basics were discussed (where are you from, what do you do, are you married =), etc). Notice that God was not discussed, and the highlight was what he did for a living (so sad, I know). I confess that after the first phone call, I would be planning out my future with this guy. Seriously, I would think, "OK, he does x, y, and z, so he probably makes this amount, which means I could stay home after the children come, or I couldn't stay home when the children come, or maybe I'll be able to work part time. In my mind I had a picture of what life would be like with this guy. I'd tell my friends about my new excitement. Then during the first date, I would be so dissappointed that the guy I made him to be in my head, was not the guy presented before me. On top of that, I had to go back to my friends and tell them why he wasn't the one. What a mess.
Some people were trying to play matchmaker. I don't have any updates on that, but I realized how much I grew in that area. I realized that God silenced me for a time such as this. I didn't get overly excited and go into girlish romantic thoughts about the future. I didn't have much to say. God is doing this so my thoughts and expectations won't get ahead of me in my future dealings with guys, and so that I can see them for who they really are. His relationship with God and others has replaced the rank of what he does for a living. Lord, forgive me for being so shallow. Thank you for fixing that in my life. I"ve also fallen in love with the Lord, and I love myself.
Love and Be loved,
Z
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
I came across an article that really touched me..........
DEVOTIONAL
A Well Tilled Garden
By Cathy Irvin
CBN.com -- Ever pictured your home as a well tilled garden? If you think of a home as a garden it can be whatever you put into it, as well as what you take out of it.
Remember the story in Matthew 13 about the wheat and the tares, sometimes known as the sower and the seeds parable? Jesus is the sower and the field is the world. He sows good seeds but the enemy of our souls sows bad seeds.
We can relate to this story and bring it down to our daily life and say we are either sowing daily those good seeds like the wheat or bad seeds like those rotten old weeds in our homes.
However, unlike this story in the bible where both the wheat and tares remain until the harvest we have to get the weeds out now! They are choking the life out of families today.
What are these weeds or tares? They are seeds of contention and strife. We must begin now to till our garden in our home and sow seeds of love and kindness instead of all the hostility and unkind words. We have to get those bad seeds out and sow love, peace and joy in their place.
James 3:16 (Amp) says,
"For wherever there is jealousy (envy) and contention (rivalry and selfish ambition), there will also be confusion (unrest, disharmony, rebellion) and all sorts of evil and vile practices."
I heard an interview on the radio about disciplining unruly children and how oftentimes the cause of these children’s behavior problems are “learned behavior”. They went on to on to say that 99.9% comes from the home life.
We must be ambassadors of Christ’s love to our family members. We have to be the living epistles because the gospel must be seen by our actions and words. It is first in Jerusalem, (meaning our home) Judah, (our city and community) and then to the uttermost parts of the world.
How can we change and sow the good seeds? God tells us how in His word.
Romans 12:2 (Amp) says,
"Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you]."
We can’t take strife and contention to the fields (God’s world) we must take seeds of peace and hope. If we can’t get it together with our own little garden in our home it may be time for us all to do some tilling right where we are planted.
DEVOTIONAL
A Well Tilled Garden
By Cathy Irvin
CBN.com -- Ever pictured your home as a well tilled garden? If you think of a home as a garden it can be whatever you put into it, as well as what you take out of it.
Remember the story in Matthew 13 about the wheat and the tares, sometimes known as the sower and the seeds parable? Jesus is the sower and the field is the world. He sows good seeds but the enemy of our souls sows bad seeds.
We can relate to this story and bring it down to our daily life and say we are either sowing daily those good seeds like the wheat or bad seeds like those rotten old weeds in our homes.
However, unlike this story in the bible where both the wheat and tares remain until the harvest we have to get the weeds out now! They are choking the life out of families today.
What are these weeds or tares? They are seeds of contention and strife. We must begin now to till our garden in our home and sow seeds of love and kindness instead of all the hostility and unkind words. We have to get those bad seeds out and sow love, peace and joy in their place.
James 3:16 (Amp) says,
"For wherever there is jealousy (envy) and contention (rivalry and selfish ambition), there will also be confusion (unrest, disharmony, rebellion) and all sorts of evil and vile practices."
I heard an interview on the radio about disciplining unruly children and how oftentimes the cause of these children’s behavior problems are “learned behavior”. They went on to on to say that 99.9% comes from the home life.
We must be ambassadors of Christ’s love to our family members. We have to be the living epistles because the gospel must be seen by our actions and words. It is first in Jerusalem, (meaning our home) Judah, (our city and community) and then to the uttermost parts of the world.
How can we change and sow the good seeds? God tells us how in His word.
Romans 12:2 (Amp) says,
"Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you]."
We can’t take strife and contention to the fields (God’s world) we must take seeds of peace and hope. If we can’t get it together with our own little garden in our home it may be time for us all to do some tilling right where we are planted.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
I Don't Look Like What I've Been Through
My mother and brothers are on vacation in the Virgin Islands for Memorial Day weekend. Before they, left my mom sent a picture of me in the V.I. I think I was two or three. In the E-mail she asked me what happened to the little girl who never feared anything. She said I wasn't afraid of the ocean or it's contents. She said I ran toward it, and kept trying to go as far as I could. The woman in the background is my grandmother, and she doesn't swim.
My mother and brothers are on vacation in the Virgin Islands for Memorial Day weekend. Before they, left my mom sent a picture of me in the V.I. I think I was two or three. In the E-mail she asked me what happened to the little girl who never feared anything. She said I wasn't afraid of the ocean or it's contents. She said I ran toward it, and kept trying to go as far as I could. The woman in the background is my grandmother, and she doesn't swim.
To be honest, I guess life just happened. Things happen that can wear away at us. Before we know it we are not the person who God created us to be. However, through the grace of God we are restored. So many things happened between that time and below on my 25th birthday. There was joy, but there were also many trials, tribulations, pain, insecurities, and uncertainty. I now see how the devil set up strategic traps, so that I would fail, but God kept me. It's funny how we can go from a God designed life to living a life of death. My 25th birthday was something that I never took for granted, because I realized that I almost didn't make it to see age 25. When you hear me say that I'm still standing, I really mean that I'm still standing. It was also around the first time in my life that I remember being truly confident.
So many things happened between the day of my 25th birthday, and later that year in the picture below. Many changes took place, many habits were broken, many yokes were broken, and ties were cut, but I wasn't really where I needed to be. I was still outside of God's purpose for my life. I chose the last two pictures, because I can vividly remember the thoughts that I had about the direction of my life on those days.
So-o-o many things have happened between this picture and 26. So many things have happened between that picture and today. I can testify that when God is in your life there are no limits or boundaries to where He'll take you. I don't look like what I've been through, and it's all because of God's grace. I'm not fully where I want to be, and I'm humbled knowing that I am always a work in progress, but I've stepped into God's purpose for my life. His grace is more than enough for me, and I constantly thank Him for the patience He has built in me during my trials. I am thankful that I am open to helping others learn from my experiences.
What ever happened to the little girl who never feared anything? She disappeared for a little while, but she's back!
This Isn’t Infatuation
I love waking up embraced by you.
You make me feel so secure.
I hold on to you and pray that you don’t let go.
I turn to you and greet you with a smile.
My love, I’m honored that you chose me.
Our journey has been worthwhile.
I love the way you take care of me,
And make sure my every need is met.
You’ve truly upgraded me,
And I am so well-kept.
Many women dream of being rescued by a knight,
But you actually saved me,
And you told me that if I got with you,
That everything would be alright.
You told me to never worry or fear,
For my battles you will fight.
My love, you make me feel so safe.
Many women dream of being chosen by a prince.
They spend a lifetime grooming and preparing,
hoping to be a princess.
Well the king chose me, even when I looked a mess.
Because of your favor and love for me,
I am now a royal heiress.
I bow down before you my king.
My love, I surrender my body to you.
I submit to your every request.
I love your leadership.
You cover me best.
How can I serve you my love?
Sure, if it so pleases the king.
I love our walk, the way we talk, the way you treat others,
And how you listen to me.
I love how you never break your promises.
My love, you set me free.
No one can love me the way that you do.
You know me so well.
I couldn’t hide anything from you.
You are my love and my friend.
I know that a man will be in love with me,
And I will be in love with him too,
But Lord I know that his love,
Won’t compare to the love of you.
I know that people love me, and I love them too,
But Lord I know that their love,
Just doesn't compare to the love of you.
Lord, I love you.
Lord, I'm in love with you.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Fun and Funny...
Amber and I had a great time last weekend. We ate, talked, relaxed, laughed, went to restaurants, the mall, book stores, and ate some more. We were old ladies in the sense that we watched the food network and home and garden, read books, and tried a few recipes. We both love watching Run's House. It was fun. She is my oldest friend, and it was so good to see each other.
Yesterday, I had so-o-o much fun. I went to a softball game. I went to a Bobcats and Wizards game (Gilbert Arenas =), ok let me stop) last fall, but it's been a while since I 've been to an outdoor sporting event. The game was intense: it rained, a verbal altercation, a loosing teams first win of the season, and the teams played with heart. Did I say it rained? I didn't even care that may hair and clothes were wet. I was having fun. Plus I got to meet some new people. Sometimes we let little things like keeping our hair style prevent us from having fun or swimming (my people, my people). Life is too short. Have fun!
Last week I had the pleasure of being hit on by two men. One appeared to be in his 60s and the other was 47. Number one approached me in Wal-mart saying he had seen me before. He asked if I was married. When I said no he asked if he could take me out. I declined. Then he said he was looking for a FRIEND. I said I wasn't interested. Inside I felt embarrassed. There were people watching this foolishness. Number two also said he saw me before. I was very uncomfortable, so I started answering his questions as "yes Sir" and "no Sir" so he would get the hint that I noticed there was an age difference, and I was not into him. He told me not to call him Sir because he was only 47. I looked at his hand and saw a ring. He gave me his card and told me to call him sometime. Once again, I was embarrassed. With number 2 my stomach was in knots. I felt that there was just something perverse about this man. Later the self conscious part of me wanted to know if there was something that I was putting out that made these creepy men think it was okay to approach me. I was actually saddened. A friend told me to calm down. She explained that I appear soft, quiet, and nice, and perverse people see that as a weakness and as someone they can take advantage of. She said of course they would have been surprised that I'm really not quiet, but that's all it is. I understand, and I will not trade in my gentleness, but it made me think of all the women and men who act hard, but really aren't, because they fear being taken advantage of. I also thought about how so many times we know that something just isn't quite right about a person, but we date that person, marry that person, let that person around our children, or do business with that person. We have to trust our God given instincts.
Amber and I had a great time last weekend. We ate, talked, relaxed, laughed, went to restaurants, the mall, book stores, and ate some more. We were old ladies in the sense that we watched the food network and home and garden, read books, and tried a few recipes. We both love watching Run's House. It was fun. She is my oldest friend, and it was so good to see each other.
Yesterday, I had so-o-o much fun. I went to a softball game. I went to a Bobcats and Wizards game (Gilbert Arenas =), ok let me stop) last fall, but it's been a while since I 've been to an outdoor sporting event. The game was intense: it rained, a verbal altercation, a loosing teams first win of the season, and the teams played with heart. Did I say it rained? I didn't even care that may hair and clothes were wet. I was having fun. Plus I got to meet some new people. Sometimes we let little things like keeping our hair style prevent us from having fun or swimming (my people, my people). Life is too short. Have fun!
Last week I had the pleasure of being hit on by two men. One appeared to be in his 60s and the other was 47. Number one approached me in Wal-mart saying he had seen me before. He asked if I was married. When I said no he asked if he could take me out. I declined. Then he said he was looking for a FRIEND. I said I wasn't interested. Inside I felt embarrassed. There were people watching this foolishness. Number two also said he saw me before. I was very uncomfortable, so I started answering his questions as "yes Sir" and "no Sir" so he would get the hint that I noticed there was an age difference, and I was not into him. He told me not to call him Sir because he was only 47. I looked at his hand and saw a ring. He gave me his card and told me to call him sometime. Once again, I was embarrassed. With number 2 my stomach was in knots. I felt that there was just something perverse about this man. Later the self conscious part of me wanted to know if there was something that I was putting out that made these creepy men think it was okay to approach me. I was actually saddened. A friend told me to calm down. She explained that I appear soft, quiet, and nice, and perverse people see that as a weakness and as someone they can take advantage of. She said of course they would have been surprised that I'm really not quiet, but that's all it is. I understand, and I will not trade in my gentleness, but it made me think of all the women and men who act hard, but really aren't, because they fear being taken advantage of. I also thought about how so many times we know that something just isn't quite right about a person, but we date that person, marry that person, let that person around our children, or do business with that person. We have to trust our God given instincts.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Under the Surface...
We know that God is at work under the surface plotting, planning, positioning, and removing details in our lives. We know that we cannot fully fathom God's ways, but we trust that His ways make sense to Him and for His greater good. It's not a secret that I feel so out of my purpose at my current job and that it takes a lot of motivation in the morning to go to work. It's not that my job is bad; it's just not me. I'm fine once I'm here, but before then it takes work. Working outside of our purpose is death, and I will not do that again. I am excited to be teaching. Well I now know that God has kept me at my current place of work this long so that I would meet a special person. No, not my husband =), but a woman after His heart.
I knew she was saved the first day I met her. There was just something about her. Later just to be safe I said, "I don't know what your religious background is, but I'd like to invite you to a conference my church is having." She laughed, because she already knew who I trusted in. Little did I know that she had been there before and likes it. She will only be in NC for a little while and plans to move back home. I feel like God wanted to make sure that I could recognize His children and help them in times of need. It feels like we've known each other forever. We have a hard time working, because we want to talk. She is very wise, and I feel like God positioned her in my life to show me where He's trying to take me in my walk with Him. She has taught me so much, and to watch her fast and pray and be full of faith through her tough times in life and marriage humbles and encourages me. She does not crumble. I"m not trying to get all spookey deep, but I really wanted to share this. I can't even articulate everything God has revealed in our friendship.
Readers, I know it seems like I talk a lot about relationships and my future husband. Yes, I want to teach and encourage and have a beautiful spirit, but wife is also in my purpose. It's something I just know, and He confirms it so much. My husband is going to be great. It's not just going to be a marriage, but a ministry. People will wonder how we can be together for so long and still love and like each other. We are also going to touch and change lives, and the world is not ready for our children. This morning she left a note on my desk from something she saw that read: A woman should be so hidden in God that only a man seeking God can find her.
Enough said.
A childhood friend is coming to visit this weekend, and I am too excited. We met in the third grade. We went to different grade schools, but we lived in the same neighborhood. At that time there was only a few black families living there. We were both the only black person in our classes. I would look out the window as she rode her bike. My parents would say, "why don't you go play with the black girl." Little did I know that she would watch me as I rode my bike, and her parents would say the same thing. Then she would ride her bike to my house and just stare at it. I would ride my bike to her house and just stare at it. We were too shy to knock on the door. One day we were outside at the same time and the rest is history. We haven't seen each other in 5 years, so it will be great to catch up. I think she will be married soon, so I have a feeling God is at work under the surface allowing us to spend quality time before she goes to the next level.
We know that God is at work under the surface plotting, planning, positioning, and removing details in our lives. We know that we cannot fully fathom God's ways, but we trust that His ways make sense to Him and for His greater good. It's not a secret that I feel so out of my purpose at my current job and that it takes a lot of motivation in the morning to go to work. It's not that my job is bad; it's just not me. I'm fine once I'm here, but before then it takes work. Working outside of our purpose is death, and I will not do that again. I am excited to be teaching. Well I now know that God has kept me at my current place of work this long so that I would meet a special person. No, not my husband =), but a woman after His heart.
I knew she was saved the first day I met her. There was just something about her. Later just to be safe I said, "I don't know what your religious background is, but I'd like to invite you to a conference my church is having." She laughed, because she already knew who I trusted in. Little did I know that she had been there before and likes it. She will only be in NC for a little while and plans to move back home. I feel like God wanted to make sure that I could recognize His children and help them in times of need. It feels like we've known each other forever. We have a hard time working, because we want to talk. She is very wise, and I feel like God positioned her in my life to show me where He's trying to take me in my walk with Him. She has taught me so much, and to watch her fast and pray and be full of faith through her tough times in life and marriage humbles and encourages me. She does not crumble. I"m not trying to get all spookey deep, but I really wanted to share this. I can't even articulate everything God has revealed in our friendship.
Readers, I know it seems like I talk a lot about relationships and my future husband. Yes, I want to teach and encourage and have a beautiful spirit, but wife is also in my purpose. It's something I just know, and He confirms it so much. My husband is going to be great. It's not just going to be a marriage, but a ministry. People will wonder how we can be together for so long and still love and like each other. We are also going to touch and change lives, and the world is not ready for our children. This morning she left a note on my desk from something she saw that read: A woman should be so hidden in God that only a man seeking God can find her.
Enough said.
A childhood friend is coming to visit this weekend, and I am too excited. We met in the third grade. We went to different grade schools, but we lived in the same neighborhood. At that time there was only a few black families living there. We were both the only black person in our classes. I would look out the window as she rode her bike. My parents would say, "why don't you go play with the black girl." Little did I know that she would watch me as I rode my bike, and her parents would say the same thing. Then she would ride her bike to my house and just stare at it. I would ride my bike to her house and just stare at it. We were too shy to knock on the door. One day we were outside at the same time and the rest is history. We haven't seen each other in 5 years, so it will be great to catch up. I think she will be married soon, so I have a feeling God is at work under the surface allowing us to spend quality time before she goes to the next level.
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