Becoming Bold

It started with a check that came in the mail fifteen years ago. I had given birth to my third child, my firstborn son. On a limited income, we hoped to nurse. Yet, quickly, John developed milk allergies keeping him from nursing. The formula needed doubled our weekly grocery budget.

I shared a prayer request during the weekly bible study I attended. The following week a fifty dollar check came in the mail from a bible study classmate. She knew we were struggling financially with this added expense. After receiving some birthday money, she wanted to share it with us.

It wasn't easy receiving the money at first.  I had grown up with the mindset of not sharing your personal struggles with anyone. So embracing  a new way of thinking, "that God might want to take care of me through  His people" was foreign. Yet, it was given with such love and joy.

That one act of giving began a snowball effect that continues to this day. Over the span of the last fifteen years our family has been the recipient of hundreds of gifts ranging from food and diapers to frequent flier miles to attend Mom Heart intensives.

Probably the largest reminder I have of the faithfulness of God to provide for my family is my home. About nine years ago my local church asked permission to do some home repair for me. Married at the time to an over the road truck driver made it hard to tackle repairs at home. I was a homeschooling mom of five ranging from two to twelve.

The church called it the Jerusalem Project. They sent us out of the house for two weeks to complete a "Hallelujah Chorus Task List" which my pastor had requested. What we returned to change our lives forever.

When we returned home there was a welcoming crew of at least 50 who walked us through each room which had been transformed from flooring, paint, to decor. The beauty was breathtaking. I nearly fainted when I saw the deck off the back door which overlooked the river. I had longed for a deck for six years as we could not use the back door because it dropped five feet off the house.

This is the verse the Lord gave to me during the two weeks of waiting while they worked on our home.

Psalm 13:6 "I will sing unto the Lord for He has dealt bountifully with me."

We suspected we were coming home to new flooring and possible painted walls. But we were in awe at the beauty and complete home makeover which became our new home.

We walked into this verse: "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to the power that is at work within us, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever!" There is not a single day I live that I cannot walk into my home and be thankful for all God has done for me and my family.

This season I have realized that as we experience the tangible love of God we become bold.

As we receive and come to know the nature and character of God through the outpouring of His love for us, we are filled with the power of His spirit to walk out what He has called us to in our individual lives.

"For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. "Ephesians 2;10

Experiencing the love of God made me bold enough this summer to start a family business in our community. In June, Graves Grocery: A Community Reststop opened to serve breakfast and lunch to the people in our small community. We are completing our seventh month of business this month.

You can read more about our little place here http://www.waff.com/story/24098447/laid-back-old-country-st#.UqvUkmaw3PQ.facebook

Thus far, having the store has been the most rewarding experience in life other than being a mom. It's like something I waited forever for but did not know I was waiting.

It is an opportunity daily to show the tangible love of God through serving or a kind word. I am trusting God to use me in such a way that, as I share the love of God to my customers, they too become bold.

May you reflect this holiday season on how God has poured out His love for you in your own life. And if there is too much pain to see His love, ask Him to show you. If you belong to Him, He has never left you.

As you reflect on His outpouring of love, may you too become bold.

Have a bold and bright Christmas!

Love, Pam

The Benefits of a Meal Plan

There are nuggets of truth along my spiritual journey that stick with me. These truths I have incorporated into my life have strengthened my faith and the relationships with those I love.

One of these nuggets is the importance of planning meals for the men in my world...for today that means my two sons, ages 14 and 11. The girls are glad to eat as well. But truly it makes a world of difference for the boys.

I heard once and never forgot:

FAIL TO PLAN; PLAN TO FAIL

Today it's my turn up at Mom Heart online. You can read more about my nugget of truth I gleaned here.

Fondly,

Pam

It's My Turn but it's for His Renown

Sometimes I still battle with the someday story of great renown for myself or family.

Yet, as I had opportunity to write this month for Mom Heart Online, I was sweetly reminded that this life is really not about me or my great kids.

It's about our great God, who delights in using us...very normal people to be light bearers to the world. And why? Well, yes it's because He loves us and delights in us. Yet, there is more about the why.

Find out here online more about the why?

The Beginning Of a New Adventure

GRAVES GROCERY 

A COMMUNITY REST STOP

"A Place to Satisfy Your Hunger and Your Heart"

     I never dreamed I would be a store-owner, in my community, reaching out in ministry to those in need.  However, because I desire to do more ministry in my community, I kept believing there needed to be a physical place to meet to reach more women and children.

     Eighteen months ago, when the opportunity arose to buy a local store, the price was too high. I proceeded to take a job at the local YMCA ministering to 120 kids daily, along with their families, and supervising eight counselors.

     I began Mom Heart, a local community outreach, to women and children in September, 2012. We meet weekly at a local church and engage in gospel storytelling, children’s literature, practical life skills, and play.

     We are seeing transformation in the lives of the two families attending, as the power of God’s word takes root in their hearts and minds.  As change occurred, we all kept asking how can we grow and impact more families in our community with the life saving message of redemption.

     I truly thought this ministry was enough to last a while. It became evident at the end of March, 2013, my job at the YMCA was coming to a close. God used significant health issues to cause me to consider whether I was to stay.

     Just a short time after my thoughts began to wander about other jobs, I noticed the same store I desired 18 months earlier was now up for sale again.

     This time it was half price.  Fearful questions arose,

“I have never run a business. How will I know what to do?”

“Should I do something so risky?”

“Will I have enough money to take care of my kids.”

     Then hurling accusations came from the enemy….

“You will never make it..You are crazy….”

Then fear showed up. So I reached out.

     I knew a God who rescued me out of addiction, abuse, and neglect. Although I am a single mom with five children, he restored and redeemed my life. He had given me a strong community of believers to walk with through life. He had given me a strong testimony and heart for ministry.

     I went to God’s word, spent time in prayer, and asked for prayer from trusted friends regarding this life changing decision.

And God came through again. He is faithful.

     Psalm 90:17 “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us; And confirm for us the work of our hands; Yes, confirm the work of our hands.”

Psalm 37: 3-7 “Trust in the Lord and do good;

Dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.

Delight yourself in the Lord

And he will give you the desires of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord;

Trust in Him and He will do this;

He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn,

the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him;

      I meditated on the faithfulness of God and recounted the story of His redemption in and through each and every trial in my life.  As I embraced His call on my life to live missionally, to believe God to be all of who I know Him to be, I came to a place of perfect peace and faith to walk through this new and exciting adventure.

     Yes, God answers prayers and gives us the desires of our heart as we trust, delight, and commit our ways to the Lord.

     May He be glorified forever in and through me, my children,…..and now, our little PLACE to gather, share, eat, and fellowship in His glorious name.

     I WILL NOT BE AFRAID. I WILL GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES. HE IS WITH ME ALWAYS.

     I want my whole community to know this glorious truth of redemption, the saving grace and love of Christ…that they too may experience the fullness of life the Father has for them.

 In Wonder,

Pam

When Our Older Kids Hurt

There are times when sweet platitudes fall upon deaf ears of a hurting child. For the early years of life it seems a tender touch, a hug, a piece of candy, or kind words are enough to fill the hurt stops of a child's heart.

Yet, as they mature and begin reasoning out the things of life, including their faith, these quick and easy fixes miss the mark.  No older child wants to hear, "Awe honey, it'll be ok. Just have faith."

Today I am sharing "When a Band Aid Is Not Enough" at Mom Heart Online. You can hear the rest of how this story played out there.

It is so important we have an answer for our faith when our kids are hurting. They are counting on our faith.

Be blessed,

Pam

When You Are Longing for Rest

I have been sick for what seems like forever. At first I blamed it on my new job at the YMCA. There are germs from 5 public school systems, plus my own children's school...so six schools. There are over 100 children every day that I am in close contact with.

However six months into the job, I cannot continue to blame work. So after blood work and doctor's visits, we are addressing the health issues as adrenal fatigue. An uphill climb has begun with supplements, dietary issues, and LOTS of rest.

Don't we all long for "rest". You know the deep rest that settles in the deepest part of our souls. The rest that lets us know all is well with our world regardless of our circumstances. The rest that Horatio Spafford penned when he wrote "It Is Well With My Soul" in spite of losing his children to tragedy.

I found these verses recently which the apostle John penned. His words address our longing for rest. They bring clarity to us and confirm exactly how to find the "rest" we so long for in today's world where we can never seem to do enough, be enough, have enough, and certainly not rest enough.

"Dear children (I love that God addresses me this way), let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.

THIS THEN IS HOW WE KNOW THAT WE BELONG TO THE TRUTH, AND HOW WE SET OUR HEARTS AT REST IN HIS PRESENCE."

So, loving with action and in truth sets my heart at rest in the presence of God.  Thankfully, I have found I can actively love from the bench at the kitchen table by scratching my son's back. I can listen while children share their views of injustices from teachers at school while thanking God they will even talk to me...the old mom who is tired from work. And I can laugh with them all as they remember silly times together at ball games or some other unusual place we've found ourselves as a family. 

There are thousands of self help books, blogs, tutorials, and more to help one find rest. But they won't be truth. Truth is a person. Jesus. These are His words.

May you embrace Christ and His truth today.

Because we all need a little rest.

In Him,

Pam

River of Life Lesson on Miracles

I have seen transformation occur in the lives of others because I believed the following truth:

"But whoever has the world's goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against him, how does the love of God abide in him?' 1st John 3: 17 

When I have believed the truth that God wants me to care for the physical needs of those who are without, and act on this truth, transformation can occur.

I have seen dignity restored to young moms in families who made poor financial choices, when the body of Christ came together to provide beds, a kitchen table, and more.

And this was no miracle I pulled off on my own. I shared my heart for this family with friends, who shared with other friends. All these people believe the same truth as me. "Be not hearers but doers of the word." (James 1:22)

I am a single mom with limited financial resources but because I believe the truth of God and shared with others who believed, this young mom's physical needs were met which opened her heart to God's love and presence in her life on a daily basis. She is now serving regularly at the local Share House, the place where we first met, when she was present as a recipient rather than a giver.

Last summer one great read for me was Jim Cymbala's Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire. The following quote came from him:

"One way to recognize whether we suffer from disconnection is to look at our concern for people who are dirty...people who are 'other"...people who don't fit the core group's image. The ravages of sin are not pleasant--but they are what Jesus came to forgive and heal. "The Son of Man came to seek and save what was lost" (Luke 19:10) Yet Christians often hesitate to reach out to those who are different. They want God to clean the fish before they catch them."

 There has been no greater joy than to see hearts opened to God for His filling. In fear I asked Him, "how could I ever give or be enough for any of these deep desperate issues. It seems so overwhelming and out of control." He answered me by reminding me only the truth of His word would free them and break down strongholds in their lives. I only needed to be obedient."

Weekly at Mom Heart we pour out the truth of who God is. And He is transforming lives. We take seriously the command from James to share the world's goods with those in need. Why? Because the love of God abides in us.(1st John 3:17)

Who can you help this week. Please let me know how quickly your heart is filled with joy because you have acted obediently.

And watch for the transformation to occur. It is a miracle, something only God can do. I am so excited about Easter, in spite of having three sick at home. Miracles are something to be excited about. I still can't believe, as believers in the living God,  we get to be a part of all this.

Looking forward to hearing from you,

Pam

Easter: Christ Purpose and Message

We have preserved a few traditions in our family which are reminders of special events or holidays. As Easter approaches, I am preparing my heart to share with my children the reason for our celebration.

As we PRACTICE these traditions, I recollect reminders to practice throughout scripture. God was repeatedly telling Israel to set up these reminders, build an altar, and celebrate with feasts the provisions of God.

As believers we are privileged to get to pass on these stories of God's faithfulness throughout history to our children in creative ways. As I study 1 John 3: 8-12, we are encouraged again to practice the purpose and message of Christ:

"the Son of God appeared for this purpose, to destroy the works of the devil." "For this is the message which you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another."

This Easter I want to remind my children by practicing traditions in our home of Christ purpose on the cross. I want them to know that His death created a way for each of us to fulfill His message for each of our lives...to love one another.

Last year I used Ann Voskamp's "Trail to the Tree" which made a lovely centerpiece for my table. This year I have been using John Piper's Lenten Devotion over the past few weeks. You can find out more about it here by placing "Lenten Lights" in the search window. We will use the same devotion as a family during the holy week. Each day we get to snuff out a candle as we prepare for Easter morning when each of the seven candles are re-lit because Jesus is alive!

I can't wait to celebrate with my kids...especially knowing how much my baby boy Thomas, who is 10, will delight in wetting his fingers and snuffing out that flame everyday.

Traditions help set the tone for truth for our kids to embrace what is right and holy. If each of us only walked in these two truths:

Christ destroyed the works of the devil

and

We should love one another

What difference would that alone make in how you face today's challenges?

It's the  main thing. It's the only thing that matters. When we fix that truth in our mind, everything else suddenly becomes less paramount in our lives.

Happy Easter, Happy Practicing, Happy Day

Love,

Pam

Fostering Gifts in our Children

Raleigh Mom Heart Conference 2013

I believe at times it is easy, especially in young moms, to feel like the day to day tasks of running children to practice, doing lessons, etc can often feel mundane. It is hard to see the difference you are making as noticing progress in character shaping, academics, or other talents and abilities is often slow...very slow.

Today I am sharing at MomHeart. It's my monthly opportunity to be a part of a larger network of moms encouraging one another to hold fast to their calling as mothers. You can find out here how doing the small simple things with your children can make an eternal difference in advancing the kingdom of God.

Recently Erin and I reconnected at the National Raleigh Mom Heart Conference. Once she shared her story about her son, I knew it was too good to keep to myself. If what your child loves irritates you or is out of your comfort zone, but is not morally or spiritually dangerous, ask God to stretch you so you can truly foster those giftings.

You can enjoy Tristan's music at the following site by copying and pasting the link into your browser:

https://soundcloud.com/eyesontheking/tristan-peace-till-they-know

Happy Day,

Pam

What are you practicing?

As a mom I am learning that to be good at something requires lots of practice.

We informally practice child training every day in our home when someone leaves their clothes on the floor or on top of the kitchen island or in my van.

John practices basketball twice a week because we recognize his gifts and abilities and want to help him improve.

I practice tidying up on a regular basis, regardless of how challenging, so that my children can feel content in an orderly home and I can continue to grow up in self discipline. I would much rather be having coffee with a friend or dreaming up some next big ministry adventure.

In 1st John 3:4-7, John, the disciple Jesus loved, encourages us to practice in another way.....to practice righteousness. Why so important?

Because unlike basketball, child training, or housework,

practicing righteousness identifies us as Christ followers. 

I do believe we can act righteous in all aspects of our lives...even basketball.

Because we have been issued the Great Commission to go and make disciples, we will find many more willing to follow us if we are practicing righteousness than otherwise.

John warns us this won't be easy. "Little children, make sure no one deceives you." There will be constant distractions to pull us away in our thinking and actions from pursuing righteousness.

The key is abiding...

I am so thankful God's principles for living presented in His word give us answers for how to please Him by walking in obedience.  I will spend time renewing my mind with God's truth to know Him more fully.

So, today, I will practice abiding, relying on the power of God within me, to pour out in righteous acts to those around me.

I want someone today to know just how great God is....don't you?

Love,

Pam

The Never Ending Valentine Message

I love it that we still have hearts up at the YMCA on the windows in the lobby. Yeah, I know it's the week after Valentines but there is something happy about hearts, love, and chocolate. It makes my heart lighter going into work each day.

The small orderly part of me wanted to transfer the Valentine decor at home for Easter decor Saturday night because I began the lenten devotion on Sunday but I just couldn't do it....YET

I am thrilled to share with you today that the Valentine message can continue. In my study of 1st John 3: 1-3, the message of love, given by God, can continue forever in our heart and mind. Every day can be Valentines!

"See how great a love the Father has bestowed upon us that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.
Beloved, now we are children of God, and it has not appeared as yet what we will be. We know that when He appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him just as He is.
And everyone who has this hope fixed on Him purifies himself, just as He is pure."

Who is the eternal Valentine...what does He go by?

The Bestower

 Our Hope

 Our Purifier

 and 

Our Lover, especially meaningful to  a single mom.

What does our Valentine give?

Great Love

Purification

Hope

What does He call us?

Beloved

Children of God

Thank you Father for bestowing your great love upon me, calling me your own, purifying me, giving me hope and making me your child. I love belonging to you.

Happy Eternal Valentines Day! May the truth of who God is become evident to you today is a precious, priceless way.

And please, when He does reveal himself, please share it with me.

Love, 

Pam

A Single Mom's Valentine Tribute

My biggest challenge this year was finding someone who still had Girl Scout cookies. All my contacts in the past have graduated out of scouts and I missed the pre-order.

Not to worry thanks to Facebook. I messaged a scout mom. Not only did she hunt down the missing thin mints but DELIVERED them to the YMCA to me at work! Wow! The blessings of friendship.

On another note, regarding the upcoming Mom Heart conference in Raleigh. There is still pleanty of room in my van to join me for a fun road trip, leading to encouragement and refreshment.....

AND SEVERAL BOXES OF GIRL SCOUT COOKIES WHICH I BRING ALONG FOR FUN!

It's my turn today to share at MomHeart online. What does a single mom have to write about on  Valentines that has a little to do with cookies? You can find out  here today.

Happy Valentines!

Pam

On Confidence and Security as Women

I have noticed along life that two areas women struggle with include confidence and security.  As we put our trust in things of the world, whether it be a job or relationship, we often find either one to fall apart or bring pain from brokenness.

Back in 1993, when my marriage was already failing but to last another long 13 years, I was introduced to bible study. A friend knew I was returning to my hometown to live, without a support system. My now ex-husband was an over the road truck driver and absent for long periods of time, leaving me at home with a two year old (yes, I had been a single mom) and expecting our first child together.

That first year of bible study provided much for me: community, fellowship, and support. But the greatest think I learned that year was the following principle or lesson:

"I could try for the rest of my life to please my family, children, spouse, etc but would often come up empty. However, I could please the God of the universe, my heavenly father, with my life without ever wondering how to do so."

Wow, to have spent over two decades trying to measure up or perform to someone else's standards, bound by others expectations. This truth brought freedom and passion into my heart as I began a sweet journey of discovery as God planned for me unfolded through a committed time of study with him.

So after half my life has past, do I still ever struggle with insecurity or lack confidence. Of course. Those feelings just last for shorter periods of time and the Spirit of God, within me, is quick to remind me, through remaining in His word, promises like the ones found in 1st John 2: 25-29:

As a believer in Christ, I am:

a practicer of righteousness

a receiver of eternal life

 anointed by God who teaches me about ALL things

given confidence

given truth

abiding in Christ

So, today, as the winds of wordly philosophy blow against me that my parenting isn't enough..my relationship skills aren't enough, I fight back with truth, securely, (abiding in Him) and confidently.

Will you join me? Will you appropriate these truths into your own life. If they seem foreign to you, would you ask God to reveal Himself to you through these truths and make them real in your own life. We are secure in Him and we can be confident in Him.

Blessed,

Pam

Being Drawn Into A Story

I have not engaged in a good book, fiction or non, other than the bible since the summer. I found myself with alot of extra time on my hands last night, which is almost foreign as a single mom with five children. However, it was 8:00 then 9:00 and I was still trying to decide what to do to get off facebook, which had become terribly boring by then.

Housework was not an option I wanted to consider, nor did I long to begin a new project. I remembered a book by Charles Martin, shared by a friend last spring, which was still among it's friends in my bedroom.

Not sure if, as usual, I would fall asleep within the first 5-10 minutes, I picked it up and began around 9:30. It wasn't until 2 hours later I put the book down. In two hours I developed a relationship with not only the author but the main characters as well.

It's what a good book does, it draws you into the story, making you part of the redemptive process battling to win in the book.

It's the same with God's word. 

The story of redemption begins with the conflict between Adam, Eve, and Satan in Genesis, the first book of the bible and continues throughout scripture ending in Revelation of God through John regarding the end times.

In the same way as any great book, the author of my faith, God draws me in developing a deeper relationship with me as he reveals himself to me through the study of his word. It keeps my mind focused on Him and what he is saying about me.

Today, God says to me, "let that abide in you which you heard from the beginning. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, you will also abide in the Son and in the Father." (1st John 2:24)

I long to part of a great story, a wonderful adventure that includes me slaying evil forces and being a part of bringing justice to those treated unjustly.

And I am part of such a story...God's story..

...whether I am comforting my youngest child who constantly feels picked on by his older siblings, or buying gatorade and speaking healing words to a sick child, or teaching truth to a room full of moms, who have never heard the truth.

What are you being drawn into today....

If you are longing for God's adventure in your life yet pulled by the forces of this world and feeling strained, take heart. Christ has overcome the world. And He has a word for you....

"Come to me all ye who are weary and heavy burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For my yoke is easy and My burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30

May you learn today by abiding in His word, the truth.

Love, Pam

What doesn't need to change in the New Year

 

The New Year brings about resolutions and changes in many lives. We want to start something new, do better in an area, or stop some bad habit all together. Yet, regarding the word of God,and the presence of God we are to abide. To abide means to to remain, stay, and continue.

From studying the first five chapters thus far of 1st John, the apostle repeatedly states who the believer is and how the believer can know and be confident in their standing with Christ.  He uses statements in 1 John 2:18-21 like...

"because you do know the truth"

"you have an anointing from the Holy One...and you all know."

"as for you, let that abide in you which you heard from the beginning."

I think back about the many things over the years that have gotten me off track. Not, that I am indicating I was out of God's will or doubt His sovereignty.

There are SO many great opportunities to be a part, which are true acts of love and service to others, allowing us to live out the great commission.

However, I know there are times I have been so lost in the ministering, I have been no where near remaining, or abiding in Christ. Irritability, tension, critical spirits surface allowing me to later see how I am attempting to operate in my own strength.

God has used these times, upon reflection, to recognize my need for greater dependency on Him and less on myself.

I was challenged to give 2013 a "Name", which I vehemently fought, since the word that kept coming to me was persist or persevere. I wrestled with God wondering why I couldn't have a fun word like "joy" or "contentment". I am tired of persevering. Also, I didn't want to revisit persisting with God about the opportunity for companionship as a single adult.

But the Father made it clear the persevering is about Him and for His glory. I am to keep on keeping on..taking truth in, letting it remain, continue, abide in me. AND persevere in sharing the truth of who God is with those He brings into my life.

I have learned the hard way I am only content and joyful when I am thanking Him for revealing Himself to me and walking in what He has called me to....

so I will persevere for 2013...I will continue, remain, and abide in Christ.

What will you abide in?

I would love to hear from you!

Happy New Year!

Pam

What Resolutions Have You Made

Mom Heart Intensive, Colorado, 2010

Today I get to share over at www.momheart.org. You will find out why I am so excited about what 2013 has in store especially in regards to Mom Heart ministry in North Alabama. What resolutions have you made this year regarding support or community in your parenting journey. Find out in today's post the difference strong community can make.

For When You Feel Desperate

There have been periodic times in my life that I have felt nothing less than desperate.

Those times have encompassed the spectrum from all five kids having the stomach bug at the same time to a failed marriage and everything in between.

It seems like I lived my life to please others, constantly jumping through the necessary hoops for acceptance, approval, and identity. I've done it with my kids. I did it in my past marriage. And in another life I did it through relationships.

Furthermore, I have felt desperate to be married again...

Desperate for sleep..

Desperate for companionship...

Desperate for support...

It was even a feeling of desperation that led me to Dallas, Texas fourteen years ago, as I entered the world of homeschooling. I was desperate for direction, resources, and support.

What I encountered was the beginning of a fourteen year journey with my creator God. I became a disciple of Sally Clarkson, the Mom Heart mentor.

For the past fourteen years, Sally, along with her gifted speakers, have gently guided mothers, including myself with practical resources and kind encouragement as we journey in a role as mothers. But the main principle prevailing every talk and every conference has been based on the nature and character of God.

Because Sally has spent thousands of hours studying God's word, the truth of who He is and what He says to me..about me..pours through her.

It has been abundantly clear throughout the years that nothing other than the power of God in our lives and us embracing the truths of God will meet the feelings of desperation we all experience as women in our unique life circumstances.

Although God has afforded me the privilege of a personal friendship with Sally, these truths are available to anyone who desires to resolve their feelings of desperation. Sally has written numerous books, which can be found at www.wholeheart.org

However, today's time is about her most recent work, written along with Sarah Mae, a new fresh voice I look forward to meeting in Raleigh.

Find out more at www.desperatemom.com

For me, the sweetest part of the story includes a small writing part, from me, addressed at the end of the book especially for single moms! (pg.213-214)  If anyone had ever told me that my words would be included in a book that is on the first page of www.barnesandnoble.com or as of yesterday was #54 on www.amazon.com I would not believe it to be true.

Recently I listened to a sermon by Louie Giglio who stated the following point:

"The trajectory of your life is not determined by your present circumstances"

How true for this sweet venture I get to be a part of.

I am 46, a single working mom of 5 children, technically backwards, and understand little of social media.

But I have prayed this week that God would do immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine to get this book out there to moms, who were as desperate as I was fourteen years ago. So they, too, can know their maker, and walk confidently in their roles at home.

 He has faithfully heard my prayer, in spite of my lack of computer literacy, and done immeasurably more than we could have asked or imagine.

I pray you will be encouraged by my writing below and know that my God can be your God and meet you in your desperate place as well....Buy your copy today!

A Special Note to Single Moms

"I believe single moms are especially loved by God. He is with you and will support you as you look to him and will work secretly in the hearts of your sweet children, because they, too, are loved by him.
It is my prayer than many of you will find a mentor to love and support you in your challenging and unique calling, so that you will not have to walk this road alone. One of my very dear friends Pam Graves is a single mom who has modeled such faith, grace, and strength over the years and I have asked her to share some of her thoughts about being a single mom."

-Sally

"Because I grew up in a divorced home and knew firsthand the pain associated as a child from a single parent home, I did not plan on being divorced or becoming a  single working mom of five children. Yet, when spiritual matters go unattended in one's life, patterns tend to repeat themselves.
I can honestly say my five children are "standing on my shoulders" are are shaking up the communities where they land, whether it be public school for the  youngest three, college sports for my second born daughter, or my oldest daughter who is presently en route to Berlin, to answer the call to missions.
My sweet nest climbed onto my shoulders as I desperately cried out to the Lord to make me a change factor in our family heritage. I still hold fast to the promises of my Maker that he will complete the good work he began in both me and my children.
There are ongoing battles of depression, loneliness, exhaustion, and character shaping in both my own life and my children. As I give every concern to my Heavenly Father, and press into God in the hard places, he is ever so faithful to meet me and my family in the desperate places, giving grace and lovingkindness to each of us in unique ways that reflect his nature and character.
It can be easy to allow our circumstances to define us: "single," "working mom," "divorced." Even worse, we can buy into the lie that the world judges us because of our circumstances. Whether you are single, divorced, or married, it is imperative to fight the enemy who tries to tear us down.
And we fight, like David, with the power of God's word. God defines us as an inherent treasure that he loved to the point of death. It's the same love we feel about our children. We fight through every battle, insecurity, deception, and fear that they too may know not only how much we love them but also the God of the universe is rooting for them.
Our kids are counting on us. I want to leave a lasting legacy of love and service."

When What Drives You Changes

Recently I wrote a blogpost for Mom Heart about our three gift tradition at Christmas. You can read more about it here: http://www.momheart.org/?s=three+gift+tradition

However this year I did not find my marathon shopping day as enjoyable as usual. It was not a sense of dread but more of duty. We have established these traditions and I must follow through. While that is a good character quality, diligence, I sensed a loss of passion.

Upon revisiting my study of 1st John, I believe I understand why:

In chapter 2 verses 15-17, the apostle John draws a comparison between those of the world and the people of God.

The qualities of those of this world are quite lengthy but make no bones about it:

the love of the Father is not in them

they struggle with lust of flesh

and lust of the eyes

and the boastful pride of life

they do not know their Father

they are passing away

While those belonging to God...

do the will of God

live forever

Pretty simple.  I need simplicity in the New Year. I do not need stress, complications, overwhelming situations, like lines and mass merchandise.

I am a mom. I desire to be available physically, emotionally, and spiritually, which is already a challenge as a single, working mom.

I want to give my kids gifts, and I want to enjoy the process of getting the gifts for them, wrapping, and presenting them.  It is my desire to please my children and celebrate the birth of Christ.

However, recognizing my limitations as a woman who struggles with fatigue and aging, I plan to shop online next year.

I am trusting that will simplify my life and allow me to keep the main thing the main thing..

doing the will of God

living forever

What challenges are you facing that might cause you to question whether you belong to the world or to the people of God. I do not believe we can lose our salvation. Yet, I believe often things of the world will pull on us. Consequently, we make choices that bring our character into question.

How can you simplify your life today for the New Year to keep the main thing the main thing.

With Love,

Pam

A Send Off Letter for Someone Special

Tomorrow my dear friend Amanda will board for her flight to Kampala. Although I long to travel alongside her, this time I am only able to provide a send off.

Amanda, the Aggie’s Arts guru on this side of the Atlantic will spend the next week and half with Simon, Aggie, and their family as well as our sweet ladies from Banda, our Aggie’s Arts ladies. The beadmakers who work tirelessly making jewelry to provide for their families will work together to finalize ministry plans during Simon and Aggie’s furlough.

I love that I am part of a body that takes care of details. We intend to keep these women’s ministries going while our missionaries are resting.

A little over four months ago, a team travelled to Kampala, Uganda for a two- week ministry trip. 

          

Below, is a portion of my journal entry from our unique time in Banda:

Monday, August 27, 2012

We are back from our longest day of ministry. I thought Kisoro would be my favorite part but today proved to be so very rewarding.

We started out to Banda, a slum area, around nine this morning. I was to have the responsibility of teaching the ladies while Keith taught the men. The remainder of the team was to work with the kids.

We were expecting about 50 but as we drove into the slum, there were easily more than 100 just in eyeshot.

We passed the quarry as we climbed the hill into Banda, with the city behind and below us. The Lord brought the song from Bible Study Fellowship preschool program to mind:

   

“There’s a green hill far away

without a city wall.

Where the dear Lord was crucified.

He died to save us all.”

While waiting to unload, I found the passage from Matthew 5:14:

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill which cannot be hidden.”

I sensed the ladies needed to hear how much God cared, called, and challenged them. The verses from Isaiah, which I have put to memory over the past year, were the verses I shared with them.

Isaiah 41:9b-10

“You are my servant

I have chosen you

And not rejected you

Do not fear for I am with you

I will strengthen you and help you

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

There is something special about reading a line of a passage slowly then having it interpreted into 2 languages. It is quite impacting.

Isaiah 45:3

“I will give you hidden treasures

Riches stored in secret places

So that you may know

I am the God of Israel

Who summons you by name.”

Then I talked to them a few minutes about suffering. I shared that I believe God allows suffering for two reasons:

One: to draw us into dependency on the Lord

Two: To conform us to the image of Christ Romans 8:29

Isaiah 54:10

Though the mountains be shaken

And the hills be removed

Yet my unfailing love for you

Will not be shaken

Nor my covenant of peace

Be removed from you

Says the Lord

Who has compassion on you.”

I shared from Isaiah 55: 8-10 as well encouraging the women to CIRCLE the promises of God literally in their bible or hide the words in their heart, to stand firm, and remain faithful to God.

Then I shared the “City on a Hill” picture the Lord gave me as we drove in that morning.

Unfortunately there was no time between sharing and setting up for the eye clinic.  Truly I did not believe the people would ever stop coming.

                                

Once a person was fitted for reading glasses, they were distributed. It was then they were sent for the sharing of the gospel and prayer. Here is my oldest son John Jay sharing the gospel.

I was paired with Rose, one of the Aggie’s Arts ladies, as an interpreter. She had also interpreted alongside Aggie as I shared earlier with the women. Here we are with my oldest daughter Lawren.

There were two ladies who came together for glasses. I believe God sent them specifically to encourage me, which I was later able to share with the team.

The ladies said we were an answer to prayer and shared with me:

Proverbs 19:17

“One who is gracious to a poor man lends to the Lord,

And will repay him for his good deed.”

They said they had prayed and waited on these glasses and further prayed that God would bless us. They would now be able to see to do their detail work better.  The overwhelming joy for just a small gesture was unbelievable.

My faith has grown to see these people suffer so greatly yet remain so very joyful.

When we stopped the eye clinic, we were able to shop among the Aggie’s Arts ladies.

So it is my desire for you readers to know where our Amanda is going. 

She is going to Banda, a slum area of Kampala, Uganda.

The Light of the World

A City on A Hill Which Cannot be Hidden

So while we covet your prayers for Amanda and her precious family holding the fort down at home, WE KNOW SHE IS IN GOOD HANDS.

Light bearer at home,

Pam