Mickey Mouse (menopausal musings)

This blog post really is more for the ladies, so sorry bout that to you guys who say you do read my stuff. I have been somewhat "missing in action" the past few months and hope to get on a more regular writing schedule again. Always trying to be real to life at least as it works in my little sphere, I will let you know I hit a place called Menopause or rather it hit me. I am trying to get through it as graciously and with as little damage to those around me as possible.

I think I will look into what women in other cultures do when in this phase of life but I think we should find a cool cave somewhere with a view. Just hide out until we can emerge happy and able to live with ourselves and people again in a civil manner. But assuming most of us have lives that are busy with people relying on us to help their lives function in a fairly steady, predictable way we do not have the liberty to remove ourselves for long. Let's face it, some women can not even remove themselves long enough for a short bathroom visit without children calling out to them outside the door. Wish I could see a show of hands on that experience.

I am never very certain how to put things out here in writing without making anyone who is part of my life's moments feel less loved so...Lets just start with fiery hot flashes surging in leaving me dripping with that oh so unattractive sweat and drying up what fruit of the spirit I had grown. We all know dehydrated fruit is a little more difficult to chew and swallow even though it is fruit for real. And when do I need the fruit known as patience more than when I am stressed out which is also when the trigger is pulled turning on that unwanted embarrassing heat wave faucet. Clothes stick to me. I have a liquid mustache. My hair rises to the occasion by its natural curl assuming non-style poof and frizz. My skin changes shades of red and I am just so hot I have to stop and remember it is probably me and not anyone else in the room dwelling in her own secret furnace that has its own thermostat set to go off at the most inconvenient times.

Well then what does Mickey Mouse have to do with any of this? Reasonable question. It is just now part of the daily routine in the span of my responsibilities. We have a beautiful, lively toddler as part of our household now. We also still have our own three youngest kids, two who are awesome teens, and one who is a hard working, in his twenties Daddy to above mentioned beautiful, lively toddler.

We also are the residence of two dogs and one cat which is admittedly rather small in number from our earlier part time farm. In those years we had lots of teens, pre-teens and preschoolers, 17 sheep, a cow, ducks, lots of chickens and roosters, a pony, a pig, a goat (oh don't get me started on my not so fond memories of her!) and two dogs and way too many outside cats. We generally have always had fish in a tank in one room or another and sometimes rodents called pets because we bought them and put them in enclosures with wheels to run in at night and finally birds, turtles, salamanders, frogs, lightning bugs. I draw the line at snakes and spiders. That was definitely a rabbit trail...

So some of the verses that brought some relief this week were from Isaiah 54:11 and started out "Oh you afflicted one, tossed with tempest, and not comforted" Really!?! "Afflicted one" Well yes that seems to fit.
"Tossed with tempest and not comforted"...Yes again.The whole chapter is worth reading and so valuable when we are going through hard times. God sees it and He has promises for us there. Further on it says "Behold I have created the blacksmith who blows the coals in the fire..." that made me smile because it sounds like menopause to me "Who brings forth an instrument for his work.." we will come through this and we will be useful in a way we never were before. Hoping you are all blessed this week by the best blesser of all..and stay cool!

Coming Awake (the place between sleep and sunlight)

  I will lift my eyes to the hills- where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth, He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps Israel  shall neither slumber not sleep. The Lord is your keeper; the Lord is the shade at your right hand. the sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore. Psalm 121

She remembered these words later. Later, after she awoke from her twixt sleep and not quite awake state of being in the early morning. She had seen herself quite clearly on the cliff of a mountain in a range of barren granite mountains. No trees. No water. Stone gray skies. Just the barren mountains. And she was in modern day clothing not a dress like this pioneer woman in the picture. 
Something had dropped from her hand over the edge as she stood looking to the west over the place, sensing an unfriendly presence behind her that would push her over if it could. Tension hung thick in the air. Why was she here and what had fallen? Oddly enough it was a teddy bear she realized and as quickly as she recognized that she spun toward the east into a warrior stance with a sword in her hands to face her enemy. To engage him and to win. And that is when she came fully awake.
"It is time to lay aside childish things", she heard her Lord say.
"It is time to awaken from your slumber"
"Think it not strange the fiery darts of the wicked one but also know you can not put his darts out by childish means. You can not hang on to the things of children (unless it is a child like faith) and walk as a mature daughter of the King."
In the place of dream world and visions there were lessons to bring away to use in her everyday flesh and blood life. Spiritual armor firmly in place once again. Her disengagement from battle due blows dealt in the spirit and manifest in the natural had gone on far too long. It had made her lukewarm with weaponry dull from disuse. She had lost sight of her identity and purpose. She needed to hold to the recognition of her true enemy that ever seeks to steal, kill and destroy. Enough was really far too much given into his hands without a fight and she would once again be strategic in preventing his gaining any ground and begin recapturing those things he had stolen from her. She was a child no longer. Rather a woman of royal lineage whose weapons of warfare were not carnal but mighty through the authority God had entrusted her with to pull down strongholds. She was seeking re-enlistment to active duty.

TGIM (thank god its monday and other rambling thoughts)

Usually people thank God it's Friday. Understandably so. For most people that is. I wanted to thank God this morning was Monday. Because for me our weekends get so busy and full of everything that isn't normal weekday stuff that they never really feel like a time to refuel but to be spent even further. Not that what we do on weekends is stuff I hate. It's just packed with busyness (guess that is spelled right since spell check isn't showing it otherwise).

I am always a bit reluctant to comment on this topic, since the alternative of being alone with nothing at all to do or people to care for ever is more than horrible in my opinion. Like I am thinking people will say "well let's just leave her alone then". Hear me people I love who are part of my life,"I love you and am not trying to get rid of you! OK?"

 I am a person who recharges with alone time though. If God put me in time out, I might secretly breathe a sigh of relief. Only for a while... If we kept to the rule of thumb one minute per year in age I don't even think it would be enough time.... Even if I am getting up there in age. But no not really. I do not want to be on the sidelines of life either.

I remember when I was so sick with something that had been building and getting worse for two weeks after my last baby (bebe # 8) was born nearly 15 years ago. I was put in intensive care locally and then zipped by ambulance to a private room at Rush Presbyterian for a total of 11 days followed by about 9 months at home for recovery.(making a little notation that my healing was not instant even though I have seen Him do instant healings. But this one was a process even though I had been told by the Holy Spirit right before going to the hospital "You shall live and not die and declare the glory of God" I didn't know where that verse was then. You can find it in Psalm 118:17. Another version says "declare the works of God " which I am doing right here right now!)

The words in my head during those sick days would not come out straight from my mouth nor from my fingertips holding a pen to the paper.  And many other scary symptoms along with a pain that never went away in my head no matter what and got worse when lying down. BP totally out of control. Yet I was trying to care for a newborn and 7other kids and a husband, house, business and ministry stuff. Nope. Could not continue as I was. I really thought I might die. Really. So when I heard those Holy Spirit words I hung hard and fast even while thinking what is wrong with me that You are telling me I will not die from it?

Many tests later, after no findings, we prayed for the hidden things to be revealed and low and behold a new doctor came in and did a test like an ultrasound on my head. That is when I heard things like. "You have the brain pictures of a woman in her sixties." Alright I am not there even now, though I am closing in on the age. I was 42 at the time. I heard "You are primed to have massive stroke and it will either kill you instantly or leave you a quadriplegic" Option one or option two. Well I had option three and it had been given to me before I even left home for the hospital...It is times like these we need the word of God "Rhema-tized" to us. God breathed and made fresh and alive.

I needed that word "You will live and not die and declare the glory of God" spoken and re- spoken in my mind and heart. (Which is what meditating on the word of God is) I could not even read correctly at the time from what I remember. I needed His promise. It is why it is important to hide God's word in our hearts. We need to be able to pull on it in times of trouble! And we will have times of trouble. We can't be more than conquerors through Christ Who loves us, if there is not something to conquer. And catch that part "loves us". Hard things to overcome do not mean He has abandoned us. No He is the One who equips us to conquer. Even if I am flat on my back in pain. Even if I don't know where to begin. He shows me. Even if it is to whisper His promise for me to think on when I am too sick to cling actively.

I am grateful to God. So grateful!!! Just think. I could have been unable to do the busy weekend things. I could have been unable to cook the last 14 years of dinners one at a time to care for my family. Don't get me wrong there are times I am not exactly excited to brainstorm and cook one more "delicious perfectly nutritious meeting all the food groups for the day" dinner, lunch or breakfast. Or I could have been unable to wash more loads of clothes to await folding on the couch or dining room table than any one wants a count on. Or read stories to grandbabies. Or unable to speak of the "glory of God" whether to my kids or face to face with someone or in a women's group or teaching in a class or from the pulpit or *gasp* my blogs!

So back to Mondays. This is a restful Monday today. Obviously I am healed and have walked in that healing for 14 years now. Repeated tests show the condition to be gone even when I was sometimes worried it was making a sneaky return. I hope your day is restful too. Even if it is a rest that means you are leaning on Him in the midst of your busy work day. I pray you are strong and at peace today. I pray you hear your Heavenly Father's voice and know His love for you. That you are surrounded by His beauty.

Setting a Firewall (on my mouth)

Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips. Psalm 141:3


Today happens to be a day I thought I would make a fresh attempt  to get my laptop to "Display Internet Explorer". ARRGGG! (spell check is picking up on this expression and not recognizing it as a usable word) I really wish my laptop would just work. So I am using the family desktop which had to be replaced due to its own situation with a lightening strike almost two weeks ago.
Thank God I have that to use!

I happen to think machines should keep working on and on and if they break down I should be able to fix them without sending for a specialist who makes a living doing what they are specially trained to do and I am not.

Frankly it is that I think it is some relatively simple problem like a configuration or firewall setting that will be some quick fix for those who know but will cost me a bunch. So am I just cheap or what?  All my feeble attempts to follow recommendations from the computer and from friends have brought feeble results. And the start of a terrible headache causing me to abandon all attempts...for a while. *sigh*  Probably my headache is my hard head ramming into a wall that someone else will easily be able to scale.

So it got me thinking about a "conversation" this morning. I thought it was just that but evidently it was hitting the recipient (my husband) as "criticism". Once again allow me to *sigh*...When I heard myself through his ears I could see why he was affected that way. I am going to make a bit of an excuse here while still recognizing my fault in the matter. We are a busy, busy, busy people. Not with a high pressured career requiring lots of travel away from home and each other. No. Ours is more central than that.

Ours is the busyness of Family (all who are raising families who have time, please read between the lines there), Family Business (those who are business owners or part of a family business may read on and on between those lines as well), Volunteer work (things we want to be part of to further the purposes of God on this earth..like minded ones please read between those particular lines).

And then there is Marriage. Marriage is a good thing but just like my computer, does require maintnence and some installations along with updates so it does not have to be sent out to a specialist. I have to have firewalls to keep viruses, those unwanted intruders pushing through and making communication and easy functioning nearly impossible between us.

This means my marriage should not be getting just what ever left overs of my time and energy I might manage to scrape up. This means if I am going to "love my neighbor as myself" (and my husband is my nearest neighbor living within my own house), I have got to love myself too. I have to do for myself what will keep some reserves fueled so I can give something to my marriage not just my kids, or work or church. This will help build a wall that keeps harsh words from slipping, zinging, alright flying out of my mouth toward one who should not be a target but instead a recipient of my best. As Jesus said in Mark 3:25 "if a house is divided against itself, it can not stand" and I want this one standing a long, long time.

The Father's Walk

Not being a Father or even a man I am speculating a bit on this one. How proud God must have been to have a son so willing to go the distance and do it well. This was a life and death matter. His son laying aside his own life and royal heavenly home for years to accomplish something that would benefit many for many more years.
He knew how His son would be recieved and then betrayed by those who He was sent to be a gift to. He didn't have any better way than to give His best-Jesus- to let people know Who He was, how much He cared for them and to purchase them back from sin and Satans cruel captivity. Jesus said to His followers "if you see me, you see the Father" because he did what he saw his Father doing. He imitated his dad. Healing, forgiving,
loving, removing demonic oppression, walking, eating, rebuking stubborn religious leaders, teaching by his very life, inviting others to join the Father's household with him. People wanted to hang out with him.
What I see also though in the Father's walk is one of the greatest strategies for an April Fools joke ever pulled. I am taking a bit of liberty here with this I know. Think of this, all along God knew the devil knew that He, God the Father and this righteous one named Jesus were up to something! See the devil doesn't know everything but wants us to think he does. He figured he had to get rid of this Jesus fellow since he hadn't been able to have him killed as a child when Herod was on a baby killing spree to protect his throne from the newborn who was to become king someday. And he couldn't trip him up and make him sin ever. All he knew was Jesus was making waves and disturbing his demonic kingdom and may be the one the prophecies were talking about. Maybe he thought the prophecies were meaning a physical here on earth king taking over. Any way he was definately in the stirring up of the pharisees against Jesus to put him to death.
Pretty easy to do since they were a power hungry group for the most part. The scripture says in 1 Corinthians 2:7-8 if he (the devil) being a ruler of this world had known what God had planned, he would have never had Jesus put to death! And that my readers, was the awesome trick the Father played on the devil. The very death, burial and resurrection of His magnificent Son Jesus is the thing that is the salvation of mankind! It is the ultimate demise of Satan who now knows his time is very short so is trying to whip up all kinds of trouble if we as God's people will let him. Those who think of God as stuffy or mean or just a crutch or untouchable have got it wrong. Read the life of His son and when you see Jesus, you will see the picture of God Almighty who wants to be your Father.

The Mothers Walk

   
Did you ever get  to where the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus almost became more religion than real in your life? Sometimes I think about that in my life. The walk is kind of on auto pilot and the things I do "in the Name of Jesus" and for Him and His purposes take on a common feel. Out of a place of habit maybe rather than awe for Who He is and what He has done for me. Since I am always feeling the need to explain myself I will say here, there are habits that are good to have so I am not knocking developing habits.
Last night I watched the Passion of Christ. The one produced by Mel Gibson that had a success that took Hollywood by surprise. It naturally refreshed some things in me that needed some refreshing. You would have to be a hard pressed stone hearted person to not be moved by the movie and the truth behind it. Now if you are getting mad at me - don't - just watch it and see for yourself! 
So many things were happening in me as the movie unfolded. I remembered first of all why I love Him so much! The words scourged and whipped took on life and pain and a fresh realization that it was my sin not just everyones sin in a general impersonal sanitary way that He endured for.
Several angles stood out to me. Last night I was thinking of His mother's walk. His real down to earth chosen by God Mom who had mom feelings. His mom who counted His fingers and toes and planted kisses on them and being Jewish probably didn't play this little piggie but surely played toddler games with him. Who had to move just to protect him from would be life takers. Who knew His favorite foods and tucked him in at night. Who made sure He had clothes and sandles that fit and were cleaned. Who reminded Him to wash up and do His chores. Who searched for Him when he turned up missing as a 12 year old. (If she could misplace her son that certainly eases the mind of any mother with a known escape artist for a child or with a momentary lapse of awareness in the hustle of the days activities) 
His mom who had been given the amazing announcement that she was CHOSEN by God Creator of herself and of the universe to be the vessel who would be pregnant with and mom to His Son by an overshadowing of the Holy Spirit causing her - a virgin to conceive this miraculous child.
There were some awkward moments about this naturally and isn't it something that what we think might be awkward wasn't a stumbling block to God? Like she was "betrothed" to Joseph. A bit different than our idea of engagement here in our culture. She was still a virgin yet essentially married to him just in a period of waiting for a few things to be put into place before she could have the final steps taken that would allow her to go home with him and fully be his wife in every sense of the word. Now how was she to explain this to him? This was a huge area to trust God in. A big area to "Fear not" in. She knew she had seen an angel but who else would believe her? Especially once it was known she was pregnant and not with Joseph's baby either. Obviously God was in the details and she wasn't supposed to fret.
She went to stay with her cousin who was also pregnant now in her own amazing miracle as the angel had also told her would be the case in her own prophetic circumstances who then began to prophesy to Mary reafirming the angels news and letting her know in that way God has her and whatever is important about her reputation covered.
Then God not leaving Joseph out of the loop either has an angel visitation for him with instructions about Mary and her baby and how he is to take her as his wife not divorce her because really God chose him also.
There were other prophetic words along the way about Jesus to Mary from other people and we are told Mary "kept these things and pondered them in her heart". I believe they came flooding back in full force as she watched her Son carry the cross on his beaten back. And in that moment the prophetic word she had been given about a sword piercing her own heart was more real than any of us ever want to know.
Can I just venture something here though without seeming like I am irreverent? Is there any mother out there who could not say she has tasted the sword in some measure as she raised her children?  Those are children who we want to say are perfect but know they may mess up a little bit sometimes and some kids a whole lot and we treasure them anyway. Is there anyone of us mothers who have had children ridiculed or bullied or terribly sick or struggling with something and died a bit inside ourselves from the pain of our child and don't we stick with them?
Mary stuck with Jesus through the bitter death on the cross. Through people mocking, beating and betraying her son. Jesus looked at her from the cross and looked out for her from the cross. In the midst of his anguish He assigned one of His dearest followers to care for her as his own mother and for her to look to that one as her own son. She had other sons mind you but this disciple followed Him to deaths door with Mary. Those little baby hands and feet she had cherished. Those little toddler hands that held her hands and chubby toddler feet that perhaps stood upon hers in a dance or learning to walk. The feet that learned to take the strides of a man out distancing her steps walking the countryside to share just Who God really is and the hands that grasped a hammer surely but also reached to heal broken and sick people that many others refused to even touch. Those were the hands outsretched on the beam of the cross held in place by large nails. Those were the feet pierced for our transgressions. She had to trust and fear not that God surely had a plan, a last overcoming final word yet to be said in spite of her pain. And we know He did!!! Her sorrow was turned to dancing when Jesus rose from the grave triumphant and glorified securing our salvation when we believe He did it for our sins to be forgiven. So thankful for Gods plan and salvation by His faithful son Jesus. And so thankful for a mother that trusted enough for her Son to follow Gods plan for Him. 

Giants Like Dust-thoughts eating left over chicken

Late this morning as I sat eating left over KFC chicken and coleslaw for a brunch sort of thing, I read a devotional book I had not used before. I love to read and eat at the same time. So I opened not to the beginning but pretty much to the middle and noticed the devo's I happened to be reading included references to food among other things. Naturally I thought about what I was eating compared to some of the recipes in the book. Not stellar really.
Then I came across one written by Sheila Walsh in story form about a little boy who always took the lunch his mom made him each day but many times didn't eat it and his thoughts about why his mom was always trying to get him to eat something. That right there struck home because as my kids are growing I am like that. Looking for the right meal or snack to get some nutritious something into them to help them grow strong and healthy. And I find that while they eat some of what I send to school, sometimes it just gets shared at the table with the kids they are eating with. Like the boy who gave his lunch up to Jesus that day when he heard food was needed. Maybe he didn't like fish. Maybe he captured the essence of Jesus and His words and wanted to just be helpful. But Jesus took that little bit that in our natural eyes was FAR,FAR SHORT of what the situation called for and made it MORE THAN ENOUGH...such an amazing miracle! Have you ever had that happen? Someone coming by around dinner time and you only have so much but you ended up with leftovers anyway? It's the end of the month and creative cooking is called for and you end up with a recipe idea that gets made from whatever is on hand that is so good you know you will use it again?
Sheila tied this together with the words "...Too often we miss the point as daughters of the King. We look at what we have to offer, and it is clear to us that it's not enough so we hold back. Yet the fact that we don't have enough is the whole point. We are given the outrageous invitation to partner with the King of kings as he lavishes his love and grace on this earth. God uses little boys lunches and women's conferences and a few words spoken in kindness- and through these simple vessels, he changes the world.
Whatever you have today is enough. It might not look like it to you but put into Jesus's hands, it is more than enough."
I needed that today! I hope it helps you too.
I will adapt her prayer. Father, You take little and make it much. You make it more than enough. I give You my life today and ask You to meet needs with it. Take my words, take my talents that seem incomplete and use them how You choose. Don't let me look so much at how big the giants in my circumstances are and decide I can do nothing much so why do anything at all. It is in You I live and move and have my being and You make giants look like a speck of dust. Here I am Lord. Use me.

Of Skunks and Roses

If a Rose by any other name smells as sweet doesn't the opposite hold true also? As in a skunk by any other name still stinks when spraying.
This has to do with words and attitude AGAIN! Shouldn't I have improved in this by now? I was better in my early days even if it was from a misguided concept that submission meant I did not express my opinion and preferences.Why is it that I think my opinion is so right anyway? Or that it needs to be spoken all the time. And who made me judge of the intents of anothers heart and motive? Oh I know we can discern stuff and the word of God is a plumb line and does show the intents of our hearts. But isn't that just it tonight? I need it to show the intents of my OWN heart first and foremost.
Here is a bit of the behind the scenes on this. Have you ever had someone in passing hear just a snatch of what you were saying or doing and determine something about you from just that snatch? Well I think I had that happen to me tonight. Ouch. Someone overheard a kitchen conversation (not their fault they couldn't help but hear from the other room). What they could not know however was for part of what was happening even though the voices sounded harsh (all over a hamburger mind you of all the crazy things) there was really pantomime,teasing and exaggerated hand motions going on through that bit of what sounded like evil rebellious arguing. Then there were a couple comments made on another topic which were judgemental frankly and I am ashamed of that. However what could not be known again to the casual listener was the long history in our lives that would have pricked such a sharp, albeit, brief remark. 
All I can say, well obviously I am saying alot, but I think this is an area God is really dealing with me on. To the point of " am I behaving in such a way as to represent Him even in the privacy of my home?" Just what does that mean? Representing Him well. Does it mean I never mess up or now that I have a Savior I never do anything I need saving from ever again? And the person I was party to making a carelessly harsh remark about has really been making progress honestly and I think I need to watch out that I don't become like the Prodigal son's big brother- the one who did every thing "right"- but forgive. Or the pharisee who was saying to God "I thank You God I am not like that sinful tax collector over there. Let me show you my list of good things, religious things I do. I carry a copy in my purse along with the pictures of my kids and grandkids and hang another copy on my wall in a lovely frame so every one can see including You God. That way every one who comes around will know how Christian I am" And there we see calling a skunk a rose does not make it smell like one...and I want to be a person who carries the fragrance living life for Jesus brings, not just try to cover a skunky attitude with a temporary fragrance spray.

Proverbs 31 Wonderwoman

My first real introduction to this block of scripture was my not yet husband sitting next to me on the couch at my parents doing a bible study together. I was newly saved (just a few months into geting a handle on the New Creature in Christ walk and renewing my mind) and he had been into this thing for years now. Flipping open to Proverbs 31 and handing it to me to read, he seriously said "This is what I want in a wife". Has anyone else ever been overwhelmed (alright intimidated) by the job description of this Superwoman? Knowing myself as I did, I secretly thought but didn't speak the words by any means,"You are going to have to look somewhere else..." And here we are going on 33 years of marriage.

Let me ask you this. Did any of you ever buy a coat or a pair of shoes just a bit too big for your kids because you knew they would be growing into them (and hoped for a little more use what with the cost and all)? I think lots of times God does that with a call or position we are to fill. The "coat or shoes" He gives us  feel slightly too big. Maybe even way too big. But God knows we will grow into it.   

These days my husband tells me off and on that I fit the description. It has taken years and I still don't spin wool or sell belts in the market or have a house of servants to command. But one thing I get is that it is not a snap shot of one moment in this womans life. It is a progressive movement through seasons in her life...

She is obviously to the point of having grown children who "get it" now. Who may even have their own kids they are doing for and they bless her deliberate, loving, efforts in their lives. (No you are older now and that bathing suit is too skimpy...pick your clothes up off your floor...if you miss the trash can, pick it up...I am not the only one here who wanted a dog...unload the dishwasher...do your homework... brush your teeth...yes you do have to go to church...even "because I said so"...*sigh*...all makes sense now).

Uniquely fitted for the generation we are born in, our superwoman days have all kinds of things crammed in. If you are a parent too you are fitting those things in between carpooling like a jig-saw puzzle some times. Grocery shopping, Dr visits, pharmacy, school, work, watching movies with kids or husband, making sure the kids are fed and clothed, laundry, pets, delegation, driving lessons, haircuts, grandchildren, yard work, cleaning in general, volunteer work and so on.  And the pieces don't always want to fit where I want.  And then I am handed another piece to fit in just as I think I've got it balancing pretty well. Nope they are definately not all crisis moments but too many "goods" can lead to a crisis...

I think that was one of the intriguing things in proverbs 31. This woman handled it all without any show of crisis! She smiled at the future so she definately trusted God and balanced her priorities.That's where I want to be. I believe it is possible. Today I listed all my "obligations" and committments and realized NO WONDER I DONT FEEL LIKE WONDERWOMAN! Definately need some scaling back especially since so much seems to take me to doing things that take alot of hours and is primarily not for my family.

Don't get me wrong. I love what I find myself doing for others essentially in my mind "for the LORD" but also find it leaves me drained even as it gives a sense of satisfaction because I feel affirmed by doing something that ties into my giftings. So now I am in that pondering/praying mode (ok maybe I am still pondering more than praying at this point). What do I let go of? What do I keep?

Attic Living (and thunderstorms) Still Pearls and Costly Gems...

Anyone ever had not just one of those days, but one of those weeks? (of course everyone has) So this blog writer has been missing in action for several days. Not that this blog wasn't on my mind. I even attempted to start writing a few times...only to have to leave it alone again.  I can tell you the theme that fit my life best over the last week of proverbs was the one about the CONTENTIOUS WOMAN showing up through several chapters. Oh my, my, my...I wanted to move to an attic corner away from me myself!  

Wow, I would open my mouth and out would shoot words with a sharp edge. If I could have not spoken to people for a while...(I don't want to be mute honest! But I could have used a built in mute button)

I remember one morning getting kids ready for school, saying to my son, "you know that proverb about a crabby woman being like a constant dripping (does this refer to water torture-just a thought)? Well I am sorry. I feel like I have been like that." He casually said "Mom, you have been a thunderstorm!"                               
So it was a couple of non stop weeks so filled that I was taxed and maxed in all ways. But what does that tell me? It tells me something about priorities needing to be put in order. It tells me that God the Creator of all the Universe and everything in it, knowing how everything works best took a rest on the 7th day and declared we should too so He just might really mean what He said.

It takes active participation to not let things encroach our space. It might be weeds, dust, people, pets, illness, things, work demands, ministry. It isn't all bad stuff. We just need to have it prioritized and leave some R&R time. Of course people needing me makes me feel loved and useful and is better than the alternative of loneliness and no people or the inability to even be mobile. I have to realize the universe may not stop running without my feet constantly running, but eventually my little world around me will stop running well, and so will I, if I don't pace myself better.

So that crankiness and impatience even though we don't want to live in that place, might just be an indication of taking time for better scheduling and prioritizing (and dare I say it some time for you). Someone once told me "Lea, God made you a human being not a human doing". Hard for someone whose bent is acts of service to wrap her mind around.

Find some time for rest today. Carve those moments. Snatch them as gifts from God who is smiling on you today and loves you enough to want you to enjoy abundant life...

FIRE!!! (that purifies)

                    


The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the hearts.
proverbs 17:3 

                                                                                                                                                                               http://prayerpups.com/

There are leaf burning piles or bonfires both hopefully contained and as long as they are used properly safe. Gas stoves, furnaces and fireplaces are useful. There are destructive fires like a housefire or forest fire or wildfire. And there are refining fires to purifiy metals...

So what do your fires look like? You know...your walking life out day by day experience fires.
Because you know what we all have them of one sort or another because we are humans in a still fallen world. And lest you think lots of money will prevent them I would like to challenge that thought not because I think money is an evil commodity or doesn't make life easier. I think money can mask much.
Through a ridiculous experience with a scam, we ended up with some magazines we wouldn't normally buy. You know ones that keep the general population up on what is happening with the society of the rich and famous of Hollywood. Normally we toss them-gasp! Well there are a couple reasons for that. One is I am not all that interested in the gossip and people bashing that happens in them. I am also just sad and embarrassed for the ones the articles are spreading wildfire about. See they do have their fires...Do I want all my troubles out there mistold, hyped about for millions to discuss? What a lack of privacy (which is why I want to be real in my writing but also make sure I am protecting the privacy of those who are part of my life dealings).

Today I heard again about the 3 Hebrew men who refused to bow down to the kings idol so got tossed into the fire. The one the king had his guys make 7x's hotter to intimidate these three into bowing. Nope, did not bow! Take a moment to be in awe of that committment.
Not many of us have that fire to face. I know in other nations some do face incredible persecution for being a follower of Jesus. Though as we move into end times only God knows the measure of what we will face here.

But aside from that what are the normally fiery trials that are there to prove our faith? Can I just pull it close? What about sick kids and school....there is a whole world of fire packed into that sometimes...What about sickness and disability in general that seems to go on and haven't quite seen total healing yet so still have to manage. Maybe you have elder care to manage. Maybe you are the elderly one not wanting to burden anyone or give up independence.What about losing loved ones to death or divorce? Job loss. Mortgage payments. Teenagers, toddlers, infants...Overwhelming decisions to make. Loneliness. Slander. Car trouble.  What about hearing from God about a call on your life but you are finding yourself not walking in that supposed glorious picture of a call and are wondering why you are working a "regular" job...Hearing Satans sinister whisper "Did God really say?"...Walking in integrity....

Will I believe God in my hard, no fruit on the vine yet, sickness, broken relationship experiences. Let's take it to this. Will I believe in my fire that God WILL prosper the work of my hands. That He IS Jehovah Jireh my Provider. That He IS Jehovah Raphah my God Who (stitches me up and makes me whole) Healer. That He IS Yahweh Shalom my Peace. That He IS Immanuel my God Who IS with me and so on! Will I believe that in my fire like the 3 who said of  their fire..."We know our God is..." Will I endure testing and put His word to the test?
Will I be found first made pure by the sacrifice Jesus  made for me and then again by holding tight when I feel my world is crashing in and maybe really is for awhile...will I say like the 3 "my God is able to deliver me" and not assume when it doesn't happen in MY time frame that He has left the scene but rather is in fact walking in the fire with me?
Gold is not refined by itself...Get that. It is processed by fire and watched over as it is purified. The fire of purification is particularly hot. The melting point of gold is 1064.18 degrees c or 1947.52 degrees f. Don't mistake me and think I am accusing God of purposely raining fire on me as a game of "Will She Endure". He doesn't play cat and mouse with us. But life will present many opportunities to test, prove and purify. No testimony without the test. No pushing impurities to the surface for skimming off without the fire.

Sigh...I wonder with this cheery word if anyone will ever read me again! Thank you to Jeffrey Smith for the use of his Prayer Pups cartoon. You can click his link right below it to find more.
Be blessed sweet people of God. Have a wonderful weekend. Sometimes it just helps to know the stuff happening to me will be made to work for my good even when it feels like it will be the end of me! And it also helps to remember not all of life is trials and fires.

Broken Horses and Armor Bearers

                                                         

          The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom, and before honor is humility Proverbs 15:35

       Anyone out there ever said,thought,or heard "You're not the boss of me!"?
            That is the opposite of what that verse is talking about up above.

Most of the time the word humility seems to be looked at as something related to embarrassment (like "I was so humiliated") or a lesser position in esteem and identity(almost like a slave). Humility has different synonyms and one I like is the word meekness. Long ago I heard a teaching on meekness. It was described as "power under control".
The example was a powerful wild stallion who came under ownership and was broken to put the power to use. Not broken like destroyed and beaten up and mistreated. But broken to be used in higher ways. This type of horse held position, was cared for, could win contests, be taken into battle, was trustworthy, could be counted on to carry out commands, bear weight, precious cargo and officers, even kings.
This keeps bringing to mind the concept of the Armor Bearer. There are whole books and sermons on this that I have only heard snatches of. The role of Armor Bearer is so important! This is a person who holds his power under control to serve the one in command. Someone who knows how to hold position and doesn't try to rip or undermine the position from the one over them to take it for themselves. Starting to sound like the fruit of the spirit now. This is a person who knows how to serve the one in direct command over them. A few examples in my eyes would be Joshua serving Moses, Elisha serving Elijah, Ruth serving Naomi, Abigail with her husband Nabal, Esther with her Uncle Mordecai,with the palace advisor over women being presented to the king, with the King himself...Like I said I haven't studied the armor bearer completely but the concept is there.
Humility isn't a matter of low self esteem or being a nothing or doormat. It is the person who knows who they are and puts themselves in position to help carry out a vision without making a name for themselves.
Jesus is the very best example for us. He never doubted who He was no matter what others said about Him or to Him. Did He hang around for abuse or never answer back those who accused Him? There were times He would answer so wisely! Times He would slip through the crowd and go on His way avoiding being stoned by the crazy crowds. He knew He was King yet didn't fall to the peoples demands for what that king should look like and do. Of course when it was time He did yield to beatings, embarrassing shouts, then painful crucifixion for us!  Philippians 3 says we are to have the same mind He did when He laid aside heaven and glory to serve us and His Father.
"...He made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death,even death on the cross."
Remember this is not saying wives submit to being beat up. I do not believe God is advocating submission to abuse in the concept of humbling or submitting.
Jesus came to give His life as a ransom for many. Anyway back to the verse
"Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name...."
Have a beautiful day! Remember the One who loved you so much He gave His life for you and let Him know how thankful you are...

I Will Not Envy My Neighbors Green Thumb-Pearls and Costly Gems

 The wise woman builds her house...
the foolish one tears it down with her own hands...proverbs  14:1


I am running slim on how to keep pulling verses from our daily proverbs reading that mention jewelry to keep with the gem theme of this devotional, I decided to make this one a picture of a Sapphire just because. I guess I could still run pictures of crowns since surprisingly they are mentioned quite a bit through the 31 chapters. Really any bit of wisdom I gain from proverbs is a "gem".
Even though there are verses in todays reading alone that are well used for messages time and again, the kind of thing I want to write about which doesn't have a particular place to land on in chapter 14, is my struggle with "neighbor envy". As in I shall not envy my neighbors oh so green and creative thumb. I shall not compare my landscaping skills with hers because my skills fall so short of even my own expectations of how I should care for my yard. Which brings me to identity and how do I not have a crisis in my identity in this area. I feel like I am not a good representative of God with a crummy yard. Not doing my part to tend the garden so to speak. Is that really how God sees it though? Yep this cheery monday morning post is fairly dripping with self condemnation...
The change from winter to spring does have its transitional woes. I am glad to have the piles of snow that made our 8th of a mile long driveway navigation only for the brave of heart (or perhaps desperately driven) finally melted! However those drifts did cover a multitude of sins in my yard which are sadly now exposed for all to see.
We have a Puppy named Piper, which I still try to tell myself was a good idea to get when we did. She is a sweet tempered dog. She is also large and puppy clumsy and has been allowed to develop the habit of using the very front yard as the worlds largest doggy outhouse. And I did say she is large so her piles are corresponding in size. (much as I hate to I will take responsibility for the poor training she has gotten)I am the owner of two pooper scoopers one which has been repaired at least twice from wearing out on the job. Then there is the fact that she detirmined for what ever reason to use my solar garden lights as her chew toy challenge leaving those remnants behind here and there. Then there is the burning pile (ok I will guiltily admit that living in the country, we do burn stuff from time to time like paper with info you don't want found in garbage dumps and sometimes poopy disiposable diapers...) Piper is delighted to find gross things and drag them to the front yard shredding them and then of course leaving them.
All of this mixed with the general dreary, not yet green grass, along with wet leaves and branches dropped from storms, randomly growing twiglets of rose of sharon trees still gray in color and some piles of things left along the fence from (You know what even I do not know what they are from! Some kind of work projects and ramps for snow boards among other things) do not have me motivated unfortunately, but instead somewhat oppressed.
So today the scripture speaking to me the most is this from Isaiah 41:9a-10
...you are My servant,
I have chosen you and have not cast you away:
Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
I feel so much better now! My imperfect yard does not keep me from His acceptance and choosing me...or YOU in whatever you are dealing with. We all have our stuff we think cuts us off. But really even sin has provision made for it to bring us back to Him. ( you know the if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness 1 John 1:9 provision)
This new day of the week, be blessed! Let Him help clean the yard of your heart and fill you with His presence and I will do the same! Actually I hope you got off to a better start than I did in the first place...

Rings of Gold- Pearls and Costly Gems

 ...A gracious woman retains honor, but ruthless men retain riches... proverbs 11:16

...As a ring of gold in a swine's snout, so is a lovely woman who lacks discretion... proverbs 11:22   

All of us know of people who are lovely on the outside but quite the opposite inside which naturally shows itself in how they behave. Scripture tells us it is as absurd as putting something fine, pure and precious in the nose of an animal that smells, rolls in muck and and eats garbage. We tend to be pretty distant overall from the process of the meats we eat, assuming we are meat eaters that is, but there was a phase when our kids were young that we had a "pet pig". It was a surprise for one of our daughters who just happened to really, really, really want one. Since we lived in an area that allowed for farm animals, we secretly prepared a pen. Her Daddy, 2 two of her brothers and their friend went off to the Lake County fair to secure a piglet. By the time they got home with the "prize" they all had headaches from the smell while traveling in the van with a pig in a box. You know piglets grow up, get big and stay messy. Piercing the nose of that pig and putting fine jewelry in it would be the last thing we would think of doing! Our pretty, sterile pictures of how things will be, so many times get blown away by real life.
We also know people who the world doesn't consider to be airbrushed pretty but there is something captivating about them. They sparkle and have qualities about them that attract us to them. We trust them and like to be around them. They live the saying "pretty is as pretty does".
I kind of think our appearance is a picture frame to our life. It adds to our life the way a frame adds to a picture displayed on a wall. It isn't the picture but an enhancement to it. A frame that is gorgeous does not make an ugly picture prettier really. It is simply a gorgeous frame. Carrying that just a bit further. I can be a sweet person but dress inappropriately for occasions framing my life in a way that detracts from the picture or sends a wrong message about who I am.
I am not a person that thinks we should dress from another century where women wear dresses only, never wear makeup, or cut their hair. God placed us uniquely in this generation. I still believe in modesty however and think we can find style that's fresh, fun, attractive and not lust provoking.
A gracious woman will conduct herself with kindness, respect and sensitivity. Basically the fruit of the Spirit. I know I miss the mark on that sometimes. I have my times I want to excuse as menopausal moodies or PMS peevishness, childcare crankiness...Frankly sometimes those are legitimate mood altering experiences but what I do with the fallout matters. Do I repent? Do I look to restore and recover not just the situation but put myself in a place where I can regroup and regain strength and composure? Yeah not always perfect with all that either but it is a heart goal and those are the things that build graciousness and discretion in our lives. Have a blessed weekend! Remember you are a blessing!

Pillars In The Storms- Pearls and Costly Gems

 Wisdom has built her house, she has hewn out her seven pillars...proverbs 9:1
Well here I am having not finished yesterday to post and today is promising to be busy too. I heard a great message today as I was coming home from taking Lily to school. It was about not making "friends with our storms". You know not hanging out with them but hanging out with Jesus instead, the One Who takes us through them and speaks to them and they stop. Usually the storm is designed to make us stop as we are on our way to where He has us going. It was a timely and encouraging word. So back to where I left off yesterday:

What do you suppose the purpose of Wisdom's pillars would be? And why seven? Honestly I am not that deep of a Bible Scholar but do like to check out the background for things and meaning of words. In Isaiah 11:2 are found the following seven things that would rest upon Jesus. The Spirit of the LORD, the Spirit of wisdom, understanding, of counsel, of might, of knowledge and fear of the LORD.
While columns or pillars may be decorative, a pillars purpose is to bear and help spread the weight of the structure above to other structural elements below. They may even be designed to resist the stressful conditions of earthquake or winds. Anyone dealing with some things feeling like too much weight, or maybe storms or earthshifting lately?
Revelation 3:11-12a says "Behold I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown. He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God..."
Heavenly Father, today I pray not just for me but those I love, those who take time to be reading these words, those who love you and who YOU LOVE SO MUCH...Father may the above 7 things that rested upon Jesus rest on us today. May they be strong pillars in our life that keep us upright and standing, bearing things that are ours to bear. Let the storms take the things that are not designed to be part of our structures and what is from You remain strong. Our foundation is in You and You are NEVER shaken. You are always with us. Thank You. We love You. Amen
If you get a chance to read Proverbs 10 please do. I am not commenting on it today. Be blessed! You are a blessing!

The Voice- Pearls and Costly Gems

 ...Listen for I will speak of excellent things...proverbs 8:6a

   Did you ever notice how many voices clamour for our attention? And how many times we use our voice to get someone to hear us? Naturally as kids want us to listen, they have an ability to project their voices quite a ways. But it isn't just kids...I noticed the commercials on TV actually get louder than the program I was watching. I am guessing the advertisers know we will be leaving the room to get snacks or tend to something so they elevate to grab at our ears as we go.

     Then there are our spouses if we are married. Let's face it,women are shown in general to have more words to use up in a day than men so may need a good listening ear when a husband comes home. Frankly there were days I used so many commands, corrections, comfort and clarifications raising children I had a word deficiet by the end of the day. I remember one day my diaphragm hurt from pushing so much air through my lungs to form words!

     We have employers speaking to us, telephones ringing, friends and family, music, sounds of traffic- well you get what I am saying. I love being able to hear don't get me wrong. My point is that we have so many voices crying out we might not be hearing the voice Proverbs is talking about. The voice of Wisdom. She calls out a little differently than most of the others.
     She calls out from the pages of scripture. That means we need to read it and hear it because her crying out doesn't shout noisily at me or rudely push itself on me. Remember "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness". She calls out from the hill top (our renewed minds) from the place where paths meet (where we have choices to make) at the gates and doorways (double checking our coming and going).
     She lives with someone named Prudence (good judgement and foresight) and hangs out with Knowledge and Discretion. She is fine enough to rule from Kings palaces and is a personal possession of the Most High God working with Him on all of creation from before the beginning. She invites us to hang out at her door and doesn't threaten us with no trespassing signs. She is easily entreated. She is a voice well worth cultivating an ear for.
     I listen for so many things. The voices of those I love, I still turn in public places if I hear a child call mom or cry. My newborn breathing from the crib. The right pitch in a song. What a customer really is wanting. A phone call letting me know my adult kids got home safely or a call in the middle of the night when my teens are sleeping over somewhere. A door closing letting me know they are back home. I am attentive to hear those certain sounds above all others...I want to be just as attentive to hear the voice of wisdom from the pages of scripture...
Blessings!

Engraved Hearts- Pearls and Precious Gems

...treasure My commands within you...write them on the tablet of your heart.
the book of proverbs chapter 7

The word write in the scripture above can also be translated inscribe.To inscribe is to engrave or etch something making a lasting mark. Looking over the last week of Proverbs it seems to first be a schooling on what is needed most in life (getting wisdom and using it). Injected in the what wisdom is and what it does for us are examples of people to watch out for- those enticing sinners, examples of how to treat others- like being good to your neighbors, avoiding uncalled for strife and the envy of wicked people.

We left off for the weekend at the end of Proverbs 4. I don't know if anyone went on to read 5 and 6 just to stay on track with matching the chapter to the date this month. What I noticed though, was days 5-7 very definitely deal with people relationships. In particular male/female with a few other relationships concerning financial matters seemingly tossed in. Also couched in chapter 6 is the note worthy list of 7 things that God hates. Take time to look that over if you didn't already.

There are things we should listen to and things we should not. There are also things we should use our mouths to speak and things we should not. There are places we may safely go and places we should avoid. There are things we should look at and keep before our eyes and things we should turn our gaze from.

If I am a man (I am not) I need to be aware that I am going to set my guard up at the ear gate and also the eye gate in the sense that words can appeal to my need for respect. Hence the warning about the harlots seductive, flattering words and the way she dresses. She may even appeal to his "religious" standards! (do not be ignorant of Satan's devices and don't think just because you may be a Christian and be married you are completely immune). Scripture basically says "run for your life" from this woman! Don't suppose you are to be her knight and rescue her from her miserable life and will remain unscathed.

As a woman, on the other hand, I need to be aware of how I affect men by my words,dress and actions. I also need to be sure I am keeping myself for my husband in all ways. (Even if  and maybe even especially if I am in a strained marriage it matters how I conduct myself) If you are not currently married the scripture tells you your "Maker is your husband" Isaiah 54

Why was this woman in chapter 7 pretending to be "right with God" but offering herself to another man? Why was she making a romantic atmosphere in the home she shared with her husband for another man? Why was she preparing her appearance for another? And using her words to build another mans ego?

Look I know there could have been unmet needs for this woman but take a look at Abigail(1 Samuel 25) in her relationship with a husband who was known for being churlish (now there is a word for you to look up!) and a fool (his name even means Fool from what I understand). See how she carried herself in her relationships as a wise woman.

God does not want people to be ruined so He goes to great lengths to tell us how to avoid that. So let's inscribe His words on our hearts. Let's let them rest deep and monitor all we do and think and find the benefits of wisdom surrounding us.

Blessings!

Crown of Glory- Pearls and Precious Gems

 ...a crown of glory she will deliver to you...proverbs 4:9a
There is of course not normally a physical crown delivered to us by exalting wisdom but there is something of glory that rests on us when we walk in wisdom. That was recognized in Josephs life when he was a young man even though he didn't seem to live in honorable conditions what with being sold by his brothers to be a slave and later falsely accused of going after Potiphars wife then getting thrown into prison. What he did was to continue to walk uprightly. To conduct himself wisely when he had every opportunity to become bitter and mean. In time (it seems like it took a very long time) he was elevated to second in command in Egypt, just under the Pharoh himself. He was used in a strategic position to preserve two nations; Israel and Egypt...His legacy lives on. We speak of him today and use his life as an example of how to live well to make right and wise choices when everything seems to be against us.
Proverbs 4:6-9 says of wisdom
Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you;
Love her, and she will keep you.
Wisdom is the principal thing;
Therefore get wisdom.
And in all your getting, get understanding.
Exalt her, and she will promote you;
She will bring you honor, when you embrace her.
She will place on your head an ornament of grace;
A crown of glory she will deliver to you.
I just wonder what would happen if we begin making a practice of asking for wisdom every day if we haven't been already. To begin recognizing our need for it and crying out for it- every day.
King Solomon saw his need for wisdom above all other things and God honored him by his request for it. Most of the writings in Proverbs are from Solomon and even though I realize I have been reading it as a mom talking to her son, it really is wise father leaving wise instruction written for his son to refer to time and again so it's not just words in one ear and out the other.
They can be taken into his heart.
God bless you with wisdom this weekend. Be blessed!

Precious Rubies - Pearls and Costly Gems

Happy is the man who finds wisdom...she is more precious than rubies...proverbs 3
Have you ever wondered what the value of rubies would be? I admire jewelry but haven't been much of a purchaser frankly. So I looked it up. Online. I love being able to do that!

Rubies are the world’s most expensive gemstones, the best Burmese rubies being valued more than an equivalent-sized flawless diamond.¹ The world record paid at auction for a ruby is U.S. $3.63 million in 1988 for a 15.97 carat Burmese ruby (U.S. $227,300 per carat). (By comparison, a 62 carat flawless diamond recently sold for just over U.S. $8 million, or U.S. $130,000 per carat.)
from report by Dr. Andrew Snelling

Seems like something I should pay attention to then. God does not say He will lavish me with rubies but delights in giving me something far more valuable than that! He tells me the "fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom". Remember the treasure hunt I would send my kids and their friends on? There was a place to start. So our place to start is with the fear of the LORD. Something that seems to be missing in many places now a days. Its that recognition of honor and reverence due to the Most High who made all things including me and knows how it should all work.
 Some of the outcomes of wisdom walking are length of days, riches, honor, peaceful paths, pleasantness, a tree of life, happiness, grace, safety,sweet sleep, freedom from fear of sudden terror or trouble from the wicked because my confidence is in the LORD.
You know I really can't buy all those things. There are things that promise they can give one or another of them maybe. For instance, new shoes do make me happy for a while!! They won't keep me safe though. They won't prolong my life. They might give me a touch of status but not really honor and there is no guarantee they will keep me safe on my path. I can hope to walk gracefully in them but they won't bring  grace overall. They may carry me to my occupation and home again and be an asset to my business wardrobe but they really won't make me money. Maybe I will fall asleep with a smile over my new shoes but can not promise me peaceful sleep.

We are told in scripture that in quietness and confidence He will be our peace. That joy in Him is our strength.We are told above it is wisdom that makes us secure. I don't believe God is opposed to our having things but rather to things having us by the way. I don't think we should hide ourselves in our things but in the shelter of the Most High. I think if we are going to hoard or stock pile things they should be hoarded in the heavenly realm. Yet I do think there is common sense financially to be used while we are here on earth. But even that is from wisdom! So then let's keep seeking, knocking and asking. He promised it to us after all.