Wealth & Riches

"But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content." 1 Timothy 6:6-8

Personal Perspective:

Wealth means:  "great quantity or store of money, valuable possessions, property, or 
other riches." 

In this world, wealth and riches are perceived to be what everyone wants to abtain and what may bring someone happiness. "If only I had a million dollars or if only I had a bigger house or a new car, then I would be happy!" We dream of financial stability and ease of comfort from our financial burdens.

Let me share with you a different perspective. My husband is our sole provider and he works in the ministry. We are a family of five. We tithe and give to the things of God. My life verse is Matthew 6:33 "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." I seek to live a godly life that is focused on drawing others closer to Jesus Christ. (Titus 2:11-14) 

I honestly don't want this world's wealth or riches. I don't want a million dollars or a bigger house. Here is the funny thing. Even though, I may be considered to be "poor", my family has never been in want... We have more than enough food. We have loads of laundry and clean clothes. We have a good house with a roof over our head. God provides for my family more than abundantly!

Just this past month, I received 8 fresh pieces of salmon and two (18) homegrown eggs! "Trust in the Lord with all thy heart..." Prov. 3:5-6 He wants to provide for us, but do we trust Him? Do we believe He can and will? I'm learning to because it's not always easy. My faith keeps growing every time I receive a gift from the Lord. I try to take pictures to remember all that He does and to show my children all of His wonderful works toward our family! How great is the Father's Love! (Psalm 68:19)


Focus on Godliness/Contentment:

Godliness means "reverence, respect, piety towards God, godliness".

Contentment means "sufficiency of the necessities of life, the state of being contented; satisfaction; ease of mind."

Since my main focus isn't on wealth or riches, what do I focus on, you may ask? I focus on godliness. My priority is daily to grow in my relationship with Christ. I actually remember where I was when I made the choice and decision to be a godly woman. I was in my room (as a teenager) looking at my dresser and I remember pausing... saying, "Lord, I'm choosing to be a godly woman. That's my life goal." It's not always easy and I don't always get it right, but I never stop trying to be the godly woman God wants me to be! (1 Tim. 2:10) 

Are you focused on godliness? Are you focused on His priorities like Bible reading, prayer, and others? Are you living a pure separated life, away from all appearances of evil? Are you striving to raise your children in the Lord and helping them to understand Biblical truths? (Psalm 78:1-8)

Are you satisfied with the food and raiment God has given you? Are you thankful for each gift you receive? Do you realize all the gifts God has given especially for you? How are you keeping track of them so you don't forget all that God does?

Psalm 103:2 "Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits."

Physical wealth and riches will fade away, but whatever you invest in heaven will last for eternity! If you are concerned about clothes and food, realize God can and will provide for you, if you obey His commandments and trust Him. Remember to thank and record all He does for you!

"Godliness with contentment is a great gain." I know it's true, because God shows me every day that he can and will take care of me. :D

Appreciation

"For in death there is no remembrance of thee: in the grave who shall give thee thanks?" Ps. 6:5

Appreciate means "to be grateful or thankful for, to value or regard highly; place a high estimate on..."

Here are a list of a few things that we can be thankful for....

GOD:
* His Unconditional Love (Romans 5:8)
* Forgiveness of Sins (Psalm 103:12)
* His Word, the Bible (Psalm 77:12, Psalm 143:5)
* The Power of Prayer (James 5:16)
* Provision of ALL needs (Phil. 4:19)

OTHERS:
* Parents (Eph. 6:2)

* Spouse

* Pastor and Ministry Workers (Hebrews 13:17)
* Teachers and Coaches (Ex. 18:20)

* Employers and Employees

* Godly Friends * Any gift you receive

* Helping Hands

* All Compliments

It is very important to take notice of the work someone else is doing. Show appreciation for the love and care they have given and done for you. Give them a compliment. Send them a quick text of thanks. One small act of gratitude can bring so much encouragement to another person. 

Your words can impact someone's life today.

Life is short... Say thanks while you still have the opportunity.

THANKS:

Before I close this blog, I want to thank you and all of my readers for taking the time to read my blog posts and follow my journey! It started as a place to share my heart and update my family members of my life, but God has grown it into a small ministry of its own. Praise God He can use my experiences, thoughts, and discoveries to encourage women all over the country!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING 

3 Years of Bible Reading

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works." 2 Tim. 3:16-17

3 YEARS:

I remember the first time I tried to read through my Bible (2007), I failed miserably. Again and again, I would try and fail... But I wouldn't give up! I resolved to keep trying until I completely read through my Bible in ONE YEAR! Now this year, I am finishing up my THIRD year of Bible reading! I am resolved to read it through every year til the rapture comes! I want to see how many years of Bible reading I can do. :D

MY OWN BIBLE:

My family came from the Soviet Communist time in Ukraine. My grandpa was in prison twice for being a Baptist pastor. My mom's family was persecuted for their faith for most of her childhood. They had only ONE Bible for the entire Church! They had very little Bible literature. Every few months, the KGB would come and try to take ALL the Bibles/Bible Literature that they owned. Knowing this and hearing all the stories, I am grateful, beyond grateful for my BIBLE! It's my own and I can read it anytime I want! :)

LEARNING/TRAINING:

Every time I read my Bible, I discover something new! It's like I am putting together this BIG puzzle and each one piece with its fine ornate details make the whole picture more stunning and beautiful. :) The Bible is beyond valuable to me. I am learning how to be a good wife and mother. I am learning about the science and history of our world. I am learning math and English. I am learning about good health and nutrition. I am learning how to pray, love, and care for others. The Bible not only shows us about our spiritual needs.... but also our physical, emotional, mental needs. It is my best source for wisdom, knowledge, strength, and encouragement!

YOU:

"Read your Bible,
Pray every day,
Pray every day,
Read your Bible,
Pray every day,
And you'll.... grow, grow, grow!!"

Gratitude

Heart of Gratitude:

"Count your blessings, name them one by one,

Count your blessings, see what God has done."

Take a moment and right down the TOP five things you are thankful for.

#1 God's Salvation: 

I'm thankful that Christ died for me and offered me his gift of salvation from my sins. Now that I'm saved, I've got a home in Heaven! :D

#2 My parents & siblings: 

I have the best family. I'm so grateful for EVERYTHING they have done for me. Words simply cannot express all the gratitude I have for my parents and for my siblings! I love you all BUNCHES!

#3 My husband: 

He is my rock. He is my best friend. His love for me strengthens me and encourages me to continue. I love you, Drew! always & forever

#4 My daughters: 

God has blessed me with three beautiful daughters. I cherish them and love them. I'm so thankful for the joy of being their mom. <3

#5 My friends: 

Thank you... for being you. For loving me. For caring for me. For praying for me. For lifting me up and encouraging me. :D YOU are awesome!

Update:

From last Thursday til today, it has been a challenge. I had lots of emotional ups and downs. 

I'm thankful that on Monday, my mother-in-law babysat the girls so I could get an afternoon of "wandering". I drove along the coast, listened to Christmas carols, and simply relaxed. It was wonderful. I was also able to get some beautiful pictures of the ocean. 

Tomorrow until Sunday, my husband is off. We are having a busy schedule. Pray that everything goes smoothly. :)

Tomorrow we are visiting my sister-in-law who lives two hours away. Pray for safety and easy traveling for the entire Lee clan. THANKS!

Saturday, we plan to get the Christmas tree and decorate our little home. So excited! (I love Christmas!!)

Praises:

Thank you for your prayers for Alena and the potty training! She has been doing so well with it!!!! :D

With your prayers, God has given me a better understanding on how to get Alena to eat more varieties of food! It has been awesome to watch her progress.

Esther is growing and looking super adorable. :D

Prayer:

Please pray for Kenni who is now teething and cranky (at night).

Pray for our busy weekend. For safe travels and wonderful adventures. :D Pray for smooth transitions and fun times! :) And that we get LOTS of awesome pictures.