Friday, May 17, 2013

Wrapping Up You're Already Amazing Book Talk

 
Chapter 11- What God REALLY Wants You to Remember
The journey through this book has been an intimate one for me. I took it seriously, I completed all the exercises and I can honestly tell you that it changed me. It has helped me move a little step closer to freedom from comparing myself to others. It has taught me to start accepting who I am, to see the good of what God made and to learn how to use that for HIS glory, not by own. Not only has this taught me some lessons that my little ears needed to hear, but has put something in my heart that begs itself to be shared with my daughter. We live in a world ladies that is bleeding with comparison. With facebook, twitter, instagram, and pinterest... it is tougher now than ever before. This message is a message that needs to ring loudly in our ears. WE ARE ALREADY AMAZING!!! We really are! Let's shout it loud and clear to our mothers, sisters, daughters, friends, anyone willing to listen.

I know life is busy my friends. I know that some days we are just lucky to get make-up on and get out of our yoga pants, but this is a message that we need to share. I challenge all of you reading this to complete the book if you haven't, dive deep into the exercises within the book, and share this with whom you love. PLEASE!

I am leaving you with some of the things that Holly reminds us to never forgot:
 
You are made for more than this
 
" He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end" Eccles 3:11
 
" This is about learning to turn to Jesus when our hearts feel restless, to have the courage to be wo he made us here and now no matter what, to cross the finish line into everything he has for us in eterminty with a smile on our faces, knowing we ran well every step of the way."
 
You Really Were Made For Right Here, Right Now too
 
On page 181, Holly writes, " What you have to give, what you have to share with the world, is far too important to be missed. We need you to be you-not tomorrow, next week, or next year but where you are at this very second."
 
All You Are Really Can Be Used for Good
 
"God really can use all of you- strengths, weaknesses, imperfections, and challenges. The only time that can't happen is when we refuse to give an area of our lives to him. But whatever we place in his hands, he can lovingly make into something useful and even beautiful."
 
All Things Really Are Possible for You
 
"There is nothing God can't do through a heart fully surrendered to him. NOTHING."
 
What You Have to Offer Really Is Enough
 
"Daughters, you don't have to be enough or have a lot. Only offer all you are, all you have, to me. I will turn that into abundance beyond all you can imagine. All things are posible with me... It's not about what we have to offer but whose hands we place it in."
 
You Really Can Live Differently
 
"Are you ready to take the next step? You can do this, sweet girl. With Him. In His power. That power created the world, spoke the stars into place, spread the sea from one shore to another. That's the power that lives in YOU. Move forward in faith, into all you are and all He has for you. You're already on your way."
 
You Really Are Loved More Than You Know
 
"It's not about understanding but instead about simply receiving. We spend a lot of time trying to figure out how God can love us and what that means. But all we really need to know is that he does. Really. Truly. Just as you are. As high as the sky. More than you can even imagine."
 
There Really Is a Good Plan for Your Life
 
"God promises us that in the end it will all be worth it and we'll understand everything we went through along the way. I imagine one day we'll stand before Jesus in heaven and we'll look back over our lives with a different perspective. The moments you lived in your strengths, the challenges you pushed through, the ways you made a difference-they'll all be something beautiful that you can give the One who gave everything for you."
 
YOU REALLY ARE AMAZING!!!!
 
Just the Way you Are by Bruno Mars
 
 
 
 
 

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Chapters 9&10 of You're Already Amazing Book Talk

I am so sorry that this post is late getting to you all. It was actually scheduled to go out on Monday. However, I have a cornea abrasion that has kept me down and haven't been able to get to a computer. But I am back... so let's get to Chapter 9 and 10

Chapter 9- What are My Next Steps?

This was a really good chapter and one I enjoyed journaling about. In this chapter, Holly talks to us about what hinders and entangles us. Holly says, " You have the Holy Spirit with you, and he will show you what you need to change in a way that's gentle, life giving, and affirming."

I don't know about you, but I needed to hear that. All to often, the world tells me that I need to do more, give more, look different, be better. I feel like I am constantly trying to keep up with a world that is moving too fast for me. This reminds me that is not TRUTH. God is gentle and comes to bring me life, not make it feel like it is being sucked out of me.

One of my very favorite parts of this chapter was the "Going the Distance" section. I loved the line, "Distance first. Then speed." So often in my life, I am all about speed. I rarely take the time to slow down. But that is what it is all about. Holly says, " The best place to start is with one small step. It's the only way to bigger things with God."

Holly tells us, " As you begin to do what you can and live in grace, love will begin to grow even more in your life. With each choice you make, you become a litle more of who God made you and draw a little closer to His purpose for your life."

Questions for discussion:
1. What tends to hinder or entangle you?
2. What organizational strategy fit you best? What did you learn from that?
 
Chapter 10- Is it Okay to Take Care of Myself?
 
I think this is something that we as women struggle with the most. When we do things for ourselves, we tend to feel selfish. We are all about helping others, but when it comes to people helping us, we think we are inadequate or incapable. Holly says that when we feel this way, pride can be a part of that. Holly says,
" In order to receive, we have to open our hearts, hands, and lives. We put ourselves in a position that is vulnerable. Receiving feels messy, more unpredicatable. But it's essential. Look at the world around you. Everything in nature is about give and take, offering and receiving, graspiing and releasing. If you only feel safe when you're giving and consistently resist receiving, then you may have some fears holding you back from getting what you need."
 
 
When God looks at us, he sees us the same. " He wants us to love ourselves the way we love others in our lives. You are worth investing in. You are a daughter of the King, a holy princess, a woman with a purpose in this world and a calling on your life. Take care of yourself. You are blessing all of us when you do , and you bring joy to the heart of God too."
 
 
"Dare to take a risk. Love yourself because He loves you."
 
 
Questions for Discussion:
1. What fills you up and brings you joy?
2. Why is it so hard for women to receive?
 
 
Song: I'll Wait by Sara Groves
 

 
Free Printable
 
 

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Chapter 8- You're Already Amazing Book Talk

Chapter 8- What Does God Want Me to Do with My Life?

Wow! This could possibly be my favorite chapter yet. ( I may have said that for every chapter so far. What can I say! I love this book.) There was so much truth spoken to me through this chapter and I really feel God at work in me. This chapters constant theme is LOVE.  From His goal for us, to our expressions and expectations, it all is grounded in LOVE.

Holly says on page 131, " God is love, and everything he does is loving. As we live in God, our love grows more perfect. What does God really want us to do with our lives? Not make them perfect. Grow in love."

She calls us to ask a very important question of ourselves. " How is God asking you to live in love, first with him and then wtih family, friends, and others he's called you to serve.?"

To answer this question she asks us to make a LIFE statement - " Love Is Faith Expressed". She helps us start it with Galatians 5:6 " I am called to express my faith through love..."

To make a LIFE statement, you start with " I am created and called to express my faith through love... especially by (verb)+ (what)+(who)+(how)

After thinking for awhile about this, about how God designed me, where I feel Him most alive in Me, I ended up writing my LIFE statement.

" I am created and called to express my faith through love, especially by bringing hope and encouragement to my family, friends and community through active and intentional relationships."

Our LIFE statements all will look different. We all have different strengths, different places and different ways we are able to love others. She says that our own LIFE will even look different based off of seasons and circumstances. For me, this is so true. I am at a time in my life where my children need me. They are busy, very involved, and with me working full time, I don't have a lot to offer in the way of time and service to as many people as I would like to. That is okay. This is my season currently... one of teaching and being a mom. There are times when I would love to see my friends more, be involved with more things at church, help more in the community, but just not right now. For some of you reading this, you may be in the same season or different ones and I am sure you can relate. I get so tired of trying to do it all... of being the BEST mom, the BEST wife, the BEST friend, the BEST bible study leader. It just gets so overwhelming sometimes. God isn't calling me to live a life of unrealistic expectations on myself, to be the BEST. Holly writes, " We are not to be under anything but GRACE, the love of Christ and the leading of the Holy Spirit."

Holly asks the question on page 137 "What does God require of me?". We find that answer in Micah 6:8
" The Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you; to do what is right, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

There doesn't need to be any expectations or rules, only to do what is right, to love mercy and to walk humbly with Him. Holly writes, " God is love- whatever he directs you to do will be loving to others too. Let go of what you're simply to please people. You are nto required to please people. You don't have to meet their expectations. You are a servent to one master."

I loved Holly's topic of Fear vs. Love. Those of you that have known me for a long time or have read my blog for awhile know this about me. I am a person easily led by fear. Holly really spoke to my heart here. She invites us that anytime we feel like we need to do something, we need to measure whether it is motivated by fear ( what people will think of me) or love ( desiring to make a haven for my family). If the only reason we are doing something is out of fear, then that isn't from God.

Holly ends this chapter with a beautiful quote that I actually have written next to my computer as I type this. " You are FREE. Free to love. Free to live in joy. Free to be who you are. If you're loving God, others, and yourself, then you're already doing enough."

I hope this chapter helped you and that you are enjoying this journey of discovering that you don't have to be more or do more. You are already amazing.. JUST THE WAY YOU ARE!
Some scripture reminders:
 

Song: " Your're Grace is Sufficiant" by Shane and Shane

 


Discussion Questions:
1. If you feel okay with this, please share your LIFE statement and how you feel about the process of making one?
2. Are you driven more by fear or by love? Is there anything that is helping you be more driven by love than by fear?
3. What has been the best part of this book so far for you?

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Do Your Kids Like Junie B. Jones?

If your kids are anything like mine, Junie B. Jones has become a family member of our home. My kids love these books. Today, I found a great deal that I just had to share. You can find it by clicking below: This is from www.becentsable.com

http://www.becentsable.net/2013/05/junie-b-jones-free-book-and-more.html/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Becentsable+%28BeCentsAble%29&utm_content=My+Yahoo

By signing your child up for the Junie B. Jones reading club, they will receive a free starter kit that includes a free book. Hope you and your children enjoy.

Friday, May 3, 2013

Chapter 7- You're Already Amazing Book Talk

Chapter 7- How Do I Connect?

Holly tells us in this chapter that " God formed each of us with certain ways of reaching out to others. God knows you better than anyone, so also ask him to be your partner in this process and show you what you need to know about who he's made you."

The chapter focuses on finding our Social Strengths. She gives us a question that helps us recognize our preference. "If you have a free evening to do anything you'd liek with others. Would you plan a party, have dinner with a few friends or make time for a long chat over coffee with just one person?

Once you have answered this question, you then find the description that sounds most like you. Are you a One-to One person, One-to Few or One-to Many?

For me, I am mostly a One-to Few but also love the One-to One. I am a person who lives off of deep connection with others.

Holly then goes on to talk about the structure of relationships you're drawn to. She talks about three structures: leading, partnering, and following/serving. She says that there is may be more than one area that you are drawn to, but usually one that you naturally gravitate to more of the time. For me, I could post identify with "partnering".

Holly then goes on to focus on the way we see the world and how that can become a strength as well. We look at the world either externally or internally. I loved the way she described each of these. I hadn't really thought much before about how I "look at the world". This really opened my eyes to some strengths that I wasn't aware of before.

Lastly, she descibed our "sphere of needs". She says on page 121, "When you use your social sight to focus on others, needs begin to appear. The needs that stand out most to you and the ways you feel compelled to fill them for others are the final aspect of your social strengths". She puts these into four catergories:
Practical- When you see a need, you are likely to do it. You use your hands to meet needs.
Emotional- You offer heart first. You like to encourage and bring hope
Relational- You see your presence as the best gift you can offer. You show up whenever it matters most.
Intellectual- You try to connect them to truth first. You might offer to pray for them right away.

For me, although I could see myself in all of them, I believe I feel most needed emotionally.

Answering some of these questions about ourselves is very important to the process of recognizing that we are already amazing. Our strengths are worth protecting. Not only does God have a plan for our life, but the enemy does to. I want to stay at the core of who God is calling me to be. One of my very favorite quotes of this chapter is this,
"Whether we're talking about strengths or weaknesses, the biggest temptation is to rely on ourselves. When that happens with our strengths, it shows up as arrogance and pride. When it's our weaknesses, it leads to insecurity and shame."

When we are led by the Spirit, instead of ourselves, " its a moment by moment, day by day dependence. It's acknowledging that even in our strengths, we need a of  help. And even in our weaknesses, God can enable us to do more than we imagined. We are AMAZING, not because of WHO we are but because of WHO lives WITHIN US."

Video of Chapter 7 with Holly Gerth from incourage.me

Questions for Discussion:
Which setting are you most drawn to? Describe your favorite way to spend time with other people.
Which sphere of needs does your heart feel called to most?
When it comes to sight, are you more internal or external?

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Chapter 5&6- You're Already Amazing Book Talk

I am loving this book and praying that everyone reading this blog can get their hands on it. This is a message EVERY woman needs to hear. The book just keeps getting better and better for me.

Chapter 5- Where Am I Going?

This chapter talks about our journey. Holly writes, "God has a journey for your life. It looks different than anyone else's. The road he's carved out for you is yours alone. It's always the road less traveled because you're the only one who is ever going to walk it."

This chapters talks about the feeling of being " In Egypt", where we feel that we are in a period of waiting. She describes three reasons why this may be occuring: we're weary, we're being prepared, or it's just not time yet.

She also talks in this chapter about being in "The Promised Land". She describes the Promised Land as this: " a desire of your heart that God guides you into through an intimate journey with him." This is when we see His blessings in our lives. It may be a new home, a baby who have prayed for, a new relationship, a new job. All of our "promised lands" look different. God says when we are in the Promised Land, we should possess it, defend it, and enjoy it.

For me, this chapter was eye opening in many ways. I don't particularly think I feel just one of these all the time. They change for me. This is probably due to the fact that I am a "heart" person and not much of a "head" person. My feelings seem to lead me in my life, although, I am learning that this isn't necessarily good all the time. For instance, right now, I feel encamped. I want to do BIG things for God but yet, I really just don't know what that is yet. I know that my job now is to be a mother and wife to my husband and the best teacher I can be to my students. I believe that I may be just in a season of growth with Him. I know that He has a lot to teach me, so I think He is just calling me to be still. I also feel like I am in the Promise Land at my many times. What I have learned about myself is this, I don't defend it. My prayer is that He will help me to possess, defend and enjoy it.

Chapter 6- Who's With Me

This chapter is all about connection. God is all about relationships. It is who He is. I love her quote on page 101, " The kingdom we serve in is one of love, relationships, and intmiacy. We're not made for each other, but we're certainly made to share life with eachother."

She talks about our fears, why we hold back, the safety we feel when we hide, our desire to be perfect, our fear of getting hurt. I shed a few tears in this chapter. Fear has been a driving force for the majority of my life, but I am determined to break free from this. The control part of this chapter was very powerful to me. I love her quote by CS Lewis on page 111. " To love at all is to be vulnerable. Loveanything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one. "

Holly goes on to write, " Control keeps us alone. God invites us instead to love. We're to give him the reins of our hearts, and then he loves others through us."

I have a strong desire to be a reflection of Christ's love and know that when I am free of fear and allow Him to love others through me, I am in His perfect will.

Below are a few things that will enrich your reading of this book.
1. The video for Chapters 5 and 6 from incourage.me

http://www.incourage.me/2012/04/youre-already-amazing-chapters-5-6.html
2. A freebie printable for you from: http://deepsouthsweets.blogspot.com


 
3. A song by Cold Play called "Fix You"
 
4. Questions for discussions. I would love those of you that are going through the book to comment.
 
Where are you currently with God? Are you feeling that you are in Egypt or the Promised Land and why?
In the description of internal and external cotnrol ( chapter 6), which one could you most relate to? What helps yuou let go of control and trust God?
 
Join us Friday for Chapter 7 

Monday, April 29, 2013

Chapter 4-You're Already Amazing Book Talk

Chapter 4, Why Do I Feel This Way?

This chapter couldn't have come at a better time for me. My picture would probably be listed in the dictionary under the word emotion. I am one emotional girl, and come from a very long line of emotional women. In fact, I am raising an emotional drama queen right now. Just last weekend, I had a heart to heart with my best friend about my emotions getting out of control. Holly Gerth, the author of our book, had a lot of wisdom for me this week, just when I needed it most.

This chapter is about our emotions. Holly says, "All of our emotions are gifts from God to help us process everything we experience. Emotions are also a big part of what makes you amazing. Our emotions display our hearts-our beautiful, broken, blessed, glorious hearts."

On page 57, Holly gives an exercise to determine wheter our "head" or "hearts" are the dominant force when it comes to how we approach to our emotions. In all but one area, I fell into the "heart" catergory. She explains that if you are dominated by your heart, "you're more vulnerable to being controlled by emotions. You may jump to conclusions or make decisions without getting the facts you need." Um yeah, that would be me. When my emotions are in line with God, I am good. I am serving him, I am actively seeking to be a light to others. But girls, when they aren't in line with Him, I am a wreck. I am one of those girls who reacts without thinking sometimes, and this leads to a lot of guilt.

She helps us to see how God wants us to respond to our emotions. She says, "at the end of the day, we've got to listen and follow God's Spirit more than our own hearts. He's the ultimate reality check. We also need sisters of fiath who will speak truth to us when we can't see or simply don't have the strength to believe it in that moment."

I underlined or highlighted practically this whole chapter, so I won't go into my favorite quotes because this post would be entirely too long. Just read it, you won't be sorry.

Below are a few things that go with this chapter:

Video from incourage.me with Holly Gerth on Chapter 4

I found this quote from Lysa Tekeurst that I loved. This is from her book, Unglued.
 
Song: "All About Your Heart" by Mindy Gledhill
 
Discussion Questions:
1. Are you dominated more by your head or heart?
2. Which description most fits your family growing up- stuffers, screamers or surfers? What parts of your emotional history still fit you well and which ones have you outgrown?
3. What is one specific way you can guard your heart this week?

Friday, April 26, 2013

Chapter 2 and 3-You're Already Amazing

Chapters 2- Who Am I, Really?

In this chapter, Holly focuses on three places that together help us figure out who we are.

She says, "Your strengths+ your skills+ who your called to serve= you making a difference in the world in your own amazing ways."
1. Strengths- "a personal characteristic that can be used on behalf of God in service to others"
2. Skills"a strength expressed in a specific way that builds others up and benefits His kingdom"
3. Your Who- Your "heart relationships, personal relationships, and functional relationships"

Holly does a great job of using activities within this chapter of helping us to go within ourselves to identify those above. I hope you will take the time to really pinpoint these in your life. For me, this was challenging, because I haven't really looked at these in depth but I am so glad that I did.

Some of my favorite quotes of this chapter: (all quotes come from Chapter 2 of You're Already Amazing)

"The goal is not perfection. It's simply to be in an intimate relationship with Christ, each day, fully embracing who he created us to be, and seek to fulfill the purpose he has for us. He is our greatest strength- and the One who enables us to live out all the others strengths he's placed in us."

"In the end, what he wants most is simply us. Our hearts. Our dreams. Our days."

" We have something to offer that no one else can bring... and the world is waiting."

Video from incourage.me with Holly over Chapters 1&2 are found below:
 
Printable from Chapter 2 Below: (from www.incourage.me)



Chapter 3: Why Is It So Hard To Believe I'm Amazing?

In this chapter, Holly uncovers some of the lies we tell ourselves and replaces those lies with God's truth.
Lie #1- " I have to be perfect"
TRUTH: God's goal in our lives is growth. Growth is about who we are becoming in Him.
Lie #2- " I need to be more like her"
TRUTH: I love what Holly says in this section, " Your story and strengths belong to you. God doesn't compare them (or you) to anyone else, and you don't have to either. Go for these three steps. Share, care, prayer. And skip the compare."
Lie #3- " I don't have anything to offer"
TRUTH: We do have something to offer ladies, and God says it's good
Lie #4- " Being confident will make me prideful and selfish"
TRUTH: Holly says in her book, " Jesus shows us: true confidence leads to service."
Lie #5- " I am who others say I am"
TRUTH: "God has the ultimate word on who you are. He declares you are loved, valuable, acceptable and irreplacable."

Chapter 3 Video with Holly Gerth from www.incourage.me below:

Chapter 3 printable below from incourage.me:

 
I don't know if you have heard of the band Mumford and Sons. This is a beautiful song and illustrates to me what God wants from me. He just wants me to open my eyes to see His light. He wants to shine His light on me so I can shine it onto others. One of my favorite quotes from the song is, " in these bodies we will live, in these bodies we will die. Where you invest your love, you invest your life. Awake My soul... for you were made to meet your maker."
"Awake My Soul" by Mumford and Sons
 
Discussion Questions:
1. Look back at your "Find Your Who" exercise in chapter 2. Who does it seem God most wants you to use your strengths and skills to serve?
2. What lie do you find you most often tell yourself? What truth can you replace that lie with? Are there any scripture that you have found that can help with this?
 
 
 
 
 




Wednesday, April 24, 2013

You're Already Amazing- Chapter 1


Chapter 1: A Heart to Heart Talk

I hope you have had the chance to get your copy of the book, You're Already Amazing. If not, you still have time. This is designed to be an outlet for open communicaton between a community of girls who are trying to grow to be who God created them to be. Chapter 1 for me was a beautiful way to start this book. Holly describes three different types of women in this first chapter.

The friend sitting across the table at lunch- this is the woman who is constantly trying to juggle it all. It is the woman who is always trying to keep up with life. She feels like she has to do more, be more, give more of herself... only to be losing peace in the process. She's the one who says, "Sometimes I don't even like my life. And I feel so guilty because I am so blessed."

A women settling on the couch at the counselors office- She has dealt with abuse, with rejection, words spoken that have broken her heart. This is the woman who, because of deep hurt and brokenness, whispers, " I will never be enough".

The woman who writes the email from across the world- She feels meaningless and wondering if she has anything at all to offer. She says, "Everyone else matters but me. Everyone else has something to of offer but me. God must be so disappointed."

Holly says that there is a commonality of the women she encounters: "I know what it's like to wrestle with insecurities, guilt and the impossible standards of my own making."

On page 16, Holly describes the "it girl". Everything she wrote here, I related to. I don't know about you, but there are many times that I just don't feel like I can measure up. I tend to compare myself a lot. It may be with the girl who is running down the street, as I am driving in the car eating my children's leftover lunch. It could be the mom who has sent her child to school with the personalized snack, while I forgot to even pack one that day. Or the friend who's house always smells as if Mr. Clean actually lives there. It is the race we all run, and can never seem to finish...the exhausting race. I love how she says, "there aren't 'it girls'. There are only 'is girls'.

"God looks at you and says, 'She is loved, acceped and valued. She is created just the way I wanted her to be."

That is what this book is about. Us learning that message of Him creating us for something beautiful that only WE can accomplish. Everyone has their part in this beautiful design. Our goal isn't about looking at everyone elses, it is about finding ours.

She writes, "There's no competitition-only complementing and completion. Part of the beauty of that is how different we are from each other."

I am so excited about diving further into this book. I hope those of you reading this, will dive deeper with me.

So let's get this girl talk under way. In the comment section, would you mind sharing your answers to any or all of the following questions...

1. Which story at the beginning of the chapter could you most relate to (the lunch friend, counseling client or the woman who sent the email)?
2. The "it" girl is thought of as a woman everyone wants to be like in our culture. Do you ever feel pressure to be like women in the media or community? Share an example.
3. God says we are the "is girl". From the list in the picture below, which one does your heart need to hear the most?
 
I found this great printable from the website below:


Click on the link below to print a copy
http://deepsouthsweets.blogspot.com/2012/03/sweet-life-bloom-book-club-youre.html
 
 
Beautiful song by Bethany Dillon

Monday, April 22, 2013

You're Already Amazing Book Talk Starts TODAY!!!

I am so excited to be starting this book today. We will start reading Chapter 1 today and discuss on Wednesday. So excited! In the meantime, I found a beautiful printable for you from a great website at www.wunderbarwanderings.com
You can find it here:
 
http://www.wunderbarwanderings.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/amazing-free-printable.jpg

Also a song to get your morning going:

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

You're Already Amazing Book Talk Starts April 22...Join Me!

One of my most favorite things in life is womens bible study. I love meeting with ladies in my home twice a month to study together. Because it is almost summer, we aren't going to start a new study, but we are going to take part in a book study on You're Already Amazing by Holly Gerth.

I found this book through one of my favorite devotional sites at www.incourage.me . Holly Gerth is the co-founder of this site. Her message is that women don't need to do more and be more: they can just be, because they are already amazing the way God created them. She describes this book in her own words in the video below.
 
I would love for you to join me reading this book. There are a few ways to take part in this.
 
 
2. If you are interested in really focusing in on this book, Holly provides a study guide that you can download on her site http://holleygerth.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Youre-Already-Amazing-by-Holley-Gerth-Interactive-Tools.pdf .
 
3. I will be writing about this each week and offering up questions for us to discuss through this blog. I will also share videos of the chapters that I have found on the incourage.me website, as well as songs that relate to our chapters, and printables that I have found for all of you. This is where I am hoping we can learn from each other, gain insights, and share our thoughts as we are reading. If you are interested in signing up to receive the posts, please put your email on the upper left side and I will make sure you receive the weekly posts. Also, please let me know in the comment section if you would like to take part through this format. The dates for the reading and posts are below:
 
Schedule:
Monday, April 22: Kick off
Wednesday, April 24: Chapter 1
Friday, April 26: Chapter 2 and 3 and freebie from www.incourage.me
Monday, April 29: Chapter 4
Wednesday, May 1: Chapter 5 & 6
Friday, May 3: You’re Already Amazing Freebie from www.incourage.me
Monday, May 6: Chapter 7
Wednesday, May 8: Chapter 8
Friday, May 10: You’re Already Amazing Freebie from www.incourage.me
Monday, May 13: Chapter 9 & 10
Wednesday, May 15: Chapter 11
Friday, May 17: You’re Already Amazing Freebie and wrapup from www.incourage.me

Invite your friend, maybe even a few of you can commit to doing this and meeting together to share. My prayer is that no matter what, at some point this book will find its way to you hands as well as your heart.

If you have any more questions, please feel free to email me at andrearoberts13@gmail.com




Thursday, March 28, 2013

Suffering.Extraction.Mercy

Raccoons have invaded my life for over a month now. One night back in February, I heard what sounded like a human being on my second floor. Being that Josh was gone, I jumped out of my skin in a panic. A few evenings later, Josh heard it and we concluded that an animal was somewhere in our attic. Over the course of three weeks, trappers entered and exited our home with empty cages. We couldn't find this animal and I can tell you, I was defeated. One morning last weekend, while having coffee with a friend in my living room, we heard what sounded like animal babies crying. OH NO! This raccoon mama had her babies... in my house! For the next few days, I heard crying through the walls all the time. I was losing it! I would sit on the couch and pray audibly to God, "Please help me. Send me your peace. I don't know what to do. Are these animals ever going to leave. God, I am a mess. I can't sleep, all I can think about is what they are doing to my home. What if they die up there? What if they damage wires, insulation, what if they cause a fire?" The what-ifs took me captive and were not letting go. I was suffering and needed PEACE!

Two nights ago, Josh and I learned that the raccoons were between floors of our house. They weren't going to leave on their own, they needed to be extracted out. Did I mention that we were not handy people nor wildlife experts? The trappers explained to us that if we could make a hole in the floor, they would extract them, but WE had to make the hole. My poor husband doesn't even own a saw. What were we going to do? Then I remembered that a friend's husband from church was in the remodeling business and maybe he could help us. Maybe we could orchestrate the time to have the trappers there, and pay our friend to make the hole and repair it. Yesterday, Operation Raccoon Extraction was in full force. Josh, Clint and the trappers all arrived at 3:00 to work on getting these animals out of our home. 4 babies, eyes not yet opened, were taken out of the crawl space between floors. The hole was repaired, and the house was quiet. When Josh tried to pay our friend, he wouldn't accept our money. He said that he was happy to help, but maybe we could remember him if we wanted to do remodeling to our home.

When Josh walked into the house and told me this story, I was overwhelmed. I was in awe of the kindness, the mercy shown to us, and the beauty of it all. What I thought was going to end in disaster, actually ended with such beautiful grace and mercy. It was all God... God using His children to help eachother... showing kindness, compassion, love and using the gifts He gave to help others.

This morning, I can't seem to stop crying. Through this circumstance I see the cross for what it. I understand Easter a little more than I did before. This is Jesus. This is what He did for us. He saw suffering, He saw our sin, He saw our ugliness and by His death... He extracted it! I am overwhelmed by His sacrifice for Me. His sacrifice changed my life. My soul that was in turmoil over my ugly sin, has been transformed by a SON who paid His life in exchange for mine. God uses what looks like defeat to bring victory... Mercy

Jen Hatmaker says it better than I ever could. " I simply can't get over Jesus. His humanity moves beyond words. His suffering shatters my heart. His courage leaves me undone. I am aching, so gratefully devasted. By His wounds, I am healed. The story that crushes me also saves me, and there is nothing to do but worship through the tears."

The truth of the matter is, God showed me all this through someone else sacrificing for me... all for free. This is what Easter is about. It really is, but Jesus paid His own life for you and me! Jesus sacrificed for us, and the only way this story really can pierce our soul, and change lives, is by us sacrificing for others. That is how Jesus gets into the hearts, that is how this story of Easter is fully comprehended. When we sacrifice, we see Jesus for truly who He is. We get to show mercy, grace and His perfect love. There is no better ending than that.

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Second Week of Weight Watchers


Being in my mid-thirties, I have learned that eating what I want, when I want and as much as I want isn't cutting it anymore. While the wrinkles are increasing, the metabolism is decreasing:) Although, I am realistic that I don't need to be the size I was in college, I still want to fit into my clothes comfortably and lead a healthy lifestyle. I want to be a good role model for my kids and teach them that moderation is the key. Weight Watchers has taught me that. I don't feel deprived, I don't feel sluggish, or grouchy. I feel empowered actually, confident that I can carry this thing through. I started Weight Watchers two weeks ago, after hearing about the success from my best friend. I attended a meeting, weighed in, and received a goal weight. I opted for the monthly pass that gave me access to the online tools as well as the app for my phone. So far, I am loving it. The first week, I lost 3.2 pounds and will weigh again Saturday. I choose not to weigh myself during the week and use the meetings as my once a week weigh in. For me, if I weighed myself daily, it would dictate eating more or less and I don't want to be a slave to the scale every day ( Just my preference though, everyone is different). I look forward to the meetings, and hearing the success of other women. I enjoy learning tips and new recipes. I feel like I am doing it the right way. In the past, I would deprive myself of all carbs, lose the weight and then gain it all back... and then some. Today, I don't limit myself to any food groups, just make sure that it is all done within my point limits for the day. I thought I would share with any of you all out there interested some of the tools and websites that have been key for me the last two weeks. If anyone reading is doing Weight Watchers and has tips or recipes that they like, please share. Thanks!

1. WW Mobile- This has been key for me to track my food and my activity points.


2. Lots of water- In the past, I can go practically all day without having water. ( I tend to be an all day coffee drinker) Now I make sure to drink water all day long. I have felt a difference in my skin since doing this.

3. Weight Watchers online success stories. I read one every day to keep me motivated.

4. The following websites have helped me with recipes and finding points at restaurants.


Recipes Websites that include points
(I like the one above because she gives you meal plans for the week)
 
To check the points at many restaurants ( even if they aren't listed on the app)
 
 
Hope this helps you all. Even if you aren't doing weight watchers, but want to make healthy recipes for your family, these websites are great.
 

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

James: Mercy Triumphs Session 1


For those of you ladies who have joined me in online bible study, week 1 has started. Hopefully you have had the chance to get your books. If not, try to do so this week sometime. So excited to be starting the study of James with you. It is going to be a worthwhile journey for sure. This sunday the home group was able to watch the first video. If you would like to download session 1 video, you can find it here. Session 1 video ( They do cost 4.99 just in case you were wondering).

The video notes are located here for you. Viewer guides with answers

The study of James is going to really get us active in our faith. It is about going loving others, helping our neighbors and those in need and connecting with Christ on a deeper level.

If you have any questions for me along the way, please don't hesitate to ask. I will be posting some questions by the end of the week.

Love you ladies.

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Bible Study Starts Sunday

For those of you that aren't connected to a bible study, I would like to offer up another way to do one. This Sunday, the small group that meets at my house, will be starting James:Mercy Triumphs by Beth Moore. We meet every other Sunday from 2-4. I want to offer this to people that can't meet but would still like to do the bible study themselves and stay connected to a group. Every 2 weeks, I will be posting what we are learning in the group, a way to get the viewer guide notes and a link for you to purchase the videos if you choose. I will also give a couple discussion questions I hope we can all respond to. If you have any questions about the study or how to get involved, please email me. Below is a link to purchase the book through lifeway and a short video introduction.

Purchase your book here...

http://www.lifeway.com/Product/james-mercy-triumphs-member-book-p005459784?intcmp=James-MTX-Text-ViewerAnswers-20121105