Oh Be Careful- Deut 11

When I was a little girl, we used to sing a song in Sunday School that went something like this...
"Oh be careful little eyes what you see.. Oh be careful little ears what you hear... Oh be careful little feet where you go... for the Father up above is looking down in love..." Two things stood out to me as I read Deut. 11. One is how many times Moses tells the people to be careful to obey or to obey carefully. The second is the mandate that Moses gives to parents on teaching their children about their faith.

First of all, Moses told the people to be careful to obey or obey carefully 5 different times. It made me wonder if I am careful obey. It is not like I go out of my way to disobey but do I purposely set myself to watch what my eyes see, my ears hear, my mouth says and where my feet go. One place where I have noticed I am not as careful as I should be is with my family and close friends. Am I careful with the words that come out of my mouth and how they are said? Am I careful what I hear about others even if it is coming from a loved one? Is my walk inside my home the same as it is outside my home? Which leads to the second point, Moses encouraged the parents to teach their children about God and what He has done. We are to teach God's word to our children in our homes, as we go along the road, when we go to bed and when we get up. How do children learn best? Children mimic what they see their parents do whether we like it or not. When I lose my temper over a little thing, I will often see my children doing the same later that day. On the other hand, I remember when Big D was four he would often ask someone how their day was then listen to the response. He learned that from watching his daddy talk to people. Our walk needs to match our talk not only because it glorifies God but for our children's sake. Right now I am working on my responses when things don't like I had planned. I am also working on being a better listener. I still mess up and have to ask for forgiveness but God is faithful. Being careful and teaching your children go hand in hand. I can't really do one without the other.

Dear God, Thank you for your grace in all things especially as we raise our children. Help me to be careful to obey you in all things big and small. May I be diligent to teach my children your ways through my words and actions. Amen

A Changed Heart- Deut 10

This summer I am having my children go to language lessons twice a week. My DH and I feel it is important for them to learn the local language. One of my children does not feel the same way. He can't believe that I am making him go to class in the summer. His thought is I can get along just fine in English why do I need to learn another one. He goes to class and does his homework but his heart is not in it. I know he could learn the language quickly with some practice talking to those around us if he wanted to but his heart isn't in it. We have all had situations like that where we needed to learn something and our heart was not in it. Everything about the learning situation seemed harder to understand and to take twice as long. We didn't need a new teacher or curriculum. We needed a change of heart.

In Deut. 10:12-13, God spells out for the Israelites what he required of them. First they were to fear God. Secondly they needed to live in a way that is pleasing to God not only that but they are to love God and serve God with all their heart. Lastly, they were to obey His commands and decrees. Notice the phrase with all their heart. What God was asking was a big task but not impossible. It might require a heart transplant though. God knows when I am just going through the motions and when I am obeying from the heart. God knows when I am just trying to get something done and when I am doing it for His glory. The good news is that when my heart needs work I know where to go. I go to the master physician who He alone can change my heart to be more like His son Jesus. Moses bluntly told the Israelites in verse 16, "Change your hearts and stop being stubborn." I would say that is good advice for those times I want to do it my way and in my time.

Dear God, Thank you for sending your son so that we could have a new heart. Give me a heart that longs to serve you and live in a way that pleases you. Amen

40 days-Deut 9

Forty days that is a month and 10 days or just less than 6 weeks. They say it only takes 21 days to make a habit so by 40 days you should really have it down. Chapter 9 talks about 3 different 40 day time periods. The first is when Moses is up on the mountains for 40 days and nights getting the law from God. It must have been a special time just being in God's presence for that long and hearing his words for the people. The second is soon afterwards as Moses is pleading for the people who have so quickly turned from God and made the golden calf. Moses prayed that God would spare not only for the Israelites but for his brother Aaron who let the people talk him into making the golden calf. The third 40 days occurred after the people rebelled at Kadesh Barnea and decided they don't want to go into the Promised Land. Moses interceded for the people for 40 days and nights. He pleaded with God not to destroy them. Two different times Moses interceded for the people for 40 days and nights. He fasted and prayed. He reminded God that Israel is God's treasured possession even if they do seem to mess up alot. Moses had a heart for his people. This was a people that at first didn't know whether to trust him. This was a people that really knew how to push Moses' buttons. But somehow God had given Moses' such a love for His people. A love that drove Moses to intercede for them.

As I live in a new country with a people I am still trying to understand, I pray that God will give me a heart for this people. A heart that is willing to plead for their salvation for 40 days and nights and longer if needed. A heart that is committed to the mission God has for me here. It is a work that God will have to do me in me. I can not do it on my own.

Dear God, Be with this people. Many here live in darkness. They need you and they need to see your light. They have been blinded for many years. Only you can open their eyes to see you. Amen

July Quotes

These are quotes that have encouraged and challenged me this month.



From the blog, "A Wise Woman Builds Her Home":
Women are called to manage their homes; this pleases God and keeps the adversary from speaking reproachfully. Women who make homes keep God's word form being blasphemed. The way I understand this is that a home well managed is a positive glory; a home in shambles is a poor testimony. But this is not to lay a guilt on women; rather it should inspire us to view our seemingly mundane tasks as a truly worthy calling that God uses to transform the world. We often think of housekeeping as drudgery. But God says it silences our enemies. That is something potent. God always does things backwards form what we think. This requires wisdom.

From the book Now Discover Your Strengths found at Heart to Heart with Holly
"Our divinely created strength are actually supported by our weaknesses because if we were good at everything we wouldn't focus on anything."

From the blog, Study in Brown, attributed to Elisabeth Leseur

"Sometimes the very desire for action leads to the neglect of action. Looking for some opportunity to give oneself, to devote oneself, one forgets the humble brother close at hand who is waiting for a word of comfort, a saving gesture.

Let us not linger in contemplation of the road ahead; let us follow the narrow path. Let us not look too far or too high, but right in front of ourselves, right next to ourselves. The good to be done is perhaps there."

From the novel The Dark Foundations by Chris Walley
"Where we are in the great timetable has no real bearing on matters of right and wrong. Everyday we have to make the right decisions. If I knew the King was returning tomorrow or in ten thousand years' time, it would not alter my choice. And, Merral, that's what counts. We just battle evil until the whistle blows-whenever that is." Luke looked sharply at Merrel. " You agree?"

Later in the story: "Luke gave a nod of slow agreement. "A wise realization. One of the oldest and most subtle heresies is the idea that evil can be defeated cheaply."

From the novel, Infinite Day by Chris Walley
This was from Merral, one of the main characters. I demanded understanding that I might have faith. I failed to realize that faith is the prerequisite to understanding.

Prosperity and Praise-Deut.8

When I was reading through Deut. 8, I divided it into three sections-Remember, The Dangers of Prosperity, Don't Forget. Now if someone asked me if I would like to be prosperous, I am sure I would say yes. Who wouldn't? The Israelites were getting ready to leave the wilderness and enter into the Promised Land where they would be prosperous. God would provide for them here just as he did for their 40 years in the wilderness. There would be streams, wheat and barley, fig trees, olive oil, and honey. They would have nice homes and large flocks. There would even be silver and gold. Sounds great. But two things are said in the midst of all these beautiful descriptions. The first is "When you have eaten your full, be sure to praise God." (vs10) The second is that they are not to be proud and forget that God rescued them from slavery. God knows people and knows how quickly we forget.

I feel God has blessed our family throughout the years with wonderful places to live, great opportunites, amazing friends and family, and many other things. I must admit there have been times when I have forgotten where those things came from. It is easy to forget to think these things are my doing. There have also been times when I have been distracted by all these things. During those times, I have neglected spending time with God because I was too busy doing or taking care of things. Deut. 8 gives me two things that will fight against this. The first is praise. When I spend time in praise, the focus is on God and not on me. It helps me have "a high view of God and an accurate view of myself". (a quote from a former BSF leader) The second is remembering. When I remember what God has done, I am less tempted to take credit for something I did not do. It is only through God that we have the power to be successful. (vs.17) I am reminded that I was a slave to sin but God rescued me. I am also reminded that all I have is His. I am thankful for the blessings He has given. Lastly I am aware that with blessing comes responsiblity. God often talked about blessing Israel so that they could be a blessing to others. I want that to be lived out in my life.

Dear God, Thank you for your blessings. May you bless others today through me. May I see opportunities to serve and love others. May I not forget to remember and praise you daily. Amen

Being God's Chosen: Part 2- Deut 7

I wonder if the Israelites ever had to deal with some pride issues. Being God's people could be a pretty big thing. A person could even get to thinking it was because of something he did or how great he was that he was chosen. As Moses explains to them about the job ahead of conquering the lands, he reminds the people of "why" they were chosen. Verse 7 says,

The Lord did not set his heart on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other nations, for you were the smallest of all nations. Rather it was simply that the Lord loves you, and he was keeping the oath he had sworn to your ancestors.

Israel wasn't chosen for their might or strength. They were chosen because God loved them. In fact it sounds like they were the underdogs. How much more amazing would God's working be.

Today is not any different. In Roman 5:8, Paul tells us that God loved us while we were still sinners. In I Corinthians 1, Paul explains that God's best work is done through things that are despised by the world and counted as nothing. I guess that could make a person feel insecure but then again it is freeing. First of all, God loves me just because. I don't have to work for His love. It is already there. Secondly, God's expectation of me is that I will obey and let Him use me. I am not expected to do great things. He is going to do great things. He may do it through me or I may just get to watch but it is all about what God will do. God didn't expect the Israelites to conquer the land on their own. In fact, chapter 7 explains that God would hand the nations over to them. Their job was to be obedient and follow Him.

On a personal note, this chapter has been a good reminder. This summer I have had more alone time. Sometimes this extra time has been good. Other times it has given me time to think about what skills I don't have and what I am not good at. This thinking brings discouragement because I am focusing on me. This is not of God. God loves me. He will use me in His way and His time. I need to obedient and ready.

Dear God, Thank you you for your love. I don't deserve it but am so glad for it. Be with me as I take steps of obedience. May I see you work in and around me as you conquer this land. Amen

When Your Children Ask?-Deut 6

Children love to ask questions and their favorite questions seem to start with "why"? Why is the sky blue? Why do I have to clean my room since it is my room? And the list goes on. Moses in Deut. 6 encourages parents to be prepared for a "why" question. Verse 20-26 says

In the future, when your children ask you, 'What is the meaning of these laws, decrees, and regulations that the Lord your God has commanded you to obey?

Then you must tell them,"We were Pharaoh's slave in Egpyt, but God brought us out of Egpyt with His strong hand. The Lord did miraculous signs and wonders before our eyes, dealing terrifying blows against Egypt and Pharaoh and all his people. He brought us out of Egypt so He could give us this land he had sworn to our ancestors. And the Lord our God commanded us to obey all His decrees and to fear Him so He can continues to bless us and preserve our lives, as He has done to this day. For we will be counted righteous when we obey all the commands the Lord our God has given us.

My first thought was "Are my children asking "why" questions about their faith?" One of my prayers this year has been that my children's faith will become their faith and not just something their mom and dad believes. I want them to question things and figure them out. I want their relationship with Jesus to be the most important thing in their life. In order for the questions to come, I need to be talking about my faith with my children. I not only need to talk to them about my faith but live it out. Lastly, my home needs to be a place where questions of faith are welcome and taken seriously.

My second thought was "Do I have answers or know where to find them?" Am I able to tell them my story? Am I willing to search with them to find the answer? Most of all, will my answer reflect grace and truth ? Our story is very similar to the Israelites. We were slaves to sin and God sent His son, the one who sits at his right hand, to deliver us from slavery by his death on the cross. He did this so that we could live life here on earth and in the future in heaven. God has a plan for our lives. We need to accept His offer of salvation and follow the path He has for us. The way might not be easy but we will be blessed.

Dear God, May my children look to you and seek you in all things. May they know it is okay to question and figure things out. May they grow deep roots and stand strong in the days ahead. Draw them close to you. Amen

What about that Sabbath thing? -Deut 5

I have always wanted to do a better job at resting on the Sabbath or the day we have off to worship. Some weeks are better than others. As a mom, I often see chores that need to be done or as a teacher, papers that need to be graded. In Deut. 5, the 10 commandments are restated and again God asks that the people "observe the Sabbath day and keep it holy." Why? In verse 15, it says "Remember that you were once slaves in Egpyt, but the Lord your God brought you out with His strong hand and powerful arm. That is why the Lord your God has commanded you to rest on the Sabbath." What does this mean? To me, it means two things. The first is that the Sabbath needs to be a day where we remember and think about who God is and what He has done for us. We are to remember. Secondly, I think it is a reminder that we need to trust God in his provision. If He could rescue the people from Egpyt, He can handle us taking a day off of working. Sometimes our work on the Sabbath is a way of not trusting that God will provide for us. I am not saying that work should never be done on the Sabbath. I still work and fix meals for my family. Emergencies arise. Life happens. But am I truly planning ahead to rest and focus on God on this day or using the day as a catch up day for the week? It is something that I have been working on and will be even more challenging as I start teaching in the fall.

Out of curiousity, I looked at Exodus 20 to see if the "why" was the same. In verse 11, it says "For in six days, God made the heavens, earth, the sea and everything in them; on the seventh day he rested. That is why the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and set it apart as holy." Even though the reason is different the principle is similar. God made a provision of rest for us. The God of the universe rested. It makes sense that we will need rest and God has blessed that.

In the past some of the things I have done to make my "Sabbath" more restful are as follows.
1. Make easy meal plans for the day or eat leftovers, leaving the dishes until the next day.
2. Plan ahead with grading of papers and other such tasks even if it means putting in a few extra hours on another day.
3. In the afternoon, plan some down time to nap or read.
4. Use this time to spend with my kids playing a game. In the evening we often will often watch a movie together as a family and eat popcorn.
5. Use this day to fellowship and connect with neighbors and friends.

As tomorrow will be my Sabbath, I am hoping to observe it as God would want me to. Not in a legalistic way but remembering that God loves me and wants his best for me which is time with Him and time to rest.

I would love to hear suggestions on how you have made your Sabbath special and restful for you and your family.

Dear God, Thank you that you have provided a day of rest for us where we can refocus and especially focus on you. Thank you for your example and provision. Amen

Being God's Chosen-Deut 4

Everyone likes to be chosen whether it is chosen for a kick ball team or chosen for a new job or even chosen by a special some one to be their one and only. In this chapter, Moses is reminding the Israelites of many things including how God chose them. Imagine being chosen by God to be his people. First of all, Moses points out"what nation has a god who comes near to them as the Lord our God is near to us whenever we call on him." (vs7) Then Moses recalls how God chose Israel to be "his very own people and his special possession"(vs20) while they were in slavery in Egpyt. In the midst of all the rules and regulations of Deut, we are reminded of why there are the rules and regulations. God has a plan for HIS people. They are HIS chosen. Why would you want to worship idols when the God of the universe chose you? The sad thing is that even here God knew that someday they would fall away and worship idols. The amazing thing is that God promised to be found when they turned back to him seeking with all their heart and soul. The Israelites had been through many things such as "trials, miraculous signs, wonders, war, a strong hand, a powerful arm and terrifying acts."(vs34) God did all of this so that they would absolutely know that the Lord is God and there is no other. Not only that, he would care for them and bring them into the promised land. God is giving of himself to this people and desiring to have a relationship with them which starts with obedience to his plan. Today it is not any different. God has chosen us to be His. In Ephesians 1:4, it says "Before the world began, God loved us and chose us in Christ to nbe holy and without fault." Not only then but now, God is wanting us to seek Him and be in relationship with Him. Now that is amazing.

Before I leave Deut. 4, I wanted to point out two warnings given in this chapter. The first is "Watch out!" (vs 9) The people were to watch out that they did not forget all that God had done for them. I would say that warning would apply to us today. When I remember what God has done for me I am more likely to stay on His path and not fall victim to a "woe is me" attitute. When I begin to forget, I start thinking more negatively and seeing things through my eyes not God's. The second warning is to "Be very careful!"(15) The people were to be very careful to not even be tempted to make idols or worship any part of nature. In the same way today, we often want to put someone maybe even ourselves up on a pedestal forgetting that God alone deserves that spot. As I am writing this, I am asking myself if God has first place in all things in my life. Is there anything I am putting before God? Am I being careful?

Dear God, Thank you for chosing us and reaching out to us. Thank you that when we call, you come near. May I watch out to always remember your goodness and how you have worked in my life. May I be careful to put you first in all things. Show me where I have fallen short in these areas. May you be glorified in all I do. Amen

Sharing Life-Deut 3

In Deut. 3, Moses recalls how the Israelites conquered the east side of the Jordan. He also begins to transfer leadership to Joshua. Three tribes receive their land on the east side with a promise that they will help their brothers conquer the land on the other side of the Jordan. More than once in this chapter, Moses is preparing and encouraging Joshua to take his place. It was important for there to be a good transition for the Israelites and the task ahead would be a difficult one. Moses also seemed to be Joshua's cheerleader telling him not to be afraid. It is interesting to note that even though Moses mentored Joshua, Joshua's leadership style ended up being very different from Moses. This difference fit the different season that the nation of Israel was in. Two things stick out for me. The first is how important it is to train people to take your place when God calls you to another. The second is that God uses different people in the same job at different seasons because their style is different. He may need my style for one period of time and some one else's for another. Both are right for the job.

Deut. 3 also talks a lot about the three tribes-Gad, Reuben, and half of Manasseh receiving their land. They were allowed to get their families settled and then were to march ahead of the other tribes to help conquer the land on the other side of the Jordan. They were to leave their security to help others find theirs. Sometimes it is easy to get settled and forgot to look around us at those who haven't found security in God, in their job situation or even within their family. This passage reminded me of how important it is for me to partner with my brothers and sisters when they are going through a hard time. I need to remember how others have helped me in my hard times. (Note: Gad, Reuben and Manasseh did not conquer their land by themselve. They had help from the other tribes. ) I can help by offering a listening ear or watching some one's kids so a couple can have time alone. My help may include showing someone how to do a resume or a budget. Most of all it will mean some time on my knees in prayer for the situation.

Dear God, Thank you for your love and plan. Help us to be willing students of those who are training us and to be faithful to train others who come into our lives. Especially be with me, as I train my children. May I see clearly how to be there for others and what I should do. May your love and grace work through me. Amen

Get Moving-Deut. 2

Often we talk about how God has us wait on His timing but you don't hear as much about God saying, "Get moving." In Deut. 2:13, 14 NLT, God said just that. The Israelites had been in that spot too long and needed to move on. It reminded me of when my DH and I were talking about the next step that God has for us. Was God calling us to go to another country? What would that look like? There came a point where it was like God was saying "Get moving." The next couple of months were busy selling our house, finding a job for me, finding a school for the kids, finding a school for DH's training, and finding a rental to live plus selling or giving away much of the stuff we had accumulated. We had been in one place too long and God had another in mind for us. When God says "Get moving", it might not be moving to a new location. It could be in some area where we need to learn a new skill, character trait or even begin a new area of ministry. It could even be meeting the neighbor next door or asking someone over for coffee. May I ever be ready to get moving, when God say to.



Another reminder for me from Deut. 2 was how God was taking care of more people groups than just the Israelites. As the Israelites went through the land of the Edomites and Moabites, they were instructed to take care and pay for the things they used. God also made a point to tell them that God had given the Moabites and Edomites this land and Israel's land was some place else. The passage also mentioned how God had helped these people groups defeat the giants in the land. I think it is easy to get into a mentality of thinking that the Gentiles were a non issue until Jesus came. This is not the case. God has had his eyes on all peoples wanting all to come to him from the beginning of time.



(A prayer adapted from Deut. 2:7) Dear God, Thank you for how you have blessed us in everything we have done. Thank you for how you have watched out for our every step even when we have gone through the wilderness. You have been with us and we have lacked nothing. May we be faithful to the tasks you have for us. Amen

A Tree

The last year has been challenging for our family in many ways. One year ago we moved overseas, proceeded to learn a new language and culture, and then in the Spring moved to our permanent location. Overall it has been a fun experience for our family. Other times it has been hard. When it gets hard, I find myself wanting to escape into a book or watching movies on the computer. It is important to have things that help you relax but I have to watch that I don't go beyond that and use it for escape. If I do, I will miss out on the growing that needs to take place in my life. I have to be willing to be stretched and out of my comfort zone for that to happen. I have to seek God's will in the situation not my wants. I find myself at times thinking it is too hard for me to grow in this place. This weekend I was reminded of how God can cause me to grow no matter where He has planted me. Look at this tree growing out of the side of a mountain. If God can grow a tree out of a mountain, then God can work and grow me anywhere and anytime. There is no need to put off lessons for another day. May God use me where I am today as He makes me more like His Son.

Our Time in the Wilderness-Deut. 1

I have started going through the book of Deuteronomy and thought it would keep me on track if I would blog what I have been learning. In the first chapter of Deut., Moses reminds the people that their journey of 40 years was really only a 19 day journey. Israel not only had lessons that God wanted them to learn but their unwise choices kept them on the road longer than they needed to be. Our time in the wilderness is dependent on the lessons we need to learn and the choices we make while in the wilderness. When I first wrote down this last sentence, I thought that shouldn't be too bad just learn my lessons quick and make good choices. But then I thought about Caleb and Joshua, they wanted to go into the land. They were ready. It was the other people's choice that sent them back towards the Red Sea. Notice I said the choices we make. When my choices are just affecting me, it doesn't seem to be such a big deal. When my choices are affecting my family and friends, it seems like a much bigger deal. For example, this summer has been a challenging one for our family in terms of attitudes and relating well to each other. As I am trying to help my children communicate better, I find that some times I may do more damage by the tone of my voice or not getting the whole picture of what is happening. My choice to react just extends the situation. I have to model what needs to be done with a gentle answer and grace which only God can give. It is a lesson I am working on as I try to lead my children.



One other lesson I found from Deut 1 was about obedience. My obedience reflects my trust in God and what He can do. The Israelites realized that the people of Canaan were bigger than they were and they were scared. Looking at themselves, they realized they could not defeat the Canaanites. Their mistake was looking at what they could do: not what God could do. How often do I make decisions on what I can do and not what God can do through me. When I see giants in the land, may I pray to God for wisdom on what to do before I run in the other direction. I wonder how many blessings, I have missed in my life because I was focused on what I could do and not what God could do. One area where our family has seen God's blessing when we have trusted in Him is in the area of our support. When we were told the amount we needed to raise, it was overwhelming. My DH and I are not naturally outgoing, public speaking people but we knew God had called us to go and would provide. We were amazed over the next year of how God brought people our way who now support us both through their prayers and finances. When times get tough, I hope I will remember how God worked in this area and can be trusted to work in other areas as well.



Dear God, Thank you that you are always trying to make us more like your son Jesus even if it means some time in the wilderness. May my choices be good choices. Be with my words may they be filled with love, truth and grace. May I obey you in all things. When you say go, I want to go. When you say stay, I want to stay. Help me to remember that you are God and can be trusted to do what You say You will do. Amen

Check it Out

This morning as I listened to the birds singing outside and felt the cool breeze coming in my window, I enjoyed reading a new blog by a dear friend of mine. Her words were true and full of grace. I can see myself going back and taking a second look at what she has written. So feel free to check it out. Learning Along the Way

Dear God, Be with my friend as she uses the gift you have given her. Bless her and may her words help others draw closer to you. Amen

Did You Wash Behind Your Ears?

I use to laugh when I heard that phrase. Growing up, I don't ever remember my mother asking that question. I never asked that question until I moved here. Now I ask the question often to my dear son. Dust is everywhere. Just imagine a sweaty boy and dust, the combination leads to a lot of scrubbing. I will be sitting next to Big D and all of a sudden my eyes are drawn to this darkish brown spot on his neck or behind his ear. This either leads to Big D giving the cleaning another try or his mommy getting to give it a try. He does a good job of getting the obvious dirt at least most of the time. The spots he misses are usually the ones that are hard to see even if you were looking in a mirror.

Sometime my relationship with God is like the dirty spots behind the ears. I know the obvious things that need to be taken care of in terms of the sin in my life but often overlook the more subtle things. I am glad that God looks behind my ears. In Psalms 139, David prays "Search me O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." God often reveals to me that my motivation behind my actions is self serving or my lack of action is as bad as the wrong action. God truly knows if my priorities are in order. The goal is for there to be less of me and more of God. Paul reminds me in Galatians that "I am crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me." By God's grace, I can be what He wants me to be even if it sometimes takes a little washing behind the ears.

Dear God, Thank you that you never give up on me even when I mess up again and again. Thank you that for forgiveness and living in me. May I pray as David did that you would search me and know my heart. May you be glorified in all things. Amen

Lines in the Road

Recently I was taking a trip into the city center to do some shopping. After going on some very bumpy, dirt back roads, we came out on a nice highway that was three maybe four lanes. I am not really sure if it was three or four because sometimes there were three lanes of cars and sometimes it was four. Why? There were no painted lines dividing the lanes. Even then I am not sure that lines would help. Drivers here seem to use their horns alot and the rules are unclear. Each driver does what it best for him and what doesn't get him hit by another car. In Judges, they weren't driving cars but a phrase is repeated many times. Each man did what was right in his own eyes. We live in an age where some people live by the motto "If it feels good do it." Sometimes it feels like there are no lines in the road. As a parent, it is important for me to have some lines in the road for both me and my children. I am thankful that God provides that in His word and through the guiding of His Holy Spirit.

Dear God, Help me to see clearly the lines you have set for me and my family. Thank you for your guidance. Be with us as we live in a world where sometimes there are no lines in the road. Amen