Susan L. Fink's Blog

This is embarrassing andhumbling. But it is time to admit this sin to myself, God and others. I need toconfess my addiction and ask for forgiveness.

A friend defined the wordidol as what a person pays attention to more than God. This made me realize the overuseof my phone is breaking a commandment.

                           

Before the world-changingCOVID epidemic, my phone was a helpful connection and information tool. Duringthe quarantines, this introverted woman’s reliance on being with people(without masked facial expressions) morphed into neediness. Instead ofbuilding intimacy with my Savior, I scrolled for human consolation. Instead ofrecalling the trustworthiness of the covenant maker, I texted acquaintanceswhose fears mirrored mine. That was the start of my phone idol addiction.

Also during this time,there was apprehension on both sides of the should we gather for worship? discussion. Because of government deterrentsand health concerns, my church was ‘forced’ to go online with devotionalopportunities within one week’s time. That meant a steep learning curve intonew territory. When a council member suggested we ZOOM Bible classes, I thoughtit meant getting through the material quickly.

 

The effect of technologicalconvenience (online worship) lingers. My congregation has members whose onlineworship habit continues. Many no longer know the blessings of meeting withothers to worship in person. Might the word watchingbe the difference between online worship and in-person participation? Yet, for those who cannot leave their home,livestreams provide opportunities.

Which brings up anotherpersonal confession: I am easily distracted by people and (mostly) my own thoughtsduring in-person worship. But the pull to conveniences (fill my coffee cup) andchores (might as well throw in a load of wash) is stronger for me when watchingfrom home.

These thoughts bring me back to my first addiction admission: Am I more attuned to what is on my phone, than who is interceding for me on his throne?

 

Dear Jesus, who hears myevery prayer,

I am ashamed to admit myreliance on others through my phone. When I hear a ping, let it be a reminderto pray for godly priorities. When I am tempted to be lonely, show me again howCreation (your reflection) surrounds me, and motivate me to meditate on yourWord. Thank you, Almighty God for the good ways you use technology—to blessthose all over the world with your Truth. Continue to make me aware offaith-growing opportunities in my home, my church and yes, even on my phone.

Thank you for your mercifulforgiveness. Thank you for serving God’s justice, so I may know his grace.

Gratefully your child,

Amen

 

Whenyou hear the term "devoted family" what comes to mind?

Do youpicture caring people, considerate of family members and "devoted" toGod? 

Our

 Lord designed the family unit to be a loving, need-fulfillment center. The healthy Christian home is the ideal haven to learn the indispensable traitsof repentance, forgiveness, justice, grace, trust, intimacy, communication,evangelism (Gospel-sharing), and the establishment of individual andinterdependent purposes. A faith-filled family strives to imitate the heavenlyFather's commitment to his adopted children (I John 3:1).

Theinterdependent functions of a Christian family serve as a model for the localcongregation, and also the whole Church in the Body of Christ.  The sameSpirit-fruits (Galatians 5:22) are blessings to be pursuedin each: the community of all believers, the local church and the primaryfamily unit. Stable, spiritually-growing families will be betterable to serve the church with their time, talent and treasures.  Conversely,the local church will be better able to serve the families who are grounded inthe Word and committed to Christ. 

Healthy families are a source of comfort, guidance, identity (giving roles andfunction), affirmation, and interaction among its members. Children needlove, empathy, respect, responsibility, and emotional access to their parents,as well as a growing sense of their priceless worth in Christ. A healthylife includes a balance of work and play, socializing and solitude, helpingourselves and assisting others. The family unit works as a learning labthat demonstrates the value of these habits.  What traits does your home striveto teach? 

 

On a scale of 1 to 10 (10being best) rate your family's strengths:

 

1.  We are committed tospending time with one another.

2. We talk and listenrespectfully to individuals’ goals, fears and       opinions.

3.  We try to eat atleast one daily meal together.

4. Our family rituals andcustoms (game playing, story reading, prayers   etc.) add to our sense ofoneness.

5. We gently help each otherto cope with individual or group problems.

6. Each member's spiritual,emotional, physical and intellectual health   is nourished and purposelyencouraged.

7.  We affirm andappreciate each other's gifts, efforts, and unique   personality.

 

Add up your numbers. 

Ascore in the 7 - 24 total range indicates that improvement is needed in yourhome situation. (But you already knew that, right? Pray and ask forencouragement from a Christian friend, or counselor.)  The range of25 - 39 reflects a slightly lower than average support system. Acknowledging this is step one in your family’s task of goal setting.  A 40 - 59 score reflects a considerate, loving family with lots ofblessings to build on. Pat yourself on the back if your score tops 60! You provide consistent nurture and balance by meeting group and individualneeds in your home.  Other families would benefit from your mentoring!

 

Don't let a low scorediscourage you. Instead, using the following passages, ask God to help you usethe results for family discussion and goal-setting.

 

 

Leviticus 19:32

Psalm 68:4-6

Psalm 78:5-7

Proverbs 6:20-23

I Timothy 5:8

Ephesians 4: 15-16, 29

Ephesians 5:1-2

Colossians 3:13

Hebrews 10:23,24

 

 

Please let us know yourfamily’s response to this Scripture study activity. Your application ideas andresults may be just the spark needed to encourage other devoted families.

 

    Are you reading this on a hot, humid, AC required summer day? Did your few steps to the mailbox prompt a cold shower (your third one today)? Due to an unusual heat wave where I live in ("cooler by the lake") Manitowoc, Wisconsin, I can relate. Other than a sweaty pore cleanse, what benefit may be gleaned via not-so-nice weather? I think I found two answers.  

    Weather reminds me I am not in control. The disciples learned this on their fishing boat. As can happen on even a small body of water, a fierce storm arose, threatening loss of fish and life. The results of Jesus' words, "Peace! Be still!" calmed the sea, but not the disciples. They realized such weather-changing power could not come from a mere man.

   Years later, Matthew penned, "(The Father) causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous" ( Matthew 5:45 NIV). God controls the weather. 

  "Praise the LORD from the earth, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths, lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds that do his bidding."  (Psalm 148:7-8 NIV) 

   Cloud seeding, the human effort to produce precipitation, has had limited, controversial results. Factory produced air pollution is effected by weather, but not the other way around. The Creator of our planet masterfully designed a life-sustaining balance of a photosynthetic atmosphere, water cycles (evaporation-condensation-precipitation) and weather patterns. 

    But why God does allow harm to come to people through tornados, floods, tsunamis, earthquakes, and similar horrific "natural" events? What possible good purposes come out of such tragedies? 

    The Biblical account of Job is an example of God using weather to kill livestock, servants and children. Though impossible for us to understand using logic, we are awed by Job's faithful trust in, "The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away' blessed be the name of the Lord "(Job 1:21 KJV).

   God directed a storm that caused Noah to be thrown of the boat, and miraculously rerouted for an evangelism visit to Nineveh. This instance shows how God used weather (and some fishy intervention) to turn stubbornness into repentance. 

   There are examples throughout history of people turning to God (and each other) when they realize the power and possibility of approaching brutal weather. 

     Have you watched the news reports after a weather tragedy to see people (especially those in Christian groups, such as Samaritans Purse) assisting those in distress? A heat wave reminds neighbors to check on those who may need water or a fan. A snowstorm encourages shoveling and bringing food to the elderly and disabled.

    If weather was always Eden-like perfect, would we tend to ignore God and the others Jesus told us to love?  If you know someone who resides in such a climate, ask them. 

When Ben Brooks’s 40th birthday arrived, his wife surprised him with aparty, playfully decorating with an “over the hill” theme. He already had plansin place for retirement. This milestone birthday, however, motivated him to setup a will. To ensure their future inheritance properly, he wanted to givehis loved ones a gift now. 

Due to her intense arthritic pain and extended illness, Ben’s mother’stransition to heaven was a relief for her loved ones. Ben had prayed ferventlyfor her peaceful death. His gratitude tempered his grief. He mourned thehealthy Elaine, but that condition was decades ago.  

Months later, the reaction to his mother’s death changed abruptly in ways hedid not predict.

Being the closest and oldest sibling, Ben took on the task of clearing anddistributing his mother’s possessions. Ben easily decided to donate the barelyused clothing and accessories to a trusted charity. 

Ben found unexpected possessions in many overstuffed boxes. There wereshelves and closets full of valuable antiques and rare heirlooms, as well asbroken, worthless items not even second-hand stores would accept.  

There were totes of carefully wrapped Depression glass dinnerware sets, fullcabinets of blue enamelware bowls, pans and dozens of coffeepots on display.Two sturdy drawers held a dozen glass and ceramic rolling pins, along withhundreds of vintage swizzle drink sticks wrapped in yellowed papertowels. Crocks of all sizes sat on the slightly damp, carpeted floor, nextto the vintage school desk and wicker baby buggy. Elaine had bought, saved, andstored collections of vintage bottles, jewelry, purses, beer memorabilia andold linens. Some had handwritten notes attached—“To my daughter with love,Mom”, “For my grandson, love and prayers” etc. 

All resulted from a lifetime finding treasures at flea markets and rummagesales. Ben remembered being slightly embarrassed as mom finagled for lowerprices. This was her hobby, enjoying the hunt and trophies of gooddeals.  

As Ben opened each box, confusion and frustration grew. Despite knowinghis questions would be unheard, Ben spoke aloud, lifting his head.

“Mom! Did you think all this would be a gift to your family? How couldyou collect so much? Did you realize what a big job this would be to go throughall your stuff? I keep finding more! Why didn’t you sell some or give it awaywhile you were alive? Were you embarrassed to admit to us you had collected somuch, mom? What was the motivation behind what appeared to be greed?”

Then he remembered her childhood stories of life during the depression,three families living in one little house. Only one adult had ajob.                                                                                                       

“Was the lack of possessions in her past one reason she collected so many?“Ben’s face and attitude softened. 

“I’d like to get rid of all this quickly. Perhaps just give it away, but towhom? Or should I only sell the valuable things? Yet how do I learn whatthings are worth? Should I hire an auctioneer? Are they all trustworthy? Idon’t even know how many items we have,” Ben thought. “I’m sure Mom believedher family would happily receive some of her possessions and become richselling the rest. But it’s not working out that way. Her grandchildren areminimalists and the value of antiques has gone way down. We aren’t honoring herwishes, but is there another choice?“ 

Fortunately, there was no urgency to the sorting, cleaning and gettingthings out of the house. As he realized this, Ben asked other family membersfor help. He learned to take breaks by not allowing or false guilt dictate hisefforts and schedule. 

Having come to terms with his mother’s addiction to possessions, Ben wrote apoem.

Greed steals time from genuine treasure,

Time with loved ones, worship, and grace.

It becomes an anxious passion

Pushing us on an endless race.

The deceiver thrills to see people,

Attracted to greed’s web and caught.

Ignoring pain that coveting causes,

Forgetting lessons contentment has taught.

His prayers, writings and reliance on God’s Word, blessed Ben to conclude:“Thanks to Jesus, mom is in heaven now, where possessions have no value.Eternal love and grace have no need for other treasure.” 

 

                                                                

 

My faith prompts me to be honest, evenwhen it means personal embarrassment. When it comes to tapping a keyboard, or puttingpen to paper, I repeatedly experience a specific discomfort. Only my closestfriends know I suffer with this health problem.

Two years ago my self-consciousnesswas relieved while networking at the Write to Publish conference in Wheaton, IL.All of the authors I confessed to, bravely shared they too experience creativityconstipation syndrome.

Also known as writer’s irregularity,constipation syndrome affects a broad range of writers, from first timebloggers to famous authors. Unfortunately, there are few predictors of when andwhere the blockage will begin.

Mental health counselors whospecialize in “Restoring Brain Connections due to Obstructive Word Flow”recommend the following to reverse this thought-numbing condition.

1.    ++ Maintain a healthy diet of reading a varietyof genres. Bravely try authors that you think might leave a bad taste in yourmouth, but are good for you to experience.

 

2.    ++Activate your giggle center through comedy,people-watching, a bit of wine with jokester friends, or whatever sparks themost laughter.

 

3.    ++Try the Japanese custom of Forest Bathing. Toaccomplish this relaxation technique, you will need to find a nudist camp thathas a thick woods without ticks or mosquitoes.

 

4.    ++Gather all the rejection notifications youhave received. Slowly tear each into tiny strips over a blazing bonfire. Pleasehave your garden hose and a large fire extinguisher nearby. When done, doseyourself with one or the other. (This last step alone has been known to unblockcreativity constipation.)

 

5.    ++Attend a support group to share your problemwith strangers. (“Hello, my name is Sue Fink. And I have writer’sirregularity.”)

            If you are brave enough to admit you’ve experienced these humiliating blockages,                                            let me know what worked to get you going again.

 

My life is continual learning, but no applying.

Organizing and starting, but no impetus toward a finishline.

Forcing myself to do, to move. I know all the healthyreasons. Yet where is motivation?

Calling, texting, inviting friends. Yet, I can’t shake thecontinual dread of loneliness.

God is love, in control. Keeps me safe spiritually andeternally I know. Why can’t I rest and find joy in this truth?

I keep looking around corners to find good news. When willsome come?

How long until a good talk with my son, a game with my granddaughter?Where is fun?

DO I need to take risks and seek adventures I feel too oldor ill equipped to take?

And what of friends who half-listen, then repeat stories ofhow their problems were solved?

“You should do the same, Sue. You’re to blame for thesituation.”

Why am I the only one suggesting coffee dates and gamenights?  SO many texts not responded to.What does that mean?

All people have a myriad of relationship hurts, health problems,losses or all three.

That’s why we trust God so much more.

I don’t always hear the comfort, I can’t always listen orlet it in.

Is it stress plus grief. I thought I’d handle both soeasily.

Am I the victim or the perp? Maybe each at differenttimes. 

How do I know when and how to rightly react?

Thank you God for listening to my rant.

Projects and accomplishments are meaningless when comparedto eternity.

Entertainment passes the time, distracts. A movie can tellthe truth and change a mindset.

DO not react, engage,  or personalize, the counselor advises.

How can I not, whenthis is what a woman does?

 

 

PRAYER FOR AMERICA                           

Dearheavenly Father,                               

                 

Thank youfor loving to hear our prayers.  Remindus to talk to you often, especially when we don’t feel like praying. That’s theway it seems now, Lord.  The daily newsreports not only evil actions, but people calling evil “good.”  We realize our sinful attitudes—hating aperson, for example—is as condemnable as murder. Thank you for forgiving mebecause of your perfect Son’s perfect life, sacrificial death and victoriousresurrection.

Americaneeds miracles, Lord.  Only the HolySpirit can pry open the stone hearts of citizens and leaders that have rejectedyour truths.  Remind everyone in ourcountry that the Ten Commandments were given for a protective purpose. Eachperson, born sinful, needs guidance and wisdom to know what is best for theirbody, mind and soul, as well as for living together in a family andsociety.  Our Creator knows our needsbest. Where else can we turn to know how to live? Turn more people to hear andlearn your word. That is the only policy change that will succeed.

Make usthankful for all your provisions: sunrise and sunset, seedtime and harvest,food, clothes, homes, jobs, and all good relationships. When life is disruptedby bad news, destructive weather, sickness, crime and hate, draw broken heartscloser to you.

Give us patience and an attitude ofservice. Help me to wait and look for opportunities to speak up, vote, andotherwise politely but assertively share your truths.

“God blessAmerica” is an off-used quote to finish political speeches. With this prayer weask that Jesus Christ, the only Savior, blesses America in mighty and obviousways.  In his powerful name we pray.  AMEN

            

HeavenlyFather,
For this school year begins we askfor:

                                                                                                   

SAFETY     Keepchildren, teachers and all involved in our schools safe.   Protect them from allharm.                                       
SHOWINGLOVE   Teach children to be kind,  thankful and patient with  others.                                        

SCHOLARSHIP  Grant students a willingness to learn inhumility and joy. Help them to discover and refine their skills and God-given talent.
STRENGTH  Give each student and teacher emotionalstrength in daily decisions and circumstances. Remind them of your forgiveness,so they can forgive others and improve relationships.  
                                                                    
SECURITY Remind your children of all ages of your loving, perfect presence. We are never alone. 

Thankyou for hearing our heart’s desires, and answering our
prayer according to yourperfect will.
 In Jesus name, AMEN

  

 

“Dowhatever will help you serve the Lord, with as few distractions as possible.”

(1Corinthians 7:35, NLT)

 

Who knew Buckthorn wouldbecome such a threat?

Brought across the Atlantic Oceanby early settlers to the American colonies, it started as a good thing—a hardy anduseful hedge. However, left unchecked, it rapidly reproduced, invaded, and threatenedboth woodlands and forests. It wound around native trees, reaching a height oftwenty feet.

This thick, vine-like, and woodymenace thrives in dim shade and quickly prevents native tree seedlings fromsprouting. Given enough time and unless dealt with, Buckthorn could eliminate ourforests and woodlands.

I became aware of the threatwhen I was told that volunteers swarm Green Lake Conference Center’s thousandacres each springtime in a never-ending battle against Buckthorn. Dedicated anddetermined, they pull up young plants, roots and all. They cut off older plantsat ground level and immediately paint the stubs with herbicide to kill theirroot systems.

Something once meant for good,Buckthorn has become a significant problem.

Since things in nature oftenreflect situations in life, I began to wonder about my writing. What that once seemedgood might now be crowding in, strangling my efforts, and shutting out God’slight. Left unchecked, would they prevent my writing and marketing frombecoming all God intended them to be?Things like too much TV?Otherdistractions? Plain old procrastination? How about self-doubt or less time in God’sWord and prayer? Maybe not taking seriously that though hard work, writing is worththe effort for the sake of God and his Kingdom?

I began to see that I neededto search for, root out, and cut off all these and more in order to grow inskill, finish my writing projects, and get their God-given messages to readerswho need them. Left unchecked, my personal buckthorn-like problems couldstrangle the assignments God had given me and prevent me from reaching thewriting destiny he planned for me.

The same could be true foryou.

Every day, we’re engaged in anever-ending battle. We have an enemy who hates God. That enemy is determinedto prevent our writing from changing the lives of those who need the words God hasput on our hearts to share.

PRAYER: DearestLord God, we want to be dedicated and determined. We want to root out and cutoff all that keeps us from becoming the writers you want us to be. For your sakeand your kingdom’s sake, Help us with steadfast hearts to remain focused on reachingthe writer’s destiny you’ve planned for each of us. Amen

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Guest blogger Beth Ann Ziarnik is the author of Her Deadly Reunion, Her Deadly Inheritance, (A Selah Award WInner)  and Diet No More. More information can be found at www.bethziarnik.com  

 If you would like to know when the book is published, contact me via graceitforward@outlook.com or put your information in the comments below.  THANK YOU!