Pictured is Christopher and myself, during a visit to our home a few months before his death.
As I write, it is 10 years from the last embrace I had with my brother, Christopher Cederberg.
And so, on this Tuesday night, I find the word REMEMBER, at the top of my list for my Wednesday’s Word Series. Because it is this word, that is etched in my mind, as I replay the last evening of his life.
I remember well the taco dinner we had together. We had a full house with he and my sister and her children visiting. The laughter and chaos during dinner can still be heard in the back of my mind. The children running around the house, and making their way to the basement after dinner is etched in my heart. And mostly, I remember the conversation, as all of us adults moved to the living room. I remember the authenticity of my brother sharing about his drug addiction. The fact that although he had been clean for a bit, the urge to use was still strong, sometimes stronger than others. Oh, how he wished the desire would disappear. Yet, it taunted him, like a lion in the brush. Eager to use any weak moment, as an opportunity to pounce.
I then remember the family, circled in our living room, taking turns praying. Thanking God for the evening we had just spent together. Asking for strength in the days ahead. Praying specifically for Christopher, and the addiction that clawed at him.
I remember how my heart sank that night when he told us he would be leaving for a birthday party that evening, spending the night in town, instead of returning to my house. Concerned for what his night may hold, the uneasiness began to press down heavily on my chest.
I remember vividly, standing in my living room, hugging him, and both of us saying, “see ya in the morning”, as we planned to meet as a family the next day. Once again, I remember his embrace, his strong arms and over six-foot tall stature towering over me.
Because the pain is too vivid, to deep, for family, even after these 10 years, I won’t go into detail about the memories the next day held, as we learned of Christopher’s death, from an accidental drug overdose at age 32 years. But I will share that I remember all too clearly every moment of the day, as if time stood still. As if someone pressed the slow-motion button, and the world moved forward at a pace that gave way to more time than we wanted, to sit in the agony the day held for our family.
I have wrestled with REMEMBER for some time now. And over the past 10 years, I have learned to value it in a different way than I had been able to in the past. Remember caused me a lot of pain. It would replay parts of the journey that I didn’t want to watch again. It would haunt me, as I would look back at times when Chris was alive. As I would consider how things may have gone differently that night. In fact, I didn’t want to remember; I wanted to have life look so different. I wanted to have Chris here, on this earth, with us, his family. As he should be. I didn’t want the “need to remember” what it was like before he died. So, I found myself angry, pounding down Remember, because frankly, I shouldn’t need, Remember, at all. Remember wasn’t supposed to be part of our story.
However, I now find myself reconciling with Remember. Not that the pain of remembering isn’t still there. Not that my heart doesn’t still cry out at this loss. But I’m also able to embrace Remember, as I allow my heart to journey to the gratitude of having Christopher at our home the night before he died. As I’m able to be thankful for the conversation and dinner we shared together. For the prayer time we had, minutes before he left. I allow myself to remember, giving permission for time to stop, then for it to move forward in slow-motion, so I am able to soak in those moments. Granting them the opportunity to dwell within my core, becoming a part of the woman I am today.
And mostly, I remember this. I remember that we serve a God, a Savior, who meets us right smack in the midst of our difficulties. Our challenges. And yes, our addictions. Christopher knew Jesus. He had a relationship with Jesus. And just like all of us who are dealing with any type of sin, anything that dares to pull us out of God’s will, Jesus was walking with Christopher on the journey of life. He was walking with him when he was doing great, playing with his nieces and nephews, talking with friends and family. He was walking with him on those days when the journey was hard, when the tugs of the addiction were strong. He was walking with him during those times when his body gave into those cravings. When he wasn’t strong enough to stand against the temptations. And he was walking with him, when he left this earth. And when He entered his new home in Heaven.
Remember. Remember is my friend now. Because I am reminded, we are never too far gone for the love of Jesus. That He doesn’t need us to be perfect, or even close, in order to start a relationship with Him. (Romans 3:23) In fact it’s our imperfection that creates our need for a Savior. (Romans 6:23) That even in the midst of us falling into temptation, He loves us and offers us forgiveness. (1 John 1:9) That we don’t have to understand all that this life holds; we don’t have to know all the answers to the questions of “why”. And most importantly, that when we believe in Him, when we let him know we want to be His follower, we are able to experience eternal life with Him, in Heaven, after our time on this earth. (John 3:16) And with that promise, I will see Christopher again. Now that, is something worth REMEMBERing.
To my family who are reading this, I pray for you, for us, as we continue to navigate the life we lead now without Christopher. I ask that God would work in our hearts in a mighty way today, somehow providing us with a comfort and peace that may only be explained as divine. I love you all, and praise God that He has placed you in my life.
And for those of you who are reading this with a tears in your eyes, because you too have lost someone, someone who you love beyond what words can express, someone whom "remembering" brings pain of what should have been....my heart is with you, too. I'm praying for you right this minute as I write. May God grant you the strength and courage to move forward one day at a time, remembering the truths that He has to offer you today and always.
Misty Cramer, is an author and speaker whose desire is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life’s darkest challenges, as well as it’s brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you! #imagine320 #wednesdaysword #jesus #devotions #christian #encouragement #exhaustion #peace #addiction #alcoholaddiction #alcohol #drugaddiction #druguse #drugs #overdose #death #remember #hope #salvation #john316 #loss #family #siblings #love #heaven #eternallife #sin #forgiveness
Pictured is my granddaughter, Jada, laughing very hard, while enjoying some time at the playground near her home. .
I remember her coming to the birthday party. Every time we had a birthday party for one of the boys, she and my Grandma made the trip over. This time was different though. This time a tear made its way down my cheek as she walked through our door. This time she walked into our home without my Grandma. Her sister had died just months before, and for the first time, she arrived without her best friend.
It was hard for me not to have my Grandma there, but I knew it was even harder for her to be here without her. With both of their husbands in heaven, these two had become almost inseparable. They met for lunches. Trips to Frankenmuth. Visits with their children. And yes, birthday parties.
As I sat down at the table with my Great Aunt Marney, we began talking about Grandma. And during that time of sharing, her response to one of my questions has always stuck with me. I asked her what it was that she missed the most about her times with Grandma. And the biggest smile came across her face, and she said “laughing”. Really, laughing? I thought about these two sisters, best friends, and was intrigued to find out more about their laughing. I mean, I knew they always had smiles on their faces when I saw them. They were obviously “filled with the joy of the Lord”. I had to further investigate; I wanted what they had.
As the smile continued to spread across her face, I caught a glimpse of liquid in her eyes, and she began to tell me more. She told me how they would start talking, and they would finish each other’s sentences. How one of them would start to laugh, and as if laughing was the most contagious thing on the planet, it spread to the other. They would laugh with one another until their “bellies ached”…about nothing in particular…just “giggle and laugh”.
“I miss laughing with my sister”, she said, as her eyes now looked beyond the walls of the house, obviously envisioning times gone by, when she was seated at the kitchen table, finishing her sister’s sentences, and laughing until their bellies ached.
Laughter is one of those things that truly can make us “feel better”. Studies have even shown that laughing has positive impacts on our physical and emotional health. It’s a stress reliever. It fights depression. It lowers blood pressure. All of that shouldn’t come as a surprise, since scripture tells us, “A cheerful heart is good medicine” (Proverbs 17:22). What a gift God has given us in laughter!
When was the last time you laughed, the type of laugh that can’t be contained? The type of laugh that my Grandma and Aunt Marney experienced. I encourage you today, and every day, to find a way to laugh. Find those people who bring it out in you. And let out a laughter that allows God to wash over you with His joy. A laughter that is healing. A laughter that is healthy. A laughter that is contagious, and perhaps a laughter that even gives you a belly ache.
Enjoy these scriptures and quotes on laughter:
We are filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. (Psalm 126:2)
A good laugh is sunshine in the house. William Thackeray
She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future. (Proverbs 31:25)
From there to here, from here to there, funny things are everywhere. Dr Suess
A time to laugh and a time to cry. (Ecclesiastes 3:4)
Always laugh when you can. It is cheap medicine. Lord Byron
He will once again fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy. (Job 8:21)
A smile starts on the lips, a grin spreads to the eyes, a chuckle comes from the belly; but a good laugh bursts forth from the soul, overflows, and bubbles all around. Carolyn Birmingham
Misty Cramer, is an author and speaker who enjoys laughing, and whose desire is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life’s darkest challenges, as well as it’s brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!
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Pictured is my granddaughter, Layla, watching in wonder, as someone blows bubbles and they float up into the sky. Photo credit: Son, Micah Cramer @cramer.11
Sense of Wonder
My heart seemed to momentarily stop, as I gazed across canyon. Mountains bigger than anything I had ever seen. The tops of them laced with snow, as the base of them held the lushness of multiple shades of green. The clouds hung loosely in the sky, the rocky earth below them, the endless galaxy above. And it filled me with wonder.
The little spider had created its intricate web. And as intriguing as I have always found the spiderweb to be, this time it was the spider in the web that caught my eye. The contrast between her black body and the yellow stripes and dots on her back, actually was beautiful. I’m far from being someone who enjoys spiders, but this particular one, caught the eyes of our whole family. And we examined it closely, filled with wonder.
Do we take the time frequently enough to allow ourselves to be filled with wonder? Sometimes it’s the things in nature, like I mentioned above that cause us to stop and reflect on God’s goodness with a sense of wonder. But I believe there are reasons to pause, right in the midst of a seemingly “normal” day, to soak in the wonder of God.
The birth of a newborn baby. Wonder.
The flower buds in the front yard, ready to burst forth with color. Wonder.
Time spent with someone special, caressing their hand, sitting silently, yet being so very much connected. Wonder.
Watching the eyes of child light up as bubbles are blown, released into the sky. Wonder.
The hummingbird at the flower, flapping his wings at 53 beats per second. Wonder.
The gaze of a parent, looking down at their sleeping child. Wonder.
The list goes on and on. What comes to your mind today, when you hear the word “wonder”?
Below are some verses and quotes that can help inspire and encourage you. I pray that the Lord fills you with wonder today, as you catch multiple glimpses of His goodness in the midst of your daily routine.
For you are great, and do great works of wonder; you only are God. Psalm 86:10 (BBE)
Look at everything in the world as if you are seeing it for the first time, and paint everything as if you are seeing it for the last. Andrew Hamilton
And the men were full of wonder, saying, What sort of man is this, that even the winds and the sea do his orders. Matthew 8:27 (BBE)
A state of wonder is a state of mind. Margaret Stone
And hearing it, they wer full of wonder, and went away from him. Matthew 22:22 (BBE)
Wonder is the beginning of wisdom. Socarates
Make clear the wonder of your mercy, O saviour of those who put their faith in your right hand, from those who come out against them. Psalms 17:7 (NIV)
All of us have wonders hidden in our breasts, only needing circumstances to evoke them. Charles Dickens
I am as a wonder unto many; but thou art my strong refuge. Psalm 71:7 (KJV)
Misty Cramer is an author and speaker who enjoys walking alongside others in this journey we call life. Her deisre is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life's darkest challenges, as well as it's brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!
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FOCUS
The sun had not yet risen over the Houston sky, when our driver dropped my husband and I off at the MD Anderson Cancer Center that cool spring morning in 2015. I had a full day of blood work and imaging, as well as an appointment with the surgeon on the docket for this day; the day before I would undergo surgery to remove the cancer that had decided to make its home within the walls of my uterus.
Soon after my arrival that day, nausea and stomach pain began to take over my body. Could I possibly have a stomach virus the day before I was scheduled to get rid of this cancer? As the symptoms intensified, and the trips to the restroom became more frequent, I waited for my MRI, and it became clear that yes, I was indeed sick. After explaining my symptoms to those at the center, they attempted to get me in quickly. The pain in my body began to worsen; by now, I could barely make it to the restroom without assistance. However, delaying the test was not something they were interested in doing. They wanted this MRI, and they were going to get it.
I had undergone many MRI’s since my diagnosis, and I remember wondering that day how I was going to be able to lay on that cold table, without moving, without needing to stop the test so I could run to the restroom. My name was called. Upon seeing me, the faces of those caring for me turned immediately to concern. But they would see me through this. They walked me back, and as I changed into my gown, I was certain I was going to collapse. The cool tile floor beneath my feet beckoned me, begged me to lay down on it; the desire to curl up in a fetal position upon that floor took a strange type of resistance I had not met before this day. I needed to stay focused on the objective of the day, which was to get that MRI.
The man helped me onto the MRI table. The sterile, hard surface attempted to embrace me as my body shook. Focus. You can do this. Focus. My mind wanted to do anything but focus. My body wanted to be anywhere but on this table. The man explained, if I move, if I interrupt the test, they would need to start it over. I understood. I also understood that it would take more than what I possessed within myself to make it through this test, without rushing to the bathroom, without curling into that fetal position that continued to tempt me. Focus.
What would I focus upon? God, are you there? I can barely think coherently, but I know that you are the only one who can get me through this test. My focus will most certainly need to be on you. The machine began to move me inside the walls of the cylinder. And as it did, music began to play. Not just any music, but to my suprise, a familiar song of promise by one of my favorite artists. “Overcomer,” by Mandisa filled my ears. Yes, God was indeed here. My focus was on Him alone. My frail body. My fearful mind. Both were filled with laser focus on the Father who was in this cylinder with me. The Father who walks this journey with me today. The Father who would walk with me in the days ahead, as the cancer was removed from my body. The Father who made focus possible.
Focus is not always an easy mission to accomplish. The distractions are endless; ongoing temptations attempt to pull us away from Focus. And then, God.
I wonder what you may be encountering today that takes more focus than you believe you have within yourself. Do you have a work deadline, one that is weighing you down, that needs your focus? Do you have a spouse who is drifting further from you; one who needs you to take the time to focus on him/her? Do you have a child who is struggling, one who is exhausting you, one who calls for focus in a way that you feel you can’t give right now? You may not have the ability to focus on what is on your plate today, but I guarantee that if you change your focus to God, He will guide you. He will adjust the lens of whatever needs your focus today, and equip you with the strength to zoom in on it in a way that would be impossible without His strength. You may not be able to focus like you need to, but…God, He can.
I hope you are encouraged by these quotes, as well as these scriptures, that offer the reminder to put our attention unto the One who fill our hearts and minds with all things good.
Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. 1 Peter 1:13
It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light. Aristotle Onassis
Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Proverbs 4:25
Choose to focus your time, energy, and conversation around people who inspire you, support you and help you to grow into your happiest, strongest, wisest self. Karen Salmansohn
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:2
Every day is a gift from God. Learn to focus on the Giver and enjoy the gift! Joyce Meyer
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable…if anything is excellent or praiseworthy…think about such things. Philippians 4:8
When trouble comes, focus on God’s ability to care for you. Charles Stanley
Misty Cramer is an author and speaker who enjoys walking alongside others in this journey we call life. Her deisre is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life's darkest challenges, as well as it's brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!
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ANGER & ACHING
I had my Wednesday's Word all written and set to send out to you, and then the shooting happened in Texas. It somehow didn't seem fitting anymore because the words that were on my heart were now ANGER and heart ACHE. And so, with that said, I am choosing to share with you my heart today. It's a confused heart. A broken heart. An angry heart. An aching heart. But it's my heart. And part of who I will always be with my writing, is someone who is real with you. So here's my heart today: Wednesday’s Word(s): Anger & Aching
My heart is angry that there are fifteen plus families going through unspeakable pain because of this shooting.
My heart is aching for those families who will not hold their children in their laps any longer, tuck them into bed tonight…or any other night.
My heart is angry that someone can walk into a school and in a matter of minutes, take the precious lives of others.
My heart is aching for the hopes and dreams that will never come to fruition for these families.
My heart is angry at the people and systems that have failed, bringing us to this point…again.
My heart is aching, as so many search for ways to help, but don’t know how to meet the needs of the hurting.
My heart is angry that we need to create pretty memes, once again, asking for prayer for yet another American town because of the devastation of a shooting.
My heart is aching because I don’t know what to do to make it better.
As I tucked my seven-year-old granddaughter into bed tonight, my heart was broken for the grandma’s who won’t get to do that tonight. I couldn’t help but picture the parents and grandparents who sent their children to school, for just another day, counting down til summer vacation, only to have them not return home. It makes me angry. And it makes me ache inside.
Lord, I don’t have a lot of answers. But I do have a lot of anger, and a lot of heart ache. As a parent and grandparent, my head and heart cannot wrap themselves around the needless deaths of children, family members. I’m tired of it, and yet honestly, I feel helpless. I don’t know what to do, to help, to move forward, to stop it from happening again. So, I guess I’m venting here Lord. Hear my prayer today, even when I don’t really know the words to speak. You know the deepest parts of my being, the utterances that cannot be verbalized, the pain that I can’t figure out how to put into words. Take it Lord. Take my anger. Take my aching heart. Pour your comfort and strength upon those who need it most at this very minute; show those who are feeling this tragedy personally, that you are still on the throne, that you love them so very much. And show me, how to love others better today, impacting them in an eternal way. Amen
Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
Misty Cramer is an author and speaker who enjoys walking alongside others in this journey we call life. Her deisre is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life's darkest challenges, as well as it's brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!
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Wednesday’s Word: SECURITY
The day at my grandparents’ house had once again proven to be one filled with laughter, games, and of course running down the big hill their home sat upon, as it towered above the river below. A child’s paradise. Swimming. Boating. Hiding in the pine forest across the way.
After a day like that, it wasn’t surprising when we loaded in the car to head home, that the eyes of my sisters and brother and I, would quickly grow heavy and come to a close. As I leaned on the car door, my sister rested her head on my shoulder, and I felt the breeze from the open window brush against my face. The whirring of the tires could be heard, lulling me to sleep. As my dad sat behind the steering wheel, it didn’t take long before my mom glanced to the back seat, “Yup, looks like they’re all asleep already.” Although my plan was to “pretend sleep” in case my parent’s decided to say anything interesting, sleep quickly overtook me, just as it had my siblings.
As I remember back upon those childhood drives, Wednesday’s Word, security, comes to my mind. I found comfort in knowing that my two protectors were in the front seat. That as I leaned my head against that window, I was safe. Secure. The person behind the wheel would get me safely to my destination. The person next to him, would keep an eye on the road and watch me as I slept. There wasn’t a doubt in my mind; I could rest. And in 90 minutes, I would be safely delivered to my destination. Home.
Now as an adult, some of the roads I travel look a little scarier. There are roads that contain illness. Roads that contain relationship pain. Other roads that hold fear of the unknown. Potholes that suddenly appear, ready to swallow me, or at least jar me to the point that I’m hurt. Security doesn’t seem as simple as it did in those childhood days.
And yet, God gives us promises such as this verse in Psalm 4:8 that says, “I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” We can be secure in knowing that regardless of what road we may travel, we have someone in the driver’s seat who is prepared to make the journey with us. Someone who will undoubtably get us to our destination. Someone who not only provides us with security on this earth, but upon trusting in Him, provides us security forever, eternal security.
I pray that today, you are able to rest securely in the truth that Jesus loves you, and that He will walk this journey of life with you. He will deliver you to your destination, and He won’t take His eyes off you. And if you aren’t secure in knowing your eternal destination, then I pray you do that today, by letting Him know you desire a relationship with Him. (Message me if you have any questions on that.) You may soak in more of His promises by reading the scriptures below.
I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Psalm 16:8
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.Philippians 1:6
Misty Cramer is an author and speaker who enjoys walking alongside others in this journey we call life. Her deisre is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life's darkest challenges, as well as it's brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!
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Wednesday’s Word: NAMES
As a seventh grader, I walked tentatively into my art class. Since I was a very quiet young lady, I was surprised when I walked in the room and heard my name come from a group of boys in the back of the room. I didn’t know these boys knew I existed, let alone knew my name. My surprise quickly turned to pain, as one of them yelled to me, “Hey Black Teeth!” The little group laughed, as I sank lower into my seat, blinking back tears, wishing I could be anywhere, but in that room.
We have all experienced those times in our lives when people have labeled us or called us names. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always stop when we leave high school. We may enter into a job or family where the labels or names don’t cease. Perhaps it’s a name that is tied to a physical attribute we hold. Sometimes it is connected with the gifts and talents we possess or don’t possess. Other times, a name is thrown out as a “joke”, and yet when it penetrates our hearts, it is anything but.
Do you have any names that were throw out at you, ones that stung? Ones that have perhaps stuck with you for years? Ones that came from someone you respected, or even loved, making it hurt even more deeply?
Well today, with our Wednesday’s Word, NAMES, I want us to shift our focus to some of the NAMES that God has for us. He has created each of us uniquely, specifically to be a part of his family. We are Children of the Living God. Let’s allow His truths, the NAMES He has given us, to wash over the pain of other names and labels, and remove them from our hearts, replacing them with who HE says we are. Please check out the scriptures below, taking time to focus on the NAMES the Creator of the World has given you.
How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called CHILDREN OF GOD! And that is what we are! I John 3:1
But you are a CHOSEN PEOPLE, a ROYAL PRIESTHOOD, a HOLY NATION, a PEOPLE BELONGING TO GOD, that you may declare praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9
I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you FRIENDS, for everything I have learned from my Father I have made known to you. John 15:15
Do you not know that you are GOD’S TEMPLE and that God’s Spirit lives in you? 1 Corinthians 6:19
For we are his WORKMANSHIP, having been created in Christ Jesus for good works that Gid prepared beforehand so we may do them. Ephesians 2:10
Misty Cramer is an author and speaker who enjoys walking alongside others in this journey we call life. Her deisre is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life's darkest challenges, as well as it's brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!
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Wednesday’s Word: BUILD
Each Wednesday morning, it could get a little crazy around our house, as I would get my little ones around for the day and head to my weekly lifeline, Morning Glory. Morning Glory was a group of ladies from my church, who quickly became my best friends in the world. Anyone who has young children, knows it can be a time of life that can be so treasured, so beautiful, and also, let’s be honest…so life-sucking, so exhausting. Since our five sons have a fifteen-year age spread from youngest to oldest, I was in this young mom’s group for many years. Over the years, some of the faces changed. The name of the group changed. But the purpose and the need it fulfilled for young moms always remained the same.
In this group we would BUILD relationships. We would BUILD relationships with one another. BUILD relationships with one another’s children. BUILD relationship with Jesus. And, we would watch as our children would BUILD relationships with each other. Years later we would attend their weddings, often times seeing them standing up in each other’s weddings, twenty plus years after their mommies took them to Morning Glory.
The value of Morning Glory, and groups like it, are unending. God created us to be in relationship with Him, as well as with others. He created us to BUILD one another up. To encourage one another. To share in the burdens. To share in the joys. To pray together. To cry together. To laugh together. To share in the milestones. To do life together.
I wonder today, if you have people who BUILD you up? Do you have friendships, prayer partners, weekly groups who have your back? Who you can contact at any hour of the day? If not, take the time today to pray and listen to who God may bring to your mind to begin some relationship BUILDing. And if you do, give thanks for such a group. Their value is precious, and certainly a gift from our Heavenly Father.
I hope you are encouraged by the scriptures (NIV) below, where God reminds us of the importance of encouraging one another through our words. And it would be an encouragement and BUILD readers up, if you would share some of your experiences or ideas regarding this topic, in the comments. We’d love to hear about them!
Romans 15:2 Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to BUILD them up.
I Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and BUILD each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for BUILDing others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Misty Cramer is an author and speaker who enjoys walking alongside others in this journey we call life. Her deisre is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life's darkest challenges, as well as it's brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!
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Wednesday's Word: CELEBRATE
As I write, I am wrapping up several opportunities in which our family has been able to CELEBRATE together. We recently had the opportunity to CELEBRATE my son’s business with an Open House. It was complete with food, contests, and even a dunk tank! (Pictured is my husband and I celebrating, as he dunked him two out of three throws! That was fun!) Later that night, we had the opportunity to celebrate three friends who won their sporting competition. The following morning, we celebrated in church, as the gospel was shared and people came to know Jesus. WooHoo! That was the best! And today, we have a day of celebrating my granddaughter’s eighth birthday. We will enjoy a big dinner, and of course cake and ice cream.
I believe the Lord enjoys most of our celebrations. In fact, there are many scriptures where the bible asks us to celebrate with the Lord. To share with Him in our celebrations, praising Him, because every good and perfect gift is from the Lord. (James 1:17)
I also believe that we need to be careful in our celebrations, to not cause pain or hurt to others. As followers of Jesus, it is important that we keep in mind the feelings of others. To remain vigilant in our awareness that some of our celebrations may cause pain to others.
My heart has been hurt recently, by the words of many Christians, as they “celebrate” a victory that has been very important to them. I have been left wondering where the respect, compassion, love, humility, and kindness that Jesus speaks about has gone.
It is never ok to hurt other people during our celebrations. It is important that we are Christ-like. That we behave and respond to others through the words and actions that Jesus would desire.
When we celebrate Mother’s/Father’s Day, it is important to acknowledge and remember those around us who have lost a child, who desire a child.
When we celebrate our freedom on the 4th of July, it is important that we remember that at the same time we are celebrating, there are other people dying, as they continue to fight for their country.
When we celebrate that our political party of choice won an election, it is important that we not be arrogant, point fingers, and belittle others for their decisions.
When we celebrate a decision by SCOTUS, it is important to acknowledge that there are others who are left fearful and angry by the decision, who need anything but gloating, judgement, and unkind words.
For some of those examples, being Christ-like comes more easily. And yet others, we as Christians, are missing the mark. As we continue our many celebrations this summer, I would ask that we consider how we might be Christ-like in our words and actions as we CELEBRATE. Does God enjoy our celebrations and desire to be a part of them? Absolutely. Let us give Him the praise He deserves during our celebrations. Does He also desire for us to consider the feelings of those around us, as we celebrate? Absolutely. Let us take the opportunities to speak to others about what they are experiencing, asking how we could support them. Let us create awareness for the needs others have. Let us keep our mouths and keyboards closed, unless we are speaking in a way that glorifies our Lord. Let us meet people’s fear and anger with patience, kindness, gentleness, self-control, and of course, love. (Galatians 5:22)
I pray we all enjoy the weekend ahead, as we CELEBRATE all that God has blessed us with. And as we do so, let us include Him in the celebrations, while also keeping the scriptures below within our hearts.
Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving,
Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. Psalm 95:2
Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Romans 12:15
This is the day which the Lord has made;
Let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24
Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger. James 1:19
But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” James 4:6
And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” Luke 10:27
Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Philippians 2:3
Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18
Misty Cramer is an author and speaker who enjoys walking alongside others in this journey we call life. Her deisre is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life's darkest challenges, as well as it's brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!
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Wednesdays Word: YES
Several years ago, I remember sitting in my living room with pen in hand, paper laying on the table, and lump in my throat. I knew what God wanted me to write. And I knew to whom He wanted me to mail the letter once I had it completed. What I didn’t know was whether I would actually make the decision to say, YES God, I will write and send this letter. I had a great deal of pain in my heart from the person God wanted me to write. So YES, was coming with much hesitation and questioning. Can you relate?
Several people in the Bible struggled with saying YES to God. Moses argued with God when God told him to speak to Pharaoh (Exodus 6-7). Jonah attempted to flee when God asked him to go to Nineveh (Jonah 1). Gideon wrestled with God in length when God asked him to form an army to fight the Midianites (Judges 6). Sometimes it is very hard to say YES to God. Sometimes He asks of us, things that don’t make sense to us at the time. And yet, what if Moses wouldn’t have gone to Pharaoh? If Jonah wouldn’t have gone to Nineveh? If Gideon wouldn’t have changed his mind and fought the Midianites? Saying YES to God has eternal value. Saying YES to God changes lives. Saying YES to God changes history.
I wonder if there’s something today in which God is asking us to say, “YES God, I will move forward with this.” Is there a letter or phone call we don’t want to make? Is there a job change that has come up? Is there something in our marriage God is asking us to do? Is there a relationship in our family that needs healing? Is there financial assistance that we can offer someone? Is there a small voice from God, one where He is asking us to say YES, and we are hesitant? Scared? Unforgiving? Prideful?
I hope today, we will lay our hesitancies, fear, unforgiveness, and pride aside, and move forward, letting God know that YES, we will do as He directs, even if it doesn’t make sense in the moment. May we remember, history was made by people who said YES to God, even when it was difficult. Even when it didn’t make sense. Will you take a step today, and say YES to God?
Author, Misty Cramer To receive these weekly devotions, as well as other encouragement in your inbox, please subscribe at mistycramer.com.
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Proverbs 16:9 The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.
Deuteronomy 31:8 It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.
Misty Cramer is an author and speaker who enjoys walking alongside others in this journey we call life. Her deisre is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life's darkest challenges, as well as it's brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!
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