tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-356748392024-02-23T00:47:05.645-06:00PatteringsPatty Wysong, Christian, devotionals, mom, wife, women, children, homeschool, Christianity, Bible, Biblical, God, Jesus, fiction, fiction friday, ordinary life, extraordinary God, Bible study, marriage, parenting, missionary fiction, blogging tips, blog helps, Premade blogger layouts, blog classes, blog tutorials, blog designer, Capuchin monkey, Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.comBlogger1002125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-67809168424676653662023-04-22T10:23:00.000-05:002023-04-22T10:23:10.711-05:00Deep and Wide: A Dilemma<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> <span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">The
other day I finished reading Genesis and I was so sad to come to the
end of the book because I had enjoyed it so much! It's always been a
fun book to read, but this time I read slower and did more studying
than usual. J gave me an ESV Study Bible for Christmas this year and
that's what I'm using for this read-through. I have to say, the study
notes are </span></span><i><span style="background: transparent;">good!</span></i><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">
I've been pairing those notes with the Tony Evans Bible Commentary
that I picked up last year at the Priority Conference, also at the
recommendation of a friend, and his insights have often made me sit
back and say</span></span><i><span style="background: transparent;">
wow! </span></i><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">They're
really helping me go deeper and I love that. </span></span>
</p>
<br /><p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="background: transparent;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background: transparent;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrp7m_Rn5fDwS8VxNhmOMxqdTOua12jqoABamyh5irK1wSOJB1_ZsuSEDlMidBWiV7mwTJlHpfuCed8u0YwMJazMJ42wtv9GIVnCkyV8eQyBcB4Its9NtHF7uiQJmnxao0zJyFgtNLxmE_zgRYM1kjn6ebZxCBnV0BiT1HPRi5PDYeAFtx5w/s1280/Morning_PattyWysong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrp7m_Rn5fDwS8VxNhmOMxqdTOua12jqoABamyh5irK1wSOJB1_ZsuSEDlMidBWiV7mwTJlHpfuCed8u0YwMJazMJ42wtv9GIVnCkyV8eQyBcB4Its9NtHF7uiQJmnxao0zJyFgtNLxmE_zgRYM1kjn6ebZxCBnV0BiT1HPRi5PDYeAFtx5w/w400-h300/Morning_PattyWysong.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="background: transparent;"><br />So
I came to Exodus still sorely disappointed that Genesis was done, and
a little reluctant to start Exodus, which really surprised me because
of all the Bible personalities, Moses has always been my favorite. I
think my reluctance stemmed from this dilemma I've been chewing on...</span><p></p>
<p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p><p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">Because
I've been doing my read-through more slowly this time, I've been
spending more time in the study notes and commentaries, and there's a
place for that. But those notes and commentaries are NOT Scripture
and I want...I </span></span><i><span style="background: transparent;">need</span></i><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">
to find a balance between reading through and digging in. A friend
calls this going deep and wide, like the children's song. We need to
go deep in God's Word, studying. But we also need to go wide, reading
larger portions to give us and keep us anchored in the big picture of
the Bible. </span></span>
</p>
<p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p><p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">The
digging I'm doing has been oh-so rich. I've learned so much (Jacob
was </span></span><i><span style="background: transparent;">such</span></i><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">
an eye-opener for me this time and I spent days and days with him)
but I </span></span><i><span style="background: transparent;">really
</span></i><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="background: transparent;">miss
reading the large chunks of Scripture (going wide). I need those
larger chunks. My favorite read-through of the Bible so far was in
2020. I read cover to cover in nine months, despite my work-load
almost doubling and work-related stress sky-rocketing. That fast read
of the Bible kept me grounded and anchored and focused and able to
handle all that was going on at work. It was wonderful!</span></span></p>
<p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p><p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="background: transparent;">So
this dilemma is big and real to me and it's played into my reluctance
to see Genesis end and Exodus start because I need to go wide, but
there are also a few reasons I need to go deep in Exodus. So I
delayed a day or two, still savoring Genesis and deliberating how to
proceed. </span>
</p>
<p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p><p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="background: transparent;">I
still don't know what to do about my dilemma but I do know I need to
go deep in parts of Exodus. I've spent the week evaluating my morning
routine (typically when I read and study) and found something I had
added to my mornings that I need to move to a different time. </span>
</p>
<p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p><p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="background: transparent;">Have
you encountered the deep or wide dilemma? How did you handle it? Have
you found a sweet spot?</span></p>
<p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p><p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="background: transparent;">What
about evaluating your routines to keep or create (more) time in God's
Word? It's the perfect time to pause and ponder and tweak or even
start new. </span></p><p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="background: transparent;"> </span>
</p>
<p style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p><span style="background: transparent;">I'd
love to have you join me as I dig into Exodus and share the things
that have jumped out at me! As you can see, the pictures probably
won't tie into what I'm learning, but they're all about what's
happening in my world, outside my window, or something in my camera
roll that jumped out at me, and this is my way of stopping and
savoring the moments.</span>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-63053695745112129932023-04-11T09:27:00.000-05:002023-04-11T09:27:22.284-05:00A Time for Spring<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5zsJ48-AQYxIvQ7-gg8B3OiIp8KU76QOGcFxqb3rky6ypbmqQzt0YHR0Iz2K1_rodpJ2lJZjb0o0hMBw1uANdbx9FwE1SAaSJvFHFyRH-mTb9i95wNDOAueeYHQ33w9Oq65m8Xfwdk2LvZCv7tQS_BSJB3bGQMqVTDieOvCgCoDyYilttOw/s1538/apple_blossoms2_PattyWysong.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1313" data-original-width="1538" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5zsJ48-AQYxIvQ7-gg8B3OiIp8KU76QOGcFxqb3rky6ypbmqQzt0YHR0Iz2K1_rodpJ2lJZjb0o0hMBw1uANdbx9FwE1SAaSJvFHFyRH-mTb9i95wNDOAueeYHQ33w9Oq65m8Xfwdk2LvZCv7tQS_BSJB3bGQMqVTDieOvCgCoDyYilttOw/w400-h341/apple_blossoms2_PattyWysong.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />Spring is here! </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>The trees are blossoming and budding and it's beautiful. Spring brings changes as things below the ground begin to surface and grow and bloom. And not just in nature...</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>God's been growing me and it's felt like spring inside me too. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>Today I'm posting at the <a href="https://prioritynowblog.com/2023/04/11/3-steps-to-beating-resentment/" target="_blank">PriorityNow Blog</a> and I'd love to have you join me there! The post isn't about Spring, but it's a lesson God has recently taught me. ;)<br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-52471138075174972322020-07-23T17:17:00.001-05:002020-07-23T17:17:25.740-05:00Worth WaitingRecently I read through the book of 1 Samuel and it once again captured my attention. One of the things that stood out to me was God’s responses. <br />
<br />
Hannah’s story in chapter 1 seems to set the course for the whole book. In chapter 1 she’s pouring out her heart to God, asking Him for a child and God heard her and gave her Samuel. But not all of God’s responses are what the people wanted to hear… <br />
<br />
<blockquote>
Then all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah; and they said to him, "Behold, you have grown old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint a king for us to judge us like all the nations." But the thing was displeasing in the sight of Samuel when they said, "Give us a king to judge us." And Samuel prayed to the LORD. The LORD said to Samuel, "Listen to the voice of the people in regard to all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me from being king over them. Like all the deeds which they have done since the day that I brought them up from Egypt even to this day--in that they have forsaken Me and served other gods--so they are doing to you also. Now then, listen to their voice; however, you shall solemnly warn them and tell them of the procedure of the king who will reign over them." 1 Samuel 8:4-9 NASB</blockquote>
<br />
Over and over in 1 Samuel we see God hearing and responding to His people—collectively like this passage and individually as we see David repeatedly inquiring of God and receiving answers. God has not changed and in thousands of years between God speaking to Samuel here and us. He still hears His people and He still answers. The Creator of the universe, the One True God who is Holy and just hears us when we pray. Too often I think we forget this or think that He doesn’t hear us because we don’t get an immediate sense that He’s answered. Sometimes we act like spoiled children and demand what we want, what we think best, and sometimes God gives us exactly what we want, knowing it wasn’t His best. It seems that’s what is happening here. <br />
<br />
Were they wrong in asking for a king? I don’t think so, because way back in the days of Moses God talked about when they would have a king (Deut. 17:14-20) and even before that, Abraham was promised that kings would be his descendants, but I DO think their motivation for wanting one wasn’t what it should’ve been. Israel was asking for a king to lead them out in battle, <i>like all the nations around them had</i> (1 Samuel 8:19-20). Status quo and security mashed together and led them down a path too early and for the wrong reason. Unbeknownst to Israel the king God had in mind was in training, but they couldn’t wait. They wanted what they wanted and they wanted it right then. So God allowed them to have exactly what they wanted. Saul. A man who looked like a fine king but who didn’t live up to his potential. Throughout the book of 1 Samuel we see that what Israel got wasn’t what they planned on—someone to lead them against their enemies—but it was exactly what Samuel warned them about.<br />
<br />
This has me wondering. What have I been asking God for? What’s the motivation behind my asking? Status quo? Security? Greed? Comfort? Maybe there’s nothing wrong with what I’ve been asking for, but maybe it’s not the right time for it. Have I been impatient, refusing to wait and repeatedly asking (pestering!) for something?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnkqi16avC9KSIzNZ3b6Ga3V5rYEzPXnSEtJ4TIsXub7OvLjLAsImgdV92RWJZFhBGij02NNwQEYsbvcNw86ms38mb07lYaAF8glY0iwTUfKoty3fWOKd0cvTbRQODsNuwmhJO/s1600/IMG_3337.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="1512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnkqi16avC9KSIzNZ3b6Ga3V5rYEzPXnSEtJ4TIsXub7OvLjLAsImgdV92RWJZFhBGij02NNwQEYsbvcNw86ms38mb07lYaAF8glY0iwTUfKoty3fWOKd0cvTbRQODsNuwmhJO/s320/IMG_3337.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
My granddaughter was here a little while ago and <i>really</i> wanted an apple off the tree in our yard. She remembered eating them last year and was excited about them again. When she asked me for one I told her no because they weren’t ready yet. After asking a couple more times and getting the same answer she found an apple in her reach when I was inside the house. I came out just in time to see her face when she bit into the apple. Instead of the expected sweetness it was sour and inedible. Yikes! What a reminder. <br />
<br />
God hears us when we pray and ask for things and sometimes His answer is Wait. Waiting isn’t fun, but it’s better in the long run.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>Father God, please shape and mold my desires so they align with Yours. Help me patiently wait for the things You have planned. You know best and I want Your best because it's so much better than anything I could ever dream up. Thank You for hearing me and caring enough to say No or Wait when it's needed. </i><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-91114214572208423172020-07-12T14:31:00.000-05:002020-07-12T14:31:09.763-05:00The AwkwardnessThis morning our pastor started a new series on ReEngaging Relationships and he talked about how it can be awkward to resume meeting in our small groups and churches. How we can become comfortable with social distancing. I have to admit. I can relate. I’m such an introvert that I’m very comfortable, too comfortable, being by myself. It’s easier to fade away when I’m by myself. It’s easier to slip into disobedience and apathy by myself. <i>By myself it’s easier to think that what I should be doing doesn’t really matter. But it does. </i><br />
<br />
You see, I’ve been in this position before. Many times. I’ve felt that God has called me to things, given me specific things to do and I’ve not done them. I’ve chickened out. The awkwardness of restarting, of walking back in to a place I used to be all the time has pushed me away. I’ve been here, gone through all the emotions, and all the other times I’ve ended up walking away. Because of the awkwardness I’ve felt, because of the fear, the knowing that I’m not enough, knowing that I’ve failed repeatedly. So, I wrestled with God this morning. I want to obey. I want pick up this thing He’s set before me. But I’m a chicken and this awkwardness is…beyond awkward. It’s uncomfortable.<br />
<br />
After wrestling I took my first baby step at reentry. Moments later, actually, right after that last paragraph, Pastor Michael finished his sermon and my ear picked up on his closing prayer (I had already listened to the service once and was tuning in again) and I turned up the volume on the TV so I could join in on the worship, one more time today. But Pastor Michael nor God were not finished with me yet. This is what I heard that had me laughing and sobbing at the same time…<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>As we respond to God’s Word, I challenge you… It’s worth it. What God desires to do in you is profound—better than you can imagine. Better than it’s ever been. We’re not going back. We’re going forward. And I challenge you to refuse to slide into a place of apathy. I challenge you to refuse to slide into a place that feels like comfort, but actually it’s unhealthy. Let us commit, even while we’re social distancing, to continue to engage, to fight through the awkward as we worship together and as we work hard to find ways where together we follow Him. Together we experience all that God has for us. May YOU receive His challenge, His comfort and that truth of the Gospel today. (<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://youtu.be/6PolxZ4qORQ" target="_blank">Pastor Michael Nave, Cornerstone Church, Marion, IL July 12, 2020</a>.</span>)</i></blockquote>
<br />
Did God hear me when I was crying out to Him in my journal this morning? YES. Does He hear you when you cry out to Him? YES. What is it that you’re putting off because it feels awkward? Is it attending church? Going to your small group or Bible study? Is it doing what He’s called you to do? <br />
<br />
<i>I challenge you… It’s worth it. What God desires to do in you is profound—better than you can imagine. Better than it’s ever been. We’re not going back. We’re going forward.</i><br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-48031752769321496192019-05-27T12:57:00.000-05:002019-05-27T12:57:24.504-05:00More than SurrenderThe other day as I was walking I thought I was doing so well—using my walk as a prayer time. It sounds so simple but I have to be honest with you, for me it’s not. It takes focus and discipline. My natural tendency is to let my mind wander or better yet, moan and groan. So, I was feeling rather proud of myself for praying. I should’ve known better.<br />
<br />
Like so many people, I like to use the acronym ACTS to keep me on track as I pray. <br />
Adoration<br />
Confession<br />
Thanksgiving<br />
Supplication<br />
<br />
So as I was walking I started my prayer time with adoration—worship. Worship is an awesome thing. Taking my eyes off all the things I tend to watch and hold onto, and intentionally turning my eyes to God and His greatness and thanking Him and praising Him for who He is. It’s refreshing. It’s like hitting the reset button for me. That usually leads me to surrendering myself to Him. <br />
<br />
Surrendering to God is good and it’s necessary to live a vibrant Christian life, but I tend to want to stop at the surrendering. I want to curl up like a cat and stay there at the feet of Jesus. I want to lay down in surrender…and then spend the day dreamily watching the clouds go by. Isn’t that what surrender is? Laying one’s self down? I can do that…<br />
<br />
The thought had just barely flashed inside my head when I felt God’s nudge.<br />
<br />
<i>What about reporting for duty?</i><br />
<br />
Really, Lord?<br />
That takes work. A lot of work. And risk! I could get hurt, I could get shot down…even just being shot at is bad enough. I just want to lay here at the foot of Your throne and admire all You’ve done and sing Your praises. Can’t I do that? <br />
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<br />
I felt like I was in one of the Chronicles of Narnia movies when one of the children is standing before Aslan and the great lion says “hmmmmmmm.” I felt my shoulders fall and my chin drop.<br />
<br />
Okay, Lord. I know You’re right. You didn’t save me to just to curl up and purr Your praises like a cat. You saved me to serve You. So here I am, Lord, reporting for duty. <br />
<br />
<i>Put on the full armor of God…</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgid-Mr13x81vpR3bfbkk3mOkz5vwVtPUYuq-utbjecscIFoaYiBkxMG7X3Az8fnyhsW_NI7NlRPB2Esy6oL6e0eJbuBZC_Y379C7N7DGagJ9vEpLiUsJixWiRpdwiXn0m7nxl_/s1600/More_than_Surrender.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgid-Mr13x81vpR3bfbkk3mOkz5vwVtPUYuq-utbjecscIFoaYiBkxMG7X3Az8fnyhsW_NI7NlRPB2Esy6oL6e0eJbuBZC_Y379C7N7DGagJ9vEpLiUsJixWiRpdwiXn0m7nxl_/s400/More_than_Surrender.png" width="266" /></a></div>
Really, Lord? Can’t I just sweep the floor and wash the dishes? Putting on the armor means battle and I’d really rather be a handmaid in Your house.<br />
<br />
<i>Put on the full armor of God. So that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">Eph. 6:11-13</span></i><br />
<br />
Mentally I started putting on each piece of the armor. <br />
The belt of truth.<br />
The breastplate of righteousness—not my righteousness, Jesus’ righteousness.<br />
The shoes of preparation of the Gospel of peace.<br />
The shield of faith to put out the flaming arrows of the evil one.<br />
The helmet of salvation.<br />
The sword of the Spirit.<br />
<br />
Okay, Lord. Here I am. Reporting for duty. Ready to work. <br />
<br />
A sober peace settled over me even as an anticipation and watchful readiness of what He had for me to do that day filled me. <br />
<br />
It’s more than just surrendering to God, it’s reporting for duty. <div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
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I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-63445658741391275022019-05-23T13:56:00.000-05:002019-05-23T14:13:57.478-05:007 Tips to Help You Get Started Fasting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7RHown4UVq7wSvtjvlgWrgd_nbo_kXgHRE9HrClspoGqG5Z9_Q7OMUooDRV8aGcyEpjcnHKEMMOEmY0ay4XBoQrhQw6vy4QTvRqcSKHLZ7_n4Z9Lpswi8hRp2N_cVEBRQnr2l/s1600/Tips_for_Fasting.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7RHown4UVq7wSvtjvlgWrgd_nbo_kXgHRE9HrClspoGqG5Z9_Q7OMUooDRV8aGcyEpjcnHKEMMOEmY0ay4XBoQrhQw6vy4QTvRqcSKHLZ7_n4Z9Lpswi8hRp2N_cVEBRQnr2l/s400/Tips_for_Fasting.PNG" width="266" /></a></div>
To be honest, when I decided to fast I expected to fail. I’ve often had problems with my blood sugar falling and getting the shakes bad enough that I made sure I was sitting down. Combine that with the major headaches I’d get and it seemed like a recipe for disaster. But I saw what fasting was doing in my friends’ lives and I wanted what they had. (If you missed the post on <a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/2019/05/why-should-we-fast.html" target="_blank">the reasons and benefits of fasting I found, you can read it here.</a>)<br />
<br />
Not surprisingly, God has taught me many things as I’ve begun fasting—things I never would’ve guessed. Here are some practical things about fasting that I learned the hard way.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Tips to help you begin fasting</h4>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Plan for it! Choose a day when it’s okay if you aren’t laser focused, in case the fasting makes your thinking a little fuzzy. Don’t choose a day when you know your stress level will be high. (Ask me how I learned that one. Yikes!)</li>
<li>Prepare for fasting by deciding the night before that you WILL fast. Don’t leave it up to your feelings because feelings are liars. It also helps to clear your work area of any snacks or candy that might be laying around so it’s not staring you in the face. Just sayin'. </li>
<li>Give yourself time to build up to even a one day fast. Start small by planning on fasting through breakfast to begin with. Then gradually work up to longer periods of time. Celebrate every hour you fast and it will help you go longer.</li>
<li>Do not condemn yourself if you don’t make it as long as you planned or hoped. One time I knew I had to eat, so I did. Guilt came crashing down on me, followed quickly with negative thoughts about myself. It was awful. I felt like a massive failure, not just at fasting, but in every area of my life. God brought to mind that Satan is the father of lies, the great deceiver, and I realized the feelings were a mental battle. As soon as I could I got to my knees, confessed and laid it all out before God. I recounted everything I could about who I am in Christ and how much God loves me. Slowly but surely the feelings of failure and self-condemnation lifted and I turned my prayers from myself to everyone I wanted to pray for. I may not have made it fasting, but I determined to pray as if I had. The feelings of failing turned to joy and triumph as I spent time praying for those I had been fasting for.</li>
<li>Drink water. Lots of water! When the rumbling starts, pray and drink water. (Just realize this will make for more frequent restroom stops—yet another reason to plan well for the day you fast. ::wink::)</li>
<li>Have a response ready in case someone offers you something to eat. You want to be able to graciously decline without offending and without announcing that you’re fasting. Matthew 6:18 says “…so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret will reward you.”</li>
<li>Have a plan in place for what you want to eat when you break your fast—otherwise you may overeat, or worse, go crazy with the first thing that your hand lands on, like the time I was unprepared and ate a candy bar, or three. Ouch! It not only upset my stomach horribly but made me aggravated with myself for doing something I normally wouldn’t dream of doing.</li>
</ul>
<br />
While you may see immediate answers to your prayers, don’t be discouraged. Keep at it and make fasting a part of your life. It's one of those investments that has a great return.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
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I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-29574799302071134482019-05-16T15:44:00.000-05:002019-05-23T14:01:28.848-05:00Why Should We Fast?A while ago I was asked to speak on prayer and fasting, and I have to admit, I was surprised. I’m not one that is usually associated with that in my church so I really wondered why they chose me. I almost said no, but God whispered Yes in my heart. As I prayed over the topic He gave me a message on prayer and I wish I could tell you immediately started fasting, but I didn’t. That took almost a year. <br />
<br />
During that year, God brought fasting to my attention many times and I began noticing things. After months and even years of maintaining the status quo, things were changing. It wasn’t overnight, but looking back I could connect the dots.<br />
<br />
The change began to happen when people began fasting.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Results of Fasting:</h4>
<ul>
<li>My friends gained confidence in their prayers and prayer life—a confidence that only comes through prayer, lots of prayer.</li>
<li>Their prayers took on an authority that hadn’t been there before. (Hearing them pray is one of the perks of being in a small group with some of them and of being in Sunday School with others.)</li>
<li>Their peace and joy deepened even though parts of their lives grew tougher.</li>
<li>Answered prayers and progress made in some persistent areas.</li>
<li>Direction given, leading to times of growth individually and collectively.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzOcbTUOdQvdSbm3L7khyphenhyphenu0sfEgJpFKPEaCrIH6j4cf0qY48kOb4KgTsWDBgQBT_xDyOoUrBg9I-myJCeQtMLXRH2YMlvtCiNPFDGT1hwF8x2dL0EFlk3fIOekAdJs1a18VtHg/s1600/Why_Should_we-Fast.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzOcbTUOdQvdSbm3L7khyphenhyphenu0sfEgJpFKPEaCrIH6j4cf0qY48kOb4KgTsWDBgQBT_xDyOoUrBg9I-myJCeQtMLXRH2YMlvtCiNPFDGT1hwF8x2dL0EFlk3fIOekAdJs1a18VtHg/s400/Why_Should_we-Fast.PNG" width="266" /></a></div>
When I finally connected their growth to their consistent fasting I wanted in. They were obtaining things that I’ve been seeking for five or more years. That led me to paying attention to what the Bible has to say about fasting.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Biblical Reasons We Should Fast:</h4>
<ul>
<li>The Bible assumes that you will fast. Matthew 6:16 says “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.”</li>
In Jesus’ time, fasting was part of Jewish life and was expected.
<li>Jesus modeled fasting for us when He went into the wilderness and fasted for 40 days (Matthew 4:2).</li>
The Bible connects fasting with repenting. “Yet even now,” declares the LORD, “Return to Me with all your heart, and with fasting, weeping and mourning; and rend your heart and not your garments.” Now return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in lovingkindness and relenting of evil. Joel 2:12-13</ul>
<br />
<h4>
Throughout the Bible we see the people of God fasting:</h4>
<ul>
<li><b>David:</b> David therefore inquired of God for the child; and David fasted and wept and lay all night on the ground… Then his servants said to him, “What is this thing that you have done? While the child was alive, you fasted and wept; but when the child died, you arose and ate food.” He said, “While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept; for I said, ‘Who knows, the LORD may be gracious to me, that the child may live.’ But now he has died; why should I fast? Can I bring him back again?” 2 Samuel 12:16, 21-23</li>
<li><b>Esther and Mordecai:</b> In each and every province where the command and decree of the king came, there was great mourning among the Jews, with fasting, weeping and wailing; and many lay on sackcloth and ashes. Esther 4:3; He sent letters to all the Jews, to the 127 provinces of the kingdom of Ahasuerus, namely, words of peace and truth, to establish these days of Purim at their appointed times, just as Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther had established for them, and just as they had established for themselves and for their descendants with instructions for their times of fasting and their lamentations. Esther 9:30-31</li>
<li><b>Daniel:</b> So I gave my attention to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth and ashes. Daniel 9:3</li>
<li><b>Anna:</b> …she (Anna) never left the temple, serving night and day with fastings and prayers. Luke 2:37</li>
<li><b>Church leadership:</b> While they (the Antioch church’s prophets and teachers) were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Acts 13:2</li>
<li><b>Paul and Barnabas:</b> When they (Paul and Barnabas) had appointed elders for them in every church, having prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord in whom they had believed. Acts 14:23</li>
</ul>
<br />
When I looked at everything together I knew it was time I tried fasting. I didn’t commit to a regular time of fasting, I just wanted to try it a couple of times. But when I did that I found that I wanted to add fasting to my life. I wanted more of what I was sensing and learning.<br />
<br />
<h4>
What I learned from fasting:</h4>
<ul>
<li>I CAN go without food without having a major crash. It’s not always easy but the best things in life are not the easy things!</li>
<li>Food doesn’t have the grip on my life that it once did—and it’s really cool.</li>
<li>Hunger drives me to prayer—<b><i>if</i></b> I intentionally choose to quit thinking about food and commit to praying instead.</li>
<li>Having the right perspective about fasting is crucial. Fasting is something I <b><i>get</i></b> to do to draw closer to God and thank Him ahead of time for the opportunity. Going into fasting with anticipation changed my outcome. Dreading a fast puts me into a negative mind set which can easily lead praying less and griping more. I <b><i>get</i></b> to fast and it’s a special time I get to spend with God.</li>
<li>I pray more fervently when I fast.</li>
<li>My prayer life became more consistent and deeper.</li>
</ul>
<br />
Since I began regularly fasting I’ve received the direction I’ve been seeking for five years, and I’m growing in my relationship with God. I wish I had started fasting years ago! <br />
<br />
Coming up next are some practical tips for fasting. Hope to see you!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
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I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-73336498229535587602019-04-29T17:59:00.000-05:002019-04-29T17:59:03.001-05:00to bridge a gapThis weekend I sang in a choir.<br />
<br />
It may not seem like anything big to you, but it rocked my world. You see, although I love singing, I hurt my own ears. That’s why I love it when the music is loud enough that I feel free to sing, <i>really</i> sing. At church sometimes I feel like a grinning fool because I’m able to sing and I can’t keep the joy contained to “appropriate facial expressions.” Joining my voice to others—no, <i>burying</i> my voice in the voices all around me enables me to worship God like I want to. <br />
<br />
This weekend I went to <a href="https://www.ibsa.org/ministry-resources/womens-ministry/priority-conference/" target="_blank">Illinois Baptist Women’s Priority Conference</a> and it was awesome. A few days before the conference I received an email asking if I’d like to help with “something special” they had planned. Sure! I figured it’d be handing things out or something like that. I couldn’t have been more wrong. The email reply was a link to a song and when and where to meet for a quick rehearsal. <br />
<br />
Almost everything in me wanted to back out but I knew that if I did I would regret it. This was possibly the one opportunity I’d get to be part of a real choir, this side of Heaven. So, I sang. <br />
<br />
God calls us and often (always?) we feel there’s no way we can do what He’s called us to do. We don’t have the skills, the training, the time, the <i>whatever</i> we need to do what He’s called us to. And it’s okay. God bridges the gap and equips us. <br />
<br />
It’s about us obeying God. If we don’t show up, He can’t work in and through us, and we miss out on seeing God work.<br />
<br />
I think I know what God’s called me to and to be honest, I’m feeling like Moses. <i>Been there and done that, God. I landed in the wilderness and now I’m really comfortable there. I know how much work it’ll take to do what You’re calling me to. I know it’ll take almost every spare moment I have, and then some more. It’ll mean putting myself back out there. It’ll mean…</i><br />
<br />
And the song we sang plays in my head...<br />
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OIahc83Kvp4" width="560"></iframe><br />
<br />
Is anyone worthy?<br />
Is anyone whole?<br />
Is anyone able to break the seal and open the scroll?<br />
The Lion of Judah who conquered the Grave,<br />
He is David's Root and the Lamb who died to ransom the Slave.<br />
Is He worthy?<br />
Is He worthy of all blessing and honor and glory?<br />
Is He worthy of this?<br />
He is!<br />
<br />
God is worthy of all my effort and all my time. Sacrificing my comfort level and time is worth it.<br />
<br />
God will bridge the gaps of where I am and what He’s called me to. I need to show up and obey because God is able.<br />
<br />
<b>God is worthy of all this.</b><br />
He is!<br />
<br />
What about you? Is there something you’re wrestling with? Something you think God might be calling you to but you’re feeling unqualified to do? Leave me a comment—I’d love to pray for you.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-14510082305974986952018-09-10T03:30:00.000-05:002018-09-10T03:30:05.269-05:00How to Deal with ConsequencesIsrael was complaining. <br />
Again.<br />
They were thirsty. <br />
They were sick of the food God had provided for them. <br />
They grumbled that God had brought them out of Egypt to kill them in the wilderness. <br />
Nothing was going right. <br />
Everything was wrong. With them, with Moses, with where they were and what they were doing. <br />
And they let it be known that they were unhappy. <br />
Again.<br />
(Is this sounding familiar to anyone besides me?)<br />
<br />
God sent them a message. <br />
Vipers in the camp.<br />
SNAKES.<br />
<i>Where they lived.</i><br />
The snakes bit the people and people died. Lots of people died.<br />
<br />
Israel got the message and they asked Moses to intercede with God for them. They admitted and confessed their sin and asked God to remove the vipers. <br />
<br />
But God didn’t take them away. <br />
Instead He told Moses to make a bronze serpent, mount it on a pole and hang it high where it could be seen. God told Moses, “<i>it shall come about, that everyone who is bitten, when he looks at it, he will live.</i>” (Numbers 21:8b NAS)<br />
<br />
God heard the people and He answered their prayers.<br />
Just not how they wanted.<br />
They wanted the consequences...<br />
the problem<br />
the pain<br />
the danger<br />
GONE.<br />
Wiped out. Eliminated.<br />
After all, they confessed their sin and repented. An immediate resolution would have been nice. <br />
<br />
But God didn’t do that. There were consequences to their sin. Lingering, painful and potentially deadly consequences. The vipers were not removed from their camp. In fact, the vipers <b>still</b> bit the people. <br />
<br />
If it were me I’d be begging… <i>But God, I told You I was sorry! I repented. I quit complaining and got my attitude taken care of. Why are these vipers still here? Why are we…why am I still being bitten by snakes? </i><br />
<br />
There are consequences to our actions. <br />
Always.<br />
God doesn’t just sweep them all away when we come running back to Him. Sure, He may sometimes, but more often than not, He doesn’t and we have to live with those consequences.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Lb6gBSLoZPfPpc-a7LpnNBsDlyWtI1POeDBl-GVUfr0FYIIr-hXLjTQd6-J5VhHOEp-5tBxHOF7k__H9C0TKrfHEmCs1mgM7T5z2o1jO3BFBsZHXLDXSW_pLtW5yOOzzzw9S/s1600/how_to_deal_with_consequences.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="569" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Lb6gBSLoZPfPpc-a7LpnNBsDlyWtI1POeDBl-GVUfr0FYIIr-hXLjTQd6-J5VhHOEp-5tBxHOF7k__H9C0TKrfHEmCs1mgM7T5z2o1jO3BFBsZHXLDXSW_pLtW5yOOzzzw9S/s400/how_to_deal_with_consequences.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
The Israelites wanted a quick fix—the removal of the problems brought on by their sin. Instead God gave them an antidote for their problems. <b><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">FAITH</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">.</span></i></b> When the people were bitten they were to look at the bronze serpent on the pole and have <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">FAITH</span> that God would take care of them and heal them. <i><span style="font-size: large;">They had to take their focus off their problem and off their pain and look to God in faith.</span></i><br />
<br />
That antidote is still valid today. <br />
But we need to let go of our stubbornness and pride and turn our attention to Jesus. <br />
<i>We need to take our focus off our problems and pain and focus on the antidote: <span style="font-size: x-large;">Jesus. </span></i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It takes faith. </span><br />
<br />
God didn’t leave Israel to die in the wilderness. He provided for them and brought them into the Promised Land.<br />
<br />
As His children, God won’t leave us. He’s given us that promise. <br />
<i>“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. <b>He will not fail you or forsake you.</b>” Then Moses called to Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, “Be strong and courageous, for you shall go with this people into the land which the LORD has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall give it to them as an inheritance. <b>The LORD is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.</b>”</i> Deuteronomy 31:6-8 NASB<br />
<br />
When it comes to dealing with consequences, we need to take our eyes off our problems and look to Jesus. Focus on Him and Him alone. He goes with us and He will not fail us nor forsake us.<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-22046566789348344052018-08-26T16:45:00.001-05:002018-08-26T17:01:02.860-05:00Taking the RiskIn the past few days I read Numbers 13 and 14. It’s a story that we learn in Sunday School as children and a passage that I both love and dread.<br />
<br />
The nation of Israel has left Egypt and slavery behind. They’ve crossed the Red Sea on dry ground, taken the long way through the wilderness, have seen God work in miraculous ways for months, and now they’re camped at Kadesh-Barnea. They’re a stone’s throw from the Promised Land—the place generations have dreamed of returning to. For 40 days the Israelites wait to hear about the land God has brought them to—the land He said He was giving to them.<br />
<br />
Finally, the 12 spies return and all that anticipation and excitement turns to fear as spy after spy stands and tells of giants and obstacles that await them on the other side of the river. Only 2 voices tell of the beauty and bounty of the land. The people become restless as fear settles on them and tightens its grip on them. After a night of turmoil and tears the people agree. “If only we had died in he land of Egypt, or if only we had died in theis wilderness! Why is the LORD bringing us into this land to die by the sword? Our wives and little children will become plunder. Wouldn’t it be better for us to go back to Egypt?” (Numbers 14:2-3)<br />
<br />
I always want to shout, <i>No! Don’t do it! Don’t you remember the slavery? How could you even</i> think <i>of going back? Don’t you remember all the things God has been doing for you?</i> <br />
<br />
Truth be told, I’m so much like the nation of Israel at this point that it’s…terrifying.<br />
<br />
Kadesh-Barnea. It’s a place I’ve been to many times in my life. It’s a place that I really have mixed feelings about. A place of excitement as I look toward the anticipated opportunity. A place of anxiety as I looked toward the unknown. It’s also become a place of disappointment as fear takes over and I turn around and head back into the wilderness. <br />
<br />
It's funny how God orchestrates all the details of life. <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiULvhT4cDt4vmYj4JUa5y0DkAkZ-0GTYPmkljCdcEnyK0G4ey0fLOC9-3ZfqO4bWOEwb8q1losrWJ6kjgvfzSEqHtsn-r_UHrGQeRiDsT_RY3pxPYlEkhsUsesulR7g113Lswh/s1600/IMG_9097.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="820" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiULvhT4cDt4vmYj4JUa5y0DkAkZ-0GTYPmkljCdcEnyK0G4ey0fLOC9-3ZfqO4bWOEwb8q1losrWJ6kjgvfzSEqHtsn-r_UHrGQeRiDsT_RY3pxPYlEkhsUsesulR7g113Lswh/s400/IMG_9097.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take the risk of lose the chance. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cherylmsf/" target="_blank">Photo by Cheryl Flatt.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>I was chatting with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cherylmsf/" target="_blank">my sister</a> the other day and she sent this quote to me. She was talking about herself but it stopped me in my tracks. It was the THIRD time the same message was hitting me in a very short time. For three months I’ve been keeping some things buried but it all came gurgling out as I furiously texted Cheryl. I knew I was at the river. Again. And I feared that if I didn’t step this time that the wilderness would claim me for good. <br />
<br />
I knew all the obstacles and objections. I’ve lived with them many times in my life.<br />
<br />
<h4>It was time I refocused on all that God has done and is doing. </h4><br />
That’s when I realized that there was no risk in obeying.<br />
I really had nothing to lose.<br />
But everything to gain.<br />
<br />
What about you? Are you sitting in your own Kadesh-Barnea listening to reports of great obstacles and how small you are in comparison? Don’t listen to them! When you obey God, He fights for you and what the enemy means for evil God turns into good for you. I’m not gonna lie, it will be hard. There will be losses—but maybe some of those losses are things you need to lose (me too!!).<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Turn away from the voices that say you can’t or shouldn’t and tune your ear to God. Remember and focus on all He’s done for you and <i>move forward</i>. </span><br />
<br />
<i><b>Sometimes you have to take the risk or lose the chance.</b></i><br />
<br />
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
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I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-40465689429540667032017-07-16T15:23:00.000-05:002017-07-16T15:29:56.707-05:00A Step of Obedience<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9A_gEVv7opVQTgfRcz9fCATxgBKE2j4PXBqkcShqkPV-SUcneVE0g2TXB1o5sSV-FIDK7oYvuxGQJMdPsHjleYLfQBgGajb354zG4zoFXIWmHhYnHnriMt5GRX7nSlLkJE24q/s1600/grand_canyon_patty_wysong.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="413" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9A_gEVv7opVQTgfRcz9fCATxgBKE2j4PXBqkcShqkPV-SUcneVE0g2TXB1o5sSV-FIDK7oYvuxGQJMdPsHjleYLfQBgGajb354zG4zoFXIWmHhYnHnriMt5GRX7nSlLkJE24q/s400/grand_canyon_patty_wysong.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>For 7-8 months I have not been obeying. I’ve about reached the point of being miserable because of it. I’m reading and studying God’s Word and praying but I’m still feeling like I’m stranded in a cave half way up the cliff. Nothing in front of me but fog and behind me is a dark cave with who-knows what lurking inside. <br />
<br />
I know God has heard me. I know He’s still there. But I feel like I’m lost in the fog. I don’t want to go into the cave. I mean, I really, REALLY do NOT want to go into the cave, but the ledge I’m standing on seems to be getting smaller every day. <br />
<br />
So what am I to do?<br />
The simple answer is easy: Obey.<br />
But things…life is never as simple or easy as that. Especially that particular word.<br />
Obey.<br />
But how can I obey when I know what it will involve? I know the time it will require. The focus. The energy. What if it means I have to choose between obedience and some (or worse, all ) of the things I’ve come to treasure? <br />
<br />
I know why I feel like I’m lost in the fog. <br />
Why it feels like God is far from me, and the space between us is ever increasing.<br />
Why it feels like God is no longer talking to me. <br />
My head knows He’s still there but my heart is missing His nearness, His voice. <br />
It’s because I haven’t obeyed. <br />
I haven’t done the thing I KNOW He wants for me to do this year. <br />
God’s quit talking to me because I have yet to do the thing He’s already to me to do. I can’t take another step anywhere until I go back and do that one thing. <br />
<br />
It’s a truth I’ve seen over and over again in my own life and in my friends’ lives. It’s a truth I enforce in my kids…<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><center>Until you do this (whatever this may be) <br />
you cannot move ahead to the next thing.</center></blockquote><br />
So here I am, taking a step of obedience.<br />
<br />
<i>Dear Lord, forgive me for being so obstinate, for even now digging my heels in, fearful of what obedience will require. I want to obey You. Really I do. I want to feel close to You again. I want the joy and peace…YOUR joy and peace that comes with obedience. Help me to obey You because I cannot obey in my own strength. I’ve been trying and it doesn’t work. Please, Lord, give me YOUR power to obey, to do the thing You’ve given me to do.</i><br />
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 379px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 18px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 379px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 18px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
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I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-7174702974695733282016-10-17T03:00:00.000-05:002016-10-17T03:00:14.262-05:00Get CloserIt’s a dreary day outside and I was reminded of a lesson I learned in photography…<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdBC-itEwJFrzw4IovQH8BQTY2ZnHrGw7xYiREbAPl1B_WF7y1q-C7ATGgnoI6O3MWuLzDHBzzPV-sP6zI_AGMrTLpnGATny2NSWJe0LKAp1G9IIJAZ2lPxky9yf6se1Qpc-S/s1600/DSC_0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZdBC-itEwJFrzw4IovQH8BQTY2ZnHrGw7xYiREbAPl1B_WF7y1q-C7ATGgnoI6O3MWuLzDHBzzPV-sP6zI_AGMrTLpnGATny2NSWJe0LKAp1G9IIJAZ2lPxky9yf6se1Qpc-S/s400/DSC_0011.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
When the light is poor, get closer.<br />
<br />
Closer allows you to see so much more. More color. More detail. The dreariness fades into the background as you’re consumed by color and detail. Things you couldn’t see from a distance are not only visible up close but beautiful.<br />
<br />
That’s so true in our Christian lives too. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1h7OUVIeJ5C9PaSwVdmHCXMPq2sy3AbN-7-rEMxPva2obx2iZ8IOyJizgyyk6jzzehkfYUYDdkkaClq5dfPrrS4e9ux18WbJ1j6cTqmFJc2-tHrbBpUnxT_Qpi12I2ikG-2G/s1600/DSC_0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR1h7OUVIeJ5C9PaSwVdmHCXMPq2sy3AbN-7-rEMxPva2obx2iZ8IOyJizgyyk6jzzehkfYUYDdkkaClq5dfPrrS4e9ux18WbJ1j6cTqmFJc2-tHrbBpUnxT_Qpi12I2ikG-2G/s400/DSC_0017.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<i>Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 4:8 </i><br />
<br />
When the light is dim, when it’s hard to see our path, get closer. Closer to Jesus, the Light of the world. Sit with the Word of God and read. Sometimes the only thing we can do when our world goes dark is get closer to Him and immerse ourselves in His Word. We can’t see which way to go. We can’t see where our path is or what’s on it. But we can read His promises. We can meditate the promises of God that we’ve hidden in our hearts. Words of life and light. <br />
<br />
We still may not be able to see our path or know which way to go, but we will be closer to God, the One who goes before us and promises to never leave us. <br />
<br />
<i>Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deut. 31:6 </i><br />
<br />
On dark and dreary days get closer to God. Up close we see so much more. More color. More detail. More beauty.<br />
<br />
Get close.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-81902236457121173562015-12-29T17:25:00.000-06:002015-12-29T17:25:57.744-06:00DiligenceFor the past couple years I’ve had a word for the year. It has been such a help to me! Each word has helped me grow in ways I didn’t anticipate.<br />
<br />
In November, when I realized how fast New Year’s was coming, I started asking God for my word. My experience has been that settling on one word for the year was…not as easy as you’d think. LoL. So, I started early. Surprisingly, within days I knew my word for 2016. I was amazed. And terrified. I have to admit, I hoped the word would change into something easier, nicer, even inspiring, but no. The word didn’t budge. Didn’t even wiggle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsRueG6iEk-eRM7OS7QO_XFFqM0SZhhvKsLWsSvqvPc8a3xDXBN0CcxfThV5WUOozn0RzSEEhcPVJ5V8ql1j8SQ1a9uLx1AAe_Pm7eAisVt9nxekMPd6eGTLBv5AWuglSkwTQ/s1600/Diligence.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsRueG6iEk-eRM7OS7QO_XFFqM0SZhhvKsLWsSvqvPc8a3xDXBN0CcxfThV5WUOozn0RzSEEhcPVJ5V8ql1j8SQ1a9uLx1AAe_Pm7eAisVt9nxekMPd6eGTLBv5AWuglSkwTQ/s400/Diligence.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
(See what I mean?!)<br />
I’m consistently INconsistent, so the thought of this word does awful things to me. Truly.<br />
<br />
BUT…<br />
As I look at 2016 and the things I want to do mixed in with the things I need to do, all overlaid with family and balance, I know the only way anything on my want-to-do list is going to be accomplished is through diligence. <br />
<br />
Daily diligence in the little things. <br />
<br />
Because the little things done diligently add up to bigger things.<br />
<br />
My head knows this and I’ve experienced it, but putting this into practice when I have five other things pulling me different directions…well, let’s just say I’m very good at putting out fires and getting stuff done that <i>needs</i> to be done, <i><b>and</b></i> putting off things that I <i>can</i> put off. Like the things I want to do. The problem is that the things on my want-to-do list are things I believe God has called me to do. But those things aren’t standing beside me, pulling on my pant leg saying “Mom. Mom! MOM!!” (or some variation of that. You know what I’m saying.) Those things are part of that quiet voice in my heart. The voice that’s so easy to miss or set aside when the roar of life gets loud.<br />
<br />
And there lies a good part of the issue.<br />
<br />
The need to prioritize (shudder) and see that those things on my want-to-do list are so much more than that. They are actually my heart’s list of things I see that God has given me to do. Things that God has given me as a gift, just as He gifted the Levites with the service of the Tabernacle and Temple. <br />
<br />
When I see those things for what they really are—gifts from God and things He has called me to do—I can prioritize my time and energy and resources to get them done. One small thing at a time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOZU7MfzLdQHLSbHxPMB7LD5J-AMumJyRS-UvqeE2B7a3Bdqd-FitqpvEJpEAibSBHRQT1fKiho-0F5YqBr0iSItjuUWQag6322NcGZHq72kSWC11rP2UZQzrjN6j09bnLtcP/s1600/Diligence+adds+up.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOZU7MfzLdQHLSbHxPMB7LD5J-AMumJyRS-UvqeE2B7a3Bdqd-FitqpvEJpEAibSBHRQT1fKiho-0F5YqBr0iSItjuUWQag6322NcGZHq72kSWC11rP2UZQzrjN6j09bnLtcP/s640/Diligence+adds+up.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Because little things</span> <span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>done diligently</i></span> <span style="font-size: large;">add up.</span></div>
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
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I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-4014126663785403912015-12-22T00:00:00.000-06:002019-05-23T14:05:06.472-05:00How I Established My Devotional Time For the past couple years I’ve had a word for the year. This last year it was Arise! Complete with the exclamation point, mind you. I have to tell you, I did not figure it meant literally, but it seems it did. <br />
<br />
With all the changes going on in my life over the last couple years, my quiet time has bounced around a fair bit. Getting the time and the quiet was…tough. Some days it was impossible…because of how I ordered my days.<br />
<br />
When God gave me Arise! I thought it referred to arising to the challenge or arising to a new season in my life, NOT arising early in the morning. I’m fond of my bed in the morning. It’s so warm and comfy and snuggly with my hubs. Being the first one out of bed in the morning is not my idea of fun. <br />
<br />
At least, it wasn’t.<br />
<br />
Then my awesome Sunday School teacher challenged us to ask God for help doing something we knew we should do but hadn’t been able to. Something like not eating too many Little Debbie cakes in one day or spending time in God’s Word. So, I did. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwfOFmwAT01S7hnrKJdI5PedrjnWtZslYJDAFW2EJt86OFyO3SJpdrCWKuH2fn63SMijpH9OhEhG35OO0XcJ91F5GRO0ZvBYoVq8P2nJwYmZ5Uo6XU_IsSUs-C-B0HOjw_3z5c/s1600/Arise.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwfOFmwAT01S7hnrKJdI5PedrjnWtZslYJDAFW2EJt86OFyO3SJpdrCWKuH2fn63SMijpH9OhEhG35OO0XcJ91F5GRO0ZvBYoVq8P2nJwYmZ5Uo6XU_IsSUs-C-B0HOjw_3z5c/s400/Arise.jpeg" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">How I (almost) painlessly established my early morning devotions</span><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><i>Ask</i> God to wake me up in the morning.</li>
<li><i>Commit to obeying </i>and getting up when He wakes me.</li>
<li><i>Obey</i> and GET UP when God wakens me.</li>
<li><i>Thank God</i> for waking me.</li>
</ol>
<br />
Remember I said <i>almost</i> painlessly?<br />
There were mornings I groaned when my eyes popped open before I was ready. Those times I would roll over and try to go back to sleep. It never worked for more than a few minutes because I was guaranteed to soon have a massive headache and I’d have to get out of bed simply to relieve it. (Headaches are part of my life.)<br />
<br />
I learned to be thankful for not just the days God woke me, but also for the headaches. Often, thanks to them, I had extra time with God and those times were special. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Arise!</i></span><br />
It does, after all, mean get up.<br />
Rise to the challenge by asking God for help. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-774763440239505172015-12-09T00:01:00.000-06:002015-12-09T00:01:00.264-06:00A Personal Win In Spite of LosingWhen <a href="http://bit.ly/NzaAGN" target="_blank">Cheryl</a> and I started the NaBloPoMo on November 5, our goal was daily posting for 30 days. Unfortunately, neither one of us made it but it wasn't a wasted effort. In the past, both of us have been avid bloggers but recently, with how our lives have changed, our blogs had fallen silent. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqNdOA9dFxwELHOyeaWZ3oGTyoel3G0z-1G-oZE4l9yTL5MuvhhYpOIAQuN4Sh4gg4jxMeBFc7hl_2zg6ZVCYrVVokHIHmMMJDGACrCSx-fHx4euAyEUTizxz9LeokuWRC-JbG/s1600/Shed_on_Corners.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqNdOA9dFxwELHOyeaWZ3oGTyoel3G0z-1G-oZE4l9yTL5MuvhhYpOIAQuN4Sh4gg4jxMeBFc7hl_2zg6ZVCYrVVokHIHmMMJDGACrCSx-fHx4euAyEUTizxz9LeokuWRC-JbG/s400/Shed_on_Corners.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
My goals were to get past the hurdle of a silent blog and to see how blogging would look for me at this stage in my life, and if I’m totally honest, to see if I could juggle it with everything else <i>and if I even wanted to blog</i>. Those goals were all met, even though I only posted 17 times in 30 days.<br />
<br />
In one way I didn’t reach my goal. 17 out of 30 is a pretty pathetic percentage, BUT I’m counting it as a personal win. Here’s why…<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I struggle with balance and I was determined to keep blogging in balance with the rest of my life and responsibilities. And I did. Thanksgiving week hit and my life slipped into high gear. I needed to focus on family and then work, and I did.</li>
<li>Jumping back into blogging like I did forced me over the hurdle I had been camped at for too long.</li>
<li>I found that I could add blogging back into my schedule, but it took determination and discipline. Lots of both, mixed with a generous portion of time—something I need to work on.</li>
<li>A major goal for those 30 days was to see what I posted when scrambling for posts (like I knew I would, LoL). I wanted to see if my focus had shifted while I was away from here. It was cool to see what came out. Because I didn’t make it the 30 days, I didn’t even get through my list of post ideas, and I didn’t touch the topics that I know are favorite soap-boxes of mine. But it was still enough to give me the answers I sought.</li>
</ul>
<br />
All told, blogging 17 days out of the hoped-for 30 days is a win for me. I remembered that I love blogging. I remembered the work it is yet how rewarding it can be. And I remembered how it kicks my creativity and thinking into gear and gets me rolling.<br />
<br />
It was a very worthwhile endeavor. <br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
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I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-65597698569261338862015-11-25T06:00:00.000-06:002015-11-25T06:00:01.086-06:00Execute the ExcusesLike I mentioned earlier, I’m reading in the book of Judges right now, and the men there have really caught my attention, in unexpected ways. So, I’ve been thinking about them and poking around in their business. After being slapped by what <a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/2015/11/whats-in-your-hand.html" target="_blank">Shamgar had to teach me</a>, I went back to read about Ehud again in Judges 3:12-30. He’s the left handed Benjamite who was mentioned just before Shamgar. <br />
<br />
Let me tell ya, Ehud did not pull his left-handed punch as I read and reread his story.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcoJwK3xnxmymAuUyJXBi1VlXNuZX0u1NkNBRBg7xDCqALLtOuOlWsJT9GXvgs6FhRwGDA0cBIrgdfil5WnFJA9fawyC5Uee8hFK4eL-WcVJbszObgQQRTmkjT_1znXfv-SsL/s1600/Judges3-12.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxcoJwK3xnxmymAuUyJXBi1VlXNuZX0u1NkNBRBg7xDCqALLtOuOlWsJT9GXvgs6FhRwGDA0cBIrgdfil5WnFJA9fawyC5Uee8hFK4eL-WcVJbszObgQQRTmkjT_1znXfv-SsL/s400/Judges3-12.30.jpg" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click to make bigger.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Warren Wiersbe says “the text of Judges 3:15 can be translated ‘a man handicapped in the right hand,’ which suggests that he was not ambidextrous at all but albe to use only his left hand.” If it’s true that Ehud was handicapped, then that might have helped him gain a private audience with the king of Moab. Instead of using his handicap as an exemption clause, he used it as part of his strategy and then followed it up with more action. He led Israel to victory over Moab and the nation had 80 years of peace.<br />
<br />
Ehud did not let his handicap stop him from doing what God called him to do. He didn’t make excuses why he couldn’t. Instead, he relied on God and learned to work <i>with</i> and around his handicap.<br />
<br />
If I want to succeed or even move forward in what God has called me to do, then I need to follow Ehud’s example and quit making excuses. I need to quit believing those excuses and basing my actions and my life on them. <br />
<br />
There will always be excuses. <br />
There will always be speed bumps. <br />
There will always be obstacles. <br />
My job is to follow Ehud. Adapt, learn what I need to, make the necessary adjustments and press on. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Only as I execute the excuses will I be able to move forward in obedience. </i></span><br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
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I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-43955362014992910712015-11-24T06:00:00.000-06:002019-05-23T14:12:44.107-05:00Reviewing Bible Memory Passages - Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/search/label/Scripture%20Memorization" imageanchor="1" style="clear: center; float: center; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Bible memory. Scripture memorization.Patty Wysong at Patterings" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb8WQK6jqBQKl5sAke-on5kObYuMV9y7tESo2Yn1XnX9-VFP60NJAIO39v-gYAARx3dxxMmuMKHH_s9CjunE39Hnlw26ldnEEQJWw0NK7QFOFYApid0I6t7sqWT9QWsqyj5msl/s1600/BibleMemorization_PattyWysong.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
I cannot tell you how much Scripture memorization has helped me this last year and the last few months in particular. It's made a big difference in my Bible study time, in what I take away from studying, in the satisfaction I find in my studying, and especially in my thought life. Memorizing Bible verses has been a game changer for me.<br />
<br />
Part of my Scripture memorization this time around has been relearning passages I had memorized years ago. I was encouraged to see how quickly I was able to relearn them! Yet even as I relearned them and added them to my "rolodex of Scripture" I wondered how I was going to keep them all in my head. My brain is like Swiss cheese...it's full of holes (so things seem to fall out as fast as I put them in my brain). So, I did some digging on ideas for reviewing the Bible verses you've memorized, and I found this gem with John Piper...<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N2LZvbaZPdM?rel=0" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
After watching this I found that I stressed less about remembering <i>every </i>verse. Knowing how I work, that itself will be a help.<br />
<br />
I'm also putting together a list of verses that I want to have ready and available on the tip of my tongue, to pull out and use at any time. These passages are ones that I feel will help me where I am now and with what I see my ministry is. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So tell me, what is one Scripture passage that <i>you</i> want ready in your mind? </span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-75453494370319433862015-11-23T06:00:00.000-06:002015-11-23T06:00:06.001-06:00Cutie-Patootie Monkey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj55hCXwerjO4r6SS-zPbopz0AhpCDexz6eBFSQRij69vkW9Zua25eVp8_gkDMh1IggqctENHBAYvsJndK9SKNY6q318MwrWFDGIxdPdcvO9RCUxNoT6UnY-nHZHMW0zGMrI6Cn/s1600/Toby_funny2_PattyWysong.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj55hCXwerjO4r6SS-zPbopz0AhpCDexz6eBFSQRij69vkW9Zua25eVp8_gkDMh1IggqctENHBAYvsJndK9SKNY6q318MwrWFDGIxdPdcvO9RCUxNoT6UnY-nHZHMW0zGMrI6Cn/s1600/Toby_funny2_PattyWysong.jpeg" /></a></div>
As you probably know by now, Toby is a ham. When we're working a fair his job is to be cute, and he does a bang-up job of it. Of course, while he's being cute, we're trying to get a good picture and often that can be challenging. Very challenging. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/search/label/Monkey%20Monday" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Monkey Monday at Patterings" border="0" img="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHpJ5toiw1IDuh0TdKhUtTPp6YDIXD15Kjjmh0O52q3pfIlNp8rkfEgRznSaNCcTF1U2OADfVJNX908AEjjNnPDS4hnnYtGXrcEPXe4KkqpE1usH6IEPapKiKUcnZtMV5HRcz/s1600/Monkey-Mondays.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Thankfully, we can usually get a picture that works. But in the meantime, we end up with some funny shots of him and of the people he's posing with.<br />
<br />
Getting to see people as they meet a monkey lets me see a lot of smiles and hear some pretty cool stories, and it always makes me day.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-70805747151145965972015-11-21T00:05:00.000-06:002015-11-21T00:05:01.181-06:004 Tips to Inspire Others Inspiring others is a gift. It's something I think each of us can do. If we want to and are willing to do the work first.<br />
<br />
The other day, my oldest son badgered me into watching a <a href="http://thepianoguys.com/" target="_blank">Piano Guys</a> video. And yes, he badgered until I watched it simply because he wanted me to, and because he said it was piano and cello music (and I happen to love cello).<br />
<br />
Confession: I fell in love. <br />
Again. <br />
<br />
I've loved classical music and cello for a long time (ask my kids, they've listened to countless days filled with it) but had fallen away from it because those same kids grumbled constantly about it. Lesson learned. My music is back. =)<br />
<br />
That one video led to an hour's journey through a playlist that had me ready to tackle my heart-work again.<br />
<br />
Here's The Piano Guys Charlie Brown Medley that brought a lesson into focus for me... Watch it! Please! You'll be glad you did. <br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tyPDQpel8bI?rel=0" width="640"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">4 Tips to Inspire Others</span><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Inspiring others takes <span style="font-size: large;">Emotion!</span> It has to start deep inside you, bubble up and then pour out. You have to <i>feel</i> the passion within yourself before you can share it and inspire others.</li>
<li>Inspiring others requires <span style="font-size: large;">Effort!</span> The truth of reaping and sowing is true when it comes to inspiring others. When you put effort into your message or music or art, you reap the benefits in many ways. And so do others. If you want to inspire people you must invest the effort into whatever it is you are called to do.</li>
<li>Inspiring others takes <span style="font-size: large;">Enthusiasm!</span> on your part. The same music or message could be shared without enthusiasm and it would fail to inspire. It'd face-plant and leave you wondering what happened. </li>
<li>Inspiring others requires personal <span style="font-size: large;">Enjoyment</span> of your craft. It's one of those silent, seemingly invisible things that transform the experience into one that's vibrant. The Piano Guys do not just perform what they're called to do, they enjoy it and their enjoyment is contagious!</li>
</ol>
<br />
The Piano Guys pour emotion, effort and loads of enthusiasm, energy and enjoyment into their music, from the opening notes to the grand finale. From there it overflows onto their audience and inspires them. Smiles appear, hands start clapping and feet that shuffled down the corridor begin to dance. <br />
<br />
Hearing and watching The Piano Guys inspired me. It infused me with energy even though it had been a long day, and motivated me to tackle my heart-work. The work God has called me to do.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So tell me, what inspires you?</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-794192408021163392015-11-19T06:00:00.000-06:002015-11-19T07:30:42.721-06:00Joyously AbandonedIn my post <a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/2015/11/face-if.html" target="_blank">Face the If</a> I mentioned how Wilda Mathews was caught in the trap of 'if onlys' on Easter Sunday 1952, deep in the heart of Communist China. A year later, as Easter rolled around again, she was determined that it wouldn't be another black day for her. She started studying the resurrection story and resurrection life, and when she came to Peter's part she felt condemned.<br />
<br />
<em>She had not said, 'I know Him not' but she had no joy. She was not bitter, but she was frustrated and restless. Her opportunity to witness to the Chinese eyes around them that she did know the Lord and that He was satisfying her drought—had she shown that? If not, wasn't that</em> <strong>denying</strong> <em>the Lord before man?</em><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6QURjwhkRqAdamU7Y1yPFrWk8RN1GqYudLzwE9PTrA8S0FUZupv5_NCBeg0eLy3KR6_1CKTaJsSdQoT0csLOg3NI7AuvPYlK9PMgN-X32F7kBx-wX-Z_XeW70PJ5rCqQOGEk/s1600/Gree_Leaf_in_Drought_Isobel_Kuhn.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6QURjwhkRqAdamU7Y1yPFrWk8RN1GqYudLzwE9PTrA8S0FUZupv5_NCBeg0eLy3KR6_1CKTaJsSdQoT0csLOg3NI7AuvPYlK9PMgN-X32F7kBx-wX-Z_XeW70PJ5rCqQOGEk/s400/Gree_Leaf_in_Drought_Isobel_Kuhn.jpeg" width="245" /></a></div>
As I've read that many times now, I'm constantly convicted by it. Am I joyfully living? Like Wilda, I'm not bitter, but I've certainly been frustrated and restless at times. Can others see that Christ is not just meeting my needs, but fulfilling me, too? That His Life is flowing through me? Would others see my green leaves even though my life might be in the biggest drought yet to face me?<br />
<br />
Two months later, Wilda's husband, Arthur, came to a similar conclusion. He had been reading Ephesians 5:10 and asked her what she thought was “well-pleasing to the Lord in these our experiences?” As they talked it over, Wilda was able to share with him her Easter lesson:<br />
<br />
<em>Not to receive it joyfully was to deny the Lord before men...A few nights later it came to Arthur like a flash: the Son had left Heaven, not </em><strong>submitting</strong> <em>to the will of God, but </em><strong>delighting </strong><em>in it. Up to now they had been submitting; rather feverishly submitting...</em><br />
<blockquote>
<em>The Son had left Heaven, not </em><strong>submitting</strong> <em>to the will of God, but </em><strong>delighting </strong><em>in it.</em></blockquote>
<br />
In a letter home, Arthur wrote this about all they had learned:<br />
<em>Just to say submission to the will of God did not seem to go deep enough, for we had been trying for a long time to do just that. If you had a servant you would expect submission from him, just as you would from an old bullock with a yoke on its neck. But as</em> <strong>sons</strong> <em>surely there was something more than that.<br />
<br />
...So as we uncovered the earth we could see that our prayers had selfishly centered around the shortening of the days...There was none of the recklessness of faith such as the three friends of Daniel showed. Nor was there the spirit of joyous abandonment which the widow displayed in giving her two mites. <br />
<br />
So we came to see that God wanted us to</em> <strong>will</strong> <em>with Him to stay put; not to desire to run away as quickly as we could persuade Him to let us...The great chords that sounded through our hearts as we touched the</em> <strong>Joyously Abandoned</strong> <em>keys were really thrilling...<br />
<br />
So we are no longer stupid bullocks being driven or dragged unwillingly along a distasteful road; but sons, co-operating wholeheartedly with our Father...<br />
<br />
</em><br />
<blockquote>
<em>The yoke is <strong>LIGHT</strong> only as it is <strong>TAKEN</strong>, and not as it is <strong>suffered</strong>.</em></blockquote>
<br />
Simple submission is not enough. <strong>Delighting</strong> in doing God's will, in living out the will of God for your life, is where the great joy is. <br />
<br />
I haven't mentioned here all the things the Mathews lived with, and without during their years of waiting to be released from China, but their living conditions were such that the Chinese Christians pitied them. But was there a purpose for all that God asked of this missionary couple? Yes, there was a tremendous purpose! Here's how Isobel Kuhn wrote it:<br />
<br />
<em>The message above all others which the Chinese church needed was </em><strong>to see </strong><em>that truth lived out under circumstances equally harrowing as their own. <br />
<br />
Arthur and Wilda had longed to serve Him; but humanlike they had put their own interpretation on what service is. They thought it meant preaching with their lips. Amy Carmichael once replied to a Tamil Christian who took this meaning of service: 'God didn't make you</em> <strong>all mouth</strong><em>.' The most potent way to preach is</em> <strong>by life</strong><em>, by living it. This was the service which the Mathews family were to render to Him.</em> <br />
<br />
The message of this chapter has been running through my mind for two weeks, now, and the affect it's had on me is deep.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Being joyously abandoned to God's will is where I want to be. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Italicized parts of this post are direct quotations from <em>Green Leaf in Drought </em>by Isobel Kuhn, chapter 8.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">This is a repost from October 2008.</span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-83442844262368299922015-11-18T07:00:00.000-06:002015-11-18T07:00:00.295-06:00Plant Your Own Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkgyGZjbysOQRyar0U1PJSHc4W0_yQnHV8s0qcKDHjnu_WR_m65bBJCsK8dnX8Fu_a3dFcRSYG16v0JEdxpkiXeYWFopkVwZiC2pzFErtSb4moY982Eyamcz9ttzW8hjBUIhq4/s1600/Gerbera_Daisies_PattyWysong.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkgyGZjbysOQRyar0U1PJSHc4W0_yQnHV8s0qcKDHjnu_WR_m65bBJCsK8dnX8Fu_a3dFcRSYG16v0JEdxpkiXeYWFopkVwZiC2pzFErtSb4moY982Eyamcz9ttzW8hjBUIhq4/s400/Gerbera_Daisies_PattyWysong.jpeg" width="298" /></a></div>
As I've mulled over this whole thing with validation I was reminded of this poem that I was introduced to in high school. It's one that's helped me remember that I cannot rely on others to affirm what I'm doing. Putting that burden on them is actually unfair to them. It makes me expect it of them, especially of those closest to me, and those expectations can lead to disappointment, disillusionment, and brokenness.<br />
<br />
It's taking me years to learn this but I think I'm finally getting the hang of it a bit better. I have some ideas why too, but I'll share those another time...<br />
<br />
<br />
<center>
<span style="font-size: large;">Come the Dawn</span></center>
<center>
After a while you learn the subtle difference<br />
Between holding a hand and chaining a soul,<br />
And you learn that love doesn’t mean leaning <br />
And company doesn’t mean security,<br />
And you begin to learn that kisses aren’t contracts<br />
And presents aren’t promises,<br />
And you begin to accept your defeats<br />
With your head up and your eyes open<br />
With the grace of a woman, not the grief of a child,<br />
And you learn to build all your roads on today,<br />
Because tomorrow’s ground is too uncertain for plans,<br />
And futures have a way of falling down in mid-flight.<br />
After a while you learn<br />
That even sunshine burns if you get too much.<br />
So you plant your own garden and decorate your own soul,<br />
Instead of waiting for someone to bring you flowers.<br />
And you learn that you really can endure...<br />
That you really are strong,<br />
And you really do have worth.<br />
And you learn and learn...<br />
With every goodbye you learn.<br />
<br />
Unknown</center>
<div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-78370758019258729892015-11-17T07:00:00.000-06:002019-05-23T14:12:44.135-05:00Tips and Tricks for Bible Memorization<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/search/label/Scripture%20Memorization" imageanchor="1" style="clear: center; float: center; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Bible memory. Scripture memorization.Patty Wysong at Patterings" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb8WQK6jqBQKl5sAke-on5kObYuMV9y7tESo2Yn1XnX9-VFP60NJAIO39v-gYAARx3dxxMmuMKHH_s9CjunE39Hnlw26ldnEEQJWw0NK7QFOFYApid0I6t7sqWT9QWsqyj5msl/s1600/BibleMemorization_PattyWysong.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Memorizing Bible verses isn't easy but it's one of those things that is very worthwhile.<br />
<br />
Here's a few tricks to memorizing that I've learned along the way...<br />
<ol>
<li>Ask God to help you!</li>
<li>Be accountable to a small group—your Bible study or prayer group, a friend who will ask you about it and prod you when necessary…</li>
<li>Write the verse on a card and post it somewhere you’ll see it or carry it in your pocket for quick and easy access.</li>
<li>Read the verse 5 times every day.</li>
<li>Draw a box around the verbs.</li>
<li>Use a site like <a href="http://biblegateway.com/" target="_blank">BibleGateWay</a> or <a href="http://blueletterbible.org/" target="_blank">BlueLetterBible</a> to look up a keyword in the verse.</li>
<li>Use symbols to draw the verse then use it as a memory tool to help you visualize the verse. It really helps!! No artistic ability is needed. This is for you, not a gift for Rembrandt.</li>
<li>Sing the verse. Remember Silly Songs with Larry? Anything goes.</li>
</ol>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">My personal favorite tricks are... </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2n21pSGlfWmMZG7Rn_hOEEE1ETuo5lPNbC5KuvrqRfvGo6hJopdY9MojYNqGWNtigN71RdSZK60P88pwM788a_TxVcqTjwM_VR4mzy_J4UiAZI1C1HzOTu-ImrrpTeDvcLKk8/s1600/Bible_Memorizaion_PattyWysong.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2n21pSGlfWmMZG7Rn_hOEEE1ETuo5lPNbC5KuvrqRfvGo6hJopdY9MojYNqGWNtigN71RdSZK60P88pwM788a_TxVcqTjwM_VR4mzy_J4UiAZI1C1HzOTu-ImrrpTeDvcLKk8/s400/Bible_Memorizaion_PattyWysong.JPG" width="280" /></a></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Write the verses using brightly colored pens (I write the verse 5-10 times, depending on my time and how well it's sticking in my head). The brighter the pens, the better it works.</li>
<li>Look up every cross reference listed for the verses I'm working on. </li>
<li>Read about the verses in a commentary or two, to help me understand it more.</li>
<li>Put motions to the verse. </li>
</ul>
<br />
I have to admit though that if people were to actually see me doing the motions they'd probably laugh. When I was walking early in the mornings, I'd memorize. I was always very thankful we live on back-country roads so only the deer and dogs would see me waving my arms around. But it helped!! Now, as I drive to work I'll say my verses and my motions have to be limited to what I can do while driving. But, they still help!!<br />
<br />
Try different things until you find what works for you.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But the biggest key:</span> <span style="font-size: x-large;"><i>Just do it!</i></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
<font size="5" color=#F05E8F><a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/" >Click here to stop by Patterings and leave a comment.</a></font>
I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-23160656307825659222015-11-16T18:47:00.000-06:002015-11-16T19:17:16.072-06:00Monkey Raspberries?You never know what you're going to get when a monkey is posing for pictures.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmuroF8rFXmF-T_oSgf_BgFO4zKr01XQbw_0gV_PHalUR2mHBUDNlUBggAk69Pp90IQieVIs3RwGRzjZiV69TEmCpao5MDNFN6czkDC5QzCb8V6j1dxJJyJLjNjHRuVVDxyOJX/s1600/Toby_Pose_PattyWysong.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmuroF8rFXmF-T_oSgf_BgFO4zKr01XQbw_0gV_PHalUR2mHBUDNlUBggAk69Pp90IQieVIs3RwGRzjZiV69TEmCpao5MDNFN6czkDC5QzCb8V6j1dxJJyJLjNjHRuVVDxyOJX/s1600/Toby_Pose_PattyWysong.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pattywysong.com/search/label/Monkey%20Monday" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Monkey Monday at Patterings" border="0" img="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbHpJ5toiw1IDuh0TdKhUtTPp6YDIXD15Kjjmh0O52q3pfIlNp8rkfEgRznSaNCcTF1U2OADfVJNX908AEjjNnPDS4hnnYtGXrcEPXe4KkqpE1usH6IEPapKiKUcnZtMV5HRcz/s1600/Monkey-Mondays.jpg" /></a></div>
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He's really not blowing raspberries but sometimes I wonder.<br />
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When Toby sits with someone for a picture, we give him a small treat. He'll sit beside them munching, and often that creates a few funny shots.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.blogher.com/blogher-topics/blogging-social-media/nablopomo" target="_blank">#NaBloPoMo</a> Day 12</span></div>
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I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-66694396132238952982015-11-15T16:39:00.000-06:002015-11-15T16:39:14.047-06:00What’s in your hand?In my Bible reading I’m in Judges and it’s capturing my attention. Othniel, Ehud, Shamgar, Gideon… men that God used. Men that, as I’ve dug into them a little, don’t look exactly like I pictured them other times I’ve read Judges.<br />
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For instance, take Shamgar. The one verse devoted to Shamgar tells us all we know about him.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
After him came Shamgar the son of Anath, who struck down six hundred Philistines with an oxgoad; and he also saved Israel. ~Judges 3:31</blockquote>
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What’s an oxgoad? <br />
It’s a long stick with a point on one end and a shovel like blade of sorts on the other. One end is for prodding the oxen to keep them moving and the other end’s to scrape off the plow. It’s a farmer’s tool, not a warrior’s weapon. <br />
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In those days Israel had been deweaponized by their enemies. So, Shamgar used what he had. And with God’s help, he was successful and he saved Israel. <br />
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With an oxgoad. <br />
No, that’s not true. He had more than an oxgoad. He had the Spirit of the Living God empowering him. And <i>that’s</i> what puts me and Shamgar on the same playing field. The Holy Spirit.<br />
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When God calls you, He empowers you to do what He’s called you to do and gives you the tools necessary. I wonder if Shamgar thought he had what he needed to save Israel? I doubt it. His enemies had real weapons and he had a farmer’s tool. But God didn’t give Shamgar weapons he probably thought he needed, weapons that would’ve come in handy. God used what Shamgar already had in his hands. An oxgoad. If Shamgar had gone on a quest to find the weapons he thought he needed before obeying God, he would’ve lost his opportunity. <br />
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This has had me thinking for days. <br />
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Am I obeying or delaying? Like Shamgar, I have the Holy Spirit empowering me. I’m sure I have my own version of an oxgoad—something that God has put in my hands, so I don’t need to go on a quest to find anything. <br />
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It boils down to simple obedience. I need to quit waiting for what I think are things I need in order to obey and just get on with obeying. <div class="blogger-post-footer"><p></p><p></p>
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I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35674839.post-23582808861105336802015-11-13T16:42:00.000-06:002015-11-13T16:42:49.121-06:00ValidationAs someone who writes, a question I’ve been mulling over is “Why do you want to be published?” (referring to traditional publishing) But really, this same question could be posed to anyone… “Why do you want to accomplish ______ in your chosen area?”<br />
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I get hung up on this question every time. <br />
I don’t like my answer, even though it’s painfully honest. <br />
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I want to be published traditionally because I want the validation of it. I want someone to say that my work is good enough to warrant a contract and even payment. I want that seal of approval on my work. That proof. Something I can hold up and say, “See?!”<br />
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But every time I even think those words I hear a still, quiet voice in my heart saying, “Isn’t My approval enough?” <br />
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God did not use a cookie cutter when He created us. What’s right for my friend isn’t necessarily right for me. God may have called one of us to walk to the beat of a different drum. The key is to be obedient to what God’s called <i>me</i> to do. My calling, not someone else’s calling.<br />
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That means risking being different and maybe even <i>appearing</i> wrong. Sometimes that may mean the appearance of taking the easy way or a short cut. But the truth of the matter is that if it’s what God told me to do, then for me it’s right (and the other way may be the wrong way for me). <br />
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I need to obey what God's called me to do and look to Him for validation. Only Him.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">So tell me, is validation something you struggle with? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">How do you deal with it? </span><br />
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I'd love to hear from you!</div>Patty Wysonghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01689649950598288481noreply@blogger.com8