An Idol in Your Pocket?

A smart phone can be a blessing or a curse depending on the way we use it. Many are unwittingly entangled in a system that they find nearly impossible to escape- the system of the World Wide Web.

The word “web” is defined as a:
network of fine threads constructed by a spider from fluid secreted by its spinnerets, used to catch its prey.
a filmy network spun by some insect larvae, especially communal caterpillars.
2. a complex system of interconnected elements, especially one perceived as a trap or danger.

I believe it’s not coincidence that the internet is called the World Wide Web. (www.)
While the internet itself is not inherently evil, it can be when we find ourselves being controlled by it.

All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. 1 Corinthians 6:12

Our activity on the World Wide Web can either-
Glorify Christ or glorify self
Encourage us in our walk with the Lord or drain us.

Short Phone Facts:
1. American adults spend more than 11 hours per day watching, reading, listening to or simply interacting with media, according to a new study by market-research group Nielsen.
2. People blink 15 times per minutes, but this rate decreases by half when on their smart phones and causes blurred vision, headaches, eye strains, and dry eyes.
3. Radiation from cell phones is a “possible human carcinogen” due to an increased risk of brain cancer caused from long-term and heavy usage. (The World Health Organization)
4. 47 percent of men who kept their smartphones in their front pocket had low sperm count. (Technion University)
5. Bending your head to look at your mobile device puts up to 60 lbs. of pressure on your neck and can harm your back.
6. In the past 5 years, symptoms of depression has risen 60 percent.
7. 65% are using their phone while eating out at a restaurant.
8. According to TIME, 80 percent of 18-24 year old Americans sleep with their phones right beside them, for easy access first and last thing.
9. The average person will spend more than five years of their lives on social media, according to a study by influencer marketing agency Mediakix.



So how do we know if we have become slaves to our phone?

Your Phone Has Control of You If:
1. You can’t go to sleep without first checking social media “one last time”.
2. You are always thinking about what to post next.
3. You spend more time trying to capture the perfect image on your phone instead of enjoying the actual moment.
4. You spend more time on social media than God’s Word.
5. You are always telling others how busy you are yet always manage to find time for social networking.
6. You spend more time taking pictures of your life than living it.
7. When something exciting happens to you, the very first thought is “I need to post this on…”
8. You begin having signs of ADD while trying to listen to Sunday’s sermon and struggle to read your Bible without thinking of your phone.
9. You have trouble fasting from your phone for even short periods of time and feel a sense of panic or unrest when your phone is not near you and may even sleep with your phone near you.
11. If you spend a large quantity of your life preoccupied with performing on the stage of the social media platform in order to impress and gain the applause of man.

As mothers it’s important to remember that for every hour we spend on social media is one hour less that we spend with our dear children. We only have one opportunity to raise our children. What if our children were only promised to us for another day, week, or year? Would we live differently than we do now? More is caught than taught. What are we teaching our children about their worth when they see us always on our phones? Do we cherish our children as much as our devices? These are all questions I have been asking myself lately.

While we are busy catching up on the latest news feed, our children are growing up at an astonishing speed. Mama, instead of picking up your phone, pick up your child, look them in the eye and tell them how much you love them, that they are more important to you than any hand held device.

Let’s spend more time reading our Bibles than decorating them.
Let’s control the amount of time spent on our phones and not let our phone control us.

Helpful Bible Verses to Remember While Using Your Smart Phone:
See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16

The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry (anything that you put above the Lord God) and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this (daily, ongoing habit) will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Galatians 5:19-21

For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. 1 John 2:16

“The pride of life can be defined as anything that is “of the world,” meaning anything that leads to arrogance, ostentation, pride in self, presumption, and boasting. John makes it clear that anything that produces the pride of life comes from a love of the world and “if anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15).”
https://www.gotquestions.org/pride-of-life.html

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God
1 Corinthians 10:31

For My people have committed two evils:
They have forsaken Me, the fountain of living waters,
And hewn themselves cisterns—broken cisterns that can hold no water.
Jeremiah 2:13

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2

The idols of the nations are silver and gold,
The work of men’s hands.
They have mouths, but they do not speak;
Eyes they have, but they do not see;
They have ears, but they do not hear;
Nor is there any breath in their mouths.
Those who make them are like them;
So is everyone who trusts in them.
Psalm 135:15-18

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Ephesians 5:1


A Mother’s Phone

The child at his mother’s knee, “does your phone mean more to you than me?“
Although it’s not said verbally, he often thinks this silently.

A mother’s phone, a thief at best, is children’s most unwelcome guest,
It steals their mother’s heart and mind, and to her family makes her blind.

With downcast eyes and saddened heart, quietly he soon departs-
Unloved, unwanted, pushed aside, resentment bottled up inside.

The mother never meant to hurt, by always being short and curt,
Distracted by a world of care, from latest news that others share.

A world so vast and yet not real, where other’s lives look so surreal.
This slowly caused her discontent, her home routine she now resents.
While other’s lives look so grandeur she wonders what is wrong with hers.

Her child sees her on her phone- smiling, laughing, yet alone.
Wondering why he cannot win, the affections of his mother’s grin.

Dear mother, is this story true, your child thinks these words of you?
Put down your phone, behold their face, and in your arms their frame embrace.

For children soon sprout wings and fly and leave our nests and make us cry.
We’ll one day reap what we have sown regretting time spent on our phones.

Treasure those who love you best, for if you do, you will be blessed!
By: Kristin Eason

Accepted In the Beloved

Do you ever feel-

Unwanted

Abandoned

Despised

Rejected

Discarded

Criticized

Social outcast

Mocked

Scorned

Avoided

Hated

Looked down upon

Betrayed

Forgotten

But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence. 1 Corinthians 1:27-29

The uneducated, average nobody that is rejected, discarded and good for nothing in the eyes of the world, God has CHOSEN!

The laughable outcast that no one wants to be around because of their past or last name, God ACCEPTS them!

The person that feels they can never measure up, that they are good for nothing, and will never amount to anything, God is calling!

Why?

To shame the wise and bring glory to HIS NAME!


The devil wants you to believe you’re the only one who ever feels this way, but even our Lord Jesus was
“despised and rejected of men” (Isaiah 53:3).
So when the world excludes you, overlooks you, despises you, and rejects you, remember that in Christ you are loved, in Christ you are accepted, in Christ you are His beloved! Your identity isn’t found, praise the Lord, in the opinions of others! When you truly understand this truth, you will be set FREE!

Father God,
Thank You for choosing me as your very own. I don’t deserve Your love and acceptance, but I am so thankful that you have accepted me “in the Beloved”! Help me to remember this when I face the frowns and scowls of this world. Nobody likes to be unloved, unwanted, but You can sympathize with our every infirmity because the world treated You the same way. Thank You for being so good to me! Help me to serve you all of the day of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen


Here is a poem I wrote about being accepted in Christ-

In the Beloved
By: Kristin Eason

In the Beloved, accepted, it’s true!
In Christ we are brought near to God and made new!
No more condemnation, praise God I am free,
Abiding in Him and His Spirit in me!

In the Beloved, abiding alone,
Trusting His merits to carry me home.
No works could I offer to ever suffice,
His work and His only, the complete sacrifice.

In the Beloved I now find my worth,
A heart born again, a miracle birth.
Declaring His praises for redemption’s plan,
Bringing salvation to poor helpless man.

In the Beloved, through Him I’m defined.
Accepted in Him- I am His, He is mine!
What wonderful words, what more do I need
When the Spirit of Christ is abiding in me?

In the Beloved as I yield my last breath,
Fearing no more the last enemy of death.
Casting down accusations and every high thought,
I’m a child of God, I’m redeemed, I’m blood bought!

In the Beloved, can you say the same?
Right now you can be if you trust in His Name.

When Christians are Offended with One Another

We are living in a day where everyone is offended by every.little.thing. Offense is found in every news report, social media message, every business, church, or just daily life with others. There are numerous reasons for being offended:

Someone expressing an opinion that differs from ours
Unmet expectations we have of someone who has let us down
Harsh or critical comments
Being left out
Seeing someone else’s faults
Feeling overlooked or underappreciated
Jealousy

But, the true cause of offense is pride.

Someone has wronged ME, someone has hurt ME, someone disagrees with ME, someone doesn’t care about ME…..

While being offended is something to be expected of non-Christians, many Christians are being offended today.

God’s Word has a lot to say about being offended and how allowing ourselves to be easily offended causes bitterness to take root in our lives.

Do not take to heart everything people say, lest you hear your servant cursing you. For many times, also, your own heart has known that even you have cursed others Ecclesiastes 7:21-22

If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Romans 12:18
Notice it says, “as far as it depends on YOU”. You can not control the actions of others, but you CAN control how you respond.
With God’s help you don’t have to be offended!

The opposite of being offended is love.
Love is long suffering towards others and not easily provoked.
(1 Corinthians 13:4-5)

As Christians we will always face irritants and annoyances, but it’s what we do with the offense that matters.

Do we dismiss it immediately or do we allow it to fester as we allow ourselves to dwell on the incident over and over and over?

When offended, most people don’t address the issue with the person that caused the offense, which sometimes can be a good thing, but secretly harbor all kinds of negative emotions which is detrimental to their relationship with the Lord.
Holding on to bitterness is a deadly sin that poisons every part of our being with anger, malice, and eventually hate.

See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled. – Hebrews 12:15

Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. 1 John 3:15

But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth. Colossians 3:8

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Colossians 3:12-15

God’s Word tells us to unconditionally love, always forgive, and do everything within our power to be at peace with everyone.

For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Matthew 8:14-15

Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them” Psalm 119:165

So, put off all offenses and put on LOVE, the bond of perfection!


Everything about which we are tempted to complain may be the very instrument whereby the Potter intends to shape His clay into the image of His Son- a headache, an insult, a long line at the check-out, someone’s rudeness or failure to say thank you, misunderstanding, disappointment, interruption. As Amy Carmichael said, “See in it a chance to die,” meaning a chance to leave self behind and say yes to the will of God, to be “conformable unto His death.”
Elisabeth Elliot


Calvary Love
By: Amy Carmichael


If I have not compassion on my fellowservant, even as my Lord had pity on me, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I can easily discuss the shortcomings and the sins of any; if I can speak in a casual way even of a child's misdoings, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I can enjoy a joke at the expense of another; if I can in any way slight another in conversation, or even in thought, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I can write an unkind letter, speak an unkind word, think an unkind thought without grief and shame, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I am afraid to speak the truth, lest I lose affection, or lest the one concerned should say, "You do not understand," or because I fear to lose my reputation for kindness; if I put my own good name before the other's highest good, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If souls can suffer alongside, and I hardly know it, because the spirit of discernment is not in me, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I myself dominate myself, if my thoughts revolve around myself, if I am so occupied with myself I rarely have "a heart at leisure from itself," then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I cannot in honest happiness take the second place (or twentieth); if I cannot take the first without making a fuss about my unworthiness, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I do not give a friend "the benefit of the doubt," but put the worst construction instead of the best on what is said or done, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I take offense easily; if I am content to continue in a cool unfriendliness, though friendship be possible, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If a sudden jar can cause me to speak an impatient, unloving word, then I know nothing of Calvary love. For a cup brimful of sweet water cannot spill even one drop of bitter water, however suddenly jolted.

If I say, "Yes, I forgive, but I cannot forget," as though the God, who twice a day washes all the sands on all the shores of all the world, could not wash such memories from my mind, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

Lesson of Praise From the Birds

I wrote this poem after thinking how birds are always singing their sweet songs rain or shine and how strange it would be if they stopped singing. I then thought how man is made in the Image of God and how little I spend my days praising. Even though we have so much to be thankful for- a God who daily provides for us, a Savior who died for us and is our Intercessor before God the Father, nature with all it’s natural beauty (sunrise, sunsets, starlit sky), we often find it easier to grumble and complain. If birds praise their Creator, how much more should we as children of God?

If birds should halt their songs of praise,
And silence filled the woods each day,
Would we begin to question why,
Their natural instinct they defy?

If birds should grumble and complain,
Believing singing is in vain,
Because they sing not like the wren,
They vow to never sing again.

If birds should worry oft’ and fret,
The Lord’s protection soon forget.
No longer would they chirp and sing,
Praise and worship to the King.

Would this seem strange and truly odd,
To have no song to sing abroad?
In gratitude for wings to fly,
To soar above the sunlit sky?

Yet we’ve been given so much more,
But choose to walk when we could soar.
Above the way we often feel,
God, give us passion, give us zeal!

I’ve never heard a silent dawn,
Where birds in nests are found withdrawn.
For praise is what they’re made to do,
So let their songs encourage you.

For Christ has given all we need,
Our enslaved hearts he came to free.
Yet we fail to sing our words,
Unlike the songs we hear from birds.

Let birds remind us to adore,
To sing His praises ever more.
Rejoicing in our world abroad,
Of hope in Christ, of faith in God.

Will You Sleep, Baby Dear?

Baby Dear
04/06/16




I wrote this poem during the first few months of our daughter's life when we could not get her to sleep. She was always fighting sleep and hated being rocked. She preferred being held and having us walk around until she fell asleep. I'm happy to say that we made it to her 1st birthday and she sleeps like a CHAMP! Mother, "This too shall pass!"


Will you sleep please in your room,
Now that you are from my womb?

I will not, can not, in my room.
I wish I still was in your womb.

Will you sleep while mommy rocks,
Will you sleep if daddy walks?

I will not, could not, if you rock,
I will not if my daddy walks.

Will you sleep good with a fan?
Will you sleep while in our van?

I will not, could not with a fan.
Not even if I’m in your van.

Will you sleep if burped and fed?
If I gently lie you down in bed?

I will not sleep if burped and fed,
I will not sleep at all in bed.

Will you sleep while in your swing?
Will you sleep if mommy sings?

I will not, could not in my swing.
Not even if you try to sing.

Will you sleep sound in your seat?
While I bounce you with my feet?

I will not, could not in my seat.
Not even if you bounce with feet.

Will you sleep if swaddled tight?
Will you go to sleep tonight?

I will not sleep if swaddled tight.
I do not like to sleep at night.

Will you sleep while in my arms?
Will you sleep if nice and warm?

I will not, could not in your arms.
I will not sleep if nice and warm.

Will you sleep with lullabies,
Before the sun begins to shine?

I will not sleep with lullabies,
Before the sun begins to shine.

Will you sleep my Baby Dear?
Will it be within this year?

I will sleep my mother dear,
But you will have to wait a year.

A Mother's Gift

Two thousand years ago in a stable all forlorn,
Wise men brought to Jesus precious gifts when He was born.
“What precious gifts do I have that are worthy of a King?
For I’m a lowly mother, Lord, what treasure can I bring?
I know that You seek hearts, Lord, that will trust You and obey,
So I give You mine, Lord Jesus, take it, Lord, I pray.
But, I cannot seem to find the time to give You of myself,
These little ones do drain me and deplete my store of wealth.
My days are full of diapers and feeding hungry mouths,
Of washing, cleaning, ironing--this work it takes me hours.
And when at last there’s quiet and all are asleep in bed,
I think that I might serve You, but nod off to sleep instead!"
But, as I dream in slumber, Your voice to me does speak…
“If you were like the wise men, you’d know the gift I seek,
For these men in their wisdom knew gifts cannot be used
If they are always hidden with tinsel and subterfuge.
They unwrapped their treasures; you too must do the same,
Removing all self-consciousness, even sin and needless blame,
For the wondrous gift of motherhood is given by God above
And when you mother children, you show My greater love.
So let not your heart be troubled, weary mother, for you see,
When you are building children, then you are serving Me.
This gift from every mother whether she be great or small
Is a very special gift, one I treasure from you all.
For I too had a mother who suffered shame for me,
She nurtured me and clothed me, wept, and mourned like thee.
I know to have a mother who will give her very best
Is a very worthy treasure, so come to Me, dear mother, and
I will give you rest!
By Val Stares, Above Rubies Director in Australia

Once Upon a Time...Before Technology

Once Upon a Time… Before Technology
By: Kristin Eason

Once upon a time before the smart phone craze,
Children romped and skipped about and sunshine filled their days.
Now children hate to be outside- they’d rather text and tweet,
“Leave me alone, I’m on my phone” - no children in the streets.

Once upon a time before the cyberspace,
Books were found upon one’s lap, now ipads in their place.
Now children who once liked to read now find it such a bore,
Since Instagram and Pinterest came knocking at their door.
Now life is filled with selfies and playing on Xbox,
No time for climbing trees; no time for skipping rocks.

Once upon a time a child’s skin was brown,
From playing and exploring outside until sundown.
Now children’s skin is pasty white, their eyes bloodshot and red,
From spending hours behind closed doors and lying on their beds.

Once upon a time children learned to work,
Now they hide behind a screen- their chores they try to shirk.
When they look back on their childhood, what will they one day see?
Will they feel they have been cheated and lack in memories?

Once upon a time a child showed respect,
But years spent on an iphone- what do you expect?
When told to speak to elders, they don’t know what to say,
Years wasted on an ipad is time they’ve thrown away.

Once upon a time families were a team,
Now good old-fashioned fun is outdated and extreme.
Now children are a bother so the parent’s do not mind,
If their child lives behind a screen and is often hard to find.

Once upon a time families gathered round the table,
Yes, this really happened; family life is not a fable.
The family was a unit; together they would live,
Communing face to face not through media taken captive.

Once upon a time parent’s did what they thought best,
They didn’t care what others thought or if the kids protest.
Don’t starve the hearts of children feeding them technology,
For the world’s a smorgasbord and the best in life is free.

Could Have Missed

I am daily reminded how easily I could have missed out on having my last two blessings. I have had C-sections with all my children and was told by doctors that I needed to be done and that having another C-section with so much scar tissue could be life threatening. My husband and I both decided to sign a paper that gave the surgeons permission to tie my one tube that remained during the birth of our 3rd child to prevent any further pregnancies. During the surgery I heard the surgeon tell me that he was unable to tie my tube because I had so much scar tissue that he couldn't even find it to tie! I looked up at my husband and told him that it was alright. Right away I knew that God had intervened! Since that day we have added two more blessings to our family.

Could Have Missed

We almost didn’t have you precious ones.
We thought because of health that we would just be done.

But the doctor was unable to perform the surgery;
It was at that very moment that God planned differently.

We chose to trust the Master’s hand and put aside our fears;
A baby boy we welcomed after waiting several years.

We could have missed the fragrance that a newborn baby brings;
The way a baby listens when his mother to him sings.

We could have missed the snuggles while we watch our newborn sleep,
The thought of never knowing you makes my heart begin to weep.

We could have missed the toothless grins and playing pat-a-cake,
The sound of squealing in delight of seeing a snowflake.

We could have missed their tiny hands holding on to ours,
Or smiling when our little ones pick weeds and calls them flowers.

After seeing what we would have missed we’re reminded now each day;
That our life would be much different if we would have had our way.

Daily we are humbled by all we could have missed,
No longer ‘gainst God’s plan do we struggle and resist.

A baby girl we welcomed because God intervened,
Before she was created her days were all foreseen.

I know His ways are perfect, though not always understood.
I pray that I’ll be faithful in His gift of motherhood.

A House or a Home

There’s a house that’s always empty while the family gads about.
Chasing empty dreams and pleasures- always feeling they’re burned out.
Spending all their strength on worthless things that soon will pass away,
Not living for eternity, only for today.

There’s a house without a Bible being read from faithfully,
Hungry souls and empty hearts who are starving spiritually.
There’s a home without a Mother to cherish and to train,
Neglecting her first calling, all other works now vain.

This house could be a home if she would seek to live God’s plan,
But she thinks she’ll find fulfillment in the love and praise of man.
There’s a house with a searching mother on how to make a home.
She desires to build God’s Kingdom, but knows she can’t do it alone.

She asks for the Lord’s forgiveness for wasting so many years,
Fully knowing that His calling will cost sacrifice and tears.
Now there’s a home with an open Bible that is read from faithfully,
A home that is built on prayer and a life that is lived purposely.

There’s a home that accepts God’s children as a blessing from God’s own hand,
A home filled with His treasures, seeing children as loved and planned.
There’s a home that has a table for the family to find rest,
Hearts at home are often happiest, hearts at home so very blessed.

There’s a home that has an altar where petitions are daily made,
A home where the love of Christ is beautifully displayed.

A house or a home will you pursue?
The choice is fully up to you.

Written By: Kristin Eason

Where are the Mothers?

Where are the mothers who work hard with their hands,
Building their homes, obeying God’s commands?

Where are the mothers who sing to their child,
Who brightens the day with only their smile?

Where are the mothers who pray for the nation,
Who lead all their children to the God of creation?

Where are the mothers who rock their babes to sleep,
Tending young hearts as our Shepherd does His sheep?

Where are the mothers who make home-cooked meals,
Who kisses the boo-boos, on bedsides she kneels?

Where are the mothers who raise Kingdom shakers,
Receiving each child as a gift from the Maker?

They are hidden in homes that the world doesn’t see,
Their worth- more than gold and rare as rubies.

By: Kristin Eason

Children are Blessings

Children are a blessing, or so we Christians claim,
But when others are expecting we give them looks of great disdain.

“Don’t you know what causes babies?”
“Don’t you know how much they cost?”
“Think of all your talents that will now be lost.”

Children are a blessing, yet we end fertility,
Fear and selfishness leads to our sterility.

We would rather have our freedoms and not give up our “rights“,
Instead of children being treasures, they are seen as parasites.

We lift our voice against abortion with self-righteous attitudes,
But refuse to bear more children, with no sense of their value.

We do everything we can to prevent another blessing,
While we are judging others, it is us who needs confessing.

Maybe if we valued children as a gift from our good Lord,
We wouldn’t see an inconvenience, but from Him a great reward.

The Lord we serve is mighty, He is God of all creation.
Mothers, we are called to raise up godly generations.

By: Kristin Eason

Be Still Mother

 Life as a mother is seldom easy.  We will never fulfill our calling of motherhood, discipling our children, and living a holy life without moment-by-moment dependance on Christ.  If you choose to neglect something during your day, don't let it be your prayer time. Prayer isn't burdensome, it is a necessity. Truly, without Christ we can do nothing. Just as we put on clothes each morning, it's even more important to put on Christ as we begin each day.  Thought I would share a short poem I wrote this afternoon:

Be Still Mother

Kneel at the well, quench the thirst of your soul,
For the cares of this life each day take it’s toll.

From the children who wake on the wrong side of bed,
To the mouths waiting anxiously from their mother to be fed.

Don’t think you are sufficient apart from morning prayer,
Or you’ll end each day defeated and have a spirit of despair.

Acknowledge the grand calling to raise these souls for Christ,
Die daily to your flesh and live a life of sacrifice.

Cast your cares upon the Lord and you’ll find sufficient grace,
For trials and tribulations those in Christ must face.

Pray to your Heavenly Father; seek wisdom from above,
Be filled with His sweet Spirit, complete in perfect love.

Apart from Christ we’re nothing and our work will be in vain,
If prayer is oft’ forgotten and in Christ we don’t remain.

When the voices of this world say you don’t have time to still,
That’s when we make the choice to die to flesh and choose to kneel.

Heart of Home

Lord, let our house be something more
Than just a shelter with a door;
May it's windows glow with light;
Shedding radiance through the night.
Not just a glitter of glass and chrome,
But give it the "feel" of a happy home.
Let it have flowers, a well-loved book,
Soft cushions in a quiet nook.
May it be more than downy bed,
Or snowy cloth with silver spread;
Lend it some smiles, warm sympathy,
With kindly thought, true charity-
That all may recall, though far they roam,
That God was there- in the heart of home.

Christine White

A Prayer for my Daughters

Instill in my daughter a desire for Truth
Help her to seek You in the days of her youth

Instill in my daughter a heart that is pure
That refuses to yield to temptations allure.

Instill in my daughter a longing for Your presence
Teach her to live with Holy fear and reverence.

Instill in my daughter a thirst for righteousness,
And the fruits of peace, joy, and faithfulness.

Instill in my daughter eyes with a vision
To see the world as a field with saved souls as her mission.

Instill in my daughter a love for your Word-
to carry the gospel where it is unheard.

Instill in my daughter a humble attitude
With words that overflow with love and gratitude.

Instill in my daughter a mind that is sound-
not given to fear, but where Your grace abounds.

Dedicated to my daughters Emma Grace and Ellie Faith.
Written by- Kristin Eason (mom)
06/26/11

Blessed Motherhood

Thought I would share a poem I wrote this morning about motherhood. Hope it makes sense. :)

Blessed Motherhood

A calling so sacred that few seem to see

The impact of souls for eternity.

The training of minds in the way of the Lord

Is often by mothers and fathers ignored.

The time with our children will quickly pass by

The beauty of motherhood so many deny.

Children are gifts, not burdens we bear

The joys of mothering, the world can’t compare.

Each child is given a mother of his own,

No one else can love your child like you alone.

Women’s been fighting for freedom since the fall,

freedom from building well within our own walls.

We want recognition, status, and college degrees

We forget that this life isn’t “all about me“.

To mother a child demands your life,

As well as serving the Lord and being a wife.

The noble task of motherhood I pray you embrace

With the help of the Lord who will give you the grace.

No influence so greater, unlike any other,

Is she with a vision whom God blessed as mother.

Poem shared at Raising Homemakers.

A Prayer for Parents

I found a poetry book at a vintage flea market a few months ago called Life's Greatest

Treasure by Hallmark and especially liked the poem called "A Prayer for New Parents". This poem isn't only for new parents, but for all. Hope

you enjoy reading it as much as I did and it encourages you to keep an eternal perspective as you train up your children. We only get-

one

single

chance

to raise our children.

That's it.

No second chances.

This is one area we can't afford to be lazy in.

God, help us to remember that our children will learn more from our deeds than our creeds. Help us to depend on You each and every day for wisdom and discernment in raising these beautiful souls for Your glory alone. God give me grace.

Amen.

A Prayer for New Parents

By: James Keller

O Lord, give us the wisdom ---

To deal with our children as You would,

To see in each of them Your Holy Image,

To develop in them a Christ-like love of all men, not only a select few,

To teach them to be go-givers rather than go-getters.

Oh God, in training these dear ones whom

Thou hast entrusted to our charge, help us ---

To encourage rather than discourage them,

To discipline with kindness not softness,

To guide them intelligently, not blindly,

To coach, not scold; to nudge, not nag.

Dear Lord, above all, help us ---

To use common sense in regard to their future,

To let them go gladly when the time comes,

To let them lead their own lives while following them with our love,

To pray always that they will be close to Thee,

not only for the few years of this life

but for the endless years of eternity.

A Christian Home

A Christian Home
Barbara B. Hart, 1916
Jean Sibelius, 1865-1957

O give us homes built firm upon the Savior, Where Christ is Head and Counselor and Guide;
Where ev'ry child is taught His love and favor And gives his heart to Christ, the crucified:
How sweet to know that tho his footsteps waver His faithful Lord is walking by his side!

O give us home with godly fathers, mothers, Who always place their hope and trust in Him;
Whose tender patience turmoil never bothers, Whose calm and courage trouble cannot dim;
A home where each fins joy in serving others, And love still shines, tho days be dark and grim.

O give us homes where Christ is Lord and Master, The Bible read, the precious hymns still sung;
Where pray'r comes first in peace or in disaster, And praise is natural speech to ev'ry tongue;
Where mountains move before a faith that's vaster, And Christ sufficient is for old and young.

O Lord, our God, our homes are Thine forever! We trust to Thee their problems, toil, and care;
Their bonds of love no enemy can sever If Thou art always Lord and Master there:
Be Thou the center of our least endeavor Be Thou our Guest, our hearts and homes to share.

The last 2 days I have posted poems that I found in a beautiful book called Verses of Virtue. I ordered the book HERE from Christian Book Distributor. This will definately be a keepsake book that I am planning on putting in my girls hope chest!

Book Description:

Sing the praises of Christian womanhood! Through psalms, poetry, and prose, the Bible uses the beauty of language to communicate the vision, purpose, and mission of wives and mothers that once defined American family life. Gathering heartwarming and inspirational verses from Scripture, America's historical writings, and even antiquity, Phillips provides blessings and encouragement for your glorious calling. 126 pages, hardcover from Vision Forum

God Give Us Homes

Homes where the Bible is honored and taught;

Homes with the Spirit of Christ in their thought;

Homes that a likeness to heaven have caught.

God give us homes!

God give us homes!

Homes with the father in preist-like employ;

Homes that are bright with a far-reaching joy;

Homes where no world-stain shall come to annoy.

God give us homes!

God give us homes!

Homes where the mother is queen-like in love;

Ruled in the fear of the Savior above;

Homes that to youth most inspiring shall prove.

God give us homes!

God give us homes!

Homes with the children to brighten the hours;

Budding and blooming like beautiful flowers;

Places of sunshine-sweet, sanctified bowers.

God give us homes!

By J.R. Clements

Wait Upon The Lord

Wait

by Russell Kelfer
Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried;
Quietly, patiently, lovingly, God replied.
I pled and I wept for a clue to my fate . . .
And the Master so gently said, “Wait.”
“Wait? you say wait?” my indignant reply.
“Lord, I need answers, I need to know why!
Is your hand shortened? Or have you not heard?
By faith I have asked, and I’m claiming your Word.
“My future and all to which I relate
Hangs in the balance, and you tell me to wait?
I’m needing a ‘yes’, a go-ahead sign,
Or even a ‘no’ to which I can resign.
“You promised, dear Lord, that if we believe,
We need but to ask, and we shall receive.
And Lord I’ve been asking, and this is my cry:
I’m weary of asking! I need a reply.”
Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate,
As my Master replied again, “Wait.”
So I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut,
And grumbled to God, “So, I’m waiting for what?”
He seemed then to kneel, and His eyes met with mine . . .
and He tenderly said, “I could give you a sign.
I could shake the heavens and darken the sun.
I could raise the dead and cause mountains to run.
“I could give all you seek and pleased you would be.
You’d have what you want, but you wouldn’t know Me.
You’d not know the depth of my love for each saint.
You’d not know the power that I give to the faint.
“You’d not learn to see through clouds of despair;
You’d not learn to trust just by knowing I’m there.
You’d not know the joy of resting in Me
When darkness and silence are all you can see.
“You’d never experience the fullness of love
When the peace of My spirit descends like a dove.
You would know that I give, and I save, for a start,
But you’d not know the depth of the beat of My heart.
“The glow of my comfort late into the night,
The faith that I give when you walk without sight.
The depth that’s beyond getting just what you ask
From an infinite God who makes what you have last.
“You’d never know, should your pain quickly flee,
What it means that My grace is sufficient for thee.
Yes, your dearest dreams overnight would come true,
But, oh, the loss, if you missed what I’m doing in you.
“So, be silent, my child, and in time you will see
That the greatest of gifts is to truly know me.
And though oft My answers seem terribly late,
My most precious answer of all is still . . . Wait.”

Babies Don't Keep

It seems like yesterday when I rocked my children to sleep and held them in my arms. Now several years later as they begin another school year I watched them walk into their classrooms longing to hold them once again, wondering where the time has gone. The little feet I used to kiss is now almost as big as mine. The feet that used to follow me everywhere during the day is now taking steps independently of mine. Sesame Street, coloring books, playdoh, and nursery rhymes are now things of the past for my two oldest children. I plan to savor every moment with my 18 month old remembering that "babies don't keep".




Babies Don’t Keep
by Ruth Hulburt Hamilton

Mother, O Mother, come shake out your cloth,
Empty the dustpan, poison the moth,
Hang out the washing, make up the bed,
Sew on a button and butter the bread.

Where is the mother whose house is so shocking?
She’s up in the nursery, blissfully rocking.

Oh, I’ve grown as shiftless as Little Boy Blue,
Lullabye, rockabye, lullabye loo.
Dishes are waiting and bills are past due
Pat-a-cake, darling, and peek, peekaboo

The shopping’s not done and there’s nothing for stew
And out in the yard there’s a hullabaloo
But I’m playing Kanga and this is my Roo
Look! Aren’t his eyes the most wonderful hue?
Lullabye, rockaby lullabye loo.

The cleaning and scrubbing can wait till tomorrow
But children grow up as I’ve learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down cobwebs; Dust go to sleep!
I’m rocking my baby and babies don’t keep