Cleansing the Spirit...and the Body!

So, the current goal that I have set for myself is the goal of losing weight and being healthier. Although it may seem like a shallow goal, and in some sense it is, I am already learning that this goal has an impact on more than just my waistline. I am currently on day two of my "diet" if you will, haha whoa big accomplishment right? Not! But even still, after only being on it for two days, I am already noticing differences. All of the differences so far are internal, but they might prove to be more important than any external differences that will eventually show! One of the differences that I have noticed is my level of energy. After eating unhealthy and being inactive, I started to develop a sloppy, slow, grumpy way of going about.....everything. But now, I have more energy, my attitude is more positive and I am willing to take on more. In a sense, treating my body like the temple it is, is bringing me closer to God. I am no longer worrying about how I look, or how "fat" I feel, because I am improving my situation and I know that eventually, things will change both inside and out! Until then, some of the superficial fog and negativity is going away fast, and I have more energy and spunk to embrace everything I am blessed with, as well as challenge myself when I start complaining for no reason. I really feel like my choice to change my lifestyle is a choice that will leave me feeling cleansed physically and spiritually. Don't get me wrong, this new change is not a replacement for prayer, study, and fellowship, or anything else involving my relationship with God, but it is something that is getting me off of my lazy butt and helping me to be more positive and grateful about my surroundings. I look at it this way, taking care of myself=better attitude and energy level=less reasons to complain=less stupid junk for me to use to distract myself from the lord=respecting the lord more=more gratefulness=more praise towards God=stronger relationship with him!....haha I am not sure if that progression makes sense to anyone but myself, but hopefully it gives you some idea of where I am coming from on this.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 ESV 

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 9:27 ESV 

But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.



Just in case anyone else has had the urge to take better care of themselves, here are some things that I have done so far that are really helping me out! (Just so you know, I am horrible at staying consistent and motivated on things like this, I usually stop after a day! Seriously! So the things that are motivating me are really working!!!)

Here is a list of things I am doing or using in my efforts to take better care of myself:

1) Just Dance! (or Just Sweat)...but seriously, this is a good workout if you do it full out and on the intense level....whatever form of activity it is that you enjoy, use it to your advantage and incorporate it into you workouts!

 

2. George Foreman Grill...this thing is epic! I just cut chicken breasts in half, tenderize them, bag them for the week, and then when I am home from a busy day and have a bunch more to do, I just season the chicken, pop it on the grill, mix a salad and my dinner is ready in less than 20 minutes...maybe even less than 15. And it is yummy and good for me! Love it!

3. Carnation Instant Breakfast...these little packets of amazingness mixed with low fat milk really help me out in the morning! They have important nutrients for the day, and make a great start for the day as far as food and nutrition go. They also have pre-mixed bottles, a little more expensive, but way more convenient. Either way, love love love.

4. The boyfee-haha yep. The boyfriend. His knowledge from going to school to be a personal trainer really helps when I don't know what to eat or do...I know not everyone has this, but way before him google and other friends who had similar majors or passions worked just as well!

5. Thin-spiration....here is the way shallow aspect of this whole process...but thinking about the fact that if I work on my body, I will be able to pull off any outfit, or fit in to anything more comfortably...and look good...it helps. And looking up fitness pins on pinterest, mixed with Marilyn Monroe pictures helps motivate me. She seems to have a similar body type...except WAY better. Haha I am aiming for that goal. I think that setting myself up to go after a shape that is similar to mine, and not unrealistic as far as looking like a skeleton is a good way to go about it. Who knows, I could be wrong lol. It just works for me for now.

6. MyNetDiary...This is an iphone app that helps you count calories, track exercise, and it even gives you a specific amount of calories to consume depending on your weight loss goal.

7. 30 Day photo challenge, fitness version!!!

 

8. Admitting that I am not as healthy as I should be! It seems simple, but over the years I have convinced myself that I am just "medium" or average...which led to excuses. I have finally admitted to myself that I am not just having a "fat day", or that I am in the middle, or whatever else denial leads to. I finally admit that I could treat my body better. It is already motivating me 10X more!

God=Growth!

Wow, so first off I want to mention how amazed I am at God's power, timing, and patience! I have not blogged on here in a long time...since Thanksgiving of 2011...whooooops lol! But in a sense, I am glad that I have not. It is truly insane how much growth there has been in my life over a course of only 5 months, and it is neat to look back at this blog this long after. It is almost like a mini-time capsule! That being said, it is time to do a maaaaajor update on what God has done and been doing in my life!

The first thing that comes to mind when I think about what God has done, is that he has ended my season of singleness. This in itself is not the big deal, what has happened because of it and after it is where a lot of the growth part comes in. During the end of December, I started really talking to a guy that had really just popped into my life out of nowhere. And during the time that he appeared, I was very adamant about being independent and single. I would harden my heart towards him on a regular basis. God not only showed his power in bringing us into each others lives, but he also showed his power by keeping Joel, my man :P, very persistent. Even when Joel would think he was doing good, I would post some silly comment on facebook about how much love didn't exist, or why I loved being on my own. But God built him up and kept him from being discouraged, and the crazy boy kept pursuing me in a Godly, patient, kind persistent manner. From that initial experience, I really learned that it is never good to make up your own plans and assume you know exactly what God wants for you. If I had kept believing that my plan was his plan, and if he had not used his power to strengthen Joel's heart and resolve, and break mine down...well ladies and gents, I would not be a part of the happy couple that I am a part of today. After God got us together, he has been building us and molding us ever since! Since this relationship has started I have been challenged by God about certain behaviors of mine. I have also learned about the responsibility of real love, as well as how it is supposed to be approached in a biblical way. This is something I have never known before! There is so much more that I have learned, and I am challenged daily by God, and now a man who he has sent to help him..haha I guess I just take that much assistance to learn things :P jk.

Before I bore you with too many more details, long story short, from a few months ago to now, God has completely flipped my world around, changed the plan that I thought was his and so set in stone, and he has confronted me and challenged me with so many new things. And he is still doing so because, that is what every ones entire faith journey consists of. It just goes to show that God's plans will always be better for you than your own, and that God's timing is THE timing. We can't get too caught up in what we want and how we want it, because usually God has a much better idea and plan. We just have to wait, have faith, and enjoy it! I am so excited for where my life is heading now, and so excited to think about the growth that has happened. This is just the tip of the iceberg. I hope everyone else is doing fantastic and learning and growing as well!

This was one of the first times that we spent time with each other (We are long distance and I met him through a friend). Interestingly enough, this was taken at a friend's wedding, and although many guys would be scared that they were going to a wedding with some girl they barely knew, he was excited to go, and going even made him feel even more confident in his decision to pursue me. God was moving his heart like crazy apparently lol! And mine! I would have normally been scared of someone with so much conviction about this sort of thing...lol but not with this kid.

This is from his second visit, we obviously don't like each other :P

Date night! He visited during Valentines day weekend and took me out :). In my silly plan that I was so convinced of, I believed that I was going to be having some lonely V-days for a few years.....just goes to show, God is full of surprises and blessings if you just relax and give it all up to him.

His most recent visit....yes my hair grew a lot...haha because it's those Jessica Simpson extensions, haha love these things!

Skyping! Haha he has grown attached to little Ty-ty! Haha he is the adopted father of this little butt! He was trying to talk to him and get his attention during this shot.

Thanksgiving Fun

Hey loves! I know I have not written on here in foreeeeeeeeeeeever, and for that I apologize. I have been way busy! I have had a lot of spiritual growth, but I am going to elaborate on that for a later date! Instead of another long post about me :P, I am going to show you my "Thanksgiving Lineup"! This year is my first year to co-host Thanksgiving with my grandparents, and I am determined to make it a cheerful, and delicious day! I have not tried any of these recipes before, but I know enough about cooking and baking to know that they will turn out good...ifffff I don't burn them while multitasking :P...so here is the list of what I will be making! (Most of the recipes came from food network btw), also a reason to believe that they will be good!.........Go ahead and try some of these if you feel inclined, and after the holiday I will post pictures and let you know how successful they were :) Until after the holiday, have a great one! God bless!

Fuller Thanksgiving Lineup- 2011!

Appertizerz….

Velveeta, rotel, chips…queso fixins

Veggie stuff? And packet of ranch dip

Crackers…

…then some of this stuff below!

Festive Cracker Spread

• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (8 ounce) package finely shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3/4 cup chopped pimento-stuffed olives
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley

Directions

1. Beat the cream cheese, Cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise with an electric mixer in a bowl until smooth. Fold in the olives, celery, onion, bell pepper, and parsley; mixing just enough to evenly combine. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour.

Cranberry Glazed Meatballs

• 2 (2 lb) bags cocktail meatballs, 1-inch in size
• 1 (16 ounce) can ocean spray jellied cranberry sauce
• 1 (12 ounce) bottle chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Directions:

1. Combine cranberry sauce, chili sauce, cumin and cayenne pepper in a large saucepan.

2. Cook over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the cranberry sauce is melted and smooth.
3. Add meatballs; stir gently to coat.
4. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, 30 minutes or until the meatballs are heated through.
5. Place in a chafing dish or slow cooker to keep warm during the party or gathering.

Sides and Stuffs…

(stuffing and a few other things are going to be made...buuuut I have my sister working on that hopefully :P)

  

Baked Mac and Cheese

Ingredients

• 3 ounces butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Kosher salt
• 3 ounces all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 2 cups half-and-half
• 6 ounces smoked Cheddar, grated
• 3 ounces mascarpone
• 1 large egg
• 1 pound cooked macaroni
• 4 ounces panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley leaves

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a medium saucepan, melt butter, add onion and garlic and sweat over medium heat for 3 minutes with a pinch of salt until vegetables are translucent and aromatic. Add flour and stir with wooden spoon until the flour is completely incorporated with the vegetables, cooking for about 2 minutes. Add the chicken stock 1/3 cup at a time, stirring vigorously to ensure no lumps form. Bring to boil and reduce to medium-low heat and simmer for 40 minutes. Remove pan from heat and whisk in the half-and-half, Cheddar, mascarpone, and egg. Toss sauce with macaroni and place in a 2-quart casserole pan. Mix bread crumbs and parsley in a small mixing bowl and sprinkle on top of pasta. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes, or until bread crumbs are golden brown.

Creamed Corn

Ingredients

• Frozen corn
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 3/4 cup heavy cream (or just more milk for healthiness)
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Directions

In a medium skillet, heat the butter over medium-high heat. Add the corn and season with salt and pepper. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Reduce the heat to medium and add the cream. Simmer until the mixture thickens, 2 to 3 minutes. Place half of the mixture in a food processor. Blend until smooth. Pour the pureed mixture back into the skillet and add the milk, cheese, and parsley. Cook over low heat until warmed through. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and serve.

Butter Dips (biscuits) Adapted from Betty Crocker. Makes 12. …(which means we need to at least double it!)…recipe below is not doubled, so do math and stuff :P

1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 1/4 cup flour
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup milk

Heat the oven to 450°F. Cut the butter into four equal pieces and place them in a 9-inch-square baking dish. Put the baking dish in the oven to melt the butter. This will take about 5 minutes; remove the baking dish once the butter has completely melted.

While the butter is melting, whisk the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together in a large mixing bowl. Stir in the milk quickly, stopping as soon as a loose dough forms.

Sprinkle some flour over a large cutting board or pastry mat. Turn the dough out onto the mat and press lightly into a long, narrow rectangle. Use knife dipped in flour to cut the dough into 12 equal strips.

Take each strip and place it in the baking dish, turning each strip to cut it into butter. Repeat with all the dough and place the strips close together in the baking dish.

Bake for 15 minutes or until puffed and golden. Let cool for 5 minutes before breaking into individual strips and eating.

Desert!

Nanna Puddin

• Nilla wafers
• 6 to 8 bananas, sliced
• 2 cups milk
• 1 (5-ounce) box instant French vanilla pudding
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping thawed, or equal amount sweetened whipped cream

Directions

Line the bottom of a 13 by 9 by 2-inch dish with 1 bag of cookies and layer bananas on top.

In a bowl, combine the milk and pudding mix and blend well using a handheld electric mixer. Using another bowl, combine the cream cheese and condensed milk together and mix until smooth. Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture and stir until well blended. Pour the mixture over the cookies and bananas and cover with the remaining cookies. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Punkin Pie

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (See note)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (See note)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (See note)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 (15 ounce) can libby's 100% pumpkin puree
• 1 (12 ounce) can Carnation Evaporated Milk
• 1 unbaked 9-inch deep dish pie pastry
• whipped cream (optional)

Directions:

1. Note: Substitute 1-3/4 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves; the taste will be slightly different.

2. Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Mix sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves in small bowl.

4. Beat eggs in large bowl.

5. Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture.

6. Gradually stir in evaporated milk.

7. Pour mixture into pie shell.

8. Bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes.

9. Reduce temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

10. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes or until knife inserted near center comes out clean.

11. Cool on wire rack for 2 hours.

12. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

13. Top with whipped cream before serving for best results!

14. Do not overcook; overcooking leads to pie cracking in the middle.

15. Try to bake the day you will serve the pie. Cooking in advance can make the crust soggy. If you have to bake a day before serving, pop the pie in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes and it should bring the crust back to life!

Read more: http://www.food.com/recipe/libbys-famous-pumpkin-pie-101104#ixzz1ePtaUWog

PB/kiss cookies

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup shortening
• 1 egg
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• granulated sugar
• 3 dozen Hershey's chocolate kisses

Directions:

1. 1

Heat oven to 375 degrees.

2. 2

Mix ½ cup sugar, brown sugar, peanut butter, butter, shortening, and egg thoroughly. Stir in flour, baking soda and baking powder.

3. 3

Mold dough into 1-inch balls; roll in sugar. Place about 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet.

4. 4

Bake until edges are light brown, 8 to 10 minutes.

5. 5

Immediately press candy kisses firmly into each cookie, cool.

Print This Recipe

Read more: http://www.food.com/recipe/peanut-butter-hersheys-kisses-cookies-155456#ixzz1ePv0uNj1

Chocolate, pumpkin, cheesecake! (If you want to do just this and not the regular pumpkin pie that is cool, but I for sure want this if we have to decide between the two)
Ingredients:
1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter, melted
2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate mini chips, divided
3 pkgs. (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 can (15 oz.) pumpkin
4 large eggs
1/2 cup evaporated milk
2 Tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease 9-inch springform pan.
2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, butter and granulated sugar in medium bowl. Press onto bottom of prepared pan. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup chocolate chips.
3. Microwave the remaining chocolate chips in medium, uncovered, microwave-safe bowl on HIGH power for 30 seconds; stir.  If necessary, microwave at additional 10- to 15-second intervals, stirring just until chips are melted; cool to room temperature.
4. Beat cream cheese, granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth; beat in pumpkin.
5. Beat in eggs, evaporated milk, cornstarch, cinnamon and nutmeg. Remove 3/4 cup pumpkin mixture; stir into melted chocolate.
6. Pour remaining pumpkin mixture into crust. Spoon chocolate-pumpkin mixture over top; swirl.
7. Bake for 60 to 65 minutes or until edge is set but center still moves slightly. Cool in pan on wire rack.
8. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Remove side of springform pan, serve.

P.S. tell me what you tried and ended up making for Thanksgiving :)!

Enjoying My Season!

So, I don't know about anyone else, but I have noticed that a lot of young women feel that the ratio of  "Christian" men to women is a little off. It seems for every one guy, there is a flock of girls to distract him. It also seems to me that many people are under the impression that everyone and their sister is getting married and by 21 if you are not in a relationship or married you are starting to lose a race with time. And last  but not least, many women feel that if they are single for a long period of time, there must be something wrong with them..........the funny thing is that those assumptions are C.R.A.P. Total and utter crapola. Now many other women are single and totally happy with it, and to them I give kudos! But for the group of women out there who are feeling and or all of the things I just stated.....It is time to buck up ladies. A man and his interest or lack thereof does not define us at all. We do not need a man to complete us necessarily. Yes, one day it would be nice to settle down and marry a great guy. But right now, if you are single, embrace it. This is your season of singleness. This is the time for you to explore who you are, your interests, what brings you enjoyment, what makes you you, what motivates you, and your dreams and desires. This is also your time to get closer with God and to serve him to your fullest ability. If you are in the college age range like me, when else are you going to have time to get things done and then have free time that is at your complete disposal and no one elses? When you get in a serious relationship all of your time and energy will have to be split between the relationship and everything else in your life. That is not necessarily bad, but it is also something to realize! Your season of singleness is a perfect time to give to others. Many times us women are nurturers, and as such we want to be with someone so that we can take care of them....well, I say why wait until prince charming finally gets his butt over to you! There are so many other people to love on and nurture, and they are right in front of you! Spend your extra time loving on friends, and even strangers who need friends and understanding. The possibilities are endless for you in your time of singleness. This is the time to have the freedom that you may never have again. Enjoy it, love it, and make good use of it!

...So, here is my personal game plan for my "season" of singleness. This is something I have been noticing and planning for the last couple of weeks....I have noticed that in my social circle that I am most involved in, there are a lot of people on the edge who want to be closer to others. I have also noticed that I have been developing an increasingly stronger desire and calling for Evangelism. Wellllll, lucky me, I am at the perfect place in life to focus on those things and more! I don't have as much free time as I would like, but I have enough to make a difference and do something. And, since I have no one to take up my time or distract me, God and his desires for me have my full attention. Instead of wasting my time as a single woman, moping over the fact that no one sees me etc. etc., I am way more interested in pursuing God more, and pursuing friendships with people who really need it. I am going to focus on gaining courage and meeting new people, so that I can show them who Christ is.


It can be challenging at times, but I think that in general women should embrace their independence and run with it. We need to all know how beautiful we all are inside and out, because God made us exactly how we are for a reason. We need to take our beauty and spiritual gifts, and use them to spread God's love and to make the most out of ourselves to that when our seasons end, we are who God wants us to be for him, and for whoever the lucky man is that will marry us one day. Singleness is not a negative thing. NOT.AT.ALL. It is actually one of the most exciting, fulfilling times of any one's life. We just have to look at it the right way, and use it the right way. I for one am excited about this blessed time in my life, no matter how hard it may be at times. Yes, companionship is nice, and at times I miss it....but at the end of the day, I am not ready to end my season and give someone enough time to distract me from serving God and loving him.


(Not to say that relationships are bad, and that they distract....the right relationship is a beautiful journey and a wonderful way to glorify God...I am just not there yet so it isn't something I can write about lol!)

Mercies in Disguise...

So, last week was rough. Extremely rough. I started the week being late to class, getting talked to by my professor, crying in front of her, and then getting sent to the bathroom to collect myself. The class was my field study, where I go teach at an elementary school so not only did I let my professor down, but I let the kids down and I was incredibly disappointed in myself. The rest of the week continued in that fashion. I was late to things, forgot important things, and was letting people down left and right. By the end of the week I was feeling extremely low and incapable. I was in a very dark place, one that I have not been in a while. The entire time that I was having this rough week I was also distancing myself from God. Instead of praying for patience, understanding, and just keeping my attitude in check, I got angry. AAAANGRY. I was blaming God for every little thing, and asking him why he was putting me through hell and why he was not giving me the things I wanted. I was frustrated about many things, my "bad luck", the actions of other people, etc. And I blamed it all on God. Ridiculous I know, but I feel like it is a common thing that people do when the going gets rough. I was in a haze of negativity and blame all week. At the end of the week I went to something called "Midnight Worship", and at first I was completely numb, angry, and wanted to leave. I was just so fed up with so many things. But, I was surrounded by some very loving, attentive, supportive people and when I was really starting to get angry God sent them my way. I finally let go, cried (which I HATE doing in front of people by the way),and I talked with them and let things out instead of holding them in. I was still angry and somewhat numb the rest of the weekend, but, I was starting to realize that God was not the one trying to hurt me and that I was being foolish. Satan tries to bring us down. He knows our weaknesses, and he knows what he has used to pull us to him in the past. Satan pulled out all of the cards in the deck last week, and although I started to fall for them, through my changing heart, and supportive friends, and more importantly God's power and will, I got through it.

Now that I am back in the swing of things, and have had time to think about it, last week and the weeks building up to it have made me realize a few things. The first thing that I realized is that I was slowly but surely losing motivation for some things. It was a gradual shift, and so I did not know what I was actually doing. By lack of motivation I mean that I was getting tired and lazy about school, and keeping a good attitude about things. This past week everything blew up in my face, and all of the frustration I was holding in, and the lack of motivation that kept me from my full potential finally came into the light. It was a hard pill to swallow, but one that I needed to desperately. I also think that this week was a test. It was a test because since I started really diving into my faith, I have not really had any big problems or issues. Things have been easy going and I have been on a really long "Jesus high". I think this week was a test to see A: How I handle adversity now, and B: If I come back from it or just give up on God and go back to all of my old ways. I failed in a sense, because I did let myself get all bent out of shape for a week, but I would like to think that because I am back and not abandoning my walk of faith I did not fail. Plus, God disciplines the ones he loves, and apparently, I needed some lol!

....Bottom line...We receive trials, some big, some small, but no matter what, everything bad is not delegated by God, he doesn't cause it. Satan tries to play games with our lives and hearts and that can be confused with God being "mean". Also, even if God is actually giving us a trial (which he will do from time to time), he is not doing it to ruin us. He is disciplining us either because an action of ours merits a natural consequence, or because he wants us to grow as a person, and grow closer to him. If we make it through said trials, we will do just that. Everything God does, he does in love. Even if it doesn't feel like it at times of frustration. And Satan, wellllll he is just a bad dude. He likes to attack the weak...but he also likes to go after the strong. Strong people scare him and he goes after them because he desperately wants to keep his hold. Too bad for him, he can't win with me. God has my back. God:1, Satan:0.





So, to go along with this, I wanted to share some verses from the book of James, which is a really good read in times of trouble. This really helped me this weekend!


Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. James 1:2-4

God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, "God is tempting me". God is never tempted to do wrong and he never tempts anyone else. Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. James 1:12-14

.....The entire book of James is great...if you have time I highly suggest you read it because it has so much more about this subject!


Here are some songs that really talk about this, and part of the second one actually sounds like one of the 'verses in James! (the part about being a dying flower and tossed in the waves, it reminded me of the part of a verse: "Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed in the wind" James 1:6.)

The lyrics to this song=AMAZING...and so true. A wonderful way to see hardship.

(Blessings, Laura Story)

 

 Who Am I by Casting Crowns is always so inspiring to me!

 

....Update!

Hello my B-E-A-utiful readers! Sorry I have not written in a while, I have been extremely busy with school, work and CRU stuff. I have also been busy growing and changing! That's right! Some major things have shifted in me since my last post a little over a week ago. (Time really does fly when you are in a full blown relationship with Christ! I wouldn't have believed it if I wasn't experiencing it myself lol!). But anyhooser...time for an update on where I am at and what I have learned recently!

The first thing that has changed is that guys are less distracting! It has taken YEARS  for me to be able to be on my own without feeling some sort of insecurity and assuming my relationship status is a direct reflection of me. And if you didn't know already from reading some of my blogs, I was struggling with major loneliness and I was extremely distracted by a couple of people. After some prayer, faith, and shifting in my heart, I am happy to say that I am no longer distracted easily, if it all, and I am owning and LOVING my Independence. A new light has been shed on my situation, and even though singleness is easy for some, it is a way of life that I have not ever been used to. Until now... :). I am truly content with where I am at in life and it is crazy how quickly and relatively smoothly I got to this place of peace. I only hope more women out there can do the same for themselves....on that note, I am going to share with you how I got to this point, and some of my new ways of looking at things that really really help me!

First off, the whole boy thing. How am I FINALLY ok with not being pursued by a Godly man right now? Easy! Reason number one, I am no longer worried about finding a Godly man now or even soon because it is not my time frame that God is working on! His is way better, and I need to just chill out, and wait. Patiently. Reason number two, there are so many other things to do besides worry about boys and their shenanigans! There is school, friends, leading others to God, family, unexplored talents and hobbies, passions to explore, friends and strangers who need love and encouragement...so many things to put energy into, and all of those things will be fruitful in one way or another. Reason number three, I finally understand that me not being pursued has nothing to do with me personally. It isn't because I'm too fat, or not pretty enough, or not fun enough etc, etc, etc...it isn't because I have competition and they are better than me in some way. It is simply this...the men who are not pursuing me, or are pursuing others, are just not right for me. They are planned for someone else, and someone else is planned for me.

Speaking of passions.....now that I am just focusing on God and myself, I am really discovering my passions now more than ever. My passion happens to be mission work, and evangelism (although I am not so good at the second one yet.) I also have a passion for helping my fellow ladies. I have taken away some of the "clouds" in my life, and I can see clearly what the Lord wants me to do with my life. My heart grows bigger and bigger for service each day, and I just can't wait to see what happens in the future. I am already looking forward to graduation and getting a job teaching, and then spending my summers in impoverished areas and countries helping the children and families. Big dreams I know, but I WILL do it :). It is really exciting to me that I am no longer assuming I will graduate, get married, and raise a family right away. Don't get me wrong, I will cherish that opportunity and it is part of what I want to do in my future...but instead of waiting around, thinking about how I am running out of time to find my soul mate in my college years, I am focusing on my future with just me and God. Because that is a certain thing, and the work that I want to do will be one of the most rewarding things I can ever do. My desires have changed, and my passion for others is going wild. I will have a family one day, I have full faith in that, but instead of waiting around for God to give me what I want, I am going to step up and give to him!

I hope everyone is doing well in everything! Keep your chins up, and KNOW that God has a beautiful, amazing plan for all of us. We just have to set aside our own and listen, and he will take care of us better than we could ever take care of ourselves. God bless!

Having a Crush= Insanely Frustrating, However, It Doesn't = Sin.

  So, unfortunately I have a crush. I have had one for a while that has switched around between a select few, but this one is extra bad. And, it stinks. A lot. I don't like someone having control over my emotions in the slightest, and I don't like feeling like an idiot when I get giggly and extra girly about it. I also don't like the rejection that comes with a crush. All of that being said, crushes are not so awful. And part of the reason I resent this crush is because I feel like I am betraying God by being even remotely distracted. I also feel mad because depending on how the guy sees me...in this case not all...I get grumpy and negative about it. If I'm not careful I even start thinking it is a reflection of me that this guy doesn't notice me.......the negativity is where the sin lies my friends. God doesn't care that we like people, in fact he created us to want companionship and to eventually be a part of a pair that will glorify him. What God does get sad about is if we let our "crushes" consume our thoughts and actions. Although I have avoided looking too silly, letting the guy know, idolizing him, and being too focused on this one person, I have ended up going the complete opposite and instead I have been consumed with frustration and self defeat. Not only does God not want us to feel anger, but he also doesn't want us to hate on ourselves. We are all beautiful, wonderful creations that he lovingly made. And if we make ourselves miserable and insult ourselves we are insulting his works. By being negative about my silly little crush, not only have I ended up insulting his creation in me, but I have also shown my lack of trust in God in regards to his plans for me.

I am realizing that I need to stop worrying, and start trusting his plans. I need to see myself how he sees me, not how some silly boy who is busy chasing others sees me...or doesn't. (Not that this guy is bad, I wouldn't like him if he was lol!) God has plans for everyone, just because I am not part of one persons plans, doesn't mean there isn't someone else planned for me eventually. I need to relaxxxxx and fight my womanly nature to complete and nurture, until it is the right time. This is a reoccurring problem for me, I have never been known for patience. But, with some prayer and study, I will get myself on the right track, eventually I will stay on it without wavering. I can't help having a crush, and I can't help feeling lonely sometimes, but I can help how much I think about it, and what attitude I have about it. I need to find a happy medium, to where I like being around the kid, but I am not too excited. And, I need to be able to not get angry and negative about myself just because he doesn't notice me. Crushes can be fun if people just don't make a big deal out of them one way or the other. (Easier said than done obviously...). But, if I keep focusing on God, and keep focusing on bettering myself, things will fall into place. It is just a temporary phase, one that I need to stop fighting so much, so that it can take its course, and so that I can move right along instead of prolonging it by beating my self up about it. If any of you are struggling with a similar issue, I encourage you to talk to your friends, study the word, or just pray. Even talk to me if you feel like it. But no matter what know you are not alone in this struggle or similar ones. Hope the helps. God bless!


Here are some songs that help me when I am feeling down about myself and letting earthly desires and influences mess with my self worth:

Here are some verses that also encourage me when I am insecure, un-trusting of my future, lonely, and just down about where I am at.

Jeremiah 29:11  

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. 

 

Song of Solomon 4:7 

You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you. 

1 Peter 3:3-4 

Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear— but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious.

Psalm 45:11 

And the king will desire your beauty. Since he is your lord, bow to him. 

 

John 15:18 

“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.

 

1 Peter 2:4 

As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious,

Psalm 139:13-14 

For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.

1 Corinthians 7:32-35

1 Corinthians 7:8 

To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single as I am.

1 Corinthians 7:26-28 

I think that in view of the present distress it is good for a person to remain as he is. Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be free. Are you free from a wife? Do not seek a wife. But if you do marry, you have not sinned, and if a betrothed woman marries, she has not sinned. Yet those who marry will have worldly troubles, and I would spare you that.