Attraction

Hello readers,

I wanted to share my thoughts on the art of attraction in a relationship. Now, this is my opinion. I have not researched or studied what I am about to write. I was talking to a young man the other day and I forgot his name. He is 22 years old and looking to find his match or other half. Basically he is looking for love. We chatted for a few minutes about his unfortunate findings. Girls are just too judgmental, he said. I'm not very good at sympathizing with people on this matter. My first instinct is to say something along the lines of "So what, get over it. Not every girl is going to find you attractive" This guy I was talking to asked if I saw potential between the two of us. I though "hmm, this is awkward at just a few minutes in" My answer was no. So then I got the list of questions, is it because I'm too this and too that? Can't a girl have her reasons without you making her feel like a complete jerk. Please guys, do not ask these questions.

If someone is not interested it only makes sense to keep looking. Why would you want to be with someone who didn't find you attractive anyway? I often wonder why males and females spend so much time dwelling on the things they have no control over. I am 5 foot 9 inches (with heels a whopping 6 feet or more!) . I'm not super tall, but taller than average. There are tall people and short people and some lucky ones in between. Relationships can be very successful without height ever being an issue.

Like many girls, I had a list when I was younger (well, I still do) of traits I was going to look for in a future spouse. I believe that list comes later in life for guys. I hear guys all the time saying "I need a woman who respects me, who likes my mom, who can cook" or I hear "oh, she's too fat, tall, ugly". I hope they find that perfect someone. Here's the deal though, their perfect someone may have been called too fat or ugly for the last guy. Attraction can depend on so many factors. Also, this is just physical attraction and there is way more than the physical side of it.

What if relationships were like an NBA draft. We could all have our stats out there for everyone to judge us. We better hope that whoever gets first pick is attractive to us. Ridiculous, right? Height, age, weight, distance, religious beliefs, political views, family values, movie preference, food choice, do you get it? The list can go on and on.

Here is my advice. Find out what you want in this life and set goals to achieve it. Be confident in who you are and stop dwelling on things you can't change. Stand proud at 7 feet or 4'11 and a half. Be happy because happiness is contagious. If you are not happy it shows and although misery might love company, happy people usually run from the unhappy. Happy people are attractive. Wear a smile more often and show the world what you have to offer.

I can't leave you without a Bible verse. "Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart" Psalm 37:4

I Went for a Test Drive

Hello Readers,

I have some great news! In my last post I mentioned the need for a new car and the barriers I faced financially. Well, this past Saturday I went to test drive a VW Jetta. I had already known what vehicle I thought I wanted, but I needed to drive it to make sure. I went to the dealership having looked at all their inventory online. I was looking to drive a 1.8L engine because it had great reviews. The 2.0 base engine had horrible reviews and I wanted some power and pep to my ride. They had a blue Jetta 1.8L turbo charged engine in the inventory online and it was the closest to what I was looking for minus the color.

So, I got to the dealership with my lovely parents and we started looking around. I saw the blue Jetta and lots of other okay choices, but I wasn't willing to settle. And there she was... A white turbo charged Jetta with a sunroof, tan interior, and the SE package. This beauty was a diesel. I wasn't looking for a diesel, but I wasn't opposed to it either. The car salesman had come out and said that this car had just arrived. I thought it was perfect! I needed to drive it!

The first one I test drove was the 1.8L. I knew I wanted more than the 114 hp that the 2.0 provided. So, I enjoyed the first ride. It was roomy, comfortable, smooth, but most importantly fast. I was curious to see the difference in the tdi. The second Jetta did not disappoint. All of the features from the first test ride carried over to the second Jetta. She was perfect! Everything I wanted in a car was there. I am one happy girl! I told my mom that this car would change my life. I was half was joking. but my mom said "yes it will" Did I mention how happy I am??

I called my last car Trouble and he proved me more than right. I think I'll call this one Serendipity. A car was a tangible need. The greater need is met through a relationship with Jesus Christ. This was my verse of the day that came through on my app..

Philippians 4:19 "And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus"

I Can't

Hello readers,

I don't know if I have mentioned it before, but my passion is gardening and I absolutely love growing plants. I have been tending to my own garden more diligently this summer. I am a happy girl when I am in the yard. In my back yard there is a patio with a fire pit in the center. When I decided to landscape the perimeter of the patio I didn't draw plans or even have a plan in my head. I really just dug some holes and started planting. I often can't see the big picture because I am so focused on what I am seeing in the here and now.

There are some people who can conjure up these grandiose ideas and actually make them happen. My dad is like that. He can look at a house in total destruction and envision the final remodel/project. I kinda wish I had inherited that from him, but I didn't. Anyway, I often overwhelm myself with thoughts and ideas that I would like to try to implement. I am limited by my abilities to do some of my extraordinary plans and that really frustrates me. What frustrates me even more than my inability are the unfinished projects I have.

I can garden and not break the bank, I can move furniture around and create a "new" space, I can make little improvements around the house, but what I cannot do is work on my own car. Call me crazy, but I am in love with my 1991 BMW convertible. It was my first and only car so far. I love cars but this one has a special place in my heart. This love of mine is broken! It is a very sad situation. I have a great mechanic who rebuilt it when I first got it and now it needs a new motor. It has been four months in the shop and no work has been done. The parts I need can't be found.

Most people would just say good riddance and move on with a new or newer car. I am having a really hard time with that thought. If I could I would fix it myself, but I can't. So now I am having to car shop. Car shopping is great. I love cars! The only problem is that I know exactly what I want and can't afford it right now. The words "I can't" are the absolute worst! One of my favorite scripture passages is Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." Although Paul the apostle wasn't referring to making car payments in this text, I have to remember that in these times that I think I can't do something I have the strength to do things I need to. I have the strength and ability to work. I have a God who I rely on to show me how this time in my life is supposed to draw me closer to Him. And I CAN have patience. Good things come to those who wait right?

Memorial Day

This morning I write to you with so many thoughts flooding my mind. So please forgive me if this post ends up being a bit scattered. First, let me start off by saying Happy Memorial Day! As I was walking on the beach this morning I was thinking of the families, friends, and loved ones who will be celebrating today. Many celebrate with those who have served and returned, but many will spend today longing that their loved ones were still with them. I am overwhelmed with thanksgiving for those who have laid down their lives in service to their country.

The beach is beginning to fill up as family and friends gather. Flags are flying high attached to tents, vehicles and anywhere else they might have a chance of flying without having to chase them down the beach. People are sporting their red, white, and blue. The country music is playing and the party is starting. I am proud to call this my country.

Let us never forget the sacrifices made in order that we may have the freedom we often celebrate. Please remember those who gave their lives in service to their country.


"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." John 15:13


- Jill Emily

Good Isn't Enough

Do you ever ask yourself "why do I need God?" You might even say "I am a good person and I'll go to heaven because of that." Well I am sorry to have to tell you this, but you are not good enough. There is no one good enough. In fact, even if you where awarded "best human on earth" or "greatest person" that wouldn't be enough. You could give all your money to the poor. You could abstain from drugs, alcohol, and sex. You could go to church every Sunday. You could lead a Bible study. I think you get the point. None of these things will get you into heaven The Bible says "All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" Romans 3:23

There is good news I promise. Although you can't be good enough, there is one who lived, died to pay a debt we could not, rose from the dead, and is alive! You could ask "why would someone pay a debt I owed?" Well, you might just get a plethora of varying answers and you would probably still be very confused. What I can tell you is that love is a powerful thing. If you have loved ones in your life you might be able to understand a little of this self sacrificing affection, but certainly not to the extent that God almighty showed when He sent His one and only Son to hang on a cross and pay the sin debt that you and I owed.

Now, if you think "well I'm not a sinner. I'm a really good person." Oh boy, oh boy! I bet you can think of a time or two when you weren't as good as you thought. If not, ask a friend or family member. You might be sorry you asked though. Keep in mind that a sin can come in all shapes and sizes (thought, word, and deed). Yeah, you know you're a sinner, don't you? The good news is that Jesus Christ paid our debt and he offers us a plan of salvation. He wants us and He was willing enough to die as our sacrifice. You are not going to find that kind of love from any other. Its offered freely. You just have to ask for it.

"You plead my cause, You right my wrongs, You break my chains, You overcome, You gave Your life to give me mine, You say that I am free. How can it be?" The answer is that Jesus loves you that much and is asking that you love Him in return by living your life for Him. Give your life to Jesus Christ and gain everything.

The song is by Lauren Daigle "How Can It Be" I can't stop listening to it!

Pray for One Another

Prayer is an easy thing for me. I can lift up needs of friends, family, and even my own concerns. When I don't know the words to speak I simply say "Lord you know the need, show yourself and give guidance" its just that easy. When you have a relationship with the Lord, prayer is communication with Him. Studying God's word, being in prayer, seeking His guidance for your life are all ways to draw closer to Him.

I have had some things to think about over the past week and I'm still not sure what to do. I was overwhelmed when I heard my sister say "I've been praying for this situation for a year now." I had no idea. I ask myself why me? why now? It's been years. I am overcome by a feeling I've never had before even as I type this now. 

I've always prayed for God's direction, for His guidance, and for Him to just lead me in the right path. Now that it might be happening I'm scared to death!!! I know now that you are never really ready but you always have a way to communicate your concerns to God Himself for reassurance. 

I love praying for people. Its simply but makes a huge difference in their life. Now that I know what the receiving end feels like I'll make sure to also pray for understanding. Sometimes those we pray for will have no idea what is happening to them. I want people to be drawn closer to God and not be scared of what His plan might be for there life. I am excited to begin a new journey but I will also be in more prayer than ever before. When the journey is God's you will need to follow His map otherwise you'll be lost. Be in prayer for each other. You will be amazed by the way God will work in your life and those who you are specifically praying. 

Jill Emily

Memories and Legacies

Today I celebrated the life of a dear friend of mine. She was an inspiration, a mentor, a teacher full of wisdom and my friend. She was my Sunday school teacher. She challenged me, she taught me with love, she helped me search for answers, and helped when I couldn't find them. I already miss her very much and I will continue to remember how very blessed I am to have known her. 

As I think about the life she lived I am reminded that the Bible says our days are numbered here on earth. Psalm 34:4-5 "Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered, and that my life is fleeing away. 5 My life is no longer than the width of my hand. An entire lifetime is just a moment to you; human existence is but a breath."

Each moment of our lives is precious and we should strive to make it count for something greater than ourselves. I, like many others will remember this special lady and her legacy will live on. She inspired me to live a life of sacrifice, of serving, and of sharing my faith.


1 Corinthians 13:1-10 "If I speak in the tongues of men or of angles, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps not record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears."

This special lady showed love to all those she met and never withheld an opportunity to share the love and good news of Jesus Christ the Savior of the world. If I have learned anything from her; it is that I will learn to love. I will be bold and be guided by only the one true God Himself. I am grateful to have met her and will miss her dearly, but I will also continue to strive to do better because I saw that she was able to do it.

A Higher Calling

Tonight I was finishing up some planning for worship tomorrow at church. Some stuff has been going on and it's just a shame that God's people act the way they do. The "it's all about me" attitude needs to go! Come on people. So, here are my thoughts on the way the church and God's people should act like.  

 "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2  "When the Church is absolutely different from the world, she invariably attracts it. Then the world is made to listen to its message"- Martin Lloyd Jones 

  

 "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts says the Lord. Isaiah 55:9  

  

Called Me Higher - By All Sons and Daughters 

  

I could just sit I could just sit and wait for all Your goodness Hope to feel Your presence And I could just stay I could just stay right where I am and hope to feel You Hope to feel something again  And I could hold on I could hold on to who I am and never let You change me from the inside And I could be safe I could be safe here in Your arms and never leave home Never let these walls down  But You have called me higher You have called me deeper And I will go where You will lead me Lord You have called me higher   

So this is my prayer -  

Father, what a honor it is for us to gather in Your presence this very day. Lord, we are here to worship You, to give glory to Your Name and to lay ourselves down in surrender to You. We ask that You show us the next step we are to take, that You guide us in Your way and that we forget about what we want or what our plans may be. Lord we ask that You reveal Yourself in such a way that we cannot help but to live for You. Lord we want our lives to be a living sacrifice pleasing to you. Father we know that there is non good not one and that Lord You don't need us to complete Your plan but Lord that you want us and that you love us is overwhelming. You are Lord of all in the good and bad and we ask that as You continue to work in our lives You would move us out of the way Father that You would take us instead by the hand and lead. Lord we give You a portion of the blessings you have given to us and we trust Lord that You will do with them what you please. Thank you for loving us so much more then we will ever know. In Jesus name. Amen  

 This is typical worship leading: a scripture, a quote, a worship song and a prayer. I covered all the bases ;)  

You Can Always Count on Change

Hello Readers,
I wanted to share a few things that I have learned so far in this wonderful year of 2015. I began the year without having any New Year resolutions which was a first for me. I am very fond of my lists! Although I didn't have a formal list of things I must do, I did expect 2015 to be a year of change. I was really ready for something great to happen in my life. I entered the year ready for excitement. I knew there would be challenges to overcome and most likely things I didn't want to do necessarily but I am ready for anything!

Last night I finished reading a book recommended to me by one of my professors titled "Who Moved My Cheese?" Its just a short book packed with some really helpful strategies for dealing with change. I mean lets face it, who really likes change? If you are one who actually does, congratulations because life is full of change.

Change is inevitable. I feel like my life is changing more this year than ever. I am having to think about what I'll do after college. I have to plan for my career. I have never liked answering these questions but they are really important now and I need to figure out what to do next. I am absolutely terrified of the future. Life has been pretty easy up until this point and I don't want to have to deal with such worries. I like being comfortable but guess what? That's my own human desire to be comfortable. If God says "drop everything and follow me" am I willing to do that? I would love to say yes but boy is that ever frightening!

Here are two scripture passages to think about and I have probably shared them before but they are still relevant and will continue to be.

Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know that plans I have for you" says the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Thank goodness somebody has a plan!)

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

I am trusting in the One who hold the map of my life. I may only see pieces of it at a time but I know that those parts I do see are directed by God and God alone so why not trust Him.

Jill Emily