Fajita Bake Recipe / Mrs Charissa Andrews

Fajita Bake Mix

Ingredients

3 boneless/skinless chicken breasts trimmed and cut into strips

1 thinly sliced red onion

2 thinly sliced green peppers

1 thinly sliced red and yellow/orange pepper

1 package of fajita seasoning

1/3 cup water

2-3 cups shredded cheese

EVOO

In a glass baking dish, toss in your chicken strips and lay evenly. Mix the fajita seasoning with the 1/3 cup of water and mix well. Pour over top of the chicken. Add all of your diced veggies and sprinkle with extra virgin olive oil. Bake in oven at 375 for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and cover with shredded cheese and bake an additional 15 minutes. I served this over white rice and added a salad.


Mrs Charissa Andrews
Pastor's Wife
Amazing Grace Baptist Church
St Peters, MO

The Perfect Pastor's Wife / Mrs Vicky Mutchler

Mrs Vicky Mutchler

Pastor's Wife

Grandview Baptist Church

Beavercreek, OR

The Perfect Pastor’s Wife

Wouldn't it be nice if there was a book entitled How to Be a Perfect Pastor’s Wife?  We could read and reread the chapters….. and POOF – out pops a perfect pastor’s wife!

But what would an ideal pastor’s wife look like?  There is no official job description. The Bible lists qualifications for deacon’s wives and older women. We get no instructions. It’s not a paid position….or at least mine isn’t! It comes with expectations. Every member has a different idea of how we should act, look and what areas we should serve in.

You may say, I didn't know he was going to be a pastor when I married him!

Some of us knew we were marrying a man called into ministry, but many do not. 

It’s like this...I've been a pastor’s wife for almost 40 years, I have found that the best person for me to be is ME! People like it when you feel comfortable being yourself!

The title says it all….”Pastor’s Wife”...that requires you to be the pastor’s WIFE!

It doesn't require:

Piano playing

Singing

Nursery Director Resume

Christian School Teaching Degree

Bachelor Degree in Theology

….no! It means you can be the best wife to your husband that you can possibly be!

Because we are in the ministry...I believe we should give it our best!

Be friendly.

Approachable.

Down to Earth.

Fun.

Caring.

Compassionate.

Available.

You may wish you were just like Pastor So n SO’s wife…..YOU”RE not! YOU ARE YOU!

Expectations are like girdles...hopefully they were discarded years ago!

 

 
Have a super day!

"It's That Time of Year!" / Mrs Chris Richter

Mrs Chris Richter

Pastor's Wife

Liberty Baptist Church

Fircrest, WA

  “IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR” 

 It’s that time of year where there’s something different in the air. People are nicer, smile more, hold the door for you at the store, let you go first in the check out line. At Christmas time the hearts and minds of people are filled with fond memories and we try to recreate those memories in the lives of our children, friends and other loved ones. When we do recreate, our hearts are warmed once again with those precious days gone by. I can remember so many things that just bring a warm smile to my face, when I think about them and as I reminisce with those in my life now. I remember the big picture window that my dad would paint a Christmas scene on. It was something different every year. I remember going out and playing in the snow with my sister and when we came in our mittens were placed on the radiator and our dad would rub our hands until they got warm. Mom would make hot cocoa and I can imagine us having a cookie or two with the hot cocoa. I  remember Christmas morning and the opening of the gifts. Boy was I an ungrateful child! I would hold up the item and make a face at it if I didn’t like it. We laugh about it now but it wasn’t funny then. You have your own memories that are special to you. What are they? Don’t forget them! Share them with your children and other loved ones. Let others share theirs with you. Memories are a gift.  They are an opportunity to go back to that special place once more.  Memories help us be grateful for what we had and what we have. I hope on Christmas day you will share with your children the memory of what Christmas is all about by reading the Christmas story to them. We have read this as a family before  we had children. What a blessing it was last year to hear our granddaughter reading with us. The greatest memory we have as Christians is the memory of our adoption into Gods family. I pray you are sharing that amazing memory with those in your life and the new ones you will meet along this journey of memory making.  Psalm 20:7b”......but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.”   Make the Christmas season a time of making and sharing memories!

  MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Game Time Fun!!! / Mrs Amy Sapp

Mrs Amy Sapp

O'Fallon, MO

At our church I have been in charge of games and some how involved in skits for as long as I can remember!  If you know me at all, you know that I love to laugh, but better than that I love to make people smile / laugh!!  Making people laugh, makes my heart smile!  If you are involved in the games or skits at your church activities, do your best to just let loose and have fun!!


Proverbs 17:22 says..  "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine:  but a broken spirit drieth the bones."


You never know who will be at one of your church functions, that is at a breaking point in their life, or is just flat out having a bad day.  If all you need to do is do something silly to make them smile, then do it!!  That smile may just brighten their whole day! 


We are having a Ladies Cookie Exchange Christmas Party this Saturday, I have 2 games I have just finished preparing for it.  Simple little games, that I am going to share.  I think I spent less than $5.00 on both games combined. 


The Mint Game (great icebreaker game) - you sit your group in a circle, give them each 2 mints to start with.  As you ask questions, if their answer is "yes" they pass one mint to the right, if their answer is "no" then they pass one mint to the left.  At the end of the game, whoever has the most mints wins!!  You could choose whatever questions you wanted..  Here are some of the questions I am going to use...


Have you ever gone more than 3 days without taking a shower? 
Do you make your bed every morning? 
Do you usually turn your library books in on time? 
Do you hide your own treats? 
Do you always put make up on before leaving the house? 
Do you shave your legs in the winter?


I have about 20 questions, and trust me this will get your group talking and relating to each other. 


The Paper Plate Game (you can adjust this to whatever theme you are doing) - for this game you need a paper plate for everyone and a pen.  Have them put the plate on their head and draw as instructed.


Draw a line on the floor.
Draw a Christmas Tree, add decorations if you feel so inclined.
Draw a star on top of your tree.
Draw a fireplace with a  mantel, next to your tree.
Draw a stocking hanging from the mantel of your fireplace.
Draw a present below the tree.


Have them take the plates off of their heads, and give out points for various things...


2 points if your tree touches the floor
2 points if your stocking is touching the mantel
1 point if your star touches the tree
1 point if your star is above the tree
1 point for each ornament on your tree
1 point if your fireplace is not touching the tree
1 point if you drew something decorative on your stocking
2 points if your present is under your tree


These are two very simple games, just to have a little fun.  I have done some pretty wild and crazy things with games before that I can share another time!  One year I did a sort of a game where a lady ended up with a pie in her face.  And I have had ladies, even years later say, "Do you remember when Maria got a pie in her face?" 


Let loose and just have FUN!!!

Basic Sugar Cookie & Royal Icing Recipe / Mrs Traci Ferguson

This time of year is especially fun for those of us who love to bake!  We get to drag out our cookbooks and try every new cookie, pie, and dessert we want, simply because it is the month of December!  My tried and true recipe is for a basic sugar cookie and royal icing that never seems to fail!  So break out those cookie cutters and let your imagination take over!

Sugar Cookie Dough (makes 12-15 thick cookies)

1 1/2 sticks salted butter (softened)

3/4 c. sugar

1 egg

2 tsp vanilla (I use 1 tsp. vanilla and 1 tsp. almond extract)

2 c. flour

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp baking soda

Cream the butter and sugar until well mixed.  Beat in the egg and vanilla/almond.  Slowly add the dry ingredients until well blended.  Chill for one hour before rolling out.  

Royal Icing 

6 oz (3/4 c) warm water

5 Tbl of meringue powder

1 tsp cream of tartar

2 1/4 lbs of powdered sugar ( a two pound bag plus an additional 1 3/4 - 2 cups extra)

In a mixer bowl, pour in the warm water and the meringue powder.  Mix it with a whisk by hand until it is frothy and thickened...about 30 seconds.  Add the cream of tartar and mix for 30 seconds more.  Pour in all of the powdered sugar at once and place the bowl on the mixer.  Using the paddle attachment, on the lowest speed, mix slowly for a full ten minutes.  Icing will get thick and creamy.  Cover the bowl with a damp tea towel to prevent crusting and drying.  Thin the icing with very small amounts of water until you reach the desired consistency.  

Traci Ferguson

Ankeny, Iowa

The Perfect Christmas / Mrs Mindy Holeman

The Perfect Christmas

Mrs Mindy Holeman

Pastor's Wife

Amazing Grace Baptist Church

Wichita, KS

Have you ever been to a family get together and there was that one person that was completely overwhelmed and stressed out? Did you notice that the entire mood revolved around this person? Are you that person? Our spirit is so very important! We have the power to make or break an event or in some cases an entire holiday season.   Christmas time is a time to spend with your loved ones and cherish some memories made. Whether you are cooking, baking, decorating or making out your Christmas cards remember that these times can become a treasured memory or a time of great regret. We can be so focused on the details that we forget the people we are planning for. When I was newly married I was overwhelmed by the holidays and the idea of having everything just right. The matching outfits for the perfect Christmas picture, the decorations, the meal, and the gifts were all carefully orchestrated to prove to the world that Mindy Holeman had it all together. Sometimes this meant spending money we didn’t have, staying up later than I should, and even sacrificing my time with the Lord all in the name of…PRIDE! I know none of you have ever done this so let’s just say for the next few paragraphs I will be speaking to me.

Let’s take a look at some of the effects of what I did in the name of “Jesus is the reason for the season”.

Every December I would shop for the perfect outfits to take our Christmas pictures in so I could show off my perfect little family. In reality, we didn’t always have the money to buy new outfits but I have a patient and loving husband that made sacrifices so he could please his wife. I should have never done that to him in the first place. I added extra stress to him that really could have been avoided if I would have thought of someone other than myself. After that fact, I would feel guilty and it would affect my mood or spirit toward him.

Decorations!! I LOVE TO DECORATE!! I love to decorate so much that no one else is allowed to do it because… they don’t do it right! That’s right. I said it! I’m a perfectionist! I say “I am” because I am still working on this. I am one of those ppl that say “ yes sweetheart, you can put the star on the tree”. And then I spend the next 20 mins fixing it so it is “just right”. “yes you can help me decorate the tree”…(just make sure that you do it just like me!!) If I keep that up, one day, my girls will stop asking if they can help and I will be alone and sad because I chased everyone away with my need to have things “just so”. So what if only the first 4 ft of the tree is decorated! You did it together! Don’t miss out on the time you have together by trying to make everything perfect. Hang loose girlfriend!

Let talk food! Did you know that you don’t have to drag the china and spend $150 on Christmas dinner in order to celebrate Christmas? Did you know that your family would be just as happy with a bowl of cereal for Christmas dinner? I know! I did it! Two years ago I had surgery during the holidays and my health was poor. (due to all the unnecessary stress I’m sure!) We had cereal and played board games for Christmas! I have to say it was that most stress free holiday I can remember… ever! There is nothing wrong with cooking dinner with all the trimmings but if it is not in the budget or you are going to stress out… it isn’t worth it! So what if your pie was burnt to a crisp, it is not worth the anxiety. (we don’t need the calories anyway! Ha!) Why would you fall into sin in order to celebrate the Savior? (or impress your mother in law?) Again… not worth it!

Gifts! Oh as if I haven’t confessed enough…Don’t make a mistake by over buying and losing sight of what is really important. I have to admit I love to give gifts!! I love to make people feel special and wanted. I love to make personal gifts and will stay up all night long, every night for a month making a gift if I knew it would make my loved ones feel special. I would also be crabby because of lack of sleep; I would be rushed and disorganized because I have focused so much on my giving that neglected the one I’m giving to. This will leave you overburdened and completely stress not to mention possible marriage problems all because we want to impress.

Are you getting the theme here? I was a holiday control freak!

I am going to share with you some things that I have learned through the years to help avoid being a GRINCH!

1. Be sure that no matter what your plans are for the holidays, don’t neglect the Lord! He is the reason we celebrate. What are you giving Jesus for Christmas? Be sure you give him your heart, your time and plans! Be faithful! Your plans are not more important than reading the Bible, praying, witnessing, and going to church.
2. Plan ahead but be flexible!! Be prepared for things to go wrong!! You CAN’T have everything your way! Maybe you’re late because God spared you from a horrible accident and let your 5 yr old put the star on and then… step away from the tree! The bible says Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with ALL thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In ALL thy ways acknowledge him and HE shall direct thy paths! Trust Him!
3. Delegate!! If you have a lot to do, ask for help. Let someone else do it! (And then don’t micro manage them so that it is perfect) Instead, enjoy the time spent together. Whether it be duties at church or at home, don’t try to tackle everything in order to prove that you’re super woman. If you insist.. You will be a super crabby woman!!
4. Don’t try to keep up the Jones’s. You don’t have to have________to be happy or to make memories. Try making homemade decorations or reuse the old ones. DON’T spend money you don’t have, to buy things you don’t need to make a impression on people who would be just as happy if you just gave them your time and a happy spirit!  
5. Be where you are!! Enjoy the time you have! Let people be who they are and treasure these memories! They will fade so quickly! They will fade and what is left is … What people remember about you.

Christmas is a special time to spend with loved ones and make memories that we will cherish for a lifetime. Let’s not be a Grinch!

Love you ladies!

Merry Christmas!!

Laundry!!!! / Mrs Paula St. Amour

Mrs Paula St. Amour

Belleville, MI

Amy asked me to write another blog post, and I kept thinking last night about what I wanted to write, and a few things came to mind, but I could never settle on one thing. This morning when my wonderful husband woke me up at 4am, and I could not go back to sleep, I started to think about it again, and I kept coming back to the same thing, so, here it goes…

LAUNDRY!!!

I know you are all thinking, the same thing I used to think, NO!!!!!

Now, my system is what works for me, but I have told several people about it, and the people that have tried it like, it too, and have adapted it to fit their needs. I am not perfect and some times, my laundry schedule gets messed with due to sickness, conferences, parties, etc… but for the most part we stick to it, and if not, I go crazy with backed up laundry! J I am not telling you that this will work for you and your house, but it does work for us.

Quite a few years ago when we were still living in Northwest Indiana, my husband and I had a friend that went to the same church we went to. She always looked lovely, and I told her how I loved her clothes, and the fact that they never looked warn, faded, or stained. Her clothes looked brand new all the time! One day I was over at her house and she was doing her laundry so I asked her for some advice to help me with my laundry. At the time, we were living in an apartment that did not have laundry hook-ups, so I would have to make a trip to the laundromat every 2-3 weeks, depending on how the laundry looked, but no matter how I separated my laundry, after a few months of washing and drying my clothes always started to look faded and well-loved. She told me her secret… wash everything together, wash it on cold, and dry it on low. Growing up my mom always told me, separate your colors, wash everything on hot, and dry it on high to get it done faster and get the next load in. Washing in cold water keeps the colors from running and your clothes wont look faded, now don’t get me wrong, after YEARS, they will still fade, but years, not months! Drying on low temps, keeps your clothes from becoming faded as well, because if you dry on high, you tend to “fry” your clothes and they will darken or lighten over time, depending on their color.

It was genius… well I took it and ran with it, then took it a step farther… I started to sort by person. I got clothes hampers for each person in my house, one for towels, and one for bedding. Everyone started to put their own clothes into their baskets and my life changed on laundry day. Now, I no longer have to sort, before washing, and then again after drying while folding. What a stress relief, and time saver. At the time that I started my oldest two children were 3 and 2, and I was pregnant with the 3^rd. All of Aaron’s clothes went into the same washer, at the same time, then to the dryer. They all came out at the same time, they got folded into his basket and then all I had to do was put them away when I got home from the laundromat!

I have continued this and now have 5 kids. We started taking it a step farther now that the kids are older, and we have a washer and dryer in our house. Everyone has their own laundry day, they do their own laundry from start to finish, wash, dry, fold, and put away. Here is our schedule:

Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday
Aaron (10yrs)	Amanda (8yrs)	Adrienne (6yrs)	Andrew (4yrs)	Adam (10mts)	Mom & Bedding	Dad & Towels

We wash one load a day, except Saturday and Sunday, those days get 2 loads. When socks are removed they are placed in a lingerie bag (bought from dollar tree) and zipped shut, everyone has their own sock bag, and the socks stay in the bag while washing and drying with their other clothes. (no more socks inside the pant legs, heaven!) Once dry they come out, and are mated and put away along with the rest of the laundry that is done. There is no more arguing or fighting over who stole my shirt, etc… My kids wear a minimum of 12 outfits a week, 2 every day for school and 1 each day on the weekends, 7 pairs of underwear, 7 pairs of socks (for the girls it is probably more like 14 pairs of socks, they love changing socks), 2 pairs of pajamas a week, if we have soccer on Saturday, there is another outfit change in there for everyone, so we end up with a full load per person each week. Craig likes to fold towels, so he washes them on his day, and now my 8 year old will sneak into my closet and steal my skirts and shirts to complete her outfits, and I usually don’t notice until she is wearing them at school… I can’t break her of that habit though, still working on it! J If anyone has some tips on that one, fell free to share! J

I hope you all have a wonderful day. 

STARR'S CHICKEN SALAD STARS RECIPE / Mrs Starr Tharp

STARR'S CHICKEN SALAD STARS RECIPE

Mrs Starr Tharp

Independence, MO

I can't even begin to count how many times I have made these OR passed out the recipe. People love, love, love these SO much that I always make a double batch, because I KNOW they will get eaten. It's a "given" that I make these for our ladies Christmas fellowship. This chicken salad is so versatile. I've made it into a ball and served it with club crackers, my sister-in-law has heated it, thinned it with cream and poured it over pasta and I've baked it inside crescent rolls for a heartier snack. And well..... it's just plain good to eat with a fork! If you try these, be sure to leave me a comment and let me know what you thought of them. I like to hear what you have to say!

STARR'S CHICKEN SALAD STARS

2 - 3 C. Cooked, cut up chicken
1 (8 oz) Cream cheese
4 Tblsp. Melted margarine
2 Tblsp. Chopped onion
2 - 3 Tblsp. Milk
½ tsp. Salt
1/4 tsp. Pepper
1 pkg wonton wrappers (the small ones)

Cream the cheese, melted margarine, salt, pepper, milk and onions together. Add chicken and stir to combine. Set aside. Lay 12 wonton wrappers on counter top. Brush top side of each wonton wrapper lightly w/ oil and press into lightly sprayed mini muffin tin (oil side up). Bake empty shells at 350 for 5 minutes. This is what they should look like when they are done baking.

These little shells can be used for a variety of savory or sweet fillings: Mini omelets made with scrambled eggs, ham & cheese; pizza fillings; crab rangoon filling; dessert fillings like ice cream, fruit, puddings, etc...
Anyway, back to the recipe! Remove muffin tin from oven & repeat until all shells have been baked. I have made the shells a day ahead before. I just make them all, make sure they are cool and then seal them in gallon size Ziploc bags. When you are ready to use them, place empty shells on baking sheet & fill each one w/ about 1 Tblsp of the chicken salad. (I always prepare these up to this point and set them aside until just before I need to serve them. Then pop the filled shells in the oven 5 minutes before serving time). After all the stars have been filled, place baking sheet with filled stars back in oven and bake an additional 5 minutes. Makes about 50 stars.
For a “heavier” snack: use croissant roll dough. Fill each triangle, fold over and pinch shut. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes on lightly sprayed cookie sheet.

A Trip to the Hospital = A Changed Life / Mrs Denise Baker

A Trip to the Hospital = A Changed Life

Mrs Denise Baker

Pastor's Wife
Victory Baptist Church

Bronx, New York

On May 5, 2014, my daughter, Makenzie, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes twenty-four days before her eleventh birthday. A few days before she was diagnosed, I noticed that she had lost a lot of weight, was constantly thirsty, and frequently using the restroom. I will never forget that Sunday night when I knew this was much more than just a growth spurt or a kidney infection as her symptoms became worse. I prayed and asked God to give me wisdom as to whether I should take Makenzie to the Emergency room or just try to get her in to her pediatrician the next morning.  I must say, the Lord has never failed me when I have asked for wisdom!! Right away, I remembered that I had a meter to test blood sugar from when I had gestational diabetes with my son during the last two weeks of my last pregnancy. I got the meter ready and pricked Makenzie’s finger. I couldn’t believe my eyes….the meter read 601. I immediately realized that we needed to take Makenzie to the emergency room. My husband dropped Makenzie and me off at Albert Einstein Hospital in the Bronx. They got Makenzie a bed and started an I.V. and told me they would be doing an EKG and checking Makenzie for acid in her blood. Makenzie and Dr. Rebecca, the doctor on call, had a lot in common and that helped calm Makenzie’s nerves. A NYC emergency room can get a little crazy at night, so when a drunk man who had appeared to have been in a fight was brought in and started exposing himself, (thank God Makenzie didn’t see anything) they moved her to a private room in the E.R. with a door that we could close to all of the craziness. Around one a.m., Dr. Rebecca came and asked me to step in to the hallway so she could explain what was going on with Makenzie. She began to describe that there are two types of diabetes and Makenzie has the bad one where her pancreas stopped working. With a very sympathetic look on her face, she explained that Makenzie will need a pump eventually and will have this for the rest of her life. I began to cry and felt so helpless as a mom….Did I do something wrong??….Could this have been prevented?? I called my husband to let him know, and I pulled myself together as much as I could and went back in the room where Makenzie was sleeping. I just stared at her beautiful fair skin and blonde hair and begged God to give me the right words to say to her to let her know that she has T1 diabetes. It wasn’t very long before she woke up and God gave me the words to say. I remember telling her that whatever the outcome of the tests, God is with us and He has a plan. He is allowing this to happen and we can make the best of this. I assured her that she has an incredible support team in her family and we would all be by her side. I remember asking her if she would be ok with whatever the outcome of her sickness was, and she said yes. I began to tell her she has T1 diabetes. She took it like a champ! I could tell she was worn out and told her to get some rest. A while later she awoke, and I wanted to see if she remembered the talk we had, so I asked her if she remembered what her diagnosis was. With a very serious look on her face she said, “Yes, you said I have mesothelioma.” And then she started laughing and said, “Got ya!!” One of the things I am most thankful for is Makenzie’s sense of humor; it has made this journey more bearable. 

A few hours later, Makenzie was transferred to the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, and was put on the cancer floor. There we got our training on how to live with this new disease. Makenzie’s roommate was a four year old little girl with cancer. She had already been there over a month. Watching girls and boys hooked up to all sorts of machines made us all very thankful that Makenzie’s diagnosis was T1 diabetes and not something worse. God has allowed us to come in contact with some amazing doctors who have taught us so much. 

2 Corinthians 12:9 says And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. I am overwhelmed at how God has changed my life and the lives of my family through this disease. I have watched Makenzie use this disease to help others. She and her sisters have recently started crocheting hats and scarves for children who are in the hospital. Am I glad Makenzie has T1 diabetes? No, T1 diabetes can be overwhelming at times. Do I wish I could take it away? Yes, but unfortunately I can’t. But I do know God has an awesome plan for her life and I would be crazy to get in the way of that. If we let Him, God can use situations that are placed in our lives for His glory.  

Still I Wouldn't Trade Being a Woman for Being a Man Anyday!! / Mrs Sarita Buchanan

Mrs Sarita Buchanan

Pastor's Wife

Central Baptist Church

Baton Rouge, LA

STILL I WOULDN'T TRADE BEING A WOMAN FOR BEING A MAN ANYDAY!

Man has to put up with woman and all her hormones and sometimes silly and contentious ways.  (to have wearisome tendencies to quarrels and disputes.)

Pro.  21:19 - "It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and angry woman."  26:21 - "As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man (or woman) to kindle strife."  Then Romans 2:8 - "But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, (v.9) Tribulation and anguish upon every soul of man that doeth evil...."

Contentious also is another word for rebelliousness.  Deut.  31:27 - "For I know thy rebellion; and thy stiff neck:  behold, while I am yet alive with you this day, ye have been rebellious against the LORD;  and how much more after my death?"  Joshua 22:23 - "For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.  Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king."  Nehemiah 9:17 - "And (they) refused to obey neither were mindful of they wonders that thou didst among them;  but hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed a captain to return to their bondage;  but thou are a God ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness, and forsookest them not." 

 Proverbs 17:11 - "An evil man (woman) seeketh only rebellion:  therefore a cruel messenger shall be sent against him."

Jeremiah 28:16 - "Therefore thus saith the LORD;  Behold, I will cast thee from off the face of the earth:  this year thou shalt die, because thou hast taught rebellion against the LORD."

REBELLION = WHEN YOU KNOW TO DO RIGHT AND REFUSE TO DO IT

In Numbers 12:1 - 10 we see that Miriam was rebellious and had bitterness in her heart against Moses.  What happened because of her contentious rebelliousness?  The Lord gave both Miriam and Aaron leprosy because they "spoke" against His servant Moses. (v. 8) Then in Deuteronomy 24:9 we see that the Lord told the Israelites to remember what HE did unto Miriam.  She knew to do right and didn't do it.  She followed the wrong person and did the opposite as to what the Lord would have her to do.

Oh be careful what you do!!!!  (2 Corinthians 5:10)

 We do reap what we sow!!! (Galatians 6:7-9)

For our Father up above is looking down upon us!!  (Proverbs 15:3)



THINKFULNESS = THANKFULNESS / Mrs Amy Sapp

THINKFULLNESS = THANKFULNESS

Mrs Amy Sapp

O'Fallon, MO

It's that time of year!!  Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, more than likely this month at some point in time we have all thought about something we are thankful for, or have been asked what we are thankful for.  Every day of every week of every year we all have something to be thankful for.  Even in the worst of situations, there is ALWAYS something to be thankful for. 

Many times during a "praise" report time at church, people (me included), will say things like, "I am thankful for my salvation"  or "I am thankful for my husband".  If I really "think" on those things, WOW, it really makes my heart thankful!  I am not only thankful for my salvation, but when I think of what my Jesus went through to bring me where I am today, that is way beyond my human comprehension!!  I am not only thankful for my husband, but when I think on the things my husband does for me and our family without complaint, he is truly an amazing man. 

Take a little extra time to think on the things that make you thankful!  Don't take anything for granted!  I hope everyone has an AMAZING Thanksgiving, be sure to laugh and smile A LOT!  Turn your scales back 10 pounds before you go to bed tonight, and eat lots of turkey tomorrow!!  Gear Up and Gobble Down!!

I am thankful for each and everyone of you!  A special thanks to all of you ladies who are Pastor's Wife's, Thank You for standing behind your husband so that he can lead in the ministry. 


1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18
Rejoice evermore.  Pray without ceasing.  In every thing give thanks:  for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 



Recipe : Snow Cocoa / Marcella Smith

SNOW COCOA!!

Mrs Marcella Smith

Pastor's Wife

Magnolia, OH

Although this looks like a simple recipe, it is extremely delicious. Works well for those very few that don't like chocolate. haha I have used it for 2 years at my Ladies Christmas Coffee and there was not a drop left!  I doubled the recipe with out any trouble. If it is too rich you can add a bit more milk. Also you can make it on the stove top if you are in a hurry, just be careful not to scorch the chocolate. You may want to use a double boiler for melting the chocolate. Found this recipe on Pinterest. :)Perfect for the holidays! Enjoy!

Snow Cocoa

Ingredients -

• 2 cups whipping cream
• 6 cups milk (I usually use whole milk or 2%)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 12 oz pkg. white chocolate chips (try to use Ghiradelli if you can – YUM!)

Directions -

1. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker.
2. Heat on low for 2-2 1/2 hours or until chocolate is melted and mixture is hot.
3. Stir well to blend.
4. Enjoy from a Snowman mug on a chilly day.

Cast all your care upon Him / Mrs Charissa Andrews

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you

~I Peter 5:7

“Mom, something is wrong with my computer. I can't get it to pull up my math homework that I saved.”

“Okay honey. Just bring it in to me, I'll fix it.”

“Dad, my bike chain fell off again! I can't ride it like this.”

“No big deal bud, just bring it into the garage and Dad'll take care of it.”

“Mom, my Nabi isn't turning on. What's wrong with it? I can't get it to work.”

“It's okay, bring it to me and I'll figure it out.”

Don't you love the fact that when your children need help they call on you? I love that even my teens still need me to “fix” things. That they know to call on me. I take much pleasure in every opportunity to shine as a “Super Mom” in their eyes. It brings my mommy heart joy to be relied on, to be trusted. The same is true for our Heavenly Father. He desires for us to bring our care to Him. ALL of our care. We believe that every single word, jot and tittle in the Bible is on purpose. He tells us to bring ALL our care to Him. Not just to bring it to Him, but to cast it upon Him. And better than just telling us to do that, this verse tells us WHY. Because He cares for us.

What if the conversations with my children went like this:

“Mom, something is wrong with my computer. I can't get it to pull up my math homework that I saved.”

“Okay honey. Just bring it in to me, I'll fix it.”

“But what if you can't?”

“Dear, it'll be fine. Just bring me the computer.”

“I know, but...what if it doesn't work? What if I can't hand in my homework on time and I get a zero for the assignment?”

“Listen to me. Haven't I fixed your computer before?”

“Yes, but...what if it doesn't work this time? Maybe I better try to fix it myself first.”

“Dad, my bike chain fell off again! I can't ride it like this.”

“No big deal bud, just bring it into the garage and Dad'll take care of it”

“Dad, this is a special bike. I saved my money for a long time to buy this bike.”

“I know that son. Just bring it to me in the garage and I'll fix it. It's just a chain.”

“Oh great! My friends are waiting for me. You probably won't be able to fix it in time.”

“Listen to me. I've fixed many chains before. You just have to bring it to me.”

“Mom, my Nabi isn't turning on. What's wrong with it? I can't get it to work.”

“It's okay, bring it to me and I'll figure it out.”

“Okay, here it is.”

“Thank you. I'll be able to fix this...wait, what are you doing?”

“I'm taking it back. It isn't fixed yet.”

“If you will leave it with me, I can fix it.”

“Well, okay. Here, you can try to fix it. But I'll hold on to it too.”

“Dear, you need to let go of it. Just give it to me.”

“Maybe you don't care enough about my Nabi to really fix it.”

“Listen to me, I care about YOU.”

How silly would that be? I do know if my children responded that way to me, I would be hurt. Especially after I have already been proven to be a loving, caring parent. How much more does it hurt our Heavenly Father when we don't trust Him enough to cast all our care upon Him? “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?” Matthew 7:11

“Heavenly Father, my heart is broken. How could they have treated me like that?”

“Bring it to Me, I'll fix it.”

“Jesus, what are we going to do about our financial situation? How will we make it?”

“Bring it to Me, I'll take care of it.”

“Dear God, this illness. I'm scared.”

“I know, child. Cast all your care upon Me, I'll take care of everything.”

Can you do it? Can you just bring it all to Him? He is a worthy God, a proven Father. He sees your need. He understands your fears. He has it all under control.

“Father, I need....”

“My child, bring it here.”

Mrs Charissa Andrews

Pastor's Wife

St Peters, MO

Red Light Green Light / Mrs Amy Sapp

Red Light / Green Light

Mrs Amy Sapp

O'Fallon, MO

Have you ever played the child's game "Red Light Green Light"?  Even maybe as an adult with your own children, down at the other end calling the "red light green light" signals?  Everyone starts at one end, the goal is to make it to the other side before anyone else.  When "Green Light" is called, you run with all your might!  When "Red Light" is called out, you stop immediately!  What happens if you don't STOP?  You are sent back to the beginning, to start all over!

I was thinking about this game not to long ago, as I was calling out the signals to the children that we work with in our "Super Church".  We all start at the beginning line of life and our goal is to finish our race with everything we've got!

1 Corianthians 9:24

Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth
the prize?  So run, that ye may obtain. 

As soon as "Green Light" is called.  We run with all of our power!!  When the Lord gives us the go ahead with anything we should run and run with all our heart and might!  If the Lord puts it in your heart to do something, do it to the best of your ability!  If it is of the Lord, do not hesitate!    There have been several times over the past few years that I have had ideas of starting this blog.  However, it just wasn't the right timing.  If I had started it before the Lord was ready for me to start it, I have no doubt in my mind that I would have given up on it already.  The Lord put certain people in my life, to get me motivated and to show me that this was something that the Lord wanted me to do.  And now, at this time, this is one way that the Lord wants me to serve Him, so I want to do it with all of my might, and do it to please Him. 

Deuteronomy 6:5

And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart,
 and with all thy soul, and with all they might.

When the "Red Light" is called, we need to STOP!  We could be doing something that would be leading us or others into the wrong direction.  Or it could be that whatever we are doing, is something we should be doing or will be doing, but not the right timing.  If it is something you are unsure of, have patience.  Pray, wait on the Lord, let Him guide you!  I went through several years of Bible college dating the same guy.  We were engaged to be married.  We were in "love".  Two weeks before our wedding, the Lord said, STOP!!  Was it hard??  Yes, it was incredibly hard, but that man was not who the Lord had planned for my husband.  And I am sure glad I did wait!

Psalm 27:14

Wait on the Lord:  be of good courage, and he shall strenghthen thine heart:  wait, I say, on the Lord.

What if you have to start all over, what if you fall?  No big deal!!  Get up, clean yourself off, and begin again, with the same strength and zeal you had the first time!  The only race we have to run, is our own!  Stay on the right course, if the Lord says STOP, then stop.  If not, keep on going!  Finish your race, get your prize!!  Let the Lord direct your path!!

Proverbs 3:6
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.




Chili Mac Recipe / Kristalee Miller

Chili Mac

•3Tbs chili powder (or your desired amt)

•1lb hamburger

•1-2 cans 15oz tomatoes

•1-2 cans of tomato sauce

•1C macaroni (or other pasta)

•1/8-1/4c dehydrated onion (or 1 small fresh onion)

•Water- as much as you prefer

•mild chedder cheese or other favorites like crackers or sour cream.

Brown your hamburger in a large pot (Darin if you need to). Dump everything in listed above, EXCEPT the toppings. Cook on med high heat until macaroni is fully cooked. Serve in Bowls with your favorite topping. Makes at least 6-8 (1 cup) servings.

By Kristalee Miller

God's IF / THEN Chart / Mrs Laurie Loveless

God’s IF/THEN Chart

     When our kids were little we had an “IF/THEN” chart from Doorposts Publications.  This chart hung on the wall in our parent/child conference room-- our bathroom.  The chart had a list of “if” you do this wrong action “then” this will be your consequence.  (The parent filled out the consequence for each infraction before hanging up the poster.)  I loved it! No need to remember what you did the last time an infraction occurred and no doing one thing for one child and then doing something else for another if it was the same offense.  There is also a “Blessings Chart” to go along with the “IF/THEN” so that positive, correct behaviors and attitudes are reinforced and rewarded at the same time the negative is discouraged and trained out.

     Well, God has an “IF/THEN” and a Blessings Chart too. Did you know that? Absolutely!! In the Old Testament we read many times: “If you do this _____________ (obedient action) then I will ____________ (blessing) but if you do this _________________ (sinful choice) then I will _____________ (consequence).” 

     One example of this is found in I Kings 9:4-9. In this passage, God is talking to Solomon. (Please don’t take my word for it; go read the account for yourself.) God says, “If thou wilt walk before me...then I will establish…but if ye shall at all turn from following me then will I cut off Israel…”  God is very clear about His expectations to Solomon and the blessings or consequences.  The choice is Solomon’s.

     Our society today breed’s the desire for blessings without responsibility and actions without consequences.  However, as God’s children we cannot fall into this mindset.  God doesn’t change.  He is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8).  He wants to bless us, but blessings come with responsibilities fulfilled.  He still has an IF/THEN for us as well.

If we want to be more Christlike then we have to renew our mind.  And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:2).  We do that by studying and meditating on the Word of God.   Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. (Psalms 119:11) & Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Philippians 4:8)

 If we want to be firmly planted and grounded in our faith we must delight ourselves in the Word of God and meditate in the Word day and night. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 

(Psalms 1:2-3).   If we want God to meet our physical needs then we must put Him first in our life. Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. If we want our prayers to be answered then we have to abide in Him. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. 

(John 15:7), then we have to delight ourselves in Him AND trust Him. Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. (Psalms 37:4-5), then we have to follow His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight.  And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because

we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. (1 John 3:22), then we have to be effectual & fervent in our prayers and righteous in our life style, Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. (James 5:16)

      This list could on and on here, but I am certain you get the idea.  God has very specific “IF/THEN”s for us as we live our lives as ambassadors for Him.  May He help us all to keep these in our hearts and apply them day by day.  And may He help us see more as we read His Word. 

Have a GREAT day IN Him!!

Mrs. Laurie Loveless

Pastor’s Wife 

Bloomsdale, Missouri

Many Hands Make Light Work / Mrs Amy Sapp

                                                             Many Hands Make Light Work!!

Mrs Amy Sapp

O'Fallon, MO

  We have all heard the famous quote by John Heywood...

"Many Hands Make Light Work". 

 There is an incredible truth in that statement. 

 One day several years ago (I would have said "many" but that makes me sound so much older than I feel), my husband and I were newer members of a church.  I was on the phone with our Pastor's Wife, and we were explaining what we were each doing the next day.  She was telling me that she was going to be at the church all day taking the Christmas decorations down.  I told her that I was going to be taking my mom out to lunch, but was free after that if she would like help.  She was shocked that I even mentioned helping.   The next day, when I showed up at the church to help, she again looked as if she was so happy that I was there to be helping her.  I asked her who had put up all of these many decorations???  She told me that she had done it all by herself.  Not just that year, but it was very normal for her to do all of that work by herself each year.  I mean it wasn't just a little bit of decorating, it was a lot of decorating.  Not just a tree, not just the auditorium, but also some décor outside, some in the foyer, and also the entire basement. 

 After that day, I made a decision.  That MY pastor's wife was not going to be doing that type of work alone.  She should not have to do it alone, my pastor's wife or YOURS!  I think many times, we just take for granted different things that just seem to magically get done around the church.  Those things that are getting done, SOMEONE is doing them.  Can you imagine how much more would get done in a shorter amount of time with extra help?  Even if just an extra pair of hands, or a set of eyes or brains to help brain storm, etc.  "Many Hands Make Light Work"

 Maybe you are unsure of exactly when decorating or taking things down will take place.  All you have to do is ask.  Ask your pastor's wife, or pastor.  If she is planning on decorating, then ask if you can help.  Try to be flexible with your schedule.  Maybe say, well I can't help at that time, but I can help at this time on this day.  I would venture to say, that if she would like the help, she will be flexible if at all possible.  Things done together are way more fun than things done alone!!  I can tell you that Christmas is fast approaching so now would be a GREAT time to ask.  Do not let her do it alone.  Remember you are not only doing it to help your pastor's wife, you are also doing it for the work of the Lord. 

Other important times would be around any holiday, or any fellowship, or any special meeting. 

 As I was thinking what Bible verse to apply to this post. The verse that keeps popping into my head is....

Psalm 33:15  "He fashioneth their hearts alike;  he considereth all their works."

The Lord knows!  He will consider ALL of your works, not just some of them, not just the big works, ALL of your works!!