I'm a Christian woman, happily married to my best friend, Neal. We have 3 grown sons, Gary, Dale, and Carl, 3 sweet daughters-in-law, Chelsea, Janelle, and Emily, and 5 grandchildren, Rich, Jude, Amara, Jed, and Atlas! Neal preaches for the Cumberland Trace church of Christ in Bowling Green, KY. We love the Lord and His church!
I don’t think loneliness is restricted to times when we’re by ourselves. Have you ever felt all alone while in a crowd full of people? Loneliness can hit us when we feel like no one understands, no one gets it. Hopefully Christians experience very few moments of loneliness, since we’re blessed with a church family that offers genuine love and support. But for those times when we shed tears alone because we feel we can’t share them with anyone, we can remember a couple of comforting Scriptures. “You number my wanderings. Put my tears into Your bottle; are they not in Your book?” (Psalm 56:8). Then there’s all of Psalm 139, which assures us that no matter where we are or what we’re doing, God knows our thoughts, and is always with us, even in our darkest moments. No teardrop slips away unnoticed by our God.
He sees my tears of regret. If I’ve sinned and the consequences are great, God sees my tears of self-loathing and remorse. If I look back over my life and see missed opportunities, or a neglected family, God sees those tears of loss and regret, too. God knows every time I think, “I wish I had…” or “If only I hadn’t…” He sees my tears of regret. And when I turn to Him in those times, I see His mercy (Ephesians 2:4,5) and His grace (Ephesians 2:8-10).
He sees my tears of frustration. When I try and try, but nothing seems to be working out right, God sees my fretful tears of dismay. When I’m feeling sorry for myself or stressed out, He sees my tears of resentment. He sees my tears of frustration, but if I’ll turn to Him in those times, I’ll see His patience (Psalm 86:15) and His steadfast goodness(James 1:17).
He sees my tears of discouragement. When I keep failing to reach my spiritual goals, God sees my tears of weakness. When a loved one disappoints me or betrays me, God sees my tears of pain and anger. And whenever I feel like giving up, God sees my bleak tears of despondency. He sees every tear of discouragement, but when I turn to Him, I see His promises (Psalm 119:147-150).
As God comforted in the days of old, so He comforts today, “I have heard your prayers. I have seen your tears” (2 Kings 20:5).
Prayer for Today: Thank you, Lord, for caring. Thank you for your patience and your love.
I asked my youngest son Carl to replace a light switch plate in his bedroom with the new one. A couple of minutes later I heard him revving the DeWalt cordless drill. I rolled my eyes and thought, “Any excuse to use a power tool…” A regular screwdriver would’ve been the best choice for such a simple task. Besides, if you don’t know how to use a power tool properly, you could do some damage. Talk about overkill!
There are many situations in which it’s possible for us to be guilty of overkill. Mainly, let’s give some thought to how we react to others. Do we feel the need to make some noise? Is that really more effective? Or are there times when a quieter approach is more appropriate? Just because we own power tools doesn’t mean every situation calls for them. Consider some examples:
With our children. When we’re admonishing, we don’t have to raise our voice to show significance. “If I yell at them, they’ll know I really mean it!” If we have to shout before they know we’re serious, it’s because we’ve conditioned them that way. There are times when shouting (the power tool) is appropriate, such as stopping a child from running out into the street, but most of the time a raised voice does more harm than good. We can discipline without yelling. We can still be strict and serious without intimidating our children or losing our temper. Patience, gentleness, and self-control demonstrate the fruit of the spirit (Galatians 5:22,23). What are we demonstrating when we’re quick to shout?
With our spouse. Shouting matches behind closed doors are often the result of misunderstandings. When we assume that our spouse knows what we want or understands the way we think, we feel hurt or angry when hopes aren’t realized or something is handled unexpectedly. Then we take it personally. Discussions escalate, and doors are slammed to punctuate. This kind of ugly damage can be avoided. It’s not fair to expect your mate to read your mind, and then let them know you’re frustrated when they don’t measure up. Talk, discuss, share. And when a disappointment still comes, talk through it again. Danger hovers close to heated arguments because we know our spouses’ vulnerabilities. We know how to hurt them. We can communicate effectively without threatening or insulting. Quietness doesn’t signify a lack of passion. It means we want to love like Christ loves (Ephesians 5:22-28).
With our brethren. Upon seeing a weakness or shortcoming in a brother, some are too eager to make some noise. Condemnations are spouted on facebook, but to what end? If the goal is to help, encourage, or restore, wouldn’t a simple, quiet one-on-one approach be more effective? Upon seeing imperfections in a preaching school or Christian college, wouldn’t a direct conversation with the administration be adequate instead of publicly writing off all such institutions? And instead of slamming the Lord’s church for all the world to see/ read/ hear, wouldn’t it be better to demonstrate a Christ-like life to show the world the beautiful nature of God’s Family? When we’re quick to condemn, we do more harm than good. Looking for ways to lovingly make a difference doesn’t mean we tolerate sin. It means we’re humbly bearing with one another in love (Ephesians 4:2).
It didn’t take long for Carl to let me know the job was done. He even revved the drill a couple more times to emphasize his manliness. I laughed at that. But it’s no laughing matter when we overreact to our families, and to God’s Family.
Prayer for Today: Thank you for your Son, who showed us how to love and live with patience and humility.
These are the two big news items this morning. Notice the approach to each of them. Paula Deen was interviewed on the Today Show. She tearfully begged anyone who has never committed a sin to cast the first stone. So far the reaction has been one of outrage that she didn’t apologize for her offensive remarks, but seemed more concerned with defending herself. What was the reaction concerning the Supreme Court ruling on same sex marriage? Words like “victory,” “boost,” and “celebration” are being used. We’ve been told this is a historic decision for America, and have already been reminded of the Gay Pride parade that will take place in San Francisco this weekend.
Is the media trying to lead viewers in moral matters? We’re being told which sins are socially acceptable and which ones aren’t. Paula Deen said some things that were wrong. She’s been fired by Food Network, but the media is still demanding an apology. People are outraged and speaking out against her for what she did. Well, she should be held accountable. The words we use matter, and we’re all going to give an account for everything we say (Matthew 12:36). But there are other sins that can be committed by mouth. Why is it okay for public figures to use curse words or take God’s name in vain? And why wasn’t the same outrage displayed when the sin of homosexuality was publicly declared and embraced?
We don’t get to choose which sins can be tolerated and which ones can’t. Even more basic, we don’t get to choose which practices are sinful. God has already done that in His Word. Our speech is to be pure (Ephesians 4:29), but our sexual activities are to be pure as well (1 Corinthians 6:9,10; Ephesians 5:3). Trouble is in store for those who accept or tolerate what God calls sin. “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil…who are wise in their own eyes and prudent in their own sight” (Isaiah 5:20-22). May the Word only guide us in determining what is right and what is wrong.
Prayer for Today: May we shine the Light ever brighter in our confused nation as we seek to glorify You.
In the past week, we’ve been very busy trying to see how many people we can let down. At least it has felt that way. We’ve disappointed some and hurt some. Oh, not in a sinful way, but in a painful way nevertheless. As we geared up for the fallout, as we braced for the blows, we received…warm hugs, whispered prayers, supportive words, healing tears. A generosity of patience and understanding. Lots of silent smiles conveying trust. Multiple conversations revealed class acts and compassionate hearts. I was humbled and so grateful. I was surprised, but I shouldn’t have been. This wasn’t the first time I’d seen mercy in action. I’ve personally hurt others in the past, and in a sinful way. When anger and rejection would’ve been justifiable, I was shown compassion and forgiveness.
I’m grateful for two things. First, it’s wonderful to see Christians demonstrating God’s grace and mercy. We saw firsthand a glimpse of the Father’s heart. It’s been beautiful and faith-building, and I’m reminded once more of the blessedness of being in God’s Family. Second, I’m grateful for the ways this has caused me to look closely at my own heart. I’ve been forced to acknowledge that there’ve been times when I’ve been stingy with mercy. There’ve been times when I’ve been too full of myself to be patient or compassionate. There’ve been times when I did extend forgiveness, but a little too begrudgingly and condescendingly. I’m challenged to be more merciful. I want to give to others what has been so generously given to us.
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7).
Prayer for Today: Oh God, help me show Your love and mercy to my family, my fellow Christians, and my sphere of influence.
This past Sunday morning, Neal shared with Bear Valley our decision to work with the Foote St. congregation in Corinth, MS. Before the day was over, we were emailed, texted, called and even scooped. Before our beloved Bear Valley family could absorb the announcement, before we had time to convince them how very much we love them and will miss them, the news was out. Thanks to facebook, twitter, and every other information-age-device, the news traveled cyber fast. My mind was blown.
But of course this wasn’t the first time I’d seen that kind of power in action. Thanks to the news channels and facebook, we’ve all been able to keep up with the recent tornado destruction in Moore, OK. What happened? How can we help? These questions and more were quickly answered. Videos were shared of survivors and their stories. (See the one about the lady’s dog that was found during her interview?) On another personal level, we saw the effectiveness of social media when our son, Gary, got sick at Freed. Since he was a gazillion miles away from us, we were grateful for the many friends who contacted us and offered to help, before Neal even arrived at the airport. Good news and bad news travel faster than ever before. What a powerful tool we have at our fingertips!
I’m in awe anew at the zeal of the first century Christians. The command was given. “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). What happened? “Then the word of God spread, and the number of disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem” (Acts 6:7). But it didn’t stop there. Paul wrote the church at Colossi, who also heard the good news, and said the gospel was “preached to every creature under heaven” (Col. 1:23). How did they do that without TV or the internet? Perhaps the answer is found in every phrase of Acts 5:42.
The Good News was their daily focus. “And daily…” Evangelism wasn’t reserved for Sundays, gospel meetings, and door knockings. It was on their mind every day. Is it on my mind every day? Is it always included in a specific way on my daily to-do list? This is a Thursday, a typical weekday for most of us. What can I do today to share the news?
The Good News went everywhere with them. “In the temple, and in every house…” Whether public settings or private settings, those Christians shared the gospel. Sometimes it wasn’t comfortable or safe, but that didn’t stop them from spreading the news anyway. Where will I go today? To the grocery store, work, post office, or restaurant? I must take the News with me. Keep a Bible in your car and pray for opportunities!
The Good News was their top priority. “They did not cease teaching and preaching…” Even when the Word was rejected by some, and even when they were ridiculed for sharing it, they didn’t stop spreading it. They didn’t give up. The Good News was all that mattered. It’s still all that matters. Let’s keep sharing it! Instead of feeling outnumbered or overwhelmed, instead of feeling timid, instead of believing Satan’s lie that it won’t do any good, let’s never stop talking, sharing, texting, promoting, and writing about the gospel.
The Good News was all about Jesus. “They did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.” Jesus is the Way, the only Way. Many don’t know that. Many promote the complete opposite, like the COEXIST bumper stickers. Messages that contradict what God’s Word says about Jesus Christ are being taught. Let’s do all we can to spread the Truth! There are other Bible principles that need to be taught as well, but the name of Jesus should be on our lips every day.
Thank God that news travels fast these days, because we have the best news of all! “Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous works among all the peoples” (Psalm 96:3).
Prayer for Today: Help me, Lord, to take advantage of the resources we have to spread the Good News.
Dale preaching at FPTC; Photo taken by David Parker
Yesterday Neal and I celebrated our 21st wedding anniversary. How do I feel after 21 years of being married to a preacher? Very, very blessed. And here’s why, in no particular order:
1. Our coworkers- We work with the best people. They’re all Christians.
2. Uplifting events- Gospel meetings, seminars, lectureships, and ladies’ days provide lots of opportunities to get revived, refreshed, & renewed.
3. Encouragement- Through the years we’ve been given some thoughtful notes. Sure, we’ve also received some criticism, but who hasn’t?
4. Prayers on our behalf- Many Sundays involve someone praying, “Please bless our preacher and his family.”
5. Opportunities for growth- There have been more than a few moments when I’ve been nudged out of my comfort zone.
6. Hospitality- We’ve enjoyed open hearths and open hearts in all kinds of homes.
7. Great meals (because of #6)- 🙂
8. Life events- We share in the lives of others when they get married, give birth, and bury their loved ones.
9. Compassion- Some of my stumbles and goofs have been pretty public. I’m grateful for the patience and love we’ve been given.
10. My sons’ role model- Their dad is a preacher who always speaks highly of the Lord and His church.
11. Mission trips- We don’t have to take time off from work; it IS our work.
12. Fellowship- I can never get enough.
13. Kindred spirits- I love the instant bond that forms when meeting other preachers’ wives.
14. Support- The church family is so good about being there through thick and thin.
15. Elders- God bless them for their labor of love. They have the best hearts and make the best bosses.
16. Baptisms- We rarely have to miss them. Day or night, we can stop what we’re doing and head to the building.
17. Preachers- We get to be around them, and get to know them. We sure like them!
18. Bible studies- I’ll never get tired of seeing the Truth work on the hearts of genuine searchers. Joy and tears.
19. People- We’re with all kinds…working, struggling, sharing, caring, learning, growing. It’s what our job is all about.
20. Friends for eternity- There are so many that we’ve met and loved through the years, and we never have to say goodbye.
21. My husband- He studies, prays, leads, and puts God first. What’s more attractive than a man with an open Bible?
Prayer for Today: Thank you, Lord, for my preacher, for Your church, and for the blessings you shower upon all of Your children.
I’m encouraged by the righteous acts of the saints (Rev. 19:7,8). I love hearing about Christians who are striving to be Christ-like in their actions and attitude. Periodically I’ll be interviewing someone I admire for their humble service in the kingdom. My hope is that these interviews will be an opportunity to “consider one another to stir up love and good works” (Heb. 10:24).
I’m very excited about sharing this first interview! Carla Moore is beautiful and down-to-earth. She is genuine through and through, and I know you will love her insight and sense of humor as much as I do. Pour a cup of coffee, if you like, and think of this as a comfortable chat at the kitchen table. You’ll smile, you’ll be encouraged, you’ll get to know a member of your Christian family, and you might feel as if you’ve gained a new friend.
Thank you, Carla, for agreeing to this interview and for sharing your time with us. First, please tell us a little about yourself–where you’re from, where you live now, what you do, etc.
I’m a Texan, born and raised! I was born in Corsicana, not far from Dallas, and we moved to central Texas when I was 8. I’ve only lived in three different communities: Corsicana, San Marcos and now Dripping Springs (which happens to be where John was born and raised.) Pretty unusual for a preacher’s kid and preacher’s wife! We’ve been blessed to stay in one area while our boys were growing up. Although I think it would be interesting to live in another part of the country someday!
As far as what I “do” – it seems to change daily! I stayed home with the boys while they were growing and did a lot of babysitting and odd jobs (like selling on eBay) to help with expenses during that period of time. For the past 13 years, I have worked one day each week with my brother and his wife, who own a heating and air conditioning business. (No, I don’t service air conditioners, ha! I help with bookkeeping and office work.) In addition, I love working every Tuesday with my daughter-in-law and her mother at their monogramming and gift shop – what a great job, to be able to be with people you love AND fancy machines AND great fabric! I work at my friend’s fun quilt shop here in Dripping Springs when she needs me. I stay pretty busy, but thankfully my employers are flexible with my schedule!
You also blog. What’s it about?
Well, it has evolved from my original plan! John and I each lost about 75 pounds in 2011, and we had quite a few questions from people about how we managed it, and how we stayed motivated. So I started the blog, nomooreofmeplease.wordpress.com, with a post called “Hefty” describing what began my personal weight loss journey. My intent was to hold myself accountable by publicly logging my food intake daily (with the idea that public shame would keep me from eating a funnel cake…ha!) Even though we have maintained our weight loss, the daily log fell by the wayside. I’ve written other posts about weight-loss related topics but more of them have had spiritual applications. Other posts I’ve written just for fun, like the one describing our kitchen/dining floor remodel. It was a huge project (we used garden tools, boiling water, hair dryers, 3 different irons and a blowtorch to get the linoleum off the cement floor- and I’m not kidding!) and we unashamedly took advantage of having all of our kids here to help – so I put lots of pictures of that “makeover” on the blog. And Micah and I had fun one night putting together a silly Pioneer Woman style pictorial step-by-step “how to make a sandwich” post. To answer your question, the blog is about whatever I have the urge to write about – things that move me or inspire me, and that I hope will have the same effect on others.
How did you and John meet, and how long have you been married?
Our paths crossed when we were young, but we didn’t really get to know each other until he came to college at Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos (now called Texas State University.) The University congregation there has a Bible Chair program, the McCarty Student Center. At that time my father, Carl Garner, was the director, so I was blessed to take part in most McCarty activities even though I was still in high school. John and I had a lot of discussions sitting on the grass outside McCarty, and he liked my mother’s home-cooked meals….so we became friends. I also thought he was pretty cute, so I asked him to go with me to a “Sadie Hawkins” picnic in the fall of 1984. By the summer of 1985, we knew “this was it”. I graduated early from high school and enrolled at Southwest Texas, and we got married on June 14, 1986. Marrying at 18 (gasp!) may not be the best choice for every girl, but it was just right for me – I have never regretted any part of my life with John!
What do you enjoy most about being married to a minister?
I enjoy going along with John and meeting other Christians when he travels to speak. I’m able to do a little more of it now we only have Micah left at home (sniff) and he’s pretty independent (sniff sniff). I also enjoy the extra opportunities to invite people into our home. I’ve heard a few ministers’ wives complain about “living in a glass house” and their lives being wide open to criticism, but I’ve honestly never experienced that! Of course we have had situations where feelings have been hurt, just because we are human. But I could never attribute that to the fact that John is a minister.
What I love the most about being married to MY minister is that he is truly interested in the soul of every person he meets: no matter their age, their background, their history, their station in life. He completely believes in the mighty power of the word of God, and he does his best to get that word into the heart of the people with whom he comes into contact. He is the most encouraging, unselfish, kind, busy, sincere person I know. Of course he is human, but he learns from his mistakes. He’s my hero. (Thank you for letting me gush about my minister, can you tell that I love him?)
Yes, I can tell that you love him, and isn’t that how it’s supposed to be? And I love how you appreciate the blessings of being a preacher’s wife. Your boys are so handsome! What are their ages? As a mother of three sons myself, I can guess you might have some cute memories treasured in your heart. Care to share one?
Oh, my boys! My favorite subject! I could talk for hours about them!
Jordan is 23, a super-smart, sober minded, hard working, athletic, serious outdoorsman. He will graduate on May 10 with a degree in Wildlife Biology from Texas State University. He and my favorite girl Erin have been married for almost three years, and we have two grandpuppies: Harlie and Nilla.
Jacob is 21. He is outgoing, a natural leader, and a reluctant but excellent speaker! He recently became engaged to his sweetheart, Alyssa (my other favorite girl) and we are so excited to add her to our family. Jacob plays football for Harding and is working towards a business degree. He is headed into the real estate field.
Micah is 15. He is a funny, friendly, tender-hearted, easy-going kid who loves football and understands math, but is completely confused by girls!
Above ALL, we are so blessed to see our sons walking in truth, growing in faith, active in the Lord’s work and forming faithful Christian families of their own. There truly is no greater joy!
Memories…too many to choose one. I will always be glad that we had Micah when Jordan and Jacob were a little older. Jordan was 8 and Jacob was 6 – old enough to be more interested in Lego sets and action figures than a baby brother, but they were both so loving and protective of him. I think they began to understand unconditional love because of how they felt about him. Micah would occasionally get a little irritated with their authoritativeness; one time he didn’t like how his brother was instructing him, and in his little 2 year old voice said “DON’T SAY TO ME!” But they are still Micah’s heroes and role models. Other memories – I’ll never forget Jordan’s face as his bride walked down the aisle toward him, and seeing Jacob standing next to him. Jordan jumping a fence to get to Jacob when he was hurt on a football field. It used to crack me up how 8 year old Micah would boss his big brothers’ football buddies around (and most of the time, they would do whatever he told them to!) Memories can be a blessing or a curse. I’m thankful that God trusted us with such wonderful boys who have made our memories a blessing.
As a foodie, I have to ask, what’s your go-to company meal?
Hmmm, probably Chicken Spaghetti, because you can stretch it and almost everyone likes it, plus I usually have all the ingredients in my kitchen. With a green salad and garlic bread, you’re good to go! Taco soup is another favorite that feeds a lot and is inexpensive and easy.
Do you have a favorite recipe you can share with us?
Just one? 🙂 This is my newest favorite, adapted to have a little less fat than one I found on Pinterest.
LASAGNA SOUP
1 ½ lbs extra lean ground beef (if you don’t mind extra fat, you can substitute or add sausage…the Owens or Jimmy Dean kind.)
Chopped onion, to taste
4 minced garlic cloves
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 small can tomato paste
28 oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes
2 bay leaves
4-6 cups chicken stock
8 oz your choice pasta (I like shells)
½ cup finely chopped fresh basil leaves
salt & pepper
CHEESY YUMMY: 8 oz cottage cheese (or ricotta) ½ cup grated Parmesan, ¼ tsp salt, 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Brown your meat in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions & cook until they’re softened. Add garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes, stir for a minute or two. Add tomato paste and stir well to incorporate, until the tomato paste turns a rusty color.
Add the diced tomatoes, bay leaves, and chicken stock (I start with about four cups and add more if it doesn’t look “liquidy” enough…) Stir to combine, bring to a boil and reduce heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes. Cook your pasta separately (if you cook it in the soup, it gets mushy.) A few minutes before serving, add your fresh basil (if you don’t have fresh, you can use dried) and cooked pasta, and season to taste with salt & pepper.
While the pasta is cooking, combine all of the cheesy yummy ingredients. To serve, place a dollop of the cheese mixture in each soup bowl, then ladle the hot soup over the top. If you have extra mozzarella, you can add more to the top.
Next step: INVITE ME OVER!
That sounds so good, and I can’t wait to try it! Carla, what is something about yourself you wish others knew or understood?
I’m shy and I’m terrible about remembering names. When I’m meeting someone new, I’m a little nervous and too busy thinking of what I’m going to say next to remember what their name is. I’m trying to do better!
I have a sense of humor and love to laugh and tease. Sometimes I have to remind myself that not everyone has my same sense of humor…
I do fight a tendency to be sarcastic and cynical. I don’t like having that cynicism in me – I want so badly to walk “with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph 4) and I don’t want to be “irritable or resentful…or rejoice at wrongdoing” (1 Cor. 13) so it is a daily battle with me. Some might say that sarcasm is just part of one’s personality but I think it’s a character flaw. I might not be able to change my personality but I can change my character (and I believe God expects me to.)
Thank you for opening up about that. I think many of us can relate. What are some of your favorite blogs, websites, or books?
I don’t read too many blogs. Not because I don’t like them, but because I like them too much…when reading one, I usually get pulled into reading 30 more and then three hours has gone by and I haven’t even brushed my teeth or changed out of my pajamas. I do love Come Fill Your Cup, and this other blog called Life and Favor (maybe you’ve heard of it?) 🙂 I often go to the Colley’s website to print articles to share in Bible class. I like Facebook, because I love being able to stay connected to faraway friends as well as making NEW friends! To me, Facebook can be tremendously encouraging social media. Yes, sometimes we see more than we want to but we CAN control of the buttons on our keyboard!
Books. I love to read! Historical fiction favorite: the Mark of the Lion series by Francine Rivers. I’ve read the series several times and each time is better than the last. Also, Redeeming Love by the same author (Francine Rivers) is excellent. It’s a novelized account of the book of Hosea. I thoroughly enjoyed the book Claudene Connally wrote years ago called “I Walked By His Side” about their years as missionaries in Africa. We’ve used so many of Lottie Beth Hobbs’s books in ladies Bible classes, but I think my favorite was Choosing Life’s Best. And we loved studying through Celine Sparks’ Because I Said So – it was a hoot and very practical!
Thank you. 🙂 What do you do to unwind?
I love to get lost in a book! I know we’ve already chatted about books, though. (One more thing…I especially love to read about things that I would NEVER have the nerve to actually do – like climbing Mt. Everest or underwater cave exploration!)
Never in a million years did I think I’d ever say this, but exercise is a great relaxer! Really! If I have a headache or tension in my shoulders or if I’m just stressed out, I can get on the elliptical or take a good, brisk walk and leave the gym with a clearer head, feeling much better. That doesn’t mean I WANT to go do it – it just means I feel better when I do! 🙂
Music is another great way to unwind. There aren’t many genres of music that I don’t enjoy. Growing up, Mom always had the stereo on, playing her old record albums – so I love Nat King Cole and Johnny Mathis. I love barbershop, and beautiful instrumentals like Yo-Yo Ma and Yanni (or, as the boys call him, Yawni!) My new favorite is a group called the Piano Guys. And of course I love gospel songs! I can’t imagine life without music – it just does something to my heart.
What do you love most about the Lord’s church?
I love that we are a family. I love having sisters in New Hampshire and Illinois and Alaska and Japan and Singapore and all points in between, some whom I have never actually met face to face, but I still feel a kindred spirit with them. I love that there is a plain, simple pattern for the New Testament church that can be easily found in His word, and followed all over the world. I love that the Lord’s church belongs to Him, and not to a mortal man. I love seeing God’s wisdom in His organization of the church. I love the fellowship and the common bond we share. I love that the Lord’s church gives us a goal and a reason to serve. And I love that there is a place and a purpose for every individual Christian. I love that it is my life.
Amen to that! Please tell us a little about the Searching for Truth video.
In 2004, John and Rudy Cain (World Video Bible School founder) began discussing the need for an inexpensive, effective tool for evangelism. Jesus’ disciples reached the lost by foot or by courier or by boat – and John and Rudy wanted to employ the most effective means possible to reach the lost in our day and age. That was through video. I think their vision was wonderful. Knowing that many people today are reluctant to commit to a one-on-one personal Bible study, SFT begins with a short fifteen minute introduction that hopefully will pique the interest of someone who is truly searching for the truth. It is easy to just hand to someone. Many congregations give them to anyone who would like a copy. We know of car dealerships that have a rack full of them, available to anyone. My mother often leaves them in the lobbies of her doctor’s offices. Erin included them in “thank you” bags for the clerks who helped her on Black Friday. It’s free to view online (www.searchingfortruth.org and on YouTube) and Rudy is always thinking up new ways for people to access it! John recently got a letter from a child who had viewed it. He said “I believe in God. He is my Father and Saver. I love him more than anything and I know you believe in Him too. You really seem like a nice guy on TV.” It made me smile!
That’s wonderful and exciting! Searching for Truth is very effective in sharing the gospel. We keep a stack of them on the visitors’ table at Bear Valley. Would you mind sharing with us what your personal Bible study time is like?
I’m embarrassed to say that I am easily distracted so I have to have quiet (which doesn’t happen regularly around here!) And I can’t sit at my desk at the computer or I’ll find my fingers wandering over to do something else on another tab. My best study time is sitting at the kitchen table with Bible, pen and paper during the middle of the day when no one else is home. Right now I am transferring notes out of my old King James that I love and have used since 1993. It’s a Thompson Chain Reference, filled with so many good helps and maps and notes! Moving my notes to my new ESV has been so interesting and a great study.
You do quite a lot of public speaking. In fact, you’re one of the ladies’ speakers at Focal Point this week. When you were asked to speak for the first time, what made you say yes? Do you still get nervous?
A long time ago Mom told me about one of their elders in Corsicana, Rollin Harris. Mom was trying to pass on teaching the high school girls class, and he told her to go home and read Matthew 25 (parable of the talents). He told her “after you read that, if you still want to quit teaching, you can.” Of course, she couldn’t! She has passed that along to me, even though I don’t feel like my talent lies in public speaking. There are so many others who are much more effective speakers than I. Sometimes I feel like there is some sort of disconnect between my brain and my mouth, and I can’t seem to get across what I am trying to say. I would much rather write than speak. When I am writing, I can back up and delete, and think some more about my words. When speaking, I am afraid that someone will misunderstand me, or that I will unintentionally take something out of context or that someone will not be kind in their assessment of me. But I try to seek only the approval of God and not man, even though I’m human and don’t want people to think badly of me. The benefits: the study and preparation are much more beneficial to me than anyone else. And I get to go places and meet friends. And YES, I’m nervous!
That’s a great story about your mom! I’ve heard you speak, and I can tell you, there’s no “disconnect.” When did you become a Christian?
I was ten years old. I remember knowing what I needed to do and feeling burdened by sin (even at ten, I knew right from wrong!) I understood that Jesus had died for ME and that was humbling to me. I remember telling a “little white lie” and recalling the verse which stated that I was crucifying Him afresh (Heb 6:6). I knew that baptism wasn’t an easy, inconsequential decision, but rather the “answer of a good conscience toward God,” (1 Pet. 3:21). I wanted to be obedient. On the Sunday afternoon after my baptism, I had a soccer game. I remember so vividly running around that soccer field knowing I had a clean slate and feeling lighter than air because I knew I had obeyed God and He had made me “white as snow.” What a great day!
Is there anything else you’d like to say or share with us?
I would like for YOU to answer all of these questions! 🙂
Thank you, Carla, for sharing your wonderful answers with us! I’ve enjoyed getting to know you better, and pray that God blesses you as you continue to live for Him.
Carla would love to hear from you. You can contact her at carmoore68@gmail.com.
Before worship began today, Clint Stephens, an elder at Bear Valley church of Christ, made a special request. He explained that our five elders have been reaching out to several individuals for many months, individuals who have turned away from God. He asked that we all join hands with the elders in reaching out to these dear, wayward members.
Mark Hanstein, another elder at Bear Valley, preached from John 4 this morning. His lesson was powerful and heartfelt as he challenged us to be, in every sense of the word, the church OF CHRIST. He said there are some things we learn about Christ from His interaction with the woman at the well. First, Jesus cared about souls enough to seize every opportunity to teach them, even when it called for being unconventional. Second, Jesus stood for truth always, which is why He exposed the woman’s previous marriages and current relationship. With these thoughts in mind, Brother Hanstein asked us several questions. When we ask the cashier, waiter, or neighbor, “How are you?,” do we really mean it? If we know they’re not Christians, we know how they’re doing, and we know what they need. Do we seize that opportunity to share the gospel? As the church OF CHRIST, will we always stand for truth no matter what? Will we teach the truth about marriage, divorce and remarriage, or will we turn a blind eye? Will we teach the truth about homosexuality, no matter the political climate? Mark Hanstein challenged us to think and act like Christ.
In one morning, these two elders gave us a glimpse into their hearts. I thank God for them. They are good leaders, true shepherds of the flock. Why? Because they are compassionate, demonstrated by their tireless efforts to reach those who have strayed. They are evangelistic, evidenced by their constant reminders for all of us to “Think Souls,” along with their personal efforts toward that end. And they are convicted. They stand for truth. They’re not afraid to uphold the Word of God. And how reassuring to know that they will continue to do so, come what may!
Kristy Woodall shared these good words recently:
“Perhaps the only ones who can truly understand the service of an elder is his family. They see the countless meetings, the hunched shoulders as the burden seems unbearable, the hours of prayer and the tears. Let’s hold up their hands, honor, respect and pray for them. All they want to do is to help us get to heaven. Thank God for your elders and show them a little love too!”
That’s great advice, and I want to do a better job of praying for and appreciating our humble, hard-working elders.
Prayer for Today: Thank you, God, for Clint Stephens, Mark Hanstein, Dave Chamberlin, Ernie Barrett, Maynard Woolley, and all elders who truly love souls and stand for Your truth.
I was asked to do something thoughtful for an enemy. Granted, the person doing the asking didn’t realize the would-be recipient is antagonistic toward my family. What goes through your mind in a situation like that? I’ll tell you what went through mine. You’ve got to be kidding me. No way! I can’t do it. Even if I could, it wouldn’t be sincere. You have no idea what that person has put me through, and now I’M the one who has to be nice? Does that seem fair? You’re killing me. And on and on my thoughts went. By the time my mental rant was over, I’d done a nice job of convincing myself that the person wouldn’t welcome a thoughtful gesture from me anyway. I patted myself on the back for having never retaliated (hello, Pride), and justified my choice to simply avoid the enemy. What more could anyone ask?
“But I say to you who hear, LOVE your enemies, DO GOOD to those who hate you, BLESS those who curse you, and PRAY for those who spitefully use you. To him who strikes you on the one cheek, OFFER the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, DO NOT WITHHOLD your tunic either. GIVE to everyone who asks of you” (Luke 6:27-30).
Jesus asked for more. I have to acknowledge that my avoid-at-all-costs plan isn’t good enough. Okay, it’s not even good. Avoiding doesn’t love, do good, give, or any of those other commands I decided I’d better circle in the text. Jesus went on to say,”But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them” (v. 32). By withholding love and goodness, I act like the world. Still, it seems a bit much to ask. Until I remember…
“Then some began to spit on Him, and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him. And the officers struck Him with the palms of their hands. And [Pilate] delivered Jesus, after he had scourged Him, to be crucified. They twisted a crown of thorns, put it on His head. They struck Him on the head with a reed and spat on Him. Those who passed by blasphemed Him. Even those who were crucified with Him reviled Him” (Mark 14).
And He was completely innocent. He never entertained an unkind thought. He didn’t deserve such horrible treatment. What went through His mind as He faced His antagonists, knowing He was on the cross for them? “You’re killing Me”? No. Jesus demonstrated the very attitude He requires of us. We know exactly what went through His mind.
“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23:34).
Prayer for Today: Humble me, Lord. In my thoughts, attitude, and intentions, give me a heart like Your Son’s.
Imagine my surprise when I walked into the kitchen and discovered my pizza dough had turned into a yeasty volcano. I didn’t intend for the dough to rise more than an hour, but I got so busy doing other things, I completely forgot all about it. I’ve made pizza dough dozens of times. When I made this particular batch, I did everything right. When I set it on the counter to rise, it looked good and smelled good. But because I got distracted, what started out as a “good thing,” turned into a mess.
Poor Martha. She started out doing something good by welcoming Jesus into her home. But then she jumped into busyness and next thing you know, things weren’t going the way she envisioned. We might be quick to come to her defense. After all, the food wasn’t going to prepare itself! But Jesus cut to the heart of the matter. “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things” (Luke 10:41). The text tells us that Martha was distracted (v. 40). When Martha became distracted…
She became frustrated. I can almost hear her tone of voice when she finally asked Jesus to make Mary help her. We’ve all been in situations where it seems there’s so much to do and too little help. As Martha’s frustration mounted, she started feeling sorry for herself. Her attitude soured. She started complaining. Martha, Martha, “be hospitable to one another without complaint” (1 Peter 4:9).
She started viewing others harshly. Notice how Martha accused both her sister and her Lord. She said her sister left her to do all the serving alone (Luke 10:40). I wonder how many times she cut her eyes in her sister’s direction as she was working away? She probably thought her sister was just being lazy, or at the very least, enjoying their special company while poor Martha was left with all the work. Then she said to Jesus, “Lord, do You not care…?” (v. 40). That question alone is proof positive that distractions are dangerous. If she was in her right mind, would she have dared accuse the Messiah of not caring? When we get overwhelmed by the extra responsibilities we take upon ourselves, we might lash out at those closest to us. Jesus generously gave His time to Martha, but she couldn’t see that. Mary was listening at Jesus’ feet (the implication being that He was teaching), not trying to get out of work, but Martha didn’t see it that way. Martha’s perception of both Jesus and Mary was wrong. How do we know she was wrong about Mary? Because Jesus said, “Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her” (v. 42). Distraction led Martha to treat others unjustly. Martha, Martha, “with all humility and gentleness, with patience, show tolerance for one another in love” (Eph. 4:2).
She focused on the physical instead of the eternal. And as a result, she missed out on a golden opportunity. If Martha had sat at Jesus’ feet, she wouldn’t have been just a face in the crowd. Jesus taught the multitudes many times. But this time, He was in Martha’s home. She could’ve had a special audience with the Son of God! Martha wasn’t out doing worldly things or sinful things; she was serving. But Jesus said she had “many things” on her mind when she should have had “one thing” on her mind (v. 41,42). Martha chose poorly. Because she was distracted by the urgent, she wasn’t focused on the eternal. Martha, Martha, “set your mind on the things above, not on things of the earth” (Col. 3:2).
Prayer for Today: Lord, help me focus on what’s truly important instead of being blinded by busy distractions.
This article can also be found at Women Living Well
Life and Favor (Job 10:12) 