Pressing On

The past few days I have been following emails between our family regarding a family vacation which turned into a discussion about the economy; specifically budget cuts and spending that will affect professionals in education. I was really touched by the passion that J has for his profession and his commitment to encourage the youth he teaches to persevere. But, I was also saddened by his comment that his morale has been low and he felt this is affecting the way he is teaching.

Don't we all get discouraged at times? What do we do when this happens, where do we turn to reverse the negative thoughts of uncertainty, disappointment and anger? We need to stay the course, and persevere by putting our trust in God and seeking Him to help us through.

Here are two scriptures I turn to often....

"I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14

"Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5

I hope that we all will be encouraged to stay the course and keep our heads up when all seems lost. We never know who is watching us or looking to us for guidance or direction. Our actions will speak louder than our words, so if others see us as discouraged and negative, then they too may be negative. In words attributed to St. Francis of Assisi, "We spread the Gospel by modeling Christ, always preaching sometimes using words."

Mom sent out a cute story today about a dog today, and these words jumped off the page at me.

Remember....live every day to the fullest. Each minute is a blessing from God. And never forget....the people who make a difference in our lives are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care for us.

Let's continue caring and sharing Christ's love through our actions. Don't be discouraged by events that we can't change, but to help change the things we can.

Love you all,
Cheryl Lee

Troubled Hearts

Ever get that feeling that something just isn't right? You can't quite put your finger on exactly what it is, but you know you are out of balance, 'off kilter' or whatever cliche' or term you choose to attach to the feeling. Some people will look inward searching their heart, mind and soul to find out what is causing that annoying feeling. Others will look outward and possibly seek professional help. Me, I usually do both. When my life feels out of control or 'off kilter' I sometimes need that nudge and be reminded to trust in God and take my troubles to him first instead of trying to solve it all on my own.
As we inch forward into 2009, I hope to rekindle the flame of my desire to become closer to Him, be devoted to a quiet time and keep the fire burning as I search for answers. God is there, waiting for us to call upon Him and to trust in Him to calm our troubled hearts. Make the call!

"Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me."
John 14:1

New Year

Howdy!
Today I am returning to work after a two week hiatus and have really mixed emotions. I don't usually make New Year's resolutions, but this year I want to be more disciplined, motivated and committed. I have been struggling with some things over the past few months and feel that I need to make some changes, but mostly give more of an effort in certain areas of my personal and professional life. Some changes are more evident, others I am still searching for. So, while I begin my search for clarity, I will be praying for you all and your New Year's resolutions, whatever they may be!

I came across this scripture this morning and I guess it just confirmed that we all need discipline in our lives, without it we would lose direction. I know that I get distracted easily and it is good to be guided back to the right path.

See you soon!

"Think about it: Just as a parent disciplines a child, the Lord your God disciplines you for your own good." -- Deuteronomy 8:5 --