Lessons from Moana

From Wednesday, July 15, 2020:

"Here. This is where my favorite moment of today happened. It was around 10 a.m., but I can't imagine anything topping it."

If you saw my Facebook post on that day, you may remember that this was the morning after we watched the movie Moana for the first time. The kids and I took a walk around my parents' neighborhood on this morning and visited some familiar spots from my childhood. This playground is not one of them, but the tennis courts behind it were there. My stepsister, Stephanie gave me tennis lessons there.

Back on topic, about the time we approached this playground, the kids were talking about the movie and told me they loved Moana and all the Christian elements they saw. I had seen a couple, but not wanting to lead them, I said I'd love to hear what it was that they had noticed. We talked for at least half an hour! The kids bounced back and forth with the different correlations they had made. I was absolutely amazed by all the lessons they pulled out of the movie. They found so many!

Here is a list of what I could remember after we got back to the house and I had paper and pen available. Spoiler alert! If you haven't watched the movie yet, you might want to stop here until after you have seen it. I will be mentioning parts of the movie below.

Lessons from Moana

• What you think is good and you depend on can turn out to attack you.
• We need to consider to what we give our devotions.
• In the movie: The coconuts and the Kakamora
• Know who you are and whose you are.
• We recognized this as a major theme throughout the movie.
• We may need to remind ourselves of this repeatedly.
• We are NOT our talents, skills, careers, possessions,... That may be something special about us, but it is not who we are.
• In the movie: Moana repeated this often. Maui needed to know who he was. So did Te Ka.
• Jesus came for humans and gave everything for us - and yet some people still reject him.
• In the movie, Maui's past made us think of this.
• Anger can hide a person's true self.
• We have to look past exteriors.
• In the movie: This was toward the end, with Te Ka and Moana.
• We should also be aware of what our exteriors communicate.
• In the movie: Maui considered Moana a princess because she was a girl with a pet.
• Satan throws flaming arrows at us.
• In the movie: Like the blow darts from the Kakamora
• Extra lesson: God can use our sins and temptations as well.
• He might do this to get us in line with His plan and purpose.
• In the movie: The ocean hits Maui with a blow dart and he is in a position to teach Moana how to sail.
• Sometimes we say no to God. We can choose to not accept the role He offers us.
• Sometimes God lines things us so we have to follow His will.
• In the movie: The island had no more fish, so something had to be done.
• (Side note: Don't be fooled into thinking we can thwart God's will by saying no. He will accomplish His will. Someone else might get the benefit of being involved in a certain way rather than us, though.)
• People can distract and discourage us - even well-meaning family members.
• In the movie: Moana's parents tried to stop her from being drawn to the sea. Also, Maui told her, "The ocean chose wrong."
• People can encourage us. Know who your support people are.
• In the movie: Moana's grandmother encouraged her to follow her calling.
• Satan will try to convince us to stay where we feel safe and comfortable, without need.
• In the movie: Moana's parents and the villagers tried to convince her that there was no need to ever leave their island, that it had everything they would ever need and they were happy.
• Sometimes messages can be repeated so many times and strongly that it can drown out God's call to us.
• These messages can come from family members, our society/culture, etc. - even the church sometimes.
• In the movie: Moana's parents and the villagers repeatedly told her there was no need for her to ever leave the island.
• Extra lesson: God keeps calling!
• In the movie: The ocean continued to captivate Moana and draw her towards it.
• God has a plan for us - even from early in our lives!
• In the movie: The ocean "chose" Moana when she was a toddler.
• Jeremiah 1:5 - "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."
• God rewards us when we obey.
• In the movie: At the end, Moana gets the shell. (Plus, her village is saved!)
• God gives us one step at a time.
• In the movie: At the beginning, the ocean gave Moana a shell. Once she got that one, another shell was revealed...and then another, and so on.
• We may not see what God is doing, but after we have obeyed, sometimes we are allowed to see the full circle.
• In the movie: Toddler Moana was collecting shells at the beginning, but wasn't able to keep one. At the end of the movie, the ocean gave her a shell.
• You can serve God, even if you are young.
• In the movie: Moana was young, but wise. She set an example for the others.
• 1 Timothy 4:12 - "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity."
• We need to be voyaging.
• Don't let fear keep us from doing what we're supposed to do.
• We need to be going outside of the church. We need to be willing to leave the comfortable and familiar surroundings of our churches and Christian friends.
• In the movie: Moana's tribe used to be voyagers, but they let fear stop them.
• We don't all have the same call.
• In the movie: Toddler Moana loved the stories her grandma told, but the other children didn't. Also, the ocean chose her, not the whole tribe.
• Being a Christian sets us apart.
• In the movie: Moana had to leave the island on her own.
• (Side note and extra lesson: Don't be unwilling to accept help, though.)
• In the movie: Maui helps Moana. In ways, so do other characters. Moana's grandmother did her own things and that set her apart.
• Following God isn't always easy. Sometimes we want to quit. Sometimes we get another chance.
• Sometimes we have to leave people, places, and things we love.
• Take risks.
• In the movie: Moana had to do some hard things. For one, she had to leave home and the approval of her parents and tribe.
• Don't get cocky.
• In the movie: Moana released an arrow line and said, "Oh yeah. I did that," only to have another onslaught of attacks. Also, Maui considered himself a hero, but was told that was not how humans remembered him.
• Be willing to learn.
• In the movie: Moana went into the cavern to search for the answer to her question. She also learned to sail.
• The hero is not always who you expect it to be. Look for the unlikely heroes.
• In the movie: Moana was a young girl. It wasn't the strong, magical demi-god who was the hero.
• You can be a hero.
• Evil can be disguised or hidden.
• In the movie: Tamatoa (the sparkly crab) was hidden under all his glistening treasure, something that could be quite enticing to some.
• People can mislead us and put us in bad situations.
• In the movie: Maui knew who Tamatoa was and what to expect from him, but he didn't warn Moana about what to expect. Earlier, Maui also tricked Moana into getting trapped in a cave.

My children made my heart so happy when they shared all of these with me! Now, I'll have to watch the movie again, because it is going to be so much more special to me with all of these lessons.

3 John 4 - "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."

A Brobdingnagian Consideration

**I'll bet you're wondering about the word "Brobdingnagian." Stick with me and I'll explain further down.

There are so many issues today, and approaching any of them can be like opening a can of worms - or maybe like opening a bee hive. (Don't let our bees fool you; they are really the most docile bees ever!)

The Issues
There are many debates in our current worldwide situation with the COVID-19 virus:

mask or no mask

reopen businesses or not

the importance of social distancing

whether you can get the virus from objects touched

vaccine or no vaccine

contact tracing or no tracing

...and more!

The Responses

Of course, there are always numerous "hot button" topics and debates in life, but it seems like that number has increased significantly with this one virus. People respond to these debates in various ways. We may: 

immediately refute the claims made

respond at a later time

 talk about it with someone else (who will agree with us)

refuse to get involved

How do you respond when you see or hear one of these debates? How do you view the person(s) making the claims? In our current culture, people tend to attack others - very severely, in my opinion - simply for disagreeing with their opinion. Someone may be accused of being stupid, inhumane, the worst scum on the planet, told to kill themselves, and receive many comments of increasing vulgarity and rudeness, just for stating what they believe on social media or in response to an online news article. Personally, I generally choose not to get involved in a debate, but will sometimes respond later (often in writing - like this). However, this post is not about my views on any of these debates. This is about how we make our decisions about them.

Here are a few verses to consider:

Proverbs 15:1 - A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 11:12 - Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense, but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.

Proverbs 25:15 - Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.

The Decisions

How do you make decisions when debates arise like these? I'm not talking about how you decide how to respond, but how do you decide what you truly believe about each one of them? How do you decide which viewpoint makes the most sense? How do you decide what is right? Honestly, at this time, everything is so polarized and extreme that there is not much common ground in the middle. With that in mind, you might consider reading this article from the Victoria Advocate newspaper, printed on May 21, 2020: We'll find better discourse in the middle ground.

How do you decide what to do if you disagree, but it is a governmental policy, such as the shelter-in-place orders? Does your decision-making differ if you expect it to be for the short-term or long-term? How do you decide which battles are worth fighting?

The Bible is filled with a plethora of verses that can guide us. I notice an opportunity to include a new word about which our family learned recently: Brobdingnagian. It means "marked by tremendous size," according to the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary. Also according to the dictionary, it refers to "Brobdingnag, the imaginary land of giants in Gulliver's Travels, by Jonathan Swift" and came into usage around 1728. So, the list of verses from the Bible for us to consider is Brobdingnagian! It is so immense, honestly, that I will only include some here. This will assuredly not be a complete list. I know it's long, but I hope you'll read through all these verses and see which ones God might press into your own heart.

As you make your decisions - about anything - I encourage you to check your Bible and seriously take some time in prayer, asking God to show you His viewpoint and to make it your own. Ask Him to help you see the issues and the people involved the way He does.

Also, consider what the issue is changing. Ask if the change compromises God's commands, or if it is an issue of preference. Unfortunately for all the people-pleasers, we can never make everyone happy. Maybe it's more fortunate than unfortunate to know that. As I've often told my children, the expectation is to "always do the right thing, no matter what."

A Not-So Brobdingnagian List of Bible Verses

Romans 12:3 - For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.

Romans 14:1 - Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters.

Romans 14:13 - Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way.

Romans 15:1 - We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.

Genesis 1:27 - So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

John 1:3 - Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.

1 Corinthians 6:12 - "Everything is permissible for me" - but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me" - but I will not be mastered by anything.

1 Corinthians 10:23-23 - "Everything is permissible" - but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible" - but not everything is constructive. Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others.

1 Corinthians 8:9 - Be careful, however, that the exercise of your freedom does not become a stumbling block to the weak.

Philippians 4:6 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 - All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Romans 12:2 - Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Romans 13:1 - Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. (You can read further, through verse 7.)

Acts 5:29 - Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than man!"

Titus 3:9 - But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless.

Proverbs 20:3 - It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.

Proverbs 8:7-8 - Whoever corrects a mocker invites insult; whoever rebukes a wicked man incurs abuse. Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you; rebuke a wise man and he will be wiser still.

James 1:19-20 - My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.

Romans 12:18 - If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Psalm 133:1 - How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!

Ephesians 4:3 - Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

Matthew 5:5 - Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

Matthew 5:9 - Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.

1 Peter 3:8 - Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another, by sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.

Philippians 2:3-4 - Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Ephesians 6:10-11 - Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.

Romans 12:19 - Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord.

Deuteronomy 1:30 - The LORD your God, who is going before you, will fight for you, as he did for you in Egypt, before your very eyes

Ephesians 4:31-32 - Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 - Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.

Keeping the Peace (What If It Was I?)

What if it was I?

I used to ask myself that question after hearing of increasing violence at schools and churches by militant religious attackers. What if it was I who had a gun to my head or a knife to my throat, demanding that I deny Christ to keep my life? What if that gun or knife was held to one of my children, or my husband? I used to pray that I'd be strong and faithful. I still pray that! I would tell my children that I loved them no matter what happened, but I would have to say that I loved God more, and I would see them in heaven again someday. It can be easy to say what I would want to do in that situation, but what would I actually do if it really came to that? I hope never to have to find out, but may the Lord's will prevail, whatever that may be.

Again, though - what if it was I? What if I had been a Samaritan or Gentile back in the times before Jesus? What if I had been a Jew during WWII, forced into hiding or hauled off to a concentration camp? What if I were a refugee with no safe place without persecution to call home? What if I lived without clean water, and my family and I were constantly ill, battling for our lives more with each bout of disease?

What about now, with COVID-19 causing many concerns? Some people have lost their jobs and some people don't have their basic necessities. Some people are trying to work full-time jobs from home (when those jobs were never intended to be worked from home) and care for their children, making sure they are receiving some academic instruction at the same time. Some people need to work outside the home when they or someone else in their home is considered high-risk for catching the virus. Some people are fearful about their health or that of loved ones. Some people are sick or know someone who is sick...or have already lost someone. These scenarios are becoming reality for more and more people. Some people are not only dealing with COVID-19, but also with natural disasters, such as wildfires (in Thailand), a locust infestation (in many countries in East Africa and South Asia), floods and mudslides (Brazil), earthquakes, tornadoes, etc. at the same time. People around the world still succumb to many of the same troubles that we all dealt with previously - heart attacks, strokes, vehicle accidents, other viruses and infections, etc. COVID-19 may have stolen the attention of many, but there are plenty of additional concerns for people.

Sometimes I wonder if my family has peace because we aren't struggling like some others.

Sometimes I know it is God. 

When I was thinking about these questions, God brought the following verses and passages to my mind.

Philippians 4:6-7 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Matthew 6:33-34 - But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

James 4:13-17 - Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If is is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them.

Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Isaiah 64:8 - Yet you, LORD, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.

Matthew 7:12 - So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

Matthew 25:35-40 - "'For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.' Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'"

The "What-Ifs"

It can be dangerous to dwell in the "what-ifs." I had this conversation with my daughter just this week. I told her perfectionism is the pits, and I understand because I have struggled with it, too! God told me to tell her that she was listening to the lies in her head, that the "what-ifs" were Satan's weapon. He loves using "what-ifs" to cause us to doubt and he was using them to cause her to doubt what she could do. Praise the Lord, she immediately determined to fight him and his lies and her countenance changed in that moment!

Sometimes we need to consider some "what-if" scenarios, but we are told to be wise and make plans with the right guidance. John 7:24 says "Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly." Proverbs 24:6 says "Surely you need guidance to wage war, and victory is won through many advisers." Proverbs 1:5 says "Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance."


We must be careful not to allow Satan to speak doubt and lies into our lives. Don't allow the "what-ifs" to be the only voices you hear. Check them with truth, and if they don't match up, get rid of them!

Philippians 4:8 - Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.


So, what if it is I?

If my family happens to encounter more difficult and painful circumstances, I plan to choose peace. If I happen to catch the current virus and succumb to it in death, I plan to go in peace. I trust God. I know that he promises to never leave me nor forsake me, and he has promised good things on the other side of this life.

Deuteronomy 31:6 - "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

Joshua 1:9 - "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

Isaiah 26:3 - You will keep in perfect peace those who minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.

Psalm 73:24 - You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.


What if you haven't made a decision about Jesus yet? This is a very important "what-if" that must absolutely be considered. Seek wisdom and ask for Jesus to introduce himself to you. Seek the wisdom of others around you. Go to a church and begin asking questions.

2 Peter 3:9 - The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

Focus Time!

FOCUS TIME!

Life has changed a lot lately, for some people. For others, it hasn't changed as much. Our family, for example, has pretty normal days with homeschooling and chores that we were already used to doing prior to the COVID-19 current events. We understand (to some extent) how blessed we are and are attempting daily to keep this forward in our minds as we pray for others. We got to go on our spring break trip and enjoy activities that still allowed plenty of "social distancing." We already home-school, so we weren't thrown into it without preparation as many families have been. My husband is able to work from home, which is not something everyone has been able to do, and some have even lost their jobs during this already stressful time. (He's even able to work without us distracting him or him distracting us too much. In fact, he's been very helpful with math instruction!) We have plenty of groceries, etc. and haven't felt the need to hoard anything. We had friends who gave us milk and a few other things when we got home from our trip so we wouldn't have to venture to a store right away. We are healthy and, best of all, we have peace.

One thing that comes to mind for me in this season is the opportunity many have to consider (and possibly change) their focus. Many parents are working from home, so they are getting to be around their families more (in some fashion or another). Schools in our area won't open their physical campuses until April 13 - at the earliest. That's after Resurrection Sunday (Easter), when we remember the sacrifices made for us. God gave us His one and only son, Jesus. Jesus gave his own earthly life and died a painful death - all to give us access to the kingdom of God, available to us now in part, and fully and eternally in heaven.

For some, there is a special time called Lent that leads up to Resurrection Sunday (Easter). It looks different for the Christian denominations who recognize Lent (with some not even practicing it), and honestly, it can look different for individuals. Basically, it's a time span of 47 days (some say 40 because they don't count Sundays, which have their own special significance) in which individuals focus on Jesus' life and journey to the cross, remembering the sacrifice made for us. Some people choose to make a temporary sacrifice within their own lives, removing their sense of dependency on something other than God. Some people try adding something new. (By the way, if you plan to remove something from your life, it's best to have a plan to replace it with something, because you'll be tempted to fill that open space with something. Make a plan to make it a positive change!) The intended point of this sacrifice or addition, whichever is chosen, is to draw us to Christ Jesus and remember what He has done. It's about Him, not us. 

The first Lent in which I remember participating was during my high school years and a group of friends were talking about it. At that time, I chose not to remove anything from my life, but instead to add reading at least one Bible chapter a day. At the time, I thought it silly to give up something like candy. I have not always participated in Lent since then, but have begun again in the past few years. I have a great desire to draw closer to God even though I choose to worship in a denomination in which Lent is often not observed. I always have the desire to draw closer to God! (Remember, this blog's title is "Striving for God's Glory.") This year, I chose to temporarily give up sweets (not all sugar, just candy, cookies, cakes, etc.) and Facebook. By the way, it no longer seems silly to me. Giving up the sweets has been hard! 

About a week ago (26 days into Lent), I felt convicted to end my fast from Facebook. This is a time when people are searching and need to hear something uplifting, and I believe it is more pleasing to God for me to share about His kingdom and encourage people than to hold to the personal commitment of the fast.  More people may be able to benefit than just myself - AND I'm still intentionally dwelling on God and His will and purposes, which again is the point of Lent.

So, as we are in this unsettling time that happens to coincide with the Lenten season, when there have been changes in jobs, schooling, health concerns, etc. and many people are spending more time at home, I'd like to invite and encourage you to consider your focus. I'd like to share some verses from the Bible and some suggestions. 

May you be blessed. My family prays that you may have peace. 

Verses
Psalm 46:10 - “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”

James 4:8 - Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

James 4:10 - Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

Jeremiah 29:12-13 - "Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart."

John 10:10 - "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly."

John 12:46 - "I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness."

2 Peter 3:9 - The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.

John 16:33 - "I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

Isaiah 26:3 - You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.

2 Timothy 1:7 - for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

Suggestions

1. Read the Bible.

     - Do you know how many times God says "do not fear" in the Bible? The Bible is not only a source of reassurance but can lead you closer to the God who truly loves you and cares for you more than you can ever comprehend. Give Him a chance if you haven't already.

2. Pray.

     - Tell God how you feel. You can't scare Him and He understands even better than you do.

     - Know that others are praying around the world, too. Matthew 18:19-20 say, "Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them." We may not be able to physically gather together, but we can all lift our prayers up from wherever we are.

3. Reflect.

     - What good has God already done in your life and in the lives of others? How could He be using this current time? What might He do in the future? How does He want you to be involved in His plans and purposes? Look beyond yourself.

3. Listen to a Christian radio station.

     - If you can't find a local radio station, there are a number that you can listen to online [such as KLOVE (www.klove.com/listen/player.aspx) and Spirit (www.spirit1059.com/listen-live/)], or you can listen to music through another source such as Spotify, Sirius, YouTube, etc.

      - A few good songs for this season include: Breathe by Jonny Diaz, Waymaker by Michael W. Smith, Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus by Shane and Shane, Give Me Jesus by Jeremy Camp, Give Me Your Eyes by Brandon Heath, The God Who Stays by Matthew West, Speak Life by Toby Mac, and Never Once by Matt Redmon. Of course there are so many more! My kids and I really love the sounds of the group Anthem Lights, too.

4. Do a devotional.

     - YouVersion has a Bible app available for most devices, I think. They have quite a few reading plans dealing with fear, anxiety, peace. They have many other topics, too, but these are ones to which I've seen people gravitate recently.

     - If you are looking for a devotional to do with your kids, here are some books we have enjoyed. Our most recent favorites have been Devotions for Super Average Kids (Books 1 and 2) by Bob Smiley. I'd also recommend looking at the resources at https://store.notconsumed.com/ and Home: A Devotional for Families by Jared and Bobi Ann Allen. (You can find this last one at https://bobiann.com/product/home-family-devotional/).

                     

 

5. Watch a church service online.

     - This is pretty much how almost every church in "social distancing" areas are "meeting" nowadays. You can watch services live or sermons that have been available for a while. I strongly urge you, however, to physically be involved in an actual church when that is available. Check out the churches' websites and Facebook pages. I happen to know that our church (First Baptist Church Round Rock) is posting something every single day, and it has been very encouraging.

6. Find a friend with whom you can talk.

     - Do you have someone with whom you can share your heart and emotions, who will listen to you and love you no matter what you say? (By the way, this is a great reason to pray, because this is exactly what God does!) If they live with you, ask them to sit with you for a while (no devices or distractions). If you can't get together right now, contact them via phone call, e-mail, text, video-chat, etc. Find a way to reach out because you were never intended to be isolated and alone.  Also, make sure it's someone who is going to tell you the truth in love, not just say what you want to hear.

A New Appreciation

Joseph, Mary, and Jesus are visited by wise men from the East
from the First Baptist Church of Round
Rock's Christmas on the Corner, December 2019
Photo Credit: Keith Mitchell, http://www.keithmitchell.photography 

A New Appreciation

The nativity story of Jesus' birth has always been special to me, perhaps more so after having children of my own (and just growing in my faith). Jesus and Mary are usually the most poignant characters to me, but this year, I have developed a new appreciation for Joseph. He was integral in the earthly life of our Savior, but I think he is often overlooked, or seen as playing a small role.

Through Advent readings, Bible readings, messages in church services, participation in our church's Christmas on the Corner living nativity performances, watching the movie The Nativity Story and the short film The Chosen - these are some things that have stood out to me.

Joseph showing Jesus to the shepherds
Photo credit: Keith Mitchell, http://www.keithmitchell.photography 

Strength of Character
From the portrayals I have seen of Joseph, I believe he was a compassionate man who was considerate of his fellow men and women. I think he was thoughtful about his words and actions and how these would affect others presently and in the future.

He chose Mary to be his wife - Mary, who was called by an angel highly favored by God (Luke 1:28)! I'd say that would be a good choice! He must have seen her character as well, and not just her outward appearance.

When Mary was found to be pregnant, Joseph considered divorcing her quietly so as not to bring disgrace upon her (Matthew 1:19). Wow! He knew what was expected by his community. A woman found to be pregnant outside of marriage could be stoned! As hurt and disappointed as he must have been, he still did not bring an accusation against Mary, thus saving her from this punishment that would have brought her death, and Jesus as well! He was just going to drop the marriage arrangement and go his way.

Joseph, Mary, and Jesus
Photo credit: Henry Huey Photo
hueyphoto.com, @HenryHueyPhoto

But that's not what happened. He did not drop the marriage arrangement. By not divorcing Mary and keeping her as his wife, Joseph allowed the shame of what everyone supposed as her "sin" to fall upon himself as well. He would no longer be seen the same way within his community, for he was associated with an "adulterous" woman (as the neighbors would have believed). Wow, again! That takes real courage and strength to purposely allow someone else's reputation to have a negative impact on your own! It takes strength to allow others to insult you, persecute you, and say false things about you without defending yourself or arguing with them. As I wrote that, I was just reminded of Jesus saying "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you," (Matthew 5:10-12). I hope Joseph was able to rejoice and be glad - at least at times. I believe he was.

I was reading recently that there being no room in the "inn" in Bethlehem is an inaccurate translation from the original language, which would actually be an "upper room" or "guest room." Since Joseph and Mary went to the town of their family's origin, they probably would have been able to stay with extended family, under normal circumstances. However, they were likely shunned due to Mary's unwed pregnancy, leading to the accommodations into which Jesus was born.

Joseph showing Jesus to shepherds
Photo credit: Keith Mitchell, http://www.keithmitchell.photography 

We don't know how long Joseph lived, but we know that he helped raise Jesus (Luke 2:39-52). He raised a child who was not biologically his own. Again, this would be something hard to do in his society at that time. Not only that, but he raised him well! He was an involved father. He taught him about the Scriptures. They went to the Passover feast every year - and probably participated in all the other feasts as well. When Jesus was twelve and they realized he wasn't with them as they traveled home after the Passover feast in Jerusalem, both parents returned and anxiously searched for Jesus. Joseph was there when Jesus was found talking to the teachers in the temple. Along with Mary, Joseph marveled and was amazed by Jesus (Luke 2:33). Joseph had a part in Jesus' growth "in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man," (Luke 2:52).

Joseph was an humble man who did not seek to elevate himself through Jesus or anyone else.


Strength of Faith
Not only was Joseph a man of character, but he was a man of great faith. As mentioned above, he made sure his family attended the appointed feasts and festivals. He knew the Scriptures and he followed Mosaic law.

He listened for God. Four times are recorded that God sent an angel to communicate with Joseph in dreams (Matthew 1:20-21, 2:13, 2:20, 2:22). Joseph had faith and a relationship with God in which he prayed and listened expectantly for a response. He was able to hear from God (through the angels and dreams) because He intentionally sought God's presence and direction.

Not only did Joseph hear from God through the angels and dreams, but he obeyed! Immediately! Matthew 1:24, 2:14, 2:21-23). He recognized the communication from God as real and trustworthy. He knew that it was right. He obeyed without delay each time, and in so doing, he provided Jesus with a father and a family, he saved Jesus from the infanticide inflicted by Herod as well as future danger from him until the death of Herod, and saved Jesus from danger of Herod's son. Prophecies were fulfilled because of Joseph's obedience (Isaiah 7:14, 8:10/Matthew 1:20-25, Hosea 11:1/Matthew 2:14-15, Matthew 2:23).

Joseph and Jesus
Photo credit: Henry Huey Photo
hueyphoto.com, @HenryHueyPhoto

May we all learn from Joseph.

May we be mindful of others around us, always considering how our words and actions affect them now and in the future. May we live upright lives of integrity, so that we may draw others to God (Matthew 5:16). May we do what we are supposed to do, even when it's hard. May we live lives of strong faith and personal relationship with God so that we will hear when He speaks. May we learn to obey immediately. In so doing, we will receive many blessings, share many blessings with others, be a part of God's plan here on earth, and bring glory to God.

May we be in awe of our Savior.

Joseph and Jesus
Photo credit: Keith Mitchell, http://www.keithmitchell.photography 

Jelly Bean Insight

(Picture from: www.holidays.net)

Three o'clock is called "Candy Time" around here. It's not a great thing health-wise, but the kids love looking forward to three candies at three o'clock each day - especially our boy child. (I typically look forward to time for sweets, too.) Recently, our daughter chose to eat some jelly beans that had been packaged in a bag with a Jelly Bean Prayer on it. It goes something like this:

(Picture from Michelle at Honey I'm Home blog)

In our house, at least three out of four of us agree that the black jelly beans are delicious, so at first, there was some disappointment that the black jelly beans represented sin in our lives. I mean, why should the best tasting ones represent the saddest and worst concept?

Then our son had a thought: Sin can "taste" so good to us. It tempts us and we can crave it. We are drawn toward it and desire it. We may want to eat a big bunch of black jelly beans, but they are full of sugar and that would be bad for us - similar to how sin is bad for us.

Unlike jelly beans, where a little is okay for you, a little sin is not. To us, some sins are worse than others, but to God, they are all equal.

(Picture from a Facebook post)

I keep desiring to eat healthier, but as I think back to all the food I ate during Thanksgiving week and how many cake balls and cookies I have eaten in the last few days. They are so delicious and tempting to me! But, they are not good for me, especially in that quantity. I was reminded of my son's insight about sin. I resolved to keep up the fight to eat better.

What remains of the cake balls and cookies (except the acorn cookies are gone now...)

Another aspect is being aware of what we should be putting into our minds (and bodies). From the body perspective, I realized last night that I hadn't had a sip of water practically all day long! In fact, I hadn't had a sip of anything! I missed out on the benefits of staying hydrated, and that was possibly part of the reason I developed a headache last night.

Ignore the "big book of cupcakes" behind the water.

From a mind (spiritual) perspective, we need to "feed" ourselves on the word of God. We need to spend time in reading the Bible, praying to God, and praising Him. We receive spiritual nourishment from these practices.


So, what are some of your "black jelly beans?" What sins seem "tasty" and desirable to you? No need to share here; just think to yourself. (Share in the comments if you'd like to share, though. You never know who else you might help.)

What do you need to do to move away from sin and further into a right relationship with God? Feel free to share any of your ideas about this, too.



The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. - Romans 13:12

Therefore I urge you, brothers [and sisters], in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - his good, pleasing and perfect will. - Romans 12:1-2, parenthetical addition mine

When tempted, no one should say, " God is tempting me." for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. - James 1:13-15

My son [or daughter], if sinners entice you, do not give in to them...my son [daughter], do not go along with them, do not set foot on their paths - Proverbs 1:10, 15, parenthetical additions mine

Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. - Psalm 1:1

For the lips of the adulteress drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as gall, sharp as a double-edged sword. - Proverbs 5:3-4 (This can apply to all sin, not just adultery.)

For a man's ways are in full view of the LORD, and he examines all his paths. The evil deeds of a wicked man ensnare him; the cords of his sin hold him fast.I - Proverbs 5:21-22

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

More Than Thankful in 2018

Here is a post from last year, with a few updates for this year.

Last night, our family participated in a turkey (and sides) giveaway at our church for people in need within the community. I had the opportunity to serve with my family (and church family) and talk to three women. Each shared a part of their unique stories with me. They were thankful in the midst of their hard times, and I am thankful that I got to meet them.

Last year, our daughter said how excited she was for all the yummy food we would have for Thanksgiving, but that she knew it was about more than the food, because some people won't have all the food.

She and I talked about the first Thanksgiving. Yes, the Pilgrims were thankful that the native Americans helped them. Yes, they were thankful that their crops did well. Ultimately, they were thankful for God's provision. God provided friendly neighbors to help them and teach them. God provided the good weather conditions for their crops. God provided for their survival in the new land.

This conversation strengthened my resolve to remember those less fortunate than us. 

Be thankful for your family. Remember widows, orphans, and those estranged or otherwise separated from family. 

Be thankful for your parents, no matter if they are your biological parents, step-parents, adopted parents, in-law parents, or some other title. Remember those who have lost their parents. 

Be thankful for your children. Remember those unable to have children, who have lost children, who have children with challenging behavioral, emotional, developmental, academic, or other issues that make life/parenting hard.

Be thankful for your health. Remember those with pain or illness (chronic or otherwise), long-term or life-threatening health conditions, or other physical or emotional health issues.

Be thankful for your food. Remember those who are hungry or even starving. Remember those who battle with eating disorders.

Be thankful for your home. Remember those who are homeless, or live in inadequate shelters. Remember those without proper heating/cooling, pest control, furnishings, or safety. Remember refugees. Remember those affected by hurricanes, wildfires, earthquakes, mold, theft, etc.

Be thankful for your safety. Remember those who live in constant fear, abusive situations, war zones.

Be thankful for your freedoms. We are relatively free in speech, religion, right to bear arms, pursuit of careers of our choice, etc. Remember those without these freedoms. Many countries are not as open. Remember the Christians around the world persecuted and killed just for accepting Jesus. Remember women and others in cultures where they lack many rights. Remember those persecuted just for believing differently or for being compassionate to people who believe differently.

Be thankful for rest, relaxation, comfort, and entertainment. Remember those who do not have access to such luxuries.

Yes, be thankful. But more than thankful, be mindful. Be concerned. Be prayerful. Be active in improving the lives of others as you are led by the Lord.

Do not be like the Pharisee in the temple who prayed, "God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector.  I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get," (Luke 18:11‭-‬12). That's the wrong kind of thanks.

I recommend that you take a look at this video entitled "Still Complaining?"

Be thankful for God's blessings in your life, but don't let them end with you. May your cup overflow.

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God," (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

There are thousands of charitable organizations through which you could support those in need. Here are a few that are special to me:
Barnabas Aid
Samaritan's Purse
Compassion International
Mission for India
Gospel for Asia
Far East Broadcasting Company (FEBC)
Frontiers
The Prayer Collective
Smile Train