photo courtesy of Peter Mazurek at www.sxc.hu

Today is Part 2 of last week’s blog: What Are You Reading, and Why? Today I’ll continue to answer that question we often see on facebook, and tell you about some more books I’ve read in the last year and a half. Again, some of these are oldies but goodies, and many are newer. I know some of the authors. Others I feel I know, after reading their stories.

As you can tell by both blogs, I love reading fiction, because I love “story” and the truths hidden within. They can literally take me around the world, especially if the author has done his research well. But I like to balance my reading with other kinds of non-fiction books as well.

A disclaimer to my post: I’m neither recommending or promoting any on this list. I’m merely sharing what I’ve read, hoping that some of these books might be encouraging reads for you. Thanks to those of you who shared what your’re reading in last week’s comments. I welcome you to do that again, in the comments section below, following this blog.

Fiction

8. No Greater Love by Kathy Macias

Kathy can spin a tale faster than many authors can make their outline. She embraces raw truth and gritty realism, as one reviewer said. In this particular book she weaves sacrifical love into a story that deals with prejudice, racial struggles, and fear during the South African apartheid.

 9. Books by Gayle Roper and Chuck Holton

Allah’s Fire is the first in a great series involving Mid-East terrorism. Mystery, intrigue, suspense: a great-page turner. This was an older book (2006), but the duo wrote several more. I also read A Stranger’s Wish – one of Gayle’s solo Amish mysteries. They’re both good writers!

10. Books by Ted Dekker

I stumbled onto some of Ted’s books last year and found them, well, difficult to describe.  So I’ll use the words from his own website: “suspense thrillers with major twists and unforgettable characters, though he has also made a name for himself among fantasy fans.” I’ve only read his earlier books, but they are indeed “different.” I especially enjoyed two of his older books he wrote with the late Bill Bright: Blessed Child and A Man Called Blessed.  The intense subject matter and style of Ted’s books will either repel or draw some people in. I read ten of his books, including Thunder of Heaven, Blink of an Eye, When Heaven Weeps, Three, Green and Black. Be prepared for intense struggles between good and evil–spun by someone with a vivid imagination.

11. Books by Jan Caron

I reconnected with this author whose books I’d read years ago. Her delightful stories centered around an middle-age priest and his beautiful wife, a children’s author, will keep you smiling as you follow this couple through the ups and downs of living in small-town, Mitford. Recently I read A New Song and In This Mountain–and wondered why I had left off completing her wonderful series of books. I will read the rest of them.

12. Books by Jeanette Windle

I read this author’s works for the first time recently and was pleasantly surprised. Born to missionary parents, Jeanette grew up in rural Columbia and has also been in Afghanistan–two of the places about which she wove too-real tales of terror and suspense, and the heroic struggles between right and wrong. I read Veiled Freedom, and Betrayed, look forward to reading her other books.

13. Books by Mary DeMuth

I’ve read four of Mary’s fiction books: Daisy Chain, A Slow Burn, Life in Defiance, The Muir House, and her non-fiction memoir, Thin Places. Mary’s literary fiction style is captivating. And although this trilogy deals with some difficult issues like family secrets, you’ll discover God’s redemption is at the heart of her stories.

14. Susan Meisner

I’ve only read one of Susan Meisner’s many books: Widows and Orphans, but her writing is filled with suspense and intrigue as she deals with some dfficult, up-front issues for believers living in an imperfect world.

15. Books by Francine Rivers

I’ve read many of Francine’s books before and love them, but I only read one last year: the first in a series set in Jerusalem during the Jewish-Roman war and Christian persecution: A Voice in the Wind. A historical romance and inspiring tale of hardship and love.

16. Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky

Some people think it’s a crime not to read this classic. But after struggling through it, I’m wondering if it’s more punishment to read it. Seriously, I missed this in school, so I decided to try. I did learn a lot about Russian history and the depravity of the human mind. Let’s just say it wasn’t my favorite literary challenge. And that’s all I have to say about that.

Non-Fiction

If you’re still hanging with me by now, you like to read as much as I do.

6. Devil in Pew #7 by Rebecca Nichols Alonzo

A harrowing, true story about a preacher’s family who wouldn’t quit–and some irate people who stopped at nothing to destroy them.

7. Car Seat in my Convertible by Sharon Hoffman

A delighful book for grandmothers packed with loving, practical, and spiritual helps from the life of one devoted grandma.

8. The Christian Mom’s Guide to Pregnancy by Erin MacPherson

No, I definitely didn’t need this one! But I was asked to review it last year along with others in my above lists. I only mention it now in case some pregnant moms are reading this blog. It’s a fun, practical, down-to-earth guide with a spiritual thread running through it all. A good kind of different book for moms-to-be.

9. The Upside of Downsizing by Karen O’Connor

I actually reviewed this in one of my earlier blogs, so I won’t do it again. Short little book with lots of downsizing helps–for your home and your life!

10. Let the Crow’s Feet and Laugh Lines  Come by Dena Dyer

Dena’s book is filled with lots of fun and encouraging advice as you go though life’s changes.

11. Books by Pam Farrell

Pam and her husband, both relationship specialists, have written many great books for women and couples.  The one I read last year (and also reviewed in a blog) was 52 Ways to Wow Your Husband.

12. Living with Less So Your Family Has More by Jill Savage

Jill offers some great advice–and very timely in today’s economy.

13. My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers

Reading this classic devotional has almost become a ritual for me each year. I think this was the third or fourth time. But I always find fresh and encouraging helps for my Christian walk.

14. Steve Sandin

Steve compiled a couple of books from his own research that are outstanding: great gifts or resources for your library: Jesus Really Said It (all the words of Jesus in a short, gifty book) and Make the Right Choice (from the book of Proverbs, categorized by helpful subjects). Very helpful.

15. Books by Carol Kent

I blogged about one of hers last year, Between a Rock and a Grace Place. But if you’ve never heard her family’s story involving a son in prison, you need to start with her first book. And I need to catch up on her most recent one. A true woman of God who knows what it means to hurt.

16. Heaven Is for Real by Todd Burpo

I also blogged on this after I read it. A powerful child’s testimony about his near-death experience and trip to heaven. No matter how you feel, it’s worth a read.

17. Outlive Your Life by Max Lacado

One of my all-time favorite Christian writers, Max challenges believers to live large and invest in treasures in heaven by embracing the world in practical, compassionate ways.

18. Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand

I’m currently 3/4 of the way through this New York Time bestseller. It’s a true, powerful “World War II Story of survival, resilience, and redemption” (the subtitle of the book). The author of Seabiscuit relates the unbelievable circumstances of some men who survived the cruel terrors of war.

That’s enough! I won’t bore you with the books I read on writing, blogging, etc. last year related to my particular field. I hope some of these above books will challenge you and encourage you if you choose to read them. Next week, I’ll return to my regular inspirational/devotional blogs.

By the way, I have no idea who is reading my blogs, except the ones who comment, of course. And I’m not asking you to fill out a survey. But if there are some subjects/kinds of blogs you enjoy or need more, let me hear from you. You can e-mail me on my contact page here if you prefer. I blog to give encouragement, to challenge you in your spiritual life, and to help you find a deeper intimacy with God. But if what I write doesn’t encourage you, then I’ll work to make it better. I would like to hear from you.

It’s Your Turn: What Are You Reading?

Now, it’s your turn. What have you been reading…and why do you read? Would you share with us in the comments below? Your words might encourage someone today! You will not be hounded, prodded, or automatically added to my mailing list if you do so. Feel free to email this blog to someone or to re-post on social media, using the buttons below. If you’re reading this via newsletter you can always “share” my blogs from the large buttons at the end of each blog on my website here: If you want to re-post any of my blogs on your own blog or website, please contact me for permission first. And if you’d like to, you can sign up for my blog/newsletter and updates at the top of this website page/sidebar. Your e-mail address will never be sold or given to anyone!

photo courtsy of yirsh at www.sxc.hu

The Top Ten

At the beginning of each year you’ll usually hear or read about a list of  people who have made the”Top Tens”:  Top Ten Fashion Designers, Top Ten Bloggers, Top Ten Musicians, Top Ten Authors, Top Ten Wage Earners.

We may never see our name on a ”Top Ten” list–or on anyone’s positive kind of list. Things in our lives can easily slip from bad to worse. And it’s entirely possible that some circumstances will never change, no matter how hard we try to influence them. Life may never seem fair. How can we possibly handle that without giving in or giving up?

A Challenging, and Encouraging Opportunity for You

Life can get pretty discouraging if all we focus on is “what might have been” or “what we’ll never see happen.” The prophet Habakkuk dealt with that. But that pattern of thinking could lead us to the wrong conclusion. He ultimately made a right one.The choice is yours.

I have a challenging, and encouraging opportunity for you. Take a few quiet moments this week and meditate on the book of Habakkuk. It’s that short, little-known book near the end of the Old Testament, full of life-changing, relative-to-your-world, kind of stuff. Specifically, read carefully Habakkuk 3:17-19 in your favorite Bible translation.

Imagine a difficult set of circumstances that might emerge at some point in your life or in someone else’s like you. Then jot down your own paraphrase of that Habakkuk passage in a way that could relate to that life situation or occupation. You could write from the perspective of a parent, a grandparent, a teacher, a ministry leader, an executive, a secretary, a business man or woman–or whoever you are.

Book Giveaway: Winner Receives a Book of Your Choice

You’re not limited to those verses, but make your paraphrase consistent with the thoughts in Habakkuk. Write your paraphrased thoughts in the comment section below (with your copyright on them, if you wish–they belong to you). The best entry will win one of my books–your choice, whichever ones are available on my website. And even if you don’t win, you might make the “Top Ten Paraphrases of Habakkuk 3:17-19 List.”

An Example for You

God has blessed me as a writer through the years, but all of us experience, days, months, or years, when we play that “waiting” game–times when we probably won’t be featured on anyone’s “Top Ten List,” and times when we must determine where our focus will be, and how we choose to respond. Here’s an example for you with a set of circumstances that could happen in any writer’s life, and a faith response that I truly hope would be mine, no matter what. Here’s a paraphrase of that Habakkuk passage I wrote, using a writer’s viewpoint:

For the Joy of the Lord

and of the Written Word

By Rebecca Barlow Jordan

“Though the sales fade away,

and returns keep coming in;

Though contracts seem a distant memory;

Though fans decline,

and marketing may fail,

Though no checks are arriving in the mail;

Yet  I will rejoice in the Lord my God.

I will wait, and watch, and keep believing.

I will release my dreams for safekeeping

into the hands of my God who gave them

to me. But for the joy of the Lord and

for the written word, and for the sheer

joy of creating pictures and stories,

I will keep writing until He (and maybe my agent)

tells me there is nothing left to write.

(c) 2011, Rebecca Barlow Jordan

Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord. I will be joyful in the God of my salvation. The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He will make me as surefooted as a deer and bring me safely over the mountains” Habakkuk 3:17-19, NLT.

Day-votional Thought to Remember:

You’re always #1 on God’s list!!!

Please share your paraphrased Habakkuk words and /or your comments below. (I’ll annouce the winner in two weeks). Your words might encourage someone today! You will not be hounded, prodded, or automatically added to my mailing list if you do so. Feel free to email this blog to someone or to re-post on social media, using the buttons below. If you’re reading this via newsletter you can always “share” my blogs from the large buttons at the end of each blog on my website here: If you want to re-post any of my blogs on your own blog or website, please contact me for permission first. And if you’d like to, you can sign up for my blog/newsletter and updates at the top of this website page/sidebar. Your e-mail address will never be sold or given to anyone!

Photo courtesy of duchesssa@www.sxc.hu

Quick Review of Last Week:

Life-altering wrongs committed against us may never be corrected in this lifetime. But what about the times when we’ve wounded others? How can we remove the “Cain-stamped” seal on our souls–the glaring sins and blunders that have almost destroyed our lives in the past?

Only God can completely remove those, but Part 2 shares two more ways to help you find healing from your past.

4. Forgive as Jesus has forgiven you.

If you desire–and expect–God’s grace and forgiveness to remain active in your life, you must learn to not only forgive others, but also yourself. When I temporarily slip back into an “Oh, Me!” mentality, I find comfort and grace in reversing to an “Ah, Lord,” declaration. “Ah, Lord, if you have forgiven me so completely, what right do I have not to forgive others–or even myself?” (Forgive, as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13, NIV). His grace enables us to do what we can’t do alone: forgive.

You’ve heard, “To err is human; to fogive is divine.” I would add, “to not forgive is to trample down God’s grace and render it useless in our lives.” I love Proverbs 24:16 (NLT): The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. Everyone errs. But with God’s grace, we can all start over.

Perhaps we could also add, ” To err is human, but not to learn from it (our errors), is foolish.” Be patient with yourself. Get an “accountability partner”–someone you trust who can check in with you often and help keep you moving in the right direction. You can step in the same hole only so many times. Sooner or later you’ll need to take a new path. Receive God’s infinite, complete forgiveness as a gift; then give Him the gift of belief and trust: that He still has good plans, a hope and a future for you (Jeremiah 29:11).

5. Keep moving forward by anticipating something today and something tomorrow.

My father used to say, “Have something to do today, something to do tomorrow.” I don’t know about you, but there’s always something to do at my house–or in my life–but not always what I anticipate doing. Yet even in the midst of the mundane, it helps to change my outlook by focusing on something I can look forward to today, and something I can look forward to tomorrow. That something may be as ambitious as writing 2500 words, or as practical as planting new garden flowers. It could be as simple as “coffee with Jesus,” moments when I can mix the aroma of fresh java with the perfume of God’s presence and time in His Word, or simply having lunch with a good friend.

Find joy in what you do, and in doing for others. Putting our past behind is a constant action; but so is pressing on. Consider a reachable goal like Mother Teresa‘s: “Doing small things with great love”–even while she worked in the midst of extreme poverty and adverse circumstances.

Recently, I read of two women and their noteworthy goals. One had just completed hers: writing 365 thank you notes in the previous year–one per day. The other woman chose a simple goal for 2012: “Be kind.” Great “somethings” to look forward to!

Busy Activity v/s Balanced Work

Discern the difference between busy activity and balanced work. Coping with a painful past can include hiding ourselves behind a facade of endless activity. We can try to cover our pain by eliminating any time to think, rest, or refresh. But band-aids don’t bring inner healing. They only cover the scars or open wounds. Balanced Work is a meaningful and intentional fulfilling of God’s purpose for our lives–that doesn’t crowd out right priorities.

These are only a few ways to help you find healing from the past. Accepting the truth that God has already covered your past will help eliminate any of your own painful coping methods. But it means trusting God daily with the details of your life. He will bless your todays and reinforce your tomorrows if you live in anticipation of God’s plans for you. He is the only One who can truly help you put the past behind and press on toward the future.

But I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us  (Phlippians 4:13, NLT).

Has God helped you find healing from your past? Please share your comments below. Your words might encourage someone today! You will not be hounded, prodded, or automatically added to my mailing list if you do so. Feel free to email this blog to someone or to re-post on social media, using the buttons below. If you’re reading this via newsletter you can always “share” my blogs from the large buttons at the end of each blog on my website here: If you want to re-post any of my blogs on your own blog or website, please contact me for permission first. And if you’d like to, you can sign up for my blog/newsletter and updates at the top of this website page/sidebar. Your e-mail address will never be sold or given to anyone!

Photo courtesy of duchesssa@www.sxc.hu

“Get over it!” “Move on!” “The past is gone!”

Well-meaning friends may offer you their best unsolicited advice, but their words hurt. Why? The past still haunts you. Are new beginnings possible? Is healing a reality? How do we confidently release the past and embrace the future? How do we find the strength to “press on?”

I’ll be the first to admit that some gut-wrenching issues in my life have taken time and even Christian counseling in order to heal and move forward again. So I’m not offering you pat answers.

Life-altering wrongs committed against us may never be corrected in this lifetime. But what about the times when we’ve wounded others? How can we remove the “Cain-stamped” seal on our souls–the glaring sins and blunders that have almost destroyed our lives in the past?

Only God can completely remove those, but here are five ways to help you find healing from your past.

1. See yourself as God sees you.

As a child growing up in the church, I still remember the teaching on “justification.” One teacher explained it simply: Jesus’ death on the cross made it possible for me to be right with God–”just as if I had never sinned” (Romans 3:24). So, as a follower of Christ, I get that. Because of Jesus, that’s the way God views me.

But in a series of Christmas messages at our current church recently, a speaker focused on Jesus and His perfect character. Jesus was tempted in every way, yet He never sinned. Faced with every wrong choice imaginable, He always obeyed. When Jesus took our sin upon Himself, the perfect, sinless, Son of God, and we accept that payment for our own sins, God then sees us, as believers, like He sees Jesus–as if we have always obeyed, and as if we always will obey.

Maybe that truth doesn’t affect you the same way, but somehow, seeing me as if I’ve always obeyed–in addition to just as if I’d never sinned (even though they mean the same)–forged in me a new attitude of gratitude. If God sees me that way, then I need to as well. The mistakes and sins of my past no longer exist–except as a reminder in my own heart of my humanity (which leads me to #2.)

2. Place GRACE beside every destructive thought and negaive reminder from the past that threatens you.

Satan loves to remind God’s children of their marriage mess-ups, their parenting blunders, their business failures, and their prideful actions of the past. You can keep trying to pay for those yourself, but the reality is, you can never really undo the past. You can only learn from it, and accept God’s grace to move beyond it. It’s God’s grace that erases our past; and it’s God’s grace that will remake our future (Ephesians 2:5-8; Hebrews 4:16; 2 Corinthians 5:17).

Each time you begin to dwell on your mistakes or sins of the past, visually picture the words GRACE beside those thoughts, pushing the negative ones out. Then whisper a thank you cry to God: “Lord, thank you for your grace that brings healing from my past. Thank you for redeeming me, and for seeing me as if I have always obeyed. Thank you that You love me completely and unconditionally.”

3. Meditate on the healing truths in God’s Word daily.

Almost every “how-to” topic I write seems to include this step. But the relevance of God’s Word never changes (Isaiah 40:8, Proverbs 30:5, Matthew 4:4, NIV). Scientists and doctors have proved that prayer and meditation on spiritual truths like those in the Bible can actually promote healing, well-being, and longevity, by impacting the brain positively.

Joshua 1:8 told us thousands of years ago what scientists are just now discovering. ”Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and sucessful” (Joshua 1:8, NIV). Centuries later, the apostle Paul encouraged Timothy to continue in the Word because,  All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17, NIV).

God’s Word doesn’t return “void.” In other words, allowing God’s truths and promises to saturate our lives give us the very defense and offensive we need to press on postivitely to the future God has prepared for us. God will take those implanted seeds of truth to accomplish His purpose for our lives.

But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:13-14, NIV).

Watch for Part 2 later this week! I hope all of you had a wonderful, blessed Christmas. Happy New Year! May this year be filled with God’s very best for you as you learn to love Him and others more and more.

Has God helped you find healing from your past? Please share your comments below. Your words might encourage someone today! You will not be hounded, prodded, or automatically added to my mailing list if you do so. Feel free to email this blog to someone or to re-post on social media, using the buttons below. If you’re reading this via newsletter you can always “share” my blogs from the large buttons at the end of each blog on my website here: If you want to re-post any of my blogs on your own blog or website, please contact me for permission first. And if you’d like to, you can sign up for my blog/newsletter and updates at the top of this website page/sidebar. Your e-mail address will never be sold or given to anyone!

photo by Rebecca Barlow Jordan

Todd Philips, one of the teaching pastors at our church, recently shared a series of messages called “The After Party.” In one of those messages he read from Randy Alcorn‘s book on Heaven listing numerous things you won’t find in heaven. That sermon inspired this blog. Obviously we could name more than 25 things. Todd quoted many more. So when you finish reading my list, (and listening to Todd read Randy Alcorn’s list), maybe you can add your own.

1.  No sorrow

2.  No sickness

3.  No divorce

4.  No drugs

5.  No pain

6.  No temptation

7.  No failures

8.  No fear

9.  No danger

10.  No nuclear weapons

11.  No wars

12.  No death

13.  No weeds

14.  No tornadoes

15.  No floods

16.  No tears

17.  No good-byes

18.  No abuse

19.  No depression

20.  No hospitals

21.  No funeral homes

22.  No gossip

23.  No unemployment

24.  No taxes

25.  No injustice

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a beautiful bride prepared for her husband. I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, the home of God is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will remove all of their sorrows, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. For the old world and its evils are gone forever” Revelation 21:1-4 NLT.

I encourage you to listen to Todd’s message in the link above. And I highly recommend Randy Alcorn’s book called Heaven. If you’re interested, you can find it here.

What would you add to the list? What other things can you think of that won’t be in the new heaven/earth? Please share your comments below. Your words might encourage someone today! You will not be hounded, prodded, or automatically added to my mailing list if you do so. Feel free to email this blog to someone or to re-post on social media, using the buttons below. If you want to re-post any of my blogs on your own blog or website, please contact me for permission first. And if you’d like to, you can sign up for my blog/newsletter and updates at the top of this website page/sidebar. Your e-mail address will never be sold or given to anyone!

photo by Rebecca Barlow Jordan

Springtime in Winter

Call me optimistic. Persistent. Unrealistic. Dreamer. But I learned as a writer to discover God’s encouragement in the most ordinary places–like a surprise of Springtime in Winter. In a moment, I’ll take you to my back yard and explain what I mean.

Where Are You?

Are you waiting for your next novel to gel? Has writer’s block stolen your creativity? Are your file folders filling up with more rejections than sales? And whether you’re a writer or not, has the economy or some other unforeseen circumstance left you holding empty dreams?

Facebook has changed. The publishing field has changed. The market and job economy have changed. And the seasons are always changing.

Perhaps the pre-winter doldrums have hit you like a northeastern snowstorm. For those of you who live up north and northeast, winter has already left its frigid mark much too early.

It’s not winter here yet, though recent cool night temperatures did necessitate my dressing a couple of plants in their warm sheet covers temporarily. But springtime left a loooooooong time ago, ushering in a 5-month drought. It was so bad the blue jays were trying to catch the leaky water faucet drips outside to keep hydrated.

Backyard Surprises

Okay, follow me to my backyard.  My one-year-old potted fig tree already produced a record 8 figs early last Spring. And my potted gardenia plant boasted over 60 new blossoms–all before the drought hit.

Photo by RBJ

Then came Summer and Fall. In spite of frequent waterings, the drought claimed my gardenia. We lopped off half of its dead branches. I’ve nursed that plant for almost 15 years! And the fate of the fig tree? For all I knew, it might face a future like the one Jesus cursed in Mark 11:12-14. I could only hope.

Enter God’s little surprises. You gotta love ‘em. But you also have to look, or you’ll miss them.

Today I ventured out to my porch swing, coffee in hand, on a chilly morning. To my right I noticed a spot of white among the few remaining gardenia branches. So I checked it out. No way! A brand new, Springtime-in-Winter gardenia was blooming. And a bunch more blooms were headed in the same direction.

Photo by RBJ

I took a quick peek at the fig tree, and that’s when I really got excited. Five tiny new figs had sprouted!

Photo by RBJ

So what, you say? What does that mean? Maybe whatever you need. For me, it provided the encouragement for writing today’s blog. And a divine nod to keep watching for more of God’s little “visual lessons.”

Funny. It finally rained a week or so ago–no more than an inch total. But a little water goes a long way when God sends it. And His creation recognizes the difference in man’s efforts, and God’s heavenly showers. My plants sure noticed the difference.

Even in a bad economy (and a bad season), God makes a way. Maybe not the path you thought. But He’ll show up in the most unusual ways. You’ll write again. You’ll dream again. You’ll trust again. And maybe, just maybe you’ll see in those everyday, yet extraordinary, personalized ways that God is so good at…maybe you’ll see a touch of Springtime in Winter–His plan, not yours. One that He knew about all along.

The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring. (Isaiah 58:11, NLT).

What about you? What surprises or visual lessons has God shown you lately? How has He encouraged you? Please share your comments below. Your words might encourage someone today! You will not be hounded, prodded, or automatically added to my mailing list if you do so. Feel free to email this blog to someone or to re-post on social media, using the buttons below. If you want to re-post any of my blogs on your own blog or website, please contact me for permission first. And if you’d like to, you can sign up for my blog/newsletter and updates below or  at the top of my website page/sidebar. Your e-mail address will never be sold or given to anyone!

NOTE: I’m surprised no one caught my blog error last week on Part 2 of “Five of the Best Gifts You Can Give Your Children.” Under #5: Dress Them in the Right Clothes, I left out one article of clothing. I corrected it, and updated that blog. There should have been seven things listed under the clothing, not six.

photo courtesy of sh0dan at www.sxc.hu

What kind of gifts do you give your children? Last week we talked about three of the five best gifts you can give your children. We could list many more. But here are the last two:

4. Give them unconditional love.

Perhaps no other gift or quality is more God-like than this one. Jesus loved us so much He gave His life for us. And He didn’t wait until we cleaned up our act or “behaved well” to decide we were worth loving. (Romans 5:8).

In the same spirit, our children long to know that they are truly loved and accepted by us as their parents. They need to hear, see, know, and feel that no matter what they as kids do, we will love them without conditions. They may require “tough love” at times–just like God uses with us when we turn our backs on him. But the relationship is always there. And so is the love.

When they act out, do you discipline them because they embarrass you or make you angry? Or because you love them? They will sense the difference.

Do You Speak Your Child’s Love Language?

Knowing and understanding your child’s love language is a great way to show that love practically. The Five Love Languages of Children, by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell, is a good tool to help you. God knows how to give good gifts–the best gifts–to us because (1) He is God and (2) He knows us inside and out.

Tangible gifts may spell love to one child; time, to another. The words, “I love you,” may bounce  off your children’s hearts without registering. But when we ”speak” their language, or give our children the kind of gifts that fit their love language, they more readily receive it in a way that “feels” like genuine love.

As husband or wife, you can also give your children the gift of unconditional love by the way you love each other. The same kind of faithful love you show to your spouse is a built-in security wall that will make it easier for your children to receive that from you.

Our children can overlook many of our parenting mistakes if we will give them the gift of unconditional love–(sprinkled with ample helpings of grace) the kind that lasts from their birth–until our death.

 5. Dress them in the right clothes.

You can’t buy these clothes, and you can’t force your children to put them on. But until they are old enough to dress themselves, you can make sure this clothing is available. After that, you can pray that they will choose “the full armor of God” daily. And you can model them yourself. The “right” clothes–the full armor of God–include the following “garments.”

(1) Belt of Truth

Buckle that belt tightly around your child’s waist. Jesus is the Truth, the whole Truth, and nothing but the truth! Teach them early to love the Bible, God’s truthful Word.

(2) Breastplate of Righteousness

Pray early on (even before a child is born) that your children’s hearts will be protected by right standing with God. Pray they will choose to follow Jesus at a young age, so their hearts will be covered with God’s “righteousness.”

(3)  Shoes of Peace

Choose well-fitting shoes that run well, ready with the gospel of peace to share with others.

(4) Shield of Faith

Give them the shield of faith, an unwavering trust in the name and power of Jesus, to equip them for times of difficulty and temptation.

(5)  Helmet of Salvation

Your child’s mind is where their hardest battles will be fought. Pray they wear the helmet of salvation at all times to keep their thoughts pure and clear. Remind them often of Whose they are–God’s child.

(6) Sword of the Spirit

The Sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. I’ve mentioned it earlier, but without this article of clothing, our kids are at great risk for false teaching and deception. Teach them to hide God’s Word in their hearts, so it will become permanent clothing and protection at all times. His Word is not a weapon for you to beat over their heads. Used accurately,  it is the key to right relationship and fellowship with both a loving God and with others.

(7) Prayer in the Spirit

Pray that your children will live in a constant relationship of communion with the God who loves them far more than you ever could.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God….” Ephesians 6:10-11, NIV.

What about you? What gifts have you given your children? Please share your comments below. Your words might encourage someone today! You will not be hounded, prodded, or automatically added to my mailing list if you do so. Feel free to email this blog to someone or to re-post on social media, using the buttons below. If you want to re-post any of my blogs on your own blog or website, please contact me for permission first. And if you’d like to, you can sign up for my blog/newsletter and updates at the top of this website page/sidebar. Your e-mail address will never be sold or given to anyone!

NOTE: There is still time to give your reasons why you would like to receive the complimentary book by Pam Farrel, 52 Ways to Wow Your Husband. Just leave your comments at the end of that blog here to enter the drawing for that book. Deadline is October 26.

SPECIAL OFFER: Need a Bundle of Encouragement? For a Limited Time Only I’ve bundled some encouragement packs for you or as a gift. Don’t forget to check out the What’s New tab on my website here for some special offers and fun gift ideas. One of the best gifts you can give to anyone is encouragement.

Related articles

• Five of the Best Gifts You Can Give Your Children (Part 1) (rebeccabarlowjordan.com)

photo courtesy of sh0dan at www.sxc.hu

What parent doesn’t want to give good gifts to their kids? But what kind of gifts should they choose? Here are five of the best gifts you can give your children:

1. Show them the way “home.”

In Kenneth Price’s book, The Eagle Christian, he shares some remarkable facts about the golden eagle. The golden eagle has a unique series of tissues in its eyes which act as a built-in-gyroscope. As long as the eagle is away from its nest, it feels imbalanced, even pressure in its eyes, often painful. As the eagle comes closer to home, however, the pain reduces. It can find its way home even from thousands of miles away because of this God-given sense of direction. Not only that, but it can see objects from miles away.

Our homes here on earth are only temporary. One day we’re going to our real home that God has prepared for all His children who have chosen to follow Him. If we are wise, and use eagle eyes, we will discern where home really is. And no matter how painful life becomes on this earth, or what we go through (our children, too), the pain begins to subside the closer we get to Home–the more we see our real purpose here on this earth, and our real destination. Wise parents will teach their children where home really is.

2. Encourage them to “always do the right thing.”

A 2008 survey by Notre Dame sociologist Christian Smith revealed that when questioned, the majority of 18 to 23-year-olds had no basic standard to measure right and wrong. Most chose to act simply on their feelings–what made them happy as individuals. New York Columnist David Brooks, in his commentary, “Young Adults Left Adrift in Sea of Moral Relativity,” ended his blog with these words: ‘Morality was once revealed, inherited and shared, but now it’s thought of as something that emerges in the privacy of your own heart.”

As parents, we are the ones given the responsibility to teach (and model) God’s moral standards. They are not our standards. They are God’s. “These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates” (Deuteronomy 6:6-9 NIV).

The Bible contains God’s moral standards, and His Word, will never “pass away.” Just teaching them does not guarantee our children will always make the right choice. Nor should we promote judgmentalism. Our kids will still make many of their own decisions, obviously wrong ones at times. But when we teach (and model for) children to “always do the right thing,” with patience, grace, and love, they will at least have been taught a standard by which to make personal, wise decisions. And that gives them a head start in recognizing when something is obviously the “wrong choice”–not just what makes them feel good or what “seems right in their own eyes.”

3. Raise your children for greatness, not success.

Tim Kimmel’s book, Raising Kids for True Greatness, emphasizes the difference between greatness and success. What do we emphasize to our children? Scholarships? Degrees? Sports? Awards? Or do we show them how they can be on mission for God, however and wherever God leads them? Is it possible to teach excellence, while still demonstrating a servant spirit?

Which is more important? Washing feet or climbing ladders? Promoting ourselves? Or helping others? Relieving injustice or accumulating $$$? Do they believe in the “Hero or Zero” mandate? Or does servanthood, forgiveness and compassion top their most wanted traits?

I admit somewhere along the line God must have dropped showers of grace upon our home, because I didn’t always “model” God’s standard, even though it was my heart’s desire to do so. And neither my children nor I always made the wisest of decisions. But they knew God’s standards. And they have chosen as adults to teach them to their children as well. I tell others that God was gracious to us in allowing us to “re-parent” our children–even as they were emerging into adulthood.

If you…know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” Matthew 7:11, NIV.

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” James 1:17, NIV

If you’re a parent, be encouraged! There are no perfect parents or perfect children. And only God gives perfect gifts. But we serve a loving, forgiving God. Come back next week to discover the final two “best” gifts you can give your children. They may be the two most important ones you can offer them.

What about you? What gifts have you given your children? Please share your comments below. Your words might encourage someone today! You will not be hounded, prodded, or automatically added to my mailing list if you do so. Feel free to email this blog to someone or to re-post on social media, using the buttons below. If you want to re-post any of my blogs on your own blog or website, please contact me for permission first. And if you’d like to, you can sign up for my blog/newsletter and updates at the top of this website page/sidebar. Your e-mail address will never be sold or given to anyone!

NOTE: Some were confused about where to leave comments last week on the book giveaway. There is still time to give your reasons why you would like to receive the complimentary book by Pam Farrel, 52 Ways to Wow Your Husband. Just leave your comments at the end of that blog here to enter the drawing for that book. Deadline is October 26.

SPECIAL OFFER: Need a Bundle of Encouragement? For a Limited Time Only I’ve bundled some encouragement packs for you or as a gift. Don’t forget to check out the What’s New tab on my website here for some special offers and fun gift ideas. One of the best gifts you can give to anyone is encouragement! If you’re a subscriber to my blog/newsletter, watch for a newsblast this week to tell you more.

From Pam and Bill Farrel’s Love-Wise website come these words:

We have been fascinated with the question, ‘How?’ ever since we met. When we got married we knew three things: (1) We love Jesus. (2) We love each other. (3) We have a lot to learn if we want to have a successful marriage. That created a passion in our hearts to figure out how relationships work. We have sought answers to these questions through reading books, our own personal growth as a couple and through professional research. We honestly believe anyone can have great relationships so we have devoted our lives to sharing the practical insight we have learned with as many people as possible. We are excited that you are joining us in discovering how to make all your relationships work better.”

Have you ever asked questions such as, “How can a couple have a successful marriage? How can men and women communicate in a way that works? How do men and women use their differences to enhance their lives rather than drive each other crazy? How can a couple get good at making decisions together? How do you forgive someone who has hurt you? How can a man and a woman develop strong careers and stay in love?”

If you are interested in questions such as these, you will thoroughly enjoy Bill and Pam’s books and seminars.

Both Bill and Pam Farrel have written some great marriage books. They make a great team! Today’s book giveaway features Pam’s new book, 52 Ways to Wow Your Husband.  Here’s my brief review of Pam’s new book:

Book Giveaway: 52 Ways to Wow Your Husband

Pam Farrel’s new book, 52 Ways to Wow Your Husband, is packed with plenty of loving, humorous, and fun ideas to keep the spark alive in your marriage. With her usual godly wisdom and lighthearted style, she encourages women toward a more satisfying, surprising, and intimate relationship with their spouse and with the Lord. No matter what age or stage you’re at, you’ll want to keep this book handy for both practical and creative ways to keep the “wow-factor” in your marriage.

Find out more about Pam and her books on their website here.

How to Win Pam’s Free Book

To be entered in the drawing for today’s giveaway, just leave a comment on today’s blog below, telling me why you would like to win the book. The contest will close in two weeks, on October 25. Pam has graciously agreed to donate a copy of her new book for this drawing.

And if you’ve already read Pam’s book and want to add your own words of recommendation, please leave your comments below as well. (You can still win a book and give it away to help encourage someone else’s marriage.) You will not be hounded, prodded, or automatically added to my mailing list if you do so. Feel free to email this blog to someone or to re-post on social media, using the buttons below. If you want to re-post any of my blogs on your own blog or website, please contact me for permission first. And if you’d like to, you can sign up for my blog/newsletter and updates at the top of this website page/sidebar. Your e-mail address will never be sold or given to anyone!

Sign up for my blog/newsletter and keep watching for more book giveaways. I plan to do more of those in the future!

photo by Rebecca Barlow Jordan

If God truly allows do-overs, what would you choose to “do over?” What daily actions or positive attitudes would you take to move your life forward?

Ann Landers often quoted the poem “Just for Today,” a piece attributed to Kenneth Holmes. Others such as Narcotic Anonymous have used that same poem as motivation to choose “do-overs”: daily postitve actions for their lives in rehabilitation.

One day as I was journaling, I jotted down my own version of “Just for Today” actions:

This Day…

• I will not analyze my life or my emotions.
• I will not condemn myself for inactivity or incompletion.
• I will not grow weary of doing good.
• I will give myself to every assignment with smiles and purpose.
• I will trust God to bring reward of simple tasks.
• I will not worry if I am doing enough, being enough, or if I have enough.
• I will love God and others and seek to put them first before my own needs.
• I will ask God for wisdom for every decision, great or small.
• I will pay attention to interruptions and the Spirit’s nudging.
• I will ask for His Spirit’s filling and enjoy it when He does–and by faith walk in it.
• I will reject every non-productive, damaging, or hurtful thought–preferring that which is honorable, true, good, wholesome, and loving.
• I will lean hard on the Lord for understanding, trusting Him to direct my paths.
• I will expect, look for, and anticipate the Lord’s direction, answers, and wisdom.
• I will celebrate every moment as a precious gift, holding those things which God has given me loosely in my hands–because they all belong to Him.

When I started journaling that day, my body was tired and begging for sleep, but my Spirit craved God’s fellowship. The latter was the greater longing. By the time I had finished writing and reading God’s thoughts to me from His Word, I felt refreshed, renewed, hopeful, expectant, joyful, prepared, and eager to begin the day.

“Plain” suddenly turned to “divine,” and His purpose for me for that day grew clear: to leave heaven’s imprint on that day and to see God’s fingerprints in everything, to know Him and to make Him known, and to add His beauty in big and simple tasks.

Was I successful in my “do-over” plan that day? In my own strength, never. But it gave a clear picture of where I wanted to go. They were simple affirmations and desires of my heart.

We All Struggle

We all experience days and seasons when we fight a battle of the “wills.” I do. Some days we may struggle to get moving and our “gratitude” list shrinks, while our complaint list grows. But when we approach life one day at a time, even listing only one “I will,” God will do His part to meet us where we are. We will not accomplish anythng by sheer “will” power, but only through God’s power working through us.

Begin and Depend

Check out the Psalms, and all the “I will’s” that the psalmist David wrote. The first step is to begin–and then depend (on the Lord).

This is the day the Lord has made. I choose (I will) be glad in it! This day…what would you like to do or not do through God’s power working in you?

 What about you? What would you put on your “I will” list? What would you like to “do-over?” Please share your comments below. Your words might encourage someone today! You will not be hounded, prodded, or automatically added to my mailing list if you do so. Feel free to email this blog to someone or to re-post on social media, using the buttons below. If you want to re-post any of my blogs on your own blog or website, please contact me for permission first. And if you’d like to, you can sign up for my blog/newsletter and updates at the top of this website page/sidebar. Your e-mail address will never be sold or given to anyone!