For Reals Monday

-For Reals Monday

  I awoke to such a glorious, most beautiful day that our God created just for us!  How amazing is this day going to be?!

I hop right out of bed, gracefully glide across the bedroom floor into my perfectly clean bathroom and gaze into the sparkling mirror as it greets me with a gracious good morning.   I dress in my pre-selected crisp clean outfit that is hanging so wonderfully on a hook just waiting to look even more amazing with me being in them! I style my gray free hair most amazingly and apply minimal make-up, well, because my skin is practically flawless.  I hear the sounds of birds chirping and singing as I stroll through my dust-free and clean home toward the smell of my awaiting coffee in the kitchen that has absolutely not one dirty dish in the sink!  What a glorious day to tackle and check of all the things I have listed on my to do list for this amazing, most marvelous Monday!

HA!

Who am I kidding!  This is so NOT me!

I pray that you have not stopped reading or not thought, "Who in the world does this bozo lady think she is?" Or maybe it's alright if you think that, because, seriously, as I was typing this I was thinking that exact thought!  "Who does this? Who has it all together like this?"

Well, I know that I don't.  So,

Let me be for reals...

I. Am. Struggling.

Struggling to get into the flow of this marvelous Monday morning.

My keeping it real is the struggle I have with my mind.  What I try to control.  What I think things-for instance, my Monday-are supposed to look like.  Let me elaborate and be more real with you, if I may...

First of all, I wasn't supposed to sleep as long as I did and wake up putting myself behind schedule on my mindful agenda.  That right there just throws everything off track.  Major, major adjusting having to be made!!

Second, Third, Fourth, Fifth...

I'm sure you all can identify will me with numbered lists plus I will spare you from my quite lengthy, all exciting Monday to do list (just a little peek...Costco is on the list...just saying...that's always a big deal in this family, well, for me!) Anyway, things weren't (aren't) happening as I listed as they should or even close to what was listed in the first paragraph of the amazing super wonder woman!

It is now noon.  I have yet to make my bed (which I haven't done in two days!) I am still in my pj's, which technically are not officially pajamas because I sleep in leggings, tank top and an oversized sweatshirt, so technically I am dressed.  I have not brought a brush to my hair.  I have left it wonderfully kept as I awoke.  No need to mess with the messy bun look.  It takes a lot of work to get that look, right? I can actually put on some athletic shoes and look as if I put some effort into my look! Maybe, maybe not!! Here's to hoping.

I'm realizing as I'm sipping on my sweet tea (already gulped down my morning coffee...I don't miss that for sure!) that my teeth are feeling kinda gross.  Yep.  I didn't brush.  Now that is gross so I'm going to pause and go brush them now!  Be back....

Okay, I'm back!  Much better! 

Let me be real with you.  Nothing about today or God has changed.  God did make this glorious, amazing day.  A day to rejoice in.  A day to celebrate being in it despite how things are panning out.  I make lists.  A lot of times mental lists and things just don't go accordingly.  But according to who?  Perhaps we are missing something.  I decided to go back and review my list.  I kept going over and over it.  Feeling flustered and frustrated seeing all the things that needed to get done that wasn't getting done. Number 1, 2, 3, 4.....and on and on and on.  But then as I sat just kind of numb in my overwhelmingness I heard God ask me, "Where am I on that list?"  Confused, I frowned down on my list again.  That question echoing in my head and in my heart.  "Where am I on that list?"  My frown turned to that of question as I said out loud, "But Lord, that's a given.  You are always Number 1.  You are God.  I love you!"  Quietly I hear, "But am I truly Number 1?  You have listed so many things on your list and have put so much time and effort into them.  After waking at a time that I extended your rest you immediately went straight to that list, not Me. Where was I? I was there, Christy,  I am here.  You scurry, fret, worry, become frustrated and all the while I wait here...for you...to come...to Me...FIRST."

Wow!  Oh, Lord, thank You! 

Thank You for showing me that these things will keep.  They will be there to do no matter what schedule I keep.  I allowed these lists that I have made up, agendas, to-do's to squeeze out my time with my God.  As you couldn't tell, I'm a hot mess and even more so without God.  There are times that we may see things as disruptive, behind schedule, a hiccup in the road but those times are when God is trying to grab our attention.  He wants to help us and equip us to live a life that is glorifying to Him as well as joyful, peaceful, enduring, hopeful, loving for us despite _____________(you fill in the blank with whatever squeezes God time out.) 

We all live in a busy, fast paced world that keeps us on the go.  There are times it is alright to have a For Reals Monday like I am having today and learning to enjoy and love every bit of it. Dishes are always going to need to be washed as well as laundry.  Beds are ok to be unmade for a day or two or three or more.  A little bit of toothpaste on the bathroom mirror hasn't really hurt anyone whoever looked into  it. Dusting sometimes needs to wait because let's face it, who has time to move all the stuff for a good dusting, so a quick Swiffer duster sweep over will do the job. 

Now don't get me wrong, I like a good clean home, but I'm just saying when God tugs at your heart to be still and sit a bit with Him and there's chores or items on your to do list, then those things CAN wait.  Time with our King is precious.  He wants to spend time with His Beloved child.  To love.  To embrace.  To comfort.  To heal.  To restore.  To strengthen.  To communicate with.  Take that time.  Breathe Him in.  You won't be disappointed and then everything else will eventually get taken care of.  People won't remember little details about your home if you had or hadn't had dishes in your sink, folded or unfolded laundry on your couch, scattered items in places other than their intended home.  What they will remember is if you are a person of stress, frustration, irritation, crankiness and all that goes with trying to keep agendas, perfect schedules, and to do lists like no other!  Or they will remember a person full of grace, warmth, peace, hope, patience, faithfulness, and humility despite the happenings around and the things to do.  When we set our minds to serve our God, we live to please only Him and in turn are filled with unspeakable Joy. "Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men." Colossians 3:23  That includes me.  I need to not focus so much on me but on God.  Whatever I do, do it for the Lord!

Jesus tells us in John 15:5, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, then you will produce much fruit.  Without Me, you can't do anything."  That is so true!  I was a scattered, rambling, hot mess this morning when I woke. I'm still a hot mess but a beautifully calm, rested and at peace hot mess who has had TIME with her Papa God! I am feeling lovely.  Lovely defined is eliciting love by moral or ideal worth; delightful for beauty, harmony or grace.  My worth is in my God.  The One Who created me wonderfully in His Image.  I am beautiful because He said I am. He extends His grace upon me. I rest in my Papa God!  Let me show you how lovely I am feeling!

Were you expecting a makeover? Haha! Nope.  Not here.  Not today.  Maybe tomorrow.  Maybe not.  I didn't want you all to think that "poof" everything on the outside changes after time with God.  It starts in the heart.  Then works its way outward.  It's our behavior, our attitude, our reaction.  How we handle things that come our way.  Don't worry.  I'm not always looking this way, but mostly I am.  

Just wanted to end with letting you know that our God is a good, good Father.  He loves us.  He cares for us and wants to spend time with us.  Each and every day.  Whatever that may look like for you do it.  It will be different for everyone.  I know Pinterest makes it challenging for me because I'm a visual learner and so I see all these fantastic photos of what it looks like for devotion time with God, prayer time with God, just plain ol' time with God...big comfy chairs with a hot beverage steaming next to a beautifully worn Bible sitting atop a rustic table with succulents in the background and ....or a huge blanket on a crisp sandy beach watch the waves roll in and hearing them roar as they crash and sitting there embracing the Bible and....or whatever else...fields of wildflowers...meadows...mountains...on and on and on...those are all great and yes, they are all times one can spend with God but I for one cannot do that every. single. day! 

What does time with God every day for me look like?  Well, if you don't mind me sharing a few things just to help get past the Pinterest hold, then let me be For Reals.  Time with God for Christy looks different every single day. As you have seen, there are days that I get so overwhelmed or preoccupied that I need reminding to go to Him.  I have what I call a Jesus Journal that I created that is filled with scriptures, words that God has impressed upon me, prayers, and little sayings that inspire me.  All of which is God's doing.  I try to read this every day.  

I also jot down scriptures on index cards that I've hole punched and put a clasp ring on so that I can grab those for a quick reference or to carry with me to read in challenging or stressful times. Let me tell you something, those who live locally may or may not have seen me flipping through these at Costco while shopping thinking I was seriously reviewing my shopping list!  Costco stresses me out people! These cards are a perfect carry and time with God and not look absolutely insane!  And honestly, we are being for reals, I do a lot... A LOT of talking with God in the potty room.  I'm just saying.  There is something Holy about the porcelain throne!  I have had some really amazing times with God in the PT (Porcelain Throne Room as I call it.)  Let me just clarify, you do not need to tinkle to use the PT Room.  There is a flat part of the seat that one can sit upon.  Pssst....please do not give out my secret to family members!! These are just a few things that work for me.  Find what works for you and enjoy time with our God. Rest in Him.

Take Care and Be Blessed

Christy Krezman

Rosette Ministry   

Pom Pom Living

Pom Pom Living

 

 

 

 

 

Pom poms have been around for a very, very long time.  I remember in my younger years having them and tying them onto my sneakers looking ever so cool (at least I thought so)!  They were even used as cute little fun furry friends with googly eyes, itsy bitsy antennas, and tiny little feet that you could peel off the protective cover from the bottom and adhere it to a place where your new friend could sit permanently! Pom poms have now come back in such cute and adorable decorative ways that people are using them to decorate with them in everyday living.  They are not just for parties anymore!!  Everyday is cause for happy celebration by having pom poms hanging around your house! Don't believe me?...just go onto Pinterest and search the keyword "pom pom" and you'll get  numerous ideas including how to's on these lovely little fun lovelies that you feel like you are about to explode with happiness! 

 

Well, I was actually scrolling on Pinterest one day when a particular photo of pom poms came across my feed and caught my eye.  I had seen several photos before of pom poms and I continued scrolling past them but for some reason this particular photo captivated me.  I couldn't tell you exactly what it was but I can tell you that it brought a fond childhood memory to the surface of my heart and mind.  So with that I thought I'd extend that wonderful feeling by making some of my own pom poms.  If one is good, then I'll make a TON!! 

 

I began making the pom poms and of course I got what I expected. I was giddy.  I was reminiscing. I felt good.   I also got so much more.  For those of you who don't know me well, I am very much a crafter and I find that I have my most deep "a-ha" moments with God when I am doing crafts.  He reveals wonderful messages and amazing analogies to me with whatever I may be working on at that particular moment.  He weaves Himself into it. It's not just a craft, hobby or fun thing to do.  He makes it a story.  His story interwoven into mine.  He ministers to me with what I am struggling with or perhaps I may be try to  ignore or suppress, just things I'd rather not deal with.  He enlightens me.  He encourages me. He works on me.  He challenges me. 

 

I'd like to share with you the wonderful work He did in me as I worked on these pom poms last week:

 

Life gets us going at a pace that usually have us going, going, going...go...ing, g.o.i.n.g.!!  We all go at variable speeds but FASTER is better and the MORE - we have, we do, we accomplish, we achieve - the better!  This can bring a sense of tasks being accomplished, goals being made, boxes on our bucket-list, to do list, or even our wish list being checked off.  Hopefully, we can do our 'going' with as little distractions as possible.  We make it a point to avoid these distractions.  We speed up to go around slower vehicles.  We take longer strides in our steps to quickly get around those who are walking too slow.  We drive thru to get meals or our daily cups of coffee with little to no contact or conversation. We will try to do whatever we can to avoid anything or anyone who just might interfere with our daily living.

 

These distractions that we see appear to be obstacles to slow us in our tracks.   But instead of distractions perhaps we view them as opportunities placed before us to catch our attention and then be able to respond as Christ would have us to.  These so-called distractions that come our way could be people like you and me.  People who need our attention - eye contact, a smile, a kind gesture, an encouraging word. People who are hurting.  People who may not have anyone.  People that need to see something different in people than what they've been seeing.

 

 I found that as I would tend to live life in this manner life itself most of the time didn't seem to factor in these moments as I was hustling to make it here to get to there and finish this in order to do that!  I found that as I was living this way I became wound tightly and became constricted within myself in my own little world.  I was not leaving any room or time for anything or anyone else other than what I slotted for that particular day and boy, oh, boy if something else -good or bad- tried to squeeze itself in!! Living this way I found that I was exhausted and tired. 

 

I, myself, felt unseen, unheard and insignificant.  It was at moments like this that I would cry out to my amazing Savior.  The One Who is the Perfect Example of Servanthood.  The One Who extends Grace abundantly, allowing me to do-overs time and time again!  The One Who loves me and cares for me that He is there to grow me, to teach me, to lead me, to guide me...loving me all along the way. 

 

This is where the pom pom analogy came in.  The image of the pom pom being formed is simply yarn that has been wound time and time again...over and over...wound over and over and over again until something causes it to come to an end.  It is then constricted, squeezed tightly and tied in a knot to hold all the wound loops together which are now crisscrossing over each other.  Left alone they don't look all that attractive.  Just a bunch of wound up, tied together, loopy yarn. 

 

 

 

 

 

Insert Christ.  He comes to grow, teach, lead and guide, but this requires a little bit of shaping to be done.  So, a snip here.  A snip there.  Snip, snip, snip.  All loops appear to be freed and are no longer wound.  Oh, wait...there's a few more hidden way down in there...gotta dig a little deeper and snip, snip, SNIP.  Now it's done.  Ooop. That hurt a little.  The shaping is just now happening.  A slight trim here.  Trim here.  Oh, now we've got to trim up this side.  This one requires more than a trim, it requires a cut-a-way.  Oooooh.  This is hard when it's in our life being done!  But let me tell you as I held those scissors in my hand and slowly yet intentionally making the snips, trims and cuts and watching the uneven, floppy ball of yarn being transformed into an balanced, contained, beautiful piece of loveliness that was being created from this tangled up mess  my heart was so swollen with overflowing Joy.  Christ revealed to me that I must trust in Him and the work that He is doing ON me, IN me & THROUGH me because it is always a beautiful work in progress with beautiful rewards and blessings. 

 

John 15:2 amp tells us of the necessity of trimming, "Any branch in Me that does not bear fruit [that stops bearing] He cuts away (trims off, takes away); and He cleanses and repeatedly prunes every branch that continues to bear fruit, to make it bear more and richer and more excellent fruit."   

 

 I have a choice whether or not I am going to be a willing vessel.  Am I willing to allow Jesus Christ to be Lord of my life?  Am I willing to be vulnerable and open to others in sharing my life?  Am I willing to be the Light in this crazy busy world...to be intentional in being His Hands & Feet right where I am or where He may send me?  Am I willing to be attentive to others? 

 

Am I willing? 

 

 

Jesus called out to a group of men who ultimately became His disciples in Matthew 4:19 amp presenting them with an opportunity for them to make a life choice.  It says, "And He said to them, Come after Me [as disciples--letting Me be your Guide], follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men!"

 

This verse is a call for you and me, also. 

 

Am I willing to follow after Him to be fishers of men?

 

I know my answer--I AM!

 

Are you willing? 

 

 

Let me just end with just how much fun and happiness these little pom poms that I made brought me.  It's true of most anybody, I believe...String some pom poms together and hang them up on your wall and just see if  it  makes things brighter.  A bit more festive for sure.  It may even bring a smile to your face.  Their just fun.  Simple. Tiny. Did I say FUN?!  Much like what we can do in our everyday living.  We can do simple, tiny random acts of kindness to make a heart impact on someones life. Who knows there may be smiles and FUN involved!!

 

Let your light shine bright in each day that is gifted to you.  May what you do and say bring the kind of happy to someone that only Jesus Christ can do...even if it's in a simple little pom pom!!

 

 



 

Take care & be blessed,

 

Christy Krezman

Rosette Ministry

God Moments

Ever wake up with a plan filled day so precise that there is absolutely no margin for error in order to fulfill all those plans...

...or perhaps your planned day consists of having no plans at all and you'd like to keep it that way at all costs?

Well, I woke early yesterday morning with some plans...nothing that would crunch my day but I did begin to in my mind plan out how I could cut out some "me" time...honestly, I was wondering how I could squeeze in a cozy nap in my very inviting unmade bed!  I was seriously thinking for several minutes over my fresh brewed morning coffee how I could execute that...then...my phone rings...at 6:30 in the morning!

The phone ringing really early in the morning knowing that it isn't from my husband or children usually isn't someone calling for a casual conversation.  So of course when I answered it I had concern.  I heard on the other end of the phone the voice of a friend in much pain and in much desperation of help.  Instantly those thoughts of napping and all other plans were of no concern.  My friend needed me. 

My friend was experiencing excruciating pelvic and side/back pain that had her doubled over and took her breath away.  She had an appointment with her doctor in which I took her to.  Her doctor examined her and ordered tests to be done.  I felt so helpless as I watched her struggle in her pain to get from point A to point B to try to resolve her pain and figure out the cause.  As we sat waiting for laboratory tests to be performed she hunched over as she approached me by the doorway and exclaims that she cannot take the pain any longer!  Looking as she was about to pass out...I again, feeling helpless as ever look around and find a wheelchair just feet away.  Grabbing that I get her into it and then I look up and there in bright red lit lettering is the most beautiful word "EMERGENCY" The doorway was open.  The hallway was lit brilliantly and arrows leading the way!  We arrive and not a single soul was waiting and we got right in. Our steps were definitely directed!

My friend still in so much pain was beginning to shake uncontrollable and am I was ever feeling so helpless!  The doctor accesses her and gave orders to nurses.  The nurses scurry around here and there around my friend, in and out of the room.  One nurse reaches above me and began writing on the dry erase board writing info on it with my friends name along with other important information needed and then she asks my name. She then writes a title under it.  I turn around and look at it and see what title she had given me..."MOM"



"Wait!  What?  I'm only 3 years older than my friend!! Seriously!?! I know that I didn't take time to do myself up this morning but really?!  Do I look old enough to be her MOM?"  All this is exactly what I actually asked the nurse.

 Did you catch how fast I made it all about ME?

 The nurse replied to my list of questions with something that I am most thankful for.  She graciously told me that she didn't even look at my outward appearance.  She saw someone who was treating another person with such care and kindness and love like a mother would a child.  Ummm,  Yes, maam, you may place the title of "MOM" under my name for my friend!  How true is that of us to quickly turn to comparison when it comes to our self-image?  That's exactly what I did in a moment where it absolutely did not matter! I absolutely did not even think of being a friend could be the same as MOM qualities...I totally and immediately went to the whole IMAGE thing!  But what a beautiful and valuable lesson I learned in it...one that I will gladly embrace.

That got me to think what are the characteristics of a MOM?  Well, MOM's love, they care, they're there when you need them.  We can be this to our friends as well.  Mom's can also multi-task so being MOM and friend is so doable!

As I got over myself, I noticed that my friend began shaking uncontrollable more than she had before.  Nurses now nowhere to be found.  Me, feeling helpless and heart-hurting for my friend, scooted my chair to her bedside, held her hand and began praying the Name of Jesus.  I didn't know what else to pray so I just said Jesus.  Each time I whispered Jesus I witnessed something truly remarkable and amazing.  My friend's fiercely shaking body slowly stopped with each whisper of His Name.  Then finally it was completely still and my friend was peacefully asleep.

Then another nurse rushes into the room with medications to dispense and she's telling my friend to not worry that relief is on its way.  I speak telling the nurse that my friend has already found it.  IGNORED.  The nurse again speaks to my friend...who by the way is completely knocked out by the grace and peace of Jesus Christ...to not worry, that she will give her some good stuff to help her feel relaxed.  I again tell the nurse that I do believe that my friend has already received divine relaxation!  IGNORED again.  And just like that she's gone not to be seen again.

My friend was taken for various tests to find out what was the cause of this pain.  All the while she was peacefully asleep.  Hours later doctor returned.  My friend woke up and had not realized that she had undergone any tests or had been asleep for that length of time.  The doctor shared the findings  and how to manage what had caused this pain.  Praise Jesus it's not life threatening and can be managed through careful eating habits.

Later, my friend mentioned to me that she doesn't remember much but she did remember me praying "JESUS" and each time that she heard the Name of Jesus her body began experiencing relaxation.  Even though her eyes were closed there was a light that grew brighter with each mention of His Name like that of sunshine but not like where you would have to squint your eyes.  It was quite an awesome feeling!

 

WOW!  Just WOW!  How truly amazing is our God?  I always knew and know that there is Power in the Name of Jesus but to be witness to His Miracles is always a privilege and honor and testimony!

Jeremiah 10:6 TLB, "O Lord, there is no other god like You.  For You are great, and Your name is full of power."

Our help comes from Him.  He is our rest, our refuge and our rescue.

Matthew 11:28 TLB "Come to me and I will give you rest..."

Deuteronomy 33:26-27a TLB "There is none like the God of Jerusalem--He descends from the heavens in majestic splendor to help you.  The eternal God is your refuge..."

Psalm 12:5 TLB "The Lord replies, 'I will arise and defend the oppressed, the poor, the needy.  I will rescue them as they have longed for me to do."

 

Yesterday was long and exhausting but it is definitely a day that filled me with joy, strengthened my faith and allowed me to reexamine how I "plan" my days.    How often do we go through things that may seem like an ordinary or not-so ordinary thing like a trip to a doctor appointment or emergency room but miss opportunities to experience God moments?  I'm so thankful that God revealed Himself very evident to me yesterday.  When I was so focused on ME and my comfort and what would make me happy, He had other plans for me which I am very thankful for. 

 Last night I reflected on the days events and I began to realize just how much I take things for granted...

...things that are in my every day...

...things that are in my every day that I pass up because they are in my every day that I don't see them...

...things that are in my every day that I pass up because they are in my every day that I don't see them so I may miss a God moment and an opportunity for God to reveal Himself in the ordinary of my every day...

...and just like most everything else when we get in a habit or routine of doing things we get accustomed to the surroundings around us that we don't even notice what is around us.  As I was making my coffee I was pondering the thoughts that were swirling in my head and I noticed a small canvas that has been hanging on my wall for years but rarely did I give it a second glance.  This night I did.

 

Proverbs 17:17 TLB , "A true friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need."


The Living Bible translation uses the word loyal where the other translations uses the word love.  Love is a fantastic word which we can all identify with but I really like the word loyal so I looked up the meaning of LOYAL and it means unswerving in allegiance: having or showing complete and constant support for someone or something; faithful--full of faith; constant, devoted, dedicated, steadfast, true.  God is ALL this to us ALL the time plus much, much more.  He gifts this to us in others and equips us to be gifts to others. 

1 Samuel 26 TLB tells us, "The Lord gives His own reward for doing good and for being loyal..."  I believe one of those rewards is the gift of Friendship!  When we walk with the Lord we have the Ultimate Friendship...that being with Him!  What a glorious gift!

Jesus loves you, my friend.  He desires to be a part of your every day, of my every day.  May I encourage you to take time to breathe Him in and be watchful for God moments in the ordinary.

Take care & be blessed,

Christy Krezman

I Believe!

She wholehearted BELIEVED that she could and so she did.

 

 

Have you ever stopped to think what it means to believe wholeheartedly?  Of course, it may be simplistic enough literally as with our whole heart...but believing with our whole heart requires having or showing no doubt or uncertainty about doing something, completely and sincerely devoted, determined, or enthusiastic: marked by complete earnest commitment: free from all reserve or hesitation.  Whew!  Hmmm, not sure when the last time I wholeheartedly "anything!"

 

When it's put that way, it requires a bit more than  just the single action that I've been applying. 

 

What is believing that we're wholeheartedly striving to do...especially in times when it's very hard and challenging for us to do so?  Well, let's just see what Merriam-Webster Dictionary says that it is...

 

 

believe: 

to accept or regard (something) as true: 

to accept the truth of what is said by (someone): 

to have a firm religious faith:

to accept something as true, genuine, or real: 

to have a firm conviction as to the goodness, efficacy, or ability of something: 

to consider to be true or honest

 

 



This definition sounds easy enough.  Especially when applying it to others.  It's a little bit of a different story when I need to apply the belief to myself.  Whenever I feel challenged or inspired to do something wonderful or amazing...inspiring perhaps there may be times that I experience moments of being frozen.  Stuck.  Held in place with thoughts that I've entertained at a mind-party that I've hosted which included famous guests like Fear and Doubt...Hesitation, Insecurity...Negativity and Jealousy, Envy and their + ones that they always seem to bring along!!   All of these guests are peace robbers that I openly WELCOMED into my mind. 

 

I've entertained.  I've listened to.  Became overwhelmed by.  As I continue to entertain these annoying guests I begin to complicate things that in reality are simple.  I find myself setting unrealistic expectations that will most likely not be met because "really?" who's thinking clearly here?!  Not I! I begin to get irritable, short tempered, perhaps a tiny bit...OK, sometimes a lot bit angry and holding on to it as my co-host.  I'm finding that I'm discontent, becoming more unhappy with where I'm at or with what I'm doing! I realize that I am at the wrong party, but I'm the one eagerly hosting it! 

 

When I choose to avoid whatever it is God has for me to do, something within me weakens.  I'm shrinking...almost hiding from what it is that He so graciously wants to grow and bless me in.  It's a statement of refusal to move toward God by staying right where I am.  Problems are inevitable, they happen, we can't control that even when we create them ourselves.  However, living overwhelmed is absolutely optional, my friends! 

 

When I finally choose to face the uncertain, confront my fears, push aside doubt, squash negativity, something in me grows up a bit.  I not only feel strengthened...I am strengthened!  I lean forward in Christ and toward a closer walk with God.  Boldly taking each step with Him as He leads the way!  Let me tell you, when I find myself hosting these type of parties it used to take me some time to believe wholeheartedly that the Lord had something beautiful and wonderful for me...but thankfully it does not take me nearly as long as it did before. Don't get me wrong...it is most definitely still a battle with me because those old guests just keep wanting to come back (I guess because I threw some pretty awesome mind-parties!)...but let me share with you a verse that kicks them to the curb lightening fast!

 

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.] Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls.  For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good--not harsh, hard, sharp, or pressing, but comfortable, gracious, and pleasant), and My burden is light and easy to be borne."  Matthew 11:28-30 AMP

 

Awwwww....breathe...Him in...breathe...all else out!!!

 

Refreshing.  Rest.  Relief.  Refreshment.  This is a promise that God gives.  He is true.  This is what I can wholeheartedly believe in and stake my claim!  Stay the course--stay with Christ...continue the walk with Him believing what He says is truth and unshakable.

 

She knew that she was formed by God's hands, dreamed up in His heart & placed in this world for a purpose.

 

 

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

 

 

 

You were made by God & for God.  It is only in God that we discover our value, our meaning, our purpose, our identity, our significance, and our destiny. God loved you before you were even you, before you were even an idea to your parents! God is not only the starting point of life, He is the source of our life.  Isaiah 44:2a CEV reminds us, "I am your Creator.  You were in my care even before you were born." 

 

 When we belong to God, following after Him...we reflect His character: kindness, love, compassion, care, strength and confidence.  Our Creator makes all things new--and He's continually shaping us through each challenge, each journey, each trial, each season we find ourselves in.  We can do this despite what it may look like with our physical eyes.  We serve a God who is bigger than any challenge we face, bigger than any journey we travel, bigger than any trial we stand and bigger than any season we wait in.  We serve a big...biG...bIG...BIG God!! A God who "...is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us..." Ephesians 3:20

 

 

We have the choice to believe.  Wholeheartedly. 

 

I am making a choice daily.  To fall forward in Christ.  To walk with Him.  To believe. 



 

To believe wholeheartedly. 

 

Take care & Be blessed.

 

Christy Krezman

Rosette Ministry

 

 

 

 

 



God Rocks!

Last week I had to go on a short trip that would cause to me to journey on my own for a distance of 116.3 miles.  For many of you this is no big deal.  Well, for me it is sort of a big deal!  This means approximately 1 hour 57 minutes up to 2 hours 4 minutes of absolutely no conversation with any...other...person!!

I have gone on short trips before and I am fine having a quiet time, peace of mind, enjoying music and taking in God's beautiful scenery, but this go round was really tugging at me that I would HAVE to travel alone.  I didn't make a big deal about it.  I didn't try to make arrangements for anyone to accompany me.  I talked to God about it and decided to let Him handle me and whatever I was feeling about this particular journey.

Well, I have to tell you, the time came for me to leave my home and I did my usual prayers for safety and sound mind and protection.  Peace was upon me.  I did make a pit stop 22 minutes later to see my husband at work to say Hello and Goodbye.  As I was leaving his work I noticed a rock. 

"Big deal." I thought, "It's an ordinary rock."  But I couldn't take another step.  This rock had me captivated.  I'm sure people in the parking lot were wondering why I was standing what seemed like several minutes just gazing upon a rock upon a sidewalk.  I then leaned over  and picked it up...I put it back down...I picked it back up looking it over...then placing it back down.  Still my gaze has not wavered from this rock!  Finally, I grip it tightly in my palm and then the realization comes upon me.  God IS my ROCK.  He is THE rock!

Oh...my...golly!

God Rocks!

In my car, I sit quietly with the rock upon my lap.

As I continued my gaze upon this rock reflecting what it was truly representing, Psalm 18:2 CEB came to mind, "The Lord is my solid rock, my fortress, my rescuer.  My God is my rock -- I take refuge in Him! He's my shield, my salvation's strength, my place of safety." 

Having this visual reminder I had a shot of unspeakable Joy burst within me and a grin that grew upon wondering face.   I gripped that rock into my hand and it fit perfectly even finding a spot for my finger to touch where it appears that it may have been pierced.  As I held it I found myself conversing with God and thanking Him for giving me peace that exceeds all of my understanding--keeping my heart and mind safe in Him (Phil 4:7 CEB)

As a believer I know (in my mind) that God is always with me and I know (in my heart) that He dwells within me. But it is easy for me to be uncomfortable when forced to do something that I'd prefer not to do... such as driving alone...in silence...all by myself...for long periods of time...did I say all...by...myself!?!  It is in these times that I allow my uncomfortableness, fear, stubbornness, and what have you squeeze out the knowing of God's Presence.  His Presence never wavers.  He's always there.  I, however, am the one who is the wavering one who tends to allows things of my nature to squeeze and push out the Truth of Who God is into a teeny, tiny corner forgetting all of His Wonderfulness, Amazingness, Love and Mercy!  It takes moments and reminders like this rock upon a sidewalk to catch my eye to be a reminder to pivot my focus back to where it needs to be, upon God Who is Able and to squeeze and push out my weak, unreliable thoughts.

I have to tell you that this journey has got to be the most brilliant, joyful, and blessed journey I have ever taken.  I was very much attentive to God and His presence each and every mile that was passed.  Once I decided that I was not alone on this journey that I truly did have a passenger with me and that I could carry on a conversation enjoying all the things that I would in any given conversation but with an abundance of grace added, my perspective changed.

Traffic was light and I had my cruise control set for the majority of the way.  There were many places where I was able to even pull off to snap a few pictures of some lovely scenery that really spoke to my heart. 

As you can see, the day was beautiful for any journey!  As I snapped this picture of trees, I felt God gently speak to my heart from His Word Jeremiah 17:7-8, "...I will bless those who trust Me.  They will be like trees growing beside a stream; Trees with roots that reach down to the water, and with leaves that are always green.  They will bear fruit every year and are never worried by a lack of rain."  What a wonderful reminder as I gazed upon those marvelous strong trees wondering their life story.  If only we could know the ups and downs it has endured...the many seasons it has been through and tested.  But look at it today.  Solid.  Strong.  Lush and green. The times it may have been a shelter to those seeking it.   Beautiful.  It has always been on that stretch of road that I've driven on so many times before yet this day I am stopped to reflect that I, too, will be blessed by placing my trust in a Promising God.

Continuing on my journey, traffic picks up a bit and it appears to be larger type vehicles and I'm not one of them.  My heart begins to pitter-patter...boy, oh, boy, nervousness sets in quickly...but then I glance over and there on my console I see the rock and I'm reminded of God's Presence.  So as I grab it and place it beneath my thigh I say a quick prayer and tell God that He's the One doing the driving because literally I'm too nervous to be the one doing it so I'm just along for the ride!

 

 

OK, let me explain a bit to give you an idea of what I was dealing with.  There is a stretch of road that is a bit winding and a bit hilly with two sometimes three lanes each way.  At some points there is a concrete divider in the middle and then on the outer lanes it may be a ledge leading far down or a large hill top.  On these roads are vehicles that mostly go above the posted speed limit without fear of the twists or turns that loom ahead! The other vehicles sharing the roadway is large semi-trucks usually with full loads and going at a tortoise speed.  So on one lane vehicles are passing with a blur and on the other it's as if I'm the blur to them!  Picture painted?  Now you know the need for me to be reminded of God's presence and Him having to do the driving?! 

 

Well,  it just so happened that all the blurs of vehicles passed by me and now I find myself on a stretch of road that is only two lanes with the concrete divider.  Surrounding me there is...count them...TWELVE...semi-trucks!  But these semi-trucks are not traveling at a tortoise speed...they believe they could travel faster so they did!  I'm in the fast lane passing one, two, three, four, five...oh...my...goodness, God!!  Just how many are there? Twelve, remember?!  Now I notice that two semi-trucks get behind me.  Alright.  But, wait.  There's a speedy guy who thinks he must be super-fly so he jets out in front of me in his semi-truck.  Now this gal in her little vehicle is completely surrounded by these overgrown semi-trucks who are too big for their wheels!!  Oh, my goodness!  I take deep breaths breathing Jesus in and all the stress out!!

 

But here's the really awesome part...I grasp the steering wheel super tight, but not so tight that my knuckles turn white and as I do I feel the peace of God come completely over me.  I have that rock pressing under my thigh as a gentle reminder.   Fear for a split second tries to adhere upon me but it does not stick.  God whispers His loving kindness to me reminding me that it may appear hopeless and very frightening to be surrounded by large and unknowing things on a path that is very much like that of a roller coaster.  But not to loose hope because of what Psalm 32:7 ESV says, "You are a hiding place for me, You, Lord, preserve me from trouble, You surround me with songs and shouts of deliverance."  I felt God singing over me as He guided me in and through these "giants" that surrounded me for miles and miles up and down...left and right.  Not once during this winding route did I get a chance to break out from their surrounding but never did I NOT feel the Presence of God.  Zephaniah 3:17 ESV was brought to the forefront of my mind and my heart during this time, "The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you by His love; He will exult over you with loud singing."  Let me just say I was refreshed, hopeful and confident that I would get through this unpleasantness!  Just in everyday living, I need to be reminded of this, that no matter how large, how scary, how upside down a situation or circumstance may be God is literally in the driver seat I just need to grab hold of the Truth fixing my eyes upon Him and placing my weight down on it.  He will see me through.

 

The bends in the road and the steepness of the hills were beginning to level out and the semi-trucks that were in front of me the entire way have now made their way over clearing a path for me to pass the remaining semi-trucks.  All that I see is straight open road with no other vehicles on it.  I pass the rest of the trucks and as I'm passing the last one I reach for the rock and I grasp it in hand and do a victory shout thrusting my arm upward through the opened sun-roof!!  Whoo Hoo!!  Whoo Hoo!! Thank You, Jesus!  We did it!! Whoo Hoo!! 

 

OK, I kind of surprised myself, but then I didn't care because I realized that it was much more than just a car ride.  It was a lesson.  It was time to spend with God.  It was time to go deeper with Him and really be intentional with Him.  I thought about it a little more after my victory shout, but something that I thought as a nuisance or a hardship, a problem or a terrifying moment really could have been a time of protection.  Being surrounded for a reason.  A reason I cannot see or know at the time but can reflect back later to see God's Hand.  The reason I say this is because after I did my little jig in my seat and song with God, I looked back in my rear view mirror to check out what those semi-trucks where up to and what their location was.  Here's where I realized that this was SO much more!  There was not ONE semi-truck behind me! NOT ONE! I was not speeding to get as far away as possible...there was no exit for them to take.  There is no explanation other than God, plain and simple!!  I don't have an explanation for this other than God can do anything and use anything He wishes to grab the attention of one of His beloved children.  He is a relational God and desires for each and every one of us to have a personal relationship with Him whether we have known Him 100 years or even just 1 day.  He loves us that much!

 

Through our times of challenges or struggles we can remain hopeful as we place our trust in God EVEN IF we do not understand or are unable to see an end.  James 1:12 CEB reminds us, "Those who stand firm during testing are blessed.  They are tried and true.  They will receive the life God has promised to those who love Him as their reward."    Be encouraged, my friends!  Stand firm in God!  Place everything that may have you feeling surrounded into His Hands.  He will surround you with His love, grace, strength and mercy giving you joy and reason to shout in victory!

 

 

 

 

This photo is a recreation of my Whoo Hoo!! moment as it would have been unsafe for me to have snapped a photo at the given moment...but if I could have only captured what I had experienced with God on that journey in a snapshot...this would be close.  Notice the frenzy hair after that long journey but still a smile, being joy-filled and a grip on my Solid Rock!  Whoo Hoo!!  Whoo Hoo!!

 

"But let all those who take refuge and put their trust in You rejoice; let them ever sing and shout for joy, because You make a covering over them and defend them; let those also who love Your name be joyful in You and be in high spirits."  Psalm 5:11 AMP

 

This rock is only a reminder of what God is.  Because the smallness of my mind it takes visual things like this for me to be reminded of the Vastness of AWESOMENESS of God.  But I love that He loves me enough and tenderly that He cares enough to share wonderful experiences like this rock with me!  He knows me and how I love picture stories so He paints them out for me as we go!  Thank You, God!  You are good all the time! 

 

Take Care & Be Blessed,

 

Christy Krezman

Rosette Ministry

FAITH, CONNECTION, RELATIONSHIP & COMMUNITY

FAITH, CONNECTION, RELATIONSHIP & COMMUNITY

 

These four words have been popping up in my life like flashing NEON signs for the past month.  My mind has been filled with all kinds of reasons why and me being the type of person that I am naturally resorts to crafty things, of course, and God naturally being the AWESOME God that He is resorts to teaching me what I'm needing to learn in the way that I need to learn the best way that I learn.

 

It was about this time that I was preparing to go to a speaking engagement.  As I was preparing for it so many ideas flooded my mind that I just knew exactly what I wanted to share with those precious ladies.  Spiritual things...and of course, it was filled with fun interactive activities, feel good things and then obviously we'd most likely end doing crafty things as we sipped on delicious coffee!  I had it all pictured perfectly in my mind!  Don't get me wrong...God loves for us to have those types of times to share together but the more I pursued MY agenda the MORE the flashing lights of those four powerful words kept getting brighter and brighter until I couldn't see anything else except for FAITH, CONNECTION, RELATIONSHIP & COMMUNITY.

 

You'd think I would have gotten it by then being nearly blinded by the bright lights of those powerful words as often as they were appearing, but I'm a pretty determined person when I set my mind into doing something!  I WANTED to do MY agenda because I had some really good things, some pretty awesome ideas that I knew would bless those ladies.  I just knew they would LOVE them.  They definitely were Godly things.  God had given me these words at a time in my life when I needed them.  I had shared them with others before and they had encouraged and blessed others before.  AND the activities I had planned were kind of cool, too!  Then God finally said after waiting ever so patiently for me to do my 'But this, God...But that, God...' explaining (aka...whining),  "Alrighty, Christy, if you're not going to Be Still and Listen...KNOWING that I AM God and I have THE words, FRESH words...MY WORDS that need to be shared at this moment in time then I'm going to need to grab your attention."  He did just that.  Not all at once but little by little.

 

I like to call them Life Interruptions!!  God has an entirely different definition because it's in these times that in our rush of life, our tunnel-vision, our stubbornness, our zoning out...that God graces us with His Divine Interventions.  These are what I like to also call "Life Hiccups."  Things that shake us...move us from where we plant our feet or stop us quickly...things that grip us to stop us from spinning out of control.  Most of the time they don't feel good at the moment and the journey through the moment.  They can get us all worked up in a twisted mess if we're not placing our focus in the right place where it needs to be.

 

SO...

 

I finally put aside MY agenda and here's what God wanted for me to learn and share...

 

I have a visual way for us to see FAITH, CONNECTIONS, RELATIONSHIPS & COMMUNITY in action.  I mostly did this for me because God knows that I learn best visually and He is such a gracious God...He threw in a craft for me to do to so I could show you all the beautiful message attached to it.

 

 

 I have here a ball of string.  It is made up of two or more threads twisted intentionally together.  Its purpose is to interlace or embrace, to attach things, to tie things together, becoming a chord.  What does it mean to become a chord you may ask.  Well, I asked and I liked the sound of becoming a chord so I looked up the definition of chord and it is musical tones sounded simultaneously.  This means that being a chord requires us to: answer, cohere, coincide, correspond, sort, differ from, and be in accord (harmony) with one another.  Interesting!

 

We are like this ball of string.  It represents our emotions, life experiences, personalities, traits, and so on.  As you see, this ball of string as it sits is not doing any of what I just mentioned.  Its purpose, however, remains the same, but without action applied to it then it remains all balled up...tight, crisscrossing paths keeping its round, bound form.  It's not able to do what it was intended for...created for...designed for...deliberately and brilliantly made for.   Its creator when creating it did not have in mind the intention of it not serving its purpose.  Why would he create it if its not to be of use? It is of use.  It is created on purpose and for a purpose just as you and I are. This ball of string absolutely was not intended to be an accessory item to be carried around.  It is just too much to hold!

 

 

 

 

When we hold on to it we're not open to the possibilities that it can be used for. 

 

 

I have here a circle of "Friends" if you will...now, stick with me here...this is where the visual part comes in...

 

 

 

 

 

Each nail represents an individual.  As you see in the bottom circle of individuals there is absolutely no connections.  No relationships are being developed.  No community is being built. No person is making any attempt into investing into any other person.  There is complete cut off from one another. The purpose of the string of each individual is no being activated at all by anyone. 

 

The top circle shows individuals that have some interaction going on.  Perhaps their paths cross at church they smile and greet one another and go to their regular seats.  They see each other at school events, again with cordial greetings, and then perhaps again at the grocery store, gym or Starbucks and yet again the routine greeting once more.  There's connection but it's all on the surface.  No depth whatsoever.

 

This next circle of individuals shows a circle of friends growing.  Interaction has gotten more involved and active.  As you notice the circle is heavy on one side and light on the other.  Why is that?  There's a whole host of possibilities but let's just try to touch on a few.  Perhaps in the circle of friends there's some that tend to invest in only certain individuals for different reasons. Some individuals are trying to open up and share while others are holding back. Or perhaps there are individuals who are super guarded out of fear of getting hurt or shear stubbornness of not being the one to make the first step. Could there be comparisons going on?  Not feeling adequate enough? An unaddressed issued that needs resolving? Or something that I struggled with for a number of years in my early adult life..."It isn't for anybody to know what's really going on with me because I have an image to uphold and maintain!" The possibilities of  reasons could go on and on but one thing is for sure...it is definitely out of balance.

 Now, the connection of this circle of friends is only as strong and continues to grow as the individuals invests into those relationships.  These examples show us the significance of connecting.    These examples represent people just like you and me in our circles of friends.  Now our circles may look different.  There may be only 2-3 in your circle of friends while others may have far more while others may only have 1 friend in their circle.  Let me just clarify that you can have a circle with 1 friend because there's you, your friend, and Jesus so really that's 3 so that makes a circle! So now that we've got that cleared up, let's get back on track.

This last circle is one that is healthy and one that is what we strive for.  Let me tell you how we can work to get this type of community in our relationships as we place our faith in Christ connecting with others in our life journey's.

In our circle of people (friends, mentors, small group, etc.) that God has blessed us to do life with, we simply begin by sharing just a few things about ourselves that others may not know about us.  It may be as simple as our favorite color, a food fetish or something quirky that we do.  As we invest time we can safely and confidently begin to share something deeper such as a fear, struggle or stronghold.  A few words at a time need to be spoken just to get started and allow this "string" to start fulfilling its purpose of connecting and embracing those around us.  Please understand that it is absolutely not about getting together and immediately airing out our "dirty laundry" to one another and having this automatic beautiful connection because of it...ummm...NO!  It takes time.  It takes prayer.  It takes God.

As we share, something beautifully unseen is beginning to happen that eventually will be felt.  The string is starting to fulfill its intended purpose.  And the more we share of our lives and invest in others allowing the string to continue to do its job, these things are also happening...

One, connections are happening as we share about ourselves.  There is a starting point when we decide to act on pursuing connections.  We start light and small until we begin to see the strength of that connection and safety with that person is true.  That's when we begin to share more and deeper things...we let them in as we share our heart.  This is what I call a "Heart-String Sister."

Secondly, a safety net is being created.  The more and more we connect, encourage, love, walk with and by one another...side by side, God is making something beautiful and SAFE.  A place to rest.  I like to see this as sort of a hammock.  Who doesn't like a good rest under a couple of giant trees cradled safely and snugly in a perfect hammock on a glorious day?!  This is what this connection is like, a safe place to rest and relax.  Psalm 9:9 in the Message says, "God's a safe house for the battered, a sanctuary during bad times.  The moment you arrive, you relax; you're never sorry you knocked."  Let me tell you, God is absolutely our safe house and we are to run to Him, but we don't always have to run alone!

God made you and me for relationships and not just any relationship...CLOSE relationships. 
Hebrews 10:24-25 in AMP says, "And let us consider and give attentive, continuous care to watching over one another, studying how we may stir up (stimulate and incite) to love and helpful deeds and noble activities.  Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaches."  God blesses us with others in our life to have those relationships.  God uses our willingness to open up and share with others to weave those tender moments together connecting us and strengthening the relationships through Him.

When we realize that we don't have to do this life all alone and carry our ball of string around, then our connections grow.  But remember, growing takes time.  We can't take our ball of twine and fast pitch it to the first person we see just because we're so accustomed to FAST and NOW.  If we went that route then we would either have a terrible mess or a horrible injury or BOTH!!  Growing requires for us to first have a willing heart and to action, then allowing God to direct our steps as we love one another...encourage one another...and just be there for one another in all times of our seasons.  As we continue to do this that safety net becomes stronger and stronger.

Well, for most of my adult Christian life I kept all my likes, my identities (being a wife, a mom, Bible Study leader, mentor, friend, volunteer, crafter, sister, neighbor...well, you get the idea), I kept them all separate from one another.  I didn't allow God to weave any of what made me who I am to be woven together.  Instead, they each got their own pretty little bedazzled box that I kept them in.  I neatly tucked them away on a shelf (repurposed, of course) until the time called for that particular box.

That worked for me...for a while.  Until I noticed that I always felt depleted and empty no matter how much I thought I was filling up those boxes.  It was in 2010 when my heart literally felt shriveled up.  My heart was lacking.  I didn't know what it was because I was a believer and I was doing everything that I thought I needed to do.  I even invited Christ along for MY ride!  I thought I was doing a great job keeping up.  I had all my 'bedazzled' boxes organized looking oh so good on the shelf.  They were sparkling and radiating and breathtaking.  Others even admired them.  Compliments often flowed my way.  All my effort went into keeping them looking awesome on the outside.

Whenever I needed something I would go to one of those boxes replacing the one before it.  I had done this for so long that I found that when I opened the box I was finding remnants of what used to be inside.  I was giving all that I had, looking good while I did it and then I'd slam that lid quickly not allowing myself to be filled by God or others.  I didn't want others to see what was really inside.  I looked good on the outside...I put on "face" when I needed to, but I didn't let anyone, including God, to get too close.  If I did then it would require for me to be transparent and trusting.  Others would see things in me that aren't so attractive.  What would they think of me?  I've got some really cruddy things happening inside that would be exposed.  Surely, I'm the only one going through this type of situation/circumstance!  No one else has experienced what I've experienced, they have no idea how to handle me.  If they only knew what I went through, would they still want to be around me?  I had a whole list of excuses lined up as to why I didn't let anyone in.  This included God, a lot.  I was shameful, fearful and it was easier at the time to shrink into myself and put on an image I wanted others to see.  These boxes of mine were like the round, bound ball of sting that is hiding what's beneath and denying its purpose.

I was doing everything that I thought I was supposed to be doing, including my daily devotions, serving at church, volunteering, you know...all the goody good stuff that looks good even to myself!  I continued in this accelerated, unremarkable routine growing very, very tired.  I felt like I was on a giant sized hamster wheel of life.  I was running, checking items off my to-do list routinely and I got absolutely nowhere.  I was trying to do it all on MY terms.  And yes, God was one of the boxes that I would check off but not always the first or rarely was He at the top!

Serving Christ isn't all about being free from difficulty or eliminating all of our problems.  It does, however, give us hope, unspeakable joy and peace in times when typically we shouldn't be experiencing them.  Reality often seems to have more obstacles, pain, chaos, hurt and tension but there is a God that sees everything that we are going through and wants us to hold on tightly to Him through all that life throws at us.  He will take all that life throws at us and offer us His Strength to be calm, be tender, be content in Him and build opportunities.  He wants us to be made complete, made entirely, upright, solid, sound, safe and healthy.  God restores our brokenness...our incompleteness...our faults.  He heals our hurts...our wounds...our bodies.  He restores our lives.  Jeremiah 30:17 tells us this, "For I will restore health to you, and I will heal your wounds, says the Lord..."

Through time, faith, connections, and relationships, I began to grow more and more in Him .  He brought me to a place where I have a lovely group of faithful and committed women who love God and are willing to be in the midst of my mess to see me through just as much as I am with theirs.

I want to encourage each of you from what I have journeyed through.  Believe me, I am nowhere close to having it altogether or figured out, but I no longer keep everything in bedazzled boxes.  I'm allowing God to take my life string and connect it with others in my life creating beautiful relationships, connections and community.

I've come to learn to give it all to God and then be OK with who I am and WHOSE I am.  If I don't impress others or become BFF's with everyone that I meet, then that's alright.  It doesn't change anything about me.  I am who I am and that's enough because Christ dying on that Cross for you and for me made it ENOUGH!  I am a daughter of the Creator of the Universe!  He calls me His own!  He sings over me!  He desires a relationship with me and I'm worried what others in this world may think of me?! I think not!  I've come to be OK with being with just Jesus.  Sometimes I need to be with just Him, but He is so good and faithful that He blesses me so abundantly by placing beautiful people in my life to share it with me.

Luke 1:45 says, "Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her." 

Friends, Jesus keeps His Word!  God is the ultimate Promise Maker and Promise Keeper.  He will give you victories.  He will give you a future.  Move forward.  Move out into what He has for you. 

Allow Him to grow you through your Faith, Connections, Relationships and Communities. 

He is doing a Beautiful thing!

Take care and be blessed,

Christy Krezman
Rosette Ministry