tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50418160010088840492024-03-05T05:12:27.065-08:00PinkshoeladyEncouraging Women of FaithPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.comBlogger163125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-76862876518564769912016-11-30T18:42:00.000-08:002016-11-30T18:42:07.524-08:00Promise Land or Battlefield?Trivia Question for you:<br />
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Where in the Bible is "The Promised Land" mentioned?<br />
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Don't Cheat! No using your concordance or even Biblegateway.com<br />
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If you had looked it up, you would find the same thing I did, "The Promised Land" is not mentioned in the Bible. Instead it is referred to as the land GOD promised.<br />
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I don't know about you, but for me this is HUGE. Essentially, it is talking about the same place...the land GOD had promised to the Children of Israel. The land HE set aside for them after leaving Egypt and wondering in the wilderness all those years. It is the land the 12 spies said was flowing with milk and honey. The land Moses and those who chose not to believe GOD were turned away from and never allowed to enter. The land Joshua led the Children of Israel to conquer. The land King David would one day rule. The land in which a little town called Bethlehem would become HOLY as our LORD JESUS was born there. The land GOD promised.<br />
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So why is it HUGE for me that it is not called "the Promised Land" in the Bible?<br />
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Because of that little tiny word in front..."The" "The Promised Land" takes on so much meaning. It is qualifying to the point of a one and only. "The Promised Land" sounds like perfection...almost like Heaven here on earth. And with that, I expect it to be...perfect...holy...without strife, or stress, or tears.<br />
A place of peace. <br />
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I have often searched for my own "Promised Land." My own Holy ground...place of peace. I didn't always look for real-estate. Although, I have looked for it there too. Mostly, it is that state of being where GOD has made it perfect for me. My Promised Land has had many forms:<br />
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Being a missionary<br />
Being a Seminary student<br />
Being a writer/consultant for LifeWay<br />
Being a wife<br />
Being a mother<br />
Being a military wife<br />
Being...Being...Being<br />
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None of these things have lived up to my expectations of "The Promised Land." Each has come with it's own set of trials, and battles.<br />
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Then, I look at what GOD calls the land...."the land I have promised." Instead of it being the end-all, and the ALL. Instead of it being perfect, it becomes what it truly is....the place GOD promised now.<br />
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The fact that GOD promised it is beyond significant! It means it is the place where HE wants me. The place HE has prepared for me. But it does not mean it is a place of peace. My "land HE has promised" will be just like it was for the Children of Israel....a land that needs to be conquered, a land where I will have battles at times and peace at times. A land that is not Holy but Righteous. Holy says it is perfect. Righteous says it is set apart by GOD. The word Righteous itself needs an opposite to mean anything. It needs to defeat something...to overcome something. Righteousness demands victory.<br />
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There is not a Promised Land...until Heaven itself.....there is a place GOD has promised to each of us. It is beautiful...it is dangerous...it is filled with all that you need because it is filled with and through HIM. <b>Go in boldly</b>! <b>Go in in full assurance that GOD has gone before you! Go in and live in righteous victory. Go into this land...</b><br />
The land GOD promised!Pinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-7978956201548325692016-11-02T16:27:00.000-07:002016-11-02T16:27:33.107-07:00A Delayed Fairy Tale I love fairy tales. I still read them occasionally. I bought Zoie a book about Princesses when she was around 7 or 8 years old. She has long forgotten it. Not me, I still like the stories.<br />
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So today I am going to tell you a fairy tale. <br />
My own. <br />
I have a secret identity. <br />
I am the "Kudzu Princess."<br />
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Being from the south I am all too familiar with kudzu. It is a vine like plant that is indestructible!<br />
You can burn it...it will sprout right back up.<br />
You can poison it...it will survive.<br />
You can cut it and pull up the roots...and it will still sprout again.<br />
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It grows about 2 feet a day and consumes everything in its path. I have seen it consume an abandoned mobile home till it was invisible. It will cling to anything, wires, trees, walls, metal...anything.<br />
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Most people in the south hate it...I... admire it. I want to be more like kudzu. So I call myself The Kudzu Princess.<br />
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Today this Kudzu Princess has run straight into a two-headed giant. It is one of the biggest and meanest giants I continue to face. I have run from and fought this giant before. Sometimes gaining ground...sometimes loosing TERRIBLY.<br />
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This two-headed giant I cannot defeat on my own. I've tried. I have used the "sword of will power," the "shield of religious works," and have even shot it with the "rifle of service" to others. Although they have wounded the giant, the monster still attacks It wants me to run and when I do I fall right into it's trap. <br />
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Maybe I should tell you the giant's two names. The first head on this giant is beastly and is the one I see first. It's name is <b>PROCRASTINATION</b>. I sometimes can wound it and it will disappear inside it's monstrous body. But that is the moment that the second head shows up. It is deceptively more pleasing than Procrastination. This handsome giant talks in a soothing tone, and out of it's mouth comes promises of pleasure. I find myself having a hard time resisting his alluring and hypnotic stare. Once again I realize too late that I am trapped in the coils of <b>LAZINESS</b> and defeated.<br />
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Not today! Today I prayed and asked GOD what stone did I need to throw at this two-headed giant.<br />
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I asked how to be more like King David, How to be a true Kudzu Princess. I searched for the right stone and GOD lead me to this verse...<br />
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1 Samuel 15:22 <b>"Then Samuel said: Does the LORD take pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as obeying the LORD? Look: to obey is better than sacrifice, to pay attention is better than the fat of rams."</b><br />
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So the stone is OBEDIENCE. Today I am obeying and writing this blog with utmost obedience. I will not be stalled by "Procrastination" or allured into pleasure traps by "Laziness."<br />
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I will be like kudzu and write and grow today. I will be like King David and trust GOD with my obedience rather than false sacrifices or weapons of my own flesh.<br />
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I pray earnestly that this fairy tale will speak to you. We all face giants who will continue to popup and try to defeat what GOD wants us to do. GOD has not called us to fight alone. HE has not given us the power or authority. We are HIS servants. We only need to be obedient. Then HIS SPIRIT will guide the stones and kill the giants. <br />
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I discovered something else today. Although, I was trapped in the snare Laziness set before me today, I was deceived into choosing what seemed more fun, rather than obey and write to you. Once I picked up that stone and obeyed, I HAD THE MOST FUN I'VE HAD ALL DAY!!!!!<br />
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I love you JESUS!<br />
Your Kudzu Princess<br />
Pinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-64665891263507361792016-10-31T17:48:00.001-07:002016-10-31T17:48:09.840-07:00What Scares Me Most'It is Halloween.<br />
Many people love to dress up in scary costumes. Why is it that we like to be scared? <br />
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Haunted Houses<br />
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Horror Movies<br />
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Roller Coasters<br />
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Dangerous Sports<br />
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These activities are designed for the fear or thrill. They entertain us. They make us scream and in many ways, once they are over, we even feel more alive.<br />
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However, the things that terrify us will never entertain us. I am terrified of a lot of things! <br />
Some of the usual things, such as spiders, snakes, fire, things that go bump in the night, and for me a biggie is chickens!<br />
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Yes, I said chickens! I love to eat them. I'm just afraid of them while they are alive. <br />
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I was attacked by a mean rooster when I was fourteen. He ripped my jeans and tried flogging me in my face. I fought hard but was loosing the battle like the Redcoats on Kings Mountain. Then my mom suddenly appeared and hit that old rooster with a mop. My dad caught him and 3 weeks latter we enjoyed about 10 pounds of chicken salad.<br />
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But my biggest fear is what I am doing tonight...on this scary Halloween night...writing this blog.<br />
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Yes, writing scares the patooties out of me. <br />
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There are a ton of reasons. All of them are wrapped up in "What Ifs?" What if I can't express myself correctly? What if no one reads it? What if they do and expect lots more? What if I'm boring? What if....What if....What if....? The Goliath of these "What If Giants" is what if... I give up again....quit again...hide again?<br />
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So, I can sit here in my fear or be brave and face those "What If Giants," including my Goliath.<br />
I am going to throw a stone at my giant Goliath. The stone of forgiveness. I am going to forgive myself. I forgive myself for quiting, for leaving you readers, and for disobeying GOD.<br />
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I know HE has forgiven me...it is time for me to forgive me too.<br />
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By throwing that stone, I am able to sit here tonight and finish this post without fear. It doesn't matter if you read it. It doesn't matter if you like it....I hope you do...but honestly it doesn't matter. Tonight, it doesn't matter if my grammar is correct, or if I am communicating beautifully. What matters is that I obey GOD and write. I'm throwing the stone and leaving the results up to HIM. Because it is for HIM, by HIM, and through HIM that I can even breathe and be FEARLESS and write.<br />
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Psalm 34:4 "I sought the LORD, and HE answered me and delivered me from all my fears."<br />
<br />Pinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-53961256423378383292016-10-30T16:48:00.000-07:002016-10-30T16:48:11.098-07:00Coming Out Of The WildernessLast post was in 2011!<br />
It has been a long 5 plus years! My years of wilderness training. Much like the children of Israel when they faced the promise land the first time, I too saw too many giants to my ministry and ran away. <br />
I have learned some hard lessons in the wilderness. Lessons about faith, being vulnerable....grunt and shiver, lessons about grace, and trust.<br />
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A lot has changed. My daughter Zoie is now a senior in high school and planning for college. Mike is a VA Chaplain and a chaplain in the Army reserves. We are living in Ohio....very different from SC...but we love it!!!!<br />
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But most of all I've changed. <br />
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In this new adventure with this old blog....I'd like to share with you not only lessons from the wilderness but also the real me. Not the blogger me. Not the minister's wife me. Not the scared to let you see my mess me. It is through those weak and messy times I have come to understand that JESUS loves to shine in and through us. So truthfully, in hearing my stories, and seeing my messes, you will see HIS perfection, HIS grace. I want you to know that if HE can love this messed up girl who desperately wants to walk in pretty shoes, then HE loves you too!<br />
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The giants are still in the promised land. I am trusting GOD to help me select the stones and like my hero David, trust HIM to deliver the blows. <br />
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Pray for me as I write here. Pray as I share my story....HIS story. <br />
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I will commit to come here, I'll bring my coffee, my Bible, my sense of humor, my faith, and my fears....but most of all I'll bring my obedience...to my true love...JESUSPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-15411083574276009342011-07-27T10:01:00.000-07:002011-07-27T10:01:45.728-07:00Shaken Not StirredI am being shaken like a morocco in a mariachi band! The good thing is that even though it does not feel good...it is for my good.<br />
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I have had a lot of shaking events this year, that have left me searching, exhausted, and even wounded. Here are some of the highlights:<br />
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My husband had 3 kidney stone procedures during February and March which left us with huge medical bills.<br />
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I lost my job.<br />
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Then on our Army Chaplain Conference/vacation, I fell...while running with Zoie...and broke my shoulder in 3 count them 3 places....a minimum of 13 weeks healing time then physical therapy and or possible surgery.<br />
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These things, compiled on top of each other, left me feeling both helpless and hopeless. I cried out to God and lamented much like King David in the Psalms or the prophets of old. "How long, O LORD!" or in the Hebrew " "Admathay Adonay!" (pronounced Ad-ma-tye A-do-nie!) It is said as a wail or shouting cry from the heart. <br />
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One night, I sat here in my office wailing to God...because of the pain in my shoulder, the pain of worrying over our finances, the pain of losing the job I so dearly loved, but mostly the pain of feeling helpless and alone. You can't help but feel helpless when you can't even go to the bathroom by yourself!<br />
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GOD took me to Hebrews 12...Yeah, the God loves those HE disciplines chapter. I did not feel that GOD was telling me all these things were punishment...that is not the GOD I know and love. I do believe HE was letting me know that there are some things in my life that needs to go....not as punishment but as cleansing, healing, and for my training as HIS child.<br />
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As I read these words, instead of feeling condemed, or punished, I felt an overwhelming since of GOD'S love for me. This time of "helplessness" would only be for a moment but the righteousness it produceses will last for eternity! Hebrews 12:25-28 says (in my own paraphrase) to heed GOD'S words carefully as HE shakes me until all that is left is what cannot be shaken.<br />
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I bowed in awe and expectation, absorbing and drowning in the love I suddenly felt. HE loves me enough to shake me until all that is left...is what can never be shaken!<br />
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Thank YOU GOD! Shake on! I am surrendering to being a morocco in the hands of THE GREATEST PERCUSSIONEST and even though it hurts...the music is becoming more beautiful everyday! Pinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-38529368486021060252011-04-14T13:40:00.000-07:002011-04-14T13:40:44.925-07:00Battle Between Two KingdomsThe battle lines are drawn. The two kingdoms are set to fight. The only question left is who will win in the end. Will the Kingdom of Icandoit or the Kingdom of Idon’twantto reign supreme. Both of these kingdoms are powerful with many influences throughout the area. Both kingdoms want full control and there can be no area of compromise. These two kingdoms cannot coexist in the same place. One will reign, the other will be banished. They may have to fight again another day but each time the winner will take all. Who will win? The ground they are fighting for is control of our own wills. We alone can decide the winner. Will you live in the kingdom of I-can-do-it or be ruled by the I-don’t-want-to’s? The battle is won by a simple decision, yet the tactics of the army’s in both camps can be strong. <br />
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Let’s start with the army of the Idon’twantto’s. Some of the weapons used are that of complacency, apathy, laziness, insecurity and fear. These weapons are powerful and will cause us to not trust our King or do our best. These weapons hinder us from meeting our goals and expectations. They cause us to doubt our abilities which leads to not trying and giving up. Ultimately the goal of the reign of the Idon’twanto’s is to stop us from succeeding and accomplishing the plan God has for each of us in His Ultimate and Eternal Kingdom.<br />
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There are also strong weapons in the Kingdom of Icandoit. In this kingdom the weapons of choice are determination, adaptability, focus, perseverance, patience, and one that at first seems unusual…<br />
loss-of-control. <br />
This last weapon is the most powerful and most successful in our being able to succeed the goals God has planned for us. But loss-of-control when turned over to God is the atomic power of this battle. It secures victory and becomes the strongest shield against any weapon thrown our way.<br />
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This battle is not won by hand-to-hand combat, but a simple decision. Who will you believe? Will you choose to live with the Idon’twantto’s or the I candoit’s? One last bit of information before you decide; The kingdom of the Idon’twantto’s will bring about self-doubt, discouragement and failure. While, the kingdom of the Icandoit’s will bring you confidence, success and peace. <br />
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Today you must choose. Will you say “I don’t want to” or will you shout in victory “I can do it!” Have faith and believe God’s word as it says “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13. Because there is a secret about the kingdom of Icandoit…it’s true name is the kingdom of<br />
God-can-do-it.<br />
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I wrote this for our school newsletter last year. I am struggling today and have been residing in the Kingdom of Idon'twanto! God lead me to this article and I it encouraged me so much, I had to share it with you. <br />
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I am going to go abide now in the Kingdom of Icandoit. I plan on swimming in the pool of faith and resting in the palm of my King Adonai's Hand! <br />
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Love Ya! <br />
PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-68733154204266157222011-04-08T20:40:00.000-07:002011-04-08T20:44:35.203-07:00This is a TestThis is a test.<br />
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It is only a test.<br />
<br />
<br />
My blog has been doing something Weird<br />
<br />
<br />
So I am testing something out.<br />
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PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-62810009839983267052011-04-08T02:49:00.000-07:002011-04-08T03:04:17.066-07:00New....Do!Hi Y'all, What do you think about my new blog look? My friend Amy McNeil <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">helped</span> me. She is awesome! She is an <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">excellent</span> blogger and a beautiful example of a God lead mother, wife and friend! Thank you Amy! Now to more new...<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">do's</span>: New <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">do's</span> are happening over here at our house. New hair-do....I'm letting it go curly...post a picture soon. New husband...not really...he is a new Army Chaplain now! Finally! New mom/daughter relationship...had to adjust...<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">middle-schoolers</span> are a lot more difficult! New church...love this one! More on this one soon! God has <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">totally</span> blessed us! New attitudes....Thank you Lord! I was struggling there for a while, now I'm new too! What is your new do? Pamela Oh! If you want to connect with Amy you can find her here <a href="http://www.mcneilmenage.blogspot.com/">http://www.mcneilmenage.blogspot.com</a>Pinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-13806446599776817452011-04-02T11:58:00.000-07:002011-04-02T12:24:26.001-07:00Six Word StoryHi Y'all, She Reads has a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">scholarship</span> for the She Speaks Conference going that is really interesting. I thought I might give it a try. So here is my six word story. To enter yourself go here <a href="http://www.shereads.org/2011/04/she-speaks-scholarship-contest/">http://www.shereads.org/2011/04/she-speaks-scholarship-contest/</a> <span style="color:#006600;"><span style="font-size:130%;color:#000000;"><strong>Flag, coffin, her husband <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">bequeathed</span> freedom.</strong></span> </span>She Speaks is a conference for women who want to serve women for God's kingdom. It is an amazing conference and you can read a little about my own experiences there in the post below. If you want to know more go here<a href="http://www.shespeaks.com/">http://www.shespeaks.com/</a> I am going this year even if I don't win a <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">scholarship</span>. We don't have the money at the moment but I know that God will provide. I've already registered. Because faith is believing even in the unseen. <strong>Prayer request</strong>: Mike has gone to his 1st reserve drill. He began Chaplain duties today. I am so proud. Please pray that he will be a blessing and minister to these fine men and women who serve our country and may someday have to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">bequeath</span> freedom. Love you all PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-89641549672994758942011-03-10T16:22:00.000-08:002011-03-10T19:36:41.870-08:00Still Walking in Pink Pumps!Hi Y'all!<br />I looked at the website, a tear slowly crept out of the corner of my eye and fell on the keyboard. For 5 years I had looked at the site, hoping, praying, wondering and yes, even crying with desire to go, but knowing that I was not worthy. Who was I kidding?<br /><br />Then, through a series of events including God having <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lysa</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">TerKeurst</span> tell my husband to make me go. I attended my first She Speaks conference <a href="http://shespeaksconference.com/">http://shespeaksconference.com/</a>4 years ago. Terrified does not even begin to describe the elephant dance that was going on in my tummy. Forget butterflies! I prayed, I cried, I told my husband Mike I was NOT going! He put me in the car, kissed me, and said, "See ya Sunday afternoon." He had taken <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lysa</span> seriously!<br /><br />God took <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Lysa</span> seriously too! HE showed up! I was touched in so many ways physically and spiritually. I was blessed by the speakers, challenged, encouraged and even got to wear Zoe Elmore's hot pink pumps! Rachel Olson and Zoe held me up in the shoes I had always dreamed of having on my feet. Cerebral palsy does not allow for pretty shoes. God taught me through this experience that helplessness is where HE sometimes needs us to be.<br /><br />That year God used She Speaks to change my life! I am a better speaker, my ministry has grown, but not like my flesh would have hoped. I still only have 2-3 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">engagements</span> a year. Believe me when I tell you...that is not why I go! If your only goal is to sell your ministry, book, or network yourself...you will accomplish those goals at She Speaks, but you will miss out on far richer blessings. Go and meet Jesus there! I come home refreshed from being in HIS <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">prescience</span>. Every year I have heard from HIM! Fallen more in love with HIM! And understood HIS love for me in new and extreme ways!<br /><br />I have attended 3 of the last 4 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">She</span> Speaks conferences, and God has SHOWN UP to work in me, to me and through me! Last year I could not afford to attend because of financial reasons. I cried and prayed, but there was no way to pay for the conference. As the days drew near, my heart ached to be there. A few weeks before the conference God opened a window. A friend from Arizona posted that she would be attending. I asked her if she needed a ride from the airport. She said yes! I ended up picking up and shuttling 2 wonderful ladies to the conference and back to the airport! Finally, I was able to give to this conference instead of just receiving! It was a blessing! Though I missed the conference sessions and the complete experience. I feel I was able to live out and give away the blessings that had been given to me.<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">This</span> year too our finances are tight. I am not sure I will be able to attend. Lysa has offered scholarship on her blog <a href="http://lysaterkeurst.com/">http://lysaterkeurst.com/</a> and I like many others am hoping to win. More so I am praying that God will supply by HIS grace a chance to go and meet HIM there again. I do know this...whether I attend or not...I again will shuttle ladies to and from the airport. I want to live out loud the blessing I have received from being a part of this ministry..all the while wearing my HOT PINK SHOES!Pinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-32537172427751268182011-01-16T16:48:00.000-08:002011-01-16T18:21:09.628-08:00Oh My Word!Hi Friends,<br /><br />In recent weeks, two events have created a desire for me to make changes in my life. One was seeing my old house (check out last post). Seeing what happens when a house is neglected and not kept up-to-date caused me to look anew at my own home.<br /><br />The other event was a conversation <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Zoie</span> and I had that has left me stunned and disturbed. It started with a simple question that I asked her...really off-handedly. "What are some things you see in my life that point you to God?" Her answer sort of took the life out of me. "You teach me right from wrong." I sat there a minute processing her words. So I asked her, "That's funny, you didn't mention things like prayer and Bible study...Why?" She continued, "Mom, I know you do those things. I just don't see them...you asked me what I saw. I see you have devotions with the family. I see you pray with us every night. I don't see you do those things by-yourself."<br /><br />OUCH!!!!!!!<br /><br />If my own daughter does not see me reflecting God...then what kind of dull image am I reflecting of HIM to the World? I do pray and read HIS word...But I've been too private about it.<br /><br />So.....<br /><br />I have been busy updating my two dwellings. I am rearranging furniture in my home. I've looked at the space and taken the advice of some people who are good at this sort of thing...the one's who have designer's hearts...like my mom. Every room in my house is getting some sort of update. It may be as little as moving a picture or clearing a shelf to doing a major over-haul like in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Zoie's</span> room...every stick of furniture was moved.<br /><br />This week, while looking through a dictionary for my class I teach, I came across a new word. The word is "Transmogrification."<br /><br />It means changing something to the fantastic or bizarre.<br /><br />To do this I am turning to another designer's heart...actually HE IS THE ONLY TRUE DESIGNER! The earth and everything in it is the only complete designer-original. Every other designer has to use HIS scraps! (giggle, giggle...)<br /><br />That's what God is doing in the place where HE and I dwell...My heart. I am being Transmogrified into the fantastic and bizarre creation HE wants me to be. We are rearranging attitudes, cleaning out some self-centered issues...which like dust seems to collect everyday on the surface of my heart. We are <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">de</span>-cluttering my thoughts so that what is being stored there is more like HIS thoughts.<br /><br />I want to be changed to the fantastic and bizarre because HE IS!<br /><br />I want my house to look better and reflect the values and beliefs of my family....I want God to transmogrify my heart to reflect HIS values and beliefs.<br /><br />My house will once again clutter up because people live there. So will my heart because my self lives there too. But here's the thing...as I lay out the plans, direct the ideas, and my family works together....we can continue to update, refurbish and rearrange so that our house will reflect us well. With my heart, I must work with God to do the same thing. HE will layout the plans. HE will direct the ideas. HE will complete the job. I must spend time with HIM, listen to HIM and obey HIM. The more it is all about HIM the more it will be all about HIM!<br /><br />2 Corinthians 3:18 says "And all of us have had that veiled removed so that we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like HIM and reflect HIS glory even more." <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">NLT</span><br /><br /><br />Why don't you grab a dust pan, a mirror, your Bible and let's get TRANSMOGRIFIED!<br /><br />Love ya,<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-77048019011332748942011-01-04T17:54:00.000-08:002011-01-04T19:35:37.995-08:00That's Where I used to Live!Hi Friends!<br /><br /> I grew up in only two houses. I lived in one till I was four and I honestly don't remember much about that one. The other house, I lived in from the age of four until I was 24! It is as Miranda Lambert sings about, "the house that built me." My parents moved from that house when I was in my early 30's. I love where they live now and it instantly became home. I'll tell you about my parent's home another time.<br /><br />Mike, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Zoie</span> and I moved back to my home town almost seven years ago. As we drive by the old home place, I find myself saying, "I used to live there." Driving to my parents on Christmas eve this year, I looked at my old house and noticed a "For Sale" sign. I asked Mike to pull over and I jotted down the number of the agent on the sign. A couple days later, I called and asked to see the house. I was so excited! I knew there had been some add-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">ons</span> made and I could not wait to see the changes on the inside. Even as we pulled into the drive, things felt familiar. I drew in a deep breath and for a brief second, felt like I had come home from a long trip. We walked to the front door and stepped into what had always been my favorite room...the formal living room.<br /><br />CRASH!!!!!!!<br /><br />I had expected the house to be a little run down, after all... it was over 50 years old! But this was heart breaking! There had been changes to the outside of the house...updates...some good...some not so good. But the inside of the house had not changed...It was stuck in the 70's and 80's era. I <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">vaguely</span> heard the agent talking about the hard wood floors, as I walked around what had once been an elegant, peaceful, GOD-filled room, that now stood half empty and discarded. The agent went on to explain about a very bad, brown and green carpet in the great room. I kind of snorted out a half laugh as I said, "It wasn't green when I lived here." Soon we were walking into the kitchen and my heart sunk further. Although it had been painted, it too had been neglected. Then into the dinning room... it was the only room that looked like with just a coat of wax on the floor....it would be as good as new. I looked toward the great room and a tear ran down my face. The green and brown carpet that the agent had talked about... WAS the same carpet that my parents had put in there...only then it had been brown, orange and beige. The rest of the house was no better. Where seeing the same carpets and layouts of the rooms should have brought back fond memories, it only broke my heart more to see that nothing much had changed. I was flooded with childhood memories...all good by the way...and I shared them with Mike, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Zoie</span> and the patient agent. After we left, I cried because of the neglect. Why had they not taken care of the house?<br /><br />My parents would have never let that house grow old like that. They constantly changed it while I was growing up, to fit the times. They had added on, updated, redesigned the cabinets... every couple of years our house was freshly painted and something was changed. It was always a showcase and beautiful. <br /><br />It made me think about my own house...not the building I live in...but my spiritual house. The one where CHRIST dwells within me. Have I just kept up the outside with neglect to the inside? Have I tried too hard to keep it as it was 20 years ago? I often think back to my days as a young excited seminary student, who wanted to witness to the world! How many times have I tried to "decorate" my spiritual house by using the same kind of old stories and disciplines? Our relationship with GOD should be ever changing...always being updated to what is happening now...not what worked in the past.<br /><br />I don't want to ever go back and live in the house where I used to live...physically or spiritually!<br />UPDATE ME LORD!!!! I need a relationship with YOU that is HERE, NOW, TODAY and exactly right with the times! <br /><br />I think it is time to UPDATE And REDECORATE! I've got some ideas...wanna join me and let the ultimate designer give us an EXTREME MAKE-OVER!<br /><br />Love Ya!<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-83480643926916777912010-12-02T06:13:00.000-08:002010-12-02T08:28:38.233-08:00She Loved Her Enemy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1rTdJEcWNjj0GsTaTFi6bmI_CrFBFYOXSbKVmPTHTnpxcybUU-P24_-dcqLMHJpwvATism5tVjDunc9U7sDW7D2WEAzhbdMDkWUNxEm1G6V1h8iMY3kkE6kQlZ4PVkdHZGfDlZT9mkuz/s1600/Christmas+2010+008.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546095205929599474" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1rTdJEcWNjj0GsTaTFi6bmI_CrFBFYOXSbKVmPTHTnpxcybUU-P24_-dcqLMHJpwvATism5tVjDunc9U7sDW7D2WEAzhbdMDkWUNxEm1G6V1h8iMY3kkE6kQlZ4PVkdHZGfDlZT9mkuz/s320/Christmas+2010+008.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Hey Y'all!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>It was her reaction that alarmed me...not what had happened to her...but what she did that sent BIG RED LIGHTS flashing off in my head screeching...</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>"Warning Pamela Robinson! Warning! Warning!"</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>As I questioned her further, she started crying and the whole story poured out like a flood. </div><div></div><div>My <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Zoie</span> was being bullied! </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Pause...while I once again retract my mother bear claws and calm my temper back down from just thinking about this! </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>There much better...had to settle my flesh down by reminding it that God has already handled this HIS way. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The next morning I went straight to the principle. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Zoie</span> and I also talked with each of her teacher's....everyone was on notice. Everyone was watching. She did it again and then "The Bully" was put on notice.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Two weeks passed with no bullying...nothing between the two girls.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The Christmas Choral Concert was just a few weeks away, and they were holding auditions for solos and duets. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Zoie</span> was one of the first to sign up. The auditions would take place over several days...but slots were limited. The second day of the auditions, the bully decided she too would like to audition. No open slots. Mrs. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">O'Neal</span> asked the class if anyone would be willing to give up their audition slot for this girl to have a chance.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Ok</span>, pause to wipe tears...</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Without hesitation, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Zoie</span> raised her hand and gave up her slot for her bully. What you need to know is that she knew that could possibly mean...she would not get to sing. The very thing she loves doing as much as breathing, SHE GAVE UP FOR HER ENEMY!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I am both proud and in awe of that kind of willingness to sacrifice.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The bully auditioned...stunned at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Zoie</span> giving up her spot for her. Then she backed out again the next day. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Zoie</span> asked her, "Why?" </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>"Because I'm too scared. I don't think I sing good enough."</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>"You have a very pretty voice, don't give up...give it a try." <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Zoie</span> offered.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Her enemy looked at her then said "You are only saying that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Zoie</span> because you are my friend. Thank you <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Zoie</span>." </div><div> </div><div>From enemy to friend by one action---one sacrifice. Isn't that what Christ did for us? "While we were yet sinners Christ died for us."</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Jesus tells us to love our enemies. I've heard testimonies of this from people who have loved those who experienced enemies on a big level..such as loving someone who has murdered a loved one. Elizabeth Elliot going back and serving the tribesmen who killed her husband for example.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>This was my first time to see it in the everyday. Which as most of you know is the hardest place to practice and live God's truth.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The concert was Tuesday night and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Zoie</span> sang beautifully! She is truly a beauty don't ya think?</div><div>Inside and out! I think she favors her FATHER.</div><div></div><div>Love ya </div><div>Pamela</div>Pinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-45217962610976478902010-11-29T13:33:00.000-08:002010-11-29T18:19:43.404-08:00I Have A ConfessionHey Y'all,<br />I have a Confession. I am afraid. Extremely afraid...like Nightmare Marathon Time afraid.<br /><br />I am afraid of you.<br /><br />Isn't that silly? (Please say it is or I will shrink up right now!)<br /><br />My mind tells me it's silly...my fears tell me to be terrified.<br /><br />How can I be so scared of you? I mean you are--wherever you are and I am here. You are reading this, not looking at me...you can't see or hear me over this page unless I video...which I've never done. YET you scare me!<br /><br />It's not that I am worried you will not like me. Truth is no matter what you read here...you will never really know me. I could be in the crowd at your church some Sunday and some of you would not know me. I am smart enough to know that. So to tell the truth, it doesn't truly matter if you like me or not.<br /><br />It's not that I have <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">cyber</span> fears of you stalking me or anything like that. My nightmares are not about you hunting me down in my sleep. I've taken good precautions there and honestly I trust GOD with that one...so that's not it.<br /><br />I'm honestly sitting here processing this as I write it. I am searching for the answers myself...I don't know why you scare me. ALL I DO KNOW IS THAT MY FEAR OF YOU HAS KEPT ME FROM WRITING TO YOU.<br /><br />God has blessed us so much these last few months. So why am I afraid to share it? HE has continued to heal my broken places. HE has taught me some deep and wonderful truths through HIS WORD...Yet I have not shared...not only have I not shared with you but with others who DO know me...Why?<br /><br />If any of you have experienced similar fears, please let me know about your experiences and maybe we can help each other.<br /><br />As I sit here pondering, reflecting, praying, seeking, and tapping these letters together on the keyboard and watching these words that have been hidden in my darkest place come out, I am beginning to feel peace and see some light.<br /><br />Maybe, it is because I am exposing it to the truth.<br /><br />Part of this started as I first confessed to you that I felt called to write more....to share more intimately...to share more consistently and with purpose and mission. After that, it seems any excuse would do to keep me from talking with you here...then to stop talking with close, nearby friends too.<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">OOOOH</span> how conviction tears at hurt places in our soul. It is good. It draws out the venom of the lies the enemy has sank deep there.<br /><br />Lies like...I can't! No one cares anyway! You have too many stories..people will think you made it up...too much like a "Movie of The Week" than real life. You are glorifying yourself in here not God.<br /><br />Truth reveals these lies and exposed they can not stand. This may be some of the reasons or there may be some more hidden even deeper. I still do not know <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">completely</span> why....I don't need to anymore.<br /><br />I now realize what I need to do.<br /><br />So here...exposed to you...I lay my fears down and make no promises that I can't or will chose not to keep. I lay it all here my fears, my typing fingers, my blessings, my troubles, my pain and my joys...my ALL<br /><br />Jesus take control of it all..it all belongs to you anyway...every friend, every word, every thought, every bit. Consume me with YOUR presence.<br /><br />May I do a Nest-tea plunge into your GRACE. Then let me swim in your love and then serve others from the overflow. Your Over-flow!<br /><br />Thank you for listening to me as I processed this out. Please share with me your experiences and pray for me.<br /><br />I do truly love you. I don't feel afraid anymore...I'd give you a big ole SOUTHERN bear hug if I could...the kind where I squeeze ya so hard we shake. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">OOOPS</span> I may have just made you scared of me! Hope not! If I did let's talk it out.<br /><br />Love,<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-55572125103507678442010-07-08T14:23:00.000-07:002010-07-08T15:12:55.058-07:00Do I Look Fat In This?Hey Y'all,<br /><br />This past month has been a doozie!<br />I spent it traveling, then going shopping for new clothes! Sounds like fun? It wasn't!<br />The traveling took me back to the past where the enemy threw insult bombs and fear grenades at my heart. I tried not to go there, but circumstances and memories were too much temptation. I later discovered that it was all in God's hands. He allowed the trip to heal and free me of my tendency to walk around in a victim's shroud or sack cloth.<br /><br />I often whine and lament because life has dealt me some hard blows. Then I cover myself with sack cloth and ashes, all the while, feeling like poor pitiful me!<br /><br />What started this trip into the ashes was the arrest of the cousin-in-law, who molested me as a 10 year old. He was arrested in 2005 (I did not know this) for messing with his own grandchildren. He was put on probation and became a registered sex offender. The creep got caught at the end of May, picking up his grandchildren from school. So since he broke probation by being around children, he was sent to prison for two years. As the news of this traveled through my extended family, several other, now young women, came forward and admitted that he had molested them too. I had not known this before. At first I sank deep into my pile of ashes, condemning myself for not telling anyone about what had happened to me at 10. "If I had only told" became my self-centered lament. Oh...it was masked in "Maybe I could have prevented it from happening to the others" facade. But truth be told, it was pure self pity. I am so good at that! God does not want us sitting on our Ash heaps over the past! After several days of weeping and crying out to God...at last I turned to Him.<br /><br />The message was clear...the past is gone! It doesn't matter today what I did or did not do then...that time is gone and done. All that matters is what I do now! So I found myself at the Sheriff's Office reporting a 37 year old crime! Turns out, because I did that...within a week some of the others did too. He is now under investigation as not only a sex offender...but a predator!<br /><br />It is amazing the release I feel! At 10, this man had threatened my family's life...if I ever told...now, his life is in danger. I feel clean! That part is a post for another time...still working through that one.<br /><br />The day after I reported him to the police, God lead me to Psalm 30 and took me shopping for new clothes.<br /><br />Read verses 11 & 12 with me.<br /><br />"You turned my lament into dancing; you removed my sack cloth and clothed me with gladness, so that I can sing to You and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise you forever!"<br /><br />A scripture song I remember from long ago, based on Isaiah 55 says, "Wherefore do you spend your money on that which is not good...Listen carefully to me and eat that which is good and let your soul delight itself in fatness, fatness! Ho everyone that thirsts come ye to the waters he that hath no money come ye by and eat!"<br /><br />I have traveled, became thirsty and weary, then cried to God who feed me from His abundance and clothed me in gladness.<br /><br />By the way,<br />Do these new clothes make me look fat? I hope so.<br /><br />Love ya<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-36439593617767527612010-06-09T13:36:00.000-07:002010-06-09T14:14:25.097-07:00No Favoritism!Hey Y'all!<br /><br />We all know that God does not show favoritism...after all HIS word states it clearly in Acts 10:34-35. His love for each one of us is unique and special...and yet....He loves us all without partiality. My mind can not fathom that kind of love. The closest I come to understanding is how a mother can love each one of her children...yet uniquely!<br /><br />Guess what?<br /><br />Our Enemy does not show favoritism either. He hates us believers all the same! Now some of us, He is more scared of because of their great faith or purpose...but his hatred for us is all the same.<br /><br />One proof of this became clear to me the other day as I watched some middle school girls interacting and playing a game together. To the best of my knowledge, all of these girls have a relationship with Jesus. However, just like us adults...come on ladies you know what I'm talking about...the meanness is still the same as with non-believers. One girl in particular who is blessed with both beauty, and a gentle and kind heart, was getting the brunt of the meanness. I watched as she struggled. I watched as her confidence became shaken and she made mistakes that she might not have otherwise made. My heart broke for her. Her mother was there and her heart too was broken for her daughter. We discussed our own hurts from being a woman in this world. We shared our own horror stories from past comments made from other women. Some came from those we knew were "Sisters in Christ." Our stories were different, yet similar. She is tall and gorgeous, like her daughter her spirit is sweet and honestly she is becoming one of my favorite people to be around. I am short and...hmmmm....let's say....oh I know....plump! My friend has always known she was blessed in the physical realm. I on the other hand, have often struggled with my looks, and felt ugly. Yet we both suffered at the words that other women have thrown our way.<br />We both have tried to help our daughters realize that it is what God thinks about us that matters...but we all know that middle school-ers can not comprehend that yet...too many changes and hormones out of whack for that...besides not many of us grown-up women understand it either, when those word-jabs come our way even now.<br /><br />So...all of this is to say...Our enemy does not pick on the less fortunate of us, or on the most fortunate of us, or even one those of us who are in between. He shows no favoritism...his hate is spread around equally.<br /><br />But that's where we can know that God too does not show favoritism. He blesses and loves us equally....just not all the same way...except one...He chose us as HIS BRIDE and we get to live with HIM FOREVER!!!!!<br /><br />One more thing...for those of you who have had daughters go through those middle school years...what verses did you share with your daughters? I would like some verses to give Zoie and my young friend to use as both swords and shields against our enemy's attacks. Please share your thoughts and help some hurting mothers out!<br /><br />Love ya<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-51019959612934322712010-05-28T18:03:00.000-07:002010-05-28T18:41:21.195-07:00No Parking!Hey Y'all,<br /><br />Back around Easter my family took a one day trip to Myrtle Beach. We got up at the crack of daylight, packed our car and drove the 3 hours to the beach. We were so excited to get there. We started looking for public access areas, where we could park and enjoy our day. We found one and begin looking for a parking place. All of the spaces had parking meters and Mike checked and they where $6 for the day. As we were just about to place money in the meter a man pulls up beside us and says, "The parking is free. The meters are for the summer season." Mike looks around at other cars in the little lot and notices that several are parked at meters that read "Expired." So we cheerfully parked and hurried down on the beach. After several hours of playing along the shore and a picnic lunch, we headed back to the car to drive around and look in the gift shops. I was the last to make it to the car and Mike is slamming the trunk shut. I could tell things were not so good. Turns out....It wasn't free parking and we had a parking ticket. So instead of paying $6 for the day to park there...we actually needed to pay $25!<br /><br />I read a quote the other day and it reminded me of this incident. <br /><br />"The road to <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">success</span> is dotted with many tempting parking spaces." Will Rodgers<br /><br />That day at the beach we were so wanting the trip to not cost us much. We listened to a total stranger and ended up paying 3 times as much. What looked like <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">success</span>...a free parking space...was costly.<br /><br />When we let things or others steer us to parking spaces instead of keeping our eyes on the path God has for us, we will also meet higher cost.<br /><br />I can attest to this. I have parked in so many parking places of excuses that have delayed and cost me dearly.<br /><br />I love writing. I love telling stories. I love motivating and seeing God work in the lives of people as they hear the truths of God and shackles of rejection fall away. I love watching them fall into the arms of the God they never knew loved them so much! I've seen it and experienced it!<br /><br />So why don't I do it more often? I park. I will drive a little ways taking in the journey in amazement. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Then</span> I'll see an excuse and pullover and park! Parking places that read, "Stop here. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">It's</span> too hard." Another may read, "Stop here! Your too old." "Stop Here! Your grammar is too bad." While another may read, "Stop here! There are more pressing or fun things to do here!"<br /><br />Parking places keep you from your destination. Yes, as we got to the beach that day, we needed to park our car...but that wasn't our destination. Our destination that day was a fun filled, worry free day at the beach. If we had parked correctly, and not made the excuses about it not being the summer season and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">should</span> be free...we would have reached that destination and not had to side-track with a parking ticket.<br /><br />Looking back, it still was a great day. We paid the ticket on-line and still had a wonderful time. We also learned from that mistake...which is one of the good things about parking spaces. You learn which ones to avoid!<br /><br />No parking<br />No excuses!<br />I'm going to keep my eyes on the road and listen to the NAVIGATOR as HE directs the journey. Next time I park it will be under HIS direction and in HIS space!<br />Wanna go for a ride?<br /><br />Love ya<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-54952046091897689712010-05-21T10:16:00.000-07:002010-05-21T10:50:09.079-07:00I Wasn't Sure....I wasn't sure...exactly how I stopped writing here. At first I was just a little too busy with life. Then, I wasn't sure what to say...I mean, by that time, it had been a month and I had just told everyone I wasn't going to let two weeks pass by again. So since I wasn't sure...I prayed. I waited for illumination and inspiration...what I got was one word...wait. Wait? How long? Why? What will my readers think? Then one of the biggest questions, "Will they come back when I write again?<br /><br />After almost two months of waiting...and waiting...and worrying...and waiting some more. I feel I have been given permission to put fingers to keyboard and communicate again. In the waiting though something strange has happened. I have pondered and reflected on my purpose for writing in the first place. So I feel like I want to share some of the random reflections and questions that have surfaced, as I sat here everyday wondering if today...I could again let the fingers and thoughts fly.<br /><br />Why do I write a blog?<br />Is it to journal? Not really, I don't talk a lot about my day or my family..<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">occasionally</span> but not all the time. I talk about my family more when it fits in as an illustration to what ever message I'm trying to communicate.<br />What am I trying to communicate?<br />I started out writing strictly <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">devotional</span>. It was for me, I didn't really expect any readers. Then I started writing to build friendships among other <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">bloggers</span>...and some beautiful friendships have formed through this blog.<br />I even did some give-aways, told funny stories, put up weird "Can you guess what this is" pictures.<br />But I came back to the same question...Why do I write this blog?<br />I wasn't sure.<br />Was it to propel or advertise my speaking ministry? Well that has not happened. I don't think so anyway. I've alsways considered that to be in God's hands.<br />The conclusion I have come to today is that for me, this is a form of Worship. A time to spend with JESUS my BRIDE-GROOM. A time for me to invite others to sit with us as we share together the amazing love HE has for us.<br />A time to talk about how we have experienced HIS love, HIS grace, HIS power, and HIS REDEMPTION in our lives. A time for usto encourage one another to look at what HE is doing...to see how much HE LOVES US!<br /><br />All that I have done so far in writing this blog, I believe meets that criteria....I just wasn't sure...of my own purpose.<br /><br />I wasn't sure...<br />Now I am<br /><br />Love you and have missed our time more than any keyboard can communicate! If I have lost any of you I'm sorry....but it isn't about me or you...it's about JESUS.<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-51367621920251703822010-03-09T13:55:00.000-08:002010-03-09T14:04:37.623-08:00I'm Still HereHey Y'all,<br />I'm still among the living just extremely busy.<br />We finally all got over our fevers....Thanks so much for your prayers. I was out of school one week and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Zoie</span> was out the next. So that was two weeks of catch-up work that needed to be done. I thanked God for Mike's flexible schedule that allowed both of us to work some.<br />So we have spent last week playing catch-up and I had to sub three days so it was a full week.<br />Yesterday I actually did nothing after I got home from work. Well nothing constructive. I watched a movie and read. It was a lazy day and I only half-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">heartily</span> feel guilty for doing nothing.<br />Today I am full of energy and purpose, so much was accomplished. Still a lot to work on...please don't plan on visiting me unless you want to sit between my loads of laundry and help me unload my dishwasher.<br /><br />Tomorrow and Thursday I am writing Curriculum after work, along with tutoring and taking care of a friend's son in the afternoons. I also hope to post here some lessons God has taught me recently.<br /><br />Through all the business and sickness His grace has amazed me! So expect some cool stories soon cause you know I love to tell them.<br /><br />I love you all<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-61785535338366466062010-02-19T03:42:00.001-08:002010-02-19T03:45:09.760-08:00We've Got The Fever!Hi Y'all,<br />Please pray for us. Everybody in the Robinson family has a 100+ fever. Even my computer is sick...it takes 3-6 tries to connect to the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Internet</span>. So only my dog who has stopped having anything to do with us is well.<br />More news when the fever is down and I don't feel like falling over!<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-32763817047145621232010-02-12T03:25:00.000-08:002010-02-12T03:28:28.039-08:00Being StillHey Y'all,<br />We are being still.<br />We are being still and knowing<br />We are being still and knowing that He is God.<br />We are being still and knowing that He is God because...<br />We still <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">haven't</span> Heard anything!<br />So keep praying for us and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">with</span> us.<br />It is easier being still knowing you are still praying with us!<br />I love you all still!<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-19026942134327416692010-02-09T15:06:00.000-08:002010-02-09T15:32:18.465-08:0010 or 2?Hey Y'all,<br /><br />Today has been an anxious day because Mike's package went before the Army Chaplain selection board today. We won't know anything for a couple of days but I have to tell you it has been nerve racking! I jump every time the phone rings.<br /><br />Friends, I woke up this morning filled with awe and fear. One second believing we are going to step into the Army like it is our own Promised Land and the next fearful Mike will be rejected and we will once again begin another run through the wilderness. As I'm praying, I hear a question, "Are you one of the 10 or one of the 2?" <br /><br />WHAT?<br /><br />"Are you one of the 10 or one of the 2? Do you believe God has called you to this promised land or are you fearful of the possible giants in the way?"<br /><br />Truthfully I answered, "A little bit of both."<br /><br />I want to be like the 2. The two spies who went to see the Promised Land and saw that it was good and that God had already given it to them, in Numbers 13-14. I want to shout with them "God has already given it to us! Now we must prepare to enter the land and possess this calling!"<br /><br />I want to feel confident, but I can't help but notice that their are a few giants.<br /><br />The 10 would say to me:<br />There is a giant called the selection board that only picks the top 60%<br />If you get past that one there is the giant task of <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">getting</span> your house ready to sell.<br />Then comes the giant of Mike being away at school 3 months.<br />Then the giant of moving to an army base, more than likely in another state!<br />There is the largest giant which will be leaving my family...my friends....my church...and my school!<br /><br />These are big giants...but as I prayed and asked God to help me come down off the teeter-totter and decide if I am going to run and hide like the 10 or stand in faith like the 2...I remembered something....The LORD is your Banner. It is HE who goes before you.<br /><br />That means...that even if the door is shut by the giants on the selection <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">board</span> God will be the Banner that leads us into our Promised Land.<br /><br />It means that if we are selected...then I can know that I will not be the one facing the other giants...The LORD is my Banner! My Jehovah <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Nissi</span>!<br /><br />I am not a 10! I am a 2!<br /><br />Keep praying for us. I'll let you know when we hear.<br /><br />Love you PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-20047672659988007612010-02-05T12:41:00.000-08:002010-02-05T13:07:38.371-08:00Sweet Sound of VictoryHey Y'all,<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The visual mystery has come to an end and I'm sad to say no one was even close.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />But I do have a random winner it is Sharon Sloan over at <a href="http://www.joyinthetruth.blogspot.com/">http://www.joyinthetruth.blogspot.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Sharon is a great writer and I love her blog.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZzBHo0I5RFEi79WpzLTCaIzrFWbtb84pa7W3FF7dV96i2_u4zcmWU6bD-zM-9gD68TKJWCHdgIxVCN3NPteTSeCdpnZ6hXDIJ2g8V6Yly8dA41bmqbeD1jj0l1C-gZa80AGXPUE6wpM1/s1600-h/IMG_0860.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434865299709948546" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZzBHo0I5RFEi79WpzLTCaIzrFWbtb84pa7W3FF7dV96i2_u4zcmWU6bD-zM-9gD68TKJWCHdgIxVCN3NPteTSeCdpnZ6hXDIJ2g8V6Yly8dA41bmqbeD1jj0l1C-gZa80AGXPUE6wpM1/s320/IMG_0860.jpg" /></a><br /><br />OK I know you are all dying to know what my visual mystery truly is, so lets look again at the clues.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />It has nothing to do with snow or ice<br /><br /><br />It is used everyday, several times a day<br /><br /><br />You probably have one in your house<br /><br /><br />You are looking through it and it purposefully blurred.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Drum roll please.....<br /><br /><br />It is the center piece of a tape dispenser. The round outside edge is the scotch tape. The<br />crisscross shapes in the center is the wheel the tape rolls on. The colored stuff in the background as you are looking through the wheel is stuff on my desk: Pink and blue sticky notes and my pen holder can almost be seen clearly.<br /><br />It was fun seeing your answers. I will have to do this again sometime. <br /><br />It is funny how things we see and recognize everyday when they get too close our perception blurs so that they are unrecognizable. Much like when God is closest to us during grief, stress , or even times when we are stress free and things seem to be going our way....we can't always see Him clearly either. He is there.<br /><br />Oh, I almost forgot to tell you what Sharon won!<br /><br />It is a Book/CD by George Beverly Shea called <em><strong>How Sweet The Sound.</strong></em> It is Amazing stories and grace-filled reflections on beloved hymns and gospel songs. These stories are incredible and I treasure my own copy.<em><strong> </strong></em><br /><br /><br /><br />Hope you all have a wonderful weekend.<br />Mike and I are going on a date tonight.<br /><br />Love ya<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-42631411294615591102010-02-01T08:28:00.000-08:002010-02-01T08:43:08.464-08:00Visual MysteryHey Y'all!<br /><br />OK, it is time for some fun. I have been cooped up with snow and ice for three days now, so I want to have some fun.<br />Look at this picture. Can you guess what it is?<br /><br />Here are a few hints:<br />It has <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">nothing</span> to do with snow or ice,<br />It is used everyday, several times a day.<br />You probably have one in your house.<br />You are looking through it and it is purposefully blurred.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwHSKJZB_aSz0_ZrOQASVElcPB87g52ht1QAIKjuHutrn1AQZZodOrKy6lx29BASDKF6ZK21_oom5xRsHd9BmNMOW3cYMIVN5XYPXmkL_MchOrY1-34qz3endWPdk6V1dPJ5iF6O-mhrx/s1600-h/IMG_0860.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433313333897036946" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwHSKJZB_aSz0_ZrOQASVElcPB87g52ht1QAIKjuHutrn1AQZZodOrKy6lx29BASDKF6ZK21_oom5xRsHd9BmNMOW3cYMIVN5XYPXmkL_MchOrY1-34qz3endWPdk6V1dPJ5iF6O-mhrx/s320/IMG_0860.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Can you guess?<br />If you can....There is a prize involved.<br /><br />I will award a prize to anyone who can guess what it is. In the case of no one getting the right answer, I will draw a random winner.<br /><br />I will select the winner on Friday, February 5<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span>.<br /><br />The prize will also remain a mystery until the winner is chosen<br /><br />But I promise you I wont stick you with it.<br /><br /><br />Keep praying for us that God will grant Mike favor with the Chaplain boards on February 9<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span>. Oh My! That is just a week from tomorrow!<br /><br />Thanks for playing and praying!<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5041816001008884049.post-45157280130597280582010-01-27T19:13:00.000-08:002010-01-27T19:45:51.953-08:00Pardon My PurityHey Y'all,<br /><br />First....if you haven't heard the news please take a quick moment and read the small post below. Then say a prayer and have a happy dance with me!<br /><br />Our verse today is found in 1 Corinthians 1:30 "God has united us with Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made Him to be wisdom itself. Christ made us right with God; He made us pure and holy, and freed us from sin." (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">NLT</span>)<br /><br />I can tell you right now...I do not feel pure or holy! And since everyday I battle with temptation and sinful desires, I certainly do not feel free from sin. I mean...come on...it's a constant battle!<br /><br />But God.....I have to stop here and say those words again....But God....oh...still not enough...one more time with gusto....BUT GOD....says Christ made me pure. Christ made me holy. Christ made me free from sin.<br /><br />This is so hard to believe....I am in God's eyes already free....already pure...already holy. But God...in His word says that I am. You see, God sees us not only as we are right this second, but also as we will be when we stand before His throne. God sees without the <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">constrains</span> of time. He sees my eternity of His rest, as well as my short battling time here...all at the same time. Because I have been Set As One with God as we studied last time, all God sees is that pure, holy, delicate piece of His matching set.<br /><br />Friends, we so often think because we are bombarded with temptations and troubles of this world we are not pure. Look at the cross.....It has already bore whatever has been or will be thrown at us. We are free....because the cross of Christ set us free.<br /><br />You know why I think I don't feel pure, holy or free when God says I am...because I look at the wrong things. I look at the circumstances, or the temptation, or the trial and not at God. Like two people looking through a set of bars of a jail cell...both see the bars...only one is outside the cell and one is inside. If the one who is outside never turns his eyes to his freedom and only focuses on those bars...he too will feel as if he is also a prisoner.<br /><br />Look and focus on this verse, instead of the prison bars, sin has fooled us with. Christ made us pure and holy and He freed us from sin. It is not us who are prisoners of sin, it is our enemy who is already the true captive.<br /><br />So <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">pardon</span> my purity...I am walking this week like the pure, holy and free woman that I am!<br />Wanna take a walk with me?<br /><br />Love ya<br />PamelaPinkshoeladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13814903238546685727noreply@blogger.com0