One dream down! Millions to go!!

So many dreams, so little time! Oh how proud I am of my 2nd Lieutenant! He has reached one of his many dreams. He also graduated with Cum Laude! He has worked very hard to accomplish so much and this is only the start. He encourages me to go after my dreams with no apologies, but just determination and belief in the gifts and abilities our Father gives us to reach those stars way up in the sky :)

One month...where is God 'settling' us?

Question asked by my husband this past week: "What is God teaching you?" This is a question I don't ask myself enough and I would ask you to consider your answer as you read.
1 Peter 5: 8-11 says "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen."
This verse pretty much sums up what I'm learning. When you feel the devil may be "seeking" you out, stand firm and "resist him". And know that it will be really hard and sometimes sad when you are fighting, but know that there are others who are going through the same or even worse "sufferings". Call on the name of Jesus to save you. "After" the suffering, God will "settle" you. I love that word, settle. I feel like that is what so many people are running after: a settled heart and soul; to be at peace with who they are and where they are. God is bringing me to this place; where just because I don't know exactly what He has in store for me, I'm okay with that. I'm more than okay, I'm excited to see His plans!

More than anything, we are excited that we get to explore the future together. We are so happy and feel blessed to spend the next few months with family and friends in South Carolina. So Move #2, here we come!! :)

Honeymooning in Beautiful Places!!

Hello all! We are back from a beautiful adventurous honeymoon to the Western Caribbean! Justin planned this whole trip and did a fantastic job! We did a variety of fun activities from snorkeling to climbing waterfalls...we did it all! The weather was beautiful the whole time, staying between 85 and 90 degrees with just two small showers the whole week! It's such a wonderful week when you get to spend every moment with the love of your life. We had special romantic things like someone singing "happy honeymoon" to us at dinner, to having a special couples massage one day. The first stop was in Cozumel, Mexico. We toured the Mayan Ruins here. We had a fantastic tour guide that taught us so many interesting facts and we got to see some amazing historical and beautiful sights (he knows I have a love of visiting historical sights). The driving was crazy here! We pretty much just closed our eyes and opened them once the tour guide said we were there.

The second stop was in BEAUTIFUL Grand Cayman. This was quite different than Mexico. We didn't feel like we were constantly being asked to barter for some souvenir. The people were so nice and we got to eat lunch at a place called Paradise, and trust me, the view was totally worth it. One couple that we met along the way, paid for our taxi cab...it just makes your day when someone does something nice, just because. Out of all the places we went, the water was the most beautiful color here!! We spent half the day on the beach!

The last stop was in Jamaica man! We climbed a beautiful waterfall. It was harder than the guide made it look, but well worth the experience! We even got to slide down a part of it! I knew I wasn't in the US when the guide's instructions were, and I quote, "just sit and hold your tits". I was in shock, but he didn't seem to think anything was wrong with it. That's just one of the many CRAZY experiences we had in Jamaica :0)

We had two formal nights. One was on Thanksgiving and the chef created a 'wonderful American Thanksgiving meal'. Justin didn't agree...he just wanted to know where the Macaroni & Cheese and rolls were :)

We are happy to report we are home safely and even more in love. We have 1 out of the 4 moves this year down and 3 more to go...we are really beginning to see the positive in the moves and looking forward to all the people we will meet, adventures we will experience, growth we will have as a couple, and opportunities we will have to serve and show God's love.

Thanks for your prayers. We really can't wait to see everyone soon for the holidays!!

The Lord has continued to be my strength, the One who completely understands all my thoughts and feelings. I must give Him every piece of the glory for what He has done in my life and in our marriage.

Psalm 17:8 "[Oh Lord,] Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings."

Love, Rebekah

Look on the bright side!

As my favorite holiday, Thanksgiving, came and passed I focused on all the many blessings around me. Justin and I were on our honeymoon and sat around our dinner table and shared the things we were thankful for. Usually during this time you try to not focus on the tough stuff in our world. Justin and I personally have tried to be positive because honestly we can't stand complainers that don't see there blessings around them.

Anyway, my dear friend, Sarah sent me this Thanksgiving message and I thought it really shinned a new light on the way we should all handle "negative" circumstances.

BE THANKFUL
"Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to? Be thankful when you don't know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn. Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow. Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement. Be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character. Be thankful for your mistakes.They will teach you valuable lessons. Be thankful when you're tired and weary, because it means you've made a difference. It's easy to be thankful for the good things. A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the set backs. Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive. Find a way to be thankful for your troubles, and they can become your blessings."~Author Unknown~


I am so thankful for my new family that I have with Justin and my dear family back in South Carolina that has walked and sometimes carried me through life and continues to encourage me and spur me on to look at the positive and press on to the future that's so full of adventure and love. May God bless you all, whether you are in a moment of learning or teaching, growing or mentoring; we all should be able to find gratitude for the people and things in our lives.

Love always, Rebekah

Links to Literacy

In college, I learned the best way for a child to learn is by connecting to the material. I too, am the same way, I learn life lessons by having deep connections to literacy around me. The past week there have been two quotes that have touched my soul. I'd like to share these in hopes that they will also impact someone that may be needing them. The first quote is from a book I'm reading, The Shack by: Paul Young. (Mackenzie is a man whose daughter has been murdered, Sarayu is the Holy Spirit, and Papa represents God) Through reading this section...it was as if God stopped and put my name in place of Mackenzie's. It was a very powerful experience for me....especially the last half. May you also know that in order to trust God, we must acknowledge and believe He loves us.

"Papa said 'If you knew I was good and that everything-the means, the ends, and all the processes of individual lives-is all covered by my goodness, then while you might not always understand what I am doing, you would trust me. But you don't.' 'I don't?' asked Mack, but it was not really a question. It was a statement of fact and he knew it. Sarayu spoke 'Mackenzie, you cannot produce trust just like you cannot 'do' humility. It either is or is not. Trust is the fruit of a relationship in which you know you are loved. Because you do not know that I love you, you cannot trust me.' Again there was silence, and finally Mack looked up at Papa and spoke. 'I don't know how to change that.' 'You can't, not alone. But together we will watch that change take place. For now I just want you to be with me and discover that our relationship is not about performance or you having to please me. I'm not a bully, not some self-centered demanding little deity insisting on my own way. I am good, and I desire only what is best for you. You cannot find that through guilt or condemnation or coercion, only through a relationship of love. And I do love you."

The second quote came from a song that I have heard a couple hundred times, but for the place I'm at now, it really hit home. This song is called Praise you in the Storm by: Casting Crowns.

"My strength is almost gone how can I carry on if I can't find You and as the thunder rolls I barely hear You whisper through the rain "I'm with you"and as Your mercy falls I raise my hands and praise the God who gives and takes away. And I'll praise you in this storm and I will lift my hands for You are who You are no matter where I am and every tear I've cried You hold in your hand You never left my side and though my heart is torn I will praise You in this storm."

I hope that no matter where you are in your life, you are allowing God to speak through the songs and literacy around you. He is a creative and beautiful God!

Love you all, Rebekah

"My Sustainer"...My Looooongest post...but special...

We are at T-minus 13 days until the wedding and never in my life have I realized how much I was sustained by my loving relationship with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It's funny because I am marrying a kind, compassionate, hilarious, smart, and strong man...but I know that he cannot fill all my heart's desires and neither can I fill his. I was talking with a friend and they began to ask me, like many people have, "so what are you going to do being that far away from your family and not seeing Justin a lot?". I can honestly say thank you to them because of their genuine concern, however I cannot answer their question with a specific and detailed plan of action for when those harder times come...simply because I don't know when they will come, what will cause them to come, and how I will feel in the moment, but I do know that they are my times. Times that the Lord has destined for me to grow closer and more intimate with Him. Times to joyfully and humbly accept the will of the Lord and make the most of every learning experience by coming to Him first and foremost every good day and every hard day. Thankfully I have a man that agrees with my thoughts, that I am not a 'tag-along' on this USAF journey; this is just as much God's plan for me as it is for Justin. He has a specific need for me wherever we go...it is my job to search for that...and believe me, I have been searching and will continue to. The past weeks have been amazing for me! I feel that the Lord has revealed a stronger spirit in me that I never knew existed; a spirit of confidence and trust. He has shown me how to find control when the world around you is full of fear, unknown, and stress. Friends and Family members, please take joy with Justin and me as we begin this amazing journey that our Lord has for us. For we believe that "He has prepared us for such a time as this" and we are not fearful because our trust does not lie in money, things, or people...it must and forever will lie in our unwavering Savior and Sustainer. For He is the one that brought us together and will lead us in the path ahead. We want everyone to know that this time is not a time of fear or sorrow for Justin and me...We are so excited to see new places, new people, and take new and deeper steps in our walk as a Christian couple. We know that the best way is not always the easiest, cheapest, or shortest.

I have to take a moment and thank my family. Through the past month, they have guided, loved, and encouraged me so much! They have built my confidence in myself as an adult, teacher, and wife. These precious times we've had sharing past stories, making new memories, welcoming new advice, and praying together has blessed my heart more than you or anyone will ever know. I have had a new type of appreciation for the family that the Lord blessed me with and I will never have the ability or words to show them the gratitude that overflows from my heart. People ask if it's hard for my parents, but honestly it's like a little caterpillar that grows and builds it's little cocoon in your jelly jar...when the butterfly emerges, the child gets so excited and can't wait to see the butterfly fly and enjoy the world.

I also have to thank my Justin. He rarely gets the acknowledgement that he deserves for all of his love, patience, and growth. He has accomplished so much and continues to set higher goals. He has met these goals by using his strength, faith, and talents...and his humility just makes me even more proud of him. He has led us to become a stronger couple in prayer, in trust, and in patience. His sense of humor has spurred me on through the tough days of working long hours or being emotionally drained. And he has really used his creativity to show me love when we are doing the 'long distance' thing.

Last, but never least, I have to thank my Jesus for our relationship that continues to grow. I am beginning to understand just a small part of what Paul meant when he said, "for we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard!"

Thank you all for keeping us in your prayers. Let me know how I can be praying for you. Don't forget to smile and live in the moment...don't wish away every day :)

Love you, Rebekah

Time with those I love!

This has been such a fun few weeks! I have been blessed with an amazing family, friends, and fiance! They bring so much fun to my life! We've been staying busy the last few weeks preparing for the BIG DAY and making the most of the time before we move. My family got a nice relaxing weekend at a cabin to celebrate my Mom's Birthday! It was so good for me and Justin to have that time and enjoy just being together and not having to plan or stress about anything to come...we just got to BE together.

I loved getting to see the Wacks a few weeks ago! Daniel has grown into an adventurous and cute little personality. It's such a joy to be with the whole Brazell family out at Grandma's (the farm). Justin and I are so blessed to have such wonderful and caring families!

Wow...where do I begin...Britt is one of the best things that could have ever happened to me. She is a friend that lets me feel comfortable in my own skin, but yet also free to try new adventures and grow as the Spirit leads me. We had a BLAST at the fair...walking through the cake and craft shops, eating everything, riding the new ride, and going to the Josh Turner concert...It was amazing and wonderful memories!!

We are 2 1/2 weeks away from the wedding. I can't believe how time has passed, but wow, do I feel blessed to have such wonderful people to share these moments with.

Love y'all!

Rebekah

"Behold, I am with you always." -Matthew 28:20

Thanks Girls!

I had my last shower today. It is less than 5 weeks till the wedding....SO exciting!! The showers have been so much fun and the girls have continued to do things to make these special days memorable and enjoyable. These ladies are so special to me. Today brought me so much joy when we were sitting around laughing at days past and looking forward to sharing in the days to come.

Thanks ladies!!!

I couldn't do life without you :)

-Rebekah

"So if there's anything I've learned, From this journey I am on, Simple truths will keep you going, Simple love will keep you strong. Cause there are questions without answers, Flames that never die, Heartaches we go through are often blessings in disguise. So thank you Lord, oh thank you Lord How could I ask for more?"--Cindy Morgan

How could I ask for more?

So I was inspired by a family member that enjoys sulking up the sun while laying on a comfi blanket in the soft grass...I tried it today and I'm HOOKED! I was sitting there feeling the warmth sink into me and the breeze carry me away, thanking God for such a beautiful creation He has made. A thought crossed my mind..."Lord, you do more than just sustain me, you amaze me!" Later on I read this chapter in Isaiah. It described all our Heavenly Father allowed his son, Jesus to go through. And I wonder with all this beauty, wonder, and loving sacrifice that's living in me...how could I ever ask for more?

Thank you Jesus for not only giving us what we needed, but unimaginably more!

"Despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief...we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed. We all are like sheep that have gone astray; we have turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter...He was cut off out of the land of the living, stricken for the transgression of my people...There was no deceit in his mouth. Yet it was the will of the Lord to crush him; he has put him to grief."

Isaiah 53

Love~Rebekah

"My chains are gone, I've been set free, my God my Savior has ransomed me!"--Chris Tomlin

Welcoming Espanol in my life...

I grew up in a small southern town and was taught French 30 minutes a day.
I went to college and tested out of foreign language so there was no need for me to take any more French classes.
I lived in Canada for a summer and had one friend who spoke French, Jasenth.

...So why am I in an Elementary school, teaching English to Spanish children and learning their language? why have we been based in Del Rio for flight training??
These are questions that have been going through my mind. The only thing I do know is my God is up to something cool! Do I know what he's preparing me for....um no, but what's new :)

I do however know that He has taught me through this experience many things that have changed my perspective on teaching and compassion for people that we may not always understand. We are called to love even those who we may not understand. Never has it been so challenging and rewarding to teach. It makes me want to do cartwheels down the hallway when a student said an English word, on his own, for the first time today!!! Or when a little girl finds the courage to walk down the hallway of this new big place, all by herself for the first time!! These experiences have become a gift that I will always cherish from God.

So whatever is to come, whether it is in Ingles or Espanol...I open my arms and say "lets go for it" because I know my Father is guiding me every step of the way.

Adios Amigos!
Rebekah

"Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances!" I Thessalonians 5:16-17

Showers of Joy :)

The Showers have come and the joy is here!! The joy of our engagement has continued to grow as we have had our first two showers and have been able to see family and friends at them! We have been so blessed by wonderful memories and amazing gifts! It gets me so excited when I think that we get to use all our
wonderful things and start our exciting adventure in 2 1/2months!






I've also been able to have the fun and cherished experience of making my veil with my grandma! I can't wait to put it on and walk down the aisle to become Mrs. Rebekah Brazell :)

Thanks family and friends!! I love y'all and couldn't do life without you!!!

Love, Rebekah

***Plan B***

Mrs. Cofield once told me that "Life is all about how you handle Plan B". She told me this about 3 months ago and little did I know I would be sitting smack dab in the middle of that truth now. In the past few weeks I've had to explain my situation more times than I'm able to count...people wondering why I'm not getting my Masters, why I'm not teaching full time, why I'm still living with my parents and so on.
It's funny because a year ago I thought I would be teaching in Lexington for three years to pay off student loans and then go to get my Masters in Administration at USC. Um, yeah...little did I know I would fall in love. Just writing the words "fall in love" melts my heart. I think of all my plans and I think of how much joy, laughter, and fulfillment I would be missing if I hadn't moved to Plan B. AKA: meeting Mr. Right 8 years ago and having him stand by my side (sometimes being the only one keeping me from falling) and showing me true, untainted, unwavering love.
Justin and I are also at Plan B...no we don't know where we will be moving for flight training, we don't know when, and no we really don't even have definite plans of where we will be living while we wait....but it is still 'fine and dandy' with us. You know why??? Because we FINALLY get to be together. After 4 1/2 years of separation, even during 3 of the summers, we get to be with the ONE and ONLY ONE person on this earth that fulfills all our dreams and will be there for us during Plan B, C, D, and so on!!
So yeah, sometimes life throws you a curve ball, but I'm learning that God's plan is the faithful plan. He will provide and give you joy through all seasons of life, planned ones or not. I can honestly say I'm happier now than all 3 years of Plan A in college. My position as ESOL Sub has made me feel so fulfilled, and needed. I am able to impact students lives that may not feel welcomed at any other point during the day.

My God is so FAITHFUL. He has taken me from the miry pits of anxiousness, pain, bitterness, and distrust AND brought me to Himself - a safe haven of peace, comfort, strength, and guidance.

Please pray for us as we enter Plan B with "on the edge of your seat" excitement for the adventure to come :)

Love, Rebekah

"The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing!" Zephaniah 3:17

A Sanctuary

A familiar hymn unveiled an unfamiliar feeling in me yesterday. As I was sitting in the old chapel of our church admiring the glow from the stain glass windows we began singing...

"Lord prepare me to be a Sanctuary

Pure and Holy

Tried and True

and with Thanksgiving I'll be a living

Sanctuary for You."

The word "prepare" brought my heart and mind to a standstill. So often we forget that this life is to prepare us for a Kingdom and a King not of this world. Sometimes I feel like I am sitting on the fencepost enjoying the ride and not pressing on to find more in areas of my life and become more in the areas of my being. That push, that strive is what I consider God's preparation for whatever is to come. By pushing me to go deeper I am able to look forward to where He will send me and what He will ask of me. When I have these intimate moments with my Creator, I find myself falling even more in love with Him and my desire grows to be a pure and holy sanctuary for the Holy Spirit to live.

100 and counting

My friend, Morgan, emailed me yesterday and reminded me that in less than 100 days Justin and I are getting MARRIED! We are so excited! Everything is really coming together and I couldn't ask for a better support group of friends and family members. We had a great summer together and Justin left Friday for Auburn. God has taught us a lot through our premarital counseling couple. I've seen Justin grow so much to a man that I can trust, follow, and love.
Please pray for us to have wisdom, growth, and joy the next three months as we prepare for life together :)

We love y'all!!
Rebekah

"When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You." -Psalm 56:3

***The Happiness of the Fourth***

The Fourth was full of happiness this year. Not only did my family have a fun-filled day together, but I was able to spend The Fourth with the Brazells for the first time, at the beach. This trip was extra special because we were able to see Dan for the first time since September '07! He was home on R&R - it was so great to see him with Erin and Baby Daniel. I'm so grateful for those who gave this country it's freedom and those who keep it free and safe.

This week was also the second week of a new Bible Study I've been doing..."Victoriously Frazzled Women". I have slowly learned how to relinquish control of my life and give it to my Savior. I have experienced the feeling of 'lingering' with God: being disinclined to leave His presence.

Justin and I have continued to enjoy our time as an engaged couple. Striving to please our Father by loving the way He loves: 1 Corinthians 13.

Overall it has been a fun and special week for all of us!

"Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perserveres. Love never fails." -1 Corinthians 13:7-8

Friendship...

This definition seems to be more skewed everyday. My concept of friendship has definitely been tested lately so I thought I would add some other peoples thoughts of friendship to help clarify mine...and the rest of the world's definition of it.

Webster's definition of FRIENDSHIP: a favored companion

Webster's definition of COMPANION: one that accompanies another : comrade; associate; also : one that keeps company with another

Famous friendship quotes:
"It is not so much our friends' help that helps us as the confident knowledge that they will help us."- Epicurus (341 - 270 BC) Greek philosopher.

"Anybody can sympathise with the sufferings of a friend, but it requires a very fine nature to sympathise with a friend's success."- Oscar Wilde

"It's the friends you can call up at 4am that matter." - Marlene Dietrick

"Truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to leave, and impossible to forget." -unknown author


Thanks to those of you who have shown me what true friendship means.
Love, bekah :)

Overview of May...I can't believe June's already here!!!!

An important part of this journey called life is reflection. A guy once told me that you know if you're in God's will by reflecting on the steps you took to the place you are standing. The past month I began to realize many things: I'm not a fantastic cook, I don't clean the bathroom every week, I like taking naps, and some would consider me to be somewhat needy when it comes to love. At first this realization caused me to panic! How can I be the wife that Justin needs???? For two days straight...and I mean ALL through the day, I was contemplating and questioning myself; my ability to be "the cookie cutter wife".
THEN...
the Pastor of our church said something I will never forget; "People, if you're sitting around waiting to be perfect before entering a place that God is calling you, you are wrong. You don't learn and then do...you learn by doing. You don't go when you're perfect, you go when you're called!"
This statement rang so true in my life. God spoke to my heart and let me know in that moment that I was EXACTLY who He wanted for Justin and it was the PERFECT time because it was HIS timing. This does not only go for marriage, but for motherhood and teaching...I will not learn everything and then take on the mountain...I will learn by climbing (and even stumbling a few times). The Holy Spirit's timing never ceases to amaze me. I love how He uses people at the perfect time to say the exact thing that you need to hear.

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One of the days in May was full of relaxation as I spent an ENTIRE day at the Spa, thanks to my thoughtful fiance. It made me remember all of the girl spa slumber parties in Canada. I believe every woman should have at least one massage per year. The truth of the matter is: The one's who truly deserve it aren't able to stop long enough to get one. :) I also began to truly value each and everyone of my friends for all of the specific qualities that make them unique. We rarely find time to get EVERYONE together, but when we do, it is memories of laughter, Karaoke, and random conversations that I will carry with me wherever I go.

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"Never give up on someone you can't go a day without thinking about." -anonymous author

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A Carolina Alumni

I have officially graduated.

I am now known as an adult.

weird.

I know without a shadow of a doubt, I have gotten to this place in my life because of my Savior, who is the potter of the clay and of my soul.

The past week has been a season in my life that I like to call "transitioning".

"Transitioning" can sometimes feel lonely, scary, and overwhelming.

But I am not alone.

I am not scared of anything, but the unknown.

And I cannot be an overcomer without a storm to overcome.

After sitting in a coffee shop and meditating on the feelings and years past, I realized that this was just the first of many "transitioning" stages.

I am so thankful that the Lord is with us always. I'm also thankful that my family and friends show me so much love and encouragement.
(As my little sis said, "I knew you could make it!")

Go Gamecocks!!

"I will never leave you nor forsake you" —Hebrews 13:5

Celebrating an ending and a new beginning!

It was bitter sweet as we had our last Air Force ROTC Formal. It was like, the first "last time" moment before Justin graduated and commissioned. The sweet part was ALL the fun and wonderful memories that we made this weekend. It is also sweet knowing that we are even closer to getting to spend the summer together. It will be a nice change, getting to see each other for more than 3 days. We can't wait!

The night was fantastic! Justin's parents and friends were there. We all were able to celebrate the year's successes and the bravery and commitment that each of these men and women possess. I felt honored to be there with them. Each of these people are special to my heart.

Please pray for those that are commissioning a beginning a career in the life of the military. Pray that we will go into it with arms wide open, ready for the adventure, and living for the cause.

Love you all, Rebekah

"And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed." Deuteronomy 31:8

First Field Trip :0) Last Week :'(

My first field trip was last Friday. We brought all our special 2nd graders to the zoo. It was full of exploring, questioning, and laughs. I love being able to experience things that we are learning about in the classroom.

I have learned so much from these children and Ms. Cash. I am not looking forward to saying goodbye on Friday. She has become such a great friend and someone that I can learn a lot from.



I can't wait to have a class of my own soon! I have so many fun ideas in my head that I'm ready to use!


Please pray for jobs to open up so that I will be able to teach next year. The district is having a hard time finding the funding to hire new teachers. Please keep all of us graduates in your prayers.

life lessons...

As life goes on, lessons will come as well. I have learned that God's timing is perfect and that He knows exactly what we need to learn and when we need to learn it (even if we don't always agree with His choosing of those times). I went to Passion 08 and to a new church in Atlanta this weekend. I learned a few very important life lessons...meaning things I will need to remember for the rest of my days.

1. People should not only be known as Church goers, but as people Consumed by the Holy Spirit. There should be a drastic difference in our lives...we are going from death to LIFE!


2. We are promised two things by Jesus in John 14: In this world we WILL have troublesome times AND God has overcome those troubles. When in those hard times, keep your eyes on the cross because that is the best example of a troublesome time being used to become the most glorious of times!! I do not think I have experienced a truly troublesome time -of course growing up I thought I experienced one every week :0) . This allowed me to feel at peace and somewhat warned before those times come.
   
3. Beware of my mouth (James 4). Our mouths are referred to as "a spark that can start a wildfire". We must realize that those short, sharp comments can have Huge and unrepairable damages. This made me reflect on conversations with family and students. We should all, Myself DEFINITELY included, remember that our mouths are "loaded weapons" and that we should be the responsible owner of them. One thing the preacher said when referring to James 4 was "we all have sparked a fire with words, but it's what you do afterwards that reflects your heart. Take responsibility. Say I'm sorry. And then stop talking...all those explanations just add gasoline to the fire." This sermon spoke so directly into my life, my heart, and my weakness.

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I must add that I was able to experience this wonderful weekend with my wonderful and encouraging fiance, whom I grow to love more everyday.

Joy doesn't rely on this life!

"I'm too blessed to be stressed and too anointed to be disappointed.I refuse to be discouraged, to be sad or to cry.I refuse to be down hearted and here's the reason why:I have a God who is almighty; who is sovereign and supreme.I have a God who loves me -- and I am on His team.He is all wise and powerful; Jesus is His name.Though everything else is changeable, My God remains the same.I refuse to be beaten or defeated.My eyes are on my God.He has promised to be with me, as through this life I trod.I am looking past my circumstances, to heaven's throne above.My prayers have reached the heart of God and I am resting in His love.I give thanks to Him in everything.My eyes are on His face.The battle is His; the victory is mine; He will help me win the race.I repeat!I'm too blessed to be stressed!"

-Author unknown

"Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation."