Father's Day

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Father's Day. A day when we honor fathers and celebrate how they influence society and make a difference in the lives of others.

I think about my dad and the knowledge I've gained from him. For all I have learned, I am grateful. I also think of the spiritual dads in my life. Those who didn't play a part in raising me, but the ones who came in and guided spiritually when I became much older. Not one is more important than the other, and no one replaces the perfect love and guidance my Father in heaven gives so freely. Each are specifically gifted in unique ways to fulfill their calling God has placed on their lives.

Thoughts flood my mind about how fortunate I am that I grew up in a house with two parents; where prayer and Godly teaching was a part of daily life. How many do not experience this..... for them my heart aches. Thank you, God, that you are the father to the fatherless. Be with those today who do not have the guidance of a dad.

I love how God specifically made men with characteristics to do His work here on earth. The strength they have, the boldness, courage, and yet tenderness for the least of these is awe inspiring to watch in action. So many lessons about humbleness, strength, and even life in general can be learned just by watching a Godly man in action.

To my dad, spiritual dads, and mentors: thank you.

Breaking Down Boxes

This is a box.


Or what's left of one after I jumped on it numerous times. And almost fell over in the process. It was kind of fun, jumping on the box, but it also made me feel a little ridiculous.
Why? Because there is a more dignified way of breaking down a box? Or grown-ups aren't supposed to do silly things like jump on boxes? Or why would you even want to jump on a box?

The safety that comes from living within these statements is just like a box. A box is sturdy, and solid, and when you put items inside of one, you expect the items to remain safe. The image and integrity stays intact. Kind of like boxes people make in their lives. I've done it, and I'm sure that if you really think about it, you've done it too. We're all guilty.

The boxes created in my life were/are both spiritual and physical boxes. These boxes were created by past experiences I've had, things I have promised myself, or were brought about by other people. The spiritual boxes I created actually limited my relationship with God. I put Him in a box and said, "This is who You are. Nothing less, nothing more, You're just like this." When I went off to college, God brought me through a process of breaking down boxes that were created by that mentality.

Oh, the boxes that were broken. Some were easy and fast lessons where I allowed the Potter to reshape that area or viewpoint without struggle for control. Others were a lot harder to accept and bigger chisel marks were left. Some were quite painful, but the constant through them all was the fact that Jesus was ever present. He was there to be a comforter, motivator, and friend . The patience He has........ I need to learn.

In the same way ripping off Band-Aids are always less painful when you just do it fast, allowing God to change you is a lot easier when you just let him and stop struggling with "well, should I really" thoughts.  I think that's what he meant when he said you need a childlike faith. Not to always question "well, should I really."

I am not perfect. I still mess up and make mistakes. But every minute I spend listening to the Holy Spirit and following in obedience brings me peace that lets me know I'm doing the right thing. He is so much bigger than we make Him out to be. It’s time to start breaking down the boxes...

Now you know the reasoning behind the URL of my blog!