Blog Archives

BLESS YOU!

5/25/2016

A-choo - a sneeze evokes a response from those close to the one who sneezes. It is the “bless you” from another that both acknowledges and encourages the sneezer. It has been said that when we sneeze all bodily functions instantly stop for that split second thereby bringing us close to death. For this reason the BLESS YOU is offered as a prayer for that moment.

When sport competition is in full swing and the struggle for power is at hand, a moment of blessing is rare. It can easily cause put-down types of responses either thought or muttered. Taking opportunities to bless requires a choice to change that negative habit. An athlete who blesses will find added strength and power in play.

Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Romans 12:14 The Message

There is a powerful blessing in God’s Word that was given to Moses for the Israelites. It is one that is worth memorizing and using at every opportunity.

‘“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26 NIV

This Priestly Blessing was designed to stamp God’s name on the frail Israelite people by their leaders. It was a request for God’s favor and smile to be on His children. In turn God promised to bless them (see Numbers 6:27).

PRAYER: Lord of the Israelites and of my life, thank you for your blessing on me. You keep me close to you, know every part of me and are gracious and attentive to me. This brings me deep and abiding peace. Because you have blessed me greatly, I choose to bless those around me. Help me to recognize the opportunity to bless others and do it. In Jesus Name, Amen.
ONE WHO TAKES THE OPPORTUNITY TO BLESS IS BLESSED!

©2016 SPORTMOMS & MORE | 11964 Elemar - Portland, OR 97224

BLESS YOU

5/25/2016

AS A CHILD...

5/18/2016

Children bring out the best in us. Their playful ways, their precious giggles, their sweet dependence and their unbridled spirits bring hope and happiness to those around them. Seeking no particular fame or control, they find joy in the moment as long as they sense that they are valued and secure.

“Not many children seek position or power. Instead, they want acceptance and security. They cling to the adults who love and care for them.” McCasland

Sportmoms are known for acceptance and protection. We provide an even playing field in our homes for the many ups and downs of competition. We courageously support our beloved athlete through the wins and losses of both personal and team performance. Our homes are a place of security where they can be themselves while becoming who they will be.

We seek the same acceptance and security from our Creator as our children do from us. Our playful ways, precious giggles, sweet dependence and unbridled trust in Him evidence our childlike faith – we become AS A CHILD.

…whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me. Matthew 18:4-5 NIV

Just as our children stay near us, we desire to be near Him, to feel His loving care and protection and to know that we belong to Him. It is in this secure connection that we become AS A CHILD reflecting His love into our world…

PRAYER: I come to you today, dear LORD, as a child putting my hope and dependence on you. In you I feel valued and secure. May my unbridled giggles bring your joy into this world as I cling to you. In Jesus' Name, Amen

WHAT PLEASES GOD? A CHILDLIKE HEART!

©2016 SPORTMOMS & MORE | 11964 Elemar - Portland, OR 97224

PEACE PONDERINGS

5/11/2016

To be “at war” indicates an absence of peace. The type of warfare we are familiar with in recent history has depended upon the invention by a man named Alfred Nobel who invented dynamite. The wealth he attained through the sale and distribution of his invention ironically allowed him the opportunity to offer what we now know as the Nobel Peace Prize. Ironically, it is given to those who promote peace.

As sportmoms we want to have peace in our homes and teach peace to our children. The involvement of our children in sports, however, can compromise our peace effort. The push for fierce and competitive dispositions must be tempered with the pursuit of peace.

They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it. I Peter 3:11 NIV

QUESTION: How should we then pursue peace with others?

Purposefully practice peace – when things become combative pray for a peaceful spirit.
Extend excellent expressions – offer building-up evaluations on purpose.
Allow adequate amusement – chill-out a little, let humorous thoughts arise.
Check childish chatter – avoid Cheap-shots in an effort to be right.
Expect extraordinary exchange – find points of engaging agreement.

Our daily “wars” can become pursuits of peace. Jesus tells his followers about the warfare they will face closing with these comforting words:

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 NIV

PRAYER: May I rest in your peace, Heavenly Father, as I seek to pursue peace with others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

“True peace is not the absence of war; it is the presence of God.” Loveless

©2016 SPORTMOMS & MORE | 11964 Elemar - Portland, OR 97224

ABOUND...in KNOWLEDGE

5/4/2016

NOTE: The first E-votional of each month is dedicated to our word for the year...ABOUND.

“…abound in everything – in faith, in words, IN KNOWLEDGE, in diligence, in love toward one another – and remember always to abound in grace.” 2 Corinthians 8:7

It has been said that “information is power”. It is true that the more we know about something the more apt we are to make good and wise decisions that benefit us and those around us. In this respect knowledge is our friend - a powerful ally.

Abounding in the knowledge of a sport that a player participates in is crucial. Understanding the purpose, nuances and rules of the game are all necessary to being a valuable team member. Individual sports require this same kind of knowledge as they face their competitors.

As children of God, we are instructed to abound in knowledge (see our opening scripture). Along with seeking knowledge about everything we put our hand to, we must develop an ever-increasing knowledge of who He is. This growing relationship allows for His will and ways to be revealed to us and for His power to be unleashed through us.

"The power of God can only be claimed when the will of God is known." unknown

God's Word spells out this process…

…make every effort to add to your faith goodbness; and to goodness, knolwedge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control. preseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 2 Peter 2:5-7 NIV

Then Peter goes on to say…

For if these things be in you, and ABOUND, they make you that you shall neither be barren or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:8 KJV

Resolve today to ABOUND in the KNOWLEDGE of our Lord Jesus Christ for it will unleash God’s power in your life.

KNOWLEDGE + RELATIONSHIP = POWER

©2015 SPORTMOMS & MORE | 11964 Elemar - Portland, OR 97224

About the Author...
JANET BROWN

As a veteran coach's wife, Janet invites you to join her in "Changing the world for Christ...one athlete at a time".Through the language of sports and life experiences, Janet uniquely exposes the character of God and His desire for "sportmoms" to WIN BIG in life. Her behind-the-bench view invites us into a world of triumphant wins and tragic personal loss.

LIFE EXPERIENCE

From being a mother of 2 to a spiritual mom to many, the road of life for Janet includes these hallmarks:

- Gave her "heart to Jesus" at 6 years old
.
- Studied Education/ Psychology at a Christian College

- Enjoyed earning her wings and flying as a Flight Attendant

- Is the wife of Coach Dave Brown since 1967.

- Involved in ministry to women for 30+ years including: Retreat Facilitator and speaker, Bible Study leader, National Women's Ministry Leader

- Held an executive position in the corporate world for 35 years.

- Developed and taught Pre-married and Marriage classes with her husband for 12 years.

Currently is a writer, grandmother to 4 and a coach's wife.

BLESS YOU!

BLESS YOU

AS A CHILD...

PEACE PONDERINGS

ABOUND...in KNOWLEDGE

About the Author... JANET BROWN

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About the Author...
JANET BROWN