Coming to theaters May 3rd, UglyDollsis the ultimate story about the underdog – or doll – prevailing! The film stars Kelly Clarkson (American Idol, The Star), Nick Jonas (Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle), Janelle Monáe (Rio 2, Hidden Figures), Blake Shelton (Pitch Perfect 2, The Angry Birds Movie), and rap-artist Pitbull.
UglyDolls centers on the town of Uglyville, where peculiarity is encouraged. When the dolls discover the world outside of their metropolis demands perfection and reject their unique appearance, they are forced to recollect who they truly are, and find that they’ve been remarkable all along.
Film Synopsis
In the adorably different town of Uglyville, weird is celebrated, strange is special and beauty is embraced as more than simply meets the eye. Here, the free-spirited Moxy and her UglyDoll friends live every day in a whirlwind of bliss, letting their freak flags fly in a celebration of life and its endless possibilities. The endearingly unique residents of Uglyville occasionally look to the sky above the town, where a new UglyDoll will appear and be embraced by the community.
Moxy (Kelly Clarkson) loves her square-peg life in this round-hole town, but her curiosity about all things leads her to wonder if there’s something – anything – on the other side of the mountain which nestles Uglyville. Moxy gathers a group of her closest friends and sets off to find what’s on the other side. They discover another world – Perfection – a town where more conventional dolls are trained in protocols before they graduate and are sent to the “real” world to find the love of a child.
In Perfection, Moxy and her crew are subject to the manipulations of Lou (Nick Jonas), the perfect doll in charge of training recruits. Here, the UglyDolls will confront what it means to be different, struggle with their desire to be loved, and ultimately discover that you don’t have to be perfect to be amazing because who you truly are is what matters most.
Summer is the season of picnics, BBQs, and outdoor gatherings. These events can be such rich times to enjoy with friends and family! But, they can also be loaded with rich, greasy meats, heavy sides, and an expanse of decadent sweet treats!
Special occasions are meant to be enjoyed, but if you have ever left a ‘special occasion’ with a little food guilt, you can change this. You were born with the ability to choose. And, if you have the Spirit of God living in you, then you also have the fruit of the Spirit, self-control. Learning how to exhibit that fruit requires some boundaries and practice!
Wise ol’ Solomon says it plain and simple:
The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage, But everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty. Proverbs 21:5 (NASB)
Determining your behaviors before you arrive, before the food is staring you in the face is to your advantage. The dictionary describes advantage as “especially favorable to success, interest or any desired end.” When we decide to “play it by ear” or “see what looks good,” hasty decisions can overwhelm good intentions.
As you begin to plan for your fun, food-filled events, here are some ideas to help you navigate the food scene:
Eat One Regular Size Plate of Food
At gatherings and special events, it is common to see the “platter-sized” plates available for filling, and even more common to go back for a second spoonful of the dishes that delighted our taste buds. But, just like you would do at home, set a boundary about how much you will eat.
You don’t need to feel guilty about enjoying a spoonful of a satisfying but rich casserole, but you certainly will feel it if you go back for a second helping. Choose a regular 9” plate. Fill it once. And enjoy!
Decline the “Doggy Bag” and Aluminum Foil
There is no guilt enjoying some dishes that you wouldn’t make on a regular basis, but choose to enjoy them at the gathering – and leave it there. That is what makes it a “treat,” right?! If these foods do not fit into your regularly scheduled healthy meals at home, then kindly decline the leftovers. By doing this, you avoid the decision to “indulge” or throw away – just make the decision now. Don’t bring them home.
Choose One Dessert
At many BBQs and outdoor gatherings I have attended, it is not uncommon to see an entire table filled with desserts! Pies, cookies, cakes, puddings… Why that many sweet-treats is necessary, I have no idea! But, I digress. When having dessert at a restaurant, how many would you order? When eating a homemade dessert at home, how many would you taste? One! Follow the plan you would use in any other scenario, view your “menu”, and choose one. Cut a moderate portion and enjoy every bite you choose to eat!
Don’t Be Deceived by Beverage Choices
Many common beverages at parties are loaded with calories and sugar!
16oz sweet tea = ~140 calories
16oz fruit punch = ~240 calories
16oz soda (ie. coke) = 186 calories
16oz 100% juice = ~250 calories
12oz dark beer = 180-200 calories
Decide how much of your preferred option is acceptable to you and then what you will do when you need a refill.
A few light and refreshing choices to consider:
Sparkling water (lemon, lime, tangerine, etc) – These are great when poured over ice and there are dozens of flavor choices in grocery stores!
Unsweet iced tea with a splash of juice
Sparkling water or water with a splash of juice and orange wedge
Infused water – Mint or herbs; orange/lemon/lime wedge; muddled berries. Create your own flavor combo!
Bring A Healthy Dish
When attending events thrown by other individuals, you can never be certain of all that will be provided. Wisely and strategically offer to bring a healthy recipe that you know is delicious and satisfying. Don’t be conned, persuaded or ‘voluntold’ to bring an item you don’t want to bring. Kindly decline and offer your healthy recipe – make sure to highlight its amazing flavor!
Ingredients 16oz bag coleslaw mix 6 tbsp rice wine vinegar 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil 2 tbsp 100% pure maple syrup 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/8 tsp fresh ground black pepper 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, + more for garnish 2 tbsp chopped green onion 1/4 cup sunflower seeds, raw 1/4 cup slivered almonds, raw 2 oranges, sliced into small wedges
Directions
In a medium non-stick pan, toast sunflower seeds and almonds on medium heat until lightly brown and fragrant. In a large mixing bowl with lid, add in vinegar, oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Whisk dressing well or shake up with lid. Then, add in coleslaw mix, cilantro, green onion, and sliced orange. Top with lid and shake up until combined. Store in refrigerator for at least 4 hours to allow flavors to combine. Before serving, stir in seeds and almonds. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro.
Servings: 8, about ¾ cup
Nutrition per ¾ cup Serving Calories127 Total Fat7.4g Saturated Fat0.8g Cholesterol0mg Sodium139mg Carbohydrate11g Dietary Fiber4g Sugar9g Protein 4g
So, What’s the Play Call?
Creating a plan for your next BBQ or outdoor picnic will keep you in the driver’s seat and guilt nowhere to be found. Before you drive up or even smell the smoke wafting from the grill, determine your game plan and personal boundaries. Have a loving, but firm response ready if someone insists you aren’t eating enough or implies you will insult them by not trying their dish.
As you think through previous scenarios and your own expectations for upcoming gatherings, ask the Lord to give you insight and wisdom so that you can respect your boundaries and speak in love to those who might infringe upon them.
burn the ships 2019 Fall Tour Coming to a City Near You
Two-time GRAMMY® award-winning duo for KING & COUNTRY is heading back out on the road, as the 2019 Billboard Music Award nominees just announced the burn the ships | world tour: North America. The extensive run will see for KING & COUNTRY bring the bow of the proverbial “ship” to life with a thrilling new stage and lighting setup, and will hit arenas in major markets including Nashville, TN; Chicago, IL; Atlanta, GA; San Diego, CA; and British Columbia with more to follow. The artist exclusive pre-sale is open now and fans can access tickets by entering the code SHIPS at the link provided HERE. General public on-sale date is May 3rd at 10:00am local time.
burn the ships | world tour: North America 2019
9.26
CURE Insurance Arena
Trenton, NJ
9.27
EMU Convocation Center
Ypsilanti, MI
9.28
Sears Centre Arena
Chicago, IL
9.29
Ascend Amphitheater
Nashville, TN
10.03
L.C. Walker Arena
Muskegon, MI
10.04
Bankers Life Fieldhouse
Indianapolis, IN
10.05
The Family Arena
St. Louis, MO
10.06
Verizon Arena
Little Rock, AR
10.10
Fox Theatre
Atlanta, GA
10.11
Bay Center
Pensacola, FL
10.12
Addition Financial Arena
Orlando, FL
10.13
Amalie Arena
Tampa, FL
10.18
Maverik Center
Salt Lake City, UT
10.19
Tingley Coliseum
Albuquerque, NM
10.20
Tucson Arena
Tucson, AZ
10.22
Reno Events Center
Reno, NV
10.24
Viejas Arena
San Diego, CA
10.25
Bren Events Center
Irvine, CA
10.26
Memorial Auditorium
Sacramento, CA
10.27
The Pavilion at Oregon State Fair
Salem, OR
11.01
Taco Bell Arena
Boise, ID
11.02
Abbotsford Centre
Abbotsford, B.C.
11.03
Angel of the Winds Arena
Seattle, WA
11.05
Casper Events Center
Casper, WY
11.09
Target Center
Minneapolis, MN
11.14
State Farm Hidalgo Arena
Hidalgo, TX
11.16
Berry Center
Houston, TX
11.17
UNO Lakefront Arena
New Orleans, LA
11.22
UMBC Event Center
Baltimore, MD
11.24
Bon Secours Wellness Arena
Greenville, SC
About for KING & COUNTRY’s burn the ships
Two-time GRAMMY award-winning duo for KING & COUNTRY makes a powerful statement with their much-anticipated third album, Burn the Ships, an epic, sweeping musical landscape that explores themes of new beginnings, forgiveness, hope, and love.
The album’s soaring debut single, “joy,” which features a 100-person choir and a hypnotic wave of rhythm and electronic sounds, hit No. 1 and has been streamed more than 18 million times. The lyrics cut through the cacophony of societal noise to remind us about what is important: “Oh, hear my prayer tonight. ‘Cause this is do or die. The time has come to make a choice. I choose joy.”
The inspiring pop masterpiece also represents the exciting adventure into unchartered territory for brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone, who were propelled into superstardom with the release of their critically acclaimed sophomore album, RUN WILD. LIVE FREE. LOVE STRONG., which debuted at No. 1 on iTunes and was certified gold. In addition to winning two GRAMMYs and four Dove Awards, the duo performed internationally on a hugely successful 60-date arena tour.
They have garnered five No. 1s (“joy,” “Priceless,” “Fix My Eyes,” “Shoulders,” and “God Only Knows”), nine Top 10 hits, and had songs featured on the Emmys, Super Bowl, Sunday Night Football and many other high-profile events, including performances on The Tonight Show, Today and Jimmy Kimmel Live!
But as they reveal in Burn the Ships, there is no looking back, no resting on their laurels. There is much more to explore and explain, especially during this time of great unrest when answers don’t seem immediately apparent. With a new level of vulnerability and honesty, they wrote every song on this project, which they also co-produced with longtime collaborators Aqualung, Tedd T. and Seth Mosely. “It isn’t perfect – far from it – but there is a sense of truthfulness and a heart and a personality and an ideology behind this record,” Joel says. “It feels like the most mature version of for KING & COUNTRY.”
The title track was inspired by a 1500s Spanish explorer who boldly landed his ships on enemy shores without any knowledge of what awaited his arrival. To ensure that the men were committed to their mission, he proclaimed, “Burn the ships!” The only way to go was onward; retreat was not an option.
“That is the big statement that this collection of songs is making,” says Luke. “We don’t want to live in the past; we want to move forward. There are things in everybody’s pasts that you have to get rid of—in some cases physically burn and in other cases you just need to get rid of them however you can emotionally. For us, that is the name that represents this collection of art and works best.”
These songs fit in perfectly with today’s pop music arena, where artists ranging from Kesha to Drake are exploring themes of religion, prayer, and God. The Smallbones’ words are a soothing salve for a hurting nation in need of healing.
“People are hungry for truth and hope,” Luke says. “I don’t think they want something that is false. So when it comes to people seeking out God, they are receptive because they are trying to figure out what is true and real. I think that is a
good thing. I hope our music can play a role in that, but ultimately people have to figure it out for themselves.”
Burn the Ships may be the duo’s most personal work to date because the songs are about some of the most meaningful and terrifying moments of their lives. For instance, “Need You More” was inspired by the near-death of Luke’s infant son, Leo. His wife Courtney found Leo in his crib, blue from not breathing. She began CPR while praying over their son, who soon came back to life. While driving to the hospital, the words, “I need you more/more than ever before,” came to Luke, who hit record on his phone. That original recording, including sounds from the car, was included in the final mix.
“My hope is that if I have gone through some form of suffering, maybe there is someone else who has gone through something similar who can take a bit of hope that there was someone else just like them,” Luke says. “I feel like God has given me these struggles to share those stories.”
“joy.” was inspired by Luke’s late-night marathon scrolling through social media. “I couldn’t articulate in that moment why I was sad, but it sent me on a pilgrimage, and that is where ‘joy’ came from.” I realized I needed to do something if I want to have joy. I can’t just scroll and find it.”
While “Fight On, Fighter” continues the duo’s focus on a woman’s worth, it is first and foremost a musical letter of support to their wives.
Joel and Luke, who have become American citizens, learned about hope, love and support from their tight-knit family. Their parents raised seven children in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Nashville in 1991. Music became the family business. Their charismatic father was a music promoter and sister Rebecca St. James became a successful Christian music artist, so the duo’s teen years were spent working as part of her road crew.
When Luke was 19 and Joel was 21, they formed a band and began writing and recording the body of work that would become for KING & COUNTRY. They released their debut album, Crave, in 2012 and won New Artist of the Year at the 2013 Dove Awards, where they received six nominations.
In what has become a full-circle moment, they wrote “Never Give Up” with sister Rebecca for the new album. Once novices, they are now their sister’s peers and have a shared understanding of the difficulties of being frequently away from home. “We learned the craft of music and fell in love with it on the road with Rebecca, “ Joel says. “In some ways, for KING & COUNTRY is a legacy band of Rebecca’s. It’s a real special moment to be able to have that creative collaboration after all of these years with her.”
The album’s theme of adventure and exploration ends poetically with “Pioneers,” a lush song about the romance and realities of long-term commitment. Fittingly, wives Moriah and Courtney join them on the final track. “In a time where commitment can be hard to come by—the through-thick-and-thin/death-do-us-part kind of commitment—it’s a song that celebrates that kind of love,” Joel says.
Perhaps it’s no surprise that the duo felt compelled to embark on this musical pilgrimage because they have been two of our most prescient storytellers in recent years, addressing issues even before they became part of the national conversation.
It’s as if they know what we need to hear exactly when we need to hear it. For instance, their 2016 No. 1 hit “Priceless”, which also inspired the Smallbones’ human-trafficking themed movie by the same name, celebrates a woman’s worth. Several years before the #MeToo phenomenon, the Smallbones sparked a movement highlighting a woman’s value that continues to grow and evolve today. They began writing and recording songs about hope and love several years ago for Burn The Ships, messages that are vital during these tumultuous times. Their music provides answers, comfort, and affirmation while offering a constant reminder that we aren’t alone, even in our darkest times. “We never want to be a voice of critique or criticism, but a voice of, ‘Maybe if we shifted our perspective, what would we see?’ That is the beauty of music,” Joel says. “We ask the questions of ourselves: ‘I want to have joy. I want to find a way. When I am faced with despair, struggle or hardship, what can I do?’”
Luke adds, ” The thing I am most proud of with this album is that when I look at all 10 songs, they all have a special place in my heart and there is a real significant story with each one. This album is about those songs in our hearts being exposed to others, and hopefully, others will expose their hearts too.”
I recently got cable installed in my apartment (I mentioned that a couple articles ago) and I flip through the channels a lot. Well, one day, I came across the Disney Channel and the movie “High School Musical” was on. Did I keep flipping or stop to watch it? I watched it, of course – we all need a little Disney every now and then. Anyhoo…
One of the characters in the movie, Troy, was the basketball captain but he decided to audition to be in the school musical. His father, along with the entire basketball team, was against it and they did all they could to convince him that theater and musicals were not for him. **Stay with me** Although Troy was skilled in basketball, he wanted to sing, he was gifted to sing, but he had no support. Not even from his father – the person he looked up to most.
The other main character, Gabriella, faced similar circumstances, except the other students barely knew her, but they were aware of her academic skills and they needed her for a competition. They joined forces with the basketball team to get both Troy and Gabriella to focus on what “they” had in mind as a “win”.
God’s Will For Our Lives
Now, I’m sure you’re trying to figure out what in the world this has to do with anything. See, in life, people will talk you into doing what they think is a good fit for you. They may hear you sing and decide that you should be in the choir – when God has called you to the usher board. They may even try talking you into something just because that is the area “they” need assistance in. Often times, people have their “wins” in mind and make great plans to include you – but for their benefit.
Sadly, many times, when you decide to do what you are actually called to do, you may look around and not have any of the support that you desire or feel you need to go forth in your calling.
Your job is to answer that call anyway.
When God has called you, you answer to Him. Yep, even when others are not in favor or agreement.
Now, I know my example may seem irrelevant to you because, well, you’re beyond Disney watching age. But know that although you may come up against opposition, God is there. He is fully capable of being the backup and support system you need in order to fulfill your purpose. 2 Corinthians 12:9 in our PlayBook says, “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” God is strong when we feel too weak to go on without our family and friends. Because you know – they are the hardest to disappoint.
So, What’s the Play Call?
Here are a few things to remember when you find yourself stepping out to do God’s will, without the support system you desire for your life:
Know that you were chosen for this! Our PlayBook says in Matthew 22:14, “For many are called, but few are chosen.” Make the conscious decision to answer God’s call, even when it’s not the popular decision amongst friends, family, or even saints.
Keep carrying that cross! Yes, it gets tough sometimes, but when you live for Christ, it is imperative that you intentionally follow Him. “Then said Jesus unto his disciples, if any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” Matthew 16:24
Seek God! It’s easy to look to friends for reassurance, but what does God have to say about what you are doing? His opinion is more important, in fact, it is the only one that matters. “Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his face continually.” 1 Chronicles 16:11
Be strong! Sometimes it takes strength to let others know that their ideas just don’t fit into God’s plan for your life. Let God lead you. “Finally, my brethren be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” Ephesians 6:10
When you are obedient, be prepared for God to use you and make you an example for Him – whether others approve or not.
Christian single, what does abundant life mean to you?
Is it the music video with fur coats, cars, and mansions? Is it the reality show where ministers and pastors of mega-churches have all of those things? Is it the dream job, the handsome husband/beautiful wife, and the adorable kids? Do you believe the abundant life is the life you’re living right now?
The Bible clearly states that Jesus came to give us abundant life (John 10:10). In one translation, the verse says “…more and better life than they dreamed”.
So God, where are You? Where’s my mansion, my mate, and my dream job? (I’d take any one of those three.) As seasons change, why am I always struggling, searching, and unfulfilled in different areas of my life?
Have these thoughts ever crossed your mind? They’ve certainly crossed mine.
Last week, I discussed my online dating experiences with you as a Christian single. I surrendered to His will and I put my future in His hands. I’ve had so many joyous, indescribable, peaceful days since closing my profile. I’ve drawn closer to God now that my heart and my attention isn’t scattered in a million places. I have time to see girlfriends and delve deeper into ministry, and I’ve spent time exploring and trying new things. As awesome as that all is, I find I’m dealing with withdrawals. Mostly, withdrawals from attention. What’s ironic is, I never realized how much I depended on it. I am a strong woman of faith who depends on God for her worth.
…Right?
How shocking it was for me to realize how big my ego was when I stopped receiving text messages. How difficult it is to finally let go of men who played an unhealthy role in my life for years. What a struggle it is to decline calls and invitations.
I found myself asking, “Can my life really be full when I start to empty out the people I’ve clung to for so long?”
The thing about being lonely is it’s an emotion that’s difficult to discuss with others. People can’t handle that one. It’s like trying to hold a hot biscuit that just came out the oven. Folks want to grab it, but they’re afraid to grasp it too tightly. Especially those that are in a relationship.
Do you ever find that married folks can talk about a bad patch in a marriage and people will react with hope and words of encouragement, but when a single person talks about their rough patch, people get nervous and you’re suddenly on suicide watch? Marital problems pass, but being lonely seems to go hand in hand with being single. Or someone will say: “God, just hasn’t brought that person yet” – as if your future spouse is the “forever cure” for being lonely. This isn’t true, so stop telling people it is. It’s actually kind of funny.
Is There Abundance Without Marriage?
I think we feel this way because we’ve been conditioned to believe that marriage is that abundant life. I mean the Bible says he who finds a wife, finds a good thing, but is finding a mate everything?
Many of you read that and probably thought “Yes, yes it is!” I know this because I thought it too. But truly there are so many verses that disprove this notion.
Mentally create the most perfect mate you can imagine. All of the qualities and physical qualifications you know you want. I’ve got news for you – even if that person exists, s/he’s not the key that unlocks the “Abundant Life” door.
Jesus is the key. The abundant life is full of happy days and blessings beyond belief, but it’s also being able to say “God, you’re in control, I still trust you” on the worst days.
Jesus is the therapist, the best friend, the healer, the provider, and the life partner we’ve been searching for. He fills the voids that we so desperately try to fill with earthly possessions, degrees, titles, trips, and people. All of those are wonderful things, and I hope you get them, but just know that “high” you feel when you have them won’t last forever.
There’s no need to backpack across Europe with the intention to find your identity. Your identity lies in Him. When the doctor calls with a bad report, you can’t cling to the newest thing you just bought. When the people who your world revolves around leave you, Jesus is still there.
Jesus Is Everything.
Discard all the podcasts, self-help books and other materials telling you how to endure singlehood. Live this season of your life out loud. No matter how long you’ve been marking that “(S)Single” checkbox, enjoy this season.
Find your joy in the things of God. Be open to spur of the moment plans. Make new Christian friends and explore your local cities together. Take a fun workout class. Decorate your living space, make a home. Turn the TV off and go outside. Join a book club. Mend relationships with family members. Find a hobby. Try to learn new things about yourself. Open your home for a dinner party. Join a ministry or pray about starting a new one. Open a small business online. Do something you’ve convinced yourself you could never do alone. Try something you told yourself you’re too old to do.
There is LIFE in THIS season; don’t wait any longer, move forward. There will be hard days and you may feel lonely, but the great days will far outnumber the bad ones. And most importantly, get to know your Heavenly Father in a way that He is more real to you than an earthly best friend.
So, what’s the play call?
Live ABUNDANTLY. This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us REJOICE and BE GLAD in it.
As a Christian wife who’s still doing “my work”, I’d rather fall on my pen than hubby’s sword any day. My pen is nice and shiny, has the smoothest roller you’ve ever felt, and the richest red ink to scribe an “A+” on everything I do – LOL!
Tell the truth. You’ve got a pen too, don’t you?
{Clears throat}
“With this pen, I thee wed, and will remind you of every A+ I give myself.”
Sound familiar?
How Great Thou Art?
Cleavers, when your spouse tries to express what s/he needs (that they’re currently not getting), do you drown them out by singing your own praises?
Are you unable to see their wants, their frustrations because you’re too busy looking at the grades you gave YOURSELF?
“Well, I do this, and… I do that, and… remember that time I did…”
In marriage, one of the most dangerous behaviors is to grade your own paper – to tell your spouse how great a job you’re doing at being their spouse in the face of their needs.
How often do husbands and wives fool themselves into thinking they’re the best thing since sliced bread – when that’s only true if they were married to themselves!? Marriage would be so much easier if only your spouse would think, feel, need, and respond like you, right?
Reality check, Cleavers – You are married to another human being – a thinking, feeling, desiring spouse who, from their vantage point, may not always grade you on the steep curve you grade yourself.
Trust that when needs are left ignored and/or unmet, be it communication, time, intimacy, sex (yes, those last two are different), finances – it cracks the door for the enemy’s pinky toe. You’d be surprised at how the smallest incidence of confusion or frustration can open the floodgates of marital chaos and destruction.
Put Down the Pen, Perk Up Your Ears
Listen up, Cleavers! We have to stop leaning to our own understanding in marriage and hear our spouse’s heart. Here are a few reasons why grading your own paper must end today:
1. It’s a breeding ground for pride.
Like mold, a few little pride spores can cause widespread damage in a short time. Your spouse will grow weary of you thinking so highly of yourself while their fulfillment is so low and their frustration is so high. There’s a reason why the Word of God tells us that pride goes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall (Proverbs 16:18). A prideful heart builds the very blinders that keep us from going in the right direction. Don’t let pride destroy your marriage, and trip up your household.
2. It does not value the feelings or experience of your spouse.
Value is everything to a marriage, and each spouse may have a different gauge or definition of what value means to them. No one likes their values trampled and replaced with a counterfeit. Your spouse deserves consideration for his/her feelings and experience – which more often than not, will be different from the way you felt and experienced the very same thing.
This is an example of Ephesians 5:21, where equal opportunity submitting can be achieved. Step away from your own lens, and check out the view of your spouse. You might be surprised.
3. It resists the truth that you are not your own.
Are you still trying to govern what now belongs to your spouse? In a godly marriage, both the husband and wife have granted loving ownership of their bodies to their spouse (1 Corinthians 7:4). So, instead of your voice, views, and opinions getting louder, they actually diminish and the mic is passed to your spouse. This includes the red pen. We are no longer our “own”, to do what we will under our will, alone.
4. It blocks the opportunity for martial growth.
One major key to marital growth is acknowledgment. We can’t receive forgiveness for our sins without first acknowledging that we have sinned. Likewise, if we only accentuate our perceived positives, and never acknowledge our negatives – we are fooling ourselves into disgraceful immaturity. The marriage cannot grow at a purposed rate if we refuse to acknowledge what our spouse feels. Even if it turns out that their lens was scratched, they had you all wrong, hearing and respecting their heart enough to listen and value them (#2) will grow a long way.
Bonus
5. It ignores the truth that God has a pen, too!
All of us pen-happy Cleavers eventually have to get out of the Teacher’s seat, and return to our desks! God is the righteous judge; He has lessons for each of us on how to improve as a husband, wife, and an individual. So, after you’ve graded your paper, and God calls for all papers to be passed to the front of your row – trust that His evaluation will be the fair, just, and true.
So, What’s the Play Call?
Let the sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17), which is the Word of God, be mightier than your pen. Pride doesn’t respond to anything but a sword! Our egos need to be chopped down before they further contaminate the purpose and destiny for our marriages.
When you step away from the pen and chop your own pride down, your spouse no longer has to! A frequent, honest self-check regimen, through the leading of the Holy Spirit and God’s Word, will minimize arguments and disagreements. Clearly, this takes work!
So husbands, if you’re tired of your wife nagging you about what you’re not doing – spend some time with God. Let Him evaluate and lead you. Wives, tired of your husband complaining? Ask God to show you you and how you can be a better wife for your husband and not just a “better wife” in your own eyes.
The ultimate intention is for the marriage to get an A+, not just a single spouse. Two (failing) 50% grades will not make a “100%”’ in a godly marriage.
So, as we cleave to each other, let’s strive to bring 100% to the table for the Teacher to finally say to both spouses, “Well done!”
“The Preachy Writer Podcast” is a new podcast aimed at helping believers live for God. Referred to as a “mid-week snack” it edifies and encourages Christians to keep pressing toward Jesus. Never predictable but always timely it is sure to get your passion ignited. Join the Kristina every Wednesday to be strengthened, challenged, and encouraged.
Every man has sinned.
Every man has faults and shortcomings. But as a Christian, we have a Redeemer through Jesus Christ. While no man can claim perfection, The Father wants His people to know that failure is not the final destination. There is a way of escape.
Listen to this episode to help strengthen your walk and help you to know that no struggle or sin has dominion over the redeemed of the Lord.
A couple of months back, I decided to wear some extra jewelry to work. Whatever it is I wore that day (I can’t remember any parts of that outfit), it made me want to wear this sterling silver ring of mine. It’s a cute midi ring with a tannish-gold stone in the middle of it. It belonged to my paternal grandmother and it was one that my dad had given to me.
I recall being at one of my school sites and conversing with the site volunteer. As I talked to her, I remember my hands feeling dry, so I pulled out my body butter to moisturize. I distinctly remember taking my grandmother’s ring off my finger to rub the moisturizer into my hands… and that’s all I got. Later that evening, looked down to remove my ring and it wasn’t there! I was devastated and although the last place I recall having it was at school, I searched everywhere. I looked in my pockets, backpack, coat, the floor, I even went back to my car, and nothing. I took it as a loss.
Fast forward a couple of months to an intense, loud music Saturday deep cleaning day…
I’d finished cleaning the kitchen and bathroom and I went to tackle my living room. I wiped my tables down and vacuumed my carpet and area rug. I dusted around my television and sorted through my magazines. Once I finished, my living room was spotless, but something didn’t seem right. I took a good look and realized that I needed to rearrange my furniture.
I stared off into space until I could envision where everything should go. I moved my area rug and tables to the side. Then, I knew exactly where I wanted my couch to go. As I began moving it, I had to go from one end to the other to push past a table. Once I gave that first push, I looked down and you know what was shining back at me? **If you guessed my grandmother’s ring, you are a winner! Uh, your prize is the rest of my story, keep reading.**
Is it Time for a Change?
Mmmkay, I know you’re itching for my point. Here goes… I thought I’d lost my ring for good and it wasn’t until I rearranged my furniture that I found it. I know you think you’ve lost your joy, peace, confidence, and your passion for good, but you just need to “rearrange” some things to get it back.
See, oftentimes, things get so comfortable that we leave them as they are for far too long. Sometimes we need to move things around to find what we thought we’d lost for good. A real-life example for me is when my daddy died. Now, I am still trying to navigate through it (lots of emphasis on “trying”), but some things I regained when I decided to rearrange stuff.
I had to start praying and reading again, but this time, my prayers were different (rearranging); scriptures had new meaning (rearranging). I had to do some things differently throughout my work days so that I could begin to handle this major adjustment… this “new normal”, whatever that is. I still have to rely on God for strength and peace, but this go ‘round, I’m sitting in a different seat.
Just like rearranging furniture, rearranging in life is a task and it may take some thought. You may have to do a little staring at first, but trust that God will guide you through it. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare to “rearrange”:
Clean up. If you’re anything like me, then clutter and dirt make you itch inside. Yeah, it’s a bit over the top, but you get it. Before I could begin to see the problem with my living room, I had to first clean it. Sometimes, you gotta get rid of stuff and clean house before you realize that a shift is needed. Allow God to cleanse you, your heart, your mind so that you may see clearly and things will go according to His will. “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalms 51:10
Be open to the necessary changes. As I cleaned my living room, I realized that I was tired of the way it looked. I needed something to change in order for me to be comfortable with what was going on in my house. It was time for some movement. “Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitude.” Ephesians 4:23
Rearranging is necessary. I would have never found my ring had I not moved that couch. I can’t tell you how many times I’d vacuumed, dusted, and placed things right in the area where it ended up. Many times, we need the new perspective that rearrangement brings. It comes with letting the past go and understanding that old stuff won’t work anymore. “Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them.” Isaiah 42:9
I pray you find that thing you think you’ve lost in life. Just know that it may be hidden, and rearranging may be the only way to find it.
In this series, Van Jones follows the victim or surviving family members of a life-altering crime as they journey to meet face-to-face with their offender in hopes of finding answers or some sense of healing.
The series shines a bright light on perhaps the little known process of restorative justice – an alternative to punitive justice where the victim or survivor decides what they need in order to be repaired or restored, versus “the State” or legal system determining what the victim’s restoration should look like.
Gut-wrenching and Real
Grab your tissues and brace yourself for a wild ride. While some viewers may believe the only point of view that matters is the victims’, The Redemption Project balances a glimpse into the lives of both the victims and the offenders. You will feel the very real pain from the void left in the hearts of loved ones who have experienced tragic loss – what that family member was like, what he or she meant to them.
And, while the opinion of some may be that the offenders’ only position is one of apology for or explanation of their actions, the series also gives insight into the background and experiences of the offenders that may have influenced their dreadful judgment and choices.
Hard, Awkward Conversations
How would you articulate questions that have been swirling around in your head for 5, 10, maybe 20 years to the offender who is to blame? Could you?
The actual dialogue sessions will have you on the edge of your seat, afraid to blink and miss one facial expression, one tear, miss one word spoken.
It’s a remarkable, first-hand look into the rather personal stand-off between victim and offender, the innocent and the guilty.
While it may seem rather intrusive to be a fly on the wall as people face their greatest pain and the worst fears of their lives, the show demonstrates the possibility of redemption for all humanity – against all logic – regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or faith.
Will every episode end in satisfying closure? For many victims and survivors, the concept of closure may not even exist; there are understandably some holes in many hearts that will never mend shut with confrontation or a conversation.
But, where there is an absence of closure, rest assured that the notion of courage runs deep through the veins of every victim and offender in “The Redemption Project” series.
Tune in and watch the transformation of the victims and surviving family members. What can we learn from them? It is within their audacity to be courageous that forgiveness and redemption are conceived and subsequently surrendered.
Yale Kim, Event Director for Promise Keepers, shares encouragement around the National Day of Prayer.
Witness a new wave of young people rising up to take ownership of this national observance. On May 2, the next generation is hosting an event in the Twin Cities called UNITE, which has become the largest annual event on the National Day of Prayer. Tune in at unitendop.com at 7 PM as thousands of churches and individuals from across the nation join the online community to pray together for our generation. When we pray, God moves.
Let’s stand with them and encourage prayer in our local communities and our online networks.
UGLYDOLLS Celebrates How Unique We Are
Two-time GRAMMY® award-winning duo for KING & COUNTRY is heading back out on the road, as the 2019 Billboard Music Award nominees just announced the burn the ships | world tour: North America. The extensive run will see for KING & COUNTRY bring the bow of the proverbial “ship” to life with a thrilling new stage and lighting setup, and will hit arenas in major markets including Nashville, TN; Chicago, IL; Atlanta, GA; San Diego, CA; and British Columbia with more to follow. The artist exclusive pre-sale is open now and fans can access tickets by entering the code SHIPS at the link provided 
I recently got cable installed in my apartment (I mentioned that 
As a Christian wife who’s still doing “my work”, I’d rather fall on my pen than hubby’s sword any day. My pen is nice and shiny, has the smoothest roller you’ve ever felt, and the richest red ink to scribe an “A+” on everything I do – LOL!
Cleavers, when your spouse tries to express what s/he needs (that they’re currently not getting), do you drown them out by singing your own praises?
Every man has 
A couple of months back, I decided to wear some extra jewelry to work. Whatever it is I wore that day (I can’t remember any parts of that outfit), it made me want to wear this sterling silver ring of mine. It’s a cute midi ring with a tannish-gold stone in the middle of it. It belonged to my paternal grandmother and it was one that my dad had given to me.
Mmmkay, I know you’re itching for my point. Here goes… I thought I’d lost my ring for good and it wasn’t until I rearranged my furniture that I found it. I know you think you’ve lost your joy, peace, confidence, and your passion for good, but you just need to “rearrange” some things to get it back.
