The War Between Guilt & Grace

As a christian there is a constant battle raging before us. Guilt (the devil & our flesh) far too often tries to come in and erase the GRACE (God's awesomeness) that has been given to us. The devil will do anything to try and steal our joy, but the good news.....Grace WINS EVERY TIME! Next time words of doubt and guilt come creeping in remember this!

I cannot remember where I found these amazing words, but I have them posted by my computer so I can read them daily. I hope they can be an encouragement to you like they are to me!

Enjoy! :

"In the slow steady rhythm of life, the Spirit moves in and through, and all around to give me peace, hope, and joy. When I am close to God I am loved so deeply and intimately, that He and I are one and my soul is full.

In the fast, rushing rhythm of busy, my flesh moves in and controls, demands, manipulates all around to give me anxiety, fear, and frustration. When I am far from God I am lonely and isolated and my soul is empty.

Why would I ever choose to move at the pace of SELF versus the PACE of GRACE! The ace of grace is a place where I REPLACE all that is not HIM with all that IS HIM and I trace the joy and release the sad.

The pace of grace is a place where I can live, aide, and grow, where I am seen, known, and loved through the eyes of a HOLY GOD because of the blood of a PRECIOUS SAVIOR. In Him I can live in a pace of grace.

The pace of grace turns away from offenses and turns towards forgiveness. The FACE of GRACE is one of gentle, loving-kindness where nail-scarred hands hold tight and keep still the desire to rush and move towards the NOTHING that makes me think I am SOMETHING.

GRACE is all I have, all  I NEED, and all I must GIVE. I want to pour out grace like a waterfall, never ending, powerful, and strong. Grace is STRONG. Strong enough to beat down all sin, all pain, all shame. Grace ERASES and I am made CLEAN over and over and over again.

I want my words to ooze out grace with every syllable. phrase, and sentence. For wounded souls to find out that there is a God who's GRACE IS SUFFICIENT and whose POWER IS MADE PERFECT IN WEAKNESS.

Accepting grace means I am what I am and I will be what HE makes of me as I completely surrender to HIS EMBRACE.

THE EMBRACE OF GRACE IS THE PLACE OF SALVATION, REDEMPTION, AND ABUNDANT LIFE. "

Rest is that my friends! We serve a MIGHTY GOD!

God Bless, 

-Haleigh

God's Work Lately

Do you ever get lost in all of the distractions of the world that you loose focus on God's calling in your life? I am totally guilty over here! I have been praying for wisdom a lot lately because I have felt that fog (remember?) creeping in. Well God decided to use today to be an "eye opener" for me.

My day started as usual...bible, prayer, coffee, scramble to get me & my child ready and out of the door. We always have our morning prayer time on the way to daycare, and recently, now that Micheal is older, I have been asking him what he would like to pray for. Well this morning it was the sky, our house, green grass, and balls (of coarse, typical boy!). We started thanking God for the sky, the sun that brings light, and the beautiful reminders of God's glory. We fallowed by thanking Him for the green grass that feeds animals so we can have good meat and veggies to eat. And we thanked him for our home, and asked for protection to cover our home, and love, contentment and joy to flood the inside. The entire time we were praying for these few request from a toddler I was so quickly reminded of how MUCH I take things for granite every.single.day. I get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life that I forget to really "stop and smell the roses". God has given us a beautiful creation to enjoy. We don't need all of the new latest and greatest things in life, all we NEED is God. When we truly seek Him out and rest in His presence we have ALL we could ever need.

But God wasn't done there. My very first patient of the day has been suffering from cancer. You wouldn't dare know it though because her and her husband always come in with a great attitude and a smile. We were getting ready to schedule her next appointment and she wanted first thing in the morning. She said " We will be up already anyways", so i casually asked if they were early birds. They both informed me that they wake up at 4:30 every morning to pray to God together and thank Him for all he does. They said it is the ONLY way to start your day. WOW. I was so amazed and inspired all at the same time. That good attitude and smile that they always have is God's awesome strength shining clearly through them. I love some good encouragement like that.

A little while after they left I was helping the receptionist check a patient out. It was a very sweet lady with a walker. As she smiled I could see joy shining through her eyes...It was almost as if they told a story of struggle that had overcome. I checked her out and told her that I hoped she had a good day. She quickly informed me that she learned a long time ago that every day is a good day. And she is so right! With God every day is a good day, because we can rest in Him and his glory (He's got this!).

God answered my prayer for wisdom in more than one way. I love days like today when I can go to bed feeling God's hand at work in my life. I am so thankful for the perspective change he gave me today and I pray that it continues to mold the way I look at things. I pray that I can slow down my pace in life and fully enjoy every blessing God has given me. I do not want to miss out on the beauty and joy God has given us because I am too wrapped up in the things of this world. I want to find the innocence of life again the way my child sees it. I want to find the glory of God through the trials and storms. I want to REALLY know that no matter what EVERY day is a good day, because Jesus is good. Always has been and always will be.

Will you join me? Lets put down our cell phones and pick up the bible instead. Lets go for a nice walk and grasp the awesomeness of God's creation. Lets slow down, spend more time in prayer, and thank God for all he has done. Lets experience life...TRUE LIFE that can only be found with God!

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.  So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." - 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

God Bless!

-Haleigh

To My Son on your Birthday

Side note: I try to make post more God centered than personal things, but on certain occasions like this I may post something special so one day my son can read this. :)

Well, sweet boy, today is your birthday. Two years ago today God gave me the most special birthday present I could ever ask for. That's right, we share a birthday! TWO...I can't believe its already been two sweet, crazy, messy, and beautiful years since you entered this world. It feels like just yesterday I was picking out nursery decor and hanging up tiny baby clothes. Now you are running rampant and showing your unique personality more every day.

You have a sweet & stubborn heart. Strong willed is a bit of an understatement (wonder where you get that from (;). You love giving kisses (especially eskimo kisses!) and telling us " I luff you". It melts my heart every time! You have a smile that can brighten anyone's day.

Dirt and anything with wheels is your all time favorite. You have a play room full of toys, but you would rather be outside making "pow pows" out of sticks and loading rocks in your "big ole truck". Dirt bikes...you caught a love for dirt bikes from the very first time you saw your "uncle Braddy" ride his. You can always find you with a dirt bike in hand. You ask us all the time to "watch dirt bike TV". Its the only time you actually sit still. You have a heart for animals of all kinds and you are a water baby FOR SURE. 

I would have to say your best buds are your monkey that you sleep with every night, our dog Achillies, and your cousin Rowan (Row-Row). You ask me just about everyday to see Row-Row...yall are about 6 months apart in age, and I can already tell yall are going to be a handful as yall get older!

You hardly ever meet a stranger, which can be good and bad. You have recently learned how to "wink" and it is so stinkin' adorable. Your big blue puppy dog eyes make me give in a lot, and we recently traded in your curly locks for a temporary mohawk...you still look adorable.

Your favorite songs are "Jesus Loves Me", "This little light of Mine", " My God is so Big", and "ABC song". You amaze me everyday with how smart you are. You recently told me that " Jesus is my fwend"...my heart melted. You love to count, say your colors & shapes, and TALK. You can be a little chatter box...It was super cute at first, and then you started giving your opinion lol. Typical toddler.

You can hammer down on some grub. You basically survive off of yogurt...you would eat a gallon a day if I let you. Your totally a meat guy like your daddy. I gave you  meal without meat the other day and you asked me " where did the chicken go". "Sketti" is still your favorite meal and you love your water and milk.

You are such a big helper. You love helping daddy and I do things. You especially love helping daddy...if daddy is doing it Michael is too (Your still a momma's boy though!)

You are mommy's heart and daddy's pride and joy. You have your grandparents and great-grands wrapped around your finger. You love your family and we spend A LOT of time with them. Our family is very important to us.

I love watching you grow into the boy that God has created you to be. I know that God has something totally awesome & special planned for your life because he has already used you for His glory in so many ways. I pray Proverbs 4:20-27 over you daily. My desire for your life is for you to give your heart to God at an early age, and stand firm in the faith. I pray that God surrounds you with Godly influences, and guides you to be a strong man for His glory. I am so thankful for your life and the joy it has brought. It's crazy how a little person can teach a momma so much. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH BUDDY, HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY!

" Every good and perfect gift comes from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." -James 1:17

Separating God's Truths from Our Emotions

Emotions. We all have them. I sometimes feel like my emotions are a nasty tornado spiraling up and down, and I am the eye of it all....stuck right in the middle.

You see emotions are a very good thing. They allow us to feel love, joy, peace, and happiness. It's only when we let those emotions of worry, stress, anxiety, sadness, loneliness ect. creep in and bog us down that our emotions can become less of a blessing and more of a curse.

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your crazy emotions seem overwhelming and your not sure how to deal? Well if your married or a mom I can almost assure that you have. Whats the cure? Separating God's TRUTHS from our crazy emotions.

This is totally something that God has been teaching me over the past few weeks. If you are going through a storm season in life don't let that tornado of emotions take you down...instead attack that tornado with the word of God. We do not have to be trapped by our emotions. Just like we should take every thought captive and make it obedient to God, we also should take every emotion we are having and make it obedient to God. God doesn't want you to worry and stress. 

Do you have anxiety? He wants us to cast it on HIM  (1 Peter 5:7) because He cares for us.

Feeling scared or lonely? Deuteronomy 31:6 Tells us not to fear because God goes with us and NEVER leaves us. Sad? God will deliver you from that sadness (Psalms 34:18-19). He will sustain you (Psalms 55:22). Feeling helpless? He hears your cries (Psalms 34:17).  Maybe your just worn out. God will recover your life and give you rest (Matthew 11:28-30). Angry? God tells us to get rid of it (Ephesians 4:26-31).

God has given us emotions as a blessing. Do not let the devil creep in and whisper lies to you....that's the seed of those bad emotions. Fight those ugly feelings with the word of God. I encourage you to write these scriptures out and post them somewhere that you look often. When you feel that tornado stirring up stop it with God's truths. Pray for God's peace and ask him to cover your thoughts and emotions with the blood of Jesus Christ!

A sweet co-worker of mine texted me a prayer one morning. Little did she know how much I needed it that day. I was bogged down, stressed, and sad. After praying this prayer I felt God's total peace cover me ad sustain me throughout the rest of the day. Please pray this prayer when your emotions are trying to get the best of you and let God's peace that surpassing all understanding flow through.

Dear God, there is so much on my mind that I don't know what to do or where to even start. I need your help. Give me peace Lord. Help me to have wisdom to separate your truth from my emotions. Show me how to deal with these situations and comfort me. Help me to trust that you have a future planned for me...something even better than before. Heal my heart, and help me not let my emotions get the best of me.Your will be done. In Jesus name, AMEN.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."  -Philippians 4:6-7

God Bless,

Haleigh

Grace in a Dark World

All it takes is one look at the beginning of a check out line to realize that we are living in a very lost and dark world. Articles and pictures of people who are changing the way God designed them to be, and other articles bashing and condemning a bad choice once made by a young boy who has been freely forgiven by God. It's sad really, that people in this world would embrace a gender confused person wanting to change God's blueprint, but be so hateful and condemning of someone who has been changed (in heart, soul, and mind) by God, made clean, and set free. The world just cannot wrap their heads around the abundant GRACE of God.

As Christians we are told to be the salt of the earth. No christian, and no person for that matter, is perfect. We.are.all.messed.up.people. We all sin and fall short, but the difference is Christ. We can either accept Christ and his gift of mercy and grace, or we can bury ourselves in the lies and deceit of the devil and this world.

The controversy with the Duggar family has actually brought to light more so that their are so many lost people. As I listen to news stories arguments about this specific topic it really just amazes me that people honestly have no clue of what forgiveness in Christ really is. They don't understand how or why God would be so gracious to forgive and entirely blot out & make new a person who has committed such wrongful acts. Honestly I was once in that same boat. I could not fully grasp the fact that I had been forgiven and MADE NEW. I would condemn and bash myself for the things that I had done in my past. Even though God had already blotted out and forgiven me I was still wallowing in self shame.

How did I come to fully understand God's pure grace? Through a lot of prayer and through reading His word. I can see God now with a smirk shaking his head at me every time I would ask him to forgive me for the same thing He had already forgotten about. Isaiah 43:25 paints the picture perfectly:

"I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more." 

My sweet pastors wife a few weeks ago in sunday school said that it's not our job to condemn and hold people down in their sin ( thanks Debbie! (: ). This stuck in my heart and has been on my mind through the past few weeks. No it is not our job to shame and hold people captive for a sin that God Almighty has already erased. We shouldn't do this to others and we shouldn't do it to ourselves. We need to hold on to the grace that has been given and rest in it! Refreshing huh? ( anything with the word rest in it is refreshing..amen mommas?) 

 "But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it."- Ephesians 4:7

Lets be the salt of the earth Christians. Shine God's glory and grace in your life to all those who you come in contact with. Share your struggles and sins so that they may see the wonderful place God has brought you to. Point someone towards God's grace and give them encouraging verses that may help them understand the power in Christ we have to overcome sin. Be a blessing!!

" Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." -Romans 3:20-24

God Bless,

-Haleigh

God's Work Lately

My mom and I got to witness an incredible act of God this week. Let me set this story up for you...

My mom was driving me back from a doctors appointment and we were on what you could say was a rough dangerous side of town. We stopped at a red light where a tall thin man stood with nothing but a sign that read " hard times, even a smile will help". He was clearly in need. My mom and I both looked at each other and said " I wish we had something to give him". We were both cashless, without and food or drink to give, so I told mom " Let's just smile at him". We both beamed at him with a big heart felt smile, feeling terrible because we were sitting in an air condition car and far from being in need of anything. The man kindly smiled back and waved at us.

Just after the smile exchange we see this man walking up with a Wendy's bag and drink in hand. He came right up to the man greeted him with a smile, handed him his food, grabbed his hand and began PRAYING with him! My mom and I both looked at each other with teary eyes, and we were quickly reminded that there are still good people in this world...those people are the ones spreading the love of Jesus.

In a part of town were the last thing I expected to see happen, happened. That man planted a seed of God's love in the heart of a man who was in need. God knew exactly what that man needed that day..the hope only found in Christ...and Christ was delivered to him.

I was instantly convicted after seeing this wonderful act, because all along my mom and I did have something to give this man. We have the love of Christ in our hearts and THAT is the greatest gift we can EVER give someone. We are called to be God's hands and feet, and I am so thankful for the example this man set before us.

When you feel God nudging at your heart, step out of your comfort zone and ACT! I am pretty sure great things do not come from comfort (like child birth for example), but God will be there with you giving you the strength and exact words to say. He knows what that person needs to hear, and he will deliver it just as he did on this day! 

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace.

- 1 Peter 4:10

** The picture above is the ACTUAL men praying together! I had to snap a picture of God's handiwork! :) SO COOL**

God Bless,

Haleigh

Happy Mothers Day

{Photo by: Penni Lauren Photography}

Happy Mothers Day to all you mommy's out there!

Remember God has given us one of the MOST IMPORTANT jobs on this earth. No matter how joyful and messy motherhood may be God is always with us in each and every moment. He has given us these precious children to train up for his kingdom and glory. We have such an awesome and important responsibility and God's word is our " Guide for Motherhood". 

I hope no matter what your "mom label" may be today.. single mom, married mom, stressed mom, struggling mom, ect... that you know you are loved and cherished by God. He sees all that you do for your kids, and you are bringing him glory through it! Seek Him and teach your children to do the same.

Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them. 10 Remember the day you stood before the Lord your God at Horeb, when he said to me, “Assemble the people before me to hear my words so that they may learn to revere me as long as they live in the land and may teach them to their children.” -Deuteronomy 4:9-10

God Bless you Momma!
-Haleigh

Being Called to the Mission Field

What does your mission field look like? I would absolutely love to go to a mission field over seas one day. I think it would be such a great experience and eye opener. Although that is a dream I have, my mission field that God has called me too looks a little different than being overseas. My mission field is right here in my home...my mission field is my family!

I was reading a blog post my one of my favorite bloggers Lori Alexander. I love her heart for teaching younger women and the Godly wisdom she brings to the table. She was talking about unbelieving or disobedient husbands, and how by staying with them we are bringing Jesus into their lives. When we sanctify them and model God for them they become our mission field. That statement spoke boldly to my heart!

Some people may be called by God to travel the world and do missions, but maybe you are like me and God has called you to the mission field right.where.you.are. As a wife God has called you to sanctify your disobedient husband by extending love and grace (even when its tough very hard). As a mother you have been called to teach your children to love and serve God and others. As a friend you have been called to encourage, listen, love and pray.

Everyone who is a believer has a mission field that they have been called to. Not everyone's looks the same, but we have ALL been called for a purpose....and that purpose is to spread that love of Jesus Christ!

This is what my mission field looks like...

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." -Romans 8:28



Happy Saturday,
Haleigh

Small Reminders of God's Grace

Thus says the LORD:”The people who survived the sword found grace in the wilderness; when Israel sought for rest, the LORD appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you."- Jeremiah 31:2-3



I get a sweet glimpse of God's grace every single day when I look at my son. When he smiles, I see God's grace...When he gives me hugs and kisses, I see God's grace...when I get those sweet cuddles, I see God's grace.

You see, my son was conceived out of wedlock. Although his daddy and I are now married, and are living life together as a family, it doesn't always work out that way. By sharing this with you I am by no means condoning intimacy outside of the marriage bed. If I could go back and do it all over again I would have married my guy FIRST because that is what God asks of us. Intimacy is meant for the marriage bed ONLY, and now that I am on the other side of the fence I can assure you "it" is much more meaningful and totally worth waiting for!

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." -Romans 8:28

But even though satan tried using my sinful mistake for evil, God used it for good. God has used this entire situation to draw me closer to Him. During those 10 months of pregnancy God did His miracle work on my heart and transformed my mind and life. Even though I sinned, God has shown me GRACE. He pours grace into my life every single day. I didn't deserve a beautiful, healthy baby boy, but because God is a gracious God He blessed me with one. A simple laugh, smile, hug, or even a "trying 2's" tantrum reminds me just how gracious God has been to me.

He has turned my mess into a MESSAGE. And He will do the very same for you!

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:38-39

Maybe today you are reading this and are struggling with a totally different sin of your own. Give it to God and let him pour out His grace to you. There is absolutely NOTHING we can do that will ever separate us from the love that God has for us. Let Him glorify himself through our sins and our messes. Some of the greatest testimonies start with gigantic struggles and trials....but it's not what got us here with God that really matters, it's where we are going from here. Going forward. Choosing God. Clinging to His promises, and never turning back.

I am so thankful that God is faithful and gracious. I am thankful for this second chance at life that he has given me. I pray daily that God will help me train this child in the way that he should go (Proverbs 22:6), so that the life he leads will bring Him honor and glory!

Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. -2 Corinthians 12:8-9


God Bless, 
Haleigh

God's Work Lately

So I just got home from an AMAZING concert with Casting Crowns. Let me just tell you God's presence was ALL OVER that place! It was Mark Hall's (lead singer) first concert back since having surgery to remove a cancerous kidney, and God's light shined brightly through him. He spoke so much wisdom into my heart and really opened my eyes to a lot. It was great to sing praises to my mighty God with my hands lifted high (while standing barefoot on the chair :)....hey this southern girl was trying to get a little close to God lol).

Mark said quit a few things that really pulled my heart strings and got my gears working. He spoke about how our roots spring forth from digging deep into God's word and from our roots we bear fruit...and our fruit is what reaches out and shines light and blessings on those around us. He said that before really knowing Christ he just hung God's word and truth on him like ornaments on a tree...those "ornaments" that are hung can easily be knocked off. It's when we really plant our hearts (roots) in God's word that we actually produce fruit instead of just hanging it on ourselves as a decoration. Just like trees thrive with rain water, we need to drink from the LIVING WATER of God's word daily so that we may also thrive for Christ!

(I loved this beautiful illustration I found on Google.)

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5

Something else that spoke to my heart was the meaning behind his song "Broken Together". He used the verse 2 Corinthians 12:9 where it speaks about God's power being made perfect in our weakness, and how we should BOAST about our weakness. I am VERY guilty of trying to cover up the weak times I have had in my life. Partly because the person I used to be totally embarrassed me. I share with people that I feel led to share my testimony with, but there are a few parts I tend to leave out because I am totally ashamed. I know that with God's help and strength I WILL be able to forgive myself, get past my pride, and instead of hiding those weaknesses I will BOAST about them to bring his power and name glory. This is something I am praying hard about because I know that God is calling me to share my story (my WHOLE story) with others. I just need to remember WHO I am IN CHRIST, not who I was in this world.

"But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 12:9

Many Christians today do not boast about their weakness, instead we shove it in a closet and lock the door so no one can see. We are all living in a day and age were "having problems" is something that gets talked about, but in reality we.all.have.problems. No one is immune...problems are inevitable! Instead of acting lofty as though our life is grand we should share with others our brokenness. In showing others the broken areas in our life it gives God's power the opportunity to be made perfect through us. It shows others where our strength comes from and what the source of our daily survival is.

I will one day (maybe soon) share the totally amazing transformation that God has done in my heart, mind, and life. I am going to have to pray very hard about it so that God's power can be glorified through it, and so that I can make beautiful words explain the ugly mess my life was. Until then I need to go catch some zzzzz's because it is way past my bedtime. I just needed to share my heart with you guys tonight!

Goodnight & God Bless,

Haleigh

The Gift of New Life

Easter is a celebration of LIFE. A time to focus our hearts on the precious life that was given in order for us to gain a life worth living. I personally love the fact that Easter falls during spring time. A time when all dead flowers and trees bloom to a glorious and beautiful new life. Yes, the pollen and allergies that come with the territory is a bummer, but man what a great reminder of the restoration that can happen in us.

Before receiving Christ as our Lord and Savior we all lived a life that was full of darkness that our sin created. With the darkness came hopelessness and a soul that was dead. But because Christ died and rose again, we too can have the hope and promise of being raised from our deadened souls to live a fulfilling life in Jesus Christ. 

" And He said to all, " If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." -Luke 9:23

The best gift ever given in this world was God's precious Son. Galatians 2:20 tells us that we were crucified with Christ. We (our fleshly desires, thoughts, actions, and feelings) no longer live, but CHRIST lives in and through us. Christ took on the FULL wrath of God for you and I, and when He spoke "It is finished" ALL of our sins were taken with Him. When we ask Him to come into our hearts and we repent of our sins and put our full trust and faith in Him alone we become ALIVE as a brand.new.creation. Christ rose from the grave and now lives inside of you and I. If that doesn't fire you up then I think you wood must be wet :).

"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." -Galatians 2:20

"And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires." -Galatians 5:24

Since we are to be image bearers for Christ, we too must die to this world and to our sin so that we can be raised with Christ to live a new life. Living a new life in Christ means getting rid of our old ways, and training ourselves tor bring God Glory in all that we do. For me BIG changes had to be made. In my life B.C. this seemed impossible and I always wanted a change but never knew where or how to begin. Once excepting Christ into my heart He showed me the way. It was like He wiped out all prior desires or cravings that I had and set my heart and mind on a new track. I felt like a beautiful new butterfly coming out of its dingy old cocoon. GOD SHOWED ME THE WAY....all I had to do was follow. We must continue to follow Him each and every single day. We must lay down our life for Him, just as He did for us!

"What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it? Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. " -Romans 6:1-23

As we reflect and celebrate Easter I pray that lives and hearts will be transformed. Knowing that someone else who may be just as dead as I was can have the same hope and fulfillment that has been given to me makes my heart happy. God is the ultimate restorer. Just like he turns thunder storms into rainbows, he can turn your life into something beautiful!

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." -2 Corinthians 5:17

*** If you are interested in being given a new life in Christ, but aren't sure of the steps you need to take please contact me at Haleighperry22@gmail.com. I would love the show you the directions to an Almighty Savior.****

God Bless,

Haleigh

Forgiving Yourself Just as Christ Forgave You

" If anyone is in Christ, he is a NEW creation; The old has gone, and the new has come."

- 2 Corinthians 5:17

When I first laid my life down to Christ totally and completely I felt like a new creation....and I was! God has done a TREMENDOUS work in my life, and I am ever so thankful. But even though I knew I was forgiven through Christ for ALL the awful down right sinful things I have done in my life, I couldn't seem to forgive myself. I would replay in my head all of the darkest times in my life and would feel absolutely disgusted with myself. I knew God had made me a new creation because it was very evident in my life that I had done a major 360, but my thoughts would not let me live that freedom that I had been given. 

When God does His awesome work in your life (which is an everyday thing) the devil tries to creep in and take that joy that comes along with it. He will use any negative tactic he can to try and take your focus off God and onto sin. For me he was using my thoughts.

It wasn't until I started praying for God to help me take every thought captive an make it obedient to Him (2 Corinthians 10:5) that I started seeing myself in a different light...in God's light. When one of those negative thoughts would pop in my head I would tell myself that I am forgiven, I am not that same person, and I DO NOT have to beat myself up for those bad decisions anymore because God has already forgotten about them and I need to do the same.

It took me some time to finally come to peace with my old self and embrace the new creation that God has made me. I am no longer the sinful, party animal wild (and I mean wild) child Haleigh...I am now a daughter to a King who loves me dearly. I am a broken vessel ready to be used for God's purpose in helping others, just the way He has helped me.

I am so very thankful for the trials and troubles that I have faced in my short lifetime because they have all built me up and prepared me to be the women that Christ has made me today. I know that the mess of a life that I had will be used for God's glory!

Once you have repented of your sins to Christ let go of them yourself. Don't let the devil try to steal your joy. Remind yourself that you are NEW, forgiven, and loved. Forgive YOURSELF, just as Christ has forgiven you!

** Cue the Frozen theme song** :)

God bless,

Haleigh

Praying for & with your Children

A praying mother is POWERFUL. From the time our little ones come out of the womb we want nothing but the best for them. As a new mother I remember having a lot of fears and anxieties with my fragile newborn. Even before he was born a lot of thoughts and worries ran through my head and that is when I really started learning how to pray for my child. Praying to God and giving him all my worries and fears gave me total relief and peace of mind. I can remember sitting in Michael's nursery before his was born and praying over it, asking God for protection, peace, and comfort. I may or may not have prayed circles around my boys crib as my hubby was putting it together ;) !

With a newborn comes a lot of rocking chair sessions at 2:00 in the morning, which can also lead to some good prayer time. Sometimes some of those prayers may have been were for my sleep deprived sanity, but most of the time they were for my sweet boys heart and soul.

Here is a little bit of what we do:

Each night Michael and I have a special routine. As I am lathering him up with lotion I pray for him from head to toe. As I am putting lotion on his legs and feet I ask God to protect them and help him to walk the straight and narrow path that leads to Him. Next I pray for his heart that God would fill his heart with His Holy Spirit and that Michael would have a heart full of love for the Lord and others and not anger. I pray that Michael would remain pure until marriage and that he would honor God with his body. I move to his head and pray that he would have a sound mind that is full of God's wisdom, and that he would retain God's word and think positive thoughts. I pray for Michael's eyes to see things the way that God sees them. I pray for his ears to hear good things that are pleasing to God. And lastly I pray that God would guard his lips & that Michael would proclaim God's name and spread that gospel to others. I know all that may sound like a lot and may be weird to some but its a sweet time for Michael and I to spend with the Lord!

Once he gets his pj's on we read a little devotion called Bedtime Prayers by Bonnie Jenson. I really like this book because it starts out with a bible verse, then has a short devotional/poem, and ends with a little prayer. It is very toddler friendly and it helps teach children from a young age how to pray and spend time with God (the pictures are pretty cute too).

After the book I say/pray aloud Proverbs 4:20-27 over him. It is such a beautiful verse and kind of sums up our "head to toe" prayer! As I turn out the lights and finish getting him ready for bed I say my own prayer silently over him. I thank God for his health, happiness and growth. I thank him for the shield of protection that He has around him, and ask him to continue to protect and bless him. I pray more than anything that Michael will come to know the Lord at an early age, and be fully devoted to Him. I pray that he will have an unconditional love for him and lay down his life. I pray that he won't fail or fall astray as a teen, but that he will stay focused and active with the Lord. I pray that as he grows he will become a man of God that marries a godly woman, and his happy, healthy and successful in life...someone who is always willing to help others, who is slow to anger, a godly leader to his family, and a hard worker. I ask God to surround him with godly influences each and everyday that will help him to grown closer the God. Lastly I ask God to give Hunter and I wisdom as we train him up, and to cover us with patience and peace. To guide us as we discipline him, and to help us to be godly influences & to bring Him honor and glory with Michael's life.

We also pray aloud each morning on the way to work and daycare for others in our life, people who may be sick or hurting, and any other things that may be on my heart. I hope that by praying for things that are on my heart in front of Michael (even though he is just a toddler) that it will teach him how to pray and have a heart for God and others. I want to set the best example I can for him in hopes that he will grow to have great communication with God. We say many more little prayers throughout the day, and it is always such a joy to hear that sweet little AMEN coming from my little guys mouth! Oh and he also said his very first mealtime prayer the other day...it consisted of "ahjhdhi hishdihd sjhuahudhu...AMEN"! :) Even though I have no idea what he prayed for it sure did make this momma's heart smile!

I hope by this sort of detailed example of how I pray over & with my child gives you some ideas of ways to pray for & with your children. I know other moms may do it differently and I would love to hear them. Feel free to tell me things you may do... I am always up for learning new things/ways to do prayer time!

God bless,

Haleigh

God's work lately

There are some trials going on in my life right now, and though I though I would normally feel like I am down in the valley, I actually feel as though I am up on a mountain top. I have been feeling God's grace and love covering me each and every step of the way. I have heard is soft whispers tell me " I've got this Haleigh, don't you worry". I can totally rest in that!

God has been doing amazing work in me through the trials. Normally in situations like these I would make it all about me..." What is this happening to me", " Do they not care about how this will affect me", and the list goes on. It was all about me me me, but in reality these trials have nothing to do with my me directly. God has showed me during this season of life that in fact it is not about me, but about encouraging and loving others; Showing the same grace God shows us daily to others in the midst of this storm.

Taking the focus off of me and putting it on the one who is really in need is actually quite releaving.  God has showed me that I need to be giving Him the glory... Not glorifying myself.  God calls us to deny ourselves DAILY, take up our cross and follow Him (Luke 9:23). God knew that we could not handle anything in this world on our own, we needed help and guidance. We need to follow HIM! His word always stand true and He is always faithful.

" We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our hope of confident salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment." - Romans 5:3-5

I love the way God breaks us down to help build us up. He completely strips us of our own "power" to show us that He is the ONLY way we are ever going to make it. I find total peace in the fact that even though we will have troubles and trials in this life we don't have to go through them alone. We have a living God that is ready to take on our full load of worries upon himself and show us the way to go. He gives us strength in our weakness, and wisdom in the very midst of not knowing what to do. He is the answer to every worry and wonder that we may have.

I am so THANKFUL for this trial and rough season in life... Yes thankful, because I know that through this it is making me a stronger person for God. It is bringing Him honor and glory and is helping me to fully lean on Him for everything! As I sent in this dental chair waiting on my next patient I have a fire burning in my heart for the wonderful awesomeness of God. I love this giddy feeling I have that comes with feeling God's presence upon me. Thank you so much God!!


** If you too are going through a tough season in life please feel free to email me at HaleighPerry22@gmail.com. I would love to pray for you and give you encouragement!**
 God bless, 
Haleigh

The Great I Am

" Again the high priest asked Him, Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed? And Jesus said, I AM; and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Almighty and coming on the clouds of heaven."    - Mark 14:61,62 

I AM.....

• Redeemer
• Healer
• Savior
• The Trinity
• Loving
• Gracious
• Merciful
• Comforter
• Understanding
• Giving
• Passionate
• Loyal
• The lion
• The lamb
• Ever present
• Helper
• Restorer
• LIFE
• The beginning
• The end

I could continue the list of all of the things that God is because in reality He is EVERYTHING. God is the reason we live and breathe. God is always there and is always working, weather we feel His presence or not, He never leaves us or forsakes us. God is loyal and is always waiting with open arms to forgive and RESTORE. He created this earth and He will bring this earth to an end. He holds ALL things together.

This morning as I was reading in Mark and drinking my coffee I noticed the sun shining through my window right into my eyes. I could hear the birds chirping and singing, and I thought to myself how awesome it is that God's creation sings praises to His name! As soon as the sun comes up its like those birds are thanking God for a new day. How often do we do that? I can be very guilty of just going through the motions of a busy week that I take for granite each new day that God has given me. A new day to praise His name, to start fresh, to seek God and rest in the peace that his restoration brings. Each new day is a remembrance of what Christ did for us on the cross...He gave His life so that we could have the hope and chance of having a NEW life in Him. Every new day brings a chance for new life in everyone.

" For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is being poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins." -Matthew 26:11

Have you ever stopped to really think about all the Christ did for us on that cross. His whole life was dedicated to saving us. Christ knew what his purpose on this earth was and he sought after it with his whole heart....literally! He endured affliction, pain, and complete torture with us in mind the entire time. Wow! God's love for us is so big we could never grasp or understand it. I don't know about you, but I fail God a lot daily...it makes me wonder sometimes what makes a sinner like me, who can be rotten to the core, so special that God would want to give His sons life to save me?! Who would want to willingly suffer so much pain and anguish to save my life? The answer is simple, yet so in depth our flesh could never truly grasp it.....unfailing, everlasting LOVE!

God created us in His image and our purpose on this earth is to bear His image. I like to think of God's love like a mothers/parents love for their child. When your child is born your heart feels love like it never has before. You love your child so much you are wanting and willing to do whatever it takes to help them thrive. Nothing your child ever does could make you love them less, yet anything they do could make you love them more ( complicated right?!? ). Their daily life and activities put a smile on your face and fullness in your heart. That is EXACTLY (if not more) the way God feels about us. He loves us with an unconditional love and smiles down on us every day. He did whatever it took to help us thrive in this life...He gave us a SAVIOR! 

I know this sinner is forever thankful for God's amazing grace! I pray that I will never take Christ's sacrifice on the cross for granite, but rather embrace the illustration of love that was poured out for us that very day. God is OH SO GOOD, and I am so thankful he can save a wretch like you and I. Thank you JESUS...may our lives shine your light and glorify you!

" I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; And the life I live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me."
-Galatians 2:20  <<------- AMEN!!

God bless,
-Haleigh