Kept Waiting

Posted on January 19, 2022 by For Glory Sake!

29 years ago I got pregnant for the 1st time. David and I were so excited! We had waited 5 years to try for a baby. It seemed like forever. His goal was to 1st pay off all student loans from college and law school. We scrimped and saved and finally it was time. Then 13 weeks into our new adventure, I miscarried. It was devestating.

Before long, I was pregnant again – only a little wiser and more seasoned from grief. I had had time to think about this procreating business. With a heart still-bruised, I got on my knees and did exactly what I did with the prospect of marriage – I prayed.

“LORD, You made this child, it belongs to You. And since I belong to You too, I’m asking for one thing. Not necessarily a healthy child or a perfect child, but a soul for Your Kingdom. I want to be an instrument of righteousness (Romans 6:13) so nothing for the enemy! Take every pregnancy if You must, but only give us children for Your Glory.” I added, “And please protect my heart, because I can’t live in constant fear and worry. We want what You want, they are all Your creations. Just prepare me, because that miscarriage was rough.“

Of course I didn’t hear anything afterwards, but I knew God heard me. I felt sure He agreed with my heart on the matter, so I took that as a promise. I got pregnant 8 times and birthed 5 healthy babies… ending up with 6 God-given children. He softened every blow along the way giving us total peace that He was in control each time. He heard, He saw, and He sent the children He wanted us to love and teach to love Him.

Know- “…And you shall know [with an understanding from personal experience] that I AM the LORD; For they shall not be put to shame who wait and Hope expectantly for Me.” Isaiah 49:23 amp

Labor in prayer- “Oh, my dear children! I feel as if I’m going through labor pains for you again, and they will continue until Christ is fully developed in your lives.” Galations 4:19 nlt

Hope- “…but hope that is seen is not Hope; for who hopes for what he already sees?” Romans 8:24 nasb.

Be certain- “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.“ Philippians 1:6 nlt

ForGlorySake! – Anna

“But offer yourselves to God … as instruments of righteousness to God.” Romans 6:13

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I Love where I Live

Posted on January 13, 2022 by For Glory Sake!

I saw a sign while riding with my husband, “love where you live.” I’m sure it was all about real estate but it got me thinking, contentment… not only with my address, but my whole life.
When I was born, where I was born, even how I was born (birth order etc.) If my times are in God’s hands then everything about my time came from Him. My talents and abilities (or lack of). He planned it all. 

“So that people may know from the rising to the setting of the sun that there is no one besides Me. I AM the LORD, and there is no one else- The One forming light and creating darkness, causing well-being and creating disaster (adversity, affliction, bad, calamity, displeasure, distress); I AM the LORD who does all these things...Woe to the one who quarrels with his Maker— A piece of pottery among the other pottery pieces! Will the clay say to the Potter, ‘What are you doing?’” (God). Isaiah 45:6,9

Either God is in all of my life or scripture is lying. It claims He saw my days before they came to be… He knew if my heart would bend toward Him… He knew whether to count me with His sheep… and even prepared a place for me beside Him.

There is no room for complaint. Whatever and wherever I am, He’s had every detail recorded. I am content knowing He is God and I am not. I love where I live because in all His wisdom – He made it so. And if I’d been born a different person, in another time and another location? I can trust that He’d search and find me there as well. 

But you are A CHOSEN PEOPLE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR GOD’S OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY. 1Peter 2:9

There is peace believing I am here at this very time in history and in this place on earth because of something bigger than I can comprehend. He wanted it so and He is always out for my good.

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

ForGlorySake! – Anna

The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in EVERY detail of their lives. Psalm 37:23

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Hedged-In

Posted on January 10, 2022 by For Glory Sake!

My mom used to pray asking that God would put a hedge of protection around me. I imagined very tall bushes… and I wondered exactly how this would protect me and where she got the idea?

The hedge phrase comes from the book of Job where the adversary is complaining to God, “Have You not made a hedge (sakta) about Job and his house and all that he has, on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land.” Job‬ ‭1:10‬

Being hedged-in by God comes up again in Psalms. 139 (my favorite passage) says, “You have enclosed/hedged (sartani) me behind and before, and have laid Your hand upon me.” Psalm 139:5

Sakta – to entwine, i.e. Shut in (for protection or restraint) –make a fence, hedge (up). 

Sartani – assault, beset, besiege, bind up, distress, fashion,

Those definitions from the BibleHub app reveal not only that God brings protection from evil, but also retrains me from going too far! His enclosure is both an assault and a distress to the enemy. My mom was right! God promises to protect His children from within and without with His hedge.

Ah the beautiful and unseen provisions of God. I will never fully know His loving care until I meet Him face to face. For now, I will continue to marvel at His Word as it lets me peek a bit into His deep, deep love.

How can I not echo the Psalmist: “Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is high, I cannot attain to it (take it all in).” Psalms‬ ‭139:6‬

ForGlorySake! -Anna

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Mysterious New Year

Posted on January 3, 2022 by For Glory Sake!

Every year the same thing happens: the number of the previous year that was so new and mysterious, wraps up and ends being fully experienced and NOT as daunting as I had imagined. Yet I see the number of the Year ahead and I’m hit with that same exciting and scary unknown feeling.

Excited because anything can happen and a little scared because ANYTHING can happen. For instance- my hope is that something new and good will come about with the hearts of our family, to love and serve God fully. My fear comes with what will God need to do to bring us to that completeness and maturity in Him.

I want it all! And I want Him to protect my heart.

What a merciful Father He has been, always gently preparing me and patiently leading me through so many rough seasons. He promised to be there and smooth the path, and He has. He has never left me to sort it out alone. He has never failed to bring good from any horrific situation (if I only waited to see). He’s shown me more of His Glory, year after year.

The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom should I fear? The LORD is the defense of my life; Whom should I dread?… If an army encamps against me, My heart will not fear; If war arises against me, In spite of this I am confident.Psalm 27:1,3

because:

“If God is for (me), who can be against (me)?” Romans 8:31

God is for me. He is with me. Because of what Jesus did on the cross: I was determined before and called; and made righteous; and also glorified (see Bible Hub “interlinear” Romans 8:30). I am His and He is mine. Head to toe, inside and out. There is nothing to fear and everything to Hope! Happy 2022

ForGlorySake! – Anna

“When You said, ‘Seek My face,’ my heart said to You, ‘I shall seek Your face, LORD.'” Psalm 27:8

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Babies, babies, babies!

Posted on December 28, 2021 by For Glory Sake!

2021 has been the year of babies for our family. Cousins are multiplying in every direction. We had 2 precious grandchildren born; a boy in May and a girl in November, to go with our other two year old granddaughter. 3 and counting…

My sister also had 2 grandchildren born to their crew: a girl in November and a boy in December. It’s been fun to share all the updates and pictures between family members. So many photos were being sent via text message we had to be careful to label the names to keep from getting confused.

In the midst of all this joy – our daughter, who married in July announced her pregnancy and due-date for next summer! Just the thrill of these new little ones being added makes my head spin. I am reliving all my pregnancies, births and baby-years. With 4 grandkids in the family David and I are officially Grandma and Grandpa and his parents are “the Greats.”

I love watching our children experience parenthood and understand why we love them so much. My parents were right saying it only gets better when your babies have babies. I pray that we will be as accommodating and generous as they were and as David’s parents are today. No matter where our kids live (and hope it’s not too far) my heart will stay full of these gracious undeserved blessings.

ForGlorySake! -Anna

Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from Him. Psalm 127:3

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Useful Annoyance

Posted on December 28, 2021 by For Glory Sake!

Interruptions, delays, break-downs, redos… these are few of my least favorite things! Yet for some reason, God finds them useful in challenging and maturing me. Ugh. He knows the disruption causes a halt and a choice: pray first or try feverishly to get back on track. As in- make it happen.

Sometimes it takes me several attempts and hours of irritation before I let go and ask for direction. From a natural-born stubborn-headed being – I’ve come a long way! It used to take me days… even years. At about 50 years old I finally decided after 3 attempts with failure, I would entertain the idea that “God might be standing in my way.” Sorta like Balaam (a really bad guy story in the Bible with a great lesson). He finally got a clue when his donkey spoke to him. Numbers 22 is an interesting read!

I want to be a little quicker than that. After 3 tries and I stop and ask God, “Is this a not for now thing?” or “Is this a not at all thing?” or “Is it a ask for help from someone specific thing?” And then I pray for the ability to slow down and see what He wants to teach me. It’s helped a lot on my frontend frustration level.

Computers, phones (my most recent headache), cars, communication, travel plans, illness, bills, household repairs… I keep putting this little habit into practice over big and small annoyances and slowly I’ve learned: God is interested in the details of my day. He works through everything and wastes nothing.

“Oh, how great are God’s riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand His decisions and His ways! For who can know the LORD’s thoughts? Who knows enough to give Him advice? And who has given Him so much that He needs to pay it back? For everything comes from Him and exists by His power and is intended FOR HIS GLORY. All Glory to Him forever! Amen.” Romans 11:33-36

ForGlorySake! – Anna

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29

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Better than Christmas!

Posted on December 12, 2021 by For Glory Sake!

While I’ve been shopping for Christmas gifts, stocking stuffers, prizes for games we play and wonderful goodies to eat, I keep thinking of all the incredible gifts God has given us (Jesus, Salvation, the Holy Spirit) and all He has in store (Heaven, Eternal Life, Rewards)!

I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident HOPE He has given to those He called—His holy people, who are His rich and glorious inheritance. I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe Him. Ephesians 1:18-19

Better than anything I could ever pull out on Christmas day, are the treasures to be revealed in the LORD’s presence. Things I can hardly imagine or envision, but I know with all my heart these gifts will finally fulfill every longing I’ve ever had:

“… the right to eat from the tree of life in the Paradise of God.” Rev.2:7

“…the crown of life. (and) …not be harmed by the second death.” Rev. 2:10,11

“… the hidden manna … a white stone inscribed with a new name” Rev. 2:17

“…authority over the nations … the morning star!” Rev. 2:26-28

“…dressed in white (and) …name never blotted out from the Book of Life, (and) confessed before God the Father and His angels.” Rev. 3:5

“…made a pillar in the temple of God, never again leave it (and somehow tattooed with) God’s Name and the name of God’s city and Jesus’ new Name.” Rev.3:12

“ placed with Jesus on His throne!” Rev. 3:21

Someday we will have the best celebration ever! Better than any Christmas or birthday or anniversary, this will be an Awards Ceremony to pale all others, a Wedding Feast of epic proportions and a Triumphal Entry into a New Heaven and a New Earth. What a HOPE!

ForGlorySake! – Anna

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Survivor

Posted on December 12, 2021 by For Glory Sake!

Our family loves the show Survivor! In 2020 we started watching it from the beginning, every episode… and almost always together. It was a joy to find something to share with our adult kids.

We have laughed and stressed and had intense, serious conversations about the contestants. Whether it’s despicable human nature, commendable character or wily gameplay- it’s always educational to hear everyone’s views.

Sometimes my stomach churns over the show’s harsh physical challenges, or my favorite player getting “voted out,” but relating with our children about real-life social issues is worth every minute. When would we otherwise sit around and talk about such crazy controversial issues?!

As our children have grown older, David & I prayed for opportunities to influence and God has answered! It never comes when or how we expect. Probably because Creator-God is so amazingly creative. He has this uncanny way of putting us in uncomfortable situations where we are vulnerable and totally dependent on Him.  

Getting older has only solidified for us that He is God and we are NOT. We are forever being surprised by Him. And yet, just like with the rest of our parenting years it’s in our weakness that He’s made strong. God can use anything to draw families together and closer to Him… even reality tv. 

ForGlorySake! – Anna

To everyone who is victorious I will give fruit from the Tree of Life in the Paradise of God. Revelation 2:7

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My hill to die on

Posted on November 29, 2021 by For Glory Sake!

For 2 years I’ve heard fellow believers talk about standing up, fighting back, pushing against tyranny, and holding on to freedoms. I’ve searched the scripture, prayed a lot, even asking for wisdom from those I respect. The inconsistency I wrestle with – is the injustice I read about in the Bible towards God’s people.

I’m sure the early Christians had strong feelings about such things, but protesting can be tough when any public opposition is met with beatings, prison, and death. Still, lawsuits are mentioned (Old and New testament) and stories of giving an account of their side by both Prophets and Apostles. Yet, it’s not clear if followers of Christ ever disobeyed common law because it encroached on their personal freedoms. Instead, obedience to rulers was preached… unless it forbid worship, prayer or speaking about Jesus.

“Be subject to every human institution for the Lord’s sake, whether to a king as supreme or to governors as those He commissions to punish wrongdoers as well as praise those who do good.” 1 Peter 2:13-14

I haven’t any doubt that since the beginning of time governments have been corrupt and leaders have been evil. Historically, people have submitted to and revolted against some horrible dictators. God alone is the Just King. Knowing all this… I’ve wondered how should I respond to real and potential loss of freedoms? Do I have any God-given rights? What fight, if any is pleasing in His sight? How can I bring Him glory in 2021?

“He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to DO JUSTICE, to LOVE KINDNESS, And to WALK HUMBLY with your God?” Micah‬ ‭6:8

God wants me to stand for Justice and Mercy, to uphold Honesty, Peace and His Truth, but complete and total victory will never come on this earth. I’m waiting for a home that’s not of this world (John 18:36 ). Beyond these, I’ve come to a peace. I keep aiming to do the right thing, and He will show me just what that is at the right time.

Jesus’ hill to die on – was making me acceptable to God. The least I can do is make my hill to die on – Him.

ForGlorySake! – Anna

“ this Hope will never lead to disappointment…” Romans‬ ‭5:5‬

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Way Bigger

Posted on November 29, 2021 by For Glory Sake!

We had 2 births over the Thanksgiving holiday… 2 precious souls delivered into our family. One through our niece and another grand-daughter through our daughter-in-law and son. I never grow weary of baby pictures, baby news, sweet smells and little noises. My mind races through each of my own labor and delivery stories. It feels so good to hold a little one in my arms again.

Such struggles to get here after 9 long months of waiting, but every mother says it’s worth the pain. I felt the same way… probably why I kept having babies. It’s a joy and a thrill to partner with Creator God. It’s both awesome and humbling to be used in such a way.

These new child-sprouts in our family tree are part of something way bigger than they can imagine. Much like I am part of God’s amazing plan. He did all the work, yet I receive all the blessing. He lets me participate as a living stone in His spiritual temple (The Bride). Like each believer – just a small, but valuable piece in something much larger than I can possibly fathom.

“you also, as living stones, are being built up as a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices that are acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 2:5

Jesus alone makes me acceptable, gives me His name and a place in His family… as God’s child. How do I process this? It’s more than my head can really comprehend. And yet just like this new little bundle, I don’t have to understand it all – I can just rest in His arms and know He loves me.

“Oh, the depth of the riches, both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!” Romans 11:33

ForGlorySake! – Anna

Big Yawn!
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