Monday's Resolution {Speech Against Others}

We are picking apart Jonathan Edward's 70 Resolutions, one week and one resolution at a time. Don't forget to start where he did- "Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God's help, I do humbly entreat Him by His grace to enable me to keep these Resolutions, so far as they are agreeable to His will, for Christ's sake."

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 31. Resolved, never to say anything at all against anybody, but when it is perfectly agreeable to the highest degree of Christian honor, and of love to mankind, agreeable to the lowest humility, and sense of my own faults and failings, and agreeable to the golden rule; often, when I have said anything against anyone, to bring it to, and try it strictly by the test of this Resolution. 

Jonathan Edwards' Resolutions for speech:

Never. I {foolishly} pride myself on rarely indulging in public gossip. But how often do I speak unjustly or unkindly against others in the privacy of my home to my husband? Or to a very close friend who I can trust to keep it confidential?

When Jonathan Edwards' resolved to never speak against anybody (excepting it was to the highest degree of Christian honor and love to others), I'm pretty certain that meant not even to his wife, or closest confidantes. When it comes to ungodly speech, there is never an appropriate time or place.

Anybody. While I may not often spread gossip or speak nasty words against my common acquaintances, I find it is far too easy to slander politicians, well-known authors and bloggers, public figures, etc. Do my words against them qualify as honorable? True? Humble? Worthwhile? These people are still people, created in the image of God. Scripture commands that I show honor to everyone (1 Pet. 2:17).

In a fallen world, there will be times that we need to speak against others. Anytime that someone's safety is at risk or has been violated, anytime that lies are abounding and need to be set straight by boldly spoken truth, anytime that the Word of God is being compromised... the people of God need to speak up!

There is a right and wrong way to do it, however.

A healthy filter: Are my words perfectly agreeable to....

The highest degree of Christian honor?
Love to mankind?
The lowest humility?
A sense of my own faults and failings?
The Golden Rule?

Jonathan Edwards' 31st Resolution is a fairly comprehensive guideline. By God's grace, I want to strive to glorify Him in my speech. It is no easy task- James 3:2 says the man who doesn't stumble in his speech is a perfect man. I know that I sure don't qualify as perfect {apart from Christ's perfect record attributed to me}! As we seek to walk in obedience to Christ, however, we have every hope of growth and maturation for our speech- all of His grace.

Happy Memorial Day, all! As the daughter and granddaughter of military men, I am thankful for the soldiers who have bravely fought for and defended our nation. Today I am remembering and praying for those who have lost loved ones, and looking forward to the Day when our King of Peace will wipe every tear from our eyes! No more war, no more death, no more sorrow- what a glorious hope we have in Christ! 

Monday's Resolution {Growing in Grace}

We are picking apart Jonathan Edward's 70 Resolutions, one week and one resolution at a time. Don't forget to start where he did- "Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God's help, I do humbly entreat Him by His grace to enable me to keep these Resolutions, so far as they are agreeable to His will, for Christ's sake."

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30. Resolved, to strive to my utmost every week to be brought higher in religion, and to a higher exercise of grace, than I was the week before.

If I had to describe my spiritual life for you, it would most likely be as a series of ups and downs. Incredible highs- times of delight in the Word, zeal for the things of God, and opportunities to boldly proclaim the gospel- and undeniable lows- struggling to read and pray, consumed with self interest, and lack of concern for the souls of others.

How would you describe yours?

Edwards' 30th Resolution expressed his desire to grow in grace each week. That each week would be sweeter in holy communion than the week before. That his relationship with the Lord would display marked and steady improvements over the course of time. 

I'm encouraged by Paul's words to the Philippians:

"Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Phil. 3:12-14

Each day we have the opportunity to press ahead- to seek the Lord, enjoying fellowship with Him through His Word, people, and prayer. Each new day is an opportunity to endeavor after greater obedience.

Notice our motive in doing so: "because Christ Jesus has made me his own." Those of us who believe are truly Christ's own! He has claimed us as beloved children and friends. Doesn't that thought fill your heart with courage and joy?!?

As we begin this new week, let's purpose to forget what lies behind, and press on towards the goal of knowing Him more and growing in His grace. Praying for you as we endeavor together,

Rachel

A Pregnancy Update {28 Weeks}

Oh friends, forgive me? This week I planned to share another post in our Overcoming Fear in Pregnancy Series, as well as another Week in the Life of someone's kitchen.

Alas, this pregnancy continues to be interesting! On Tuesday I observed some disconcerting symptoms and called my doctor. She told me to come in for an ultrasound, through which we discovered that my cervix is continuing to shorten. They admitted me into the hospital for 24 hours- gave me steroid shots for baby's lungs, and monitored for contractions.

Praise the Lord, no contractions! So now I am home on very strict bed rest. Between my husband, church family, and friends, we are getting round the clock help for S and our home. As for me I spend my days between the couch and my bed, getting up only to use the bathroom and take an occasional quick shower.

You'd think that this schedule would give me more time for writing, but my limited access to a laptop actually hinders it. I'm trying to get into a new groove, so we shall see what the next few weeks hold!

Other than that, just trying to remain thankful that I am still at home, and still pregnant. These are both ginormous blessings!!! Tomorrow I will be 29 weeks, which means that this little guy has outlasted his sister by two weeks in the womb. So thankful!

As always, we appreciate your prayers and encouragement! Love, Rachel

Monday's Resolution {Praying in Faith}

We are picking apart Jonathan Edward's 70 Resolutions, one week and one resolution at a time. Don't forget to start where he did- "Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God's help, I do humbly entreat Him by His grace to enable me to keep these Resolutions, so far as they are agreeable to His will, for Christ's sake."

Photo Credit

29. Resolved, never to count that a prayer, nor to let that pass as a prayer, nor that as a petition of a prayer, which is so made, that I cannot hope that God will answer it; nor that as a confession, which I cannot hope God will accept. 

Drowsiness. Eighty different distractions. Impatience to get a move on, to start checking items off of the day's to do list....

So often these are my companions in times of prayer. Instead of being still and delighting in His fellowship, I struggle to keep my eyes open. To keep my mind alert and sober. To patiently sit at His feet, like Mary.

The root of the problem is that I forget Who it is I'm talking to. Do I really believe that I'm in the presence of Almighty God? Does my heart in faith remember that He is longing to hear and to answer the petitions I make as His child?

Another prayer rut I stumble into is making rote requests, because praying is what I'm supposed to do, right? The issues that trouble me, struggles I'm facing, pressing needs I have, all make their way into my prayers... but am I really asking Him, really believing that He is capable of supplying my needs, and that He will answer, one way or another?

This week I found myself in the book of James.

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways." James 1:5-8 ESV

Jonathan Edwards was committed to thoughtful, sincere, and faith-backed prayer. He did not want to pray without the hope and confidence that God would answer and accept him. 

This kind of praying isn't going to just happen as I sit drowsily and distracted in devotions. It isn't found in the thoughtless, rote prayers I offer without expecting any response from the Almighty.

If left to myself, focused and faith-filled prayer would be a lost cause. Praise God He has not left us to ourselves!

He has richly offered us His Word, packed with prayers and insights to His character. He has given us His Holy Spirit, who intercedes for us when we don't know how to pray. And He has given us His Son, who daily lives to make intercession for us. Oh, how we need Christ!

By His grace, I want to endeavor after such a prayer life. I want to taste the sweetness of His fellowship, to offer my prayers boldly in faith at His throne of grace. I want to see Him moving and answering and working, and offer my sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving as a result. 

Will you join me in endeavoring after this 29th Resolution?

Meal Planning: A Week in Carrie's Life

 Welcome to a "Week in the Life"- a meal planning series that offers you a peek into the kitchen's of other women. Every Friday we will be featuring a different woman and a week of the meals she feeds her family. You can read more about the purpose of this series here. Happy meal planning! May your culinary side be inspired :).

Welcome to Carrie's Kitchen!

I was excited when Rachel announced this series. I'm always looking for new ideas and inspiration for meal times. :-)

As the week approached when I was planning to record each dinner I made for my family, God had a different plan. I ended up spending the majority of that week on the road helping my sister and her husband move from California to Nebraska. :-). So this is a sample meal plan showcasing some of the typical fare you can find on our dinner table. :-)

Sunday - Spaghetti. :-) After years of occasionally trying a homemade spaghetti sauce recipe and never quite liking it, I finally found a recipe my family likes. And it is delicious! I love how simple and easy it is. I can mix it up on Saturday or Sunday afternoon. The sauce is supposed to simmer for an hour so be sure to allow plenty of time. I've rushed this meal preparation on occasion when I've forgotten to leave enough time and it just doesn't taste quite as good.

Monday - Cheesesteak Sandwiches. This is one of my favorite dinners! :-) When I find steak on mark down I usually make this. It's very simple. Slice the meat. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic. Saute the meat, 1 onion, and 1 bell pepper. When it's cooked through, serve on rolls. Sprinkling the meat mixture with cheese makes it even more delicious!

Tuesday - Crockpot Fajitas. Crockpot meals are so wonderful! :-) I love being able to fix dinner in the morning and smell it cooking all day long. :-) I have to admit that we prefer fajitas freshly made in the evenings. However, this is a great go-to recipe if you know you won't have time in the evening to slice and cook all of the ingredients.  

Wednesday -Beef Enchiladas. It took me awhile to find an enchilada sauce recipe that we liked. But this one is perfect!! I use it in more than just this recipe. If something else I'm making calls for enchilada sauce, I can substitute the sauce in this recipe. It's so easy and simple.  

Thursday - Shepherd's Pot Pie. I love this casserole as an effortless way to use up leftovers. :-) When I find my refrigerator filling up with odds and ends I throw the leftover meat, sauce and veggies together and add some gravy. I whip up some mashed potatoes to put on top of the casserole and bake until it's hot all the way through. Delicious and simple.

To make some gravy heat 2 cups of broth in a pot and bring to a boil. While you're waiting for the broth to boil, whisk 1/3 cup of flour into 1/2 a cup of milk. When the broth is boiling, whisk in the flour/milk mixture. Stir constantly until thickened. Add salt and pepper to taste. 


Friday - Pizza. My husband does the pizza for our family :-) He loves to do that and our two boys enjoy being in the kitchen and helping daddy. I make a pot of the spaghetti sauce that I linked to above for him to put on the pizza, I just leave out the meat since we prefer a meatless sauce on our pizzas. :-)  


Saturday - Brunch Strata -I was never a big fan of breakfast casseroles until I found this recipe. I rarely follow this recipe exactly. I add in vegetables that my family likes. This recipe makes it very easy to get a great variety of vegetables into our diet.

 I hope this menu plan inspires you. I love being able to share some of our favorite recipes! :-)

Carrie is a wife, and mama to two little boys and one sweet girl. While she is passionate about caring for her home and kiddos for the glory of God, she  also enjoys helping other women as a Bradley childbirth educator. You can find her blogging with her twin sister Melinda to encourage women to embrace whatever life circumstances God has for them at Wholesome Womanhood.

Pregnancy Update {27 Weeks}

The lovely Sarah asked recently for a pregnancy update <3 {by the way, Sarah- can you please email me? I can't find your address and would like to get in touch!}. Seeing as there is actually something to update y'all on, I decided it would be timely to do so.

Things aren't quite as I had hoped they would be. As of my ultrasound last Thursday, my cervix had shortened by 1.5 cm. The doctor sent me home with instructions to take it as easy as possible {all of the mamas of toddlers are smirking right about now}, and booked me for a follow-up check on Tuesday. I was told to get my ducks in a row for hospitalized bed rest, depending on how things looked Tuesday.

You can bet I was a bundle of emotions coming out of that office visit- would I have to leave my little girl for the hospital? Was my son going to come super early like his sister did? What did these changes mean for me, my husband, our children, and life in general?

So we rest and wait...

Yesterday Niall and I went to the appointment, trying not to be anxious, and preparing ourselves for the worst. We were encouraged to find that no significant changes had occurred since Thursday. So as of now I am home on modified bed rest, playing the waiting game. Doctors will continue to keep a close eye on me, and only the Lord knows if this baby will come early or hang out until full term.

I am so thankful to just be home! And I am super thankful for the friends who are donating their day time hours to help me with S and around the house, as my number one duty right now is to stay on the couch :/. I would appreciate your prayers, friends- especially for peace, patience, and joyful submission to whatever the Lord has on the horizon for us.

I'll be sure to keep you updated, and will be attempting to get a normal posting schedule resumed. I'm still figuring out a schedule and routine for my life on the couch... and as I am laptop-less, there are a few hurdles to overcome in that department.

Thank you for your prayers, your encouragement... and for hanging around here with me :).

How's life been looking at your place lately?

Meal Planning: A Week in Kalyn's Life

Welcome to a "Week in the Life"- a meal planning series that offers you a peek into the kitchen's of other women. Every Friday we will be featuring a different woman and a week of the meals she feeds her family. You can read more about the purpose of this series here. Happy meal planning! May your culinary side be inspired :).

 

Welcome to Kalyn's Kitchen!

Although I'd like to have a set meal planning schedule, it doesn't always work in this house! It's just me and my hubby, and since he works for a local TV station, he is often called in or asked to work overtime when there is breaking news. He also works the 3pm-12am shift, so dinners just don't happen.

Since I work from home - blogging, writing, and doing all sorts of things - I'm able to be a little bit more flexible. We've officially established lunchtime as our main meal, and I quite enjoy it over a heavy dinner. Then I send hubby to work with leftovers from the day before, and I have a light snack around supper time.

Here's a glimpse at what meals generally look like in our home:  

Sunday - I don't always feel like cooking, so we let ourselves have a treat and eat out after church. We love this time to try new restaurants, or grab a quick bite to eat if we're on a time crunch. In the afternoon, I browse through the new grocery store ads, choose meals for the upcoming week, and create my grocery list.

Monday - It's cleaning day, so I prepare some dough for lunch to make Calzones later. We don't stuff them with a ton of toppings though. Mozzarella and freshly cooked bacon do it for us.  

Tuesday - Sometimes hubby and I will go play a morning round of Tennis or run errands, so when we get back, Creamy Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli doesn't take long at all to put together. Then I pull whatever frozen biscuits or rolls I have from the freezer to serve alongside it.  

Wednesday - This is a more relaxed day for us, so I take the time to make my favorite Potato Soup. It's extremely filling, and makes a huge batch. Perfect for creating single servings in freezer bags for hubby's supper later.  

Thursday - Parmesan Crusted Chicken is probably one of my easiest chicken recipes - only 4 ingredients! But it's oh so juicy and flavorful. When asparagus is in season, I like to prepare it in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice to compliment the meal.  

Friday - We could literally eat breakfast any time of day, but Fridays are perfect for late brunch of chocolate chip pancakes and scrambled eggs. It's a time saver too!  

Saturday - One of our favorite crock pot meals is Pulled Pork Sandwiches. It smells so good while it's cooking, and since it's hubby's day off, we go out on a date and come home to a supper that's ready to eat. I also pull out homemade applesauce from the freezer to go with it.

Many of the above meals are my tried and true staples, but I do enjoy trying out new recipes and will usually throw at least one in every week. How else would I make it through my embarrassingly large amount of cookbooks?!

Kalyn Brooke is a writer/blogger in Southwest Florida who isn’t afraid of hard work or BIG dreams. As a girl with an insane amount of hobbies, life is never boring, and she loves spending it with her husband, Joseph, and one super adorable bunny, named Twix. Frugal living is her passion, book hoarding her weakness, and a well-stocked freezer full of ice cream an essential luxury. You’ll find her latest money-saving ideas and projects at Creative Savings.

Overcoming Fear in Pregnancy {Knowing His Character}

One of my greatest comforts as I face the uncertainties of pregnancy {and all of life in general} is the assurance of God's absolute sovereignty and goodness. When S was born at only 27 weeks, this knowledge kept me sane and steady, despite the overwhelming fears and unknowns.

I know that "The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations" (Psalm 33:11). My heart is firmly convinced that "Whatever the LORD pleases, he does, in heaven and on earth, in the seas and all the deeps" (Psalm 135:6).

Furthermore, "Your eyes saw my unformed substance {in utero!}; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there were none of them" (Psalm 139:16). Is it not incredible to think that God sees each and every embryo, creates and molds them from start to finish, and forms their exact number of days and the events that will occur therein, writing them in His book?

This is true for me. It was true for you. It is true of each and every pregnancy you and I will ever have.

Not only is my God completely sovereign, He is also good.

"Oh, how abundant is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you and worked for those who take refuge in you, in the sight of the children of mankind!" (Psalm 31:19).

"This God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD proves true; he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him" (Psalm 18:30).  

I know that whatever happens in each pregnancy will be good, because He is good. Exceptionally painful? Maybe. Exactly my best scenario? Perhaps. Either way, it will be good.

I can honestly look back on my previous two pregnancies {both painful in their own ways} and say with confidence that the Lord used them for our good.

That miscarriage, a mere six months into marriage, strengthened and tightened the bond between my husband and I in ways nothing else could have. God taught us to love one another, to grieve together, and to cleave all the more tightly to each other. While it was heart-wrenching and hard, God was so good to use it in our lives for greater sanctification. 

Our daughter arriving three months early was another great time of growth meant for our good. I never want to repeat the experience, ever. It was exhausting, excruciating, terrifying. Yet the Lord showed us His goodness in so many ways- through the loving care and support of His Church Universal; through watching His miraculous hand in giving, forming, and protecting life; through sustaining us {free from the bitterness, anger, and depression we saw in so many around us} for the duration of our daughter's ordeal; through providing for every need- physical, financial, spiritual, etc..... and the list goes on.

I am abundantly thankful for those difficult pregnancies. God was completely in control over them, He ordained and designed their exact circumstances. He was also indescribably good to us in them. I keep repeating to myself throughout this pregnancy- "whatever happens, it's going to be good."

Are you entrusting yourself to the One who is totally good and totally sovereign today? When the doubts and fears arise, run to His Word, search out His character, and find rest for your soul. Truly He is doing a good work in and for us, today!

Hopefully Expectant,

Rachel

Other Posts in This Series: 
Introduction
A Call to Open Hands