Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Waiting for the Answer


You know those times when you're looking for God's will, but you really don't know which way it's going to go? I've been going through that recently, hoping it's a 'yes', fearing it could be a 'no', but really just not sure of anything. I'm still waiting for the answer.
 
Earlier I was on Pinterest, looking for encouragement (wrong place to go to begin with! ;)). I typed in 'when God says no' and was looking at different things. All of the sudden, this thought popped into my head. I don't know that it was God saying it... But the thought was "I haven't said 'no' yet; why are you acting like I have?" Wow... I do not know that 'yes' is in the picture, but I need to stop looking for and acting like it is the 'no'... Yes, I need to hold this area with open hands, but I don't need to act like God has taken it away, because He hasn't yet. I need to trust Him for whether it is a 'yes' or a 'no'. I've not been looking at today; my eyes have been focused on the future 'maybes' and the possibility of a 'no' answer recently. While those are very real, it's making me discouraged over something I have no cause to be discouraged about yet. It is making me focus on me and possible hurt and possible struggles when God hasn't given them to me yet. What if the answer is 'yes'? I will have had multiple bad days all because I was focusing on something that I didn't have to deal with. And what if the answer is 'no'? Then He will give me sufficient grace then, not now. Just as tomorrow's blessings are not mine for today, neither are tomorrow's sorrows or struggles. I must stop focusing on what the answer to my questions and dreams may be, and focus on the Answer Himself and what He has for me today. Then everything else will fall into its proper place in my focus.


Monday, December 21, 2015

If I Would Know God



If I would know God, I must READ His Word
If I would find God, I must SEEK Him
If I would have a relationship with God, I must be AVAILABLE
If I would see prayers answered, I must PRAY
If I would hear God, I must LISTEN
If I would get through, I must LET GO
If I would move forward, I must WALK
If I would live in Christ, I must DIE to self
If I would have my faith grow, I must TRUST Him
If I would do God's will I must RELEASE my own
If I would change, I must not REMAIN THE SAME




Thursday, October 29, 2015

Quotes of Encouragement

Hi everyone! I'm very excited to be guest posting over here at Alisha in Progress! I'm Maddy and I'm a home-schooled teen who blogs over Maddy's Digital Diary. Today, I'd like to share some of my favorite picture quotes with you all. Enjoy!






>> this post was submitted by Maddy C.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Pumpkin Spice Latte cookies with Caramel Cream Cheese icing

Hey Y'all! Fall is officially here! Here is an amazing recipe using (almost);) all my favorite ingredients:
Pumpkin Spice Latte cookies with Caramel Cream Cheese icing
These cookies are the perfect mix of pumpkin spice and coffee flavor. They are a little labor intensive but are so definitely worth it.

1 c. Butter(softened)
1c. Granulated sugar
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 heaping tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1 egg
2 tsp vanilla
1 TBS instant espresso or coffee
1 8oz can pumpkin
2 c. all purpose flour

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl beat the butter with electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Beat until combined. Beat in egg, dissolve espresso in vanilla, and add to batter until combined. Beat in pumpkin. Slowly add flour until combined and scrape sides of bowl to incorporate all ingredients. Using a small cookie scoop, drop dough by heaping tsps 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake for 10-12 min or until tops are set. Transfer to wire rack and cool.

Frosting:
1/2 c butter (softened)
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 c caramel
2 tsp instant espresso or coffee
1 TBS vanilla extract
4-5 c powdered sugar

Dissolve espresso in vanilla. Beat butter and cream cheese together until combined. Add caramel and powdered sugar along with instant coffee and vanilla. Whip until fluffy, adding more powdered sugar to achieve desired consistency. Once cookies are cooled, icing generously and sprinkle with more cinnamon. 
ENJOY!! :)

>> this recipe was submitted by Erika O.

Thursday, July 30, 2015

Top Ten Unconventional Overseas Packing Tips

 
You've Never Thought of These Before 
...but you'll thank me later...

1. Bring the General Store. Yes, I saw you cringe as you read that. It totally goes against the theory of packing light and only bringing essentials- but truly, if you pack smart, it can be done- and you won't regret it. I won't travel overseas without twine, scissors (in your checked bag, please!), and tape. Ingenuity is essential, and these tools will never steer you wrong. I also like to bring a dark bedsheet- which has been used in the past to form a quick changing room (thanks to the twine and scissors previously mentioned), privacy from open windows, covering belongings from dust or spreading out on the dirt floor. 

2. Tissues, Toilet Paper, and Wet-Wipes are Your Friends. You may think they'll just take up space in your bag, but believe me, you won't regret these either. Traveling seriously wears down your immune system- throw in a change of climate, different water and cultural food, and you have a recipe for the sniffles (at best) or stomach bug (at worse). Treat your nose right and pack some good facial tissue- remove tissues from cardboard box and seal in a zip-lock bag to save space. Wet-wipes are also essential- depending on why/where you're traveling, showers (and time!) may be scarce. You'll appreciate having wet-wipes available to remove travel grime and as a quick refresher. You can't always trust the water overseas, so they're perfect for washing your face or wiping down your hands while you're out and about. And while we're on the self-care products- bring a roll of toilet paper. Laugh now, but you won't be laughing later when every bathroom you go to is fresh out. Carry it in your backpack and you have not a care in the world. 

3. Invest in Good Shoes. Traveling is expensive, and if you're like me, you want to cut down the costs as much as you can. I always buy second-hand and scour clearance racks- however, the best piece of travel advice I ever received was to invest in good shoes. Don't think of it as splurging, but as an investment in high quality with the assurance that these shoes won't let you down while you're gone. There's really only 3 pairs of shoes you need, depending on the terrain and circumstances surrounding your trip:

Boots/Tennis Shoes: I highly recommend Ariat boots. They cover your ankles, give you good traction, and are by far the most comfortable boots I've owned- as well as the most expensive, but they truly were worth every penny (I did find mine at Tractor Supply Co. on sale). They're stylish and can easily be dressed up or down depending on your outfit. These are my brown shoes, to be worn for work or with outfits with brown accessories. If you're not a boot person, go with tennis shoes that are comfortable and supportive. 

Sandals: I own a pair of Teva sandals (purchased at a discount store). There are so many different hiking/traveling sandals out there- do your research and try on lots of pairs. You don't want something that will end up giving you blisters or have straps that will let you down- thus, I don't recommend purchasing a pair of sandals online. Every shoe is different and you want a pair that will fit your foot like a dream. No flip-flops or some cheap pair here- get something with velcro and rubber. They may not be the most fashionable shoes you own, but there are certainly ones that are quite nice. These are my black shoes, to be worn for traveling or with outfits with black accessories. 

Shower Shoes/Flats: Depending on the kind of sandals you choose, it's up to you whether or not you want to wear those shoes in the shower house. For me, I don't like soaking the velcro on my sandals, so I pack a pair of cheap flip-flops. If you don't mind soaking your main pair of sandals, you could pack a pair of neutral flats as your third pair of shoes. 

4. Pack to Toss. You know you'll have lots of presents and souvenirs to bring back- but your bags are full as it is! Pack knowing that you're going to toss some things before you return home. Leave behind toiletries, even some of your "General Store" items, or clothes that have gotten stained. Know that you're going to be using up a lot of your toiletries/snacks, etc., but anything that's leftover before you have to fly home can be left behind. 

5. Feed Yourself. Don't underestimate the snacks. When you're out and always on the go, you work up an appetite faster than you realize. Cultural food is different and may not agree with your stomach- so pack lots of granola bars, trail mix, jerky, etc. I thought I brought a lot of snacks on my last overseas trip, but found that I was having to ration my snacks out within just one week of being there. You can't over-pack here, especially if you have food allergies or sensitivities. Your teammates and fellow travel buddies will want some of your food, too- and you know you have to share! Tea and instant coffee are other things that are nice to have on hand- as well as packaged electrolyte powders and instant flavored water packets to help cover the odd taste of different drinking water. 

6. Be Frivolous- Just Once. You're far away from home. Bring something frivolous that makes you smile or holds a special meaning. Whether it's a fun magazine, a family member's oversized shirt for lounging in, or a book that always encourages you, it's okay to pack it! You'll be glad to have a little taste of home while you're away. 

7. Find the Largest Water Bottle Possible. Hydration is key while traveling. As long as you have a comfortable backpack, carrying a large water bottle is never a problem. Many people I traveled with ran out of water in their small bottles quickly- but I never had to worry with my large one. It also was a good visual of how much water I was supposed to be drinking. Camelbak is another option, however, they are difficult to clean. 

8. Don't Be Afraid of Long Sleeves. The sun is hot, and although you may romanticize the idea of a tan, you really are just going to get fried. Bring loose cotton button-up shirts- especially the ones where the sleeves can roll up and are secured with a button- and tank tops to go underneath. It will protect your arms and truly will keep you more cool. Look for cotton and linen, fabrics that are breathable. 

9. Your Electronics Don't Like Travel. When traveling overseas, you will need adapters and converters in order for your American electronics to charge. This goes for hair dryers, computer cords, phone cords, camera chargers, etc. Do your research, and buy adapters with different prongs in order to be certain one of them will be able to fit into an outlet overseas. If you want phone service overseas, you will also need a SIM card from the country you will be staying in, or rent a cellphone from a popular provider there. 

 10. Journal Frequently. You may feel like you want to just experience everything you possibly can and you can't afford any downtime, but please- take time to journal. You absolutely won't regret it. You may think you'll remember to write something down once you get back home, but it just won't happen. Take the time out in the evenings or whenever you have down time- while on busses or waiting at a pick up point- and create a written record of all that you're experiencing and learning. My travel journals are some of my most precious possessions, and I am so grateful for someone who pushed me to journal. Even though I took time to write about every other day while away, looking back I wish I would have taken even more time!


>> this post was submitted by Victoria

Thursday, July 23, 2015

Re-thinking Mission Mindedness


So often when we think of missions we have this idea it means going abroad – over seas - to share the Gospel with those that are lost and have never heard the name Jesus Christ. It seems so glamorous in it's ideal situation. After all Jesus did tell us in Acts 1:8 that ye shall be witnesses unto me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” But does that really mean that each of us must travel to the ends of the earth in order to share that sacred name; Jesus? It is my opinion that we, in fact, need to rethink what being mission-minded truly means according to the Scriptures.
Let us first explore Acts 1:8. When Jesus spoke this “Great Commission” He wasn't suggesting we all jump on the next red-eye flight bound for Tim-buck-too. He says that we will be witnesses of him in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost. Let me create a word picture – think of Jerusalem as your home; your neighborhood. Judea could be the city you live in. Samaria is the bigger picture; your country – the US. And of course the uttermost will be the places that you may never think of going (traveling abroad). So in this verse he talks of ministering to everyone... starting from those closest to you. But the where does it really start?

I believe it all starts at home.

Please don't misunderstand me... there is a definite place for people traveling across our boarders to tell others of what God did for us on the cross. I believe Christians (as a whole) have lost sight of the big picture. We see so many suffering and lost lives via the media, visiting missionaries, church bulletins that I think our lens is clouded as to what He first called us to – the family. I believe being mission-minded starts in the home; serving God selflessly and then extends outward with a motion like a drop of water in a cup. But what does serving God selflessly look like for a twelve, fourteen, sixteen, twenty (some) year old young lady look like today? A married woman?

It looks like a rose, emerging from the soil, beautifully giving credit to its Maker's design – blooming to be what it's suppose to be, exactly where the gardener has planted it, in its perfect time. Giving glory to God in everything.

We are each a rose, God is the Maker (as well as the gardener). He planted each of us, regardless of the season we are in, exactly where we are. He makes no mistakes, therefore if you are still in school, do your school to the glory of God. If you've graduated, waiting for Mr. Right to come along, be the helper at home that gives glory to God. (did you know learning to serve your earthly father as you would your husband is not only good practice, but also glorifying to God?) If you've crossed over into the blessed union of marriage (even motherhood) – learn to glorify God by becoming the best helpmeet (mother) you can be for those God has entrusted to you.

You see... being mission-minded is more than travel, glamor, and verbally sharing the Gospel with everyone you meet. It is learning the heart of God and allowing Him to have that ripple effect through us, through our family. That's why I believe family is the foundation. We must strive to be women of purpose; to live our lives discipling our children and loving our husbands. We must direct our children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. We must be intentionally living with a generational vision. Our home must be our first mission field. Our family must be those that we purpose to effect first. Our children should be foremost on our list to disciple.

I understand it's a difficult place to be; not knowing when and where God has you going next. Especially when you want something so badly. God tells us He is a light unto our path, a lamp unto our feet – with that light, from that lamp - we are only allowed to see a short distance. He offers to guide us and protect us, but we must be in His will, being obedient in faith that He knows best. I would like to encourage you to stay the course and not give in to the earthly ideals of where your mission field “should be”. There are plenty of opportunities for being mission-minded in your home, in your city, in this country. Allow God to grow the vision of His mission in your heart. And if you seek Him and his kingdom first, everything else will fall into place.


>> this post was submitted by Mrs. Lori B.

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Release the Talent You Were Born to Use



 Being a visionary...it's often talked about and yet not many people know how to apply it to their lives. It becomes like a shadowy image dancing right out of reach, big dreams that seem impossible but we still desire to be a part of. Dreams that have titles of "missionary", "artist", "author", "musician", "mother", and so the list goes on, a never ending trail of possibilities that just doesn't seem possible for us.

They're not possible, because we couldn't possibly do them better than the person next to us. 

We don't want to try and flail our arms in defeat as we fall again to the hard, cold earth. We don't know where we fit in or where we should add our voice. We don't even know what avenues we should meander down in search of our purpose on earth, what paths will bring the most glory to God through our life.

Most of us, I believe, have been sitting there in the shadows for too long. I know I've been there too long. You graduate high school, know you have your whole life ahead of you...and you freeze, not knowing where to go or what to do. We don't know how to thrive.

 I have realized that you have to look backward in order to look forward.

My brother is a musician. Within three days of ever picking up a guitar, he taught himself how to play and was fingerpicking Yiruma. He has so much talent that it makes me a little sick- because I wish I could play as effortlessly and compose such beautiful pieces as he does.

 But you see, my brother's always had talent. Looking back, I see him dancing and bobbing his head to the beat as a toddler. I hear him singing his own good-morning songs as a child. I find him at the piano... again.

 Yet, my brother doesn't believe he's a musician, becauseit's always been there. Music is just something he does. Where I can see amazing potential, all he can see is the professionals that to him are so much better. It's the same for you, for me. Sometimes you have to look back to look forwards- something in your childhood, maybe, that you still hold a love for. An event that happened and changed your life. Something that is so a part of your DNA that by now you just glance over it and say, "It's not special....it's just always been there."

Sometimes we hold the vision tighter than the Vision-Giver.

I wasn't made to be a musician. I could want it desperately, but that's not the Father's vision for my life. Most of the times, we go looking for our purpose outside of the skills and talents God has given us, because they don't seem "special"- they've just always been there. They're not as exciting as the talents someone else has. But, God has a vision for all of our lives, and we need to embrace and thrive within it. His vision for me may not be the things I want but He's given me other talents, deep down inside of me, that He wants to call out and use whether I like it or not.

For years people have told me that I'm a writer, that I have a way with words, that I should write books. Most days, I don't believe them. I laugh a nervous little chuckle, shrug my shoulders and change the subject.

My talent became mundane, because it wasn't new to me. It lost it's sparkle under years worth of dust, afraid to be let out.

While my brother tapped out tunes as a child, I surrounded myself with pen and paper. My childhood was spent with notebooks of stories, drawings and doodles in my math book, too many hours staring out the window in a world far away.

It's easy to run from your talent, but to truly be filled with vision you must embrace it. You can't look outside of yourself and copy the life of someone else.

Your talent is just as important as the person next to you, no matter how different it is.

Embrace the vision. Reclaim your passions. Release the talent you were born to use. Go forth boldly in paths that God has made you- even from your beginning days- to run in.

>> this post was submitted by Victoria