Whatever You Do will Rock Your World

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Years ago, a woman I barely knew was sent to prison and asked for me to come visit her. It totally took me by surprise. What was this lady thinking? I remember asking, “Why me, Lord? Why me? Please don’t rock my world like this!”

I had no idea the journey I was fixing to begin. You see, I’d never been to a prison and I didn’t want to go now! In my prayer and quiet time I felt God continually nudging me to go. I kicked and screamed, but finally submitted.

As the day came I was in a panic. What was I suppose to say to this lady? What would the prison be like? All I could envision was the slamming of the prison doors behind me as I walked in. And to be honest – this freaked me out!

I began begging God to let me out of this assignment, but He didn’t relent. He confirmed every step of the way that He was going with me, but that didn’t make this journey any easier. Arriving at the prison a guard confronted me. I had arrived at the wrong time. I had entered the wrong way. He was a gruff man and scared me to death. He finally said, “Lady, you need to come back in a few hours.”

As I headed back to my car (actually, I was stomping like a two-year old) I was thinking, “God, this is crazy! I am not coming back here.” And once again He snatched my heart and said, “Yes you are, child!” Being the sweet argumentative one that I am, I told God he had a few hours to prove to me that I should go as I headed to a fast-food restaurant to get a drink and read my Bible.

Once there, flipping through scripture I came across Matthew 25:37-40 NIV:

“Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'”

As I read that you would think that this would have convinced me, but, I once again begin to argue with God. “OK Lord, you say the things we DO are as if we are doing them for You. But if I just don’t do it, if I don’t go to the prison then what does it hurt. I just haven’t done anything for anybody. Right?” Like God was going to confirm that nonsense. Instead He said, “Child, keep reading.”

"They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?' He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'” (Matt. 25:44-45 NIV)

You can imagine how my heart quickened and my spirit wept when I read the words, “I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.” I begged the Lord for forgiveness as I made my way back to the prison that day.

You can already guess. I traipsed myself back to that prison. This was definitely a jail house rock experience for me. God came through in unexpected ways and rocked my way of thinking. I learned that using your gifts, talents, finances, and time for Christ and His cause to reach others will come in ways you least expect it.

My job is to keep my eyes open to how I can unselfishly become the hands and feet of Christ and serve the least of these – the broken, hurting, imprisoned, hungry, grieving, impoverished, abused, addicted, lonely . . . 

A journey with that focus will definitely rock your world!

Have you obeyed recently and had God rock your world?

Books I Read in 2011

When The Nester asked "what books have you read in 2011" it took me by surprise. Not in the way of "oh my goodness, I haven't read that" but in the way of "wow, how can I remember what I've read?"

While I reflected back on what I had read or what I could remember I had read, I was also challenged. I now claim it here, this 2012 year I will keep track of all the books I read. Whether we take the time to realize it or not - what we put in to our minds is crucial to who we will become! Books change lives.

I loved the Nester's book list. I think I might have coveted it, actually! But while her list looks so fun, I was reminded that those books reflect her. As she states "you can learn a lot about a person by what books are on their bookshelf" I wondered what do my books say about me.

Books I've read the last 12 months:
Awakening (awesome read for January)
Fasting
Girls Gone Wise
Lioness Arising (a must read)
7 Practices of Effective Ministry
Weird
Sun Stand Still
The Cause Within You (totally rocked my heart)
The Church that Never Sleeps
Next Generation Leader (every leader needs to read this book)

Audiobooks:
Same Kind of Different as Me (stirred my heart beyond words)
w{hole} (if you question your story, you. need. this. book)

Reading Now:
Enemies of the Heart (can't wait to co-teach this book in January with my Pastor)
One Thousand Gifts
The Thank You Economy
Not a Fan.

Up Next:
Grace for the Good Girl
Barefoot Church
7    (I read Interrupted a few years ago, it wrecked my world. I can already sense 7 will do the same.)

If you'd like to check out more good reads, go to the Nester's. Do you keep track of what you read? I'd love to hear about it.

Go Lower

I woke up Monday with such a yearning in my soul for more of Jesus. I lingered in His presence. I journaled until my tired hand cramped. I sat. I pondered. I reflected.

Then I pulled out that handy-dandy 2012 list of goals I've been working on. It's that time of the year, remember? Who am I?

As I jotted down a few steps to conquering what I thought God was laying on my heart, I felt a sense of accomplishment. OK NOW, I'm getting clearer steps to  these goals. Goals for writing. Goals for serving. Goals for leading. Goals for "personal stuff." The steps were coming together and I was excited, because I'm not a fine details kind-of-gal.

I closed my journal feeling like I had made some head-way. I got up ready to conquer the day feeling like I had already done a days work. Reflecting is hard! It was then that I heard it. That still small voice in the pit of my soul. The whisper.

Go Lower

There's no way to describe the moment. I stopped. Paused. Tried to catch my breath. I went back to my journal, pulling out my reflections and goals. There is was again, the whisper.

None of this matters. Go Lower.

Putting down my journal, I walked away in total confusion. What, Lord? Lower?

I made my way to my computer to get busy on the days work of answering emails and meeting deadlines when I saw a notice that one of my friends had mentioned me in a tweet. Curious, I clicked wondering what the post said.

I can only say it was a total confirmation of that still small whisper that I heard. I might have even gasped out loud.

The message is a must read. Read the post Climb Like Jesus here. Thank you, Kendra! (BTW - if you are looking to up your capacity in 2012 Kendra's Peak Start sessions are a must!)

I have to admit, going lower and climbing like Jesus goes against my gut. I've been taught set those goals, strive for more, climb that ladder, reach for the top. And Jesus makes it so simple . . .

Go Lower

Babies on the Streets

I wrote recently about our trip out to the streets to feed and minister to those in need. I had many ask "how I can do that?" or "why do I do what I do?" You can read posts about our ministry and vision HERE, as well as read our ministry leaders post about it HERE.

But for today I want to take you back in time.

Our church had recently partnered with the Salvation Army and a few people had been going out monthly taking food to those on the streets of Corpus Christi. I really didn't feel a need to go UNTIL I met a few people who lived on the streets at church. It was then that God began nudging me to go. I don't know about you, but usually when God nudges me to GO it's to somewhere foreign that I've never been, thus out of my comfort zone.

The nudging got stronger, so I volunteered to help the next month.

We got the food ready. Check.
We packed it all just right. Check.
We put together hygiene bags. Check.
We bagged fruit. Check.
We got extra clothes ready to take. Check.
We all met at 6:30 to head out. Check.
I was ready to help others. Check.

One mile down the street, at the corner of the three crosses, my life was forever changed. I didn't realize God wanted me to GO to change me, I thought I was going to help others.

We pulled up and got our food, clothes, hygiene products, and children's games out. We visited. We prayed. Then out of nowhere some young moms walked up to get something to eat with babies in their arms. Both of these moms had two-month old babies! TWO MONTH OLD babies on the streets. It was a cool night. The babies had wet diapers. TWO MONTH OLD BABIES!

As I backed off in the distance to catch my breath and dry my tears, my heart broke. I had a gazillion questions running through my mind. How were the babies going to survive? What were the moms going to do? Did they have a chance? Where were their families? How can this baby get some formula? Can we get some dry diapers?  on and on . . . 

After collecting my emotions, I visited with the moms. They were such sweet young girls. I looked around and watched a few of the other old moms with children. I watched our youth play games with the elementary age kids. I saw the children hanging on to their prized toys. Yes, I took every moment in.

So you ask, why or how can I go out there, because my life was forever changed the night I saw BABIES ON THE STREETS at the corner of the three crosses.

What I Learned from Dirty Laundry Secrets

Can I reminisce for a moment? It was about this time last year when I was given the opportunity to teach the first study I wrote, Dirty Laundry Secrets, at Bay Area Fellowship Westside Campus the church where I attend. That was an incredible adventure for me. It was really an experience where God challenged me to trust Him.

When I was given the opportunity, I questioned, I doubted, I froze, I prayed, and I argued. It was crazy. Teaching women is tops on my list of passions, but I had never taught in a community like this. I continually was asking myself -- Would I have something to relate to them? Would they trust me? I certainly didn't want to screw it up because souls were on the line.

If it weren't for a dear friend, Marta, I'm not sure how I would have made it through. She prayed with me. She prodded me. She called me before and after class to ensure me God had my back. She attended the class. She encouraged me. She helped open my eyes to my doubt and unbelief. Thank you, friend!

Even though others said "no one would show up for class and that I was crazy for wanting to teach there", I am so thankful I obeyed God's calling. Teaching those eight weeks, I learned so much about myself, that community, and God.

I learned:

1. When God wants to move in a big way He will challenge those leading.
2. Although people come from different cultures and backgrounds, our hearts still break the same.
3. Whether we are jobless, homeless, addicted, abused, or wealthy, God's truth is the only truth that will set us free.
4. When you share your struggles, you open the door for others to do the same.
5. When you show up and follow through with God's call, you create a place where miracles can happen.
6. When you are faced with a situation and speechless, it's then that God will minister in unique ways.
7. Pain is pain, regardless of race, finances, or community.
8. You have to continually show up to earn the trust of others and have a right to speak into their lives.

I could go on and on. I seriously could list the girls individually and tell you what I learned from them. I'll forever be grateful. It is an incredible adventure when you can sit back and watch God work in mysterious ways. There are no words to describe what it's like to see changes in others lives and know maybe you were there when that seed was planted, but that that change is ALL GOD!

What God did those eight weeks:
1. Freed a woman and three children from an abusive relationship. (testimony HERE)
2. Freed another from her drug addiction.
3. Many claimed Jesus as their Savior.
4. More were baptized.
5. He changed lives.

I'm looking back, because I'm looking forward to seeing God move in our next class of Dirty Laundry Secrets beginning this Wednesday.

I'm not asleep . . . I'm resting my eyes

As I looked around the room I was a bit overwhelmed. There were CPA's, teachers, ministry leaders, students, those that were jobless, abused, and homeless. How in the world was I going to teach a lesson that I felt God had put on my heart and know it would speak to everyone in the room?

Opening up I asked, "Do you feel like there is a leader within you trying to get out but that leader feels trapped by the circumstances of life?" I looked around the room and most everyone was sadly nodding their head up and down.

I know that feeling. It's a feeling of despair, captivity, and frustration. As I've been studying to strengthen the leader in me and stretch my capacity, God has been bringing scriptures, devotionals, people, and sayings to me that all say one thing WAKE UP!

How could I or anyone in my class be living life asleep? We might all come from different backgrounds and be in quite different circumstances, but basically we all get up, run all morning, are frustrated by afternoon, and eventually collapse in bed. What I've noticed is that no matter who you are or what you do you are BUSY! So why the continuous flow of these words WAKE UP?

I remember when I was young and I'd talk my dad into watching a show with me on TV. Sure enough when the good part came I'd say something to him and he wouldn't answer. I'd look closely and he'd be asleep. How could he be sleeping through the good part? I'd nudge him and say, "Daddy, wake up!" His answer, "I'm not asleep. I'm just resting my eyes."

Maybe we are so numb to our busyness, circumstances, and routines that we feel like we are wide-awake. But in reality we are "just resting our eyes." We are caught up doing the same things over and over. We run through each day without even giving attention to our actions and reactions because many of those actions don't require us to be fully awake to participate in -- computer time, TV, holding grudges, arguing, gossiping, etc. Basically, we are asleep with our eyes wide open, but our heart, mind, and soul are fully shut down and unaware.

If we are "resting our eyes" then it is no wonder why the nodding of the heads when I asked, "Do you feel like there is a leader within you trying to get out but that leader feels trapped by the circumstances of life?" If we aren't AWAKE - wide awake - then we are sleep walking through our life. It's hard to develop, train, and raise up the leader within us while we are apathetic and at rest.

Hear the alarm . . . it's time to WAKE UP and live life fully awake, aware and alive!

I don't want to be asleep. I don't want to rest my eyes. I want to be fully AWAKE!

Practice. Practice. Practice.

Growing up, I took piano for years. With that came the saying from my teacher, "Practice. Practice. Practice." She didn't just expect it, she asked for proof. I had to log my piano practice time and then have my mom sign off on it. This teacher knew that 30-60 minutes a day on the piano was the only way to hone my skills.

As I've ventured along in life, I don't practice the piano anymore and my skill level shows! However, there are new things I practice. And I've learned that those things you practice, whether good or bad, become a part of your natural being.

The habits that we sow in our lives are who we are or what we are becoming. With that in mind, take a look at what you are practicing.

Are you practicing speaking love?
Are you practicing being a servant?
Are you practicing writing?
Are you practicing the skills you want to hone?

Or maybe these are some things you practice . . .

Are you practicing bitterness?
Are you honing your skill of jealousy?
Are you exercising the right to be angry?

Examine what you are doing over and over, and you'll see what will become a skill that defines your life.

Practice does make perfect. Define your perfect and practice that!

Life Verse 2

I wrote yesterday about my daughter's life verse and that got me to thinking about my own verse. If you would have asked me a year ago what mine was, I would have easily quoted Romans 12:1-2 explaining that my whole life should be a living sacrifice to God.

For years I claimed it and took such great comfort in the Message version of that verse. Especially verse 1.

So here's what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You'll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.

Because I felt like my life was so ordinary it was great to know that as long as I honored God with my ordinary He'd be pleased. But in wanting to live my life as a living sacrifice through the ordinary, I can see now where even those steps of obedience became old routine to God.

There is more to life than just living it for yourself, while claiming you are living it for God. Yes, He wants us glorifying Him in our ordinary lives. But I'm learning that what I thought would glorify Him, is not really how He intended me to glorify Him. Or maybe He has grown me to a new place of obedience? I think he has moved me more from verse 1, into verse 2. "Don't become so adjusted to your culture that you fit in without even thinking."

Ouch! Nobody wants to stand out or I certainly don't. But as God continues to lead me I'm recognizing more of what He wants and trying my hardest to quickly respond. That definitely goes against our culture! As my thoughts become blurred and new habits come into play I really wonder what God is doing.

While my life verse might be changing me and still a little out of focus, my motto stands true. "I consider my life more like a mosaic than a puzzle. My life’s pieces don’t fit together nice and neat. However, God has used each piece to make something beautiful as He is the mortar that holds my life together."

Hallelujah for His mortar that holds all my crazy pieces of life together! Yes, and even those pieces where I don't see just how they are going to fit yet.

Lots of Laundry

What a weekend. We focused on baptism and at our Westside campus, we had 15 baptisms on Sunday. Can I get a WOO HOO and a AMEN?

One homeless man said after being baptized, "Now, I am home!" Yes, that is what it is all about.

The only word to describe the event is GLORIOUS! Watching lives change before your very eyes is such an honor. I can't believe God has called me there to witness His miracles.

I have much to share, but for today I better get busy on the laundry. Fifteen baptisms x three towels each + towels for the floor = lots of laundry.

I'll be sharing soon about our first semester of classes at the Westside campus. You guessed it - we learned about laundry from my first study, "Dirty Laundry Secrets."

Hallelujah, God longs to do our laundry. So, let's throw our hurts, habits, and hang-ups in the laundry basket and give it all to Him. He will certainly wash us clean!

Yesterday, many continually said, "I'm not perfect enough to be baptized". If that perhaps is your thinking too, my friend, don't delay any longer. Read through scripture and you will soon recognize Christ never went to the perfect people . . . it was those stained and marred from sin.

Thank you, Jesus, for washing us clean.

Now, I best go get busy on those towels! There is a lot of laundry to do.

National Best Selling Book, I Dare You to Change, by Bil Cornelius: Signed Book Giveaway!

Stop!!! Before you dismiss this blog due to the dare in the title, you've got to hear me out. If you are anything like me this is the time of year where you are already thinking ahead to 2011. Your asking for guidance, looking for direction, and beginning to set those goals for the upcoming year.

Well, those goals and resolutions you make are, my friend . . . ALL ABOUT CHANGE!

Do these questions sounds familiar? "So how do you recognize God's call? How do you know what He's directing you to do?" These questions are addressed in I Dare You to Change.

"Success and failure are directly related to our choices." Pastor Bil Cornelius

If you'd like a successful jump start on 2011 and the rest of your life - you have got to read this book. It is bringing clarity to my goals, and most of all giving me the determination to put action steps to them.

I double dog dare you to take the I Dare You to Change pledge. I did!

I'm also honored to be under the leadership of Pastor Bil at Bay Area Fellowship. Let's talk with him about change, goals, and talk about the difficult steps to get there:

(1) Why do you think God places promises beyond a person’s current reach?

God is interested in our growth more than our comfort.  One of the biggest reasons why God gives us dreams bigger than our abilities, is so we have to depend upon Him for their accomplishment.  Another phrase I use often is people use people to get tasks done, but God uses tasks to get people done!  He gives you an assignment bigger than you are for one reason only…to grow you.

(2) How can a person protect herself/himself from slipping back into old habits?

The best protection from moving backwards is to always be moving forwards!  This is why setting new goals is a continuing process…or as the Bible says, we go from glory to glory!  Accountability is important as well as a strong routine, but nothing takes the place of forward movement!

(3) What has been the most difficult change for you?

The toughest change has been the acceptance that my time is limited.  I can’t speak at every event, nor can I be available to everyone anymore.  The price for God opportunities is to quit committing to good opportunities.  God has a “best will” versus a “good will.”  Limiting my schedule to the absolute highest uses of my time has transformed my life, family, and ministry.  This will move you from success to significance, and it is worth it!

(4) How does someone go about changing their life when they feel so overwhelmed?

The first step when wanting to change something in your life, especially if overwhelmed, is to pray, and break it down into bite-size chunks of change.  The prayer part is obvious, but most people don’t do it.  Prayer releases God’s confidence in you, so you have the vision and power from God to move forward.  What comes next is a good strategy:  if something is overwhelming you, it’s typically because we are thinking of changing everything at once (or one really large change) rather than breaking into a series of smaller changes.  You may not be able to own a high rise in New York City, but you can buy a small fixer-upper home, work on it, get it rented, then do it again.  If you are consistent enough with this, then within a few years you can sell it, take your profits and reinvest them into a 4 to 6 unit.  Sell this a few years later, and you can invest into a 15 to 20 unit.  Sell this a few years later and reinvest into a small office building.  Sell this…you get the point.  It’s all about taking baby steps first.  Another angle is if you want to lose 50 pounds, lost 5 first and keep going.

(5) What was your inspiration when writing your new book, I Dare You To Change?

My inspiration was actually a desperation to change myself.  All of us have areas we need to change, yet few make the changes they want.  Making this even worse is the fact that those who do change, when asked, give us a humble platitude for how they did it like, “well, I’m just lucky,” or “you know, God is just good to me.”  Those are both true for the changed individual, but I guarantee they also had a plan in place and they worked their plan.  I wanted to take the mystery out of life change without taking the miracle out with it.

(6) How have you seen, the message of your book, impact you or members of your congregation?

By far the best part of what I do is having a front-row seat to changed lives.  I have the privilege of seeing people take the steps this book teaches and really change.  There is no greater satisfaction in the world than knowing you are in God’s plan and making a difference in people’s lives.  I have seen people who were on the brink of divorce, choose to fall in love again.  I’ve seen a single-mother with little career prospects, double her income.  I’ve also seen too many to count of people who just lived out of control lives with no purpose, discover that God has a greater path for them.

Yes, amazingly, change is possible for everyone!



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Please join us at the next IDY2C Blog Tour stop with Julie McElroy next week!

Do You Long to Know Your Purpose?

Do you find yourself continually asking, "What is my purpose? Am I leaving a footprint here on this earth?"

If so, then you do not want to miss this study that I'll be beginning online October 7th. I will help you realize that it is in your every day life that those footprints for eternity are left. Yes, we all know the enemy comes to snatch those precious moments away, but I will give you the tools to realize every moment counts and leaves a footprint in time.


Not only that, but I will help you see your individual strengths, gifts, and talents through special assessments. You will enjoy this journey to knowing yourself and your purpose. So come along!

Seriously, over the years of teaching I have realized that the answer to "What is my purpose?" is a plaguing question for so many. Join this study to hear the simple, but profound answer. You need this information, because the truth is . . .

You have a unique purpose . . . whether you want one or not! Amazing.

For more information and to register visit HERE. Invite your friends and let's have some fun beginning October 7th.

How Many Metamorphosis's?

Isn’t this creature beautiful!

I was taking some senior portraits out in a corn field and ran across this beautiful caterpillar. Although he is creepy, I find him and his colors quite captivating.

After seeing and capturing (with camera - NOT my hands) this caterpillar I’ve been pondering the life of these creatures. I’m no lepidopterists (people who study butterflies and moths for a living), so if you are feel free to correct anything that isn’t correct here or add to this fascinating story. haha

I’ve decided that I’m a caterpillar of sorts. What I’m pondering though is how many times I will metamorphose living as this creature? We’ve heard it said that cats have nine lives. And we know caterpillars have one life, but with many intrinsic changes. Some caterpillars, that look much like that one above, complete their whole life cycle with many changes in 30 days. 30 days!!!! That’s crazy.

Can you imagine how much change must take place daily to go from larva, to caterpillar, to chrysalis, to butterfly within 30 days? Makes my head swim (or should I say flutter?) just thinking about it.

However, I think I’ve had months and seasons where I could empathize with the caterpillar. It seems change after change came so quickly.

The funny thing is that we get to go through this process quite a few times within our lifetime. We struggle, grow and complete the metamorphosis only to find ourselves going through the same growth cycle years down the road.

As Christ tells us to die to ourselves and become new in Him, I am visualizing my new friend – the caterpillar. I am changing, growing, morphing, and struggling to become God's incredible creation.

I wonder how many more metamorphosis's I have to go.

Yes, God’s new creations are amazing!

Let Out a Tarzan Yell

I just spent an incredible weekend with the girls of Springcreek Church. WOW! It was amazing. They were so friendly from the moment I arrived. Every detail was attended to and I was blessed beyond measure to be there and be a part of God’s work among that church.

Their retreat theme was “Remarkably Ordinary!” Definitely a subject after my own heart. As I spoke, I knew God was doing incredible things in the hearts of those girls. It was amazing to see God’s joy, peace, and truth fall upon everyone’s heart.

What I love about sharing God’s message is that it never returns void! I know this because my own life is always changed as well. As I left the retreat, I knew there were things God had spoken to me that needed to be acted upon. I was on cloud nine. I was dancing on the mountain top. And if you could have heard me you probably would have heard the famous Tarzan Yell resonating within my soul.

I was pumped. God had spoken. I felt empowered to step out. I was ready and the world had better watch out.

We all have moments when we feel fit for anything. Right? It’s like we are shouting, “Bring it on!” Those moments for me usually come when I’m on the mountain. Things just seem easy at that point. I’m renewed, refreshed, and recharged! Let’s go!!!!!

But somehow or another coming down off the mountain, it’s like stepping into a different world. An ordinary “gray” world compared to what was just experienced. The light, charge, and empowerment all seem to fade. I begin to think, "What was I thinking? God, what are you doing?"

I’m challenging myself this week to fight through and bring the standard of my ordinary, everyday life up to the standard that God placed before me on the mountain top. It might take a lot of Tarzan yells to keep it up, but I am going to fight through.

If God reveals a new light or truth on the mountain, then it is to be acted upon immediately. I need to act upon it.

I challenge you today to never change your decision from what you saw and experienced on the mountain top! What God revealed in the light is what He expects you to act upon.

Now, let’s let out a loud Tarzan yell and get to moving! (or would that be swinging?)

Amazed & Giveaway

I am continually amazed at how God works. He always knows who to bring together and at just the right time.

We finished our 6 week study of "I'm a Fixer-Upper" last night at my home church BAF, where I serve as the See Jane Grow coordinator. We had an awesome time studying together and learning about God and ourselves.

Last night was a treat for me. The gals wrapped up our class by telling how God had been moving in their lives and how the study has touched their lives. Amazing!

Here's a little snippet of what they said:

I am learning to refocus my thoughts on God each day!

I felt insecure about my physical appearance and I thought plastic surgery could make me “happy”. I’ve realized now that I already have a lot to be “happy” about. And who knows if having that surgery would make me “happy”.

I learned the Christ lives in me – really lives in me!

I’ve been reminded to SIT – to sit and receive His word and food for my body each day.

I have realized I CAN change with God in control, but change is not easy.

This study has brought me closer to God. We now have a personal relationship.

To release myself from the bitterness and anger I just need to take baby steps with God and not give up!

This study has given me a feeling and the knowledge that I am so special, which has given me a feeling of self-worth.

I’ve learned to journal. It’s still very awkward, but I’m pursuing and trying. This has kept me more diligent in my quiet times with Jesus most every day.

I’m God’s special creation and worthy of His love. He loves me and can use the brokenness of my life.

With control I can think good, positive thoughts about myself just as easy as I can think negative thoughts!

It is never too late to accept Christ and change. Don’t give up!

How about you?

Have you been wanting to join a study but there just hasn't been time? Are you wanting connections with other women?

If you are thinking "yes!", how about if I told you there's a way you can have both? And not only that, but you can have it from the comfort of your own home, in comfy clothes, and with a warm cup of coffee. No need for make-up or a fresh hair-do!

Yes, that's possible, if you join Alene Snodgrass in her first online Bible study beginning Tuesday, March 2nd, 8-9pm CST.


The study is free and easy to join.


1. To register email Alene at alene@alenesnodgrass.com and put Online Registration in the subject line. You will receive your link to the private online study room in a few days.

2. To learn more about the study go to this web site.

3. To get the most out of this study you will need Alene's new book, "I'm a Fixer-Upper", which you can purchase HERE.

Leave a comment and win a signed copy of the book! The winner will be randomly chosen Sunday Feb 28!

Let the Renovation Begin

ONLINE BIBLE STUDY BEGINS MARCH 2nd

Head HERE to learn how to register!

I recently had a friend ask if I LOVED renovating. That’s crazy, I thought under my breath. I can not stand the process of renovation. Seriously, what is there to love -- dirt, grit, dust, noise, and huge messes everywhere?

I’m beginning to believe God is trying to teach me something and I’m just not getting it. This all began last year as I began writing “I’m a Fixer-Upper”. Wouldn’t you know it, that was when hubby decided he’d start remodeling our master bath.

As I’d write the smell on construction would permeate the air and the noise from power tools would be deafening. Just as the process of remodeling our bath took time and the writing of a new book took time, so is it with our spiritual houses. It just takes time to renovate.

There is also just as many decisions. Where are we going to start? What needs it the worst? How am I going to get through these changes?

I’ve decided I don’t like renovating because it is a mental activity. There are so many decisions to be made. Seriously, I’d so much rather just slap on a pretty coat of paint and move on to something else.

I do that as well in my spiritual life -- I slap on a white smile, put on a newly pressed garment and try to feel like I’m renovated within. Unfortunate thing is that newly renovated feeling doesn’t last very long.

Renovation from the inside out is where it all begins. I don’t like the process. Never have and never will. But once the remodeling is complete - ah, you can stand back and soak up the peace.

Right now, I’m figuring out which item to renovate next. Seems there are always too many things I’m trying to fix-up in this spiritual house I will have it narrowed down by the time our Online Bible study starts on March 2nd. I’ve learned when you come expecting God to move in awesome ways He meets you there and works over time.

If you are not registered for the online study, email me at alene@alenesnodgrass.com and put Online Registration in the subject line. The study is free; however, to get the most out of the study you’ll need at copy of I’m a Fixer-Upper. Buy it HERE!

More info HERE!

I’m off to figure out what I'm going to demolish next! And you'll never believe this -- hubby is tearing apart the kitchen now -- mercy! Head over HERE and let us know where you are going to begin.

Let the renovation begin!

A Woman Inspired Special

What an incredible week! I've had the privilege to teach some incredible gals. It just amazes me how God works when He brings His women together!

I'm speaking at the A Woman Inspired Online Conference tomorrow afternoon at 2pm. They have asked me to speak on "Dirty Laundry!" Such a deep subject to talk about online where I can see no faces. (BTW - I like seeing your faces when I'm speaking and teaching!) But we are going to have some fun, despite the mounds of dirty laundry laying around.

To help anyone struggling with secrets of any kind I'm offering my book, Dirty Laundry Secrets ~ A Journey to Meet the Launderer, as an EBOOK this week for $5. You can pay by pay pal in the right hand column, leave your email, and the ebook will be sent to you within hours.

Also, I will be giving away three autographed copies of the book via random drawing. Comment on my blog, facebook, or the guest page on my web site and you are entered. Comment now - the drawing will be THIS Friday the 29th.

Are you wondering if you need this book? Well ask yourself . . .

Am I tired of hiding my "dirty laundry"?

Are my secrets getting harder to conceal?

Am I ready to be free from lies, hurts and guilt?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone. Each of the seven light-hearted lessons in Dirty Laundry Secrets are designed to free you from the worries you lug around.

You will come to experience peace, as Christ gently releases the burdens of life and gives you a refreshing, clean outlook starting today. You will enjoy this fresh look at how much you can learn from your laundry. Come splash around in God's sudsy grace as you make this seven-week journey to know the Launderer.

There are day-by-day lessons that can be completed in 15-20 minutes. This study is full of practical self-tests, check lists and how-to's that will free you from your dirty laundry.

Can't wait to hear from you amazing gals!!

Simple Steps Challenge - Win a FREE Book

Read to the end for a chance to win

a free copy of “I’m a Fixer-Upper”

I enjoy visiting with you. I treasure the emails, messages and especially the opportunities to pray for you. However, my heart always skips a beat when I hear the hardships that so many of you are facing.

Know that I am praying and cheering you on in Spirit. I want to live like Paul who wrote, “When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by your faith.” Romans 1:12 NLT

Paul states it so simply. Basically, I encourage you, as you encourage me back. Why do we always want to complicate things? Encouragement is simple and can be done in many ways: a smile, a “hello”, a phone call, by taking someone to coffee, or even writing them a letter. The list of ways goes on and on, as you well know. There are little things we can do every day that will encourage others and in doing them we ourselves will be encouraged!

Are you saying, “But Alene, you don’t know the mess I’m in”? You are wondering how you will make it through the difficulties you are facing. Girl, the answer is simple. So simple, yet it goes against our human nature.

The answer is you take your thoughts off of your problems and put them to greater use by thinking about how you can encourage someone else. If you can’t trust God’s word, trust me. In the eight years my husband and I were battling in court the scam artist who took us for everything we were worth, I continually followed God, pursued His will, and encouraged others along the way. It’s the only way I survived! Although times were excruciating and difficult, I was blessed by encouraging others through our trials. My marriage was strengthened, relationships with my children grew, and my love for God deepened.

I want to challenge you this month to keep your eyes and ears tuned to how you can encourage others. Once you see a need for encouragement, act upon it. Don’t procrastinate! Just do it. Remember, that act of encouragement can be as simple as a single phone call. (BTW, that phone call isn’t to tell them all your troubles. Nope, it is to bring encouragement to their day!)

If you accept this challenge, email me here and let me know. When you step out and encourage others, report back to me either by email, facebook, or on my blog how you were encouraged and blessed by the experience. Your name will then be entered into a drawing for a copy of my new book, “I’m a Fixer-Upper ~ A Day-by-Day Remodeling Guide”. (3 winners will be chosen via a random drawing and posted on September 30th)

I can’t wait to hear the stories of how you were encouraged by encouraging others. If you want to be fixed-up, you fix your eyes on God and others!

Amazingly girl, it’s just that simple!

I'm a Fixer-Upper

Do you feel like a fixer-upper? I do!

As I’ve visited with and taught women over the years, I’ve noticed they are just like me. It seems that no matter what season of life we are in, there is always something we feel that needs fixin’ up in our spiritual life.

The problem is that many think they need to be fixed-up before they can come to God. However, that is not the case. God, since the beginning of time, has longed to dwell with his imperfect people.

In my new book, “I’m a Fixer-Upper”, you will journey with Jesus through the rooms of your soul and look at renovating your days and remodeling your life to become more like Him. Using God’s blueprint and day-day-day remodeling tips, you will design and renovate your life.

It's amazing to note that you will be fixed-up, as you become fixed on God.

Preorder this book now. Click here for the new release promotional.

One Army Wife

First I have to say a huge "Thank you" to our troops and their families currently serving! My prayers and heart go out to you. You are the backbone of this country. God bless you all and the USA!

I haven’t been addicted to a weekly show since “Dallas”. That pretty much dates me, I’m sure. But have you seen the show “Army Wives” that comes on Lifetime on Sunday evenings? I love it.

It takes me back to the days of being an Army wife and the protocol that went along with the territory. Since I’ve been watching that show opportunities have come up for me to speak and write on some of my experiences. Looking back on my years as an Army Officer’s Wife, I don’t know whether to cringe or laugh hysterically. I find myself doing a little of both, as well as thanking God that my hubby didn’t walk out on me in his frustration.

Just to give you an idea of what God was working with when He began to make me over here are a few snapshots. It’s not pretty. It all screams bad attitude!

- getting so many tickets in Germany that the Commander threatened to take my husbands license away (who ever heard of such?)

- bribing the German politzie not to give me a ticket so the Commander wouldn’t take my husbands license away (bribing the law?)

- answering others with “I don’t have to do that, I didn’t sign the line to be in the military.” (ATTITUDE)

- meeting another Commander and having hubby squeeze my hand so hard so I wouldn’t say anything because he had reprimanded my husband for not following “proper” protocol to save five people who’s boat had sunk in the worse storm of the century in 1993 (didn't he need to hear what I had to say about his attitude)

- failing to stop on base and sign in visitors (ok – just stupidity)

- being pulled over on base by four patrol cars for not signing in visitors (embarrassing the children who were in the car)

- having guns drawn on me for the obvious stated events (back to bribing?)

- you get the picture . . .

There is something encouraging about looking back at years gone by. You see the growth and changes you’ve made. You see the bad attitudes that have softened, the stubborn issues you’ve let die and wild hearts that have been mellowed. I was and am a mess. Thankfully, God is still working on me.

If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

I am being made over each and every day. I’m so thankful for that, but I'm amazed that I’m more apt to become a new creation when my old self is exposed in public. ha

New Book Needs a Title

Girls, grab your hardhats!

Are you looking for a renewed sense of self or a total spiritual make-over? If so, Alene's soul-searching study is just what you need. This book will help you renovate, transform and light-up the rooms of your soul.

This heart-enlightening book is designed to change you from the inside out. Alene will challenge and inspire you as the Master Builder transforms you. With day-by-day remodeling tips you will begin restoring, repairing and renovating God's house - your spiritual life - from day one.

Yes, you can be made new. Begin today!

Theme Verse: "You are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple." 1 Peter 2:5


This book is due out this Fall. It's amazing how God is working in the lives of the pilot group working through the book before it goes to publishing. We meet every Thursday and God is totally renovating our lives.

With all this said -- I need a favor. I'd love your vote on a title. Below are a few of the suggested. I'd like to know which title would catch your attention and have you pick up the book off the shelf.

Pick one: Renovating God's House - a six-week no-money makeover
Pick two: I'm a Fixer-Upper - a day-by-day remodeling guide
Pick three: Extreme Makeover ~ Soul Edition; a day-by-day remodeling guide

Or better yet -- with the description and theme verse above create a new title. WIN two free books by submitting the winning title.

Post your vote or new title in the comments section or email me here.