Dark Side of Submission-Lee Grady

The following is a very eye opening article by Lee Grady. From Fire in My Bones online, November, 2009. Copyright 2009 Strang Communications; all rights reserved. Used with permission.

Christian teaching on male headship is often used as a weapon against women. This abuse must be confronted.
Last week during a ministry trip to Hungary I heard a painfully familiar story. Through a translator, a tearful young woman living near Budapest explained that her Christian husband was angrily demanding her absolute submission. This included, among other things, that she clean their house according to his strict standards and that she engage in sexual acts with him that made her feel uncomfortable and dirty.

This lady was not demanding her rights or trying to be disrespectful. She was a godly, humble woman who obviously wanted to please the Lord. But she had been beaten to a pulp emotionally, and she was receiving little help from her pastor—who was either unwilling or unprepared to confront wife abuse.

“Traditionalists assume that a Christian marriage is defined as a dominant husband who makes all family decisions while the wife graciously obeys without input. Yet Scripture actually portrays marriage as a loving partnership.”
I’ve heard so many sickening versions of this scenario. In Kenya recently, several women told me their AIDS-infected husbands often raped them—and then their pastors told them they must submit to this treatment. In some parts of India, even some pastors believe it is acceptable to beat their wives if they argue with them or show any form of disrespect. And in some conservative churches in the United States, women are told that obedience to God is measured by their wifely submission—even if their husbands are addicted to alcohol or pornography, or if they are involved in adulterous affairs.

This distortion of biblical teaching has plunged countless Christian women into depression and emotional trauma. I’m not sure which is worse: The harsh words they hear from their husbands, or the perverse way the Bible is wielded as a leather belt to justify domestic abuse. Here are three truths we must uncover in order to solve this problem:

1. Marriage is not a hierarchy. Traditionalists assume that a Christian marriage is defined as a dominant husband who makes all family decisions while the wife graciously obeys without input. Yet Scripture actually portrays marriage as a loving partnership and refers to the wife as a “fellow heir of the grace of life” (1 Peter 3:7, NASB). And the apostle Paul taught that in the realm of sexuality, husbands and wives share equal authority over each other’s bodies (see 1 Cor. 7:4). In other words, submission in this most intimate part of a marriage covenant is mutual, and this same mutuality is the key to any happy marriage; it fosters respect, communication and an enduring bond.

2. Headship is not a license to control. Traditionalists also cite Ephesians 5:23 to remind wives that their husbands are their “heads”—and they believe this term requires some type of dictatorial control in marriage. Yet the Greek word used in this passage, kephale, does not have anything to do with heavy-handed authority and it cannot be used to enforce male domination. Neither does it imply male superiority. The word can either mean “source” (as in the source of a river) or “one who leads into battle” (as a protector).

Neither original definition of this word gives room for abuse. Headship, in its essence, is not about “who’s the boss.” Rather it refers to the Genesis account of Eve being taken from Adam’s side. The husband is the “source” of the wife because she originated from him, and she is intimately connected to him in a mystical union that is unlike any other human relationship.
Men who abuse their wives are out of fellowship with God. 1 Peter 3:7 is clear: “You husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with someone weaker, since she is a woman; and show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so your prayers will not be hindered.” Wife abuse is no trivial sin. Any man who berates his wife, treats her as inferior or engages in abusive behavior (including hitting, kicking, raping, cursing at or threatening punishment) will jeopardize his fellowship with the Lord. He will feel frustrated and convicted until he repents. (And in the same way, I believe, pastors who silently support abusive husbands by refusing to confront the behavior—or by telling women to submit to the pain—participate in this sin and could find their own prayers hindered.)

Truly Christian marriages, according to the apostle Paul, involve a tender, servant-hearted and unselfish husband who (1) loves his wife “just as Christ also loved the church;” (2) loves her as his own body; and (3) loves her as himself (see Eph. 5:25, 28 33). He stands alongside his wife in faithfulness, and she joyfully respects her husband because he can be trusted. And the two become one.

If we are to uphold this golden standard, we must confront abuse, shelter its victims and provide the tough love and counseling necessary to heal troubled relationships. And we have no business telling women to stay in marriages that actually could put them or their children in danger.

This was very important to share....

Thanks,

Jessica

The Cave Youth Service

We had over 150 Jr. Highers from Cooper Middle School come to our Wednesday night youth service. This is not counting our high school and college groups. What started out as a rough night of teens disrespecting each other and the leaders turned into a mighty intervention of God's love and presence. He came and over 40 teens gave thier heart to Christ. WOW!

The young man above is Lee, he was a basketball freak, and was going to the NBA, but his intentions were cut off when he found girls, and parties. He flunked two classes and couldn't get accepted into college. He went to the youth conference called "Total Abandonment", and gave his heart to Christ. He has since been an intern at the church, and shares his testimony everywhere.

This is our youth worship leader Josh, he raps, hip-hops and brings the youth into the presence of God! Him and his wife both sing, and are a part of the vital part of the team.

This is De De, she came to the church two years ago, she was involved with gangs, and other things, she was depressed and opressed. She gave her heart to Christ, got out of the gang, and has turned her life around. She is one of the interns at the church, and raps for Jesus. Brian is the Youth Pastor, he is seen here with the overwhelming presence of what God is doing.

Look what God can do!!!

~Jessica

Changing with the Season

The last few months have been interesting for my husband and I. We are still trying to sell our home, we have a new house-mate, and he is still looking for a job. Although it does not look like things are changing, I know that God is always turning things around for our good. Greater things are yet to come, greater things are still to be done! I am still working all my jobs, and I am now back in school. Yes, I am in school working on my Doctorate in Pastoral Community Counseling. I should be able to graduate in Fall of 2011. My husband is also continuing is bridge classes so he can attend ORU next fall. Seasons change, and we all have the choice to follow in pursuit of these changes, or remain shut up and stuck, not by anyone else's fault, but by one's own. Time to grow, flow, learn, expand, harvest, step up, and step into all He has for you!!

Another goal for me is to keep a more updated blog for the three of you who do read this! LOL

Lov ya!

Jessica

What?!?!?

Where are we?

At this point, a lot of things in my life don't make any sense.

Why can't we sell our home?

Why does Obama's Stimulas package for home owners only bring down your monthly payment by 80 dollars instead of 300??

Why can't my wonderful, talented, smart, and witty husband get even a mim. wage job?

Why is it that I work three jobs and we scrach by?

All of these questions and more swirl around inside my mind. How, when, why....?

Am I not good enough? Am I not doing enough? What are we missing?

Who are we missing? Why are we not hearing??

What do we hear?

Slience....and then....

"This isn't about you. It has never been. It's all about me, the people you serve, and the Glory your situation will bring to Me as a testimoney to others."

But God..what about...?

"It is not about you, but what I will do through you, for you, and in you."

Thank you Daddy....

You are always enough for me!

Things that Purr...

Verse 10: "Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in His upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days."

So the plot was planned, but Daniel knew what his enemy had done. Instead of going home, shutting the windows, climbing into bed, and throwing the covers of defeat over his head, he did the exact opposite of what he was feeling.

Verse 14: And the King, when he heard these words was greatly displeased with himself., and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him; and he labored till the going down of the sun to deliver him.

The king was easily tricked into signing the law, pride of self, and distraction led him astray and it wasn't until it wasn't until a personal friend was hurt over the law that he was stirred into action. He did everything he could think of to change the decree over Daniel, but once it was declared, nothing could overrule it.

Verse 16: So the king gave the command, and they brought Daniel and cast him into the den of the lions. But the king spoke saying to Daniel, "Your God, whom you serve continually, He will deliver you."

An earthly king has reign over his own kingdom, but the King of Kings reign over it all. It was at this point that King Darius realized who had more power.

Verse 17: Then the stone was brought and laid on the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the signets of his lords, that the purpose concerning Daniel might not be changed.

For God's ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are not our thoughts. To witness the rolling of the stone over the den shows a finality to the story, however, what you see in the natural, is NOT what God is saying in the Spirit. What has He promised you?

Verse 19-20: Then the king arose very early in the morning and went in haste to the den of the lions. And when he came t the den, he cried out with a lamenting voice to Daniel. The king spoke saying to Daniel, "Daniel, servant of the Living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?"

King Darius got up, ran to the den, and called out to Daniel. Real faith has action, he ran, he cried out, and what was the answer?

Verse 22: "My God sent His angel and shut the lions' mouths, so that they have not hurt me, because I was found innocent before Him; and also, O King, I have done no wrong before you."

Daniel was alive, and no harm was upon him. Let me just say here, that what you are in, is not where you will stay. A night in a den, with a bunch of lions might kill you, but a night in a den, with the Angel of the Lord, will change your perspective, life, and attitude in a heartbeat.

Verse 23: Now the king was exceedingly glad for him, and the commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den, and no injury whatsoever was found on him, because he believed in his God.

He believed in God, need I say more?

Verse 24: And the king gave the command, and they brought those men who had accused Daniel, and they cast them into the den of lions- them, their children and their wives; and the lions overpowered them, and broke all their bones in pieces before they ever came to the bottom of the den.

You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra, the young lion and serpent you shall trample underfoot. Psalms 91.13

Verse 26-27: I make a decree that in every dominion of my kingdom men must tremble and fear before the God of Daniel. For he is the living God, And steadfast forever; His kingdom is the one which shall not be destroyed and His dominion shall endure until the end. He delivers and rescues, And He works sings and wonders, Who has delivered Daniel from the power of the lions.

Proverbs 28:1But the righteous are bold as a lion

Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, for Christ is that Lion, and when He was locked up in the tomb, He overcame death, and arose again!

Arise! You are the sons and daughters of God, you are righteous and are bold as a lion!!

Five Years Of Marriage

Greetings Reader!

Today is my husband and I's 5th wedding anniversary. Wow...it goes by quickly. I remember walking down the isle toward my husband, and my arm wrapped in my father's thinking, "I am going from daughter to wife, I wonder what this will be like." Well, Jessica let me tell you what it has been like in a very brief list of experiences and lessons learned:

1. Never say to hubby, "Can you do this?" or "Could you do this?" Ask, "Would you do this for me in the next few minutes?"

2. On our way back from Hilton Head Island, SC from our honeymoon, I was feeling very sick. We were almost off he island, when I told Greg to pull over. I got out just in time to throw up all over the ground and kept throwing up. A pastor pulled over and called 9-11. I was taken to an ambulance to the hospital. All the while on the trip, the guy kept saying, "Oh, you must be pregnant!" "Umm no!! Believe me, I am NOT pregnant, it can't happen that quickly!!!" It had really ticked me off how someone could jump to such a conclusion.

At the hospital the doctor told me I had, "Honeymoonities". "What?" Often new brides get it after their honeymoon, but I had it jump from mild to serious. I had a unrinary track infection, bladder infection, and my kidneys were shutting down. I had a high fever, and was lucky to even make it. Whoa!! So no, Mr. Ambulance Man, I was not pregnant! *laughs*

3. Men want to know how we are feeling, tell them with your words, and not with your emotions.

4. Southern Men love their southern food and sweet tea!

5. Never leave a pet rabbit out on a covered porch during a thunder storm!! Ask me about that!

6. Your spouse is your best friend.

7. Never do anything major unless you are in total enthusiactic agreement.

8. Fight fair, no raised voices, and express your heart, not your hurt.

9. Cilantro is NOT what you use to make buttered southern greens.

10. I love my husband now, more than I did, and want to spend another 50 years plus with him! He is great!

Way in the Water

The waters saw You, Oh God.

The waters saw You, they were afraid.
The depths also trembled.
The clouds poured out water.
The skies sent out a sound.
Your arrows were flashed about.
The voice of Your thunder was in the whirlwind;
The lightnings lit up the world;
The earth trembled and shook.
Your WAY was in the sea.
Your PATH in the great waters.
And Your footsteps were not known.
Psalms 77:16-19


"God, why have you left me alone?" I cried out to Him in the middle of the night. "Why am I facing this life with you in not saying a word to me?" "Where are you Lord?"

Do these questions ring a bell to you? Have these things ever crossed your mind? It is easy to get caught up in the hurt, disappointment, and anger of daily life. Worry over money, stress in the marriage, and unmet expectations bring us to sleepless nights and bitter relationships.

Long ago and far way, Jessica Smith was a ten year old little girl, who's family lived in a two bedroom apartment for the 5 of them in the family. Every Saturday morning, along with her mother, and two brothers, she would grab her special stick with the needle on the end, a big black trash bag, and they would go treasure hunting. At least that is what it was called...

"Momma, look, I found one."
"Great job Jess, keep looking."
"Yes Momma, I will." Jumping into an open dumpster, Jessica found her foot stuck in another trash bag full of rotten food, and cigarette buds. Opening the bag further, she discovered her "treasure". "Momma, I hit the jackpot." Yanking the bag open, she filled her bag full of aluminum beer cans.

"Jess, I know you are trying, but we don't have enough to eat with yet. Keep looking."

Tears trickled down her red face, "God, please help us, we need some food."

Passing an older man on his way to his car, he stopped for a second with a look of concern on his face. Pausing, he dropped something on the ground, and drove off in a hurry.

Seeing he had dropped something, Jessica ran over to find a crumpled piece of money. Unraveling it, she discovered a $100.00 dollar bill.

"Momma, look!" On the way to cash in their cans, they danced and thanked God He had provided for another two weeks of food.

Let me straight up with all of you, hard times stink! But sometimes, God's way is in the water, sometimes, his path is through the waves! Sometimes we have to grow up, follow God, and LET HIM lead us!

David shares that God's way is in the storm, but we are not created to stink in the water, but to walk on it. Are you a water walker?? Are you a flying fish?? Why swim in the water, when you have legs to walk on it?? What is your excuse for complaining? Why are you waiting? Look at your feed, shake off the water, and see God in this!

The very water Jesus walked on was afraid of Him! The earth trembles at His name, the enemy must flee, what are you looking at?

There is a Way in the Water, and you are a Water Walker!!

Blessings,
Jessica Smith

Update Number 2...

We are working on getting our house ready to sell. This week has been crazy as we try to paint a room, and do touch ups in the hall ways. We are packing and positioning ourselves for whatever God may have ahead of us. I have the week off from SNU, but am still working the other job, and such.

On another note, it has finally stopped raining enough that we can mow our yards. Gosh, I love the sunshine...and the rain is okay..can we do every other day with that??

Thanks God!

Blessings,

Jessica

Heart Thoughts for the Day

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end.
They are new every morning, new every morning...
Great is thy faithfulness oh Lord.
Great is thy faithfulness.

Instead of praying for God to give you what you want or need now, ask Him to provide for your daily bread!

"Give us this day, our daily bread"....

Jessica Smith

Personal Update

Things here in Oklahoma have been interesting to say the least. I know it has been almost a month since my last post, and for that, I am sorry. However, God has been faithful as aways and builds miracle upon miracle. For my husband and I this month, we are in the middle of transition. We feel that the last four years of living in OKC has been that as well. I am now working two jobs, one in an office for a Christian University, and another as a Christian Pastoral Counselor for a Guidance Center. We are looking for an apartment and plan to sell our house by the beginning of summer. Why? Because God told us to. Hubby is trying to find a job, and desires to finish with his schooling to get his Doctorate Degree in Theology, Divinity, or Ministry. I will be attending school in the fall to work on my 2nd Master's Degree in Counseling. We may not know everything around the corner, but we do know that God is greater, bigger, kinder, and our guide through it all. He just asks us to follow Him, trust Him, and let things fall into place.

Keep on keeping on people! Let God be Your Next Miracle!

Blessings,
Jessica Smith

A Kingdom Call

Darrel Wright propped his elbow against the wall, Intro to Wisdom Literature was very boring, and how much of Proverbs did need preached at him anyway? Checking his watch again, he only had five more minutes of Dr. Britten’s throaty voice. “Class, remember that on Friday, we are having a pop-quiz, and it’s not a surprise. Make sure to read over chapters 1-10 of Proverbs and pick out a verse that jumps out at you.”“How fun, more homework that has no point.” Darrel was only in college because his dad had already paid his way and expected his one and only son to follow in his footsteps. “Pastor Darrel, not a title I want.” Pushing his book bag further onto his shoulder he followed the sidewalk and headed to the cafeteria for lunch.Later on that evening, he sat in the student center of Kingdom Life Bible School looking over his calendar of events. “Darrel Wright, do you have a second?” Looking up, Darrel’s eyes met with a tall, heavy man in a black pin-stripped suit. “Sure, have a seat, how can I help you?”“Well, this may sound weird, but my name is Trevor Wells, and I am the President’s personal Chaplin. We have been keeping track of your progress here at the school, and in a few months would like you to come to the White House to become a Chaplin in-training.” “You what? I really don’t know what to say right now, this is so weird. I haven’t even heard that President Obama had a personal Chaplin. Why me?”“Your father laughed when we asked him about you, since you are the youngest, but after you saved the life of one of the President’s U.S. Coast Guard recruits last summer, God has really put you on my heart.”“Shh, I don’t like to talk about that. It was my last tour of duty, and anyone of those men or women would have done the same thing. I’m only 21, isn’t that a little young to be taking on that type of responsibility? Why not use one of my older brothers?”“Darrel, I understand your shock, but please think about this, God is not a respecter of persons, age or ethnic background, He has chosen you for such a time as this.”“What, am I Esther now? Can I think about it? I mean this is like the weirdest thing ever.”“Sure Darrel, here is my card. Call me in a few weeks, and we can meet up again.”Shaking the large man’s hand, Darrel just nodded in return as he watched Mr. Wells lumber out the door.Days flashed by and Darrel tried to ignore the agonizing throbbing thoughts of the offer given to him. “Why me? Why not anyone else? The President wants me to be his personal Chaplin? Is this even real?” “Bam-bam, you’re dead!” Feeling a tug on his shirt, Darrel remembered what he was doing. “Sorry, Timmy, here’s your snack.” Working part-time at God’s Little Sheep Care Center gave Darrel time to relax from school and focus on what he loved, watching kids.“Time for music kids, come on and get in the circle.” Taking out his guitar, Darrel strummed out and sang, “God’s got an army, marching through this land, deliverance is their song, there’s healing in there hand, everlasting joy, and gladness in their hearts, and in this army I’ve got a part.” Little hands clapped, and feet danced new jigs to the melody bringing a smile to his face.May 5th, came quicker than he had anticipated. Straightening his graduation cap, he heard the music come to an end. Marching outside for the final picture, he waved at his family, all nine of them, shouting and whistling at him in cheers. Waiting in the parking lot was a limo and Mr. Wells. His bags were packed, family following his every move, and tears in his parent’s eyes.“Son, I am gonna miss you. Come here.” Embracing him in a hug, Darrel’s eyes wet as well. “My Baby’s all grown up.” “Mom, please, we are in public!” Teasing, he hugged her goodbye and got into the limousine. “Mr. Wells, thanks for not giving up on me. It took me a long time to come to this decision, but in the end I really know as John 11: 12 says that ‘the kingdom of God is forcibly advancing and forceful men lay hold of it’. I am one of those men.”

Response to Tara Sloan's Post on Her Blog

http://www.tarasloan.com/

A response for Tara Sloan's blog....

1.) Does you husband lead/pastor the church himself or do you partner with him in leading/pastoring?

I partner with him in everything.

2.) Do you prefer that your spouse keeps you in the dark regarding pressures from the church, (i.e. financial, pastoral care, etc.)?

Since we are a team and both feel called to plant a church, we are very transparent with each other, but also keep each other accountable in finances, planning, etc.

3.) What issues as a wife in ministry do you feel bring you the most grief?

Honestly?? People who complain to me about my husband's preaching, "Oh, it was way too confrontational", and "why does he preach about the kingdom?" If you have a real concern, ask him about it! *laughs*

4.) What, if anything, would you add/change about Pastor Lamb's post?

I think he had an honest opinion from a "pastoral-husband" perspective. I cannot say that each couple is the same in ministry, but I would be a bit more honest with my wife, if I were him. Just a thought.

Back from Being Sick

Greetings,

I know it has been a while since I last blogged. I have had the flu in full force! Nothing to write about there, unless you are some creepy person who enjoys the gorey details! Just kidding. Well, my bloggy friends, I have missed you and do know that there is more postings to come than just this update on me. So until then, I shall chat at you in a few days....

Jessica

How to Train an Elephant.....

Have you ever wondered how to train an elephant? The first step is making it believe it can't run away. Get your elephant--preferably a baby one--and tie it to a strong steel stake in the ground, like you would tie a horse to a hitching post. The baby elephant will try to break free, but it won't have the strength to do so. Eventually, the little elephant will give up and stop trying to escape from the rope and the stake that limit its range. Once the young elephant has learned that it cannot pull the stake from the ground, you can replace the strong stake with a smaller wooden one, even though it wouldn't have enough strength to hold the elephant. An elephant trained in its babyhood to believe that the stake is strong and won't budge won't attempt to break loose and run away--even after it has grown strong enough to easily yank almost any stake out of the ground. We are also best trained in our youth by a strong stake in the ground That teaches us where the limits are, by a certainty about the difference between right and wrong. That stake is the Word of God. The only way you can become an obedient follower of Jesus is to submit yourself to the authority of the Word of God. And you need to start now! The Bible teaches you to "remember your Creator in the days of your youth" (Ecclesiastes 12:1). If you discipline yourself now, you'll be able to control yourself when truly difficult times of temptation come your way.

Lesson Learned

Life Lessons from My Past:

One: Just because you forgive someone, the pain of the moment and its memories fades over time.

Two: Laziness is like a slug, it is fun to stop and look at, but by the time it actually moves, the sun has gone down.

Three: Relationships are more important than an event, program, time limit, or an appointment.

Four: People are ministry, if you don't have a heart for people, then you don't have a heart for ministry.

Five: Opportunities come along everyday, but they are never the same type.

Six: Denominations are like the 12 tribes of Israel, if one was in trouble, then they all fought together to help that other tribe. Hmm...let that sink in for a moment.

Seven: God's will for our life is lived out daily, never forced, but walked in.

Eight: If you want something you have never had before, you must be willing to:

-Move to a new place.

-Meet new people.

-Change your mind.

-Get rid of bad attitudes.

-Be flexible.

-Be willing.

-Be ready.

-Listen.

Nine: Time is spent everyday, how much is left in your pocket?

Ten: Be yourself, no one likes a fake you!!

Blessings!

Jessica Smith

Stop Looking At Me!

Whatever your predominant focus is, that is what you permit to exist in your life. Jabez chose to focus on his future desires rather than his present circumstances. Many times people focus on the negative and they live in a cycle of negativity. You have to choose to focus on the positive. You have to train your mind. Whatever is going wrong in your life is a result of your focus. If you don't like it, change your focus. (Philippians 4:8)

If you plan to change your future, do not focus on things or people. Turn down the distractions. Your focus will either feed your faith or confirm your fears. Think like Abraham. Think intentionally, generational, and even globally. You can never think too big, too grand, or too great! Sometimes, when we focus, we find ourselves in a fuzzy situation. What do I mean by this? Let's say that you are driving down the freeway, you have a meeting to attend to. You brought your computer, notebook, pen, and calender. That morning, you made sure you had everything ready for this important meeting, and half way there, you realize you are driving the wrong direction! You were so focused on the preparation, that you lost your sense of direction. My friends, it is hard not to be caught up in what is going around right now, with job lay-offs, financial cut-backs, and the rising prices of food, there is no loss of attention getter's.

Another example would be trying to read the paper, only realizing everything is fuzzy. Why? You put on your husband's glasses instead of your own. Friends, look at what God has given to you. Don't try to put on someone elses anointing or skill set. Do what you can, grow with what you have and ask God to let you focus on Him! That One Thing that we drive and pursue after. Turn around, turn off the T.V., put down your books, turn down the radio, and listen to God.

God speaks.

You Hear.

You See what you Hear.

You Speak what you See.

And DO what He Says!

What is He saying to you today??

Focus!

Blessings,

Jessica Smith

I've Changed My Mind

The first thing you must do in taking possession of all God has prepared for you is to take possession of your thoughts. You may not think this requires a great deal of effort, let alone training or practice, but there is only one thing harder to master than your thoughts, and that is your tongue. (See James 3:8) Winning the battle in your thought life requires meditating daily on the truths found in scripture, studying diligently to show yourself approved, and becoming an earnest lifelong student of the art of spiritual warfare. In the old and new testament, we are told that our battles do not happen in in the temporal realm, but in the spiritual realm. We are instructed to take every thought captive: 2 Corinthians 10:4-5



"For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive in obey Christ."



Every battle is won or lost in the arena of your mind. It was fear alone that caused the Israelites to miss out on the promise of God. Instead of inheriting property, they were forced to wander homeless until the next generation rose up bold enough to take possession and move in. God instructed Joshua to meditate on His Word daily so that it would fill his heart, mind and mouth. Then He commanded him to be strong and courageous. Do you see the connection? Until his mind and mouth only thought and Spoke God's Word, Joshua could not have any hope of being strong and of good courage. Right the outset God made it a priority to address the issue of Joshua's mind-no other instructions or strategies took precedence over what occupied Joshua's thoughts.



What is it that God has placed inside of your heart to do? Does your mouth match your heart or the complaints of the flesh? The saying goes, "Put your money where your mouth is."

I say, put your mouth where God's heart is. Stop complaining about what isn't happening and change your mind, then change your life. You are always one choice away from changing the rest of your life!

Blessings,

Jessica Smith

Because It Was Cold Outside...

Just because it's cold outside!
Share
Today at 10.17am CST.

1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?Grandpa Jessie and Grandma Jean..thus, Jessica Jean Johnson (now Smith).

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED?
Last Night.

3. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
Yes but I have to say I like typing a lot better.

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?
Turkey

5. What are thinking right now?
What we are going to eat for my supervisor's birthday lunch.

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
Yes!

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM?
Sometimes

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS?
Yes

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP?
NOPE!

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL?
Oatmeal

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF?
Nope-I own shoes you don't have to tie! Hehehehe

13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM?
Strawberry Cream Cheese!

14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE?
Their eyes.

15. RED OR PINK?
Pink when I feel girly, Red when I feel empowered! 8)

16. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF?
My desire to know everything that will go on in the future..maybe its a control issue!?

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST?
Depends where I am at the time. Right now, my blogging friends!!

18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO COMPLETE THIS LIST?
Sure if they want to.

19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING?
Light brown pants, black heels

20. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW?
My boss drinking a diet-coke and eating chips!

21. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE?
Blue
22. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU DO IN THE MORNING?
Rub my eyes.

23. FAVORITE SMELLS?
my husband after a shower

24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
My Husband

25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU?I think she’s an amazing person and I am blessed to call her my friend!

26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH?
College Football and Basketball

27. HAIR COLOR?
Red with blond highlights.

28. EYE COLOR?
blue

29. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS?
Nope

30. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD?
Right now....salads.

31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS?
Happy endings

32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED?
Mall Cop-Way too funny man!

33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING?
White Dress Shirt with black vest.

34. SUMMER OR WINTER?
Summer - I need a beach.

35. HUGS OR KISSES?Both

36. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW?
Commanding Your Morning by Cindy Trimm

37. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD?
The mouse.

38. WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE QUOTES?
A year from now you may wish you have started today.

39. WHY DO YOU WORK WHERE YOU WORK?
God brought this job into my life.

40. FAVORITE GUY NAME:
Umm..Caleb.

41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT?
Re-run of The Office.

42. FAVORITE SOUND(S).
The waves of the ocean water crashing against the rocky banks and sand dunes.

43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES?
Beatles

44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME?
London, England

45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT?
I love to write!

46 WHERE WERE U BORN?
Aurora, Colorado

47. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK?
everyone

48. HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR SPOUSE/SIGNIFICANT OTHER?
At Southwestern Christian University's Graduate School.

I have a secret!

Pssst, over here, I have something to tell you! Shhhh..don't tell anyone but......

Everyone loves to be in on a secret. One of the worst things is feeling left out when it comes to being "in the know"-as if everyone is aware of something vitally important except for you. But worse than that is the feeling there are more important things everyone should know but few do. The Bible calls these types of secrets mysteries. For most people, life is exactly that, a mystery. But Jesus came to help us solve our mysteries. He came to five us knowledge of the truth. The key to victory in Christ and in this life is the knowledge and wisdom that unlocks the mysteries of life. That is why God wants you to pursue wisdom and understanding above all else. Seek to know and understand how and why God has created you. This is the one secret you can be in on. There is overcoming power in knowing it is God's desire for you to succeed and prosper, as well as knowing how He has designed you to create success and abundance in every sphere you influence. This includes Spirit-inspired thoughts, declarations, and conversations, divinely appointed relationships, business opportunities and challenges-and above all else, supernatural gifts and abilities as you acknowledge every good thing that is in Christ. So, the secret is out. It is your time to consciously paint the canvas of your life with whatever you aspire to achieve. Fill your mind with majestic thoughts. Generate excitement and expectation with every word that proceeds from your mouth. I urge you to create a masterpiece out of your life. Dare to imagine!

Blessings!

Jessica Smith

On Another Note....

So, this past week our church has been doing a "Daniel Fast", which consists of eating no meats or sweets, but fruit, grains, and veggies. The point of this is to draw closer to the Lord and put down before His feet what doesn't matter in our life. These past few weeks, I have seen how much my junk has been important to me. One of them is my desire to have children. Now, I have not spoken on this before, since really I haven't felt the need to, until now. Being married for almost five years, yet with no kids has brought me joy and sadness. For the longest time I placed a great importance on having our own kids, that I felt out of the loop around other couples. Why? Really it is a matter of self-confidence and the desire to be accepted. The Book of Isaiah in chapter 59 speaks how the barren woman will have kids, and they will be her inheritance. I read this last night in my time with God, and that nagging emptiness filled me. I rebuked it, and came to work this morning feeling His peace. After checking face book, a dear friend of mine from college left a note saying how his son always enjoyed the time he had with me as I watched him. That was when he was a 4 year old, he is now 12 and still remembered the fun times we had. I baby sat him while his father went to night school.

This brought tears to my eyes, how easy it is to forget that I made an impact on that boy, and years later saw the fruit! I hadn't even seen him a few years. I have worked with kids, teens, and young adults the past 15 years of my life and feel this is a part of my life's purpose. I may not have any children of my own right now, but there are plenty of children out there who need a hug, a gift, some time to be a child, and that my friend, is far much better than wallowing in self-pity!

So at church on Sunday, as my friends carry in their babies, nurse them, and change diapers, I can and will sit back thanking God that He has brought more kids into this world that I can make an impact on! *smiles*

Talk at ya later,

Jessica Smith

My Story of the Week-Private Andy

Private Andy Smith of the 5th Battalion of the U.S. Marines had finally landed at the Oklahoma City International Airport. Grabbing his carry-on from the overhead bin, his thoughts were on the reaction of his parents. An honorable discharge was great, but he wasn’t used to the nub on his left wrist. Still sore from the surgery, he shook the thoughts from his head. No, it wasn’t worth dwelling on. Walking through the bustling airport, travelers from across the world, rushed to connect to their next flights. Intercom messages gave the next planes out, stand-by passengers, and delays. Shops of coffees, food, and magazines beckoned a purchase for a few dollars. Following the signs, Andy found his way to the escalator taking him down to passenger pick-up and baggage claim.

“How am I supposed to grab my other suitcase?” Andy asked himself. Shaking his head he watched as the metal conveyor belt threw up cases as if it was hiccuping. “They need to be more careful with that stuff, who knows what may be inside those bags.” Impatient kids ran back and forth between their parent’s legs and others waited in expectation for loved ones picking them up.

“Andy, its you!” Came the cry of his frantic mom. Running up to her son, Martha couldn’t help but weep into his shoulder. He had been away for over two years, and it was about time for a family reunion. “Andy, I’ve missed you so much. I’m sorry we couldn’t make it to the hospital for your surgery. Dad didn’t get enough money in until it was too late.”

“No prob, mom, its all good.” He was tired of explaining what happened, he had no desire to retell his story, especially in the middle of on-looking curious eyes. Turning around, he saw that his dad had already gotten the other bag for him. No need to ask for help. As they were walking toward the exit, a large man with big arms, a bald head, and ear-rings ran after a baggage clerk.

“Come back here punk, you’re gonna get it!” Slipping back in forth in-between the pillars, the clerk ducked one last time before being hit in the head by a giant fist. Trevor Smith was a Viet-Nam Vet and was mighty proud of his son, but nothing prepared him for what he saw unfold before him.
“This is a hold-up, anyone who tries to stop me, will be blown to pieces.” Pulling back a black coat, big baldy revealed a box, duck taped to his body. Snickering, he picked up the blonde, young woman off the floor. “So, missy, let’s see how many people we can blow away before someone tries to be Mr. Hero?”

Crying, the clerk couldn’t stop swallowing her tears. “I…I, don’t wanna die.”

“Who said you were going to die first?”

“Let me go, you sicko.”

“All of you Americans are the same, selfish, pig-headed and ignore the poverty of other nations. It’s time to see who will ignore you!”

In hushed tones, Andy shared his plan with his parents. “Andy, there is no way I’m going stand here and let you do this to yourself.” his dad spoke in pain. “Dad, I love you, but what else is there? This has to be done.”

Without another word, Andy slid himself behind the circulating travel bags. Crouching, he slowly scooted himself behind the gun-man and jumped. Struggle broke out as the clerk jerked free, and Andy pounded into the neck he was holding. “Everyone, run for it! Evacuate the building now!!”

Andy’s mom pulled the fire alarm on the wall behind her and ran. Dozens of people scattered like rain pouring onto working ants. Once outside, Trevor Smith noticed that Andy hadn’t come out yet. Yelling his name over and over, no reply came. A sudden shake occurred and walls started to fall, plaster of pairs hitting people in the head, causing panic to arise once again.
“Andy, Andy!” Tears poured from both parent’s eyes as they watched in horror as the building fell on top of their beloved son.
several days later, as jets flew overhead, and bag-pipes sounded in the background, Andy Smith’s father finished his part:

“The home of the free and the home of the brave, my son, loved the U.S. and gave his life for those 125 people who escaped the wrath of that militant. Thank you Lord for giving us life.”
(Side Note: This IS NOT A REAL STORY-all images were used by permission.)

Pictures from My Trip To North Carolina-Part One

The following pictures are of Greg and I's trip to North Carolina. This is part one, from my first cameras. Join me for this short journey!

We start by meeting up with John and Ginger Wheeler from Falcon's Children's Home in Falcon, NC. We are been friends with them for many years, and they moved to take over the home a couple of years ago. We ate at Ruby Tuesdays of which has THE BEST Mango Tea in the whole world! Too bad Oklahoma doesn't have any. It was sooo good to see them! We miss they dearly.

We then drove a few days later to Whiteville, NC to visit with Pastor Lyndon Purifoy and his wife Penny. They were the Pastors of whom I worked for over 5 years ago, as their Youth Pastor. They have become as mentors, parents, and covenant friends to us and to be with them for the day was one the main highlights of our trip.

Should I share how hot my husband looks in this picture?? He is great, so is Pastor Purifoy!

Penny Purifoy is great! She is a very practical no-nonsense woman who enjoys great movies and funny stories. We had hit it off since the first time we met! I love you girl!

From there we drove to Shallot, NC with the Purifoys to eat dinner at a Seafood place, and watch a movie.

The food was good, but this picture was taken by our waitress, it does not show my best side!

Penny listening to Greg tell a story...can't share it with ya, sorry!

Pastor P laughing at the plate of spaghetti I ordered. I cannot eat shellfish or such items from the ocean, however, this plate of food you see below was bigger than three of the other plates combined. Penny took it home to feed her sons! Goodness! I ate like 1/16th of it.

Yummy! It was very good! I have to admit!

From there we drove home, and the next day drove to see our friends Billy and Allison Autry. They attended the church we were pastoring a few years ago, and we haven't seen them in a while. I miss our late runs to McDonald's as we visited hospitals together!

We then drove to Wilmington, NC. In case you didn't know that is where they filmed Dawson's Creek and One Tree Hill.

This is the bridge into Wilmington, NC. We were crossing the Inner Coastal Waterway. Beautiful!

We are almost there! Wait, that's not their house...but I wish it was mine!

We made it! This is Cheri, Greg's Sister.

This is Walt, Cheri's husband:

And in these two pictures, is my new nephew Caleb. He turned 1 while were there. I finally got to meet the little cutie!! Cheri has another on the way! A niece to spoil, yes!

We really enjoyed our time with them. It was VERY HARD to leave and come back to Oklahoma after all that, but we have adapted okay.

I know this picture is from a few months ago, but hey, it was a good one. This is Jessica Smith signing off until later. Stick around and check for Part to of the NC trip!

Be Blessed!!!!