One of my favorite wedding gifts I received was my husband's journal, one which he had been writing in for about 6 years, and in which he wrote all he was learning about in life, his relationship with the Lord, his relationships with girls and other friends, his up and down moments for the past 6 years. I have had the privilege to read through it and am always so encouraged by all he wrote, whether he realizes it or not. He gave it to me the day before our wedding, and said, "Here is all of me-the good, the bad, and the ugly-from the last 6 years. I want to keep nothing from you, and want you to know everything, so here ya go. Enjoy." I so appreciated his transparentness with me, and I have loved that about him from day one, always being completely open and honest about everything. In reading his words today, I was very encouraged and also hit hard by something I've been dealing with recently.
2 Peter 1:3-15--"His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire. For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to make your calling and election sure, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Therefore, I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by the way of reminder, since I know that the putting off of my body will be soon, as our Lord Jesus Christ made clear to me. And I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things."
Now I know that's a long passage, but it has some great stuff in it. I am definitely guilty of not always reading a passage of scripture all the way through. I guess I skim it to read what I want to read and get what I want to get out of it, but that isn't how I should be perceiving it. Scripture is meant to be taken as a whole, not just the "good" parts that make us feel good about ourselves...but I digress.
Recently I've been dealing with a lot of changes in my life, getting married, finding a job, trying to find a house, moving cities, learning how to be a wife, keeping up with old friends and yearning for a community...and I keep thinking life will slow down, but in all actuality, life won't slow down, so I should stop waiting for it to do so. I have found that I have become complacent in my faith, which I feel like I experience more often than I should. The fact of the matter is, I have to make time for the things which matter most--the Lord, my husband, my family, my friends, and then all other things-in that order. I've found myself finding other ways to consume my time, none of them necessarily being bad, but I've found that I have wanted to do them more than spend time with the Lord. And I hate that! I mean, really, a TV show, or a book, or social media, or, dare I say it, Candy Crush, is not more important than time with the Savior. It should be one of those "well, duh!" moments, and it is. I feel kind of silly admitting all of this as well, but I know its something I should do. I am going to work towards ensuring that I am spiritually filled so that I can help to fill other people up, and be an encouragement to those around me rather than missing an opportunity to bless someone because I am distracted.
Christianity is not just a religion, its a relationship. I'm glad to be reminded of this and realize that the Lord is working in and through me. He is faithful even when I am not, and I know His plan for me is bigger and better than I can imagine. I hope you know that His plan for you is incredible as well. He takes care of those who love Him, and I hope you can experience His joy and His love today.
Cheers,
Amber
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Monday, July 15, 2013
Pouring rain in mid July
Praise the Lord that it has rained in Duncan, Oklahoma the past few days. Such a nice change from the 100+ degree weather, and a chance for me to blog! Happy day!
As all of you know I'm sure, I said I do to the love of my life on May 25, 2013. It has been a little less than 2 months of us being married and it has been so fun! Such a joy of a journey learning more about my selfishness and how to grow my selflessness for the sake of my husband and my relationship with the King. I would be lying if I said there haven't been times I've just wanted to be selfish and do my own thing, but that's not what marriage is about, and I knew that going into it. If there is something that I've learned more in these 2 months thus far, it's that I have to die to myself daily so that I may better serve my Lord and my husband.
Marriage is such a blessing and I have been able to have some time to myself to reflect on the past but press forward into the future. Nick and I are currently looking for houses in Oklahoma City. He is leaving his community that he has been a part of for almost 3 years, starting a new journey with me in a city that neither of us is very familiar with. Another thing I have been learning is patience. God's timing is never late and He knows exactly when and how things are supposed to happen, even if we disagree. But He is faithful...(I'm sorry if a lot of these seem like cliches, but sometimes those cliches are necessary to be reminded of, however simple they may be.
I have realized more and more that my community keeps changing as I get older...and that is how it's supposed to be, but I just didn't expect it to go so fast. Don't get me wrong, I still keep up with my close friends from different phases of life, but it's not like college where everyone is in the same spot and you can just go get an HBCB from Whataburger at 1 in the morning. It's now come to the time where you have to schedule seeing people when you are in town, or setting aside time for a Skype/phone date. Maybe sending letters, but most likely just keeping on via facebook or Twitter (gotta love social media) Of course, this is just how our society is, but since my primary love language is quality time, it's always been a stretch for me, not being able to see in person the people I would like to...But maybe the Lord is challenging me with coming more and more out of my shell and learning that friendships and relationships take work and that He is shaping me to find a community in which my strengths are realized. I'm not sure, but I am excited for the future with Nick and with my life personally. I know the Lord is going to reveal what He wants me to do with my life soon and I am excited!
Cheers,
~Amber
Monday, September 24, 2012
A friend is a friend to the end of the end...that's forever
So I don't post very often on this thing at all...shame on me, considering I have a lot more time on my hands since I only work and don't go to school anymore...but anyway, that's beside the point. I want to share about a person that is near and dear to my heart and is about to make a pretty big life change, so hopefully she will get to read this and know that it comes from the heart. I know that a lot of people can claim to have several best friends, I have found this to be true in my life simply because I keep up with a lot of people (or at least try to) so I would say I have several best friends. However, there has been one who has stuck by my side through thick and thin, through long distance and right down the street, through rain and shine, etc. etc. Her name is Stacie Lynne Homeyer.
When I first met Stacie, we were in 1st grade at Lake Country Christian School. She had just moved to Fort Worth from Nebraska, her dad was a pilot, her mom was a teacher (just like my mom) and we became instant friends. Stacie would claim that my "signature thing" from when we were growing up was the big bows my mom used to always put in my hair (but really, what 8 year old has a signature anything?) Anyway, we would play on the playground together and always included other people in our adventures (we continue to do that today.) That's one of the things I love about Stacie--she is so great at including everyone, even the awkward people that no one can understand. I learned that from her especially once we got into middle school, the awkward phases when people are figuring out their bodies, emotions and acne. Stacie always sought out the people who were sitting alone at a table or who felt excluded by being picked last in a kick ball game. She was never afraid to say, "hey, let's all play this together" (or something to that effect.)
One of the things I remember most about her in middle school was how we went to church together every Wednesday night. Her church was awesome and I loved having a friend to go with, so we did that together which only helped our friendship grow. Something that she probably doesn't remember much but that I have very fond memories of was when we made a singing group called the Criztals (yes, its spelled with a Z because we thought we were cool back then) We even made a recording of the classic kids church song "Pharaoh, Pharaoh," hand motions and all. We even had an older sister be our manager, oh how we had such big dreams...
Speaking of middle school, specifically the summer before 8th grade, was the year that I was in a boating accident. Her church had a lake day, and we decided it would be fun to go and it was conveniently very close to my house. We were having a good time and it was our groups turn to go on the banana boats. Stacie had a lot of other friends at the church, so I didn't get to sit behind her on the banana boat, and I was very sad about that and I (regretfully) sat as close to her as I could, infringing on the girls space in front of me, but I didn't care because I wanted to be close to my best friend. The boat started going and we hit a big wave and I don't remember much after that...I remember waking up in her mom's car with a bag of ice on face, feeling that two of my teeth had been knocked back into my mouth, still attached. I was so close to the girl in front of me that her head came back and hit me in the face--how's that for trying to sit close? So they called my parents and long story short, I had to have a wire put on my teeth and a few root canals...but the thing I remember was that Stacie came to see me the next day after it happened and had an I love lucy card, back when those singing cards had first come out, and it sang a funny little song and said get better...I tell that specific story just to demonstrate how much of a friend Stacie was, because she would also call almost every day to check in on me since she couldn't drive herself to come see me, we were only 13 after all.
Then came high school, which had its ups and downs, dealing with jealousy of each other having boyfriends or getting a role in a musical or play or getting a better grade on a test. It became about comparison with each other, and one thing I've been taught over the years is that comparison is the thief of joy (so true!) and we experienced that the hard way. I compared myself to her a lot, and I don't know if she even knew I was doing it because I was really good about covering it up. Being the overachiever that I was in high school, I'm sure she had times of comparison too. I would put myself in literally anything I had time for, no matter how packed my schedule was. Looking back now, I have no idea how I managed to still have a social life and get good grades, but the Lord knew how much I could handle. He also knew that I would need a best friend to help through all of that. So despite our comparison of each other, we put that aside and chose to stay besties (not to say there werent hard times, but we always worked through them and figured them out together.) And we were able to enjoy high school with our other friends, as well as making time for each other.
Of course, we went to 2 totally different colleges, her to Azusa Pacific in LA, California, and me to OU in Norman, Oklahoma...and despite that distance, we were still able to maintain a "bestie" status with one another. That was the thing that truly tested our friendship though, being able to see each other when we were home for holidays, catching up on skype or on the phone, and writing occasionally to one another just for a check up. We went through different classes, dated different guys, studied 2 different majors and realized the different gifts God had given each of us as well as taught us new things about ourselves.
I know that I have merely scratched the surface of what all we went through in our friendship with each other, but she really knows me. She knows my fears, my dreams, my hurt, my joy and oh so much more. She has been a faithful presence in my life and I don't know how I would've made it from first grade to now without her. She is wise beyond her years, she understands me when I fail to tell a story right, she is forgiving, she is beautiful inside and out, she has constantly pushed me toward the Lord my whole life and has always been a great encourager, she is an excellent listener especially when I call her at 2 in the morning her time, she's the best new years eve date ever (we spent many a new years together), she's so much fun to be around, she's a wonderful accountability partner (which she would deny) and she has a beautiful heart...and on top of all of that, she is marrying her other best friend this weekend and I am so excited and happy for the both of them and know that the Lord is going to do awesome things in and through them both. He may be her other half, but I get the lucky role of being her best friend for life. Stacie, I will always cherish our friendship and encourage you the best way I can. Know that you can call me any time day or night to laugh, to cry or just to have a good conversation. You have been such an important part of my life and I can't wait to see what happens in these next few years for the both of us! I love you bestie!
All that to say, make sure your best friend knows that you appreciate them. I know there have been times when I've taken her for granted and that makes me sad, but I hope she knows now how much she means to me.
Cheers!
~Amber
When I first met Stacie, we were in 1st grade at Lake Country Christian School. She had just moved to Fort Worth from Nebraska, her dad was a pilot, her mom was a teacher (just like my mom) and we became instant friends. Stacie would claim that my "signature thing" from when we were growing up was the big bows my mom used to always put in my hair (but really, what 8 year old has a signature anything?) Anyway, we would play on the playground together and always included other people in our adventures (we continue to do that today.) That's one of the things I love about Stacie--she is so great at including everyone, even the awkward people that no one can understand. I learned that from her especially once we got into middle school, the awkward phases when people are figuring out their bodies, emotions and acne. Stacie always sought out the people who were sitting alone at a table or who felt excluded by being picked last in a kick ball game. She was never afraid to say, "hey, let's all play this together" (or something to that effect.)
One of the things I remember most about her in middle school was how we went to church together every Wednesday night. Her church was awesome and I loved having a friend to go with, so we did that together which only helped our friendship grow. Something that she probably doesn't remember much but that I have very fond memories of was when we made a singing group called the Criztals (yes, its spelled with a Z because we thought we were cool back then) We even made a recording of the classic kids church song "Pharaoh, Pharaoh," hand motions and all. We even had an older sister be our manager, oh how we had such big dreams...
Speaking of middle school, specifically the summer before 8th grade, was the year that I was in a boating accident. Her church had a lake day, and we decided it would be fun to go and it was conveniently very close to my house. We were having a good time and it was our groups turn to go on the banana boats. Stacie had a lot of other friends at the church, so I didn't get to sit behind her on the banana boat, and I was very sad about that and I (regretfully) sat as close to her as I could, infringing on the girls space in front of me, but I didn't care because I wanted to be close to my best friend. The boat started going and we hit a big wave and I don't remember much after that...I remember waking up in her mom's car with a bag of ice on face, feeling that two of my teeth had been knocked back into my mouth, still attached. I was so close to the girl in front of me that her head came back and hit me in the face--how's that for trying to sit close? So they called my parents and long story short, I had to have a wire put on my teeth and a few root canals...but the thing I remember was that Stacie came to see me the next day after it happened and had an I love lucy card, back when those singing cards had first come out, and it sang a funny little song and said get better...I tell that specific story just to demonstrate how much of a friend Stacie was, because she would also call almost every day to check in on me since she couldn't drive herself to come see me, we were only 13 after all.
Then came high school, which had its ups and downs, dealing with jealousy of each other having boyfriends or getting a role in a musical or play or getting a better grade on a test. It became about comparison with each other, and one thing I've been taught over the years is that comparison is the thief of joy (so true!) and we experienced that the hard way. I compared myself to her a lot, and I don't know if she even knew I was doing it because I was really good about covering it up. Being the overachiever that I was in high school, I'm sure she had times of comparison too. I would put myself in literally anything I had time for, no matter how packed my schedule was. Looking back now, I have no idea how I managed to still have a social life and get good grades, but the Lord knew how much I could handle. He also knew that I would need a best friend to help through all of that. So despite our comparison of each other, we put that aside and chose to stay besties (not to say there werent hard times, but we always worked through them and figured them out together.) And we were able to enjoy high school with our other friends, as well as making time for each other.
Of course, we went to 2 totally different colleges, her to Azusa Pacific in LA, California, and me to OU in Norman, Oklahoma...and despite that distance, we were still able to maintain a "bestie" status with one another. That was the thing that truly tested our friendship though, being able to see each other when we were home for holidays, catching up on skype or on the phone, and writing occasionally to one another just for a check up. We went through different classes, dated different guys, studied 2 different majors and realized the different gifts God had given each of us as well as taught us new things about ourselves.
I know that I have merely scratched the surface of what all we went through in our friendship with each other, but she really knows me. She knows my fears, my dreams, my hurt, my joy and oh so much more. She has been a faithful presence in my life and I don't know how I would've made it from first grade to now without her. She is wise beyond her years, she understands me when I fail to tell a story right, she is forgiving, she is beautiful inside and out, she has constantly pushed me toward the Lord my whole life and has always been a great encourager, she is an excellent listener especially when I call her at 2 in the morning her time, she's the best new years eve date ever (we spent many a new years together), she's so much fun to be around, she's a wonderful accountability partner (which she would deny) and she has a beautiful heart...and on top of all of that, she is marrying her other best friend this weekend and I am so excited and happy for the both of them and know that the Lord is going to do awesome things in and through them both. He may be her other half, but I get the lucky role of being her best friend for life. Stacie, I will always cherish our friendship and encourage you the best way I can. Know that you can call me any time day or night to laugh, to cry or just to have a good conversation. You have been such an important part of my life and I can't wait to see what happens in these next few years for the both of us! I love you bestie!
All that to say, make sure your best friend knows that you appreciate them. I know there have been times when I've taken her for granted and that makes me sad, but I hope she knows now how much she means to me.
Cheers!
~Amber
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Mediocrity is not cool
Mediocre: to be moderate or inferior in quality; average
Ouch, that definition is kinda harsh when you think about it. No one likes being told, "Hey, that was an average job" or "Way to be moderate"....um, no! We want to be told, "That was an awesome job! Keep it up!" I'm sure there has been a point in everyone's life where they have felt mediocre...whether its a test they don't really study for, not really doing the dishes, not fully investing their time into something they are presented with, and the list goes on and on...
The truth is, it is really easy to get sucked into a life of mediocrity, which sucks itself because living an average life is not how I want to live my life. And I feel like its a neverending cycle that we can get caught up in, because we can go through the motions of life: going to class, work, church and Bible study...but there's a difference in going through the motions and purposefully living out your life and putting your best foot forward when it comes to a relationship with the Lord.
But wanna know the best part? The Lord knows this about His creation, and that's why He gave His Son...He knew that we would struggle in this depraved world with sin and struggle, but we can be covered by His constant grace and perfect peace, if only we accept Him. It says in John 10:10-"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." I love this verse, because it shows the reality of sin and how the only thing the devil wants is for us to fail and not accept our Heavenly Father...but He sent His only Son in human form to come so that we could not only have life, but live it abundantly! I don't know about you, but that's quite possibly the greatest encouragement I could ever realize!
So even when I feel like I have messed up royally, or fallen from the path, or whatever else may come up, the Lord is faithful and constantly molding His children into who they are meant to be. He has a perfect plan for each and every one of us. I am still constantly learning this, just from thinking about the future and how uncertain it is, but I know that the Lord will reveal what He has for me when I need to know. He is good like that.
I hope this has been an encouragement, and I'm sure more will come as I continue to grow and learn from my Heavenly Father who is constantly breaking down my pride and reminding me that I am His beloved daughter.
With gratitude and His grace,
Amber G.
Ouch, that definition is kinda harsh when you think about it. No one likes being told, "Hey, that was an average job" or "Way to be moderate"....um, no! We want to be told, "That was an awesome job! Keep it up!" I'm sure there has been a point in everyone's life where they have felt mediocre...whether its a test they don't really study for, not really doing the dishes, not fully investing their time into something they are presented with, and the list goes on and on...
The truth is, it is really easy to get sucked into a life of mediocrity, which sucks itself because living an average life is not how I want to live my life. And I feel like its a neverending cycle that we can get caught up in, because we can go through the motions of life: going to class, work, church and Bible study...but there's a difference in going through the motions and purposefully living out your life and putting your best foot forward when it comes to a relationship with the Lord.
But wanna know the best part? The Lord knows this about His creation, and that's why He gave His Son...He knew that we would struggle in this depraved world with sin and struggle, but we can be covered by His constant grace and perfect peace, if only we accept Him. It says in John 10:10-"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." I love this verse, because it shows the reality of sin and how the only thing the devil wants is for us to fail and not accept our Heavenly Father...but He sent His only Son in human form to come so that we could not only have life, but live it abundantly! I don't know about you, but that's quite possibly the greatest encouragement I could ever realize!
So even when I feel like I have messed up royally, or fallen from the path, or whatever else may come up, the Lord is faithful and constantly molding His children into who they are meant to be. He has a perfect plan for each and every one of us. I am still constantly learning this, just from thinking about the future and how uncertain it is, but I know that the Lord will reveal what He has for me when I need to know. He is good like that.
I hope this has been an encouragement, and I'm sure more will come as I continue to grow and learn from my Heavenly Father who is constantly breaking down my pride and reminding me that I am His beloved daughter.
With gratitude and His grace,
Amber G.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Pine Cove Shores Edition
I realized how long its been since I've posted a blog...a lot has happened since then, I'm kind of shocked. The Lord has been moving in my life and it is so evident. My last semester flew by. One of my dear friends graduated and is now studying at SMU law, I'm so proud of her, accomplishing one of her life goals. My other dear friend has still been here with me, but she is graduating this month to go student teach and live in Tulsa...not too close to Norman, but still Oklahoma. They have both been and truly are loved and missed, and I'm sorry if I never tell the two of you that, but you have meant a lot to me over my time at college. Thank you!
After I finished the spring semester, I went and worked at Pine Cove Shores for a third summer, this time as a lifeguard/band member...I can honestly say it was one of my favorite summers I worked at PC. I made lasting friendships, got to pour in to more campers, got to be out in the sun for 5+ hours a day (and for those of you who know me really well, you know I get dark in the summer). Besides all that, the Lord moved in my life. I figured I would learn the same old thing, like I had from previous summers...but I was definitely wrong. It was there I realized how much I had missed leading worship, having fellowship with other believers, having deep conversations while star gazing, talking about real life issues and how the Lord brings us through the good and bad times, being able to pray fervently without any distractions, being able to bless those around me because I had been blessed...for my fellow PC staffers, you know what I'm talking about...despite all the craziness of camp, (jumping up and down, doing the birthday rap, the awesome cheers, the count 'ems, never stop jumping up and down, ropes, the lake, the pool, never ever stop jumping up and down, club, Pit 'n' Palace, etc.) there was one thing that remained...and that was the Lord moving in each and every camper that came through. It wasn't because there were so many amazing, Godly college kids working there or because of the ridiculous stuff we were doing. We just let go, and let God...
Needless to say I am going to miss Pine Cove Shores, but I have learned so much from being a staffer there...after all, it is where I re-dedicated my life to Christ my freshmen year of high school, its where I found dear friends who will encourage me and aspire me to be better than I am because of the Lord, its where I was able to lead worship and literally get to watch kids worship on their knees to bring praise to our Heavenly Father...It was a life-changing experience, and I never will forget it.
There will be more posts to come with specific stories from camp...but I'll offer a verse that has been an anthem in my life
Philippians 4:6-"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, with prayer and supplication, let your requests be made known to God."
We are blessed, so we can be a blessing...
Cheers,
Amber
After I finished the spring semester, I went and worked at Pine Cove Shores for a third summer, this time as a lifeguard/band member...I can honestly say it was one of my favorite summers I worked at PC. I made lasting friendships, got to pour in to more campers, got to be out in the sun for 5+ hours a day (and for those of you who know me really well, you know I get dark in the summer). Besides all that, the Lord moved in my life. I figured I would learn the same old thing, like I had from previous summers...but I was definitely wrong. It was there I realized how much I had missed leading worship, having fellowship with other believers, having deep conversations while star gazing, talking about real life issues and how the Lord brings us through the good and bad times, being able to pray fervently without any distractions, being able to bless those around me because I had been blessed...for my fellow PC staffers, you know what I'm talking about...despite all the craziness of camp, (jumping up and down, doing the birthday rap, the awesome cheers, the count 'ems, never stop jumping up and down, ropes, the lake, the pool, never ever stop jumping up and down, club, Pit 'n' Palace, etc.) there was one thing that remained...and that was the Lord moving in each and every camper that came through. It wasn't because there were so many amazing, Godly college kids working there or because of the ridiculous stuff we were doing. We just let go, and let God...
Needless to say I am going to miss Pine Cove Shores, but I have learned so much from being a staffer there...after all, it is where I re-dedicated my life to Christ my freshmen year of high school, its where I found dear friends who will encourage me and aspire me to be better than I am because of the Lord, its where I was able to lead worship and literally get to watch kids worship on their knees to bring praise to our Heavenly Father...It was a life-changing experience, and I never will forget it.
There will be more posts to come with specific stories from camp...but I'll offer a verse that has been an anthem in my life
Philippians 4:6-"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, with prayer and supplication, let your requests be made known to God."
We are blessed, so we can be a blessing...
Cheers,
Amber
Friday, February 4, 2011
When things don't go the way we plan
Jeremiah 29:11-"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."
I'm sure all of you have heard this verse at some point or another. Teachers, mentors, pastors and parents quote this verse before you ever make a big decision in life, like choosing a college. If I had a dollar for every time someone told me this verse during my senior year of high school, I would be a freakin billionaire.
This verse has begun to have a whole different perspective on me since being in college. Now I have to think about my future even more...what job I will have, who I'll marry, where I'll be living, what I'll be doing after college...The sucky part about the future? You can't predict it.
Wanna know the cool part about the future though? God already knows what's supposed to happen, when it's supposed to happen and how it's supposed to happen. We may not always know why things happen the way they do, but He has a plan.
That is ultimately what it comes down to...my own selfish desires, my own wants, my own PLANS do not even COMPARE to what God has for me...so what? weekend plans get ruined, I accept it and move on, knowing that God has something even greater planned, though I don't know what those plans may be for the time being. As long as God, who knows the future, provides our agenda and goes with us as we fulfill his mission, we can have boundless hope. This does not mean that we will be spared pain, suffering, or hardship, but that God will see us through to a glorious conclusion. So I fully intend on embracing that mission this weekend and be the best encourager I can be, and love the people who are around me.
God is sovereign in all He does. I take HOPE in that fact, that He knows the plans He has for me, plans to prosper me and not to harm me, plans to give hope and a future for me...
so what are YOU putting your hope in? Your own ambitions or God's ambition for you?
Cheers,
~Amber
I'm sure all of you have heard this verse at some point or another. Teachers, mentors, pastors and parents quote this verse before you ever make a big decision in life, like choosing a college. If I had a dollar for every time someone told me this verse during my senior year of high school, I would be a freakin billionaire.
This verse has begun to have a whole different perspective on me since being in college. Now I have to think about my future even more...what job I will have, who I'll marry, where I'll be living, what I'll be doing after college...The sucky part about the future? You can't predict it.
Wanna know the cool part about the future though? God already knows what's supposed to happen, when it's supposed to happen and how it's supposed to happen. We may not always know why things happen the way they do, but He has a plan.
That is ultimately what it comes down to...my own selfish desires, my own wants, my own PLANS do not even COMPARE to what God has for me...so what? weekend plans get ruined, I accept it and move on, knowing that God has something even greater planned, though I don't know what those plans may be for the time being. As long as God, who knows the future, provides our agenda and goes with us as we fulfill his mission, we can have boundless hope. This does not mean that we will be spared pain, suffering, or hardship, but that God will see us through to a glorious conclusion. So I fully intend on embracing that mission this weekend and be the best encourager I can be, and love the people who are around me.
God is sovereign in all He does. I take HOPE in that fact, that He knows the plans He has for me, plans to prosper me and not to harm me, plans to give hope and a future for me...
so what are YOU putting your hope in? Your own ambitions or God's ambition for you?
Cheers,
~Amber
Saturday, January 29, 2011
I think I'll go to Boston
What a catchy song by Augustana...
Ponder this...Living in the here and now and taking one day at a time...How often do we tend to rush things and want everything to work out how we plan and on the time schedule that we have created? I tend to do this too much. The Lord has been working with me on this, because He knows how much of a planner I am. He knows the hairs on my head and He ordained me before I was even created. That thought alone floors me everytime I hear it. I mean, think about it...the Most High God cared about YOU and me enough to intricately and individually design us so that there is no one else like us because He loves us that much...whoa!
While on that topic, have you ever thought about how we even came into being as Christians? Because God sent His one and only Son to die for us, we are able to live with Him in eternity in Heaven if all we do is accept Him. Living, He loved me, Dying, He saved me, Buried, He carried my sins far away, Rising, He justified freely forever that one day He is coming...Because a Sinless Savior died, my sinful soul is counted free, for God the Just is satisfied to look on Him and pardon me...that last line always does it for me. God sent Jesus to die an excruciating death on the cross for my sake, and He pardoned my sin for it...I'm sorry, what? What was God thinking? I am worth nothing, yet He still loves me that much. God just blows my mind. I feel that I will never be able to fully comprehend just how significant that is
Oh how He loves us...
Let me know your thoughts
Cheers,
~Amber
Ponder this...Living in the here and now and taking one day at a time...How often do we tend to rush things and want everything to work out how we plan and on the time schedule that we have created? I tend to do this too much. The Lord has been working with me on this, because He knows how much of a planner I am. He knows the hairs on my head and He ordained me before I was even created. That thought alone floors me everytime I hear it. I mean, think about it...the Most High God cared about YOU and me enough to intricately and individually design us so that there is no one else like us because He loves us that much...whoa!
While on that topic, have you ever thought about how we even came into being as Christians? Because God sent His one and only Son to die for us, we are able to live with Him in eternity in Heaven if all we do is accept Him. Living, He loved me, Dying, He saved me, Buried, He carried my sins far away, Rising, He justified freely forever that one day He is coming...Because a Sinless Savior died, my sinful soul is counted free, for God the Just is satisfied to look on Him and pardon me...that last line always does it for me. God sent Jesus to die an excruciating death on the cross for my sake, and He pardoned my sin for it...I'm sorry, what? What was God thinking? I am worth nothing, yet He still loves me that much. God just blows my mind. I feel that I will never be able to fully comprehend just how significant that is
Oh how He loves us...
Let me know your thoughts
Cheers,
~Amber
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Will you join my wolfpack?
So it's Rush time at the Delta Gamma house. Quite fun to be with my DG sisters and enjoying all the perks about it. I've finally been reunited with my roommates, which has been great because they are some of the greatest girls I know.
Being in charge of skits has definitely been a challenge, but so much fun at the same time. It has given me the opportunity to get to know some younger girls that I probably never would have been able to get to know.
I think the thing I am most looking forward to about the school year is the chance to be more intentional with people. I am going to be bold to those people around me and chat it up with them. I am tired of being stuck in this rut that I always seem to find myself in at school. I am going to climb right out and share my faith. I am also looking forward to being a junior...I know, it's strange that I'm already half way done with college, but I may go on to get my masters...who knows? All I do know is that God is in control of my life and is going to show me where I am supposed to be going, despite the fact that I do not. I take great comfort in that, knowing that He is going to guide and direct my steps, even when it seems an impossible task for me.
Anyway, more posts to come about how work week unfolds.
Cheers,
~Amber
2 Corinthians 4
Being in charge of skits has definitely been a challenge, but so much fun at the same time. It has given me the opportunity to get to know some younger girls that I probably never would have been able to get to know.
I think the thing I am most looking forward to about the school year is the chance to be more intentional with people. I am going to be bold to those people around me and chat it up with them. I am tired of being stuck in this rut that I always seem to find myself in at school. I am going to climb right out and share my faith. I am also looking forward to being a junior...I know, it's strange that I'm already half way done with college, but I may go on to get my masters...who knows? All I do know is that God is in control of my life and is going to show me where I am supposed to be going, despite the fact that I do not. I take great comfort in that, knowing that He is going to guide and direct my steps, even when it seems an impossible task for me.
Anyway, more posts to come about how work week unfolds.
Cheers,
~Amber
2 Corinthians 4
Friday, July 23, 2010
It's been a great 11 years
Well, I am sad to say that my grandparents sold their 44 foot Carver Boat. it was basically a small yacht, with 2 bedrooms, kitchen, living room and so much more.
The weird part was that it has been on the market for 2 years, and while my family and I were here, this family who decided to buy it was close to the same age as one of my sisters and has a baby with the same name as one of my nieces. He stayed and watched us unload the boat, which had so much stuff in it, but we successfully packed everything from a soap dish to towels to noodles and lifejackets, all under 2 hours.
The hardest part was the fact that I have been on that boat every summer since I was 9. That is a long time, filled with a lot of memories. There are days that I would never trade being on that boat. I remember the first time I stayed the night on that boat. I watched African Queen with Humphrey Bogart in the living room with my grandparents and I thought it was so cool to be able to watch tv on the water. After all the upkeep and cleaning of the boat, it was still so rewarding getting to hang out on the lake with my grandparents and the rest of my family. I also loved loved loved to drive that boat. I remember sitting in my Papa's lap as a 9 year old driving this huge boat! I thought I was so cool and special because I was driving. I also remember the first time I jumped in the water off of the side in Garrison/Kester cove in the Lake of the Ozarks. The water was perfect temperature and I had to hold my nose because it was such a high jump (in reality, its probably about a 7 foot drop, but it was a big deal as a kid). I landed in the water and when I stuck my head back up, my grandparents were there, clapping for my accomplishment. Yes, those were the good days. Meals at the boat were the best too. We had whatever kind of drink we wanted, had tuna salad, some fresh fruit and good sandwiches. There were always good chips and delicious Oreo's to finish off the meal.
I'll never forget my years on the boat, especially the times I got to go with my parents, sisters and brother in laws. What an awesome way to spend my summer vacation, chillin' on the lake with the people I love and care for the most. I am only sad I will not be able to share that same experience with my husband. But ya know, maybe my family will have something else in mind for our crew when I'm married. Who knows?
Well, it's been a fun ride! Cheers to 11 years, filled with lots of Precious Moments!
~Amber
The weird part was that it has been on the market for 2 years, and while my family and I were here, this family who decided to buy it was close to the same age as one of my sisters and has a baby with the same name as one of my nieces. He stayed and watched us unload the boat, which had so much stuff in it, but we successfully packed everything from a soap dish to towels to noodles and lifejackets, all under 2 hours.
The hardest part was the fact that I have been on that boat every summer since I was 9. That is a long time, filled with a lot of memories. There are days that I would never trade being on that boat. I remember the first time I stayed the night on that boat. I watched African Queen with Humphrey Bogart in the living room with my grandparents and I thought it was so cool to be able to watch tv on the water. After all the upkeep and cleaning of the boat, it was still so rewarding getting to hang out on the lake with my grandparents and the rest of my family. I also loved loved loved to drive that boat. I remember sitting in my Papa's lap as a 9 year old driving this huge boat! I thought I was so cool and special because I was driving. I also remember the first time I jumped in the water off of the side in Garrison/Kester cove in the Lake of the Ozarks. The water was perfect temperature and I had to hold my nose because it was such a high jump (in reality, its probably about a 7 foot drop, but it was a big deal as a kid). I landed in the water and when I stuck my head back up, my grandparents were there, clapping for my accomplishment. Yes, those were the good days. Meals at the boat were the best too. We had whatever kind of drink we wanted, had tuna salad, some fresh fruit and good sandwiches. There were always good chips and delicious Oreo's to finish off the meal.
I'll never forget my years on the boat, especially the times I got to go with my parents, sisters and brother in laws. What an awesome way to spend my summer vacation, chillin' on the lake with the people I love and care for the most. I am only sad I will not be able to share that same experience with my husband. But ya know, maybe my family will have something else in mind for our crew when I'm married. Who knows?
Well, it's been a fun ride! Cheers to 11 years, filled with lots of Precious Moments!
~Amber
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Boom snap clap, ba boom snap clap snap, Boom snap clap, ba boom snap clap snap
As most of my friends and family know, I worked at Pine Cove Christian Camps again this summer. I was at Shores, which is the high school aged group, 10th-12th. Can I just say that I learned more in that 6 weeks than I ever planned? I met amazing girls with whom I was able to confide with and got into awesome spiritual talk with. Not only that, but the campers the Lord placed in my cabins challenged me more than I thought.
Now, this was my second summer to work here and I was expecting it to be much like last summer...boy, was I wrong! The Lord truly broke me of my pride, specifically my desire to meet the approval of man, rather than of God. I never even realized I did this because I always told myself that I didn't care what people thought, but I was deceiving myself. Pride really does come before the fall, because I fell and fell hard. But the awesome part about that was that the Lord was there to pick me right back up in my brokenness.
You know, that is all the Lord really desires, a broken and contrite spirit. He wants us to realize that we need Him to do anything, that apart from Him, we can do nothing. That concept is so difficult for me to understand, because I want to do all this stuff to help further the kingdom...But clearly, the Lord is sovereign and knows what He is doing and doesn't need for me to tell Him what needs to be done. I hope this can sink in for some of you as well.
There will be more to come about camp, but I'm off for now
Cheers
Now, this was my second summer to work here and I was expecting it to be much like last summer...boy, was I wrong! The Lord truly broke me of my pride, specifically my desire to meet the approval of man, rather than of God. I never even realized I did this because I always told myself that I didn't care what people thought, but I was deceiving myself. Pride really does come before the fall, because I fell and fell hard. But the awesome part about that was that the Lord was there to pick me right back up in my brokenness.
You know, that is all the Lord really desires, a broken and contrite spirit. He wants us to realize that we need Him to do anything, that apart from Him, we can do nothing. That concept is so difficult for me to understand, because I want to do all this stuff to help further the kingdom...But clearly, the Lord is sovereign and knows what He is doing and doesn't need for me to tell Him what needs to be done. I hope this can sink in for some of you as well.
There will be more to come about camp, but I'm off for now
Cheers
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Musicals, awards and cheddar fries...
This evening, I have been watching Grease, the movie, watching the Golden Globe awards and eating some leftover cheddar fries at Snuffer's, a new fave Dallas restaurant of mine.
Last night, I stayed the night with my brother in law and sister. We had a wonderful time together, after spending time with our whole family. While watching SNL, which featured Neil Patrick Harris and Taylor Swift, I realized how funny the show actually is. It may have been just because I knew the two people that were featured, but still it was pretty funny.
I must say this break has been long, and I still have another week, which I know will go by so fast. I feel that all my friends have gone back to school...probably because most of them have. But it was so great to see all of them. Since I've been here so long, I went to my high school's chapel, where I had to lead worship. I found out that I had to lead worship less than 24 hours beforehand which was not expected, but I think it went well. It just felt weird going back to the place that I have been my entire life. But it was good to see my friends that are still in high school. It seems that LCC has changed quite a bit since I left.
Also, I must admit that even though the guys' team beat Bradford of OU, Tebow is a great guy...
Cheers
Last night, I stayed the night with my brother in law and sister. We had a wonderful time together, after spending time with our whole family. While watching SNL, which featured Neil Patrick Harris and Taylor Swift, I realized how funny the show actually is. It may have been just because I knew the two people that were featured, but still it was pretty funny.
I must say this break has been long, and I still have another week, which I know will go by so fast. I feel that all my friends have gone back to school...probably because most of them have. But it was so great to see all of them. Since I've been here so long, I went to my high school's chapel, where I had to lead worship. I found out that I had to lead worship less than 24 hours beforehand which was not expected, but I think it went well. It just felt weird going back to the place that I have been my entire life. But it was good to see my friends that are still in high school. It seems that LCC has changed quite a bit since I left.
Also, I must admit that even though the guys' team beat Bradford of OU, Tebow is a great guy...
Cheers
Monday, December 29, 2008
Oh the joys of being the youngest...
Ok so I totally respect my parents, I always have and always will. But you know those times when you just don't wanna listen to them and just wanna do what you want to? Definitely just had one of those experiences.
My best friend Stacie asked me a while ago if I wanted to go to Tennessee with her so she could see a few of her friends down there. I so wanted to go because I've hung out with these guys and they are really neat Christian guys and I've never been to Tennessee so I thought that would be fun too. It would also be the first time Stacie and I had any time to really spend with each other since we go to completely different colleges and a road trip with your best friend? I mean...this trip sounds awesome!
But then both of my parents step in and say they don't have a good feeling about the trip...Of course, me being me, I wanted to contradict this by showing them all the positives. I ask if they let either of my older sisters go on trips like this and they both got to go on trips like that...But being the youngest, of course, my parents are much more protective of me. So they came down like a hammer on me and said no. I am 18 so I can technically make my own decisions, of course I know this would be foolish since I'm told by God to respect and listen to them, in everything, and not to mention that they also pay for college.
I guess this whole experience is a learning time for me, because now I'm stuck in Fort Worth for the rest of my break. And I bet they won't let me go to another thing I wanna do...Gotta love my life.
Well I'm gonna look at this from a different perspective. God has me here for a reason, maybe I'm supposed to spend time with an old friend or do something to bless someone else over the break. Who knows? Only God knows
My best friend Stacie asked me a while ago if I wanted to go to Tennessee with her so she could see a few of her friends down there. I so wanted to go because I've hung out with these guys and they are really neat Christian guys and I've never been to Tennessee so I thought that would be fun too. It would also be the first time Stacie and I had any time to really spend with each other since we go to completely different colleges and a road trip with your best friend? I mean...this trip sounds awesome!
But then both of my parents step in and say they don't have a good feeling about the trip...Of course, me being me, I wanted to contradict this by showing them all the positives. I ask if they let either of my older sisters go on trips like this and they both got to go on trips like that...But being the youngest, of course, my parents are much more protective of me. So they came down like a hammer on me and said no. I am 18 so I can technically make my own decisions, of course I know this would be foolish since I'm told by God to respect and listen to them, in everything, and not to mention that they also pay for college.
I guess this whole experience is a learning time for me, because now I'm stuck in Fort Worth for the rest of my break. And I bet they won't let me go to another thing I wanna do...Gotta love my life.
Well I'm gonna look at this from a different perspective. God has me here for a reason, maybe I'm supposed to spend time with an old friend or do something to bless someone else over the break. Who knows? Only God knows
Saturday, December 27, 2008
This Christmas...
Gotta love time spent with the fam. I truly do enjoy getting to see my whole family. My aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, brother-in-laws and sisters...We always have a good time. But it's so interesting to see how different each side of the family is. Now I could go on to elaborate all that goes on between our families, but I don't think it's important. What's important is that we enjoy each other's company.
Well, that's besides the point. I just recently picked up a book called A Man Worth Waiting For by Jackie Kendall, I believe. It obivously talks about what all I am to look for in a man. This author is good, but she seems to be a bit corny a lot of the time. For instance, she gives the example of a young man whispering to his buddies, "Hey, she's totally a P-31 chick." Honestly, What college aged guy is gonna say that to his friends? Come to find out, this young man is the author's son, which explains a lot. It's not to say that isn't what many young men look for, but it's probably not the first thing they notice.
But this book has been so awesome to read. It relates relationships biblically and from a woman's perspective who has dealt with sexual abuse and many other things. That's another reason I think the book is good and why God allows us to go through certain trials and tribulations that may seem so unbareable at the time, but are worth it in the end: she can now minister to younger girls who have gone through the same thing or something similar and has the ability to minister to them. Wow, what a ministry opportunity.
Also in this book, it compares a Bozo to a Boaz. Boaz had such a great relationship with his wife, Ruth. I encourage you to go read the story in Ruth. But the Bozo is the one that does all the wrong things, in case you didn't catch that...I'll elaborate more on this soon.
Well I'll write more on this later, but I need to go hang out with my family.
Later Days
Well, that's besides the point. I just recently picked up a book called A Man Worth Waiting For by Jackie Kendall, I believe. It obivously talks about what all I am to look for in a man. This author is good, but she seems to be a bit corny a lot of the time. For instance, she gives the example of a young man whispering to his buddies, "Hey, she's totally a P-31 chick." Honestly, What college aged guy is gonna say that to his friends? Come to find out, this young man is the author's son, which explains a lot. It's not to say that isn't what many young men look for, but it's probably not the first thing they notice.
But this book has been so awesome to read. It relates relationships biblically and from a woman's perspective who has dealt with sexual abuse and many other things. That's another reason I think the book is good and why God allows us to go through certain trials and tribulations that may seem so unbareable at the time, but are worth it in the end: she can now minister to younger girls who have gone through the same thing or something similar and has the ability to minister to them. Wow, what a ministry opportunity.
Also in this book, it compares a Bozo to a Boaz. Boaz had such a great relationship with his wife, Ruth. I encourage you to go read the story in Ruth. But the Bozo is the one that does all the wrong things, in case you didn't catch that...I'll elaborate more on this soon.
Well I'll write more on this later, but I need to go hang out with my family.
Later Days
Friday, November 28, 2008
A new revelation
Wow, seeing old friends is really refreshing. I got to see some high school friends tonight that I haven't seen in a while. It's interesting to see how a few months away from home in a different atmosphere with different people can change your perspective on things. Some of my friends go to small colleges and some go to large universities, yet we were still all able to come together and act as if it were the "old times" again.
I know, for me especially, I went to a small private Christian school for 13 years of my life. I never thought I would be going to a public university, yet it happened. I didn't realize how many different types of people there are. So many have different views on everything. Religion and beliefs, morals, teaching styles...everything! I guess it just took me by surprise since I had been in this little bubble my whole life, not truly experiencing all that there is outside of Christianity. It's not to say that I regretted this time of being in a bubble-like atmosphere, because I strongly believe it is what made me who I am today, because I was able to grow in a "safe" environment. But I do wish that I had been able to have more opportunities in that "safe" environment to learn how to deal with those who don't necessarily believe the same way I do. Of course, then that brings me to the question...How do you deal with those people?
In some cases I've learned it's easier to keep your opinions to yourself, for instance, when dealing with an outspoken person. In other cases, I've learned how to express myself without seeming too pushy. Often times, I feel as if Christianity is a religion that is forced on other people in the wrong way. For instance, the street evangelists, yelling at all the onlookers that they are going to hell unless they accept Jesus Christ and give up their evil ways. I'm sure the person screaming had their heart in the right place, however, that's not how anyone wants to be treated.
All this to say, when I have lovely chats with my old friends at Starbucks about how they've been able to share and grow in their faith, I realize often times that each one of us have different ways in which we grow. Hence, I've been challenged in new ways by being reunited with old friends.
How will you change a life today?
I know, for me especially, I went to a small private Christian school for 13 years of my life. I never thought I would be going to a public university, yet it happened. I didn't realize how many different types of people there are. So many have different views on everything. Religion and beliefs, morals, teaching styles...everything! I guess it just took me by surprise since I had been in this little bubble my whole life, not truly experiencing all that there is outside of Christianity. It's not to say that I regretted this time of being in a bubble-like atmosphere, because I strongly believe it is what made me who I am today, because I was able to grow in a "safe" environment. But I do wish that I had been able to have more opportunities in that "safe" environment to learn how to deal with those who don't necessarily believe the same way I do. Of course, then that brings me to the question...How do you deal with those people?
In some cases I've learned it's easier to keep your opinions to yourself, for instance, when dealing with an outspoken person. In other cases, I've learned how to express myself without seeming too pushy. Often times, I feel as if Christianity is a religion that is forced on other people in the wrong way. For instance, the street evangelists, yelling at all the onlookers that they are going to hell unless they accept Jesus Christ and give up their evil ways. I'm sure the person screaming had their heart in the right place, however, that's not how anyone wants to be treated.
All this to say, when I have lovely chats with my old friends at Starbucks about how they've been able to share and grow in their faith, I realize often times that each one of us have different ways in which we grow. Hence, I've been challenged in new ways by being reunited with old friends.
How will you change a life today?
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