Mentoring Pastor's Wives and Ministry Women

Live For the King

2011-12-18T06:15:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Precious Girlfriends,

Well, this is it! One week from Christmas! Gifts bought and wrapped, shopping completed for the Christmas meal and all the baking is finished right?????? Well, for me that is a BIG NO!! lol

Sheri Rose Shepherd wrote an awesome book called, My Prince Will Come. I want to encourage you during this busy time of the year with some great thoughts from her book.

We have been crowned with forgiveness, salvation, and acceptance into God’s kingdom. Because His Spirit is in us, we are now adorned with his Beauty. Now is the time to shine for Him – let’s not miss a moment of what He has for us to do! Remember, just as God placed Queen Esther in the court of King Xerxes so that she could save her people, our heavenly King has put us in a particular place in order to save people who don’t yet know him. We are appointed to be His princesses for such a time as this. Our reign is now! Put on your God-appointed crown and take your royal position.

This royal call is not about our accomplishments. Our King has done it all. He died on the cross for our sins so that we can begin our eternal reign while we are here. Our reign is about our confidence in our King, and about investing our time and God-given talents in eternity. We have come into this world with nothing, and we will leave with nothing except the legacy of those we lead to the Lord. The only significant thing we will leave behind us is our witness for Jesus and the memory of a life lived in faith in Him. So don’t let the devil distract you for another moment with all the busyness we face during this time of the year. Choose to make your life matter for all eternity. Don’t allow anything or anyone to keep you from your calling! And remember that it was not the crown on her head that made Esther a great queen. It was her heart for her God and her people and her willingness to serve Him. So live for your King, and He will crown you in His glory for all to see you are His!

Merry Christmas beautiful ladies! May God continue to bless you in mighty ways.

Love you,
Debbie

2011-12-11T06:05:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Sweet Friends,

Here we are, two weeks from Christmas!! I bet your shopping is done, gifts are wrapped and cookies are baked right………….? Well I can tell you that isn’t the case in my life. So much to do and so little time to accomplish all the tasks on our plates. I love Christmas but every year is such a challenge for me to get it all finished by Christmas morning.

Monday evening our church is hosting the District Christmas party. We usually have between 65-75 guests attend this event. It is a great time and our folks from church are looking forward to being servants for the evening. Tuesday and Thursday evening I am hosting a fellowship at my home for my mentoring groups. Busy week but exciting times!

Persistence definitely has its rewards. We all have a zillion things to accomplish before Christmas morning and we will continue to work at it until it is all done. We have a responsibility to our spouse, families and our church family. But what about our persistence regarding what God has called us to do?

The lady with the issue of blood in the Bible was amazing. Have you ever really thought about how difficult it was for her to forge her way through the crowd just to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment? Jesus was on his way to Jairus’s house and people were all around him. Multitudes were surrounding him virtually making it impossible to get through. But one woman was persistent and determined to reach Him. Her faith was so strong that she knew if she could just touch the hem of his garment she would be healed. That friend is amazing faith!

I want that kind of faith in my life. When I am faced with overwhelming challenges I want to demonstrate faith that has no doubt . I want to demonstrate that same faith in my life when everything around me looks dark and hopeless. That level of faith will take us places we never dreamed were possible in our lives.

So, what will it be for you? We are quickly approaching a brand new year filled with many joys, doubts, challenges, and most likely some times of heartache. Our faith and trust in Jesus Christ will definitely carry us through to the end if we determine in our own hearts that no matter how difficult the journey to the hem of the garment – it will be worth it.

Be blessed friend. I pray for God’s amazing power to penetrate your services today. I pray for a special touch from God today for you and your family. God loves you so much. No matter what lies the enemy whispers in your ears, God’s plan is amazing and He longs to use you to further the Kingdom.

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

Seeing God's Hand In Our Circumstances

2011-12-05T05:45:00.000-08:00

I was reading recently that the book of Esther is the only book in the Bible where God is never mentioned. In fact, many people over the years questioned whether it should even be included as one of the books of the Bible for that reason.

Esther is the story of how God used one woman to change the fate of an entire nation. Although God's name is not mentioned in this book you can certainly recognize His fingerprints on every page! The book of Esther shows the choice we make between seeing His hand in our circumstances in life and seeing things as merely coincidence. God's plans are never moved by the actions of evil men and women in our society. The silent love language our Father often uses to communicate directly to our spirit is illustrated in this book.

Esther proved to mirror a Godly and teachable character that exhibited incredible strength and awesome obedience. Esther was unique and this caused her to be elevated into the position of Queen. She certainly demonstrates to us that remaining respectful and humble even in difficult if not humanly impossible circumstances often set us up to be the vessel of untold blessing for both ourselves and others. She is a positive role model that can influence us with her repeated Godly attitudes in difficult positions. You won't read of any complaints or bad behavior on her part in this book. She often won the favor of those around her. That favor is what ultimately saved her people.

By utilizing Esther's example of maintaining a positive attitude, united with humility and the determination of leaning on God and seeking His will and favor in our circumstances, we will recognize that God is absolutely amazing. I rejoice today in knowing that God walks with me through the pit of the valley and high on the mountain top. No matter what it is I will face this week, God will be with me. His encouragement, peace and strength is just a prayer away.

If you are struggling today with difficult circumstances just seek Him. He has all the answers ............

Blessings!

God's Plan

2011-11-27T06:14:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

I hope everyone had an awesome Thanksgiving. I prepared a Thanksgiving feast for our family and it was wonderful spending time with our children, their spouses and our grandchildren. This year I elected not to be one of those crazy shoppers that ended up at Wal-Mart fighting 1000 other shoppers for bargains!!! But I did manage to get up very early the day after and take advantage of a few after Thanksgiving bargains............ And, I am tired of eating warm ups!

Our church participated in collecting food for families in our community and it was a joy to distribute Thanksgiving meals. On Thanksgiving morning my friend and I delivered a cooked meal to someone in our community that didn't have an oven. Even now as I talk about it tears come to my eyes. She was so appreciative and so excited when she saw the pies! She told us that she loved pies.... I have so much to be thankful for.........

We are quickly approaching the end of 2011. I don’t know about you but it is hard for me to believe that we have almost completed another year. It seems like time zooms by these days. But with that I find myself thinking often about what I have or have not accomplished in my life this year and also a lot about God’s destiny for Debbie Shank. Can anyone relate?

God has a plan and destiny for each of us but the enemy loves to fill our minds with doubt and confusion. Destiny is a tough word to define by our culture’s standards. We often look at someone who is extremely talented and immediately assume that they will go places in life. Our destiny as Christians is not so easily defined or short-lived. Our journey with Christ is a process which requires unending perseverance, commitment, patience and obedience. For me personally my dreams and ambitions have certainly changed a number of times over the years. As I walk through this season of my life I often wonder what God has in store for me next.

God continues to work a change in our hearts so we can see his hand in all the circumstances of our lives. That is God’s gift to us and sometimes all we see is fog. God has chosen us and he loves us. Our future, no matter how it may look at the present, is safe and secure with Jesus Christ. Even though we may not feel like God is in control that does not change the truth that he is.

Life is full of opportunities. God continues to use each of us daily in ways we cannot fathom. Continue to trust the Lord with every detail of your life. Even though our destiny is often times not clear, God knows what he is doing.

Have an awesome week dear friends. May you be blessed abundantly throughout this holiday season! Take a moment each day and thank God for ALL that He has done for you...............

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

Thankfulness

2011-11-20T05:15:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Girlfriends!

This is it! Thanksgiving week!!! Many of you will be traveling to be with family for the holiday and many, like me, will be cooking Thanksgiving dinner. Nonetheless we will be busy!!

We will be celebrating the first birthday of our youngest grandson Cayden on Wednesday. Cannot believe how quickly time goes by.

I just want to take this opportunity to remind you again how much you are appreciated and loved. I know many of you are virtual friends who I may never meet until we get to heaven but you are such a support to me and I feel as though I have known you forever. I love your emails throughout the week and your sweet and kind words of encouragement. This ministry was birthed from a passion to encourage ministry women who are struggling and God has been amazing! I never dreamed God would use this resource to touch so many women. Thank you for your faithfulness and friendship.

This is certainly a week to be thankful for all God has done for us but as Christians, everyday is a day to be thankful to our Lord Jesus Christ for the magnificent price He paid on the cross for you and me. His continued blessings and faithfulness in my own life is often beyond comprehension.

From now until Christmas most of us will be running on empty as we try to do a zillion things for the holidays. May God’s peace surround you every step of the way. Let’s not get so overwhelmed in all the busyness that we lose sight of the real meaning of Christmas. It is truly a celebration of life. God certainly did make a way for us when He said that, “It is done”.

Happy Thanksgiving friends! You are awesome and you are loved. Have a wonderful time with your families and if you are one of those crazy ladies who get up at 4am on the Friday after Thanksgiving, like me - be careful out there!! Those people are serious about their shopping!

Many hugs,
Debbie

God is Our Constant

2011-11-15T06:15:00.000-08:00

Well it is official! Christmas is a little over 5 weeks away…… Oh my goodness!! If you are like me that tends to place a little panic in our lives. Put up and decorated two of my Christmas trees this weekend! But first we celebrate Thanksgiving which is right around the corner. Our youngest grandson celebrates his first birthday the day before Thanksgiving. Very busy time of the year........

Just want to encourage you today friends. As I look around I constantly see people struggling with life issues. Some are losing their homes, some are dealing with devastating news about their health, some have lost their jobs or have been informed that they will be taking a pay cut this year. Some are dealing with major issues in their marriages and the list goes on. Life is a constant challenge. But, God is our constant.

We truly do have so much to be thankful for and for me; I often take that for granted. I am so thankful that I serve a God who will never fail me or leave me. I am so thankful that even when life’s challenges seem bigger than anything I have ever imagined, my God is on the throne and He walks with me through those deep waters. Life often brings pain but God is always there to bring comfort and peace.

Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed (Proverbs 16:3). Sometimes we fail unintentionally to commit our struggles and challenges to God. Yes we do and I am guilty of this as well. How many times have we given God temporary control of things in our lives only to take back control when things stop gong the way we expect. And sometimes we commit a task fully to the Lord, but put forth no effort ourselves in praying about this situation. We must maintain a delicate balance: trusting God as if everything depended on him, while working as if everything depended on us. By working I mean praying daily for this situation. Think of a specific situation you are walking through right now. Have you fully committed it to the Lord? Are you fully trusting God for the answer?

At the cross I bow my knee,
Where Your blood was shed for me.
There’s no greater love than this.
You have overcome the grave.
Your glory fills the highest place.
What can separate me now?
Song - At the Cross by Hillsong

God loves his children so much and he cares about everything we walk through in this life. Whether it is a small challenge or something that is overwhelming,..,,. He cares. Lay the burden at the cross today and then trust God with the results. He has overcome the grave. His glory fills the highest place. Friends, what can separate us now?

Many blessings!

Self-Confidence vs. God-Confidence

2011-11-13T06:10:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

Praying that you have an amazing Sunday filled to overflowing with God's abundant blessings. And I also pray that your week will be awesome!

I was reading recently in a Bible study called Confidence, Six Secrets of a Confident Woman by Carol Kent and Karen Lee-Thorp some awesome encouraging words. Great study!!

Self-confidence will get you nowhere in the Kingdom of God. Self-confidence is the belief in ourselves that we have what it takes to conquer whatever we may be facing in this life. What a joke!!!

God-confidence reminds us that in ourselves we do have enormous limitations, but God doesn't! We seriously control very little in our lives but God rules ALL. God--confidence is the belief that we can do anything God gives us to do. Amen!! Without Him – I am nothing! With Him – who knows what will happen!!

I encourage you to seek God's face this week with an open mind and open heart about what it is He is calling you to do. Many times ministry women find themselves doing what no one else will do. Where does that leave us? What about our talents and gifts? And even greater than that.... what about what God is asking us to do? What truly is our purpose in God's magnificent plan?

For many of us, as pastor's wives, I think we sometimes think we don't have a purpose other than being the "pastor's wife" in the church. This, my friend is not true. Our husband has a definite calling on his life but God also is calling us to step up to the plate and out of our comfort zone. Our life was never meant to be a cookie cutter imitation of someone else. God has a plan!!!!

Appreciate your emails and words of encouragement throughout the week.

Love you,
Debbie

The Enemy is a Whimp!

2011-11-06T05:02:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

It was great seeing some of you yesterday in Manassas, VA at the District Equipping Conference. I love it when I have the opportunity to meet the women who are part of Chocolate and Coffee!!! Thank you for taking the time to introduce yourselves and give me an awesome word of encouragement!

Do you want to impact lives like Jesus did? Maybe you just walked through the driest desert in your life this week and you really are not interested in impacting lives but it happens when we least expect it!!! The enemy is slick and if he can do anything to manipulate our lives so that we demonstrate frustration, anger, bitterness and worry to those around us. He thinks he has won. But we have news for him don’t we friends? He hasn’t won and he won’t win because we serve a mighty God who is all powerful!!!

Influence is a personal indirect power over people, events, or things, not through the exercise of physical force or formal authority, but by force of character or wisdom. Jesus modeled how to be in influential leader who by force of character, wisdom, and example influenced others’ thinking and choices. He practiced life habits that help me live an authentic Christian life so that I can impact the lives of others as he did. Six Essentials of Spiritual Authenticity by Carol Kent & Karen Lee-Thorp

Influence is powerful and this week we are going to influence everyone in our paths in a negative or positive way. Our body language, our speech, our facial expressions…. We are impacting lives and I want to make sure that my life is a positive influence for those God brings into my life.

Life can be challenging but I remind you today the enemy is a wimp and he will not win.There is always something positive about what we are walking through. Sometimes we need to dig really dip to find it, but it is always there.

Dear friends, I am praying for you today. May God bless you abundantly in your own life, your family and ministry. May the presence of God be mighty and powerful in your services today?

You are awesome women of God!

Love and appreciate YOU,
Debbie

Rejoice and Be Glad in It!!

2011-10-30T06:15:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

This is the day that the Lord hath made. I will REJOICE and be glad in it!!!!!
I know for many it is challenging to rejoice this morning because of everything happening around you in your ministry and life. Just remember today that God is still on the throne and is as powerful as He was yesterday and will still reign tomorrow! He loves you and cares about every detail of your life including the discouragement and disappointments you may be dealing with today.

Just want to encourage you this morning with a simple thought. No matter what you are walking through at this moment, God will help you be a positive influence in a negative situation. Be encouraged – what you have to offer is the life of Jesus, not your own expertise. Encouragement cannot harm people – a loving word from you will always help somehow, if even a little, if only for a moment. As ministry wives and ministry women, our skills and callings are varied, but we can be unceasing encourager's. We are greatly needed!

I am praying for you today that God’s power and presence will be overwhelming in your services. You are amazing women of God!

Love and appreciate you!

Hugs,
Debbie

Loving Those Not Easy To Love

2011-10-23T05:47:00.000-07:00

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." I Corinthians 13: 4-7 (NKJV)

When I think about this scripture the first thing that comes to my mind is the responsibility we have as pastor's wives and ministry women. In the early church, leaders modeled love to their churches. They lived by these words in the scripture. Love was the foundation and motive for the leaders' action.

As a pastor's wife and a woman in ministry I have repeatedly experienced everything but love from some folks throughout our 30 years of ministry. I know many of you reading this blog today can relate. I am thankful today that God has taught me how to love those who don't love others. I realize that if I were not able to love those who demonstrate a cold heart that I would not be an effective leader. When we dwell on the hurts and pains of life we become very bitter and indifferent.

God's love is directed outward toward others, not inward toward ourselves. It is utterly unselfish. This love is not natural. It is possible only if God supernaturally helps us set aside our own desires and instincts. The closer we come to Christ, the more love we will express to others.

Is it easy to love those who come against our families and criticize everything we do in the ministry? Absolutely not but I remind myself that I need to demonstrate God's love to these people anyway. It isn't about me and what I might want. It would be easy to totally write them off and avoid those who constantly inflict pain and suffering on our lives but that isn't what God has called us to do. These people are also hurting and dealing with some very deep wounds from life. God can heal them also and he may be calling you and I to be the resource he chooses to use in their healing process.

Listen for God's voice today as you allow him to direct your steps in your ministry. He may open doors of opportunity for you today that may be calling you out of your comfort zone but can also be very rewarding.

Blessings!

Pastor's Wives - The Impossibility of Pleasing People

2011-10-09T15:55:00.000-07:00

Many years ago, as a very young, inexperienced, and untrained pastor's wife, my mission was to please everyone. Why? Because that is what I thought ministry was all about. I was constantly trying to figure out if my makeup was acceptable, my clothes, my jewelry, etc. I made every effort to be everything for everyone all the time. Desperately attempting to make everyone happy so the complainers would be satisfied. Of course we all know that is short lived! I came to the place of discouragement, frustration and not wanting to be involved in the ministry with my husband at all. These people were ridiculous and I didn't want any part of it!

Our Heavenly Father did not place you and I on this earth to please people. That isn't our mission girlfriends. We are to please Him by representing a Christ-like life and being examples everywhere we go of our Lord and Savior. I discovered many years ago that life is too short to spend it trying to make everyone happy. Some people will never be satisfied no matter what you do. Jesus could walk down the aisle of the church and they would find fault with Him!

I do what I do because I love the Lord with my entire being. People must accept me for who I am. I am an original and I don't want to be a copy of anyone else! I am not going to try to be someone different so I can please those who don't like what I do or what I represent. I am not in the business of intentionally hurting people and ignoring them but I also will not change who I am to please some so they won't complain. Some people need to grow up and start thinking about others instead of always focusing on what they want in this life.

Have you noticed that those who complain the loudest do less in the church than anyone else? And no matter what is done in the church, they gripe about it. They always have a better way of doing whatever it is you are doing but they never volunteer to help with the project.

The folks who chronically complain can absolutely steal our joy and make our lives miserable IF WE ALLOW THEM TO BE SUCCESSFUL. I have found over the years that only those I permit can intimidate me or make my life miserable. I am in control of this situation. You and I are the deciding factor as to the result of what these people attempt to do with our lives. When we are overwhelmed by their criticism and whiny complaints our focus isn't on God and what He can do for us. We are allowing the situation to overpower our emotions. We then become discouraged and frustrated because those are tools of the enemy.

I am in no way advocating being rude or uncaring. What I am advocating is that we are not to be people pleaser's and if that is our mission in this life, we will be miserable. Jesus wasn't a people pleaser. Many became very upset with Him but He had a mission while He was here on this earth and He didn't allow anyone or anything to stop Him.

God created you and I differently. He knew us when we were in the womb. He has a unique plan for each of us. I can't be you and you can't be me. We can't be like someone else and accomplish God's will for our life. By reading our Bibles and seeking God's face daily we can be assured that God will lead and direct us. He will open doors we thought were never possible.

Focus on pleasing God - not people. His plan is unfailing.

Blessings!

Take Advantage of God Opportunities!

2011-10-09T06:29:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

Do you ever feel like you are being pulled by the hand through a wind tunnel? It is as though we are living our lives in a fast-forward mode and life is passing by at a record speed!

Our lives are a vapor and a tiny blip on the world’s radar screen. We are attempting to make a difference in the lives of those around us. But there are times in our lives when we feel as though nothing we are doing counts for anything.

God has placed many women in our paths that we can influence. Everyday there are multiple opportunities for kingdom advancement all around us. When we allow those opportunities to pass us by it is tragic. If Jesus tarries and we graduate to retirement, will we have peace in our hearts as we reflect upon our lives, knowing that we took advantage of the opportunities God presented and used our time wisely?

What type of legacy will we leave as a ministry wife or ministry woman? Are we truly redeeming the time God has given to us to do all we can to further the Kingdom of God? Or are we allowing discouragement and depression to overwhelm our lives and keep us from making the positive influence on those God places in our paths?

Let’s pray together that God will afford opportunities for our ministries to be effective. Pray that God will continue to place women in our paths that we can influence and encourage in a positive way. Seek God daily and ask Him to quicken our hearts and spirits so that we are sensitive to the needs of those around us. Ask God to help us take our eyes off of SELF and look to others who are suffering and struggling in their walk with Christ.

God wants to use YOU in an awesome way. Don’t allow the enemy to steal your joy and the wonderful blessings God has for your life.

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

Stand Firm and See the Deliverance the Lord Will Bring!

2011-10-02T06:14:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Girlfriends!

Pumpkins, Mums, Fall Colors and Pumpkin Spice Latte!!!!! It is such a joy to connect with you each week!

The Potomac District Ministers' Retreat kicks off tomorrow evening and the past several weeks have been incredibly busy with all the prep work. I am introducing a brand new ministry for Spousal Support on Tuesday morning and am so excited about this new oppportunity. Please pray for our team this week as we step out to minister to pastor's wives in our district with some great new ideas.

Even ministry women experience times when we feel fear about things in our lives. When we face fear we must stand FIRM against it, with confidence that God will help us.

Exodus 14:13, 14 – Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.

The people were hostile and despairing, but Moses encouraged them to watch the wonderful way God would rescue them. Moses had a positive attitude! When it looked as if they were trapped, Moses called upon God to intervene. We may not be chased by an army, but we may still feel trapped. Instead of giving in to despair, we should adopt Moses’ attitude to “stand firm and … see the deliverance the Lord will bring.”

God is so good and no matter how heavy the challenges are in our lives, He still reigns! My life is in His hands. Nothing happens in my life that God is not aware of. I know that there will be times of great challenge but I also am confident that God will walk through those times with me.

Be encouraged today friends! God loves you and He is aware of everything you are dealing with. He is your strength, your source and your protector!

May the Love of God surround you today and His mighty presence fill your services with great power!

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

Exhausted!

2011-09-25T06:52:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

Well I must be honest with you this morning..... I Am Exhausted!!!! Outside of my job this has been a week full of appointments, counseling, wedding rehearsal and wedding, and the list goes on. I am so tired today and this will be a full day of responsibilities at our church through this evening. At work, we are prepping for Ministers' Retreat so my plate is full and overflowing next week as well. There are obligations every night next week regarding church. Oh Lord, give me strength!!!

Have you ever been in that place when you are physically exhausted and cried out to God for strength because you honestly felt like you just could not accomplish all the tasks facing you the next day or week?

Since I was a little girl I have loved music. Music soothes the soul and relaxes the spirit. Many times I will awake in the middle of the night with a song in my heart. How Great Is Our God is an awesome song! Our God is so incredibly great and powerful! Our God can overcome any bend in the road that we may be struggling through this morning. There is power in the name of Jesus! Our God is bigger than any church board that may be fighting against the pastor today. Our God can be in control of every situation in our lives. He is great….. greater than anything!!!!

Name above all names.
Worthy of all praise, my heart will sing
How Great is Our God!!!!

Everyone of us are facing challenges in our lives today. Maybe it is church related. Maybe it is health related. It could be family, financial or just simply exhaustion. God is perfectly aware of what is going on with us today. He understands. He loves us and is there to help us.

Is our hearts singing this morning, How Great is Our God? Will our attitude today reflect the greatness of the One we serve? Will our words today be words of encouragement? Will those who come to us today truly know that we believe that our God is greater than anything?

Psalm 139:23, 24, Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

How great is our God, sing with me how great is our God; and all will see how great, how great is our God!! Yes Lord, You are truly great…………………….

I pray blessings upon you today. May God’s anointing be powerful upon your ministry. May the love of God shine through you this week! May His Word revive you!

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2011-09-18T06:42:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!!

Praying that your services today will be off the charts and that God's presence will be felt in a mighty way!

The past month has been unbelievably busy. Can anyone relate to those feelings of never being able to see the light at the end of the tunnel? Do you know that even WE need to rest occasionally? As pastor's wives and ministry women, we need to take time to recover physically, emotionally, and spiritually from the demands of our lives. We need time to evaluate where we've been, where we are, and where we're headed. We need to take the time to be a friend, a parent, a wife, a child of God. (God's Little Devotional Book for the Workplace)

Girlfriends, we need "down time" in our lives in order to gather the energy to run the next miles with Him and toward Him. I never realized that more than the past month! When we are constantly running and giving, we become tired and weary and honestly we are not going to make a difference anywhere when we are worn out and exhausted! Believe me, I am speaking to myself this morning also. Life and ministry is hectic!!

May God's fingerprints be upon your lives this week. May His power be amazing in your services today. May His presence be mighty and His anointing be obvious.

Be energized for the Kingdom! God has a great work for you!!

Appreciate you!

Love ya,
Debbie

Break Through!

2011-09-11T06:20:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

Another Sunday morning and another week full of busyness. Does this apply to any of you this morning?

As a worship leader, music is an integral part of my life. Many times when life seems super heavy and overwhelming I listen to music and meditate on God’s Word. Music is soothing to my soul and truly ministers to my spirit in a powerful way.

As I prepared the music schedule this weekend I thought about how many times I have been guilty of leading a beautiful worship song but my actions certainly did not demonstrate the truth in those songs. I may have been dealing with an overwhelming battle in my own life and instead of trusting God to take care of the situation, I worried and lacked the faith I needed for a break through.

There is a song that has been around for awhile, Break Through. Break through all my fears. Break through all my doubts. Break through that I may worship you. Break through all my pain. Break through all my guilt and my shame. Break through like only You can do………… Powerful words aren’t they? But it even gets better. You are brighter than my darkest night; Stronger than my toughest fight. Just one touch from You; my King, my Friend, and I’ll never be the same again. Break Through!!

We all know people who are struggling with cancer and some of you are even dealing with this in your own families. Many are suffering with depression and hopelessness. Marriages are being challenged and families are crumbling. God is brighter than our darkest night and stronger than our toughest fight! Declare that today! God is our strength, our peace, our comforter and healer.

Friends, I challenge you today to step up to the plate with a faith that cannot waver when the wind blows and the ship is being tossed back and forth. Our God reigns and He is always in control even when life seems hopeless and we are walking through what may seem like an absolute impossible journey. We must be the light to those around us so they can also experience the beautiful love from our Savior. Break through oh God…… we are praying for a break through…………………………..

My prayer for you this morning is that you will see that Break Through TODAY! Trust Him no matter how hard the storm is raging around you. Nothing is too big for our God......... NOTHING!

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

Refuel and Recharge

2011-09-04T06:09:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

My prayer for you today is that you and your family will be blessed beyond measure. May God's presence and power be amazing in your services today!!!

Aren't you thankful today that God doesn't get stressed or tired? He never wakes up sleepy or has restless nights. His body doesn't ache from being overworked. He doesn't need to take Advil or Tums. What did God do after a big project? He rested. He actually took the time to step back, cease whatever it was he was doing and relax. Should we take a lesson? I know personally that I need to take a serious lesson from this.............

My week has been anything but relaxing. Busy, busy and then busy. Life can be exhausting. If you continually give out and don't refuel, recharge, spend quality time with God, you are doomed! Running on empty will not produce positive results.

It is important that we take time to recharge physically, emotionally and spiritually from the demands of life. We need to take time to evaluate where we have been, where we are and where we are going. We need to take the time to be a friend, a mom, a loving wife and Christian.

Studies show that people who fail to recharge their mental and physical batteries are more susceptible to illness and mistakes on the job. When my brother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer a number of years ago at age 42, the doctors told him that stress promotes cancer. He held a management position and daily was forced to deal with high level stress in his position. Just remember that high level activity doesn't equal a quality life.

I love to walk. The challenge is finding the time for those 20-30 minutes of relaxation each day. It is such a stress release for me to breathe the fresh air, listen to my IPod and clear my mind. We all need to find something that will offer that stress relief to us and apply it to our lives. If not we can become irritable women........ Of course, I am sure none of us can possibly relate to that!

In addition to rest we must take time daily to sit at the feet of Jesus. Reading our Bible and spending quality time with our Lord will rejuvenate our spirit and life. Cultivating that relationship with Him will carry us through the mud and fog of this life.

I pray that you will find time to rest in Jesus today. Refuel and Recharge!!

Blessings Girlfriends!

Sunday Morning Encouragement

2011-08-28T03:42:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Girlfriends!! I pray that you are safe from Hurricane Irene, rested and excited about what God has planned in the HOUSE today!!!

It seems everywhere I turned this week God was speaking to my heart about busyness. Hmmmmmmm....... Ministry as we all know can certainly be a busy place. Sometimes that busyness can bring overwhelming discouragement and unbelievable stress into our lives. Ever been there?

An article by Jill Briscoe emphasized being so busy that we find ourselves in a place where there is no time to spend in the Word. Her relationship with God had grown thin because she had not spent time in prayer, like she knew she needed to. Her one statement was awesome, "I felt like a flat camel! The nourishment that should have been stored in my hump was gone!! Keep fresh in ministry. I was busy with ministry stuff, but it was all output and no intake. The inevitable result was a desert experience."

How are you doing today? Are you feeling like a flat camel? Has the nourishment stored in your hump disappeared?

Ladies, we are very busy creatures but we cannot give out what we don't have. We must be intentional about spending quality time with our Lord daily. A flat camel is not going to be very productive for the Kingdom.

I pray that your week will be filled with "special" time with God. Let's face it friends....... Our soul is more important than anything. If we are not careful and intentional, busyness can deplete us spiritually.

Have a wonderful week! You are appreciated!!

Love you,
Debbie

Sunday Morning Encouragement

2011-08-21T06:01:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!!!

Can you believe another week has passed? Where has the summer gone? It won't be long until we are sipping hot chocolate, digging out our winter clothing and shoveling snow!!!!! No, no, no!!!!!

Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith (Hebrews 13:7). The Word of God is telling our congregations to look at you and me - to see how we are living our lives. These people watch our relationship with God, our husbands and family, and with our churches. They observe the way we respond to and raise our children and they watch the way we negotiate relationships - the good, the bad and even the ugly.

These people also watch to see what we give priority to in our lives. If something is not important to you as a leader, it is not going to be important to them. If we come in late to church, they’ll more than likely come in late. If we choose to sit down during the worship, are easily distracted and don't enter in, more than likely they will have that same attitude.

One of my biggest fears is that I will do something on a "bad hair day" to lead someone astray. My prayer for each of us today is that God will help us to be a Godly example for our congregations and our family. I realize how demanding our lives can be and many of us are multi-tasking daily but God is our strength and our source. May His love and peace surround you today. May His sweet spirit shine in and through our lives.

Have a wonderful day in the House and have a wonderful week filled to overflowing with God's abundant blessings! You are special and God loves you!!

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2011-08-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

God is so good and I encourage you today to hold tight to the hem of His garment. Just like the woman with the issue of blood who struggled to reach Jesus with unbelievable determination. She knew if only she could touch the hem of His garment she would be healed. I want to serve Christ with that same determination in my soul. Life is challenging and ministry is hard. I am so thankful this morning that my God is a God of love and forgiveness. He is a God of power and strength.

This has been a very busy week for me and I know you can relate. I gave out all week and last evening realized I was totally spent! God's Word is so energizing and powerful. And that special time in our Secret Place with Him is priceless If you are weary and worn this morning dear friend, call on the One who will give you strength and power. God is calling you to a new level.

Have a beautiful Sunday! May the power of God be awesome in your church and ministry today. Be determined to be ALL that God is calling you to be and more!

You are appreciated!

Love you,
Debbie

2011-08-07T05:51:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Girlfriends!

I want to welcome those of you who are brand new to this blog and are reading this Sunday message for the very first time! Thank you for becoming a part of this group which was created to support and encourage one another.

Satan is the champion of discouragement. Many times he manages to use the smallest thing to get our attention and totally mess with our minds. Do you know what happens to us during this time of frustration and discouragement? We become totally focused on the problem instead of the solution. Satan wins when we allow that to happen.

My God is bigger than any problem I will ever face on this earth. If you are carrying some heavy duty baggage around today, I encourage you to unload at the foot of the cross. Let God take care of it. All of it!

Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28 NLT

No one can heal your heart or soothe your soul like Jesus can. No one loves you more, and no one else has the power or passion for you and your burdens like God has. He is definitely the lover of your soul, and He longs for you to run to Him with your burdens so He can heal the pain.

I pray that this will be an awesome Sunday for you. I pray God's blessings will rain down upon you, your family and your ministry today. May you feel encouraged, refreshed and loved. You are special. You are appreciated. And you are loved!

Blessings and hugs from one girlfriend in ministry to another!!

Love ya!♥

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

2011-07-17T03:03:00.000-07:00

I know many of you may feel especially challenged today because of things you are dealing with in your life and ministry. I want to encourage you and remind you that God loves you so much.

Philippians 1:6, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

At times we might feel that we are not making progress in our spiritual life but when God begins a project, he completes it! God walks with us each day and is always there to encourage us and cheer us on when life seems to look everything but exciting!! Remember that God will never give up on you!

If you feel incomplete this morning, unfinished or discouraged by your shortcomings, remember God's awesome promise and provision! Don't allow your present condition to rob you of the joy of knowing Christ more intimately and growing closer to him. His plan for your life is magnificent!!

Have a wonderful day friends! You are beautiful women of God and are making a difference for the Kingdom. You are appreciated and loved!!

Hugs,
Debbie

Is Your Ministry Hindered By Intimidation?

2011-07-10T06:01:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

For me, Monday is far more difficult to roll out of bed than any other day of the week! I am usually exhausted from the weekend and a full day of events on Sunday. My motivation when the alarm begins to "buzz' at 5am seriously needs some help! I hear Starbucks calling my name!

Do you ever feel weary in the ministry? Have you ever questioned God about how you can really make any difference in the Kingdom of God? Are you intimidated by others when you attempt to stand strong for what you believe?

God has a plan for you and that plan is huge. He tells us in His Word that we are to be imitators of Christ. That tells me that others need to see Jesus in me even when I am tired,weary and basically worn out! We may be the only billboard for the Kingdom of God that someone may see.

All of us can make a positive difference for Christ. I feel such an urgency in my heart for those who are unsaved. People need to know that God loves them and He is returning soon for His church. Christians need to continue being "busy" about God's business. People are searching for hope in a desperate and lost world. God offers that hope and peace to those who surrender their lives to Him.

Preaching truth in church today is not popular. Those pastor's are often labeled "old fashioned and not relevant". Well friend, when the trumpet sounds, who really cares about being relevant. I just want to know that I know that I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that I am washed in the blood of the lamb and on my way to heaven! How about you? Do you dare to make a difference in this world?

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2011-07-03T03:47:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Girlfriends!

This is the day that the Lord hath made. I will REJOICE and be glad in it!!!!!

I know for many it is challenging to rejoice this morning because of everything happening around you in your ministry and life. Just remember today that God is still on the throne and is as powerful as He was yesterday and will still reign tomorrow! He loves you and cares about every detail of your life including the discouragement and disappointments you may be dealing with today.

Just want to encourage you this morning with a simple thought. No matter what you are walking through at this moment, God will help you be a positive influence in a negative situation. Be encouraged – what you have to offer is the life of Jesus, not your own expertise. Encouragement cannot harm people – a loving word from you will always help somehow, if even a little, if only for a moment. As ministry wives and ministry women, our skills and callings are varied, but we can be unceasing encourager's. We are greatly needed!

I am praying for you today that God’s power and presence will be overwhelming in your services. You are amazing women of God!

Love and appreciate you!

Hugs,

Debbie

2011-06-26T03:42:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Girlfriends!

I know there are many who are struggling with overwhelming issues today. Many of you had restless nights and are extremely stressed over the challenges you are facing in your life. I am so thankful that you are a part of this group of women who can encourage and pray for one another. Many of you have contacted me regarding things that you are currently walking through asking for prayer. Thank you for that confidence and trust.

Each of you are awesme ladies designed by a great God. I know for many of you the future seems foggy and confusing but God is still on the throne and He is in control no matter what we are facing! He can heal a broken marriage, perform a miracle with finances, and give hope where there just doesn't seem to be any glimmer of light.

Look up girlfriends! God loves you and His desire is to do an awesome work through you. Trust Him. The devil has NOTHING over God!! He brings confusion and heart ache but God brings peace, healing and love.

I pray a special blessing upon you, your family and ministry today. May God ROCK the HOUSE today in a way that will definitely ROCK your world. I pray for miracles all over the place today and I will be waiting to hear how God answered your prayers.

You are awesome!

Blessings and hugs,
Debbie

2011-06-19T03:27:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends,

I pray that you have had an awesome weekend!

I traveled to Joppa, MD yesterday to speak at a garden party for the awesome ladies of Grace AG. It was a beautiful afternoon.

Be encouraged today that God loves you and continues to walk with you daily as your guide and protector. Psalm 18:32, It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. (NIV) Praise Him for that!!! I can have confidence today knowing that when life simply doesn't make sense God has my back!

God promises in his word to give us strength to meet the daily challenges we face but he doesn't promise to eliminate them. If he gave us no rough roads to walk, no mountains to climb, and no battles to fight, we would not grow. He will not leave us alone with the challenges we face. He stands beside us and strengthens us to face them.

Let's rejoice in the battles!!!! That is where we grow and mature in our walk with him.

Have a wonderful Sunday! May God bless you abundantly today in your ministry and family.

You are loved and appreciated,

Debbie

2011-06-12T06:30:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

I pray that you have had an awesome weekend. I am excited! Brandon, Casey and Cayden are leaving MO on Friday to travel home to VA to live!! He is stepping out to full-time ministry as an evangelist with Tour 29:11. Check out his ministry website.

Cayden is now six months old and we have only seen him twice. He doesn't have a clue who Grammy and Grand-dad are but I hope to let him know in a few days!! It will be so good to have our family in one place again. Would you please keep Brandon and his family in your prayers as he travels?

Be encouraged today that God loves you and continues to walk with you daily as your guide and protector. Psalm 18:32, It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. (NIV) Praise Him for that!!! I can have confidence today knowing that when life simply doesn't make sense God has my back!

God promises in his word to give us strength to meet the daily challenges we face but he doesn't promise to eliminate them. If he gave us no rough roads to walk, no mountains to climb, and no battles to fight, we would not grow. He will not leave us alone with the challenges we face. He stands beside us and strengthens us to face them.

Let's rejoice in the battles!!!! That is where we grow and mature in our walk with him.

Have a wonderful Sunday! May God bless you abundantly today in your ministry and family.

You are loved and appreciated,
Debbie

Conquering Life's Challenges

2011-06-09T05:35:00.001-07:00

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:37

It seems life can be overwhelming at times. Financial stress, illness, family problems, spiritual warfare, and the list goes on. But the scriptures clearly state that you and I are more than conquerors with Jesus Christ. The scripture in Romans is one of the most comforting promises found in the Bible because we can experience peace today knowing that our Lord will be with us no matter what we face.

Believers will always face hardships of some magnitude in this life but Paul exclaims that it is impossible to be separated from Christ. His death is proof of his unconquerable love. Nothing can stop Christ's constant presence with us. Nothing brings more comfort than God's peace.

Each day we can feel totally secure knowing that Christ is taking care of us. We don't need to be afraid or overwhelmed with things in this life. It doesn't matter what you are facing this week. Nothing in this world is too big for God. Don't simply speak his promises. Believe them!

Blessings!

Loneliness of Pastor's Wives

2011-06-08T08:01:00.000-07:00

It was a very late night at church last evening doing pre-marriage counseling. When the alarm clock began making that annoying noise at 5am I did not want to get out of bed!!!

Ministry is exciting, challenging and often very tiring. I can remember when our children were small and I was working full-time outside of the home, how chaotic our lives were. Our kids are now grown adults, married and have children of their own. How quickly time passes......

If you are not connected to the group on FB for pastor's wives and ministry women I encourage you to check it out. It is a resource where ministry women can connect with one another, encourage and pray for others who are facing challenges in their lives. The group is called Chocolate and Coffee/Pastor's Wives and Ministry Women.

I receive many emails from other pastor's wives and ministry women who are dealing with a number of challenges. Loneliness seems to be number uno for so many pastor's wives. Many do not have any friendships in the church and some don't have friends with other ministry wives. The ministry can be a very lonely place and we need others who will pray and encourage us when the challenges become overwhelming.

Do you have friends that allow you to be open and honest about the struggles you face in ministry? How do you deal with the challenges of the profession?

Love to hear your feedback girlfriends.

Many blessings,
Debbie

2011-05-29T03:41:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends,

Praying that your weekend has been awesome!

Our granddaughter Tori graduated from preschool on Thursday. She is so precious. It was an exciting time for her and our family. I had two teeth extracted on Friday. That was not fun! One of my teeth broke while it was being pulled...... I knew I was in trouble when the dentist said, "This is not good". Anyway, the teeth are gone and I am doing well. There is a little swelling this morning but I feel great!

Please keep our grandson Luke who is seven in your prayers on Thursday. He has had step throat six times this winter and is having surgery to have his tonsils and adenoids removed.

Just want to encourage you today friends. As I look around I constantly see people struggling with life issues. Some are losing their homes, some are dealing with devastating news about their health, some have lost their jobs, some are dealing with major issues in their marriages and the list goes on. Life is a constant challenge. But, God is our constant.

We truly do have so much to be thankful for and for me; I often take that for granted. I am so thankful that I serve a God who will never fail me or leave me. I am so thankful that even when life’s challenges seem bigger than anything I have ever imagined, my God is on the throne and He walks with me through those deep waters. Life often brings pain but God is always there to bring comfort and peace.

Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed (Proverbs 16:3). Sometimes we fail unintentionally to commit our struggles and challenges to God. Yes we do and I am guilty of this as well. How many times have we given God temporary control of things in our lives only to take back control when things stop gong the way we expect. And sometimes we commit a task fully to the Lord, but put forth no effort ourselves in praying about this situation. We must maintain a delicate balance: trusting God as if everything depended on him, while working as if everything depended on us. By working I mean praying daily for this situation. Think of a specific situation you are walking through right now. Have you fully committed it to the Lord? Are you fully trusting God for the answer?

At the cross I bow my knee,
Where Your blood was shed for me.
There’s no greater love than this.
You have overcome the grave.
Your glory fills the highest place.
What can separate me now?
Song - At the Cross by Hillsong

God loves his children so much and he cares about everything we walk through in this life. Whether it is a small challenge or something that is overwhelming,..,,. He cares. Lay the burden at the cross today and then trust God with the results. He has overcome the grave. His glory fills the highest place. Friends, what can separate us now?

Have a wonderful Sunday. May God’s power and presence be magnified in your services today!

Love and appreciate you,

Debbie

2011-05-22T03:28:00.001-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

Another Sunday morning and another week full of busyness. Does this apply to any of you this morning?

I had a great week other than finding out I have a ton of dental work that must be done. I absolutely hate going to the dentist!! When I was a little girl I had a horrible experience and I dread anything being done to my teeth. Because I have put off going to the dentist for so long I now have a ton of procedures scheduled…………

As a worship leader, music is an integral part of my life. Many times when life seems super heavy and overwhelming I play my favorite CD and meditate on God’s Word. Music is soothing to my soul and truly ministers to my spirit in a powerful way.

As I prepared the music schedule this weekend I thought about how many times I have been guilty of leading a beautiful worship song but my actions certainly did not demonstrate the truth in those songs. I may have been dealing with an overwhelming battle in my own life and instead of trusting God to take care of the situation, I worried and lacked the faith I needed for a break through.

There is a song that has been around for awhile, Break Through. Break through all my fears. Break through all my doubts. Break through that I may worship you. Break through all my pain. Break through all my guilt and my shame. Break through like only You can do………… Powerful words aren’t they? But it even gets better. You are brighter than my darkest night;
Stronger than my toughest fight. Just one touch from You; my King, my Friend, and I’ll never be the same again. Break Through!!

We know people diagnosed with cancer and some of you are even dealing with this in your own families. Many are suffering with depression and hopelessness. Marriages are falling apart and families are crumbling. God is brighter than our darkest night and stronger than our toughest fight! Declare that today! God is strength and peace, our comforter and healer.

Friends, I challenge you today to step up to the plate with a faith that cannot waver when the wind blows and the ship is being tossed back and forth. Our God reigns and He is always in control when life seems hopeless. We must be the light to those around us so they can also experience the beautiful love from our Savior. Break through oh God…… we are praying for a break through…………………………..

My prayer for you this morning is that you will see that Break Through TODAY! Trust Him no matter how hard the storm is raging around you. Nothing is too big for our God!
Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2011-05-15T03:13:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!!

Hope your week was amazin’!! I had a great weekend away over Mother’s Day speaking in West Virginia. I am looking forward to getting back into our church today. Another Sunday and another opportunity for God to Rock the House! Another opportunity for God to do a mighty work in our lives!!

As many of you know Facebook plans to archive many groups and the original Chocolate and Coffee group is one of those groups. I initiated a new group and this week FB upgraded the old group. Anyhow…… Now there are 2 groups but for now I am not changing anything. Unfortunately, I have not found a way to message everyone with the new format so I will be posting a blog every Sunday morning in the group. Many of you have sent encouraging notes about the previous posts. I pray that the messages will continue to bless and encourage your life.

Maybe you are feeling everything but joy this morning. Life can be filled with tons of disappointments and overwhelming challenges. I receive many prayer requests and many have been posted on the group wall. Sometimes the circumstances we are walking through have a way of totally stealing our joy!

Corrie Ten Boom knew that and wrote, “Jesus did not promise to change the circumstances around us. He promised great peace and pure joy to those who would learn to believe that God actually controls all things." Yes, my God controls all things and He is on the throne today!!!

We need to learn to trust God and open the door of our soul to Christ. He promises that He will give us pure peace and joy even when life seems very dark and uncertain.

Think about the song, At the Cross by Hillsong. It is in my worship set today and I love the words. You go before me, You shield my way. Your hand upholds me; I know You love me. At the cross I bow my knee, where Your blood was shed for me. There’s no greater love than this. You have overcome the grave. Your glory fills the highest place. What can separate me now?

Jesus loves us girlfriends! He cares about every detail of our lives. Don’t allow the enemy to steal your job! Sing praises to the mighty God we serve! He is on the throne today and nothing is too big for Him!

I pray your week is filled to overflowing with God's amazing peace and overwhelming joy!!!!

You are appreciated and loved!!!!

Blessings,
Debbie

2011-04-17T03:18:00.003-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!!

Another Sunday and another opportunity for God to Rock the House! Another opportunity for God to do a mighty work in our lives!!

Maybe you are feeling everything but joy this morning. Life can be filled with tons of disappointments and overwhelming challenges. Sometimes the circumstances we are walking through have a way of totally stealing our joy!

Corrie Ten Boom knew that and wrote, “Jesus did not promise to change the circumstances around us. He promised great peace and pure joy to those who would learn to believe that God actually controls all things." Yes, my God controls all things and He is on the throne today!!!

We need to learn to trust God and open the door of our soul to Christ. He promises that He will give us pure peace and joy even when life seems very dark and uncertain.

I pray your day is filled to overflowing with God's amazing peace and overwhelming joy!!!! He loves you and only wants the very best for you, your family and ministry.

You are appreciated and loved!!!!

Blessings,
Debbie

2011-04-10T03:05:00.001-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Peeps,

Our Women in Ministry retreat was amazing last weekend! The power and presence of God was incredible. Our speakers and workshop facilitators were also outstanding. It was a great time together. You can check out the photos on facebook on my page, Deborah Shank.
From Mark 5: 21-36 we read about the lady with the issue of blood. Have you ever really thought about how difficult it was for her to forge her way through the crowd just to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment? This woman with the issue of blood decided to believe in Jesus’ power to heal and she did what she had to do to get to Him and touch God for her need. Her story is one that is inspiring. There are lessons to learn for each of us that were taught so greatly in the story of this woman’s faith and determination. She was persistent for help. She was determined to reach out to Jesus. She would not stop until she touched God. She recognized that she had a great need and that no one else could meet that need but God. She also had faith to believe that all she had to do was just get to Jesus, so she would not stop until she reached Him, no matter how long or what it took.

I want that kind of faith in my life. When I am faced with overwhelming challenges I want to demonstrate faith that has no doubt. I want to demonstrate that same faith in my life when everything around me looks dark and hopeless. I want that level of faith when my hubby and I are dealing with conflict in the church. I want that same level of faith when life seems overwhelming and the challenges seem to be multiplying. If we can achieve that level of faith it will take us places we never dreamed were possible in our lives.

God has placed many women in our paths that we can influence. Everyday there are multiple opportunities for kingdom advancement all around us. When we allow those opportunities to pass us by it is tragic. Do you want to impact lives like Jesus did? Maybe you just walked through the driest desert in your life this week and you really are not interested in impacting lives but it happens when we least expect it!!! The enemy is slick and if he can do anything to manipulate our lives so that we demonstrate frustration, anger, bitterness and worry to those around us. He thinks he has won. But we have news for him don’t we friends? He hasn’t won and he won’t win because we serve a Jesus who is all powerful!!!

Isaiah 43: 2,3, When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you, When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God………

Going through the rivers with strong currents will cause you to drown or force you to grow stronger. If you go in your own strength, you are more likely to drown. If you invite the Lord to go with you, he will protect you.

Persistent, Determined and Faith…….. Those are my words of challenge this week as I pursue God with everything I am. How about you?

Have an awesome week friends!

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2011-03-27T03:39:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends,

I can’t believe I woke this morning to snow! I am certain it will not be a big deal today but the lawn is white as the white stuff continues to fall. What happened to spring?

I am still dealing with laryngitis. I have had this beautiful bass voice for over a week! I saw the doctor Thursday and am taking an antibiotic. Laryngitis is tough on a worship leader. Please keep me in your prayers this week. Our District Women in Ministry retreat is next weekend and I need my voice! There are lots to do this week as I finalize all the details. Looking forward to an awesome weekend with wonderful ladies from our District as we learn how to remove and abandon our ministry masks!

Life can be wonderful, full of laughter and everything nice and it can also be challenging and full of sorrow and many disappointments. We are all facing different situations in our lives today that cause our faith to be challenged.

Last evening my hubby and I visited the funeral home for a lady who in the past five months has lost her son and daughter to cancer and then the dreadful disease took her life as well. The family was so broken and repeatedly told us how difficult the past months have been. My heart breaks for them. Can you imagine the pain they are walking through?

Life happens and even as Christians there will be challenges that we must face. As we face these times of pain and hardship how will we respond? Will we reflect God-confidence or be overwhelmed with fear and doubt?

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you (Isaiah 41: 10, 13).

This scripture encourages us not to look around in terror and be dismayed. When you look at your circumstances it is often overwhelming. We must learn to have God-confidence in every situation focusing our eyes on God and not the problem. God can handle any problem we face. He has promised us in His Word that He will strengthen us through our difficulties and He walks with us through those tough times.

Corrie Ten Boom said this, “Worry is a cycle of inefficient thoughts whirling around a center of fear….. Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength”.

I am in no way indicating that you are weak spiritually if you fear your circumstances but worry and fear are powerful tools of the enemy. When we focus on the problem more than the solution it can be all consuming. Think of all the time we waste worrying about how we are going to fix this thing we are walking through instead of praying and trusting God to deal with it.

Look up today friends and trust in an almighty and powerful God who is capable of doing anything. I know some of your challenges are huge but nothing is impossible with our God. It is true we become spiritually stronger when we are walking through the fire but only if we remain focused on God and not the problem. We certainly cannot be a testimony to those around us if we are constantly whining about our circumstances.

Be confident in the God we serve! He loves you and His plan and purpose for your life and ministry is incredible. Trust Him friends. You won’t be disappointed.

Have an awesome Sunday!

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2011-03-20T03:23:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends,

Spring is coming and my bronchitis is in full force! My voice has sounded like a bass singer all week and leading worship today will be an interesting challenge!!

Often I receive prayer requests throughout the week from many of you who are battling fears in ministry and life. Be encouraged today friends. I know all of us worry about something along life’s journey but we serve a God who loves and protects us and promises to be with us ALWAYS.

Exodus 14:13, Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today.”

Now, I am certain that all of us believe God’s Word, right? And I am certain that all of us believe we serve a mighty God who is capable of doing anything, right? Then why do we allow Satan to convince us that there is no solution to the problems we are facing today? When life’s problems absolutely represents no way out, the Bible says, “Fear not; stand firm and be confident and see deliverance of the Lord which He will work for you today.” Begin today looking for evidence of God’s hand at work in your situation.

We may not be chased by an army, but we may still feel trapped today. Moses called upon God to intervene. Instead of giving in to despair, we need to adopt Moses’ attitude to “stand firm and …. See the deliverance the Lord will bring.” God will not fail you or forsake you (Dt. 31:6). We are in the company of an almighty and amazing God. The One “Who goes with you” has never lost a battle, and He will win this one.

When we feel like we can’t cope anymore, He says, “Do not look around you….. And be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties” (Isaiah 41:10). God typically doesn’t lift us out of our problems but walks through them with us and toughens us up. This is where our faith becomes stronger.

He says: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4: 6, 7).

God’s peace is different from the world’s peace. True peace is not found in positive thinking, in absence of conflict, or in good feelings. It comes from knowing that God is in control. As a Christian our citizenship in Christ’s kingdom is sure, our destiny is set, and we can have victory over sin. Allow God’s peace to guard your heart against anxiety. Don’t listen to the voice of fear. God is with you today!

Have a marvelous week friends! May the peace of God permeate your soul!

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2011-03-13T03:09:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends,

Spring is coming! I woke yesterday to the birds singing and the smell of spring was in the air. Flowers are bursting through the ground and patches of grass are beginning to turn green. Good bye cold weather and old man winter!!!

I am preparing for an upcoming Women in Ministry retreat in April. Our theme this year is Unmasked. As women in ministry, how often do we wear masks? Why is it so uncomfortable for us to remove those masks? Being real is often something we seem to battle but when we remove the masks we become a source of encouragement and blessing to others in ways we cannot even imagine.

Have you ever had a friend who was never “real” with you? It isn’t difficult to detect that type of individual. She always wears a façade and never allows you to really get too know her. She pretends to be someone she isn’t, preventing a true friendship to develop with you. The relationship you have with that person is “fake” because she refuses to reveal her true identity. You most likely were cautious with her as well in revealing your true thoughts and struggles.

Proverbs 27:17, As iron sharpens iron, so one man (or woman), sharpens another (Paraphrased).

When we are ourselves around others, we actually set others free to be themselves. We become a source of encouragement and blessing to others in ways we can’t even imagine!

In ministry I totally understand there are times we simply cannot be “real” and remove the masks, but in our sincere friendships, with those we trust, the masks need to come off. Especially with other pastor’s wives and ministry women, we need to encourage one another. That is a tough challenge if we appear to always have it together. Plastic people are not encouraging. When we choose to be transparent with one another, we become a source of strength, and hope for others. Through real relationships we can encourage and challenge others to be all that they are meant to be.

In looking back on your own life, are there areas of struggle that you’ve faced where you can now become a source of encouragement for others? Who is God calling you to help set free by simply being yourself and loving unconditionally? (You Will Set Others Free to Be Themselves, Women of Faith Series)

God’s desire is for you and I to be an encouragement to women around us. I know many of us have been hurt over the years but at some point those walls we have built need to be destroyed. Pray for discernment so that you can feel “safe” to remove the mask and be “real” to those God is calling you to minister and encourage.

Have an awesome Sunday and a blessed week! I would love to read your input on this topic. Please feel free to email me with any thoughts or comments or simply post any comments to the wall of Chocolate and Coffee.

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2011-03-06T03:20:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends,

It is pouring this morning and forecasts say today promises to be a “soaker”. My prayer this morning is that there will be an outpouring of the Holy Spirit in our services today like we haven’t seen in a long time and we can say we had a heavenly rain that truly was a “soaker”!

I hear conversations everywhere about how people are praying for revivals in their churches and ministries. It seems to be the “buzzword” lately in the Christian world. But how can we have revival if we are always discouraged, defeated and ready to give daily because of the potholes in the road of life?

Revival can begin with you and me. As pastor’s wives and ministry women we need to step up to the plate and determine in our hearts that a revival will begin in us! We need to fan the flame and get excited about the great God who we serve! Nothing is too big for our God!

I don’t want to be just another ordinary pastor’s wife or woman in ministry. I want the fire of God to be evident in me and I want the Holy Spirit power to seep from my pores!!! I want revival in my life because friends when we have revival in us we will have revival in our church and ministry!

I know God is calling me to a new level of serving Him. He is amazing and still performs miracles and wonders. Do you want to be a part of those things in these last days? Do you want God to use your ministry to touch the lives of those who are hurting, lost and discouraged? Will you believe with me that God is going to do great things through us?

Lord, send revival to my girlfriends! May the mighty power of the Holy Spirit permeate their souls and may your presence be seen in them everywhere they go. Father, we want more of you and less of self. Help us God to be the women of God you are calling us to be. Help us Lord to be mighty prayer warrior’s who are willing to stand in the gap for our sisters in the Lord. Thank you Lord for all you have done in each of our lives and for all you are going to do as we step up to the next level in our walk with you.

Have a blessed Sunday sweet friends!

Love you much,
Debbie

2011-02-27T03:01:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends,

I pray that you have had an awesome week! Our son Brandon was home for a week ministering in the area and returned to MO on Thursday. I love it when our grown children and grandchildren are home. Not sure I will ever really adjust to this empty nest mode.

A number of years ago Bobby and I were pastoring a church in Maryland and God called me to youth ministry. He certainly has a sense of humor doesn’t he? Anyway, we took the youth group White Water Rafting one Saturday and what an experience that was for all of us! As we navigated down the river our guides instructed us how to paddle the boat, especially when we encountered rapids. My hubby actually fell out of the boat at one point and was clinging to the side by a rope until we managed to pull him to safety. The river’s current grew fast and rough and we were challenged with some major rapids! The youth had an awesome time but I am not sure I will ever attempt that journey again……….. at least not in a boat.

I often think about that journey as we work diligently each week in our busy lives, caring for our families, coming and going from meeting to baseball game to worship practice at church and back to work each day – paddling as fast as we can to get through the rapids and down the river.

Philippians 4:13 says, I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Can we really do everything? We paddle vigorously some days but are we truly getting anywhere?

The power we receive in union with Christ is sufficient to do his will and to face the challenges that arise from our commitment to doing it. As we contend for the faith we will face huge rapids in the river like troubles, stress, and trials. Pray and ask God daily to strengthen your paddles so that it will be easier to navigate those horrid rapids.

We serve an awesome and powerful God. And for whatever reason we often try to fix the problem on our own before using our paddles of prayer, seeking God’s face and asking him to help us.

As you are paddling through life this week remember who your source is. Allow him to take charge of the paddles and make the challenges you face much easier as you navigate those challenging rapids.

May God saturate your life this week with blessings and love.

Love you,
Debbie

2011-02-20T03:38:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Friends,

I attended the Potomac District Ladies Winter Conference in Williamsburg this weekend. What a blessing!!!! Susanne Cox is a powerful anointed woman of God with a Word!! It was an incredible time away with great ladies from our church and District. Fellowship and building relationships with one another is so vital in ministry. We left Williamsburg yesterday afternoon to make our way back to Warrenton, VA which normally takes 2.5 hours. Because of intense brush fires along I-295 traffic was re- routed. We were blessed with the scenic route on a two lane highway! Our trip home was 6 hours! But…… we still had the joy of the Lord and I am still praising God this morning for an awesome weekend!

God has so much for our lives ladies. As I watched Susanne minister this weekend and share her incredible testimony the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart numerous times. I think especially as pastor’s wives we often feel challenged to be the woman of God He is calling us to be in our churches. I want the freedom to do ALL God is challenging me to do so I can be a powerful anointed woman of God making a significant difference for the Kingdom! It isn’t a question of can I have it. We can have that too! The Lord wants us to possess that power in our lives but the enemy is speaking lies and discouragement into our minds often hindering us from all the blessings God has for our lives.

Girlfriends, I challenge you today to step out and grasp ALL that God has for your life. Time is short and we have so much to do. The trumpet is going to sound and there are so many people who are lost and need Jesus. God will give us divine appointments in our lives to share the gospel if we pray for them. God will open doors of opportunity for our ministry if we pray for them. God will anoint our lives and ministries and work miracles through us if we pray for them. Do you want all God has for you? Do you really want it all?

We impact people around us all the time and often we have no idea that others even notice us. Yesterday morning I was waiting in line at our retreat for breakfast and one of the servers told me that I had sunshine all over my face. I thanked him and a few seconds later he told me that the joy of the Lord was all over me. Wow!! I truly was standing there minding my own business and had no idea anyone even noticed me. Obviously he was also a Christian and was smiling from ear to ear but what an encouragement at 8am in the morning! Friends, we can make a difference!

Lord, bless my beautiful girlfriends and pour your anointing upon each of them in a mighty and powerful way today. I pray for their ministries and families Lord. Encourage them today Father. We love you Lord so much and want to accomplish great things for the Kingdom of God. Remove any hindrance or obstacle that is keeping them from being who you have called them to be. Empower them and bless them Lord. In your mighty name I pray. Amen.

Have a power packed Sunday! Be encouraged. God loves you and so do I!! The joy of the Lord is our strength!!

Hugs,
Debbie

2011-02-13T03:20:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

This has been one of those weeks! A week full of activity and then some. I am sure you know what I am talking about. A week filled to the brim with all kinds of ministry and personal obligations. The end result is a very tired and weary pastor’s wife this morning. And to top it off this has also been an extremely discouraging week. Do any of you understand where I am coming from today? Ministry can be a very discouraging and challenging place even when things are going well at our churches………..

As I was praying last evening for our services today God reminded me how much He loves and cares about me. We preach to our congregations all the time about encouragement and how magnificent God’s amazing love is. Well, when the rubber meets the road, this is where we truly discover how spiritual we are and how strong our foundation in Christ really is. Weak foundations in ministry never succeed………..

God is awesome and He loves you and I. I encourage each of you today to focus on Him and what He has for your life. His plan is awesome and I know from experience that life's busyness often steals our joy. We become so overwhelmed with our daily routines and obligations that we forget our purpose and the mission God has placed in each of our lives.

God has a plan and guess what... You and I are in it! Isn't that exciting? He wants to use you and He wants to use me to further the Kingdom of God. That makes my heart jump with excitement. Serving Him is challenging and exciting. We never know what tomorrow will offer but we can know with confidence that our God will be by our side walking with us no matter what the day may bring.

Give Him priority today and thank Him for His awesome plan for your life. Tell Him how much you love Him. We owe God so much for the transformation He has been responsible for in each of our lives. Be encouraged. God loves you!

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2011-02-06T03:38:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Peeps,

I trust that your week was fruitful and encouraging. Our grandson Luke became ill last Friday and suffered with a high fever and horrible sore throat all weekend. We had taken him to the doctor on Friday and his throat culture came back negative for strep. Our daughter took him back to the doctor on Monday and guess what? He was diagnosed with strep! It was a busy week at work. District Council planning has begun and there is much preparation for this event in May. Details………. This week I will be traveling to Potomac Park Camp for a two-day retreat. Life is busy……..

This week I also traveled to one of our sections to facilitate a pastor’s wives/ministry women growth group. We had a great time and a statement was made during our time together that has resonated in my heart all weekend. Ministry women, whether it is a pastor’s wife or woman in ministry, often feel not just alone but have deep feelings of loneliness. Ever been there? What an unhealthy way to live!

Why are we afraid to admit that we are not perfect? Why do we hesitate to admit to our girlfriends that we have shortcomings and fail at times? Why are we so determined not to be transparent with our closest friends? If we would only realize that there isn’t a ministry woman on the face of this earth that has it all together 24/7!

When we begin to share our flawed life with our friends we give them permission to remove their masks. It isn’t an easy task but necessary in order to develop close relationships. Solid friendships are built on a foundation of authenticity, trust and commitment. Obviously this process takes time but if we refuse to never step out and attempt to remove our masks the relationship may never happen.

If you are lonely and feel like you don’t have a friend you can share the struggles of life with over a cup of coffee, I encourage you to seek God’s face and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in finding that person or persons. Ministry is a lonely place full of obstacles and discouragement at times but we must be a friend in order to find a friend. I don’t believe that God ever intended for us to travel this journey alone. That is why my passion is so strong for developing pastor’s wives/ministry women growth groups in our district. We definitely need one another. Relationships are crucial and it is a process that takes time to cultivate.

The Chocolate and Coffee Ministry groups I have created on FB also serve as a great source for ministry women to encourage one another. If you have never participated in the discussions I encourage you to check it out. There has been some great insight share during many of the discussion topics.

Have a great week friends. May the Lord continue to bless you and your ministry in an awesome and powerful way! Be a friend and begin to remove those masks………………………..

Love you much,
Debbie

2011-01-30T03:34:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Girlfriends,

Thanks so much for ALL of your prayers regarding our daughter Brooke. She met with her surgeon on Friday and the pathology reports were all negative! We were concerned because there is a long history of cancer in my family. God is so good!

God wants you to trust him each day even when it may feel he is asking you to trust him for the impossible. God has promised to help you accomplish and endure.

I know how busy our lives in ministry can be and I also know how many burdens we carry for others as pastor’s wives and women in ministry. But God never intended for you and I to do this thing alone. We will not accomplish what God has called us to do in our own strength. We will become weary, discouraged and worn out and often times those feelings cause people to leave the ministry.

No matter what you are walking through today, God is able. I know I repeat this often but He has proved over and over again in my own life how BIG and awesome he truly is. Mother Teresa wrote, “God will never, never, never let us down if we have faith and put our trust in Him. He will always look after us. So we must cleave to Jesus. Our whole life must simply be woven into Jesus.”

When you enter into friendships your trust develops over time. At the beginning of your relationship with Christ you may trust Him for things that are not likely to happen without his intervention. As you trust God for bigger and bigger things, your faith expands as you mature in God and we learn to trust for the impossible.

George Mueller’s trust in God was tested to the limit. He operated a number of orphanages in nineteenth-century England, housing two thousand children at one time. He was criticized for giving unfair advantage to the poor and his ministry to the children came under scrutiny. It became well known that he did not ask for donations and often there was no food in the pantry to prepare meals for the orphans. But George Mueller instructed the children to take their place at the tables, totally trusting God would provide. And God always came through. Whatever was needed always arrived at the door at the right time.

I don’t know what many of you are facing today. I don’t feel the pain some of you are experiencing today regarding your ministry but I serve an almighty God who is capable of doing the impossible in your life.

1 Peter 5:7, Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. Ask God for the impossible today then trust him for the miracle. We are on a faith journey and God will provide!

Praying for you today friend. May God bless you and do the impossible in your life and ministry!

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2011-01-23T03:17:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends,

Thank you so much for praying for our daughter Brooke this week. Her thyroid surgery went very well and now she is at our home this week with her family recovering. The pathology results will not be known until next week but the surgeon feels everything is normal. PTL! I will be on vacation this week and also working from home as I help care for our grandchildren Luke and Victoria.

Many of you have expressed prayer needs to me over the past month. I pray for this group daily and I encourage you to pray also. We truly need the prayers and encouragement of one another. Even though I have never met many of you I feel your prayers and your words of encouragement truly speak to my heart.

George Mueller had a saying that faith grows with use. I encourage you to put your faith to work. Our faith will grow and become stronger daily if we practice trusting God for something small and ordinary and next week or next month or next year you may be able to trust Him for answers bordering on the miraculous. Everyone has some faith, said Mueller; the difference among us is one of degree only, and the man of small faith may be simply the one of degree only, and the man of small faith may be simply the one who has not dared to exercise the little faith he has.

According to the Bible, we have because we ask, or we have not because we ask not. God wants to display His power in our lives. NOTHING is impossible for the God we serve…… NOTHING!

I know many of you are facing huge challenges in your life but God loves you and wants the absolute best for you and your ministry. The enemy continues to knock on our hearts with discouragement and lies. He is a loser! God is a God of victory and we win when He is in control of our lives!

Seek God for the impossible. He is waiting for you to ask so He can do something unbelievable in your life. This could be the week!

Have a God-powered day filled to overflowing with His amazing anointing.

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2011-01-16T03:13:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Friends!

My weekend has been packed full to the brim and I am weary this morning like many of you. I traveled on Friday to our area District campground for a planning meeting with the women’s ministries. Saturday I had a committee meeting at the District office and did not arrive home until 4:30pm. Of course there was prep work that needed to be done for today, a hubby to feed along with a hamper full of laundry, etc. I am so thankful that Monday is a holiday and our office is closed!!

How often does the enemy mess with your mind? You are aware that feelings of insecurity, inferiority, discouragement and many other negatives in our lives comes directly from the pits of hell! And, when we are tired and weary the doors are sometimes opened wider for these feelings in our lives to come in like a flood.

"The way you think determines the way you feel, and the way you feel determines the way you act." ~ Rick Warren ~

When I read this statement I can't help to think about all the "sad" Christians who are walking around our workplace, neighborhoods and churches, which are constantly dragging their lips across the carpet. Why? Because they have become overburdened with the cares of the world and life has become overwhelming to them. They have lost their joy in the Lord. Even pastor’s wives and ministry women sometimes experience these same feelings. Is that YOU today?

If we think insecure thoughts, we will feel insecure and those around us will recognize our insecurities. If we think we are losers, we will feel like losers and those around us will recognize us as losers. If we think we are defeated, we will feel like we are defeated and those around us will recognize us as being defeated. If we think we are secure in Jesus Christ, saved by the blood of the lamb, pressing towards the prize of heaven, we will feel encouraged and those around us will see us as encourager's. Our attitudes will become contagious and people will want what we have. You are what you think.........

My God is not a loser. He is bigger than anything this world can place upon us. He is our hope. He is our future. He is our encourager and He loves us. He cares about us and He is available to us 24/7. When we feel alone in the middle of the night, God is there. When the enemy speaks words of discouragement into our thoughts, God is there to assure us that we are special. We are His creation and He doesn't make mistakes nor does He make junk?

I know I am nothing without Christ. He has made me who I am today. Each day, part of my prayer to Him is, "Lord, may I decrease and you increase." I want to be a light in this dark and hopeless world.

The key to our victory in Christ is spending alone time with our Heavenly Father. We all know that. We preach that to our churches but many times the busyness in our lives crowds out the most important thing we need to do.

Be INTENTIONAL about your TIME with the Lord. The doctor prescribed blood pressure medication for me last year and I know in order to remain healthy I must take those meds daily. If we desire to remain healthy spiritually, we must take our meds daily. Those meds are spending alone time with Jesus Christ. Studying His Word, meditating on His Word, filling our soul with God’s Word and praying to our God.

Have an incredible and blessed Sunday and an awesome week!

You are loved and appreciated,
Debbie

2011-01-09T02:57:00.001-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Peeps!

It is officially the beginning of a New Year in my house! All the Christmas decorations have been neatly packed away for a long nap……….. What a task!

Ministry is rewarding, exciting, stressful and sometimes even discouraging. I shared my heart last week about how God has spoken to me regarding being more intense this year about studying God’s Word and seeking His face. In my own life it is even more than that.

How many times do we find ourselves comparing who we are with other women in the ministry? How many times do we allow the enemy to convince us that the sermon we preached was a BIG zero? How many times do we find ourselves thinking that we just don’t measure up to others around us who are successful in ministry? Those are thoughts from none other than our big ugly enemy who is a liar and master of deception! It is cool to be who God created you to be because His fingerprints are on your soul. God has chosen us to be vessels of the Word in a dying world.

God’s plan for all of us is magnificent and unbelievable! His power and anointing is all around us but sometimes we fail to tap into those resources. Intimidation and insecurity are real and if we are honest with ourselves we would admit that both of these tools from the enemy invade our lives often. The enemy will do anything to keep us from achieving all that God has for us.

Each of us has dreams that have been engraved on our souls by God. If we feel limited in our walk with Christ we are limiting Him to achieve those dreams.

Are there others who can preach better, sing better and teach better than we can? Absolutely but that doesn’t mean we refuse to pursue God’s plan for our lives. You are unique in God’s plan. As I mentioned last week, God specifically designed His plan for your life. He has called you to do things for the Kingdom that no one else can do. Friends that is an awesome challenge!

Psalm 125:1 tells us that those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion. We must trust God in 2011 because he never changes. He cannot be shaken by the changes in our world, and he endures forever.

Do we need help achieving the plan God has for our lives? Absolutely! I lift up my eyes to the hills; where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 121: 1-2 NIV).

Don’t buy into the deception of the enemy. Hang on tight to God’s promises. He will never fail us and if He has called you He will equip you to accomplish great things for Him! Don’t try to be a carbon copy of someone else’s ministry. Pursue God and allow Him to do a great work in YOU. When we fully submit our lives onto our Heavenly Father it is amazing what He will do!

Have a blessed week and a powerful Sunday.

Love and appreciate YOU,
Debbie

2011-01-02T03:53:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year Beautiful Friends!

My hubby and I left on Christmas evening to travel to MO to spend the week with our son and his family. We traveled in snow all night but 18 hours later we were holding our new grandson, Cayden. He is precious and we had an awesome week! I absolutely hated leaving them to come back to VA but I know we were blessed to have the opportunity to spend the week with them.

Opportunities…….. The thesaurus lists words like, chance, occasion, opening, break and prospect under opportunity. Yesterday was the beginning of a brand New Year. I know many people make all kinds of New Year Resolutions but we truly have all kinds of brand new opportunities coming our way this year. Are you excited about that? Are you looking forward to what God has planned for your life and ministry? Are you prepared for what God may be planning for you?

I don’t make New Year Resolutions because they quickly disappear after the first couple of weeks. But, God has been speaking to my heart about what I need to do in this New Year. I am going to become more intense about studying God’s Word and seeking His face. I am going to prepare sermons and teachings as God leads so I am ready to share His Word when the opportunity comes before me. For me personally, I need to focus more on the NOW and less on what I am praying for regarding the future and my ministry. I believe that we can often become so focused on what we want and miss opportunities that God places before us daily.

I encourage you to listen intensely to what God is speaking to your heart. He DOES have an awesome plan for our lives but WE sometimes get in the way! This ministry thing is not about US. It is ALL about God and what He has planned for our lives.

Let’s become intense about serving Him and truly seeking His face. I will pray for you daily and let’s pray for one another throughout this year. Please share your prayer requests and all that God is doing in your life on the wall of Chocolate and Coffee or email them to me so we can encourage one another.

Some things may be neglected with but little loss to the spiritual life, but to neglect communion with God is to hurt ourselves where we cannot afford it. A.W. Tozer

Lord, as I seek your face and study your Word please guide me. Use me Lord in a mighty way as Your servant as I boldly proclaim Your word in leading others. Amen.

I am praying for you ladies! You are so special and God has a plan!!!

Love you,
Debbie

2010-12-05T03:39:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Peeps!

I trust we are all into the hustle and bustle of the holiday schedule! It happens every year……. We have so much to do during Christmas that often times it is a challenge to find time to sit and relax in front of the Christmas tree. I love Christmas and I love sitting in the house at night with all the lights off except the Christmas trees. I have to make a concerted effort to find that time where I can escape life’s struggles and RELAX! I pray that you will also find time to enjoy the holiday. You deserve it!

Even in the midst of all the shopping, baking, cooking, wrapping gifts, cantata practices, parties, etc., we can find ourselves lonely. Ever been there? How can we possibly feel lonely as pastor’s wives and ministry women? After all, there are people around us all the time but It happens to me and I know it happens to you also. It hurts when you are in the middle of the holiday activities, around a number of people, but feel so alone………………………….

Loneliness can manifest as an inner ache or a craving for affection. Its side effects include feelings of emptiness, uselessness, or purposelessness. But loneliness can be cured, no matter what the cause. If you are lonely, you can confront it in the name of Jesus Christ.

Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows (Luke 12:7) NIV. Our true value is God’s estimate of our worth, not our peers’. Other people (even sometimes Christians) evaluate and categorize us according to how we perform, what we achieve, and how we look. But God cares for us because we belong to him. So we can face life without fear.

God has promised to be with you always, and to never leave you or forsake you. Pray that God will send you real friends that God Himself has chosen for you. Grasp His promise that He will comfort you and cause you to rejoice. Then get ready for the joy!

Merry Christmas dear friends!

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2010-10-03T04:13:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Sweet Friends,

I returned from Dallas yesterday like many of you, who attended the Conversations ’10 conference for women in ministry. It was outstanding! It felt wonderful connecting with other women involved in ministry from all over the country. I loved meeting many of you who I have become friends with through my ministry on facebook. I leave again this afternoon for our District Minister’s Retreat! Life is busy!

One of the things that continues to resonate in my spirit is that God is calling us to know who we are in Christ. In order for us to fulfill the purpose and plan God has for our lives, we MUST become CONFIDENT in who we are as a woman of God. To me that translates to – I don’t have to be like Betty, Susan, Jenny or Olivia (random names ). I don’t need to be like any other woman in ministry no matter how incredible they are. I need to be ME. I need to be Debbie Shank. God’s plan for my life will be different from others. I need to pursue God’s complete plan for MY LIFE and trust Him fully each and every day even when life appears to be uncertain and unclear.

I pray God’s fullness upon your life and ministry today. May God bless you abundantly this week. God does love you and cares about every detail of your life.

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2010-09-19T03:27:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Peeps!

I am still in Carlisle, PA at the Pastor’s Wives Retreat. It has been a wonderful weekend!

Just want to remind you this morning how important you are to the Kingdom.

Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:58)

Paul says that because of the resurrection, nothing we do is in vain. When we don’t see results it is easy to become discouraged. But if we can maintain a heavenly perspective, we will understand that we often will not see the good that results from our efforts. Don’t allow discouragement over an apparent lack of results keep you from working. Do the good that you have opportunity to do, knowing that your work will have eternal results.

The enemy is prowling and his goal is to steal, kill and destroy. No matter what he brings against us, our God is greater! The enemy is defeated in the name of Jesus!!

Have an awesome Sunday and an incredible week!

You are appreciated and your work for the Kingdom does not go unnoticed,

Love you,
Debbie

2010-09-12T03:24:00.001-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Peeps!

Like many of you reading this post today, it has been a challenging week. I received a message earlier in the week that my aunt had committed suicide. She was a very lonely and depressed woman for years and the enemy finally convinced her that taking her own life would be the answer to all her problems……….

The enemy comes against those of us in ministry also with many things. I receive numerous emails from women weekly who are struggling and feeling totally alone.

A man of many companions may come to ruin but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24). Loneliness is everywhere – many people feel cut off and alienated from others. Being in a crowd just makes people more aware of their isolation. We all need friends who will stick close, listen, care, and offer help when it is needed – in good times and bad. It is better to have one such friend than dozens of superficial acquaintances. Instead of wishing you could find a true friend, seek to become one. There are people who need your friendship. Ask God to reveal them to you, and then take on the challenge of being a true friend.

If you are lonely this morning a genuine friend can make quite a difference in your life. So maybe it is time that you prayed that God send you one. Maybe he already has, but you were just too self-involved to see it. That’s certainly easy to do. Perhaps there is someone right under your nose that would be amazingly good at reciprocating your support and love. We tend to be programmed to think that we must always be the givers, and others are to be the receivers. Take a fresh look at our present relationships and examine their potential.

You might not find this friend in your own church. That doesn’t matter. The important thing is to find a friend. We were meant to live in relationship to others.

I leave Friday afternoon to travel to PA to speak at the Penn-Del Pastor’s Wives retreat next weekend. Would you pray for me this week as I finish preparing for my sessions? I am praying for God’s anointing over the retreat. My desire is to be a blessing and encourager for those attending.

I am praying for you today and throughout the week. May God bless you, your family and ministry.

Appreciate and love you,
Debbie

2010-09-05T03:29:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Peeps!

I love long holiday weekends don't you? The problem with me is that I always have too much on my list that I want to achieve in a few short days! Where is the time for rest and relaxation??

I was typing my message this morning, was almost finished when the entire thing disappeared! So.............. I guess that is not what God intended for you to read today.

My soul finds rest in God alone, my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken. Psalm 62: 1, 2.

These are some of my favorite passages! David must have been far from home when he wrote this psalm. Fortunately, God is never limited to any geographic location. Even when we are among unknown surroundings, God never abandons us. Amen to that!! A "higher" rock would be a plan of refuge and safety. God's all-surpassing strength is always with us. I am so thankful this morning for God's strength and power!

God is my solid rock today! Even when we are weary and discouraged, God is our ROCK! He loves us and cares about every detail of our lives.

I am praying for you today friends. May God bless you in a very special way this week. Be encouraged! God is still in control no matter what the current circumstances in our lives may look like.

Have a wonderful weekend and a fantastic week!

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2010-08-29T03:52:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Peeps!!

This week I received devastating news that a dear FB ministry friend, who I dearly loved and admired, passed away. My heart aches this morning as I write this. Many of us just found out about this tragedy a few days ago and are still trying to make sense of it all. Deborah Hosmer Meyer was one of the most encouraging Christian women I have ever known. Although I don't understand all of this, I know that God is still in control and He absolutely knows what he is doing.I encourage you to visit Deborah’s blog. You will be blessed by her posts. We have also created a page on FB as a tribute to her legacy - A Tribute to Deborah Hosmer Meyer. If you knew her please feel free to share something from your heart on her page.

Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Friends, we need one another in ministry. I keep asking myself if there was something I could have done for Deborah that I didn’t do. Many times we are walking through very difficult times but we choose to be silent and carry the load alone. Please don’t do that. There are many ministry women on face book, including myself, who are more than willing to pray with you and encourage you. We really need to reach out to one another, to encourage, love and pray for our sisters in Christ. Our lives are full and we are very busy trying to balance life and ministry. I regret that I didn’t tell Deborah how much she meant to me before she passed away. I encourage you to take time this week to reach out to those who have made a difference in your life and let them know how important they are to you. Life is fragile…………

I pray God’s blessings upon you, your family and your ministry today. You are loved and appreciated more than you know. Be blessed!

Love,
Debbie

2010-08-08T03:58:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

Pray that you had an awesome week! We were in MO visiting our son and daughter-in-law and had a wonderful time! Hate the 18 hour drive to and from MO but it was worth it!

Just want to encourage you to check the Discussion posts on the Chocolate and Coffee wall. I love to read your comments and it is a great place to encourage and support one another. Please check it out this week and participate.

Be encouraged today and allow God to do an awesome work in your lives. We face so many impossible situations every week that would be hopeless if we had to handle them with our limited strength. But God specializes in working through us to achieve the impossible.

Don't focus on your problems. Focus on your solution!! God is able and still reigns. He loves you. He is your comfort and your strength. He is the answer to ALL the things you are facing today. Grab His hand and allow Him to walk with you through life's challenges.

I am praying for God's anointing power to be upon you today. May the Lord continue to bless you, your family and ministry in a way you never imagined!

Appreciate each of you. Hope to see many of you in September at the Conversations '10 conference in Dallas, TX.

Love you,
Debbie

2010-08-01T04:29:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

My hubby and I are on the road to Springfield, MO. We will be visiting our son Brandon and daughter-in-law Casey this week. Modern technology……. Riding in the car with my laptop on the net!!

Thank you to those who were able to respond to my email last week sharing your insight and wisdom about your quiet time with the Lord. I sincerely appreciate all your comments.

I am praying for you that God’s blessings will surround you, your family and ministry this week. Many of you have sent emails this past week asking for prayer. I pray that those prayers will be answered SOON! Even when all appears to be gloomy and hopeless our God still reigns! PTL!!

Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord (Psalm 27:14). We all know that waiting for God is not easy. Many times it seems that God isn’t answering our prayers or simply doesn’t understand the urgency of our situation. Like he has no clue what we are walking through!! Ever been there? That kind of thinking implies that God is not in control or is not fair. But God is worth waiting for. God does care and uses waiting to refresh, renew, and teach us. Let’s make good use of our waiting times by seeking God to discover what he may be trying to teach in them.

Have an awesome Sunday friends! No matter what level your ministry may be at today, God is still using you to influence lives around you.

Love you,
Debbie

2010-07-18T03:28:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

I pray that your week has been great! I can't believe that summer is passing by so quickly. It has been so hot on the east coast. I love hot weather but this has been ridiculous!

Be encouraged today no matter what you are walking through. The enemy is on the prowl and he continues to attack the family, marriages and the church. I know how difficult it is when you are trying to make sense of things, especially when your life appears to be crumbling on all sides, but God is still bigger than all of this.

I would like to ask you to pray for one another in this group. I know that we don't know everyone but many are really dealing with some major challenges in their lives. God knows who they are and He will hear and answer our prayers. My desire for this group is to be an encouragement and support for one another. Will you lift one another in prayer throughout the week? There is absolutely power in a group of ministry women praying to our Heavenly Father!!

May God bless you, your family and your ministry this week! When the enemy comes knocking I pray the power of God to knock him on his backside!!! God loves you and He only wants the very best for you. Be encouraged. God is still on the throne!! His plan and purpose for your lives is amazing!!

Appreciate you and all of your emails I receive weekly. Your encouraging words always come when I need them most.

Love you,
Debbie

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

2010-07-11T03:34:00.000-07:00

I pray that you are having a great summer and have had an opportunity to vacation with your family or are making plans to do that soon. Taking a break from the ministry is vital to our survival!

I want to encourage you today to continue to look to Christ for your answers. I know the road we travel often becomes cluttered and confusing but God is still in control. For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV). One of my very favorite scriptures!! What power and promise God has given us in these words.

I know life is sometimes difficult, discouraging and downright disappointing but God promises us that he will see us through to a glorious conclusion. God believes in us and he will be with us all the way. He knows the future, and his plans for us are awesome. As long as God provides our agenda and goes with us as we fulfill his mission, we can have boundless hope.

Hold on tight to God's will for your lives no matter what valley you may be treading today. The Bible tells us that God will never leave us nor forsake us. That my friend is comfort food!!!

I pray that you will have an awesome day in God's House and that His power and presence will be mighty! Many blessings to you and your family!

You are appreciated and loved!
Debbie

2010-07-04T03:46:00.001-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

My hubby and I were out of the country last week on a much needed vacation to celebrate our upcoming 37th wedding anniversary! It was amazing!!! But I am back and anxious to get back in the saddle full swing with posting on FB and blogging. I sincerely missed my ministry opportunities on the net while we were away.

Just simply want to encourage you today to find someone who needs to be encouraged this week. Maybe that sounds ridiculous to you, especially if you are struggling, but God blesses us when we bless others. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:24 NIV).

Facebook has been an incredible platform for ministry. I never dreamed in a zillion years that I could possibly minister to so many women over the net. But I believe God will use us anywhere He can so that we can encourage and love others. We definitely need other Christian women in our lives to instruct and encourage. I welcome every prayer from everywhere I can receive!!! :-)

Would you please keep our son and daughter-in-law in your prayers today and tomorrow as they travel back home to MO? They are making it a two day journey because of her pregnancy. Also, Brandon and Tour 29:11 Ministries leave on Thursday for ministry in Nicaragua. Would you also pray with me for safe traveling mercies and God's anointing as they preach God's Word?

Girlfriends, I am so thankful for each of you. You are a blessing to me daily and your encouraging words always come at the most crucial time. Have a wonderful God filled week. Please know that I am only an email away if I can encourage and pray for you. May God bless you, your family and ministry abundantly! I pray for God's anointing to fill your life to overflowing!!!

Love you,
Debbie

2010-05-23T03:40:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!!

Just stopping by this morning to let you know I am praying for you, your family and ministry. I know many of you have had a challenging week but God is still on the throne!!! I am so thankful that nothing is impossible or to difficult for the God we serve. Remember that the same God who created you can be trusted with the details of your life.

Have a glorious Sunday and a fantastic week! May the joy of the Lord shine upon you today. I pray that your services today will be off the charts and that God will bless you in amazing ways this week. Give your finances, physical struggles, worries and anything else that may be hindering your walk with Christ completely over to Him this morning. Lay it all at the foot of the cross and watch God do amazing things in your life.

Let it Rain, Let it Rain, Open the floodgates of Heaven!!!!

You are amazing women of God. Your work does not go unnoticed. God loves you and cares very much about all that you are walking through today.

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

Chick, Chat and Chocolate Luncheon at District Council

2010-05-18T12:31:00.000-07:00

Photos from the recent Chick, Chat and Chocolate Luncheon for pastor's wives and ministry women in the Potomac District.

2010-05-09T03:06:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!! To those who are moms I wish you a very Happy Mother's Day!!!

I pray ALL of you will be abundantly blessed today and may God encourage you in a BIG way. I know many of you are facing major challenges in your lives this morning. I don't have the answers but I know a God who does. Even when there just doesn't seem to be a light at the end of the tunnel God is in control and holds your future in the palm of His hands. He is walking every step of that valley with us.

God loves you and cares very much about you. He cares for the little sparrow that falls to the ground. How much more does He care for you and I? I know when we are in the midst of a deep valley it may sometimes be difficult to focus on how much He cares for us but God ALWAYS walks with us and is ALWAYS there to hear our prayers even when we are feeling alone and hurting.

Look to Him this morning. Place your trust in the one who knows everything about us. The one who created us and has an awesome plan for our lives.

I pray that you have an awesome day. I pray blessings upon your ministry and your family. I pray that miracles will be performed this week in your lives. I pray that financial needs will be met, bodies will be healed in the name of Jesus and that you will be blessed beyond measure.

Love and appreciate you,
Debbie

2010-04-25T03:54:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

My heart aches this morning for the families of Sandra Bass Palmer and Gloria Budzowski, who were killed in that fatal accident on Friday evening. Although I did not know either of these ladies personally, they were still pastor's wives and women in ministry just like you and I. Life is so short..... a vapor..... so fragile.

Friends, I encourage you to continue to lift one another in prayer. Many of you are walking through challenging times and the support of friends means so much. I also know that many of you are facing things in your life that you have chosen not to share with others. I am praying for you today as well. I don't have answers but I know a God who does. He is the glory and the lifter of my soul!!!!!

I pray that you have an incredible day in the HOUSE! May you be renewed and encouraged today. I know from experience that the enemy is constantly beating on us every day and no matter how hard we try to stay strong, sometimes the storm seems never-ending. God knows what you are feeling this morning and He wants to comfort and encourage you. He does love you and your work in the Kingdom is very important. After reading about the tragic loss on Friday evening I am convinced more than ever that we must be desperate about reaching out to others making sure they know about the awesome Jesus we serve.

Be encouraged today. You are loved and appreciated!

Love ya,
Debbie

2010-04-18T03:47:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

I pray that you will have an amazing day in your church and that the presence of God will be powerful! I know for me personally I need to fill up today. This has been one of those weeks where I have been giving out continuously. I have had a number of counseling sessions and my well is running pretty dry. I need to be refilled, refueled and recharged!

God never intends for us to be deleted or dry of spirit. Pursuing our own spiritual growth in the Lord is the most important preparation for our ministry. What we give to others grows from an overflow of the Living Waters coming from our very own spiritual well.

Stay close to Him. Allow Him to minister to you today. You are incredible women of God. God's plan for each of us is amazing. I want to make certain I am fully equipped to fulfill the will of God as each opportunity is presented to me. I know I cannot do that if my well is dry.

You are a blessing and I am thankful for you! Your emails and words of encouragement to me bless me more than you will ever know. We truly need one another.

Have a blessed day because you are a blessing to many!!

Love you and appreciate you,
Debbie

Thankful Thursday - Victorious

2010-04-08T08:51:00.000-07:00

Lynn of Spiritually Unequal Marriage is hosting Thankful Thursday today. You can join in the discussion and read other participating blogs by clicking her link.

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. Romans 8:37 (NIV)

When facing trials and the fiery darts of Satan we often tend to think that we are the only people who are dealing with such challenges. All of us face discouragement and the enemies of darkness each week. Some trials are stronger than others but we are each treading storms of some magnitude in our lives.

Facing trials encourages us as Christians to exercise our faith. We should not pray away those trials. We need to ask God to manifest His power and love in us so we can respond with Christlike character when the enemy is pounding on our doors. Remember - people can only intimidate us if we allow them to use that tool. God is bigger than anything this world and the demons of hell can offer. No matter how much discouragement you and I have been dealing with this week, our God is well aware of the circumstances.

It may not be today or tomorrow but in HIS timing the Lord will resolve the issues that we are struggling with in a beautiful way. If we trust God and completely hand it over to Him the enemy will be defeated. During these trials God is building our character and integrity. He is solidifying our foundation. The Lord is making us stronger for the bigger storms that are brewing in the seas of life. He continues to groom you and I for the work He has for our lives.

The Message says it all: With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn't hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn't gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God's chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us—is in the presence of God at this very moment sticking up for you and I. Do you think anyone is going to be able to drive a wedge between us and Christ's love for us? There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in Scripture. (Romans 8:37) PRAISE GOD, HALLELUJAH AND AMEN!

God is our hope and our strength today, tomorrow and forever. He is our safety, our comfort and our encouragement. He loves His children and He always protects us. If we dread life and fear people how can we possibly say we are trusting God with our lives? If God is for you, who can be against you?

We are victorious with Jesus Christ! Demonstrate that victory today to those around you. Allow them to see Jesus in you!

Blessings!

Be An Encourager

2010-03-29T07:57:00.000-07:00

I had the privilege of hosting the Women in Ministry Retreat a few weeks ago for the pastor's wives and credentialed women in the Potomac District. It was a phenomenal weekend! God's presence was so sweet. He ministered in a powerful way through our speaker, Kerry Clarensau. It was a great weekend with other women in ministry!

As a young pastor's wife who was filled with insecurities and intimidation, I made many mistakes throughout the early years of ministry. If only I would have had a seasoned pastor's wife to come alongside me to coach and encourage me as I walked that unfamiliar territory. I was not raised in a Christian home and had no idea what my role as a pastor's wife really meant. It was very lonely. I chose to pour my life into my career for eighteen years in Corporate America. My heart breaks now as I think about all those wasted years I could have been doing something for the Kingdom of God but instead my focus was on "me" and what I wanted for my life.

Mentoring is so dear to my heart. As Christians, God is calling us to step out and profess our faith. We are called to live our testimony so people can see Jesus Christ in us. My heart burns with passion to minister to other pastor's wives who may be walking in a deep valley of discouragement. God's purpose for our lives is to reach out to others who are hurting, confused and lost. We need to be that encourager who will come alongside a lonely Christian. We need to be someone who will love them and pray for them.

When someone is hurting,encourage them and remind them that Jesus loves them and has an awesome plan for their life. This life throws all types of obstacles in our paths even when we are striving for that prize at the end of our journey. Life will become overwhelming at times but through prayer and the encouragement and prayer of others we will see victory!

Blessings and hugs!

2010-03-14T03:20:00.001-07:00

Waiting Sometimes Brings Frustration

2010-03-11T06:03:00.000-08:00

Dreams. Visions. Hopes. Goals. Sometimes, we have clear direction from God regarding our next steps in life. Sometimes, we have no idea. For many of us waiting for that next step to become a reality can be an incredibly tough process as we trust God and pray for His will day after day after day. What happens between the dreams dreamed and the dreams realized? LIFE!

Between the dreams and the reality of the dreams coming true we patiently wait, NOT, living our lives, but remaining faithful to God and His calling, trusting Him to bring about what He would have us to do. We don't stop being faithful, and we can't stop living as if we were literally frozen in time, but we must be patient. For many of us, that is an extremely challenging task.

Every one of us has at some point dreamed a dream that was beyond us, perhaps even a divinely initiated dream. For some, God has fulfilled that dream. For many of us, we are still waiting for those dreams to come to life. Often times we may even become frustrated from waiting for that God-sized dream and pursue a more manageable people-sized dream instead. Maybe the people-sized dreams feel safer because we feel we can accomplish them more easily. We find the God-sized dreams overwhelming, and so we become creative to find ways to put them aside for fear of failure.

If God has given you a dream pursue it! We should never settle for anything less than what God intends to accomplish through us. We must not allow ourselves to become distracted but consistently wait patiently for the realization of the dreams. Do not allow the enemy to fill your minds with doubt but rejoice because God is still in control!

I know from experience waiting is not always an easy task. I am reminded often that God's timing is not my timing. Between the dreams dreamed and the dreams realized life continues to move forward.

What are you doing with that time today? Don't allow frustration and discouragement to alter your God-given dreams. Remain faithful to the call God has placed upon your life and allow Him to use you where you are while you wait for that dream. One day God will let us know that it is time for His dreams to become a reality in our lives. Even though life happens, God still works His purposes out in detail. The path to our dream may not be exactly how we thought we would get there. Just trust God. We have a responsibility to be faithful and patient as His will becomes a reality for each of us.

Blessings!

2010-03-07T03:21:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Friends!!

This is the day that the Lord hath made. I will be glad and rejoice in it!!

Be encouraged today. We need to get up in the mornings and enter into the King's presence with praise and thanksgiving in our hearts. I know that sometimes the biggest battles we face are in our own homes. Remember that our homes are on the top of the enemy's hit list so cover your family in prayer every day!

No matter what we may be facing God has the power and solution to overcome the problem. Look to Him today and allow Him to do a great work in your life. I know many of us are walking through some very challenging times but nothing is too big for our God. NOTHING!! No matter how many times the enemy whispers lies into our ears, God is still on the throne. He loves us and protects us and wants victory in our lives.

Embrace God today with your love and trust. He will work everything out when we completely let go and let Him. His plan and purpose is amazing for our lives but we have to relinquish our will to Him so His will can be completed in a beautiful and incredible way.

Thank you girlfriends for your friendship and support to one another. You are amazing and such a blessing. Have a wonderful Sunday! I pray God will ROCK your world today in a very special way!

Hugs,
Debbie

2010-02-28T03:46:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Beautiful Girlfriends!

It has been such a busy and full week both at work and in my personal life. Just returned last night from an awesome women's conference in Williamburg, VA. God met us there and it was powerful! I left feeling refreshed and renewed in my spirit.

I am praying for you today and I want to encourage you this morning. God loves you so much and many of you are really walking thru some overwhelming challenges in your life. Look up and trust the One who created you. No matter how bleak things may look today, God is still on the throne and in control.

I pray that you will have a very blessed day and that God will ROCK your world this morning in your services. I pray for a fresh anointing upon your life and ministry. And if you are dealing with discouragement and stress this morning I pray that God will meet you today in a very special way, reminding you that He is in control of your circumstances. Worry and stress takes our focus off of God and we waste time thinking about things that we cannot change. Let go and let God!

Each of you are a blessing. Thanks for the trust you have in me as you continue to send me your prayer requests. And thank you for sharing your frustrations and challenges you are facing in the ministry.

Have a blessed day! Encourage someone and may God encourage you this week.

Love and appreciate you!♥

Success Driven - For the Kingdom or Self

2010-02-17T12:25:00.000-08:00

"Don't panic. I'm with you. There's no need to fear for I'm your God. I'll give you strength. I'll help you. I'll hold you steady, keep a firm grip on you."
Isaiah 41:10 MSG

For many years in my career in Corporate America, my focus was about climbing the coporate ladder to success. Even as a pastor's wife, God was not a priority in my life.

As a Christian, we have opportunities and advantages each day with our Lord and Savior that those in the world do not. As a Christian, God cares about every detail of my life and He will always be with me. When I need to make choices I am thankful my God is there. When fear entangles my heart, Jesus is there to provide comfort and peace. As Christians we don't need to attempt to do everything in our own strength. Women carry a very heavy load, but God is there - personally and professionally. He cares and love us so much. He not only cares but He wants to help us.

What is success? To the world it is money, power and materialistic things. To God it is obedience, commitment and putting God first in our lives. Success in God's eyes is not the same to the world.

I am so thankful that I crave success in God's eyes today. That goal has not always been my heart. The things of this world crowded my vision for a long time.

Lean on God. Success in Jesus is real stuff. It is eternal. Seek God's face and permit Him to minister to your heart and soul today. Reach out to Him. His Word and promises are always true.

Blessings and hugs!

Fighting The Amalek's In Our Lives

2010-02-10T07:53:00.000-08:00

"Under the banner of God, victory is always assured; but apart from it, defeat is a certainty. When the banner of God's rod was not held high, Amalek prevailed. you can't do battle against the flesh under your own power."
~Kay Arthur~

I am so tired of Christians being beat up and defeated by Satan. Recently I had a heartfelt conversation with a dear friend who is really going through the trenches of a very dark valley. Satan is a liar and his only purpose is to completely destroy lives. He is whipping up on Christians all over the world. These people are crying out in desperation seeking refuge from the darkness of sinfulness. Why is this happening to people in our churches?

We know that we must read our Bibles and pray daily in order to cultivate a close relationship with Christ. Even though this is so true Christians are not doing it. All of us have "Amaleks" waging sin against us. No matter how strong we are as Christians we will continue to face temptations until we take our last breath on this earth. If we are not constantly filling our minds with God's Word and spending quality prayer time with the Lord we will not be equipped to resist the devil when he comes knocking on our door. We just don't have it in the flesh to tell him to take a walk. Sin is fun. It is exciting and the flesh craves it. So unless we are prepared to fight this battle with God by our side we are going to lose in a huge way.

Why do we doubt God's power and His strength in our lives? The Bible is full of testimonies of those who have gone before us who truly experienced God. Jesus healed the blind. He raised the dead. He healed the woman who crawled through the crowd with the issue of blood. She simply wanted to touch the hem of His garment and she was healed! He performed miracle upon miracle. Why do we doubt Him today? Doesn't the Bible tell us that He is the same yesterday, today and forever? He hasn't changed. His power hasn't changed. His miracles haven't ceased. Why do we live like we don't believe?

When Satan strikes he leaves his mark on his victims. People are overwhelmed with guilt and shame and he constantly reminds them they are losers. That is nonsense! My Bible tells me that God buried my sin in the deepest sea. He restores us and wipes the slate clean. We are a brand new creature in Christ when we ask for forgiveness with a repented heart. Chase Him with perseverance. Seek Him with passion. He gives strength. He gives each of us purpose in this life. He has a plan for you and me.

We have a huge responsibility to disciple people in our churches. When someone comes to the altar God instantly changes them. They truly are a new creature but it doesn't stop there. We must come alongside those people and mentor them. We need to disciple and coach them. Will Satan strike again? Most definitely and they need to be aware of that also. Just because we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior doesn't mean that we will never again experience another problem or trial. Matter of fact there will probably be more problems and trials to deal with but the difference is the Lord will be there to help us through the situation.

We won't walk the road alone. God will be there to help us make the right decisions. And through discipleship, mentoring and life coaching we can teach others to resist the devil when he shows up attempting to destroy their lives and families.

Under the banner of God victory is always assured. That statement my friend is our strength today. Be steadfast under His banner today. God has a plan!

Blessings friends!

Marriage and Ministry

2010-01-28T07:24:00.000-08:00

Bobby and I will celebrate our 37th wedding anniversary in July. We have been pastoring for 30 years! WOW! How time flies when you are having fun!!! Seriously, time has passed so quickly. Our children are grown, married and now we are grandparents. We have pastored our current church for 11 years. We are definitely in a new season of life.

Marriage in the ministry is a tough assignment and if someone tells you otherwise I am not certain they are being completely honest about the journey or else they are still on their honeymoon!

Bobby and I were married very young. We were high school sweethearts and married a month after I graduated from high school. The following month we left to attend Bible College in another state. Those were extremely challenging years. Not only were we young and immature, but we were trying to adjust to ministry, marriage, college and living in another state away from all our family!

Just because two Christians decide to marry doesn't mean you will be exempt from challenges, stress and heartache. Life happens and Christians are faced with trials just like anyone else. The one significant difference in our lives which is definitely our anchor - we have Jesus.

If I have to identify a "surprise" about our marriage it would have to be the fact that I had absolutely no idea ministry would be so difficult. I wasn't raised in a Christian home. Many times the stress of ministry overwhelmed both of us and it created so much stress in the early years of our marriage. As a young pastor's wife my life was full of insecurites and intimidation which hindered my walk with Christ and my role as a pastor's wife. But as the years passed we have learned to be a support for one another and that is extremely important. Ladies, our husbands, as pastors, deal with many challenging issues and they need someone who will listen to them standy by them and support them. If we are not that person they may find someone else who will. There are women out there who are attracted to our husbands and we need to protect what God has given us.

I am very involved in our ministry and Bobby and I confide in one another. Friday nights are our "date night" and we try very hard to keep that as a sacred time together. Life gets very hectic and you need time to simply enjoy each other's company and reconnect after a busy week of events.

There are many challenges that come along with ministry but through the years those challenges have made our marriage stronger. We have learned to trust God in all circumstances. Praying together and allowing God to guide our next step has certainly been the answer to many situations we have faced.

The one thing I realize after all these years is that I love my husband more today than the day I married him. As we grow older, the wrinkles increase and the hair changes color but my love for Bobby grows even stronger. He is my best friend, an awesome father to our children, an incredible grandfather and the love of my life. I thank God everyday for giving him to me and calling both of us into the ministry! I can't imagine my life any other way.

Blessings!

Effective Christian Leadership Is Not An Event

2010-01-11T08:42:00.001-08:00

For anyone who serves in a leadership position, you have an awesome responsibility to consistently develop and mature spiritually. Effective leadership in churches is a product of spiritually mature Christian leaders. This is a process which demands hard work, commitment and time. There is never a quick fix to spiritual growth.

Leadership is a broad term. Women are leaders and many often fail to recognize that concept. Just think about all the multi-tasking which is required of you daily. You take care of your children, grandchildren, hubby, home, finances, etc. Many women are SAHM but many also work outside the home. And still many women are care-givers for their parents. Do you teach Sunday School, Missionettes or Children's Church? If so, you are serving in a leadership role and impact lives weekly. Multiple responsibilities and numerous leadership opportunities are at your finger tips.

How do you remain sane and effective in your role? How do you determine that you will not become stagnant in your Christian walk? How do you determine that you will continue to cultivate and grow to attain spiritual maturity? What steps do you take to make certain you do not burn out, stress out or lose out spiritually in the ministry?

Setting aside quality time each day for you and God is a requirement. You will not be a success in your role as a leader if the relationship between you and God is not cultivated and nurtured daily. Paul compares spiritual maturity to a plant in Colossians 2. We don't just place a seed in dirt, add water and expect a plant the next day. In order for that plant to develop into its purpose, cultivation of the soil, sunshine and rain are requirements. Without these elements it will simply remain a seed and rot in the ground. Without spiritual maturity you will wither and die. Spiritual growth is a requirement in order for you to develop and bloom as God has planned for your life.

Sounds simple doesn't it? We know better! Satan will discourage you in your journey as you commit time to read your Bible and pray but God is your source, strength and the answer to all of life's challenges. If you are determined to be effective as a leader and a Christian, God will provide the tools for your success. Spiritual growth is not an event - it is a lifelong process.

Blessings friends!

2010-01-10T03:32:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Girlfriends! I pray that your Sunday will be off the charts! God has been speaking to me this morning and I feel that there are some of you who are really struggling with finances today. I want to encourage you this morning. I know that financial issues can overburden us and at times consume us but remember that God is still in control and He will provide even when there just doesn't seem to be an answer. Remain faithful and steadfast. No matter what it is you may be facing today, health issues, job issues, depression, finances, family matters, God is still in control. I pray a very special blessing over you, your family and ministry today. May you feel God's power and presence in a very special way. He does love you and cares very much about you. Trust Him and allow Him to do an incredible work in your life.

Love you and appreciate you. YOU are a blessing to me!

Debbie

Discouragement - A Tool of the Enemy

2010-01-04T11:31:00.001-08:00

The devil, according to legend, once advertised his tools for sale at public auction. When the prospective buyers assembled, there was one oddly shaped tool, which was labeled "Not for sale." Asked to explain why this was, the devil answered, "I can spare my other tools, but I cannot spare this one. It is the most useful implement that I have. It is called Discouragement, and with it I can work my way into hearts otherwise inaccessible. When I get this tool into a man's heart, the way is open to plant anything there I may desire."

If there is one thing all of us experience it is discouragement. While the devil is busy doing his thing in order to discourage Christians, God is also at work encouraging us to be all we can be for His Kingdom. When the devil beats us down, God lifts us up. While the devil is convincing us to throw in the towel and give it up, God is cheering us on to finish the race!

Life can be discouraging at times. Waiting on God to open the right door or patiently waiting for the right ministry opportunity to come our way is not always an easy task. Most of us are very impatient folks and we want results yesterday. Life isn't that way and God often uses this time to prepare, shape and mold us into the persons we need to be to complete the work He has called us to do. I am thankful today that God controls my future.

Blessings!

2010-01-03T03:43:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Girlfriends! God has blessed us with a new year filled to overflowing with new opportunities. I pray that you, your family and your ministry will be blessed beyond measure. I pray that you will be refreshed and renewed today as you seek God for those new possibilities this year. I pray that God will bless you as you minister to others and speak into their lives. Don't forget that we serve a great big God and nothing is impossible with Him! Don't allow the devil to discourage you. God is bigger than anything he can throw in our path.

Thank you for being a part of Mentoring Pastor's Wives and for encouraging me throughout 2009. You are a blessing in my life. We truly need one another and I sincerely appreciate you and what you do for the Kingdom of God.

I pray abundant blessings upon you today. I love and appreciate you. You are very special and God loves you and has an awesome plan for your life.

Hugs,
Debbie

2009-12-23T05:15:00.000-08:00

Well, we have officially entered into the craziest season of the year! Those of us who are attempting to balance all that goes with this Christmas season can find oneself in a weird place if not careful.

Decorating the house, decorating the church, choir practices for upcoming cantatas, church parties, parties at home, shopping, wrapping gifts, addressing Christmas cards, etc. etc. etc. Life can become very stressful during this month.

I love Christmas and all that goes with it but I need to step back each year and make a concerted effort not to get whacked out by all that is happening around me. It is very easy to become over stressed and overwhelmed with all the responsibilities at this busy season. I want to be joyful and a blessing to others. don't want to be one of those weary and tired saints who everyone tries to avoid because it is obvious they are everything but happy about this time of the year.

For me I rarely say "No" to anything but this year I have already scanned all that is on my plate and I have decided to find time for ME and my FAMILY during this busy season. I want to give honor to our Lord and my goal is for others to see Jesus in my life throughout this month. I am declaring to place "stress" on the shelf.

What about you? Are you already feeling overwhelmed about all that needs to be done? Take a deep breath and re-evaluate what really needs to be done this holiday season. Find other ways, regarding the additional responsibilities that have landed on your plate, to delegate the tasks to others. I have found that there really are others who would love to help us but we fail to ask.

I pray this Christmas will be one of joy, peace and relaxation for you and your family. Blessings friends!

Chosen

2009-12-15T06:29:00.000-08:00

As a young pastor's wife who was filled with insecurities and very intimidated by those around me, I made many mistakes throughout the early years of ministry. If only I would have had a seasoned pastor's wife to come alongside me to coach and encourage me as I walked that unfamiliar territory. I was not raised in a Christian home and had no idea what my role was as a pastor's wife. It was very lonely. I chose to pour my life into my career for eighteen years in Corporate America. My heart breaks now as I think about all those wasted years I could have been doing something for the Kingdom of God but instead my focus was on "me" and what I wanted for my life.

As Christians, God is calling us to step out and profess our faith. We are called to live our testimony so people can see Jesus Christ in us. My heart burns with passion to minister to other pastor's wives who may be walking in a deep valley of discouragement. God's purpose for our lives is to reach out to others who are hurting, confused and lost. I sense such an urgency in my spirit for those who are traveling down the road to destruction today. The Lord is going to return and it is time we remove our heads from the sand and get busy about God's business. He wants to use us but because we limit God and think small, His purpose for our lives is not being fulfilled.

When someone is hurting, love on them. Encourage them and remind them that Jesus loves them and has an awesome plan for their life. This life throws all types of obstacles in our paths even when we are striving for that prize at the end of our journey. Life will become overwhelming at times but through prayer and the prayer of others we will make it!

Blessings to you today. You are chosen by God to make a significant difference in this world!

Hugs!

Love

2009-12-07T09:07:00.000-08:00

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." I Corinthians 13: 4-7 (NKJV)

When I think about this scripture the first thing that comes to my mind is the responsibility we have as pastor's wives and leaders of our churches. In the early church, leaders modeled love to their churches. They lived by these words in the scripture. Love was the foundation and motive for the leaders' action.

As a pastor's wife and a woman in ministry I have repeatedly experienced everything but love from some folks throughout our ministry. I am thankful today that God has taught me how to love those who don't love others. I realize that if I were not able to love those who demonstrate a cold heart that I could not be an effective leader. When we dwell on the hurts and pains of life we become very bitter and indifferent. God's love is directed outward toward others, not inward toward ourselves. It is utterly unselfish. This love is not natural. It is possible only if God supernaturally helps us set aside our own desires and instincts. The closer we come to Christ, the more love we will express to others.

Blessings girlfriends! You are appreciated!

Casual to the Exactness of God

2009-12-02T06:26:00.000-08:00

Sometimes our lives become so full that we just get too busy for God. Have you ever been in that place? We are sprinting to and from appointments, taking care of children, cleaning the house, running errands, cooking meals, paying bills, involved in all sorts of ministries in the church, etc. We quickly become overwhelmed with the activities taking place at the moment and totally lose sight of what we should be doing for God. We become casual to the exactness of God in our lives because the other stuff is competing for first place.

Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord's feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, "Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me." But the Lord answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her."

Luke 10:38-42

Martha was so worried about all that was happening around her that she totally missed an awesome opportunity to simply sit at the feet of Jesus and enjoy His presence. You and I have done the very same thing many times. The demands on our lives become so overwhelming that spending time with God is not a priority. We have wonderful intentions at the beginning of each day. We recognize that our relationship with Christ is a vital ingredient needed to survive this journey of life. Spending quality time in the presence of the Lord each day is crucial to our Christian growth. But somehow He becomes a distant thought at times. A not so important entity at the moment. Disruptions and busy lives crowd out our time with Him. We like Martha miss an incredible opportunity to be with the Lord. We can become so casual to the exactness of God that we begin to question His will for our lives. God knows exactly what He has planned for each of us. He leaves no crumbs on the table. He didn't just die on the cross. He was the lamb of sacrifice who died for you and for me.

Mary was seeking the good part. She pursued the exactness of God and refused to be distracted by all the other things that were happening around her. She chose to sit and enjoy His presence. She determined in her heart that nothing was going to stop her. She wanted everything He had to offer.

Why shouldn't you and I reflect that same determination in our lives? He must be a priority. Pursue all He has to offer you. Refuse to be casual to the exactness of God.

Blessings girlfriends!!! Love ya!

God's Awesome Plan For Our Lives Far Exceeds Our Imagination Or Expectations

2009-11-30T09:54:00.000-08:00

"I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

Talk about culture shock! When my family and I arrived on the mountain in Garrett County Maryland I felt God certainly had made a mistake. How could a family from Northern Virginia where there were millions of people, cars and houses possibly minister to this laid back community 3,000 feet above sea level? Even though I was praying that God wasn't really calling us to this ministry, I knew the minute we pulled onto the church parking lot that this was going to be our new home!

The next 5 1/2 years are history but the ministry proved to be many things for our family. For me it was a time of incredible spiritual growth and a great lesson that God can use anyone to do anything if we simply are obedient and willing to obey His call on our lives. Jeremiah 29:11, says it all. God has an awesome plan for each of us but so many times we hinder that work. We tend to look at things through our eyes and become discouraged because we only see the possible. Things that seem impossible to us create fear in our lives and many of us will never accept the challenge God has strategically placed before us because it involves risk.

When God planted the burden for youth ministry in my heart shortly after we had accepted the pastorate in Oakland, Maryland, I was totally bewildered and afraid. How could a former banking officer pastor a group of screaming teens who possessed roller coater emotions and raging hormones? I knew absolutely NOTHING about pastoring young people and had absolutely no experience in ministry. I was afraid to accept the risk that God placed before me. But as I began to seek God's face for guidance and direction, He overwhelmed my heart with excitement, new ideas and peace. God equips the called. When He nudges our heart and whispers that it is time for us to step out and do something for the Kingdom, He gives us everything we need to accomplish the task.

Those 5.5 years were some of the most precious memories of my ministry. Our son Brandon and daughter Brooke were a very active part of the youth group. There were times when Brandon stretched his mom more than you can imagine. Yes, those years were more than challenging and I often became weary and discouraged but God was awesome throughout the journey. The youth group became the heartbeat of the church and were very active throughout the community.

I have so many fond memories of those years. Several of the young men (including our son) are now active in ministry. To think that maybe I played a small part in encouraging them to take a risk for Christ excites me even today. What if I would have ignored God's calling? What if I had refused to take that risk? God made the impossible come to life. He wants to do that with all of us.

As this year is quickly coming to a close, I encourage you to pray with expectancy about your role in ministry in 2010. I truly believe that God's desire is to do great things, I encourage you - be willing to take a risk and watch God do the rest. When things look like they are absolutely impossible look up and hold on for the ride of your life. We truly miss so many blessings because we are looking at things through our eyes and not His. Don't restrict Him. Put God first in all things. Seek Him and allow Him to do the impossible and unimaginable with your life and ministry!

Blessings!

Tis the Season...........................

2009-11-19T05:26:00.000-08:00

Hi Girlfriends!

Decorating the home this week for the holidays. Taking a few days of vacation. Hosting our ladies Bible study tonight, Chocolate, Coffee and Girlfriends!

Pray that you are having an awesome week!

Blessings!

Who Do You Trust?

2009-11-16T08:53:00.001-08:00

Recently, I have received numerous emails from pastor's wives who are really going through a difficult and challenging time in their ministry. My heart breaks for these women and their families. Ministry is not always a bed of roses. As many of you who are in ministry know, there are many, many challenges which go along with this profession.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

Do you really trust God with ALL your heart? If you and I are honest, we have to admit that there are times when trusting God is not that simple. When there is absolutely no end in sight and it seems our world is crashing in around us, we feel helpless and very alone in our struggles.

God wants you to trust Him even when we do not understand what is going on around us. When the future is everything but clear and you feel as though you cannot go on, God says to trust Him. There are times that the path we travel becomes very obscure and we cannot see what lies ahead. We travel with a degree of uncertainty. Fear often seeks to grip our souls.

In 1989 Geoffrey Gorsuch, while flying his small plane in the midst of a horrible storm, reports that he could barely see 20 feet in front of the plane. On the ground, signals were being transmitted to the five radios and three navigational aids on board the aircraft. These instruments guided the plane through the storm to the runway. There were moments when the confusion in the clouds could have been fatal, times when everything seemed to indicate that the instruments were lying, making panic and pilot error inevitable. But the pilot had been trained to trust the instruments. As the plane broke out of the clouds 100 feet off the runway and in a perfect altitude for landing, all that remained for the pilot to do was to ease back the power and the stick and allow the plane to settle onto the runway. As the emergency vehicles approached with their blaring sirens and flashing lights, the pilot knew they would not be necessary. He had trusted the instruments. And so it is with God. He has endowed us with spiritual instruments to get us through the storms of life. But do we know how to interpret them? And, having received the message, will we trust it with our very lives? That is the essence of faith. ~Geoffrey Gorsuch~

When you lean on something you tend to place your entire weight on it, resting on and trusting in that person or object. No matter how long, how rough, how dark, how lonely the way may seem, trust God and His love for you.

Life places many challenges before us but we can have peace knowing that God is our strength. I have counseled several desperate women this week and truly my heart aches for them. They are treading through some very deep valleys in their lives and I am praying for them but God is their strength, their shield and their source for the solution to what they are dealing with. Sometimes garbage navigates into our lives because we make very poor choices but sometimes God allows us to experience trials for reasons we may never understand. God has a purpose and through it all we must TRUST Him and lean upon Him for guidance, strength and direction.

Blessings friends!

2009-11-15T03:30:00.000-08:00

Praying God's blessings upon you today that He will meet all your needs. May God bless you, your family and your ministry in a very special and intimate way today.

Love ya!

God Is God

2009-11-12T05:25:00.000-08:00

I have been praying about a situation for quite a while. For several nights this "thing" recently has been consuming my life. One night I wasn't able to sleep and I tossed and turned for hours. Finally after praying for what seemed to be hours, I simply asked the Lord to please give me a peace about this situation. No matter what the outcome would be, just give me peace. Shortly after that prayer I fell asleep. When I woke a few hours later to prepare for my day, I did have an overwhelming peace about the "thing" I had been so concerned about. Isn't God amazing? I know that. I really do know that. But sometimes life can be so overwhelming and even though we know God is still on the throne, those "things" tend to consume us. Ministry can be challenging and very stressful and at times we are consumed with those "things". Have you ever been there?

The Lord beautifully worked in that situation and the outcome was something I never imagined. Be encouraged today. God is still in control of our lives and even when we think there is no favorable solution to the problem, God says something totally different!

Thank you Lord for always being there when we call upon your name. You are simply amazing!

Who Is Your Coach?

2009-11-11T12:25:00.001-08:00

Confidence is generally described as a state of being certain, either that a hypothesis or prediction is correct, or that a chosen course of action is the best or most effective given the circumstances. Confidence can be described as a subjective, emotional state of mind, but is also represented statistically as a confidence level within which one may be certain that a hypothesis will either be rejected or deemed plausible. Self-confidence is having confidence in oneself when considering a capability. Overconfidence is having unmerited confidence--believing something or someone is capable when they are not.

There is a wealth of material available regarding personal inner power and self confidence. I read an article recently that was very disturbing. It was published by a Master Certified Coach and she teaches that self confidence is all about personal power and an inner awareness. An internal state of being if you will. A power that makes us feel in control of our lives. An inner knowing that we are capable of achieving goals and our ability to attain what we want in life. I beg to differ with her philosophy.

As Christians, it isn't about us. Any talent or ability that we posses has been given to us from God. It has nothing to do with us. Our confidence and strength comes from the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the one who encourages us to keep fighting the good fight. He encourages us to keep our eyes fixed on Him and to achieve the goal He has set before us. Self-Confidence is a misplaced reliance and it is offensive before the sight of God. We sin against God when we think we can be self-sufficient and the masters of our fate. How many times do we shake our fist in God's face and tell Him we know much better than He does when we defy the Word because it simply does not fit our lifestyle?

God instructs us to study His Word daily so that we can reject the temptations of the enemy. But we think that we have it all together and we choose to trust in OURSELVES and OUR abilities instead of God. Whenever we turn our hearts from God, we are telling Him that we do not want to be connected to His life coaching class. We would rather coach ourselves and rely totally on our own abilities. But in the end all we will have conquered is to commit spiritual suicide. Our life coaching efforts will go right down the drain!

Our source of life is God. God says that anyone who turns away from Him to trust in his own sinful flesh for strength will, "be like a bush in the wastelands; he will not see prosperity when it comes. He will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt where no one lives" (Jeremiah 17:6).

God tells us of consequences that will occur in this life and the next if we turn our hearts away from him and trust in ourselves. Isolation, deprivation and condemnation are the best we can expect if we choose that path. Bushes in the desert are small and their growth stunted because they are cut off from the rains that give life. Without God and His Word, which is the living water, we also will become like the dry lifeless bush living in a parched wasteland.

Jeremiah writes, "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit" (Jeremiah 17:7-8). God is the exact opposite of a barren wasteland. He gives confidence to His children. God always provided, always delivered, and always responded to the cries of His people for help. Our trust and confidence is often misplaced, often disappointed. Our ideals lie shattered, our goals unattained, our ambitions unfulfilled. In the end, we find that self-reliance and inner power is able to produce nothing but depression and despair. Jeremiah reminds us to place our trust and confidence in God. God has given us His Word so that we can sink our roots firmly into His promises.

God confidence instills self-confidence. There is no inner personal power. Personal power CANNOT move mountains and personal power does not solve problems. Jesus Christ moves mountains. He provides Godly wisdom and coaches us when making life decisions. I rejoice today knowing that my confidence comes from God. He has blessed me with many talents and abilities but I realize that I am nothing without Him. Thank you Lord for being our source, our strength, and our encourager.

Blessings friends!