100 Days of Summer

06.01.19  My hubby, Terry, is out the door bound for deep in the soul of Georgia to minister. My momma is resting. It is quiet in the house and I gather the tools.

Recently added fitness classes and longer runs have tightened my calves, as well as one of my hips. The tools gathered for this work are for the softening of the fascia which is the connective tissue that encase muscle fibers and muscles: A stability ball and foam rollers of various strengths. I have a love-hate relationship with this equipment in that for them to do their job, I must use these tools to self-inflict pain to bring about a softening; thus, a relief to the muscle itself and the connected areas.

There is another part of me in desperate need of work. 

Sometime in the middle of the previous months, I felt a niggle in my spirit to come closer for there is work to be done. The deep, necessary work of the Spirit working on my spirit making it into what is useful and beautiful to Him. 

With worship music playing, I reach for the tools for spiritual work; my She Reads Truth Bible I received at Christmas from my children and the book, Embraced: 100 Devotions to Know God is Holding You Close, I purchased during a women's conference where best-selling author, Lysa TerKeurst, was a guest speaker.

I am setting aside, not only this moment for the work, but the next 100 days of summer for the reworking of my body, mind and spirit and, as if this wasn't challenge enough, I'm pairing it -at least, part if it- with a fast. This is Day 1.

In Lysa's Day 1 devo, she prays through some verses in Psalms, like the one in chapter 84 that reminds us the place where God dwells is lovely. Instantly the words pop into my head, "I am God's dwelling place; therefore I am lovely." What girl doesn't want to be known as lovely? I believe I'll tuck that knowledge into my spirit for the beginning of this work of spirit-softening. That was an easy first-day sesh of spiritual work!

Then, for some reason, when I read "I want it to be evident that I'm a girl who spends time with Jesus and that He's working on me," a pained whimper escapes my throat. Uh-oh. This must be where the Spirit begins His tooling to break down that spiritual fascia which has hardened.

Why is my spirit hard? Much like our physical muscles, the spirit muscle can be made stiff by injury or inactivity. This requires God's Spirit to use His tools to soften, break-up and release. His tools are not meant to harm us, but they feel sharp when applied. That sharp pain is to bring us into good health and movement. Hebrews 4:12 comes to mind, "For the Word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword cutting between soul and spirit, joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires."


That whimper must have been at the moment when the sharp tool made its separating cut to exposing my real issue.

Most anyone who has had a massage walks in, disrobes and exposes the area she thinks is the culprit. However, the massage therapist works with skilled hands and, sometimes using tools, for a myofascial release on another area which brings healing to multiple connected areas. 

The next hour is spent softening both my spirit and my body. Actually, I know this softening will take longer than just one session. In fact, I already know God plans to sharpen me in this same process. But, that is for another day.

Would you join me on this #100DaysOfSummer where we'll expose our spirits to the Spirit of God and invite Him to do the hard work of making us soft?

Book Review: The Dream Giver

The Dream Giver

by Bruce Wilkinson
with David & Heather Kopp
Multnomah Publishers, 2003


My hubby and I were trying to get on the proverbial same page as we considered launching a new ministry for ministers and their families when he handed me this older book he had completed. He felt it was my taste of writing and it was! I love that he knows me! Just one problem: The Dream Giver stirred hope deep inside.

When I've dared to dream a dream and it wilts, the roots of that dream can be watered with hope for life to spring back into it. But, when a dream dies, hope seems to die with it. 

"You were born for this" is the Dream Giver's encouragement to a guy named Ordinary, who eventually left his Comfort Zone in the Land of Familiar to pursue his Big Dream. The encouragement stirred up emotions so raw, I had to set the book aside to quietly pour my prayers into a journal... this would occur many times before I could complete the book. The Dream Giver gently brought wounds to the surface in the protection of Sanctuary where healing could begin and took much longer than I care to admit.

• Does your Big Dream seem hopeless out of reach?
• Do you feel like you don't have a Big Dream?
• Are you waiting for something or someone to make your dream happen?
• Then you're ready for The Dream Giver.

Author Bruce Wilkinson gives you -the reader- practical advice and biblical truths in overcoming obstacles toward pursuing and achieving your dream. 

Now, it's time to begin your journey.


Available in both hardcover and digital on Amazon.

Book Review: Think Differently, Live Differently

Think Differently, Live Differently: Keys to a Life of Freedom

by Bob Hamp
Thinking Differently Press, 2010
Thomas Nelson, 2011







While surfing the internet, one evening, and looking for new reads by Robert Morris, author of A Blessed Life, I happened on Bob Hamp's book being released that very evening. If memory serves, he was in countdown mode to its release. I opted-in figuring anyone who is on staff at Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, and has forewords by Pastor Robert Morris and Kari Jobe must be a pretty good fella! He's just gotta be! He and I exchanged tweets during the downloading process.

The story of a child adopted by farmers and who, later, discovers his biological family wrangled my heart reminding some part of my younger self 's memories that I was made for more. I wish I had this book when I was a young adult.

Bob Hamp, a professional counselor, mentor to leaders and executive pastor, provides a casual approach to sensitive life-issues many people have buried deep in their soul, yet it affects their present behavior often chaining them from experiencing the real life they desire. 

What is lasting freedom? Is it attainable? How comfortable are you with being alone with yourself? What are counterfeits to freedom? Do I constantly question myself?

Reading this book must surely be like what it is to spend an hour having coffee with your best friend, Bob, as he pours truth (spiritual and knowledge) into your spirit offering hope from bondage and brokenness. If you feel "stuck and getting stucker," I encourage you to download or order this easy-to-understand resource.

Bob Hamp has written a new leadership book, Think Differently, Lead Differently, I cannot wait to dive into!

Visit Bob Hamp's website for more resources including the study guide and an audio book if you find listening to your book proves easier with your busy lifestyle.

Book Review: A Harvest of Joy

A Harvest of Joy:
A Mother - Daughter Memoir
by Tammy L. Webb-Witholt
Tate Publishing, 2012






No heroine of any historical fiction could quite measure up to the life's journey of real-life woman of courage, Dorothy "Dot" Webb, when the journey includes lives eternally effected. But, wait, this book is a mother-daughter venture. Most of this adventure is and continues to be shared!

Not only has Tammy Webb-Witholt written this book, but has lived it's pages in true living color with the main character. Many hours spent with her mother in the retelling of each event, Tammy has captured her mother's childhood in Alabama to life as a missionary family in Africa to "retirement" often with vivid, emotional details. Dot's humor shines through her daughter's words so naturally there is a seamlessness of literary voice.

The thread of God gloriously using the modest and willing soul for extraordinary service recurs with such consistency, any reader would be moved to offer their own lives anew.

Recently, my hubby and I visited with Dot. I watched as her eyes brightened with a funny story from the missions field and, then, would soften recalling God's provision. I left our visit uplifted in my spirit by this beautiful lady of grace and joy! 

A Harvest of Joy can be purchased on Amazon either as paperback or as a digital download.

Book Review: The Jesus-Hearted Woman

The Jesus-Hearted Woman: 
10 Leadership Qualities for
Enduring & Endearing Influence
by Jodi Detrick
Influence Resources, 2013
and in association with The Quadrivium Group

The church-world is full of broken-hearted people. What's worse? The church-world being full of broken-hearted leaders.

A compassionate leader and communicator, Jodi Detrick believes "If you have the heart, you can learn the skill." Although this book's title would suggest it is targeted exclusively for the female leader, not a single man could nor would deny the leadership pattern of Christ is for all from those just starting out to those serving for many years in any position. 

Jodi designed each chapter for the reader-leader to draw from her personal leadership experiences through humor, others' lives and God's Word. Ending with a section of coaching questions, a devotional and lesson for the newbie leader, you'll find golden boulders --not nuggets-- of wisdom to immediately put into action.

Are you open to learn? Are you willing to take on the qualities not typically discussed in secular leadership conferences? Are you prepared for that seedling sown in your heart long ago to germinate?

Ok, then! Order your personal copy or several copies for a group development ---> HERE! or at Amazon.

Learn more about a Jesus-Hearted Woman at JesusHeartedWoman.com and about the author at JodiDetrick.com.

Book Review: True Sisters

True Sisters
by Sandra Dallas
Mt. Martin's Press, 2012



Although not a Mormon (a.k.a. Latter Day Saints), I do appreciate the pioneering spirit of going west, no matter the religious or not-so religious preference, which helped to shape our nation. Land of the Free.

Most LDS emigrants (yes, with an "e") chose to push and pull handcarts over 1300 miles of prairie, sand, mountains and snow to reach their promised land. Families walked ...some right out of the soles of their shoes... to claim their freedom of religion and a new start.

The reader follows the lives, joys, losses and emotions of four women making the journey as strangers, but through daily joys and losses, they become sisters of faith.

Sandra Dallas is one of my favorite authors of historical fiction. She does thorough research and crafts a beautiful story. As always, I enjoy her books.

Guest Blogger: Tammy Webb-Witholt

You know those friends who add life to you? Those friends who see life from a multifaceted perspective? Those friends who are just plain fun to hang out with? That's who Tammy Webb-Witholt is to me!

We can go for long stretches of time --I mean looong-- and as soon as we see each other, the laughs start! Two words: Sister Vestal. I'm giggling, now! 

A beautiful lady, born to missionary parents and raised in West Africa, Tammy seems fearless (to me), thrives on culture, loves to write and speaks life into hurting and searching people. Top it all off...she's tall and blonde! Just beautiful! Venture over to Beyond the Silence for more of her soul-FULL and spot-on reflections. Grab a hankie, first.

I asked if I could share her recent blog post, thus introduce you to the jewel who is my friend!

THE SKINNY ON CONTENTMENT

Lately I’ve been paraphrasing Paul’s verse from 

circumstances, I’ve learned to be content. Whether rich Philippians 4:11-12, that in whatever or poor, hungry or fed, skinny or fat: I’ve learned to be content.

Oddly enough my version isn’t too far from the original. However the reason I’ve been quoting my paraphrase is because of a group of women in a boutique in Jackson, Tennessee.

Before I go any further let me say I’ve never been one to group shop. My husband, blessed martyr that he is, has a great eye and usually agrees to shop with me about twice a year when I need to reinforce my wardrobe. Other than that I’m not much of a shopper of clothes, especially since my clothes have gotten uncomfortably snug. I feel a bit like a overssize pillow shoved into an undersize case.

But in early April these ladies unknowingly gave me the gift of a lifetime, and ever since there has been a shift of monumental proportions in my thinking.

For you see since I was ten years old I’ve always been concerned that I was too fat. And there were some occasions, even as a young person when I put on more weight than I should. During my junior year of high school the soft pretzels in a Philadelphia suburb did me in. For a lifetime, I’ve struggled with weight and self-image. Actually it was more than that – with extra weight came a sense of self-loathing. Terribly unhealthy – but who knew?

However, during that day in April those ladies liberated me.  They were beautiful, and comfortable in their own skin. They realized that their purpose for being was defined by more than a dress size, and somehow in those joyous shopping moments I was set free!

Free I tell you. So now I quote – whether I’m skinny or fat I’ve learned to be content. I want to be healthy and active and that’s my goal.  The result may be a smaller clothing size, but until that day – I am content…

… and grateful to that beautiful group of ladies, who were of all shapes and size.

Be sure to check out Tammy's book, Harvest of Joy: A Mother-Daughter Memoir, offered on Amazon in either paperback or as an ebook.

Book Review: Willing to Walk on Water

Willing to Walk on Water:
Step Out in Faith and let God
Work Miracles Through Your Life
by Caroline Barnett
Tyndale Momentum, 2013


Obedient Faith may not be popular. Still, it is required when serving and pleasing our Heavenly Father. Obedient Faith is trusting Him when it does not seem practical, convenient or safe. Obedient Faith is like walking in a God-Fog, where each blind step taken is done so believing His Word as it takes courage to take another and realizing He's trusting you to help build the Kingdom!

Caroline is married to Matthew Barnett and together they co-pastor the Dream Center of Los Angeles, a "volunteer driven organization which finds and fills the needs of over 50,000 individuals and families each month."

Not only does this book relate history of a young, urban ministry, but it is a collection of faith-forward vision casting whereby the hopeless receive Jesus, acceptance, full bellies, skills and hope.

"Use your influence and initiate change where you see a need."

"When God puts something on your heart to do

 and you follow willingly, you can walk on water."

"There is no better confidence booster than knowing
 you are living aligned with God's Word."

"God is on your side. He wants you to accomplish more

 than you could ever imagine."

Why did I purchase this book? In the late 1990's, my honey and I took a small band of cream-of-the-crop senior high school students to serve at the Dream Center for one week. I still refer to and value faith lessons gleaned while I was there.

My life is enriched by the faith of Caroline and the countless volunteer stories, most of which we will never have the honor to read. Again, I am challenged to "find a hurt and heal it, [and] find a need and meet it." I believe your zeal to serve others and God will be renewed while you are reading. And, while you are reading, ask God to be involved in planting ideas to serve in your spirit.

"God does not want fear to dictate our steps of willingness.
He wants us to be obedient."  For more info, click here ---> Caroline Barnett

Book Review: Draw the Circle

In the 40 days leading up to Easter Sunday, the church where my family attends began a prayer focus. The goal was for each member of the congregation to voluntarily purchase and read a chapter daily from Draw the Circle by Mark Batterson in addition to reading the Bible and being intentional about praying. 

Each chapter is a quick read with a personal story to bring the reality of that day's reading to the forefront. The book is a spin-off prayer challenge to The Circle Maker written by the same author.

Our people were encouraged to pray. Prayer could be in the form of speaking aloud, journaling quietly, alone or with a group, done while kneeling, walking or sitting in bed before the light was turned out. If those members had Facebook and Twitter accounts, they could post the time they were praying followed by the hashtag "#LA40Days" like a classified code known only to the participants.

No matter the HOW or the WHEN, the idea was for people to pursue an intimate relationship with God, our living, loving, Heavenly Father. 

Wednesday prior to Easter weekend as the challenge was winding down, several of our church friends expressed they were sad this mutual activity would be completed. The camaraderie of lifting another person's name in prayer and genuinely caring for others' needs has increased faith and motivated faith into action! Here's the truth: Prayer doesn't have to end!

If you are looking to establish a habit of daily connecting with God AND to build faith AND to see your life transformed, look into Draw the Circle as an accompaniment to your spiritual disciplines personally, with your family and as a group.

Have you already read Draw the Circle? What're your thoughts?

Book Review: LIFE EQUITY by U. S. Congressman Marsha Blackburn

Life Equity
by Marsha Blackburn
Thomas Nelson, 2008

The life you've led

has prepared you for the life 

you dream of.

When I saw the title, I knew I'd love this book. We are born with innate strengths, talents, preferences. College may be a memory or a longing. As we weave our way through life, we begin to develop skill sets. Never before in time have we seen women move forward in fields of public leadership. Did they start out with that goal in mind?

With the foreword by Amy Grant, this book contains stories of young women starting out and women who worked in a specific field only to go back to school and redirect their lives when many would retire.

Strengths + Passions + Experience = Life Equity

• How do I make a difference?
• Do I have what it takes?
• When the children are out of the nest, what then?
• Do I have dreams, yet, unfulfilled? 
• Why do I undervalue myself?

This is one of those inspirational books which challenges you to take inventory and pursue your passions!

Rep. Marsha Blackburn is the U. S. Congressman for Seventh District of Tennessee. Most recently she was honored with co-chairing the Republican Party's Platform Committee and was our state's only elected speaking at the Republican National Convention in August.

Book Review: FRESH AIR by Chris Hodges

Fresh Air
by Chris Hodges
Tyndale Publishing, 2012

After entering a hotel room that smells stale, it's good to either open a window, to switch on the air conditioner or to turn around and walk outside for a gulp of air that is cool and clean.

Alabama Pastor Chris Hodges' life and ministry seemed pretty successful and busy and fruitful, but he felt stale not even knowing when nor how it could have happened. Not even his family knew of the stagnancy that choked his spirit.

I follow Chris on Twitter and saw his book was to release, last month. So, I decided to be one of the first to download it from Amazon. I could have written this book! His words could have easily been taken from a page of my own life at one point. I thought this would be a read only for ministers attempting to  jazz up their pulpit delivery, but Fresh Air is for anyone needing to inhale hope, life, a new start or a deeper walk.

If you, like me, use a Bible-reading plan on YouVersion, a Bible and Devotional app, you'll be happy to know a 14-day devotional became available, this weekend!

~"Sam"

BOOK REVIEW: The Story of Beautiful Girl by Rachel Simon

The Story of Beautiful Girl
by Rachel Simon
Grand Central Publishing Hachette Book Group, 2012

Never once when selecting this book would I realize how much of an effect the content would have on me. As I submerged into the story, the ugly truth was laid out with regard to the treatment, care and understanding of a precious community many individuals feel uncomfortable acknowledging. Believe me, my emotions ran the gamut.

Setting: rural Pennsylvania, 1968. 

The story is in its second printing with a new cover. The original cover may have had a silhouette of a young lady. A Reading Group Guide with Discussion Questions is provided.

Please join me at 2pm for 2-on-Tuesday's Recipes. Yes, recipesss. FOOTBALL FOOD!

Priorities (Second Priority)

Last month, we looked into firming our foundation with our first Priority: God. The second Priority is a little easier for me to express into two categories: Husband & Child.

1. God
2. Family
3. Ministry (or Career)
4. Myself 

With regard to my husband...

• I control the atmosphere of the home. Making the home a sanctuary for my husband is a ministry. It may not be the most beautiful house or parsonage with up-to-date appliances and décor, but my attitude greatly furnishes the home with a glow that says, “I’ll keep the light on for you, Baby!”

• My husband may be the facilities manager, youth pastor, lead pastor, missionary, evangelist ministering to hundreds & THOUSANDS! But, when he comes home, my husband needs a real, live, warm wife.

• Just as my shameful words and actions would bring reproach on the name of Christ while wearing His name, "Christ-ian," the same would happen while wearing my husband's name. Yes, we-girls do carry as much influence effecting others and ministry.

Whether or not you're in a ministry family, take the initiative for a healthy marriage. I'm of the belief all couples should read Gary Chapman's The 5 Love Languages. The editions for children, singles and men are available, too.

With regard to my child...

• As a parent the responsibility of spiritually nurturing my child is mine. Read Deuteronomy 6:5-7. The spiritual "booster shots" come from the Sunday school teacher and pastoral staff. Because our kids become us, we need to teach and model.

• My child needs a good, even-tempered and loving mom. Making the home a refuge for my child is a ministry. I must give space and outlets for him to develop as a whole person. Correction and discipline are supporting roles of love.

• I shelter him. My child does not need to hear about staff conflicts, church members' sins or our personal difficulties. Remember the little song, "Be Careful Little Ears What You Hear"? It's remarkable that I can repeatedly tell my child to make the bed, make the bed, make the bed. Yet, I make one quiet remark and it sticks like Super Glue to that child's brain and, later, shoots out their mouth.

A ministry friend recalled a story of asking for prayer requests from 3-5 year old children. "Please pray for my daddy. He drinks too much," was the answer from the son of a church staffer. She asked him to repeat his request. This time he added, "...too much Mountain Dew." He heard his parents talking the night before!

• Just as vital to being mindful of which movies, television shows, selections of music enter his mind is protecting his spirit. I don't ever want to be guilty of erecting a mental or spiritual blockade in my child's spirit by allowing him to be privy to spiritual leaders' weaknesses. This may prevent my child from "hearing" the voice of the Spirit while that leader is ministering. Because at that instance, all he can remember is what was said about that particular leader. Make sense?

• The life of a PK (preacher's kid) has advantages! I should consistently present the positive. How often does a regular kid get to do all of the stuff that PKs get to do? Amusements park, summer camp, beach trip, mission trip, family vacation...and that's just the summer!

Ruth Bell Graham was once asked how she had raised her five children when Billy, her evangelist husband, was away so much of the time. Without hesitation she answered, "On my knees."

That's really what it takes. Isn't it? In no way is the above information all-inclusive; however, it is a structure which continues to be reinforced with consistent care. Feel free to comment.

~"Sam"