Do You Trust God?

I took this picture on the side of the interstate during one of the biggest “Live by Faith, not by sight” moments in my life.

After having spent the previous 13 years of my life with a certain someone whom I also happened to share 6 children with, God signaled me it was time to move and by move I mean to leave the father of my children and hit the road. At the time our family was living in Colorado in an RV and the Limo you see above was my car. He had a jeep.

To shorten the story, the Limo had not been taken care of for almost a year and she was driving rough. When God called me out in faith, I had a mere $400 in my back pocket and a car that I wasn’t sure would make it down the road let alone out of the state! As you can see by the picture, it was a rough time indeed. However, I have come to learn and even appreciate the truth that often it is during the hardest times in our lives that God gets to show off just how amazing He is in all He does for His children.

I’ll never forget hitting the road thinking I was coming back to Indiana when God informed me otherwise. He instructed me to drive to Mackinac Island where my grandmother was staying in her summer cottage. While I thought that was the craziest idea I had ever heard, I obeyed and plugged the location into my phone. What should have only taken a couple of days at the most, took me a full ten days!

The miracles that took place along our trip are something the children still talk about to this day. It was beyond crazy which is how you know God is involved! When we left Colorado, we saw a double rainbow end to end with such vibrant colors I wept over it. The same thing happened when we arrived at the docking station to ride the ferry in Michigan. We ended up only staying there for 10 days before heading on to Indiana.  The beauty in all of it was amazing. God sent me to Michigan to heal, rest, soak in his love and to be there for my grandma who just happened to have no visitors during that time which NEVER happens.

I still don’t know what all God has in store for me. He nudges me here and there. Like this job I have at the church. I knew it was supposed to be mine. I knew it so deeply I told some that I was just going to keep waiting for God to move the mountains that seemed to be blocking my path out of the way and lo and behold, He did. I love this job. I love praying over the church and all our members. I love creating the pictures to post on Instagram and these little shares. It all is a blessing to me and none of it would be my reality today if I did not learn to live by faith!

As members of Westfield Friends Church I can only pray that we continue to pray for one another. That we pray for lost souls and that we unite in our efforts to serve this little community that this church was blessed to be the founders of! Until tomorrow my fellow followers of Christ, Be blessed, but more importantly, be a blessing!

Your sister in Christ,

Wendy

The Only Way to Win!

Today is January 16, 2017. According to my Renew Your Mind Calendar, it is Marvelously Magnificent Miraculous Monday! Today I am so thankful that I can discern a spiritual attack when it is coming full force at me. To say that last week had some brutal battles in it would be an understatement.

I can not imagine how things might have gone down did I not know that I am forgiven, that I am a saint, that the father of lies is our biggest accuser. He used to come at me in thoughts, referred to as flaming arrows in Scripture. I carried around so much regret and guilt that I was like a puppet in his hands. That very thing is what drives me to share the message of grace, the gospel of peace and hope with others. I once was literally a slave to the evil one, I allowed myself to be bound by all my mistakes. This is not the life that God intended us to live. Far from it!

Through my walk with God and as I became acquainted with Christ, the evil one changed the battle strategy against me. Now that he could not directly convince me that his lies were real, He came at me in my dreams. He has dragged me to court and so much more. As I faced each battle, I never forgot where my strength came from. This is not to say that I did not cry or fall to my knees multiple times. The battle is real. Don't think it is not. It's why so many find themselves trapped in depression at times so deeply that suicide appears to be the only way out.

Another way that the evil one comes at you in battle is through loved ones; those best able to make a chink in your armor. I have said it before, "If you are not a warrior for Christ Jesus, then you are a moveable pawn for the evil one."

In waves over the course of the last two and a half years, the evil one has used a particular person more than all others combined against me. Yesterday the battle climaxed having begun days prior. It is to date one of the worst that I have been dragged into. I went to church and asked for prayers; I understand the power of them. It is why it is so important to surround yourself with fellow believers. The enemy loves nothing more than to seclude you. There will be times in your life where you need the prayers of others, it does something that nothing else does.

After church, the assault reared its ugly head again. It was as if it was making one final effort, but I had gone to my source of strength; I had stoked my own fire. I had brothers and sisters in faith praying over me, I was being encircled with a field of protection so great that it forced all negativity and noise right out of my life literally.

Within four hours of leaving church, I found myself completely alone with God. Every single distraction had been removed. It was in all essence, heaven. I sat and pondered on God and just how incredible He is.

Yes, there is an enemy to humanity in this world. Yes, He seeks to steal, kill and destroy. But He who is in me is greater than He who is in the world!

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly." (John 10:10, NASB)

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.  By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God; and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, of which you have heard that it is coming, and now it is already in the world.  You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world. (John 4:1-4, NASB)

Today, I encourage you to seek the one who can truly protect you from the evil one and all his ploys to destroy you. The world is growing colder and darker. Evil is amping. It has worked long and hard to take out those who love the LORD. I know he is coming after me because of the current book I am working on. He seeks to shut down anyone who is fighting to wake up their fallen brothers and sisters. The harder he comes at me, the more I lean on the LORD, the more I see His power is indeed greater, the more bold I become in proclaiming the good news. What he means for evil, my Father in heaven will use for good. I've seen this promise come to fruition time and time again. 

Recently, I have been gifting an electronic version of my book to someone each week. The messages I have gotten back are blessings of encouragement to keep sharing all God reveals to me. If you think you might be in a battle and are seeking a movie or a good book that might remove the clouds of darkness but for even a moment, one that might perhaps even leave you wiser to the evil one and just how powerful our God is, then please treat yourself to my story. It's only $3.99 and you can download it today by clicking here.

Father, thank you for your protection and provision. You truly amaze me and I am forever grateful. I pray that more and more come to know you the way I do. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Wendy, walks with God, mom of many.

© Wendy Glidden 2017

The House is on Fire!

I don't know a single person who has not at some moment or another either found themselves angered by another or found themselves being the one that stirs up anger in another by mere words that are spoken.

God's Word has a lot to say about anger and its effect. In Proverbs, which are considered to be words of wisdom, we find these three verses:

Proverbs 15:1, NASB says: A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 26:20, NASB: For lack of wood the fire goes out, And where there is no whisperer, contention quiets down.

Proverbs 26:21, NASB: Like charcoal to hot embers and wood to fire, So is a contentious man to kindle strife.

I have shared them with the children and explained the meanings to the point that when one of them is angry and the others decide it is time to whisper something, I simply say, "Don't throw wood on my fire!" It quickly lets them know to be quiet without me having to say anything else.

The other day though, my entire house erupted into arguments and I yelled out, "My house is on fire!" Instantly I had the children's attention only to have my husband call out from the back, "I don't want to hear stuff like that." To which I called back, "Not literally, metaphorically."

Over the years, by pointing out the fire in the room, I have managed to have quite a success record when it comes to extinguishing fires before they get out of control. However, when it comes to Mike and I, this has not worked quite as well. He does not have understanding regarding these verses and to top that off, he can whip some wood around pretty darn quickly. Recently, he has taken to throwing rotten wood at me and I have truly struggled with my own anger towards him.

He mocks me a lot for going to church, for my faith, for the degree I am seeking in college and for blogging and writing regarding God. It's a lot for a person to take. When you consider all the other things I have on my daily plate, its a wonder I don't combust into flames!

Regardless, I know that the Lord is where I find my strength and I also know there is strength in numbers. I don't go to church to be preached at. I go to church to learn, to be encouraged and to stand in worship with my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. I need that food. I need that time. I need those hugs from my fellow sisters, and I need to hang with others who understand this fallen world!

This Sunday, we had a guest teacher from Detroit come and speak. At the end, they called those of us that felt we were cloaked with something that was keeping us in chains, something we needed delivered from to come forward. I came up. While I have tried with all my might to rid myself of anger and resentment towards Mike, I was still struggling with them both. As I stood in the front praying for help with these, tears began running down my face. Someone put their hands on my head and began praying in another language for me and suddenly I fell backwards and found myself on the floor. Now I have seen this happen on TV, but I have never felt it happen to myself. After a moment I got back up and began praying and thanking God and again someone put their hands on me. It was a lady and she said to me, "Its okay, let it go. He is all over you, just accept all He has to offer." and wham I fell back harder and I truly thought someone had turned the lights on full force for such brilliant light exploded behind my eyes. That time I remained on the floor and basked in the Son's light and wept with gratitude. I truly believe God removed my resentment of Mike from my heart for my eyes see him differently now. It will be interesting to see if he can give me rise to anger with his words in the near future or if they will fall uselessly to the ground. What I do know is this, something inside me changed and for that I am grateful. Anger is a rotten emotion. It only grows much like jealousy grows. It is no wonder our world is in the shape it is in. How many angry people seek God for help with their emotions? Not enough, that is for sure!

Too much has happened in my life for me to lose my faith. Too much has taken place for me to quit writing just because Mike gives me a hard time about it. I have told him more than once that it is God that called me forth to write and I am listening to that call. I also understand that I need to surround myself with others that have true faith in Christ Jesus.

Mike fears the church. After taking both the History of Ancient Israel as well as the History of Christianity, I understand his fear. False teachers abound. We are warned by Paul time and time again to be on the lookout for them. This is one of the reasons that you need to read the Word of God for yourself. As you do, pray for understanding. The Holy Spirit is a wonderful teacher. While the Word of God will help you come to know God, it is in seeking Him directly that you will grow by leaps and bounds. The LORD wants you to get to know Him. He has countless promises for those who seek.

For today, I encourage you to put into practice the advice found in proverbs, "Don't throw wood onto the fire!" and should you find yourself enraged by someone else, kindly utter the phrase back to them. Perhaps it will halt them long enough for you to calm your heart and recognize your own wood throwing skills!

I would like to leave you with this last little tidbit. Satan LOVES for you to become angry. I am fully convinced that he is a whisperer of evil thoughts. From the very beginning, he has been at the root of sibling rivalry and so much more! Most people know that Cain killed Abel, but did you know that before that murder took place, God came to Cain and counseled him? I promise you , this is true. It is in Genesis that we read this:

Genesis 4:1-10, NASB: Now the man had relations with his wife Eve, and she conceived and gave birth to Cain, and she said, "I have gotten a manchild with the help of the LORD." [2] Again, she gave birth to his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of flocks, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. [3] So it came about in the course of time that Cain brought an offering to the LORD of the fruit of the ground. [4] Abel, on his part also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of their fat portions. And the LORD had regard for Abel and for his offering; [5] but for Cain and his offering He had no regard. So Cain became very angry and his countenance fell. [6] Then the LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? [7] If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it." [8] Cain told Abel his brother. And it came about when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother and killed him.

There is a lot to this story that I am not going to get into right now, for today our focus is on anger and the truth that sin is always crouching at our door desiring to capture us. The LORD's advice for us is the same as it was for Cain. We MUST master it!

I have tried myself to bite my own tongue, to calm my own angry heart, to get hold of my emotions and trust me when I say, "It is no easy feat." Even when I have been able to stifle it, I have not been able to fully put out the coals. It was only until I went before God and admitted that I wanted to be rid of it all, that it was taken from me. I pray that this remains to be the case. I know that it is only with the help of the LORD that it will remain so for I am under no disillusions that the evil one will not continue to whisper into the ears of those that are close to me. I know if he can't get my attention directly, he will use others in an attempt to pull my from my 'happy zone'. That my friends is part of Spiritual Warfare. Our nation is at war but the biggest war is the one being waged against humanity as a whole. It is my prayer that more soldiers for Christ wake up and begin helping bring the Kingdom of Heaven here to earth.

Today if you realize you are holding onto anger and resentment, I encourage you to ask God to help you be rid of it all. It is my prayer that you do this. It is my prayer that you feel the change in your heart. When it comes to others, it is my prayer that you begin to recognize your own 'wood throwing skills' and begin to teach yourself to grab a salt shaker instead ;-) ~ blessings to all who do!

Wendy Glidden, Mom of Many, walks with God.

Unending Love, the Theme of the Bible

Jesus is the theme of the bible and through him, God not
only created all we know, He reveals his unending love and purpose for us.

John 1:1-5: In the Beginning was the Word, and the Word was
with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things
came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that
has come into being. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.

Romans 5:8: But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in
that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more than having been
justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through him.

From the very beginning, God revealed his pleasure in
hanging out with Adam.

Genesis 2:19: Out of the ground the LORD God formed every
beast of the field and every bird of the sky, and brought them to the man to
see what he would call them; and whatever the man called a living creature,
that was its name.

As a parent, I have experienced the pleasure in my own
children learning the names of things. I can only imagine the joy the LORD
experienced as he brought each creation before Adam to decide upon its name.

As we continue to read the story of Adam, we are introduced
to Eve, the perfect helper and companion God created for Adam out of Adam.

Genesis 2: 22-23: The LORD God fashioned into a woman the
rib which He had taken from the man, and brought her to the man. The man said,
“This is now bone of my bones, And flesh of my flesh’ She shall be called
Woman, Because she was taken out of man.”

God continues to show us how much he loves us and enjoys
hanging out with us by sharing the truth of how we came to live in a fallen
world. As a child, I can honestly say I walked and talked with God on a daily
basis. I have even felt him chuckle at the way in which I thought I would be of
great use to him. This foundation is what helped me through the toughest and roughest
years of my life. In the story of man’s creation, we are not told how long Adam
and Eve enjoyed their face to face relationship with the LORD, but we know it
existed!

Genesis 3: 8-10: They heard the sound of the LORD God
walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid
themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden.
Then the LORD God called to the man, and said to him, “Where are you?” He said,
“I heard the sound of You in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked,
so I hid myself.

How many times have we tried to hide from the LORD God only
to discover at some point, He has pursued us as well?

While the LORD God could have ended the human race right
then and there, he instead chose a way to reconcile us to Him once again.

Genesis 3:15: And I will put enmity between you and the
woman, And between your seed and her seed; He shall bruise you on the head, And
you shall bruise him on the heel.”

As the story unfolds, we are next introduced to Cain and
Abel. Once again, it is revealed that God speaks to his people.

Genesis 4:6-7: Then the LORD said to Cain, “Why are you
angry? And why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will not your
countenance be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the
door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it.

As we know, Cain chose not to listen to God and instead
opened the door to sin and murdered his brother. One might think after this the
LORD would give up on the human race, but he doesn’t. Adam and Eve are
appointed another offspring that they name Seth. Through Seth’s descendants, we
are introduced to Noah.

In the days of Noah we read that the LORD grieved over his
creation.

Genesis 6:6: The LORD was sorry that He had made man on
earth, and He was grieved in His heart.

We are told he was so grieved, he said he would wipe out
even the animals, the creeping things and the birds. Just as one might think it
was over for mankind, we read about Noah and discover that he found favor in
the eyes of the LORD.

We are shown that Noah enjoyed a close relationship with the
LORD. I say that due to the faith Noah showed in building an arc as the LORD
God commanded. When the flood was over, God established a covenant with Noah
and his descendents. He blessed Noah and his sons telling them to be fruitful
and multiply, and fill the earth.

We are shown that without faith it is impossible to please
God because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he
rewards those who seek him earnestly. It was by faith that that Noah built the
arc in the middle of dry land. It was also by faith that Abraham went out to a
place to receive an inheritance without knowing where he was going.

In God’s eyes, the greatest heroes of the faith are not
those who achieve prosperity, success, and power in this life, but those who
treat this life as a temporary assignment and serve faithfully, expecting their
promised reward in eternity. (Daily Inspiration for the Purpose Driven Life,
Rick Warren, 2004 by the Zondervan Corp, p37)

We are also shown that opening yourself up to God is the way
to obtain a closer relationship with the Lord as we read the story of Job. As
it comes to a close, we are once again shown that God communicates directly with
His people. We see he values the relationships he has with those that depend on
him and he does indeed reward them for their faith.

Job 42:10: The LORD restored the fortunes of Job when he
prayed for his friends, and the LORD increased all that Job had twofold. 

All through the Old Testament books we are shown example
after example that God is more than involved, we are shown that He is fond of
us. Even when Moses threw a temper tantrum of sorts, God revealed he would do
as Moses had requested. We are told that Moses found favor in the LORD’s Sight.
He even tells us that God knew Moses by name! Calling someone by their name
confirms that you know them.

Exodus 34:17: The LORD said to Moses, “I will also do this
thing of which you have spoken; for you have found favor in My sight and I have
known you by name.”

Again and again we read about God and the relationships he
has enjoyed with those who seek him and come to him with thankfulness in their
hearts; fully knowing, believing that He is the Most High God deserving of our
worship.

In reading the Daily Inspiration for the Purpose Driven
Life, we are shown that we were created for God’s pleasure. We are also shown
that we were formed specifically for God’s family. It is with that knowledge
that we begin to understand that we were created to become like Christ and we
were shaped to serve God.

God loves us so much, He sent his son to save us. I don’t
know how much more proof man needs to be able to see the depth of God’s love
for mankind than that! However God takes it one step further and lets us know
that he did not come to judge but to save thus putting sinners minds and hearts
at ease.

John 3:16-17: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His
only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have
eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world,
but that the world might be saved through Him.

As we read in our text book, we discover the message in the
Book of Acts is this: Anyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
(Knowing the Bible 101 A Guide to God’s Word in Plain Language, Bruce Bickel
& Stan Jantz, 1998 Harvest House)

In closing, I would like to share a reading from my favorite
devotional:

Seek my face, and you will find fulfillment of your deepest
longings. My world is filled with beautiful things; they are meant to be
pointers to Me, reminders of My abiding Presence. The earth still declares My
Glory to those who have eyes that see and ears that hear.

You had a darkened mind before you sought me wholeheartedly.
I chose to pour My Light into you so that you can be a beacon to others. There
is no room for pride in this position. Your part is to reflect My Glory. I am
the Lord! (Jesus Calling, Sarah Young, 2004 Thomas Nelson, page 165)

For all of these reasons and more, I know that God loves me
and my purpose is to serve Him by revealing His Glory through my testimony.

References

Knowing the Bible 101 A Guide to God’s Word in Plain
Language, Bruce Bickel & Stan Jantz, 1998 Harvest House, p. 239

Jesus Calling, Sarah Young, 2004 Thomas Nelson,
page 165

Daily Inspiration for the Purpose Driven Life,
Rick Warren, 2004 by the Zondervan Corp, p37

The MacArthur Study Bible, John MacArthur, New American
Standard Bible, Updated Edition, 2006, Thomas Nelson Publishing

How I Ended Up Going Back to College

Colorado Christian University

Required Writing Essay

Written by: Wendy Glidden

Writing Prompt: Describe an event or an experience in my life and how it will influence my work and goals at Colorado Christian University:

.

In April of this year, God began preparing me for something big again. My world as I knew it seemed to be crumbling around me. I knew God never closes one door without opening another.

In the last few years, I have come to know that my best defense against the world is prayer and lots of it! I begin each morning talking with God and seeking his input. This particular April morning was no different.

At this point in my life, the place I was living in had given me notice that I had to move due to the fact that we had one too many members in our family living there according to government standards. We had until April 29th to move out.

God had given me an RV just two years prior. We had decided to move into it and see where God pointed us to next. I knew when he gave it to me it meant I would be traveling, I just wasn’t sure exactly when the traveling would begin.

Along with my notice from the apartment complex, I had not been able to hire a sitter whom I could entrust my five children with during the summer. I truly felt God was preparing to take me away from the family business; I just had no idea how it was going to play out. That was what I was praying over this particular April morning.

As I conversed with God, I said something like this, “Father, I know you are getting ready to move me; in that I have no doubt. I just want to make sure that I follow your will and not mine. You know how blind I am; please make your will obvious so that I have complete faith in your direction. In Jesus’ name I pray.”

When I sat down in front of my computer that same morning, I found K-loves encouraging word and I clicked on it. Instead of opening up to the word of the day as it has for the last couple of years, I was introduced to a contest awarding a $10,000.00 scholarship to attend Colorado Christian University. I looked to the heavens and asked, “You want me to go back to school?”

I knew in an instant the answer was a resounding yes. You see, over the course of the last year I have been studying God’s word and praying for greater understanding. I wanted time to dive deep into the Bible but my life was hectic to say the least! When God began removing the hectic out of my life, I knew something was up. I know he has big plans for me. This is why he sent me back to school. It is my intention to receive no less than an A in all my classes. I am grateful for the gifts my Lord has given me and I am determined to show my appreciation.

Wendy Glidden, walks with God, Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden 2014

Don't Sell God Short

Totally Terrific Testimonial Tell All Tuesday: My tell all, even when the outlook is bad and you think it may be the end, often, if it not your scheduled moment of departure, Our God has one more move:

"Look!" Nebuchadnezzar shouted. "I see four men, unbound, walking around in the fire unharmed! And the fourth looks like a god!"

Then Nebuchadnezzar came as close as he could to the door of the flaming furnace and shouted: "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!" So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stepped out of the fire. Then the high officers, officials, governors, and advisers crowded around them and saw that the fire had not touched them. Not a hair on their heads was singed, and their clothing was not scorched. They didn't even smell of smoke!

Then Nebuchadnezzar said, "Praise to the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego! He sent his angel to rescue his servants who trusted in him. They defied the king's command and were willing to die rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. Therefore, I make this decree: If any people, whatever their race or nation or language, speak a word against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, they will be torn limb from limb, and their houses will be turned into heaps of rubble. There is no other god who can rescue like this!"

Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to even higher positions in the province of Babylon. (Daniel 3:25-30)

This is our God! Don't undersell Him to yourself.  When is the last time you opened yourself up to an honest conversation with  Him? When is the last time you read His word for yourself?

Over the centuries, the evil one has come along and whispered to many that the bible is full of 'fairy tales' for things talked within its pages simply could not have taken place.

Why are we open to vampires and zombies but un-open to the miracles of God?

I assure you, we are surrounded by the living dead, they may even desire to hurt you. They need the light, yet run from it. Eyes and ears both closed off from the truth.

We must be shining examples so alive, they come to us seeking what we have.

Be blessed and Be a blessing <3

Wendy, Walks with God, Mom of Many

You Must Listen to be Able to Hear

Today is Tremendously Thankful Thoroughly Thoughtful Thunderous Thursday! Today I am thankful for the power of prayer. I am thankful for my spiritual armor. I am thankful for the servants of God that He called for the task of writing the bible. I accept it as the written word of God for I know He calls many to write for Him. I know this because I am a writer called forth.

I have been amazed at what has come out of my own fingertips many many times. It is something when you learn as you write. I love how God uses me. I have always wanted to write and I have always wanted to be a part of helping others. When you put God first, He truly will give you the desires of your heart!

I am very close to finishing my third book. This morning God helped me with solidifying my final two chapters to be written and I found myself elated. He truly is a brilliant writer. I love how he sews my stories together.

This week has been a crazy week for me. I realized truths I had not quite seen before and I had to remind myself exactly what it means when you are a follower of Christ. While it pains me to know I may be hated by those I love, I realize that Jesus was hated by those He loved. I refuse to turn away from the truth of His word but pray for the wisdom in how to communicate in the most loving way one can when discussing the Truth.

With that being said, here is the encouraging word of the day:

So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. - Hebrews 2:1 (NLT)

Sometimes the truth is not what we want to hear. Often we close our ears, shut our eyes and talk over or outside of it. We as man make other arrangements in our minds for how things may have come to be. I completely understand why it says they think they are wise but they are fools. 
Your heavenly Father grants wisdom and knowledge and understanding. HOWEVER, if you resist the TRUTH of HIS word you will miss out on the gifts He has set aside for you.

As you accept His truth, understanding comes. It is my belief that excitement and hunger for more of His wisdom follows and before you know it, if you continue to listen carefully, wearing your full suit of armor, you will find yourself Joyfully following Christ even when the world who denies such Truths hates you. Christ too was hated for who He was. Accept that those you do no harm to will hate you. Just take a look at those still laying down their lives in other countries as they refuse to denounce that Jesus Christ is their Savior.

As you accept His truth, understanding comes. It is my belief that excitement and hunger for more of His wisdom follows and before you know it, if you continue to listen carefully, wearing your full suit of armor, you will find yourself Joyfully following Christ even when the world who denies such Truths hates you. Christ too was hated for who He was. Accept that those you do no harm to will hate you. Just take a look at those still laying down their lives in other countries as they refuse to denounce that Jesus Christ is their Savior.

Today I pray that anyone who has desire to discover their purpose turns to God to find it. I pray they listen and hear. I pray this strengthens their faith in the Father and they continue to pursue His truth. I also pray for protection as I continue following Christ. I placed a ring on my finger and as Paul did, I consider myself a bond servant to Christ. I can not think of anything more worthwhile than following Christ. I pray for protection for me and all followers. I pray that God continues to use me and continues to write through me. I love what I am given to share. In Jesus name I pray.

Wendy, Walks with God,
Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden 2014

From Writing to Speaking, Come What May!

Good morning everyone! Today is wild wacky wonderful whimsical Wednesday. I am still under the weather but have decided my sickness is simply helping with the hunger side of things and preparing me for smaller portion control with ease. There is always a silver lining. Some are harder to spot than others but it is in training our eyes to look for them that they become easier to spy!

This last week was simply crazy. I don't know of another way to describe it. Thank the Lord literally that I know how to kick back and rest in Him. That is not to say that I just lay back and do nothing and magical things happen around me. No quite the opposite. I push forward every chance I have. I pray. I work. I listen for direction. I do a lot but when something gets in my way I don't let that become the end of the world. I look for the positive in the situation.

I am going to finally work off these last 40 pounds that are a burden to my frame and I finally braved getting in front of the camera and just speaking. I have no script for that just does not work for me. I have decided that is the way I will always have to speak in front of others. It may seem a little risky but I believe it allows for the Holy Spirit to step in and run the show. Again this does not mean that I'm like not thinking about what I might say. It just means its never going to be rehearsed! I do best 'in the moment'.

Recently I was invited to speak at an event hosted by Women Reaching Out, LLC. The topic was on a servants heart and I totally enjoyed my day.

I have this great friend named Brenda Taylor. She and I began meeting with each other as accountability partners in 2012. I truly love her to smithereens. Mainly because she loves me as I am and we are honest with each other. I saw that she was also going to be attending the event and we decided it would be fun to have an early lunch and catch up with each other. Due to life and the harsh winter, I had not seen Brenda in months.

We talked about how cool it was that I had actually published my first two books and I confided in her that I had nothing written down for my allotted 5 minutes on stage. I shared that having something prepared would feel too much like speech class and I was fearful I would freeze and not be able to talk. So Brenda being Brenda, cool, calm, and collected tells me to have no fear, just be myself.

When things were underway, Mrs. Elizabeth Utterback, the Founder of Women Reaching Out, LLC, was sharing with everyone about her recent google hangout and she called Brenda up and introduced her to the room. She explained that Brenda had been on the google hangout with her and then she turned to Brenda and said, "Brenda, share with these ladies what that experience was like for you."

Brenda turns all smiles and begins talking to everyone and then she stops and says, "Look at me, just talking away. How did that happen?"

I was grinning so big because she had led the way for me. She showed me just how to be myself and speak from the heart. I truly had no idea what I would say when I was called up front and since I was the first honoree guest speaker that day, I did not know until it was show time that they were going to read the biography I had submitted to the board members! When my introduction was over I was like oh wow now what do I say Lord? I gave myself a moment by saying to the room, "Well, that was my entire five minutes, thank you!" and I kind of nervously laughed.

Then I looked across the room and just started sharing a little bit more about myself. I began by saying, "It is true, I have just published my first two volumes in my life story. I am almost 45 years old and I have wanted to be an author since I was about this big." and I held my hand around my waist.

I know that I told them about sending a few copies out before they were officially published to take a reading sample. I know I told them about the response I had received and how I was finally living my dream; writing books that inspired hope in others. I talked a little bit about the evil one and how he lies to us and tells us we are not worthy. I ended by telling them, "You are all worthy!" and I sat down with a smile on my face.

When everything was over, I sold a few autographed copies of my books. I have a few personal moments from that day that I will never forget. One of them was when a lady came to my table as I was talking to another woman and signing her books. When we were alone, the second lady asked, "Are these fiction books?" I kind of chuckled and said, "No. They are my true life story."

She responded by saying, "Wow. I picked this one up and turned to a page I wasn't supposed to and I can't put it down. I am going to have to buy it."

I laughed and replied, "Sounds to me like you turned it to the right page!" and I asked for her name so I could autograph her book and thank her for her purchase.

Another one of my favorite personal moments was when I went to the back of the room to grab a mini sandwich and the girls serving told me how much my testimony had moved them. They said I'd make a great speaker at one of their meetings and asked to buy two of my books! I was not sure if they meant one of each book or two of the first but the Spirit moved me as it often does to give. So I went to my table and grabbed two of each book, I handed them the first volumes and I said, "You asked to buy two and I am going to gift you two. These go together."

As I walked away I realized I would really enjoy speaking at events. Who knew! Certainly not my 14 year old self!! If you have read my first book, you know how deep my fear of standing in front of others and speaking truly was!

This morning as I went to share the encouraging word from K-Love on Face Book, I noticed I had a new friend request and some new messages. One was from my new friend. She was simply thanking me for the story I had shared in my blog post regarding living before you die. Pretty darn cool this life of mine. Being blessed by those I have encouraged by simply sharing my heart and what the Spirit leads me to share. I truly never know what is going to come out of my fingertips or my mouth!

Speaking of encouraging words from K-Love, here is what they emailed me today:

"Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. ~ John 14:1, NLT

 

I am so thankful I sought out God again when I found myself at the end of my own strength. For in seeking I have discovered the Love that God held for me as a child has not changed one iota. Knowing all I have done and how far I strayed from the narrow path, I find this fact amazing. God's grace and mercy. It is available for all. Are you ready to come home yet?

Father, I come to you today with a song in my heart and a smile on my face. How wonderful it is to bask in the truth. Thank you for all the warriors who have led the way throughout time. Thank you for sending your only begotten son to save us. Thank you for calling me forth and helping me see all my dreams become a reality. My life is abundant in so many ways. I am blessed and I look forward to all that you cause me to do in any day. I love walking with the Spirit. Help me to get better and better at listening and following. Please help me be a bright light full of courage so that I may boldly share your glory with all I cross paths with. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Wendy, walks with God,
Mom of many

© Wendy Glidden 2014

Have You Ever Been Perplexed?

Good Morning everyone! Today is Marvelously Magnificent Miraculous Monday! Can I get a whoop whoop! Many of you know I am in the midst of finishing my second book. I am still on course to have it listed on Amazon by this Friday! Last Friday by the time I had arrived at home, I quickly realized I was under a fierce attack from the evil one. He was hitting me hard and fast. I was being bombarded with so many arrows, I felt myself on the brink of a panic attack. After we had put the children to bed, I looked at Mike and said, "I need to start editing book two right now and just make sure I'm not crazy and it really isn't as awful as I am beginning to think it is."

He laughed and asked, "Why are you worried about it being awful, you are clever and your writing is great. Every time you sit down to share a blog post, I'll admit at first I dread it. Then as I listen to you read what you have written, I always find myself thinking wow. That's really good."

I smiled at him, gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and said, "I think I'll start by treating myself to a memory bar." and I went into the kitchen to grab one from my well hidden stash. There are only three squares to each bar and they are truly to die for. I took a bite and tossed the bar on my nightstand and Mike asked, "Where's mine?"

I bent down to grab my computer bag and to hide my face as I said, "You don't want a piece, they really aren't that good." I immediately snort laughed because I couldn't help myself. I was already massively enjoying my bite. Knowing the jig was up, I burst into full blown laughter. When I saw Mike's face, I began laughing even harder. By the time I finally got myself under control my anxiety was decreased significantly.

To get my computer out of my bag, I have to take my bible out first. When I did, I remembered an encouraging word I had shared the day before. I was telling Mike about it and I stopped long enough to read it to him. The scripture being quoted is out of 2 Corinthians, chapter 4, verses 7 - 9:

We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves. We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed. 2 Corinthians 4:7-9, NLT

When I put down my bible, I was chattering away about what I felt when I first read the verse. After that, I cracked open my lap top, found my file for my next book, 'You Are Worthy Too: Marriage, Motherhood and My Moral Meltdown', opened it up and began the process of editing it from beginning to end.

I was about half way down the third page when I read; Perplexed but wanting to graduate, I bit my tongue.

I actually gasped because to me there are no coincidences in life. Having written this paragraph long before I had read that encouraging word was like God saying outright that my book is good. I came close to tearing up and had to share the coolness of it all with Mike who was quickly falling asleep.

Over the course of the weekend, I managed to completely finish editing all 12 chapters. Tonight I will be adding all the front and back matter and then it is off to the publisher for final approval. Should I pass the test, this book will be out as planned on February 14, 2014.

Today, I have had everything that could go wrong go wrong. From computer crashes to crazy time wasting calls. On top of that I had things I had to accomplish to qualify for the 'Mom on the ball' and 'Wife who never lets husband down' award.

I am blessed to work with a lady named Joan. I have known her since I was 16 years old and she is a follower of Christ. I can't imagine what daily life would be like if I didn't get to work with her 4 out of my 5 work days. When my computer began making a fire alarm sound, I unplugged the keyboard having learned from a previous incident that was what the issue was and I began laughing about it all with Joan.

We decided this second book is really going to be something because life is getting crazy for me in every way possible. I prefer this type of trouble over a fiery arrow attack. Even knowing how to protect myself from those, it is amazing at how quickly it's all you can do to move yourself to take up your shield of faith and whip out your sword!

I truly am amazed that this January I knew I was going to get my first book completed. I accepted engagements in March based on me being a published Author before then. Talk about stepping out in Faith! I've seen that I will publish at least 5 books this year. It amazes me to think I really will and maybe even more than that! I know God will do whatever He needs to for me to accomplish what He intends me to accomplish. Often people hear all I do in a week and they ask me, "How on earth do you find the time to get so much done?"

Honestly if I didn't recognize God working in my life I would be clueless myself! I would encourage you to seek God and reach for the dreams he instilled in your heart. If you don't know what those are, go to Him and ask.

For those who do not already know, the books I am currently putting out are my true life story. Volume 1 takes you from my earliest memories to the end of my 16th year. It is called 'You Are Worthy Too: In the Beginning' the next book takes you from age 17 to 23. If sequels are something you look for, this will be a great read for you. I am pricing my ebooks at only $3.99.

I must end here as I am out of time to write!

For those that would like to either purchase or take a free sneak peak at the first book, click on the link:

This will take you to: You Are Worthy Too: In the Beginning

Father, today I come to you with thanks. Thank you for laughter, it truly helps. Thank you for great music with awesome lyrics that help me praise you and draw close. Thank you for the bible itself. Not a day goes by that I don't need to read it. You are so kind to give us so many signs that you have us. They become easier to see the closer one gets to you. I pray that I grow in wisdom. I pray I am a light for others. I pray all my dreams come true and I thank you for all your help. May all I do help reveal your glory. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Wendy, walks with God,
Mom of Many

What Do You Really Know About the Thief?

Today when I opened up the encouraging word sent to me from K-Love, this is what I found:

The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.
~ John 10:10, NLT

The thief goes by many names. No matter what you decide to call him, the fact remains,he exists and he indeed is here to steal, kill, and destroy. With thousands of years of experience under his belt, he makes quite a formidable foe!

One of his best tricks through out time has been to make people forget about him! I imagine this is due to the fact that a thief does not want to be seen! Things work out better for them that way!

Satan, the father of lies, the thief, the serpent, the devil, it truly matters not what you call him, is always on the prowl. He is sneaky. He is shrewd. He is all but silent and he is most assuredly deadly. He is on a mission to put out the light inside all of us. You simply cannot allow this to happen to you.

How do you recognize when you are under a spiritual attack? That is a great question. The closer you get to God, the better the relationship you have with him, the easier you will begin to see the truth. You will quickly recognize an attack for exactly what it is and you will be able to rest in the Lord. I know this is true because I have tangled with Satan just as you have. You may not even realize that is what was going on at the time. I know I didn't for decades. It's only been in my persistent seeking that I discovered amazing truths about my own journey in life thanks to what God showed me as He had me unfold my life onto paper. Through my books, I pull back the curtain and reveal Satan working his magic in my life throughout my personal story.

We live in a fallen world. Bad stuff is bound to happen to all of us. We must keep our focus on the truth and not on how we feel. Satan loves feelings. He can use them against you. Just look all the way back in history to Cain. He became jealous of his brother. Satan used that 'feeling' and took advantage of the situation. I can only imagine what he whispered into Cain's ear. I truly don't believe Cain intended to kill his brother. It is my belief that he acted out on his emotions and dealt a fatal blow. Once done, it could not be taken back. Next I imagine Satan comforted Cain with lies. After all, he is the father of lies. I believe this is what happened mainly because of the way Cain answered God when God asked him where his brother Abel was. All too often I have witnessed this same bravado defensive stance from my own children and embarrassingly enough, through my own story!

My heart goes out to Cain. He was used by Satan big time. I believe all of us are used by him. He's just that good at what he does. This is why we must recognize him for who he is. A very shrewd opponent.

This year I have published two books. They are my first two volumes of my personal story and it takes you from the beginning of my story all the way through my twenty third year. You wouldn't think much could happen to a girl in her first two decades of her life, but that is where you would be wrong!

All who have elected to take a look at this true life series have also taken the time to send me a note so this has been a most rewarding experience. As you will learn by reading my story, I am now doing what God and I talked about me doing as a child.

For those who would like to check it out for themselves, I am offering a FREE view at the first three chapters in both volume I & II! If you love them, buy the books and if you don't find my story captivating and encouraging, you are out not one dime!

I priced each e-book at only $3.99 and print for only $7.99 because I don't want cost to become an issue ever! God called me forth to share my story and He has led me along the way. The first weekend I released my second volume I offered a FREE download of each volume. In 72 hours, I gave away 200 books on Amazon!

I am blessed to have been given all the desires of my heart. You'll clearly see what those are when you read the book! Without further delay, here is the link to get your free download or to buy the books in either Kindle or Print! Happy Reading.

http://www.Amazon.com/author/wendyglidden

I am happy to announce that volume III will be on the shelves before the end of March 2014! It is going to be called: Angels, Answers, Signs and Wonders! Followed shortly behind by Volume IV: In the Midst of Spiritual Warfare. I pray you find my story strengthens your faith.

** Update: Volume III is available in both print and electronic formats. It is my goal to still have Volume IV out before the end of 2014. I have certainly learned a lot about the subject in the last couple of years ~ it's the amazing triumphs I am looking forward to sharing! Don't forget to like me on facebook for an encouraging word! http://www.facebook.com/youareworthytoo

 Be blessed and be a blessing <3

Wendy, walks with God,
Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden, 2014

Do You See What I See?

Today is fantastically fabulous fun filled friends and family Friday!! The first one of 2014 as a matter of fact! With Christmas and New Years falling mid week, I have to keep reminding myself it really is Friday and not Tuesday. With the added days off from work, courtesy of the days I was gifted off from my boss, my routine has been thrown off a bit. However, I have loved the extra time off to spend with my family. Trust me when I say I am not complaining about feeling like I should be doing Tuesday office duties rather than Friday's!

Last night when I got home, Michael was putting the finishing touches on dinner. I helped dish it out to the children and once dinner was completed, I offered to do the dishes. Mike laughed and said, "Nice. You work all day and then get stuck doing dishes after dinner."

I laughed and replied, "I like doing dishes. There is something about having my hands in hot water that helps me gel my rambling thoughts." It is true. I don't know why doing dishes has that calming almost grounding affect on me, but it does. Even though I have a dishwasher in our new place, I still hand wash the dishes. I have found the dishwasher is the perfect place to put everything to dry. We truly only have enough plates, bowls and cups to serve everyone once. Doing things this way saves me time and energy as well as space. I don't have to put everything away in a cabinet. What would be the point? We will be dragging the dishes out again in a few short hours!

As I was washing dishes, I began unfolding the events and conversations with others I had had over the last couple of days. I was reflecting on how a persons viewpoint changes what they actually see. When that epiphany hit me, I had what I refer to as flashes of insight. I quickly went to my bedroom, pulled out a notepad from my nightstand, and wrote the word viewpoint down before it faded from my brain and then went back to washing dishes.

Usually when I have flashes of insight, if I'm on my game, I find myself writing a blog about all I see. As I continued washing the dishes, I reflected on viewpoints and how sometimes our own viewpoint can actually blind us to certain truths. Suddenly, my mind longed to see things from God's viewpoint. What a view that must truly be!

Many times, when my brain has flashes of insight, I ponder on them. I was appreciating the fact that no two people see something in the exact same way. This point can be made by reading eye witness accounts from a vehicle accident or a crime scene. I have always found this truth fascinating. It was while reflecting upon these things, that the above title for this blog came to me. The night was winding down and honestly I was exhausted and in much need of what I refer to as veg time. I quickly jotted down the title and threw my notepad into my carry case knowing I would blog upon it today.

Do you see what I see? I can remember playing this game as a child. Who knew it would take on such a grander meaning in adulthood? I mean in all honesty, sometimes I look at something and a certain part of it stands out bigger than the rest, yet when I go back to share it with someone, I am almost blind to the thing that originally jumped out at me. This happens the most often when it comes to reading something and then later attempting to share what I read with someone else. I have told myself again and again that I should keep a highlighter on hand for such times! Then it would be easy to re-spot and share down the road. However, I am a mom of many. Things like highlighters are harder to keep hidden away from little ones than treats! Just being able to have a pen or pencil in a given moment can often be a challenge. I cannot tell you how many times I have jotted a note down with a crayon!

We all have our own viewpoints. Everyone has their own set of biases that they base their beliefs upon. Trying to help someone see things from your vantage point is not always easy. If they are closed minded the task becomes that much more difficult. As we grow and mature often our viewpoints shift and even change completely. This mere fact alone may be why some are afraid to open their minds enough to listen to what someone else has to share.

Recently, I came under attack from another person online. They accused me of harming others by sharing my faith. They called me lazy, stupid, slow, and ignorant among other names.

It never ceases to amaze me how some people, while in the process of trying to convince you that your belief system is built on a faulty foundation, find the need to be so abusive. Often, when you point out the truth that there is no reason to be so cruel to get one's opinion across, they truly seem to be blind to their own verbal abuse.

I truly thank God that I am who I am and that I am discovering who I am in Christ for I can honestly say I like myself. This alone helps me rise above such situations to the point that I find myself being led by the spirit to pray for those that attempt to insult me or cause me harm. I see that they are lacking truth and light in their life and I know full well how living outside of either of those feels.

There is definitely something to be said for walking in the spirit. It helps you rise above such situations. I think one might often find themselves in a petty exchange of words in the midst of such assaults were they not wearing the recommended daily armor required for such attacks. This is not to claim that I myself never stumble. It just does not feel good when those moments take place and very quickly the spirit of rightousness convicts me.

I know for me, my heart physically ached for this particular person. I have never met them face to face, and most likely never will. I found it interesting that I went to bed feeling sorry for them and awoke to find myself being led by the spirit to pray for them.

This, among other things, was what I was reflecting upon when the whole viewpoint and do you see what I see notion came to me.

I pray that no matter where you are at in life that you are open enough to try to see things from another person's viewpoint. If you are not willing to truly hear what they are saying, how do you ever hope to be able to have an impact upon their viewpoint. You must know where a person is before you can see how you might best be able to make a point or even better plant a seed. This does not mean you will have a positive effect on every person you attempt to lift. Sadly, when you read your bible, you know clearly some will not be moved.

It is not our place to judge others. We cannot change who they are. Only them being open to the spirit can do that. I try to remind myself to toss seeds regardless of my own shallow thoughts. As the parable about the seeds being thrown onto the ground suggests, some will take root and some will not. It is not my place to judge the ground which I throw them on. I am to throw them regardless of what I am able to see and trust that the spirit will do the rest.

I have found my own truest protection lies in my walking in the spirit as well as continually renewing my mind with God's word. I believe I encourage others and perhaps help them with the strengthening of their faith by sharing my life story. I also believe when we are able to love others in spite of how they treat us, we shine a light into the darkest corners of the world.

Today I pray for the blind and for those who believe that God and religion go hand in hand. Nothing in life makes me sadder than a person without hope or faith. I see them as a dieing flower that is in much need of nourishment. I am so thankful that even in the pit of hell I never doubted you were my creator Father. How blessed I have been all my life to know you truly exist. I pray for all who believe in you but have fallen for the lie that we are not good enough to be loved by you. Thank you for lifting me so high that I was able to see and grasp this truth. It was a real game changer. I can never thank you enough for that game change. I pray for more strength and more wisdom for myself. I only long to be the brightest light I can be. I thank you Father for all the blessings you bestow upon me and my family in a given day. I truly see myself as blessed. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Wendy Glidden, walks with God
Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden

How to Nourish One's Faith!

It's marvelously magnificent miraculous Monday and it is the last one we'll have this year! What a crazy year this one has been for me. From finally getting it through my head that God forgave me for all my sins way before I was even born and had had the chance to sin, to the truth that He has forgiven every transgression I will commit until the day I die. That in itself was major!

The big deal for me this year would have to have been the testing of my faith. As I begin to put various posts together for my first e-book, I have of course been going back and reading much of what I have shared this year. I am amazed at what all I have witnessed even though it was through Faith that God always has me that carried me through it. Regardless, when you look in the rear view mirror, your faith can sometimes be increased. This is definitely the case for me.

One of the most amazing things I witnessed this last year would have to be the change in my brother. God led me to help him last year. I even blogged about it for I had no idea how I could help him. As it turned out God needed me to pray for him.

You see, back in 1998, my brother went into a stress center and came out diagnosed as bipolar II. I never thought that was the correct diagnosis for my brother but I had no say when it came to him. For 15 long years my brother was not my brother. The medicine they placed him on turned him into a drone. Every now and then, he'd stop taking all that medication and sadly he would always land himself in some type of trouble and find himself placed on even worse medication. The kind of medication that I believe throws a person in a deep dark well that they cannot communicate from. Therefore, when they do come out, they have years of thoughts all trying to come out at once. I knew in my heart that was the case for my brother but finding someone in the medical field willing to take the time to listen and actually figure things out is next to impossible. That is, until you reach out to God for help. I had enough faith that I did as I was led to do by the spirit and I prayed for my brother as well as anyone else that might be fighting the same type of demon. This took place right before Christmas for the details of all of this are in a post where I was trying to view Christmas in a different way. I think I called it Mas Christ in an attempt to add more of the teaching of Jesus into not only that one day but all year long.

Shortly after I prayed for my brother, he was incarcerated for the first time in his life. Personally I hated it, but I knew God is always faithful and I knew he uses anything bad for something good so, I continued to pray for him to receive true help in the medical field. He was released from jail late January of this year and our sister had him move in with her for she lived in one of two counties where they have a medical establishment set up that is designed to truly help a person, not just over medicate them. The only thing we needed was for my brother to comply on his own to go see them. That did not happen so, I continued to pray for him. Within the first month of living with my sister, my brother had a panic attack and called 911. Very quickly the staff knew he needed the help of this facility and they took him there. As it turns out, my brother is not bipolar and he truly was being medicated incorrectly. Today my brother is himself again. He has his own place, he smiles and laughs and is capable of living a normal life. No longer held in the bondage of over medication with no hope out of the dark well he'd been cast into. This was a gigantic reminder for me that God is always faithful and He truly loves all of us.

This morning I awoke refreshed and excited for this next big step I am taking. When I arrived at work and opened my email, this is the encouraging word I found courtesy of K-Love:

Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him. ~ 1 Corinthians 16:11, NLT

If I was to give anyone advice, I think this would be it in a nutshell. I know many people get in a jam, they throw up a half heartfelt prayer, but it has no faith within it. They base their belief in God's power on the results they allow themselves to see and sadly many buy into some lie about God not being for them or not being powerful enough or even worse that He is not good or faithful. My heart breaks for them.

Faith is something that truly grows over time. It can begin with a burst, but it is something you need to nourish. How do you nourish Faith? By feeding it with the Word of God, continually seeking and praying, and opening your eyes a little wider so you can see the silver lining around things. 

Satan will do anything and everything to destroy your faith. I know this for I allowed the father of lies to keep me busy and off track for decades. Read my story and you will quickly see how even those full of faith can be tricked through the evil one's connivery.

Over the weekend, I began a new journey. All year I have been saying I want to write a book, I need to write a book. Now I can actually say, "I have begun the process of having my book edited and prepared for publishing!" I am not going to get it done before the end of this year, but I will have more than one published by this time next year!

How did it all begin? I stepped out in Faith 

Be blessed and be a blessing 

Wendy, walks with God,
Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden 2013

Perfect Timing!

It's Totally Terrific Testimonial Tell-All Tuesday! We all have a story. Many of us have a bunch of stories! I am blessed to be one of those people!

This morning was the first morning my school crew boarded the bus from our new place. Without knowing exactly when the bus would arrive, the morning was a little hectic. Once everyone was on the bus, I went inside to tell Mike and Jeffrey goodbye only to have little Jeffrey insist on coming to work with me so that he could do his ABC mouse school. He is so stinking cute and really VERY well mannered for a three year old so I caved.

Getting him dressed for the outside element was of course going to make me run a little late . . . or so I thought. Lately I have been hearing a lot about God's timing and how it's not always in line with our timing but we need to chill out because His timing is always perfect.

So, here I was finally behind the wheel and on my way. I literally only have a three minute drive to work now so that is pretty awesome. If you've been reading my blog this year, you know it was God that led me to move where I did. I still feel like pinching myself for I truly love where he placed me. Anyway, I realized something was wrong with my car almost as soon as we hit the road. At first I thought maybe I had a flat tire or was it my exhaust? You have no idea how my brain works . . . probably a good thing!

Anyway, I was thinking, 'Did I plug up the exhaust pipe with something by backing up my car into the plowed snow bank?' No. Something much simpler than that was wrong. As I stopped for the one red light I cross each day, I suddenly realized the funny feeling that I was feeling was me running out of gas! My gauge showed half a tank and it suddenly dawned on me that I had threatened to start keeping track of the mileage but had not stuck to that plan!

I thought prayed 'change light change' and it did. I pressed the gas, surged forward and then puttered to a stop right in the middle of the intersection! "NO!" I silently screamed. I put the car in park, said a silent prayer, "please God get me out of the middle of the road!" I cranked the car. It started! I pressed the accelerator and sped across the intersection at a whopping 8 miles an hour! A turtle would have beat me! Still, I managed to get across the road as kind citizens honked at me. I coasted to a complete stop 15 feet beyond the intersection and realized a truck was right behind me. I thought, "Do they know I just need up the road? It looks as if they are wanting to push me with their truck . . . or maybe that's just wishful thinking!"

Sure enough, a lady jumped out of the passenger side and it turned out to be my son's fiancee's mom and her dad! She asked if I wanted them to push me the rest of the way with their truck! I said, "Yes! Please!!"

The best part of being pushed into the driveway was Jeffrey. Boys!! He thought it was the coolest thing ever to be pushed down the road by another vehicle. Once safely in the drive, I jumped out, ran over to Sherry and thanked and hugged her.

Once I got into the office I was giggling to myself. In a flash I clearly saw that had I dashed out the door on time according to my own plans, I would have been early and would have ended up walking a block to work in the frigid cold with little Jeffrey at my side or more likely than not in my arms!

You just have to love God and how He always has you!

I hope this little testimony of mine has helped you with your own timing in life. I often say the best 'Chill Pill" is a silent prayer and then giving whatever it is that has you wound up to God. I pray you are able to rest in Him daily!

Those of you who have followed my blog this past year know that I became a mother at the age of 17. You also know I have been a work a holic, control freak much of my life. When I was in my early twenties I was always in a hurry. This was truly my theme song the year it came out. I hope it causes you to chuckle and slow down a little so that you can better enjoy this thing we call life <3. Be blessed and be a blessing <3

The song is called: 'I'm in a hurry to get things done' by Alabama

Father, today I come to you with joy in my heart. I love knowing that you have all my needs met before I even know I'm going to need something! You never cease to amaze me. I feel like a simple child when it comes to the ways of the wise. Please teach me to be more trusting, more loving, more wonderful, more wise! I pray that you help my fellow brother's and sister's in Christ with all of that as well! Again, thank you thank you thank you for always having my back! I love your ways! In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Wendy Glidden, walks with God
Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden, 2013

Today Has Enough Trouble of It's Own!

Last Tuesday night, December 10, 2013, was the final night we HAD to spend in the RV this winter! What a crazy week this last one has been. We had counted down the last thirty days until we were going to move in to our new apartment which Jeffrey calls 'The Castle'. He cracks me up. I have explained to him that we will only be living in a tiny section of the castle. His excitement has not been phased.

Monday morning, December 9, 2013, I had called over to verify my time for my walk through and to make sure they'd gotten confirmation of my renters insurance and the fact that the utilities were in my name. All was going smoothly and we set my appointment at 11:30.

At three that afternoon, I received a phone call letting me know there was a slight problem with my new apartment. Sometime between Sunday night and Monday afternoon, a water pipe had burst and there was so much water on the floor that they were going to have to replace the carpet and padding in the bedrooms and the flooring in the 2nd bathroom where the leak had happened.

They told me it would be completed by Friday. I admit I was a bit sad. I had seen the weather forecast for the week and it was not pretty. We have been below freezing for over a week now and it was only going to get colder over the next couple of days.

Towards the end of the day, I saw a post asking for help with a chain saw crew being called to give a helping hand in Texas where they had been hit by a massive ice storm. I knew Mike would be great help so I quickly got in touch with him and asked if he'd be interested. Seeing how we weren't going to be moving now until Friday, the biggest need for Mike to be home was taken care of. Our money is really tight this month and we both agreed that him helping out would be a beautiful way to tithe. I gave him Rusty's number and Mike was the final man they needed to be able to go.

They were heading out Very early in the morning so we set our alarm for 4:20 AM and the next day we headed out before the sun came up to get Mike to one of the meetup locations on time. Once he was dropped off I made my way to work.

At eleven that afternoon, the apartment complex called me with great news. They were ahead of schedule and as it turned out if I wanted to, I could begin moving in anytime after 4:00 pm on Wednesday! The irony did not escape me! I was super thrilled that we would be in the new place right before the coldest night of this winter arrived.

With Mike being gone, I knew I could only do so much as far as moving everything was concerned so Tuesday night I packed up the majority of food, all our dirty clothes, all of our clean linens as well as the entire bathroom including all of our clean towels! All I could think was, 'I get to do laundry IN my home and everyone can take a shower!'. It truly is the little things in life that make me the happiest.

Wednesday came and after work I headed over to the apartment complex to sign my new lease. I thought I had help lined up to move the three beds I had been given along with a few odds and ends. As it turned out, my moving help was a no show and we ended up sleeping on the floor the first night! Thank goodness I had thought to grab the one cot with the 1" foam mattress and a really thick sleeping bag.

The funniest part of our first night was when I had two children in the two tubs only to realize I had nothing clean to put them in when they got out. I quickly went through all the dirty clothes and picked out things for everyone to change into and got my first load of laundry going.

Bonus things I did not know came with my apartment. A microwave above the stove, a dishwasher and an ice maker! Life is good!!

Thursday night, my help arrived and I got the few things I had been given moved into the apartment and placed in their spots. Jean, one of my many sisters in Christ, kept the children for me while another sister in Christ, Ana, helped me get the items I had been gifted into place.

When we arrived back to Jean's we discovered she had made dinner for all of us. We ate, joked that we should take a picture to post to Facebook with the a note about how all that was missing was our Pastor and his wife for our old Thursday night Bible study. Weirdly we have not gotten together since the night Ana and I were baptized. We were left hanging in the midst of Acts.

Friday night in the midst of the approaching winter storm, the chain saw crew made it safely back. I picked up Mike and we headed home. We caught each other up on all that had transpired.

The gist of this post originally began to show that the best laid plans are often disrupted. I was being led to blog on the verse regarding the fact that each day has enough trouble of it's own. Allow me to share that here, from Matthew, Chapter 6, verse 34:

So then, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough trouble of it's own.

The entire chapter has wonderful wisdom. I love reminding myself of this final thought for I have found it to be so very true. There is no sense in getting all wrapped up in tomorrow.

As my mind often does, while I was typing the above sentence, I recalled something I heard on Moody radio the other day. It was on a Friday around 5 PM and they were playing a series of voice mails that people had left. One of them stuck out more than the rest to me and it was about 'I Am.' In a gist the guy was talking about how you shouldn't focus on the past for God has said His name is I Am and while He is in the past and the future, it was never the past and the future when we found Him on any given day, for His name is always in the present and that was where we should be ourselves. That's not exactly how it was phrased. In all honesty, it was stated in a much more impactful way. Regardless, this has seemed to be the lesson I was being taught this past week. Stay in the here and now for this is the moment we are living.

I pray that this rambling blog has lifted your spirits, given you something to smile about or perhaps even caused you to seek a little more from the word of God Himself.

Father, I come before you today singing your praises and giving thanks for what a wonderful Father you truly are. You never cease to amaze me with your ways. I love living this life of mine under your terms. No longer do I feel the need to control everything for the illusion of me being in control of anything has long gone! Thank you for that!! I love where you have placed me. Close to work and home and surrounded by many brothers and sisters in Christ. How blessed I truly am. Thank you for loving us and always being faithful. My life is so colorful and bright and I truly look forward to each day. I pray that I continue to grow spiritually. I pray you lead me in the direction I am designed to go in. I pray I am able to see and hear all you have for me to see and hear each day. I pray that my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ grow closer to you as well. May this season that we celebrate the birth of Christ in be full of your love. May more and more and more of us come to see the Glory of God. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

Wendy, walks with God,
Mom of Many

© Wendy Glidden 2013