tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34896034262916300752024-03-23T14:52:03.119-03:00The Daily DaisyWelcome to the blogspot for Yanna Conway. I have a vision and passion to see women of God walk in a deep love relationship with Jesus Christ. Come in for a visit!Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-4533078079161223472011-03-02T11:17:00.005-04:002011-03-02T11:28:27.998-04:00Cross the StreetI woke up fully annoyed and irritated. My voice even felt like it had been strained. It was then that I remembered my dream. I was on a journey I knew, but had come to a pedestrian crosswalk. I pressed the button and waited for the cars to pause so I could walk to the other side of the street. Lights were flashing, cars were stopping and I was standing still. Have you ever been in two places at once in a dream? I found myself also in one of the stopped vehicles watching me. Me standing still when all was apparent that I should CROSS THE STREET. I began to yell...Cross the Street, Cross the Street, what are you waiting for?!<br /><br />WHat does it mean to trust the Lord? Prov. 3:5-6 TRUST in the Lord with ALL your heart and lean not on your own understanding...in ALL your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.<br /><br />WHere it says.. "in all your ways acknowledge Him" jumped out to me. The word WAYS in Hebrew is "derek" and means "ROAD or Course"....so, in all the roads we take , all the places we go, all the paths we walk on, all the streets we cross, in this case...we are to ACKNOWLEDGE Him. Acknowledge comes from the word YADA, which means to know and in this case direct, intimate contact. Spiritually speaking I believe it means that if we will simply keep that connection with the Lord every day, God will be faithful to direct our paths.<br /><br />Last Easter was the first Easter that my husband and I were the lead pastors at our church. Every year we have a Good Friday service where many other churches join us....the church is packed! So we are to get up and give a greeting. My dear husband had everything written out. Now normally this would be fine with me, except he had written out word for word (to help me) our greeting. Well, this freaked me out as now I thought....I'm going to look like I'm reading a hello? What? My knees were knocking and I truly thought I was going to throw up....I may have even prayed I would so I wouldn't have to go on the platform:) I know you want me to tell you it went well. In my mind it didn't. It was awkward. There were pauses, I didn't follow the words, we didn't flow well together. I wanted to die!<br /> <br />Now others will tell you they didn't notice....I think they were being nice. FOR DAYS, I tortured myself with this....I can't do this anymore, I'm just not a communicator, I'm trying to be something I'm not, I should just give up and stay backstage. Anyone ever been there? It doesn't sound like truth to me. It sounds like the enemy....distorting things because of my insecurities.<br /><br />But I can't seem to get away from the whispers of my God. And I have some friends in my life who will also remind me of what God has said, and what the Word says. Reminders that no matter what, no matter how I feel, no matter if I mess up, I'm a God truster. And I'm in the process of trusting Him more and more.<br /> <br />He wants us to cross the street. Some of you may be right there. There's something that God is saying...trust Me in this. WE're in different places in our walks with God. Maybe some of you need to trust Him for the first time, surrender your life to Him. Some of you, your street is a job change or even a job stay! It could be taking a risk in a relationship, maybe it's obeying God in prayer and fasting...He's calling you to a higher place and you've been resisting, maybe there is a conversation that needs to take place with someone who hurt you. CROSS THE STREET! Freedom, change, restoration, love and more than we can know are waiting on the other side. Listen, God knows what is on the other side. So, if we do truly believe He is a loving God, He has a plan, it's a good one, why are we afraid? Because we might fail in the eyes of people? That would be the fear of man that brings a snare. God is with you as you cross AND He is also on the other side.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-89799359722901211152011-03-02T11:01:00.002-04:002011-03-02T11:03:59.833-04:00Do You Hear What I Hear?Yesterday as I was feeding snack to the kids I opened the window to hear the birds singing loudly. I told the kids to listen. We all sat still to hear the chirping of the birds. I moved on to getting some cookies out...seems silly but as I opened the bag I was aware of the sound of the crinkling it made. Instantly I heard the Lord say, what do you hear? Um, a cookie bag? I'd know what that was if my eyes were closed...and the birds as well. I began to think of other sounds I hear every day that I easily recognize...the garage door opening, the cupboards opening and closing (and opening and closing and opening and closing!), the dryer buzzer. I recognize them because they are part of every day of my life.<br /> <br />Let him who has an ear HEAR what the Spirit is saying...as we live and breath and move in the Spirit we will begin to recognize His voice. You may think you can't hear Him. I encourage you to daily spend time with Him and in His Word. As you do there will come a recognition of Him that you won't have to second guess. You will hear the sound of the Spirit.<br /> <br />A week or so ago a few of our sons took part in a media fast. For 3 days they stayed off the computer, didn't listen to music and refrained from texting. The biggest thing I noticed was a different awareness about them. Conversations took place that otherwise might not have. Sometimes in order to hear clearly we need to break away from the things that hinder a clear frequency.<br /><br />So I encourage you today to listen...take some time to get quiet before Him. I believe if you choose to tune your ear, you will hear...because He is faithful. Do you hear what I hear?Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-76161311431237058972009-09-10T12:50:00.006-03:002009-09-10T13:35:29.757-03:00A Journey of TrustThis weekend marks a new chapter in the Conway story. I am loving this God-breathed journey, this life of joy, questions, discoveries, questions, tears and a few more questions.<br /><br />13 years ago Russ and I felt the KNOWING leading of God to move our family of 4 from one side of Canada to the other...Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia. With two young boys in tow, we stepped onto a plane in faith that He would guide and provide. And He has! Not always in the timing I would prefer, but He does answer when we call to Him.<br /><br />Our first few weeks in Nova Scotia I discovered I was pregnant with baby boy number 3, miscarried his twin, found the house we had rented was full of fleas and felt completely isolated as Russ began his first semester in Bible School. It was the lonliest, full of tears season of my life and yet, it was the season I began a new and needed dependancy on my God. <br /> <br />Those two years I learned that regardless of my circumstances, His promise to never leave us is one I can stand on. We saw countless miracles in all sizes...groceries dropped at our door, gas cards from annonymous sources, tuition paid for by strangers and a van delivered just for us to name a few.<br /><br />I learned to make baby wipes out of paper towels:), to dilute laundry soap, and that children will not perish without milk or juice for awhile...water actually works too! We heard it said that if we were in God's will we would not be facing the struggles that loomed so large. Yet I would change nothing as I learned of a vast and faithful God who loves ME, cares about my diaper supply, my heartfelt need for friends, and despite my tunnel vision, sees the BIG picture of my life.<br /><br />In packing up and preparing for the new house we have now been blessed with, I came across a journal that lists the countless people who sowed into our family's life. Words cannot express my thankfulness for the friends and stangers who have come to our rescue and supported us along the way.<br /><br />ON Sunday, our pastor, Pastor Ted Yuke, will pass the mantle of senior leadership onto Russ and myself. He is stepping aside to continue God's call as an apostle to the country of Canada and the world. He, and his wife Gloria, leave a legacy of pastoring Rock Church for 38 years. While the responsibility and legacy are huge, I have been remembering this week about the faithfulness of God. We are stepping out once again in trust and KNOWING that we are following what He has laid out and that He has supplied a team that is well equipped to walk alongside us. What's ahead? Joy, questions, discoveries, questions, tears and more questions I'm sure. But when we walk dependant on Him, even the questions become a beautiful part of the journey. And He IS the God who answers when we call.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-8893632244630542212009-02-03T13:05:00.020-04:002011-09-21T08:43:43.257-03:00A Bonnet of HopeShe revisited the memory with tenderness and fresh tears of relief. The delicate, snow white tissue paper was worn from folding and unfolding. Its contents, perfectly undamaged, revealed the treasure and gave reason to the surge of emotion surfacing once again.<br /><br />The lifelong, relentless questions that had surrounded her mind like storm clouds were finally receiving answers. They came as a healing balm to the cold and hollow emptiness of feeling alone and abandoned.<br /><br />As a young girl she often wondered about her father. Grandmother never had anything good to say about him and she learned the hard way not to pry or give voice to her unanswered ponderings. Mother worked to take care of her while she was left tended to by Grandmother's harsh and angry ways. Nothing seemed to make her happy and any moment could bring a backlash of hateful words and numerous, undeserved punishments.<br /><br />Late at night, sleep would often evade her as thoughts of being hopelessly forgotten by her father taunted and teased like children on the playground. She prayed that one day answers would come and fill the hole in her heart.<br /><br />Days turned to months and months to years. She grew into a beautiful young woman, found love of her own, and mothered with care, five children. The years would not dull the ache or the unanswered question yet she gave herself wholeheartedly to her family.<br /><br />Years later, with weathered and fragile fingers, the answer came, quietly and without fanfare. It began with a phonecall that stirred her soul and brought a surge of hope into her heart. Through her grown daughter and an old letter, an aunt was discovered. The sister of her father...<br /><br />The story began to unravel and her heart responded to its truth. Her father had been consumed with love for her mother but after she was born, Grandmother forbid him to see her. He considered taking her away but rethought the plan realizing she was a nursing, dependant infant. He grieved the thought of walking away but had no choice. He would never forget this little girl and to be sure, the last time he saw her, he snuck unnoticed to her baby buggy and took the white, crocheted bonnet from her head.<br /><br />He carried it with him through World War I, carefully wrapped in white tissue paper. It compelled him not to give up. Each time he felt the pain of separation from his sweet girl, he would reach into his pocket, pat the bonnet, and remind himself that one day he would indeed find her. He sent gifts and cards never to be received.<br /><br />This answer came too late for a meeting. Her father had passed away years before but not without telling the story of this long lost baby girl that held a piece of his heart. And so, after many years, the discovery of this aunt and two brothers brought a delicate peace to her heart. It also quieted the hauntings of being forgotten and forsaken.<br /><br />As her fingers gently hold the baby bonnet, she says with quiet confidence and a tear in her eye....One day, I'll see my Dad. He'll know me and I'll know him. That will be a grand reunion indeed.<br /><br /><strong></strong><em></em>This story is dedicated to my grandmother, the sweet baby girl whose father never forgot about her.<strong></strong><em></em>Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-76039744364610546652008-12-08T10:26:00.001-04:002008-12-08T10:27:41.532-04:00Daughter of PromiseLove me please, the little girl cries<br />Alone at night when day is done<br />Her quiet plea is whispered<br />Now that Daddy's gone...<br /><br />Away now...and won't take care of me<br />Just another broken promise<br />But SomeOne's watchin, see<br />Surrounding...<br /><br />I will be strong, the young girl fights<br />Driven to stay alive inside<br />Her unspoken vow of no more tears<br />Is steeled into a lie...<br /><br />Alone now...can't hurt this heart of mine<br />With another broken promise<br />But SomeOne's holding time<br />Protecting...<br /><br />She is hungry, her soul cries out<br />For something true and real<br />The deep longing for acceptance<br />A wounded heart begins to heal...<br /><br />Awake now...ever sing for joy and hope<br />For this promise to believe in<br />Now Jesus is embracing, close<br />Forgiving...<br /><br />She is loved and everything is brighter<br />For SomeOne knows her name<br />Her freedom dance of passion<br />Releases her from shame<br /><br />Alive now...true and faithful One<br />She's a daughter of His promise<br />His knowing love has come<br />Belonging...Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-55883490678157003732008-11-26T14:27:00.011-04:002008-12-05T09:30:56.258-04:00Mary, A Surrendered HeartIt seems these days the Lord is challenging me to really step out of familiar places into the unknown. Without the knowledge of what is on the other side, He is asking me to TRUST Him.<br /><br />It has taken me back to times in my life of fresh surrender. Times when I've come back to Him with a bleeding heart, because of my own mistakes. Times when I've come to the end of me and my knowledge. And times when I must trust that He knows what is best for me, even when I don't understand.<br /><br />As the Christmas season is getting closer, my thoughts have turned to thinking about Mary and what it truly must have been like for her when the angel told her she would be the mother of the Messiah. At this time in Jewish history, a girl who became pregnant out of marriage should have been terrified. She could be forced to leave her family, friends and community... sold into slavery and dealt with unjustly or even stoned to death.<br /><br />Mary had been betrothed to Joseph. She was probably a young teenager about 14. The family had made plans and life seemed to be unfolding before her. Mary had watched other young girls get married and her moment was approaching. But with Gabriel's announcement, everything changed. Mary's world was interrupted. This event was not on her radar.<br /><br />Mary had some questions. How would this work since she had never been with a man? I'm sure her mind and emotions were reeling. But the bottom line in that she believed what was spoken over her. This young girl's world was turned upside down and she responded with a song. Mary says...my soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior...Mary chooses at this moment to make God bigger than any doubts, questions or fear about what she has been told. She chooses to trust that because she knows He loves her, His plan is good, regardless of what she knows or understands.<br /><br />We have the same choice as Mary. With confidence I can say that none of us will be giving birth to the Messiah. But God still has a task for us. Something, that without our surrender, may be left undone. What has God said to you? My question to you is this...Do you believe? Luke 1:37 tells us that "with God nothing will be impossible and no Word from God is without power of fulfillment."<br /><br />Surrender starts with a willingness to put no limits on what God can do in our lives.<br />We cannot dictate to Him what we will or will not allow. Surrender means to give up, to completely yield to the Power of another. It's not difficult to surrender if you KNOW that what God is asking you to do is because of His great love for you. He is not out to harm us or hurt us. His plan is for good.<br /><br />I love my calendar and I love my lists. It helps me stay organized and simply feel better because there is order. One thing about planners is that they are not often happy with surprises. Excuse me, that was not on my list for today. We are thrown off in a big way when this happens.<br /><br />When we allow God to interrupt our plans, something Divine happens. We yield ourselves as vessels, and magnify Him as Mary did...we step out of the Kingdom of Me and we once again give Him the keys to do as He pleases.<br /><br />When Mary said yes to God's plan she did not know how the rest of her life would unfold. She didn't know that her son would die on a cross. She didn't know the pain she would endure as the mother of the Messiah. But she trusted in God's plan. Elizabeth said to Mary in Luke 1:45 "Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of the things that were spoken to her from the Lord."<br /><br />Years ago I was running from God. I knew about Him as I had grown up in the church. But I was not in a place where I wanted to surrender fully. I wanted to do what I wanted to do. I didn't want to listen to my parents. I wanted to have fun. For the most part, I was happy in my rebellion. But at night, when I was without my friends, there was a nagging in my heart that there was more to life. God would not let me go...<br /><br />The beginning of this surrender is trusting in Jesus. It's trusting that He does have a plan for you and voluntarily placing the keys to your life in His hands. We are not giving the keys of our life over to a jailer or a torturer when we surrender...we are placing those keys into the hands of a loving Father. So many of us have had to live life strong...strong because we have not had that earthly person to look after us. We have learned to live life independent and capable. How can I convey to you the relief that comes when we gives those keys and that responsibility over to someone else? Someone who knows the beginning of your life to the end of your life. Someone who lovingly formed you with purpose. This is the first step of surrender...realizing that Jesus came for you, died for you and wants relationship with you.<br /><br />When we get the revelation that it is a God of love that is calling us, we can more easily trust Him. Fenelon says this, " God is not a spy looking to surprise you. He is not an enemy lurking in the shadows to hurt you. God is your Father who loves you and wants to help you if you will but trust in His goodness."<br /><br />You see God has more in mind that we can see, because, well, He's God and we're not.<br />Mary didn't know, I'm sure....to answer the question of the song we so often sing at Christmas, but she trusted in God. Will you?Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-45512206009450534112008-07-13T16:15:00.003-03:002008-07-13T16:58:45.543-03:00He Loved You First"That's how I know he wants to be my friend mom," said one of my sons, as he hung up the phone. My listening tuned in a little closer to this conversation as I sensed something profound was about to come out.<br /><br />"Okay, tell me what you mean Morgan," I said. "Well, you know how you have some friends who don't ever call you or ask if you want to do stuff?....How it can seem like you're always the one asking to hang out?" I smiled....yes, I know what you mean.<br /><br />"But then, if somebody calls you, just for no reason, just to see how you are, you KNOW they like you and really want to be your friend. They call you first!" he continued.<br /><br />"That's how this is mom. Somebody thinks I'm cool to hang out with and it just makes me feel great." And out the door he went to hang out.<br /><br />Instantly, I heard the Holy Spirit speak to my heart. That's how you can know and rest assured that I love you Yanna. I thought about the truth that Jesus made the first move towards me. Why do I love Him? Because He first loved me. 1 John 4:19. He's the One who said in John 15:16...You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you...<br /><br />Jesus has made the first move towards you. To be in relationship with someone, a response is needed. He wants to spend time with you, hang out with you....because, just because, He loved you first.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-6908410536026795032008-07-11T08:51:00.005-03:002008-07-11T14:25:01.523-03:00Ready or Not?"WHEN is he coming?", complained Miri. "We have been waiting too long. Every night it's the same thing. Aren't you getting tired Eliza?" Eliza understood Miri's comments but did not share her impatience. It was an honor to have been chosen as one of the ten. She did not take it lightly.<br /><br />"He said he would come and he will. We must keep listening for the shout and even in our resting, be watchful," Eliza gently encouraged her. "I'm going to the market today for extra oil....come with me. It would be a shameful insult to the bridal party if our flames should go out."<br /><br />Miri checked her oil supply. She had never been much of a planner but always accomplished what was necessary when the time arrived. "It's too hot and I didn't sleep well last night. Plus my oil supply is fine," she said, with a hint of irritation in her voice.<br /><br />Eliza pressed her...."Miri, remember, we may be waiting for awhile or we could be called on tonight. Are you sure you have enough for the entire journey?"<br /><br />With a sigh, Miri insisted her oil supply was adequate. As the younger sister she was used to Eliza's reminders and again, they fell on deaf ears. "I'm going to lay down....enjoy your walk to the market."<br /><br />Eliza made her way out onto the well-worn dusty road. Her heart was hopeful that tonight was the night the bridegroom would call. It had been a long wait as Miri said, but new hope seemed to rise within Eliza every morning with the sun. Today was no different. She was determined to be ready....so much so that enough oil was not sufficient...extra oil for the journey would be a sacrifice....something more to carry...but it would ensure her torch would stay lit. She needed to be wise.<br /><br />Nightfall seemed to come quickly that day. Miri and Eliza, along with the other girls, began to nod off. Eliza had become an expert, however, at sleeping with one ear open...always listening. She was the first to hear the cry at midnight. Eliza's heart was pounding as she roused the others from their sleep. "Wake up, wake up. He's coming!" she called to them. They each quickly prepared and lit their torches. <br /><br />As the bridal procession began, Eliza caught her sister's eye. Miri's torch was lit but there was a look of worry on her face. "I can't help her now," thought Eliza, hoping her sister's assessment of her own oil supply was accurate.<br /><br />They were halfway there and Eliza's heart was soaring. The celebration, complete with singing and dancing in the streets, announced to all that the bridegroom had indeed come for his bride. He had made a promise and had kept it.<br /><br />"Eliza, Eliza, help me," Miri's voice was desperate. Eliza knew before she turned around that Miri was out of oil. "Eliza, please, lend me some of your oil. You have more than enough and my torch is going out," Miri pleaded with her sister.<br /><br />It was too late for a lecture. "I must keep my own oil, Miri. My own torch must stay lit. Go, quickly, and get more for yourself, so you don't miss the feast and celebration," Eliza said, wishing her sister had heeded her earlier warning.<br /><br />Miri ran quickly here and there searching for any oil she could find. Panic rose in her heart. "Why did I not listen and prepare when I had the time?", she chided herself for being lazy.<br /><br />As she made her way to the wedding celebration in the dark, Miri saw that she was not alone. Several of the girls had failed to prepare. They ran to the door as it closed. Miri was full of regret. She knew this would be an embarrassment to her family. She had taken lightly the honor and responsibility given to her.<br /><br />The Lord has challenged me to check my oil supply. And as Eliza reminded Miri, I'm gently reminding you....He is coming. We must be listening and we must be ready. IN John 14:1-3, Jesus tells us that He has gone to prepare a place for us and that He will come back for us. I pray today you will have a new expectancy of His return. He is our bridegroom and we are His bride.<br /><br />This blog was inspired from Matthew 25:1-13, the parable of the wise and foolish virgins. Read it for yourself:)!Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-27564813131855547222008-07-01T07:19:00.005-03:002008-07-01T11:01:50.112-03:00SCARSIf you are living, chances are you've endured some painful experiences with people. You may have been on the receiving end of a rejection or you may have delivered one yourself.<br /><br />Each one of us can look back on our lives and remember people we used to be close to that are no longer in our space. Depending how long ago the removal of that relationship was, the pain of the loss can still be intense, or it may have subsided to a dull ache.<br /><br />Recently I ran into someone I used to be very close to. Life's circumstances and personal decisions brought a separation that left me reeling in my emotions. The loss of a close friend can bring intense pain, whether it's a moving away geographically, a death, or a rejection.<br /><br />I went through a season of asking questions of the Lord, of condemning myself for mistakes made, and well, crying a lot of tears. But it was a season... and in time ...God healed my heart. He taught me through my mistakes, He reminded me that while people will fail me, He never will. That though people leave our lives for various reasons...He is always by my side.<br /><br />This unexpected meeting sent my heart into my throat. With that deafening thump in my ears, I prayed quietly for God to be the Strength of my heart. And He was. A peace settled over me and He gave me courage to initiate conversation.<br /><br />I'd love to tell you it went well...it didn't. There was a fresh pulling away, icy coldness and minimal response.<br /><br />It was tempting at the end of the evening to sink into a familiar pit. I recalled the wound, the pain,the loss...the Holy Spirit spoke quickly to me. The wound is a healed scar Yanna. There is no oozing, no bandage necessary, no scab left for picking at....simply a scar to remind you of lessons learned and My ability to heal you. Leave it with Me.<br /><br />Often times we nurse our wounds long after they are already healed...it gives us something to talk about and we can sink into self-pity or wallow in our emotions. Other times we take it upon ourselves to rip off the scab and slow down the healing process. The Lord challenges us to move on, to purpose not to sink into a pit of reliving long gone pain. Have a look at the scar for the purpose of growing and learning and remembering that He was and is still a Healer and Restorer of wounds.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-91138654476268781562008-01-12T18:53:00.000-04:002008-01-12T19:29:30.099-04:00YouTube - Tommy Walker - He Knows My Name<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JgaB38tUBEc">YouTube - Tommy Walker - He <br />Knows My Name</a><br /><br />My thoughts to go along with this are not overly profound. It is simply truth and touches my heart.<br /><br />We all long for someone to know us and not be overwhelmed by who we are and what we long for. The Lord reminded me this past week of some very basic truths of my faith...that I am LOVED and that I am a Lover of God.<br /><br />Jeremiah 1:5 reminds me that before I was even in my mother's womb HE knew and approved of me. That He is the One who separated and set me apart. If my Creator believes in me, who am I to not walk as one who is loved and called? WHo am I not to believe what His word says about me?<br /><br />It can be a wonderful thing to have the support and approval of friends and loved ones. But remember that the greatest supporter you have, is your Father. If you've accepted that love, no matter what else happens, no matter what else you accomplish in this life.....you are already significant and successful.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-77160318166357468052007-12-05T11:53:00.001-04:002007-12-05T13:51:01.453-04:00Root Beer FloatsAre you having fun yet?<br /><br />Russ and I spent some time decorating the house for Christmas this weekend. I'll be honest, this is not one of my favorite past times. I completely love the results, however, the hanging of the holly, and stringing of the lights are activities I push through every December.<br /><br />But something different happened this time and if nothing else I had my own fun. To the amusement of my husband and oldest son, I made a small joke as I passed the lights to Russ. Here you go, I said, cause you're such a bright light! Not really very funny, but did something ever just hit you and you could not control the laughter? Well, I was on the floor laughing so hard I could not walk, tears streaming down my face, looking as ridiculous as you are now imagining. When my fit of laughter was over, my stomach muscles were aching. But it felt so good to laugh!<br /><br />Last night I called my grandmother. It was her 93rd birthday. I asked her what she got for her birthday....among her favorites were a 3 day visit from my uncle and a digital photo frame. She said, "you know what Yanna Marie, all I really wanted was a root beer float!" And she started to laugh...hard. Yes, it struck me funny too that at her age that would still bring her delight. But why not? It brought a smile to my face to think of her in her chair drinking root beer with ice cream on top. I think it's her young attitude that keeps her living and laughing.<br /><br />This morning two of my one-year old kiddos were chasing each other through the kitchen. They would stop and grunt at each other and then burst into hilarious laughter. They were seriously rolling around on the floor the way I was a few days ago. Laughing over nothing! Ah...this is the life they seemed to say.<br /><br />It just made me think....sometimes we are way too serious! And sometimes we are simply too busy to even take the time to laugh or smile or enjoy our root beer floats.<br /><br />The Bible says that laughter is a good medicine. I believe it's true. Why don't you take the time today to see the happy in something small and allow it to change your perspective or make your stomach muscles hurt...whatever works!Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-89088880002946542252007-07-30T19:16:00.000-03:002007-08-01T22:36:19.495-03:00Cotton Candy CloudsIt was the last leg of our flights to Fort St. John. Many hours of flying, depleted snack supply and some peace and quiet needed. I was ready for some focused reading time...the latest of my favorites....Holiness, Truth and the Presence of God by Francis Frangipane.<br /><br />Then I saw her step down the aisle of the plane looking stressed... a mom with her three small children. It brought back a flood of memories when I had been in exactly the same situation. None of her seats were together and the flight attendent was trying to move people around to accomodate this young mom. Russ quickly volunteered to move which left the seat beside me vacant:)<br /><br />Six year old Jasmine, with her dark eyes and princess necklace, was to be my travelling companion for the next two hours. I smiled and decided to relax about my book reading. Divine appointments come in all sizes!<br /><br />"Do you wanna color with my new markers?" Jasmine was ready to share without any hesitation. We colored for awhile and I noticed her looking out the window. "What do you like the best about being up so high," I asked her. She smiled at me and showed her missing tooth. "The cotton candy clouds are my favorite, but you have to wait for them." I pointed out a few clouds and she quickly informed me that those were cotton ball clouds, NOT cotton candy ones.<br /><br />"I love that the trees look like broccoli too, but I don't like to EAT broccoli." We continued to color, I shared the last of my snacks with her, she told me all about her brother and sister, and we discussed possible names for her new barbie.<br /><br />I sat there enjoying the wonder in her, remembering seeing things as a child and realizing how complicated we can make life. So many times we miss significant moments because we are too busy to notice the small things. It's the little things along the way that make up the joy of our journey, not just the "moment" we are longing for....the destination.<br /><br />We finally saw Jasmine's cotton candy clouds. She clapped her hands and was happy to point them out to me. "SEE, she shouted, they look just like whispers of cotton candy...I can just taste it!"<br /><br />I had intended to read about the Presence of God but experienced it instead. A quiet, knowing....a peaceful leading beside still waters, a delightful sharing with a sweet six-year old. He is with us ALL the time, we just have to learn to recognize HIM.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-2471346261492226252007-06-21T14:20:00.000-03:002007-07-02T11:10:22.329-03:00ClimbingYesterday I took advantage of the ONE sunny day of the week and ventured to the backyard with the kids. They were so thrilled to be out there.<br /><br />As they began to play, the adventure of climbing over the plastic wall was clearly the highlight for everyone. I was praying I wouldn't pull a muscle as I hoisted them each over the top!<br /><br />As they "took turns" (haha, very funny) I was thinking about how different they all are. Even the different amounts of help and direction they required for this exercise was unique. Little Garret could climb with ease and just wanted a "high five" for his success. Kelsey and Libby simply needed support under the arms and a word of assurance or direction when they missed a step. Genevieve wanted to climb the wall too but refused to put down the ball she was carrying. "You can't do both things at the same time," I told her. <br /><br />Finally, desperate enough to be a part, she put the ball down only to yell...don't drop me Miss Yanna....the wind is going to blow me away! I did laugh quietly...she really was afraid:) There was no way I would drop her, but I had to consistently remind her of that fact.<br /><br />And then there was Kiley, who for some reason, didn't like her place in line. The pout lasted for most of our climbing fun until she realized she was really missing out.<br /><br />You know where I'm going...we're like each of them from day to day. Some things we don't need a lot of support with, others...we need to put something down if we're going to manouver successfully. HE is faithful to wait til we put down the ball we're carrying:) And when we get an attitude, it's up to us to get rid of it, or let's face it...we're missing out on all the fun. We're all supposed to be CLIMBING you know. Regardless of how we're doing it, He is there giving us the individual support needed for the task. He won't let you fall!Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-11354556282274768152007-06-04T21:55:00.000-03:002007-06-22T16:10:53.927-03:00Come Walk With METoday I had to go to the doctor for some tests. I didn't tell anyone that I've been overly concerned but the truth is I have been bothered. I had been back home for a little while when my parents stopped by. It was nice and quiet and a perfect time to talk. They simply said...we were thinking about you and were concerned...how did everything go today? A very simple thing, really. But it affected me today. They were thinking of me. (all is well, by the way)<br /><br />I realize more and more how in our busy lives we are often preoccupied with what WE have to do. Sometimes it may even be what we have to do for our families. But we can get caught up in the doing and forget to really find out who the people in our lives are and express to them that we care and are thinking of them. I think of Martha and Mary. I've always felt a little bad for Martha....I can be busy just like her. Today I wondered though, if Jesus said what He did because deep in Martha's heart she was serving for the wrong reason. Did she think that in her doing she could earn the favor of the Lord? I don't know, but this is how I am at times. I get so busy in my serving that I lose sight of WHO I'm serving and if I miss loving HIM in the process, truly, what's the point?<br /><br />Psalm 139:17-18 says really that HE is thinking about us all the time. I mean if we are thought of by the Lord as often as there are granules of sand on the seashores of the earth, that's pretty much ALL the time. Who could count that far, that wide and that deep?<br /><br />I have a spouse who I know a lot about. I know he doesn't like to try new things at restaurants, that he doesn't have a favorite color, that he almost ran a truck off a mountain at 18, that he loves to keep things organized and that he has an incredible gift for making people feel loved and special. We've spent a lot of time together over 16 years. I know him deeply and even sense things when he isn't speaking. OH, what can be communicated across a crowded room!<br /><br />I have four sons who are incredibly unique. I know what to buy each one to make their eyes light up. I know what meal to make for each one to hear "awesome supper mom!" Too bad they can't all enjoy the same food! That would make my life less complicated. I have spent years caring for and nurturing my boys. I know when they're lying, faking, or trying to get away with something. I have a sense of their individual talents and giftings because I have spent so much time watching and listening to desires, their likes and dislikes.<br /><br />I also have a close friend who loves ju jubes. I know her favorite flower, what makes her cry, what ticks her off. I know when I'm in a store what she would choose to buy. I know her hopes and dreams for the future and her disappointments and hurts from the past. I know what she's thinking a lot of the time just by watching her expressions.<br /><br />Why do I write about all that? Well, how do any of us know the depths in the people around us? We've spent time listening and talking with them. <br /><br />Imagine an incredible piece of artwork and having the opportunity to sit down with the artist and hear him talk about what inspired the painting. What he felt as he added various colors, the story he wanted to tell through his masterpiece. What an incredible experience! We have this wonderful opportunity every day.<br /><br />Sometimes a special speaker will visit our church who may have a prophetic annointing. I'm sure many of us (myself included) are wishing for that person to have a personal prophecy over us. It would bring clarity, maybe some direction, an answer we've been waiting for. The truth is...we are walking with the very ONE who fully designed us to be exactly as we are. He remembers things about our lives we have long forgotten. He knows why you have a splash of red in one corner or a hint of yellow in the middle:)<br /><br />We are often simply too busy or distracted to take the time to find out what He has to say. Ocassionally we run to Him when the pressure is on or we are at a major crossroads in our lives. But He invites us daily to <strong>Come Walk With Him</strong>. To hold His hand, to find out why He made us and what purposes He has for our lives. When we seek Him with our whole hearts we will find Him.<br /><br />Sometimes I fall into doing things because "it's the right thing to do." While this isn't necessarily bad since we are not to live by our feelings and our feelings should not control us....there has to be more than that. My life with Jesus is to be about relationship. If I sense I'm getting legalistic and dry I need to check what my connection with Him is like. Am I trying to believe His promises without spending time with HIM, the promiser? Given two promises from two people....one I know and one I don't, I am going to trust the promise from the person I have a relationship with. Something is established between us. I believe we can't love someone we don't know....and that takes TIME. TIME that many of us have filled with bountiful good things, but is robbing us of the TIME to build a relationship with the ONE who thinks about us more than the sand on the seashore. It really doesn't make any sense, does it?<br /><br />I want to leave a legacy to those coming behind me. I don't want it to be one that says...she was a busy woman, running to and fro giving little spoonfuls of her oil to everyone. I want my lamp to burn brightly...I want that legacy to be...she loved Him. So I must walk with Him and let Him fill me up. "Come away with me, my dove. Let me hear your voice, let me see your face...for your voice is sweet and your face is lovely." Song of Solomon 2:14<br /><br />A sunset walk on the beach with Him is calling you....will you <strong>come walk with Him?</strong><br />Ask Him what His thoughts are towards you. If you've been away for awhile, repent and pour your heart out to HIM. He is calling your name, calling you to run into His arms. We place so many things in our lives at high priority...the time is now to place a priority on knowing the Lord. Then we will begin to walk out the promises He has for us. We will know intimately the Promiser and trust that He will fulfill His promises.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-33834817371237968402007-05-29T10:11:00.000-03:002007-05-29T10:55:36.807-03:00Engaged for BattleI woke up this morning to a war in my mind and emotions. I was fine yesterday. But several days ago I made a decision to consecrate myself to the Lord....wholly and fresh. To follow hard after Him, to obey with my whole heart, to stop making excuses in my life. I have not been on my knees so much in a very long time. It is a place of surrender. Surrendering my motives, my dreams, my sin, my pride, my selfishness and asking for Him to leave what alone is Him and His purposes.<br /><br />I felt a literal shift in my spirit this weekend. And it came with making a choice. That's what our life is made up of, making choices. We make an excuse or we find a way as Faytene said this weekend. I have decided to find a way.<br /><br />SO, I should not have been surprised this morning to the assault that threatened to overwhelm me. Insecurites I have entertained in the past, doubts of who I really am and what God has called me to, lies of the enemy.<br /><br />This is where we choose. Am I going to stay and camp at this place or am I going to press through? Instead of telling how I feel to a human, I brought every bit of my weakness and tears to the Lord. I am so thankful that He does not get overwhelmed by our need. As I poured out my heart, truth began to invade my heart and mind. What I know to be true rose up inside of me and His word that has been in my heart fought against the lies as I opened my mouth.<br /><br />I got out my Sword and through tears that seemed unreasonable to me, I spoke the truth of God's word. This is the picture the Lord gave me. You have aligned yourself with My plan and My purpose. You have made a decision to follow hard after Me and not make excuses. You are deciding to walk into the land that I am giving you. You are engaging in a battle that you have been passive in. You have taken your place in the ranks and the enemy does not want you there. Today he is desiring to push you out of your place. He does not want you aligned! As the troops gather and come into position for battle he is in a panic. He will try to dislodge your committment. He will throw lies at you that have worked before. Are you going to let him push you around or are you going to fight back in the spirit with the weapons you've been given. Fellow soldier, we must fight. We must fight to stay aligned.<br /><br />Yesterday before this specific battle began a song that I have come to love flew out of the speakers and spoke fresh life and revelation to me. I am writing out the lyrics with a prayer that they will encourage you today if you are in a battle. We must fight and lay hold of what Christ has for us. We are in this together but the choice to fight or not is an individual one.<br /><br /><strong>To Live Is Christ</strong><br /><em>I make a vow<br />My life will always honor CHrist<br />WHether I live or die<br /><br />I belong to Him<br />He bore my sin<br />I owe this life to my saving King<br /><br />Hallelujah<br />I am not my own<br />You are in control<br />Hallelujah<br /><br />For me to live is Christ<br />And to die is gain<br />No matter what price I pay<br />I choose to give this life away<br /><br />Only by the cross I am saved<br />Only by the cross I am saved</em>Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-64438999288773046632007-05-14T09:43:00.000-03:002007-05-29T11:16:56.379-03:00A Call to MOTHERMOTHER'S DAY.....a day to honor and celebrate nurturing, giving life and protecting... Mothers...they pour themselves selflessly into our lives to help us become all we were meant to be. In thinking of this I realize that as a little girl this is what I dreamed of being. I loved to think about what I would name my chidren and what they would look like. Little girls have this within them.<br /><br />I have witnessed this time and time again in the girls I take care of. They mother very naturally. One little girl I have follows me around daily, correcting the others, reminding me of things forgotten, and pointing out what needs to be done next. She loves to kiss the others owies. Mothering is within her.<br /><br />To mother is a gift God has placed within women. Our bodies were designed to give birth. We bleed when we give birth and the "bleeding" never stops as we cry to the Lord for our children in prayer and our hearts rise and fall with their triumphs and hurts.<br /><br />To mother, I believe, is to partner with the Lord in bringing life out of the people around us. It is a holy calling and one not to be taken lightly. It is about seeing who the people around us truly are and calling them to walk this out.<br /><br />There is a generation crying out to be mothered. This is a cry within the body of Christ. I remember as a young teenager looking up to older teens and young women in my church. Watching them worship, listening to them pray....thinking, one day I want to be like that. I hear this cry consistently...it says would someone please show me HOW! Mentor me. It encourages me because it shows there is a godly generation emerging who wants to do what is right in the eyes of the Lord...they simply need some guidance along the way and someone who believes in them.<br /><br />This month we celebrate mothers. BUT I want to challenge our thinking about mothers. A MOTHER is more than a woman who has physically birthed a child. We also want to honor women who have chosen to mother children not their own. There are so many who pour their lives out through Sunday School, one-on-one mentoring, home visits and more. Your love and sacrifice do not go unnoticed. These women are constantly giving birth to new life in those around them.<br /><br />I left home when I was 18 and for 17 years was not geographically near my mom. She mothered me from a distance. She told me something she prayed that I feel is huge. She prayed for other women to come into my life to be spiritual mothers to me to fill in the gaps that she could not fill. And then she looked around for younger women in her church who needed her to do the same for them.<br /><br />Regardless of where you are, you can be a spiritual mother. Someone needs what you have. You might think you have to be a certain age before you can do this. I watch the young women in our church constantly mentoring the girls who are coming up just behind them. Can I say that no matter our age, as women, we have something to offer?<br />There is always something to give and also to receive.<br /><br />Whether you have physically birthed a child or not, God has blessed you as a woman with a gift to mother. It is a gift to speak life into others, to draw life out of them, and to love and inspire those around you to be what they were individually created to be.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-81263141729148309132007-04-23T13:44:00.000-03:002007-04-23T14:23:58.409-03:00Reserved SeatingYou've been waiting for such a long time! Your feet are hurting, the wind is blowing, and yes, the line is growing longer and longer as you wait. Just when you feel like giving up, you make it to the front of the line... it's your turn....finally! But suddenly the bell boy steps out to inform the crowd....sorry folks we're sold out. Please come back tomorrow night.<br /><br />You can't believe it! This is not right....you have waited and finally when you thought you were at the place to get where you wanted to be, you're turned away. Why does this ALWAYS happen to me? You lament, you scream...probably in silence... this is NOT fair!<br /><br />Have you ever been tempted to bud in line? I remember as a kid wanting to make sure I didn't miss whatever I was waiting for. An autograph, the best pancakes (who wants soggy, cold food?), the toy on sale, the best seat at the movies...all prizes waiting to be claimed. A panic can rise if it's something you feel desperate for. As we grow up it could be something more meaningful, like a job, a position in ministry, a spouse, even a child... it is so hard to wait and be patient. What if someone forgets us or we are overlooked somehow?<br /><br />But if someone has gone ahead of you and promised to save your place...you don't worry about missing out. You have the assurance that your friend has you covered and you can relax in line knowing your place is reserved.<br /><br />Awhile ago I heard the Lord clearly say to me....Yanna, I'm saving you a seat. No one else will sit in your place because your name reserves it. Others may get in before you but they will not take what I have reserved for you...because it's yours. Don't push ahead...be still and know that I am God. Let the waiting do it's work in you. The waiting is for a purpose. And trust ME. Trust the truth of my Word that says....You did not choose ME, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit....John 15:16...His promises to us are true and while in this life we can be disappointed, we know that what He promises us will come to pass.<br /><br />The Lord is saving you a seat. What He has for you is yours. Others have their seats reserved for them....don't get messed up in comparing what He has for them with what He has for you. So relax while you're waiting in line and trust that your place is reserved with your name in BOLD letters.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-30309785580244056172007-04-18T13:07:00.000-03:002007-04-18T14:18:14.480-03:00TWYLAIt was the summer before my grade 12 year. My dad had been transferred to a city 4 hours north of Regina, my home for most of my life. I was sick inside at the thought of moving the year before graduating. This meant leaving childhood friends behind and graduating with a group of strangers. I was SO angry. Angry with my parents and angry at God. It was not in any way fair!<br /><br />No amount of tears or manipulating could change the inevitable. We packed up our things and headed to Prince Albert. My attitude was awful. I did part of the driving and purposely ran over a groundhog. I thought it would make me feel better but it just made me cry more....however, I remember enjoying the pain it caused my sister. Sorry Darby:)<br /><br />When we arrived I bought a Garfield poster that stated I'M SO HAPPY HERE I COULD JUST BARF. I proudly and rebelliously placed it on my bedroom door. Nothing was going to make me happy and I wanted to make sure everyone knew it!<br /><br />My mom had begun going to a Bible Study and met a woman with a daughter my age. Of course, as mothers do, she shared my miserable state. This mother promptly went home and informed her daughter to call me. That was my first contact with Twyla. She was introverted, loved more than anything to play the keyboards, and hated our dog:) She told me during that call that she would pick me up for the first day of school and show me around. Later on she confessed to dreading the day she had to follow through with that. I think her first impression of me was...could your hair get ANY bigger? It was the late 80's, what can I say?<br /><br />We became fast friends...our lockers right beside each other. From cinnamon buns in the cafeteria to fries and macaroni salad at KFC to me singing and her creating masterpieces on the piano and shopping til we dropped we were constantly together.<br /><br />I think back now and am really amazed. She was so shy and I know reaching out to me was a huge stretch for her. But Twyla decided to move past her feelings. And her sacrifice made a very difficult time in my life so much easier to bear. The poster actually came off my door by Christmas time:)<br /><br />One of my funniest memories is our summer jobs. I worked at Foodland and as the rookie had to dress up in a Kraft Peanut suit, stand by the highway and wave at the cars as they drove by. Twyla worked right next door at the Information Center for the City. She would stand outside eating her lunch and laugh at me:) A true, supportive friend! <br /><br />Some people are in our lives for the long haul and other for seasons. We don't always know the reasons why. But regardless, I think it's important to look at and remember the beautiful deposits they make in us. Twyla had a heart for people, even though it was a quiet and gentle heart. She loved missions and set off for Gibraltor the summer after our graduation to make an impact for Christ there.<br /><br />A few months after I was married I had a phone call. One that I will never forget... dear, sweet Twyla was gone. She had been in a car accident and killed instantly... sometimes life brings us great pain and other times great joy. <br /><br />For whatever reason, I was thinking of her today. She left a deposit in my life that will always be there. At times, when I hesitate to reach out and don't want to, I remember her kindness to me and how she would quietly give me a kick in the pants and tell me to go for it, especially before I had to get on a stage to speak or sing:)<br /><br />God has a beautiful way of connecting us with people. It is a gift He gives us. Some of them are with us for a lifetime and others travel with us for portions of our journey. Enjoy and cherish the loved ones walking with you and be watchful if someone in your life needs a Twyla.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-56042071562098383782007-04-04T12:39:00.000-03:002007-04-07T16:02:09.633-03:00Breaking Free from FearWhen I was young I was afraid of snakes and speaking in public. I was so very thankful I didn't live anywhere near poisonous reptiles. Still, going barefoot was a cautious exercise...especially in tall grass....you just never know!<br /><br />And when it came to school I did what many children do to avoid giving answers out loud...don't make any eye contact with the teacher. I remember saying over and over in my head...please don't say my name, please don't say my name. Funny, many times I had a pretty good answer swirling around in my head but the fear of being wrong and looking stupid was stronger than the wondering if my idea might be brilliant.<br /><br />I think every person, if they are honest, struggles with being afraid of different things. Even as adults, echoes of childhood fears may be present. I still hate snakes! A spider I'll smash but a snake will put me on a chair.<br /><br />As we grow we move from fears of the dark or crawling things, to being a disappointment to others, being alone, experiencing rejection and even losing someone we love. I've had a few lessons in these areas and I know it is a lifelong process.<br /><br />One thing we know without any doubt is that fear is not from God. It's the opposite of faith. The Bible tells us that we have not been given a spirit of fear, but one of power, love and a sound mind. It also says that without faith it is impossible to please God. So, like so many other things it's a choice we have to make.<br /><br />I had an interesting dream this week. I was in a mall and all the stores were jail cells. People in each cell were planning escapes watching for the guards that manned the hallways. The guards looked intimidating however they were not armed with weapons. The other eye opening thing was that the cells were not closed. You could easily just walk out...and yet the people stayed. They were trapped by their fears.<br /><br />When I woke up my heart was pounding....but I clearly heard the Lord say to me...you just have to choose to walk out, take a risk and confront what you are afraid of. I love what Joyce Meyer says about fear. She reminds us we can't wait for the feeling of fear to go...we need to "do it afraid."<br /><br />This brings me to a few nuggets of truth I've learned so far about breaking out of our fears...each one of us has different ones. But it is possible for us to conquer our fears through our trust in God's power and love.<br /><br />About the fear of failing and the fear of man...when I focus on trying to live perfectly, trying to make sure everyone is happy with me and that everyone thinks I'm okay, the result are not pretty. I become bound in my mind. I end up strangled by my fears. I cannot live up to this self-imposed standard. BUT when I focus on living with passion I find myself connected to a deep place inside. When I live with passion I can live courageously, setting fear aside.<br /><br />On learning to trust others...whenever we make ourselves vulnerable and expose our heart, we will almost always make a few mistakes. But we grow in personality and character and relationship by taking risks. AND if you fall down, you are so very normal...just make sure you get right back up.<br /><br />Never forget that overcoming fear is a process. The best weapon for fighting is the truth of God's Word. Psalm 27 is one of my favorite verses I speak out when the "feeling" of fear seems to be overwhelming. The beginning says..."The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?"<br /><br />Whatever your battle is, it's not too much for the Lord. Give it to Him and make the choice to trust Him with your fears. He will make the most of your shortcomings and your fears will become scars that are symbols of victory.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-59386062320951136652007-03-31T19:58:00.000-03:002007-03-31T21:04:16.186-03:00Authentically YouAbout a month ago a patriarch of our church went home to be with the Lord. She was known to us as Mama Yuke, our senior pastor's mother. As I sat at her funeral I was inspired as I listenend to so many talk about the impact she had in their lives. How she challenged them in their walk with Jesus, loving and confronting them along the way!<br /><br />Mama Yuke's life and testimony challenges me to be all that I have been created to be. I can learn from her example, her zeal for God, her passion for people and her dedication to the church and the Word of God. BUT I'm not MAMA Yuke. God will flow through each one of us differently and in a unique way....we must remember that.<br /><br />You were totally and without a doubt created <strong>ON PURPOSE</strong>. You were designed intricately and like no other woman. Ephesians 2:10 says we are <strong>HIS</strong> workmanship. Get this, you were put together by the Master Designer. You weren't thrown together by chance. You are already a winner! Do you know that approx. 4 million little swimmers:) were racing to the finish line when you were made??? And YOU won!!!<br /><br /><strong>AUTHENTIC</strong> means not false or copied, genuine, not a counterfeit. You must choose to step on the path to discover who God has truly made you to be. Many Christians are satisfied to stay in the valley of life and travel around the mountains. I have done this in my life. Mountains of fear, insecurity, pride, unbelief, gossip, past hurt, etc.<br /><br />BUT, Now is the time for us to <strong>RISE UP</strong>. We must get on the path to find who we are and what the Master Designer had in mind when He formed us. I'm asking you to get up if you feel stuck, to trust Him with your whole heart in spite of your fear and disappointments. I am asking you to humble yourself and be honest with where you're at. AND if you've been on this road for awhile, we need you to call back to us and shout out the pitfalls along the way.<br /><br />There really isn't any time to waste. We are called into the kingdom for such a time as this, as Esther was. What you have to offer is unlike anyone else. Your blend of giftings, talents, pain, life experiences, and personality do not exist in anyone but YOU. So, without you on the journey, much will be lost.<br /><br />Imagine with me that you are holding a package of seeds....they represent you and the potential you have. They represent your identity. You can go through your whole life holding these seeds, never opening the package because you are sidetracked or afraid. But you will never become who you were made to be if you do not open up and plant these seeds in the soil of God's great love.<br /><br />Sometimes we try to find out who we are by planting the seeds in the wrong places. We plant them where our parents think they should be or where our friends feel is the best place....we run around asking everyone else...does anyone know who I am?<br /><br />So, how do we find out who we are? I believe the very first step is to believe we are loved and accepted by the Master Designer. As the seeds of your identity go down into the rich soil of His love, who you are will begin to emerge, like a flower beginning to grow. You will emerge as the gorgeous original you truly are. Debris is washed away, new life comes and growth takes place. Even your failures and hurts will be turned around for something good.<br /><br />If you are at a place in your journey where you need to take a risk, take it. If it's time to let some things go, release your hold. If there are relationships that need to change, make some new connections. If the time has come for your heart to be healed, open up to Him.<br /><br /><strong><em>The Time is NOW. Believe and receive His love for you. Be authentically YOU!</em></strong>Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-44745909302424005542007-02-26T09:18:00.000-04:002007-02-26T12:19:21.944-04:00Monday DanceGenerally speaking, we do the Happy Dance on Friday....it's the end of the week and we are ready for a change of pace, sleeping in, going out with friends...<br /><br />Well, this morning, for a change I put on some tunes and found myself doing a Monday dance. I'll share with you my favorite song at the end of this blog. The lyrics share the sentiment in my heart. I want to encourage you and my own self today, sing a song of praise to Him. Put on a tune you know gets your focus on Him....sing it loud, sing it strong, don't worry that it's not good enough for anyone else to hear, just sing....sing a song. Anybody remember those lyrics??? I've probably just dated myself:)<br /><br />Okay, here's my favorite dancin tune...find yours or play this one if you can find it. It's a great one to download! Dance girls!....we have so much to be joyful about! We are not alone. We are precious to Him. Nothing you are going through is bigger than our God. AMEN!<br /><br /> <strong>IT'S GON BE NICE</strong><br /><br /><strong>CHORUS</strong><br /><br /><em>Well, well, it's gon be nice...it's gon be nice<br />Whatever's in store for me...it's gon be nice<br />It's crazy right now, Lord, but that's when You shine<br />I can't stop shouting...oh...it's gon be nice.<br /><br />You never promised me that my days would be problem free<br />But You did promise to always take care of me<br />Right now it seems that my troubles will never end<br />I know You've promised to be my closest friend<br /><br /><strong>CHORUS</strong><br /><br />I gotta remind myself daily who lives inside of me<br />And when I stay close to You, close to me You're gonna be<br />No more crying about my situation, I know what I gotta do<br />Gotta pray, gotta trust, gotta believe...depend on You...yah<br /><br /><strong>CHORUS</strong><br /><br /><strong>BRIDGE</strong><br />I don't have the right to give up<br />I don't have the right to give in<br />You're gonna bring me through so<br />I'm gonna put my trust in You</em><br /><br /><strong>CHORUS</strong> <br /><br /><strong>YOLANDA ADAMS</strong><br /><br /><br />A little postscript here....since I started this blog... one of my sons has come home sick from school throwing up... a little girl I babysit came to me saying... Look at my hands, look at my hands! Yes, they were covered in..you guessed it POO!<br /><br />Well, girls, it's still GON BE NICE! Have a great week:)<strong></strong>Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-49300200655199393982007-02-15T12:58:00.000-04:002007-02-22T15:52:14.040-04:00Ashes Back to Ashes?Cinderella has been rescued by her Prince. She dreamed her whole life that someone would come and release her from scrubbing the floors, being holed up in the attic, and the nagging of her demanding stepmother and jealous stepsisters. But more than anything she longed to be loved and adored. To be considered beautiful in someone's eyes. She had found this in her beloved Prince.<br /><br />The wedding was beautiful. No expense was spared. She had the finest of the fine. The prince's Father and mother adored Cinderella and welcomed her into their family with open arms. Our palace is your home. We have been waiting for a daughter to come into our kingdom and assist the prince with many decisions. This is your time, Cinderella. Whatever parts of living in the palace seem foreign to you simply ask and we will help you. Everything you need is here.<br /><br />After living in the palace for several months Cinderella began to question how she could ever live up to the expectations that she felt were upon her. She remembered where she had come from and began to believe that truly the Prince had made a mistake in marrying her. She was not cut out for life in a palace. She didn't know what pieces of silver to use when she ate, the clothing seemed too lavish for her, the language of the kingdom was difficult to comprehend.<br /><br />Without consulting the Prince or his parents she made a decision. She would remain married to the Prince and visit the palace periodically. She would, however, live in her old dwelling place. One night, after everyone was sleeping she snuck out and made her way down the path to her stepmother's house. Quietly she crept up to the attic and crawled into her well-remembered bed. The blanket was as dirty as ever, the room cold and dark, the scrub brush and mop stood in the dusty corner... but this was familiar and strangely gave her a feeling of comfort. This is where she truly belonged....the Prince would understand.<br /><br />The Prince however, did not understand. You are my bride, my love, my life...we cannot be apart like this. Everything you need is with me. What you don't understand, I will teach you. You have forgotten that it takes a lifetime to learn the ways of the kingdom. There is always something new with each daybreak. But we can face these things together. Not knowing something does not disqualify you as my Bride...<br /><br />Somehow Cinderella had stopped believing that the Prince's love was enough. What if he realized that he had chosen with a lack of wisdom? What if she proved to be a great disappointment? It was better not to fail Him. She suggested that she would be part of the kingdom and help from a distance. She would faithfully work FOR the Prince but relinquish the priveleges of working WITH him as his Bride.<br /><br />Soon she found herself back in the daily routine of being harassed by her relatives, confined to her room and her duties. The Prince would often come by and knock on the door but Cinderella could not bear to open it. She was doing her duty as a member of the kingdom and that was enough. And yet she could not deny her longing to be free. She felt it rise and fall within her. Some days she glanced at the door and remembered the path to the palace. Should she? Could she? It was too shameful. She was not who or what the Prince thought she was.<br /><br />The story of Cinderella we can all relate to. We have been rescued by our Prince, Jesus. He has brought us into His kingdom because of His great love for us. We have truly been called into the Kingdom for such a time as this. But many of us are living as captives. We are captives but we have the key to freedom around our necks! <br /><br />BELIEVING is the key. If I don't believe that I am loved and accepted that is how I will live. I will live suspicious of others and their motives. I will not trust that Jesus truly paid the price....surely there is something I must do in order to stay in the Kingdom. I will believe that my failures and weaknesses change how He feels about me. That is why HE came! That is the Gospel! He is strong in our inadequacies. Any fruit that comes out of our lives that is lasting will be born out of our relationship with Jesus. Focus on Him and your "doing" will be true.<br /><br />If in anyway, you've made decisions that have led you on a path to your old dwelling place, turn your little self around and run back to the palace. THat is where you belong....open your eyes and BELIEVE.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-40860809998675270252007-02-09T13:32:00.000-04:002007-02-09T14:08:07.770-04:00Dive in!I started swimming lessons when I was four. I was fearless they tell me. I have so many childhood memories of me and the water. Getting badge after badge at each progressive level....front crawl, back stroke, butterfly, diving stances.<br /><br />I remember water parks with crazy winding slides, high diving boards I did flips off of,searching for pennies for hours on the blue bottom. Remember hand stands under water and seeing how far you could go before capsizing?<br /><br />One year I remember specifically, our family was on vacation at a lake in Northern Saskatchewan. The water would not be considered even remotely warm, trust me! My sister and I were not deterred by this or hindered in any way. The bathing suits went on and the running off the teetering dock began. Over and over again into the frigid water. We were crazy! The rocks were slimy, the seaweed swayed with the current and brushed against our legs, convincing us we were swimming with a school of fish. It was an adventure and we were part of it.<br /><br />I wouldn't say I'm afraid of the water now. It just seems more like a hassle than an adventure. I think I'm getting old! I love to watch the boys in our pool or at the beach on the boogie boards. Even though I'm sitting there on my towel refusing to go in, I'm thinking how much fun it would be to not care....to get a boogie board and ride the waves in. I still remember that I love to swim:) And maybe this year I'll take a risk and do something I haven't for a long time....I'll let you know when summer comes:)<br /><br />This reminds me of freedom though and how we are encouraged by Jesus to come to Him as little children. The delight I had in falling back into a pool (the Nestea splash) is now replaced by how I look in a bathing suit. The experience of floating weightlessly is overcome by the fact that the water feels too cold.<br /><br />I think in many areas of my life, the Lord is calling me back to simple freedom. I worry about so many things that I need to leave with Him. I think I have to have answers that He already has for me. The beach or the side of the pool is a safe place to be. Everything stays in place besides maybe a bit of sand in your suit. You can dip your feet in the pool to get cooled off or walk along the sandy shore and make footprints in the sand. But.....<br /><br />Wouldn't it be fun to just dive in again? Imagine it. You don't care what anyone thinks. You're not thinking about cellulite or flat hair....just fun and adventure!?<br />It's risky, for sure. Your feet can't feel the bottom, the current might move you a bit, you might suck back some salt water, but you are freely swimming and loving every minute of it.<br /><br />I'm really trying to tell you to take a risk:) Whatever you're wavering over...your toes are just at the edge of the diving board and you're wondering if a belly flop will be the result of your jump. I think not. Take a leap, point those toes as you dive in and enjoy the swim. There is freedom in the deep end.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-42731947288328314492007-01-31T19:47:00.000-04:002007-01-31T20:44:40.227-04:00Anyone Thirsty?My newest screen saver is an amazing portrait of a calm and quiet brook....sunlight filtering through evergreens, sparkling clear water, the hope of a new day breaking with the sunrise. WOW, I'm feeling poetic tonight:) Anyway....what catches your eye is the graceful doe on the bank of the brook leaning down to fill her momentary need for water.<br /><br />Of course, it reminds me of the verse that says...As the deer pants for the waterbrook, so my soul longs for You. My soul longs, that's for sure. It is truly never satisfied. One amazing experience demands yet another. Do you know what I mean? There is something exciting on the horizon for you...maybe a well-deserved vacation, a promotion at work, a night out with friends, a new outfit that you feel great in, a gift certificate waiting to be spent, even a ministry opportunity. That adventure, if you can call it that, comes and disappears quickly and then we are on to what's around the next corner.<br /><br />There isn't anything wrong with those things unless we are looking for them to fufill us. What truly and deeply satisfies our longing is Him. He brings a peace and consistent joy to our days. I'm certainly not there every day, but I'm growing, of that I'm sure.<br /><br />It reminds me of our physical body's thirst and need for water. If we don't drink enough fluids our body begins to dehydrate. I looked up the symptoms of dehydration one time and I believe it parallels to what happens in our spirit when we neglect our daily times with Him and His Word.<br /><br />Listen to this....Dehydration causes a person to become tired, cranky and stiff-jointed. It can bring on headaches and cramps. A dehydrated person will be lethargic, impatient, have a weak pulse, suffer dizziness and become disinterested in drinking. In severe cases, death may result.<br /><br />Staying hydrated benefits the body by increasing our physical and mental endurance, helps to maintain a pleasant demeanor, prevents muscle cramps and keeps toxins flushed out of the body.<br /><br />My love for the Word and my times with the Lord are increasing. When I miss them, it really affects my day. I sense the thirst of my soul. I'm realizing more and more that Jesus is my lifeline. No matter what, I need to keep myself hooked up to Him. So, if you feel your soul is thirsty, remember the deer. Make your way back to the waterbrook and you will find yourself being satisfied. Then the other adventures that come your way are brighter, more special....you've already been drinking from the right well so the rest is a beautiful overflow.Yannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489603426291630075.post-14590941366207016062007-01-24T10:26:00.000-04:002007-01-24T10:49:14.731-04:00Thoughts to Ponder"Although it seems safe and logical to be in charge of your life, being in charge becomes a heavy, lonely responsibility. Your Father graciously offers to take your life, protect you, strengthen you, and comfort you on your journey. You need not fear relinquishment, for it leads to freedom, security, and the REAL YOU."<br /><br />Cynthia Heald, A WOMAN"S JOURNEY to the Heart of GOD<br /><br />"I discovered an astonishing truth: God is attracted to weakness. He can't resist those who humbly and honestly admit how desperately they need Him."<br /><br />Jim Cymbala, Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire<br /><br />"The giant step in the walk of faith is the one we take when we decide God no longer is a part of our lives. He is our life."<br /><br />Beth Moore<br /><br />Even though it seems to us that absolutely nothing is happening in our lives, God is working behind the scenes on things that HE will manifest at exactly the right time. His love keeps me in times of great trial and stress.<br /><br />MEYannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00712735645926897377noreply@blogger.com0