He Is Crazy 4 U

2010-11-10T07:42:00.000-08:00

Good morning friends! The winner from yesterday's devo is Hannah. Hannah, could you please send me your address to Lynn@Proverbs31.org?

For those of you who would still like to have the CD "He is THAT into you: Finding Perfect Love in the Heart of God", click here to purchase it from Proverbs 31.

Happy Wednesday!
Lynn

God Story

2010-11-09T08:04:00.000-08:00

If you are joining me here today from my devotion with Proverbs 31 Ministries on Encouragement for Today, Welcome! My devotion was mistakenly linked to this blog which is no longer active. I'd love for you to click here to visit my current website at http://www.lynncowell.blogspot.com/.

If that's too much trouble, just relax and keep reading. As I promised today in my devotion, I wanted to share with you my all time favorite "God Stories". If you would prefer that I tell you the story, just watch the video below. You can skip to the time 9:47 to get right to it! Otherwise, just skip past this screen....

Greg and I first met at church in late spring when I was in sixth grade; he was in eighth. He called me and that was all it took. (There is just something about having someone like you first! Even more exciting was the fact that he was an older guy. Since we went to different schools and couldn’t drive, it quickly fizzled. The phone calls only came a couple of times and life returned back to normal. Or at least it did for Greg, but not for me. He was just not going to be one of those guys I got over. All through junior high I wrote his name all over my notebooks.

In ninth grade, my chance finally came. Our church was having a Valentine’s get together and Greg asked me. I was out of my mind! As a junior, he was a huge weight lifter (6’2”, 250 POUNDS!) and captain of the football team. His smile grabbed me. My parents let me go to the celebration, but since I wasn’t sixteen yet, I wasn’t allowed to “date”. Once again, the phone calls stopped.

Finally, I turned sixteen. I had decided to make a huge change in my life. Leaving the Christian school where I attended junior high, I transitioned to the high school two blocks from home. A couple of different motives came into play. Our youth pastor, PR, often encouraged us to share our faith with our non-Christian friends. Well I didn’t have any! So I decided it was time to get some. Motive number two was Greg.

It didn't quite go as I had planned. Honestly, my sophomore year was my worst. Greg’s locker was on the same floor as mine, so I would pass it and see him at least once a day. Even worse, his new girlfriend's locker was close by as well! Even though she was very nice, it was so hard not to be completely jealous of her! When she showed me a ring Greg had given her; my heart broke.
I didn’t do such a great job of controlling my thoughts; I let it all get to me. I remember sitting at home one weekend night, emo-type music pouring out of my speakers and crying my brains out. Why didn’t he like me?! What was wrong with me? The answer: nothing. It just wasn't God's plan for me to have a boyfriend at that time.
It took awhile, but I finally started to trust God. I quit trying to manipulate my relationships with guys and starting trusting him. When Greg was a junior in college, he decided that I was exactly what he was looking for. At that time, I was at Bible school. I shared with my counselor how the guy I had liked forever (seven years to be exact!) finally liked me. He had called me at school and said he was coming my way for spring break and was coming to see me. I could not have possibly been more excited. Then the bad news came: she reminded me I had made a commitment while I was at school I wouldn’t date. I had said I would give one hundred percent of my heart and attention to Jesus. Gently, she pointed out that it is impossible to give your all to two relationships at the same time (it wouldn’t be your all then, would it?). I knew she was right, but I did not want to hear that! I called Greg and told him that I couldn’t have a relationship with him. It was like ripping my heart out!
Seven months later, with school out; I went home to visit my parents. Guess who was at church? That’s right; Greg. We started dating and we were married a year later. I have been writing him verses ever since.
That history with God really built a foundation in my life; a stable start to knowing that He can be trusted each and every time in my life.
Do you have a young person who needs to learn to trust the Lord? My teaching CD "He is That Into You"might be a great thing to give them! I am giving away a copy today. Just click "comments" below to share how you are learning to trust God or just say "I'm in" and I'll include you!

Verses Every Girl Should Know!

2010-09-25T06:15:00.001-07:00

Jesus is wild about us; we just need to KNOW that!
One way that we can do that is by replacing lies with His truth.

"The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV)

"My lover is mine and I am his..." Song of Solomon 2:16a (NIV)

"You are altogether beautiful, my darling, and there is no blemish in you." Song of Solomon 4:7 (NASB)

"The king is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord." Psalm 45:11 (NIV)

"God decided in advance to adopt us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do and it gave him great pleasure!" Ephesians 1:5 (NLT)

Friendships That Are True

2010-07-26T08:24:00.000-07:00

Will she talk about me behind my back? Will she keep a secret? I just don't know if I can trust her.

Thoughts like these tend to run through our head when we meet a new girl we think might make a new friend.

Spending time with the Lord this morning, I read this verse:

"A malicious man disguises himself with lips, but in his heart he harbors deceits." Proverbs 26:24 NIV

Malicious. Pretty big word for me and I wasn't all that sure I knew what it meant. To hate, be an enemy, to be unloved, shunned, to be an adversary or foe.

We've all met girls who have two faces; one in front of this group and another in front of that. So which girl is the real girl? Which one is the one trying to be your friend?

Before you decide whether or not a girl makes a great friend; know her. Truly know her. She may be trustworthy; she may be not. She may have had an experience where she has been betrayed; leaving her jaded or cynical. Bad experiences can make a girl be caddy; throwing out sarcasim for free. No one wants to be on the receiving end of painful words. When a person feels unloved, shunned or even hated, those same feelings can end up leaking their way out of their heart and often spill out onto others.

I have heard it said that wounded people wound people. It is a matter of self-defense for the heart.

When you meet a girl for the first time, what are you looking for in a friend and how do you know if she will be true? I know I could use some advice here! Just click on "comments" below!

How Far is Too Far?

2010-07-01T05:51:00.001-07:00

Speaking at a conference recently, this question was asked: "How far is too far?"

There is a problem with that question. It's the wrong one. The real question should be, "How close can I get to Jesus so that all that is around me, all the temptations, fade?"

1 John 1:5 says "This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all." (NIV) In Him, there is no darkness at all.

So, if you find yourself asking question #1: "How far is too far?" maybe it is because you are not pursuing #2; getting as close to Jesus as you possibly can be.

Kathleen Dillard said, "You have as much of Jesus as you want." Let's be honest and look at our lives. Are we girls who want Him so much that there is no darkness in our lives?

Hard question, but the evidence should make it easy to answer.

God is light; in him there is no darkness. Maybe it's time for a change.

Perfect Love for Imperfect Me

2010-06-25T05:48:00.000-07:00

I had it going on (or at least I thought I did)! I was part of the youth leadership team at my youth group. I was a good student. I was involved in the elite music groups at school; even sang solos in church! I ran on the cross country team. I didn’t get in trouble or hang out with those who did. I had it going on – or did I?

I wonder if any of you are like that too. On the outside, do you appear to have it all together, but on the inside you really don’t. Every day you feel like you have to perform a certain way to keep up with the expectations of parents, teachers, coaches, and friends when all the while inside things are not quite the way that they seem. Maybe we believe that no one knows what we are really like; they don’t get us. They just see the exterior “show.” Well, I knew what was on the inside. I remember every few weeks, I would hear the sermon preached in church, take a look at my life and think that I needed to give my life to Jesus again. Surely when He looked at me, He felt disappointed in me.

The really cool thing about Jesus it that he knows it all, the stuff others see and the stuff they don’t see. He knows and he still loves every part of us – inside and out. Even when we make bad decisions, things we are ashamed of; things we would be mortified if our parents found out about, he knows and it doesn’t change the way he feels about us. It doesn’t erase his love for you!

“One of the lies I struggle with is that I am who I am based on what I do. Drawing closer to Him has helped me to realize that it is ok if I am not good at everything! Mariah, age 14

Grab your Bible and check out Psalm 139:1 – 18. Psalms is the book of the Bible found almost right smack in the middle. Once you find it, I want you to read these verses out loud so that you can hear what Jesus is saying to you! I know it is kind of long and you’ll feel weird, but go ahead! It’s really important for you to hear this truth as you read it out loud.

“O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord. You hem me in – behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me; your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you.” Psalm 139: 1 –18 NIV

Did you read that? Did you read that Jesus loves every part of you? Maybe you’ve heard the saying “love is blind”? Well this love isn’t! He has searched you. He knows you. He knows everything you do, everything you’ve done and everything you are going to do. Does any of it change the way he feels about you? No! Where can you flee from his presence? No where!

My friend, please know today that he is crazy for you. No matter what you've done or what is going on in your heart, it doesn't change the way he feels about you. Sure, there may be some changes to be made; big changes in fact. Just know, that he is right there loving you as you the two of you work through those changes together!

Right On Time

2010-05-14T07:50:00.000-07:00

The screaming and whining could be heard all over the store. “But, Mommy, I want that one!” Passing by the toy department, I spotted the culprit. A little girl; I’d guess she was about 3 years old, was pitching a fit. Pointing to the beautiful china doll on the top shelf, she cried out again. “But, Mommy, I want that one!” I heard the mother trying to reason with her. “You really are not ready for that doll, honey. We need to pick a different one.” “I don’t want a different one! I want that one!” The child didn’t understand, or care, that the one she wanted was not the best doll for her. She just liked the way that it looked from afar and that was all that mattered.

My parents once gave me a gift I can still remember when I turned 16. On that sweet sixteen birthday, my parents gave me a unique keychain with a key to their car. I loved it! That key represented freedom; independence. Exactly what I was craving at that time! They took the time to pick out something they knew I would like. They planned ahead to have the key made. It was the right gift at the right time.

If, however, my parents had given me that exact same gift when I was 6, it would have been very strange; inappropriate even. At 6, I would have wondered what it was for. I wouldn’t have even known how to use it! My parents knew what to give and when to give it.

In James 1:17 we are told that God our Father gives good gifts to us, His children. Not only does He give good gifts, but He knows perfectly what to give and when to give it. His gifts are not spur of the moment because He forgot that a special day was on its way. His gifts are all about perfect timing.

When I was five, I couldn't reach my jacket that was hanging on the last peg just above the cement steps that led to our basement. I called out for help, but just refused to wait. A tumble down those steps produced a black eye that stayed with me for a very long time.I didn't trust that those who loved me would come and do what I needed when I wanted it.

The key is, can we wait patiently, all the while trusting that, in fact, His timing is perfect? Can we trust that He has our best in mind and is all the while working on our behalf?

Sometimes we are just like the 5 year old me. We grow impatient waiting for God’s gift. We want the gift and we want it now. So we make the mistake of trying to get the gift by ourselves. Have you ever tried to get something by yourself? Are you tempted, like me, to go and get it any way, even if there is a possibility that if it doesn't go just right you could end up with way more than a black eye?

There are times, with all of our prayers, (if we would admit it, maybe we are a bit like the screaming and whining child) He seems to be saying “no” or at least saying “not now”. It is here, in the place where our desires intersect His will, that we have to trust. It is here that we must trust that Father knows best and that every gift comes from the Father. Every time, in His time, the gift is good and it is perfect.

I have seen God's perfect gifts in my life as I have waited on Him. Waited on Him for a husband. Waited on Him to open doors for ministry. Waited on Him to draw my kids to Himself. Lord, I see my history with You. I'm going to choose to keep on waiting for your good and perfect gift.

Hearing Above the Noise

2010-04-30T05:55:00.000-07:00

Quiet? When are we quiet? Our world is bombarded with noise from all directions...ipods, tvs's, radios, computers. Yet the Lord says, "Be still and know that I am God."

Do you carve out any time to come to God and be quiet? He promises that it is in the secret that we will find Him. A secret place. In order for a secret place to be secret doesn't it have to be quiet? If it wasn't, then it wouldn't be secret would it?

This weekend, get quiet. Spring is the perfect time to find a patch of grass, the shade of a tree, where you can pray, listen, read His words of love to you...

Get quiet. Find God :)

Letter to My 18 Year Old Self

2010-03-25T09:29:00.001-07:00

I wrote a letter today to a dear girl who is turning 18 soon and will be heading off for college. It sure got my head thinking. Thought I would share it with you; maybe you are turning 18 soon as well....

Dear Sweetheart,

The other day I was thinking....if I was going to write a letter to my 18 year old self, what would I say? Because whatever I would say to her, is what I would want to share with you.

What I would say is it is worth it.
It is WORTH investing in your love relationship with Jesus. He is the only thing you can count on.

It is WORTH it to save your heart, mind and body to give away to just one man one day. I am so, so glad I did.

It is WORTH it to take risks to pursue not only what you love, but what you believe God created you to do.

It is WORTH it to say "no" to some things today, because it will mean you will get to say "yes" to the best.

It is WORTH it to stay close to your family; they are one of the only things that doesn't change.

It is WORTH to find your place in the body of Christ; we need each other.

It is WORTH it fill your mind with the truth of who you are in Him. If you don't, others will fill your mind for you.

It is WORTH it to count the cost now because the dividends are beyond this world.

You will grow, change and mature in the next few years unlike any other. You will make decisions that will impact the rest of your life. One choice at a time, you will create a path that has a likely outcome. Choose it carefully, honey. Forgiveness if free, but healing isn't. You are free to make wise and godly decisions. He'll speak; just be sure to always listen and obey.

All my Love,

Lynn

So Into Me

2010-03-17T06:22:00.000-07:00

Don't leave home without it! That seems to be many teens' mottoes when it comes to cameras. There is an overwhelming need to capture everything that's done...to load onto FaceBook. Hours a day can be spent posting pics, updating statuses, and commenting on everything from songs to videos.

Is FaceBook and other social medias simply a replacement of the phone or is it more?

"Almost 60 percent of college students agreed with the statement "People in my generation use social networking sites for self-promotion, narcissism and attention-seeking." The amount of comments per day for some has become the scale where they measure their friendships and for others, their self-worth.

This generation was the first to have praise poured into you when you were small. You were the first generation of kids to receive trophies not for winning first place, but for playing. You were constantly told "You're the princess". While for some, this has been a positive thing. For others, it has fed that selfish heart that we have all been born with and it hasn't turned out good.

This can lead to big problems in life. "Narcissists have an inflated sense of self, so they're prone to take too many risks. And they've proven to be worse at maintaining relationships or working on teams, which you need to be able to do in most jobs." And might I add, to function as part of the body of Christ, to be a stable marriage partner and a balanced parent.

Be aware of the amount of time your're spending on these social medias and what you're posting there. Ask the Lord, "Is this a harmless outlet for me or have I made it more?" Then listen. He'll show you.

1. Joiner, Whitney. "ego trip." Teen Vogue. April 2010: 54 - 55.

New Name

2010-03-16T11:39:00.001-07:00

Hey Girls,
The ministry that I am a part of Radical Revolution is looking to make a new name change. We are looking for something that is fresh and speaks to what our mission is. Can you let me know what you think? You can email me at Lynn@proverbs31.org. Can't wait to hear from you!

Name: She Reaches

Theme Verse: “… Press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.” – Philippians 3:14 (NLT)

Tagline (& Mission Statement): Encouraging teen girls to reach their highest potential in Christ

About Us: She Reaches is a division of Proverbs 31 Ministries dedicated to reaching middle and high school girls. Our purpose is to be there with you in the ups and downs of life, encourage you find value in the heart of God, and challenge you to reach your highest potential in Christ.

What's The Wise Thing?

2010-03-14T16:19:00.000-07:00

If you are joining me here today through my devotion, Here is the Path, welcome! If you haven't had a chance to read it, please do!

Life is full of choices. What classes should I take next year? Where should I go to college? Should I use my money to go on that missions trip with my youth group or get that car that I really need? As I mentioned in my devo, some answers the Bible makes very clear. But what about those that are not?

In Andy Stanley's book, The Principle of the Path, Andy gives some great advice. He says that when we hit up against those decisions in life that we can't find answers for clearly in the Bible, we should ask ourselves this very simple question, "What is the wise thing?". You see, every choice we make is a step and each step evenutually leads down a path to a destination. Is that destination where you want to end up?

Let's say you are trying to decide if you should play lacrosse this spring or try out for the Chamber choir at your school? You know that with the classes you are taking and the demands that each would put on you schedule that it wouldn't be wise to try to do both. So how do you know what to do? Ask yourself the question: What would be the wise decision? Is it wise for you to have a physical outlet to help you to keep your sanity or are you hoping one day to be able to use your music in your future and this group would be a great place to grow? They both sound great. What is the wise thing to do?

When we ask God for His clear direction plus ask this simple question, often a peace will rise up in our hearts that makes the right choice a bit more obvious. Just remember to ask Your Father; He always knows best!

One Girl

2010-02-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

If you are joining me here today from my devo running at RadRevolution, thanks for coming!

"Will the real me stand up?" Do you ever feel like you could ask yourself that question? Do you ever wonder "Who am I?".

It doesn't really matter what your age, once we are old enough to figure out that if we change this thing or that we will be liked more, it is hard NOT to do that! The truth is, there is only One that we should be doing that for, it is Jesus Himself. He is the One we need to be living to please each and every day.

One way that we can help ourselves to be one person is by being in God's Word everyday. Just like you need food and water, we need His word if we are going to please Him by becoming more like Him.

Could you use some help getting in the Word each day? I'm giving away a Mom and Me prize pack - For a teen girl- the 3 book series B.A.B.E. series by Andrea Stephens (Beautiful, Accepted, Blessed, Eternally Significant) for the teen and for Mom a $10 gift card to Starbucks along with Lynn's CD "Building a Bridge to Your Child's Heart". Just leave me a comment below on what would most help you in your life to be "one" girl; the same girl at home, school, church and work. You're comment could help another teen. Just click on comments below!

At RadRev, we are in the process of looking to give our ministry a new look and we would love your input. What do you think of the new name "She Stands"? We believe that each day you are making choices about standing up for Jesus and our desire is to be your friend along that journey. What do you think? Please let us know in the comments below as well :)

Happy Tuesday,
Lynn

The New Virginity

2010-02-10T08:05:00.000-08:00

"The New Virginity" is what VH1 called the abstinence stance in their show with the same name this month. It is the sexual revolution in reversal. Celebrities such as the Jonas Brothers, Jordin Sparks, Miley Cyrus, Demi LaVado and Selena Gomez are all endorsing not following the crowd and saving sex for marriage. They proudly wear purity rings on their wedding finger as a visual reminder of the decision they have made.

Marketing promoters have discovered that there is plenty of money to be made in this virginity marketplace and every one wants a piece of it; from thongs made for you with wording such as "Want some? You can't have it" to scanty cami's with similar wording. Stores that typically go for an adult market have found a whole new gold mine in your culture. There is even an Ipod app with a virginity pledge!

So, is this new awareness a positive thing for your culture? I say "yes" and "no". Yes, there is much talk about saving yourself for your future spouse, but are teens and celebrities really doing that?

Many celebrities as they grow up discard their clean images and a sex-filled image fills it place as noted by celebrities such as Britney Spears or Jessica Simpson. These double messages are very confusing as we try to figure out this thing called love. Why wasn't waiting the way to go any more?

And what about all of those abstinence pledges. Unfortunately for many, pledges don’t work. A recent study has shown that in the majority of the cases, teen virginity pledges are broken, especially when made in large groups such as conferences and when the pressure really pours on in the college years. The reason: they are not made from your heart. It is something placed on you by your youth pastor, parents or even Christian friends.

What works is a close relationship with Jesus. True love is a person; his name is Jesus. Whether you are sexually active or not, every one looks for true love. That true love is Jesus Christ. He is enough to fill what all of us are looking for!

Do you have the desire to spend the rest of your life before marriage (if you get married :) pure? If so, how can you do it? There is a lot of pressure out there and it really does seem like every one is doing it.

You need real reasons to say "no". When hormones are flying, the party meter is running and accountability is low because you are in the wrong place at the wrong time, the your mind doesn't think of things such as pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases and the future. What can motivate wise decisions is a Person; the One who loves you unconditionally, perfectly and is NEVER FAILING. There is no one on the earth that can promise that...not even Edward Cullen.

What can you do? Get some time with your parent, your pastor or small group leader and ask real life questions and get answers that are not peer-driven. Continue the process of making the right decisions with loving and caring adults helping to lead the way with love your motivation.

Got some questions? Post a comment by clicking on comments below or shoot me an email at lynn@proverbs31.org. You can also find me on facebook at Lynn Martin Cowell. I'd love to hear what you have to say!

What is God Like Anyway?

2010-01-25T08:20:00.000-08:00

I am SO excited about the teen conference I get to speak at on February 13th at The Gate in Kinston, North Carolina. To start off the conference, I want to answer some of the questions that the girls asked last year, but we didn't get to. A big one was "What is God like?".

This morning as I was preparing for the conference, I literally found myself giggling at just how cool God is! How amazing is His love, acceptance and forgiveness.

God is...

The Perfect Father

Isaiah 64:8 "Yet, O Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay. You are the potter; we are all the work of your hands." NIV

For some of us, the word "father" conjurs up thoughts that are less than perfect (we all have fathers that were human), but we need to start by getting past any of these negative images of what a father is. God, our father, is perfect.

As this perfect father, He is love. I didn't say that He is loving, which is an action. I said "He is love". It is who He is; it is His character. Since it is who He is, He cannot do anything that is contary to love.

As this perfect father, He is tender toward us. Zephaniah 3:17 describes Him well, "The Lord your God is with you; he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you; he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." (NIV)

These are loving words; words of intimacy. He takes great delight in you. Delight means to take great joy or extreme pleasure. The God of the universe receives extreme pleasure in you; his creation.

He will quiet you with his love. This phrase brings up images of my husband, Greg, holding one of our babies when they were wailing. He was quieting them with his love; reassuring them that he was near and was caring for them.

He will rejoice over you with singing. My husband has sang songs to my kids from the day they were born; mostly songs that make them laugh. I can just picture the Father doing the same; rejoicing over us!

He knows you, gets you and still loves you! Sometimes you might not feel like that is true with your parents. They may have no idea about the thing you are doing in your life or the things you are thinking about doing, but your heavenly Father does and still loves you! Psalm 139 says He knows you inside and out...and still loves you! Aren't you SO glad? I sure am!!!

I am so glad; so grateful to have a perfect Father! Lord...Thank you!

Bring it On!

2010-01-01T08:16:00.000-08:00

"I can't wait for the new semester!" Ever feel like you just have to have a change? Gotten in a rut that you just can't seem to get out of? That is what I love about the New Year. It gives me a sense that it is time for change; time for new.

What "new" are you wanting? New friends? New classes? Sometimes, we wish we could have a new family!

One new we can all have is a new heart. Last year you may have done things you wish you had never done. Seen things you wish you had never seen. Said "yes" to things that took you to places you wish you had never been. Your mind might be screaming ugly things at you, "See, that is who you really are. You've really messed up now!" But you know what? Your mind and the enemy of your heart, Satan, is not telling you the truth.

Jesus says it is NEVER too late! He says that He will always forgive; always take us back and make us new. Friend, it is never too late to get a fresh start. Don't give up. Don't look at the way things are and say, "I can't get out. I'm stuck. I can't change." Maybe you can't; but He can! He is a miracle working God; always has been and always will be. RUN to Him! With all you have, run to Him and just see what miracles He will do when you take your life and give it to Him.

Do you need help getting on the right path? Just leave a comment below or email me at Lynn@proverbs31.org. I'd love nothing more than to help you get off the path you are on and onto the one that leads where you really want to go!

The BBS - Best Big Sister that is!

2009-12-11T06:35:00.000-08:00

Do you have a little brother or sister that drives you crazy? Maybe they’re going through that stage where even though they’re eleven they talk like they’re four? Are all of their questions pushing your buttons? “Can I borrow your straightener?” “ Can I hang out with you and your friends?” “Will you give me a ride to my friend’s house?”

Well, I have a confession to make: I was once the annoying little sister. In fact, I was the annoying little sister to six sisters and brothers! But you know what? They didn’t make me feel like I was. In fact, I felt just the opposite.

My closest sister in age is Janet, who is five years older than me. When I was little, I wanted to be just like her; I thought she was so cool! Janet was on the cross country and track team at school. She got along great with my parents. She was a leader in our youth group. She had a cute Christian boyfriend. She didn’t party or get into trouble and she was nice to me! What a great big sister!

I’m not sure if Janet was being intentional or not, but she had a huge influence in my life. She often gave me great advice, “Lynn, don’t party; it’s not worth it”. “Save yourself for the man that you will marry one day; it will be worth it.” Not only did Janet give great advice, she lived it out. She didn’t tell me one thing and live another. In fact, I believe it is because of her example of getting married as a virgin that I was able to do the same! Janet’s life made me want to copy her.

How about you? Are you aware that your little sisters and brothers are watching you, listening to you, copying you? Whether you know it or not, they are and like Janet, you have the opportunity to influence them either for good or bad.

So what are some ways that you can be intentional about influencing your siblings for good?

1) Do a Bible study together. Pick out a study that is a great fit for the two of you (if you need some help, ask an adult you respect) and set aside an hour or so once a week to study God’s word together. This one will produce great results for both of you!

2) If you have a little sister, take her shopping and help her to choose clothes that are modest. Just like you, your little sis is surrounded by those who have less than godly ideas of what looks terrific! Demonstrate to your sister that you can look great and glorify God too!

3) Recommend Christian music for her MP3 player. When I find a great band, I share it with my friends; they are always glad to hear about a great new group. Your sibling is the same. When you loading up your MP3, recommend it to your sibling too!

4) When your brother or sister is getting caught up in school drama, give a godly perspective. It probably wasn’t too long ago that you were in the same boat. Help them to work out their relationship struggles, using God’s word for advice.

5) Help your sibling become eternity minded. So many things in life really don’t matter in light of eternity. When your brother or sister is having trouble at school or on the ball field, help them out by reminding them this stuff is only temporary!

6) Demonstrate for them how to respect your parents. They may have friends who don’t honor their parents; be a positive example!

7) Recommend some great books you have read. Libraries and bookstores are loaded with all kinds of books; some good and some not! Point your sibling to books that is not only good, but good for them!

8) Encourage your brother or sister to get involved in a small group at church or Christian school club where they can grow in their faith. If you’re close to the same age, ask them to come with you!

9) Take some time to do something with your brother and sister that they like to do. If they are younger than you, get on the floor and play Legos! If they are older, ask them what they would like to do and then carve out time just for them. You’ll be demonstrating unselfishness!

10) Lastly, pray with your sibling. Nothing can be more powerful than to hear someone you look up to praying for you.

I hope this gives you some great ideas on how you can be a positive role model for your sibling. You never know, maybe one day your sibling will be writing an article about you!

Even More

2009-11-18T09:06:00.000-08:00

“I’m just so tired of being good. Tired of sticking out; not fitting in! At school today the guys were talking about how “hot” the new girl is. Then one of them said, “Yeah, but she won’t do anything because she came from a Christian school. You know Christians won’t do anything!” It’s like we’re abnormal or something!” It was painfully clear that Hannah was frustrated. Stuck in a world where right is wrong and wrong is right, she seems to be getting worn out with going against the crowd.
Do you ever feel this way too? I do! It all can look SO great – a world revolving around music, clothes, photo opps for FaceBook, guys. Yet when we do “go there” it just feels wrong. Are there certain places or events that cause you to try to be a part of a crowd that isn’t best for you? What's a girl to do?

I think Paul got it. I’m glad he did because what he said sure helps me feel like I’m not alone. In 1 Thessalonians 4 he encourages his friends to keep living in a way that pleases God; in fact, do it even more!

Maybe that is the answer. Instead of trying to be the kid in the middle – a little bit Christian and a little bit like everyone else, we should try going all out! Maybe we should go God’s way and just see what happens. Maybe, just maybe, there is another girl who feels this way too and wants to go all out for God, but doesn't want to do it alone? Where can you find a girl like that? Christian club at school? Youth group at church?

In another book, Paul gives us a little heads up about what can happen if we do. In Galatians 6:9 he tell us to keep on doing what pleases God, not because you have to follow some list of rules, but doing it out of love! The results will be a life filled with God’s goodness. Now, sometimes that those good things don’t show up right away. But I have seen it happen! I have seen time after time when God completely blows my mind away by bringing things into my life I just never thought of! Try it; try Him! You just might find He’s the answer you’ve been looking for!

How do you start? Try replacing the things that are pulling you away from God with some time with Him. Get a new devotional book that will really challenge you to move forward in your relationship with Him.

Galatians 6:9 “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” (NLT)

1 Thessalonians 4:1, "One final word, friends. We ask you—urge is more like it—that you keep on doing what we told you to do to please God, not in a dogged religious plod, but in a living, spirited dance. You know the guidelines we laid out for you from the Master Jesus. God wants you to live a pure life." (The Message)

New Year - New Friends

2009-08-16T18:19:00.000-07:00

A new school year! Exciting, yet scary. Can't wait one minute; nervous stomach next.

One of the great things I always looked forward to in a new school year was the chance to change things up a bit and meet some new friends. Different classes brought new opportunities to meet kids I had never hung out with before. Some times, though, those first few days can be weird. Trying to get a conversation started can be awkward. What if they think I'm weird? What if they already "have enough" friends and aren't looking for any new ones?

I know when I walk in a new place, I can feel uptight at first. But just think, if I feel that way, they probably do too! So how can we break the ice and find out if that new girl sitting next to me might just be my new best friend?

First prepare some great "ice breaker" questions. Everyone loves to talk about themselves, so asking questions is a great place to start. How long have you lived here? What activities are you thinking about participating in? What school did you go to last year? What do you think might be the best thing about this year? Once they answer that question, based on their answer you can ask another. (Be sure to comment back with your own answers to the questions, that way you are starting a conversation and not just asking questions!)

Next, really listen when she talks. So many people want to do all of the talking. If you are a real listener, you'll stand out as a great friend right from the start!

Lastly don't be afraid to do some inviting. Ask her to hang out at lunch, study for a test coming up or go to the first football game. Everyone wants to be wanted and asking her to hang out says just that!

As a final note: be sure to keep your eyes open for the kid who is new to your school. I recently read a startling statistic: kids who move more than three times have twice a likely chance to try to commit suicide. Moving is tough! Look for the girl who is twice as nervous as you and try to help her fit.

I'd love to hear how your first day of school goes! Stop back by and let me know.

Always His,
Lynn

Means Girls

2009-08-04T08:11:00.000-07:00

“The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him.” Nahum 1:7 NLT

“The words on FaceBook glared back at her. “You are so ugly! You are fat, annoying and I hate you!” Lindsay just sat there, starring at the screen. “What did I say? What did I do?”

Maybe this has happened to you or maybe you have never faced the type of flat out rejection that Lindsay did. I recently spotted a t-shirt at the mall that read “You’re no one until someone talks about you.” Growing up today in a world where “Mean Girls” and “Gossip Girl” are our movie and tv titles, it comes as no surprise that many of us have been there. These feelings of being unaccepted are definitely not new. In Song of Solomon 1:5, we are first introduced to a young girl who feels the same way “Don’t look down on me because I am dark…” The Message. She felt rejected. Those feelings are so opposite of what we want to feel. What we want to be accepted!

So what can we do when we feel out ? For me, it helps to find out where I am in. The Lord is very specific about how He feels about me. “My beloved is mine, and I am His…”Song of Solomon 2:16a (NKJV). “You're beautiful from head to toe, my dear love,
beautiful beyond compare, absolutely flawless.” Song of Solomon 4:7b The Message. “The king is enthralled by your beauty; honor him, for he is your lord.” Psalm 45:11 (NIV). These are the types of verses I take and put them everywhere so that I can read them over and over and over again. When I feel rejected, these words remind me that I am accepted by Him!

Next time you feel left out, rejected, not "in"; remind yourself of the truth of how He sees you. Let these words go deep into your heart and watch how the Lord will turn what was made for evil into good!

Not Alone

2009-05-29T05:47:00.000-07:00

I couldn't believe it. It felt just like I was back in high school. The name was "Jesus Freck". Now, the teasing looked a little bit different, but the intent to hurt was still the same. "Her biggest problem is that she probably gets up each morning and prays to be a perfect mom." Ouch! Nothing like getting punched in the stomach for wanting to run after the Lord will all your might.

This I was praying a passage that was first prayed thousands of years ago by David. "Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you. He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun." (Psalm 37:5-6 NLT)

"He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn..." Some days, when you are pursuing Jesus and your life reflects that, it is just flat out hard. Our lives, hopefully,are a sharp contrast to those around us.

Look at that sunrise. Isn't it magnificent? Your innocence, your heart to go after Him no matter what the cost, is that type of beauty. Unfortunately, we live around those who are still in the dark; the Son has not risen in their lives, so they don't even know what that kind of beauty looks like.

So what can help us to appreciate this innocent beauty? Being around others who value the Son rising in their own lives. Others who have purposed to get up, each and every day, out of the darkness to not only see the Son rise, but to be a part of that process taking place in their own lives.

Find another. Find another who not only pays the price to run hard after Him each and every day, but applauds it in your life as well.

Friend, I applaud the rising in you. We are not alone. Our King. Our Love - Jesus, is waiting each and every day before the dawn to see if you will come and anticipate the Son rising in your life; in your heart. Wake up and see! It is SO worth it!

Tuning Our Lives

2009-05-08T06:10:00.000-07:00

If you are joining me here today because of my devo on RadRevolution, hi! Sometimes, our life gets out of tune and often it is because of decisions we make.

Have you had an experience in life where everything seemed to be going right, yet in the end it really wasn't? I have had too many to count: bad dating decisions, poor money decisions, spur-of-the-moment not-time-to pray decisions. They seemed right at the time...

This past weekend, I went shopping with my husband. My office is often a complete mess and it was time to get serious about organizing it. Now, this is not my best skill in life, to be sure, but I figured if I had the right furniture, cabinets, and gadgets I could definately make it better. So it was off to the stores...

Store #1: Had a desk that would definately work. It was more than I wanted to spend, but I had done a little (emphasis on little) investigating and knew that it was pretty in line with what I had already seen. I was ready to buy and be done. My husband on the other hand said, "Lynn, I think you can do better." Buzz kill. Not what I wanted to hear. But I did listen.

Store #2: Had everything I wanted! The desk, the cabinets, the chair...even the cool waste can! AND I could get all the pieces I wanted for about the same amount of money as the ONE desk at the other store. I was so excited (I know you would be for me if you saw it...it is rather cool, I must say. Maybe I'll post a pic when I finally get it all assembled!).

Lesson learned: waiting and taking wise advice from others can be a VERY good thing for me. Sometimes what sounds or seems best is not, in fact. The only way to find that out is by slowly down long enough to hear.

What decisions are you contemplating? Is there a certain someone you would like to date, but don't know enough about his character? Is there a school you are thinking about attending, but haven't really sensed the green light from the Lord? What plans are you making for the summer...and have you asked the Lord what His plans are for you this summer? Slow down, pray, seek and then make those decisions wise decisions! !

Jeremiah 29:12 - 13 "Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all of your heart. I will be found by you," declares the Lord, "and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you," declares the Lord, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile." NIV

Pray, Pray, Pray

2009-05-06T08:19:00.000-07:00

For those joining me today from the Proverbs 31 devo, welcome! I just remembered that this devotion was coming out today while I was swimming laps... and praying! The Word says to pray without ceasing, so I like to take it literary.

I would love to hear from you on what you do to remind yourself to pray through the day! Many of the ways I pray today I learned from others. Praying for the person whose laundry I am folding as I fold it. Pray for the hurting person as the fire truck or ambulance drives by. Pray for my children as I drive them to school. I also enjoy surrounding myself with sounds that remind me of Him: worship music, sermons that I downloaded or Christian talk radio shows. Sometimes, when all is quiet, I am reminded of Him; His incredible presence always with me.

One thing I have learned: praying has to be intentional. Our mind, through out the day, will naturally gravitate toward our busyness: kids to be taken care of, laundry to do, the next meal to prepare, or work that needs our attention. Martin Luther once said, "I have so much to do today, I need to spend the first three hours in prayer". What a perspective!
As you look at your to-do list today, purpose to steal away moments with Him. Moments of purposeful quiet and moments in the crazy chaos. "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. " James 5:16 (NIV)
Have a prayer-filled day...He can't wait to hear from you!

Lynn

Stay On The Trail!

2009-04-13T04:28:00.000-07:00

Last night my family just returned from our spring break vacation to Washington. We had asked around to get some advice on what to do on our trip and were told snowmobiling was a must. I had never been, but I am always up for a new outdoor adventure! It ended up being the highlight of our trip! On the internet, I had found an outfitter that supplied everything we needed: machines, helmets, gloves, snowsuits, books - even a backpack filled with drinks!

As we made our hour and a half drive from the city to the mountains, it was hard to imagine that there was really going to be enough snow to snowmobile. I began to wonder just what I had gotton my family into!

When we arrived, the owner promised that where he was leading us ther would be more snow than we could possibly want. What an understatement! They took us to a spot in the Wentachee National Forest that was still closed due to snow. All I can say is it had to be some of God's best work! The beauty couldn't be captured, even with a camera!

Originally, we were to be on our own, but we ended up having four guides: the owner, his four-year old son who drove his own full sized snowmobile (!!),
and two seventeen-year old guys. My son loved having these guys along! They continually left the path, encouraging Zach and Greg to join them. The guys had a lot of fun, but leaving the path also had its consequences! The first time, Greg over estimated the ability of the snowmachine to turn and hit a tree! Fortunately, he had on a helmet, but his back and hands took a beating. After this, our family stuck to the trail, but tour guides didn't. Time and time again, they would get stuck. Greg and Zach would then have to get off of their machines and help dig these guys out. The guides didn't care how often they were derailed or whose time and energy they took up.

In II Timothy, Paul writes to Timothy, encouraging him to do just the opposite. "No one serving as a solider gets involved in civilian affairs - he wants to please his commanding officers." II Timothy 2:4. He uses his own life as an example to Timothy, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness which the Lord, the righteous judge will award to me on that day - and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing." II Timothy 4:7 - 8

Like our guides, getting off the trail can be fun - for a time. But there is a price to pay when we do and it doesn't just affect us, it affects those around us. The reason the owner and the guys went out with us that day was because they were trying to rescue a snowmobile. A guy had gotten off of the path and dropped his machine nine feet down into a creek bed. It probably was not going to be able to be retrieved.

Follow Paul's advice; stay on the path! It is good and will result in many blessings. Keep your eyes on Jesus; He'll show you the way!

Jalapeno Poppers

2009-03-29T07:48:00.000-07:00

Mommajet on Friday requested the jalapeno poppers recipe, so here it is:

Jalapeno Poppers

12 fresh jalapeno peppers, halved - lengthwise, stems, seeds and membranes removed
(be sure to wear gloves when you do this or you will have hot hands all day!)
6 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups grated Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon cayenne, or less, to taste
1 pound of bacon

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

In a bowl, cream together the cream cheese, cheese, cumin and cayenne.

Take this mixture and put inside the halves of the jalapenos. Wrap in bacon. You can use a toothpick to secure.

Cook for 30 minutes or until bacon is cooked.
ENJOY!

Busy, Busy, Busy

2009-03-27T04:59:00.000-07:00

If you are joining me here today from the Proverbs 31 devo, welcome! This blog is actually my blog for teens, but whether you are a teen or not, I'm glad you are here! I write regularly for adults on my blog at Lynn Cowell.com. I'd love to have you stop by there as well!

As I re-read today's devotion, I thought of the jalapenos that are in my frig right now. I am planning on cooking up some of those tasty treats this weekend for my mother and father-in-law who are coming in today. On days like today, when busy is the key word, I am tempted to skip or drastically reduce my time with Jesus. Maybe get a quick devo read in; talk to Him in between tasks and errands. I know that there are days when that is ok - there is no other option. In my life, though, one of those days can quickly turn into two or three, and I find myself dry once more.

It reminds me of the story of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1 - 13. Ten virgins, ten lamps. They each started out with the same amount. The foolish ones, we are told, were the ones who grabbed their lamps and got a head start on the day. The wise ones slowed down long enough to get the extra oil for whatever lay ahead.

Similarly, we each get the same - 24 hours. Some days we try to get a "jump start" on the day. Skipping our time with Jesus can give us that extra time we think we need in order to get it all done. Yet in this story Jesus is telling us that to really prepare is to slow down enough to get the "extra oil" for whatever comes our way that day.

I encourage you today, to get that extra oil. I am not sure how that looks for you; He created each one of us so differently. I just know for me, before I start cleaning this house and getting my groceries, I need to "get the oil". I need Him to fill me completely so that I will have more than enough for whatever this day will hold. I hope you will do the same!

Have an incredible weekend!

Unheard

2009-02-12T07:20:00.000-08:00

Hebrews 4:15, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are – yet was without sin.”

Have you ever been speaking – sharing with another about how you feel (maybe rather strongly – even loudly!) when suddenly you are cut off? Interrupted mid-sentence? I have. You know how that makes me feel? It is as if the person had actually said, “What you have to say is of no consequence. It is unimportant. Your feelings are not valid. What you say and feel do not count.” Of course, that is not what they actually said; but it seems as if they could have.

The last time that happened to me, with tears trickling down my face, I told the Lord that is how I felt. You see, I am a person who struggles deeply with being completely real. You know, that gut level honesty of actually admitting how I truly feel about something.

A couple of years ago, I was digging in my garden, hitting the dirt rather strongly with my spade out of frustration. I was mad because my friend had just confronted me about being dishonest. I was asked what I was mad about, but rather than telling the truth I had given my standard reply, “I’m not mad.” There, up to my elbows in bulbs and brown mulch, the Lord told me that I was lying. Lying? Isn’t that a bit harsh? I mean all I was trying to do was not hurt their feelings and avoid an argument! Now the Lord was calling me out for this. Has this ever happened to you before?

Next thing I knew, I was dragging myself to my friend, in order to humbly admit that I am, at times, a liar. That day was a turning point for me. It was then that I promised the Lord that I would in fact become honest about the way I felt, the things I was mad about, and the truth about what I really wanted.

As I was contemplating this, I remembered that the Bible says the Lord struggled with the same things I do. Maybe He also struggled with these feelings I had –feelings of being unheard and of being interrupted. I knew He would understand. He was tempted and struggled in many ways, yet He remained sinless. I’m thankful that Jesus sympathizes with me and understands what I’m going through. He’s a model for us to follow when we face temptations and struggles. When you feel unheard, look to Jesus who always hears you, and follow His example.

My Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, Thank you that You understand me even when I don’t understand myself. Please help me to be honest when it comes to communicating with others. I need You in order to do this, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Related Resources:

Teen Devotional Bible

The One Year Devos for Teens, by Susie Shellenberger

Think About It:

Do I struggle with being honest with others when it comes to my true feelings? If so, why do I think that is?

Why does the Lord want me to be honest with others – even when it seems scary?

What do I think being honest will cost me?

Live It:

Ask a friend to be on the look out for when you are covering up or not telling how you truly feel about something. Ask her to call you out on it.

Practice being honest with the Lord first; it is a safe place.

Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you when you are not being truthful. When He does, confess it right away!

Power Verses:

Psalm 15:1-2, “LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? He whose walk is blameless and who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from his heart.” (NIV)

Psalm 25:5, “Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” (NIV)

Proverbs 23:23, “Buy the truth and do not sell it; get wisdom, discipline and understanding.” (NIV)

Twilight - You been yet?

2008-11-25T18:56:00.001-08:00

Twilight is all the buzz at this house. All three of my kids went opening night. I checked out the online reviews; it sounded like it was an ok movie. No sex, right? I have yet to read the book. I am waiting on Mary to finish her's.

Ever thought Twilight might be a good way to share your faith? YouthMinistry has some ideas. Check it out. It might be just the openers you could use to share your faith with your friends.

Psalm 19:14

2008-11-13T14:07:00.000-08:00

Hey Girls,

Our new verse for this week is Psalm 19:14 "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer."

Remember, we can do it with His Power!

Christmas Crush or Contentment

2008-11-07T09:02:00.000-08:00

“Don’t run up debts, except for the huge debt of love you owe each other. When you love others, you complete what the law has been after all along….”
Romans 13:8 (MSG)

Recently, I heard the tv blare out the news that the credit crunch would definitely be affecting the Christmas spending this year. Credit card companies are lowering credit limits and raising interest rates. Maybe you have heard your parents talking about the economy and how things in America just aren’t that great right now. When I heard this news program, I pictured many American families beginning to worry. Where was the money going to come from to keep up with the way we have grown accustomed to celebrating Christmas? Is there any possibility, though, that this could actually be a good thing?

Overspending during the holiday season is a joy robber. In years past, you might have sensed stress in your family during this season. Romans 13:8 encourages us to owe no one anything except love. My sister and her family practiced these gifts of love last Christmas. They all chose one family member’s name to buy a gift for. In addition to this gift, they also wrote a letter of love to the receiver. My sister shared with me that the reading of these letters out loud before they opened their gifts created tears of love, healing and forgiveness. As the tears flowed from her family, she celebrated in her heart their best Christmas ever. The boxes may have been the fewest, but the love was the most!

How about your family as this Christmas season approaches? Can you make a suggestion to your family to adopt a new way of showing each other how much you really love them this Christmas?

My Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, Thank You for giving your Son as the ultimate gift to us. Please help me this Christmas to focus on you and help my family to do the same! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Think About It:

In past Christmases, have I put undue pressure on my parents to keep up with other families when it comes to gift giving?
What is one thing I would like to receive this year that money can’t buy? Is this something I can give to another?

What can I do each day in December that will help me to focus on Jesus?

Live It:

Plan one gift to each of your family members that costs very little, but says the world about how you love them.

Sit down with your parents and relieve them of the pressure to have to try and keep up with others this Christmas.

Power Verses:

1 Timothy 6:6 “But godliness with contentment is great gain.” (NIV)

Proverbs 19: 23 “The fear of the LORD leads to life: Then one rests content, untouched by trouble.” (NIV)

Job 36:11 “If they obey and serve him, they will spend the rest of their days in prosperity and their years in contentment.” (NIV)

2008-10-28T16:16:00.000-07:00

The Princess Within

2008-10-28T08:25:00.000-07:00

Very cool. That was my weekend. I had a great chance to travel to Kinston, NC to spend Saturday with some incredible girls at a community center called The Gate. We talked about the life that the Lord wants for us...realizing the passionate love He has for us and wants us to have for Him.

Thanks to everyone who came! Let's do it again!

Say "yes"

2008-10-22T09:28:00.000-07:00

4:50 a.m. Not my ideal time for waking up, but if I am going to succeed at finishing a half marathon in December, it's what I have to do. You see, this is the time that my friends are able to run. If I'm not going to run alone, I have to get up and do what I don't want to do.

This morning, our run started out as normal. The two fast runners ahead, with my friend and I a bit behind, but shortly into our run, my friend felt sick and needed to turn back. What was I going to do? I needed to run at least five miles. I have been feeling weaker and knew I needed to push my body. But keeping up with two fast, well-seasoned runners in the pitch black seemed beyond me. I chose to go.

My legs burned as I struggled to keep up the pace. My lungs ached as it breathed in and out the cool October air faster than normal. I so wanted to quit. My mind kept saying, "It's ok, Lynn, you can't keep going at this pace. You'll be alright if you walk a bit." Yet, I knew that Greg would never want me to be out running in the dark alone. I needed to keep up.

As I fought to keep my body going, I thought of my Jesus. How He has given me life. How He has called me to keep going. Though my thoughts fight me at times. Though those around me fall behind or quit, He calls me to push on. Push myself to follow hard after Him, even when it feels like I cannot.

I made it. I ran 5 miles in 43 minutes and 22 seconds - faster than I have ever run before. I had friends who were with me and I didn't quit.

During my time of personal worship with the Lord this morning, I sang Him this song written by Matt Redman:

Yes and Amen

Hear your people saying yes
Hear your people saying yes to you
Yes to everything you ask
Yes to anything we're called to do

Hear your people say amen
Hear your people say amen to you
Let your kingdom come on earth
Let it be just like we prayed to you

Yes and Amen to everything that's in your heart
yes and amen to EVERYTHING that you have planned
We live to see your will be done
And see your perfect kingdom come on earth, on earth
Yes and Amen, we're taking up our cross for you
Give us the strength to take these dreams and follow through
We live to see your will be done
And see your perfect kingdom come on earth, on earth

Don't quit, Friend! Keep your eyes on Him and press on!

Stand True

2008-10-21T06:32:00.000-07:00

Today is the Pro-life Day of Silent Solidarity. We must speak up for those who cannot speak. For those whose voices are silenced every day.

Below is some information from Stand True. This is a ministry my teen daughter found on line from their website:

Make sure and register for the 2008 Pro-life Day of Silent Solidarity at www.silentday.org

Today is the 5th annual Pro-Life Day of Silent Solidarity; are you ready?

I wanted to first share an e-mail which I received last night that brought tears to my eyes.

“I got one girl to not get an abortion because I took a ZERO in class for this and she started crying. She pulled me into the bathroom and told me she was pregnant and was going to have an abortion and she said because of how much this meant to me she didn't! We both sat in the bathroom and cried for a few minutes." The ended up giving birth and her baby was adopted.

Even if this were the only e-mail I got with a story like this, it makes all the effort worth it. The truth is, I get dozens of e-mails like this every year from students who participate in the Pro-life Day of Silent Solidarity. We are so blessed to see what God is doing with this event.

Some Important Reminders

1. Please remember that not everyone is going to be nice to you tomorrow; in fact you will probably experience some harassment for participating. It is important that you remain peaceful and loving towards everyone, no matter how nasty they are to you.

2. This is a day of prayer and solidarity, not a day of rebellion. Please stay focused on why we are doing this and remain in a prayerful attitude all day.

3. If someone needs to talk to you about abortion it is ok to break your silence. The girl in the opening story broke her silence last year and was able to help her friend and a baby was saved because of it.

4. Please take pictures and write down your experiences about the day. You can submit them on the web site or e-mail them to us. This helps us show the world how many of us are pro-life.

5. If you have a blog, MySpace, Facebook or other web site, please promote this event tonight.

Here are some of the groups and events on Facebook and MySpace you can use to promote:

Invite your friends on Facebook to the official event at http://www.new.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=5669658602

Invite your friends on MySpace to the official Silent Day Page at http://www.myspace.com/silenced12273

Invite your friends to the official group on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=5669658602#/group.php?gid=2248662014

We would also like to ask everyone to please add the official song "Silent Screams", from the band My Brother's Scars to your MySpace. http://www.myspace.com/mybrothersscars

I want to thank you so much for taking a stand and being a voice for the babies and for Christ. I will be praying for all of you tomorrow as you light up the darkness.

Very Important

Has the Pro-life Day of Silent Solidarity been a blessing to you? Have you seen the amount of good that has come from this event over the past 4 years? Do you believe in this event and Stand True (the ministry that puts it on every year)?

If so, we would ask you to please consider helping to support this event with a donation. It takes a lot of time and money to make this amazing, pro-life, witnessing, opportunity happen. I know most of you are students and don't have a lot of money. Most of you will spend at least $5 on a value meal or some kind of fancy latte between now and the event. Would you consider skipping that meal or coffee to help the Pro-life Day of Silent Solidarity?

Here are four ways to donate:

1) Send a PayPal donation to store@standtrue.com

2) Go to www.silentday.org and click on the donate button

3) Call the office at 937.339.5648 and make a credit card donation

4) Send a check to Stand True - PO Box 890 - Troy, OH 45373

The Vision Behind the Pro-life Day of Silent Solidarity

In the spring of 2004, a student from McNeese State University asked me, "What can I do to work with other students around the country, in solidarity, to help end abortion?"

When I speak to students, I am often asked: "What can I do? I have ideas, but I don't know what to do with them. Can I really make a difference? I'm just one person."

In 2004, the question set off a spark in my head.

I replied, "What if we got students to not only act in solidarity with others, but also with the children that are dying every day?" As soon as I said it, I knew God had set something in motion.

At the time, I was working from the basement of my home with a computer, a web site, and a small e-mail list I'd collected over the previous months. I wasn't sure what could be accomplished with that, but I offered it to God and started sending out emails.

Now, something that started as just a few thousand students from 300 campuses has grown into a nation-wide outpouring of love and action. The Pro-life Day of Silent Solidarity is on its fourth year and there are tens of thousands of people on thousands of campuses around the world.

Hearts are being changed, babies are being saved, and women are being spared the trauma of post-abortive pain. People are coming together in unity to promote a culture of life. Personhood is being restored on campuses across the nation.

I really cannot take any credit for the success of this movement. It is only God who grants us the power to do this. I was one person who listened to God and through Him acted on the vision He gave me.

If you have an idea, a vision or dream, don't be afraid to stand up and let your voice be heard. Don't doubt what you can accomplish with Christ. Don't think that because you are just one person you can't make a difference.

"I have a dream"— a statement powerfully spoken by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and yet so much more than just words. He did not cower in the face of adversity. He spoke those words with passion and conviction. He challenged the world to stand up for the rights and equality of all men.

I, too, have a dream. I, too, will not cower in the face of adversity. I believe that, through Christ, we can restore personhood to the most innocent of our brothers and sisters: the children in the womb.

Today, 4000 of my generation will be silenced.

Today, 4000 of my brothers and sisters lives will be ended simply because of their age.

Today, I will stand up and share my dream, my idea, and my vision with the world.

Will you stand with me?

For Christ I stand,

Bryan Kemper - bryankemper@standtrue.com

Founder - Pro-life Day of Silent Solidarity
Change email address / Leave mailing list
Hosting by YourMailingListProvider

'Rents...Can't Live With Them? Can't Live Without Them!

2008-10-20T07:29:00.000-07:00

If you are joining me today after reading my post on RadRevolution, welcome! If you would like to read the devo, just click here.

So, let's just admit it. This stage of live is way hard! You want to make your own decisions; do your own thing, yet you don't have what it takes to do that. You still need your parent's home, car, food, you know, the basics. Hopefully, you also want more than that. Hopefully, you also want to get along with your parents and enjoy these last few years you have together before you are on your own!

Let me take a couple of moments, as the mom on the other side with three teenagers to give you some pointers on what goes a long way with me. Maybe you will find some similarities that will help you in your relationships as well.

1) Be respectful.
My kids and I cut up all the time. I try to understand their language, what they find is funny and even am the brunt of their teasing now and then. It is important to me, though, that they know where I draw the line. One line, for instance, is in correcting me. I don't mind if my child shares with me something she sees is wrong, as long as it is done with respect and not in front of others!

2) Be real.
Perfection is above us all and it is definitely above me and my family. Mistakes and bad choices are bound to happen; we're human. Just tell the truth when it does and then we can all go from there.

3) Be relational.
I get that my kids have friends. They have plans and stuff they need to do like homework, sports and jobs, but when they are home, I want to spend time with them, too. When I ask them how their day is, I would like to hear more than a grunt! When you have some time, step out of your world and step into your parents for a few minutes and talk about your day. It doesn't have to be deep (at least not at first if you don't want), just start talking. I think you will find this will go a long way toward developing a better relationship.

I hope these ideas help! I would LOVE to hear some more from you. Would you take a minute, click comments below and tell me what you do to try to get along with your family better? Thanks! I can't wait to hear from you!

Motel 6 - Just Passing Through

2008-10-06T07:38:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago, I took a plane trip. Shortly after I got on the plane, I settled in. I hung up my curtains, put up my family picture, rolled out a rug, plugged in my tv, computer and phone and hung up my clothes. Ridiculous hun?

I was thinking this morning as I was preparing to speak at a teen event in a couple of weeks, that this is exactly what lots of us are doing in this life. We are "settling" in on this planet as if this is our final destination. Our daily routines reflect this. The amount of time we spend watching TV and on the computer reflects this. Our plans for the weekend reflect this. But if we truly believe that heaven is our home, than this place really needs to be seen as the temporary passage that it is.

Greg and I have carpet in our upstairs that is 12 years old. As you can imagine, with 3 kids growing up here and countless others who have called it "home" over the years, it is one sorry sight. We have had plans to replace this fall, but are rethinking those plans. In the long run, is it really very important? Sometimes, I really need to take a step back and ask myself that question. In light of eternity, who really cares if my carpet is worn out?

Today, let's look at our lives and ask ourselves: Does my life reflect the fact that I am just passing through? If not, Lord, show me today how you want me to change and then give me the strength to store up my treasures in heaven and not here on earth. What can you do today that will impact eternity? Ask the Lord for an idea - He is sure to have plenty!

Who Are We Up Against?

2008-09-23T07:32:00.000-07:00

Hey girls,
Here is our new verse for this week.

"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers and this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." Ephesians 6:12

Sunday night I went to a meeting for new students in our church's youth group. The leader made this statement "Hurt people hurt people, healthy people heal people". Wow. It has been two days and I keep thinking on that nugget of truth.

So many times when I have been hurt by someone, I have made it all about me. What did I do? Why did they do that to me? I didn't deserve that. This statement turns all of that around. Instead it becomes: What is going on in them? Why did they feel the need to do that? Why are they hurting

Last week, my friend Zoe said it was her goal in life to become a Q-tip. Quit Taking It Personal. More great advice.

This week you will have opportunities. Opportunities to look at someone who is hurting and decide to be part of their healing process or decide to become another person on their list of people they have offended. Take His road. Embrace that person and become a healer!

Run With Me

2008-09-16T13:16:00.000-07:00

I can’t believe I did it. Somehow, I committed myself to running a half marathon with some friends. That’s 13.1 miles! How did I get myself into this? It is true that I enjoy running, but this is taking it all a bit far. See, for someone like myself who easily becomes bored with exercising, this is big!

Over the years, I have discovered something about myself that I am not too proud of. I am not highly motivated. When I run, if I am running alone, I stop to walk up the hills, but when I am running with a friend, I keep going. In fact, just this week I ran 8 miles without stopping! All because I had someone who ran with me.

My running habits look a lot like my faith habits. Ecclesiates 4:9 - 12 says it all: "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall (or want to quit like me!), one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone with he falls, for he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. and a threefold cord is not quickly broken." (NKJV)

I need friends. I need ones who will come along side of me and encourage me to pursue Jesus. I need ones who will be honest with me and push me to grow.
Maybe you too are like me. You also need a friend to come along side of you to encourage you to keep going; to push yourself up that spiritual hill and become stronger. If you already have that friend, let them know that you are counting on them to support you in this race you are running. If you don’t, ask the Lord to bring you a friend that will not only encourage you, but that you can encourage in return. You just might be the answer to someone’s prayer today.

My Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, Thank you for always being beside as I run this race called life. Please help me to find another friend who will not only run along with me, but one that I can encourage as well. In Jesus’ Name. Amen

Think About It:

Do I tend to want to give up in my run with Jesus when I hit a hill or am I the type who digs in and pushes on?

Do I have a friend in my life already that I need to be encouraging, even when it might feel a little weird to talk about our faith? Do I need to pray for a new friend?

How about my parents? Consider sharing with them that you need a little support to keep heading up the hills in your life.

Live It:

What are some practical ways that you can encourage your friends? Try one of the following:

· Invite them to a Christian club at school or your youth group.
· Ask them how you can pray for them.
· Memorize a verse together that talks about something you are both struggling with.
· Pray together for some mutual friends who need to know Jesus

Power Verses:

2 Timothy 4:6 & 7 The Message “You take over. I’m about to die, my life an offering on God’s altar. This is the only race worth running. I’ve run hard right to the finish, believed all the way!”

Hebrews 12:1 – 3 The Message “Do you see what this means – all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running – and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed – that exhilarating finish in and with God – he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside of God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!”

Philippians 3: 14 The Message “Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward – to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.”

Truth Will Set Us Free

2008-09-12T13:24:00.000-07:00

Since our new group started a terrific book called Lies Young Women Believe and The Truth That Sets Them Free, I thought we would memorize a verse this week that will help us to remember what our goal is: to walk freely with Jesus!

It is John 8:32 "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free!" These words came directly from Jesus.

If you find after a couple of days that you already know this one, just comment below and I'll post another!

Give Them a Try

2008-09-05T06:10:00.000-07:00

“For if they fall, one will lift up his companion, but woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.” Ecclesiastes 4:10 (NKJV)

I read an interview with a seventeen year old girl that blew me away. She talked about how badly she wanted her parents to know what was going on in her life: who she was dating, how far they had gone, how he treated and the mean things he said to her. She didn’t tell them though. She was afraid; afraid of how they would react.

As a parent, this crushed my heart. I want my kids to be able to tell me the things in life that they are struggling hard with. I want them to know that they are not alone. I want to be able to pray for her, love her and hold her when she needs it, but the only way I can do that for her is if she is honest with me.

Honesty; that is a tough one. If we are not honest, though, how can someone support us when we need it? How can someone help us to avoid trouble?

The Lord has given us parents to be these exact people; people who can help us up when we fall. People who will love us even when we find it hard to love ourselves. People who believe in us.

Give your parents a try. Ask them to not freak out; to just listen to you. If you give them a chance, you may find your parent to be just the type of friend you need!

My Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, Thank you for the whole plan you had of parents; what a great idea. Help me to be able to trust my parents. Show me how I can develop a better relationship with them and find that extra bit of help I need in life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”

Think About It:

Do I trust my parents with my really personal stuff?

Why do I withhold information from my parents?

Do my parents have the wisdom I might need for exactly where I am at right now?
Live It:

Figure out a time when you can get one-on-one with one or both of your parents. Try a walk at the park or dinner out. Begin to share some things with your parents and see how they handle it. You can start small; just be sure to start!

Pray and ask the Lord to help you to build a trusting relationship with your parents where you trust them and they trust you.

If you don’t have a parent who is a believer, look for another adult who loves the Lord and start building a great relationship with them.

Power Verses:

Ecclesiastes 4:9, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.” (NKJV)

Ecclesiastes 4:12 “Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” (NKJV)

Psalm 51:6 “Behold, You desire truth in the inward parts, and in the hidden part You will make me to know wisdom.” (NKJV)

Who? Me?

2008-08-29T06:16:00.000-07:00

I had a friend ask me a question last night...why do people always blame others? It is really causing problems in my family! Good question....

I started thinking about that this morning...why do I blame shift? It is a perpetual temptation for me, I admit. I HATE blowing it; let alone admitting I have done it. Last week, I had over 40 people in my house three days in a row. Fun, but crazy! My mind was constantly in a whirlwind. In the middle of day 2, I headed out the door and decided to take my husband's new car. I approached a stop sign, with my head definately several miles down the road. The Altima in front of me stopped and then began a right turn. I, not driving defensively, assumed she did indeed turn. So I looked left - clear - and then began to turn right. Low and behold - she didn't turn. So - again let me state - in my husband's new car that he has waited for over two years to buy - I HIT HER! Oh my gosh! Immediately, my mind said "It's not my fault. She pulled out - she should have turned". Fortunately, it was a small bump and no damage was done. But OF COURSE when it came time to retell the story to my husband, it was her fault.

So, why do I do it? Why do I blame others instead of just saying, "Greg, I blew it. I was busy thinking of all of the stuff I had to do today and instead of rechecking, I pulled out and hit her". I can guarantee you that is not how I told the story to my husband.

Reason #1) Fear

If the accident wasn't my fault, you can't get mad at me right? I have asked my children before, "Why don't you just tell me the truth when you mess up? I won't get so mad at you if you just tell me the truth?" Because you get mad at us is their answer....sounds very familiar. I guess you would call that learned behavior. The Bible calls it fear of man. Peter gives us a pretty big hint on how to handle this situation in our life in Acts 5:29 "We ought to obey God rather than men." When we fear the reaction of people more than we fear the reaction of God - we end up sinning. Rather to be honest with people and call it like it is than to deceive and disobey God.

Reason #2) Pride

Yes...like every other person on the planet, I hate to mess up and admit it because I hate to mess up and admit it! If I want to figure out what God thinks of this issue in my life, all I have to do is read Proverbs. Every other verse deals with this really gross sin. Jesus himself tells us how to defeat this one, "Whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:4.

Reason #3) Laziness

I know you are probably thinking...what? That doesn't have anything to do with blame shifting. Well, it does for me. See, if I admit that I forgot to put chlorine in the pool and it turned green, than that means I am responsible to get it back to blue again....but, if the temperatures just got too high and there seemed to be an inbalance in the pool chemicals, then Greg will probably fix it. See? Yep...this is another struggle for me and one I would just soon not admit. I sometimes pile so much on my plate and then there is that very real problem with procrastination that I have to deal so sometimes blame shifting seems to be a very easy solution (again - laziness even comes out when I blame shift. UGH!!!)

So once again, I head back to the cross. It sure is a good thing He is so full of grace. I know that looking at this again today has reminded me to humble myself, tell it like it is and deal with it. Life will be more peaceful and my Love will look down on me and smile at my reflection of Him.

To Wait or Not To Wait....The Banana Blunder

2008-08-04T05:42:00.000-07:00

Psalm 27:14, “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” (NIV)

Willing to do anything to give my daily ritual of a chocolate breakfast drink a shake up, I grabbed one of the new bananas next to the blender this morning. Ok, so they were a little green at the top, but the rest of the banana was golden and ripe. Immediately after breaking off the top, I knew I was heading in the wrong direction. You know that resistance you get when you start to pull back the banana peel and part of it clings to the fruit? Well, I ignored that warning, threw the hard banana into the blender and hit the liquefy button. I anticipated a great new taste as I watched the yummy chocolate and banana swirl.

Wow...were my taste buds in for a BIG disappointment. Yuck! It tasted chalky, a little bitter and pasty. Even after that initial swallow, I continued to gulp down my breakfast. I couldn’t quit now - I had already mixed it together. Of course, an hour later I totally regretted my decision. My stomach wanted to remove that banana! How I wished I had waited one more day to eat the banana. One more day would have made all the difference between gross and great!

Do you ever feel like your life has been a series of short stories on waiting? Waiting to get to high school. Waiting to get out of high school. Waiting for your driver’s license. Waiting for a car. Waiting to start dating. Waiting for a date. I don't know about you, but sometimes while in the middle of waiting, it seems like some of my deepest dreams and desires will never come to pass or I feel that God has forgotten about them.

Now, I am starting to see life in a new light. I see that sometimes I have actually made choices to wait; waiting for the Lord to do His thing in His time. This waiting has been good and has led to many blessings, like waiting to give away my virginity until I got married. Don't get me wrong; there have definitely been those times when I didn't wait. For example, I didn’t wait to buy a car that really was reliable; instead I just bought what I could afford. Hopefully, as I grow though, I will see the true benefits of waiting for the Lord and those times of getting ahead of God will be less frequent.

My Prayer for Today:

Dear Lord, Please help me to be patient when you call me to wait. Sometimes, it is so hard, Lord. Help me to trust You, knowing that every time You will do exactly what is best for me and what will glorify You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Related Resources:

A Young Woman’s Walk with God, by Elizabeth George

Think About It:

Do I struggle to wait?

Do I often feel like the Lord is late or wonder where He is when things don’t seem to be going right?

What can I do to encourage myself and wait on the Lord instead of getting ahead of Him?

Live It:

Grab your journal and write out the things you struggle with the most when it comes to waiting on the Lord.

Share your struggle with your parent or a good friend and ask them to pray for you.

Commit to the Lord that the next time the issue of waiting comes up, you will ask Him for strength to wait.

Power Verses:

Romans 8:25, "But if we hope for what we do not see, then we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.” (NKJV)

Psalm 25: 4-5, "Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long." (NIV)

Ecclesiastes 3:1, "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven..." (NKJV)

© 2008 by Lynn Cowell. All rights reserved.

Labels: deeper faith, radical faith, radical purity