May 26, 2015

The Death of Joy


This month I'm just going to say a few words about something that has been on my mind A LOT lately... comparison.  I don't think I'm the only one who struggles with this... at least I hope I'm not!  It seems like it comes so naturally to compare yourself to those around you - your looks, your abilities and inabilities, your home, your kids, your relationship with Jesus, everything!  It can really be a downer, but there have been some encouraging words that I've been reminding myself of lately, and I thought I'd remind you all too.

>> Comparison will consistently cloud the clarity of God's call on your life. - Robert Madu

>> Comparison is the death of joy. - Mark Twain  (Isn't this the truth!)

>> Personality begins where comparison leaves off. Be unique. Be memorable. Be confident. Be proud. - Shanon Adler

>> Comparing kills fulfillment. - Todd Stocker

>> Peter must have thought, "Who am I compared to Mr. Faithfulness (John)?" But Jesus clarified the issue. John was responsible for John. Peter was responsible for Peter. And each had only one command to heed: "Follow Me." (John 21:20-22)  - Charles Swindoll

The Bible says:

"...When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise."  2 Corinthians 10:12

I was reminded by a wise woman of the story of the loaves and fishes.  How the little boy brought his small lunch to Jesus, and He fed a multitude with it.  So in other words, however small you think your talents or abilities are, if you give yourself to Jesus, you will be more than enough for whatever comes your way today.  Don't let your clarity be clouded by unfair comparisons.  In Christ, you are more than enough!




ON THE CALENDER:

 

*UPCOMING CONFERENCES
Beth Moore:  August 14-15 in Milwaukee.  More information can be found in the atrium or by contacting Laurie Hintz at rljrhintz@sbcglobal.net

*SCRAPPERS AND CRAFTERS
 Saturday, June 6th from 11-4 pm
Bring your own supplies for your favorite hobby (scrapbooking, card making, knitting, etc.) and come work on them alongside other ladies from WFA.  You can come and go at anytime throughout the day.  For more information, please contact Maggie Scherr at maggiescherr@yahoo.com






*1st SISTERHOOD NIGHTS  
June 15th at 7:00 pm
This is a don't miss event.  Powerful worship and teaching, opportunities to support your community and time to get connected with friends This month's theme is "gather • equip • mobilize."  Free gift for all first-timers.  Looking forward to seeing you there!

  
*LITTLE BLESSINGS
 June 25th at 7:00 pm
A message from Amy Prebil, the leader of Little Blessings:  "Little blessings is a group of women with young children.  It started out for women who were pregnant up to babies a year old.  We quickly found we needed continued support and encouragement and opened it to all moms with young children.  My passion is for mothers and young children, and I love meeting with these amazing women.  We meet the 4th Thursday of every month in the cafe.  Our group is full of laughter, encouragement, support, and prayer.  God is the center of this group, and He has blessed us all with such great relationships and compassion for each other.  We love seeing this group continue to grow and flourish.  Please call me if you are interested in joining us (262-422-7516.)"

*FOOD PANTRY AND SOLES FOR JESUS COLLECTIONS
In case you weren't aware, we have a collection point in the foyer for the Waukesha Food Pantry, and one in Uptown for shoes to be donated to Soles for Jesus.  We collect all year for these ministries.

*NURSERY NEWS
During cold and flu season our nursery is being disinfected weekly and paying attention to symptoms of illness to keep it a well baby area.  If you are parents of nursery aged kids, would you consider volunteering once a month to help with our growing population?  Please see Amy Prebil in the nursery or email amyprebil@gmail.com with questions or interest.

*TREEHOUSE TREASURES
Our church family is growing!  Many babies have come and will be coming in the next few weeks/months. We would love to bless our new moms with a gift bag filled with newborn items (diapers, wipes, baby bath items, onesies, gowns, or swaddlers).  Amy Prebil organizes this and has set up a Treasure Chest back in our nursery area to accept item donations.  Please also contact her if you are interested in donating any handmade items.  

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