The Goodness of God in This Pandemic

It has been awhile! My typical time of writing has been on Sunday evenings when my big guys are at youth group and my little dude is having daddy time. Due to this unique time, my guys haven’t been attending youth group, so this lady has not been writing.  

For everything there is a season. 

If I were sitting across from you right now, I would begin by telling you a funny story.  (I seem to not be able to chat with people without usually slipping something humorous into the conversation!)  I would share about the amusing side of pandemic living - adventures of an introverted wife living with a SUPER extroverted husband, loving 3 boys through not-much friend time, schooling a son who has ants in his pants - the list could go on and on.  

Then, I would share about how this has been one of my most intense seasons.  

The pandemic came on the coattails of an intense season of my husband’s ordination studying, testing, and church planting, among others events.  I was trying to get my head on straight and then came COVID-19.  Since we are a family who homeschools, I am part of various homeschooling online groups.  I saw people post that the pandemic hasn’t bothered them much; therefore, their homeschool has not been affected.  This was FAR from the truth in our home.  

During the pandemic, our family has experienced highs and lows.  

Church planting in the midst of unprecedented times. Family experiencing trials & health situations (no COVID gratefully!) Busy business for mama. Unexpected trip during riots. Beginning of mentoring curriculum. Numerous friends going through struggles. Cancellations of MANY events/trips/classes/co-op/lessons. Times of anxiety & depression. Moments of glorious hope. Tons of time in the kitchen. 

But as I look back, I can confidently say that I have seen the goodness of God.  It is SO easy to lose sight of God’s beautiful truth when we walk through the fire. Seeing the goodness of God means discerning or looking upon the beauty or good things of God.  I can see the “why’s” of some of our circumstances.  The why is not promised from the Lord, but when you are able to see that, what a favor it is! 

Our family needed a refresh button to pressed.  And as heartbreaking as this has been for many families, it has caused us to stop and look even more intently at our life.  I do not want to go back to the “old normal.”  I want our lives to have more margin in order to have a healthy rhythm of rest and work, but also, to be available to love our neighbors and simply be still before the Lord.  Fancy that!  

This pandemic time has also freed us to begin our Sonship Mentoring with a humble, God-fearing couple.  God is showing me how the gospel actually impacts ALL of life.  Our Redeemer cares about our speech and wants the truth of what Jesus did to flood our speech.  Also, the way I interact with others points me to the truth that I so desperately need a Savior to show me my worth and identity.  

“I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of LORD in the land of the living!”

Psalms 27.13

Thank the Lord that HE is graciously showing me His goodness.  Each moment of seeing His goodness is a gift of grace.  Friend, may our Lord show you His goodness as you are walking this 2020 journey.

Right after verse 13, David tells us to, “Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD!”

Friend, if you are walking through challenging OR peaceful times, may these verses encourage you.  May we wait for our Lord, be strong in Him, and take courage.  The goodness of the Lord might not be seen right away.  But may we live with the hope that we shall see the goodness of our Lord and ultimately, see HIm face to face.  

The song Behold the Throne of God Above is such a gift to us through this time.  The lyrics remind us that, “My name is graven on His hands, my name is written on His heart, I know that while in Heaven He stands, no tongue can bid me thence depart.”  Ya’ll, we have a Savior that knows us, cares for us, and loves us with a love that we can only comprehend by His strength.  These times have NOT caught our God by surprise.  We can trust Him - our good God - that He will hold us together, keep us safely in His arms, and lavish us with much grace.  

Have a wonderful week, friends. May these amazing truths encourage your heart!

By His Grace ~ leigh anne

Contemplating Anxiety

Anxiety - what a word.  I am sure this word causes a different reaction for everyone.  Most of us either have our own story of anxiety or we know someone who does!  Clearly, we live in a culture that is familiar with its causes, effects, challenges, and lessons learned.  In my own life, anxiety has caused my family and me a great deal of pain and disruption throughout the years.  Yes, years, because my battle began in 4th grade. And after 30 years, I can honestly say that even through anguish, melancholy, & struggle, that God has sovereignly guided me every step along the way.  He has never forsaken me; He deserves all the praise for how He has carried me through it all and continues to carry me still! I know that He can take this struggle from me, but until/if He does, by His grace, I will continue to take one moment at a time by His kind and amazing grace.

Why on earth would I write a post on this subject?  The desire is for any friend who is walking this same road to be encouraged.  You are not alone. And, if anything that has encouraged me throughout this journey, can encourage you, then praise God!  

Here are some specifics on how I have walked this journey. 

1. Biblical Counseling ~ Words cannot begin to describe the depths of healing that have come through my precious counselor’s repeated speaking of the truth of Scripture into my life.  She helped me understand situations from God’s perspective, and at times, simply confirmed what I was thinking. Discipleship Ministry is what my counselor calls her line of work, and that, it TRULY is!  In fact, her phone number is one of the only numbers that I have memorized :)

2. Exercise ~ It gets my body moving and helps me get out of my head! I prefer outdoors, so I can deeply breath in the fresh air.  I take this time to walk in silence, sing, listen to podcasts, or chat with friends and family. This has been so helpful that I put my walks in the calendar to ensure that they happen!  Taking the time to focus on our own spiritual, mental, emotional, & physical health not only benefits us, but strengthens us to care for those around us well! So, please do not underestimate what 5 minutes of exercise can do for the body to release your anxiety and prepare you to love others well. (adaa.org)

3. Sharing with understanding friends & family ~ This is a HUGE one!  Opening up to select friends and/or family is freeing and helps them understand you.  It also might encourage those who struggle to open up, too, and it is always exciting to see God work in those moments to bring them freedom and encouragement.  They also remind me that I am not walking this road alone. We can encourage one another, and I can bounce thoughts off of them! I am EXTREMELY grateful for these dear friends.  

4. Medication/Supplemental options ~ This subject might be a bit controversial, so please hear my heart.  There is a time and place for anti-anxiety medication. I have needed anti-anxiety meds twice in my life, and I am grateful for this option.  What a gift that we have doctors who have studied the brain and understand how it works. On the other hand, I also take various whole-food based nutritional capsules, Omega’s, and a probiotic.  As I have researched, I have seen more and more that we must care for our bodies through good nutrition. It is simply unbelievable how what we place in our mouth affects the functioning of our body. By God’s grace, I do as much as I can nutritionally & medically, and trust the Lord to give grace through it all!

5. The Gospel ~ How does the gospel of Jesus refresh me?  When I was yet a sinner, Christ died for me. There was NOTHING I could do to earn the good news of salvation by faith in Christ alone by grace.  Nothing! Even though my earthly struggle of anxiety continues on, my Savior saved me, continues to love me, AND extend his marvelous grace to me every day.  I didn’t deserve it. I didn’t earn it. But He chose to give me this amazing grace. I have much hope and extreme thankfulness through life due to this spiritual gift!  

6. Scripture ~ The Word is FULL of scriptures to encourage us through this journey.  Here are some truth treasures from the Word!

• 2 Corinthians 4:15 says, “For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.”

• 2 Corinthians 4.17 tells us that, “For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.”  

• Proverbs 12:25 shares that, “Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.”

• John 1:16 encourages us - “For from His fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.”

• Isaiah 26:3 declares that, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.”

If anxiety is part of your story, may you walk in hope that it isn’t the end of your story.  God has allowed it for a purpose. Trust Him, and rest in the knowledge that God’s grace is certainly enough for you. 

In His Grace ~ leigh anne

*The Gospel Coalition posted an article entitled “Is Anxiety a Sin?” This article is helpful in understanding anxiety in general.*

***Please know these are ONLY my own experiences. I encourage you to seek medical help, pastoral counseling, etc… if needed!***

Hope After Christmas

The after Christmas exhale.  The start up of new year’s resolutions.  That feeling of missing the beauty and excitement of the holiday festivities.  Does this sound familiar?  

The awaiting of our Savior’s birth celebrations is delightful.  What happiness it brings. Yet after the holidays, it is easy to forget the hope that is OURS as Christians the whole year long.  

Our Savior’s birth is ALL about the abounding and joyful hope He brings for all Christ-followers. As Christ-followers, our hope is exceedingly extensive. Hope is defined as the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best.  

The hope of Heaven is a reality.  Colossians 1:5 says that “because of the hope laid up for you in Heaven.”  This world is not our eternal home. This truth has been made even more evident as we have walked through challenging circumstances.  The hope of Heaven is real AND a gift!  

As Christians, there is hope of grace upon grace given by our Savior.  “For from his fullness, we have all received grace upon grace.” John 1.16.  God’s grace is life-changing. Because Christ came, we have grace - unmerited favor - for all of life.  There is freedom! Not freedom to sin, but freedom to live by God’s grace & strength even when we have sinned.  

Knowing God knows all things gives much hope.  Christ knows our heart. He understands the inner-workings of how we work better than we understand ourselves!  Hebrews 4.15 says that we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.  As we walk through difficulties & challenges, our hope is Christ. Only Christ fully understands us in all aspects. This is true comfort!  

As you begin 2020, may your year continue to be hope-filled. May our hearts and minds be continually renewed in the Word of Truth that points us to the Giver of all hope! 

To God be the Glory! Great Things He has done, is doing, and will do!  leigh anne

Dearest Pastor Wife

Precious pastor wife, you are loved.  You are seen. You are redeemed. 

I know that you may carry many burdens & responsibilities.  You may have a plate running over in which you don’t see how you can possibly minister and take care of it all.  You might wonder how to support your husband in his role. And, you might feel that you are in your “sweet spot” of ministry.  You might also wonder where exactly is your place in the church. Throughout all of these cares, it is easy to forget these incredibly important truths.

No matter where you are today, may you be encouraged today.

You are loved with the marvelous love of Christ. In John 17.23, Jesus prays that “...I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.”  God the Father loves us just as He loved Jesus. God even chose us before the foundation of the world. This is how much He loves us, ladies. Christ died to pay the price that we could never pay because of His great love. Christ died for you.  You were valued enough that God gave His son - wonderful grace! Oh precious one, may we preach this truth to ourselves daily, actually moment by moment, that we may find our love from the one who created us in His image.

You are redeemed.  Isaiah 43.1 says, “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.”  There are times when you miss the mark - you say the wrong thing, make a wrong decision, etc… But, do you hear this verse?  You are still Christ’s! He has redeemed you and will continue His good work until the day of completion. Sweet one, the Lord isn’t finished with you, yet.  Please seek God to give you faith to not lose hope in the one who created you in the inmost being for His glory.  

You are seen.  Isaiah 43, verse 2 says, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.”  God sees what you are going through and He ALREADY has it under control! He walks with you; you will not be overwhelmed, burned, or consumed. God ALSO hears us. James 5.16 is such a breath of fresh air - “The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.”   He is as close as the mention of His name. You can know that He hears your cries of pardon, comfort, & guidance.  

Please remember, dear one, that your identity is in Christ.  You are enough BECAUSE Christ has covered your sin & shame. You can rest in the finished work of Jesus on your behalf.  

• Simply, be still and know He is God. 

• Abide in your Savior.

• Live the truths in the Word by His treasured grace.  

There is no need to lose hope; the Savior whom you serve is the God of all hope!  His plan is for your good and His glory! Praise Him!

Grace.  Marvelous Grace.  Amazing Grace.

Much love from one pastor wife to another ~ leigh anne

***The book The Pastor’s Wife by Gloria Furman has been instrumental to me in my journey as a pastor’s wife.  I highly recommend this book! ***

A Cheerleader & A Pastor's Wife

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This is me! ❤️

Seems like an oxymoron, doesn’t it? 

Back in the day, I practically lived & breathed cheerleading.  I will spare my non-cheerleading friends all the details!  

Why would I write about this? 

These 2 titles placed together have made me feel like an outsider at times.  God has used this to remind me of my true identity, while reminding me of MANY truths.  Before the world was created, God knew this would be my story. The Creator of this Universe knew the purposes He had for me.  

The same for you, friend.  YOU were created for a purpose that only you can fulfill by God’s amazing grace!

I have learned that…

~ God uses me in His perfect way.  His ways are higher than mine. Do not pretend to be someone that I am not.  God made me - not me to imitate someone else’s personality and likes/dislikes.  

~ I am made in the image of the Holy God - “Imago Dei.”  I should not malign His creation.

~ It doesn’t matter what picture of “Pastor’s Wife” is out there.  I do not need to meet an expectation that is not one that the Lord has for me.  I must listen & obey His still small voice in my life. Essentially - live for an audience of One.

~ Even though I might not be everyone’s cup of tea, that is truly okay.  It is completely fine to not be best friends with everyone. See each person as precious people made in the image of the Lord, and love them well.  

~ It is okay to laugh and be energetic when appropriate.  Dictionary.com says that a cheerleader is an enthusiastic and vocal supporter of someone or something! In Ecclesiastes 8:15 Solomon commends, “joy, for man has nothing better under the sun but to eat and drink and be joyful, for this will go with him in his toil through the days of his life that God has given him under the sun.” Sometimes ALL OF US need to stop and truly find joy in the life God has given us.  Every moment is truly a gift, and there are MANY reasons to give thanks!

And as a side note, for those who are involved in a church, every pastor could use a cheerleader - someone (whether you are a pastor’s wife or a member of the congregation) who cheers them on & encourages them to seek godliness & to live on mission.  

As you continue to live out the mission that the Lord has created you to fulfill, may you be encouraged to live all your life fully for His glory, while knowing the He does not make mistakes. You are fearfully & wonderfully made! 

In His Grace ~ leigh anne

Living with a Gospel Lens

Dictionary.com says that a lens is a piece of transparent substance - used in correcting defects of vision.  Being that I can barely see without my glasses and contacts, this is incredibly true in my life! Applied to our faith, we can literally be transformed by asking God to change the lens in which we look at life!  Simply amazing…

The past few years in particular have been especially life-changing; I have experienced the power of Christ’s gospel in a highly personal way and learned to use it as a lens to look at ALL of life - how I view myself, my hurts, emotions, motherhood, marriage, friendship, education, and more!  

You might be asking, what is the definition of the gospel?  Simply stated, the gospel is “good news or glad tidings.” More specifically, the gospel is good news and glad tidings of the grace of God for the forgiveness of sins to everyone who believes in Jesus!

Lovely cross at Christ’s Church in Midtown Atlanta, GA ~ what a beautiful picture of the gospel!

Why live with a gospel lens?

First of all, if we have faith in Christ, we have been redeemed by the Creator of the Universe.  Jesus’s decision to leave the comforts of heaven to die in our place is abundant proof that we are precious to Him and of eternal value. Living life with this lens frees us from everything like holding onto shame, living with bitterness, pleasing people, and much more. How BEYOND exciting!

Second, as believers in Christ, we are called to keep growing in the grace & knowledge of our Lord and Savior (2 Peter 3.18a). All of Scripture points to Christ, so the journey of faith is a lifelong process of God giving us eyes to see Jesus on every page of the Bible AND how to apply it to all of life. Furthermore, as we grow in His grace, we gain greater strength to bring Him glory and to truly live for the good of others.

Third, Christ is enough to heal all my shame, take away my sin, & redeem my broken places.  In Christ, this becomes your story as well as mine. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says that we are a new creation in Christ - the old has gone & the new has come. Our gospel lenses remind us of theses amazing truths!

How on earth do I live this way?

Undoubtedly, there is not a strict plan for this, but I will share some thoughts I have learned along the way.

1. At our recent church planting assessment, one of the assessors asked my husband and me, “In your opinion, if there was an emoji for how God looked at you, what would it be?”  To say that was an eye-opening question is an understatement. I realized that God doesn’t look at me with a frown, smugness, or frustration like I often feel. Instead, He looks at me lovingly and graciously, and declares me as righteous in His sight because Christ has taken away all my sin.  Simply said, even though we sin, we must remember Christ smiles over us because of the cross. What spectacular freedom and deep soul rest this boundless love brings! 

2. Jerry Bridges shared a beautiful picture of the cross.  Essentially, as we grow in our faith, we come to know more fully the massive holiness of God and the vast depth of our sin.  As our understanding of both expands, we will be tempted to doubt and despair. However, the cross of Christ is larger than life and can bridge this gap for us, no matter how wide and deep! We can rest secure knowing that all of our sin & shame is taken away by our gracious Savior. 

3. Extend the same grace to others that Christ extended to me! I am certainly not perfect in this, but a work in progress! Of course, there is a time to rebuke a friend in truth, but living with the gospel at the forefront can bring much peace to relationships. I can forgive others like Christ has forgiven me through the gospel.

There is so much more to share, but may you be encouraged today! “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer.” (1 Peter 3.12). Friends, please pray that you and I never forget that our righteousness is in Christ alone.  And pray that He would give us gospel lenses - eyes to see how His life, death, resurrection, and ascension apply to everything. May He truly shine His face upon each one of us so that our gospel lenses truly correct any deficit in our vision of all of life!

In His Grace ~ leigh anne