Happy New Year sprinkled with Tears and Hope

Fort Mill, SC 2007

Writers are supposed to grab a thought,

sit down, and write.  And write...

But what if you have so many thoughts going around 

in your head that you don't know where to start?

That's when I let my heart--led by the Holy Spirit--take over.  So through the happiness of the holiday season,

many are experiencing sadness ... so ...

Sometimes we just need to cry, don't we?  

God sees our tears.  

He promises you that even through the blur of sorrow, 

a light of hope shines brightly--no matter what the loss.  

Even when tears fall, hope stands.  

God says to you, 

"I know the plans I have for you ... 

plans to prosper you and not to harm you, 

plans to give you hope and a future."

Jeremiah 29:11.

"Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for HE who promised is faithful."  

Hebrews 10:23

Now, moving right along ...

For the last two years my "word" for 2021-22 was courage.

Definition: The choice to confront fear with confidence.

So I obeyed God and started "The Boardwalk Babes"

(with the *encouragement* of my friend Jessica)

((notice that *word* has courage right in the middle!))

I had no idea what I was doing but turns out to be

one of the biggest blessings in my life!

The BBabes are gifted, talented, giving, and kind.

I could go on and on but I'm trying to keep this short.

My "word" for 2023 is Daring!

I'm a RED* -- Retired-Extremely-Daring!

Definition: Willing to take risks. Bold and venturesome.

I have no idea what that holds in store, 

but I know it means that 

I won't be sitting around twiddling my thumbs.

To all who are out there in Blog Land,

I wish you an abundance of blessings for

a Happy New Year

and remember ...

Keep reading and keep that body movin'!

www.amazon.com/author/www.sharonleaf.com 

Lesson 10 "From Challenge to Change to Courage...God's Master Plan" for your life!

" From Challenge to Change to Courage...

God's Master Plan" for your life!

Lesson 10

by Sharon Leaf

My Paris holiday with my Robinski  2014

Today's women are facing many Challenges. 

Challenges that call for Change.  

Speaking from experience, I can tell you that Change can be scary, but ... 

... as we trust in the Lord we realize that God allows Change for our benefit.

However, when we're going through these Challenges and Changes we sometimes 

cannot see the forest for the trees.  

But when we allow God to direct our path, 

Courage comes on the scene ...

then anything can happen!

Part 1 ~ Recognizing His Voice

   We can learn to recognize God's voice.  He desires to be heard and He will reveal Himself in different situations and through different acts.  He uses people, both non-believers and believers,  to get our attention.  He's waiting for you to accept the challenge so He can show you what He can do.

   God communicates through physical, mental and spiritual acts.  Throughout our lives we can see God's work take place through acts involving coincidences that are too perfectly timed that we must attribute them to some higher power.  These can be words from people, specific deeds, or even lyrics, poems or scriptures that carry a message that resolves what is going on in your life.  We say, 'God opened the door' or an 'opportunity' crossed our path.  

   When was the last time God opened a door for you?  My latest open door came a few weeks ago when I stopped by a new store in town, Biblestore Outlet.  After chatting with the manager, I received an email, inviting me to have a book signing the first week in December!  Now, still in the midst of the Covid from China, I call that a miracle!

   When did a song, a poem, or a specific situation give you the answer you were looking for?  The Bible is alive with meaning when we are looking for a specific answer.  The scriptures carry God's voice to us, to inspire us, to guide us, and to reveal His recommendations for life's situations.  Have you ever said, I need a verse to give me direction, and then opened your Bible to a scripture that jumped out at you?  I experienced this when after several years of writing Lady and the Sea, a feeling of discouragement came over me.  I asked the Lord, "Did you really ask me to write this book, or was it just my imagination?"  A few moments later I opened my Bible to Psalm 26:7 and read, "That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of thy wondrous works."  My answer was loud and clear!  Yes, God challenged me to write, so I changed my attitude, and Lady and the Sea was soon published.  That was the answer I needed for that moment.

   How do you know if an act is really from God or just a coincidence?  Physical acts that relate specifically to the matter-at-hand will bring God's voice to you.  Does the coincidence meet a need, bring a feeling of peace, lift our hearts, and keep us on the path that God is directing?  My friend Debbie experienced this a few years ago after I had moved to South Carolina.  She called to tell me that she was diagnosed with breast cancer.  For a moment, I stopped breathing.  How could this be happening to my true friend?  After the ringing subsided in my ears, I heard her say, "I'm so glad we planned our GRITS Getaway to visit you ... it's just what I need, to be surrounded by friends."  As we talked we realized that it was no coincidence ... God had orchestrated the GRITS Getaway just for Debbie.  She flew from California with my daughter Jacquie and two other friends to spend a few days of laughter, relaxation, great food (Bernadette is a wonderful chef!) and lots of fellowship (with little sleep I might add).  This increased my knowledge even more that God directs our paths for our future.  Think about it.  Meditate on this: if God watches over those cute little birdies that fly around in the sky, how much more He watches over His cute little women fluttering around down here on mother earth.

Part 2 ~ God can and still does speak to us through ...

... dreams, visions, thoughts, an audible voice, angels, and the gift of tongues.  One example was when Rob and I were in downtown Moscow in the winter of 1991 just before Communism fell.  We gave Vladimir the cab driver the address to our destination, he shook his head then after driving for several miles through the city, the cabbie shook his head again as if to say that he had no idea where he was taking us.  Our group's interpreter was in the other taxi and they had left us in their dust, so there we were, two Americans with no way to communicate to our lost Russian cabbie!

   Vladimir finally stopped and asked another taxi driver for help, but they both shook their heads.  At that moment I knew they were in the wrong profession.  What could we do?  We looked at each other and started praying in tongues (I'm sure Vlad thought we were trying to speak Russian).  

   After driving around the busy streets for another hour, Vlad pulled over to a curbside where a tall man in a black coat was waving at us.  Vlad gave the man the piece of paper with the address.  The stranger smiled at us, then spoke to Vladimir as he pointed west.  So off we sped into the night until we finally reached our destination on the outskirts of the city.  

   Rob and I arrived at our destination late, but safe!  Now, who do you think that tall man was who just happened to be standing on that specific corner at that time of night?  That, my friends, was an angel unaware that the Bible speaks about (Hebrews 13:2).  They seem to appear at just the right moment in time.  Have you ever encountered an angel along your journey to your destiny?

Fun at Chip and Joanne's Magnolia in Waco, Texas 2018

Part 3 ~ We are all unique

   We are all unique so Jesus will reveal Himself to you in special ways when He asks you to accept His challenges.  As the Holy Spirit guides you to all truth, according to the Bible you will feel even more changes take place in your life.  All you must do is ask, believe, and then let God do the rest.  He wants our walk with Him to be easy; we're the ones who make it difficult ... trying to figure out every little aspect of our life ... it's actually more exciting when we take a deep breath, stand back, and allow God to direct our path.  That's when courage rises up in us!

   So let's try allowing God to direct our path this week!  In this crazy, mixed-up world, we need to try this every single day of our lives!

P.S:  I had a wonderfully fun and successful 'social distancing' book signing for Lady and the Sea and Lady on the Run at the Biblestore Outlet!  I sold all my books.  Now I must go online to order more!

And remember,

whether near or far,

remember to keep reading and

keep that body movin'!

www.amazon.com/author/www.sharonleaf.com

   

Lesson 7 ~ From Challenge to Change to Courage...God's Master Plan" for your Life!

 From Challenge to Change to Courage...God's Master Plan" for your Life!  

Lesson 7

by Sharon Leaf

My special time on a Mexican Riviera cruise with my brother John

right after he was diagnosed with stage 4 stomach cancer. 

January 2020

Now that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

Philippians 4:11

Today's women are facing many Challenges. 

Challenges that call for Change.  

Speaking from experience, I can tell you that Change can be scary, but 

as we trust in the Lord we realize that God allows Change for our benefit.

However, when we're going through these Challenges and Changes we sometimes 

cannot see the forest for the trees.  

But when we allow God to direct our path, 

Courage comes on the scene ...

then anything can happen!

Part 1 ~ Obtaining Peace

   The world is searching for relief from their stresses.  Today crisis-driven, money-motivated hectic lifestyles are pressing people to the limit.  And now, in 2020 ... add the Corona Virus to the mix!  

   Have you ever wondered if it was possible to live stress-free?  Could you sell peace if it was advertised?

   Well, you can be the first person on your block to have peace!  The Bible is full of comments and teachings on how to live without stress.  Peace is Priceless.  But peace cannot be bought or sold.

   When we moved from California to South Carolina, the above verse became very real to me.  No matter what state I lived in, I would be content.  But I think Paul was also talking about something deeper.

   Peace is a state of mind.  When we live a life of prayer, we can build positive mental health.  I'm not talking about sitting all day with our hands folded.  If you're like me, I talk to God while I'm making my bed.  My Lady Leaf's Lounge is now a no-phone zone, but I can dial up Jesus anytime!

   It is the Holy Spirit that transcends our own weak spirit to lift us to a point of  being content.  This peace described in the Bible is defined as a peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).  Man cannot create this product; it comes from God.

   Giving up our wants is a major key.  I find that the more I want, the more demands I put on myself, thus propelling me out of my peace mode.  I have to remind myself:

What shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul?  Mark 8:36.

Part 2 ~ Remove Stress by Eliminating Sin

   There are may peace robbers--money, power, and physical temptations, to name a few.  These can be forms of sin when they are taken to the point of losing our peace.  God gave us the Ten Commandments to make our lives peaceful, not to make our lives harder.  When you think about it, most of our stress is self-inflicted.

   Most of us know what is right and wrong because our conscience tells us.  So let's focus on correcting any stress-caused sin.  Simply, God knows we are not perfect.  In planning for our transgressions, the Bible tells us how to remove stress by eliminating the sin.  We are called to ask for forgiveness.  God calls us to confession because secret sins cannot co-exist with peace of mind.  When we confess our sins, God forgives us before we finish the sentence.  In Psalm 51:10 David asked God to forgive his sin and to create in him a pure heart and renew a right spirit in him.  God forgives us, just as he forgave David.  God takes pleasure in watching the cleansing of our conscience.

   A few years ago I experienced a stressed-caused peace robber.  I asked a Christian editor who I met in California if she would be interested in editing my Lady and the Sea manuscript before I sent it out to the mad world of publishing.  She jumped at the chance, we set a price and some deadlines, and because she needed the money, I mailed her $300.00 up front.  Three months of communicating via e-mails, she continued to give me excuses why she hadn't shown me any work.  Is my writing that bad?  Is she bored to tears with my story? went through my insecure mind.

   My flesh worked overtime trying to figure out how I should handle this unexpected incident. She finally confessed that she was in an alcohol rehab program.  Oh, my.  It was obvious that she wouldn't be editing for awhile, so I quickly offered her an easy payment plan to reimburse my $300.00.  Instead, she asked me if I would forgive her $300.00 debt.  Oh-me-oh-my.  

   I asked God, "What shall I do?  I don't want to let her off the hook if You're trying to teach her some kind of lesson."  I prayed.  Know what He answered?  Forgive her.  And I did.  Wasn't easy.  And I beat myself up for days because I thought He had told me to hire her in the first place.  Finally, when I quieted my spirit down (and my flesh), the Lord explained, "The incident isn't about the money.  It's not about forgiving the debt.  It's about forgiving her."

   Well, I forgave her and her debt, but like I said, it wasn't easy.  I felt that I had been betrayed by a person I trusted.  Has that ever happened to you?  But this incident reminded me once more that we must always put our trust in the Lord.  He will never disappoint us.  And there is where I find my peace.

Part 3 ~ If God says we are forgiven ...

   ... then we are!  The hardest part about forgiving is forgiving ourselves.  Long after we have confessed our sin to God, we often carry the guilt with us, day after day, sometimes year after year.  The devil enjoys this because it paralyzes us from having perfect communion with our Father.  I did hear from God about hiring that editor, even though the outcome didn't turn our the way I had planned.  There is always more to every situation we find ourselves in than meets the eye.  God forgives us, so we must carry on to the next assignment that awaits us!

Part 4 ~ Let it all go!

   I remember the story of an old friend who said on her deathbed that she had a lot of trouble in her life, most of which never happened.  Isn't that the truth?  Am I preachin' to the choir?  Most things we worry about never come to pass.  Worry and fear creep in, and before we know it, we are paralyzed to go about our daily tasks, much less make any decisions that need to be made.

   Our Heavenly Father wants us to give it up!  Stop beating yourself up over 'what if's'.  Jesus says, Come unto me, all ye that are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your soul.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.  Matthew 11:28-30.

   Right after my brother John was diagnosed with stage-4 stomach cancer, the Corona Virus from China hit the USA.  We had no longer returned from the Mexico cruise than Covid-19 closed everything down. These are the times when you must accept the gift of peace that God gives you.  Jesus says, I am leaving you with this gift--peace of mind and heart.  And the peace I give isn't fragile like the peace of the world gives.  John 14:27.  This gift defies all logic, so in order to receive this peace we must learn to hear God's voice through whatever means the process takes.  

   Sometimes peace robbers are just life's misfortunes.  Stuff happens.  I know, you call it something else, but it's all the same!  We can only see our situation through our eyes, but God sees the big picture.  No matter what comes our way, we learn to weather the storm, and just walk through it.  When I lived on the World War II ship for fourteen months, stuff happened on a daily basis, whether it was a hurricane in the Pacific, a conflict between the crew, or a heart attack in Greece (I still don't know which was worse).

Peace prevents wrinkles.  Forgiveness gives you that extra glow!

Part 5 ~ Why Live a Peaceful Life?

   Life becomes a pleasure when we learn to dwell in peace.  It's hard to stop and smell the roses when we're under the burden called stress.

   I find I can work in harmony with Christ more when I demand less from myself and from the people around me.  Simplify is my motto.  When we lived on the WWII ship Restoration, our cabin was the size of a walk-in closet.  I had three small lockers for my clothes.  The rest of our belongings were stored in boxes underneath the double bed my husband Rob built for us (there was no way he was going to sleep in a single bunk bed for fourteen months!).  The rest of our stuff was stored in one of the holds below the main deck.  I learned to live light and travel light, for which my hubby is grateful.  Now, I'm not suggesting that you give away all your beautiful handbags and shoes!  But perhaps try asking yourself before you purchase the next item, Is this going to clutter my life, or will it bring me more peace?  I know, that's a loaded question for you Prada purse-collecting gals.

   If you've noticed, it's hard for us to reach out to the needs of others if we don't have peace ourselves, so lets endeavor to keep our 'want list' short, simple, and necessary. (oh, thou shoe collector, please don't turn me off!)

   Through the years, I have found as my faith grows, my stress level decreases.  Since moving to South Carolina, whenever a stressful situation hits me in the face, I take a deep breath, lasso my little malte-poo Popcorn, and head out the door for a walk.  The pond, the trees, and the fresh air does wonders for my soul.  I can pray and walk at the same time so by the time I return home I'm surrounded by a peace that passes all of my understanding, I've given myself time to process the situation, and I have a happy dog!  What works for you?  A long walk?  A hot, relaxing bubble bath?  A good, sweaty workout?  A trip to the mall to look for another pair of shoes?--kidding!  Delete that last suggestion--I don't want to be responsible for a stressful purchase!

   Living in peace is impossible to teach because it is a personal journey of knowing and loving the Lord and getting close enough to let Him teach us how it works.  He has given me peace over the past 9 months through John's Ketruda treatments ... and I just received the latest report that all areas including lymph nodes are shrinking!  Thank you, Lord!  

   Good decisions and wisdom lead to peace in the challenging journey of life.  We recently had the 2020 election so no matter what the outcome, let's choose to snuggle closer to our heavenly Father and live in peace.  Looking forward to hearing from you!

Until next time ...

whether near or far,

keep reading and keep that body movin'!

   www.amazon.com/author/www.sharonleaf.com

www.sharonleaf.com

   

    

 

Lesson 6 "From Challenge to Change to Courage...God's Master Plan" for your Life!

 "From Challenge to Change to Courage...God's Master Plan" for your Life!

Lesson 6

by Sharon Leaf

"Am I up to the challenge?"

"Do I really want to change?"

"Am I a woman of courage?"

Today's women are facing many Challenges.  Challenges that call for Change.  Speaking from experience, I can tell you that Change can be scary, but as we trust in the Lord we realize that God allows Change for our benefit.  However, when we're going through these Challenges and Changes we sometimes 

cannot see the forest for the trees.  

But when we allow God to direct our path, 

Courage comes on the scene ...

then anything can happen!

Part 1 ~ Preparing to serve

   We have the ability to commune with God.  He desires fellowship with us far more than we could ever desire for ourselves.  That we could bring such joy and satisfaction to the Lord who has all of the heavens to enjoy is such a mystery to me. We are created in God's image and likeness so we have the unique ability to recognize the Father's voice, with the capability for intelligent, satisfying communion with Him.  The Lord desires to bring us into an experience of communion with Him so that we might become one with Him inn the ongoing purpose of mankind.

   If Jesus understands joyful surrender, then so can we.  He lived to do exactly what His Father asked Him to do.  This is what God desires of us.  The goal of the Christian life is not only to live well and prosper; it is to live a surrendered life to Christ.  As we surrender, He will fill us with His peace and show us the destiny to which we have been called.  The joy of the surrendered life is knowing that god always has a tremendous return in mind for our obedience.

   The Lord desires our attention.  He is amazingly resilient to let us come back to Him time and time again.  God is so absolute in His goodness, so full in His love, that He can expose Himself to the agony of rejected love without bitterness or change.

   His love for us is intimate.  He knows our thoughts, the number of hairs on our head (which changes momentarily!), the talents we ourselves may not even know that we have.  He is a God of such great love that we cannot even imagine how close He will let us come to Him.  As we learn to love obedience, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit can work hand in hand to supply all of our earthly needs.  How exciting is that?

   Love conquers all.  The Bible has much to say about love.  Love is patient, love is kind.  We are called to mirror His love.  "... so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.  And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ."

Part 2 ~ Relationship with Him

    We determine how deep we will allow Him in.  Where are we in our faith in Him for handling our life tasks?  Below is listed three levels to help access our relationship for dependence on Him.

1. Accepting Child ~ We rest in Him, feel peaceful, respond to Him, and avoid doing wrong, so we can stay in a place of comfort.
2. Searching Youth ~ We talk to Him and expect Him to answer.  Obedience feels good, even when challenged.
3. Seasoned Warrior ~ We wake each day wanting to know how He will use us.  We have relinquished control of the tasks and strive for self-control of our emotions (peace), our body (respect), and our thoughts (proper).

Part 3 ~ We must learn to Wait

   Our hearts must be prepared for Him before we are ready to serve.  This is vital to obtaining the bigger assignments and essential in understanding the Holy Spirit in us.  When Rob and I were on the train through Siberia I was content to go with the team to the elderly homes, the orphanages, and street witness in the cities.  Then one day my team leader came to me and said, "I want you to be the team leader now."  My heart raced and I thought I was going to faint right on the spot.  Was I ready for the challenge?  Then I remembered that God is not looking for perfection.  He is looking for an obedient heart, and a heart that serves Him cheerfully.  I had to change from a faint-hearted lady to a courageous warrior!  Yes, I was a team leader!  Why ?  Because I did what I did best: I showed the Russian people the love of God through my hugs, my smiles, and my encouraging words.  Then when they asked me why I was so happy--through my interpreter of course--I shared the gospel of Jesus Christ.  How could they resist?

   God is waiting for us to submit and allow Him to carry out His will through ... us!  What are you waiting for?  The truth is, Christ never moves away.  We are the ones who shrug Him off.  So He waits ... 

Until next time ...

Whether near or far ...

Keep Reading, and keep that a body movin'!

www.amazon.com/author/www.sharonleaf.com

www.sharonleaf.com

      

"From Challenge to Change to Courage...God's Master Plan" for your life! Lesson 5

 "From Challenge to Change to Courage...God's Master Plan" for your life!

Lesson 5

by Sharon Leaf

Our first home in Fort Mill, South Carolina...Snow!!!  2006
A view from our upstairs veranda. We lived on a pond.

Today's women are facing many Challenges.  Challenges that call for Change.  Speaking from experience, I can tell you that Change can be scary, but as we trust in the Lord we realize that God allows Change for our benefit.  However, when we're going through these Challenges and Changes we sometimes 

cannot see the forest for the trees.  

But when we allow God to direct our path, 

Courage comes on the scene ...

then anything can happen!

Part 1 ~ Understanding the Will of God ~  God's Perfect Will vs. His Permissive Will

   God chose us before we chose Him.  It is a divine concept that we humans have been given a free will to run our own lives.  God wants us to choose Him, not by force or coercion, but by love.  One of the many ways He shows us His love is by giving us the freedom to handle our destiny.  For Christians we are told in God's word that our steps are directed by the Lord.

Man's goings are of the Lord.  Proverbs 20:24

    We can do good deeds and good works.  We can live morally and properly.  We can reach people in helpful ways.  A determined spirit can be good, but not perfect in doing the actual tasks we are called upon to do.  Actions that are under God's permissive will may be good, but it is different than acting in God's perfect will.  To follow God's perfect will, we take the time to listen, then hear, and then act.

   Self efforts are deceiving, though they may look and feel wonderful.  Few choose to wait for God's perfect direction, but it is here that the Lord is glorified in us, and self becomes dead.  It takes greater wisdom to seek the Master for divine direction.  This wisdom lifts up God so that others are drawn to Him.  When God's perfect will is carried out in our work, our daily tasks, it is anointed.  Non-believers marvel at the results, and believers bask in the glow as they see the touch of God on the task.  Why has God given us free will?  What is the difference between God's permissive will and His perfect will?

   Waiting on God's direction brings clarity to confusion.  How do you perform God's will in your daily tasks?  You must wait for His direction on even the smallest steps  Waiting allows harmony among your workers, among your family.  Waiting allows perfection on the task as God's perfect will flows.  God gives His glory to those who wait.  As He arises within you, you will know it is Him, for He is the one who anoints.

   Rob and I were convinced that God's perfect plan for us was to move to Sweden to attend a year of Bible school.  So, in planning we made a two-page 'to-do' list, and then we sat before the Lord and presented the list to Him.  Daily, one item after another was met--our visas were processed in record time, two round-trip airfare tickets and school tuition were paid in full, warm coats for Sweden't freezing winters (remember, we lived in Southern California where shorts and t-shirts can be worn year round!) were given to us.  The list went on and on.

   Then there were the times when the list looked impossible.  One night when I was packing boxes for storage, I blurted out, "What are we doing?"  I sat down in the middle of the bedroom floor and asked, "Lord, are you sure this is your perfect will for us?"  As I sat awhile and quieted my spirit, I heard a still, small Voice answer.  Yes.  That's all I needed to pick myself up and continue packing.

   Our faith in God increased before we ever set foot on Swedish soil because we trusted God and had to exercise our faith each step of the way.  Have you had one of those Are you sure, God? moments lately?  What did  you do?

Part 2 ~ The WHO Test to find God's Will

Call unto me, and I will answer thee, 

and show thee great and might things which thou knows not.

Jeremiah 33:3

   "WHO do you say I am?" and "WHO do you serve today?" are the questions that help us know if we are drawn to God's perfect plan.  Do you see it?  

    W--wait;  H--hear;  O--obey.  

   You can use the WHO test to find where you are in God's will on a specific matter.  As David spoke in Psalms how he had fellowship with God, so can we!  This usually comes by your personal experience with the living God.  I refer back to the dear old babushka.  If I had hurried out the door, I would have missed a divine appointment scheduled by God.  Instead, I stepped out of my plan and stepped into His glorious plan.  I think I received more out of that encounter with Miss Babushka than she did.  I can't wait to see her again some day to find out!

  How can you apply the WHO test to a current situation in your life to stay within God's will for you?  When has God positively affirmed an optimistic outcome to you?  How did it make yo feel?

Part 3 ~ Prepare for Service

   There are many gestures of kindness we can give to those around us who are in need.  Look around.  Listen.  Hear.  Obey.  We may never know how that kind word or gesture changed the atmosphere of that person in need.  I experience this almost daily since we downsized to our villa on Lake Murray.  We are surrounded by young and old who need an encouraging work OR just someone who will listen to them.

   Can you recall a time when someone reached out to you and touched you?  God knew you needed that touch, that encouraging word.  He asked someone to come to you, and that person listened, heard, and obeyed.  That is total teamwork.  

My friends gathering at my "Le Artist's Studio"
Janet (Popcorn), Jennifer, and Maribeth

   When I first moved from California to South Carolina, I felt lonely.  I had left my dear friends behind to obey God with a new adventure.  From west coast to east coast, all decided within a few months.  But God always provides.  One Sunday I recognized my neighbor at church.  She could have smiled, chatted, then politely walked away.  Instead, she asked for my phone number!  She reached out to me!  I had a friend!  A friend to laugh with, and who gave me wise counsel when I was going through some hard times.  Her name is Janet and I shall never forget her warm, kind heart.  She soon introduced me to her sister Jennifer and a sweetheart of a gal, Maribeth.

   Now, can you recount an instance where you committed to serving others in their time of need?  Think about it.  Pray about it, and I'll see you next time!  We have five more lessons to go, so until then ...

Whether near or far,

Keep reading,

and keep that body movin'!

http://www.amazon.com/author/www.sharonleaf.com

http://www.sharonleaf.com

"From Challenge to Change to Courage...God's Master Plan" for your Life! Lesson 2

 "From Challenge to Change to Courage...God's Master Plan" for your Life!

Lesson 2

by Sharon Leaf

                                        Our backyard in Fort Mill SC. Our 1st home in SC.

NOTE:  I've been told that blogs are to be short and to the point.  This is not my normal blog.  For the next few weeks I'm writing a Bible study that can be used as your personal devotions ... in a home group setting ... anywhere!  So grab a cup of java (or tea), relax and read away ...

Today's women are facing many Challenges.  Challenges that call for Change.  Speaking from experience, I can tell you that Change can be scary, but as we trust in the Lord we realize that God allows Change for our benefit.  However, when we're going through these Challenges and Changes we sometimes 

cannot see the forest for the trees.  

But when we allow God to direct our path, 

Courage comes on the scene ...

then anything can happen!

Part 1 ~ Lack of faith

  Our lack of faith sometimes hinders us from thinking that God can actually speak to us.  We must accept--by faith--that He will direct us.  We must let go of our own plans and let God show us His plan for our lives.  There are days when I've walked right past moments that I could have responded to a request from above.  Too busy--must hurry to get home.  Sound familiar?  Life can become so much more abundant when we surrender to His voice.

   Proverbs 16:9 says, In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.  We are on a journey with God.  Understanding God's will and our will is an important concept in knowing when to act, and when to wait.

   God places in us a desire for what He intends for us to do.  We are incredibly preprogrammed to become what fits into His master plan.  Nursing, engineering, writing, and painting can all be professions that bring rewards.  God not only cares about our destination,  He cares about our steps along the journey.  When I decide to go to Utah from South Carolina to visit my brother there are many ways I could travel.  God wants to have the right to direct my travel.  Why?  He has planned many miracles--big and small--along the way that ties into His master plan for my life.  The more I seek His plan, the better my journey goes.  Whether it's a day trip or a move from the west coast to the east coast--that's what I did fourteen years ago--He wants to direct our path.

   It took Rob and I two years after our first visit to the Carolinas for God to say, Okay, now is the time to move.  And by the way, we had no idea why we were leaving California--we often said that we would never leave (We have since discovered why).  We flew to South Carolina and toured houses for three days and we ended up buying the first house we looked at!  Why?  Because we felt that God had chosen the brick house on the pond before we ever made the plane reservations!  Question:  Are you planning a trip?  A move?  Do you want miracles along the way?  Don't take that trip or make that move until you've bounced it off God first because He has some strategic plans for you.

            The bistro in our first home in Fort Mill SC.  The mural was identical to the canal that runs through Uppsala, Sweden where we once lived.  Coincidence?  I don't think so. "Le Artist's Studio" was my happy place where I wrote my first novel, Lady and the Sea and invited my artistic friends to join me.

   

Part 2 ~ God is a Problem Solver

   I don't know anyone who at some time doesn't have a problem that needs solving.  In the Psalms, David described God as Sovereign, which means to solve.  What is so beautiful about waiting on the Lord is that you find yourself reacting more than acting.  As I wait, He brings the solutions right into my hands.  For instance, three months after Rob and I moved to Fort Mill I still hadn't started the process of looking for a part-time job.  Since I had worked for Target in Huntington Beach, CA for several years, I went to the Charlotte Target kiosk to input my application--several times--with no response.  

   As I was having coffee at a nearby Books-A-Million, I looked around and thought, I love books, and I've always wanted to work in a book store.  Without hesitation, I submitted my resume online and didn't think anything else about it until I received a phone call the next day asking me to interview with their area manager.  She wanted me to consider working as her extended arm in the opening of the new Books-A-Million--just 10 minutes from our house!  I accepted and she received approval for that position that same day!  I'd be working thirty-two hours a week and I could choose my days!  Why was that job so easy?  I believe that God had that job waiting for me in His perfect timing.  Question: What are you impatient for?  If you want to see God's hand in the matter, be still and continue to rest in Him, and He will bring it to you, in His perfect timing.

THE PHONE CALL: "I'm getting published!" After hours of writing/editing/re-writing Lady and the Sea in Lady Leaf's Lounge--aka my office--I received the phone call! O happy day!

Part 3 ~ Day planners anyone?  

   Or I should ask, who doesn't have one? (smart phones do count)  Our lives are busy with family, friends, jobs, and errands galore--and we must fit that hair appointment in somewhere!  God loves to deliver!  He loves to please His children.  He loves to see His plan come together in the lives of His children ... it's part of His master plan for us.  

   Have you ever placed your calendar aside for God's plan?  He only wants to know if you're available.  That's when the divine appointments come along, when we go with the flow.  What flow, you ask?  The flow of events around us that are not crafted by our hands.  God is the scheduler, searching us daily to know how available we are.  If God only cared about us accepting His Son, Jesus Christ, as our Savior, He would not have promised to direct our path. Proverbs 3:5 says, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."  Are you willing to give Him control of your schedule, a little, a lot, or completely?  Why don't we take this week to give God's perfect plan a try ... I'm all in!  Are you?

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord,

plans to prosper you and not harm you,

plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

And remember, whether near or far,

Keep reading, and keep that body movin!

http://www.amazon.com/author/www.sharonleaf.com

"From Challenge to Change to Courage ... God's Master Plan" for your Life! Lesson 1

 "From Challenge to Change to Courage ... God's Master Plan" for your Life!

Lesson 1

by Sharon Leaf

One nation, under God!

Today's women are facing many Challenges.  Challenges that call for Change.  Speaking from experience, I can tell you that Change can be scary, but as we trust in the Lord we realize that God allows Change for our benefit.  However, when we're going through these Challenges and Changes we sometimes 

cannot see the forest for the trees.  

But when we allow God to direct our path, 

Courage comes on the scene ...

then anything can happen!

Part 1 ~ Patience, you ask?  

 I admit that sometimes I get impatient for God's perfect timing.  I grab a cup of coffee, then  off I go.  Before long, I'm throwing up my hands and running back to square one, which for me is, "Okay, it's me ... I'm back. I messed up and I'm really sorry. I'm going to do it your way this time, so Jesus, take the wheel." My Heavenly Father smiles, and before long, we're off, this time walking hand-in-hand.

   Timing is everything. Knowing when to act or when to wait is the toughest part for those who are seeking to abide in God's perfect plan. Our desire is to know God's will, and then obey, and if you're like me, I'm not satisfied until a project is finished. But our heart's cry should be, "Oh Lord, to hear your voice and know what you would have me do." God has already told us in Jeremiah 29:11, For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. How wonderful is that?

   God's plans for you are according to your personality and the giftings He has given you. I love to write. I love to encourage people. It's that simple. What are some of your personality traits and giftings? Hey, no negative here--just positive. Surely you can find several positive personality traits.  Okay, one? (lol--laughing-out-loud, a phrase I learned on FaceBook).  God has a divine plan for each of us.  Psalm 139:13 says, For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.  As we travel on life's journey we discover God's plan for us.  So what are we waiting for?

   The Bible is full of scriptures that tell us to wait upon the Lord.  Sometimes that's a challenge when the world around us is telling us to be productive, be fruitful, and take action!  Our family, our staff, our friends can't seem to understand the waiting concept and might see us as lazy or irresponsible--God forbid that we would appear lazy!

   But we learn to wait.  Those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.  Then when our success comes, the amazing results will speak for itself.

Part 2 ~ Stop --  Go -- Hurry -- Wait.  

   That has been my life.  There are times when I've gone ahead of God's timing, and the results have been acceptable, but I wonder what the results would have been if I had waited a bit longer  But at my age--I'm 74 and proud of it--I don't sit and ponder much.  Life is too short.  We can learn--even benefit--from our mistakes.  Have you jumped ahead of God lately?  What were your results?  What did you learn from the experience?

   There have been times in my life when I have taken matters into my own hands and made a royal disaster by not seeking God's plan.  Are you having any flashbacks?  My first disaster occurred when I was nineteen.  Raised in a Christian home I prayed for God's direction, especially for meeting Mr. Right.  But one 4th of July I fell head over heels for Mr. Hot--at Disneyland!  There was one too many sparks between us and four months later we were married, five months later I had a baby, and a year later Mr. Hot was gone ... left the building.  I call that a disaster.  But God turned my self-made mistake/disaster into a miracle.  He gave me my most precious daughter, Jacqueline.  I asked Him to help me regroup, and before long I was on the right path again.  God is so faithful, even when we're not (footnote: Jacquie's father later became a Christian).  So, have you had any disasters in your life?  How can you avoid another one?

   I'm an average planner.  I'm organized and I can multi-task ... well, sorta.  Give me a cup of java and I'll get the job done.  But as the years go by I realize more and more what an amazing planner God is.  As I wait and listen to Him, wonderful plans begin to break forth ... international trips to Israel, Latvia, Estonia, Russia, Siberia, Turkey, Greece, England, France, Germany, Italy, Spain (I'm sure I'm leaving a few out) ... living in Sweden ... living on a WWII ship for 14 month to transport Russian Jews from Sochi, Russia to Israel.  Let me tell you, I could not have planned such an exciting life but God had these plans for me in His perfect timing.  As I wait and listen to Him, wonderful plans are still breaking forth ... like publishing my first novel Lady and the Sea at 65... then my second novel Lady on the Run at 74.

Sunset from our veranda on Lake Murray.  My quiet place. 

Part 3 ~ A Quiet Place   

Find your quiet place, then create and honor that sacred place of prayer, meditation, and rest.  Take time to listen.  Focus.  Process.  Reclaim your time.  Shed distractions.  Be still in your calling, your purpose.  Choose rest.  What is God telling you?  What is He getting ready to do in your life?

    In order for us to participate and support a plan, whether at work or within our family, we must understand the mission.  God was clear on His mission.  He intended to bring man to eternal life and communion with Him while we are here on earth, and when we get to heaven one day soon.  But God's plan for communion with us is challenged by the spiritual forces at work.  You can feel it more than ever.  Right now in our country, there are people in office that are attempting to close the churches down!  The spirit world baffles us so we find it easier to ignore than to comprehend.  But listen: Working with the opposition of Satan makes it much harder for God's plan to work, but we know that God will overcome!  We are on the winning team.  God gave us important tools to help us fight the battle against Satan.

  As we look at Jesus' walk on earth we can see the power of God working in His life.  We have this same power through the Holy Spirit operating in us.  The Holy Spirit gives us continual resources to support God's Master Plan.  Everything we are asked to do from our Master relates to His mission.  But it's the communication that seems to baffle us.  I've often said, I'll do whatever You tell me if I just know what it is.  God wants to reveal Himself to us more than we can imagine but there are several reasons why we find it hard.  I've experienced them, haven't you?

The instructions of the Lord are perfect,

reviving the soul.

Psalm 19:7 NLT

   We'll talk about those negative influences in my next blog Bible study.  

In the meantime ... Whether near or far ... keep reading, and keep that body movin'!

http://www.amazon.com/author/www.sharonleaf.com

"From Challenge to Change to Courage...God's Master Plan" for your Life! Introduction

"From Challenge to Change to Courage ... God's Master Plan" for your Life!

Introduction

A Swedish chandelier that I wanted to bring home in my carry-on!

I've accumulated various titles along my journey ...

Lady Traveler ... Gypsy Mama ... Road Runner ... Wild (power) Walker ...

... Amazing Author (I just made that one up)

... The Almost-Famous Author ... that's me!

For my next season of writing I'm going to take a shift.

Fourteen years ago (2006) when we moved from Southern California to Fort Mill, South Carolina,

I landed a great job working in the H.R. office at Books-A-Million (traveling included!) 

I soon began attending weekly meetings for working Christian women.

One evening after an energized session I was asked by the founder of the non-profit organization  

if I would write her blog.  "I just don't have time!" Jane blurted.

"And I love your blogs," she added.

She did?  Jane actually had time to read my silly ol' blogs that sometimes 

ramble and drift down bunny trails?

I was new at this whole blog experience, but what could I say?  

As I gazed into her tired, blood-shot eyes, I accepted her offer.

Yes, success oftentimes leads to frustration.

Jane's red eyes teared up, she smiled, then threw pages of notes on the table.

"Here. Take my notes and make the blog your own," Jane said.

One of my favorite places ... Florence, Italy ... Tuscany!  I shall return!

 So now, my eclectic ladies, near and far,  I'll be sharing my 

"From Challenge to Change to Courage" blog with you!

Whether you're a working mom, a stay-at-home mom,

a single gal, a retired lady (like me!)

there's something for everyone.

Here's a small sample:

Today's women are facing many Challenges.  Challenges that call for Change.  Speaking from experience, I can tell you that Change can be scary, but as we trust in the Lord we realize that God allows Change for our benefit.  However, when we're going through these Challenges and Changes we sometimes 

cannot see the forest for the trees.  

But when we allow God to direct our path, 

Courage comes on the scene ...

then anything can happen!

Next time we're going to talk about God's perfect timing, 

Until then,

Keep reading, and

keep that body movin'!

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord,

plans to prosper you and not harm you,

plans to give you hope and a future.

Jeremiah 29:11

http:/www.amazon.com/author/www.sharonleaf.com

Lady Traveler Found her Faith For Forgotten Dreams...have you?

I had a dream to travel the world...

Perhaps because it's Sunday that I find myself thinking on the subject of faith.

Finding Faith For Forgotten Dreams is one of the main themes of my book, Lady and the Sea, so I thought we'd chat about it today.  We all dream.  We all have dreamed (past tense).  We often lay those dreams aside, thinking that our circumstances govern where our dreams will end up ... tucked away in a closet, or tossed away in the trash.  When I was young my dream was to travel the world, but after two failed marriages and two children to raise, I threw that dream aside.  My mistake.  But through the years I have found that by activating these few simple steps, dreams can actually come true ... in God's perfect timing ... not ours.  So here's our little Sunday School lesson:

But without faith it is impossible to please Him...  Hebrews  11:6a

Faith is a combination of several things:

TRUST:  It causes us to say by our actions, "Lord, I trust you.  Your Word says You can be trusted and I believe it."  Faith in God is trust in God.

CONFIDENCE:  Our confidence is not in the abilities or cleverness of man -- but of God.  Faith is confidence that God will keep His promises.

ASSURANCE:  Assurance tells us that God is everything His Word says He is.  It tells us that He is intervening on our behalf.  Faith is assurance.

COURAGE:  Faith is the courage needed to approach God with a list of needs and know He hears our prayers and answers them for His glory and honor ... not ours.  It's the courage to look to the Lord in any time of need and not allow our circumstances to intimidate or dictate to us.

ACTION:  Faith has a passive side.  It can be received as a gift of God, but it also has an active side.  Faith prompts action.  Hebrews 11:33 tells us that faith subdued, faith worked, faith obtained, and faith even stopped the mouth of lions.

Until I put my faith into action in my own life, these were only words not understood in my mind.  Faith in action allows your heart and mind to see the fullness of the Lord working in your behalf.  How exciting is that?  The living God hears us, listens to us, and answers us ... all in His perfect timing.  My life is a testimony of God's faithfulness ... my dream of traveling the world for God came true and you can read my story in my novel, Lady and the Sea.

In the days ahead, let's all begin to live by faith in a more alive, exciting way!  Until next time...

Istanbul, Turkey 2008

I wish you smooth sailing and 
oceans of faith for those forgotten dreams!

On board Restoration 1995
Stockholm, Sweden