Protect

Over the past few months the Lord has been teaching me a lot about The protection of His children.  I really like that word. Protect.  It is a pretty manly, powerful, and attractive word.  It takes my mind to Exodus 15 when the Lord is called a "Man of War."  It makes me think of shooting guns and chopping wood. I am not sure why, and maybe it is best that you do not ask.

A few weeks ago I found myself restless and in a state of discontent, which is not usual of me. I then realized that I was not remembering the promises of the Lord. I was not remembering how he had cared for me in the past and I was not remembering his promise that nothing can separate me from his great love. This is where my bit of anxiousness came from.

Then he hit me with his grace like a ton of bricks.  Christ has proved himself over and over to be a protector in my life.  He protected me from the greatest, most horrific thing imaginable... the cross.  He protected me from the cross by taking it for me.  If he if faithful to protect me in such a big and amazing way, why would he not be faithful to protect me in the small things?  If he loved me enough to take all wrath upon himself, why wouldn't he love me enough to provide for my daily needs.

For me as a woman I want my brothers around me to protect me; I love that God has put that desire in them.  How wonderful it is to remember that the protection of others that is within us is because we are made in the image of God.

A little vintage doll

Lips and stuff for breakfast

Not only did these Photos turn out super sweet, I got to spend an amazing two hours just hanging out with this family.  These are probably the sweetest little girls you will ever meet, and funny too.  All mom had to say was lips and stuff for breakfast and madison would let out the sweetest giggles.

 What is a play day without some dancing?  They are girls after my own heart, thats for sure.

I wish I could take credit for this picture but I cannot. Madison snapped this right before we left.  I only wish I could claim this one.  Someone has a future career as a photographer....

Sweet Jackson

I tried to think of something creative to say about these pictures, but it just isn't possible. He is so sweet, I could just stare all day long.

My Crafty Phase

Since moving into a house I have had quite the crafty homemaking bug.  Im sure this is just a phase I am going through, but I am okay with that.

My first project was to get a dresser. I found an old dresser that looked like it was probably from the 60s. I sanded that junk, put a fresh coat of paint on it, and some new knobs. Of course no   dresser is complete without a picture of John Calvin.

My new obsession is making apple butter. Its super easy and you can make the cans so cute!

I love trips to the farmers market for the sole purpose of looking at flowers. I bought some this time. I think it is totally acceptable to buy flowers for yourself.

Now on to what I have been reading.

"But as for me, I will look to the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me.

Micah 7:7

I have been going back to this verse over and over this week. It has been a great comfort and encouragement. Sometimes I think "What is going on in my life?!?!"  And then I remember that the Lord already knows what is going to happen. I just have to wait on Him.  He hears me, He loves me, and He is working it out for my good and His glory.  He will be my great comfort. 

As a famous man once said "He's got this thing rigged!"

My sweet friday.

I absolutely love being a nanny. I feel like I am learning so much right now (especially patience).  I am also learning to use every moment I have to point them to Christ.  The 2 year old has already learned two bible verses! I am so thankful for the job the Lord has provided for me.

I absolutely love days like this. I get to hangout with super cool kids, read bonhoeffer, drink some hot chocolate, and listen to the avett brothers. These little moments are definitely gifts from the Lord.

 I walked in to see if he was napping and this is what he looked like.

Sunday's Reflections.

Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? Hebrews 12:7 NIV

The Father does not discipline simply for punishment or to pay us back for what we have done.  The penalty has already been paid. Instead, the Father disciplines us to draw us to himself.  It is a great act of love.  We endure hardships, and many times this is a form of discipline.  During this time we must remember that he does not withhold good (Ps 84:11). It is good for us to endure hardships, and it is good for us to be disciplined.