Simple Living, Christian Style

Our God is a Matthew 6 God - Part 4

2011-03-25T08:12:00.000-07:00

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. ~Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV)

I've been thinking a lot lately about a minimalist lifestyle. What exactly does it look like? What would you I have to give up? etc...

I really like the way it makes me feel. I feel free. Less burdened. I can breathe.

But, where do I begin?

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.

God puts it pretty simply. Don't do it pretty much means "don't do it." Now, I don't believe this means I'll be sitting in an empty room surrounded by nothingness at an attempt to be obedient. If God tells you to do that, then by all means obey, but in my opinion, there is huge difference between owning possessions and having possessions.

I'm reading an excellent book right now called Freedom of Simplicity (You'll see it to the left.). I'm really excited about it because every other simplicity book I've picked up didn't have a thing to do with Jesus. And, as I hope you all know, I am ALL about the Big Guy and my life was created to glorify His name. So, when I was totally led by the Spirit to this book on the library's shelf, I was completely taken in.

A simple living book based on scripture? Who would have thunk it? ;o)

The author of the book talks about a time in Jewish culture when the land was used for the good of all. It's value was not because it was "land," but was based on the crops and goods that could be produced by it. Humans didn't own the land. The land was used/borrowed to survive --never owned.

Is anything on this earth truly ours to own? We think we can own people. We think we own our house, our cars and our jobs. But, do we?

In my world, the bank owns my car, and I pay them to use it every month. I don't have a house. And, my job is quite and matter-of-factly owned by my employer who allows me to work there for a paycheck. (Thank you to God for giving me favor to have a job in the first place!)

To give up "ownership" is daunting to me. I want to own things. I want to control things. It is my human nature. Is it yours?

But, God says to not store up treasures on earth for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Ouch! I want my heart to be in heavenly places with the King.

God, please allow me to give it all to You. To allow you to work in my life of sustained simplicity. Please purge me of all things that are not from You and by You. You are my King. My heart is with You.

In Jesus' name we pray. AMEN!

God bless you all. 'Til next time!

~DMS

I'm ba-aaaaack

2011-03-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

Hello, world!

I'm back with vigor, enthusiasm and ways to simplify your life while glorifying and serving God.

I know I've been away for a long time. Life does that to me sometimes. I get going on a track and then someone switches the tracks and I go off in a new/different direction. Not that that's bad, or that I'm not listening to God. Sometimes I feel that He stops me from my busy-ness so I can focus on Him and so I may get out of His way.

He is working. He is always working.

He is working in your life, too. Don't let discouragement get you down. I know that is easier said than done, but believe me when I say this, HE IS WORKING. Whether it looks like it or not, He is here with you right now walking before you and paving the way. Be encouraged. He loves you with His whole heart. He created you with the same love and feelings He has. Isn't that neat?

Have a blessed and joy-filled day!

Our God is a Matthew 6 God - Part 3

2010-04-27T14:07:00.000-07:00

My stomach growls as I go on hour three. "God, please be with me in this fast. Show me what you have for me and what direction I must take." I grab my water bottle in hopes that its contents will quench my thirst and quiet my protesting stomach.

And, I'm only on hour three.

Fasting is not my favorite thing to do. I think I worry about it too much. I worry my blood sugar will drop, and I'll get dizzy. I worry that I'll be nauseous and miserable. I worry that my stomach will growl so loudly that God and everyone will hear.

Why do I bother to worry? Who knows. It's what I do.

For some reason, I feel that God didn't intend for it to be this way. Why are we predisposed to worry? To worry about everything. From what we are going to wear tomorrow to how the bills are going to be paid, no matter how big or how small, we worry. But, in Matthew 6, God so loved us that he laid it all out. An outline of how to be, of how to pray, of how to give all of cares and worries to our loving Father. He truly loves us. Oh, how He loves us!

This week, let's focus some more on fasting, and how God intended it to be.

Matthew 6: 16-18 says...

¹⁶"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. ¹⁷But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, ¹⁸so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

From my study of Matthew 6, I've learned one thing about God. He created us to worship Him and truly wants it all about Him. His glory. His kingdom. He created us to worship Him and proclaim His glory to the nations. He did not put us here to crave approval from our friends or co-workers. He put us here for His glory -- that is where the reward is. He repeatedly says throughout Matthew 6 that our reward is in heaven, not on earth. He reveals to us through this chapter how to act, what to do, and what our reward will be for obedience to Him. God made it so easy. Drink in His words this week. Drink them in and invest in your future in the Kingdom of Heaven.

To be used by Him,

DMM

Our God is a Matthew 6 God - Part 2

2010-04-19T14:35:00.000-07:00

Prayer. For some of us, it flows off the tongue shaking the foundations of heaven. But for others, we get stuck, or maybe even think too much about it. In this week's scripture, Jesus tells us exactly how to do it. How easy is that? My comments are in blue.

Let's break it down:

Matthew 6:5-15

5And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

~Once again, Jesus addresses the "heart issue" behind our actions that we spoke about last week. Are you praying to touch the heart of God, or are you praying to be heard, to feel important, or to show others how smart you are?

6But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
7But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
8Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

~Matthew 6:8 is one of my favorite verses. He knows my needs even before I know them. And, I need a lot. LOL Or at least I think I do. He knows my every need. He knows I need food. He knows I need shelter, and he knows what clothes I like to where. Dad is so good! And, he always knows what's in style.

The next section is the best part! It's all about prayer and Jesus lays it all out. No parables. No tests. Jesus even says "this is how you do it"! How easy is that!

9After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
God is GREAT! Always praise Him first regardless of the situation.

10Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
God may your will be done on earth in my life just as your will is always done in heaven.

11Give us this day our daily bread.
God, you know what I need even before I need it. Please provide for me what you feel I need.

12And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Lord, please forgive me of my sins. I'm sorry. I will forgive others as you have forgiven me.

13And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
Lord, please keep me safe today as I resist the temptations of the enemy. Amen.

The Lord's Prayer. This is the first thing I ever memorized because it was so very important for my mom that I know it. I was three years old.

Now, let's look at the final two verses in this section:

14For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
15But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Forgiveness: It's more than sayin' sorry. (Sorry, I had to throw in a movie line. :oP) I've noticed something recently about Jesus: When it's important, He repeats it.

In fact, forgiveness is so important, that it will be the subject of a future blog.

I hope Part 2 is beneficial in your faith walk. Please post any questions or observations below, especially if you are feeling the Holy Spirits leading.

To be used by Him,

DMM

Our God is a Matthew 6 God - Part 1

2010-04-14T15:46:00.001-07:00

As some of you know, I founded a single-parent ministry called Be a Barnabas. I wrote this teaching last May for the site. I wanted to share it here with you today.

Today is the first day of a new series here at Be a Barnabas. God placed on my heart several months ago the scriptures and lessons found in Matthew 6. To me, this chapter is the foundation of our faith. In Jesus' own words I learned to be humble, how to pray and why I should give all of my worries to God.

Over the next few weeks, we will break down this chapter. Please share your thoughts and the lessons you learned by posting a comment below. I pray this time is an inspiration to you as we renew our faith in Christ Jesus. I also encourage you to read these words for yourself in your own Bible. To me, it is so much more powerful to hold God's Word in my hands. It gives it new life as I read and flip through the pages. I've provided the scriptures to our first lesson below for you as well, and I pray that God blesses you richly as you draw closer to Him and His Word.

Matthew 6:1-4

Giving to the needy.

1"Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.

2"So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 3But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

When I first read this, I was puzzled. What about those faith-based organizations that continually solicit funds, have commercials everywhere and "announce with trumpets" the good things that they are doing for the poor and needy of the world?

Is this all wrong?

It depends. God has used these people. God is using these people. But, one question stands out to me as I reflect on Matthew 6:1-4:

What is my focus?

That is what Jesus is telling us here. He is not telling us not to put the word out. He is not telling us not to show others what the needs are in our community. He is not telling us to serve the needy and keep their needs quiet.

But, He is telling us not to be boastful, not to be prideful, and to love and serve with humility. He is telling us to keep our hearts in the right place. To love and serve His children for His glory, not our own.

Proverbs 11:2 (NIV) states: When pride comes, then comes disgrace,
but with humility comes wisdom.

Pride is an ugly thing, and it is so easy to slip into it that often we don't realize we are in it until we are steeped in a sticky mess. Where do you seek your reward? From above? Or, from man?

I pray I always seek my reward from the Father. I pray that it doesn't matter to me who sees me work, worship or my good deeds. I pray that my heart and focus are set above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God (Colossians 3:3).

If you find yourself suffering from pride today, it's okay. Just ask God for forgiveness and step forward in a new day of service. We all fall short. I've experienced pride, but the key is to know it, and to ask for forgiveness and get back in step with the teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus is so good and forgiving. I am nothing without Him (John 15:5). No matter how far you've stepped out of line, God is there waiting with the road map and the neon signs to get you back on track.

I pray God's blessings over you and your family this week. May He prosper you in all things for His service.

To be used by Him,
DMM

Free Geneva Bible Download - Romans

2010-04-13T17:10:00.000-07:00

Hello, Simple Livers!

I want to share with you a Bible translation that I have only heard about. It is being re-released, and Reformation Bookstore is offering a free download of the 1599 Geneva Bible's Book of Romans. Just click here to order and download the pdf. The Geneva Bible pre-dates the King James Version and, according to the site, was the first Bible in America.

Enjoy!

DMM

It's been a long time

2010-04-09T11:18:00.000-07:00

and, God is still good! It's a time of increase, not decrease. Of God's glory to SHINE in your life. He is good! Bless His holy name!

Simple Worship - "Draw Me Lord"

2009-06-02T18:56:00.001-07:00

I am a worshipper. God created me in His image to love and worship Him completely. Let's worship together with one of my favorite songs by Selah.

Simply Christian Movie Making

2009-06-02T18:32:00.000-07:00

I received an e-mail update today from The Way of the Master that I wanted to share with you.

From the e-mail:

We want to get behind a movie we previewed. It is called "The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry" and is produced by our friend Rich Christiano. It is cleverly crafted to slowly draw you in. Suddenly, what seemed ordinary becomes extraordinary, and very powerful. If you care about the lost, you will love this movie. Kirk Cameron said:

"'The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry' moved me with its message of the weight of eternity and the difference one faithful man can make in the lives of many. I recommend this inspiring movie for any family to watch together."

Please consider doing everything you can to get this into movie theaters. Go to www.SperryMovie.com and click on "Theaters" to see how you can become involved.

Simply Making a Difference

2009-05-30T10:56:00.000-07:00

This week, I went to a place I never knew about, and it's only 10 minutes up the road.

My friend Fernando invited me to lunch at the World Hunger Farm, or "The Farm" as the locals call it. This 40-acre farm promotes sustainable living along with missions and outreach with a philosophy "to live simply, helping those who struggle to meet their basic needs by sharing and investing in others what God has given to us."

With Jesus' teachings as their guide, The Farm trains individuals in holistic ministry that equips them to work with communities in developing sustainable farming techniques. Volunteers and Interns work to educate those with an economic abundance on methods of conserving and sharing resources. And, they also participate in local and international sustainable development programs including urban farming techniques.

With live-in volunteers and interns, The Farm thrives 365 days a year providing fresh, seasonal produce, free-range eggs, a certified Grade-A Raw Goat Dairy, and pasture-raised beef, goat and chicken meat for purchase. (I didn't want to know anything about this part, so you carnivores are on your own. LOL)

With Fernando, Allan and Neal (a current intern) as my guides, I met the sweetest herd of baby goats at feeding time, which was "udder" chaos. (Ha! Ha!) They were so excited, and I had the chance to love and pray for them just in case they ended up as sausage later. :oP

I may not be a meat eater, and I definitely don't like the slaughter of animals, but I will say this: EVERYTHING serves a purpose at the World Hunger Farm. EVERYTHING. The animals are raised with love and respect and provide milk, fertilizer and meat to sustain those who work there and those needing food in the community. If you are going to raise animals for meat, please do it biblically and with purpose. Jesus did not and would not allow anything to suffer.

From composting toilets to rain water collection, I am in love with sustainable living. In fact, the main education building was built entirely using a straw and mud technique that I want to use when we build our home. If you have suggestions or Web sites for me to check out, please post a comment below.

Live simply. Live well.

DMM :o)

If you enjoyed this article, please pass it on to a friend, and sign up for alerts on the right of the screen. I try to blog once a week, so I won't bombard your inbox. :o)

***Photo from World Hunger Relief, Inc. Web site.

Simply Recycling

2009-05-19T09:23:00.001-07:00

I found the neatest thing today in my inbox! It was a link to Treehugger showing me how to build a recycled bottle greenhouse!

Here is the link to the article:

http://www.treehugger.com/files/2009/04/recycled-bottle-greenhouse.php

And,here is the link to the great site from a group in Scotland to show you just how to do it:

http://www.reapscotland.org.uk/reports/greenhouse%20v1.pdf

This would be a great recycling initiative for youth at a church -- we all know how many two-liters they can go through! And, with supervision, they could even build a greenhouse for their church or school and learn sustainable living, which in my opinion, is a valuable life skill!

I don't normally drink anything but water, so I'm off to find two-liter bottles! According to the REAP site, I only need 1,500! That should be easy...really.

Take care and God bless!

DMM :o)

Simple Prayer - National Day of Prayer is Tomorrow

2009-05-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

On May 7th, our nation will come together in prayer. That is MY prayer anyway. Please spread the word to pray for our families, our president, our leaders, and our nation. And, please pray for all those serving for our country both here and abroad. May God bless them richly for the freedoms they fight for.

In prayer,

DMM

Simple Truths from Amena Brown

2009-05-04T16:25:00.000-07:00

Simple Knowledge - The Swine Flu/H1N1

2009-04-30T18:09:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon, Simple Livers!

With all the info and speculation about the Swine Flu going around, I wanted to post the facts about the illness.

First:

Eating bacon will not give you the swine flu/H1N1. Please, if you eat meat, support our farmers and keep on carnivoring. (I made that word up :oP)

For the most up-to-date coverage, click on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources Web site at http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/swineflu/default.shtm

And, do not panic and go to the doctor if you have the sniffles. But DO go if you have a fever over 100.2, body aches and suspect that you might be infected. Please know that medications are treating H1N1 effectively. PRAISE GOD!

May God keep us all in good health and may He heal those suffering right now.

In Jesus name, Amen.

DMM

Good Friday?

2009-04-10T19:56:00.000-07:00

I recently spoke to a five-year-old boy about Easter. What it is. What it's all about.

He told me it was when the Easter Bunny comes and we go Easter egg hunting.

This was in a church class.

He had no idea that Easter had anything to do with Jesus.

My heart melted. I realized this little boy -- who Jesus cherishes so much -- had no idea what his Savior gave up for him on the first Good Friday. The thing that made this Friday truly Good. When God gave His only Son that we -- sinful, prideful, arrogant, and undeserving -- may have everlasting life.

Without Jesus' blood shed for our sins, we would not have Christianity and we would not have a new life in Christ.

Many "gods" have been born. They've supposedly walked on the earth. They all died. But only one came back to life. Jesus Christ. Who came back and revealed himself to not only his disciples and close friends, but to more than 500 people. Wow. To be there on that day when this man, beaten, bruised and hung on a cross, who I'd seen wrapped in funeral cloths and placed in a tomb, walked among us. Spoke to us and even let me put my doubting fingers in his wounds.

That He gave His life for me.

That is what Easter, and Christianity, is all about.

Happy Easter, everyone.

DMM

The Times They are a Changin'

2009-03-23T08:09:00.000-07:00

Over the last week, I've had a heavy burden on my heart. It took me a while to figure it out--or maybe it took a few days for me to go straight to the source and ask my Heavenly Father what the heck is going on--but I now realize where my anxiety is coming from.

I'm concerned about our nation. Not the sagging economy. I'm concerned about our well being and our salvation. In a time where hedonism seems praised, compassion is replaced with selfishness, and premarital sex is exploited (especially among teens), where do we as Christians turn?

More importantly, where do we turn when our churches meet the same criteria as society?

Ephesians 6:24 says:

Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen. (My emphasis added)

In sincerity. I've noticed people talking about God. I see people going to church on Sunday. But, I've also noticed these same people ignoring the hungry, visiting bars, treating their spouses with disrespect and ignoring God's commandment of "loving your neighbor as yourself."

But you know what...

It is not too late. It is not too late to love our Father with sincerity. It is not too late to repent for all the nasty things you've done that make you feel separated from God. They are just "things." Our Father will forgive and forget them ALL. Because he loves you with sincerity.

Jesus said in Matthew 4:17:

"...Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."

The time has come for us all to decide and take a stand. Are you with Him? Or, not? It is so easy and good to be with Him. Simple. Just the way I like it.:o)

To be used by Him,

DMM :o)

Today Show Promotes Green Cleaning

2009-03-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

This morning on TODAY, Anne Curry addressed the potential of harmful chemicals in our everyday cleaning products. To read all about it, click here.

Through the article, I found GreenerChoices.org. WOW!!! What a blessing! Click here to go straight to their recipe page, and learn how to make your own "simple living" tub and tile cleaner, and a safer-alternative, all-purpose sanitizer that I just so happen to need today!

God is so good! He provides everything we need exactly when we need it! (Matthew 6:8)

So Much to Do and So Much Simple Life to Live

2009-02-18T21:08:00.000-08:00

Welcome to 2009, everybody! And, if you're like me, you are shocked that it is already the middle of February!

So far, I've downsized yet still have more downsizing to do as I sit here at my computer mesmerized by the piles of papers, photos and memories that flood my desk. Will the piles every end? I don't know if it is even in my nature not to stack. LOL I think I totally missed the "filing" gene in my genetic makeup. I'm a stacker through and through. And, I'm proud of it.

But being a stacker makes it difficult to eliminate clutter and simplify. My new thing to work on is my overabundant love of stacking and keeping papers that serve absolutely no purpose in my life whatsoever (even if I really believe they do).

Please pray. LOL

Also, I am so excited to announce that I started my garden! It is my first attempt, and I am so excited about the possibilities. I built the framework last year and am now starting the seeds and getting everything ready. I am patiently waiting (no, not really) for the last frost to pass us by so I can finally plant my little babies in the earth.

However, I live in Texas. Need I say more? Let's just say that today's high was 80 degrees (no joke) and tonight's low is 38. All the more reason to keep my little seedlings safe and warm inside.

A friend of mine gave me the book Square Foot Gardening and it has been a lifesaver! I plan on perusing it tomorrow for tasty tidbits and insights on this new world of gardening I'm uncovering.

Plus, being a Simple Liver, I want to be simple, organic and pure in my approach. If you have any suggestions or hints to share, I would love to see them! Please comment below. Believe me. I need all the help I can get. :o)

I've learned a few techniques that I'll be sharing over the next few days, so stayed tuned for updates and photos!

I am so excited about what God is doing. He is so good. I am nothing without Him. Wow. He amazes me.

May your 2009 be as amazing as our Father is, and may He bless you through and through!

To be used by Him,

DMM :o)

A New Year a Simple You

2009-01-13T16:23:00.000-08:00

Hello!

Wow, January 13th already. I just read through what I blogged about on December 30th, and I am pleased to announced that I have actually been doing that much-needed downsizing! I've gone through some drawers, organized all my books and have been to Goodwill three times! I even have a new load that I want to take tomorrow. God is good, and I'm being obedient!

I've also started a new thing for '09. I will read one fiction book a month this year. I love to read, but when I thought about how many books I actually read in a year, it really wasn't that many. And, when I think about reading only 12 books, that really doesn't seem like all that much. I wish I read faster and more often, but I am in Bible college and have to study, too. So, I am devoted to one book a month.

What have you planned for 2009? Goals? Dreams? Lack there of? LOL

Maybe reading one book a month is a great place to start. Good for the body, mind and spirit. My book for January is Ted Dekker's Chosen. If you've read his Lost series, let me know what you think.

May God bless you richly in 2009. I'll have more simple living info, tidbits and hints to come. I've been praying about my garden so I will be blogging about that this year as well. So much to do! And, God's in charge of it all!

Be blessed. Live Simple.

DMM :o)

Happy New Year, Simple Livers!

2008-12-30T19:59:00.000-08:00

Well, it's almost here. I can't believe it is December 30th already. God has blessed me graciously this year in so many areas. He is so good to me. I am humbled and awe struck. Thanks, Dad.

For this new year, God has placed on my heart to downsize. So, starting on January 1, 2009, I am going through every box, every closet and every dusty hidden shelf to go full throttle "out with the old, in with the new." I need to clear the air and by getting rid of some clutter, I feel I am on my way to truly a simple life. I can't breathe in all this mess, and if I can't breathe, I can't think and I can't be all that God has for me to be. So, here I am Lord. Use me.

And, as a good steward of God's stuff, I am donating everything to charities that is still worth using. All the clothes I wish I still fit into. All the novels I've been planning to read since 1989. All of it is going to where God tells me to send it so someone else may be blessed by all that God has given to me.

Now, with more space, Dad can give me more stuff. LOL Okay, maybe that is not quite what He had in mind, but I'm am still human after all. :o)

May God bless you richly in 2009. May His desires be your desires, and may all your wildest God dreams come true and may He receive all the glory.

To be used by Him in 2009 and always,

DMM :o)

Jesus' Simple Love

2008-12-11T18:50:00.000-08:00

Hello, Simple Livers!

A good friend of mine sent this to me today. She felt as a fellow writer, I needed a dose of encouragement. Who doesn't, right? The words are so simple, just as God's love is for us. We make it so complicated, yet He offers us peace, love and the desires of our hearts if we put our lives in His capable hands.

The passage is from the book Jesus Calling, written as though Jesus us speaking to you.

I am working on your behalf. Bring Me all your concerns, including your dreams. Talk with Me about everything, letting the Light of My Presence shine on your hopes and plans. Spend time allowing My Light to infuse your dreams with life, gradually transforming them into reality. This is a very practical way of collaborating with Me. I, the Creator of the universe, have deigned to co-create with you. Do not try to hurry this process. If you want to work with me, you have to accept My time frame. Hurry is not in My nature. Abraham and Sarah had to wait many years for the fulfillment of My promise, a son. How their long wait intensified their enjoyment of this child! Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses.

I know I need a reminder that Jesus is my bestest friend, so I wanted to share this reminder with all of you. Enjoy. :o)

To be used by Him,

DMM :o)

Grrrrrrrrrrrrr, Simply Spewing

2008-12-01T18:50:00.001-08:00

I seem to be a spewer. When I get mad or frustrated, I come unleashed. I yell, vent, and say some ugly things. And, if I don't say them, I'm most likely thinking them.

Anger is a nasty, nasty thing.

In November, our pastor spoke on the Seven Deadly Sins. And, yet again my eyes were opened to just how human and unworthy I am. I'm not writing today to get us all depressed about how grumpy we can be at times. I am writing to help us all with some little frustrations that make us less of the Simple Living Christian we try our best to be.

The Bible does not speak too highly of anger (major understatement). Ecclesiastes 7:9 states, "Don't let your spirit rush to be angry, for anger abides in the heart of fools." I definitely don't want to be considered a fool. Do you?

Proverbs 14:17 explains that "Fools have quick tempers, and no one likes you if you can't be trusted." And the kicker for me:

Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish. ~ Proverbs 18:13

This one was a double-whammy Ouch! for me.

So, today we will look at some simple ways to curb our anger.

First, let's look at the frustrator. (That would make us the frustratee) :o)

For me, it's my little white puffball. Do not let his sweet little picture fool you. I tell him often, "Thank God you're cute!" He has a way of getting on my very last nerve. I've been told by numerous people throughout my life that I must have the patience of Job. But, for some reason with my sweet little doggie, I can't seem to control my temper at time. Let's just say he has a few psychological doggy issues such as barking incessantly to get my attention and flat out throwing a temper tantrum when he doesn't get a carrot fast enough. The Dog Whisperer would be utterly ashamed at how well-trained my dog has me. Sorry, Cesar. ;o)

Anyway, he gets me boiling sometimes. So, these are my new steps to turn my anger into dancing and turn my weeping into joy.

1. Pray. Simple right? But, in the midst of anger, this is the last thing I think of doing. From now on, I will turn to God first.
2. Breathe. I will take three deep breaths as I pray and tune out the barking.
3. Love. Remember how much I love my Little Man regardless of what he is doing right now.
4. Have carrots ready. LOL

At times I feel this is a dress rehearsal for when I have children. Lord, help me. LOL

So, I pray God's peace flows over all of you. That your anger is extinguished, and that God's glory can and will be seen in every situation. Even with an OCD dog, crazy drivers, or teenagers. :oP

As James puts it, "My dearly beloved brothers, understand this: everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man's anger does not accomplish God's righteousness." (Chapter 1, vs. 19-20)

To be used by Him,

DMM :O)

Simple Blessings and a Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T11:34:00.000-08:00

Good afternoon!

It's the day before Thanksgiving, and I have two things on the brain:

Cranberry sauce and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade!

I am so excited about nestling on the couch with a cup of coffee and watching dancers dance and Snoopy float by. Awwwwwww...Thanksgiving.

But, I'm reminded of something this year that I haven't been in a long time. Maybe if ever during Thanksgiving. For so long it was just a holiday with turkey and dressing to me. But this year, something has changed.

I truly have gratitude. Gratitude to God.

Gratitude that God has blessed me with a wonderful husband, cherished family and friends, and a church family that I truly adore and honor. God is so good and I am so thankful. Without Him, I am nothing and nothing matters. Thank you, Father, for delivering me and seeing me through everything. You are AWESOME!

May each of you have a joy-filled Thanksgiving full of God's blessings and thankfulness in serving the One True God.

Take care and God bless! Gobble Gobble. Or, in my case tofu, tofu!

DMM:o)

Fun Fiction Friday featuring Marcia Gruver

2008-10-31T14:42:00.001-07:00

Hello, Simple Livers!

I'm online today to tell you about a great book for Fun Fiction Friday. Fellow writer Marcia Gruver signed a three-book deal in 2007 with Barbour Publishing. Go, Marcia! What a blessing! Her first book, Diamond Duo is now on the shelves. Click on the book title to be sent directly to her site on Amazon.com.

Here is what a few of my friends are saying about the book. I actually know these women and trust their opinions. :o)

With lyrical prose and a cast of characters that will remain in your heart long after the last page is turned, Marcia Gruver’s debut novel is a must-read. Whether you’re seeking a romance, a wonderful Southern story or an escape to another time, Diamond Duo is a masterpiece waiting to be found. ~ Kathleen Y’barbo author of the Fairweather Key series

Marcia Gruver’s writing is witty, charming and historically accurate. She pulls you into the lives of the characters and makes you feel as though you’re actually walking and talking with them. Best of all, she captures the true feel of the setting, (a real strength in her stories). I can’t recommend Diamond Duo strongly enough! ~ Janice Thompson author of the Bridal Mayhem series

Well-written, delightful characters—Diamond Duo is the most entertaining historical to come around in a long time. ~ Elizabeth Ludwig author of Where the Truth Lies and Died in the Wool

My favorite part about this book is Marcia based this fictional account on a true-life unsolved murder case in Jefferson, Texas. I love historical unsolved mysteries, so when I found this tid-bit out, it made this book a must-read for me!

I began reading this book and fell in love with one character in particular -- Sarah. She stands out with superior dialogue and likeability. I am eager to keep reading and find out her fate. I hopes she doesn't die in the end. I just hate that. LOL

While you are out in cyberspace, check out these other witty bloggers and their interviews with Marcia Gruver. And, be sure to check out Marcia's personal blog by clicking right . . . here!

Take care and God bless!

DMM :o)

A Latte and Some Words

A Little Bit of Sunlight

Anne Greene

Be a Barnabas

Book Splurge

BookingIt

Cara’s Musings

Erica at ShoutLife

Fictionary

God With Us - Finding Joy

Horizontal Yo-Yo

Janice Olson

Lighthouse Academy

Marthawrites

Mary Connealy - real life

My Christian Fiction Blog

Net’s Notes

On The Write Path

Pam Krumpe

Patti’s Porch

Readin N Writin

Relz Reviewz

Tamara Lynn Kraft

Terri Tiffany

The Friendly Book Nook

The Writer’s Tool

Writing by Faith

Laundry Detergent - The Simple Living Way

2008-10-15T13:46:00.000-07:00

Hello, Simple Livers!

I mentioned to several people over the last few days that I make my own laundry detergent. It is so easy, and believe me, it would have to be for me to do it! So with great Simple Living style, here it is. If you have any questions, please post them below. I'm sure if you have questions, other people will to and you can help them out.

I got this recipe from my new friend Michelle. I met Michelle while writing a piece for Focus on the Family on Getting Back to the Basics. If you would like to read how Michelle and her family live the simple life with Christ, click here.

What you'll need:

Large pot and spoon - designate one pot big enough to hold 4 quarts of water and one spoon to solely use for laundry detergent making. I use a big wooden spoon. It feels more rustic that way. :oP

2-3 gallon milk or water jugs (or any containers you like to put the soap in)

1 Funnel

4 quarts of water - any ol' water will do
Ivory or Fels Naptha bar soap - I always use Ivory since I never can find Fels Naptha in my super market. If you want to purchase Fels Naptha, visit a great site called SoapsGoneBuy.com to purchase any soap you can imagine!
1/4 cup 20 Mule Team Borax - I find this in the laundry aisle.
1/4 cup Arm and Hammer Super Washing Soda - In my market, it is right next to the 20 Mule Team Borax. God made it easy for me. LOL Make sure you use the WASHING soda and not BAKING soda. I am not responsible for results with use of baking soda. :oP

Alrighty...

Pour 4 quarts of water in your pot on medium heat. With a grater, shave one-half to three-forths of the bar soap into the pot. Stir as you desire and allow the soap to completely dissolve before the next step. Believe me, if you have any chunks of soap, they will never, ever, ever dissolve. At least they don't for me. I know. . .it's a conspiracy. It will not take long at all for the soap to dissolve.

When your soap is sufficiently dissolved, slowly pour in 1/4 cup of 20 Mule Team Borax and 1/4 cup Arm and Hammer Super Washing Soda. One time, I poured this in when the pot was at a raging boil. It overflowed and I had a yucky, gelatinous mess throughout my stove top to clean up when it cooled. So, please be advised. At least your stove will be really clean afterwards:o)

At this point, I stir and let it all dissolve together. The mixture will not be thick so don't expect laundry detergent consistently yet. Let the detergent cool until you feel comfortable pouring it into the gallons jugs. A funnel is a life-saver for this. PLEASE USE ONE. :o)

Fill each gallon jug 1/4 to 2/3 with the detergent mixture, then fill the rest of the way with water, put the lid on (very important!) and shake, shake, shake. I played around with consistency for a while and now I know I like the consistency when I split the soap between two jugs and add water. If the soap is too thick for you, add more water. Please note, the solution will separate when cooled so whenever I am in the laundry room I give it a good shake to keep it all together.

I use about 1/2 cup of detergent with each load. I love this detergent. I tend to have sensitive skin and haven't had a problem at all when using it. I hope you enjoy it!

Live simply God's way!

DMM :o)

Simple Sustainable Living

2008-10-13T12:03:00.001-07:00

Today, on a impromptu trip to my library, I picked up a book called The Self-Sufficient Life and How to Live It by John Seymour. As a Simple Living enthusiast, I'm quite excited to venture through its 311 pages. On a flip through, I accidentally read too far and learned how to kill a chicken.

EEK!! For a vegetarian, I will forever have the text and drawing burned into my retinas. You should warn a person! LOL For all those opposed to the partaking of chickens, you may want to avoid page 121. :o)

So far, I've learned how to grow rice, millet, carrots, beets and how to make mustard from scratch. (My husband will be excited about that!)

Through my reading, I've considered constructing a chicken coop and acquiring a few fowl-y friends to assist me with my scrambled egg habit. But, I'm concerned about city ordinances and wastes. Anyone have any insights?

I'm really feeling led to further pursue ways to guard God's creation. Sustainable living, recycling, and thinking before I buy items are ways I can affect our world and keep it in tip-top shape for Jesus. What are some ways you and your family help out our world? Let me know by leaving a comment. Together, we can come up with new ways to fulfill our obligation as stewards of God's kingdom.

Genesis 1:26 Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground."

God put us in charge of His creation. Let's do our best this week to do our part.

In Him all things are possible!

DMM :o)

Simply Be

2008-10-03T09:28:00.001-07:00

I'm having one of those God days. One of those days where I "decide" to let God lead every step I take.

And, it's killing me.

Evidently, God wants me to sit and be with Him. Not read a book. Not memorize scriptures. Simply be with Him.

Did I mention it is killing me?

As you can see, I resorted to writing about it. :o) Why is simply "being" so difficult? Is it hard for everyone or just me? Are other people able to sit and pass the time with nothing to do without a flitting thought except for God's whispers penetrating their flawless minds? This sitting and reflecting and being is the hardest thing I've had to do in a long time. Why is reflecting so hard?

Maybe I'm too scared of what I may reflect on?

The past mistakes, the regrets, the so called friends who weren't that seem to always pop up when I have a quiet moment in my brain. (I wasn't always a Christ Follower to shed a glimmer of light on the memories.)

This is called healing as hard as it is to swallow. Healing grows new cells, dispenses with the old and makes a new shiny me to reveal to the world. Healing is good. Even though I have this scab that doesn't want to heal, and I keep picking at it like a three-year-old.

Sorry for the visual. LOL

Are you going through a healing today? Trust me. Simply "being" in God's presence may seem hard at first, but when you are sitting on your Daddy's lap cradled in His arms, through His love, all the old bruises go away. He is good. Thank God for Him!

Simply BE today. It is Friday after all.

Love to you my brothers and sisters in Christ~

Dawn Michelle Michals

Simply Me

2008-09-24T12:07:00.000-07:00

I returned on Monday from the 2008 American Christian Fiction Writers Conference in Minneapolis. What a glorious gathering of writer's for God. I will forever remember the fun I had, the friends I made, and the God moments that will transform my life forever.

Of all the classes I attended and lessons I learned, one stuck out to me: Allie Pleiter's Late Night Chat on "Getting It Done." Allie taught me the Finding Nemo personality test, and believe me, it was eye-opening. Here is the gist: Marlin's are goal-focused and stay on task until the goal is complete. Dori's (oh, sweet Dori's) tend to be more spontaneous and a little more "all over the place," but in the end get the job done allbeit scattered in bits in pieces throughout the day instead of in one long haul.

God made me a full-time writer in May. Since then, I've had dreams of a writing schedule. My "writer" self would sit firmly in my desk chair from noon to four every afternoon creating prolific prose destined for greatness and transformation. However, my "human" --who tends to lean more toward reality than my "writer"-- would write for a few precious moments and then flitter and flutter away from the computer screen to play with cats, wrestle with dogs and wander into the front yard to see what the flowers had been up to that day. In a nutshell:

I am not a Marlin. I am a wanna-be Marlin trapped in a Dori body.

And now oddly, as I embrace my inner Dori, I've completed tasks, e-mailed e-mails and accomplished astoundingly more than I would have trying to be who I am simply not -- A Marlin.

I am who I am. In that illustrious quote from Popeye the Sailor Man falls all the love, imagination and grace that our Father could pour out in one vessel.

You are who God made you. Fearfully and wonderfully made as shocking as that may be. Be it. Embrace it. And love your inner Marlin or Dori. You and the world will be the better for it. Simply be YOU! Thank you, Allie, for revealing my Dori-ness and letting it shine.

With a task complete, I am off to flitter and flutter. :o)

DMM

Congratulations to Leanna Ellis and her new book Lookin' Back Texas

2008-09-05T14:26:00.001-07:00

A devoted wife and mother must return to her hometown of Luckenbach, Texas, to help her mother plan her father’s funeral. Trouble is – he isn’t dead! And neither are the secrets she buried there years ago.

No, I'm not switching from Simple Living, Christian Style to country songs and funeral parlors, but I wanted to shift focus for a moment to congratulate my friend on the publication of her second book.

That's right! It's finally out and on bookstore shelves! My friend and fellow Texas writer Leanna Ellis' new book, Lookin' Back Texas is ready and waiting for you to pick up your copy today.

To learn more about the book, read the first chapter teaser and see a fun trailer, click here.

Congrats, Leanna! May this be the first of MANY more to come.

God bless and READ ON!

Dawn Michelle Michals

Gospel for Asia

2008-08-31T12:12:00.001-07:00

Gospel for Asia - Click here for a free book!

Juicy Blogging

2008-08-21T16:28:00.000-07:00

In Genesis 1:1, God created the heavens and the earth. In Genesis 1:27, it says that God created man (us) in his own image. In His own image He created us. We are a product of the Greatest Creator and in us, He has instilled the ability and the desire to create. Whether it be in art, music, writing, basketball or gymnastics, God has placed in each of us the need to bring something new to the world just as He did so long ago.

All of us have "creativeness" within us. For some, it is buried deep within our soul aching to get out. For others, it is floating somewhere near the service looking for direction on the road map of Things To Do. And, yet for others it is a free flowing waterfall cleansing the world with its beauty.

I want to introduce you to one of my favorite authors. SARK dispenses her wisdom, kindness and creativeness through books and speaking engagements across the country. She is truly gifted as an encourager, and I urge you to pick up her newest book Juicy Pens, Thirsty Paper today. I don't have a copy yet, but I promise you it is on my Christmas list!

SARK is truly an inspiration to me, my art and my writing. I hope I have the chance to meet her in person one day. She is an absolute blessing, and God has used her to open up my road blocks and allow the creativeness to flow.

May God inspire you today to fulfill your dreams, encourage others, and create, create, create for His glory!

God bless~

DMM :o)

Creative Coupon Clipping

2008-08-07T12:20:00.000-07:00

With school starting soon, I know school supplies is a big issue for families right now. My friend Tawra offers some great reader comments and advice on her blog, Tawra's Tightwad Tips, Tawra is the person behind one of my favorite simple living sites, Living On a Dime. I interviewed Tawra for an article on simple living for Focus on the Family. Tawra is not only a great person, but she is an inspiration to me on my simple living crusade.

Special note: The Walgreens in my area has phenomenal coupons for 9 cent items. That's right! I said 9 cents! Pencils, folders and other school supplies are on sale with the coupon.

Coupons are an integral tool to save some much needed cash. But, I found out that there are rules and techniques that you must adhere to or your money-saving potential flies out the window right along with your cash.

First, don't buy something just because you have a coupon for it. If you family never eats tuna fish, yet you stocked up and bought 15 cans at a great price, what is the benefit here? (Besides being able to donate it to a food pantry.) If you fall into this trap with perishable goods, then all you have is a decaying mess in your cabinet. Stick to the things you and your family like to eat. That is where the savings count.

Second, be careful with the "buy one, get one free" campaign. This is often a great bargain, but on occasion the price of the item may have been increased to accommodate the sale. For example, I saw those wonderful and ever-useful grill lighters at a local supermarket marked as "buy one, get one free." The price: $3. Good deal? Not if you go to the dollar store where they are $1 each. Watch the original prices of merchandise. How much are the lighters when they are not on sale? A bargain is not always a bargain.

Third, I know for me, buying a newspaper turned out to be a total waste of cash. I never get around to reading it no matter my best intentions, and all I do is clip some coupons out of it. More often than not, the money I would save from my creative coupon clipping did not even cover the price of the newspaper. So, guess what? I spent more in the end in an attempt to save. My mother's friend solved this problem for me. She loves to get the newspaper, so when she clips coupons, she keeps an eye out for items she thinks we will like. She is so wonderful. She brings me soy milk coupons, veggie burger coupons, and all the dog food and cat food coupons she can find. This way, the coupons are being put to good use, my family saves some money and my mom's friend gets the total use out of her Sunday newspaper. A win-win situation. If you have friends who would like to join you on your quest for simple living, form a Coupon Exchange. It's a fun way to get together over coffee and danish (bought with a coupon of course) and trade coupons before they expire.

Fourth, I've never seen this anywhere but at my small-town library (I love living in a small town.), but they have a coupon basket at the front door as their Coupon Exchange. I always grab coupons for disinfecting wipes when I'm there and leave behind any coupons that I received from friends that I don't feel I'll get around to using.

I hope this creative coupon clipping tips help you on your way to Simple Living, Christian Style. Saty tuned for tips and tricks to keep your life simpler and your cash where it belongs--safely in your pocket.

Take care and God bless!

DMM :O)

Sometimes It's Hard

2008-08-05T15:16:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 11:24 (NIV)

One man gives freely, yet gains even more;
another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.

Wow. When I heard these words, a weight was lifted from my heart. How simple they are. God's word shows us how easy it is. When you give freely, you gain much. This is what I've been praying about all along. To give freely in time, money, love, everything that God wants me to give to be more like-minded and kind-hearted. To better be His light on earth.

How I pray to be free to give yet my humanness holds on to selfish ideals and society's decision that mine is mine but you have to share yours. When do I get to the point that it doesn't sting in my heart when I give away my last piece of bread? When will I not feel the "want" anymore?

As I work this all out alongside you, I find myself consumed with thoughts of my families finances. Money. I find it hard not to dwell on it, especially when it doesn't seem like I have enough. I feel a lot of people have this same problem. Especially those who do not know our Father at all. I live in God's word yet still find it hard to grab on to His promises at times. Life is hard. That's for sure. But with God, I have hope.

Even the strongest, most faithful Christians fall into the "want" pit. It is easy to do and hard to claw your way out of.

When I read Proverbs 11:24, it all hit home.

How often had I been the one withholding unduly? I suffer from what I recently discovered is referred to as the spirit of want. I come from a long line of spirit of wanters. We hoard our money, our food and our love. I was trained to do it, and it is well-ingrained in my spirit. But, today, if front of all of you, I set it all free and release it to God. I will give freely and gain much in the Lord.

Give freely. Share freely. Hug freely. Love others as Jesus loves them. Ask for God's discernment and provision. He will provide. Be God's beacon of light to His world. He is our precious Father showering us with kisses from heaven. He is singing over you right now.

Zephaniah 3:17 (NIV)
17 The LORD your God is with you,
he is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
he will quiet you with his love,
he will rejoice over you with singing."

Thank you, Father, for opening up your world to me. How simple it is to be in Your heart, to be loved by You. So simple.

Patience - Tip of the Week

2008-08-04T08:53:00.000-07:00

Last week we reviewed God's teachings on patience found throughout the pages of the old and new testaments. Today, we will revisit it and apply it to our finances.

Yes, I know. I just made a lot of enemies. :o) But, this is where--more so than any area in our lives it seems--we lose patience like we lose that crazy sock that goes into the washer and never comes out. Where does that sock go anyway?

Patience, for me, is a lackluster, anxiety-ridden roller coaster. At times, I am very patient swooshing along the curves with ease. Other times, I am a screaming mess plummeting back to earth at 70 miles per hour. But with God's help (and tests), I am dealing with my patience better every day. (Thank you, God!)

Today, I will share a lesson I learned on impatient purchases-- those spontaneous "must-have" purchases that neither I, nor my budget, planned to make. The $8 perfect black shirt. The greatest skirt I have ever seen! That DVD that I must own and watch every day for a month.

Music. Gaming gear. Books (my favorite temptation). Lattes. We all have that thing we have to have right now. But, when your finances say no, and bills can't be paid because you had to have a latte every day, then patience must become our friend.

Patience is not a bad thing. We just don't like it. No one likes it. It means not having what we want exactly when we want it. But is that how God meant for it to be? Immediate gratification?

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6-7 (New International Version)

Apply patience to your finances. Set a time limit. A week. A month. Three months. However long you choose. And, wait. Does that new car with the high interest rate still seem like a good decision? Do you still need that new stereo system? Even though it is a great deal?

Or could that money be used elsewhere? Pay down a debt? Save for a rainy day? Or even to bless God's children? A little could mean a whole lot to your future or to someone else's.

Be patient with your money. And remember the old adage: If it's meant to be, it's meant to be.

Patience My Child

2008-07-28T11:21:00.001-07:00

I have no patience today. Well, let's make that every day.

I started out this morning craving a cup of coffee. I opened my trusty coffee can to find a teaspoon-size amount left in the bottom. As panic set in, I remembered that bag of coffee beans I received from a friend. For months it's been on top of my fridge waiting patiently for me to open it, grind it, and enjoy it. Yet now, when I need it, it's MIA. Why? How? How heartless would a person have to be to steal my coffee?

I searched in the highest of heights getting out my trusty step ladder to pillage through upper cabinets. I got on my hands and knees and searched the lower cabinets. Nothing.

The world is a cold, cruel place at 8:30 in the morning.

Then my printer wouldn't print. The dried-on cat food refused to release itself from my cat's bowl. And, I put a DVD in my player when a DVD was already in there. *sigh* It still works, but I had to wait for it to figure out what I'd done to it so it could reset itself.

In all, I've had quite an annoying day. But, why has it been annoying?

Because I let these little things get to me.

In Ephesians 4:2, Paul writes:

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

Two-thousand years ago, the people of this world were experiencing the same issues, concerns and heartaches that we are going through today. They needed patience just as much as we do, or Paul wouldn't have written about it so often.

In his letter to the Colossians, Paul again wrote:

Colossians 3:12-14

12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Colossians 1: 11-12

11being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.

And, in Galatians 5...

22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

Now, let's journey back to the Old Testament...

Proverbs 19:11 (NIV) 11 A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.

It is to His glory. When we react as children of God, we show the world Christ's true nature. One of love, understanding, gentleness, patience and hope. So, today, when unexplained enemies come at you and steal your coffee beans, remember to breathe, reach for the Word, and have hope in knowing that these little things are just little things. They will be soon and easily be forgotten. Yet, your reaction to them could live on for generations.

Be hopeful in the Lord and remember: Patience is a virtue.

DMM

Simply Grilling and Chilling

2008-07-18T16:59:00.000-07:00

Hello, Simple Livers!

Today we will discuss the joys of grilling, or as my husband refers to it, the only way to cook.

You can cook anything on the grill you please. And, with practice, you can use it like a traditional oven and even cook pizza. Currently, my husband is outside cooking tilapia for our family.

Another plus to cooking outdoors, you heat up the neighborhood and not your house eliminating the need for more A/C resulting in a lower electric bill. If you live in Texas like we do, this is a major plus!

So, be creative. What can you think of to cook on the grill? Bacon and eggs? Biscuits? Pancakes? I guess I am craving breakfast foods. LOL With a little aluminum foil and nonstick spray, your options are endless.

Happy grilling!

DMM :o)

Simple Kindness

2008-07-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

Collosians 3:12-14 states:

12Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

When Paul wrote these words to the Christians in Collose, he was sitting in a prison cell bound with chains. Yet, in the midst of his captivity, he spoke of kindness, compassion and patience.

Would you?

I've been thinking a lot lately of how our society tries to harden us. With blatant violence on television, in song lyrics, and in computer games, no wonder we are becoming an "every man for himself" generation as never before.

To show love makes you a weaker vessel. To show compassion is frowned upon. Give money instead but don't get your hands dirty. Money is a blessing, that's for sure, but sometimes what is most needed at the core of hurt is a hug. A simple hug.

For this week, I encourage you to be kind. Be kind to the older woman needing help with her grocery bags. Be kind and show patience to that driver who thinks they have someplace better to go than you do. Be kind to the little dog who has lost his way.

Be kind to yourself. Give yourself a hug, and praise the Lord that you lived another day. Others haven't. Even worse -- others do not know His love.

Simply be kind. Give hugs with abandon. And, have a blessed and joy-filled week.

In His name with great big hugs~

DMM

Free Movies You Say?

2008-07-10T11:10:00.000-07:00

Living the simple-living lifestyle focuses on freebies, and I aim to please!

I know on those nights when there is nothing on TV, I would love to drive over to the movie store and pick out the latest release. However, the frugal gal in me hates forking over money for something I have to return in two days.

I found a wonderfully FREE alternative at my neighborhood library. Rows and rows of DVDs to check out for free for seven days. And, don't think they are all black-and-whites with organ music playing in the background. The main library in my town offers newer releases right along side classics such as Casablanca and Mutiny on the Bounty. every so often it is fun to get back to our roots in cinema and sit back and enjoy some popcorn with Humphrey Bogart.

The library also has documentaries (my fave!), and self-help and exercise DVDs. And for those still in love with their VCRs, VHS tapes are available to check out, as well.

Tip: After you sign up for your library card, you can sign in online and check out what selection is available. If a movie you like is checked out, you can place a hold on it and the library's computer will call you when the movie is returned. No wasted time, and no wasted gas!

I am fortunate enough to live in a small suburb so I have not only my small town library but also the main county library not far away. I love living in Texas!

Take care, frugal friends. Check in on Tuesday for more Simple Living, Christian Style.

Have a blessed and joy-filled weekend!

DMM :o)

Simply Stepping Stones

2008-07-09T12:15:00.000-07:00

Sometimes something so simple can get really complicated.

I have a tendency to skip steps. I don't like to read directions and don't see why I have to follow them half of the time. Why? Probably because I am inherently lazy. That's right. Lazy. At least I'm not floating down the River de-Nile about it. I'm lazy, and I know it.

But, sometimes these steps are necessary. And, God throws them in there to let us grow. They aren't to hinder us, or to stop us, they are to open the doors and shine the light on what God is doing.

Take for instance writing. Everyone can write, and a popular saying is "everyone has a story to tell." But that doesn't mean it's a good story or that people will pay to read it. Or sadly, what if they don't even want to read it even if it's free?

There is a craft to writing. A step-by-step growth process that God developed when He breathed life into these dry bones. And as much as I try to skip over the steps, God reels me back in and sets me perfectly where I need to be - Learning. And I plan to learn everything the Father has to teach me.

In my quest for the simple life, I discovered Sue Bender's book Plain and Simple: A Woman's Journey to the Amish. In it, Mrs. Bender describes her time living with several different Amish families. I love this book and found simplicity and hope in it.

From page 85...

"It is the enjoyment of every step in the process of doing; everything not only the isolated piece we label art. If accomplishing is the only goal, all that it takes to reach that goal is too slow, too fatiguing -- an obstacle to what you want to achieve. If you want to rush to the accomplishment, it is an inevitable disappointment. Then you rush to something else. The disappointment is reaped over and over again. But if every step is pleasant, then the accomplishment becomes even more, because it is nourished by what is going on."

Value those steps - every one that you may be on, because there is a reason and a purpose for each one. I promise. :o)

May God bless you richly and abundantly this week.

DMM

Simply Encouraging

2008-07-03T12:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday, Simple Livers!

Today, I am opening the door for others who love the simple-living lifestyle to share their stories of encouragement. Read Back to the Basics and learn more.

Have a happy and safe July 4th Weekend! And, please be careful. There are a lot of burns bans out there for good reason.

May God bless you richly and abundantly.

DMM

It's Simply About Today

2008-07-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

In Matthew 6:34, Jesus states, "So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today. (NLT) "

God is teaching me a valuable lesson. This week, He has shown me a new way to look at my needs. I got my pen and calendar out and wrote down each bill on its due date. And now, will His prompting, I am only looking at today. Not tomorrow. Not the the 25th or the 31st or to any day in between. I am focusing on today. And, with a nudge from the Lord, I am sharing this with you.

So, let's look on July 1 and see what we have in store for today.

Do I have food for breakfast, lunch and dinner? YES! Praise, Jesus!
Do I have any bills due today? YES!
Do I have money in the bank to pay this bill? Oddly, YES. And, actually, I have exactly the amount that I need to pay that bill.

With God's leading and love, I'm not worrying about tomorrow. I'm giving God my today. God promises in His word that He will provide my needs for today. He promises this to you as well. It says it right here:

Matthew 6:31-33 NLT

31 "So don't worry about having enough food or drink or clothing. 32 Why be like the pagans who are so deeply concerned about these things? Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs, 33 and he will give you all you need from day to day if you live for him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern.

And, this is Jesus speaking! Who better to know the Father's heart than Jesus.

Believe me, I know it is hard to live for today. I see the commercials on TV about financial planning. I see the news reports, too, about high gas prices, unemployment and the ever-growing problems throughout the world. But let's live in God's word, His truth, and know that He knows our every need for today, and He promises in His word that He will provide for all your needs if "you live for him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern."

Imagine it! No worrying about things weeks from now. Just being in the present moment, living every second as God intended--fully encompassed in His loving care.

Now, that is simple living.

I believe that you will get out of my blog what God wishes you to receive, whether that comfort, wisdom or a swift kick in the bloomers, but please know that I am not a financial specialist. I am trying to figure this all out right alongside all of you who are sitting with a little worry knot in your stomach wondering how the rent, that is due today, will get paid before they stick that pesky reminder note on the front door. I'm believing in faith and God's word that the check is in the mail for me and for you. May God bless you all richly this week, and may His mighty hand be seen in the simple things.

Living for Him,

DMM

For further study:

Jesus says in Matthew 6:25-34:
25 "So I tell you, don't worry about everyday life — whether you have enough food, drink, and clothes. Doesn't life consist of more than food and clothing? 26 Look at the birds. They don't need to plant or harvest or put food in barns because your heavenly Father feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than they are. 27 Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Of course not.
28 "And why worry about your clothes? Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, 29 yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. 30 And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and gone tomorrow, won't he more surely care for you? You have so little faith!
31 "So don't worry about having enough food or drink or clothing. 32 Why be like the pagans who are so deeply concerned about these things? Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs, 33 and he will give you all you need from day to day if you live for him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern.
34 "So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today. NLT

Shopping, the Simple Living Way

2008-06-26T18:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday!

I had an idea this morning for a way to go shopping without spending any money, which is a MAJOR part of simple living.

Think of it as "one man's (or woman's) trash is another one's treasure." Get a group of friends together for a swap meet. Bring items that are still in good condition but need to find a new home. This is great for those shoes that didn't fit as well when you got them home as they did in the store or for that pair of jeans that shrunk too much in the dryer. (wink, wink)

Now, let's be polite about it. Don't bring along ripped up T-shirts or those fanciful, puff-painted sweat shirts that went out of style circa 1984. (Unless your friends really like those, of course.)

When the party's over, the snacks are gone, and you have pillaged your friends' closets as much as you can, take what is left over to an assistance organization such as a Goodwill Thrift Store or the Salvation Army. For the tax-write-off savvy, get a receipt and keep a list of the items you donated. You can then assign a fair-market value to each item you donated and get a little break from Uncle Sam for a good cause.

If you try this out, please comment and tell us how it went. And, if you have any tips or hints regarding buddy swap meets, chime in. Thanks so much for stopping by! Have a blessed week!

Check back on Tuesday for the newest update to the blog.

Live Simple, Live Well!

Dawn :o)

Simply Christian

2008-06-24T18:50:00.000-07:00

Today, God pointed me to a certain passage in Ecclesiastes.

Ecclesiastes 4:4 reads:

And I saw that all labor and all achievement spring from man's envy of his neighbor. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.

Our world teaches us to "out do" our neighbor. To be better, richer, prettier, smarter. To be above others. To have more. To be more. To do more. But when does it end?

After so meaning years of living for others, seeking approval and for others to recognize my life as worthy, I've realized something. That my love and work for God is all that matters. His approval matters. That He, our God and Father of all, considers me His good and faithful servant. That at some point in my life I will hear, "you are my daughter with whom I am well pleased.”

This blog will now take the turn that God has chosen for it. I've been praying for a while now about what to write about. Should I have author interviews? Contests? Free stuff? All that may happen, but for right now, in this place, we will discuss the simpler things in life. The simple things that God touches me and you with every day. I hope you enjoy it and comment often. I am here to listen.

Me? Prolific?

2008-05-20T12:50:00.000-07:00

I read Zen Habits today. If you are not a subscriber of this blog, I highly recommend it. Please note that this is a secular blog that is geared toward zen living. As a Christian, I feel this blog offers practical and noteworthy advice on living life extraordinarily while providing thought-provoking content. From one writer to another, Leo Babauta gives me just what I need each week. He may not know he is a vessel of the Lord, but to this newbie career writer, he brightens my day and gets me revved up for writing. You help keep me going, Leo, and I thank you for it! I particularly enjoyed the May 14, 2008, post by guest Clay Collins from The Growing Life. “Living the Prolific Life: A How-to Guide” will forever be saved in my “favorites” and will most likely be printed and taped to my office wall. To be prolific…wow. To even be described as prolific. This is what I want, Lord. Prolific-ise me! Please. :O)

Pinch me! No, not really.

2008-05-16T12:13:00.000-07:00

For many years, I’ve been praying to work from home. My heart cried out to God daily while I passed the time in my hour commute (one way, mind you) to the office. My bureaucratic day job with drama, petty arguments and the typical nine-to-five grind that Americans find themselves in each day.

I write this from my dining room table in my pajamas at two in the afternoon. Did my dreams come true? YES! A resounding “Yes!” leaps from my lips causing my dog to rise from her afternoon nap to see what mom is up to. Along with my exuberance is shock, fright, horror. What if I can’t make it? What if I have to get a “real” job? And, when will I wake up? This is all too good to be true. That is when I realize, my Father is an awesome, amazing, wonderful, tremendous and fabulous God! I am nothing without Him and He truly knows my every need. Jesus says in Mathew 10:29-31 (NLT) Not even a sparrow , worth only half a penny, can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to him than a whole flock of sparrows. HE knows me. My Father knows me. And, He knows you too. He knows the numbers of hairs on your head. He knows what you did yesterday, He knows what you did when you were five, and He knows what you will do tomorrow. He is omniscient, omnipotent and everywhere. And, He loves you just the way you are. There is no need to come before Him perfect. Jesus said that He did not come here for the well. The Lord knows I’m not well, and the fact that God loves me right where I am warms my heart. He far outdoes my dogs on unconditional love. In fact, He taught them to be that way. If you don’t know unconditional love of our savior, accept Him into your heart today and see what He truly has for you. It is that easy. There are no radical steps. There are no items to buy. Jesus paid the ultimate price. Ask Him into your heart today and see your life change. And not just simple “Hey, I found the Lord” changes. Think CRAZY changes. Changes you cannot even imagine. Like being stuck in a typical day with a typical job and being lifted out into a new crazy-in-love-with-Jesus life where you write about Him and for Him all day. How does that sound?

Say this simple prayer and you will be on your way. Welcome to the family!

"God, I recognize that I have not lived my life for You up until now. I have been living for myself and that is wrong. I need You in my life; I want You in my life. I acknowledge the completed work of Your Son Jesus Christ in giving His life for me on the cross at Calvary, and I long to receive the forgiveness you have made freely available to me through this sacrifice. Come into my life now, Lord. Take up residence in my heart and be my king, my Lord, and my Savior. From this day forward, I will no longer be controlled by sin, or the desire to please myself, but I will follow You all the days of my life. Those days are in Your hands. I ask this in Jesus' precious and holy name. Amen."

Have you experienced a crazy-in-love-with Jesus change? I must hear all about it! Please tell me about it here.

For His Work,

Dawn :o)
God’s Cheerleader

I love Yiddish

2008-03-28T09:58:00.001-07:00

I love the way Yiddish swooshes around in my mouth. The relief I feel when the words pour out. How much better I feel when I yell, "Meshuga!" Why? I don't know. It doesn't even have to pertain to the situation. It flows off my tongue. The strength of the "m." The sureness of the "sh." The harshness of the "ga." Meshuga! It's crazy! Wait..it's meshuga!

Today, I'll share some Yiddish words from this week's e-mails from www.wordsmith.org.

For all you word-nerds like me, don't miss out and sign up for the daily newsletter. Expand your vocabulary and enrich your mind. :o)

This week's theme: Words from Yiddish.

schlump (shlump) noun

A dull or slovenly person.

[From Yiddish shlumperdik (unkempt, sloppy).]

meshuga or meshugga (muh-SHOOG-uh) adjective

Crazy; stupid.

schnook (shnook) noun

A stupid, easily deceived person.

To Write for God is Golden

2008-03-27T12:19:00.000-07:00

I have been under the assumption that I need to wait for "this" to happen to fulfill my destiny, or for "that" to happen. For "this" or "that" to reach fruition before I'll have the time to be what I want to become.

Not any more...

I must live TODAY for everything it's worth. And, so must you. If you have a dream, live it. If you want to go parachuting, do it. If you want to learn Italian, learn it. What's stopping you?

Time? Money? Approval?

You are not living anyone else's happiness but your own.

Today, I write for God. I live for God. I am His disciple running through life with my pen, paper and Bible in hand waiting for His word to spill forth onto the pages and transform me, and hopefully those who read it, into all that our Father wishes them to be.

He is faithful and true, and He promises that if you "delight yourself in the LORD; He will give you the desires of your heart." (Psalm 37:4)

2007-12-03T14:48:00.001-08:00

A Christ follower. I am that first and foremost.