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The Right Path #WilcoWednesday

7 Days Time

Welcome to Wilco Wednesday! If you are a new around these parts, “Wilco” is Army-speak for “Will Comply.” Think of it as saying “Roger, God. Got it. Will do.”  So that is what Wednesday here at 7 Days Time is all about– exploring his decrees and seeking guidance for what complying with Him looks like in everyday life. The best part? He loves us for who we are, not what we do.  Remember: He doesn’t want perfection, just obedience. Share. Enjoy. Interact. Let’s welcome this strong, creative woman of God, Katharina as she shares her heart this week. 
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I love trails.  I just love being surrounded by God’s beautiful creation, no matter if I walk, hike, or run them. Last week, I went for a trail run and while I was running God reminded me how my life’s path is similar to a trail. When I am on the trail, I am only able to see the things that are a short distance in front of me. Before long, the path takes a turn and I lose sight of what comes next, like a steep incline or maybe a fallen tree.

Life is the same way. I think I am on the right path, I have it all figured out, I know where I am going and then the path takes an unexpected turn. I must be careful to keep my footing, so I do not stumble.

Life is unexpected. We can only see what is before us and it takes a steady foot to keep us going on an uneven path. How can we avoid tripping? As a trail runner, I have learned that I need to strengthen my core as well as leg muscles, especially my hips so I do not lose my balance easily on roots or stones.

Right Path

In our spiritual walk, we need to strengthen our footing as well. We do this by strengthening our faith muscles and seeking God’s guidance/direction in every aspect of our lives. Deuteronomy 4:29-31 says But from there you will seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you search for Him with all your heart and all your soul. When we are in distress and all these things have come upon us, in the latter days we will return to the LORD our God and listen to His voice. For the LORD our God is a compassionate God; He will not fail us nor destroy us nor forget the covenant with our fathers which He swore to them”.

How can we know that we are on the right path when we are not able to see the finish line ahead of us? Paul writes in his letter to the Church of Corinth:

“Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.” ~1 Corinthians 9:24-27

In addition, we should “lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:1-2 NIV).

Paul states in the race of life we should discipline our bodies and be submissive to God’s word and His path for us, making our “fleshly desires” our slaves through discipline and self-control. Furthermore, when we are willing to listen to God’s word and obey His commandments, He will make sure that we stay on the right path He has chosen for us.

I encourage you to examine your path and answer one or more of the following questions in the comments below.

  • Are you walking on the path God has intended for you?
  • Are you walking in your own path or are you taking a detour through the woods?
  • What action plan can you develop to get back onto the path God has chosen for you?

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” ~Psalm 119:105

KatharinaKatharina is a military spouse and a stay at home mom of a 7 year old and a 5 year old. She homeschools her two children and she is a life coach with www.well-springs-lifecoaching.com. She coaches women in life balance, relationships, health and fitness, and personal goal setting.

In addition, Katharina volunteers her time with www.VetREST.org, an organization that is passionate about helping Veterans and their families experience peace from the inner battle with PTS. Furthermore, Katharina is being trained in inner healing prayer with Aurora Worldwide. In her free time, Katharina loves to run, bike, hike, and swim (anything outdoors). She loves to read and spend time with her family.

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Linking up today with my friend Kristin over at Three-word Wednesday and having a little Coffee for your Heart with Holley.  Oh! And be sure to join our #EverydayJesus link-up community right here at 7 Days Time every Thursday!

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Dear Dad #WilcoWednesday

Welcome to Wilco Wednesday! If you are a new around these parts, “Wilco” is Army-speak for “Will Comply.” Think of it as saying “Roger, God. Got it. Will do.”  So that is what Wednesday here at 7 Days Time is all about– exploring his decrees and seeking guidance for what complying with Him looks like in everyday life. The best part? He loves us for who we are, not what we do.  Remember: He doesn’t want perfection, just obedience.  Joining us today is my dear, wonderful, beautiful and encouraging friend Kristen. Share. Enjoy. Interact. And let’s respond to God’s call with  a hearty “Wilco, Lord!” 
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Dear Dad,

I was at PWOC this morning; we were evacuated – calmly, quietly, quickly, asked to leave. We’d been evacuated for a possible gas leak months ago, but this was different. All was quiet, no sirens. Chaplains and CID descended amid the surprising quiet chaos of a hundred women, mostly mamas waiting for their children to also emerge from the building unharmed.

I knew before I was told; I knew in my gut someone was threatening to take their life. The day, in fact the past week, had seemed to have a shroud of darkness over it. Not literal darkness like Northwest winter is prone to, but spiritual darkness. Besides ruining two desserts I was going to bring that morning I, like so many of the fellow women, had had weeks that just didn’t seem to have gone at all right. Husbands deploying or already gone, kids sick or gone haywire, messing up things we can do with ease; it was in the air. [Read more…]

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Holding tight to Slimy Toddlers & Peace

My two-year-old daughter loves to play games. And unfortunately for this mama-with-places-to-be-at-a-certain-time, that game is not something calm, cooperative and peaceful.

My girl loves to be chased.

I blame her Daddy. Because yeah, it is super fun to play “Chase around the table in our pajamas” when we have nowhere to be on a Saturday morning. Her peals of laughter make it almost worth it.

Almost. [Read more…]

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Ask Me Anything #WilcoWednesday

7 Days Time

Welcome to Wilco Wednesday! If you are a new around these parts, “Wilco” is Army-speak for “Will Comply.” Think of it as saying “Roger, God. Got it. Will do.”  So that is what Wednesday here at 7 Days Time is all about– exploring his decrees and seeking guidance for what complying with Him looks like in everyday life. The best part? He loves us for who we are, not what we do.  Remember: He doesn’t want perfection, just obedience. Share. Enjoy. Interact. Welcome today’s guest blogger, my dear friend and our courageous PWOC president, Carriann Lane. 
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Why can’t you just let it go?!”

I saw exasperation and frustration on her face. I knew she was ready to blow – her raised voice was a fair indication. I understood what her emotion was, I just didn’t understand why talking was so aggravating. I was about 11 years old, and I knew I should let it go …but, of course, I did not. An answer was not what my mouth got me that day, but I was learning something.

Why can’t you just let it go?!”

I saw anger and irritation on his face. He was about to flip his lid, thanks to my questioning.

I asked: “Where did you hear that? Are you sure that’s true?”

He heard: “You are lying.” “That’s dumb. You’re dumb.” “I don’t respect you.”

I was about 20 years old, and I understood how he was feeling, but again, why he felt it was a mystery.

A new question replaced the others: “Why can’t I just let it go?” Why does getting it right matter so much to me?

This week, I found myself asking this again. [Read more…]

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Keeping the Home Fire Burning (Army Wife Network)

My husband is an infantryman.

I believe he chose this MOS because of the opportunity to serve, the thrill factor and challenge that comes with boots-on-the-ground-kicking-in-doors-and-taking-names.

Plus, he loves the color blue.

Recently, however, I have learned another interesting piece of his genetic soldier make-up.

He loves the infantry because he secretly harbors a desire to be the next Bear Grylls– you know, that super-intense guy with the TV show “Man vs. Wild?” Yeah, I am married to a wannabe-that.

Which makes family camping tricks  very frustrating  interesting. [Read more…]

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Be Still: Too Easy? RIGHT. #WilcoWednesday

7 Days Time

Welcome to Wilco Wednesday! If you are a new around these parts, “Wilco” is Army-speak for “Will Comply.” Think of it as saying “Roger, God. Got it. Will do.”  So that is what Wednesday here at 7 Days Time is all about– exploring his decrees and seeking guidance for what complying with Him looks like in everyday life. The best part? He loves us for who we are, not what we do.  Remember: He doesn’t want perfection, just obedience. Share. Enjoy. Interact. Let’s welcome this strong, creative woman of God, Katharina as she shares her heart this week. 
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I was on my weekly run when I was “writing” a mental to-do-list of all the projects and chores that I needed to accomplish this week. Unexpectedly, I had a small panic attack. My heart started to beat fast and I was not able to breathe. I tried to calm myself down by walking and taking deep breaths when I heard God’s voice saying, “Be still, my daughter, and know that I am God. Be still in me for I am walking beside you, holding your right hand in mine. I am always with you and I will never leave you nor forsake you. Be still in me.”

His words washed over me like a cool and gentle rain shower in the spring time. I was getting calmer and calmer with every step I took, until I was back home.

Be StillToday, I am thankful for this small panic attack. It showed me who is really in control in my life and I do not need to be involved in so many projects just to feel accepted and recognized. It is easier for me to stay busy than to be still and relax in God’s presence. “Though I constantly take my life in my hands, I will not forget your law.” ~Psalm 119:109

Be still, be still and know that I am God.

How well do you know your spouse, your children, your parents, your co-workers or your friends? How well do we know God? Psalm 103:3 says “Know that the LORD is God. It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture.”

Sadly, I do not know God as my Father as well enough as He knows me as His daughter. He created me in my mother’s womb. He wrote my whole life, every little moment, in the book of life, even the moment when I was running and thinking about all my projects. He knew about it as well as what I needed at that moment – to hear His sweet and gentle voice.

How can we develop a closer relationship with our heavenly Father and learn more about Him? Here are some suggestions:

First, study the bible and see what His word says about His character and who He is as our heavenly Father. Here are some examples of God’s name and His character:

  • The Lord My Rock – Yahweh Tsuri (Psalm 18:2)
  • The God who Sees – El Roi (Genesis 16:13)
  • Father, Abba (2 Corinthians 6:18)
  • The Giver of Good Gifts (James 1:17)

Secondly, ask the Holy Spirit to help you highlight passages that describe God’s character and personality to you.

Lastly, how do you develop a relationship with your spouse, your friends, and your children? Perhaps your answers include things like spending quality time with each other, getting to know them, talking, having fun, etc. This is same way God your heavenly Father wants to spend time with you!

How can we learn to be still from the inside, even when our world spins? I am learning to be still and it is an everyday struggle. Sometimes, I even need to drop everything and go into my prayer closet to be still for just five minutes and to listen to His voice.

How do you find stillness in your life? Join the conversation and leave a comment below.

“The quieter you become, the more you can hear.” ~Ram Dass

KatharinaKatharina is a military spouse and a stay at home mom of a 7year old and a 5year old. She homeschools her two children and she is a life coach with www.well-springs-lifecoaching.com. She coaches women in life balance, relationships, health and fitness, and personal goal setting.

In addition, Katharina volunteers her time with www.VetREST.org, an organization that is passionate about helping Veterans and their families experience peace from the inner battle with PTS. Furthermore, Katharina is being trained in inner healing prayer with Aurora Worldwide. In her free time, Katharina loves to run, bike, hike, and swim (anything outdoors). She loves to read and spend time with her family.

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Linking up today with my friend Kristin over at Three-word Wednesday and having a little Coffee for your Heart with Holley.  Oh! And be sure to join our #EverydayJesus link-up community right here at 7 Days Time every Thursday!

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A Trade Worth Making

I am not a fan of negotiation. It stresses me out, especially when it comes to exchanging money or goods. Sure, I can negotiate with my husband about our schedules of kid-watching so we can be grown-ups/eatwithtwohands/gotothebathroomalone with the best of ’em. And sometimes I get my Mama negotiation skills out with our tiny human, who, for someone so small, seems to be very well versed in this department.

But most of the time, trying to make a trade just makes me twitch. I either feel like a jerk for demanding too much or like I am about to get the short end of the stick because I will do almost anything to avoid major confrontation. [Read more…]

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Beyond Colossians #WilcoWednesday

7 Days Time

Welcome to Wilco Wednesday! If you are a new around these parts, “Wilco” is Army-speak for “Will Comply.” Think of it as saying “Roger, God. Got it. Will do.”  So that is what Wednesday here at 7 Days Time is all about– exploring his decrees and seeking guidance for what complying with Him looks like in everyday life. The best part? He loves us for who we are, not what we do.  Remember: He doesn’t want perfection, just obedience. Share. Enjoy. Interact. Welcome a very humble, wise woman, our Titus II advisor, Sharon Bridwell! 
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What do we know about these believers at Colossae and what do they have to do with us? We think those at Colosse were mostly Gentiles that Epaphras reached with the Gospel. The “Big Issue” at Colossae was Gnosticism. Without getting too bogged down, Gnosticism cries out that Christ alone is NOT enough in one’s life, which sounds an awful lot like what we hear today, especially from those who don’t value Christ as you or I might.

Let’s focus on Colossians 1:3-6 and take a hard look at who we are in Christ and who Christ should be to us who claim to believe in Him. [Read more…]

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When that Loving Feeling is MIA (Wives Of Faith)

High school was kind of a weird season of life for me.

I came from a teeny-tiny town (we are talking population 323, folks) and so our high school reflected our population. I graduated with a whopping 18 people in my class.

For the most part, I liked high school. I was involved in all things academic, a good student, did the leadership thing, and avoided anything related to sports since flying objects were mysteriously attracted to my face. (Seriously. I once split my lip open playing ping-pong. #TrueStory)

In general, I didn’t mind high school. Except for that one day a year.

I always knew it was coming. Once a year, I woke with a pit in my stomach coupled with a minuscule bulb of hope in my heart. [Read more…]

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In Darkest Hours #WilcoWednesday

7 Days Time

Welcome to Wilco Wednesday! If you are a new around these parts, “Wilco” is Army-speak for “Will Comply.” Think of it as saying “Roger, God. Got it. Will do.”  So that is what Wednesday here at 7 Days Time is all about– exploring his decrees and seeking guidance for what complying with Him looks like in everyday life. The best part? He loves us for who we are, not what we do.  Remember: He doesn’t want perfection, just obedience. Share. Enjoy. Interact. Please help me welcome a passionate follower of Jesus, dear Sammie, as she shares a beautiful poem she wrote in 1980.
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In Darkest Hours

In darkest hours, when light doth fade,
And life’s paths lead only to the shade

I find myself midst turmoil and doubt,
And lamenting sorely, I cry out! (Psalm 143:4)

To Him, My Maker, Potter,  Lord!
As I languish here, upon His Board.

Was this the future set for me? (Romans 9:19)
To lay in crumbled agony? (Psalm 25:16)

I cannot bear the thought or pain, (Hebrews 5:7)
To be reworked or taste the flame.

When other vessels seem to escape,
While I observe so cruel a fate (Romans 9:20) 

But then, in dark despair I hear (John 10:4)
His Gentle Voice, so tender, near (Romans 9:21)

“Your eyes do search the shelves in vain, (2 Corinthians 4:6)
For on Me only, they must train (Hebrews 12:2)

For you I have a special task, (2 Corinthians 4:7)
Another vessel I could not ask. (2 Timothy 2:21)

But first My precious, yielding clay (Romans 9:23)
Your unwavering trust in My Hands must lay (Philippians 4:6)

For I have loved you before your time (Psalm 139)
Do you think I’d hurt that which is mine?

I am neither capricious, nor am I cruel (2 Chronicles 16:9)
And the man that thinks so is more the fool.

I know the waiting and the flame,
Appear to you as inhumane.

But look deeper child and comprehend, (Psalm 37:18)
It is in tender love this trial I send (Hebrews 12:6)

For in the reworking and molding play (Romans 12:2)
As on My potter’s board you lay,

I bring you nearer to the goal,
You chose in me not long ago. (Romans 8:29)

Trust Me, My precious, uncertain will,
And you will see your dreams fulfilled. (Psalm 37:3-4)

As you yield to this potter’s touch (Zechariah 2:8)
To My perfect timing you must clutch.

And when the time of molding is done (2 Corinthians 1:4-5)
There’s deeper meaning, as I call you son (Hebrews 12:7)

For My Heart’s desire is for your best (Romans 8:15)
Your part is to trust and in Me rest.” (Psalm 37:7)

His voice was gentle, warm and kind (2 Corinthians 10:1)
And put to shame thoughts in my mind.

Oh Lord, and Master, Potter Grand,
I will remain in your Loving Hand! (Psalm 36:7)

Test me, cleanse me, do Thy will (Psalm 139:23)
That in my Life the Spirit Fills (Ephesians 5:18)

To say thought He slay me, if He must
Yet in Him, in all things, I will trust! (Job 13:15) 

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Think back on your darkest hours… How do the words above encourage you? Leave a comment and join the conversation.

Sammie headshotSuzanne (Sammie) Gray has been a Bible Study leader with PWOC,  International  Women’s Club, and  Campus Crusade for Christ ministries for over 42 years.   Her passion is teaching women how to walk in victory in their knowledge of our Jesus Christ.  Her hearts calling and personal ministry Scripture is Is. 61; 1-3 helping women to discover Christ’s Divine Design and calling on their lives.

She has two children, three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.  She spent 15 years in the Corporate  world,  has owned/operated three  businesses, and traveled the world extensively.  Her hobbies are gardening, music, and studying Paleo-Biblical Hebrew interpretation of Scripture.  

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Linking up today with my friend Kristin over at Three-word Wednesday and having a little Coffee for your Heart with Holley.  Oh! And be sure to join our #EverydayJesus link-up community right here at 7 Days Time every Thursday!

 

 

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