Empty Boat

Out of all the things I had to get done today, writing a blog was not one of them.  So in sincere "attention challenged" fashion, I write anyway. I found something else to do instead of what I'm supposed to be working on. This is my story. This is my song!

Oh how I have missed talking to you. Emptying my mind and telling you how the Lord speaks in the midst of my crazy was my therapy. It was how I shared the good news I received in my time with the Lord.

So fast forward to now. My days are still crazy. I decided to take my own advice and Jump out of the safety of my boat! The Lord is showing himself faithful minute by minute. That's how I'm living life. Minute by minute. Taking one step and waiting for the Lord to tell me when to move again because if left up to me, I'd convince myself to run quickly in the wrong direction.

The reason I have been away for so long is that I've been in a place where I am being pulled in every direction and uncertain of my own abilities to manage them. It's been day after day waiting and receiving "daily bread." Everyday, the Lord has given me enough for that day. And when I open my eyes the next, I am grateful and wait for the day's direction

I have been fighting and resisting this place. Ugh! I need to KNOW!  The human, independent, prideful part of me needs to know the layout and direction in full. Not in part!

Anyway...I digress!

See...I'm still crazy! :)

Remembering the instructions of  Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to  Him and he will make your paths straight."

I have had several conversations with myself about being here a few times before. Back then I opted to get out of the water and back into my boat. The force of the winds and waves of life pushed me to focus on my own lack of strength instead of omnipotence of my God! So as I talk to myself, I remind me that I know all too well how it feels to walk in a false sense of security inside the familiarity of my boat. It's a place also known as fear. It robs you of experiencing the promises and purpose that the Lord has so freely extended.  Fear doesn't allow for anything but limits you in everything. I am very familiar with this place of emptiness and regret.

NOT THIS TIME!

Have you been there? Or are you here with me? Waiting. Wondering. Not knowing how or when? Have you been or are you in that place where the Lord is showing you that your time frame is not His? Is he demonstrating that you are limited by time but he is eternal?

Are you being reminded that He is in control and not your desires? Is he teaching you to sift your desires through his word?

As I lamented about the winds and rain outside of the boat, I was swiftly reminded that this is the place where He wants us. Total dependence on Him. Not on our own abilities and fears. This is where He teaches us his priorities as we abandon our own. We learn patience, courage and his goodness.

I want to encourage you as I encourage myself.

It's in this place that we see the magnificence of a God who wanted us even when we didn't want him.

"In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us." I John 4:10

I am overwhelmed that he wants us to know Him:

"God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us." Acts 17:27.

I am humbled that the God of the Universe wants us to come closer. The more he pulls the more we reach.

So with tear stained faces, we exhale, unclench our fists and we wait in the water. Not because we are confident in ourselves and our waiting. But we are confident in the One whom we are waiting on! The One who has the power to calm the winds and waves. He is the same One who placed that power in us!  He wants to lead and guide us to the place that he has appointed just for us.

Go ahead. Look around. This is not a place of fear and worry. It's a place where the Providence of God reigns. This place where he prepares us in humility to depend only on Him!

Rest in Him.

Trust Him fully.

He is ABLE!

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." Ephesians 3:20-21

 And the comfort in all of this is that we may not understand why we wait but we don't have to wait alone.

He is Here!

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6


Blessings!



copyright 2016 www.shundriariddick.com  All Rights Reserved.

Have You Made It?

I’m here to let you in on something. I’ve recently come to a realization that I need to share.  I need to say this but you need to hold on to your seat.  When I found out, I almost fell out of my chair. My heart dropped and I couldn’t believe that I fell for it.  I’ve been around for years and I can usually figure things out. But this one…

Are you ready?

Ok…

There is no place!

You know the place we are working all day to arrive.  It’s the destination where all things are wonderful. I’m not talking about Heaven. I’m talking about here on earth.  It’s where we have enough in our bank accounts. We drive the right car and have the right amount of bedrooms. Our children understand and accept our discipline. They make smart choices and apply the discriminatory thinking that we have been pouring into them since the age of 1. They love Jesus and are living their lives for Him.

In this place our marriages are perfect.  We finally communicate successfully and both feel fully supported and appreciated. Work outside and inside the home is equally shared. We are completely satisfied in our singleness and we have conquered loneliness and all struggles. 

We are the perfect size for clothing and we have the right hair products. Great hair day is every day. Amen!

We pray for an hour a day, have a deep connection with the Lord, and can hear him in all we do. We have figured out our purpose and we are fully engaged in carrying out His plan.

You know the place.

That’s what we are working for. We are constantly praying and fasting for our arrival. We fight our spouses for this haven. We yell at our kids for this. We read books and seek advice from the experts who say they know how to get there. There are shows, movies and podcasts that give us steps on how to make it.  We want our family and friends to validate for us that we are well on our way.

What if there isn’t such a place?

I know. It's hard to take in! 

What if this is about the journey and not the destination? What if it’s about how you live now as opposed to how you will live when you get there?

What if it’s about your compassion?  Love?  Forgiveness?  Patience?

What if it’s about your love for Jesus? Sharing Him through your actions when you have not arrived or when you have nothing or everything?

What if it’s about how you love those who you or society defines as unlovable?

What if it’s about how you pray for others?

What if it's about how you treat your loved ones?

What if it’s about how you care for the sick or feed those who are hungry?

What if it’s about how you stand up and not be ashamed for what you believe and how you live?

What if it’s about humility?

What if it's about grace and not entitlement?

If so, have you made it?

Blessings!

All rights reserved. copyright 2015 www.shundriariddick.com 

Keep Going!

All of us have a desire to be seen at our best.  We have a face that we prepare daily. We wake up and outfit ourselves with smiles and pleasantries in hopes of disguising our pain and the reality of our current self. But deep inside we say:

If only they knew.

My struggle. 

My heart. 

My thoughts.

That I cry at night.

I wonder.

I question.

I’m uncertain.

I’m scared.

I worry.

If only they knew.

So we sit quietly

Waiting. Not letting anyone in.

What would happen if they knew about our gaping wound that bleeds throughout our day? It presents itself in the form of: Impatience. Anger. Sadness. Fear. Frustration. Fatigue.

Friend, you are not alone. Most of us are where you are. We are hiding. Hoping that tomorrow will be different. Praying that our situations will change.

There are so many of us that are going through difficult seasons. I am overwhelmed by how much is happening each day in our world.

"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." John 16:33

There is HOPE!

Jesus knows. He is not surprised. He knew when He created you that this season would come.

This is not the part where I say share this post with ten people and in ten days your prayer will be answered.  I will not list seven steps to freedom from worry, frustration, sadness, etc.

Sometimes we don’t need a complex answer. We don't need to share, click, or type "Amen." We need hope!

Here it is!

“Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God. More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”  Romans 5:2-5 

 I just want to encourage you to keep going. He will answer.  I don’t know how. I don’t know when. I don’t know what will happen when He shows up but He will.

You will know it when He comes because God’s presence ALWAYS produces evidence.

So no magic.

No steps.

Just wonderful assurance and hope.

You are not alone. He’s there.

He will answer.

Keep going.

“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you” I Peter 5:10

Blessings!


Copyright 2015 www.shundriariddick.com All Rights Reserved

A QUICK REMINDER...

With busy lives and even busier minds, sometimes we need a reminder.

We need to know that we are forgiven. Redeemed. We are the loved. 

In the midst of living life, we disappoint, fail and make many mistakes.  When we do, sometimes we forget.

We forget that there is no mistake, disappointment or failure too dreadful that it cannot be forgiven by a loving and merciful God.

So go to Him.

Right now.

He's there.

Ready to discuss it with you. As you come in truth and humility, He will help you. He isn't surprised nor put off by your sin.

There is NOTHING too hard for Him.

Give it to Him.

He's there.

Ready to cleanse.

Ready to get to the core of your issues.

Ready to restore.

He's there.

He gives grace to humble, so don't show up in pride.

He is close to the contrite heart. So come in your brokenness.

He wants to wipe away your pain.

He wants to wipe away your tears.

He wants to renew your hope.

He wants to give you a new song.

He wants to make you new.

Go.

"God is sheer mercy and grace; not easily angered, he is rich in love. He doesn't endlessly nag and scold, nor hold grudges forever. He doesn't treat us as our sins deserve, nor pay us back in full for our wrongs. As high as heaven is over the earth, so strong is his love to those who fear him. And as far as sunrise is from sunset, he has separated us from our sins. As parents feel for their children, God feels for those who fear him."  Psalm 103:8-13 The Message

Blessings!
.


copyright 2015 www.shundriariddick.com All rights reserved.

Stitches and Knots

I've heard so many times that you and I are God's Treasure. 

We are His Masterpiece. His Tapestry. And He has a plan for us!

That's so wonderful to hear. Isn't it?!  

I love knowing that He has a plan for.us.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

I love hearing about His promises. 

"For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. and so through him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God." 2 Corinthians 1:20

I am overwhelmed when I hear how much He loves us.

"But God shows his love for us that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8

It's so comforting that the God of the Universe cares about us individually. 

We often hear of these amazing truths and never fully receive what the Lord has for us because of our perspective. 

What perspective?

The other side of the Tapestry.

Many of us view life looking at the back side of this Masterpiece. 

It's a mess!

Random threads. Jumbled. Purposeless. Knots. Chaotic.Tangled. Frayed. Senseless.

God is the Master Weaver. His view is complete. Every thread of failure, loss, rejection, triumph, faith, and promise are woven into His wonderful design. 

He is creating His Master Work!. 

Everywhere you go. Everything you see. There are no accidents. Your experiences are custom made.  

Every now and then He gives us a glimpse of what He is weaving. We see the beauty in life. We understand our purpose. We see the colors and patterns of answered prayer. We see the threads of impossibility woven to create possibility. We get the courage to continue because we can see that life isn't random and nothing is an accident.

Where are you today? What are you dealing with at this moment? 

Loneliness...

Uncertainty...

Chaos..,

Family Discord...

Divorce...

Financial Difficulty...

Exhaustion...

Sickness...

During these times we often lose heart. Whatever it is, it's not the full picture.

"For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when completeness comes, what is in part disappears."  I Corinthians 13:9 

Every experience from the top of the mountain to the inmost depth of the valley is not wasted. 

He's weaving.

He's planning.

Something good.

Even when we don't see it.

Every stitch.  Every thread. Every knot. Every color. Every direction.

His Perfection.

His Jewel.

His Masterpiece.

For His Glory. 

Amen!

Blessings!

copyright 2015 www.shundriariddick.com All rights reserved.

Are You Sticking to Your Story?

I am humbled and blown away that I have been chosen by the Lord to walk with people during difficult seasons in their lives.  I am so unworthy.  I know that I am full of flaws and can in no way sit in a seat of wise counsel without the inexplicable grace of my Savior.

I listen to many stories and am in complete awe of how much grace is given to each of us. 

Over the years, I have learned that there is a story in us all.  There are stories of generational sins, abuse, broken homes and abandonment.  Many of these stories are of unspoken experiences that linger in the crevices of our minds.  Unfortunately some are stored only in the simulated safety of secrets.  Unbelievable experiences that fester and are transformed into behaviors that destroy marriages, hurt children, nurture depression and perpetuate cycles that never end.

What's your story?

Yes.  All of us have a story of how we have become who we are and why we have made the decisions we have made. Actually, I think at times we prefer these stories.  They nurse the victim in some or they feed the ego in others.  We like the feeling of how they embrace us and we relax in the comfort of their familiar voice. 

Of course we have episodes of happiness, success, deliverance and freedom.  We love them. We keep them. We nurture these as well. However, in times of stress and hardship due to the unpredictability of life, they are consumed and replaced with the repetitive play of our narratives that feed our feelings of helplessness, defeat, fear and discouragement.

What role in life have you taken as a result of your story? What role do you fight for and defend? How has this role influenced your life and relationships? 

I ask because I don’t think we realize that we are so entrenched by them that when we hear the truth of God’s word, we reject the freedom it offers.   We sing about deliverance in the safety of a jail cell with the door wide open!

But God!

The outcome of our stories was changed because of the outcome of the CROSS! 

Jesus lives and He has interrupted our story with a new role:

Free.

Redeemed. 

Conqueror. 

Blessed. 

Holy. 

Beloved. 

Friend.

Beautiful. 

Courageous.

Equipped.

HIS.

Let's take it! It completely changes our story!

And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you FREE! John 8:32

Blessings!

copyright 2015 www.shundriariddick.com All Rights Reserved

These Days

These Days...

I can't even begin to tell you about the twists and turns life has taken me. I am grateful. At the time of the twist or turn, I can't say that my first thought was "I'm grateful." It was something like "Are you kidding me?!"

Older women often encourage me and say "enjoy these days because you will miss them!"

I try to remember that as I scrub stains from my carpet or clean toilet seats. There's a bunch of stuff happening during these magical days. It's easy to get lost in the madness of it all.

Raising our three children, my husband and I often find ourselves bending in the winds of their lives. Homework, chores, extracurricular activities, and their many personalities are enough to keep us busy at all times.

This weekend our family traveled to San Antonio, Texas where our oldest son participated in a State Mariachi Competition.  In one day, we sat through eight hours of mariachi music. Any music for eight hours straight is enough to cause babbling, extreme hallucinations and mild depression. Trust me on this one!

During this exercise of waterboarding, my husband looked at me with a sweet smile and said "We're making memories."

Then it hit me!

"enjoy these days because you will miss them!"

I sat there and looked around.  The room fell silent. I turned around and looked at the face of my son. He smiled. He and his friends had faces of anticipation and excitement. They listened. I noticed the eyes of their director that were filled with confidence and hope. She listened. I captured the faces of their administrators and teachers who traveled to offer encouragement and support. They were proud. They listened. My daughter held my hand and my youngest son offered me another kiss. My husband pulled me closer.

I inhaled to remember the smells. I closed my eyes to hear what my eyes missed.

I cried a few tears and whispered "Lord thank you."

Immediately, I changed my perspective. It was no longer an elongated grim experience. It was my children's childhood. It was my years with my husband and school aged children. It was the support of friends and family. It was the lesson of hard work. It was a memory of longing for children and this moment being an answer to prayer.

I was there. Fully. I felt every second of it.

So this week I only have this.

Nothing deep.

Simple.

These days are your memories. Your stories. Your testimonies. Your deliverance. Your victories. Your failures. Your lessons.

Your Life.

These days are your life.

Regardless of your situation, you can change your perspective and see the artistry of your days.

These days.

Enjoy them because one day you will miss them.


Blessings!




copyright 2015 www.shundriariddick.com  All rights reserved.

Hello My Name Is ______

What a rough and wonderful week it has been! Jumping out of the boat has been mind blowing! What I've tried to avoid (fear, doubt, uncertainty, etc) has met me face to face in the water. 

But...I'm swimming.

I've had many discussions this week with others who are also diving in!  All have said "I agree Shundria. Enough is enough. It is time to go for it. It's time to walk in our purpose!"

So many are trying to maneuver their jump. but are constantly bombarded by their past. They are haunted by past mistakes, failures, and hurts.

I have listened intently while being told of overwhelming guilt and shame. Many are wanting to jump into their purpose but feel as though too many mistakes have been made. They are carrying too much baggage and too many people know about it.  They said "I need to learn to be different. To be free. I need to find out how to be victorious in my situation. I need to be better."

How many of us can identify?

With so many accusations from the enemy, we meander in the memory of our past.  We make decisions about our future as if our history is our present. 

But GOD! *insert praise here!*

Our past is over. It will always be what it was. It can only do what it did. We can't change it. It's done.

I thank the Lord that we don't have to unravel our history to have hope for our future.

This week as the enemy accuses you with your own words, actions, failures, mistakes and broken promises, remind him of your name! Christ has given you a new one:

He calls you Justified and Redeemed. 

But they are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus - Romans 3:24

You are Not Condemned.

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus - Romans 8:1

He calls you Chosen, Holy and Blameless before God.

For he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world that we may be holy and unblemished in his sight in love - Ephesians 1:4

He calls you Free.

For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be subject again to the yoke of slavery- Galatians 5:1

He calls you Complete. 

You have been filled in him, who is the head over every ruler and authority - Colossians 2:10

He calls you Chosen.

We know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you - I Thessalonians 1:4

He calls you Friend.

I no longer call you slaves, because the slave does not understand what his master is doing. But I have called you friends, because I have revealed to you everything I heard from my Father.
- John 15:15

He calls you a New Creation!

So then, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; what is old has passed away--look, what is new has come - 2 Corinthians 5:17

Receive it!

#JUMP

Blessings!


copyright 2015 www.shundriariddick.com All rights reserved

Water, Water, Everywhere!

It's been so long!

Actually, it's been a year. What happened you ask?  Life. Husband. Children. Orchestra. Mariachi. Basketball. Volleyball. Work. Trained for a Marathon. Ran a Marathon. And so on.

What hasn't happened?  SLEEP!

During this last year, I've had plenty of time to think and process about life, work, kids, health, weight and fitness. However, not a day has gone by when I haven't thought about purpose. Not one.

From as long as I remember I've been told that I have a purpose. I've heard countless messages and sermons about it.  I've been involved in bible study groups and taken assessments regarding my purpose. Goodness, I think I spend most of my days guiding others towards theirs.

It's not that I don't know my purpose. I do. It's starting that makes me feel like I'm trying to climb Mount Everest while using an App. Ill equipped!

What happens when you know your purpose but have no idea how to execute?  You know but there's no map. No directions. No way of knowing how to even start. Is there an app for that?

What happens when you know and try to start but run into people who are thriving? They are working brilliantly at theirs.  What about the feelings of being stuck? What about the feelings of being unprepared? Feelings of inadequacy. What about paralyzing FEAR?

I know the scriptures about not having a spirit of fear. (2 Timothy 1:7 to be exact) I know about power, love and a sound mind.  I know. I know! But what about when you know and still can't move. You can't breathe. You think to yourself "What if I fail? What if everyone finds out who I really am? Inadequate!"

I was recently on a road trip with two of my dearest friends, Chrystal Hurst and Priscilla Shirer. As many of our conversations go, we begin getting into each other's business!  Asking questions and eventually holding each other accountable regarding some situation, project or plan.  For some reason today I was on the hot seat!

I'm still trying to figure out how it happened!

So I sat there answering question after question. They were holding me accountable. They know my passion and I have shared with them on many occasions what I love to do most. They have always been gentle in their support but  this day was different. While discussing my plans of walking in my purpose, the conversation got serious. Oh LAWD! They were drilling me about why I was stalling.

They were DRILLING me!

I felt like going into fetal position and rocking. (I'm being a bit melodramatic!)

Chrystal only asked one question but it felt like a million!  "What's your plan?"

I started to sweat and babble. Something about monkeys, wizards and wind.

Then it happened.

I cracked!

I lost it!

"I'm not ready! I'm scared." 

I just knew that these two sisters in Christ would lovingly support me. I felt myself vulnerable. Worried about exposing my deepest feelings. I knew that they would stop the car, hold me and let me weep into their loving arms.

Well...

Priscilla turned to me and with great certainty and volume said "Do it anyway! The enemy is attacking you and you can't let him stop you from moving forward. With all of that fear and uncertainty, you have to GET OUT OF THE BOAT ANYWAY!"

I looked to Chrystal for rescue. She looked at me. She nodded and said "Yep." (no rescue!) Thanks.

In my head, "There's no place like home. There's no place like home. There's no place like home."

I turned to look out the window and immediately I saw this scripture boldly displayed on a fence on side of the highway:

Commit your ways unto the Lord and He will establish Your thoughts. Proverbs 16:3

I thought "Chrystal, Priscilla, and the Lord are all ON ME!" I laughed, let go, and decided to get out of the boat. Not the car! :)

It's wonderful to have friends in life that listen to you and love you. But it's a blessing to have friends that are bold enough to challenge you. (Btw...those two wonderful women wiped my tears. Stood me up. Held my hand. And continue to walk beside me. I love them dearly.)

I was quickly reminded of a recent family vacation. We went on a snorkeling excursion and had the exciting opportunity to jump off the top of a boat into the ocean. I still marvel at the beauty of God's creation. The kids decided that they wanted to jump. I decided to photograph their decision!

They jumped. No worries. No hesitations. No life preservers. One at a time. They jumped.

Baby Boy!

Sweet Girl!

Big Boy!

There is one important thing that you can't see in these pictures. It's what gave them their courage. It's what made it look so easy for them. It's what made them look so brave.

Their father is in the water!

He instructed them prior to their plunge, "When you jump in, just swim towards me. Don't worry. I'm here. I got you. Just swim in my direction."

The Lord is telling me and you to jump and swim towards Him! He's in the water. He wants us to keep our focus on Him.

"It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed." Deuteronomy 31:8  

JUMP! 

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord you God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

Go into your purpose even though you feel ill equipped, inadequate, not ready, or not smart enough.

"Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you." I Peter 5:7

As Priscilla told me "Sometimes you have to get out of the boat. Scared and all. Just walk on the water anyway."

Let's do it together. Let's dive into our Purpose! Let's pray for each other. Let's surround ourselves with friends that lovingly challenge us. Let's Jump.

He's there.

Let's swim towards HIM!

1....2.....3!

Blessings!




copyright 2015 www.shundriariddick.com All rights reserved. Images for this blog only.

Fact, Fiction, and Feelings!

We have something to talk about.

I mean we are in desperate need to get something straight!

Being a counselor, I have the privilege of serving people.  I am humbled by this opportunity to walk with others during difficult seasons and am in awe of God's grace and love for us. I mention that because I have been serving in this capacity for 13 years and have served many people from many walks of life. I've heard many things and have seen many faces.

I have one question. 

What is going on?

We've been hoodwinked!  Bamboozled! Lied to! Deceived!

How?  Our Feelings or Emotions!

I wonder what you are feeling right now. At this moment. What are they saying to you?

Me?

I'm feeling bored, therefore, I'm hungry. Seriously.  I love food and I love to eat.  Sorry Oprah and Dr. Phil! I am an emotional eater. Food makes me happy.  Because of this, I get up at 4:30 in the morning to exercise. (There's always a price isn't it?!)

I'm asking about your feelings because we are being led by them. We are making life decisions on them. We are raising our kids with them. We are choosing our mates with them. We are choosing our wardrobes with them! YIKES!

And because of this we are CONFUSED! Why? Because feelings change.

Wait. Clarity: Emotions are not wrong. They are important, created by God, and should be used wisely. However, they have no intellect. All they do is react. They will react to a lie like they react to the truth. They react to things that are not real in the same manner as though it is reality. They are the response not the thought!  They must always be second. Not first!

Proverbs 28:26  "He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool: but whoso walketh wisely, he shall be delivered." 

Jeremiah 17:9 "The heart is deceitful above all things and is exceedingly corrupt. Who can know it?"

When we react in emotions, we often end up saying or doing things in error and then we regret. Our feelings get stirred up and drown out God's voice and His insight.  As a result, we make commitments we shouldn't make. We quit things in which God wants us to remain involved. We are confused about our destiny and purpose. We say things that damage people and relationships.  We have emotional experiences, make decisions, and live with the life long consequences. Daily. (Can I get a witness?!)

So what now? What do we do? How do we filter our emotions?

Our feelings are based on our beliefs. What do you believe? What is your source of truth. It CANNOT be you! It must be the Word of God!

What does God's word say about it? Yes I will always go back to Him and His word. That's all I have! I can't give you my thoughts. I have issues too! I laugh, cry, want to be alone, and with everybody in 30 minute increments 1 or 2 weeks of every month!  (Forties!)

Psalm 119: 105 "You word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."

I want to encourage you (and me) to stop submitting to your emotions. Stop depending and placing more value on how you feel rather than the Word of God. Make His word priority over your feelings. Believe what the Bible says! It is real. It is truth. It is relevant.


Blessings!




copyright 2014 www.shundriariddick.com All rights reserved.

Parenting You

WHY didn't anyone tell me how intense this thing is?  What in the world was I thinking? These kids are a whole mess of trouble.  From birth they are always needing things like food, clothes and beds!

I spend most of my days trying to stick to a routine that only exists in my head. Really. For the life of me I don't remember when two days looked the same. Cooking, cleaning, teaching, correcting, holding, kissing, explaining, questioning, demanding, and disciplining. Then I go to bed feeling guilty because we were completely off routine, ate processed foods and didn't have an hour devotional.

Maybe I'm the only parent that is experiencing the madness of having kids. I know your children are in total anticipation of your every word.  They long to be taught the lessons of life. They sit inquisitively while you explain to them the importance of homework, spell checking and not waiting to the last minute to complete a project. They listen because you are the one and only person from whom they want to glean.  They value the sacrifices you make for them. They are appreciative and want to give back in honor of your hard work.

Well...That ain't my testimony! And I am guessing, I'm not the only one!

We repeat ourselves. ALL DAY!

Wash your face.
Brush your teeth.
Make your bed.
Pick up your shoes.
Don't hit your brother.
Say I'm sorry.
Inside voices.
Don't whine.
Do your homework.
Wait till your father gets home.
Read.

I love you.

Read.
Eat your vegetables.
Don't eat that.
What's that smell?
Be nice.
Pick up your towels.
Who spilled this on my floor?
Is that how you like to be treated?
Good job!
Be friendly.
Bathe.

I love you.

Yes.
Clean your room.
No.
Wait.
Ask your father
Don't waste your time.
Study
Read.
Ask questions.
Go to BED!

I love you.

They hear us! But they have their own minds and they know better.

They know our voice. We teach them lessons of life. Lessons that will protect them. Lessons that will prepare them. We pray for them. We try to give them the best of everything. We want to equip them to handle the world that's waiting to destroy them. We want them to be successful. We want them to know what true love is. We give them Christ. We teach them to listen for His voice. We want them to know and embrace Him.

We want them to live beyond the limits of their human imaginations and the expectations that are given by limited people.

We tell them constantly that we love them because we do. We really do. Beyond what they can even imagine!

They hear us but...They know better!

They do things that make us ask "Are you new? Do you know me? When have you ever heard me say that was OK? You're going to do it again until you do it right."

On occasion they lose their minds! They don't care how many times they hear the same thing. They do what they want. AND THEN look to us to fix their messes!

Because they know everything! They've lived for a few years and they've mastered this thing called life. They don't think they need us until they do!

And when they do, we're there. We help them up and start repeating ourselves again because we never give up on them. We will do whatever it takes. We sacrifice for them. We love them. We want what's best for them.

Recently I lamented about our parenting woes. I went to the throne for us! We need help!  The Lord lovingly said in a gentle voice, 

"I'm just showing you...YOU. I repeat myself. Daily. I give you love and direction. I am the Creator of the universe. I AM the way. I AM the truth. I AM the light. I love you. Don't follow that voice. Read your Bible. Learn my ways. Know my voice. I love you. I sacrificed for you. I know the plans I have for you. They are good. Read your Bible. Follow Me. I love you.  Love your enemy. Love your neighbor. Don't waste time. Yes I'm with you. I love you. No I will never leave you. I gave my life for you. I want you close. I want you to prosper. You are more than a conqueror. You win. I love you. I'm for you. But at times you think you know better."

And...I had no words. Just  "thank you!"

I'm so thankful for his loving patience. Even in our parenting He gives us grace. Teaches us. Loves on us. Grows us. Walks with us. He has plans for us. He brings us closer to Him. He never gives up on us. I am madly in love with Him! 

Blessings!

"If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!" Matthew 7:11

copyright 2014 www.shundriariddick.com

Missing Moments...

After a long exhausting day of work, I geared up to go home only to start what I call my real job.  There's so much to do but of course there isn't enough time. I work about 30 minutes from my home but this day it took about 2. I left work and arrived at my house. I couldn't tell you how I got there. My body was on autopilot and I missed the ride home.  I was so disappointed because I LOVE riding in my car alone. You must understand! It is my place of silence and tranquility. I can talk out loud to God. I can listen to the music I want. I can sing with a voice that ONLY the Lord enjoys! But this day I missed the whole ride! 

I'm sure you've been there. We've all been there. We arrive and wonder "how?"  During the journey, our minds take us to places other than where we are or where we are going. It begins with a single thought. It then transforms into daydreams, wishes, wonders and unbridled imaginations.

DISENGAGED AND DISTRACTED!

That's what it is! Not fully present. Not experiencing the now. Being in the place but missing the moment.

I often wonder how many times this happens in our daily lives. Because it surely takes place. With substantial amounts of  technology, entertainment and busyness, it's easy to lose time in things that divert our attention from what's most significant.

The indisputable would be that we lose closeness in our walk with the Lord. How many times do we check Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Skype, email, phones, etc? Now compare that time with the amount of time we spend checking in with the Lord. Yep...I'm going to leave that alone.  Just marinate on that one! I'm telling my own issues now...NEXT!

What are we missing with our family because we are distracted by the complaints and frustrations of being with them?

Are we disengaging from the experiences we desire most?

Are we longing for a time in the future, only to get there and realize that we've missed the time we had when we were there in the past?

What are the sights, smells, and sounds that have gone unnoticed on the journey between prayer request and answered prayer?

I cringe to think of the countless times that I've missed the sweetness of the presence of God. I ache to ruminate on the reality of unnoticed whispers of the Holy Spirit.

I've started my day longing for Him and then became distracted by the events of the day. He directed me to Him and I've walked right by Him. I cower in the confession that it was purely because of disengagement and distractions!

But GOD..

I'm so thankful that in all of our distractions He holds to his promise that He never leaves us! He's there.

Deuteronomy 31:8 "It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."

Hebrews 13:5 "Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."

Praise GOD!

I challenge you to eliminate your distractions. Ask the Lord to help you engage.

Don't miss your moments.  Don't miss your comfort. Don't miss your encouragement. Don't miss your peace.

He's There.

Don't miss Him.



Blessings!



copyright 2014 www.shundriariddick.com All rights reserved.

When Life Hurts

There is so much going on these days. When I turn on the TV, log on social media or listen to the radio, I can't escape it. People are hurting!

I have the privilege to listen to people who are hurting. It's an awesome responsibility and I am grateful. Emotional pain does not discriminate. I've come to an obvious conclusion that hurt has touched us all. It's rarely welcomed.  It's often a spouse, child, parent, family member or close friend who hurt us the deepest. Sometimes it's a result of our own mistakes or the mistakes of others. Failed relationships, rejection, mistrust, disappointment, and unmet expectations are a few of the many ways in which we experience emotional pain.

Regardless of the source of our pain, many of us just want relief.  We long for that person to say or do something that will resolve our restless heart.

We want to hear "I love you" or "I forgive you." We want someone to say "It's OK. I'm here and I'm not leaving." We long for security and acceptance.  We crave hope.

I have had my share of pain. It has turned calm days into raging storms. I, too, have longed for resolve and rest. In all of my tears and heartache I have learned that my place of security can't be in people. Of course God gives us people who love and support us. They comfort and pray for us. However, at some point I will let someone down and I will be disappointed by someone. My security has to be in the Lord!

I'm not an expert by any means. But I do know that sometimes relief comes through the presence and words of someone who loves and cares.

So...Here it is.

I love you

"But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8 

I forgive you.

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."  I John 1:9

It's OK. I'm here and I'm not leaving.

"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." Psalm 34:18

"It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed." Deuteronomy 31:8

Security

"No in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."   Romans 8:37-39

Acceptance

"All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out." John 6:37

Hope

"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast." I Peter 5:10

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11

This may all seem very simple. I understand that situations involve many variables that create extreme complexity. This post is not intended to minimize. Nor is it intended to disregard. It is intended to turn towards an all sufficient God who heals our pain.  It is undeniable that He is present. He cares. He listens. He answers. He is Love. He is our greatest Hope.


Blessings!

"...and after you have done everything to stand, Stand firm then,..." Ephesians 6:13b



copyright 2013 www.shundriariddick.com All rights Reserved

Run Anyway!

I showed up to meet with my running group bright and early Saturday morning. I was so excited. It's been awhile and I was ready to be with my people. I'm a runner. I started running 10 years ago. I fell in love and I haven't stopped. Well, not all together anyway. There have been periods of time when I took breaks. Having a baby, raising kids, and life in general have made me park my shoes. But this Saturday I was ready to get back. I left home early because I knew it was going to be crowded. I was a little anxious because I hadn't run with a group in awhile. As I arrived, I noticed that it wasn't as crowded as I had anticipated so I got a great parking space. This day was starting off wonderfully. I jumped out of my car and there they were!  My people! Tables and Tents were waiting to welcome me and check me in. Wait! Why are they sweaty and stretching? It's 7:45am and the run starts at 8:00am. I saw an old friend and he asked why I was there. "To Run" I responded. He said "It started at 6!" WHAT?! Surely he was mistaken. I immediately checked my email on my phone and it was right there in black and white "Starting at 6:00 am..."

I WAS TWO HOURS LATE!

My excitement quickly turned to disappointment. I actually missed the run. My people had that after run glow and were already gathered in small groups. As I walked by I heard them talk about their pace and their plans for their next run. Ugh! I looked around and began to notice how fit everyone was. They had the latest running gear. They wore great shoes, the latest dri-fit clothing, race watches/heart monitors, ear buds (bluetooth of course) and running sunglasses. These people's shoes haven't been parked! They've been running and they are much further ahead than me. I wanted to get in my car, drive one block and let Starbucks "Soy Triple Venti Hazelnut Macchiato with Whip" take my troubles away! (Don't judge me!)

I frantically searched and found the person in charge. She listened, consoled and said "Run Anyway!" Those words reached down inside, grabbed my spirit and shook me to my core. Her mouth was moving but it was definitely the Holy Spirit speaking to me! "You've felt that it was too late for you. You've been disappointed and felt that others are achieving their destiny and you've been left behind. Study Anyway! Write Anyway!

RUN ANYWAY!" 

So I began my run alone. I ran the same route as the other runners and was reminded that in our walk with the Lord, we compare ourselves to other believers. We are often distracted by their "gear" and become discouraged that we are not as "spiritual" or as close to the Lord as they are. They seem so much further ahead. For those of us who haven't been walking closely with the Lord, this can be especially daunting when we decide to start again.  At that time, He reassured me!

REASSURANCE!

Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation. (Isaiah 12:2)

During the run I noticed that the hydration stations were still available. The same way He provided for the earlier geared up runners, He provided for me!

PROVISION! 

Therefore take no thought saying, What shall we eat? or, what shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. (Matthew 6:31-32)

The run confirmed that I am definitely out of shape. I couldn't help but think of all the junk I've been eating lately. None of which sustained or provided me with the nourishment I needed to make it through this difficult run. Yes, all the quick prayers and missed or shortened quiet times will not sustain me through tough times in my life. (I know right! The Lord spoke the WHOLE time!)

As I ended my run, an older gentleman was running my way. His pace was slower but he looked steady and strong. He must have noticed the agony on my face. I was out of breath and about to pass out! He looked at me with a huge smile and said "You look great! Keep going!" 

ENCOURAGEMENT! 

He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God who has called you into fellowship with His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.   (I Corinthians 1:8-9)

Let the Church say Amen!

I finished my run and went home in awe of God and His timing. I thought I went for a run with others but the Lord wanted me alone so that He could speak and I could listen. I am grateful. 

Do you feel like it's too late? Do you feel left behind? Do you feel ill-equipped or out of place? Do you feel that everyone else is either living in their destiny or closer to it than you? 

He is your strength. He is your salvation. He is your provision. He is your encouragement. 

RUN ANYWAY!

Blessings!

Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
(2 Corinthians 3:17)

copyright 2013 www.shundriariddick.com  All rights reserved.