This World I Live In

"Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done. They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless.  Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them."  Romans 1:28-32

If you want a picture of modern society and you want to know the root of all of society's problems, you should read Romans chapter 1.  When I read about "them" in this chapter, I think of lots of different groups of people--professors, teenagers, sorority sisters, stay-at-home moms, parents, investment bankers, etc.  I think Paul intended this list of sinful activity to encompass persons in every walk of life.  When Paul lists "every kind of wickedness" he included both outright illegal activities and also common character flaws.  He's making the point that when it comes to sin, being an arrogant person is just as bad as being a murderer.

What makes my skin crawl is the very end of verse 32--God's wrath is not just against the people sinning, but also against those who approve of those who sin.  Think about it, how many times do we approve of people who are very obviously living ungodly lives?  We cheer for them as they play major league sports, we tune in every week as they act on TV shows, and we pay money to hear them at concerts.  We are willing to overlook the fact that a person is a homosexual because we want them to decorate our house.  Or we are willing to allow our children to be taught be educators who believe that nature and saving the planet is our mission in life.  We even send our young adults to Ivy league universities where we know they teach humanism and the need for tolerance.

We all struggle with approving of sin in one or more aspects of life.  And we forget how dangerous it is to endorse sin.  Take a few minutes today to evaluate how much sin you're willing to tolerate and think about God's command to completely turn away from what is evil and to not live a life "of the world."

I know there are some changes that I need to make in my life.  God wants me to stand up against sin.  I can' just live among it and tolerate it.  It is also my job to clearly teach my children God's boundaries when it comes to sin too.  If I don't, who else will?  The National Education Agency? MTV? The neighbor kids? 

It's time to re-evaluate our role in this world we live in.

Move Over Christian Louboutin!

"As goods increase, so do those who consume them. And what benefit are they to the owner except to feast his eyes on them?" Ecclesiastes 5:11

My dear, sweet husband apparently reads my blog posts.  I know this, because for graduation he offered to buy me a pair of Jimmy Choo heels (See the April 8th post.)  He knows how much I like shoes and he knew that I have been wanting a pair of fine shoes for the past 4 years.  So Saturday, after my morning graduation ceremony, he took me to the Jimmy Choo store to try on shoes.

For some reason, I couldn't bring myself to do it.  The Jimmy Choo pumps weren't as great as they looked online.  The heels were either too short or they looked like they belonged on a street corner with a pair of fishnets.  I honestly didn't like them.  And in my opinion, the price tag was borderline unconscionable.

Not to be deterred, my husband then took me to the Christian Louboutin store across the street.  I have to admit that Christian makes a good looking shoe.  But when I tried them on, I was not impressed.  Apparently, Christian likes toe cleavage and the shoes are cut really short in the front.  The store assistant manager assured me that this looked sexy, but I was not convinced.  I don't have a large foot, but these shoes made me feel like I was trying to fit into a kid's shoe. 

When the whole shopping trip was over, I realized that there is no point to fine shoes.  My $25 black patent Steve Madden pumps that I bought on sale at Ross are sooooo much more attractive on my feet than the Christian Louboutin's that sell for $695.  And if I did own a pair of expensive shoes, I would probably never wear them for fear of ruining them.  They would be something in my closet to "feast my eyes on" when I needed a pick me up.  I can seriously think of so many better ways to use my money.

I think what really struck me about the entire shopping experience was that the other ladies in the stores were repeat customers of Jimmy Choo and Christian Louboutin.  They weren't like me, looking for a novelty shoe to sit in their closet.  They wanted another pair to add to their collections!  Why would anyone need a collection of overpriced shoes?  Because "whoever loves money never has money enough" (Eccl. 5:10) and that person will often hoard wealth, to the harm of the owner (vs. 13).

Listen, I don't think it's wrong to have nice things.  But we need to question our motives.  We need to be careful not to let our love of materialism turn into a collection of uselessness.  I think collecting antiques or baseball cards or stock options can be just as dangerous as collecting fine shoes.  The hoarding and collecting of material items is never satisfying.  And owning a pair of Louboutin's just so we can stare at them is wasteful too.

Much to my husband's amazement, I have decided to be happy with my Steve Madden heels (which really are attractive if I do say so myself.)  Sometimes it just takes a shopping trip to put life in perspective.

Facing the Teenage Drama

"...Encourage the young men to be self-controlled.  In everything set them an example of doing what is good..." Titus 2:6-7

http://ABCfamily.go.com

For some reason, I watch teenager TV shows.  You know, the shows with all the drama and the crying and the "he stole my boyfriend" plots.  Growing up I didn't watch these shows, but for some reason they intrigue me now.  And it drives my husband nuts.  He asked me why in the world would I want to watch a bunch of fake teenagers?  I guess teenagers fascinate me.  And now that it's been almost a decade since I was one of them, TV seems to be my way of learning about their issues. 

A good friend of mine told me recently that she was shocked by some of the problems that teenagers were facing in her church youth group.  On Sunday, I asked a teenager at my own church what issues parents should know about but probably don't.  Her answer was surprising and probably not appropriate for my blog.  Let's just say that ABC Family hasn't had an episode on all teenage problems.  Not all teenage activity is illegal (like underage drinking) but your heart would hurt if you heard about all the problems that teenagers today are facing. 

Thanks to technology, there really are new issues facing teenagers today.  Think about how easy it is to post information on the internet, and then imagine how damaging it could be to have the high school gossip post some untruths on their Facebook page.  Or think about how easy it would be for a girl to mass text something about a boy to half the high school.  Or think about how classmates can use their phones to record or take pictures of everything--including the locker room.  Think about it, one negative post or text (even if untrue) could taint someone's reputation for life!  Oh, and I haven't even started discussing the issues relating to homosexuality, sex, drugs, and depression.

Parents have the hardest job these days.  It used to be ok for a mom to not know how to use her email or new technology.  Technology just wasn't as easy or accessible when I was in high school. ( I mean, just 10 years ago I was still listening to cassette tapes!)  Today, mom has to be on Facebook and needs to friend the right people so she can monitor the activity.  Mom needs to be in her daughter's business to learn about the hallway drama at school and to make sure it's not trickling into cyber space.  Mom needs to chat with her son about problems he sees other kids dealing with.  And mom needs to know if her son is hanging with these kids.

People used to tell me how important it is to be a stay-at-home mom when my kids are little.  But I think I've just made a case for being a full-time and involved mommy when kids are in high school.  Since one internet post can ruin a reputation, hurt college acceptance, create a criminal record, eliminate employment opportunities, and cause long-term emotional damage, Mommy has a lot more to worry about today than just hoping her teenager doesn't reproduce while in high school.

So what do we do about it?  I hope to someday practice juvenile law, but I think that waiting for someday is too late.  For those of us without teenagers, we should start praying for the teens that we know.  We should take an interest in at least 1 teenager at church and invest some time in them.  We should be willing to listen to their problems, and we have to show them love and compassion.  But we can't try to be their parents.  And for parents, if you haven't become a prayer warrior, it's never too late to start.  And if you're not already in your child's business--it's time to go there!

My Commencement

Saturday marked the official end of my student career and the official beginning of a new life as we know it.  For the first time in 6 1/2 years of marriage, one of us is NOT in graduate school.  And for the first time in many, many years, I was able to wake up this morning knowing that I can do whatever I want today.  I don't have any deadlines or obligations to meet this morning.  I feel like I'm on vacation, but I think I'm experiencing normal life...

Just to fill you in on the excitement this weekend, I thought I'd post some pictures of the fun and celebration.  We started Saturday morning at the University Commencement ceremony.  Only about 30 law students showed up, but my friend and I made a deal that we would come and enjoy the day together.  Here are some pics of the ceremony, my law school buddy and me taking it all in, and our commencement speaker the U.S. Senator from Texas, John Cornyn.

 

 Later that evening, the law school had our official hooding ceremony in the Dedman School of Law quad (that's what we called the courtyard between all the law buildings.)  Professor McKnight, wearing some ornate regalia, led processional of professors and esteemed guests.  And then we had a surprise visit from the the Texas Governor, Rick Perry.  It was a long ceremony, but the pomp and circumstance of the affair was very SMU.

 

 

 And of course, the entire celebration would not have been complete without the people who have made my entire educational experience possible--my husband and kids.  I've been a law school spouse, and it's hard.  My husband is going to get jewels in his crown for standing by me, offering support, and being there for me every step of the way.  The degree and the experience were great, but having a husband and kids who love me is far better.  So to my favorite attorney and my precious law babies, Thanks!  I Love you guys!

It's Never too Late to Graduate

"You  need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." Hebrews 10:36

Yesterday I had the privilege of watching my dad graduate from college with his MBA.  This was a very special day for my family.  My dad has always wanted to finish the college degree that he started before I was born, but for various family reasons, he wasn't able to go back to school until a few years ago.  It was really inspiring to see him head back to college.  Not only did he just go back to college, but he did it whole heartedly and he did it well.  First, he earned his bachelor's degree in accounting.  Then he went to work for an accounting firm.  Next, he passed his CPA exams--on the first attempt.  And yesterday, he wrapped up the whole process by finishing his MBA. 

I'm sure if you asked my dad if he wished he had graduated years ago, he would have said yes.  But, he persevered and made it happen when most people would be focusing on retirement.  As someone who worked full-time during my first year of graduate school, I can testify that my Dad's accomplishment is impressive.  His grades were almost a perfect A+ in every class.  And his work never suffered.

I'm sure there were days that my dad thought about quitting and just enjoying life, but I'm glad he didn't.  When I graduated from high school he made me promise that I would go to college.  And I did.  I think knowing that a college degree was so important to my dad inspired me to go to law school too.  I'm just glad he was willing to persevere and finish what he started.  He's an example to me and to my kids.  And I hope he inspires you too.

It's never too late to finish what you start.  And if you are following God's will for your life, your perseverance will be blessed.

The Perfect Graduation Gift

"My [sisters], if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring [her] back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of [her] way will save [her] from death and cover over a multitude of sins." James 5:19

I went graduation gift shopping yesterday.  It occurred to me that there are some college graduates in my life for whom I had not yet shopped.  But what do you get a college graduate?  You get them something that they need to help them in their new professional life. (I suppose if you're buying for me you're thinking I need a feather duster or sippy cups. I figured I'll make it easy for you--I don't need any gifts!)  Anyway, when I thought about what to buy the special graduate in my life, it occurred to me that there is a perfect gift out there.  A Bible is always a perfect gift. 

As I was wrapping up my study on the book of James today, I realized that the Bible I purchased really was the perfect gift for my friend.  I've invested lots of time and love in this person and want her to succeed both professionally and as a woman.  I want her to know that I'm praying for her in this new phase of her life and that I'm just as interested in her spiritual life as I am her love life.  Just because we're finishing school together doesn't mean that I can't give her the spiritual full court press.  And giving her a Bible is like planning her offensive plan.  Now, as the believing friend, I have to help her learn the entire play book.  I can't personally "save" her, but I can do everything in my power to bring her back to the truth.  So I bought her a lovely Bible.  It's her play book for life. 

If you know a graduate who needs to know the truth, a Bible should be at the top of your list too.  They may not read it today.  But when the first or second painful year of work kicks in, they will have the play book at their fingertips.  And if your graduate doesn't need a Bible, the gift of prayer is pretty special too.  Wouldn't it be cool to venture into the workplace knowing that someone had your back by praying for you every day?

These are just some suggestions from a graduate.  Save your money and make an eternal investment in someone's life.  That is the perfect graduation gift.

Becoming a Prayer Warrior

"Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous [woman] can accomplish much." James 5:16

 The term prayer warrior gets tossed around a lot.  But I don't think very many people have an idea what the term prayer warrior means.  A prayer warrior is someone who faithfully and consistently approaches God in prayer.  But the prayer warrior is also a righteous person whose prayers can accomplish much.

My mother is a prayer warrior.  For as long as I can remember, she has gotten out of bed before the crack of dawn and has not only immersed herself in her Bible reading, but also in prayer.  She spends a long time in prayer.  And I'm convinced that she is very specific with her prayers.  I also know that if she tells me that she's praying for something in my life, I can expect to see the result of her prayer within a few days.  Her prayers are powerful and really do accomplish much--even when they don't accomplish exactly what she asks.

As a nurse, I can tell you that prayer works.  I've seen very sick people healed.  And I've seen very sick people die, while leaving a testimony and legacy far greater than they could have left while alive.  In those instances, I know that the people were healed in a place far greater than earth.  Sometimes our prayers are answered in ways we don't expect.  But I'm confident that God hears and answers all our prayers.

For the first time in years, I actually have time.  And I want to use that time effectively.  So, I bought a journal and am going to start working on praying.  Historically, European armies said it would take 3 years to train an effective soldier ready for battle.  And this is probably true for any kind of warrior.  So I can't expect to have prayer warrior status at first without practice and commitment.  James says we must first confess our sins.  And my first entry will be one of confession.  And then I'll have an entry of thanksgiving.  And my entries will be specific.

Are you ready to do more than be a housewife or business woman?  Do you want to accomplish much and have an eternal impact on the world?  Then join me.  Start preparing for battle through prayer.  Train yourself to be a prayer warrior.  And remember that the prayers of a righteous woman can accomplish much.

Curing the Bed Time Blues

"...For He gives to His beloved even in his sleep." Psalm 127:2

Every little one goes through a phase, or sometimes multiple phases, where they cry at bedtime.  If you're a parent, I'm sure you know the angst you feel when you put your toddler down and hear crying for half an hour.  Or the headache you get when they keep coming out of bed to ask you a question. 

We figured out with our oldest that bedtime music is often a great tool for bedtime.  We had this recording of harp music playing Christian songs that my oldest listened to every night for at least a year.  And then our youngest got the bed time blues too.  For some reason, harp music did not work!  So I took a chance and decided to try a CD that has words.  He loves to sing in the car, and I thought he might need someone to sing along with.  And boy was I right!

We found the perfect bedtime/nap time tool--Patch the Pirate!  When I was a little girl, I had tapes of Patch the Pirate and I listened to his adventures all the time.  Each adventure was full of beautiful Christian songs of inspiration and praise.  And my youngest loves these adventures too.  We've been listening to the Mister Slippy River Race this week and it's so sweet to hear my 1 one year old trying to sing along to Rejoice in the Lord.

I can't wait to buy some of the new Patch adventures and to listen to them with my kids.  It's neat that the same characters that were my friends at an early age will also be influencing my children through the stereo too.  If you'd like to preview or purchase some Patch the Pirate CD's, please visit Majesty Music. The Patch CD's are a perfect baby gift or CD for your whole family to enjoy.  I know they will bless you like they've blessed me.  Start with the Mister Slippy, since that CD tells Patch the Pirate's true back story (he really wears a patch to cover the eye that he lost to cancer.)  And then venture into the Jungle, go to Camp, learn about friendship and see the Starry Knight.  You'll enjoy every minute!

Nobody Likes the Gunner

"Words from a wise man's mouth are gracious, but a fool is consumed by his own lips...and the fool multiplies words." Ecclesiastes 10:12, 14

Every first year law school class has a student that earns the nickname "the Gunner."  Nobody wants to be the gunner and nobody likes the gunner.  He (or she) is the first one to raise their hand when a question is asked, the first one that wants to ask a question, and the person who always states facts and information related to class that no one else knows.  This person gives the appearance that they are going to hurt our grading curve.  (Law school classes are graded on a mandatory B curve.  Yes, 1 exam and a forced B curve makes getting A's really hard!) Anyway, after the end of the first year, everyone is often surprised to learn that the gunner didn't do as well on exams as one would think.  As it turns out, the gunner is just full of it and tries to make himself look good.  And in the end, the gunner is a fool.

Sadly, the gunner concept is not foreign inside the church.  I've been to many Bible studies that have a gunner as well.  And for some reason, the gunner is usually a woman.  She's a talker and has stories that she believes illustrate EVERY point of group discussion.  Little does she know that everyone is excited when she doesn't show up!!! 

Ecclesiastes reminds us to restrain our speech.  The fool is the person who talks too much and doesn't have a mute button.  If the fool's brain thinks it, for some reason his mouth speaks it too.  The word filter just doesn't work.  He shares too much too often and at some point his examples and stories lose their effectiveness.  People start to realize that the image that the words portray isn't real. 

I have a rule for group Bible studies that I will only answer 1 or maybe 2 questions.  Thus, I read all the questions in advance and think about where I can contribute the best.  Sometimes I don't share at all if the gunner doesn't let me.  But either way, my speech is restrained.

I'm learning that I need to have this same approach to words in my every day life at home.  With texting and social networking, we use far more words than we realize.  (Hence the fact I'm not on Facebook--waste of time and words.)  My husband may not believe it, but I'm going to work on word reduction this week--fewer phone calls, fewer texts, and less talking.  Hopefully my words will be more gracious and uplifting.  And hopefully I will never have gunner status.

Lessons From My Mom

I’ll never forget my first science fair project.  My problem was “What is the best way to clean up an oil spill on water?”  That fourth grade project was where I really learned about my mother.  It didn’t take long for me to realize that school projects were going to be harder than I thought.  My mom actually wanted me to measure and carefully cut out the pieces of my project.  I had to use a certain type of glue so that my presentation board wasn’t lumpy.   I had to type my project, because handwritten work didn’t look professional.  I had to memorize my presentation, because judges wanted me to know what I was talking about.   I had to display and present an experiment that actually worked.   And I had to use Bible verses appropriately to support my project.  My mother was a perfectionist, and she expected me to do my best.

As it turned out, my mother was right about my project.   I not only won my fourth grade science fair, but I also placed very high at the state regional science fair.  And in fifth grade, I had another winning project at the district and state levels.  It wasn’t because I was the smartest student in my class or because I was the best orator.  And it certainly wasn’t because I had the most unique project.  Instead, it was because my mother invested time and effort into helping me become successful.  She certainly didn’t do my projects for me.  Instead, she guided me, supported me through the process, and taught me some very important life lessons.

My mom taught me that I have to do my best in everything that I do.  She taught me that if I do a task right the first time, I never have to repeat it.  She taught me that I should always go above and beyond what I’m asked to do.  She taught me that if I wanted to do something bad enough, I could find a way to get it done.  And she demonstrated to me that I must pray about and commit what I’m doing to the Lord.

I’ve had quite a few projects since my fourth grade science fair project, and my mother has been there to support and guide me through each task.  She fed me and did my laundry during nursing school.  She helped me plan my wedding.  She encouraged me to go to law school and made sure that I met my deadlines.  She cleaned my house and took care of me during pregnancy.  She watched and loved my babies while I finished school.  And she’s prayed for me every step of the way.

I am very blessed to have my mother.  She’s my cheerleader, my role model, and my best friend.  I hope that I can instill some of her lessons in my children someday.  I wish every girl could be blessed to have a mom like mine.