Parents, Cincinnati, and Worship Styles

Wow - what a busy couple of days. God is so gracious in having my parents up here for a few days. They came up Wednesday afternoon just in time for dinner with the Weldys. It was great hanging out with them and eating some delicious food cooked by Lindsay! Such a precious couple to me. I learn so much from them that I can apple in my life - both now and in the future if I ever get married.
Thursday was lunch with Brandi. Mom cooked some great taco soup and then we had pumpkin muffin cakes for dessert. I'm glad Brandi got to hang out with my folks. Dad came to chapel with me too. Then he left to head to Cincinnati and Mom and I got a few more days to hang out and do girl stuff.
Thursday night we shopped and Friday night we shopped. Saturday we ate at Lynn's and then explored the road between Louisville and Cincinnati. We went to General Butler State Park (see other post) and some Wal-marts looking for shoes (to no avail). Side note: while Mom was getting her hair done, I strolled down to W-S where I've worked the past 4 Christmases. This year I'm not working there because I really wanna go to FL for Christmas. I walked in and totally felt a freedom from materialism and needing everything in that store. Thank you Jesus!
Saturday we went to IKEA for Mom to get some frames that we are going to work on while I'm at home during the holidays. Then we joined up with Dad to head to Montgomery Inn down on the Ohio for dinner. Then we watched some football, hung out on FB, and Dad slept.
We woke up early on Sunday, grabbed some Cracker Barrel for breakfast, then headed off to a church service at Cincinnati Primitive Baptist Church. A song service of about 5 hymns, all without music, then two sermons by Justin Huffman (asst guy at Cincinnati) and Thomas Mann (from VA). I loved one thing he said from Is 46: God used a man from afar to free us from captivity and offer us the chance to go back home and worship. Sound familiar? God used a foreign king who didn't know God at all to do this back then. Later - He would use Jesus to do that very thing. What a great prophetic word.
Then tonight got home and was so ready to go to Crossing. So thankful God has brought that church into my life. They rock out in worship. But, you know...
Worship really isn't about style. I learn this very slowly. Yes, I love the new worship styles in chapel at Southern. It is more free and more contemporary, so to me, it is more conducive to true worship. That is just me. Then this morning singing hymns, sitting down, no music, all verses...the truth was still in those hymns. Then tonight - Eddy and Phillip and guys rocking out to songs - all done for the pleasure of Jesus and there was truth in the lyrics that we were singing. The truth is found in worship. I pray God will continue to work on my heart when the style isn't necessarily my type - that He would allow me to come boldly before his throne in awe-filled worship of Him -joyfully!

Small Changes for a Better Life - Elizabeth George

I used to read everything Elizabeth George put out. And, I still think she is a great and practical writer - I just think she is not "thick" enough for me. If I need a quick practical book - I pick her's up. Usually I find many things that I need to work on from reading her work. I picked this from my boss' shelf and gave it a quick read - yes, still convicting. The points (18) are her chapters, followed by some thoughts of my own.
1. Wisdom - we must ask for it. This is a book on how to live wisely in your world. Solomon, the King, had to ask for it and was granted it. We need to ask for it today.
2. Ordering Life. I have been doing a little better at this. I do so through meal planning and weekly calendaring - trying to get in relationship building, church, outside time, and me time in every week. I've learned there is much good that comes from this - more later.
3. Purpose. A friend of mine who will soon be 25 asked me if life ever slows down. I told him you just have to prioritize your life and what you do. My life isn't near as busy as I let it get when I lived in Durham - and I like that. I am more intentional about what I do - but I also know I don't have to do everything! That is SO freeing!
4. The Word - Dwell on it. She brings up the three different stages of reading the Word: "cod liver oil, shredded wheat, peaches and cream". How o Lord I want to always be in the Peaches and Cream stage. As my mentor has always said though - even when you don't feel like it, read it anyway! "You'll never hear me say I am Christlike, but you will always hear me say I desire to be Christlike." (chapter 4)
5. Prayer Life. This is one I lack mostly. My prayer life isn't a sit down and pray type thing - it is more of a throughout the day, pray without ceasing type thing. I don't know which is better? I struggle with it. But, I love being reminded of things to pray for throughout my day - and praying for people - even if not aloud - then silently under my breath - God hears either way.
6. Spiritual Growth. She says to "recognize sin and overcome spiritual laziness". I do my quiet times at night. Sometimes it is earlier than others. Then sometimes, I spend too much time watching tv or being out with friends, that I am too tired to spend time in the Word. I rationalize it and say I'll spend more time tomorrow, or God doesn't want my tired time. How foolish is that reasoning?
7. Manage Your Life. Learn to Eliminate. (see number 3). I am trying to always have Friday nights to myself. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't - but I try. That helps me usually to have a more productive weekend. I also look forward to Friday nights because of it. My brain is tired, but "being around people skills" are tired. I want to chill.
8. Live by a Schedule (see number 2). I want to do more of this if I ever have the ability to be a stay at home wife/mother. But, mostly now it is get up and go to work - then other things. I don't need to always plan my day.
9. Care for your home. I got a great compliment by my friend who stopped by the house the other day. And honestly, it wasn't even clean because I had been housesitting all week. She said "I'm glad to see you have made this into your home." And a friend of mine, Lindsay, is great at this. She loves to take care of her home. It is her place. Her husband loves her because of it (and for many other reasons of course). Everytime I go to their house, I find something new that she has done. She is a great inspiration! "Married or single, your home is an indicator of your spiritual maturity and a direct reflection of your care and character." (125) I actually agree with this statement now.
10. Invest in Your Marriage. Now, you may be thinking - how can a single woman invest in her marriage. I read books on marriage, I hang out with married people, I listen to sermons on marriage, etc. This is how I currently invest in my marriage.
11 and 12. Train and Love Your Children. I love being around families who do this well. Then when I see kids who aren't disciplined very well - I notice it. Dustin, in his sermon from Sunday, said when you see a child who isn't disciplined, you see a child usually who isn't loved.
13. Cultivate Inner Beauty. I've received two compliments that have meant a lot to me. One was back in seminary. A boss I worked for said the thing he appreciated most about me was my gentle and quiet spirit. And recently, a friend said he appreciated my joyful and gracious spirit. These two compliments make me strive more to God-please in this area! Thank you Lord for working it in me!
14. Tend to Your Appearance. I am working on this one for work every day - as I just told a friend who complimented my makeup.
15 and 16. Watch what you eat and eat just enough. This is definitely an area of growth for me - and one of constant struggle. I can eat whatever I want - but only in moderation - and sticking mostly with things that are helpful to my body - as it was given to me to be a steward over!
17. Grow in Discipline. Nuf said - from 1-16.
18. Work on Diligence. This is another one of my big struggles. God - continue to work in me in this area. I am weak in the flesh - but allow me to live by the Spirit.

This Momentary Marriage - John Piper

This book, available at Desiring God, is amazing. There are few marriage books that I highly recommend for people to read before getting married - and this will definitely be on the list. This is a compilation of mostly sermons Piper preached at Bethlehem, some of which I had read before, but seriously - this is so good.
He talks about the seriousness of marriage and then what marriage symbolizes in the relationship of Christ and the church. Oh goodness - get this book!
"There has never been a generation whose general view of marriage is high enough" (19) Many of us think that if we could just go back to the "good ole days" things would be better with our marriages. But, just because people stay together doesn't mean their marriages are godly and gospel affirming.
"Let the measure of God's grace to you in the cross of Christ be the measure of your grace to your spouse." (46) Wow - that's hard to live by. I've been so convicted, even in reading this book, that I need to offer more grace to others - because I don't give it enough. Lord, make me more gracious.
Piper quotes many of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Letters and Papers from Prison at the beginning of each chapter. This is one of them: "The wife should see her husband clothed in this dignity - head of the wife as Christ is head of the church" (30)
"Wives, let your fallen submission be redeemed by modeling it after God's intention for the church." (80). I think if we think about marriage in light of the redeemed church - our marriages (and my thoughts of marriage a single woman) would radically change.
"God promises those who remain single in Christ blessings that are better than the blessing of marriage and children - and he called you to display truths about Christ." (106) This is a measure of faith for me. No one in the world or in the church sees it this way. Marriage is so glorified. It is hard to be in a church and not be married. But, Lord - where my faith is weak - increase it.
"Have those attitudes and do those acts in your marital sexual relations that grow out of the contentment that comes from confidence in God's promises." (130) Since the bedroom has been so commercialized and publicized - many women (and men) find themselves overwhelmed with inadequacies and pressure to perform. Read this sentence and live by the gospel in EVERY aspect of marriage (and singleness).
"If it genuinely lies within you, by the grace of God, to throw yourself on the mercy of God for forgiveness, then He will free you from the guilt of the past. He will make a new, clear, sexual life possible in marriage." (132) I must offer grace and forgiveness. Who am I not to offer it when Christ has offered it through the Cross for all eternity.
So - go read this book. If you are married - it will help change your marriage - I would recommend reading it together (especially engaged couples) - they are short chapters (about 5-6 pages per chapter). And for singles - read it too - I don't think we can prepare enough. Whether we are to get married in the future, or whether we are to support our brothers and sisters in their marriages.
And speaking of marriage as a topic, I've been reading some great posts for wives over at the Girl Talk blog. This needs to go up as a reminder. Because even though I am yet to be married, it says all the days of her life: that means that even before I am married I need to be bringing my husband good all days of my life." That means I will guard my heart and my body and my mind - all for him - mostly for the glory of God!

Trip to Huber's

There are some good things about living outside the state of Florida. I know - I did just say that!

But, today was one of those days.

I love fresh produce - and you don't get much fresher than picking apples off of trees in a orchard. I picked 40 lbs of golden delicious (applesauce, pies, bread, fried apples, eating) and 20 lbs of winesap (mainly eating and salads). There were also fields of pumpkins and green beans. There aren't too many apple trees/orchards in FL (though there are plenty in W NC).

I went with my friends Lisa and Rayann. You can see some more pics on the food blog (see the link to the side). We left early this morning and got there by 9 because last week many friends went and said it was way too crowded. We knew if we got there early it would be fine. We didn't do any waiting (unless you count waiting for the tractor to return to get us from the orchards). We then ate at the family restaurant for some good "southern" cooking. It was an absolutely gorgeous day and I loved the weather. It was actually quite warm by the time we left (shortly after 12).

This is my third time at Huber's and I'll keep going. Probably won't go again until spring or early summer - that is when some good things come in! :)

State of the Economy

If you watched any of the 2nd Presidential Debate last night you know it was on the failing (and ailing) economy. Did either candidate change the other's view? Did many undecided voters make up their minds? Both are a resounding no. Each one said wrong things about the other one and even when a candidate says he's not going to raise taxes - chances are something will happen in his tenure as President and he will have to raise taxes. Taxes is not something I vote on because of this. So far, living in 3 states under 2 Presidents - I've seen taxes go up in each state - so no one can tell me any differently.
But, the economy I think is the worst that I've seen it since I've really known to look at it. Am I glad I don't have enough money to put in the stock market - yes. Am I glad I already have my college paid for - and yes, have the debt from that - yes. (I could do without the debt though). Am I glad I have a secure job - yes. I don't know what it would have been like to live on Black Friday and know the panic and dread and fear in people's hearts. I don't know what it would be like to live in Iceland right now who just declared the whole country bankrupt. I can't imaging being a business woman in Russia with no stock market open or trading till Friday.
But, one thing I do know. My God is in charge of all the world's monies and even Wall Street and the king's decisions (Ps 2). He knows what is going to happen and has complete authority over it all (Eph 1.19-23). And you know, that helps me sleep better at night, that helps me still go to the grocery store (even though I make a list and stick to it now), helps me not fear the gas prices (even though they have gone down here in KY), and I only had a slight panic this morning on my way to work wondering what would happen if I couldn't get my money out of the bank (but then remembered the above verses and knew that life would go on because my God is overall completely gracious and merciful).
I got in to work this morning and read this from John Piper:
I can smell it. It's like toast or steak or brownies. It doesn't just draw our desire, it creates desire. Deep drops in the stock market make many people salivate. They know it will rebound. They are sitting on cash. By year's end their pile could ride the recovery to riches. For such people I have a word from God. The word is: Don't desire to be rich. It will kill you. And in a world like ours many will probably perish with you. Paul's language is more graphic than mine:
There is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs. (1Timothy 6:6-10)

Parents and Childhood/Teenage Obesity

I stopped by Cracker Barrel in Berea for lunch on Saturday. I didn't bring a book in with me, and I had already lost at the little triangle stupidity game they have on the tables - so what else am I going to do while waiting for my food?
In front of me sat this family. A Mom (mid-late 30s, no wedding ring, phone in hand), a baby girl (still in the booster seat, eating whole foods, under 2), 2 teenage boys (looked like 13 and 15). Here are my thoughts just by witnessing their interaction for about 35 minutes.
Mom - every time the girl started to scream, she would put food in her mouth. The girl dropped her color page on the floor, Mom went to get it, girl threw it down again - it stayed there (for that I was proud). Mom was texting on the phone almost the entire time. Very little interaction with the boys.
Boy 1 (13 year old) - Badly needed a hair cut. Rather overweight. Chewed with his mouth open. On his plate: country fried steak, gravy, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, and steak fries. All starch. Wanted to talk to the older boy (brother) but that didn't produce much conversation.
Boy 2 (15 year 0ld) - Badly in need of a hair cut. Rather overweight. Chewed with his mouth open (see a pattern). On his plate: a house salad (only things gone were cheese and croutons and bacon (all veggies were still on the plate), steak, fully loaded baked potato. Phone in handing texting the entire meal. Didn't seem to want much to do with the brother.
So, after watching this family interact - I made these thoughts and some assumptions:
1. Lack of Father. I don't know if there wasn't a Father present at all - or just not at this meal. But there seemed to be no authority in this family (the mom was so small compared to these two boys that they weren't threatened by her at all - they could take her).
2. Lack of discipline. The mother just had to feed the girl to get her to stop screaming - so the daughter is in control of that relationship. The Mom didn't interact much with the boys and vice versa.
3. Parents have a role in their children's health and weight issues. Take it from one who was overweight all of her life (starting about 4th grade). Parents have the say-so. They can provide healthy foods for their children/teenagers and set good examples by their own eating habits. The Mom picked at her food (roast beef and gravy, corn, mac and cheese, cornbread).
4. So, what can be done for families like this in the world - this was only 2 hours away from me - and I know it happens in every neighborhood - so its not just an "out-there" problem?
4a. Parents - teach your children healthy eating habits. Make sure they get fruits, veggies, whole grains, calcium, lean protein - not just processed foods and high fructose corn syrup and Little Debbie snacks.
4b. Interact with your kids over meals. This is a perfect place to find out how their day was, tell them about your day, read a verse together, talk about how to incorporate God into their days, talk sports, teach them to be thankful for God's provisions, just talk!
4c. Teach your kids manners. I was talking about this with some ladies in the office today. But, kids need to know they don't wear hats at the table (guys), chew with their mouth closed, don't talk with their mouth full, don't berate the food, be thankful for what you have, don't burp or make other bodily noises, and any others if I'm forgetting any.
4d. Lead by example. Dads - these kids (especially sons) are going to watch how you eat at the table, what you eat at the table, if you are thankful for your wife's cooking (or any other) or if you complain about it all the time. Moms - if you do the majority of the cooking, learn to cook healthy - think about your kids 5 or 10 of 25 years down the road - think how your cooking will impact them and even their families.
I know I'm not a parent yet (maybe one day) - so who am I to talk? But, I can talk through experience. We didn't eat poorly by any means, we just snacked a ton on unhealthy stuff and didn't get enough exercise. I continued those poor eating habits even when I left home. Now we all try to eat healthy and cook differently. When I see men who have eating habits - it tells me a lot about their discipline or lack there of. Burping has never been and will never be cool, especially at the dinner table, in American culture - or just for me. I know in some different cultures it is a sign of respect - not in my culture.
Jesus - please do not let me raise unhealthy kids. Let me teach my kids good and healthy eating habits that will last them and make them healthy kids, teenagers, and adults. Lord - also don't let me be judgmental toward others who do not hold this conviction. Help me to show them grace and lead by example. If I ever have the chance to be a wife and a mother - let me love my family through my kitchen. Amen.

Travels in KY - Natural Bridge State Park

Love signs in KY - point you right to where you need to go. On the other side of Winchester is the Mountain Pkwy - 30 miles to Natural Bridge. Red River Gorge had some wildfires that were filling the entire area with smoke (looked like fog). But Natural Bridge State Park was fully functioning. Got a great idea on which trails I wanted to go - a little over 5 all together - and 2.5 hours. The first 100 ft are straight up, then you bend, hop, climb, dip, raise your hands, turn side ways - all this to get to the top. Well marked trails. Pretty climb and great view. It was pretty busy up top but not that busy on the trail - so most people pay to ride the SkyLift (like Stone Mtn). But, I think half the fun (and burning calories and taking care of my body) comes in the hike. I took the Rock Garden trail back down and it was more steep then the way up and mostly rock. Not fun - but it got me down in time to grab some dinner and make it back for church. I'd go again - it was worth it, and under 2 hours to the ville.

White Hall

White Hall is a KY Historic Site of the home of Cassius Clay. It was run down - but then restored. It is right off the interstate in Winchester. Who knew they would grow tomatoes - so I picked 3: 2 I ate, and one was rotten so I threw it down.

Travels in KY - Pinnacles (near Berea)

I have gone to the small town of Berea several times since my friends Felicity and Kevin live there. This time, we finally hiked the Pinnacles. There are 2 hills (mtns for Floridians, speed bumps for mtn people). But, East Pinnacle is almost a mile up (4900 ft) and I don't know about West Pinnacle. It was very dry - but still very pretty. Coming down from the West Pinnacle it was pretty steep so I thought I would go down part of it on my backside - got a bruise on my arm to prove it. Dusty, thirsty (already drank one bottle of water), but the views were well worth that 2 hour walk! Thanks Felicity for the walking companion and then Papaleno's for dinner.

Worldliness - Sov Grace Guys (ed by Mahaney)

In the style of all other Mahaney books - this one is relatively short (a small in shape book) but packs a powerful punch. And ends like everything else does in Sovereign Grace life - with a proclamation of the gospel.
Five Sov Grace guys write in this - on different ways we are not to "love the world, or anything in the world" - from John's small letter toward the end of the Bible.
Mahaney starts with the intro of 1 John 2.15. "Whatever the reasons, this verse makes you uncomfortable. It invades your personal space. You're afraid if you get too close, these ten little words might come between you and the things in this world you enjoy. You're reluctant to discuss worldliness because then you might have to change." (18)
"What dominates your mind and stirs your heart?" (27) This is a good tell-tale sign of what you love.
This is what CJ comes back to in the last chapter (written by Purswell). "Worldliness does not consist in outward behavior, though our actions can certainly be an evidence of worldliness within. But the real location of worldliness is internal. It resides in our hearts." (29) I think the time I learned about this the most in my life was the 3.5 years I lived in RDU after graduating seminary. Right after seminary I had gotten completely out of consumer debt - it felt freeing and great! Then, I wanted to have more stuff, had some low-paying part time jobs, and still wanted more stuff. I got so far into debt I considered bankruptcy. God was telling me I had a materialism problem. But, even though graciously and mercifully I am out of consumer debt now, I know I still have a problem with it. That is why I do not own a credit card, I try to live on a budget, I periodically send my financial thoughts and standings to people who care about me - especially in this area - and I try not to go to places where I will struggle and have the temptation to want or buy. I rarely go clothes/stuff shopping - and even going over to peoples' homes prove dangerous because I live in a 800 square foot apt with all mostly used furniture. God is good and gracious to me in so many ways - I need nothing. I pray He continues to drive out materialism in my life.
"For sin carries with it the seeds of dissatisfaction and destruction." (33)
Craig Cabaniss writes next on our hearts and media in terms of worldliness. "The hazard is thoughtless watching. Glorifying God is an intentional pursuit." ( 40). I have also learned this lately. I could watch tv all day - there are so many channels. Now, unless I have something specific in mind to watch - I don't turn it on. It is too dangerous to me to just pick random things and watch nothing. Filling my mind with mindless things.
"Covetousness is a desire for something or someone that God has not provided." (51) This is another area it is hard for me. I look (especially at facebook) and see girls "in a relationship" and wonder why I'm not. Or listening to country music brings at these longings and desires. But, also being in church or seminary surrounded by godly men who are married brings out these desires. Having the desire to get married is not wrong - it is hopefully God given and will be God-fulfilled one of these days - but if I put too much emphasis on it - then it becomes the end - the marriage isn't the end - the Gospel is.
"If we're forbidden to speak with filthiness and crude sexual humor, we're equally prohibited from listening to it when we have a choice." (55) It is a heart matter - whether it comes out of our mouth or into our ears.
Bob Kauflin - worship leaders extraordinaire for SG - wrote worldliness and music (go figure). "Listening to music without discernment and godly intent reveals a heart willing to flirt with the world." (71) Note Bob doesn't say you can't listen to anything but Christian music. No, he says to discern why you listen to it and what desires it brings out in you.
Dave Harvey, who also wrote When Sinners Say I Do, talked about our hearts and stuff. "Gratitude subverts greed. It's an expulsive antidote to covetousness in the heart. Gratitude is not a feeling, and it isn't based on present circumstances. It is recognition of our dependence on God and others - an act of humility that battles pride in our possessions. Grateful speech takes the attention off ourselves and places it on another, whether that's the God of our salvation or the spouse who washes our clothes. Gratefulness is recognition that God is always good and always right in his dealings with us." (110)
CJ write on clothes - mostly of course for women, but he also hits on a few pages for Dads of daughter and husbands of wives. Our dress should reflect the gospel as well. A compliment that a former b-friend paid me one time was "I never have to worry about the way you dress." That was the highest compliment he ever paid me. Do I struggle sure - especially when my weight is where I want it - but God is good and gracious and wants me to reflect that to a lost and dying world. My dress should be different than the worlds. Our churches should be different in its dress than what we see on Saturday night out at the mall. Why isn't it?
Jeff Purswell, Dean of the Pastor's College, finished with our exhortation to love the world. Odd huh? We are to enjoy what God has given us for the reasons He has given it to us - to glorify Him and exalt His name throughout the world.
If you want a good kick in the pants (how's that for southern slang) - then pick this up and read it with a highlighter!

My weekend in NC

How I love this state!
Friday we drove (friends in the housing office here at SBTS) to Wake Forest, NC. The Eastern part of KY and WV is so pretty - especially at dusk with the sun and leaves that are just starting to change. Looking forward to this drive again in November and then back to EK for T-day and B-day.
The Manor House is such a welcoming place for guests and prospective students at Southeastern. I enjoy my stay there - the rooms were dark and quiet and Donna and Jeff Hagood are wonderful new hosts to the place! :)
Saturday morning the housing guys from here met with Sid King (facilities head at SEBTS) while I went and had lunch with Leah, Nathan, and Georgia Finn (and Baxter who arrived Sunday/early Monday). What a great treat it was for me to hang out with them, meet Georgia, talk about life, churches, schools, etc. Thank you Finn's for fitting me in to Baxter's due date (and Leah, I hope the shoes work for you if you got them). We had fun trying to get Georgia to smile and look at the camera. Sorry the last one is blurry - but I really think it is my camera, not Nathan's fault!
Then we had a grand tour of the housing units and campus from Doug Nalley (Housing Director at SEBTS). The Patterson's will be proud of their building - the newest one on campus. I got to see my friends Rach and Sarah - thank you for showing me and us your rooms.
Then we ate at Las Mas and drove on to UNC. Maggie gave us a great driving tour of campus and then Cat showed us her apt - I had never been in those.
Trey then gave us a tour of Duke - all three campuses. The chapel is of course gorgeous - but I loved the Old English style of Duke's west campus - where all the money is evidently put! I got my first glimpse into Cameron Indoor - (personally, Dean Dome is much bigger and better). Caedmon's had just finished a concert there and I saw friends Erin and Keith Anderson who I went to seminary with and they go to Richland Creek.
We then met up with Trey's girlfriend at Southpoint and went to CPK (the only one with a very very long wait). Then to the Rocky Mtn Chocolate Factory, and on to Cook Out for a great shake.
Sunday morning was worship at Providence where I saw great friends Steve and Tina Wright, met Amber Hickman (due in December), and Stephanie Chiulli - great morning. Then drove on to Summit for church. Man - can I just bottle up Chris Gaynor and the choir/praise team/band and take them everywhere with me. I loved seeing Amber, Lauren, Jenn T, meeting Zeke Shelton, Chris, Jason D, Kristin B, Sarah D, meeting Jena-Marie, Danny, Bonnie, Shannon, Lauren, Janel, Clarissa, Jean-Ann, Trina and Doug and Nicholas (at RR), Barbara and Paul Derby, Eric and Leslie, Merriem and boys (save Jase), Carrie, Lynn, Tom S, Jonathan, Douglases (Jason's parents), Courtnee, Leslie, and just feeling loved, missed, and seeing friends! Thanks for the love guys!
Then we went to Red Robin for lunch and hit the road, stopping by IHOP in Kville on our way back to the ville - arriving at 1.10am. I was tired - but so thankful for many things this weekend.

Fall Progressive Dinner

Tonight we had a small walking progressive dinner. It was so much fun. I got to hang out with two of the coolest couples I know here in Louisville. We are all around the same age, love to cook (well, the girls), love missions - with all of us being over seas - whether short term or longer term. We had great eats, different languages, the Word, and many laughs, shattered glass, and full bellies!

First stop was Laura and David Dawkins. Laura set the tone well with the Fall theme. She had made a great salad - with fall goodies on the table. We talked about their neighbor and my parents - what they did. Who knew genealogy could be such a stimulating conversation piece! David started out the night by reading a Psalm of Thanks! Such a great start to the evening. The picture I turned out at their apt came out blurry, so I went to their blog and got this picture! Laura is a great photographer!

Next stop was Bonnie and Justin Myers. Bonnie is a great cook and made a full T-day meal (almost). We had everything from chicken to stuffing, and all the vegetables! It was so yummy. We looked at picture, read from the Jesus Storybook Bible (great intro, and we each got one), talked about missions, and just enjoyed ourselves.

Last stop was my place. I had the dessert. Bonnie had the broken glass - hey, I got a clean floor out of the deal. I read a meditation from Paul David Tripp's new book.

Just a great evening. I love couples who teach me how to be a better wife, gives me glimpses of character traits in men that I would want for a husband. God - thank you for godly friends and couples who share life with me!

Things I Learned from Not Having Any Power

1. God is still God. I think through all of this, and my reading in Ephesians, Romans, and Worldliness by the Sov Grace guys, I've learned this very well this week. He has already provided me with everything I need in Christ. Not having power for 7 days will not change that fact. And, I rely way too heavily on media.
2. Community is very important. I've been in Louisville now a year and am very thankful for the community base that I have here. The Jones, Weldys, Lorrie, Myers, Lisa D, Brandi, other LEAD Staff, Tjaders, Tracy - and probably some I'm forgetting - all were a blessing to me during this time. Whether it was just a word, a "I've come to check up on you", a TV to watch the Gator game, banana bread, flashlight, a dark room to sleep in, play time with babies, free food - all these things are so important! :) Thank you!
3. God gets more glory when praise and thanks come from my mouth than grumbling and complaining. What good would it do me to complain anyway? And I was able to speak of God's goodness instead of my bothersome no electricity this week.
4. I am very thankful for electricity. This is definitely the longest I've been without it. My toothbrush (charged by electricity), my phone (I had to drive around town the first 2 days to charge it), my computer (it was dead after the first couple of hours), my fridge (I love to cook, my fridge will have to start all over tonight), hot water (to wash dishes or take a hot shower), reading at night (I'm thankful for the flashlight loaned to me by Jesse, but I'd much rather have real electricity to read, Dr. Horner would probably agree).
God is a good and faithful and giving God! There are so many throughout the Ike-zone that still do not have it - and I am a Child of God - chosen and adopted by Him - so I have no reason to complain!

The Great Work of the Gospel - John Ensor

My first trip to Wheaton earlier this year produced this book being added to my library. I had just been introduced to John Ensor in 2007 with Doing Things Right in Matters of the Heart. So, scoping out the clearance shelf - I saw this book. It was great. It has been a read that I have picked up, put down, etc. The subtitle for this book is "how we experience God's grace".
"Grace...it produces a radical joy and a strong faith, one that can endure great suffering and yet trust that, in the end, God's plan will lead to our joy and his glory." (13)
"It is that we feel alienated from God's goodness and love because of what we have done. It is not that we do not want his blessing. We would gladly receive it. It is that down deep, we fear that God is justified in withholding it. On this we should trust our feelings. For the painful truth is, we feel alienated from God because we are alienated from God." (34) Our sin separates us from God!
So many times in psychology and counseling circles - you will hear "you need to forgive yourself." This is how Ensor rightly handles this idea: "If we admit that God forgives us but we do not forgive ourselves, are we not insulting his judgment and exalting our own, as if we have a higher standard of justice then he does?" (114)
"The grace that brings salvation goes on to train us to live a godly life. A sanctified life is not optional to salvation; it is standard equipment. Other things may be called grace, but they are not saving grace." (125)
"Another place I see the goodness of God is in his sovereignty. The more I see it, the more I delight in it. The more I see it, the more I can trust him when the circumstances call his goodness into question." (147)
This book is saturated with God's character, the Word, our condition and condemnation - oh, but the Work of the Cross. Let's celebrate it!

Whiter Than Snow: Paul David Tripp

This was my first Tripp book (I wanted to get it after reading parts of it on his blog during the writing process). I am reading several books on sin to get ready for an upcoming conference I'm doing in Apex, NC, in November with Erin and Kasey. Can't wait.
So - I got this book earlier in the week and finished it tonight. Tripp uses Ps 51 to shape this book on mercy and grace and sin and confession. Amazing, 2-5 little chapters, meditations as he calls them. He incorporates each verse of the Psalm, poetry, hymns (both old and new), to develop this thought and heart attitude within us that we are not good - we need Jesus.
"It is a willing heart that causes us to seek the grace that has been promised. When we turn from our own way and recognize our inabilities to live HIS way, we begin to seek the full range of resources that He has promised us in His Son. Grace is for the willing and we only become willing when we confess not only the gravity of our sin, but our inability to deliver ourselves from it." (24)
"God's grace is our only hope. Each one of us needs grace that's not only big enough to forgive our sin, but also powerful enough to free us from the self-atoning prison of our own righteousness. We're not only held captive by our sin, but also by the delusion of our righteousness. Resting in God's grace isn't just about confessing your sin, its about forsaking your righteousness as well." (29)
"Its only in the mirror of God's Word and with the sight-giving help of the Holy Spirit that we are able to see ourselves as we actually are. God, who loves us enough to sacrifice his Son for our redemption, works so that we should see ourselves clearly, so that we would not buy into the delusion of our own righteousness, and so that with a humble sense of personal need we would seek the resources of grace that can only be found in Him." (33)
"As sinners we all become way too comfortable with our sin. You see, we all have a perverse capacity to be comfortable with what God says is wrong." (34)
This was one of the most convicting paragraphs of the whole book: based on how I am disappointed and discouraged with where I stand in the whole scheme of life and what I think I should have:
"When people are blessed by the Lord they turn to him in humble, sacrificial worship. Its in those moments when I am cogently aware of God's forgiveness and gratefully aware of his undeserved blessing that I willingly offer to him what I would have once held to tightly. God delights in the sacrifices of his people, because when they are worshiping him in this way, they are doing the thing for which they were created. When I've quit looking for satisfaction in the created world and being to find my satisfaction in the Lord, then I am willing to hold loosely to the things that once held me. Its here that my delight is the Lord's delight - Ps 37.4." (56)
Tripp uses three words from Ps 51.1-2 to talk about sin: transgression (willful disobedience), iniquity (moral uncleanness) and sin (falling short of a standard). (86-87). I liked that.
My friend Kasey (who's church the conference is at) is also studying for this and has been concentrating on Prov 4.23. This is what I found in this book on that: "Its when the battle for the heart is lost that the battle of physical resistance to sin will be lost as well. When the heart becomes hard, the system of internal restraint that keeps one pure ceases to function as it was designed to function, and we say yes to that which God has called us to say no." (112)
I really did like this quick read. It was short chapters that could be read anywhere. There were 2 questions at the end of every section for further introspection - and would also be good for a small group. He also didn't quote a lot of other people in it. I like to read books that don't have a lot of long quotes from others (unlike this blog post). I also liked it because it was interesting from cover to cover - not just the first 2/3 of it then it fell short.
I think I'll be reading more of Paul David Tripp.

Ike, Power, and More Important Things in Life!

Good morning from restored power land! There will not be any pictures attached to this blog link because my camera was pretty dead from my wknd travels, and I hadn't recharged it yet by the time the power went out on Sunday. So...here we go!
Sunday I was just chilling, went walking in Brown and Seneca Park, just turned on the Colts game. The wind was picking up from TS Ike and a cold front that was coming down from Chi-town. When the two collided, we got up to 80+ mph wind here in the Ville. Trees were down everywhere. My power flickered a couple of times, but then finally went out around 1.20pm on Sunday.
The only damage the seminary received in light of this was: shingles down, doors blown off, some tree limbs down (no big ones I know about on campus), some water damage in a basement (don't know how this happened when we didn't get any rain), and no power for almost 48 hours. God is so gracious to us - more on that later.
Sunday night we had free food in the cafeteria for all who lived on campus. It was very humbling to see our President, Deans, and VPs serving us hotdogs and ice cream. What an incredible team of guys God has assembled here at Southern! So thankful for our leadership!
Monday morning the housing team was helping a couple move to another apt - so Lisa and I (after walking around St. Matthews area looking at the damage and getting some exercise) prepared lunch for the moving crew. I have just decided with my back not to help move anymore - but do things I am good at. So, we emptied our fridges and picked up a few things at the neighborhood Walmart which had power - and coupled that with what Lorrie had already brought in. It was good and we got to use up some stuff before it went bad.
Monday afternoon for me cleaning (while I had daylight), running errands (or trying to) and going walking. Then I came back and served some pizza (more free food on behalf of the seminary) to students. Then we had so many left over, so Randy, Trey, and I drove through Village Manor (a half-seminary, half lower income housing unit just down the street) giving out free pizza. Many were so thankful to get free food as they had to through out their food in their fridges, wasting so much money). These three girls we stopped and gave pizza to said thank you because they had no food. We passed one of the women later and she again was so grateful for the free pizza. Gratitude is usually expressed more when you have nothing. I need to remember that lesson. Then we played Hearts - which Randy most decidedly won, I think - or was it Lorrie - either way - I won 2 rounds of War! Its that competitive nature! :) Then I read some by one of those little light sticks that you break and shake to activate!
This morning I slept in, cleaned some more, started to take a shower and thought twice. Just got ready to come serve lunch. Then - the power came back on. Praise Jesus!
Seriously, with people losing money in the stock market this weekend, people losing lives and their homes in places of TX and AR and even here, people losing so much food from their power not being on - I can't complain. I only complained about the healthiness of the food - and fruit appeared this morning. I was so thankful!
So - Just some random verses about this subject:
Ps 18.28 - For it is you who light my lamp, the Lord my God lightens the darkness.
Ps 112.4 - Light dawns in the darkness for the upright, He is gracious, merciful and righteous.
Ecc 11.7 - Light is sweet, and it is pleasant for the eyes to see the sun.

So thankful for the Jones (where all my freezer food is), my car charger, Seminary leaders, free food at seminary, friends, and community!

Lake Malone State Park

After a full day of services at Cypress, I only had time to hit one state park this weekend. But, it was a pretty, quiet walk and adventuresome to say the least.Lake Malone is south of Central City off the WK Pkwy. It is well marked on how to get there and once inside it is also well-marked. I like that about a state park.

I'm thankful for the Boy Scouts who put up all these orange reflectors...but that is later. The trail runs right by Lake Malone. I loved the peaceful shore-lapping sounds of this lake, occasional motor of a boat or squeal of delight by a kid. The hike was a little more than a bargained for.

I was in flip-flops and dress pants, if that tells you anything. I'm glad I didn't change the pants because crossing through a field getting lost would have torn up my legs. And all I had to do was wash my feet when I got home. The terrain was very rocky (with giant rock walls in the woods beside the lake). Then there were times when it was very root-y - which means I had to jump over them or slide off them. It was fun though - about 1.5 miles in all.

At one point the trail ended and it said camping area - .5 miles across field. Well, that was all well and good - but the field was only foot-traveled about halfway through. So, I ended up there and headed back the way I came. I wasn't that adventurous. I'm thankful for the orange markers!

Peaceful drive, peaceful state park - not many people (I think I saw 2 other cars, but most people were on the lake).

Cypress Primitive Baptist Church

So...back before I was a reformed, slightly charismatic Southern Baptist, I was a Primitive Baptist. I was in a Primitive Baptist church until my sophomore year in high school. Yes, we do have bathrooms, running water, electricity, etc.

Yesterday, my Dad's good friend, Elder Lasserre Bradley preached at Cypress Primitive Baptist Church outside of Sacramento, KY (off WK Pkwy). So, I went over there.

This is what I thought:

Elder Bradley is a very meek man. The pastor's wife shared one thing about him: he never says something he doesn't mean - he's a man of few words. I want to be known as this - especially as Dustin preached last week on words and what that says of our wisdom (or lack of). So, Elder Bradley must be a very wise man. He will be celebrating 50 years at his church in Cincinnati this October (my parents and I will be there for that).

Every church needs to take welcoming/hospitality skills from this church. Shake hands (extend fellowship) at the end of every service. Even during leading the singing, if someone walked in, Pastor Whitaker would walk back, say hello, and shake their hands. I felt like I had known the Pastor's family (wife and daughter and 2 kids) forever - getting to chat with them during the meal and before the next service started.

Dinner on the grounds: good, southern cooking - so many vegetables you don't know what to do with and dessert to take up a football field!

They weren't worried about anything else. They were concerned with the preaching of the Word. They did a song service before the hour (accapella hymn singing, call out a number style, all stanzas).

Elder Bradley preached a very practical sermon (1st one) on Ps 119.24: Your testimonies are my delight; they are my counselors. He gave several practical life situations where this should be true: depression, decision-making, etc. Then the second sermon (after lunch) was an encouragement one. This was most applicable because most PB churches are dwindling in numbers and increasing in age. I think this is for several reasons. But...it was a very timely sermon for these people.

I do plan on heading back to Sacramento at some time: enjoy Christian fellowship, country, outside of Louisville metro. I really like KY if you get me out of the city!

The Shanes and Mrs. Shane

Last night, Walnut Street College Ministry Epic here in the ville hosted the Shanes and the newly married Bethany Dillon - Mrs. Shane...
I sat in a normal spot for concerts - balcony, by myself, Bible, journal and pen in hand.
Bethany was pretty good. Here are some lines or thoughts from the first 45 minutes:
"Sky explodes in praise to you" - one of the reasons I love creation!
"All I can say is Hallelujah" - Whatever is in front of me - help me to sing. I love the grace driven focus of these lyrics - we can't praise him on our own - we need help with that too.

Then we took a small break and the Shanes got up there. They are really about the only concert I've been to in the last 4 years of so...I love there Word-centered lyrics and their harmonies, and the lack of "show" - there are no light shows or dancing up and down or mosh pits. Most people come to worship at their concerts.
Last night they sang a bunch of their stuff. They had just finished recording a Christmas CD (can't wait) and sang O Holy Night - man, what harmonies.
"May the vision of you be the death of me" - still one of the most convicting lines in any of their songs.
They sang the Answer. That is the first song I ever heard by them, and Psalm 100 at UNC did it at one of their concerts - I have loved them ever since. Piper would be happy with their Christian Hedonist message in that song.
Finished with a song we sang in chapel earlier in the day "Before the Throne of God Above" - again - what power to know that we serve a Savior who is ALIVE and WELL and interceded for me! :)

Ken Sande - Peacemaking Marriage

Last night the Leadership school here at Southern had the opportunity to host Mr. Ken Sande, Director of Peacemaker Ministries. The first event was a couples' dessert. Well, you might ask...why was I attending - I'm not a couple. But, I do work for the LEAD School so I had to be there. What a treat I was in for! :)
His goal of marriage: to feel safer and happier near (your spouse) than anywhere else in this world. And the only way to get there: the gospel of Jesus Christ.
He shared many stories from his own marriage and parenting and other experiences in his life. He was personable and funny - but serious when it came to marriage and the gospel. And forgiveness and repentance. His points were Word-based and focused on the good news of the gospel of Jesus. In a Q/A time - he pointed out from John 13, 17 that this type of peacemaking would also be great for evangelistic purposes.
Marriages show the world the mystery and the glory of Christ. I pray for marriages that I know that their marriage would showcase that Glory. I pray for my own marriage - if God ever blesses in that way - that I would be a safe harbor for my husband to come to (and our home).
The thing I caught the most was to breathe grace. This also goes along with what Dustin preached on Sunday at church. our words and (internal talk) should always breathe grace to people.

Pennyrile Forest State Park (Princeton and KY Dam State Park too)

I am so thankful for cell phones and Mom who has internet at home! I kept going through these small towns in Central KY and wanted to stop...

So...I first went to Princeton, KY where they were having a carnival type thing. It was fun just to walk through - but so thankful that I live in a bigger city - I love these things - but don't want to be all that I look forward to all year.

Then I got off the WKParkway and made my way through Dawson Springs (home of Steve Beshear, the governor) to the Pennyrile Forest State Park. For things to do - this is definitely my favorite so far. I was only able (time wise and shoe wise) to his 2 of the smaller trails, but they have so many ranging from .10 miles to over 13. Great hiking and nature on the hikes. There was a lake, cliffs to look over (a wedding was going on, pretty setting), a pool, cottages, golf, etc. Definitely want to go back there sometime! The last picture is of the sandstone bluffs on the Indian trail that I thought were pretty.

The KY Dam Village State Park was fun to look at. It is in the Land Between the Lakes section of KY - so many state parks in this area. I just had time to get out and take some pictures. Again - water, one of my favorite things! That is the first picture posted.

Travels in KY - Paducah

Well, my Mom said I was in this city once before - on the back of a station wagon waiting for the ferry to cross the river. Well, the ferry no longer runs and I will remember this trip.

I was in Paducah for a KBC event...did my volunteering early in the morning - then began a sight seeing tour.

I went down to where the Ohio and TN rivers join - it was so pretty and quiet. I spent some time in the Word at a little table up on shore. I love water and quietness - so this was definitely a premier spot for me! Thank you God for leading me to this spot.

There was a walltowall history monument all along the river front. That was nice.

Then I found the Downtown Farmer's Market. I got pan pan squash, yellow pear tomatoes, corn, a fuji apple, a plum, tasted some great eggplant dip (and I don't even like eggplant) and a squash fritter. All were great. Yellow pear toms are my favorites - all of that for 4.65 - you gotta love farmer's markets!

Then I hit the road...

Labor Day Part 4 - Final

I woke up so early (the alarm clock was set wrong so I had to double check with my phone), but I wanted to get to Vogel early!
I headed to Vogel State Park in Blairsville, GA where my family would take our vacations in the summer. This is one of three places that are dear to my heart: the Suwanee River and Camp Sonlight being the other two.
I got my hiking map and started off. I did the 4 mile hike on Bear Hair Gap with the Vogel loop stuck in the middle. I am so thankful for God's creation and the physical ability to enjoy it. It was tough - my shoes gave out - but the view was so worth it. I would like to do the overnight Coosa Back Country hike if I have any takers to go with me???
Then I came back down and went around Lake Trahlyta where I saw people fishing, paddle boating, and enjoying the water, and grilling out on Labor Day. Oh, what fun!
Then, I got in my car, headed north, traveling through little back roads around Murphy NC and into TN on TN 68 till I got to 75. My only other stop (besides gas) was at Sonny's in Corbin KY. What a way to end the weekend.
By the time I was pulling out of Vogel - I was already wishing I could go back. Man, what a great place! And its only 6.15 hours away from the ville.

Labor Day Part 3

The morning started early in our Best Western hotel room. We went down to breakfast, checked out, watched some on the Feeder Bands of Gustav on TWC with our resident expert, Jessica! :)
Then we went to Publix to pick up our subs for lunch and made our way to Stone Mountain Park.
Climbing Stone Mountain was harder than I thought it was going to be, but also more rewarding when I got to the top. We climbed hard - Jessica was the champ finishing first. I pulled up behind her. We were all cheering each other on to get to the top. The scenes were beautiful from the top of the mountain. And the way down was just as hard, but harder on your calves and ankles. Well worth it - and its free (minus the parking).
We then ate a picnic with Publix subs, customized snacks, and cupcakes. We prayed specifically for each other before we left the park.
As we got back to the hotel - we knew it was going to end - and we each had to go back to our homes.
I then headed to Dahlonega, GA. My Dad had graciously payed for a hotel there if I would look for him some bluegrass music. Well, there was only one store and they didn't have what he was looking for. I enjoyed some ice cream at Connie's - the line was out the door - very popular place! Found two Southern Living cookbooks Mom didn't have, so I picked up those for her.
Then got to the hotel - I love having hotel rooms to myself. Read through Ephesians, watched the Wildcats beat the Cards (so excited the SEC pulled through), ate some wings and cheesy bread, then put National Treasure on sleep mode and went to bed.
Final day in Part 4

Labor Day Part 2

We all arrived at the Best Western in Smyrna at the same time (about 1 minute apart). Hugs abounded! Nena - whom I've known since 1998 I think; Heather, whom I just met; and Jessica, whom I've also known since my Anastasia staff days. What a treat.
We crashed for a little bit in our hot hotel room (no air on before we got there). Then we went to Publix to round out our snacks. The Robshaw sent me a great basket with wonderful stuff in it - and the girls had brought me some great stuff as well. I provided all the snacks for the weekend.
So, they let me rave about Publix!
Then we all got ready to go to the Virginia Highlands area of ATL. It was great. Dr. Wilder had suggested it - and it was a great suggestion!
We went to Murphy's and Cafe Intermezzo (in Buckhead) - see food blog for write ups on those. Both were great, I love knowledgeable waiters and other foodies to enjoy it with. We did some shopping in some way too expensive stores but eclectic - so they were fun to window-shop.
Then we headed to the Buckhead area via Jessica's map reading! :) There are definitely parts of ATL that I do not want to get lost in... How many "adult stores" did we pass, Heather?
By the time we got back to the hotel, we each were doing some reading in the Word, turned on ESPN for some highlights of the opening NCAA football weekend, and then called it a night. We were all tired.

Labor Day Part 1

I have to break this trip down into sections.
i left here on Friday to head to Murfreesboro TN to visit with Lisa, a good friend of mine from high school. I love it when I can fly through Nashville with no traffic and make it there in just over 3 hours.
We ate a fantastic light dinner of a Mexican salad and tortilla chips - then went shopping for an outfit I needed for Saturday night in ATL. Finally found one in Wal-mart, but it was also something I could wear more than once!
Then we came back and ate brownies and new Publix ice cream - oatmeal raisin cookie dough - wow, so much better than chocolate chip cookie dough. I even made Lisa blow out a candle because it is her b-day on the 9th. We started watching the US Open and then we found Little Women - but both of us were tired, so we didn't get too far into it.
I got to sleep in the Boat Room at The Moseley Bed and Breakfast - they are so gracious!
We had monkey bread for breakfast and Matt had to scurry out of the house to run an errand.
Lisa and Matt are very gracious hosts!
Then on my way to Smyrna, I called my friend Christina who just happened to be sitting at a Panera on a coming-soon exit. So, I had to eat lunch - so I got to eat lunch with her. I hadn't seen her in a while, so it was very good to catch up with her face-to-face and hug her neck as she would say.
Then, I started back on I-75 to meet up with my friends....Best Western here we come!