Day 1-- Welcome to the Faith Dare Journey!

Good morning ladies,

Day 1--First I want to continue to encourage us to 'live out loud' with courage and love each day. Yes, I know....easier said than done. I have been definitely spurred for these two
purposes lately.

In the "Pre-reading" pg. 30 "Faith" comments reminded me of what it's
about. I felt an unction from God reminding me of how faithful He
has been when I simply take the small steps of faith/trust--not just
the large leaps. "Baby Steps" for those "What About Bob" fans.
* Pg. 33 Another reminder of how productive "trials/tests" have been
to help me mature as a person of faith. Our lives are so much
bigger when we release our faith to God's plan.

At the bottom of pg. 48, the last paragraph says it all....IF we want total life change, we have to be willing...... Are we willing? I am and I hope we can all join our lives to encourage each other to live with a desire for a new heart daily for the next 30 days.

TODAY'S DARE: Ask God for a new heart. "Acknowledging where we are is the first step to living in faith and truth"-Debbie Alsdorf

Today's dare spoke to me: "What does my heart look like to God?" What are the areas I still need to completely surrender to Him? Am I willing to reach into the darkness of my soul with God's hand and grab them together? (ie., like losing my keys in the dark) Am I willing to allow Him to get His 'mega-watt' flashlight to let the Light reveal the darkness? Can I pick up those "keys" within my heart and cast/give them over to Christ? He has a different set of "keys" He wants to give to me. Keys to freedom of living my life as He desires...with joy, purpose, love, hope; freedom from junk that bogs me down.
"Teach me your way. Give me an undivided heart." Psalm 86

God's asking me to: Let Him give me the "perfectly cut keys" for my life.

My challenge is to: Allow Him access. Receive.

Today I believe....God promises to show himself strong on my behalf.

Ladies I went a little long today to introduce you to the blogging process. The last half is shorter and more typical. Share what you are pondering. What speaks to you and how you think it might stir up the faith in someone else. The main thing is to share...trust in the process of growth. I pray we will all be stronger in our faith, love, daily walking out of that love, joy, FOCUS for change in God's purposes within our lives....not simply our own self-purpose. BE reaL!! Be brave and join in.
Blessings on your day,

~Shauna

August 1, 2011 11:37 AM 

Day 30--When It Depends On You

Dare: To Be The First One To Change

Living out the Faith Dare this month has been revealing. Revealing my weaknesses as a human in process and my strengths. I am reminded of the giftings God created me with from birth; for his purposes. Sometimes I forget to look 'face on' at the blessings and strengths I have to utilize. It is the very gift of administration/teaching which has given me the courage to continue to pursue the dreams God gave me many years ago.
There have been detours, roadblocks, construction sites along the way, but God has been rekindling the calling within, during this summer of clarification.
                                     For YOU (God) are who YOU say YOU are.
                                     YOU can do what YOU say YOU can do.
                                     I am who YOU say I am.
                                     I CAN do all things through Christ.


   Debbie wrote, "The Christian life is about being filled with the Spirit and operating from that place. And if that's the case, then why shouldn't we be the first to make a move toward change?"
   This past year and a half has been all about change for my entire family. Change is not always what we anticipate or easy, but change is a constant in our world. Change can be the very thing that catapults us into our destiny. In the midst of this 'blending of our family', I somehow have lost my unique identity, the woman I am in Christ. I have the faith to believe that with God all things are possible. I am not staying in this 'pit'--- because I am climbing out. Other people can stay in the miry  clay, but I know in my spirit that I am called to renew my mind, my spirit each day; to be the new creature in Christ he sacrificed for me to be for His glory, not his regret. I can pray, encourage and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit for others, but ultimately they are on their own personal/unique path--I pray they will see that God has given us to one another as part of that plan.

   "Sometimes it's not possible to MAKE peace. Often others refuse it. But that refusal doesn't get us off the hook. We must do our part, make the first move, do what would bring peace and healing in the relationship. The Faith Dare began with "The Miracle of a New Heart" surrendering our hearts to God. And now we end with the same. We need to surrender our hearts, attitudes, and works to God in practical ways---practical ways that will stretch us, even when our pride does not want it. Especially then." (page 223)

II Timothy 2:20-25

Ps. 139:23-24
   "Search me, O God, and know my heart;
          test me and know my anxious thoughts.
    See if there is any offensive way in me,
          and lead me in the way everlasting."

Ruth Harms Calking wrote in Lord, Could You Hurry a Little?;
   Whatever our hands touch--we leave fingerprints!
    On walls, on furniture, on doorknobs, dishes, books,
    There's no escape.
   As we touch we leave our identity.
   O God, wherever I go today
   Help me leave your heartprints!
   Heartprints of compassion, of understanding and love.

Today's truth is speaking to me.......
   Leave the past and move into experiencing a beautiful, content future with God directing my path daily. Dare to be brave, strong and of good courage.

God is asking me to.....
   Be strong! Shake it off.
   Move forward, plugged into the Holy Spirit....looking up, living well.

My challenge is to.....
   Continue to walk out the "faith dares" as part of my growth process. Reminding myself that I can't control people's responses, but I can expect my response to be lead by humbling myself before God, daily. I desire to learn, to grow and serve all the days of my life. Somehow this year I lost track of that simple truth. I have had to repent, learn from this experience and ask God to get me back on the right path. He is faithful! His mercies are new every morning. I'm so thankful He is my Redeemer.

Debbie wrote:
Today's prayer
   Lord, I want all that you have for me. I realize that to honor you means that I must be open to allowing you to flow through  me with your love and care for others. I desire to be your touch in this world that I live in. Make my life a heartprint of our Holy Spirit and a reflection of your pure and unselfish love of others. Do in me what I cannot do on my own."


Colossians 3:2-3
   Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things. For you died and your new life is now hidden with Christ in God.

   In closing remarks Debbie wrote, "I want to develop the art of looking up. I want to make a habit of intentionally choosing my focus. I want the focus to be on Jesus Christ, who he is, how faithful he is, who I am in him. I want to surrender to his plan. I want to look up." (page 228)
   "And I pray for you to experience God's love and presence on the journey! And I pray that all of us learn to challenge ourselves daily--dare to follow after a God who cannot be boxed up and figured out, a God who calls us to follow him on a journey of love, peace, joy and real life change. Here's to life!"(page 230)

   Thank you for sharing your thoughts through emails, tweets and phone conversations. I believe we can all agree we have been changed for the better, through the passages of God's Word and the helps of Faith Dare. May the Lord bless you and keep you and cause His face to shine upon you. I will always treasure this time together in the Summer of 2011.
Journeying Together,

~Shauna

Day 29--Having All We Need

Dare: To Choose Contentment in Your Relationships

We will have thousands of relationships in our life-time. Some close, life-long. Others brief, for a specific purpose at an appointed time. How I choose to view my relationships is a daily occurrence. I need to remember Paul's encouragement to be content in all circumstances.

Philippians 4:4-19
In the midst of "situations", I must keep my focus on what Jesus wants me to do. I can't control what others will do, but I can decide in advance how I am going to behave. God's ways are not man's ways. Sometimes it seems odd to operate by the Word's direction. But it is always for our betterment, a closer relationship with Him and others.....and Satan hates it. Satan is the father of lies and loves chaos, confusion and strife. Jesus worked toward peace, love, joy of the Holy Spirit....contentment. This life is a journey in which we are never promised tomorrow. So let's make the most with what we have be blessed with--let''s share our lives through peaceful relationships.

Today's truth is speaking to me.....
     Keep building relationship when the opportunity presents itself.

God is asking me to.....
    Rise to the challenge. Through Him I am able to overcome any obstacle.
Be wise with boundaries, guard my words and heart. Let go and LET GOD!

My challenge is to.....
   Let things drop into Jesus' hands.
   Move forward from hurts, don't get stuck in people's junk. Sometimes I can love too much--care too much.

"Today's Prayer--
    Lord you are perfect, and I put my trust in you. I am learning that my disappointment can be used as your appointment for personal growth, shaping and maturing. May your will be done in the story of my life. You supply my every need--physical, material, emotional, spiritual. Thank you."   (pg. 220)

Philippians 4:19  " My God will supply all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus."

Today I believe......


"God is aware of my need for his strength to be accepting of and content with people who are different from me, upset with me, annoy me, or otherwise push my buttons."(pg.220)

It's difficult to believe we are sharing our final day of Faith Dare tomorrow. Cheers to a blessed day looking up--giving thanks and living out.
~Shauna

Day 28--Live Unselfishly

Dare to Seek Another's Best.

"A stripping of selfishness seems to hit most in our relationships with other people. God created us for relationship, so it makes sense that he strips us and changes us the most while we are in relationships."(page 210) So true. God is always working in and through us, because He loves us. Change is a must throughout life. The sooner we learn that principle, situations will become easier and more fruitful.

Luke 6:27-31 gives us direction for practical application. After you read it.....ask God to strengthen you to walk it out. I am having to pray for large doses of this strength right now.  Debbie writes a brief summary of this passage on page 212. I'm summarizing even more:
*Love them
*Do good to them
*Bless them
*Pray for them
*Give to them
Do to them what you would want them to do to you.
Sometimes we are able to see what would benefit someone else when they aren't able to see it clearly themselves. I am glad I have friends who share, call me out, and seek God's best for me; even when it's something I don't really like at the moment. Those are truly the ones who love you with the love of Christ.....they understand it is the Truth that sets us free. It is their selfless act of true friendship which is a treasured gift.

Today's Truth is speaking to me.....
   Create in me a clean heart oh God, and renew a right spirit within me.....I NEED YOU LORD!
This isn't always easy....although I know it crucifies my flesh.

God is asking me to.....
   Guard my heart, but love in practical ways. Remember, as I am offering practical ways to love others and they reject me...they are really rejecting the love Jesus is sending their way through others. It goes back to the beginning. God uses relationships.....when we are in a selfish mode, we often isolate and feel sorry for ourselves. So I choose to love in practical ways the Holy Spirit directs and I will continually choose to love--even when its difficult--in your face difficult.

Day 27--Measure Out Goodness

Dare: To Be Generous in Love an Practical Kindness

We are soon to begin a Life Group at our home for "blended families". Our  Cornerstone church body is reading and reviewing the John Ortberg's book, "The Me I Want to Be".  I am praying it will be a haven of  Truth, love and practical kindness.  We are given direction in Galatians 6;  'as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people..."

Debbie throws out some very practical Biblical based applications on page 207.

Today's truth is speaking to me....
   Keep on blessing.

God is asking me to.....
   Make some meals for our new Life Group for the first week.

My challenge is to....
   Make sure I plan accordingly--ie, time slots with previous commitments.
   Accept rejection when people don't receive my love and practical helps---"oh well".  I need to continue to  walk in obedience of love to God and others. He is at work. I am called to serve as Christ's disciple.

"Keep on loving each other as rothers. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it."
                                                                     Hebrews 13:1-2

Lord today I believe.....
   "It is God's good plan for me to bless others, give to others, and find ways to show God's love in tangible ways to the people in my life."

Day 26--The Humble Heart

Dare: To Walk in Humility and Grace toward Others.

In our modern society we are prone to  "me-first" agenda vs. an "others-first" agenda. On page 200, Debbie wrote, "Humility involves shadowing the life and nature of Christ. We need a humble heart if we are going to live in love toward others and if we are interested in honoring Christ."

One of my favorite scriptures listed is I Peter 5:5-7
   "Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." Humble yourselves therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast ALL your anxiety on him because He cares for you."
We must daily allow ourselves the opportunity to humble ourselves in the Presence of God.
"A woman who has properly placed her cares in God's hands has more space in her mind and heart to humbly love others."(pg. 202) This is a wonderful truth which is not being passed down through the generations as it should. I feel compelled to make this a priority which can change our focus/heart and motives.....making positive daily lives as Christians.

   Again all of the dares listed for the day are ripe with opportunity. Which one have you chosen? The last one is my dare of the day: to actively look for the needs of others.

Today's truth is speaking to me....
   Reminding me I need to "clothe" myself in humility. What does my humility look like? Is it ragged, torn, dirty, smelly and not very attractive? or is my humility clean, pure in motive, has a sweet aroma and is attractive to those I encounter?

God is asking me to....
   Let Him clothe me this day....afresh, anew with His truths....from the Word of God and basking in His presence.

My challenge is to.....
   Be real without bitterness or a chip on my shoulder. Be real with humility. No victim mentality. "Real humility" is appealing and draws others to us and more importantly to Him. False humility stinks and repels.
Page 203, "Lord, teach me your way. Show me how to walk as you walked, as you loved, live as you lived--humbly, obedient and yielded."

Day 25-- The Power of Words

Dare: To Use Your Tongue to Bless and Build Up Others.

Ok, today I have been challenged with this before I typed the blog....before I got dressed.
Debbie wrote (pg. 195), "Truth is, trigger words can still threaten my peace and quickly alter my attitude. Yes, words hurt. We all need to realize that our words can deeply wound others. Things we say can start so innocently and end so terribly.....Become accountable to God for your mouth, and get excited about the flip side of the negative---the positive effect uplifting words can have." I'm so glad there is a flip side.

The scriptures on page 196 were encouraging!
Ecclesiastes 10:12
   "Words from a wise man's mouth are gracious, but a fool is consumed by his own lips." I desire to be the best that I have been created to be.

All of the options for the dare of the day are fabulous. This is a dare challenge that should never end.

Today's truth is speaking to me.....


   Sometimes it's easier for me to process out loud/on paper. But I need to be more guarded about my sounding boards while processing...sometimes people take them out of context.
   Listening more and acting in more constructive mannerisms--practical acts of encouragements. Tangibles; ie. notes/cards/emails/calls

God is asking me to.....
   Give more love away in practical ways each time I want to say something negative. If I'm listening, I will hear a person's needs. Then I will be able to bless them in surprisingly personal and practical ways.

My challenge is....
   Not have my feelings hurt or be offended by others actions/words. I can only control my responses.

Today I believe....
"Pleasant word are healing, and I will seek opportunities to use them and to give others courage to face the day."


So ladies, Cheers to a beautiful day!  Let's use our words the way the Holy Spirit is guiding us this day that the Lord has made....with all honesty, integrity  and LOVE. Lord, we need you more than ever.
Thank you for your word God. Your words bring healing to  my soul.

Day 24--Practice the Presence of People

Dare: to Allow Your Heart to Connect and Your Mind to Engage With Others

How good and pleasant it is when brothers(sisters) live together in unity.
                                                                      Psalm 133:1

WOW! What a day it has been. It's been one of the best days I've had in a long time.  I was able to build relationship with StudentsFirst.org  and experience the K-Love station/staff all in one afternoon. Fun! Amazing! Beyond words......what is God going to do? Ordering my steps to unite with others....for his purposes.
"Honoring the value of people is a choice we make when we dare to live the Jesus style of life. He loved people, walked with them, ate with them, processed with them, healed them, gave to them and forgave them. I want to learn to value people the way Jesus did.", page 191

Today's truth is speaking to me....
   Relationships are gifts we offer to others as well as ourselves.

God is asking me to....
   Consistently honor others and myself and myself throughout the day......by the leading of the Holy Spirit.

My challenge is......
   Be consistent. 

Day 23--Put Down the Stones

Dare: To Quit Being Critical of Others

   Today's lesson was filled with scriptures....the Word is sharper than a two-edged sword.
As "woman-nature" goes, we have a tendency to be critical, judgmental and thinking we have all the answers. This can give us a negative attitude before we know it. When we are negative about life and others, it is twice as difficult to find positive attributes, encouraging solutions and accurate actions of unity and love.
   The list on page 187 is an incredible reminder of "how" we can choose to 'put down the stones'.
Taken from Romans 12:9-18, the list Debbie includes is helpful for daily use. Especially, "Discover the beauty in everyone".
   Each of the 'dare' options listed on pages 187-188 are beneficial....to others AND ourselves. Are you willing to help yourself be ALL that God wants you to be? Sometimes it's easier to help others be better, to have God help us be better......but do we want to choose the path of helping ourselves? Are we willing to put down the stones?

Today's dare is speaking to me........
   A reminder that I am to do unto others as I would have done unto me.
Also a reminder that I don't like bruises from others throwing stones my way. I need to get out of the line of fire. When the stones become too large they break bones and can kill our spirits. Wisdom and discernment are to be treasured.

God is asking me to.....
   Lay down the rocks and pray fervently for those who have rocks in their hands.

My challenge is to....
   *Be consistent. This is not allows easy for the "lion" personality.
   *Remember it is easier to catch flies with honey instead of vinegar.
   *Take all of the rocks that others have thrown...gather them together and add them with the Cornerstone. Before long, in the world we live in, we will have a fortress....with Jesus as the foundation. He takes all of those other stones, envelops himself with their intention and pain--diffusing their purpose and using the stones for His purpose. He builds the strong tower, where be abides. His Presence  resides. So instead of worrying about those rocks being thrown our way, we take them to Yahweh. We take them to Him....he can build something beautiful from those ugly little stones. Somehow when I am IN the "Strong-tower", I only see my Redeemer. In Him I live and breathe and have my being.  My challenge is remembering to hand Him the stones.

Day 22--Forgiveness

Dare: To Practice Forgiveness, Speak Forgiveness, and Choose Forgiveness

   Jesus proclaimed we are to forgive others just as He forgave us. Ouch! This is sometimes a challenge to my sinful nature. Because when the Holy Spirit sheds light on an area where there is unforgiveness.....it is blatantly clear; no running from it.

   When I am harboring unforgiveness against a situation, a person or myself and foolish choices I have made, it changes my countenance, my fragrance, my ability to love as Jesus would love.
   One of the options of our Truth Dare today is; dare to make a step toward forgiveness. Maybe that is simply acknowledging there is a forgiveness problem. Baby steps are better than no steps forward at all. As I watched our grandson learn how to walk, it was one wobble at a time. He would take a few wobbles forward and suddenly fall down. It wasn't but a few seconds and he would be up again, moving forward.
   As we live out our lives we must say to ourselves.... Although I might fall down in this journey, I WILL GET BACK UP AND MOVE FORWARD! I will NOT allow unforgiveness (The wobbling agent here) to hold me back. I must truly forgive and move on.
If other people don't want to accept forgiveness....that is their journey. I have wasted too many years with residue of unforgiveness in my life. I stand on the truth that "Whom the Son has set free, is free indeed". I AM FREE! and I will rejoice and be glad in it.

   Today's truth is speaking to me....
Thank you Jesus for the POWER of forgiveness!

God is asking me to.......
Remember the last point people hurt me intentionally----help me forgive them ON PURPOSE....AND move forward.

My challenge is to.....
Walk in continual awareness and speak it out when someone has hurt me: they might be unaware and keep on doing the same thing (sins of omission). Be sensitive of my sins of omission. I never want to hurt someone; but I am a human, living in a fallen world. The word says, we have ALL sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. Please help me Lord, to be more like you--to forgive and love well.

Today I Believe.....
"It is God's will that I forgive others, letting go of offenses for the sake of obedience to God's law of love."


Ladies,
   Keep up the fight for your faith to be unleashed--to grow even more--to live, breathe and have our being in Jesus. It is through Him. I pray blessings over you and your households, purposes and plans.

Let us walk in the peace of God that passes all understanding,
~Shauna

Day 21--Keep Yourself in God's Love

Well ladies, ten days left. I hope those that have followed along have been experiencing growth in your Faith Walk....to find yourself immersed in God's love for you....wanting to love Jesus more--more of him and less of yourself. I have and it hasn't been pretty on some days, but I am thankful I am making better choices which will bring a harvest....God's promises are true and He is faithful.

I have created a painting series titled, "Layers of Love". It evolved from I Cor. 13:4-8
"Layers" because it takes layers of faith, hope, love, truth, acknowledging bitterness, hatred, deceptions, freedom from selfishness, crucifying our flesh. The layers are applied with glazing processes, fresco, paint, crackling chemicals, etc....Jesus' love for us is layer upon layer. We have plenty of textures that become included. "In Matthew 5:48 the word "perfect" means mature. Jesus taught that the road to a mature and compete life involves doing things differently, viewing life and people through his lens. He taught that to live well (mature and compete) we have to make a decision to love well."(pg. 175)

Today's dare is speaking to me....
   Acknowledge where I am in certain relationships. How I have short-changed others and myself by protective walls, when I have not loved like Christ.
 Forgive myself and others and get back on track serving God with my whole heart.

God is asking me to....
   Be more aware/acknowledge and ask God "how"I should love others. Move into "love-action' on the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

My challenge is to....
   Continue to move forward in this area. Stay out of the FUNK...live and love well.

Day 20--Needy, Whiny and Discouraged

Dare: To SpeakPraise, Sing Praise, and Live With Confidence in God

I Thessalonians 5:18  "Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you.

This is the way out of the FUNK.....learning the power of praise---being grateful.
I can recall a time of great despair, when I was reminded that everyday before I got out of bed, which in and of itself was a challenge, I should thank God for "5 things" I was thankful for. Then without realizing it, I could say "10 things", then 20 and so forth.  As we can bow before God and fellowship with him, just because he is God--loving him, listening to him, engaging in his presence our inner confidence abounds.
   Debbie ends with..."All of us need love, acceptance, and forgiveness. Allow your faith in Christ to translate into love for others." This is the challenges in living it out each  day.

Thank you God that I am alive and well. Thank you that you are alive and continually interceding on our behalf. Help me live in your confidence Lord. Amen!

Day 19--Live As An Overcomer

Dare: To Get Your Head Out From Under the Circumstances

Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."John 16:33

I'm so glad.
On page 161, Debbie wrote,"Again, you cannot blame  the funk on anyone else. You are agreeing to be there by staying in your self and refusing to to live as an overcomer. I realize this is hard to swallow. It's hard for me to swallow too."
   Being "under the circumstances' can become like a warm blanket. We can become accustomed to the warmth there. Time to throw off the blanket of despair and grow-up in Christ and become a mature Christian, an overcomer. We only have one life to live on this earth. Do we really want to live less than God intended?

"God gives us many opportunities to practice walking out our faith and establishing our beliefs through our faith and establishing our beliefs through our circumstances. Today is another opportunity for you and for me. I choose today to be positive, to walk in the faith that God knows me and loves me and that I am in his hand." (pg. 161)

Today's dare: Get your head out from under your circumstances. All of the choices for the day are good. (Pg. 161)

Today's truth is speaking to me....
   Shauna, what are you doing? You are an overcomer! Why are you letting the enemy have a toe in the door? This is your life....get with the program. Really girlfriend. Enough FUNK, enough worrying about other's responses in light of what God has called you to do. Pray, say and do!  I have already learned this lesson. This is someone else's lesson, I am only a supportive friend. I am not going to experience this FUNK again. Let Go and let God. Encourage but don't enable others.

God is asking me to.....
   Rise and Shine! Put the shield of Faith up as the fiery darts are aimed my way. I am an Overcomer!
Take back the Promise and live up.

My challenge is....
   Do it with Christ's confidence, boldness and courage.

So ladies,
   Let's live up, live in and as an Overcomer!! We can be all that God wants us to be.
Yes, to Jesus!

Day 18--Get Out of the Funk

This is a dare to live with a New Focus....oh ya!

Have you ever been in a "funk"?

Debbie used an acronym:
F: focus problem; feelings prevail
U: under the circumstance, under the conditions, under the weather
N: needy
K: keeping the fire of the funk burning by tending to it, keeping it alive

The funk most definitely begins with a 'focus problem'...inevitably a 'focus problem'.

Ps. 34 v.1-5  What are we focusing on today? We have so much to be thankful for in the United States of America. Today there are numerous individuals in foreign countries fighting for the right to live in a "free society". Dying for there cause. What are we using our time and focus for this day, this week...year?  When we get in a "funk" we worry about things that have no long-lasting 'value'....usually our level of comfort/lifestyle are at stake.  As we sense the cloud of funk emerging, we must begin giving God thanks....reflecting a grateful heart. Pray the Word over our lives, our circumstances, our purpose....believing that all things work together for good.  Pray, say and do (for family/friends and others, bettering yourself in body mind and spirit).

Today's truth is speaking to me.....
   I must look up! Keep my focus on Jesus! His plan.
I have allowed others "Funkiness" to creep into my heart...I MUST shake it off and keep my focus clear. I will be all that God has called me to be, enjoy all that he has promised for me, my family and friends and His creation.

God is asking me to....
   Keep looking up....."The race is that way!!!! Not over there.
Stay the course....don't be distracted by other people's funk--I have had enough funk of my own and given it to God, why would I mess around with more funk?  Let Him mess around with their funk--it draws them into closer relationship with Him.

My challenge is to.....
    Trust God to bring people into my life on this leg of the race. I need to move with God at God's speed in faith, hope, Truth, love, grace and mercy.  My challenge is walk it out "completely" God. Without the Abraham & Sarah route.
   There is an old gospel song, "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus". As I was typing this blog it continually came to my mind. May it bless your day, your dream, your focus.

1. O soul, are you weary and troubled?
   No light in the darkness you see?
   There’s light for a look at the Savior,
   And life more abundant and free!
   • Refrain:
     Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
     Look full in His wonderful face,
     And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
     In the light of His glory and grace.
2. Through death into life everlasting
   He passed, and we follow Him there;
   O’er us sin no more hath dominion—
   For more than conqu’rors we are!
3. His Word shall not fail you—He promised;
   Believe Him, and all will be well:
   Then go to a world that is dying,
   His perfect salvation to tell!

Helen Lemmel, 1922

Day 17--The Mirror Image

Dare to Live in the Miracle of Who You Are.

"God looks at us and sees His purpose and the miracle of Himself in us. It's easy to take our life for granted, and when we do, we rarely live on purpose." p.150

Several of you have asked if I am still being tested as the donor of a bone marrow recipient. The answer is "yes". I have been classified as a "match" and the process is extremely thorough and unfortunately timely. Through this process, I am reflecting on my selfishness of taking things for granted. I am praying that God would provide the BEST donor for the needed recipient. Please pray with me--

Although I might inconsistently believe in the Miracle of Me through Christ...I am seeing the reflection of His Presence more and more. One of the questions on pg. 151, "Where am I going? ......Debbie's response, "God determines my days and the places I will live. He is accomplishing all things in my life so that my life will conform completely to his will."

Today's truth is speaking to me....
   Be confident in how/why God created me for
          this TIME-- his PURPOSES--and future GENERATIONS.


God is asking me to.....
   Let go of the things of this world's agenda and let Him cover me, direct/send me as He sees fit. Have faith that He has already orchestrated ALL things.

My challenge is to.....
   Surrender all facades and let His light shine through this broken vessel.
Soli Deo Gloria
May God's peace envelop your journey this day,
~Shauna

Day 16--A New Attitude

   Dare: Choose Whom You Will Serve and the Direction You Will Take.

   I am thankful I have a choice to participate in my attitude. This can be a challenge some days. I believe I am having to blog "a day after", is because of my attitude challenge toward time. Time to focus on listening to God's direction for my feet/head and heart. Focusing on the utilization of my time. If I were told today I had one week to live what would I pour my passion into?
   I am surrounded  by challenges every day just like the rest of the world. We are all in this amazing scenario we call "LIFE". You are not alone. Everyone is challenged..the challenges might be wrapped up in a different wrapping paper, but sister Lou Lou, we are all God's creation. We need each other. Although we might want to make a tropical island our own little haven of serene isolation. But that's not reality...and that is not what God has called any of us to do.

Romans 8:28-29
    "And we KNOW that in ALL things God works for the good of those who love him, and have been called according to his purpose. For those who God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son."  Question: Am I walking in His purpose? am I resembling his Son?

Hebrews 12: 1-2, 5-7, 10-13  Let us run with perseverance......

Debbie wrote (p. 142), "When bad things happen, everything we believe in is tested." Oh ya!
"During the faith dare we have challenged ourselves to believe in God's bigger plan, his greater plan, and our choice to surrender to that plan." How's the surrender part working for you? I'm feeling the burning sensation in my muscles!

Today's challenge is speaking to me....
  Yesterday I had an ophthalmologist appt. I am having some physical challenges with my eyes. We're trying one therapy for a few weeks and then another if it doesn't produce the results we are desiring.
Daily I make the decision to serve the Lord, but sometimes the direction isn't so clear. Is there something blurry about the charted course? The first thing is to be REAL. HONEST with the TRUTH of the direction. One of the options for today's dare is to believe that this present pain will produce peace and will train you for the life you were born to lead. My eyes are having to be re-trained, to make my brain process accordingly. It's going to take time, dedication, medicine and perseverance to adequately re-train my eyes....so that I can literally "see" the direction I will take. The Word of God says there will be trials and tribulation in this life. It also says that God works for the good of those who love him. I love him, therefore I KNOW he is working on my behalf. If others around us aren't loving the Lord....I can pray for them, try to encourage although I am often rejected, and keep on-- keepin' on. It's easy to get stuck in the enabling cycle of trying to help others and never move forward. But I pray that as we are able to allow the Holy Spirit to re-train the vision of our pre-destined direction we will see and walk out the bigger-picture day by day. I must TRUST and OBEY for there is NO OTHER WAY.

**Dare to choose a bigger-picture attitude ALL day today (p. 145).

God is asking me to.....
  Focus on God's vision. Listen and believe that he is speaking to my heart and spirit. Yep, that's my dare. That means staying focused on the plan of the big picture of my life, a plan I may not be able to see with my eyes but I must trust God to navigate with my heart/hands by His Spirit. This challenge is one I could camp out--work out continually for quite some time, because the dares of choice are many (p.45).

A friend of mine posted his story on YouTube (Tony Freitas). I posted the link on my Facebook
--Shauna Brynildson 8-17-11.   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OFr5hxdxT4
 Check it out...he and Holly see the bigger picture after much perseverance to KNOW their God is greater. I am blessed to know them as friends.


My challenge is to.... remember to breathe....when training, breathing is critical to healthy endurance. Lord may I be filled with the Breath of Life this day.....and "see" what you want me to see.....say what you want me to say, walk and serve the way that you want me to.....for  Soli Deo Gloria.

Day15--He Completes Me

Dare to Believe You Are Complete In God.

As I have dared to believe more of God, His ways, the Truth of His word...the more I am amazed of His faithfulness, even through difficulties in life. He does make something beautiful from the ashes. It's quite a mysterious thing.

Debbie wrote, "Perfect in a spiritual sense is one who is being completed through maturity, growth, and surrender to God. For my life, I have found  scripture that reminds me of the importance of coming to Christ daily, a HUGE benefit. The "partnership with God in the development of human lives". HUGE.
   The older I become, the more I realize, God has give me gifts and talents to be used for His purpose. I have responsibilities to utilize those tools as He directs my footsteps. I don't always understand the course, but I am beginning to sense the stirring of FAITH, the expectation that it is always worth the sacrifice required. Jesus is completing the end result. He makes a way, when there seems to be NO way. Time and time again, miracles happen, in spite of myself.

  Where are you in this process? "Acknowledging where you are is the first step to living in FAITH and TRUTH. I may not be where I want to be, but at least I'm not where I used to be.....forward motion.

His Truth is speaking to me........
   I can only pray, be confident in Christ for others. It's Him. I can not lose my own identity and purpose in other people's journeys. I need to listen and be obedient to God's call to love with healthy boundaries and keep running the race. Christ completes me, not others.

God is asking me to......
   * Stretch and grow...Go into all the world with the Truth; acknowledging and dealing with the Truth are two separate things.
   * Walk in the fullness of what God has given me. Stay out of the pit and don't let others pull me into theirs.

My Challenge is to....
  * Keep working in peace, joy, love, faithfulness, long-suffering, kindness, patience, self-control, hope in the Holy Spirit when my flesh is opposed.
  * Keep walking by the Spirit, not just head knowledge. God's ways are not man's ways. Many times they defy logic.....but the Word reveals more and more direction if we are brave enough to trust and obey its prompting.
Blessings on your day!

~Shauna

Day 14--

Dare to Believe You Were Not Created to be Enough in Yourself
This is a challenge for self-reliant people...hello!
It is only through Him that we can be ALL that He intended us to be.
Ps. 34
II Cor. 3:4-6  &  3: 17-18  These lifted me.. reminding me of his competency.
Max Lucado's quote: What makes us special is ....the signature of God on our lives."

If you take the challenges for this day seriously...it will change you. Again, the last is the kicker.
24 hr. dare...yes! Be as kind to yourself as Christ is to you. Wow! I didn't realize how I criticize my own weaknesses, vs. building up my strengths.

Today's truth is speaking to me...
   Remember who my redeemer is...I'm thankful it's Christ alone.

God is asking me to....
   Create good, beauty, love and Truth. Stay away from being close to negative people that suck all life out of me. Guard my heart...Be wise about sharing my heart .

My challenge is....
   Move forward when I feel as if I've taken 10 steps backward at the moment. Remind myself who my advocate is...Oh Ya!  Go God!  Booya!

Day 13-- Bringing Beauty to Life

Daring to surrender to the 'Process of Change'is an amazing place to be on your journey of faith. Beacuse God's ways are not man's ways it all seems strange at first....yet something in your spirit seems to continue to draw you....'come closer, come closer'.

Debbie mentions, a brief description of the development for a pearl: how it is formed. One irritating grain of sand....five years.  The reality of change is that "we are changed daily in small steps and in unseen ways. This daily change happens through the surrender of our will to God."

  Isaiah 61: 1-3  comforting all who mourn...bestow on them a crown of beauty...
oil of gladness..., a garment of praise..... for the display of His spendor. I am glad Jesus has called me to live in the beauty of His holiness. I'm not always there, but just as the grain of sand is cultuvated, God is cultivating my heart continually. I'm so thankful he isn't finished with me yet.

The dares for our day are EXCELLENT!
To me the last on the list was my first.

Today's Truth is speaking to me....
   Look at what the Lord has done. As I interacted with the women at my Bible Study this week, I was reminded of the power of God to restore the brokenhearted, to pour the oil of gladness over my life. None of the ladies in my group know of the trials of despair I have experienced in my life. One of them commented about how "it just flows out of her". Well, I'll be the first to say a few years ago, all that was flowing was a river of tears. Seven or eight years ago, I was covered in ashes. I am so thankful Jesus is in the restoration business, in the relationship business and not in the religion business. He revived me, I AM a new creature in Christ: my focus has changed. I love to experience practical acts for others...a way of encouraging others.

God is asking me to....
   Not be ashamed, but walk in His fullness. Radiate His peace/Presence.

God is challenging me....
   Walk it out with my family. Keep it real.

Day 12--Woman of Worth

Dare: Believe YOU Are God's Treasure and of Great Value to God!
~Shauna
OK....I double-dog dare you!

I'm back home after the conference and in amazement of God. The Global Leadership Conference was phenomenal...highly recommended! I am definitely believing I am a treasure to God and of great value to Him/His purposes.

Today's dare and "scripture, teaches that we come from a place of worth and value. God values those whom he has made", pg. 120 As many have stated....God doesn't make junk. Satan would like us to think otherwise. He wants us to believe that we are worthless so that we will LIVE as if we are worthless.

Often people pull and tear at our confidence in Christ. Maybe they are jealous we live with intent and are focused on Christ--centered on His purposes. It is the value of love, grace and freedom of the Holy Spirit others are drawn to...as they are drawn to a 'woman of worth'--it is nothing we have done that is special. I'm so glad God has a design for my life. He has given ALL of us immeasurable value, gifts and talents.
As many of you know---my life has been a wild ride so far. But God is still creating more facets....more dimensions of His light to be reflected.  When I began my jewelry company, Treasure in Earthen Vessels years ago, it was from the scripture, II Cor. 4:7; to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.  I thought I understood the scripture, then I was tested.
    Another crack, another chip, what was happening. I thought that with so many broken dreams, so many shattered pieces, God would not be able to use this vessel again. I had experienced God in ways that I knew many others had not--I did not understand. I thought all people had known the power of God surging through their very being. Speaking Jesus' name and see people receive salvation, healing and deliverance. I soon learned that many hadn't, didn't understand and the Enemy wanted me to think there was no value in sharing God's love, grace and freedom of the Holy Spirit. The enemy wanted me to think it was too late, too many mistakes, no way possible God could use this broken vessel. But as we read/reminded on pg. 121, "your enemy, the thief hates all this. He wants you to think you are worthless. It's a LIE. The truth stands: YOU are precious, loved and valued." We are women of value.

Today's truth is speaking to me....
   Walk in these truths again! Why have you taken steps backward? Rise up and walk!

God is asking me to....
   Remember, meditate, dream again, plan with prayer & fasting.
   Get rid of the chaos and side-ring circus acts-----simplify again. Forward motion only. Be ready in and
          out of season.
   Do not become entangled with other's bondage issues. That is not the same as love, compassion, grace
          or mercy. STAY FREE!

My challenge is to....
     Do what God is asking me to do.....it's a big dream that only He could conjure up.
     Continue to pray for breakthroughs...keep believing.....keep serving Him with my whole heart
     knowing I am who He says I am...a woman of worth, a woman of priceless value.

Blessings on your evening,
~Shauna

Day 11--A Different Life

No Longer For Self.....Live In!  In Surrender of Self    Romans 12:1-3
God change our thinking to YOURS...YOUR BIG PICTURE.

This morning Mark and I are getting ready to attend a satellite meeting for the WillowCreek Leadership Summit Conference @Cornerstone Church in Livermore. We are excited that God has led us to attend this conference. We are anticipating a different life with MORE of Jesus...more of God's revelation.

  In Psalm 23, on pg. 113  I soaked in the section which says, "I'm NOT AFRAID when you walk AT my side.
   YOUR TRUSTY Shepherd's Crook (boundaries).....
   YOU SERVE ME........
   YOU REVIVE ME......
   YOUR BEAUTY AND LOVE CHASE AFTER ME--every day of my life

I'm back home in the house of God for the rest of my life. This is the place I want to be. This is the place that takes living an intentional awareness of walking with God.

The Lists on pg. 114 are priceless.  Jesus came to give us life...that life looks different than the culture's perception....it's based on His word-His Truth-His promises fulfilled. It's all about Him/His Big Picture---we have to be by his side to have this kind of life.

  Today's Truth is speaking to me: Walk with Jesus always....let Him be my Shepherd (tour guide), so I will not be deceived into being coerced off His path for His purposes.

God is asking me to..... Move forward WITHOUT fear. Remember how faithful He has been in the past and walk in faith for Promises He still wants to fulfill...God's WORLDVIEW--not my own.
Pursue His Presence and He will move the mountains.

My challenge is to.....
Have a good attitude about "baby steps". I need to stop worrying about everyone else's feelings/hurts and their ramifications while I am trying to move forward. They have to live out their 'stuff'--their way. I am not called to be hindered from moving forward because of their 'stuff'.....I am called to WALK with My Shepherd. I am called to pray, encourage and love WHILE walking with Jesus.
It is a challenge for me when I love people around me. I want to grab their hands and say, "This is the Way". But that is the Holy Spirit's role.


"The Lord is my helper and will teach me how to love others when I would rather hold back" or drag along. Lord, help me love well.

 

Day 10--Mind Management

Wow! What a whirlwind day!  I love when God is saying, 'Are you sure you want to ride this ride with me?' This is just getting started....are you really ready?  It's 4:15 PM and I'm finally having an opportunity to blog. Oh well, some days are just like that.

   This "Mind Management", is an area that is a challenge in the culture in which we live. Everything is vying for the focus of our minds.

   Todays' Dare: Guard Your Thoughts and Full Your Mind with Good.
The chart that Debbie shared on pg. 106 is worth xeroxing/copying on index cards and placing in our cars, on our vanities, refrigerator, etc... to quickly remind us of the FOCUS! What is buzzing around your head?
I loved the idea of the "Lie Swatter"!!! I don't know about you, but if there is a fly buzzing around me, I grab whatever is available and USE IT to accomplish the task.  What are the spiritual tools/principles that you have laying around--available for you to use in a quick moment? If they're available and not IN USE, they are of no value......start using God's word, praises, songs, grateful thoughts,etc...use what you have available and continue to add to your arsenal of "effective swatters".

Today's truth is speaking to me....
   The battlefield is the mind. Don't sit there in the "mindfield" of lies/deceptions and half-truths. Pray...Pursue God-directed thoughts/actions...remember His plans are for good, not evil. And keep moving forward!! That's how we finish the race.

God is asking me to....
   Keep moving forward. Someone else's junk isn't mine. I refuse to be pulled down into their pit. I will continue to pray and go about the Father's business.......not being distracted by "flies' or "bugs". God is asking me to be FOCUSED.

My challenge is to......
   Be bold and courageous! Making our home/temple; a home/temple filled with joy, love and peace. Ridding it of manipulation, fear, lies being ignored. LET the LIGHT EXPOSE the DARKNESS.
LET the TRUTH SET US FREE!   NOW, not next year, or in five years or when all of the kids are out of school/when they are all married, etc.....  Jesus is about the NOW.
 FREEDOM NOW in Jesus' name!

Finally friends, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if ANYTHING is EXCELLENT or PRAISEWORTHY--THINK about such things.                    **  Philippians 4:8

Day 9--Asking and Not Receiving

  Today's dare: Remember That God Gives Good Gifts to His Children.
I don't know about you yet, but I needed today's dare. I have been challenged with about a dozen difficult things lately. I have been praying, I have been meditating, sitting in His Presence; knowing that Jesus can do anything He sees fit.

The lists of things for the day, pg. 99 spoke volumes! Especially about turning our thinking around regarding 'time lines' and learning to trust in God's time.

Today's truth is speaking to me.....
   God  =  faithful for his children's benefit & for his purposes...in his timing so that all people
                would know him.
God is asking me to....
    Be steadfast.
    Remain in the BIG PICTURE!
    Keep my mind on prayer, praise and His promises--not the bleak.
    LIVING UP!! Looking toward Him.
My challenge is to...
    Be all that God has asked of me when people are mean, rude, inconsiderate, and purposefully hurtful.
    It's so challenging to continue to try to foster relationships when others intentionally attack our
    soft spots. When we have been vulnerable, opened up and shared valuable information to try to help
    another and have them turn around and use that against us--OUCH! My challenge is to remember that
    I am trusting God for the favorable outcome in his timing.....that all things will work together for
    good. When I am weak, He is strong!

For I have a heavenly Father, and He knows what I need and provides ALL I need.

Day 8--The Power Connection

Okay, this analogy hits home with me....a hairdryer, a flat iron, a curling iron and a coffeemaker. Yes, I have all four of these items plugged in during the morning hours; today included.

   "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness" II Cor. 12:9
After a couple of days of driving back and forth to Spirit West Coast...I am feeling a tad weak, not my usual self. Yes, the coffee helps but when I took the time yesterday to really meditate on His words for me; for the day--plugging into Him, resting in His arms for a few hours; I was able to walk in peace for the remainder of the day. I NEEDED Jesus to direct my words for His purpose in a specific situation. I'm so thankful he continues to make Himself known in new and mysterious ways. His word is alive and active.
   John 15 has long been a favorite chapter for me.  God alone is my source. Not my husband, not my children, my job, my parents, my extended family, friends, Bible Study group, my church...no-- God and God alone. When I am connected to Him through the Holy Spirit life is AMAZING!  Scary things come and go...dark places can try to engulf me....but the Holy Spirit surges with just the right amount of energy and at just the perfect time to work through the circumstances.
   Recently, I had a group of ladies stay for a Design4Living Conference. When you have approx. 20 women needing to get ready for their day.....Hello! Power failure crisis! I'm so thankful that God's circuit breaker never trips. He has more than enough Power, we simply need to be completely plugged in.
  Debbie lists wonderfully practical ways we can stay plugged in on pg. 93. Jesus is the Vine, I am the branch and I desire to bear much fruit. I MUST stay connected....apart from Him I can do nothing, except shrivel up; no fruit.

Today's Truth is speaking to me......
  The grape vines in our backyard are developing large clusters of fruit--slowly plumping up, week by week. If I were to accidentally break off a branch as I was carelessly walking by, it would slowly wither and the fruit would not continue to grow. The fruit would gradually shrivel up. It wouldn't even make good raisins because there wouldn't be enough sugar content in the existing fruit. The branch would wither and there would NOT be any friuit. Sometimes we carelessly get in the way of the "Vine's" divine plan and "accidentally" knock off our branches before the harvest is ready. It can really mess up the plan. Thankfully, God will use his Vinedresser skills; prune us, redirect our growth and in DUE SEASON (another season-because our current season continues without us bearing fruit--OUCH!) WE WILL BEAR FRUIT. This time we WILL submit to the Vine and His skills/purpose and we will bear much fruit...in another season.
God is asking me to.....
   Relax. Stay attached to Him--GROW! I am to allow His touch to trim and redirect and stretch the trellises so there will be a bountiful harvest. Keywords: Relax and stretch....I can't stretch unless I relax.
My challenge is to...
   Relax...I can get wound up. Blessing and curse? Oh, RELAX IN HIM...ya, that's the ticket.
Continue to intercede; stand firm in my boundaries and live my life with intentional purpose and distinction of the Holy Spirit. Flipping the switch with the POWER SOURCE connected! I have to at least "Flip the Switch". What is your part today?

Peace be your today,
~Shauna

Day 7--The Power of God

Good afternoon Ladies,
   Today's blog is about the Power of God: Daring to believe in God's Power in All Circumstances.
I think my pages stuck together yesterday while at Spirit West Coast.  So there might be cross over between the two days.
  During the last two days I was privileged to see God's power displayed in amazing ways. Last night as the fog and mist were enveloping the Monterey hills and Toby Mac was leading the crowd in "Jesus Freak" songs I saw thousands of people worshipping their Creator. It was simple...the vision of God's plan --purpose was being cast within our hearts and minds. You could sense the praise rising to the heavens. Amazing! People from all different lifestyles, socio-economic backgrounds and religious beliefs. I am so glad he is powerful in all circumstances-all lives; if we allow him.
    As Debbie mentioned on pg.87  "Paul cast the vision of truth out to them, that they would be truly be different because of Christ and that those alive in Christ they could walk in all the good things God had prepared for them. This is what it means to live in God's design for our lives, and in doing so with the assurance  of his power at work in us  rather than the flimsy notion that we can become strong enough for the task."

Today's truth is speaking to me.... To be available for His power to engage my Life, flow through my life and celebrate Him changing lives in His Power in others. Allowing complete access for His Power challenges us. Paul was up for the challenge, am I?
God is asking me to.... Allow Him access--so He can flip the Power switch to eliminate all darkness and be SHINE (be glorified).
My challenge is to....to truly surrender His amazing power daily...living in His power as if there is no tomorrow. Sharing His amazing power continually without holding back because I am worried about what others think. Reminding myself....Jesus is calling those He knows will be faithful to love Him with their whole heart. He's given me His power, what am I doing with it? What are we doing with the Power of God in our lives?

Day 6--Transformed Lives

Hola from Spirit West Coast!
  Connected in the wi-fi tent...via my VP of Logistics...I think I will need to give him a raise!
The sun is finally coming out from behind the clouds. The "Afters" just finished on the K-Love stage. A big shout out to Andrea!! Thank you for making wonderful memories. We pray many blessings for K-Love for serving Christ while He "Transforms Lives".
   Power is an amazing force.....with power I am finally connected to the world outside of this tent. It is invisible to the naked eye in most cases--often taken for granted. This can often be the case with the power of God too.  The question is: when we think we aren't able to 'see God at work' do we automatically kick into our .....in my own power mode? God gives His power to ALL Christians, no matter what their calling in life. P. 86

   P. 87 is full of wonderful truths.  I agree with Debbie when she states, "Life gets exciting when we realize that a resurrection took place within us when we became Christ's, and now we ARE filled with the Holy Spirit.

Ephesians 1:18-20   Yes!!!

The list on pg. 88 is a quick reference....it is endless when you begin to reference with the Holy Spirit.
Our lives DO fit into His bigger picture. The DARE: to believe in God's power in ALL circumstances.
As I sit here with multiple bands singing out about Jesus...to different styles, loud, talking, computers, etc...it is taking a lot of concentration to know God is going to work through this crazy day, this blog getting out. But through HIS POWER, the energy within this computer, this sphere moves, rapidly to make it to your input. To remind you this day, He is able to do exceedingly abundantly more than you can ever think, hope or ask for.

Today's Truth is speaking to me....
   Remembering that God has already planned the good work He desires me to do. I need to work as if I believe it!! Walk it out....walk it out!  Walk it out as Shauna Brynildson; not as someone's wife, someone's step-mom/mom, daughter, but to the fullest of God's plan.
God's asking me to....
   Step up and use ALL of the tools He has given me. Not to shy away from them.
My Challenge is to....
   Be completely sold out to the power of God opening doors....saddle up your horses! (That's for you Cheryl!) Let's go girlfriend!

  Signing out from Spirit West Coast....Thanking the Lord for this day He has made. The day I am able to sit next to my brother at Spirit West Coast with his wife and daughters. Only God opens those doors!
Keep believing!

Day 5--Not Conformed to the World

    Another day in this world that God created for us. Sometimes I ponder the messes around us and think "am I in this mess, did I cause this mess, or is/could this really part of God's plan to draw us closer to Him?" Yesterday was the biggest dip the stock market has seen since 2008-ouch! These situations affect real people and their lives, businesses, etc...  Things will come and go---there will be ups and downs in our lives. But God's a constant we can hold onto.  Romans 11: 36, "For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen." These are interesting days we are living in. It is going to require us to commit and sacrifice ourselves wholeheartedly to the Lord.  He desires fellowship with all of us....not little increments.
   On pg. 71, it states, "The world teaches us we can have it all, be it all, and experience it all. If being independent and liberated is so wonderful, why are we a culture of depressed and disappointed women?"
Further down the page....."When there isn't room for God, we live conformed to our culture, aligned to the world."

"We are to stay CONNECTED to the power of God because it will help us SURRENDER our all to a God who is bigger and more powerful than any power we have ever known--and who is more LOVING than any love we could imagine. When we get down to details, part of this sacrificial life involves OFFERING our physical selves to God--that means our bodies and all their faculties." pg. 75

Ok, this is a challenge for me. So I don't have to reflect very long on this one. I know my weak spots here and am faced with them again. I need God to help me "just do it".

Today's challenge is speaking to me:
   Staying true to God and myself. SURRENDER it all and leave it there at the alter. No taking it back.
God is asking me to.... Do IT without excuses. He is my strength and desire. I need to be healthy so I can go to the next level of serving my family and friends---healthy habits are important witness experiences too.
My challenge is to.....Be consistent in my commitment to healthy habits; both physical and spiritual. With God there is no separation of two sectors. With Him; it is all one.....being conformed into one world--His image--His purpose.

So, here we go....off to Spirt West Coast. Lord I surrender my day to you...have your way!

Day 4--Dare to Live Like You Belong to God

While reading today's dare a vivid childhood memory flooded my thoughts. I was approx. 9 yrs. old and can recall the location, the smells and activity around me. The Presence of God, the reality of his supernatural touch in my heart, mind and body were overwhelming. He made Himself known to my very core. He gave me amazing thoughts of hope, love and desire for all people to know Him in that manner.
   I quickly knew that this wasn't happening to everyone in my family or friend's lives. My sister kept telling me to be quiet, because I was crying out to God in joy as well as the sorrow of those who reject his love. I didn't know it at the time, but I was living out the hunger for worshipping in spirit and truth with my Creator. It was simple, pure and I was enveloped by His Presence. I was daring to live like I belonged to God.
   But through the life experiences; the tug-of-war for my soul, I somehow lost the purity of worshipping like I truly belonged to God. I transitioned into a human-pleaser vs. a God lover. Why? By my own selfish-soulish desires to gratify the lusts of the flesh. We all have them, they may be wrapped in different wrapping paper...a detour of our sinful nature. But God knows our heart's desire to be free from the cares of this world---He alone is our Redeemer. So, slowly but surely I took steps--some small, some leaps of faith to draw closer to My Redeemer, My Creator, My Jesus once again.....acknowledging that I am His and He is mine. Actually living like I belong to Him....with thanksgiving, gratitude and desiring to share the Truth/Love of Christ with others.

   Page 68 lists ideas/examples of living a life as if we REALLY belong to God.
Today's dare is speaking to me....Remember that every day is another opportunity! If I'm not hitting the target one day....God's mercies are new every morning....I am so grateful! I need all the mercy He has to give.

God is asking me to.... Continue to make strides forward in His truths: I am His and He is mine.
                                      'Lifestyle surrender'....deep calling unto deep and celebrating the disciplines of
                                      faith.

My challenge is to.....Stay softened to Him.pliable in this process. Dying to my flesh. Allowing/Letting
                                    the Holy Spirit to flood my soul.
    Yesterday's action to the challenge was to find something you can do to lavish love on another person in a practical way. I loved how God allowed this to happen.  The seeds that were planted many years ago, grew into a vine, which was planted in our backyard. The vine was nurtured, pruned, watered....eventually in due season grew grapes that were harvested. Then the fruit was stretched even further by making jelly. Although the jelly was made last year, the jelly was able to be shared yesterday and spread on bread today for our sustenance. I'm reminded again, that IF I live like I belong to God--no matter the mess ups, He will cultivate me....nurture  my heart, stretch my faith from seeds planted years ago in order to draw others closer to Him in Spirit and Truth.  I'm so thankful God is my Redeemer.
I pray blessings on your day,
Shauna

Day 3--Living Loved

Good morning Ladies!

This dare is one that I have spent many years "getting into my mind, body and spirit".  Through life experiences I too had heard words of discouragement/judgement about being a "not-enough girl",pg.60. But the reminder of walking in the freedom of God's love for me, my family, my friends, this world rev's me up!
When I finally accepted what Jesus was lavishly bestowing upon me---WOW!
   The items of "dare" are powerful for this day. We could camp here for weeks. Day by day, let's challenge ourselves to walk out this living. Which item are you going to do today? I am going to do #4. with my bible study group tonight.

Truth speaking to me:

*Attitude of gratitude throughout my day.
*Living like I am the King's daughter of love, joy and graciousness.
*Receive everything God has for me through His love... today.

God is asking me to:
*Love intentionally, even when people push me away...never give up on the power of Jesus' love.

My challenge is to:
*Let go of the "unlovable labels" others have placed on me. I will "DELETE....DELETE....DELETE", those words. I will walk in the fullness of God's grace and mercy, extending the hand of love. I will DARE TO LIVE DIFFERENTLY by LIVING LIKE I AM LOVED.

Day 2

Ok-- Day 1 accidentally posted under comments.
DAY 2:  Follow the Leader Dare to Pay Attention to God's Lead

               On pg. 53, "It's easy to do things that come naturally to us. But it's not so easy to lay down our wil and follow God into areas that are difficult or unnatural to our reasoning, feelings, or habitual ways of living."

 This hit home with me today. As I am leaving for some lab work for more screening to be a donor for a bone marrow recipient I am reminded how it is more natural to say, someone else is better suited for this. Really God, you have matched my chemical make-up to share with another? It took an unction last summer to participant with Be The Match Foundation from a young child in our church who needed a transplant match. It wasn't a match there but today I will be one step closer to share a very intricate part of who God create me to be, with another woman. The point is it took a step--forward motion, to pay attention to God's lead last summer. The opportunity wouldn't have been there, if two years ago I hadn't of responded to an e-Harmony match with my husband Mark. Which led me to resend my Wyoming Teaching Credential application process-yes, I was on my way to Wyoming when Mark and I met. Ok, you can stop laughing now. I have lived on a farm-Green Acres Darling. If I hadn't of listen to the leading of the Lord and taken that leap of FAITH--( believe me it was), to stay in CA and marry Mark and relocate to Livermore and attend a new church and act on the nudge to participate in Be The Match, I would not be where I am this morning. There has been so much in between it blows my mind, but God's leading has led to some amazing growth, friendship, heartache/healing, stretching, knowledge and TRUSTin Him. God's ways are not man's ways.

Pg. 27,  "Faith is....living in confident trust and certainty that God is who he says he is. It is living what God's Word says about his ways rather than what my eyes, senses, or emotions say about each situation, circumstance, and daily challenge in this life." I desire to live out THIS life: a life of FAITH.

Pg. 56, The top paragraph listed 5 basic questions-check them out.  I asked the Lord "What are you asking me to do today?" I read some scripture, I thought about the truth there, waited on the Holy Spirit to penetrate my impatience and I then heard a still small voice. "do not grow weary, for in due season you shall reap a harvest." God is faithful to complete that which HE has started.
So lead us this day that you have made Lord....help us be obedient to your leading no matter what it looks like on the outside appearances. We want to serve you Lord with our whole heart.

So--off to the lab I go!
Blessings,

~Shauna

Day 1-- Welcome to the Faith Dare Journey!

Greetings Everyone!

As I have mentioned in one way or another; Debbie Alsdorf, author of The Faith Dare is a friend and colleague also desiring to 'Living Life to the Fullest'. I am thankful she was obedient to pen her thoughts and experiences to positively impact our culture. I am just as thankful you have followed your instinct to participate in this 30 day journey.

This is going to be such an amazing time for all who come expecting something unique to happen amongst family and friends.....I am obviously anticipating tremendous movement in my world with the bond of 'faith' amongst our group this coming month.  Initiating a blog is new for me--so have patience and feel free to throw hints my way. Apparently my horizons are broadening in the 'tech department'....which is funny for those who really know my abilities.


Welcome to the Challenge!
I am so glad you have decided to join in; what ever the reason. Some are accepting a challenge to grow as a woman, some are linking with other family members to demonstrate unity. While others are joining in for a breakthrough at this point of your life---"something has to change" and you have decided God has called you to be the conduit of His changing power. Believe it or not.... at the conclusion of this book we are all going to have intentionally participated in something amazing.
Buckle your seat belts.....God's taking us for a ride!

~Shauna
Engaging~Inspiring~Empowering
Soli Deo Gloria