Devotional For Mom: For His Glory

I just love Romans 11:36 and especially knowing that everything is for God's glory, everything lives by His power and how all things come from Him. It's like He gives life for His glory, takes us on this wonderful journey to where we end up in Him, as stated in the Message's version of this same verse. What do you think? Are you accepting the life God's given you?

He is so good to call us His own and I just thought it would be good to remind us of how special that truly is. He even made us to glorify Himself. So, in my eyes, that's pretty cool. Anyhow, it also gives me peace in the midst of life's surprises, that when life is given, it is truly from God, as are all things... So, no accidents people, just surprises. Now doesn't that sound good? How often have you heard that someone is pregnant with an "accident"? Does it ever hurt your heart as if the unborn baby is being cursed or something? Maybe I am the only one, but I know we speak blessing or cursing when we open our mouths, so let's speak blessings. Accidents usually make me think of something bad or bring anxiety to a situation. A surprise on the other hand, although unexpected, can be such a great joy and blessing. I generally love to be surprised.

Reflection: Okay, so I will admit that with this pregnancy, I wasn't sure about the revealed surprise and timing... But, thankfully God is in control and gives life, knows all and provides all things for us. That is where I can sit back and rejoice for such a beautiful surprise and amazing gift. There are so many people who struggle with the ability to have children, infertility and such, that I would not want to hurt their hearts either by saying the accident word. What about someone who had a miscarriage? How they would so love such an "accident". I guess my hormones are on overload currently so I apologize if this is a bit blunt. I just want us mothers to remember where the gifts of life come from so we can rejoice no matter what we are given. I also pray that we can be very sensitive to the needs of our friends and sisters who are suffering a loss or inability currently to have such a blessing and baby. Let's pray for them for God's miracle of life, comfort, support and love while believing that He will provide. Just being there for a hurt friend so she can share those struggles can speak more life and healing than you could imagine.

Prayer: God, you are so good; all the time. Help us to also strive for that and to trust you for all things are given life by you and for your glory. I pray for those who may be struggling to have kids, that you would give a peace that passes all understanding and provide that life and baby, child or children to be loved, cherished and blessed. I also ask that you would help those who may be nervous or feeling as if there is an accident aboard; that you are making a mighty blessing within them and that they are simply a special gift and surprise especially from you. Help us to know your hand is in every part of our lives as our days aren't always or typically considered easy while childrearing.

Devotionals For Mommy: Our Identity

Just a few things that Scripture says about our identity in Christ: Deuteronomy 28:6 we are blessed coming and going and we are heirs of eternal life. Ephesians 1:13 we are identified as "belonging to God by the Holy Spirit." 2 Corinthians 5:21 we are made right with God; and as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:17 we are a new person.

Ever feel as if you are getting lost in motherhood? Have you forgotten your identity before your kids yet? If not, that's good. It happens a lot and I just wanted to encourage you to take that time to remember who you are amidst the kids and busy schedule of your days. I know that we can be more fulfilled and happy when we don't associate our identity with what we do. Trust me, I am honored to be a mommy and it is one of my most favorite things in the entire world to be. I just don't want to see myself only as mommy. I am still Coleena, a sweet child of God whose life has a plan and purpose beyond diapers, spit up, sleep and potty training... Oh, and so are you ladies; God's beautiful children with a great plan and purpose.

It's like with any job or task, we don't want to have them become our identity because we will lose ourselves in the process. Therefore, I believe we can become more useful when we accept ourselves and know who we are in confidence, not having our kids and motherhood identify us alone, but also having our own identity to embrace as well. The person God has made us each to be. Remember you as He has called you His own and His precious daughter before all the pressures and responsibilities of motherhood.

If we take that step back to reflect and appreciate the gift that we are as children of God, as women; we too can be refreshed knowing that we are still in there somewhere and that our pre-mommy moments don't have to be gone forever even if it may feel as if they might be. Rejoice in who you are as a mom, a woman, a wife, friend, sister... and ask God to help you remember if you have forgotten how to just be you, outside of your mommy or work role.

Prayer: Praise you God. Let our hearts melt for you and let us have confidence in ourselves enough to love ourselves as you so richly love us as your daughters. Help us to be a light in the darkness and breathe a refreshing and renewal into our souls; that we may rejoice in who we are not just what we do. Help us to know our worth in you so that we can have the confidence that only you can give. No matter where we are or what we are doing, breathe a fresh outlook upon us with this identity concept oh God. I love you. Have your way in us Father.

Moms Devotions: Him Alone-Looking Up

I have been thinking about distractions again, but not necessarily our "blessed distractions" from yesterday. Although, they got me thinking about how we hurt the heart of God with our not so undivided attention to Him and Him alone. A distraction that steals our eyes from the Lord and diverts us onto a not so righteous path is a distraction that tears at God's heart. I don't know about you, but that hurts me just thinking about it. God is a jealous God remember.

Reflection: There are just so many distractions throughout the normal day, especially as a parent and mommy. So, how much more determined should we be to keep our God time saved and honored for Him alone? It can simply pass us by if we aren't careful. Trust me, I so know this one. The laundry, dishes, diapers, kids' baths, walks; play time and nap times, all take up so much time; not to mention all the other daily chores. So, give yourself a break and don't expect everything to be perfect-on the outside. When things are good with us and God, they are perfect on the inside and that is of ultimate importance.

I hope this gets us motivated to be easier on ourselves realizing we were not meant to do all things alone. Really we were meant to praise our God in all things and look to Him for He loved us first. So, let those dishes go and take a moment during your kids nap time or your bath time where you can simply reflect on God's goodness and where you are with Him. He loves you so much and just wants to bless you. When you take that moment, I pray that He will seep into every aspect of your being and that the Holy Spirit will refresh and bring you new things to ponder and hope for; a true renewal and freedom.

Prayer: God, please take over our every day. Let us focus on you so that our eyes are not wandering here and there and ever busy with things that surely pass away. Let us devote our hearts and time to serve you, our kids and others. Let us be filled in the process with your love, will, wisdom, grace, strength, hope and mercy. You are awesome mighty God!

Romans 5:1-5 "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."

Gifts: I love making these beautiful and fun handmade baby blankets. Let me know what you think. We will have more listed soon. I may have to post past orders so you can view them and special order in the future. These baby blankets are getting great reviews. Thanks everyone!

Devotions For Parents: Blessed Distractions

Isaiah 26:3 "You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!" Hallelujah to that one. What a relief. Have any of you mom's felt distracted as a parent, a mother and caregiver? I am feeling it these days, but in a good way. I know our kids are a blessing and true gift, so it helps me to stay encouraged even amidst the distracting times. Especially because God will keep in perfect peace those whose eyes are fixed on Him. Thank you Jesus. If this were not the case, I would be in trouble. It helps me to refresh instead of react when facing the many distractions of my day.

A few of my distractions from yesterday while trying to get some prayer time in: my oldest has an accident on the couch and urine is everywhere. I wasn't sure what to do so I washed the cushions on cold and with Woolite and they are fine after a long long time in tumble-air-dry, baby decides to try climbing up the stairs, putting hands in sisters potty seat which somehow was empty (praise God), baby vomits over everything in her crib after crying only five minutes before bed, my kids are climbing all over me while talking on the phone or trying to fix dinner... These are only a few examples of what my normal weekend days have looked like so far. And yes, for some reason Saturdays are always the most difficult and we get the least amount of sleep for Church the next day.

Reflection: Even still, God is good. I noticed that if I focused on the stains, smells and strains of my circumstances that I would too bring those same things to light right out of my mouth. For instance, if I chose to be extremely upset and blaming my daughter for her accident, reacting negatively and loud; she'd be sure to only want to wear diapers again and would be feeling pretty awful for her accident. Really I should have made sure to take her to the potty a few times after getting home from church especially since she was so tired. I could have made a stench in other words with my words if I chose to be venomous and angry. This would have also put a strain on my beautiful daughter's innocence and joy for their normal baby and kiddo stuff. Lord help me is a common prayer these days. And, thankfully He is faithful to answer.

I guess I just wanted to share this so we would be encouraged to stand and stand firm keeping the faith when the so called "normal" mommy-hood moments bring the distractions in full swing. When we make sure to keep our eyes focused on God He will provide the peace to withstand any situation. It is equally important to make sure to take the time to pray and praise Him; to read the Bible and seek Him too. This will allow us to rejoice in our little distractions and the blessings that our children are. After all, they will only be this age once and I have a feeling we will surely miss it when it passes us by. Let's take time to play, love and rejoice with our blessed distractions.

Prayer: God, thank you for your wonderful peace and promises. Thank you for my kids and that you alone are perfect. Please help me to stay fixed upon you and not my circumstances so I may be a blessing to you and those around me, especially my children that you have so graciously blessed me with. Be glorified in me today.

Devotional: Blessed Heritage

Good morning all. Well, this one is so far pretty good without as much of the usual nausea. I do however have a gnarly head ache and have eaten over half of a batch of saltine crackers already. So, I'm going to be cutting a few of my posts short if this continues. Only a few weeks left until the first trimester if finished so I am hoping this too shall pass; the nausea and other pregnancy nuances that is. Yet, I am so excited for the journey even if it is a bit hectic at times.

Such is life, right? I have so much to truly be thankful for and am so overwhelmed by the blessing of another baby in the future. God gives us a beautiful gift with our children and I am so amazed at His hand of provision, heritage and love for my family. Romans 8:17 "And if we are children, we have a right to a part in the heritage; a part in the things of God, together with Christ; so that if we have a part in his pain, we will in the same way have a part in his glory." What a magnificent thought and hope. In Isaiah 54:17 we see our beautiful heritage again as it says, "This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from me, says the Lord."

Reflection: It is in our power to leave a Godly and loving, empowering heritage to our children as He intended. Each day you are making an impact into the lives of your kids and their futures. Be encouraged that "perfection is not required" and that God is there to lift you up when you may feel as if you are struggling. In those times, just know that you are being stretched and will grow if only you look to learn and look to God for His strength, love and hope to get you through. As we praise God He gives us true freedom. Also, He alone is perfect and we can glean understanding, patience and our increase of faith from Him. Let's go for it!

Prayer: God, thank you for this new life you have blessed me with. Please put your hand of protection and blessing upon him or her and your love and Holy Spirit. I thank you for our heritage and blessings that you alone have given. Thank you for our hope and faith and for your beautiful example of all things good. Please give us patience. I praise you.

Daily Devotionals: In God's Arms

Psalms 68:19 "Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens." And who faithfully carries us in His arms. Oh, how beautiful that is. I am just so excited and can't wait to hold this new baby in my arms. The thought of the gender, how will he or she look, what will they act like, be like... the list goes on. How patient I will have to be. We've got quite a wait still. :)

Reflection: This makes me think of Father God's love and excitement over His children. He truly wants to bless us and doesn't want to see even one perish. I think every mother holds in her heart that same passion and love for her kids; to see them succeed and be blessed. To be all they can be right? Did you ever imagine you could love as deep and as wide as you do with your kids? Don't they just capture a huge part of our hearts? Don't we just love them more than we ever imagined possible; delighting in their every new step, word and venture? I bet our God is cheering us on in that same way ladies, but even better since He's just perfect.

Let's be encouraged that we have a loving God and father who sees us as His precious children; who's ready to carry our burdens and us in His arms daily; to comfort, provide, shield, heal, bless and love us... Thank you mommies and friends for loving on your baby's the way you do; for showing them the hand and heart of Jesus as you so often carry them in your arms and bear their burdens daily. You moms rock!

Prayer: Thank you God for your loving arms that shield and save us. All things are truly possible with your by our side. Thank you for all moms and for blessing them with miracles of life and children. Let us honor you in the ways we care for and love them.

Side Note: Now, picture yourself in God's embrace; surrendering with open palms knowing you are safe no matter what this day may bring. Also, if you are in need of a hand madeplush baby blanket, ready for personalization and snuggling for baby, check in often as I will be posting new pictures soon.

Devotions For Mom: Burden Bearers

Galatians 6:2 "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Oh my goodness, sleepless nights, teething, screaming and an uncomfortable baby, and nauseated mommy. Yikes, doesn't sound too fun right? That's been my week, especially last night. How refreshing it is when God provides friends-our sisters and brothers in Christ who can come along side us and share in our troubles and problems.

I'll tell you, having another person there to relate to us and listen can be such an encouragement and blessing; especially when the going gets tough. It's also a huge encouragement when we can share in joy with such friends too. Thank you all for your friendship and love in this new journey of life that we are on. We are overjoyed and a bit nervous over the pregnancy news and it has been so wonderful to share... Thanks for rejoicing with us too.

Reflection: Thankfully God is the ultimate example of this as He sent His Son Jesus to bear our ultimate burden of sin; to wash us clean so we could be in right relationship with the Father. I think we as mother's also do this burden bearing on a daily basis with our kids and I am hoping with our friends and strangers too if needed.

It isn't fun to go through life without a friend or friends; especially in those troubling and joyous times. When we can also rejoice, uplift and praise together it is a powerful tool of inspiration, joy and encouragement. So, go find someone to be there for or to share with today. God wants to bless you through your sisters and brothers in Christ.

Prayer: Jesus, thank you for being my ultimate burden bearer and for giving me blessed friendships that are an example of your love. Thank you for this pregnancy and for my family and my babies. Thank you that every perfect gift comes from you and for sharing in all the season's of my life; for sending friends who do the same. Help me to obey the law of Christ and do likewise always. I love you and need you.

Handmade baby blankets are my new hobby. I especially enjoy making them and praying for the little ones who will get them. If you would like to order just send me an email and I will be happy to follow up with you.