May 25, 2011

Has God Forgotten About Me?

Waiting on God is difficult. At any given moment, most of us are waiting on something. Some of us are waiting for that right person to marry. Some are waiting to have a child. Many wait for a reconciled relationship with a family member, healing from disease, or relief from financial burdens. I have friends waiting on God to lead them in the right career direction.

During the wait, it’s tempting to think God has forgotten about us. Do you worry God won’t come through for you? At times, I struggle with apprehensions. I fear God won’t meet the desires of my heart. I fear God will forget about me.

At times like these, I often think about Abraham and Sarah. They desperately wanted to have children. Actually, God promised this couple their offspring would be numerous (see Genesis 15:5). Yet they waited and waited—for years. And still, they had no children.

Abraham and Sarah waited a long time for God to fulfill his promises. And then:

Now the Lord was gracious to Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did for Sarah what he had promised. Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him. Genesis 21: 1–2 (NIV)

From the beginning of time, God’s plan included the birth of their son. The end of their story was never in doubt. Neither is the end of your story—it’s part of God’s sovereign plan. Sarah and Abraham had doubts along the way. They believed they were too old to be used by God. Sarah believed God had forgotten about her.

Even in the midst of our doubt, God does not forget his children. The Bible tells us that Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sarah, was born “at the very time God had promised him.” God’s timing is perfect. We just have to be willing to wait for it. I’m not saying it will always work out the way we want. His plans may not match our plans. Our desired result may not always be the same as God’s perfect plan.

Yet God loves us more than we can imagine. In that infinite love, he created a plan for each of us. Today, let’s trust that God will show up.

Believe that with God, anything is possible. Because…

He is trustworthy.

He will fight for you.

He will not forget you.

Copyright Allison @ Anointed With Grace, 2011

Photo courtesy of: stock.xchng

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Filed under Faith, God, Singleness, Waiting

May 17, 2011

The Best Advice My Grandfather Never Spoke

Nandy during his Army days

Today, my grandfather turns 90 years old! When I was little, I couldn’t pronounce “Granddaddy.” Instead, it came out Nandy, and it stuck. My Nandy calls me his blue-eyed girl. Everyone else in my immediate family has brown eyes, so I get my blue eyes from him. It’s our special bond.

Nandy is a little unsteady on his feet these days, but he’ll tell you a story about something that happened 65 years ago (or yesterday) in perfect detail. He doesn’t say much. When he does speak, I’ve learned to listen because it’s important. I’ve also learned not to interrupt him. A pause doesn’t mean he’s finished. If you interrupt him, you might miss the best part of the story.

He is not the kind of man to brag or pat himself on the back. Actually, I’ve never heard him talk about himself at all. Unless we’re begging him to tell stories from his younger days. About 8 years ago, our hometown church named Nandy as an honorary deacon. At the ceremony, I heard things I already knew—about his decades of service as a Sunday School teacher and deacon at the church. But I was surprised to learn something I never knew. For years, Nandy led a weekly Bible Study at the county jail for the inmates there. In his typical humble manner, he extended his faith beyond the walls of the church.

During that ceremony honoring my grandfather, I decided something. I want to marry a man whose actions are greater than his words. Nandy rarely talks about his faith in Jesus, but he lives it out every single day. He seldom says much about love, but I’ve never doubted his love for me or our family. Many people talk about love and faith. But it’s rare to find someone quietly and simply acting them out every single day.

Nandy also lives out his love for my grandmother every day. He now does all of the cooking and household chores. He takes care of her basic needs. Recently, she had a short stay in the nursing home. He visited her every day and couldn’t wait to bring her back home. Even though it meant more work for him.

I’m still looking for the man I will marry. Although Nandy and I have never spoken about the topic, his living example serves as the best advice on relationships:

Actions speak louder than words. Love is a verb. Faith is alive.

I’ll keep looking, Nandy. I’ve met a lot of big talkers, but I’ll wait to find the one who simply lives out love and faith every day. Just like you.

Nandy, I love you. Happy 90th Birthday!

Love,
Your Blue-Eyed Girl

6 Comments

Filed under Faith, Family, Photos

May 13, 2011

My Mount Hermon Experience – Part 2

Earlier this week, I posted the first two things I enjoyed about the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference I attended in April. Today, I am sharing the third part of my experience.

  • God Moments

God meets me at Mount Hermon—in many ways that have little to do with writing. I met so many new friends this year at the conference and saw many familiar faces from two years ago. God specifically placed people in my path to encourage me. There is no other explanation. For example, every time I turned around, Carrie or Judy gave me a hug and built me up with their encouraging words. Why? I had never met either of them before the conference—yet they became my biggest cheerleaders. God knew I needed that lift because I can be so hard on myself. This type of conference brings out my insecurities and my need to prove my value. But God protected me from myself. And reminded me that my worth is found in him, not my publishing credits.

**Thanks to Carrie and Judy and so many others for loving on me and letting God use you.

Also, today is an anniversary of sorts for me. Ten years ago today on May 13, 2001, I was involved in a terrible car accident. Although it’s not an event I particularly like to remember, I still think about it every May. It happened on a Sunday evening here in Nashville as I returned from spending Mother’s Day with my family. I was the only one injured in the accident. Most people who saw the wreckage of the car couldn’t believe I walked away relatively unharmed. I spent a night in the ER and had a lot of stitches in my arm and head, but nothing that wouldn’t heal with time. Since that day, I have never doubted that God has a purpose for my life. I know that he’s keeping me here for a reason.

At Mount Hermon this year, our keynote speaker was Bill Myers. During his nightly messages, Bill talked about saying yes to God. Bill said, “You only have one life—why waste it doing it your way?” And I completely agree. He went on to say that you don’t have to be smart or creative or even a “good Christian.” You just have to be willing to say yes to God.

I could have walked away from that accident ten years ago and thought, “Whew, what a lucky break that I’m okay.” But I know luck had nothing to do with it. God is in control. He holds all our moments and knows the number of our days here on earth. Since that accident, I have made a conscious effort to say yes to God. Every day, I have a choice. I can choose my plan or his. Ten years later, I’m still thankful for every moment God gives me. And I’m still learning how to say yes to him every day.

What does this look like for you? How are you saying yes to God today?


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Filed under Friendship, God, Travel, Writing

May 10, 2011

My Mount Hermon Experience – Part 1

Last month, I attended the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference in northern California. Mount Hermon is a special place for me. Both times I’ve attended this writer’s conference, I strongly felt God’s presence. It’s hard for me to describe what Mount Hermon means to me. There are so many good things wrapped into 5 days. Sometimes it’s hard to distinguish what I learn about writing from what I learn about life.

During my business career, I attended so many corporate conferences and conventions. I spoke at many of them. Looking back, these events drained me. I poured energy into them and got nothing in return. Sure, I was satisfied because I fulfilled my commitment, but that was it. I think that’s why the experience at Mount Hermon is so special to me. Yes, it is exhausting. I have to put on my extrovert hat for 12-14 hours per day for 5 days. It’s a roller coaster of emotions with ups and downs. But it energizes me. The experience gives me back as much as I give to it. I think that’s how you know when you’ve found your passion.

The conference this year was meaningful to me in many ways, but I’ve managed to summarize my experience into three main areas. Since this post keeps getting longer and longer, I’m only going to share the first two with you today (you’re welcome!):

  • The Business of Writing

Although the dress code is casual and the atmosphere is spiritual, business takes place at Mount Hermon. I enjoy learning about the business side of writing. I had the opportunity to meet editors from publishing houses, agents, and other freelance writers. As a newbie my first year at Mount Hermon, this aspect of the conference overwhelmed me. I was better prepared this year, and I used the opportunity to learn as much as possible and meet as many people as possible. I enjoyed getting feedback on my current book project. I came away from these discussions with a better idea of where I need to take the project and my ministry.

  • Learning about Writing

I learn in leaps and bounds at Mount Hermon. The classes and workshops are amazing and full of advice and tips for better writing. Learning about the craft of writing is a continual process. I always come away from this conference as a better and more knowledgeable writer. I can see the growth in my writing skills and knowledge of the industry that’s directly related to attending classes at Mount Hermon.

What’s the third thing I love about Mount Hermon? It deserves a post all its own. Check back on Friday for Part 2 of My Mount Hermon Experience.

Also, did you notice the bloggy makeover? Let me know what you think about the new blog design. (If you’re using a Reader, click over to see the new layout.) Do you like it better? I think it’s cleaner and easier to read, but I would love to hear your feedback! Leave a comment and let me know…

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Filed under Travel, Writing

May 2, 2011

A Different Reason to Celebrate: My Thoughts on Bin Laden’s Death

Watching all of the celebrations tonight about the death of the man named Osama Bin Laden, I had a strange thought. What if you died, arrived in heaven, and then saw Osama Bin Laden there?

Osama Bin Laden was a sinner. I am a sinner. In terms of what we both deserve, the punishment is the same.

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 (NIV)

I have trusted Jesus Christ as my Savior. Thus, in an act of unimaginable grace, his death on the cross gets applied to my debt. I am forgiven for my sins and receive eternal life.

Jesus also died on that cross for the sins of Osama Bin Laden. As far as we know (which is not very far), Osama Bin Laden never accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. However, if he did so before his death—truly repented, confessed, and believed on the Lord Jesus Christ—he would also receive eternal life (see John 3:16).

How many of us could accept living next door to Osama Bin Laden in our eternal home? I’m not saying it’s likely, but it’s possible. The love and forgiveness of Jesus is that wide. There will be murderers in heaven. There will be rapists in heaven. All of those who have accepted the gift of redemption and enter into a relationship with Jesus Christ will be in heaven—regardless of their actions. The actions that we consider “big” sins, God just considers sin. Jesus died for all sin, not only what we deem big sin.

I realize this post probably won’t be popular. It’s more fun to celebrate and feel avenged for the horrible tragedy that took place on September 11, 2001. I’m not trying to make a political statement. Nor do I want to minimize the terror that we all felt in 2001. I’m also not saying that Osama Bin Laden received Jesus Christ as his Savior; it’s extremely unlikely given what we know about his belief system.

But if Osama Bin Laden spends eternity in hell, it won’t be because his sins were worse than mine—it will be because he didn’t accept the free gift of salvation offered by Jesus Christ.

Scandalous? Yes, the depth of the grace and love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ is that scandalous. No one is beyond the reach of his redemption.

And that is something to celebrate.

But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 (NIV)

**If you want to learn more about faith in Jesus Christ and eternal life, please click here.


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Filed under Faith, God

April 20, 2011

Giveaway Results

Hello from the West Coast where I just attended the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference! I’m still processing the wonderful experience of the past few days, but I wanted to post the DaySpring giveaway winner. As mentioned in last week’s post, the winner will receive this pair of earrings from the By Grace Alone jewelry set.

Using Random Picker, the winner chosen is…

Comment #6 by Tamarri:

“Amazing grace, how sweet the sound! If not for GOD’s grace, where would I be??? To be honest, I don’t really put too much into holidays. Don’t get me wrong, they are a ton of fun and it’s nice to get together with loved ones and celebrate the special occasions we hold so dear to our heart. But I am reminded of what JESUS did for me everyday. When I think about where I could have been this very day, the thought of GOD’s grace penetrates my heart deeply! So for me and my family, everyday is CHRISTmas and everyday is EASTER. We are so thankful. This Easter we will do what we do daily; thank GOD for HIS grace, mercy and everlasting love! We will seek HIM as always and hope to experience HIM more than the day before…”

Congratulations, Tamarri! And I agree with you—if not for God’s grace, where would we be? It’s all about him. I have contacted you by email to get your mailing address.

Thanks to everyone for participating. I hope to have more giveaways soon. And I’ll be sharing more about the writers conference in future posts!

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April 12, 2011

By Grace Alone — Review and Giveaway

By the grace of God, I am what I am. 1 Corinthians 15:10

This beautiful verse is printed on the back of the necklace in the By Grace Alone Jewelry Set sent to me by DaySpring and (in)courage.

Isn’t the whole set beautiful? It includes the necklace, a cuff bracelet, and drop earrings. You can buy the set at DaySpring here, and it’s currently on sale. Or if you prefer, it’s also sold by individual piece. While you’re there, check out their other great products (hint: think Easter gifts!)

I love the theme of the jewelry: “By Grace Alone.” As you know, I write about grace a lot on this blog. It’s so meaningful for me to have this jewelry—especially during this Easter season—to remind me of God’s grace. It’s by grace alone that we live each day and we can be in a daily relationship with Jesus. Sometimes I need to be reminded that it’s not about me. I am held by God solely because of his grace.

I wore the necklace this weekend and received so many compliments. And I have great news for you . . . my ears aren’t pierced. I know, it’s crazy. But there was an episode when I was 10 years old that involved doctors and infection. Anyway, why is this great news for you? Because I’m hosting my first giveaway here on Anointed With Grace! I’m giving away the earrings from this jewelry set to one person who comments on this post.

To enter the giveaway for a chance to win the beautiful earrings above, please leave a comment on this post and include a favorite Easter memory (or your plans for Easter this year). The contest will remain open until next Tuesday, April 19, at noon CDT. I will use random number generator to pick the winner. Don’t forget to leave a valid email address so I can contact you.

I can’t wait to read all of your comments!

Edited to Add: If you decide to shop at DaySpring, use this link and enter the coupon code to receive free shipping on purchases over $25: Receive free shipping on $25+ order. Coupon code: shipping25 through 06/09/2011

Disclosure: I was provided this jewelry free of charge to review by DaySpring. I am also an affiliate of DaySpring. I was not compensated in any other way for the review, and all opinions expressed in this post are fully my own.

11 Comments

Filed under Extending Grace, Holidays, Recommendations

March 22, 2011

Some New Favorites

Painting by Alex at The Spirit Orchard

Lately, the blog has been filled with my thoughts on some fairly serious topics. Although I’m quite introspective and enjoy writing about my faith journey, I also want to have some lighter posts in the mix as well!

So today, I want to share with you some of my favorite new finds.

Cooking Blogs

I recently stumbled upon two fabulous blogs about food and cooking. I love to find and try out new recipes. These two blogs make me so happy:

The Food Gospel According to Ruth:

Ruth shares her detailed recipes with photos, which makes it so much more fun. She often includes family recipes, and many of her dishes are reminiscent of my childhood. I made this dish over the weekend, and it was so yummy!

Miranda’s Untamed Kitchen:

Miranda posts gluten-free recipes that are actually good. I am not 100% gluten-free, but I try to reduce my intake whenever possible. This hummus recipe is my new favorite! And she’s promising that tikka masala recipe soon…

Baby Gifts and Art

A friend in Alabama recently started an Etsy business, and I love her products! Alex is a mom to three beautiful children, a talented artist, and she also makes these amazing knitted pea pods for infants…


How adorable! I love the pea pods and hats and diaper covers…such great gift ideas.

Alex sells her original art (see photo at the top of this post — also amazing!) and handmade products at The Spirit Orchard. Click the link to check out her other products.

Twitter

My last new favorite thing…Twitter. Yes, I realize I’m about 4 years behind, but–after years of resistance–I finally joined. And I’m actually enjoying it (much more than facebook). You can follow me @allisonkflex.

Have a great week! If you have any new favorite things, please share them in the comments.

(Disclaimer: These are some of my personal favorite things. No one asked me to post these links and I will receive nothing in exchange for posting these recommendations.)

1 Comment

Filed under Random, Recommendations

March 14, 2011

Just Believe – Part 2

“Everything will work out in the end. If it’s not working out, it’s not the end.”
(From Fearless by Max Lucado)

Remember this post? When I wrote that post, I was experiencing a difficult time. Each moment, I had to remind myself to believe. There are times when believing God will show up is as easy as breathing. Other times, it’s a struggle. It’s not that I ever stop believing there is a God. I just start relying on my current feelings and circumstances instead of God’s plan for my life. I wonder whether he is really driving this crazy bus or whether it’s skidding out of control.

One thing I have learned: feelings cannot always be trusted. I may not feel like believing every day. But I do it anyway. On those days, I ask God to please help me overcome my unbelief and hold on for dear life.

Right now, belief comes easily. Like breathing in and out. But unbelief still finds a way to creep in. It slides in undetected—disguised as anxiety or stress or panic.

Anxiety. Will I make the right decisions? Will I be able to fulfill what God is asking me to do?

Stress. Will I be able to meet my deadline? What if I don’t finish everything in time?

Panic. God, you are telling me to wait and trust, but the numbers in my bank account keep getting smaller and smaller. Are you sure about this?

Last week, I had the privilege of attending a Hillsong United concert. Although it was a concert, it felt more like worship. We had church in Birmingham, Alabama for three hours that night.

During the concert, I noticed two teenage boys in the section next to us. Hands raised, eyes closed—they were totally lost in a moment of pure worship. I remember those days. I remember being that carefree teenager. I didn’t care what anyone thought of me. I was totally sold out for God.

It’s a beautiful thing. Of course I would never do this, but part of me wanted to lean over and tell them something. Hold on. It’s not as easy as it all seems right now. You won’t always feel like worshiping. You won’t always feel like believing. It won’t all work out the way you think it will.

But I would also tell them…

In spite of your feelings,

When it’s difficult to see through the fog,

When you are afraid,

If your faith is being tested,

Just Believe.

God is still there. He is in control, no matter the circumstances. He is driving the bus. It just may be going a different direction than you planned. It’s okay—you can trust him with your past, your present and your future.

Freely you gave it all for us
Surrendered your life upon that cross
Great is your love
Poured out for all
This is our God.

(Hillsong – This Is Our God, By Composer/Lyricist: Reuben Morgan, Copyright 2008, EMI Christian Music Group)

(Photo and Post, Copyright Allison at Anointed With Grace, 2011)

6 Comments

Filed under Faith, God, Surviving the Dark Places, Who is God?

March 1, 2011

A Shield of Protection

A few weeks ago, I received a text from a friend describing some hurtful words spoken to her by a family member. The words were untrue and unreasonably harsh. I responded to her by saying:

I’m praying that Jesus will be a shield of protection for you in this moment—to stand guard between you and those words.

Once I sent the response, I continued to think about God as our shield. I wanted to research it further to see what the Bible says because it’s a powerful image.

I found that it’s a common theme throughout scripture…

After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.” Genesis 15:1 (NIV)

But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high. Psalm 3:3 (NIV)

My shield is God Most High, who saves the upright in heart. Psalm 7:10 (NIV)

As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him. Psalm 18:30 (NIV)

You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word. Psalm 119:114 (NIV)

In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Ephesians 6:16 (NIV)

(Many more similar references can be found here).

Could I lean on the protection of God more often to shield the lies that I allow to enter my mind? At times, I try to do it all by myself. I depend on my own strength to filter out hurtful words and destructive lies.

When I looked up the verb “shield” in the dictionary, I found this definition:

–to prevent harm or damage to somebody or something by using a physical barrier or by intervening in a protective way

We have the ultimate protector. He is standing right beside us saying:

You don’t have to do it all alone.

I understand your pain.

I am your refuge.

I am your shield.

Lord, I invite you to intervene in a protective way in my life. Be my refuge and my shield. Lift my head high. I want to seek your truth above all else. Let me rest in you—my shield and my salvation. Amen.


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Filed under Faith, Who is God?