Blog Posts

I Don't Want To Do This

3/25/2019

   Let me be very clear here, I don't want to do this. My whole life I was not working towards a goal to become a blogger. I wasn't looking for ways to share Christ. I wasn't begging to shine a light on my mistakes, then writing about them. It's not like I want to be invisible, but to be vocal about your faith in this day in age can be a social media death sentence.
   Why do I say all this? Because I never want anyone to think this blog is on how I've got it all together. I assure you I do not. I am like you. I fall short of the glory of God daily. I don't always like sharing my failures and motherhood mishaps, but if that is what helps someone else see God, then so be it.
      I guess my point is that God may call you to do somethings that you might not want to do. It might be scary, hard, or uncomfortable, you may be like me and feel completely unqualified. But when you do it you will be blessed. The blessing is the peace in knowing you listening to His voice. We might not always experience the reason, but trust me God always has one.
   I don't know where my writing may take me. I don't know if I am meant to do this my whole life, but I know now is the time. When our concern becomes not wanting anyone to live without Him, everything else is secondary. Let us not forget earth is not our forever home. Heaven and hell are very real. I don't know about you, about I don't want anyone to choose the second option.

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Pruning My Fruit Trees

3/23/2019

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   I have been pruning recently. Not physical trees in my yard, but spiritually. I call it my fruit tree. In Galatians 5:22-23 it reads "But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control."  The Holy Spirit is in me. Therefore, I should aim to produce fruit of this nature. Mathew 7:20 says "Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them." So if I do not look any different from the world, how will they see Jesus through me? For example, if I am using the same foul language, or wearing the same provocative clothing as those who don't know Christ, why would they be interested in Him? Why would anyone see the need to change? I am not saying as Christian women we need to dress like nuns. But we do need to keep what is private, private, out of respect for what God gave us.
Lets break down the fruits. I want us to understand what we are called to do, and how learning this way makes our lives more peaceful and enjoyable. . . . .
Love; a profoundly tender, passionate affection for another. This does not mean just other Christians that we deem worthy of our love. We are called to love others as Christ loves us. We didn't have to earn it.
Joy; the expression or display of glad feeling. This definition doesn't mean grin and bear it. No matter what circumstance we are in, if we pray for joy it will come. How many times do we complain about circumstances we can't change. It's exhausting to do and equally exhausting to listen to. If you can't seem to find your joy, think of Christ's sacrifice for you and rejoice in that.
Peace; stillness cessation of or freedom from any strife or dissension. This one can be really difficult to grab onto in todays society. We are taught to keep going no matter what. Being still is hard. I am slowly learning. Break out of the busy busy go go mentality, and be still. I promise when you do this you will hear His voice and find your peace.
Forbearance; (refrain from something; patient enduring). I have to admit, I had no idea what forbearance was before looking it up. There may be things in your life that you love, but might not bring out the best in you. Maybe something you know God is calling you to leave behind/refrain from. Mine was reality tv (housewives), I realized watching these shows were not lifting my spirit, and nothing was Godly about them. I have had to refrain.
Kindness; (friendly feeling; liking). Super easy right? I have to say for me this tends to be the hardest with my family. I take out my frustrations on them. Unfair, and this is one branch of my fruit tree I have been pruning lately. Thinking if my words are building up or tearing down. Kindness in our speech is just as important as actions.
Goodness; (moral excellence; virtue; generosity). Generosity doesn't just mean money, but time as well. How generous are you will your free time? If a friend calls and needs to talk will you cut her short, or listen? If a friend needs help moving are you generous? Maybe the church needs volunteers, do you expect someone else will do it, or share some of your time. How generous are you with someone who isn't a close friend?
Faithfulness; (true to ones word, reliable, trusted). To me personally my husband is my best example of this. He will stick to his word no matter what! Especially as a mom I find I say ok, then change my mind. Sometimes this is out of our control, but my husband will make it happen. There are too few people that are true to their word. If you say your going to do something, do it.
Gentleness; (not serve; mild). Be gentle in all ways. Maybe God has given you a word to deliver to someone. Be gentle when delivering it. Gentle in our thoughts, words, and all actions. Everyone is fighting their own battle. Equally be gentle with yourself.
Self- control; (restraint of ones self or ones actions). I am curious as to why God put this as the last fruit. For me it is by far the hardest to attain. Another one I am in the mist of pruning. I lack self control in many areas in my life.
   I know there are always things we could be working on in our walk with Christ. It's a dangerous spot to be when we think we have it all figured out. There are no perfect Christians, but that doesn't mean to get complacent. We always have more to learn. If we open ourselves up he will use us.

   Praying God helps you prune your fruit tree today.
Much love friends, Devonne Ramer

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Psst . . . It's Me, Fear

3/13/2019

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When I first felted called to start this blog, (about four years ago to be exact), I was excited, then . . . scared. I was going to tackle some subjects that some people might not like. I was also putting myself out there and being more vulnerable that I ever had before. I wanted some input, so I went to my husband. I couldn't believe how nervous I was to tell him my idea. What if he thought it was silly, or dumb? Or what if he didn't think I could do it? I was already wrestling with myself, doubting what I believed was my calling. What if he voiced my fears out loud?
Fears, . . Fear. . . I believe it is one of satans favorite tools. It can sidetrack the most pious believer. It can sneaks up on you like a lion stalking its prey. It can steal your joy in a heart beat.
We had a frame cross stitch on our wall growing up. Every house we moved to it was one of the first things put up.
Fear knocked at the door.
Faith answered,
no one was there.
This phrase has stuck with me through out my life. I have also taught it to my children. It sounds so simple, but in the midst of tough circumstances it is hard to not fear and have faith. It can be daunting to "let go, and let God" as people say.
I read a book that said, sometimes we make ourself fail because we fear success. I had a hard time absorbing that. Could fear really be that powerful that it makes us fail before we start? I wasn't sure at the time, but as I pondered my "blog" startup, I wondered.
Once I sat down with my husband and told him my idea, his response was positive. He said, "Absolutely. I think it is a great idea. You should do it." I sat there stunned. Why was I so surprised that someone had faith in me? Why didn't I give myself that faith? Had I let fear snuff it out before I began? I truly believe his next words were inspired by God whether he knew it or not. "I have no doubt you will do many things still, and be successful at each one."
Wow! I think I had to remind myself to breath after that one. Me? Successful? At more than one thing? Sometimes it feels like I can barely keep two kids dressed and fed.
So it is with encouragement and peace in my heart that I tell you; LET GO OF FEAR! It is not a friend. When satan tries to rummage up a thought or image to inspire it, say NO. Cling to Lamentations 3:57 You came near when I called you, and you said, " Do not fear."
So I leave you with this " I believe you will do many things still, and be successful at each one." Next time fear knocks at your door, stay seated and let faith get it.

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You Don't Have To Like Me, It's OK

3/12/2019

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   It has taken me years, (38 to be exact), to be comfortable in my own skin. Comfortable to know that not everybody is gonna like me. And guess what, that's ok.
   For me personally I think I came out of the womb needing human approval. Always wanting people to like me. If they didn't, well I would just have to work overtime to show them how great I was. That may mean, swallowing my words, changing my personality, taking abuse, all of this done to feel that I was likable. It all seems exhausting now. The worry, stress, and wasted time I spent pretending to be someone else to get approval.
   Why am I writing about this today? For beginners I think we have this misconception that if someone doesn't like us, there is something wrong with us. Other times we think there's a flaw in them if they can't see how amazing we are. I thought that for quite some time too, after I got over the people pleasing. I no longer believe that. I never stopped to think that maybe I'm not suppose to be in that persons life.
     We as humans are an intense mixture of personalities and emotions. All so unique and different. Why is someone in the wrong if they don't like us? Personalities clash, and that's ok. What isn't ok, is bashing someone else's personality that's doesn't meet your criteria.
   How do we get over this hump? How do we stop letting people opinions about us affect us? How do we stop wasting time people pleasing?
When we truly understand what God says about us, and believe it, it's easy. The first step is getting into His word. When you take the focus off what people think, and put your stock in what God believes its simple. I implore you to open your bible. Read. Become confident in who Christ created you to be. Remember it is nice to be liked, but if someone doesn't, that's ok. Here's are a few verses to get you started, . . . .
   Proverbs 20:24 "A persons steps are directed by the Lord. How then can anyone understand their own way?" We can't possibly understand anyone's path in life, and we may not know why we don't mesh, but we know the creator knows, and that is all that should matter.
   John 2:25 "He did not need any testimony about mankind, for he knew what was in each person." Boom! mic drop. He knows it all. Everything.
   Proverbs 21:2 "A person may think their own ways are right, but the Lord weighs the heart." Stop being judge and jury. Take it to God and leave it at the thrown. Let the Almighty in His infinite wisdom handle it.
   Psalm 56:11 "in God I trust and am not afraid. What can man do to me?"

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My Love/ Hate Relationship With Facebook

3/12/2019

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   I struggle with my relationship with Facebook. While I love the social aspect and catching up with old friends. I hate the narcissistic attitude it encourages. The obsessiveness it cultivates.
     Facebook helps us stroke our egos. People all around can "like" or even "love" our pictures and comments. The worrisome part is when we let that make us feel more relevant. More important. More "liked".
   Why do I think this is dangerous? Well, a few reasons. One is we are susceptible to thinking we have "relationships" with people that "like" our photos. Commenting back and forth, sharing memes, and yet if you saw them in person would you say hello? The danger is letting a device become the friendship, not true human interaction.
I am not saying Facebook is bad. I just worry that putting this device in between us might be killing some of our relationships slowly. Facebook is not a relationship. It should not replace true human interaction. Coffee dates, phone calls, ect.. And it most certainly should not be our source of confidence.
   Obviously I use Facebook, and will continue. I just want to encourage you to reach out. Not through a screen, but in real "human" life. Laugh, in person, with a friend. Next time you go to text, call. Make an effort. Step outside of your box. And whatever you do, look to God for your confidence, not social media.

Psalm 40:4 "Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods."

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Embracing Encouragement

3/11/2019

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Who doesn't like a bit of encouragement? Somedays we might need a little more than others, but we all need it. We all want someone to notice our hard work. When days start to drag on, and someone notices how great we are doing our spirits instantly get lifted.
As Christians we are called to encourage one another. Do you make long winded speeches, or do your words bring comfort and relief? Let us love one another. Let our words uplift spirits. Let us start encouraging one another today.

Hebrews 13:1 "Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters."

1 Peter 3:8 "Finally, all of you, be like- minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble."

Encouragement : something that makes someone more determined, hopeful, or confident.

Blessings Friends, Devonne Ramer

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Strengthening Our Faith

3/4/2019

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Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." Seems simple enough, so why is it so hard sometimes?

Ever felt like your faith tank is running a little low? Your not alone. I sometimes feel the same way. At times my faith is so strong, (usually when everything is going my way). Then when things starts to tear, just a little at the seams I start to waver. Having faith requires a lot of strength. 1 Corinthians 16:13 "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong." It's not a coincidence that strong and courageous are right behind the word faith in that verse. To have confidence that Christ has the uncontrollable under control, is really hard. Something I haven't quite mastered.
   In Mark 4:40 Christ is talking to His disciples about this very thing: "He said to his disciples, "why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?" I take comfort in reading this verse. It helps comfort me when
I start loosing patience with my self. Even the disciples faltered with their faith. They even got to see all those miracles up close and personal. How could they falter? But in the end, weren't they just human too?
   When Christ said this to them, He may have been a little frustrated, but I also believe he was truly confused. Like: ok guys seriously? How much more do I need to prove? I don't see God angry when we don't have the faith we need. In His loving wisdom He usually uses these moments of weakness as His opportunity to show us His strength. When were times that your faith was strengthened?
My favorite faith story in the bible is when Peter walked on water towards Jesus. If you haven't read this story I encourage you to do so in it's entirety. (Mathew 14:22-35) I will summarize it for you.
      All the disciples are in a boat far from land (Mathew 14:24). They look out and see someone walking on water. Needless to say they freak out. (Mathew 14:26) "When the disciples saw him walking on the lake they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said, and cried out in fear." Jesus called out and told them not to be afraid it was him. "Lord, if it's you,' Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water." "Come" he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. (verses 28-29) So Peter is walking on water! Can you imagine? Amazing right! If you were put in that position would you even get out of the boat to try? (To be honest I don't know if I would). Ok where was I? Oh yeah, ok so Peter is walking on water. He starts to comprehend his circumstances realizing he is doing the impossible. Humans can't walk on water, and yet he's doing it? So he does what any of us would do. He gets scared. The minute he listens to his fear he starts to sink. How scary. He is in the middle of the ocean at night, and now he's sinking. Here comes my favorite part . . . . "he was afraid and, beginning to sink cried out, "Lord, save me!" immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?" (verses 29-31)
Peters action is not unusual, and God hasn't changed His reaction. Hebrews 13:8 "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." We get scared. We doubt. Start to sink, and He reaches out for us every time. I believe Peters faith was strengthened in that moment just like ours is when we cry out. Jesus didn't say I'm going teach you a lesson Peter, and let him flounder for a bit. He didn't roll his eyes and tell Peter to stop being so dramatic. Nope, right away reaches out his hand and helps him.
   If you remember one thing from this story, let it be the fact that you can call on the Lord at any time and under any circumstance. He will "immediately" reach out his hand to help you.

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Are We Deleting Grace?

3/1/2019

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   Reading the story of Job, we are given the perfect example of bad things happening to a good person. I feel so sorry for the guy. How can you not? He really had no idea what was going on. On top of all of the loss and pain surrounding him, his friends were basically lecturing him. Telling him he must have sinned somewhere for all of this to fall upon him. When he denies this, they don't back down. They keep telling him he is being punished and he needs to own up to his faults.
   Thinking that something happening to another, is a result of some indiscretion they have committed is a dangerous thought process. Two reasons why. One you have eliminate the grace factor and two, it can lead us to judgement.
   Here's the thing about bad things, they happen to all of us at one time or another. When we think it's God's punishment being doled out to someone, right there we delete the grace factor. Grace: the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings. God isn't counting up all the ways you have sinned to pay you back later. If that were true we would never have a good day.
We need to use caution when we shoot judgment someone's direction based on their circumstances. In Mathew 7:2 NIV it says "For the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
Another dangerous belief is that bad things won't happen to us because we are believers. Seriously?! Have we forgotten that we live in a sinful world. Why should we not suffer? What makes us any better than the rest? Because we accepted a gift that was given freely to all? So, when bad things happen, which they will, I pray we remember that we have hope and strength in knowing The One who created this world will help us through it. Remember no one will leave this world unscathed in one way or another.
   Those who are in the middle of this battle, I am praying for you.

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Why Hate?

2/28/2019

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   I have witnessed hate first hand. I have had it thrown my direction. I have seen it break a heart in front of me. I believe hate is as poisonous as black mold. It also grows quickly. Soon taking over everything in its path. It is one of the worst silent killers out there. It hurts the carrier as well as the victim. It absorbs its carriers like a soul invader. It can cause someone to feel a false sense of power, and control.
     One of the myths we believe is that we can direct it toward someone and be unaffected ourselves. Do not be fooled. Hatred is a liar. You have no control over it. When you posses it in your heart, it becomes the one in the drivers seat, not you. You can not see things clearly. You may think you are the one calling the shots, but hate deceives.
For those of you who are holding onto this poison, what does it do for you? Why are you holding onto this? What good has come from it? What would happen if you let it go? 1 John 4:20 NIV "Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. ."
Being a victim of hate is so very hard. I personally know friends dealing with this right now. It makes my heart break. I am reminded to cling to this verse. John 15:18 "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first."
      To the victims of hatred, my prayers are with you .You are worth more than gold in your Saviors eyes. Romans 8:18 "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with he glory that will be revealed in us."
   Blessings and prayers friends, Devonne Ramer

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He Just Wants You

2/26/2019

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I absolutely love birthdays. I love celebrating them. Especially for my kids. I feel it is the one time of year, that it is socially acceptable to spoil your child. When my oldest was about to turn ten, I almost forgot his birthday.
   It was 7 days till his birthday when I realized I hadn't planned a thing! Not only had I forgotten this major event, but we were leaving for vacation next week. This coming weekend was the only time to do something, and I had missed this small window of opportunity.
Pretty embarrassing calling the bowling alley, (where he wanted his party), and asking if they had a spot available on Saturday, (which was only 5 days from now). Obviously it wasn't happening.
   I felt so upset with myself. How had I let this important day fall through the cracks? What did that say about me as a mom?
   I talked with my son, told him we would have the bowling party after vacation. He was fine with that, but I wasn't. My heart hurt, I felt I had let him down, and it made me feel as if I was failing at being his mom.
   Then I remembered his birthday a few years back. Money was really tight. I mean, cry yourself to sleep tight. I had had the same feeling of failure as I wrapped a couple little gifts in-between tears. When the next morning came, I remember being shocked when he was so thrilled with his presents. He kept saying thank you over and over all night. I remember feeling so silly for worrying, and grateful to God for blessing me with a child who was thankful for even the smallest of items.
This reminds me of how God can use us. He doesn't need us all preaching on street corners, or wearing brightly colored t-shirts that say I love Jesus. He just wants us. He wants to hold us, comfort us, and use us. Even when we think we have nothing to offer, he can use us. Don't let the pressure of what gifts you think a Christian has to have hold you back. Just give him yourself, and be blessed.

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