Keep Calm and Carry On...

Photo curtesy of keepcalmandcarryon.com

During WWII a series of propaganda posters were created and distributed all over the UK. Just about every shop window proudly displayed them. The most famous being a simple 5 word phrase... "Keep Calm and Carry On". It was meant to encourage the British to stay calm and try to go about life as normal, despite the bombing taking place all around them from enemy forces. The British to this day seem to still have this attitude of "keeping a stiff upper lip" and carrying on through tough times. I must say in some ways it is inspirational and you can really see the strength and courage of the people.

Photo curtesy of decorativeliving.com

Lately I have been humbled with the fact that I have a long ways to go before I am where Jesus wants me to be with my life. There are many "bombs" the enemy drops...especially that of discouragement. Many times I think to myself..."it would be so much easier just to give up and go into my bunker for safety and hiding"!

But I know that Jesus would want me to keep on "carrying on" striving with my entire being...to be more like Him everyday. I can so relate with Paul when he writes to the Philippians and says

"Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me His own." -Philippians 3:12

Paul's goal was simple: Become more like Jesus. He did this by getting to know Him more, trusting in Him, and then being open and obedient for the choices He had made for Paul's life. We all know the difficulties Paul faced...but he "Kept Calm and Carried On". He was and is an example for all of us to follow.

One thing is for certain...there is a battle raging. It may not be something that we can see...but it is there...a spiritual battle! (Ephesians 6:10-18) But take heart...this battle is not ours and for those of us who are IN Christ Jesus...he is right there with us whispering every so gently "Keep Calm and Carry On!"

Application:

Is there something happening in your life right now that has you consumed? Remember "Panic is Manic" in the words of Beth Moore!

Maybe you have often found yourself wanting to know more of God but not sure how? His Word is a good place to start. (Those who seek me will find me... Proverbs 8:17)

Maybe you have trouble with trusting God...especially with the plans that He has for your life. Remember that He has "good plans for your life"...Jeremiah 29:11.

Ask God to give you the courage and tools to" Keep Calm and Carry On"...

Photo curtesy of Wiklipedia.com

After a fierce attack from the enemies, Londoners soon were out on the streets "Carrying On".

Friends Make a Difference...

Yesterday we had some new friends over for lunch. One of them asked me, "So is it difficult being away from the States...do you really like it here?" I could honestly answer "yes...I love it here!" Sure there are things I miss about the States (mostly convenience sake things and eating out more often)...and of course my family and friends.

But for the most part...I love that we are making new friends here...it really helps to make this our home! Below are some great friends...that are making a difference for Him over here!

Paul and Laura

Esther and Andy (A&E)

Things have certainly changed since moving here almost 10 months ago...when I only knew a few people in the office and had no clue how to get around town. I now know where to walk on my own...I know the "English" way of saying things like dessert (pudding) or "I'm going to the surgery" (I'm going to the Doctors), and of course found myself naturally saying "trousers" now instead of pants (which is a really good thing as they are considered undies here).

Belly laugh time...imagine me saying "My pants are wet" to someone here. Oh yes I have done that!

My friend Jenny below (red head) is from the States as well (Arizona) and has really helped me with what to say and not to say! :)

Jenny and Davina

Overall I feel that we are finally making this place our home...and I love where God has brought us. One of the main reasons is all the new friends He is bringing into our lives.

Below is a picture of our Bible Study group having a Thanksgiving meal. One friend brought an American flag to make me feel at home. :)

I recently read a quote from Andy Stanley. He said "Your friends have the ability to influence you...choose wisely". This is a wise word...and I pray that God continues to lead us in our friend relationships. We love nothing more than to hang out with fun loving people that just love Jesus as much as we do!

Below are Andy and Rho...he is the leader of our church...pray for them as they lead us in what God is doing here in the city!

Question? Have you asked the Lord lately to continue guiding you in your friendships? Remember we all need friends in our lives for sharing, loving, laughing, encouraging, challenging, and helping to keep us accountable...

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. -Proverbs 27:17