tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68706558648944616392024-03-05T02:22:04.630-06:00 Allison's WonderlandAllison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.comBlogger106125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-51124106516454127932018-11-30T21:54:00.000-06:002018-11-30T22:02:39.865-06:00How to Make Money from Home with VIPKID<br />
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<a href="https://t.vipkid.com.cn/mkt/landing/personal?referralToken=412df33e154f1e4c58ef686f25b22530&refereeId=22356254" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Image result for vipkid" class="rg_ic rg_i" id="X8acssFmiLWLpM:" src="data:image/png;base64,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" style="cursor: move; height: 154px; margin-left: -3px; margin-right: -2px; margin-top: 6px; width: 326px;" /></a></div>
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I have been with VIPKID a little over 2 months, and I get several questions about what I do, how it works, the hours I teach, what is the salary, etc. So I wanted to create a simple blog post for those who have been interested so that I can attempt to answer many of these questions.<br />
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<i>1. What is VIPKID?</i><br />
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<span class="st"><a href="https://t.vipkid.com.cn/mkt/landing/personal?referralToken=412df33e154f1e4c58ef686f25b22530&refereeId=22356254" target="_blank">VIPKID</a> is an ESL teaching firm that allows Americans the opportunity to teach English to Chinese children in real time.</span><br />
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<i><span class="st">2. What degree/certifications do I need to be hired?</span></i><br />
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<span class="st">All that is required is a Bachelor's degree and at least 1 year of experience working with children in any capacity (brick and mortar teacher, homeschool mom, any mom, Sunday School teacher, etc). You do NOT have to have a teaching certificate. And you must be a resident of the U.S or Canada.</span><br />
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<i><span class="st">3. What equipment do I need? </span></i><br />
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<span class="st">You will need:</span><br />
<span class="st">- a computer device (laptop, desktop, ipad)</span><br />
<span class="st">- a headset (</span><span class="bottom">Use a headset with a microphone, stable output and input)</span><br />
<span class="bottom">- camera (</span><span class="bottom"><span class="bottom">HD External camera or HD integrated camera</span>)</span><br />
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<span class="bottom"><i>4. What is the typical pay scale?</i></span> <br />
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The pay can vary from person to person. Each teacher has a base rate pay which is determined during your application process. It ranges from $7-$9 per 25 minute class. My base pay is $8 (so $16 per hour.) VIPKID offers incentives each month to increase your pay. If you show up on time for class, you receive a $1 bonus PER class taught. If you teach 30-45 classes in a month, you will receive $.50 per class. If you teach more than 45 classes in a month, you will receive $1 per class. So your pay could be anywhere from $14/hr to $22/hr based on your base pay and your participation. Other incentives are typically offered for opening up teaching slots during peak times (the times of the day when most students are booking). If you mark your opened slots as short notice (meaning you could have that slot booked with less than 24 hr notice) and a class is booked as short notice, you will receive an additional $2 for that class.You can also be deemed eligible for a raise after your 3rd contract (the contract period is 6 months). You also receive a nice bonus when you refer someone to teach with VIPKID.<a href="https://t.vipkid.com.cn/mkt/landing/personal?referralToken=412df33e154f1e4c58ef686f25b22530&refereeId=22356254" target="_blank"><img alt="Image result for vipkid pay rate" class="irc_mi" src="https://www.vipkidreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Screen-Shot-2017-10-22-at-11.27.53.png" style="margin-top: 56px;" /></a><br />
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<i>5. Do I have to teach super early in the morning?</i><br />
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You get to teach the hours with which you are most comfortable. Time slots are available for you to open from 12am - 7:30am then from 6:30pm-11:30pm. The hours between 8:00am-6:00pm are not available because the Chinese children are sleeping at this time. Here in the Central Time Zone, China is 14 hours ahead. So if I am teaching a class at 6:00 am, it is 8:00 pm in China.<br />
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The peak times for teaching are 5:00am- 7:00am. This does not mean you have to teach during those hours. I know VIPKID teachers who teach from 11 pm-3 am. I, personally, like to start my first class at 5:30. I never open the 6:30 slot because that I when I am getting my children off to school. So you have the freedom to set your own schedule. Below is a screenshot of my actual schedule for the following week.<br />
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<a href="https://screenshotscdn.firefoxusercontent.com/images/56e16a2e-226c-4122-9ade-2960ddc2a017.png"><img alt="https://screenshotscdn.firefoxusercontent.com/images/56e16a2e-226c-4122-9ade-2960ddc2a017.png" class="transparent" height="299" src="https://screenshotscdn.firefoxusercontent.com/images/56e16a2e-226c-4122-9ade-2960ddc2a017.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<i>6. Where and what do you teach?</i><br />
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The VIPKID classroom can be almost anywhere. You want a quiet space with the wall behind you set up to look like a classroom (white board, magnetic letters, bulletin board, welcome sign, etc). You really get to use your creativity here. You can teach from your office, spare bedroom, your own bedroom. I teach from my garage because, having no spare bedrooms and small children who might want to interrupt, this is the space that made the most sense. I have even heard of people creating a portable "classroom" using a trifold board so that they can teach while they travel.<br />
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Your lesson plans are provided by VIPKID. There is a power point presentation for each class that is loaded for you in your teacher portal. You go through the slides one at time using the provided teaching tips. You can review the materials for each lesson as soon as a class is booked.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/RBLFaPj1x60/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RBLFaPj1x60?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe> </div>
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<i>7. How do I get started? </i></div>
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And this really is the money question. Once you've decided that VIPKID is something you want to pursue, then you begin the application process. There are a few steps to the process, but I will try to be as brief as possible. You can click this <a href="https://t.vipkid.com.cn/mkt/landing/personal?referralToken=412df33e154f1e4c58ef686f25b22530&refereeId=22356254" target="_blank">link</a> to start the application process today. <br />
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<li>Submit your resume. This is just a basic screening of requirements and experience.</li>
<li>Submit a 3 minute pre-recorded demo of a lesson provided to you by VIPKID. There is a plethora of YouTube videos available on how to do your demo lesson. </li>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/NvGTqnDWfDE/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NvGTqnDWfDE?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe><br />
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<li>Once you pass these steps, you will teach a 10 minute lesson to a VIPKID mentor who is pretending to be a 5-8 year old. This is called your Mock Class. Most people will do 2 mock classes before being hired, but it possible that you only have to do 1 or that you will have to do 3. Your performance during your Mock Class is a big determining factor in your base pay rate.</li>
<li>If you pass all these steps, you will be hired and given a contract to sign. You will create a bio, upload a profile pic, and upload a 15-30 second introductory video. Below you will find my intro video. It is super simple and super cheesy, but it works for me.</li>
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<a href="https://t.vipkid.com.cn/mkt/landing/personal?referralToken=412df33e154f1e4c58ef686f25b22530&refereeId=22356254" target="_blank"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i9.ytimg.com/vi/eZSmGdSfJPE/default.jpg?sqp=CJCFiOAF&rs=AOn4CLC4xLThXmXL0j5CTE3oCFotTrjpnA" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eZSmGdSfJPE?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></a></div>
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I hope I have answered most of your questions. If there is anything I left unanswered, please leave me a comment. I would love to help you get started with VIPKID. If you decide to <a href="https://t.vipkid.com.cn/mkt/landing/personal?referralToken=412df33e154f1e4c58ef686f25b22530&refereeId=22356254" target="_blank">apply</a>, I would love for you to use my REFERRAL CODE: ALLIS0335.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img align="right" border="0" height="124" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0px none;" width="200" /></a><br />
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<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-64888517148632131882018-02-01T19:02:00.001-06:002018-02-01T19:02:44.621-06:00Easy and Inexpensive DIY Valentines for Kids {with printables}Valentine's Day is one of my favorites. I love doing little things to let my husband and kids know that they are loved. We don't spend a lot of money on extravagant gifts, but you can make the people in your life feel special spending little to no money.<br />
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One of the ways I like to make Valentine's Day special is to make our own valentines to pass out at class parties. Now DIY valentines will almost definitely cost more than buying a $2 box of cards from the store. But you can make your own without breaking the bank.<br />
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I made my 3 school aged children's valentines today and spent roughly $10 on all 3 sets. I'll show you how.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqiDv4-G7JMECNBAFo9IuxoJCzjSjXvIl5-SqbxhMgQUA-DZuqPaCihEWiiZf-wfAhB4zDu_W-0NI2b1nlMMEaslv_u4v9wOHNfnCtI3IuBkrI-AKUxtoJX9hQ5o3ouZ98Sf0SFgzDoM/s1600/IMG-1767.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1594" data-original-width="1600" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqiDv4-G7JMECNBAFo9IuxoJCzjSjXvIl5-SqbxhMgQUA-DZuqPaCihEWiiZf-wfAhB4zDu_W-0NI2b1nlMMEaslv_u4v9wOHNfnCtI3IuBkrI-AKUxtoJX9hQ5o3ouZ98Sf0SFgzDoM/s400/IMG-1767.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
This first one is what I made for both boys. (It's somewhat difficult finding Valentines for boys.) You could fill the bags with goldfish, like I did, or swedish fish, or even gummy worms. I already had the bags at home, but I think you can get a package of 50 for $2.50 if my memory serves me correctly. I bought a big box of goldfish from Sam's Club for $10.68. I used 1/3 of the box making the cost around $3.50. If your bags are bigger than mine, you will naturally use more causing the cost to be a little higher.<br />
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To assemble, print off the tags found <a href="http://bargainbriana.com/youre-a-great-catch-non-candy-valentines-day-idea/#_a5y_p=3108888" target="_blank">here</a>, fill the bags with goldfish (or your treat of choice), then fold the top of the bag over and staple on the tags.<br />
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The next Valentine that I made is for my girl. I had to pick up something from Dollar Tree today, and I saw these packages of Valentine bubbles- 8 in a pack. I remembered seeing a bubble Valentine on Pinterest, so I bought 3 packages of the bubbles.<br />
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When I got home, I found the printable I wanted to use. You can find the printable <a href="https://www.fivehearthome.com/bubbles-valentines-free-printable-valentine-you-blow-me-away/" target="_blank">here</a>. I also picked up some washi tape to hold the bubbles in place on the card. The washi tape was $2.88, but you could use an inexpensive ribbon by punching holes on either side of where the bubbles will go. So simple.<br />
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Are you a DIY Valentine momma (or daddy) or do you prefer store bought cards? What are some homemade Valentines you have made in the past?<br />
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<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-79375619856899032402018-01-26T13:35:00.001-06:002018-01-26T14:02:29.188-06:00My Word for 2018: IntentionalI know we are almost finished with January. I'm a little late on the whole word of the year thing. But after listening to one of my favorite podcasts <a href="https://youngwifesguide.com/category/podcast/" target="_blank">The Homemaking Foundation</a>, I was convinced this was something I needed to do. I've never been great at setting goals, so to sit down and actually write these steps down took some discipline on my part.<br />
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The word I have chosen for 2018 is <i><b>Intentional</b></i>. It was a no-brainer for me as I have become lax in several areas where I should be devoting more attention. I have outlined 5 specific areas in which I want to be more intentional and how I plan to see that through.<br />
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<u><b>1. Intentional in my spiritual disciplines.</b></u><br />
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To make this happen I plan to<br />
<ul>
<li>wake up 30 minutes before I wake my children to study my Bible and pray. I was in a good habit of doing this but gradually 30 minutes became 20 then 10 until I was waiting til the kids left for school. Which there's nothing wrong with waiting until they have left but the more I put it off the more distracted I am by the days tasks. I want the time I spend with God to be the most important thing I do each day. To value that time more than my sleep or anything else that needs to get done that day. </li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li> start keeping a notebook of my prayer needs. This is something I've done in the past but haven't kept it up. Now that I'm "older" my memory isn't what it used to be so I don't always remember to pray for everything that I should. I don't want to be that person that says "I'll pray for you" but then never does it. Writing down specific needs for my family and friends will help me to remember what I should be bringing before the throne of God each day, and it also allows me to look back and see how God has worked in situations. </li>
</ul>
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<u><b>2. Intentional in loving my husband and children. </b></u><br />
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You wouldn't think that this would be something someone would need to actually write down on a list. But, unfortunately, it is. Because we are sinners living in a fallen world, it is natural to think of self first. At least it is for me. It is so easy to only think about myself and what I want to accomplish in a day, that my husband and kids are not receiving the best from me. So how do I become more intentional in loving them and putting them before me? For my husband, I plan to:<br />
<ul>
<li>write love notes</li>
<li>plan at least 1 date night a month </li>
<li>do the things he would want me to do before I do what I want</li>
<li>kiss goodnight before bed each night</li>
<li>compliment more </li>
<li>take my selfish thoughts captive to obey Christ as described in 2 Corinthians 10:5. <i><span class="text 2Cor-10-5" id="en-ESV-28960">We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ.</span></i> </li>
</ul>
I'm sure there are more ways that I could add to this list, but this is a good start.<br />
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For my kids I plan to:<br />
<ul>
<li>be consistent in discipline (yes that is showing love!)</li>
<li>set aside 2 nights a month for family game night</li>
<li>go on walks</li>
<li>be an active listener</li>
<li>tell specific traits I love about them and specific areas I am proud of them in</li>
</ul>
Again this is not an exhaustive list. Just something to get me started. I have been guilty too often of letting my family have what is left of me instead of the best of me. I really want to see myself change in this area.<br />
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<u><b>3. Intentional in managing my home.</b></u><br />
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As wife and mother in our home, it is my responsibility to manage the home well as outlined in Titus 2. To make sure things run smoothly and to set the tone for the home. This category has myriad of subcategories, but I'll narrow it down to a few.<br />
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<b></b><u><b></b></u>
To make sure my home runs well I will:<br />
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<b></b><u><b></b></u>
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<ul>
<li>revert back to #1. If I am not spending time with the Lord, anything I accomplish is for my own glory and not for God's. So that time with God is crucial to creating a pleasant atmosphere for my family</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>eliminate distractions. This is a big one for me. I let things steal my attention so easily. A couple ways that I am going to implement eliminating distractions are: 1. go Facebook free every other month. I'm not that into Instagram or Twitter. I keep Messenger because I talk to my sisters a lot through there. The months that I am on Facebook, I won't allow myself to check notifications until after my quiet time. And I also take the app off my phone so that I have to actually get up and go to the computer to check instead of mindless scrolling. 2. take games off my phone. This is such a time killer. I have spent more hours than I care to admit playing games on my phone. And that wasted time had no eternal value. So they're gone.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>meal planning and freezer meals. Most of you know that the 5 pm is "witching hour." Trying to cook dinner while getting kids to do their homework and stay out of the kitchen asking for a snack every 5 minutes while trying to get dinner on the table, can be a nightmare. To reduce the stress that comes with dinner time, I will: 1. Meal plan every Thursday. 2. Stock the freezer with freezer meals once a month.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>follow a cleaning routine. When I first started staying at home 10 years ago, I stumbled upon a cleaning routine that I love. You can find it <a href="https://www.justmommies.com/articles/home-organization-plan.php" target="_blank">here</a> if you are looking for one. I have used this one on and off. With the birth of my son, Samuel, and all the health issues we had to deal with the 1st 2 years, I put my cleaning routine on the back burner. But now that Samuel is doing great with no more surgeries for probably5 years, I'm ready to get started again.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>prioritize my responsibilities outside of the home. I want to be intentional with the time I spend outside of my home whether it be Bible study, my moms group, or my kids basketball games. It's not wrong to spend time outside the home. It's refreshing at times. But I don't want to ignore the responsibilities that I have inside my home. That means saying 'no' at times. I will begin homeschooling my oldest this fall so I will have to be even more intentional with this when that time comes.</li>
</ul>
<u><b>4. Intentional in discipling others.</b></u><br />
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This one takes me way out of my comfort zone. It forces me to dig deeper rather than stay on the surface. I want to evaluate the relationships I have and put forth more effort. Some ways I can do that are:<br />
<ul>
<li>leading or participating in women's Bible study during the summer. My church has great Bible study options during the fall and spring, but nothing in the summer. So I will take initiative in either opening up my home, if necessary, to lead other women or participating in one at another's home. </li>
<li> sending texts or making phone calls to check in. This seems so simple, but as an introvert, I often neglect it in hopes that the other person will make contact.</li>
<li> ask intentional questions such as "what did you read in your Bible this week," "what is God teaching you," "how can I pray for you." </li>
<li>seek out relationships with those that may be going through a similar life struggle that I've been through and those that have very little in common with me.</li>
</ul>
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<u><b>5. Intentional in my health.</b></u><br />
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<u><b> </b></u>Ugh. This one makes me cringe a little. But it's necessary. I will improve my health by<br />
<ul>
<li>making healthy eating choices. Right now I am following the Trim Healthy Mama plan, which I have followed successfully in the past. But it seems like I'm always having to pick myself up after the holidays. </li>
<li>exercise. I hate it with all of my heart. But I do want to be healthy for my family and I want to be able to use my body for God's glory, so I will set aside at least 30 minutes to exercise.</li>
<li>Drink more water. I've never loved water. I have to make myself drink it. My husband and I are in the midst of an only water (and coffee for me) month. I want a Diet Dr. Pepper something awful! Michael does this every other month ,and occasionally I will join him.</li>
</ul>
Those are my 5 areas in which I would like to be more intentional. I hope to look back at the end of the year and be able to say I succeeded in each area. I'm sure there will be days when I fail. But overall, these are my goals. I also ask those of you reading to hold me accountable to these. Ask me how I'm doing in a particular area. I'd also like to hear from you. Did you choose a word for the year? How do you implement it? Have you found ways to succeed in areas that I mentioned above? If so, I'd love to know about it. Thanks for reading!<br />
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God Bless, <br />
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<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-32069622714794396852017-03-19T18:02:00.001-05:002017-03-19T18:27:55.894-05:00The Highest Praise- Gearing Up for SurgerySamuel is scheduled for cleft palate surgery at 8am tomorrow morning. I have a few last minute things to pack for the hospital. Samuel and I are home alone for a couple of hours so I wanted to share a few of my convictions over the past week.<br />
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I have shared with a few people that I am more anxious about the 10 day recovery period than the actual surgery. When Michael and I took a day to fast before the surgery, God revealed some things to me about what my anxiety (and lack of concerning surgery) was saying about my relationship with Him.<br />
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I was putting more trust and confidence in our surgeon, than I was the very One who created our little boy. There is so much unknown about these days of recovery, and in my ignorance I was saying that surgery is something we have been through before and because I'm familiar with it, all will be well. And because I do not know what to expect after that, that is cause for worry. And in my thinking that, I was being prideful and forgetting, yet again, that I do not need to know all things. I serve a sovereign God who is eternal and so much bigger than these 10 days of recovery.<br />
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While at church this morning, we sang the song "You Alone Can Rescue," and it echoed my convictions from the past week. The song repeats the line "to YOU alone belongs the highest praise" several times. No matter the outcome tomorrow, God deserves the highest praise. Yes, we are blessed and thankful for the work the surgical team will do. But I dare not praise them above my God.<br />
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And when the 10 days get hard with Samuel, and they will get hard, God STILL deserves the highest praise. Friends, remind me of this. Remind me to be joyful in all circumstances.<br />
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Thanks for reading and praying! Got to go finish packing. :) <br />
<span id="goog_1252462022"></span><br />
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<span id="goog_1252462021"></span>Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-43351262839128885062017-01-27T23:10:00.001-06:002017-01-27T23:10:57.968-06:00Questions That Linger...Was it My Fault?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This blog post has been floating around in my mind for quite awhile now. Then as I was cleaning today and had a little time to think, God just revealed some things to me that made it all come together.<br />
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So I have shared with you Samuel's story. If you have yet to read it, you can do so <a href="http://alliewonder.blogspot.com/2015/09/i-havent-written-blog-post-in-over-year.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://alliewonder.blogspot.com/2016/01/the-surgery-and-recovery.html" target="_blank">here</a>. (There are more than those 2 posts but I trust you can work your way around the blog ;)) Now I want to take you back a little and share some more of my personal story.<br />
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Bear with me as I am not a professional writer by any stretch.<br />
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In the summer of 1997 my family moved from Mississippi to Florida. It was my sophomore year of high school. That December I had my 1st grand mal seizure. I was diagnosed with epilepsy and began treatment with medication. As a 15 year old girl just starting a new school, you can imagine this wasn't an easy time. The medication that I was prescribed had side effects that did not make high school easy. I was tired All. The. Time. I couldn't remember things that I once could. I had a hard time focusing.<br />
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Before life with epilepsy I took great pride in academics and being intelligent. I loved competing with my classmates for the highest grade. I liked to know all the things. And I did continue to love those things throughout high school and even college. But early on after being diagnosed with epilepsy, I felt almost like God was attacking my brain, the one thing that I loved most about myself.<br />
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During this time I began to cling to the verses 2 Corinthians 12: 9-10 "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."<br />
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My 16 and 17 year old self would fall asleep many nights praying that God would change my heart's desire to His wisdom rather than man's knowledge.<br />
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Fast forward to 2014. Married with 3 kids and the family has just moved to Texas. We will soon find out that we are expecting a 4th baby. One detail that I left out in initially telling Samuel's story is about a neurologist that I visited in October. Before I was pregnant.<br />
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I knew that I needed to get established with a neurologist once we moved to Texas, so I went to visit the one to whom I was referred. I don't even remember his name. The only conversation I remember is the one about if I wanted more kids. He asked. I said "possibly." Then he told me he would not allow me to continue on my current medication if I were going to try to have another baby. He questioned my previous doctor's methods (who is a specialized epileptologist and respected greatly in his field) and told me that I was LUCKY with my other 3 children. I did not go back.<br />
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And then we have Samuel.<br />
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So I sit with my questions. Should I have listened to that doctor who told me I should change medications? I could have done my own research and found out for myself. Topamax causes an increased risk for cleft lip/palate. So was it my fault? <br />
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I have come to this conclusion, God knew. He knew that I would have epilepsy when He formed me in my mother's womb. He knew that Samuel would have a cleft lip and palate when he formed him in my own womb. He knew that I would not listen to that doctor. But He was working in bigger ways. Still teaching me that He is the only one who knows all the things.<br />
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I may be the only one who is excited about what God has shown me throughout this (and my mom and the other 2 people reading), but I think it is amazing that God uses something in me from almost 20 years ago to continue teaching me.<br />
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17 years ago...<br />
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And now....</div>
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God is good.</div>
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<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-34644226296219587082017-01-01T13:04:00.001-06:002017-01-01T14:27:54.317-06:004 Questions to Ask Yourself in 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's the start of a new year. Many of us are glad to see 2016 go. I, personally, have no ill feelings toward the past year, but I do always enjoy the chance to "start fresh" and ponder what may lie ahead.<br />
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My daughter was recently asking my husband and me about New Years resolutions, wondering if they were "dumb" or a good idea. We told her that some are, in fact, "dumb." Some people set lofty goals only to realize that they have failed 3 days later. But a resolution to better yourself, particularly as a child of God, is never a bad idea.<br />
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Here are some questions I would like to ask myself as I start this new year:<br />
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1. Whose salvation will I be praying for in 2017?<br />
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2. What person can I disciple in 2017?<br />
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3. How can my prayer life be more effective in 2017?<br />
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4. What is distracting me from my walk with God and needs to be removed?<br />
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What questions would you add to the list?<br />
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I hope you all have a blessed day and Happy New Year!<br />
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<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-12959733725467137882016-10-24T09:33:00.000-05:002016-10-25T10:01:18.325-05:00Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread It has been a while since I posted a recipe on here and with it being Fall and all this pumpkin bread should be in your life. You're welcome.<br />
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I absolutely love all things Fall and all things pumpkin, but I do believe this is my favorite recipe. I almost hesitated sharing the recipe with you because I wanted to keep it to myself, but I decided to not be greedy. (Be sure to scroll to the end for link to the cute bread wrappers!)<br />
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I've made this bread at least 4 times already since the start of fall. It's that good! The thing about this recipe is I usually double it to make 4 loaves.<br />
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The recipe calls for chocolate chips with a glaze on top. However, some people are traditional "plain pumpkin" bread eaters. For those weirdos I will make the bread without adding the chocolate chips, pour the batter into 2 pans, then proceed adding the chocolate chips to the rest of the batter.<br />
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*Note: If you double the recipe, your mixing bowl will get VERY full. *<br />
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This bread makes great gifts and is an acceptable breakfast or dessert (which is why I get it out of the house as quickly as I can!)<br />
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Another reason why I love baking this bread (and any other bread), I get to use my grandmother and granddaddy's loaf pans. They have both passed away now so anytime I bake bread I'm reminded of them. <br />
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<span class="s2" style="font-family: "times new roman"; line-height: 21.6px;"> I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I have!</span><br />
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<span class="s2" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread</span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">3 cups flour</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">2 tsp cinnamon</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">1 tsp salt</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">1 tsp baking soda</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">4 eggs</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">2 cups sugar</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">2 cups canned pumpkin</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">1 1/2 cups canola oil</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, pumpkin and oil together. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, salt and baking soda. Stir the two mixtures together just until moistened and then add the chocolate chips. Pour into two greased loaf pans and bake for 60-70 minutes at 350. Cool for about 10-20 minutes before cooling on wire racks. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";">Glaze:</span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">1 Tbsp melted butter</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">1 cup powdered sugar</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">1/2 tsp vanilla</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">1 1/2 to 2 Tbsp. milk</span></span></div>
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<span class="s4" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14.399999618530273px;"><span class="bumpedFont15" style="font-size: 1.5em; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Mix ingredients together, starting with 1 1/2 Tbsp milk and adding a little bit more to get to desired consistency. Wait until the bread has cooled for a few minutes and then drizzle on top! Enjoy!</span></span></div>
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Click<a href="http://sisterssuitcaseblog.com/2013/09/fall-treat-labels-fall-printable-blog.html" target="_blank"> here </a>to dress up your bread with a cute Fall printable.<br />
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Happy Baking!!<br />
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<img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0;" />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-66121653258521205622016-09-15T09:00:00.000-05:002016-09-15T10:17:39.968-05:00Happy Birthday Samuel<br />
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Samuel turns 1 today. I am feeling all the feels, y'all. What an amazing ride it has been in such a short amount of time!! I have created this little slideshow/movie of Samuel's first year. I hope you watch and enjoy knowing how grateful our family is for each one of you who prayed with us and for us during this first year with all its unexpected trials and blessings. Thank you for letting us share Samuel's story with you all!<br />
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You will never
exaggerate when you speak good things of God. It is not possible to do
so. Try, dear brethren, and boast in the Lord.
Charles Spurgeon<br />
Read more at: http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/c/charles_spurgeon.html</div>
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<i>"You will never exaggerate when you speak good things of God. It is not possible to do so. Try, dear brethren, and boast in the Lord." -Charles Spurgeon</i></div>
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Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-36783291744044752482016-08-15T09:49:00.001-05:002016-08-15T09:49:58.775-05:00Sippy Cup Conundrum and Other Ramblings<br />
Samuel is 11 months old today. I have one more month before I have a one year old. 4 short weeks. How has this happened? I've been a bit more emotional as the days go by, with this being my last baby. I wanted to get a blog post in to mark this moment because with school starting next week and activities at church beginning in full force again soon, it's about to get real crazy, real fast. I want to make sure to slow down and savor all these "lasts" that I have with my baby.<br />
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The last time he crawls, because soon he'll be walking.<br />
The last time he takes a bottle, because he'll be transitioning to a sippy cup.<br />
The last time he wears 9 month clothes, because he's growing into 12 months.<br />
The last time he wakes up in the middle of the night, because....oh wait still doing that.<br />
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Point being, time marches on. I need to work on making the most of each day.<br />
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Here's a little of what Samuel has been up to in the past few months:<br />
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He is now crawling. Which happened just on a random day after taking the kids on a trip to LegoLand. He had been in the stroller for an extended period of time, and I guess he had enough of that. I put him on the floor when we got home and he almost immediately took off. And hasn't slowed down since.<br />
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He is also pulling up on whatever is in his reach. I imagine he will be walking within a month or so. But I'm in no rush for that.<br />
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As for eating, he is still eating mainly pureed baby food for most meals. I have had success with some table food, such as mashed potatoes, soft breads, and beans. Food still occasionally comes out his nose if something gets stuck in the palate opening. But for the most part, he has become a champ at figuring out how to get his food down.<br />
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Our main hurdle we have to get over before the hard palate surgery is the sippy cup conundrum. He has to be completely off the bottle before they will do surgery because he can't take a bottle during recovery. So I have been introducing a variety of sippy cups to him. And he wants nothing to do with any of them. <br />
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He won't be able to get proper suction until post surgery, so finding the right sippy cup is tricky. Most brands make no-spill sippy cups which require a lot of suction. The "plug" can be pulled out so that he doesn't have to suck, but then the liquid just pours out. And that's no good. My next step is to purchase the cheap throw away cups and cut small slits in the spout so that the liquid sort of trickles out. I'm praying we have success with this method.<br />
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We meet with the surgeon after his first birthday next month for check up. We were told surgery would be scheduled between 14-18 months of age. So that would be between November-March. And that's all I know for now.<br />
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My last thoughts for today:<br />
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Just this past weekend God gave me a special reminders of His faithfulness to us through this journey.<br />
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On Saturday I was repairing a piece of Samuel's changing table caddy that had broken. While I was super gluing this piece back together, I found a small piece of Samuel's lip tape stuck underneath it.<br />
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It seemed like so long ago since I was taping his lip each day. How quickly we forget. But how good is God to remind us.<br />
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<span class="text Ps-124-1" id="en-NIV-16104">Psalm 124</span></h3>
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<span class="text Ps-124-1">A song of ascents. Of David.</span></h4>
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<span class="text Ps-124-1"><sup class="versenum">1 </sup>If the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> had not been on our side—</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-124-1">let Israel say—</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-124-2" id="en-NIV-16105"><sup class="versenum">2 </sup>if the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span> had not been on our side</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-124-2">when people attacked us,</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-124-3" id="en-NIV-16106"><sup class="versenum">3 </sup>they would have swallowed us alive</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-124-3">when their anger flared against us;</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-124-4" id="en-NIV-16107"><sup class="versenum">4 </sup>the flood would have engulfed us,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-124-4">the torrent would have swept over us,</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-124-5" id="en-NIV-16108"><sup class="versenum">5 </sup>the raging waters</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-124-5">would have swept us away.</span></span></div>
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<span class="text Ps-124-6" id="en-NIV-16109"><sup class="versenum">6 </sup>Praise be to the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-124-6">who has not let us be torn by their teeth.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-124-7" id="en-NIV-16110"><sup class="versenum">7 </sup>We have escaped like a bird</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-124-7">from the fowler’s snare;</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-124-7">the snare has been broken,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-124-7">and we have escaped.</span></span><br /><span class="text Ps-124-8" id="en-NIV-16111"><sup class="versenum">8 </sup>Our help is in the name of the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>,</span><br /><span class="indent-1"><span class="indent-1-breaks"> </span><span class="text Ps-124-8">the Maker of heaven and earth.</span></span></div>
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<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-69294710242923046832016-03-28T09:59:00.002-05:002016-04-07T07:21:27.685-05:006 months, 12 stones<br />
<h3>
A quick update on Sam's progress</h3>
Samuel turned 6 months old a couple weeks ago. What?? How is he halfway to his first birthday already? The saying "the days are long but the years are short" is oh so true.<br />
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He is now rolling over like a champ. He loves sticking out his tongue. He giggles and chatters. He is starting to enjoy his toys now that he can pick them up and hold on to them. He ADORES his big sister. He likes his brothers too, but he has a special connection with sis.<br />
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At his 6 month checkup he was measuring 13.14 lbs and 25.5 inches. Still a bit small for his age. Hopefully when we start solids he will put on some weight. I have tried introducing cereal a couple of times, but he wasn't interested. With my older boys I made a lot of my baby food, and I'm hoping to do the same for Samuel. He will have to figure out how to move his food around the open cleft palate with his tongue. He's a pretty smart guy. He'll get the hang of it. I just have to be sure to keep bibs and burb cloths on hand during feedings as the food will come out of his nose and mouth.<br />
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Concerning his cleft palate, we will go back to Dallas in September (after his 1st birthday) for checkup with the surgeon. We should be discussing surgery for closing of the cleft palate at this appointment. The surgery will be when Samuel is 14-18 months.<br />
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He has healed so well from his cleft lip surgery. The scar is hardly visible.<br />
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So for the past 2+ months, we have been enjoying "normal" life. I was reminded in a recent Sunday School lesson in Joshua about the Israelites passing though the Jordan River. God commanded Joshua to tell the people to make a memorial to the Lord with stones...one stone for each of the 12 tribes of Israel. My favorite part of the passage is this right here:<br />
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<span class="btext2"><i>"...that this may be a sign among you. When your children ask in time to come, ‘What do those stones mean to you?’" Joshua 4:6</i></span></div>
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<span class="btext2">This is why we will continue to tell our story, to tell of God's faithfulness. It is so easy to forget the place from which God has brought you. Especially when life becomes easy once again. So we think back to those days and ask "what do those stones mean to you?" </span></div>
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<span class="btext2"><i> </i></span></div>
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<span class="btext2">We tell our children. We tell our friends. I post here for anyone who wants to know. Our God was faithful and good then. He is faithful and good still. In hard times. In easy times. We give Him all the glory and praise!</span></div>
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<span class="btext2">For more of Samuel's story, be sure to read <a href="http://alliewonder.blogspot.com/2015/09/i-havent-written-blog-post-in-over-year.html" target="_blank">Samuel's story</a>, <a href="http://alliewonder.blogspot.com/2015/12/a-letter-to-samuel-at-three-months.html" target="_blank">A Letter to Samuel at 3 Months</a>, and <a href="http://alliewonder.blogspot.com/2016/01/the-surgery-and-recovery.html" target="_blank">The Surgery and Recovery</a>.</span></div>
Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-20283542309807418722016-01-27T19:43:00.000-06:002016-01-28T17:47:38.538-06:00The Surgery and Recovery I'm missing Wednesday night church right now because I'm at home with Samuel. So I thought I would write a little blog post while the house is quiet.<br />
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Samuel's cleft lip and soft palate surgery was on January 18 and I want to be sure to write about it while all the feelings are still fresh. It still seems surreal that we are on the other side of surgery. That was probably the longest...yet at the same time the quickest 4 months of my life.<br />
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I can never get tired of saying how much God has provided for us and given strength to sustain us through this process.<br />
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It was an early Monday morning. Michael, my parents and I prayed together then left our house at 4 am to be in Dallas by 6 am for the pre-op. Surgery was to begin at 7. One of my favorite moments of the morning was the time spent with Samuel before surgery. He had already had 2 previous surgeries before this one- umbilical hernia and ear tubes. Both of the previous surgeries were hard in the moments leading up to surgery as he couldn't eat for several hours before making him almost inconsolable. And it didn't help that the surgeries weren't on time. It was no fun. This time was different. Samuel was calm and relaxed. He didn't cry once while he waited for surgery to begin. Michael and I just got to enjoy him. It was such a blessing.<br />
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The surgical team is on time. Another blessing. They took Samuel right at 7 and sent us back to wait. We were told it would be a 2-3 hour procedure. So we wait. And pray. And eat breakfast (Michael found an awesome bacon, egg and cheese biscuit that was the size of my head!). And drink coffee- white chocolate mocha from Starbucks. And watch the screen in the waiting room that gives us updates on where they are in the procedure.<br />
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The nurse comes to tell us they are finished around 9:45 and surgery went great. We would be going back to see our baby soon.<br />
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In the recovery room, I think Michael and I experienced a range of emotions. We were of course overjoyed that surgery was successful. But we both were also overwhelmed with the change in his appearance. He just didn't look like the Samuel we knew. It hurts your heart to see your baby in pain as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKdhc0sRTlQZxRDlAAKuqg2CObhdtJSHSi3ADMnE_Vr2dH7l0f2YJqEJHwCX6dhFqp6_VvF6xAZvBjumDMJE3Hl5MDbNlnG3-gSXvMP_6QakLbg2IlVvPPtW9HD81HFCWBXK3Cii_QcFs/s1600/IMG_4434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKdhc0sRTlQZxRDlAAKuqg2CObhdtJSHSi3ADMnE_Vr2dH7l0f2YJqEJHwCX6dhFqp6_VvF6xAZvBjumDMJE3Hl5MDbNlnG3-gSXvMP_6QakLbg2IlVvPPtW9HD81HFCWBXK3Cii_QcFs/s320/IMG_4434.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYgn47cbJABk0FR0logAskRAgUwecTt_ZNuq4PT83GCcDvqeSyEXXpG5zUGgsuupdKrKp1CbBuN3YDDSUKemoDaacNy0nwaDvl5rzKMbQ09fCjhGklFJVnpgFfGgvDfJWuHCdSURIIIFI/s1600/IMG_4435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYgn47cbJABk0FR0logAskRAgUwecTt_ZNuq4PT83GCcDvqeSyEXXpG5zUGgsuupdKrKp1CbBuN3YDDSUKemoDaacNy0nwaDvl5rzKMbQ09fCjhGklFJVnpgFfGgvDfJWuHCdSURIIIFI/s320/IMG_4435.JPG" width="240" /></a>We were placed in a room after about an hour or so in recovery. My parents were able to meet us in there and see Samuel. He was coming off his anesthesia and it would cause fits of crying for 5 minutes. Then sleeping for 10 minutes. It was hard to watch.<br />
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The nurses showed me how to feed him with a syringe, which would be our method of feeding for the next 10 days. They also talked about wound care, which meant cleaning the area with hydrogen peroxide and water. Then applying a bacitracin ointment. I would do this twice a day until the stitches come out. He also has to keep these arm restraints on to keep him from touching his face. I am able to take them off and give him a break from them, but he wears them most of the day.<br />
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I was somewhat overwhelmed. And tired. But at the same time I was ready. God had made me ready.<br />
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But Michael and I still had our moments of being stressed and just to show how Satan likes to sneak in and attack, he tried to get Michael and me into an argument about having to share a tiny couch that night in the hospital. Our son just had major surgery, was doing great, yet we were fussing about a couch. Foolishness. Samuel slept great, though.<br />
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The next morning the discharge papers are ready to go and we are heading out the door around 9:30. I couldn't believe they had us out so quickly.<br />
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So we head home to begin this new phase. About an hour after we get home, my daughter's school calls and says she has a fever and I have to come get her. I wasn't thrilled about that, but so goes life.<br />
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That first day (and the whole week even) it was almost like bringing home a newborn baby for the 2nd time. We would get excited when he would eat an ounce.<br />
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And sleep was less frequent as he could only take small amounts of formula at a time making him hungry more often.<br />
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The first couple days were hard. Giving him pain meds and antibiotics, the feedings, cleaning, the crying. It was just hard.<br />
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My older sister and her family came to visit on Thursday and stayed until Saturday. That really helped the week to go by quickly being able to spend time with them. <br />
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The stitches were to come out on Tuesday of the following week. It was a surprisingly fast 8 days. And overall Samuel did great during the recovery time. He did get frustrated at times with the syringe feedings. But who wouldn't? <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoyeCEU0GLUnvH_qHVmT4gX6vrEctzn6OJ3vUYTmuliym8wVlTbq58MbqUJjw1xBAFsvvMJOgN5xCrPwGYS0tN1uolDs5mLTuWWfjrszJGR8E8uFAs_Rqolw1ZQmqXoJOFeP1aeEJmjK0/s1600/IMG_4474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoyeCEU0GLUnvH_qHVmT4gX6vrEctzn6OJ3vUYTmuliym8wVlTbq58MbqUJjw1xBAFsvvMJOgN5xCrPwGYS0tN1uolDs5mLTuWWfjrszJGR8E8uFAs_Rqolw1ZQmqXoJOFeP1aeEJmjK0/s320/IMG_4474.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Giving big smiles the day before getting stitches out</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-yvK-PMQSZoLRjWh3gilM-T4n_yt8zG6P4xPbj_KbZPLZ-oX_XTIpnXpGUYYv_jky0W_b8M-hVhz2dbERnYE2pFarEz_SBkbrbEcFTytzO5LZobxDBV3TGJkE2pQZ4i9OafY2deifBo/s1600/IMG_4475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-yvK-PMQSZoLRjWh3gilM-T4n_yt8zG6P4xPbj_KbZPLZ-oX_XTIpnXpGUYYv_jky0W_b8M-hVhz2dbERnYE2pFarEz_SBkbrbEcFTytzO5LZobxDBV3TGJkE2pQZ4i9OafY2deifBo/s320/IMG_4475.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More smiles</td></tr>
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Time for stitches to come out. My good friend is driving us to Dallas. We are super excited to see how things are gonna look now. Taking the stitches out took maybe 5 minutes. <br />
It was absolutely amazing to see what a great job the surgeon did with Samuel. He, of course, has a scar that we will do some scar therapy for, but we certainly aren't worried about that. The syringe feedings are to continue for 2 more days. We can make it 2 more days.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just after stitches came out</td></tr>
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Here are a few thoughts now that we have walked through this small step with Samuel- I know we still have some more surgeries and possible speech therapy and orthodontics to deal with down the road. But for now, here are just some things I would like to share with you if you may be dealing with something that seems bigger than you. And even if you aren't right now. You could be tomorrow.<br />
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<li>God is bigger than your circumstances. He planned, He ordained whatever it is you're facing and He will sustain you.</li>
<li>Submerge yourself in truth. God's Word. Do it now. Don't wait for the crisis. You'll need the truths of God's Word to be your foundation before entering the trial.</li>
<li>Surround yourself with godly friends who will speak truth to and encourage you and pray for you.</li>
<li>Your circumstances are not eternal. They will pass. But praise God through them and for them. We are guaranteed suffering on this side of heaven. Let your suffering draw you closer to God. Thank him for revealing Himself to you through the suffering.</li>
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Thank you for letting me share Samuel's journey with you. I hope that it brings encouragement to someone who may need it. I want to end this post with some Scripture that I read this week in my study of Isaiah:<br />
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<i>"But now, thus says the Lord, your Creator, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel, 'Do not fear for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine! When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you.' " Isaiah 43:1-2</i><br />
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<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-34080930607443014692015-12-15T15:36:00.002-06:002015-12-15T16:46:21.612-06:00A Letter to Samuel at Three MonthsDear Samuel,<br />
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You're 3 months old today. Wow. It doesn't really seem like that old, but in baby time...it's a big deal. You've changed and grown so much since I first held you. You are over 11 pounds now. Remember when your daddy and I (and a host of other people) were praying for you to grow? Of course you don't, but we'll tell you all about it one day. God is so good, Samuel.<br />
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Lately you have been smiling and cooing a lot. You have your sister and brothers wrapped around your finger. They love to see who can make you smile the most.<br />
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You have already had umbilical hernia surgery and ear tube surgery. You are going to be one tough little boy.<br />
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Right now you are about 4 weeks shy of having your cleft lip and soft palate surgery. This is really what I want to talk to you about most today. Your dad and I have known that you would have this surgery since you were 18 weeks gestational age. But we didn't grasp the depth of love we would have for you at that time.<br />
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Samuel, when you have this surgery your appearance is going to change. You aren't going to look like the same Samuel that we have come to know and love over the past 3 months. But I want you to always remember that it wasn't AFTER your appearance changed that I began to love you. My love for you is strong and fierce today, just as it is for your siblings. You are wonderfully and beautifully made. In God's image.<br />
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But even more than that, as much as I love you, God loves you so much more. I will fail you. I already have. But God's love never fails. He is faithful and He is good.<br />
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I love being your mom and I'm excited about the plans God has for you.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Love,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Mom </span><br />
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<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-26304736701202945182015-09-28T09:01:00.000-05:002015-12-15T16:46:37.636-06:00Samuel's StoryI haven't written a blog post in over a year. But things have changed since then. I have changed since then. Most of my posts haven't been personal writings, but a collection of recipes, homemaking tips, etc. But since the blog is here, it's the perfect place for me to always remember this place to which God has brought me, and to be able to tell Samuel's story. <br />
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Michael and I knew we wanted one more child. God had already blessed us with 3 amazing children, yet we still didn't feel as if our family was "complete." I remember sitting at our dining room table while eating dinner with the family one night. I looked around as our family of five was eating and I told Michael, "that empty chair at our table is going to be filled one day." I didn't know it would be soon.<br />
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To back up just a little, our family had just made a major move from state to state in the summer of 2014. So we were in the process of building relationships at church, Michael starting a new job, kids adjusting, making our house into a home and all that jazz.<br />
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It was at the end of January when we found out we would be expecting our 4th child. Michael was at work when I took the pregnancy test. We always email throughout the day, but I was shied away from emailing him too much on this particular day, on the chance that I spilled the beans.( I always wanted to be able to tell him in some elaborate or creative way.) But he called me out on being quiet and I ended up sending him a picture of the positive pregnancy test through email!<br />
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So here we are gearing up for this 4th child. The other 3 kids are excited. We took our oldest with us to our first prenatal check-up. She loved it!<br />
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But something about this pregnancy just felt different. I don't know if you want to call it mother's intuition or what, but probably around the 6 week mark I told Michael my concerns...that something could be wrong with our baby.<br />
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*Side note- I had just changed insurance companies at the first of the year. I could only find one OB clinic in my network and area. As the story progresses, you will see this is not coincidence.<br />
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We are carrying on with our normal lives. And part of that for me included Tuesday morning Bible study at church and Moms2Moms every other Wednesday. I cannot begin to express how these 2 groups and the truth that was spoken within them helped to shape and prepare me for the events ahead. I had found myself amongst several "Titus 2" mentors, and I was soaking it up. Also, I am extremely grateful for the truth I heard through music (and Word too of course) each Sunday. I would go home and add a new song to my spotify playlist almost every week. :)<br />
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On Tuesdays, we were going through the book of James. Trials. That's what stands out in my mind when I think about the book of James. "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds." I do remember while going through this study wrestling with the fact that my faith had never really been tested and wondering if it would remain steadfast if it ever was. But I know God had me studying this particular book at this particular moment for a purpose.<br />
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Meanwhile, back at my doctor's office, because I have epilepsy and take certain medications for that...and have yet to establish care with a neurologist, my doctor is referring me to a high risk doctor just to do a more thorough sonogram.<br />
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The appointment was May 5th.<br />
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The technician is doing the routine sonogram. She tells us good things about the heart and brain then she leaves the room. Michael prays with me thanking God for a good check up. Then the doctor comes in for the extensive sonogram. She doesn't say a whole lot. At least I don't remember anything she said until she said, "I see a cleft lip." There it was. That news God had been preparing me for. Our baby is going to have a cleft lip. The doctor went on to tell us about surgeries that would be needed and other hospitals we would go to and doctors we would meet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT834FDh5PyGMizniyv5irE1Gd1yL0W0-WrE5w1W1X-moX1tXsqMi5OvmdLA-nHE1h18lpYv8e6cOkSWVqDczpEwwfB9llIh3suNl5MLuR3zrdpSPDLQio_3DKF_L2ErpROaGiYOKcJHA/s640/blogger-image--1057358614.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT834FDh5PyGMizniyv5irE1Gd1yL0W0-WrE5w1W1X-moX1tXsqMi5OvmdLA-nHE1h18lpYv8e6cOkSWVqDczpEwwfB9llIh3suNl5MLuR3zrdpSPDLQio_3DKF_L2ErpROaGiYOKcJHA/s320/blogger-image--1057358614.jpg" width="288" /></a>In the grand scheme of things, we were looking at a healthy baby. This was only cosmetic and could be fixed with surgery.<br />
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So we head home, somewhat concerned about all the unknowns, and not as giddy as we would've been has we just been finding out gender, yet still feeling grateful and blessed.<br />
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Oh, and it's a boy!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlf-JNTj3xWrcwo_Odu8eJCQxzJntD9JILbVFrg8dca_fAr5gLk6B5GqN-X7oDps1Prw5kM4X0WoukOAH4GwnuPYq6TCHXId1uUvk8pIAVfX0u2sldRuDLrfS1QkmwHt9NGaDyhGHsbGA/s640/blogger-image--1426170255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlf-JNTj3xWrcwo_Odu8eJCQxzJntD9JILbVFrg8dca_fAr5gLk6B5GqN-X7oDps1Prw5kM4X0WoukOAH4GwnuPYq6TCHXId1uUvk8pIAVfX0u2sldRuDLrfS1QkmwHt9NGaDyhGHsbGA/s320/blogger-image--1426170255.jpg" width="240" /></a>Back in the doctors office again, remember when I said it wasn't a coincidence I was with this doctor...I'm talking to my OB for the first time about the findings of the cleft lip at the high risk appointment. Then she tells me about her own experience with her daughter who was born with a cleft lip. God is so good to do that for me!</div>
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As for a name, we didn't have to "discuss" as much as I imagined. Our 3rd child wasn't named until 3 weeks before he was born. Michael wanted a family name and Samuel is one of his favorite books of the Bible. The name means "gift of God." When I suggested Samuel Michael as a name we both loved it.<br />
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Three - four months pass quickly when they are filled with lots of doctors appointments. I also spent a lot of time on google researching how to care for a baby with a cleft lip. A later sonogram would reveal a probable palate which meant more googling. I wanted to be prepared. C-section had been scheduled for September 28th. We are excited and ready.<br />
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Then at my check up the first week in September, I get news that our babies growth is in the 14th percentile. I'm not sure what this means but the doctor says if it drops to the 10th at my next checkup, we will be delivering early. She doesn't tell me why, but I knew it didn't sound good. I did some more "research" when I got home to see why you would deliver a baby early if the growth dropped to 10th percentile. It involved things related to neurological development to possible stillbirth. The next 2 weeks were a time of worry for me. I called on my prayer warriors. We were praying that Samuel would grow over the next 2 weeks.</div>
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The September 10 appointment was here. I just wanted to find out if he had grown and go home. </div>
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He had grown. But not enough. He was now in the 9th percentile for his gestational age. The doctor wants to deliver the next week. I cried in her office. But I also told her that I had prayed with my husband that morning, and whatever the outcome, we have to ask ourselves 'why not us?' We serve a sovereign God who is in control of our days and has been controlling Samuel's days from day 1 in my womb. He has a perfect plan for him. We have believed that and trusted that from the very beginning.</div>
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So over the weekend I had to get ready for baby. (And also have a joint birthday for my boys.) The baby would be here on Tuesday. It was quite a frantic weekend. At least I was feeling that way inside.<br />
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Baby day is here. I am calm. The hospital is very efficient. We appreciated that. We loved that friends came and visited and prayed with us before surgery began...at 7:30 in the morning! My parents had also just arrived from out of town and it was comforting to see them.</div>
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Off to surgery. I was probably in surgery for 30 minutes and then Samuel was here. Out of my 4 c-sections, it was by far the most relaxing.</div>
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Someone brings Samuel to my side so I can see him. All I remember thinking is "he's absolutely perfect." <br />
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The rest of the day was filled with visitors and nausea. (I apologize to those who watched me puke in a bowl.) And it was also filled with one answered prayer after another. </div>
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The fears and worry from the past 2 weeks were gone and my baby was in my arms and healthy. God is good and faithful. And I feel so unworthy of these blessings!</div>
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Now to bring you to today. Just 2 weeks later. Samuel is still doing well. He is now wearing a NAM in his mouth- which is short for nasoalveolar molding. This is similar to a retainer and is actually held in place with fixodent just like dentures. He wears this all day. I take it out every 12 hours to clean it. It has a nose piece that aids in forming his nostril. I also put skin tape on his lip. This should help reduce the size of the cleft before we do surgery 3 months from now. I change the tape 3-4 times a day.</div>
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I was a little worried thinking that I was going to be overwhelmed with the newborn and the extra care he needs plus taking care of my 3 older kids, but I feel like Moses when his hands grew tired in the battle and Aaron and Hur would lift them up so they could win the battle. What has overwhelmed me is the people who have loved on us, prayed with us and for us, brought us meals, sent cards, etc. The family of God holds each other up and that's exactly what they've been doing while we adjust and learn about what the next step in the journey will be.</div>
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To God alone be the glory...great things He has done!!<br />
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Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-73175139696296540192014-04-25T07:00:00.000-05:002014-04-25T07:00:04.161-05:00Love Dare: Day 40<h3>
Love Dare- Day 40</h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love Is a Covenant</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">Where you go, I will go, and where you lodge, I will lodge.<span> </span>Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God.<span> </span>– Ruth 1:16</span></em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Congratulations.<span> </span>You’ve reached the end of the Love Dare – the book.<span> </span>But the experience and challenge of loving your mate is something that never comes to an end.<span> </span>It goes on for the rest of your life.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">This book may end at Day 40.<span> </span>But who says your dare has to stop?<span> </span>And as you view your marriage relationship from this point on, we challenge you to consider it a covenant instead of a contract.<span> </span>These two words sound similar in meaning and intent but are in reality much different.<span> </span>Seeing marriage as a contract is like saying to your spouse, “I take you for me and we’ll see if this works out.”<span> </span>But realizing it as a covenant changes it to say, “I give myself to you and commit to this marriage for life.”</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">There are many other differences between covenants and contracts.<span> </span>A contract is usually a written agreement based on distrust, outlining the conditions and consequences if broken.<span> </span>A covenant is a verbal commitment based on trust, assuring someone that your promise is unconditional and good for life.<span> </span>It is spoken before God out of love for another.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">A contract is self-serving and comes with limited liability.<span> </span>It establishes a time frame for certain deliverables to be met and accomplished.<span> </span>A covenant is for the benefit of others and comes with unlimited responsibility.<span> </span>It has no expiration date.<span> </span>It is “til death do us part.” A contract can be broken with mutual consent.<span> </span>A covenant is intended to be unbreakable.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The Bible contains several major covenants as part of the unfolding story of God’s people.<span> </span>God made a covenant with Noah, promising never to destroy all flesh with a worldwide flood (Genesis 9:12-17).<span> </span>He
made a covenant with Abraham, promising that an entire nation of
descendents would come from his family line (Genesis 17:1-8).<span> </span>He made a covenant with Moses, declaring that the people of Israel would be God’s permanent possession (Exodus 19:3-6).<span> </span>He made a covenant with David, promising that a ruler would sit on his throne forever (2 Samuel 7:7-16).<span> </span>Ultimately,
He made a “new covenant” by the blood of Christ, establishing an
unending, unchanging legacy of forgiven sins and eternal life for those
who believe in Him (Hebrews 9:15).<span> </span>Never once has God broken any of these covenants.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">And
then there’s marriage – the strongest covenant on earth between two
people, the pledge of a man and woman to establish a love that is
unconditional and lasts a lifetime.<span> </span>In
marriage, your wedding ring represents your covenant vows – not merely
commitments you hoped to keep but premeditated promises, publicly spoken
and witnessed by others.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">As you’ve read numerous times in these pages, keeping this covenant is not something you can do in your own strength.<span> </span>There’s good reason why God was the One who initiated covenants with His people.<span> </span>He alone is able to fulfill the demands of His own promises.<span> </span>He alone is able to forgive the receivers of His covenant when they fail to uphold their part of the agreement.<span> </span>But the Spirit of God is within you by the virtue of your faith in His Son and the grace bestowed upon you in salvation.<span> </span>That means you now can exercise your role as covenant keeper, no matter what may arise to challenge your faithfulness to it.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Especially
if your spouse is not in a place of receiving your love right now, the
act of covenant keeping can grow more daunting with each passing day.<span> </span>But marriage is not a contract with escape clauses and exception wordings.<span> </span>Marriage is a covenant intended to cut off all avenues of retreat or withdrawal.<span> </span>There’s nothing in all the world that should sever what God has joined together.<span> </span>Your love is based on covenant.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Hundreds
of years after the prophet Malachi recorded these words, people are
still wondering why God withholds His hand of blessing at times from
their homes and marriages.<span> </span>“You
say, ‘For what reason?’ Because the Lord has been witness between you
and your wife of your youth, against whom you have dealt treacherously,
though she is your companion and your wife by covenant … For I hate
divorce, says the Lord, the God of Israel, and him who covers his
garment with wrong, says the Lord of hosts.<span> </span>So take heed to your spirit, that you do not deal treacherously” (Malachi 2:14, 16).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Every marriage is called to be an earthly picture of God’s heavenly covenant with His church.<span> </span>It is to reveal to the world the glory and beauty of God’s unconditional love for us.<span> </span>Jesus said, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you.<span> </span>Now remain in my love” (John 15:9 NIV).<span> </span>Let His words inspire you to be a channel of God’s love to your spouse.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The time is now, man or woman of God, to renew your covenant of love in all sincerity and surrender.<span> </span>Love is too holy a treasure to trade in for another, and too powerful a bond to be broken without dire consequences.<span> </span>Fasten your love afresh on this one the Lord has given you to cherish, prize, and honor.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Your life together is before you.<span> </span>Dare to take hold of it and never let go.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">We dare you.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Today’s Dare</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Write out a renewal of your vows and place them in your home.<span> </span>Perhaps
if appropriate, you could make arrangements to formally renew your
wedding vows before a minister and with family present.<span> </span>Make it a living testament to the value of marriage in God’s eyes and the high honor of being one with your mate.</span></b></span></span></div>
<br /><img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0;" /><br />
<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-84925660904243620782014-04-24T07:00:00.000-05:002014-04-24T07:00:15.137-05:00Love Dare: Day 39<h3>
Love Dare- Day 39</h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love Endures</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love never fails. – 1 Corinthians 13:8</span></em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Of all the things love dares to do, this the ultimate.<span> </span>Though threatened, it keeps pursuing.<span> </span>Though challenged, it keeps moving forward.<span> </span>Though mistreated and rejected, it refuses to give up.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love never fails.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Many
times when a marriage is in crisis, the spouse who is trying to make
things work will go to the other, declaring in no uncertain terms that
no matter what has happened in the past, he or she is committed to this
marriage.<span> </span>Their love can be counted on to last.<span> </span>They promise.<span> </span>But not wanting to hear this yet, the other spouse holds their position.<span> </span>They still want out.<span> </span>They don’t see this marriage lasting long-term.<span> </span>Nor do they even want it to anymore.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The partner who has just laid his or her heart on the line, extending the olive branch, can’t handle the rejection.<span> </span>So they withdraw their statement.<span> </span>“Fine.<span> </span>If that’s the way you want it, that’s the way it’ll be.”</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">But if love is really love, it doesn’t waffle when it’s not received the way you want it to be.<span> </span>If love can be told to quit loving, then it’s not really love.<span> </span>Love that is from God is unending, unstoppable.<span> </span>If the object of its affection doesn’t choose to receive it, love keeps giving anyway.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love never fails.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Never.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">That’s what Jesus’ love is like.<span> </span>His disciples were nothing if not unpredictable.<span> </span>After
their final Passover meal together, when Jesus told them they would all
forsake Him before the night was over, Peter declared, “Even though all
may fall away because of You, I will never fall away … Even if I have
to die with You, I will not deny You” (Matthew 26:33, 35).<span> </span>All the other disciples echoed the very same promise.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">But
later that night, Jesus’ inner circle of followers – Peter, James, and
John – would sleep through Christ’s agony in the garden.<span> </span>On the way to Christ’s crucifixion, Peter would deny Him three times in the courtyard.<span> </span>But at the precise moment, the Bible says Jesus “turned and looked” at him (Luke 22:61).<span> </span>His men had failed Him – again – within hours of their sworn promises.<span> </span>Yet He never stopped loving them, because He and His love are “the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">When
you have done everything within your power to obey God, your spouse may
still forsake you and walk away – just as Jesus’ followers did to Him.<span> </span>But if your marriage fails, if your spouse walks away, let it not be because you gave up or stopped loving them.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love never fails.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Of the nine “fruits of the Spirit” listed in Galatians 5, the first of all is love.<span> </span>And
because the unchanging Holy Spirit is its source – the same Holy Spirit
who dwells in the hearts of all believers – then the love He creates in
you is unchanging as well.<span> </span>It
is based on the will of God, the calling of God, and the Word of God –
all unchanging things. The Bible declares them “irrevocable” (Romans
11:29).<span> </span>“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away” (Luke 21:33).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Only a few days ago you were Love Dared to build your marriage on the Word of God.<span> </span>That’s because when all else fails, the truth of God will still be standing.<span> </span>Along the way you have also been dared to be patient, to be unselfish, to sacrifice for your mate’s needs.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">These are not just loving ideas, existing in isolation.<span> </span>Each quality of love outlined in this book is based on the love of God, captured and expressed in the Word of God.<span> </span>The unchanging Word of God.<span> </span>No challenge or circumstance can occur that will ever put an expiration date on Him or His love.<span> </span>Therefore, your love – made of the same substance – bears the same, unchanging characteristics.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love never fails.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">So today your dare is to put your unfailing love into the most powerful, personal words you can.<span> </span>This
is your chance to declare that no matter what imperfections exist –
both in you and in your spouse – your love is greater still.<span> </span>No matter what they’ve done or how often they’ve done it, you choose to love them anyway.<span> </span>Though you’ve been far from steady in your treatment of them over the years, your days of being inconsistent in love are over.<span> </span>You accept this one man or woman as God’s special gift to you, and you promise to love them until death.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">You’re
saying to your spouse, “Even if you don’t like what you’re reading –
even if you don’t like me – I choose to love you anyway.<span> </span>Forever.”</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Because love never fails.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Today’s Dare</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Spend time in personal prayer, then write a letter of commitment and resolve to your spouse.<span> </span>Include why you are committing to this marriage until death, and that you have purposed to love them no matter what.<span> </span>Leave it in a place that your mate will find it.</span></b></span></span></div>
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<br /><img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0;" /><br />
<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-9798044008020901632014-04-23T07:00:00.000-05:002014-04-23T07:00:15.986-05:00Love Dare: Day 38<h3>
Love Dare- Day 38</h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love Fulfills Dreams</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">Delight yourself in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart.<span> </span>– Psalm 37:4</span></em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">What is something your spouse would really, really love?<span> </span>And how often do you ask yourself that question?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Common sense tells us we can’t give our wife or husband everything they might like.<span> </span>Our budgets and account balances tell us we probably couldn’t afford it anyway.<span> </span>And even if we could, it might not be good for us.<span> </span>Or for them.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">But perhaps you’ve let “no” become too quick a response.<span> </span>Perhaps you’ve let this negative default setting become too reasoned and rational, too automatic.<span> </span>What if instead of dismissing the thought, you did your best to honor it.<span> </span>What might happen if the one thing they said you’d never do for them became the next thing you did?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love sometimes needs to be extravagant.<span> </span>To go all out.<span> </span>It sometimes needs to set aside the technicalities and just bless because it wants to.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Is that thinking too much like a teenager?<span> </span>Is love like this no longer on the menu after so many years of marriage?<span> </span>After
all, with the way your relationship might be at the moment, wouldn’t it
be less than genuine to indulge your spouse if your heart’s not in it?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Well, how about putting your heart in it.<span> </span>How about developing a new level of love that actually wants to fulfill every dream and desire you possibly can.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Hasn’t God’s love met needs in your heart that once seemed out of the question?<span> </span>You were living under such a load of sin and regret; you thought you’d never earn your way back into His good graces.<span> </span>But He looked at you with love and said you didn’t have to.<span> </span>He wanted you back.<span> </span>He wanted you to realize your need for Him, and that as you repented and turned to Him, He would love and forgive you.<span> </span>“God,
being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,
even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together
with Christ” (Ephesians 2:4-5).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">You thought life was over when a certain setback took all the wind out of your sails.<span> </span>You broke down and cried out to Him.<span> </span>You prayed like you’d never prayed before.<span> </span>And though it wasn’t easy getting back up and walking on, you somehow survived.<span> </span>He met you with His promised peace “which surpasses all comprehension” (Philippians 4:7) and kept you on your feet.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">It wasn’t when you were behaving like an angel that God chose to pour out His love on you.<span> </span>It wasn’t when you were behaving like an angel that God chose to pour out His love on you.<span> </span>It wasn’t because you were so deserving that He offered you His grace.<span> </span>“God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Chris died for us” (Romans 5:8).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">He’s your model.<span> </span>He’s the One your love is designed to imitate.<span> </span>Though you weren’t a likely candidate for His love, He gave it anyway.<span> </span>He paid the price.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Not everything your spouse wants has a hefty price tag.<span> </span>Not everything he or she desires can be bought with money.<span> </span>Your wife may really want your time.<span> </span>She may really want your attention.<span> </span>She may really want to be treated like a lady, to know that her husband considers her his greatest treasure.<span> </span>She may really want to see in your eyes a love that chooses to be there no matter what.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Your husband may really want your respect.<span> </span>He may really want you to acknowledge him as the head of the house in front of the children.<span> </span>He
may really want you to put your arms around his neck for no apparent
reason, surprising him with a long kiss or a love note when there’s not
even a birthday or anniversary to justify it. He may really need to know
that you still think he’s strong and handsome, the way you used to.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span>·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Dreams and desires come in all shapes and sizes.<span> </span>But love takes careful notice of each one.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span>·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love calls you to listen to what your mate is saying and hoping for.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span>·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love
calls you to remember the things that are unique to your relationship,
the pleasures and enjoyments that bring a smile to the other’s face.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span>·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love calls you to give when it would be a lot more convenient to wait.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span>·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">And love calls you to daydream about these opportunities so regularly that their desires become yours as well.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">We dare you to think in terms of overwhelming your spouse with love.<span> </span>To surprise them by exceeding all their expectations with your kindness.<span> </span>It may or may not be a financial sacrifice, but it needs to reflect a heart that is willing to express itself with extravagance.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">What is something your spouse would really, really love?<span> </span>It’s time you started living out the answer to that question.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Today’s Dare</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Ask yourself what your mate would want if it was obtainable.<span> </span>Commit
this to prayer, and start mapping out a plan for meeting some (if not
all) of their desires, to whatever level you possibly can.</span></b></span></span></div>
<br /><img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0;" /><br />
<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-63887926504707125882014-04-22T07:00:00.000-05:002014-04-22T07:00:10.559-05:00Love Dare: Day 37<h3>
Love Dare- Day 37</h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love Agrees in Prayer</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">If two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by May Father.<span> </span>– Matthew 18:19</span></em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">If
someone told you that by changing one thing about your marriage, you
could guarantee with near 100 percent assurance that your life together
would significantly improve, you would at least want to know what it
was.<span> </span>And for many godly couples, that “one thing” is the daily practice of praying together.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">To someone who tends to devalue spiritual matters, this sounds fairly ridiculous.<span> </span>And
if told that shared prayer is a key ingredient in marital longevity and
leads to a heightened sense of sexual intimacy, they would think you
had really gone too far. But the unity that grows between a man and
woman who regularly pray together forms an intense and powerful
connection.<span> </span>Within the sanctuary of your marriage, praying together can work wonders on every level of your relationship.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">When you were joined together as husband and wife, God gave you a wedding gift – a permanent prayer partner for life.<span> </span>When you need wisdom on a certain decision, you and your prayer partner can seek God together for the answer.<span> </span>When
you’re struggling with your own fears and insecurities, your prayer
partner can hold your hand and intercede on your behalf.<span> </span>When
you and your spouse are not getting along and can’t get past a
particular argument or sticking point, you can call a time out, drop
your weapons, and go with your partner into emergency prayer. <span> </span>It should become your automatic reflex action when you don’t know what else to do.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">It’s hard to stay angry long with someone for whom you’re praying.<span> </span>It’s
hard not to back down when you’re hearing your mate humbly cry out to
God and beg Him for mercy in the midst of your heated crisis.<span> </span>In prayer, two people remember that God has made them one.<span> </span>And in the grip of His uniting presence, disharmony blends into beauty.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Praying for your spouse leads your heart to care more deeply about them.<span> </span>But more importantly, God is pleased when He sees you both humbling yourselves and seeking His face together.<span> </span>His blessing falls on you when you agree in prayer.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The
word Jesus used when He talked about “agreeing” in prayer has the idea
of harmonic symphony. Two separate notes, played one at a time, sound
different.<span> </span>They’re opposed to each other.<span> </span>But play them at the same time – in agreement – and they can create a pleasing sense of harmony.<span> </span>Together they give a fuller, more complete sound than either of them can make on its own.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Agreeing in prayer is like that – even in the midst of disagreeing.<span> </span>It pulls you both back toward your real center.<span> </span>It places you on common ground, face-to-face before the Father.<span> </span>It restores harmony in the midst of contention.</span></span></span></div>
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disharmony that can flare up over various matters can derail the church
from its mission and disrupt the free flow of worship and unity.<span> </span>At times godly church leaders will see what is taking place, break off discussions, and call the people of God to prayer.<span> </span>Instead
of continuing the discord and allowing more feelings to be hurt, they
will seek unity by turning their hearts back to God and appealing to Him
for help.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The same thing happens in our homes when there is an intervention of prayer, even at high points of disagreement.<span> </span>It stops the bleeding.<span> </span>It quiets the loud voices.<span> </span>It pauses you as you realize whose presence you’re in.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">But prayer is for a lot more than breaking up fights.<span> </span>Prayer is a privilege to be enjoyed on a consistent, daily basis.<span> </span>When you know that prayer time awaits you before going to bed, it will change the way you spend your evening.<span> </span>Even
if your prayers together are typically short and to the point, this
will become a standing appointment that you can orbit your day around,
keeping God in the middle of everything.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">It’s true that beginning a habit like this can initially feel awkward and uncomfortable.<span> </span>Anything this powerful will surprise you with its weight and responsibility when you actually try doing it.<span> </span>But
bear in mind that God wants you to engage with Him – invites you, in
fact – and He will grow you as you take it seriously and push past those
times when you don’t know what to say.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">You’ll
look back at this common thread that ran through everything from
average Mondays to major decisions and be so thankful for this “one
thing” that changed everything.<span> </span>This is one area where it’s imperative that you agree to agree.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Ask your spouse if you can begin praying together.<span> </span>Talk about the best time to do this -- whether it’s in the morning, your lunch hour, or before bedtime.<span> </span>Use this time to commit your concerns, disagreements, and needs before the Lord.<span> </span>Don’t forget to thank Him for His provision and blessing.<span> </span>Even if your spouse refuses to do this, resolve to spend this daily time in prayer yourself.</span></b></span></span></div>
<br /><img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0;" /><br />
<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-83174979363005874982014-04-21T07:00:00.000-05:002014-04-21T07:00:14.558-05:00Love Dare: Day 36<h3>
Love Dare- Day 36</h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love is God’s Word</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.<span> </span>– Psalm 119:105</span></em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">For some people, the Bible seems just too big to understand.<span> </span>It’s like an impossible challenge.<span> </span>They don’t know where or how to begin.<span> </span>But as a Christian, you’re not left alone to try grasping the major themes and deep meanings of the Bible.<span> </span>The Holy Spirit, who now lives in your heart by the way of salvation, is an illuminator of truth.<span> </span>“For the Spirit searches all things, even the depths of God” (1 Corinthians 2:10).<span> </span>And because of His internal lamp, the Scriptures are now yours to read, absorb, comprehend, and live by.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">But first, you’ve got to commit to do it.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">Be in it</span></em><span style="line-height: 115%;">.<span> </span>If this is not already a habit of yours, now is the time to begin reading a portion of the Bible every day.<span> </span>Ideally, read it together as husband and wife – in the morning, perhaps, or before bed.<span> </span>Be
like the writer of Psalm 119, who could say, “With all my heart I have
sought You … Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin
against You” (Psalm 119:10-11).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Those
who practice a consistent pattern of reading the Bible soon discover it
to be “more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; sweeter also
than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb” (Psalm 19:10).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">Stay under it</span></em><span style="line-height: 115%;">.<span> </span>You’re right; the Bible can be deep and challenging.<span> </span>That’s why it’s so important to be part of a church where the Word is faithfully taught and preached.<span> </span>By
hearing it explained in sermons and Bible study classes, you’ll get a
broader, more balanced view of what God is saying through His Word.<span> </span>You’ll
also get to join with others who are on the same journey you are,
wanting to be fed by the truths of Scripture. “Continue in the things
you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have
learned them” (2 Timothy 3:14).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">Live it</span></em><span style="line-height: 115%;">.<span> </span>Unlike most other books, which are only designed to be read and digested, the Bible is a living book.<span> </span>It lives because the Holy Spirit still resonates within its words.<span> </span>It lives because, unlike the ancient writings of other religions, its Author is still alive.<span> </span>And it lives because it becomes a part of who you are, how you think, and what you do.<span> </span>“Prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers” (James 1:22).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Jesus talked about people who build their lives on sand – their own logic, their best guesses, the latest reasoning.<span> </span>When the storms of life begin to blow (which they always will), foundations of sand will only result in total disaster.<span> </span>Their houses may light up and look nice for a while, but they are tragedies waiting to happen.<span> </span>Ultimately they collapse.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">But Jesus said, “Everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them may be compared to a wise man who builds on the rock.<span> </span>The
rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against
that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the
rock” (Matthew 7:24-25).<span> </span>When your home is founded on the rock of God’s unchanging Word, it is insured against destruction.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">That’s because God has the right plan for everything, and He’s revealed these plans in His Word.<span> </span>They’re right there for anyone who will read it and apply it.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">God has a plan for the way you handle your money.<span> </span>A plan for the way you raise your children.<span> </span>A plan for the way you treat your body.<span> </span>A plan for the way you spend your time.<span> </span>A plan for the way you handle conflict.<span> </span>Isn’t it just like your Maker to know exactly what you need?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">If
being a regular Bible reader is new for you, you’ll be surprised how
quickly you’ll begin thinking differently and more eternally.<span> </span>And
if you are serious about establishing strategies for life based on
God’s way of doing things, He will guide you to make connections between
what you’re reading and how it applies.<span> </span>It’s an enlightening journey with discoveries to be made all the time.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Every aspect of your life that you submit to, God’s principles will grow stronger and more long-lasting over time.<span> </span>But
any part you withhold from Him, choosing instead to try your own hand
at it, will weaken and eventually fail when the storms of life hit you.<span> </span>It may, in fact, be the one area that hastens the downfall of your home and marriage.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Wise couples build their houses on the rock of God’s Word.<span> </span>They’ve seen what sand can do.<span> </span>They know how it feels when their footing gets soft and the foundation gives way.<span> </span>That’s
why must determine to build your life and marriage on the solid rock of
the Bible, and then you can plan on a stronger future – no matter how
bad the storms get.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Today’s Dare</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Commit to reading the Bible every day.<span> </span>Find a devotional book or other resource that will give you some guidance.<span> </span>If your spouse is open to it, see if they will commit to daily Bible reading with you.<span> </span>Begin submitting each area of your life to its guidance and start building on the rock.</span></b></span></span></div>
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<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-81556516343304528352014-04-20T07:00:00.000-05:002014-04-20T07:00:02.433-05:00Love Dare: Day 35<h3>
Love Dare- Day 35</h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.<span> </span>– Proverbs 15:22</span></em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Mighty sequoia trees tower hundreds of feet in the air and can withstand intense environmental pressures.<span> </span>Lightning can strike them, fierce winds can blow, and forest fires can rage around them.<span> </span>But the sequoia endures, standing firm, only growing stronger through the trials.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">One of the secrets to the strength of this giant tree is what goes on below the surface.<span> </span>Unlike many trees, they reach out and interlock their roots with the sequoias around them.<span> </span>Each becomes empowered and reinforced by the strength of each others.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The secret to the sequoia is also the key to maintaining a strong, healthy marriage.<span> </span>A couple that faces problems alone is more likely to fall apart during rough times.<span> </span>However,
the ones who interlock their lives in a network of other strong
marriages radically increase their chances of surviving the fiercest of
storms.<span> </span>It is crucial that a husband and wife pursue godly advice, healthy friendships, and experienced mentors.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Everyone needs wise counsel throughout life.<span> </span>Wise people constantly seek it and gladly receive it.<span> </span>Fools never ask for it and then ignore it when it’s given to them.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">As
the Bible so clearly explains, “The way of a fool is right in his own
eyes, but a wise man is he who listens to counsel” (Proverbs 12:15).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Gaining wise counsel is like having a detailed road map and a personal guide while traveling on a long, challenging journey.<span> </span>It can be the difference between continual success or the destruction of another marriage.<span> </span>It is vital that you invite strong couples to share the wisdom they have gained through their own successes and failures.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Why
waste years of your life learning painful lessons when you could
discover those same truths during a few hours of wise counsel?<span> </span>Why not cross the bridges others have built?<span> </span>Wisdom is more valuable than gold.<span> </span>Not receiving it is like letting priceless coins pass through your fingers.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Good marriage mentors warn you before you make a bad decision.<span> </span>They encourage you when you are ready to give up.<span> </span>And they cheer you on as you reach new levels of intimacy in your marriage.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Do
you have an older couple or a friend or a friend of the same gender you
can turn to for good advice, for prayer support, and for regular
accountability checkups?<span> </span>Do you have someone in your life who shoots straight with you?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">You and your spouse need these types of friends and mentors on a consistent basis.<span> </span>The
Bible says, “Encourage one another day after day … so that none of you
will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin” (Hebrews 3:13).<span> </span>Too often we can isolate ourselves from others.<span> </span>If we are not careful, we could push away the people who love us the most.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">You must guard yourself against the wrong influencers.<span> </span>Everyone
has an opinion and some people will encourage you to act selfishly and
leave your mate in order to pursue your own happiness.<span> </span>Be careful about listening to advice from people who don’t have a good marriage themselves.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">If
your marriage is hanging by a thread or already heading for a divorce,
then you need to stop everything and pursue solid counseling as quickly
as possible. Call a pastor, a Bible-believing counselor, or a marriage
ministry today.<span> </span>As awkward as
it may initially be to open up your life to a stranger, your marriage is
worth every second spent and every sacrifice you will make for it.<span> </span>Even
if your marriage is fairly stable, you’re in no less need of honest,
open mentors – people who can put wind in your sails and make your
marriage even better.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">How do you pick a good mentor?<span> </span>You look for a person who has the kind of marriage you want.<span> </span>You look for a person whose heart for Christ comes first before everything else.<span> </span>You look for someone who doesn’t live by his or her opinions but by the unchanging Word of God.<span> </span>And more times than not, this person will likely be delighted you asked for help.<span> </span>Start praying for God to send this person into your life.<span> </span>Then pick a time to meet and talk.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">If this doesn’t sound too important to you, it would be a good idea to ask yourself why.<span> </span>Do you have something to hide?<span> </span>Are you afraid you will be embarrassed?<span> </span>Do you think your marriage is exempt from needing outside help?<span> </span>Does diving into a river of positive influence not appeal to you?<span> </span>Don’t be the captain of another Titanic divorce by ignoring the warning signs around you when you could have been helped.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Here’s an important reminder from Scripture: “Each one of us will give an account of himself to God” (Romans 14:12).<span> </span>This appointment is unbreakable.<span> </span>And though we’re all ultimately responsible for the way we approach it, we can surely stand as much help as others can give.<span> </span>It might just be the relational influence that takes your marriage from mediocre to amazing.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">Find a marriage mentor – someone who is a strong Christian and who will be honest and loving with you.<span> </span>If you feel that counseling is needed, then take the first step to set up an appointment.<span> </span>During this process, ask God to direct your decisions and discernment.</span></b></span></span><br /><img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0;" /><br />
<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-48206200470236193822014-04-19T07:00:00.000-05:002014-04-19T07:00:06.573-05:00Love Dare: Day 34<h3>
Love Dare: Day 34</h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love Celebrates Godliness</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">[Love] does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth.<span> </span>– 1 Corinthians 13:6</span></em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">From
the moment you close your Bible in the morning nearly everything else
you’ll encounter throughout the day will be luring you away from its
truths.<span> </span>The opinions of your
coworkers, the news coverage on television, your typical Websites, the
various temptations of the day – all of these and more will be working
overtime to shape your perceptions of what’s true and most desirable in
life.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">They’ll say that having a knockout wife who dresses to get other men’s attention is a good thing.<span> </span>They say that bad language and immorality in the movies are fine for mature people.<span> </span>They’ll say that church isn’t important in a person’s life.<span> </span>They’ll say that we each must find God in our own way.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">They’ll say a lot of things.<span> </span>And
they’ll say them so loudly and frequently that if we’re not careful, we
can start believing that what they say is the way things should be.<span> </span>We can begin valuing what everybody else values and thinking the way everybody else does.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">But
the meaning of “real life” changes dramatically when we understand that
God’s Word is the ultimate expression of what real life is.<span> </span>The teachings it contains are not just good guesses at what should matter.<span> </span>They are principles that reflect the way things really are, the way God created life to be.<span> </span>His
ideals and instructions are the only pathways to real blessing, and
when we see people following them in obedience to the Lord; it should
cause us to rejoice.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">What makes you the proudest of your husband?<span> </span>Is
it when he comes home with a trophy from the company golf tournament,
or when he gathers the family before bedtime to pray together and read
the Word?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">What overjoys you the most in your wife?<span> </span>Is
it seeing her try a new painting technique in the children’s bedrooms,
or seeing her forgive the neighbor whose dog dug up her plants?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">You are one of the most influential people in your spouse’s life.<span> </span>Have you been using your influence to lead them to honor God, or to dishonor Him?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love rejoices most in the things that please God.<span> </span>When
your mate is growing in Christian character, persevering in faith,
seeking purity, and embracing roles of giving and service – becoming
spiritually responsible in your home – the Bible says we should be
celebrating it.<span> </span>The word
“rejoices” in 1 Corinthians 13:6 carries the idea of being absolutely
thrilled, excitedly cheering them on for what they’re allowing God to
accomplish in their lives.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The
apostle Paul, who helped establish and minister to many of the
first-century churches, wrote in his letters how delighted he was to
hear reports of the people’s faithfulness and growth in Jesus.<span> </span>“We
ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren, as is only
fitting, because your faith is greatly enlarged, and the love of each
one of you toward one another grows ever greater; therefore, we
ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your
perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and
afflictions which you endure” (2 Thessalonians 1:3-4).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The
apostle John, who had walked closely with Jesus and became one of the
main leaders in the early church, once wrote to his flock, “I have no
greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth” (3
John 4).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">That should be what energizes us when we see it happening in our mate.<span> </span>More than when they save money on the grocery bill.<span> </span>More than when they achieve success at work.<span> </span>Sometimes
by accepting modern culture’s take on what to applaud in our spouse, we
can even be guilty of encouraging them to sin – perhaps by feeding
their vanity, or by letting boys be boys.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">But “love does not rejoice in unrighteousness” – not in ourselves and not in our mate.<span> </span>Rather,
love “rejoices with the truth,” the way Paul did when he said to the
Roman church, “The report of your obedience has reached to all;
therefore I am rejoicing over you, but I want you to be wise in what is
good and innocent in what is evil” (Romans 16:19).<span> </span>He knew that the pursuit of godliness, purity, and faithfulness was the only way for them to find joy and ultimate fulfillment.<span> </span>Being
“wise” about holiness while being “innocent” about sin – remaining
unjaded and uncompromising as we travel through life – is the way to win
in God’s eyes.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">And what more could we want for our wife or husband than for them to experience God’s best in life?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Be happy for any success your spouse enjoys.<span> </span>But save your heartiest congratulations for those times when they are honoring God with their worship and obedience.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Today’s Dare</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Find a specific, recent example when your spouse demonstrated Christian character in a noticeable way.<span> </span>Verbally commend them for this at some point today.</span></b></span></span></div>
<br /><img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0;" /><br />
<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-54991318143888641082014-04-18T07:00:00.000-05:002014-04-18T07:00:09.332-05:00Love Dare: Day 33<h3>
Love Dare- Day 33</h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love Completes Each Other</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">If two lie down together they keep warm, but how can one be warm alone?<span> </span>-- Ecclesiastes 4:11</span></em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">God creates marriage by taking a man and a woman and uniting them as one.<span> </span>And although love must be willing to act alone if necessary, it is always better when it is not just a solo performance.<span> </span>Love can function on its own if there is no other way, but there is a “more excellent way” (1 Corinthians 12:31).<span> </span>And love dares not to stop loving before it gets there.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">This “completing” aspect of love was revealed to mankind from the beginning.<span> </span>God originated the human race with male and a female – two similar but complementary designs meant to function in harmony.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Are bodies are made for each other.<span> </span>Our natures and temperaments provide balance, enabling us to more effectively complete the tasks at hand.<span> </span>Our oneness can produce children, and our teamwork can best raise them to health and maturity.<span> </span>When one is weak, the other is strong.<span> </span>When one needs building up, the other is equipped to enhance and encourage.<span> </span>We multiply one another’s joys and divide one another’s sorrows.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The scriptures say, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor.<span> </span>For if either of them falls, the other one will lift up his companion.<span> </span>But woe to the one who falls, the one will lift up his companion.<span> </span>But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up”(Ecclesiastes 4:9, 10).<span> </span>It’s like your two hands, which don’t just coexist together but multiply the effectiveness of the other.<span> </span>In order to do what they do, neither is quite complete without the other.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Although
our difference can frequently be the source of the misunderstanding and
conflict, they have been created by God and can be ongoing blessings if
we respect them.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">One of you may be better at cooking, for instance, while the other is more thorough in cleaning the dishes.<span> </span>One
may be more gentle and able to keep peace among family members, while
the other handles discipline more directly and effectively.<span> </span>One may have a good business head but needs the other to help him remember to be generous.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">When
we learn to accept these distinctions in our mate, we can bypass
criticism and go straight to helping and appreciating one another.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">But some can’t seem to get past their partners differences.<span> </span>And they suffer many wasted opportunities as a result.<span> </span>They don’t take advantage of the uniqueness that makes each of them more effective when including the other.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">One such example from the Bible is Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor who presided over the trial of Jesus.<span> </span>Unaware of who Christ was and against his better judgment, he allowed the crowd to influence him into crucifying Jesus.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">But
the one person who was more sensitive to what was really happening was
Pilate’s wife, who came to him at the height of the uproar and warned
him he was making a mistake.<span> </span>“While
he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent him a message,
saying, ‘Have nothing to do with what righteous Man; for last night I
suffered greatly in a dream because of Him” (Matthew 27:19).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">She was apparently a woman of keen discernment who grasped the magnitude of these events before her husband did.<span> </span>Certainly, God’s sovereignty was at work, and nothing would have kept His Son from marching obediently to the cross for us.<span> </span>But Pilate’s dismissal of his wife’s intuition reveals an unfortunate side to man’s nature that is often downplayed.<span> </span>God made wives to complete their husbands, and He gives them insight that in many cases is kept from their men.<span> </span>If this discernment is ignored, it is often to the detriment of the man making the decision.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The effectiveness of your marriage is dependent upon both of you working together.<span> </span>Do you have big decisions to make about your finances or retirement planning?<span> </span>Are
you having a real problem with a coworker who’s getting harder and
harder to deal with, and you are grappling with the appropriate action
to take?<span> </span>Are you absolutely convinced that your educational choices for the children are right, no matter what your spouse thinks?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Don’t try doing all the analysis yourself.<span> </span>Don’t disqualify his or her right to voice an opinion on matters that affect both of you.<span> </span>Love realizes that God has put you together on purpose.<span> </span>And
though you may wind up disagreeing with your spouse’s perspectives, you
should still give their views respect and strong consideration.<span> </span>This honors God’s design for your relationship and guards the oneness He intends.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Joined together, you are greater than your independent parts. You need each other.<span> </span>You complete each other.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Today’s Dare</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Recognize that your spouse is integral to your future success.<span> </span>Let them know today that you desire to include them in your upcoming decisions, and that you need their perspective and counsel.<span> </span>If you have ignored their input in the past, admit your oversight and ask them to forgive you.</span></b></span></span></div>
<br /><img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0;" /><br />
<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-71452741358137065332014-04-17T11:01:00.001-05:002016-03-25T06:38:36.729-05:00Resurrection Rolls<h3>
<br />A Hands-On Teaching of the Real Meaning of Easter</h3>
I started making these resurrection rolls with my kids last year. If you haven't seen them on the Internet or made them yourself, they are worth trying out.<br />
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They would be perfect to make Easter morning or a couple days before. We like to make ours on Good Friday.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <u>Ingredients:</u></b></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">1 can crescent rolls</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">large marshmallows</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">melted butter- a few Tbsp</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">cinnamon/sugar mixture- a few Tbsp </span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b> Directions:</b></u></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F while preparing.<u><b> </b></u></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Read John 19 about the death and burial of Jesus. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><b></b> Unroll crescent rolls <i>(which represents the burial linen cloths of Jesus) </i>into 8 separate triangles. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"> Roll white marshmallow(s) <i>(which represent the pure sinless body of Christ)</i> in butter.</span></li>
</ol>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOMIqGBuMTq-iecFK9wfMxhDTjXyxgSygWnQSpHcqNqj9pUl0p2hYPDHXtWPx-4y8lyvRP_XJrRtyUNFf783bHL8XlMHssvlrszW4Ii46WKnJjNuFOiEGmTnepkN1yKeV5RJJ-AhDqu0/s1600/IMG_1984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOMIqGBuMTq-iecFK9wfMxhDTjXyxgSygWnQSpHcqNqj9pUl0p2hYPDHXtWPx-4y8lyvRP_XJrRtyUNFf783bHL8XlMHssvlrszW4Ii46WKnJjNuFOiEGmTnepkN1yKeV5RJJ-AhDqu0/s1600/IMG_1984.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> 5. Roll in cinnamon sugar <i>(which represent the burial oils and spices).</i><i> </i><i> </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6.Wrap the cinnamon sugar covered marshmallow in the crescent roll, pinching the dough together. Make sure to seal all sides tightly, pointing out that the tomb was sealed so that no one could get in...or out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBe9eZuod6ziKosuRCZPAXfVsSLlhJRhA8OskEXADCLqwL0UQBfqf0iMN_d8kpjdRT0eNclxexht5P7PRhb5kt8Wv8Ybhx1hKpiS9gB_5cMKPiMlfLdZ7vq3DuxR_-hHprvMloe95YFTA/s1600/IMG_1987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBe9eZuod6ziKosuRCZPAXfVsSLlhJRhA8OskEXADCLqwL0UQBfqf0iMN_d8kpjdRT0eNclxexht5P7PRhb5kt8Wv8Ybhx1hKpiS9gB_5cMKPiMlfLdZ7vq3DuxR_-hHprvMloe95YFTA/s1600/IMG_1987.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmLyfuRR4R7Dv9R0_jU7ufW05Xd_Ms2aCl0A1pVZCAKNNbkXd27krVg-nLjxJBrZ2-t7-tzZUxU3DP5f9rl_uDVX99PRy1Q9JjaHMgvcbsBmdFmbyGztBglzF0nZSW1rd6NX0H5SNETA/s1600/IMG_1986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmLyfuRR4R7Dv9R0_jU7ufW05Xd_Ms2aCl0A1pVZCAKNNbkXd27krVg-nLjxJBrZ2-t7-tzZUxU3DP5f9rl_uDVX99PRy1Q9JjaHMgvcbsBmdFmbyGztBglzF0nZSW1rd6NX0H5SNETA/s1600/IMG_1986.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">*Tip* If you have a sil pat you may want to use it (or parchment paper will do). It makes the sticky marshmallow leakage clean-up a cinch!</span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibaGL5SPN69LEBQpMRsqY1ovkujLpkIPDrvbOsAPfaJanbtxilPC-p4tXFgBxgjA8okI4q3mTo5MB2oRhyECu5729X0EG0VhX_bzXhltOFEUsSQnQFhTNotg8vSOSMCYuVTRcIKojMB7c/s1600/IMG_1988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibaGL5SPN69LEBQpMRsqY1ovkujLpkIPDrvbOsAPfaJanbtxilPC-p4tXFgBxgjA8okI4q3mTo5MB2oRhyECu5729X0EG0VhX_bzXhltOFEUsSQnQFhTNotg8vSOSMCYuVTRcIKojMB7c/s1600/IMG_1988.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">7. Place the rolls in the oven <i>(which represents the tomb).</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">8. Bake for 10-12 minutes. (<i>You can pretend as if you are waiting 3 days</i>.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>9.</i> While baking, read John 20:1-18 about the empty tomb and see if your kids can predict what will happen to the marshmallow. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU3_iPt50A0aYL_H7r_8AuLZRwUaS4aXseeLEPyEcReB0JzmPRcSr5Hu9zqnvXCq-oNgF62mJaKt3E8BP8NJbuw0aFx75uKeT2rPT073xCY8MF4c_NZPTCLLG9xBdtyEEyP6cOfT-YYrs/s1600/IMG_1994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU3_iPt50A0aYL_H7r_8AuLZRwUaS4aXseeLEPyEcReB0JzmPRcSr5Hu9zqnvXCq-oNgF62mJaKt3E8BP8NJbuw0aFx75uKeT2rPT073xCY8MF4c_NZPTCLLG9xBdtyEEyP6cOfT-YYrs/s1600/IMG_1994.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiGtS01DutZvfp-f6XwWplPzw9JgInahhtSgclEqeBQxgqXQTPOJZ_eAN60k1nm9zfPa-rHIzEcA9KxWH3YiWdgq2skM9TIGEpLXX-ce9voDcpOl5IVGZQeIgRizxeSt6eRZBuXEr8Hs8/s1600/IMG_1989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiGtS01DutZvfp-f6XwWplPzw9JgInahhtSgclEqeBQxgqXQTPOJZ_eAN60k1nm9zfPa-rHIzEcA9KxWH3YiWdgq2skM9TIGEpLXX-ce9voDcpOl5IVGZQeIgRizxeSt6eRZBuXEr8Hs8/s1600/IMG_1989.JPG" width="320" /></a><img align="right" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0px none;" />10. Once the rolls have cooled, open to reveal the missing marshmallow. Jesus has risen! He’s ALIVE! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">11. Enjoy the yummy treat or share with a neighbor!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy Easter! </span> </span>Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-61229670644446682852014-04-17T07:00:00.000-05:002014-04-17T07:35:19.330-05:00Love Dare: Day 32<h3>
Love Dare- Day 32</h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love Meets Sexual Needs</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">The husband must fulfill his duty to his wife, and likewise also the wife to her husband. – 1 Corinthians 7:3</span></em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Some
people think the Bible has nothing good to say about sex, as though all
God seems concerned about is telling us when not to do it and who not
`and the blessing it can be for both husband and wife.<span> </span>Even
its boundaries and restrictions are God’s ways of keeping our sexual
experiences at a level far beyond any of those advertised on television
or in the movies.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">In Christian marriage, romance is meant to thrive and flourish.<span> </span>After all, it was created by God.<span> </span>It’s all part of celebrating what God has given, becoming one with our mate while simultaneously pursuing purity and holiness.<span> </span>He delights in us when this happens.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The
Song of Solomon, for example, though frequently misunderstood as
nothing more than an allegory about God’s passion for His people, is
actually a beautiful love story.<span> </span>It describes sexual acts between a husband and wife in poetic detail, showing how each one responds to the other.<span> </span>It expresses how honesty and understanding in sexual matters lead to a life of confident love together.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">It’s true that sex is only one aspect of marriage.<span> </span>But as time goes by, one of you will likely value its importance more highly than the other.<span> </span>As a result of this, the nature of your oneness as man and wife will feel threatened and endangered.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Again, the biblical foundations of marriage were originally expressed in the creation of Adam and Eve.<span> </span>She was made to be “a helper suitable for him” (Genesis 2:18).<span> </span>The unity of their relationship and physical bodies was so strong, they were said to become “one flesh” (Genesis 2:24).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">This same oneness is a hallmark of every marriage.<span> </span>In the act of romance, we join our hearts to each other an expression of love that no other form of communication can match.<span> </span>That’s why “the marriage bed is to be undefiled” (Hebrews 13:4).<span> </span>We are not to share this same experience with anyone else.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">But we are weak.<span> </span>And
when this legitimate need goes unmet – when it’s treated as being
selfish and demanding by the other – our hearts are subject to being
drawn away from marriage, tempted to fulfill this longing somewhere
else, some other way.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">To counteract this tendency, God established marriage with a “one flesh” mentality.<span> </span>“The
wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does;
and likewise also the husband does not have authority over his own body,
but the wife does” (1 Corinthians 7:4).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Sex is not to be used as a bargaining chip.<span> </span>It is not something God allows us to withhold without consequence.<span> </span>Though
there can be abuses to this divinely designed framework, the heart of
marriage is one of giving ourselves to each other to meet the other’s
needs.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Sex is one God-given opportunity to do that.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">So
“stop depriving one another,” the Bible warns, “except by agreement for
a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer, and come together
again so that Satan will not tempt you because of you lack of
self-control” (1 Corinthians 7:5).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">You are the one person called and designated by God to meet your spouse’s sexual needs.<span> </span>If
you allow distance to grow between you in this area, if you allow
staleness to set in, you are taking something that rightly (and
exclusively) belongs to your spouse.<span> </span>If
you let your mate know – by words, actions, or inactions – that sex
needn’t be any more than you want it to be, you rob from them a sense of
honor and endearment that has been set in place by biblical mandate.
You violate the “one flesh” unity of marriage.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">So
whether you perceive yourself as being on the deprived end, or you
would admit that you are the one depriving the other, know that God’s
plan for you is to meet in the middle and come to a place of agreement.<span> </span>But also know that the path to getting there will not be accomplished by sulking, arguing or demanding.<span> </span>Love is the only way to reestablish loving union between each other.<span> </span>All
the things the Love Dare entails – patience, kindness, selflessness,
thoughtfulness, protection, honor, forgiveness – will play a role in
renewing your sexual intimacy.<span> </span>When
the love of Christ is the foundation of your marriage, the strength of
your friendship and sexual relationship can be enjoyed at a level this
world can never know.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">“You have been bought with a price,” God has declared (1 Corinthians 6:20).<span> </span>He set His affections on you and went to every length to draw you into desiring Him.<span> </span>Now it is your turn to pay the loving price to win the heart of your mate.<span> </span>When you do, you will enjoy the pure delight that flows when sex is done for all the right reasons.<span> </span>And as if that’s not enough, you will also have the opportunity to “glorify God in your body” (1 Corinthians 6:20).<span> </span>How beautiful.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Today’s Dare</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">If at all possible, try to initiate sex with your husband or wife today.<span> </span>Do this in a way that honors what your spouse has told you (or implied to you) about what they need from you sexually.<span> </span>Ask God to make this enjoyable for both of you as well as a path to greater intimacy.</span></b></span></span></div>
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<img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0;" /><br />
<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-27071343634156222992014-04-16T07:00:00.000-05:002014-04-16T07:00:12.310-05:00Love Dare: Day 31<h3>
Love Dare- Day 31</h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love and Marriage</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">A man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh. – Genesis 2:24</span></em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">This verse is God’s original blueprint for how marriage is supposed to work. It involves a tearing away and a knitting together.<span> </span>It reconfigures existing relationships while establishing a brand new one.<span> </span>Marriage changes everything.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">That’s
why couples who don’t take this “leaving” and “cleaving” message to
heart will reap the consequences down the line, when the problems are
much harder to repair without hurting someone.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">“Leaving” means that you are breaking a natural tie.<span> </span>Your parents step into the role of counselors to be respected, but can no longer tell you what to do.<span> </span>Sometimes the difficulty in doing this comes from the original source.<span> </span>A parent may not be ready to release you yet from their control and expectations.<span> </span>Whether
through unhealthy dependence or inner struggles over the empty nest,
parents don’t always take their share of this responsibility.<span> </span>In such cases, the grown child has to make “leaving” a courageous choice of his own.<span> </span>And far too often, this break is not made in the right way.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Are you and your spouse still living with unresolved issues because of a failure to cut the apron strings?<span> </span>Do either of your parents continue to create problems within your home – perhaps without their even knowing it?<span> </span>What needs to happen to put a stop to this before it creates too wide of a division in your marriage?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Unity is a marriage quality to be guarded at a great cost.<span> </span>The
purpose of “leaving,” of course, is not to abandon all contact with the
past but rather to preserve the unique oneness that marriage is
designed to capture.<span> </span>Only in oneness can you become all that God means for you to be.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">If you’re too tightly drawn to your parents, the singular identity of your marriage will not be able to come to flower.<span> </span>You will always be held back, and a root of division will continue to send up new shoots into your relationship.<span> </span>It won’t go away unless you do something about it.<span> </span>For without “leaving,” you cannot do the “cleaving” you need, the joining of your hearts that’s required to experience oneness.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">“Cleaving” carries the idea of catching someone by pursuit, clinging to them as your new rock of refuge and safety.<span> </span>This man is now the spiritual leader of<span> </span>your new home, tasked with the responsibility of loving<span> </span>you “just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her” (Ephesians 5:25).<span> </span>This woman is now one in union with you, called to “see to it that she respects her husband” (Ephesians 5:33).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">As a result of this essential process, you are now free to become everything God meant when He declared you “one flesh.”</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span>·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">You are able to achieve oneness in your decision making, even when you begin from differing viewpoints.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span>·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">You
are able to achieve oneness in your priorities, even through you’ve
come together from backgrounds that could hardly be more different.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span>·<span style="-moz-font-feature-settings: normal; -moz-font-language-override: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">You
are able to achieve oneness in your sexual affections toward each
other, even if either of both of you have memories of impurity in your
pre-marital past.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">God’s decision to make you “one flesh” in marriage can make anything possible.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">If this is not how things are going in your home right now, you’re unfortunately in the majority.<span> </span>It’s
not out of character for couples of all kinds – even Christian couples –
to ignore God’s design for marriage, thinking they know better than He
does.<span> </span>Genesis 2:24 may have sounded nice and noble when it was wrapped around the sharing of vows at the wedding.<span> </span>But as a fundamental principle to be put into place and practiced as a living fact – this just seems too difficult to do.<span> </span>But this is what you must make any sacrifice to reclaim.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">It’s hard – extremely hard – when the pursuit of oneness is basically one-sided.<span> </span>Your spouse may not be interested at all in recapturing the unity you had at first.<span> </span>Even if there is some desire on his or her part, there may still be issues between you that are nowhere close to being resolved.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">But
if you’ll continue to keep a passion for oneness forefront in your mind
and heart, your relationship over time will begin to reflect the
inescapable “one flesh” design that is printed on its DNA.<span> </span>You don’t have to go looking for it.<span> </span>It’s already there.<span> </span>But you don’t have to live it, or there’s nothing else to expect than disunity.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Leave.<span> </span>And cleave.<span> </span>And dare to walk as one.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Today’s Dare</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Is there a “leaving” issue you haven’t been brave enough to conquer yet?<span> </span>Confess it to your spouse today, and resolve to make it right.<span> </span>The oneness of your marriage is dependent upon it.<span> </span>Follow
this with a commitment to your spouse and to God to make your marriage
the top priority over every other human relationship.</span></b></span></span></div>
<br /><img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0;" /><br />
<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6870655864894461639.post-53189962306193226812014-04-15T07:00:00.000-05:002014-04-15T07:00:12.241-05:00Love Dare: Day 30<h3>
Love Dare- Day 30</h3>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Love Brings Unity</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">Father, keep them in Your name, the name which You have given Me, that they may be one even as We are. – John 17:11</span></em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">One
of the most impressive things about the Bible is the way it linked
together, with consistent themes running throughout, from beginning to
end.<span> </span>Though written over a span
of 1,600 years and composed by more than forty writers of various
backgrounds and skill levels, God sovereignty authored it with one
united voice.<span> </span>And He continues to speak through it today without going message.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Unity. Togetherness. Oneness.<span> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">These are the unshakable hallmarks of our God.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">From
the very beginning of time, we see His unity at work through the
Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God the Father is there,
creating the heavens and the earth.<span> </span>The Spirit is “moving over the surface of the waters” (Genesis 1:2).<span> </span>And
the Son, who is “the radiance of His glory and the exact representation
of His nature” (Hebrews 1:3), joins in speaking the world into
existence.<span> </span>“Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness” (Genesis 1:26).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Us. Our.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">All three are in perfect oneness of mind and purpose.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">We
later see Jesus rising from the waters of baptism, as the Spirit
descends like a dove and the Father announces over this majestic scene,
“This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased” (Matthew 3:17).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Jesus later says, “I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (John 6:38).<span> </span>His desire to answer His followers’ prayer is “so that the Father may be glorified in the Son” (John 14:13).<span> </span>He
asks the Father to send the Holy Spirit, knowing that the Spirit will
faithfully testify about the Son He loves, for “no one knows the
thoughts of God except the Spirit of God” (1 Corinthians 2:11 NIV).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Father, Son, and Spirit are in pristine unity.<span> </span>They serve each other, love each other, and honor each other.<span> </span>Though equal, they rejoice when the other is praised.<span> </span>Though distinct, they are one, indivisible.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">And
because this relationship is so special – so representative of the
vastness and grandeur of God – He has chosen to let us experience an
aspect of it.<span> </span>In the unique relationship of husband and wife, two distinct individuals are spiritually united into “one flesh” (Genesis 2:24).<span> </span>And “what God has joined together, let man not separate” (Mark 10:9 NIV).</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">In
fact, this mystery is so compelling – and the love between husband and
wife so intertwined and complete – that God uses the imagery of marriage
to explain His love for the church.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The church (the bride) is most honored when her Savior is worshiped and celebrated.<span> </span>Christ
(the bridegroom), who has given Himself up for her, is most honored
when He sees her “as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any
other blemish, but holy and blameless” (Ephesians 5:27 NIV).<span> </span>Both Christ and the church love and honor the other.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">That’s the beauty of unity.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">Husband</span></em><span style="line-height: 115%;"> – What would happen in your marriage if you devoted yourself to loving, honoring, and serving your wife in all things?<span> </span>What
if you determined that the preservation of your oneness with this woman
was worth every sacrifice and expression of love you could make?<span> </span>What would change in your home if you took that approach to your relationship on a daily basis?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em><span style="line-height: 115%;">Wife</span></em><span style="line-height: 115%;"> – What would happen if you made it your mission to do everything possible to promote togetherness of heart with your husband?<span> </span>What
if every threat to your unity was treated as a poison, a cancer, an
enemy to be eliminated by love, humility, and selflessness?<span> </span>What would your marriage become if you were never again willing to see your oneness torn apart?</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The
unity of the Trinity, as seen beyond the reaches of history past and
continuing into the future, is evidence of the power of oneness.<span> </span>It is unbreakable.<span> </span>It is unending.<span> </span>And it is this same spiritual reality that disguises itself as your home and mailing address.<span> </span>Though
painted in the colors of work schedules and doctor visits and trips to
the grocery, oneness is the eternal thread that runs through the daily
experience of what you call “your marriage,” giving it a purpose to be
defended for life.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Therefore, love this one who is as much a part of your body as you are.<span> </span>Serve this one whose needs cannot be separated from your own.<span> </span>Honor this one who, when raised upon the pedestal of your love, raises you up too in the eyes of God, all at the same time.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong><span style="line-height: 115%;">Today’s Dare</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Isolate one area of division in<span> </span>your marriage, and look on today as a fresh opportunity to pray about it.<span> </span>Ask the Lord to reveal anything in your own heart that is threatening oneness with your spouse.<span> </span>Pray that He would do the same for them.<span> </span>And if appropriate, discuss this matter openly, seeking God for unity.</span></b></span></span></div>
<br /><img align="right" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWCIeMNJ-e1W9sWB4GfCCrOHvba-_MQDFA78bRo5AuGtIU_Nq7XTfH43tJJlQbQmR2DLSHsP7Ad35jZCjubD2SGYSKJUBtH1nA04kSuHN8PvXZLRmGBTwbmmyZC5lpV3dRyzO2DadYIQ/w320-h199-p-no/" style="border: 0;" /><br />
<br />Allison’s Wonderlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924659364054628327noreply@blogger.com0