It's August Again!
I know it's a good thing to be here with family and friends. It's just hard. August is such a hard month because that's when Daddy died. I can't seem to get that out of my mind. No matter how hard I try not to think about losing him, I do.
It lies beneath the surface of it all. In the pressure, in the stress, in the laughter, in the mirror, in my every day life, it's just there.
So every year that school starts, I'm thinking it's another year without him. I'm thinking about laughing and talking with him. I'm thinking about him telling me to stop worrying. I'm thinking about the last time that I saw him or heard his voice. I'm trying to make sure that I remember, because sometimes I wonder if I'll forget.
I cry a lot in August. I laugh a lot too!
I've come to accept this new normal. This life I live without him...but I miss him so much.
And so today, I pray. I pray for peace and comfort for everyone of us who's experienced this heartache. My prayer is for us to lift our heads up and know that as we go on, we take them with us. I pray that we know that there is hope in our Savior.
JourneywithJennifer
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
Sunday, June 14, 2015
Camp with Jesus!!
This year was awesome! Not only did I see the growth in my kids over this last year, but also in me!! We were all willing to take on new challenges and face our fears head on!! We supported each other!! We cheered each other on!! We talked about some things we should have done, which means we set goals for next year! We laughed a lot and shed a few tears!!
I can honestly say that we had lots and lots of fun!! Yes we were tired and worn out, but we were so excited! There was much to see and do and there was time to share the goodness of God! God is awesome and He was there with us every single day!! We danced, we sang, we praised His name!! From the rainy days to days filled with blue skies and sunshine, He was there! We were happy and grateful to be there with Him.
I'm so proud of all of our Campers! I hope they know how much they accomplished and that it's okay to celebrate themselves!!!
I can honestly say that we had lots and lots of fun!! Yes we were tired and worn out, but we were so excited! There was much to see and do and there was time to share the goodness of God! God is awesome and He was there with us every single day!! We danced, we sang, we praised His name!! From the rainy days to days filled with blue skies and sunshine, He was there! We were happy and grateful to be there with Him.
Every night we had time to praise and worship God. Our Pastor was there to share God's word with us. We had several kids accept Jesus into their hearts for the very first time. There were some who rededicated their lives to Him. I cannot express in words how much this touched our hearts!!
Many of us know how much we need Him in our lives. We know that without Him, we are nothing and we want to see everyone come to know Christ. We love our kids and want the very best for them. So when they accept Jesus, His goodness, His grace and mercy, we know what that really means for them. It means everything!!
One of my favorite days was riding in the canoe, drifting along watching the water shift back and forth, taking in all the beauty of God's earth! I felt the sun on my face and the wind in my hair. I felt the peace of God. It's so easy to get caught up in life and never take the time to just rest in His presence on His earth. There's just something about being at Camp with Jesus that makes me want to go again and again :-)
Jennifer Edwards
(JourneywithJennifer)
Many of us know how much we need Him in our lives. We know that without Him, we are nothing and we want to see everyone come to know Christ. We love our kids and want the very best for them. So when they accept Jesus, His goodness, His grace and mercy, we know what that really means for them. It means everything!!
One of my favorite days was riding in the canoe, drifting along watching the water shift back and forth, taking in all the beauty of God's earth! I felt the sun on my face and the wind in my hair. I felt the peace of God. It's so easy to get caught up in life and never take the time to just rest in His presence on His earth. There's just something about being at Camp with Jesus that makes me want to go again and again :-)
Jennifer Edwards
(JourneywithJennifer)
Sunday, February 1, 2015
90 Day Challenge - Week 4
I think that I've found a good rhythm. I'm faithfully taking my products and drinking water. I'm super proud of myself. I am not even sure that I had more than a cup of water each day prior to starting It Works in October. So this is huge for me.
I don't drink as much diet soda these days. I find myself wanting to drink more water each and every day. I couldn't have made this statement a year ago. It's amazing the difference a year makes or even a month.
I'm finishing up my cleanse phase and getting ready to lose. I'm excited and I will say that I am a little intimated by the challenge. I've never been great at weight loss and healthy eating. Let's be real here... I started this blog a few years ago and here I am at it again.
I can turn intimidation into determination! I can do this! God has this...
Jennifer Edwards
Dedicated to the Wrap Journey
I don't drink as much diet soda these days. I find myself wanting to drink more water each and every day. I couldn't have made this statement a year ago. It's amazing the difference a year makes or even a month.
I'm finishing up my cleanse phase and getting ready to lose. I'm excited and I will say that I am a little intimated by the challenge. I've never been great at weight loss and healthy eating. Let's be real here... I started this blog a few years ago and here I am at it again.
I can turn intimidation into determination! I can do this! God has this...
Jennifer Edwards
Dedicated to the Wrap Journey
Sunday, January 25, 2015
How do I view life?
The latest series at my church is the 7 Building Blocks. We started with Jesus is First. Well last Sunday was about God's Word and how it defines our worldview.
Well of course this took me back to years ago when the world's view was my view. I lived like everyone else in the world lives. That's what I was lead to believe anyway. So that's all I knew and it wasn't really working out as I thought it would. I remember how much my life depended on others and not on God. I realize now how little I knew.
But God.. He's never left my side. No matter what I go through in life, He's always here for me. My best day alone was nothing compared to my absolute worst day with God. My worst day was when my father died. I am crying tears now just thinking about it. It was on that day He took me...He gave me hope. As bad as it was and is, He gives me more than I'll ever deserve.
So how do I view life? My life, my journey has to be more about Him and not me.
I want my life to depend on God. I don't want to do any of this without Him. I honestly cannot do it without Him. So when I take my eyes off eternity (HUGE), I feel the world coming down around me. And this world is temporary. I'll keep my eyes on Him for all eternity. No matter where I go or what I do, I will always call on Him.
And no, I'm not perfect. I share this because if there's someone out there that doesn't know Jesus, I want that person to know they're not alone. No one is perfect. I get strength from Him. I am here today because of Him. So we take what we have, right where we are and give it all to Him. Don't be afraid to live. Life begins when we accept Him who has called us.
Jennifer Edwards ~Journey with Jennifer~
Well of course this took me back to years ago when the world's view was my view. I lived like everyone else in the world lives. That's what I was lead to believe anyway. So that's all I knew and it wasn't really working out as I thought it would. I remember how much my life depended on others and not on God. I realize now how little I knew.
But God.. He's never left my side. No matter what I go through in life, He's always here for me. My best day alone was nothing compared to my absolute worst day with God. My worst day was when my father died. I am crying tears now just thinking about it. It was on that day He took me...He gave me hope. As bad as it was and is, He gives me more than I'll ever deserve.
So how do I view life? My life, my journey has to be more about Him and not me.
I want my life to depend on God. I don't want to do any of this without Him. I honestly cannot do it without Him. So when I take my eyes off eternity (HUGE), I feel the world coming down around me. And this world is temporary. I'll keep my eyes on Him for all eternity. No matter where I go or what I do, I will always call on Him.
And no, I'm not perfect. I share this because if there's someone out there that doesn't know Jesus, I want that person to know they're not alone. No one is perfect. I get strength from Him. I am here today because of Him. So we take what we have, right where we are and give it all to Him. Don't be afraid to live. Life begins when we accept Him who has called us.
Jennifer Edwards ~Journey with Jennifer~
90 Day Challenge - Week 3
What can I say, it's been about three weeks now since I've
been using all my products and I'm doing great!!
Every morning I drink my greens. Occasionally I'll
have one in the afternoon, depending on our family schedule. I love the natural boost of energy I get from my greens. I also take
my Core vitamins each morning. I feel absolutely
wonderful each and every day. I've noticed since drinking the greens that
I haven't been sick or if I feel a little bad, I quickly recover. I know
this is due to the nutrients I'm getting. This has truly been a no
brainer for the woman who doesn't like to eat her veggies.
My evening routine includes my Regular. I take anywhere from 1-2 each night. The Regular has been really helpful for me in that it does exactly what it says.
I love the products and cannot wait to see more changes in my life.
Jennifer Edwards
On this Wrap Journey
Friday, January 23, 2015
90 Day Challenge - Week 2
I'm a few weeks into my 90 Day Challenge and it's not going as I planned...
I should clarify that I had a plan, but didn't do a great job sticking with my plan. I didn't workout at all. I am a little embarrassed, but I want to share the true journey as much as I can. One of my biggest obstacles is I am trying to do too much at one time. Something always overlaps and I end up missing something. Add this to the fact that I'm a worrier and am completely guilty of making things a little complicated by worrying so much.
I'm going to try something different this week.
1. Pick 3 things that have to be done each day. Then add an additional 3 things that don't have the same level of urgency.
2. Take the 3 things and break down into manageable goals.
3. Don't overthink things and just go with it.
4. Don't spend more time than necessary on anything.
5. Keep smiling, laughing and loving!
6. Pray over my calendar... I need Him!
Anyone else guilty of being an overachiever at planning? What have you done to make things easier for you this year? I'd love to hear your system.
Jennifer Edwards
On This Wrap Journey
I should clarify that I had a plan, but didn't do a great job sticking with my plan. I didn't workout at all. I am a little embarrassed, but I want to share the true journey as much as I can. One of my biggest obstacles is I am trying to do too much at one time. Something always overlaps and I end up missing something. Add this to the fact that I'm a worrier and am completely guilty of making things a little complicated by worrying so much.
I'm going to try something different this week.
1. Pick 3 things that have to be done each day. Then add an additional 3 things that don't have the same level of urgency.
2. Take the 3 things and break down into manageable goals.
3. Don't overthink things and just go with it.
4. Don't spend more time than necessary on anything.
5. Keep smiling, laughing and loving!
6. Pray over my calendar... I need Him!
Anyone else guilty of being an overachiever at planning? What have you done to make things easier for you this year? I'd love to hear your system.
Jennifer Edwards
On This Wrap Journey
Sunday, January 11, 2015
90 Day Challenge - Week 1
I cannot believe it's been a week already since I started my challenge! I'm still super excited!
I'll start out by saying that since I became a mother, working out has been a challenge for me. I should also add that this was many years ago!! :-) I mean it's been so crazy.... I would get an injury or have surgery. I would have to work late. Or I would not get to work out at all because something always came up! I always felt like I had so many excuses. But then at the same time, some of this is actually just real life.
So I decided to start my challenge January 5 without having any of my It Works products. I figured, once I received them, all would be okay. My goal is to get back to a work out routine and I know this challenge will be key in my getting there! So I went for it along with the excuses and real life.
Week 1 Lessons Learned
1. Do not work out without an adequate amount of sleep. In other words, I need more than 5 hours of sleep every night to be successful.
2. When you workout 1-2 days a week, it may be a good idea to start on the beginner level. In other words, I need to start out slow and work my way up to 4-5 days.
3. Follow your gut instinct. In other words, when something doesn't feel right, listen and take the appropriate action.
For some reason, I cannot move without something popping. The very day that I work out, something aches. I get up the next morning, and it's slow going. It takes a little longer for me to recover from a workout... As much as I want to think I'm my 25 year old self, I'm really not and that's okay....
Jennifer Edwards (Journey with Jennifer)
On this Wrap Journey
I'll start out by saying that since I became a mother, working out has been a challenge for me. I should also add that this was many years ago!! :-) I mean it's been so crazy.... I would get an injury or have surgery. I would have to work late. Or I would not get to work out at all because something always came up! I always felt like I had so many excuses. But then at the same time, some of this is actually just real life.
So I decided to start my challenge January 5 without having any of my It Works products. I figured, once I received them, all would be okay. My goal is to get back to a work out routine and I know this challenge will be key in my getting there! So I went for it along with the excuses and real life.
Week 1 Lessons Learned
1. Do not work out without an adequate amount of sleep. In other words, I need more than 5 hours of sleep every night to be successful.
2. When you workout 1-2 days a week, it may be a good idea to start on the beginner level. In other words, I need to start out slow and work my way up to 4-5 days.
3. Follow your gut instinct. In other words, when something doesn't feel right, listen and take the appropriate action.
For some reason, I cannot move without something popping. The very day that I work out, something aches. I get up the next morning, and it's slow going. It takes a little longer for me to recover from a workout... As much as I want to think I'm my 25 year old self, I'm really not and that's okay....
Jennifer Edwards (Journey with Jennifer)
On this Wrap Journey
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Happy New Year 2015!!!
Happy New Year Family and Friends!!
I am truly blessed today and everyday that I live to see another day. I get to spend time with family and friends. I get to grow closer to my Lord, my Savior, Jesus Christ. I get to choose and it's amazing!!
Something changed for me this year. I was set on adventure and so I was off and going!!
I volunteered at my church camp and had the best time. I also gained a friend, a really great friend!
I went to Living Proof Live Biloxi!! God worked on me!! I learned so much and spent time with some amazing women of God!!
I lost 15 pounds and kept it off!!
I joined It Works Global!! I'm learning more about leadership and helping others!!
God worked on my fears and showed me He'll always be here for me. He told me that His power is made perfect in my weakness. I'm weak and He's strong!! That's the best part of this year and the year to come!! God is always here for me! I pray you know He's there for you too!
I cannot imagine a different life than the one I'm living right now!!
But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV)
Jennifer Edwards (JourneywithJennifer)
I am truly blessed today and everyday that I live to see another day. I get to spend time with family and friends. I get to grow closer to my Lord, my Savior, Jesus Christ. I get to choose and it's amazing!!
Something changed for me this year. I was set on adventure and so I was off and going!!
I volunteered at my church camp and had the best time. I also gained a friend, a really great friend!
I went to Living Proof Live Biloxi!! God worked on me!! I learned so much and spent time with some amazing women of God!!
I lost 15 pounds and kept it off!!
I joined It Works Global!! I'm learning more about leadership and helping others!!
God worked on my fears and showed me He'll always be here for me. He told me that His power is made perfect in my weakness. I'm weak and He's strong!! That's the best part of this year and the year to come!! God is always here for me! I pray you know He's there for you too!
I cannot imagine a different life than the one I'm living right now!!
But He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV)
Jennifer Edwards (JourneywithJennifer)
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Sometimes you need to make a little change!
I think back to my 20s and even 30s when I would spend time at the gym! I loved step aerobics and just hanging out with friends! Being at the gym was some of the best times of my life!!! I cannot tell you how happy my heart is when I think or speak of those days. And when I see someone from the gym, you know the friend you made that you haven't seen in years, the one who stood beside you every week, the one who had your back... I'm there all over again! I really miss those days.
Life changed and I couldn't do the gym thing anymore. I had a family and we needed to spend time together. Then I had the pain, injuries, and surgeries. So much changed. I was so tired and just felt really down. I had no energy, no get up and go. There was nothing in me to get me over this feeling of blah, blah, blah. I had gained and lost weight. I was not able to consistently work out. Something wasn't right.
It hurt and I felt like giving up. My doctor visits all showed that everything was okay, with the exception of few things, and really there was no reason why I didn't have energy or any get up and go about me. It was all so unexplainable that it was irritating. I would see people everyday saying they were tired and they seemed fine to me. I on the other hand was not. Then I started realizing that I'm not alone. I speak to people who are tired every single day!
And all I want is to share with them my greens and how much my life has changed! I've never been big on any supplements and here I am on this wrap journey, all about the greens!
It's been about two months now and I cannot stop talking about how great I feel and how much more energy I have now that I'm getting nutrients, my 8 fruits/veggies and so much more!! This has been life changing for me!
Life changed and I couldn't do the gym thing anymore. I had a family and we needed to spend time together. Then I had the pain, injuries, and surgeries. So much changed. I was so tired and just felt really down. I had no energy, no get up and go. There was nothing in me to get me over this feeling of blah, blah, blah. I had gained and lost weight. I was not able to consistently work out. Something wasn't right.
It hurt and I felt like giving up. My doctor visits all showed that everything was okay, with the exception of few things, and really there was no reason why I didn't have energy or any get up and go about me. It was all so unexplainable that it was irritating. I would see people everyday saying they were tired and they seemed fine to me. I on the other hand was not. Then I started realizing that I'm not alone. I speak to people who are tired every single day!
And all I want is to share with them my greens and how much my life has changed! I've never been big on any supplements and here I am on this wrap journey, all about the greens!
It's been about two months now and I cannot stop talking about how great I feel and how much more energy I have now that I'm getting nutrients, my 8 fruits/veggies and so much more!! This has been life changing for me!
Sunday, December 7, 2014
What does it mean to depend on Jesus?
Today our Pastor asked What does it mean to depend on Jesus. I immediately had tears in my eyes because that's been in my thoughts and prayers, on my heart for a while now. I've felt like I'm not truly relying on Him and resting on His promises for me. It's the same old thing - lay something down and pick it back up again.
One of my biggest struggles has been worrying. I've worried so much in the past that it has made me sick. I had to drop to my knees! It was all too much and I just needed Him. No questions asked, I needed His peace. If you know Jesus, then you know He gives it to you over and over again! Or perhaps we find it again... I remember when I accepted Jesus as my Savior, I had peace that I didn't understand. It was true freedom! Oh those days were bliss! He gave me everything and more, but did I truly accept what was given? He conquered the grave. He left it all there on the cross just for me. It was as if my little problems were too big for Jesus... That's my reality for what I was doing. (This was huge for me.)
Has anyone else done that or just me?
So my answer to the question is I need Him like nothing else in my life. Everything I have and am is because of Him. I can keep moving when I fall, because He's why I get back up. I can pray for our children and encourage them each day! I can forgive people, even if it takes a little time, because He's forgiven me! I miss my Daddy and everyone of my family and friends who are no longer with us. But, I have peace because they know Jesus. I get up and live my life everyday because I know He has more for me. I can go out in this world everyday because of Him!
I am really trying. And when I stop trying and give it to Him, it's all good!
Praying daily to lay down my worry and fears, setbacks and comebacks, giving them all to Him, my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Amen.
But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV
One of my biggest struggles has been worrying. I've worried so much in the past that it has made me sick. I had to drop to my knees! It was all too much and I just needed Him. No questions asked, I needed His peace. If you know Jesus, then you know He gives it to you over and over again! Or perhaps we find it again... I remember when I accepted Jesus as my Savior, I had peace that I didn't understand. It was true freedom! Oh those days were bliss! He gave me everything and more, but did I truly accept what was given? He conquered the grave. He left it all there on the cross just for me. It was as if my little problems were too big for Jesus... That's my reality for what I was doing. (This was huge for me.)
Has anyone else done that or just me?
So my answer to the question is I need Him like nothing else in my life. Everything I have and am is because of Him. I can keep moving when I fall, because He's why I get back up. I can pray for our children and encourage them each day! I can forgive people, even if it takes a little time, because He's forgiven me! I miss my Daddy and everyone of my family and friends who are no longer with us. But, I have peace because they know Jesus. I get up and live my life everyday because I know He has more for me. I can go out in this world everyday because of Him!
I am really trying. And when I stop trying and give it to Him, it's all good!
Praying daily to lay down my worry and fears, setbacks and comebacks, giving them all to Him, my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Amen.
But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV
Jennifer Edwards (JourneywithJennifer)
Monday, December 1, 2014
A New Start!
Today is a new beginning! Today I get a jump start on my 2015 goal to lose the remaining 20 pounds that I didn't loose in 2013 or 2014. I lost. I gained. I lost again. I maintained. Yes, that would be me. I am so over my excuses - I'm tired. I'm hurting, like really bad. I can't sleep. I don't have time. I can't breathe!
I can go on and on... I can honestly go on and on. But I won't.
So as many of you know, I joined It Works Global - health and wellness at it's finest - this year! I was tired and worn down and found something so amazing that I cannot stop talking or writing about it! I found greens! I am so excited that greens give me energy and balance, supplements my nutrition with 8 servings of fruits and veggies and so much more! Yay! I don't have to give up on my health and fitness goals. Yes! I can start again today!!
I can go on and on... I can honestly go on and on. But I won't.
So as many of you know, I joined It Works Global - health and wellness at it's finest - this year! I was tired and worn down and found something so amazing that I cannot stop talking or writing about it! I found greens! I am so excited that greens give me energy and balance, supplements my nutrition with 8 servings of fruits and veggies and so much more! Yay! I don't have to give up on my health and fitness goals. Yes! I can start again today!!
Jennifer Edwards (JourneywithJennifer)
Saturday, June 14, 2014
First Time Camper
Dear God!
Thank You for the most precious days!
I never imagined me, Jennifer, at anyone's camp, including Church Camp. I started out not really sure if I should go to camp at all. I was thinking, we're not going. I wasn't making the connection between church and camp. But then I started thinking, we should go. One day lead to another and I was talking to Laurie and later Gayle about maybe going and volunteering.
I remember praying and waiting for the knots in my stomach and the feeling of "what have I done". "I can't go to camp!!" Those feelings never came. I wonder sometimes if it's me or you Lord, leading me. This time I knew it was You! You know me, Lord, my quirks and my fears, but You never let me down.
Fast Forward and we are at Day 3 and camp is over, for now. I cannot express how much this experience meant to me. Lord, Thank You!
I shot a bow and arrow for the first time. I didn't hit the target, but I hit within that little big circle thing.
I feel muscles I didn't know I had...
I walked in the rain. I should have danced!
I met new people and got to know some people better!
I thought it was funny when I yelled out pink and blue to the girls as they were going to eat and they were a tad embarrassed for me.
I winced as they walked barefoot to the lake.
I was proud when they caught fish, but almost threw up when they kissed it.
I watched the boys proudly come back from sailing and boat rides. They loved every minute of the excitement!
I thoroughly enjoyed worship! We were outside in the woods on concrete singing, dancing, and praising the Lord!
I watched the kids dance, laugh, play, and meet new challenges each day! They were absolutely awesome! They were fearless!
The Youth Counselors were more than happy to help this rookie! They love the kids and the kids love them too!
As I took my last walk through CC #16, I looked at the empty bunks, remembered the laughter and the tears; plans for next year; the friendships and the prayers; the food, the spills and the late nights and early mornings. More than anything else God, I remember standing in the doorway as we were leaving for worship Tuesday evening after all the rain. I looked at the beautiful earth you've given us and was filled with the spirit of truth!
I can now make the connection with camp and God! My prayer is that our children make this connection too!
With Love from your Daughter, Jennifer!
Thank You for the most precious days!
I never imagined me, Jennifer, at anyone's camp, including Church Camp. I started out not really sure if I should go to camp at all. I was thinking, we're not going. I wasn't making the connection between church and camp. But then I started thinking, we should go. One day lead to another and I was talking to Laurie and later Gayle about maybe going and volunteering.
I remember praying and waiting for the knots in my stomach and the feeling of "what have I done". "I can't go to camp!!" Those feelings never came. I wonder sometimes if it's me or you Lord, leading me. This time I knew it was You! You know me, Lord, my quirks and my fears, but You never let me down.
Fast Forward and we are at Day 3 and camp is over, for now. I cannot express how much this experience meant to me. Lord, Thank You!
I shot a bow and arrow for the first time. I didn't hit the target, but I hit within that little big circle thing.
I feel muscles I didn't know I had...
I walked in the rain. I should have danced!
I met new people and got to know some people better!
I thought it was funny when I yelled out pink and blue to the girls as they were going to eat and they were a tad embarrassed for me.
I winced as they walked barefoot to the lake.
I was proud when they caught fish, but almost threw up when they kissed it.
I watched the boys proudly come back from sailing and boat rides. They loved every minute of the excitement!
I thoroughly enjoyed worship! We were outside in the woods on concrete singing, dancing, and praising the Lord!
I watched the kids dance, laugh, play, and meet new challenges each day! They were absolutely awesome! They were fearless!
The Youth Counselors were more than happy to help this rookie! They love the kids and the kids love them too!
As I took my last walk through CC #16, I looked at the empty bunks, remembered the laughter and the tears; plans for next year; the friendships and the prayers; the food, the spills and the late nights and early mornings. More than anything else God, I remember standing in the doorway as we were leaving for worship Tuesday evening after all the rain. I looked at the beautiful earth you've given us and was filled with the spirit of truth!
I can now make the connection with camp and God! My prayer is that our children make this connection too!
With Love from your Daughter, Jennifer!
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Prayers - A New Day!
I am not sure why this is important to me today, but I want to pray for all who desire a new day. I have this urgency to pray for someone who's in need of a change. I don't know that we are here to keep living the same day over and over again.
I say this because there are many people who are broken. They are living within, among, and through heartbreak and despair. Some people really don't know Jesus. They long for Him and do not know Him or even know that He is the one they are longing for...
I do know that we all want a purpose other than what we've chosen for ourselves. There's a desire within to know something powerful and righteous, just something pure and real. We want to know true love, we want to know Jesus!
Dear Lord,
I praise Your name! Lord, I give thanks that we can call You by name. I cannot say enough about Your goodness. Your grace and mercy are a gift to us all.
I pray for those who are hurting in their hearts and minds. I pray for healing, Lord. I pray for a new day. Lord, I love to hear this is the day that the Lord has made, rejoice and be glad in it. I pray that we all rejoice in every single day that you give us. I pray that we wait expectantly each day just for You! Lord, give us strength and lift us up. Keep us forever safe in Your loving arms. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
***JourneywithJennifer***
This is the day the Lord has made, We will rejoice and be glad in it (Psalm 118:24 NIV)
I say this because there are many people who are broken. They are living within, among, and through heartbreak and despair. Some people really don't know Jesus. They long for Him and do not know Him or even know that He is the one they are longing for...
I do know that we all want a purpose other than what we've chosen for ourselves. There's a desire within to know something powerful and righteous, just something pure and real. We want to know true love, we want to know Jesus!
Dear Lord,
I praise Your name! Lord, I give thanks that we can call You by name. I cannot say enough about Your goodness. Your grace and mercy are a gift to us all.
I pray for those who are hurting in their hearts and minds. I pray for healing, Lord. I pray for a new day. Lord, I love to hear this is the day that the Lord has made, rejoice and be glad in it. I pray that we all rejoice in every single day that you give us. I pray that we wait expectantly each day just for You! Lord, give us strength and lift us up. Keep us forever safe in Your loving arms. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
***JourneywithJennifer***
This is the day the Lord has made, We will rejoice and be glad in it (Psalm 118:24 NIV)
Sunday, May 4, 2014
Prayers -- Believing in God!
Today is a new day and I have a prayer for anyone who does not believe there's a God - the one true God. I wrestle with this unfortunate truth at times because it's tough knowing there are people who do not have Jesus!
Each week my pastor asks if there's someone in our church who doesn't know Him and wants to know more about Him. Last Sunday tears burned my eyes as I thought of my life without Him. I thought "Lord, where would I be?" And so just imagining someone else lost brought tears to my eyes.
Don't get me wrong here, I've had some days where I literally prayed for Him to help me overcome my unbelief. If there was a prayer that hadn't been answered, doubts about His promises for me, or even if I believed He gave someone else a blessing that should have been for me, I had to take it all to Him.
I had to admit to myself that I had some unbelief and there's some work here that needs to be accomplished in order for me to grow. I admitted my shortcomings and realized I couldn't work this out on my own. I had to go to Him. I needed Him and He came through for me.
God is good! I can honestly say those thoughts are now few and far between.
I attribute the thoughts, the doubts, and all the misunderstandings to me not knowing Him. If I don't know Him, then I don't really know what His favor looks or feels like. If I don't spend time with Him, then I can forget His goodness. If I don't praise Him, then I can miss the blessing. And that's a blessing I don't want to miss. I don't want to miss the awesome feeling of knowing and believing in God!!
My Heavenly Father, I praise Your holy name. I give thanks for all we've been given and for what is to come. Lord, I am amazed at how much You love us all. You sent your one and only Son to die for all of our sins so that we may spend eternity with You! Lord, without You, we are nothing. Lord, with You, we can do all things and we give thanks.
My prayers are for all who do not know You. People are broken and do not know they're broken. They are in need of healing and do not know they need to be healed. Our lives are empty and need to be filled. I ask that our hearts and minds are healed in Jesus' name. I ask that we all recognize that our longing is for You! Please help us overcome our unbelief. May we all confess Jesus is Lord and give glory to God! In Jesus's name I pray, AMEN!
**JourneywithJennifer**
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:10-11 NKJV)
Each week my pastor asks if there's someone in our church who doesn't know Him and wants to know more about Him. Last Sunday tears burned my eyes as I thought of my life without Him. I thought "Lord, where would I be?" And so just imagining someone else lost brought tears to my eyes.
Don't get me wrong here, I've had some days where I literally prayed for Him to help me overcome my unbelief. If there was a prayer that hadn't been answered, doubts about His promises for me, or even if I believed He gave someone else a blessing that should have been for me, I had to take it all to Him.
I had to admit to myself that I had some unbelief and there's some work here that needs to be accomplished in order for me to grow. I admitted my shortcomings and realized I couldn't work this out on my own. I had to go to Him. I needed Him and He came through for me.
God is good! I can honestly say those thoughts are now few and far between.
I attribute the thoughts, the doubts, and all the misunderstandings to me not knowing Him. If I don't know Him, then I don't really know what His favor looks or feels like. If I don't spend time with Him, then I can forget His goodness. If I don't praise Him, then I can miss the blessing. And that's a blessing I don't want to miss. I don't want to miss the awesome feeling of knowing and believing in God!!
My Heavenly Father, I praise Your holy name. I give thanks for all we've been given and for what is to come. Lord, I am amazed at how much You love us all. You sent your one and only Son to die for all of our sins so that we may spend eternity with You! Lord, without You, we are nothing. Lord, with You, we can do all things and we give thanks.
My prayers are for all who do not know You. People are broken and do not know they're broken. They are in need of healing and do not know they need to be healed. Our lives are empty and need to be filled. I ask that our hearts and minds are healed in Jesus' name. I ask that we all recognize that our longing is for You! Please help us overcome our unbelief. May we all confess Jesus is Lord and give glory to God! In Jesus's name I pray, AMEN!
**JourneywithJennifer**
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:10-11 NKJV)
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Prayers - Accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior
I've been thinking of all the people who accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior over the past few weeks! I am so excited and happy for you all! There's joy in my heart. I am not only happy that you have eternal life, but I am also excited about the possibilities. The truth is the possibilities are endless with God! Your life has changed for the better and I cannot say enough about the awesome God we serve! Praise God! Your life will change in ways you've never imagined! Trust in the LORD!
I pray that you may know Him and not only know Him, but also believe Him. I pray that you'll find a friend in Christ, relying on Him and Him alone. I pray that you'll have patience as you learn who you are in Christ and as the plans He has for you unfold. I pray that you'll spend time daily with God.
Praying and believing in the God we serve! Praying for you all!
**JourneywithJennifer**
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. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:11-13 NIV
I pray that you may know Him and not only know Him, but also believe Him. I pray that you'll find a friend in Christ, relying on Him and Him alone. I pray that you'll have patience as you learn who you are in Christ and as the plans He has for you unfold. I pray that you'll spend time daily with God.
Praying and believing in the God we serve! Praying for you all!
**JourneywithJennifer**
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. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:11-13 NIV
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Prayers - Worship
The first time I heard Rochelle Frazier speak, she spoke about a time on retreat where she let go and worshipped God! I heard shawl, dance, praise - I was fascinated, wondering what that looks like.
Several years ago I was looking for a church home and asked my friends, the Sanders, why they chose their church. And they answered that worship was a big part of their choice.
Last year our church had a great service - Awestruck. Leading up to that night, I wondered how that would be for me... It was a time of worship like never before! I experienced pure JOY!!
My cousin Courtney is the Worship Leader at her church. She can sang! All her life she's been singing for the Lord.
My heart is full today as I think of what freedom in worship would be like for us all. I can just see us praising and worshipping our God with love! If every church in every nation praised Him in worship with an abundance of love - what would it look like? I tell you it would be PURE JOY!!!
Dear God! I praise your name! I am so excited just thinking of YOU!! God my prayer today is that we worship you in spirit and in truth. Lord, I pray that we call out your name, that we raise our hands, and that we humble our hearts! Lord, I pray that we bring all that we are!
In Jesus' name. Amen.
***JourneywithJennifer***
Lift up your hands in the holy place and praise the LORD! Psalms 134:2 HCSB
Several years ago I was looking for a church home and asked my friends, the Sanders, why they chose their church. And they answered that worship was a big part of their choice.
Last year our church had a great service - Awestruck. Leading up to that night, I wondered how that would be for me... It was a time of worship like never before! I experienced pure JOY!!
My cousin Courtney is the Worship Leader at her church. She can sang! All her life she's been singing for the Lord.
My heart is full today as I think of what freedom in worship would be like for us all. I can just see us praising and worshipping our God with love! If every church in every nation praised Him in worship with an abundance of love - what would it look like? I tell you it would be PURE JOY!!!
Dear God! I praise your name! I am so excited just thinking of YOU!! God my prayer today is that we worship you in spirit and in truth. Lord, I pray that we call out your name, that we raise our hands, and that we humble our hearts! Lord, I pray that we bring all that we are!
In Jesus' name. Amen.
***JourneywithJennifer***
Lift up your hands in the holy place and praise the LORD! Psalms 134:2 HCSB
Saturday, March 22, 2014
Prayers - Love and Loss
For the past several years, we've seen loss in our families. We've seen enough to last us a lifetime, and there's more to come. I know that our loved ones have gone on to Heaven, which gives us peace in the pain. I know that God has a plan and a purpose for us all and we should seek Him with all that we are.
Praise God for all that we are in Him. I am thankful for the time that we had and the times to come. Lord I ask that you be with us as we go through these tough days. I ask that you wipe every tear from our eyes, Lord. Remind us that you will destroy death forever. We know that you will make all things new. Lord, please remind us that we will neither suffer or fear. For you are with us through the end of the age. Lord continue to comfort us through our tears. In Jesus' name. Amen.
***JourneywithJennifer***
Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy Psalms. 126:5
Praise God for all that we are in Him. I am thankful for the time that we had and the times to come. Lord I ask that you be with us as we go through these tough days. I ask that you wipe every tear from our eyes, Lord. Remind us that you will destroy death forever. We know that you will make all things new. Lord, please remind us that we will neither suffer or fear. For you are with us through the end of the age. Lord continue to comfort us through our tears. In Jesus' name. Amen.
***JourneywithJennifer***
Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy Psalms. 126:5
Prayers
I've been thinking of my prayer life....I talk to God through my prayers. I share my thoughts, although I am sure He already knows every single one. I let it all out.. my fears, my wants, my needs, everything I hold close to my heart, I share with God. I used to pray for it all to go my way. Don't get me wrong, I still do pray for it all to go my way. I am just not as concerned about me as I am about Him. I don't know that my way is always the best way for myself or others. I am learning to pray that His will be done. I must admit it's tough. I don't know sometimes if it's what I may choose, but I do know that in the end, it all works out for my good because I love Him. I trust Him.
I love my prayer journal. I love filling those precious pages with prayers for my loved ones and friends. I also include requests I receive. I love to pray immediately when I receive a request, but I also love to write your names in my journal. I can go back and read the prayers again and also offer another prayer. It feels good to go back and see where He's brought us.
There's a closeness to Him that I cannot explain when I pray. I've had it on my heart this past week to pray through social media. I've seen Him move more than a few times through our prayers, many through social media. If it is His will, we'll see answered prayers and the will of God in our lives like we've never seen before in our lives!!!
My Sisters and Brothers in Christ, keep me in your prayers and I'll keep you in mine.
My prayer is that I will be used by God for His glory!
***JourneywithJennifer***
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13 KJV)
I love my prayer journal. I love filling those precious pages with prayers for my loved ones and friends. I also include requests I receive. I love to pray immediately when I receive a request, but I also love to write your names in my journal. I can go back and read the prayers again and also offer another prayer. It feels good to go back and see where He's brought us.
There's a closeness to Him that I cannot explain when I pray. I've had it on my heart this past week to pray through social media. I've seen Him move more than a few times through our prayers, many through social media. If it is His will, we'll see answered prayers and the will of God in our lives like we've never seen before in our lives!!!
My Sisters and Brothers in Christ, keep me in your prayers and I'll keep you in mine.
My prayer is that I will be used by God for His glory!
***JourneywithJennifer***
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13 KJV)
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Happy New Year!
I cannot believe it will be 2014 in less than an hour! LOL!
I look back on this past year with a grateful heart. God gave me such peace. He truly showed me a new way to live and I thank Him.. I asked Him for something big and I believed He would give me something big and He did.
I realized what's going to always work for me - love. I feel so much better about myself when I love God and love others. I spent time focused on scriptures about love and found peace each day when I centered my life on love (God).
I renewed my focus on my blog and God turned it around. He showed me where He wants me to be so He can grow me. He has plans for me.
I really dived into social media this year. I started off strong with YouTube and Blogs. I was super big into blogs and vlogs focused on organizing! I learned a lot about organizing my home, but didn't put much into practice. I realized that I am organized to a certain extent, just not consistent. There are some items in my home that have a place and there are others that are just out of place.
One of my biggest lessons - if something doesn't' t work, try something else. It didn't occur to me that I needed to make changes as needed or that it was okay to try something out first and then decide on a totally different solution. I believed everything would stay in it's place. It didn't.
I have plans for my organizing challenges in 2014...one project at a time. I will schedule weekly projects with a breakout of each task. This will ensure I am not overwhelmed and allow me to see progress with small steps!
I will slowly work my way back into an exercise routine. I'm stuck in a rut and need to move out of it, I need a plan. My first step is my diet. I developed some good habits in 2011 and need to start again...
I love that about a new year, a new day, even a new hour, a chance to start again!
I am excited about the start of a new year. There are endless possibilities for me... I am looking ahead.
I don't know what the next year will bring, but I am ready.
I am ready to read the Verse of the Day from my YouVersion Bible App each morning.
I am ready to receive God's Word as my church goes through the Book of John.
I am ready to start a new Bible Study.
I am ready to wake up to the most beautiful sunrise. I'll even take clouds.
I am ready to listen to Him and follow where He leads.
I am ready!
****JourneywithJennifer****
In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly. Psalm 5:3
I look back on this past year with a grateful heart. God gave me such peace. He truly showed me a new way to live and I thank Him.. I asked Him for something big and I believed He would give me something big and He did.
I realized what's going to always work for me - love. I feel so much better about myself when I love God and love others. I spent time focused on scriptures about love and found peace each day when I centered my life on love (God).
I renewed my focus on my blog and God turned it around. He showed me where He wants me to be so He can grow me. He has plans for me.
I really dived into social media this year. I started off strong with YouTube and Blogs. I was super big into blogs and vlogs focused on organizing! I learned a lot about organizing my home, but didn't put much into practice. I realized that I am organized to a certain extent, just not consistent. There are some items in my home that have a place and there are others that are just out of place.
One of my biggest lessons - if something doesn't' t work, try something else. It didn't occur to me that I needed to make changes as needed or that it was okay to try something out first and then decide on a totally different solution. I believed everything would stay in it's place. It didn't.
I have plans for my organizing challenges in 2014...one project at a time. I will schedule weekly projects with a breakout of each task. This will ensure I am not overwhelmed and allow me to see progress with small steps!
I will slowly work my way back into an exercise routine. I'm stuck in a rut and need to move out of it, I need a plan. My first step is my diet. I developed some good habits in 2011 and need to start again...
I love that about a new year, a new day, even a new hour, a chance to start again!
I am excited about the start of a new year. There are endless possibilities for me... I am looking ahead.
I don't know what the next year will bring, but I am ready.
I am ready to read the Verse of the Day from my YouVersion Bible App each morning.
I am ready to receive God's Word as my church goes through the Book of John.
I am ready to start a new Bible Study.
I am ready to wake up to the most beautiful sunrise. I'll even take clouds.
I am ready to listen to Him and follow where He leads.
I am ready!
****JourneywithJennifer****
In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly. Psalm 5:3
Saturday, December 14, 2013
Today
I must say, today has been great! I spent the day washing my hair, semi-cleaning the garage, pulling out the Christmas Tree, and decorating the tree. I also had a late lunch with friends. It was great because we were able to catch up! I went to church for "A Royal Christmas" and had a late dinner with friends! Dinner was good and the company, even better. There's nothing like spending time with people who genuinely care for you!
I am writing this all down to say, I really did have a great day.
But Today - Saturday, December 14, 2013.....
It's been a long time coming, but I had another good cry today. I am so trying not to be sad. I am just over it and want to get away from it all, but cannot. I have to feel what I feel and then when I am ready, let it all go. But this new life, new way of living, doesn't really let you "let go". You sort of have to figure it out, but it's not truly letting go.
I miss my Granddaddy! I miss our life, the life WE ALL shared for so many years. It's not that I am not thankful for my days, it's just tougher. I thought he'd be here forever. He was the one we all knew would outlive each and every one of us.
The last few weeks have been tough. I ended up with bronchitis. Again. I spent hours waiting to be seen by a doctor. I complained about everything I had to do and all that I didn't get to do...I ran from a little dog. I was genuinely terrified for 2 minutes. I embarrassed myself and my family. To sum it all up, I was tired so I spent my days whining because I just didn't have the strength for it all. It's the time of year when it all runs together.
But you know, God. He knows me and gives me His all. I wouldn't have made it without Him.
Again, I am writing this all down to say, I really did have a great day. I had a great week.
I was able to get a lot accomplished, both at work and at home. I learned that I need to spend time encouraging and building up others in the faith (Romans 14). We really do need one another. My kid laughed at me because I ran from a dog. I laughed too! I slept in today. My hair looks great. I learned that I must practice speaking intelligently because I'll have more opportunities to speak out loud to other people on specific topics. I listened to some of the most beautiful music about my God. I finished my antibiotics.
I lived! I am still here!
The God of peace be with all of you. Amen. Romans 15:33 (HCSB)
I am writing this all down to say, I really did have a great day.
But Today - Saturday, December 14, 2013.....
It's been a long time coming, but I had another good cry today. I am so trying not to be sad. I am just over it and want to get away from it all, but cannot. I have to feel what I feel and then when I am ready, let it all go. But this new life, new way of living, doesn't really let you "let go". You sort of have to figure it out, but it's not truly letting go.
I miss my Granddaddy! I miss our life, the life WE ALL shared for so many years. It's not that I am not thankful for my days, it's just tougher. I thought he'd be here forever. He was the one we all knew would outlive each and every one of us.
The last few weeks have been tough. I ended up with bronchitis. Again. I spent hours waiting to be seen by a doctor. I complained about everything I had to do and all that I didn't get to do...I ran from a little dog. I was genuinely terrified for 2 minutes. I embarrassed myself and my family. To sum it all up, I was tired so I spent my days whining because I just didn't have the strength for it all. It's the time of year when it all runs together.
But you know, God. He knows me and gives me His all. I wouldn't have made it without Him.
Again, I am writing this all down to say, I really did have a great day. I had a great week.
I was able to get a lot accomplished, both at work and at home. I learned that I need to spend time encouraging and building up others in the faith (Romans 14). We really do need one another. My kid laughed at me because I ran from a dog. I laughed too! I slept in today. My hair looks great. I learned that I must practice speaking intelligently because I'll have more opportunities to speak out loud to other people on specific topics. I listened to some of the most beautiful music about my God. I finished my antibiotics.
I lived! I am still here!
The God of peace be with all of you. Amen. Romans 15:33 (HCSB)
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