Everyone in the United States (and potentially plenty folks around the globe) have thoughts regarding yesterday’s presidential election. What surprises me is how humanity (Christians included) lash out at each other, all in the guise of supporting the political figure they support. You, like I am, are no doubt passionate about the causes and platforms either candidate stands for or on. This, however, does not give an open pass to attack someone who believes or feels differently than you do. As a Christian, it is important to remember that we are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus – to love people and to set an example of who Jesus is. I’m pretty sure Jesus wouldn’t sit around and squabble about petty details or pick apart the character traits of a candidate He doesn’t care for. As I have commented before, you may very well be the only Jesus some people see.

With that in mind, I cannot quantify the number of comments I saw as soon as the election results were pointing almost conclusively to President Obama being re-elected as President of the United States. People were quick to talk about how this country is screwed. It amazed me the number of times I heard someone passionately exclaimed “Well, now it’s time to really pray for the United States” stating that this country cannot afford or withstand another four years with this president. True or false, I want to address something I feel very important in this equation. Here is a quote from Facebook that is quite relevant:

Well, America – you voted. The electoral college may or may not have voted accordingly. Here’s the deal with that. God is still God. He still sits on the throne. As Christians, you should have been praying for America all along, and should continue – regardless of who holds the office of the President. Pray, America. (But, pray either way is my point.) Pray for this great Nation and those in leadership…whoever they may be.

The entire point being made is that it doesn’t matter WHO holds the title “President of the United States” but rather that prayer should not be lacking based on if your favorite candidate got elected or not. Another comment from Facebook:

I love this nation, and I respect the office of the president. That doesn’t mean I have to like who holds that office. I’m blessed to live in this great country

Many people responded that our country was no longer great, and would crumble because our President got re-elected for a second term. In reality, what this says to me is that many people are relying more on their own personal fears and thoughts and less on the fact that God – with arms that hold the entire universe – is capable of protecting His people, regardless of who is the President.

Something that was instilled in me as I served on active duty in the military is that you should always respect the office of the President of the United States. You don’t have to like the person, but it’s important that you respect the office. More than that, remember to pray. I prayed for President Obama during his first administration, and will continue to pray through this one. I will continue to lift up this great Nation, and all it’s inhabitants. I would pray the same if Mitt Romney had been elected President. I firmly believe that it is our calling as Children of God to pray for the leadership in place in this country. Period. Not just if you don’t happen to care for the one currently there, or not BECAUSE of the one going to be there.

God has called us to be representatives of Him. Before you lash out, or before you engage in potentially hurtful conversation – take a moment to think about who Jesus is, and how He might react in the same situation. It might change your viewpoint on all sorts of things. I know without a doubt that it has mine!

I saw a very cool quote (author unknown) this morning and it really made me think.

The past is a place of reference, not a place of residence!

At first glance, I thought “Oh, that’s nice – cute saying” and then I really thought about it. So many times, we are trapped by events from our past. They keep us from moving on, and thus experiencing the best God has for us. The events of the past are just that, the past. What we have to remember is that our past does not define us. It is part of a much greater, still developing story. Your entire story matters, and is important. The events of your past can actually be leaned on for strength – to bring compassion, hope and encouragement to others who may not see the light at the end of the same tunnel you might have walked through. Sometimes it is simply knowing that a person is not alone in their struggles – that someone understands or at least cares – that makes all the difference in the world.

Yes, your past is there. You can’t go back and erase it. With that in mind, it’s extremely helpful that you not reside in your past either. Do not live today based on what was going on yesterday. Make today count. Make a difference with what you have right now. Look to the future with expectation of great things. Let your story be a source of peace and strength – a testament of God’s never-ending, crazy and passionate love — both for yourself, and for others as they walk through life with you.

All in all – yes, we have a past…some “better” circumstantially than others. However, never forget that you are not defined by your past. You are loved for YOU. Be encouraged, and look in the mirror and see the beauty of God’s creation. Let’s try and learn to refer to the past, but to let it remain the past.

Today at church was the second week of a series entitled “Man Card.”  The series is obviously tailored towards men – but the messages are not applicable only to men.  I know God has been speaking to me and breathing life into many areas of my life. Pastor Scott brought the message about integrity. The message was spot on accurate, and pertinent to anyone who lives or breathes. Everyone needs to listen and take a look internally to the thought patterns behind the message this morning. Today’s service was about being a person of integrity – or rather not so much at times.  What we don’t often realize is the impact even seemingly unimportant things will have on our character and integrity.

It is imperative that we don’t live and continuously put up a facade. No matter the situation – stay true to yourself, and don’t allow your integrity to come into question. Know who you are in Christ, and don’t allow society or elements outside of His word to sway you.

One thing so very important to remember is that it’s not always something huge that will seriously question your integrity. Instead, it is the little things. As a visual, Pastor Scott had a demonstration. I’d like to also share it with you because I feel it was a very powerful visual reminder to show the point. Imagine a well balanced game of Tug-Of-War. The team on either end of the rope are pretty evenly matched. Imagine that each little thing (the way you looked at that inappropriate picture, the way you yelled at your spouse or children, the way you put on a facade and live a completely different life behind closed doors) as being one little slice with a knife. Imagine that each time, a knife would slice one side of the rope. None of the slices alone will cut through the rope, but the combination of them altogether will eventually cut so deeply that the rope will be so weak and will break apart – leading to a complete collapse of those pulling on that end.

Just as with the rope, your integrity is the same way. One small circumstance will not destroy your integrity, but the combination of all the little (and sometimes big) questionable things in your life will chip away and break it down, causing you to crumble. Protect yourself. Protect your family. People who don’t know you closely may not be able (initially) to see through the facade. However, always keep in mind that people (especially your family, and your children) can see right through it. They may not know why, but they know things are different outside the home than inside. Keep your integrity beyond reproach.

I want to live a life pleasing to Him – not one where my integrity is chipped away at, slowly but surely. I don’t care whether people know or whether I can keep things a secret, I want to walk in unquestionable integrity – avoiding the need for keeping those secrets. Join me in praying and asking God to remove the things from our lives that will question your integrity. Ask Him to help you continue to be a living witness of who He is. It is my prayer to be more like Him. Keeping focused on Him is pretty much the only way that’s even a possibility.

Stand firm in your faith and on the Godly principles that you know to be true, knowing that your integrity will shine Jesus well.

I would like to share something I’ve had the honor of being a part of. My friend Jason Rackow is an amazing artist with a heart and passion for God and for people. Just as an aside, I don’t personally think that Jason has any idea the extent of the talent God has blessed him with. He has an artistic vision that I haven’t seen expressed in the way he does it. His heart is in what he does, and that is made clear. His humble attitude, and servant’s heart serve as a blessing to those he comes into contact with. Anyway, as a part of an ongoing project, Jason is selling paintings to raise money for what he has entitled “The House Paint” Project.

He is attempting to raise money for a home in Nicaragua. It may sound a bit odd, but it’s for a selfless compassionate reason. Women are being saved from the trafficking industry constantly. He is partnering with XXI Stones, and aims to raise $4660 for a new home to house some of these women. One half of the total price of each painting sold will go to this project. Here is a link of the ministry supporting the purchase of these paintings will go to directly: House of Hope Nicaragua

This painting is one I have purchased in support of Jason and bringing love and hope to the women being rescued. It is truly unique. I had to take several pictures, as the details are simply amazing. The pictures I saw prior to purchasing the painting just do not do it justice at all! His talent and heart show in the unique way he creates each painting. Oh, one thing I found so unique is the fact that he “hides” bits and pieces of different things in each painting: clothing, roof shingles, jeans, cloth, string, etc. It adds such character, dimension and texture. It was fun finding the different hidden assets to this painting.

Would you take a look? You can find Jason’s blog at House Paint Project – Feel free to subscribe and be notified as more paintings are created and posted. If you are interested, or end up purchasing any of his art, please let me know. I’d love to see pictures as well! You can post them here in comments, or send directly to me via my Contact Me page.

Yesterday began a challenge to just spend time in God’s presence – to be still and quiet before Him. Many people would see this as a chore. I challenge you – open your eyes, and ask God to help you see it differently. This particular challenge isn’t difficult, but does require discipline. However, as I’ve been getting going, I’m starting to realize how much I’m starting to look forward to it. My heart longs for the time spent alone with Him. This is just quiet, peaceful time – alone, with me and with God. Each and every one of us need this sort of time to rest and refresh.

Yesterday, I went to one of our local area parks. This picture shows just the beauty of this location, and the tranquility. As I sat there, just enjoying His presence and the beauty He created all around, I was in awe. I set an alarm on my cell phone, so I would know when ten minutes was up. As I sat, listened and just spent time with Him, I realized that ten minutes is NOT a long time.

I walked away from the experience in a really good mood, full of joy, and KNOWING I am in God’s hands.

This month I am challenging myself to a 30 day challenge. It will come across as simple (and in reality, it really is) – but I challenge you to take this challenge alongside me and see what a difference it makes in your life!

Every day this month (and I intend to continue after the month’s end) I will set aside a minimum of 10 minutes to spend in God’s presence. I will pick a place, and dedicate time to just sit – to be still and to listen. To just be quiet and still before Him. It is my goal that this time become my obedience to God, and to put my life in His hands, and surrender all of me to Him.

I encourage you to seek the heart of God with me. Take time and just be still. Let’s see how God can (and will) move through this (seemingly simple) act of obedience to Him. As the month (and this challenge) progresses, I will share my experiences. I would love you to share yours as well! You can feel free to use my “Contact Me” page and share, or connect and share via comments. I’ll look forward to hearing from you!

Let’s keep our minds and hearts focused on Him and watch where He leads!

****The following blog post is copied and pasted in it’s entirity (with no changes by me) from http://christiananswers.net/q-eden/halloween.html )  I just found it very interesting, and answers some of the hard questions many people ask this time of year****

Should Christians participate in Halloween?

The October 31st holiday that we today know as Halloween has strong roots in paganism and is closely connected with worship of the Enemy of this world, Satan. It is a holiday that generally glorifies the dark things of this world, rather than the light of Jesus Christ, The Truth. Have you noticed how costumes and masks are getting generally more bloody, gory, and depraved each year? Unfortunately, the gruesome and grotesque and the occult are increasingly glorified in American society, not only on Halloween, but throughout the year in frequent horror movies and television programs. My family does not celebrate it or participate in it. We do not believe that our children are “missing out,” and neither do they. Other days are used for costumes and parties. Happily, all of our children have accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. We have found that Halloween provides an excellent time to remind our children that, as Christians, we are different, and not of this world (Heb. 11:13-16; 1 Pet. 2:11). What about church “Harvest Festivals” held on October 31? Although we understand the rational and good intentions behind them, we don’t think they are the best approach. Our family tends to agree with the author of an article called “Are ‘Harvest Parties’ for Christians?” (written by a self-avowed former witch and now active Christian). Harvest parties on October 31 tend to assume that “our children need something to take the place of Halloween, since they won’t be participating in the secular and pagan celebrations. It suggests our kids are missing out on something. And indeed they are, if we allow them to spend Halloween in celebration.” There are better things to do on Halloween than partying. Also, we need to teach our children that “the fight isn’t against occultists, non-Christians, Christians who feel differently than we about Halloween, or institutions that promote Halloween, but” “against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12, NKJV). Relevant Scripture <!––>1 Thessalonians 5:21-22—“Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil.” Philippians 4:8—think about pure, lovely, noble things James 1:27—“keep oneself from being polluted by the world” 3 John 1:11—“do not imitate what is evil” Romans 12:9—“abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good.” Deuteronomy 18:9-14—do not learn to imitate detestable ways, including spiritists, sorcerers and witchcraft Ephesians 5:11-12—“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness” / “live as children of light” 1 Timothy 4:1—don’t ”follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons” 2 Corinthians 6:14-17—“what fellowship can light have with darkness?” 1 Corinthians 11:1—“follow the example of Christ” 1 Corinthians 10:31—“whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God” James 4:7-8—submit yourselves to God, resist the devil, purify your hearts Ezekiel 44:23—“…teach my people… to distinguish between the unclean and the clean.” Proverbs 22:6—“train a child in the way he should go” Matthew 18:6—“if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin…” Hosea 4:6—“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” John 3:19-20—fallen man loves darkness instead of light Romans 13:12—“put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.” Ephesians 6:11-18—“take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” 2 Chronicles 7:14—humble ourselves, pray, seek God’s face, and turn away from wicked ways—and God will heal our land   Are October 31 “Harvest Parties” the best alternative for Christians? “What are you doing for Halloween?” Ask a Christian parent this question, and be prepared to hear an answer like, “Nothing! We don’t celebrate Halloween.“ Thunder crashes, and you creep away, embarassed for even asking. “What are you doing ON Halloween?” Ask the same parent this slightly altered question, and their whole manner and response brightens. “Why,” they begin, as birds begin to sing and sunshine breaks through the cumulus clouds. “We’re all going to the Harvest Party at church!” A choir sings. A trumpet sounds. You feel privileged just knowing these saints. Let’s take a look at the typical Harvest Party. It is a celebration. It is chaperoned (usually). It may have costumes. Games are played. Contests are held. Food abounds. Music blares. Everyone enjoys themselves. Certainly, nothing to get concerned about, right? The problem, however, lies in the billing. The Harvest Party is usually referred to as the Christian alternative to traditional Halloween hijinx. Alternative, however, implies substitute. It assumes our children need something to take the place of Halloween, since they won’t be participating in the secular and pagan celebrations. It suggests our kids are missing out on something. And indeed they are, if we allow them to spend Halloween in celebration. If we are to train our children to be soldiers in the army of Christ, why would we sign a pass for them to go on leave when the battle is escalating on the front lines? As a child of four, I contacted the first of many spirit guides (read: demons) while playing with a Kindergarten classmates’ ouija board at a chaperoned Halloween party. This spiritual assault ignited an intrigue with the supernatural that culminated in my lifestyle as a practicing witch: divination, necromancy, channeling, astrology, psychic ability, and spell working. It wasn’t until I was twenty that I met the real Jesus Christ, and was released from the trap that Satan had set for this young prisoner of war sixteen years earlier. There are too many casualities on Halloween and far too few troops fighing the enemy. Instead of partying on Halloween, teach your children how to fight. Keep them aware that the fight isn’t against occultists, non-Christians, Christians who feel differently than we about Halloween, or institutions that promote Halloween, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers or darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12). How do we teach our children to wrestle spiritually? Discourage them from participating in traditional Halloween activities (2 Timothy 2:4). Then tell them why. Encourage them to pray on a regular, daily basis (Ephesians 6:18). Let them know first hand the power that we have in prayer. All Christians should know how to fight on their knees. Remind them to be alert and self-controlled (1 Corinthians 16:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:6). Give them the discipline of knowing it is their responsibility to keep watch. They, themselves, might also become casualties in the war. Make certain they are prepared for battle (Ephesians 6:11). Do they know the truth? Stand on the Word of God? Have faith? Know the gospel? Are they righteous? Are they saved?… Instead of celebrating, what’s a Christian to do on Satan’s feast day? PRAY! Intercession and spiritual warfare should be the first item on our agenda. It is NOT a last resort! Join with other families in the church. Have the pastor announce a night of spiritual battle. Organize a group of Christians parents and students from your children’s school or homeschool group. As a family, designate the seven nights before October 31 as Family Prayer Outreach nights. Pray for protection. Pray over both those who engage in prayer warfare and over those who will be out trick-or-treating or at Halloween parties. October 31 is a prime recruiting time for witches and Satanists… and a time for interested kids to experiment. Pray that the Lord keeps our kids from falling prey to those who worship the enemy. Pray for discernment. Let the Holy Spirit direct you to specific prayer requests. Pray that the children who are “out there” will somehow “know” to keep away from certain activities. Pray that the Lord hinder the occult rituals. For four years, I lived in a building which over looked a cemetery where occult ceremonial markings were often found. On certain occult feast days, usually between midnight and 3 a.m., I would look down into the darkness and kneel at my window binding the demons that controlled the ceremonies. I’ll never know this side of heaven what effect my prayers had. Maybe a potential sacrifice escaped. Maybe the occultists weren’t successful in summoning their demon. Maybe a new, young recruit decided that this was not the lifestyle he thought he wanted. Pray for the salvation of the occultists. Jesus Christ died for those whom Satan holds captive and deceived, for those who mock Him, who deny His deity or His existence. He doesn’t want them to perish, but to come to Him calling Him Father, Lord. Pray the veil is lifted from their eyes, the Lord allows them to see clearly their spiritual condition and their only hope lies in Jesus Christ. Pray also, about whether the Lord would have you take a more active role in bringing the gospel to Satan’s servants. Let your children know that this is effective warfare. They must know their prayers are heard and acted on by our Father. Let them know they can make a difference. Come October 31, they’ll know they have a job to do. originally published in the Colorado Christian News, October 1995, author’s name not published Resources for learning more about the issues involved On-site links on related issues The Occult—What does the Bible say about it? Answer What is the Occult? Answer Is Satan a real person that influences our world today? Is he affecting you? Answer Satan, devil and demons MALEVOLENT SPIRITS—Where do these dangerous, hostile, and evil entities come from? Answer Christian Books The Facts on Halloween: What Christians Need to Know by John Ankerberg and John Weldon (Eugene, Oregon: Harvest House Publishers, 1996), 48 pp. Mommy, Why Don’t We Celebrate Halloween by Linda Hacon Winwood (Shippensburg, Pennsylvania: Destiny Image Publishers, 1992), 17 pp. Christian Motion Picture Halloween: Trick or Treat , 56 minute documentary exposé.

I just wanted to share a little bit about why I have been absent the greater part of the past week or so.  I have had some pretty crazy computer woes.  Between one desktop getting updated and somehow removing the network drivers, and my other desktop which decided to adorn itself with a blue screen (AKA BSOD) because I decided it was time to upgrade and replace the router.  The list of (sometimes humorous) computer woes goes on and on, but I am guessing you get the idea!  So, we have been busy playing computer repair room.  Thank God, I do know my way around a computer, but this thing has been driving me nuts.  I just share because a handful of you saw I had gone missing in action and asked.  Thanks for that, by the way.  I appreciate each and every person who takes the time to read and connect as you’re able.

Be blessed everyone, and I’ll look forward to getting caught up and back into the swing of things!

Think of all the things that go into a marathon.  There is so much preparation – both mental and physical.  A marathon is many things.  In technical terms, it is a long distance running event with an official distance of 26 miles, 385 yards – otherwise measured as 42.195 kilometers.  A little known fact is that this road race is named after the Greek Battle of Marathon, which took place in 490 BC.

In preparation for a marathon, an athlete will undergo a very vigorous season of training to develop stamina and figure out his/her physical limitations.  Long distance running demands much of the human body.  Runners, in preparation, must have an extensive training program that mixes endurance running with rest as well – insuring that the body is not damaged.

We have talked about what a marathon IS – but, now let’s focus on something that a marathon IS NOT.  A marathon is not a sprint.

In contrast to the longer distance marathons, sprints are short distance runs.  Running a sprint can be one of the most challenging exercise routines available.  It’s categorized as such because it utilizes all your energy and muscle power for short, but intense bursts.  Generally, the benefits are worth the effort.  It is excellent cardiovascular exercise, and increases your anaerobic ability, and can burn a great deal of calories in a relatively short time.  People who choose to run came into this world equipped with everything needed to ultimately succeed in a marathon.  Training just exercises, builds on and develops the strengths and muscles we were born with.

In likening running to life – it can be said that life is not a sprint.  Life is more like a marathon, even though it doesn’t always feel like it.  You can be sure it won’t be easy.  It will be both mentally and physically challenging, and will require more of you  than you’ll be fond of giving.  There will be so many times along the course that you will feel like giving up – like it’s not worth it.  As you walk through life (train), and go through life’s struggles, you will be increasing your stamina and endurance.  The more you stretch and exercise your body by completing the trials you go through, the more strength you will build.

An overview of life will point towards life being more like a marathon rather than a sprint.  Your marathon will be made up of both long and short distance runs.  Remember that, just as in a marathon, you’re in this thing called life for the long haul.  The key to completing the race is not giving up in the mean time.  Instead, let the race strengthen you.  Don’t give up.

<<In continuing the thought about how life is sometimes so complex, about truly living life, I’d like to offer the following writing…>>

I am hereby officially tendering my resignation as an adult. I have decided I would like to accept the responsibilities of an eight-year-old again.

I want to go to McDonald’s and think that it’s a four-star restaurant.

I want to sail sticks across a fresh mud puddle and make a sidewalk with rocks.

I want to think M&Ms are better than money because you can eat them.

I want to run a lemonade stand with my friends on a hot summer’s day.

I want to return to a time when life was simple, when all you knew were colors, multiplication tables and nursery rhymes, but that didn’t bother you because you didn’t know what you didn’t know and you didn’t care.

All you knew was to be happy, because you were blissfully unaware of all the things that should make you worried or upset.

I want to think the world is fair. That everyone is honest and good.

I want to believe that anything is possible. I want to be oblivious to the complexities of life and be overly excited by the little things again.

I want to live simply again. I don’t want my day to consist of computer crashes, mountains of paperwork, depressing news, how to survive when there are more days in the month than there is money in the bank, doctor bills, gossip, illness and loss of loved ones.

I want to believe in the power of smiles, hugs, a kind word, truth, justice, peace, dreams, mankind and making angels in the snow.

I want to play with my pets and my days of imagination to last forever

So here are my checkbook and my car keys, my credit card bills and my 401(k) statements. I am officially resigning from adulthood.

And if you want to discuss this further, you’ll have to catch me first because,“Tag! You’re it!”

Unknown Author