What is Your Name?

Since changing my name to Charis, God has made me more aware of the grace that i show others. I believe that was His intent all along. Allow me to give the definition of charis one more time: charis-grace, grace of speech, good will, loving-kindness and thanks.

That is why i love the name. These are the very traits i’ve always wanted to posess. So Charis is more than a name to me, it is a way of life.

Now, when the spirit of judgement clouds my view; God whispers in my ear, “What is your name?”. It doesn’t take long for the condescending thoughts to disappear. I ask His forgiveness and He redirects my thinking. Mercy replaces judgement. When my children try my patience, as they often do, and i feel the frustration building; God is in my ear again, “What is your name?”. Sometimes i speak before i think and say things i have to go back and ask forgiveness for-from God and the children. Sometimes i pout, “But God…”. Either way i know He is right and i thank Him for reminding me that my name is cHarIS.

God's Jealousy

“Do not worship any other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.” Exodus 34:14

The jealousy of God and the jealousy of man are not the same; one offers redemption the other suffers shame. One is for us, the other is against us. Godly jealousy wants what is best for you; the jealousy of man says, “It is all about me!”. In His jealousy God will judge, but His judgement is right and His discipline is to bring us back to the Light. In his jealousy a man will lie, cheat or kill; his intention is never right. So when you hear that God is a jealous God do not be troubled but be encouraged instead; because if God did not love you so much He would not care when you are misled.

What can we Learn From a Weed?

I know they are weeds but still they are pretty to me.

Others may mow or spray,

Whatever to make them go away.

But i like to look closer

And see what they miss,

Delicate little beauties

That remind me

Sometimes we are too quick to judge

Or look the other way

When beauty surrounds us everyday.

No Makeup, no Costumes and no Candy

The choice not to celebrate Halloween in our family is a matter of personal conviction. I do not wish to judge anyone who does observe this holiday, it is not my place to do so. Most of my friends celebrate and i do not express my opinion on this matter unless asked to do so. It was not until i had children of my own that i was convicted not do Halloween, yet i do remember many Halloween nights as a child and wonder if i am cheating my children now. But the more i learn about the origins and history of this day the more i am convinced i am doing the right thing. Jeremy and i have always been open and honest with the children and they have accepted our decision. When my children ask why some celebrate while others do not i tell them that not everyone is convicted in the same way. This always opens up interesting conversation on spiritual matters and why we believe what we believe. They amaze me with their wisdom and insight. Tonight as we ate pizza at their favorite restaraunt the discussion was brought up again and as we shared there was laughter and enjoyment all around the table. No makeup, no costumes and no candy but happy memories were made just the same. Thank You, Father, for reassuring me once again.