When Anxiety Threatens Your Personal Peace {Guest Post}

A big thank you to all of the contributors this summer!

When Anxiety Threatens Your Personal Peace

Photo by Bruno van der Kraan on Unsplash

It waits in the shadow of thoughts; sitting real and large on my chest like a rock pressing sharp edges into earth’s soft soil. Settling into tender places until the pressure builds and the corners of my heart fracture enough to allow tears to seep through and thin shocks of electricity shoot down my arms into the tips of each finger–seeking release.
I’ve been managing anxiety well for years, but its risen from dormancy the last several weeks. I’m not terribly surprised. For a short time, my husband was hospitalized. A colleague threatened suicide. A dear one is battling against the stronghold of depression. And the only evidence now of a long-time canine companion is a small pink collar and unused dog dish.
Unwelcome, apprehension greets me in the morning and whispers in my ear as I lay my head on the pillow at night.
You should have done something for her today. Why didn’t you call him? What if he doesn’t know how important he is to you? To God?
I gather the thoughts and then release them in prayers.
This sort of battle resides in the mind, but is as real as any visible enemy. For some, its roots may have sprung from a biological bent toward mental illness. A lack of feel-good chemical production. Others may have suffered trauma or loss. Perhaps a loss so overwhelming that is seems to grow uncontrolled and ever-larger–like a nightmarish beanstalk in a child’s fairy tale.
Friend, when we feel impossibly small as we hack away at anxiety–burdened by the hard of circumstance or overwhelmed by worry, remember that Christ conquered every power. Every principality. Every plot to separate us from Him. In His name we can stand against the lies of the enemy, denying satan the right to shift worship from Christ to concern.
Pray against worry. Pronounce Christ’s truth over yourself. And, cling to His promises.

Action Steps to Help When You are Anxious

P-When assaulted by an anxious thought, immediately pray against it. Renounce it as powerless in the name of Christ. (John 14:13)
R–Remind yourself of God’s promises. Memorize scriptures you can pray back to Him when you’re struggling. (James 4:8)
A–Ask others to pray with and for you. (James 5:16)
I-Develop intentional habits to help ward off anxiety. These might include daily Bible reading and meditation, regular exercise, and eating well. (Ephesians 6:10-18)
S-If anxiety becomes part of your day-to-day struggle,seek help from a counselor or doctor. (Proverbs 12:15)
E-Press into God, enduring with patience and hope for He will bless you. (James 1:12)
Blessings,
Tammy

Tammy Kennington is a writer, speaker, education workshop presenter, and child abuse awareness advocate. Familiar with the impact of trauma, mental illness, and parenting in the hard places, Tammy hopes to lead women toward a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationship with the God who loves them.
You can connect with Tammy through her blog, Facebook, or Twitter.

Verses for Overwhelmed & Weary Moms

Scriptures For Overwhelmed and Weary Moms

Overwhelmed and weary. I think every mom, if she is honest, will admit being there at some point. Days that we need to be reminded of the joy that we can have. Days where His grace is enough.
With three little 5 and under, and one on the way, I often find myself there. “One of those days” and “the struggle is real” can usually describe a few days each week. Especially the last week. The Tough Day Playlist has played a lot lately.
On those days, I have to remember to get in the Word. To renew my mind. The make sure that I am getting drunk in the Spirit. When Satan wants to get you down, scripture is a great way to combat him. When Satan was tempting Jesus in the desert, Jesus-THE WORD, used the Word of God to counter Satan’s use of scripture.

Here Are Some To Put In Your Arsenal (Emphasis Mine)

Renewing Your Mind

Earlier this week I share about how important this is (especially for moms) in the first post of this series, Renewing Your Mind, please take a minute to check it out!

Peace and Rest

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. ”
Matthew 11:28

Nothing compares to the rest that is found in Christ.

The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, Because he trusts in You.
Isaiah 26:3

The peace that Jesus gives is not what we think of as peace. It is not necessarily the absence of conflict, but a peace that passes understanding because we know who is in control.

A Psalm; a Song at the Dedication of the House. A Psalm of David. I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up, And have not let my enemies rejoice over me. O LORD my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me. O LORD, You have brought up my soul from Sheol; You have kept me alive, that I would not go down to the pit. Sing praise to the LORD, you His godly ones, And give thanks to His holy name. For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning.
Psalm 30:1-5

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, And to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, And vigorous young men stumble badly, Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.
Isaiah 40:28-31

We must rely on the Lord and His strength, His power. He gives us exactly what we need.

But as for me, I shall sing of Your strength; Yes, I shall joyfully sing of Your loving kindness in the morning, For You have been my stronghold And a refuge in the day of my distress.
Psalm 59:16

When we start out the day with praise, it sets the tone for the rest of the day. Remembering God’s loving kindness is a great way to start the day.

“These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

This goes to both peace and rest and trials, but remembering that in Him we have peace is important.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9

Remembering that He is always with us is such a comfort!

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts.”
Isaiah 55:8-9

In our lives, we have our plans. God’s plans do not always match those plans. Remembering that, ultimately, He is in controls is a source of peace.

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13

Remembering the joy that we can have in Christ is another source of peace that we have.

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, Nor will the flame burn you.”
Isaiah 43:2

Another great reminder that God is with us. We are in His hand.

Shout for joy, O heavens! And rejoice, O earth! Break forth into joyful shouting, O mountains! For the LORD has comforted His people And will have compassion on His afflicted.
Isaiah 49:13

We serve a compassionate God, one that comforts His people! What a reason to rejoice!

For the choir director. A Psalm of the sons of Korah, set to Alamoth. A Song. God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.
Psalm 46:1

Remembering to run to our Daddy for refuge and strength is important.

My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.
Psalm 121:2

Our help comes from the Lord who made the universe, from nothing! What more do we need?

“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.”
Deuteronomy 31:6

He will not fail, nor forsake you. You are in His hand.

“For the mountains may be removed and the hills may shake, But My loving kindness will not be removed from you, And My covenant of peace will not be shaken,” Says the LORD who has compassion on you.
Isaiah 54:10

No matter what we go through, God’s loving kindness and covenant of peace will not be shaken.

Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink.”
John 7:37

Jesus truly gives the living waters that satisfy our souls. When we are satisfied in Him, it makes things much more bearable.

In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
Rom 8:26-28

There is such peace in knowing that all things-all things– work together for the good of those who love God! And that even when we do not have the words to pray in our hard times, that we have the Spirit who intercedes for us.

So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught, whether by word of mouth or by letter from us. Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace, comfort and strengthen your hearts in every good work and word.
2 Thessalonians 2:15-17

We are loved. We have eternal comfort. We have good hope. We can comfort and strengthen our hearts in every good work and word.

Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all!
2 Thessalonians 3:16

In every circumstance. It is not going to be easy. Jesus warned that in this world we will have troubles.

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
James 4:8

Drawing near to God is so important for peace and rest.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.
Colossians 3:15

I shared Monday how important thanksgiving and gratitude are in our lives and to renewing our minds. It makes it much easier to let Christ’s peace (which is not like the world’s peace), rule our hearts.

I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13

Often when this verse is quoted the emphasis is on “I can”, and not “Him who”. It is only through Him that we can do things, especially hard things.

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you.
1 Peter 5:6-10

Taking our worries and problems to God should be our first action, not our last resort. He cares how you are feeling. About your well-being.
Living like we have an enemy after us is important. He is serious, and will do what he can to get us distracted and off track.
God will use this for your good, and will strengthen you.

See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. … Do not be surprised, brethren, if the world hates you.
1 John 3:1, 13

How great is His love!
Sometimes our trials are not everyday things, but externally sourced. It is important to remember that we are not promised an easy road.

You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.
1 John 4:4

Greater is He that is in you than He who is in the world! The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is in you!

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.
2 Corinthians 4:7-10

If we did everything effortlessly, if everything ran smoothly and we could do it all, where would the room for Christ to shine and show His power be?
Afflicted, not crushed; perplexed, not despairing; persecuted, not forsaken; struck down, not destroyed…
We must daily die to self so that Jesus can be manifested in our bodies.

And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10

We should take courage in being weak, when we cannot do it all, for then it is a chance for Christ to dwell in us. There are days when His grace is enough.

Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing. But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Live in peace with one another. We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:11-18

I feel like this is motherhood in a nut shell…Encouraging, building up, praising good done, living in peace with one another, admonishing the unruly, helping the weak, being patient, seeing that no one repays evil for evil, seeking the best good.
It does say be patient with everyone…no qualifiers given. I admit readily that I struggle with that sometimes…especially when it is the 100th time I have told someone to do something….but then how many times does God have to tell me something? How many times has He been patient with me?
Rejoice….always! In everything give thanks….it is not always easy.
When we have a constant, prayerful connection it is much easier to have a joyful spirit and give thanks, even in the hard times…

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
Ephesians 2:10

God has prepared these good works for us to walk in. He crafted you for a specific purpose. Put you where you are for a reason. Chosen you as the mother of you children, as the spouse for your husband.

Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.
Psalm 27:14

Waiting is hard, but being still, really taking time to acknowledge Him as Lord of your life is important. We can take courage in the fact that we are not God.

From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
Psalm 61:2

I have always found the psalms so encouraging. Many times when I do not know what to pray I will read then, and usually I find something that expresses perfectly how I feel.

When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, You knew my path. In the way where I walk They have hidden a trap for me.
Psalm 142:3

Even when we are overwhelmed, God knows our path. Even when we cannot see it, He does. That is such a source of peace and comfort for me.

The LORD is my strength and my shield; My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart exults, And with my song I shall thank Him.
Psalm 28:7

We must rely on Him for strength and protection. When our heart fully trust Him, it is a tremendous comfort.

Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.
Colossians 3:23-24

Remembering why we serve is key. When we focus on Him, the overwhelm begins to fade.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints
Ephesians 6:10-18

Preparing for daily spiritual warfare that goes on is one thing that helps defeat overwhelm. When we are prepared for the attack we are not blind sided, it gives us footing against overwhelm.
Remembering that our battle is not against flesh and blood is a big thing.

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
Galatians 6:9 (ESV)

Satan wants nothing more than to destroy us and have us give up. Doing good, fulfilling your calling as a wife and mother is not always easy. Do not lose heart dear one!
I hope these verses have encouraged you! What verses do you like to turn to when you are weary and overwhelmed?

Verses for Overwhelmed & Weary Moms

Scriptures For Overwhelmed and Weary Moms

Here Are Some To Put In Your Arsenal (Emphasis Mine)

Renewing Your Mind

Earlier this week I share about how important this is (especially for moms) in the first post of this series, Renewing Your Mind, please take a minute to check it out!

Peace and Rest

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. ”
Matthew 11:28

Nothing compares to the rest that is found in Christ.

The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, Because he trusts in You.
Isaiah 26:3

The peace that Jesus gives is not what we think of as peace. It is not necessarily the absence of conflict, but a peace that passes understanding because we know who is in control.

A Psalm; a Song at the Dedication of the House. A Psalm of David. I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up, And have not let my enemies rejoice over me. O LORD my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me. O LORD, You have brought up my soul from Sheol; You have kept me alive, that I would not go down to the pit. Sing praise to the LORD, you His godly ones, And give thanks to His holy name. For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, But a shout of joy comes in the morning.
Psalm 30:1-5

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, And to him who lacks might He increases power. Though youths grow weary and tired, And vigorous young men stumble badly, Yet those who wait for the LORD Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.
Isaiah 40:28-31

We must rely on the Lord and His strength, His power. He gives us exactly what we need.

But as for me, I shall sing of Your strength; Yes, I shall joyfully sing of Your loving kindness in the morning, For You have been my stronghold And a refuge in the day of my distress.
Psalm 59:16

When we start out the day with praise, it sets the tone for the rest of the day. Remembering God’s loving kindness is a great way to start the day.

“These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

This goes to both peace and rest and trials, but remembering that in Him we have peace is important.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9

Remembering that He is always with us is such a comfort!

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts.”
Isaiah 55:8-9

In our lives, we have our plans. God’s plans do not always match those plans. Remembering that, ultimately, He is in controls is a source of peace.

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13

Remembering the joy that we can have in Christ is another source of peace that we have.

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, Nor will the flame burn you.”
Isaiah 43:2

Another great reminder that God is with us. We are in His hand.

Shout for joy, O heavens! And rejoice, O earth! Break forth into joyful shouting, O mountains! For the LORD has comforted His people And will have compassion on His afflicted.
Isaiah 49:13

We serve a compassionate God, one that comforts His people! What a reason to rejoice!

For the choir director. A Psalm of the sons of Korah, set to Alamoth. A Song. God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.
Psalm 46:1

Remembering to run to our Daddy for refuge and strength is important.

My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.
Psalm 121:2

Our help comes from the Lord who made the universe, from nothing! What more do we need?

“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.”
Deuteronomy 31:6

He will not fail, nor forsake you. You are in His hand.

“For the mountains may be removed and the hills may shake, But My loving kindness will not be removed from you, And My covenant of peace will not be shaken,” Says the LORD who has compassion on you.
Isaiah 54:10

No matter what we go through, God’s loving kindness and covenant of peace will not be shaken.

Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink.”
John 7:37

Jesus truly gives the living waters that satisfy our souls. When we are satisfied in Him, it makes things much more bearable.

In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
Rom 8:26-28

So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught, whether by word of mouth or by letter from us. Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who has loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope by grace, comfort and strengthen your hearts in every good work and word.
2 Thessalonians 2:15-17

We are loved. We have eternal comfort. We have good hope. We can comfort and strengthen our hearts in every good work and word.

Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in every circumstance. The Lord be with you all!
2 Thessalonians 3:16

In every circumstance. It is not going to be easy. Jesus warned that in this world we will have troubles.

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
James 4:8

Drawing near to God is so important for peace and rest.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.
Colossians 3:15

I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13

Often when this verse is quoted the emphasis is on “I can”, and not “Him who”. It is only through Him that we can do things, especially hard things.

Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you.
1 Peter 5:6-10

See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. … Do not be surprised, brethren, if the world hates you.
1 John 3:1, 13

How great is His love!
Sometimes our trials are not everyday things, but externally sourced. It is important to remember that we are not promised an easy road.

You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.
1 John 4:4

Greater is He that is in you than He who is in the world! The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is in you!

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves; we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.
2 Corinthians 4:7-10

And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10

We should take courage in being weak, when we cannot do it all, for then it is a chance for Christ to dwell in us. There are days when His grace is enough.

Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing. But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Live in peace with one another. We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:11-18

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
Ephesians 2:10

Wait for the LORD; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the LORD.
Psalm 27:14

Waiting is hard, but being still, really taking time to acknowledge Him as Lord of your life is important. We can take courage in the fact that we are not God.

From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
Psalm 61:2

I have always found the psalms so encouraging. Many times when I do not know what to pray I will read then, and usually I find something that expresses perfectly how I feel.

When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, You knew my path. In the way where I walk They have hidden a trap for me.
Psalm 142:3

Even when we are overwhelmed, God knows our path. Even when we cannot see it, He does. That is such a source of peace and comfort for me.

The LORD is my strength and my shield; My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped; Therefore my heart exults, And with my song I shall thank Him.
Psalm 28:7

We must rely on Him for strength and protection. When our heart fully trust Him, it is a tremendous comfort.

Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.
Colossians 3:23-24

Remembering why we serve is key. When we focus on Him, the overwhelm begins to fade.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints
Ephesians 6:10-18

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
Galatians 6:9 (ESV)

The Temple Curtain

And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split.

Matthew 27:50-51, emphasis mine

I remember very clearly sitting in 6th grade Sunday School and after we had just read this passage thinking what an odd detail to include. Being in 6th grade, I did not want to ask about it, since all of my friends were there (yes, I know. I have grown a lot since then!).

It was not until several years later that I learned what it meant, but it was mind blowing.

To really grasp the awesomeness of what this verse means, you have to go back to the old testament.

Only the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies (the section of the temple separated from the outer places by the temple curtain), and only once a year after careful washing. (Leviticus 16)
The Tabernacle Place says:
“The veil was a barrier to make sure that man could not carelessly and irreverently enter into God’s awesome presence. Even as the high priest entered the Holy of Holies on the Day of Atonement, he had to make some meticulous preparations: He had to wash himself, put on special clothing, bring burning incense to let the smoke cover his eyes from a direct view of God, and bring blood with him to make atonement for sins.”
The curtain was 60 feet high, and heavy enough that one would not just trip and fall into the Holy of Holies. It was torn from the top down!

“Now even the first covenant had regulations of divine worship and the earthly sanctuary. For there was a tabernacle prepared, the outer one, in which were the lampstand and the table and the sacred bread; this is called the holy place. Behind the second veil there was a tabernacle which is called the Holy of Holies, having a golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant covered on all sides with gold, in which was a golden jar holding the manna, and Aaron’s rod which budded, and the tables of the covenant; and above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat; but of these things we cannot now speak in detail.

Now when these things have been so prepared, the priests are continually entering the outer tabernacle performing the divine worship, but into the second, only the high priest enters once a year, not without taking blood, which he offers for himself and for the sins of the people committed in ignorance. ”

Hebrews 9:1-7

Hebrews 9-10 is about the old system and the new, please take some time to read it!

^“Therefore, brethren, since we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He inaugurated for us through the veil, that is, His flesh…”

Hebrews 10:19-20

The God of the universe the holy, holy, holy God- gave His Son so that we could be covered by His blood and enter into the holy place of communion with Him. Take a minute to drink that in!
How often do we take our communion with Him lightly? Carelessly? Irreverently?
I am guilty I know. How often I lose the wonder and awe of the fact that the God who put the universe in motion desires and has made a way to be in a relationship with Him!
Take some time this Easter season to really be still and stand in awe of God.
Hallelujah! It is finished!

36 Songs For Tough Days

One of those days. I’ve had a lot of them many times. Here are some songs that have each ministered to me in difficult times, and encouraged me to press on.
Music is such a powerful medium. We can learn a song as a child and remember it 20 years later. These songs all hold truths that are great to tuck away for hard days. I have shared a bit before about how songs have ministered to me in my posts His Grace Is Enough and Peace.
I would love to share the snippets of lyrics that have really spoken to me, but as a blogger I have to abide by copyright laws, and posting more than a song title is considered infringement.

This post contains affiliate links. This means that the price that you pay will not change, but I receive a small commission when you purchase through my links.

36 Songs For Tough Days

Shackles by Mary Mary
Held by Natalie Grant
God is God by Steven Curtis Chapman
This Is The Stuff by Francesca Battistelli
Strong Enough by Matthew West
Out of My Hands by Matthew West
Trust In You by Lauren Daigle
Walk By Faith by Jeremy Camp
I Still Believe by Jeremy Camp
Blessed Be Your Name by Tree 63
Your Grace Is Enough by Matt Maher
Lord Move Or Move Me by FFH
You Are God Alone by Phillips, Craig, and Dean
Let The Waters Rise by Mikeschair
Hills And Valleys by Tauren Wells
You Are Loved by Stars Go Dim
Rescue by Michael Gungor
Never Alone by BarlowGirl
Praise You In The Storm by Casting Crowns
One Thing Remains by Passion Conference
Your Love Never Fails by Jesus Culture
It Is Well With My Soul by Jeremy Camp
Trading My Sorrows by Darrell Evans
He Is Our Peace by Maranatha
The Voice Of Truth by Casting Crowns
Corner Stone by Aaron Shust
I Have This Hope by Tenth Avenue North
Your Hands by JJ Heller
Whom Shall I Fear by Chris Tomlin
Need You Now (How Many Times) by Plumb
Lift Me Up by The Afters
Steady My Heart by Kari Jobe
Cry Out To Jesus by ThirdDay
At The Foot of The Cross by Kathryn Scott
Desert Song by Shane and Shane
Hungry (Falling On My Knees) by Kathryn Scott

Has music ministered to you? What songs do you like to listen to in hard times?

Aprons & Pearl Linkup

Nothing too exciting this week. I have a couple of posts that are almost done, so keep an eye out for those. Other than working on them bits here and there, I have been trying to declutter and clean up, and balance doing stuff with the kids. Trying to have more productive days. Working on getting better sleep and staying hydrated.
Autumn is in full swing. I have been alternating between energy boosting oils and autumn scents in the diffuser, and putting on pots of citrus peels and spices to make the house smell like autumn. The weather has been nice so I have had the windows open when I can.
I have so many ideas…just need time to get them into post form!

The Aprons & Pearls Link-up

“If you want to experience consistent victory and see it played out in the atmosphere of your home, continually look for areas in which the Holy Spirit is leading to greater obedience, and ask God what your part is in making that a reality.

Cynthia Carrier

This is a Christ-based weekly link-up to encourage others in their walks, and help Christian bloggers get their work out there.
Leave links to posts that are:
Homemaking/natural living/parenting/Christian walk related.
This could be natural living posts, recipes, cleaning, parenting, devotions, lessons, homeschool, Christian living, mentoring, modesty, gardening, homemade, diy, marriage, relationships, frugality, etc.

Linking Guidelines:

Link directly to your post (not to your homepage).
Please, no marketing posts (Plexus, Jamberry, MLM Oils or the like). Affiliate links to relevant items okay.
Feel free to include old posts that need some love, relevant link ups and giveaways.
Leave as many as you like.
Link back to the Aprons & Pearls Linkup, either using the button below or a text link on either your post, sidebar, or link party page.
Use the hashtag #apronspearls when posting on social media so we can find your posts as well!

I would like to encourage you to browse through the links and take time to visit some and comment when lead.
The link-up will run Tuesday at 6am-Sunday at 5pm. Please come back Sunday and check out some of the posts!
I have made a Pinterest Board for the posts that you link-up, feel free to send me a message over on pinterest to be added. You can click here to check out the board.
As time allows I will pin some links from the linkup (unless you have already added them to the board), share them on social media and comment.
Please note: View expressed in linkedup posts do not necessarily reflect my own, and I reserve the right to delete inappropriate posts.

Now, to the link-up!

His Word Alone Review

Bible study is something that I am passionate about. I have shared before the importance of individual Bible study in my post on Feeding Your Soul.
That’s why when Summer Lacy asked for people to review her book, His Word Alone, I jumped at the chance. Summer very kindly offered to send two copies of His Word Alone-one for me to read and use and one to give away.
These days Bible study guides are plentiful. To be sure they are great resources, but relying on them alone is like expecting to grow up never feeding yourself. Always relying on someone else to feed you. As a result so many become Spiritually malnourished.
In her book, Mrs Lacy walks readers through studying the Word for themselves, sharing her heart for Bible study:
“My goal is not to compel you to do away with such Bible study resources. However, we can no longer ignore the reality that all too often we substitute them for the Bible itself- snacking on and picking at the Word of God instead of greedily consuming it. When our diet of Bible consumption consists mostly of excerpts from Scripture given in devotionals, small segments of Bible reading done through Bible studies and whatever passage the pastor is preaching on at church each week, we pass on the opportunity to experience God for ourselves. To do this, we must dig our own hands down into the beauty of Scripture through grit, grime, and ultimately, systematically reading and studying the Bible on our own my contention is that, in our study on Bible materials, we have attempted to substitute man’s word about God’s Word for God’s Word itself, and we’re missing God in the process.”
Her passion is evident.
“The reason I am so passionate about the serious, individual study of
God’s Word by Christians is because it is the very means through which
the Lord has claimed my heart and transformed my life. His Word has
met me right where I was at the time, no matter where or when. It has
relentlessly pursued me through the hard work of marriage, the endless
delights and difficulties of raising small children, every insecurity and
uncertainty a thirty-something-stay-at-home mom could muster, and all
the other ups, downs, ins, and outs of everyday life. There is no pain to
which His Word does not speak; no joy that it does not birth. If God
speaks to me in this powerful of a manner through His Word, then He can
speak to you in this very same way, too. It is my desperate desire that all
women would come to know the power of His Word as they commit
themselves wholeheartedly to the study of it. Ladies, the Bible is enough!
His Word alone is all we need. There comes a time when every good Bible
study girl needs to push her Bible studies aside so she well alone in
the presence of God and His all-sufficient Word.”
In her book, Summer guides readers through common misconceptions and excuses people have for personal Bible study. Breaking down the why and how she helps her readers prepare for their study, from supplies to suggestions on choosing a place to begin their journey. She sets her readers up with ideas for the digging deep process, including background research and questions to really help dissect the Word to get more out of it.
I will say, I would recommend a word for word translation (ESV or NASB) for personal study as opposed to a thought for thought (which is technically a paraphrase still, though most thought for thought translations are not considered paraphrases). She mentions the NIV, which I have studied a lot before more recent revisions. Since these revisions I would not really recommend this translation.
Over all, it was a great book, even for someone who is passionate about personal study, it was a nice way to breath new life into my personal study. Making sure my heart and motivation are right. Checking the lenses through which I view God’s word is always a good thing.
As I mentioned before, Summer sent two copies, one of which is to giveaway, so that is just what I am doing.

In this giveaway I am including a copy of His Word Alone, a purple imitation leather journal featuring the words of Psalm 19:14, a four pack of Bic Atlantis Pens (seriously, the smoothest pens I have ever used, they are my favorite to write with!) and an Ello Zest Infuser water bottle (so that you can refresh your body along with your spirit as you dig into God’s Word).

The giveaway is closed.
I often link up posts at:

Introducing The Aprons & Pearls Link-up

I have been thinking about setting up a link up for quite some time, and I finally made a graphic that, while not quite what I envisioned, will work until I find that perfect image.

About the Aprons & Pearls Link-up

This will be a Christ-based weekly link-up to encourage others in their walks, and help Christian bloggers get their work out there.
Leave up to three links to posts that are:
Homemaking/natural living/parenting/Christian walk related.
This could be natural living posts, recipes, cleaning, parenting, devotions, lessons, homeschool, Christian living, mentoring, modesty, gardening, homemade, diy, marriage, relationships, frugality, etc.

Linking Guidelines:

Link directly to your post (not to your homepage).
Please, no marketing posts (Plexus, Jamberry, Oil Selling or the like).
Life happens and we all get behind sometimes, but for each link you leave, please comment on at least two posts (1 link=2 comments, 2 links=4 comments, 3 links=6 comments).
Comments should be meaningful (at least 10 words and relevant to the post) and use keywords from the post title.
Add the Aprons & Pearls Button below to either your post or your sidebar so others can join in.
Use the hashtag #aprons&pearls when posting on social media so we can find your posts as well!

The link-up will run Tuesday at 6am-Sunday at 5pm. Please come back Sunday and check out some of the posts!

<a href=”http://aboutachik.wordpress.com/category/aprons-pearls/”><img src=”http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v224/godschik/614b1d18-a4cb-414a-a454-13881598be0f.jpg” border=”0″ alt=”The Aprons & Pearls Link~Up”/></a>

Now, to the link-up!

Strangers and Pilgrims on Earth:THe Art of Homemaking Monday

What a Week

This Week’s Loft Prompt is this picture:
Serving Christ @godschicki #The Loft
Sometimes you just gotta take a break. If I thought it would help I’d sit under a blanket. It has been a rough few weeks here.
I just keep praying for God to pour out His love on me so that it overflows onto the Littles. To help me focus on the tasks at hand. To remind me that I am serving Him. To renew my strength.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Colossians 3:23-24
So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.
Galatians 6:9

This too shall pass. One day they will not come to me for milkies. One day there will not be toys to get around. There will be less laundry. I am just going to enjoy this season as much as I can.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Matthew 11:28

Thanks for stopping by!

Graphic by Kerry Messer

#TheLoft

To Participate:

1. Be creative. We provide the prompt. You feel free to use words, photos, video, audio, your family pet, whatever, to communicate on the weekly prompt.

2. Listen twice as much. If you leave one link, visit two.

3. Be a community. Include #TheLoft graphic and/or hashtag in your post and social media so we can find each other.

4. Write like Jesus would write. We are a Christian link-up. Offensive or inappropriate posts will be deleted. No questions asked.

5. Be pertinent. Our heart is to build community and intimacy, and our means to do that is to build each link-up around a single prompt. Please make sure your post is on topic.

6. Link-Up. Each Wednesday morning at 5am EST, the link goes live, and for 6 glorious days you can link up your post on that week’s prompt. The linky will close at 5pm EST on Monday.

This Week’s Prompt: A Picture Prompt – take a look at the picture below and write a post about how it speaks to you.

October 28 - Picture Prompt at The Loft — October 28 – Picture Prompt at The Loft

November Prompts: The month of November will be all about Thanksgiving and being thankful. Any post, picture, poem, song about thankfulness is what we are linking up in November.

I hope you will plan to join us each week at The Loft Link-Up.

Now, it is time to link-up!!

Prayers In Parenting | A Loft Prompt

I am very excited to be co-hosting the Loft this week!
This week’s prompt is ‘Prayer’.
I have learned a lot about prayer over the years. At first I thought this prompt would be easy peasy, but settling on one facet of prayer or a few has proven harder than I thought.
I finally settled on the season of life I am in right now.
Our days are peppered with prayer. Blessings at meals, bedtime prayers and many in betwixt.
I could be identified as a ‘gentle’, attached parent.
There are times when I get frustrated. There are times when my kids get upset or frustrated, or do something they know they should not do. I try to make a conscious effort to turn to the Lord in theses times.
When I get upset, I pray out loud, asking God to help mama calm down, for Him to pour out His love and Spirit on me so that it overflows onto my children. So that I can redirect them to Him.
When the kids get upset or frustrated, I pray with them. We pray that God will help them calm down and communicate to mama what is wrong, what they need. That God will give mama wisdom to know exactly what they need. If I know what is wrong, I pray for that issue (Dear Jesus, please help B calm down. I know that he is feeling tired. Please help him just breath and calm down. Help him get some rest so that he can feel better.).
I have found this works best for my kids. Screaming in stores has been calmed and moods greatly improved by taking time to stop and pray. It works better than distracting with a toy or any other game I have tried.
I really just thought of it as a way to get through a situation until recently when my mom said she likes how I am teaching the kids to turn to the Lord when they are tired or frustrated. I guess I am, and I hope to pass along prayer as a first reaction to situations.
Our first response when we are tired and frustrated should be to refocus on the Lord and not our circumstances.
When the kids fight, we pray. For understanding for both of them. For self control. That they would stop and think about what they are doing so that they can be sweet, and obey and stay safe. That they would remember that being nice to each other makes God happy.
When the kids get in trouble, we stop and pray before we deal with consequences. That God would help mama calm down, help the kids calm down. Help the offending party remember to be nice and understand that what they did was not nice. This is usually followed by something like a time out. After that we pray again, a very similar prayer as what we did before they went to time out. If they hurt their sibling they go give a hug and kiss to make them feel better.
We try to be in a Spirit of prayer throughout the day. Pray Without Ceasing is a post on that subject.
Photo by David Beale on Unsplash

Graphic by Kerry Messer

#TheLoft

To Participate:

1. Be creative. We provide the prompt. You feel free to use words, photos, video, audio, your family pet, whatever, to communicate on the weekly prompt.

2. Listen twice as much. If you leave one link, visit two.

3. Be a community. Include #TheLoft graphic and/or hashtag in your post and social media so we can find each other.

4. Write like Jesus would write. We are a Christian link-up. Offensive or inappropriate posts will be deleted. No questions asked.

5. Be pertinent. Our heart is to build community and intimacy, and our means to do that is to build each link-up around a single prompt. Please make sure your post is on topic.

6. Link-Up. Each Wednesday morning at 5am EST, the link goes live, and for 6 glorious days you can link up your post on that week’s prompt. The linky will close at 5pm EST on Monday.

We are going to provide a months worth of prompts each week so that you can be thinking and planning for the coming weeks.
This Week’s Prompt: Prayer
October 14 Prompt: Mentor
October 21 Prompt: Autumn
October 28 Prompt: A Picture Prompt

I hope you will plan to join us each week at The Loft Link-Up.
Now, it is time to link-up!!

<img src=”http://womenwithintention.com/wp

-content/uploads/2015/01/I-Link-Up-At-WWIW.jpg” alt=”Women With Intention” style=”border:none;” />