We've Come This Far?

In deeply studying II Samuel these last few weeks, one verse keeps ringing true in my spirit.  I think it sums up our year, and points back to God for all the things that have come.

 “Who am I, Sovereign LORD, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far?" (II Samuel 7:18)

Last year, at this time, I was just getting a small glimpse of the major changes that God was going to place into our lives.  During those days, I was feeling discontent and confusion, wondering what was going to happen to us.  But, God is so big and loves us exceedingly more than I could have ever imagined.  He's taken a shell of something broken, and turned us into a family united and seeking daily through complete servitude.  I look back and can't help to think, "What are we that You have brought us out of the miry pit, and have taken us further than what was even fathomable?"  I would love to say that we had some big part in all of this, but our role was simple.  Prayer, petition, obedience and seeking.  God did all the rest - providing a way for us to home school, providing finances for our business, selling our home in record time, giving us a temporary home that fits all of our needs, bringing us as a couple together to pray daily, keeping us healthy, giving us friends to keep us uplifted and accountable, speaking through His Word, opening doors, shutting doors, speaking through our Pastor, and the list goes on and on. 

So, as we come to the close of our school year (6 weeks left) I can't help but give all of the glory to God.  How did we come this far?  God.  What are we that He brought us so far?  His son and daughter.  I can't hardly wait to see what's next.

Life Promises For Success Book Review

Book Review of Life Promises For Success by Jim Tressel
"Promises From God On Achieving Your Best"

     This turned out to be a great little bedside, briefcase, purse book.  I had no idea who Jim Tressel was until I set the book in our family reading area.  When my husband saw it I got an ear-full on Tressel and all the little details too.  Tressel, the author, is the Head Football Coach for Ohio State.  Needless to say, he is an accomplished coach and writer.  In his book he shares his keys for success.  The pages are set up as little daily devotionals.  Each time you pick up the book you get a morsel of something inspired and great.  The pocket-book is set up by different topics, like Attitude, Hope, Integrity, Setbacks, etc.  Each issue contains Bible verses, quotes from Tressel or other encouraging people.
     I consider this book to be a gem.  It's very easy to pick up and be uplifted by the words in only a few minutes of the precious time that we have.  I didn't read anything that did not spur me on to be a better person, work harder, and strive for greatness.  I think that men would especially enjoy this book for their office or home.  Each portion has verses that are promises from God for many of the facets of our lives. This pocket-book would be a great gift for a college student, entrepreneur or anyone that would benefit from motivation and insight. 

(I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")

Couples Who Pray Book Review

Book Review of Couples Who Pray by SQuire Rushnell and Louise DuArt
"The Most Intimate Act Between A Man And A Woman."

This is a FANTASTIC book!  I had no idea what to expect when I received it.  The book was written for married couples (with some reference to people in serious, committed relationships).  It teaches that "praying daily with the one person you love more than any other takes you to a level of joy and satisfaction that you simple will not believe until you try it."  The book guides you through testimonials that prayer really works from big named couples to people just like us.  The book also outlines the "40 Day Prayer Challenge" that was created by the husband and wife authors.  Inside the pages you will find Scripture to backup the claims, a couples quiz to help you see deeper into yourself, and help for some tough issues you may be facing like, pornography, debt, tithing, resentment and addiction. My husband and I decided to give it a whirl, and happy to say after 15 days in, our marriage is taking a new shape.  When we are baring our souls to God together, you hear the deepest passions, concerns and emotions that your spouse has.  You see a new side of them rarely seen and it brings an unparalleled closeness that results in better communication, love making and intimacy.  You will see a huge difference in just the first week.  I'm delighted that I found this book.  It's truly a step in a positive direction for any marriage.  I thoroughly recommend this book.  (I received this book free from BookSneeze as part of their blogging program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.")