SkyMoms

Ronda from~ The Family Table, brings us "Apple Pie Oatmea!"

2012-01-31T07:02:00.000-06:00

Apple Pie Oatmeal!

Do I have your attention yet? Well I should because this stuff is good! I’m not talking about the oatmeal in the packet; this oatmeal is the real deal. Now I know you are probably thinking that you don’t have time to make oatmeal from scratch. That is just what the packet people want you to believe. I am here to tell you that you really do have time to make oatmeal in the morning and then you are going to wonder why in the heck you ever wasted one red cent on packet oatmeal ever again.

I use Bob’s Redmill Oatmeal, extra thick cut oats. I have a basic recipe that I use and then the sky is the limit on where you can take this recipe. Keep in mind this isn’t the quick cooking type oats but rather the thick cut oatmeal.

Oatmeal is a two to one ratio. So, if I make it for one person, I use 1 cup water to ½ cup oats. For two, it would be 2 cups water, 1 cup oats and so on. Because I like a little creaminess, I add a generous splash of almond milk. I just can’t eat my oats without a little bit of that almond milk and I believe it makes a difference in the texture without adding a whole bunch of extra calories.

The night before, I set out my oats, measuring cup and pan. I set out the container I am using to take my oatmeal and the spoon. I have the fixings close at hand and when I wake up, while I am gathering up the lunches for the day, my oatmeal is bubbling away for no more than 5 minutes and that is it. It’s a simple recipe but the magic happens with the fixings.

My morning set up... (my menu planning binder in the background!)

For a while I was having my oats with sliced banana and semi-sweet chocolate chips. YUM!!! I was eating it every morning. Then my friend introduced me to the oatmeal with chopped apples, cinnamon and brown sugar. Oh my goodness! Talk about good. It tasted just like apple pie. So, that is what I have named it, Apple Pie Oatmeal. 

You have all heard it before, but breakfast really does jump start your day and metabolism. We only have one God-pod (I am stealing this word from Kris Carr, amazing author of the book Crazy, Sexy Diet), so why not feed it well. How can we expect it to take good care of us for years to come when it isn’t getting the great fuel it needs to propel us forward into this great life we have all been blessed with living? So, let’s see if we can’t all commit to a good breakfast, shall we? Plus, modeling healthy eating habits to our children is a great start in the right direction in getting them to eat better as well.

Ok, back to oatmeal. I dice up one whole apple, leaving the skin on because I want all of those yummy nutrients inside of me. I toss that right into the pan with the oats, water and almond milk. Next I toss in about ¼ tsp of cinnamon and let it bubble away on low until all of it has cooked down a bit. If it seems to need a little more almond milk, I just toss a little more in until I get that desired creaminess that I love so much. Now I pull it off the stove and put it right into my thermos and top it off with a little brown sugar and then I’m out the door. Oh, that brown sugar just melts right on top and when I go to eat it, well it tastes so decadent that I can’t believe it is healthy for me.

When I add the fixings, I usually cook the oatmeal first then layer the fruit, nuts, chocolate on top or in layers. The only exception is the apple as I like those little apple bits to soften up a bit. Here are a few more delicious toppings….

Banana with Semi-sweet chocolate chips

Banana with fresh sliced strawberries

Fresh blueberry and brown sugar

Apple Pie (diced apples, cinnamon, brown sugar)

And of course, almonds, pecans, walnuts, or a tsp of chia seeds added to any of the above will certainly make it all the more delicious and healthy! Just one last little reminder…please don’t go adding 3 tablespoons of brown sugar. The point is to have healthy oatmeal with a touch of sweetness  Moderation is key!

Well SkyMoms, I hope you enjoy yourself some yummy oats this next week. You never know, you just might bring your cholesterol down and widdle your middle. 

Happy Eating and lots of Love…

Ronda from… The Family Table

Sky Fi...coming to an area near you!!!

2012-01-30T09:46:00.001-06:00

Come see us at a SKY FI near YOU!!!

It's a sneak peek of Summer 2012, plus a chance to meet the Summer Camp Team! Come enjoy your favorite camp songs, your favorite camp staff, awesome videos, some major camp fun, and MORE!

Monday January 30, 2012 – Legacy Christian Academy (Frisco) at 7:00pm

Tuesday January 31, 2012 – Whites Chapel UMC (Southlake) at 7:00pm

Thursday February 2, 2012 – Stonebridge UMC (McKinney) at 7:00pm

Monday, February 6, 2012 – Highland Park Presbyterian Church at 7:00pm

Tuesday, February 7, 2012 – Dallas Christian School (Mesquite) at 7:00pm

Thursday, February 9, 2012 – Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church (Allen) at 7:00pm

Monday, February 13, 2012 – Christ Chapel Bible Church (Fort Worth) at 7:00pm

Monday, February 20, 2012 – Trinity Christian Academy (Addison) at 7:00pm

Teach Intentionally..."Family Time…Belief in God affects lifestyle", with Stacy Davis ~ Bible Teacher and Sky Ranch Board Member

2012-01-30T07:07:00.000-06:00

Family Time…Belief in God affects lifestyle

When I was 4, I prayed the salvation prayer committing to Jesus…then when I was 8, I did it again as well as each summer until I was 13, you would think it actually stuck one of those time…but did it? There was no change in my lifestyle. After each time that I prayed the salvation prayer, I went right back to my same old routine of no thought of Jesus until the next Sunday. My lifestyle still reflected all my normal habits of lying and misbehaving without giving it a second thought. Overtime, my parent’s discipline helped self-control kick in and correct some of the behavior. But it was still all about me in control. Then the teenage years hit and I was just a normal teen and not overly rebellious. I still went to church on Sunday with my family. I was not opposed to Jesus and things about Jesus, but no personal relationship with Him. I thought following Jesus was good for people to do but didn’t think about if I was. I also secretly kept questioning whether or not I really believed in Jesus because I really had no interest in reading or studying the Bible or seeking Christian fellowship. I prayed occasionally if I thought that God could help me out or serve my purposes. And I often gave God a list of what I expected. But I definitely did not think of thanking Him, asking how I could help Him or serving Him. Does any of this sound familiar? As a young, newly married adult, I recognized that my way of living life seemed empty and vain, so one day, I finally surrendered the control of my life over to Jesus and committed to follow Him. I had a 1 year old child and was pregnant with my second child and realized that I needed God’s help to raise these kids. I had previously been living life without Jesus and I was finally ready to trust Him. And “Jesus took the wheel” as the song goes. I actually believed in Jesus this time. Amazingly and right away, I started to want to know Jesus better. I knew some about Him, but the Holy Spirit was drawing me to want to know more. I eventually got into a great Bible study class, and by applying what I learned from the Bible I started to change. My attitude, behavior and sinful habits eventually moved to just occasional mistakes and I immediately felt remorse for the sin and would ask forgiveness. Some of this took time but my heart was softening and changing. I also sought Christian friends and to serve Him. Life had really changed. I really changed and others around me noticed it. My true belief in Jesus did affect my lifestyle.

As a Mom, I watched both of my kids repeat a similar story. Multiple times of saying the salvation prayer and then all the sudden in God’s timing, the belief was really real and a change began to take place. I eventually saw a different demeanor in each child over a little time. I saw a desire to talk about and know Jesus. I saw a change in how they treated each other, my husband and me. They were changing and this was not just really strong self-control, it was supernatural from the Holy Spirit.

This week in your family time, I would encourage you to prepare by praying and asking God to tell you what your family needs to hear on the topic of genuine belief in Jesus. Biblical belief is defined as making a firm commitment that results in a change of direction. It is a decision in your heart and mind. If your kids struggle with questioning if they truly believe in Jesus, recognize that can be normal. Encourage them to share their thoughts on their faith and search their own hearts. As Mom, you can’t answer this for them. Encourage your family to be patient with themselves, and know that a true relationship with Jesus is an ongoing process that takes time. Keep seeking Him and you will find Him!

Do you need help or prayer for your family time? Email me at SkyMoms@skyranch.org.

I will be praying for you!

Stacy

Stacy A. Davis

Teach Intentionally

This week we are in the 5^th Month Topic and 5^th Family Time (or page 49) of the Sky Ranch Devotional “Open Your Eyes”…

Family Time 5:

Month 5 Topic: There is only one God…Belief in God affects lifestyle

Talk with God: Read…Deuteronomy 4:35, Deuteronomy 4:39

~ Deuteronomy 4:35 To you it was shown that you might know that the Lord, He is God; there is no other besides Him.

In Deuteronomy 4:35, whom does the Lord want to know that there is no other god beside Him?

~ Deuteronomy 4:39 Know therefore today, and take it to your heart, that the Lord, He is God in Heaven above and on the earth below; there is no other.

In Deuteronomy 4:39, when do we need to trust that the God of Heaven and earth is the only God?

Walk with God: Discuss… Have you really taken it to your heart that there is only ONE God? How does your life reflect that in your everyday lifestyle? What are some things you can do to show that you KNOW HIM?

Prayer suggestion… Pray that you truly take to heart that you know and believe the One True God!

Family Time 5:

Leader Answers:

YOU
Today
Discussion ideas: Examples are spending time with Him (prayer), reading His Word, studying Him and making changes inside of you as to living the way He says. Other examples are serving Him by helping the needy, encouraging others, discipling another, talking about Him, donating to ministry, cleaning a yard for a homebound person, etc. How does it make you feel to know that the One True God wants to know and love you?

Lisa Life Lesson ~"GET OFF THE PHONE!!!!!"

2012-01-26T00:38:00.000-06:00

GET OFF THE PHONE!!!!!

Cell phones are such a controversial subject for parents aren't they? When to buy one, which one to buy, how many text messages to allow, data plan, no data plan, blah, blah, blah. Don't you just wish for simpler times some days? Like when we were teenagers? No cell phones, no computers, no cable, no Chick Fil A...oh wait.

Don't forget, when making decisions for your kids such as a cell phone, remember YOU'RE THE PARENT!!! You make these decisions for your children because they aren't ready nor are they able to make such decisions for themselves. Too much of a good thing is usually a bad thing. Handing an 11 year old an iphone is probably not a good idea.

Start slow and easy. Just the basics. Then move into texting, data, etc. as they grow older and deserve the "promotion." And let me encourage you to not cave in to peer pressure. When a mom told me she "had to buy her 6 year old a cell phone so that they could stay connected" I wanted to fall out laughing. If you need a cell phone to stay connected to your 6 year old, then you've got greater problems than a connection.

Handing a preteen/teen an iphone is handing them a computer. We should limit computer time, placement and availability. Please know what you are doing by researching thoroughly your decision. It is worth your time to make an informed decision.

With regards to texting, I realize this is a generational thing. It's their, um, note passing? Sort of? It is what it is. And it's probably not going away anytime soon. I love to text. Fast, easy, no drama. However, as I said earlier, too much of a good thing is probably a bad thing. If you have a non-stop texter on your hands...1) discuss the "problem" with addicted texter 2) pray they see their "problem" immediately and understand your reasoning for removing the source of their addiction 3) remove source of addiction 4) pray they see that life goes on without source of addiction ie. they're still breathing 5) enjoy time with non-texting recovering addict. In other words, DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!!! You're the parent!

~Lisa Clark

Sky Ranch SkyMoms Parenting Mentor

Teach Intentionally..."Family Time…God versus vain things", with Stacy Davis ~ Bible Teacher and Sky Ranch Board Member

2012-01-24T07:52:00.000-06:00

Family Time…God versus vain things

I admit that throughout my life, I have wasted time by focusing on vain things. Biblically, vain things were usually related to idols. Today, vain things can be anything that you regard as more important than God. It is normal as a kid to focus on all the toys advertised on TV or coveting the newest gadget that your best friend had. When you were young, did you ever call your friend at Christmas to tell them what you got or hear what they got? I did. Materialism often catches hold of us at a young age. I am not saying all materials are bad because God bless us with them. But I am saying that they become bad the minute that you put trust in them to make you happy or solve problems more than trusting in God. It is the minute that you start to worship them that they become vain and a waste. As I aged and became a Christian, God started to show me that all those materials won’t go with me to heaven, but my relationship with Jesus will. Your relationship with God matters. People matter to God. I also realized that even though materialism is one of the major struggles in America, there are other vain things. They can show up in many forms, so stay aware and keep Jesus first.

As a Mom, I struggled with successfully teaching my kids that a relationship with Jesus was more important than the newest fad toy. It was tough to compete with a toy that when advertized on TV looked as though it made your life complete. How many times have your kids yelled from the other room…”Hurry Mom… come see this on TV! I want this!”? My explanations on trusting in Jesus just couldn’t compete with all the fun my kids thought they would have with those special toys. It was only until year after year of disappointment and the emptiness of trusting in materials that the kids finally started to listen. I was grateful that after consistently praying for my kids and repeating the same message of turn to Jesus… that they finally did. Some kids or adults never listen and live a lifetime in vain pursuit of material things or some other item in hopes of fulfillment.

This week in your family time, I would encourage you to prepare by praying for your family. Ask God to prepare their hearts for the message this week. Ask Him to reveal to each family member if there are any vain things that they place above Him. Ask your family to think about what is going on in their hearts that causes them to trust in these worldly or vain things? Sometimes fear can cause it…fear of not being liked or accepted can cause a lot of problems. If you spend time being truthful with yourself, you can usually get to the root of the problem. Pray for God to help your family be sensitive to how their fears are directing their lives. Pray Psalm 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; 24 And see if there be any hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way. Then counter the fear of doubting acceptance with scripture such as God loves us (1 John 4:19). He loves you and accepts you so turn to Him.

Do you need help or prayer for your family time? Email me at SkyMoms@skyranch.org.

I will be praying for you!

Stacy

Stacy A. Davis

Teach Intentionally

Click the link below for your free copy of the Sky Ranch “Open your Eyes” Family Devotional …

https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/SkyRanch/EventRegistration.html

This week we are in the 5^th Month Topic and 4^th Family Time (or page 48 ) of the Sky Ranch Family Devotional “Open Your Eyes”…

Family Time 4:

Month 5 Topic: There is only one God…Vain things

Talk with God: Read…Daniel 6:26, Acts 14:15

~ Daniel 6:26 For He is the living God and enduring forever, and His Kingdom is one which will not be destroyed, and His dominion [will be] forever.

In Dan 6:26, what kind of God is our God?

~ Acts 14:15 And saying, "Men, why are you doing these things? We are also men of the same nature as you, and preach the gospel to you in order that you should turn from these vain things to a living God, Who made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and all that is in them.”

In Acts 14:15, what are we to turn from?

Walk with God: Discuss…The problem of trusting in “vain” things? What kinds of things are “vain” things? Vain things are anything that makes us excessively proud or puts the focus on us, rather than God. Are there vain things in your life? How do you turn away from them and turn back to the living God?

Prayer suggestion… Pray that the Lord will fill you up with so much of Him that there is no room left for “vain things”!

Family Time 4:

Leader Answers:

Living, enduring
Vain things
Discussion ideas: Vain things can be anything we place above God such as clothes, precious items, a car, jewelry, money or a hobby, other people, TV, celebrities or vices, alcohol, gambling, or working too much at our job. It can be anything more important to you than God. If we are caught by these things, surrender back to God as Lord of your life and repent. Apologize.

Ronda from~ The Family Table, brings us "Cooking Salmon!"

2012-01-23T06:29:00.000-06:00

Good Morning SkyMoms,

Do you want an easy tip for a meal idea this week to get you out of a rut of cooking the same things over and over?....Well,....Here is my super quick, go to meal when I have no time to cook. I can have it on the table in about fifteen minutes flat, even faster if I prep everything before I leave for school. Salmon, full of those wonderful omega-3 fats, is a powerhouse food that is tasty and quick to make. I always make an extra fillet or two so that we can have a quick lunch the next day. I have two ways that I like to make it; both are good for picky non-fish eaters!

Roasted Salmon Fillet with BBQ Sauce

1 or more pieces of salmon, roughly the same size (with skin or without)

Lemon pepper

BBQ sauce

Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Line a small baking sheet with tin foil. Spray sheet generously with cooking spray. Add salmon and sprinkle with lemon pepper. Give another small spray of cooking spray. Roast for about 5 minutes and remove from oven and drizzle with bbq sauce. Return to oven until roast until fish cooked to desired level (usually just a few more minutes). Refrigerate left over fillets and serve cold over mixed green salad the next day.

Serve over brown rice (either cooked in the rice maker or frozen from whole foods) with simmered bok choy on the side. Have more time? This is also great served with a nice garlic mashed potato and roasted brussel sprouts! Yum!!!

Bok Choy

1 small Bok Choy per person, washed and cut in half

Pan to fit Bok Choy, cut side down

Chicken broth to cover bottom of pan.

Simmer until just tender, watch closely so they don’t over-cook.

Roasted Lemon Salmon

1 or more pieces of salmon, roughly the same size (with skin or without)

Fresh lemon slices

Salt and freshly ground pepper

Honey

Cooking spray

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Line a small baking sheet with tin foil. Spray sheet generously with cooking spray. Add salmon, squeeze lemon and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Drizzle just a bit of honey. Give fillets another quick spray and roast until fish cooked to desired level, about 10 minutes depending on size.

Serve with brown rice and roasted veggie of choice.

While this dinner is nothing fancy, it sure tastes GREAT!

Happy Cooking SkyMoms!!!

Ronda from… The Family Table 

2012-01-20T09:28:00.000-06:00

Sky Ranch Sky Mom Gathering at Prestonwood for our Dallas Area Moms!

A special thanks to our hostesses:

Diane, Kristy, Emily and Tammy

who sponsored tables and invited their friends to enjoy food, fun, fellowship, and spiritual encouragement!

Catering done by Festive Kitchen...it was delicious! Thank you so much!

A special thanks to Lisa Clark,

Sky Ranch SkyMoms Parenting Mentor,

who gave us great encouragement on how to start our 2012 with our Family!

"Goal Setting – A New Approach to Family"

This message was about spending intentional time of setting family goals with each person in your family in 4 areas according to the Luke 2:52 Scripture.

"And Jesus grew in wisdom, in stature, and in favor with God and man."

wisdom (intellectually, academically),

stature (physically, healthy living),

in favor with God (spiritual growth areas)

in favor with man (service, community, giving back).

Oh, this talk topic is always so good! And so good to start the year with each family member! For our family I will share some of our goals:

wisdom: Limiting technology time.

stature: My daughters both gave up drinking sodas and carbonated drinks for this year of 2012...we are on day 20 :)! And for the rest of the family, we have chosen to eat healthier... and as my husband stated a few nights ago..."Lets spice up this chicken and salad routine a little bit more!"..hahaha!!

In favor with God: One of our daughters picked out a new devotional with her Sky Ranch counselor over the Christmas Break, while the

other started another new devo as well for the 2012 year. This is a very special time of our morning together around our table as we start our day with each other hearing from the Lord.

Lisa shared that she has started reading through the Bible in a year...this has challenged me..with something I would like to FINISH in one year! Lisa recommended...

the Daily Walk Bible (NLT).

In favor with man: Our girls are preparing prayerfully for going on upcoming Mission trips.... they have come up with ways to raise money by selling items they are making. We are together as a family are praying for lives to be touched and changed on these trips across the Nations and within our own community.

Upcoming other Super-Sized Gatherings are:

Maggianos for TCA Moms -Plano, TX ~ February 3, 2012

Ricks Chophouse -McKinney, TX ~ February 8, 2012

Stonebriar Country Club- Frisco, Texas ~ April 19, 2012
Wichita Falls~ TBA
Shreveport, LA ~ TBA

Blessings,

Tori Miller

Sky Ranch SkyMom Ministry Director

Prayer Request~ Caleb Jentsch, Phoebe Fair and Lauren Scruggs CaringBridge Sites

2012-01-18T08:13:00.003-06:00

Dear SkyMoms~

Thanks for standing in the gap as prayer warriors for these sweet families ....
As a mom, we can relate to how having our precious children sick, in pain, or struggling must be...please join Sky Ranch SkyMoms in praying for these families!

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/calebjentsch

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/phoebefair/journal

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/laurenscruggs/journal

Jeremiah 29:11

Blessings,

Tori

Sky Ranch SkyMoms Ministry Director

Prayer Encouragement: "On the Lookout- Waiting for the Answer!" by SkyMom, Terrie Chevaillier

2012-01-17T09:39:00.000-06:00

On the Lookout- Waiting for the Answer!

What’s God going to say to my questions?

I’m braced for the worst. I‘ll climb to the lookout tower

and scan the horizon. I’ll wait to see what

God says, how he’ll answer my complaint.

Habakkuk 2:1

Building on the last Prayer Encouragement from Jeremiah 33:3,

we prayed that the Lord would show Sky Moms in 2012

those things that we have been wanting to know regarding our children

but just could not figure out on our own.

Maybe you have seen answers….I certainly have as I have

prayed that verse instead of worry, fret, or trying to dig.

Love it when I have victory in that and great and marvelous

things that I could not figure out on my own are answered.

One I would like to share that I could not figure out on my own

is in regards to an allergy issue we have been dealing with in my family.

After doctor visits ( I love and appreciate our doctors…they are awesome)

and food avoidances and lots of other attempts at a solution….this reaction would just not go

away. I decided to pray Jeremiah 33:3 regarding the issue and it became VERY

clear what was causing it. I could have worn myself out in my greatest mom attempts and endeavors

to get to the bottom of what even the professionals weren’t even able to answer.

However, after surrender and faithfully praying this verse, we had our answer!

Well…maybe you haven’t had your answer or answers yet.

After praying, you just still don’t know and are getting wearied

and discouraged thinking that “fill in the blank” might always be this way.

In Habakkuk, we are told that he decided to look out for the answer…

This passage tells me that even though he did not know yet…he was EXPECTANT!

Even it is was bad news and something he would rather not hear,

he positioned himself for answers to what God would say.

Let’s pray:

Dear Father, I thank You that You love my child even more than

I can even imagine. And, you know there are some things

that I have worried over, had anxiety regarding, and even

bouts of anger about. I confess these things as sin and

desire to trust You instead of my own attempts to figure things out.

Please help me to position myself on the watchtower of faith.

Help me to praise You and thank You for the answer that is coming.

And Lord, quicken my heart…prepare my heart, and soften my heart

to be able to hear the Holy Spirit speak to me through time in Your

Word, and more listening than talking in my prayer time with You.

I pray if it is something that I would rather not hear,

that instead of writing it off as “no way”, or “not my child”,

that I would take it as truth and guidance and act on Your answers.

I’m climbing to the lookout towers and scanning Your vast horizon

For God answers instead of people or world answers.

Thank you that I can trust You, as You Father, are faithful!
Amen

~Terrie Chevaillier, SkyMom Prayer Encourager

Teach Intentionally..."Family Time…God & Prophecy", with Stacy Davis ~ Bible Teacher and Sky Ranch Board Member

2012-01-16T10:17:00.000-06:00

Family Time…God & Prophecy

Seeing into the future captured my attention as a child. I liked the idea of knowing about something before it happened. It was fascinating to think about! It took me awhile though to understand why God is able to tell the future. I would hear in church at Christmas that Jesus came to earth just like God said He would and as a child I wondered…how did God know that ahead of time? As I grew older and studied the bible, I began to understand “how” God knows the future. He planned all of it ahead of time and since He planned it, He can tell us what is coming next. I realized that I had to accept that God is the only True God and is sovereign and in control of all things. Once I grasped that truth, I was able to understand how prophecy works. Now, studying God’s prophecy is one of my favorite things to do. It still is fascinating!

As a Mom, I found that my son loved to talk about prophecy in the bible even at a young age and my daughter was scared of it! So, I had to tread carefully. When our family discussed Revelation in the early years, my daughter did not like discussing that life would change and bad things would happen right before Jesus returns. Now, she is fine with discussing it. But it took time and understanding that God loves you and desires good for you. Her perception of God mattered. Her trust in God also mattered. It also helped her to understand the “why” God tells you ahead about the future. In scripture, you learn that God gives you prophecy and then fulfills it to help you know that He is fully in charge. He also tells you to help you know that you are listening to the right God and He knows it will cause you to seek Him more. Learning all of that helped my daughter realize that God’s prophecy really is there to help her.

This week in your family time, I would encourage you to prepare by praying for your family and asking God to reveal to you…if anyone in your family struggles with believing God’s prophecy. Ask Him to help you teach your family about His sovereignty and His plan for each of you. God tells you in Jeremiah 29:11 that He has plans for hope and a future for His people. The key to staying calm as you study about the future today and not becoming fearful is in trusting God. In 1 John 4:18, fear is cast out by perfect love…meaning fear is cast out when you trust that God really does love you and desires the best for you. Then, spend a little time looking up prophecy that has been fulfilled in the Old Testament where Jesus was suppose to be born and in the new testament where it shows He was born. Then, look up the same about His death. The scripture references are in the leader answers. There are hundreds of prophecies regarding Jesus in the Old Testament discussing both the first and second time that Jesus comes to earth. Since Jesus is both, some prophecies show He will come as a Servant and others as a King. Many of the prophecies tell what He will do and how He will behave so each time He arrives on earth people will recognize Him. And remember some of the Old Testament passages were written thousands of years before Jesus arrived on earth. For older kids, prophecy about the future still to come or the end times and Jesus’ return can be very interesting and really keep their attention. Ask your family to share how seeing evidence of fulfilled prophecy builds their trust in God. Encourage them to continue to search God’s Word and prove to themselves that scripture and God are true.

Do you need help or prayer for your family time? Email me at SkyMoms@skyranch.org.

I will be praying for you!

Stacy Davis

Click the link below for your free copy of the Sky Ranch “Open your Eyes” Family Devotional …
https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/SkyRanch/EventRegistration.html

This week we are in the 5^th Month Topic and 3^rd Family Time (or page 47 ) of the Sky Ranch Devotional “Open Your Eyes”…

Family Time 3:

Month 5 Topic: There is only one God…Prophecy

Talk with God: Read…Jeremiah 10:10, Daniel 2:21-22, Acts 15:16

~ Jeremiah 10:10 But the Lord is the true God; He is the living God and the everlasting King. At His wrath the earth quakes and the nations cannot endure His indignation.

In Jer 10:10, what kind of God is our God?

~ Daniel 2:21, 22 And it is He who changes the times and the epochs; He removes kings and establishes kings; He gives wisdom to wise men, and knowledge to men of understanding. (22) It is He who reveals the profound and hidden things; He knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with Him.

In Dan 2:21, what does God change, establish, and give?

~ Acts 15:16-18 “After these things I will return, and I will rebuild the tabernacle of David which has fallen, and I will rebuild its ruins, and I will restore it, (17) in order that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, and all the Gentiles who are called by My name,” (18) says the Lord, Who makes these things known from of old.

In Acts 15:18, when does God make things known from?

Walk with God: Discuss… God tells us that He is the only God by telling us things before they happen. This special knowledge is called prophecy. When we see prophecy like in Acts 15:16-18 actually happen, it is proof that God is Who He says He is. Discuss other prophecies that have been fulfilled. What prophecies can you think of that have been fulfilled?

Prayer suggestion… Pray that the Lord would help you understand His prophecy.

Family Time 3:

Leader Answers:

True, living, everlasting
Times, epochs; kings; wisdom/knowledge
Things known from of old
Discussion ideas: Many prophecies of Jesus were fulfilled when He arrived 2000 years ago. Look at (Jesus’ birth) Isaiah 7:14, then Matthew 1:18-25. Look at (Jesus’ death) Psalm 22:1-24, then Matthew 27:45-66. There are many more like these. Only prophecy from God is 100% accurate.

Answered Prayers for Lauren Scruggs...keep the prayers coming!

2012-01-13T17:05:00.000-06:00

Dear SkyMoms,

We are so thankful for such a wonderful body of Believers that have joined together with thousands of others on the behalf of Lauren Scruggs to pray for Lauren and her family in her recovery.
I wanted to share with you that she has come so far and looks just as beautiful as ever and is making incredible strides in recovery and we give GOD all the GLORY! Continue to keep them in your prayers! The day to day mundane chores that we take for granted, have taken on a totally new perspective for Lauren, these are now her challenges...the "little things" to us are now "big things" to her!

Right Now...
Take a moment, pause and think about a small task you do without thinking.
Now PRAY...
Pray for Lauren!

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/laurenscruggs/journal

And the Link to Lauren's Blog where she actually posted this week for the first time since the accident.

http://blogbylolo.com/

Lauren, God has big plans for you...you are an encouragement to so many!

Everyone on the the Sky Ranch team loves you and are praying for you and your family!

Jeremiah 29:11

Blessings,

Tori

Sky Ranch SkyMoms Ministry Director

Tips from Tori..."Parent Child Weekends...are a MUST in 2012!"!

2012-01-12T07:28:00.000-06:00

Sky Ranch is offering a variety of Parent Child retreats this spring. These increasingly popular events create unique and fun opportunities for parents to have intentional and meaningful experiences with their children. A typical weekend schedule includes time for learning, through relevant speakers and group sharing; a little laughter, as parent and children relax and play together on awesome Sky Ranch activities; and a lot of love, with purposeful interaction and face-to-face time.

Please visit www.SkyRanch.org/parentchild or call our Guest Services department with any questions you have regarding our Parent Child Weekends - 903.266.3300.

SPRING 2012

FATHER DAUGHTER WEEKEND

MOTHER SON WEEKEND

FATHER SON WEEKEND

Father Daughter Weekend

February 10-12, 2012 - Blink

What do you get when you mix blue and pink? You get BLINK! You get the best of both worlds. You get the perfect combination of "cool". If AWESOME had a color, this would be it! That is what the Sky Ranch Father Daughter Weekend is all about. It is a celebration of the unique bond between a Daddy and his little girl. It is a bonding experience designed to be an important part of the process of each girl becoming the beautiful young woman she was created to be. And every dad should take advantage of the time he has with her now, because she will be out the door before he can BLINK!

Cost: $155 per person - includes meals, lodging, and most activities.

Ages: All ages are welcome, but this event is generally for girls ages 6-12.

Click here for more information and to REGISTER today! Space is limited - act TODAY!

Mother Son Weekend

March 23-25, 2012 - BOOM!

Every mother's dream is that her boy not only finds his wings, but that he breaks through barriers as an overcomer. And what happens when a jet breaks through the sound barrier? You get the BOOM! The Mother Son weekend is designed to celebrate and nuture the unique relationship between a mother and her little boy so that she can give him the strength, encouragement, and love he needs to find his BOOM!

Cost: $155 per person - includes meals, lodging, and most activities.

Ages: All ages are welcome, but this event is generally for boys ages 6-12.

Click here to register for Mother Son Weekend. Space is limited - act TODAY!

Father Son Weekend

March 30 - April 1, 2012 - Warrior Weekend

When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. 1 Corinthians 1:11

Every boy is on a journey to become a man. He is on a quest to fulfill the mission for which he was created. Every father has the responsibility and privilege of guiding the process. Along the way, each boy needs affirming moments with his Father that will mark his progress towards this goal and springboard him to the next phase of his "becoming".

These are called rites of passage and have been practiced in some form in every culture for centuries.

This is the heart of Warrior Weekend, affirming connections between a father and son - designed to help each little boy find the strength he needs to fight the good fight of becoming an honorable man.

This year, our theme is FIGHT FOR THE RITE. We will celebrate the warriors of our own Native American culture as we help dads play purposefully with their boys.

Cost: $155 per person - includes meals, lodging, and most activities.

Ages: All ages are welcome, but this event is generally for boys ages 6-12.

Space is limited - act TODAY! Click here for more information or to REGISTER for "Fight for the Rite" Warrior Weekend.

Blessings,

Tori Miller

Sky Ranch SkyMoms Ministry Director

Teach Intentionally..."Family Time…God does not lie", with Stacy Davis ~ Bible Teacher and Sky Ranch Board Member

2012-01-10T10:34:00.000-06:00

Family Time…God does not lie

As a kid, I lied. Did you? I learned pretty quickly that with lying I got what I wanted. If I wanted candy before dinner and my Mom did not want me to have it, I learned to eat it any way and tell her that I didn’t have any. I got what I wanted and nobody got hurt, right? My family called those “white lies”. They were the little lies that did not seem to hurt anyone so there was no harm in telling them. I continued to tell those well into early adulthood. But once I became a Christian, lying is one of the first things that God convicted me on. I saw that it grieved God. God personally does not lie at all and He told me not to lie at all in scripture. God wants us to be truthful and honest. So, when I did lie, I began to recognize the guilt that I felt from even the “white lies”. I realized there really is no such thing as a “white lie”, instead I saw there are lies and there is truth. It did take a while to change, it was a process with God’s Holy Spirit helping me. But once I started telling the truth and stopped the lying, my conscience was much happier and I felt freedom from the guilt of lying. Plus, it was much simpler to just remember the truth instead of all the lies. Life was much easier.

As a Mom, I learned quickly that I did not have to teach my kids to lie. They understood that all by themselves instantly if it got them out of trouble. It was a little disheartening to see my kids so young and willing to lie. But I did understand that it was human nature to lie. And I knew God’s teaching was to train my kids not to lie. So, to encourage telling the truth, if I caught my kids lying and they confessed and told the truth, then they received a lighter punishment than they would have because they did the right thing. I made a point to tell them all about it so they knew they were rewarded for the truth. I think training your kids to speak truth and not lies is one of the more challenging areas of parenting. It takes a lot of time and is a long process of repeatedly encouraging truth. But worth it to hang in there.

This week in your family time, I would encourage you to prepare by praying and asking for guidance on the best way to present this important lesson. Kids and adults many times do not see anything wrong with lying. Pray for God to give you insight on your own convictions on lying and your family’s convictions. God tells you that He alone is sovereign and creates calamity to test you. God puts you in difficult situations, because in those moments, you discover who you really are and what you really think. Encourage your family to be honest within themselves. When they are in those tough moments, how do they respond? Do they lie to get out of it? What would happen if the truth was told? Challenge your family with thoughts on…does your lying reflect a lack of trust in God? Encouraging your family to understand that God is sovereign and in charge of all things. This can be a difficult teaching for them to accept. It is common to ask…how can a loving God allow bad things to happen? There are other biblical teachings that help you understand God’s plans. For example, God sees the big picture in life and sometimes it can be impossible for you to see it. God knows more than you and I do. Isaiah 55:9 tells you that God’s ways are higher than your ways and His thoughts are higher than yours. So, even though you may not understand why God has allowed a bad situation, it is important to trust Him in it and tell the truth even if there are consequences for telling the truth. God tells you in Proverbs 12:2 that a good man will obtain favor from the Lord. Trust Him.

Do you need help or prayer for your family time? Email me at SkyMoms@skyranch.org.

I will be praying for you!

Stacy Davis

Click the link below for your free copy of the Sky Ranch “Open your Eyes” Family Devotional …

https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/SkyRanch/EventRegistration.html

This week we are in the 5^th Month Topic and 2^nd Family Time (or page 46) of the Sky Ranch Devotional “Open Your Eyes”…

Family Time 2:

Month 5 Topic: There is only one God…God does not lie

Talk with God: Read…John 17:3, Isaiah 45:5, Titus 1:2

~ John 17:3 This is life eternal, that they might know You the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.

In John 17:3, what kind of God is our God called?

~ Isaiah 45:5 I am the Lord, and there is no other; besides Me there is no God. I will gird you, though you have not known Me; (6) that men may know from the rising to the setting of the sun that there is no One besides Me. I am the Lord, and there is no other, (7) the One forming light and creating darkness, causing well-being and creating calamity; I am the Lord who does all.

Is 45:55, what kinds of things does our God do?

~ Titus 1:2 In the hope of eternal life, which God, Who cannot lie , promised long ages ago, these.

In Titus 1:2, God can do everything but one thing, what?

Walk with God: Discuss… What is the opposite of TRUE? False!

God is saying that He is truthful. And we see that God cannot lie about it. What is the witness that He is the only God?

Prayer suggestion… Pray that God will open your eyes to the One True God.

Family Time 2:

Leader Answers:

Only True God
Formed light, created darkness, causes well-being, creates calamity
Lie
Discussion ideas: God is sovereign over creation. Romans 1:20 says that God gives us creation as a witness that He alone is God. God’s ability to cause things good or bad to happen is another witness that He alone is God. What else shows you He is God?

Ronda from~ The Family Table, brings us "Breakfast Tacos!"

2012-01-09T13:46:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year SkyMoms,

I hope you all have enjoyed a blessed Christmas vacation! It has gone by too fast for my liking and now I am rushing around trying to get my menu planning back on track.

Our kids don’t start school until Monday so I have a few more days to get it together! Menu planning is one thing that I can do to help ensure a smooth week. I love recipes that can be customized for each person without much effort on my part.

Starting the day with a hot breakfast can certainly be a challenge during the week, but with a little planning, the kids can grab and go with little effort. These breakfast tacos are a staple in our house. We eat them often and they are always on the camping menu. The majority of this recipe can be pre-made, right down to the bacon.

Breakfast Tacos

Eggs

Flour tortillas

Bacon, amount to taste (a slice per person)

Cheddar Cheese, shredded

Avocado

Diced onions

cilantro

Potato hash browns

Cooking spray

Light sour cream

Salsa

Salt

Pepper

2 skillets

1 griddle

Make scrambled eggs and set aside. Make hash browns and set aside.

To assemble: heat tortilla on griddle until warm, add shredded cheese, scoop of egg, bacon, hash browns, and desired fix ins.

Idea for on-the-go breakfast: Make the tacos in the evening. Wrap in tin foil and refrigerate. The next morning, put foil wrapped tacos in the toaster oven and heat for about 5 – 7 minutes. Grab a paper towel and go!

For camping, I wash, chop and store ingredients in individual containers. At the campsite, scramble the eggs and heat the tortillas. Each person can assemble their desired fixins.

I wish you all a wonderful 2012!

Blessings,

Ronda from….The Family Table

Lisa Life Lesson ~"Goal Setting 2012!!!"

2012-01-06T15:06:00.000-06:00

Goal Setting 2012

The beginning of a calendar year is a great time to sit down as a family

(or individual)

and set goals for the months ahead.

Luke 2:52 says,

"And Jesus grew in wisdom, in stature, and in favor with God and man."

So it seems to me that God has given us a clear template for goal setting.

4 areas of life to grow and mature:

wisdom (intellectually, academically),

stature (physically, healthy living),

in favor with God (spiritual growth areas) and

man (service, community, giving back).

Candace Snyder (Skymom) and her family created a goal setting board a few years back after a Skymoms Gathering related to goal setting, and continue to update the board every year as a family project. Thank you, Candace, for sharing your creativity with us!

Happy Goal Setting 2012!!!

~Lisa Clark

Sky Ranch SkyMoms Parenting Mentor

Prayer Encouragement: "Figure It Out in 2012! " by SkyMom, Terrie Chevaillier

2012-01-05T09:11:00.000-06:00

Figure It Out in 2012!

Call to me and I will answer you, I'll tell you marvelous things that you could never figure out on your own.

Jeremiah 33:3

What are those things that you would just love to figure out about your children? A few that come to mind could be: Are they in the right school? Should we do public, private, or home school? Why do they seem to change friends often....is the Lord protecting them from unhealthy friendships? And who do I really want them to spend large amounts of time with outside of our family? Sports, after school activities...are we doing too much or not enough? And serving...we should and I want to model this to them, but where...there are so many needs around our community? And if there is a sin struggle that I need to Shepard my child towards freedom from...just which one should that be in this season of their life and what scripture should I share and teach them to help them break free?

Let's pray God's Word:
Father, thank you that you tell us to call on you. Your Word then promises that You will answer us. And then I will get to hear marvelous things that on my own I could never figure out.

I confess to my own effort to try and figure these perplexing things out. It's tempting to call a friend first, read a book on the topic, seek a professional opinion, worry and doubt, question and drill my child, or punish, or talk it to death. However, Your Word says that I just need to call on You.

I know I might not receive the answer immediately...and when that is the case, would you please help me to stand and position myself with an expectant heart turned to the voice of Your Holy Spirit first before I seek earthly voices.

This next year, would you show Sky Moms marvelous things which we could never begin to figure out on our own. I am ready to give up my own efforts and surrender them to this promise. Call. Wait for Your answer. Stand and expect while I cease trying to figure those things out which have perplexed me all year long.

Show me today and this next year as I pray Your Word for my children.
Amen.

~Terrie Chevaillier, SkyMom Prayer Encourager

Teach Intentionally..."Family Time…Recognizing the One True God", with Stacy Davis ~ Bible Teacher and Sky Ranch Board Member

2012-01-04T11:32:00.000-06:00

Family Time…Recognizing the One True God

When I was young, I did not really question if there was a God who is the Creator. My parents explained to me that He existed and with a child-like faith, I believed them. My parents also taught me that there were other “so-called” gods but they were fake and the only True God had the Son Jesus. Again, I believed them with child-like faith. It was never really a struggle for me. When I enter college, I was required to study other religions because of my degree in College. I began to have exposure to these other “so-called” gods and I could still clearly see that the only True God is the One who has the Son Jesus. There are some really strange religions out there and it is obvious something is wrong with their beliefs. But there are other religions that are more subtle and it is harder to detect the problems that expose the false god, but God’s Holy Spirit can help you see them if you ask. I had no difficulty recognizing the One True God, but for many people belief is not so easy for them.

As a Mom, my son easily accepted biblical training on God. But my daughter, as young as 5 years old, did question if any God even existed. As a bible teacher, I understood this questioning is normal and even healthy and that each of us needs to be able to answer this question for ourselves. As a Mom, instead of panic, I embraced this moment as an opportunity. I realized that if she could prove God’s existence to herself, her faith would be stronger. It was tempting to push and use guilt to convince her, but I am glad that I waited it out and did not make her feel badly for questioning God’s existence. It took a lot of conversations and answering questions before she finally was convinced around the age of 12. One of the biggest turning points for her was the evidence of creation itself. Creation was so amazing to her and she saw that God had to exist in order to create it. Another strong piece of evidence for my daughter is that she saw the different lifestyles of Christians and non-Christians when she changed schools and left the Christian environment. She noticed the difference in her peer’s behavior when God was missing from their lives.

This week in your family time, I would encourage you to prepare by praying and asking God if anyone in your family struggles with truly accepting the existence of God and ask for God to give you the insight of how to talk to your family and say the message that is needed to help them. Then after you have worked thru this week’s family time, ask your family to share how they explain “who is God?” to themselves. If anyone questions God’s existence, don’t panic, instead see it as an opportunity and walk alongside them as they ask themselves questions about God. Each person really does need to struggle thru this question and successfully settle the issue in their own minds but it may take time. Of course, turn to scripture for any additional help. God actually speaks a lot on this topic in the Old Testament in particular. If your family thinks that they really do recognize the One True God as the One they trust in their life, praise them for choosing well and encourage them to continue to trust Him all of their lives!

Do you need help or prayer for your family time? Email me at SkyMoms@skyranch.org.

I will be praying for you!

Stacy Davis

Click the link below for your free copy of the Sky Ranch “Open your Eyes” Family Devotional …

https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/SkyRanch/EventRegistration.html

This week we are in the 5^th Month Topic and 1^st Family Time (or page 45) of the Sky Ranch Devotional “Open Your Eyes”…

Family Time 1:

Month 5 Topic: There is only one God…Recognizing the One True God

Talk with God: Read… Isaiah 44:6, Isaiah 45:21-22

~ Isaiah 44:6 Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and His redeemer the LORD of hosts; “I am the first, and I am the last; and beside Me there is no God.”

In Isaiah 44:6, is there any other God besides the Lord?

~ Isaiah 45:21-22 Declare and set forth your case; indeed, let them consult together. Who has announced this from of old? Who has long since declared it? Is it not I, the Lord? And there is no other God besides Me, a righteous God and a Savior; there is none except Me. (22) Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other.

In Isaiah 45:21-22, turn to who to be saved?

Walk with God: Discuss…There is no other God. The Lord of hosts is God. He alone saves us. He is righteous. He is the first and the last. Have you ever wondered if there are other gods or is God? Do you know someone who believes a different god? What convinced you that the Lord of hosts is the only True God?

Family Time 1:

Month 5 Topic: There is only one God

Leader Answers:

No
God
Discussion ideas: This is a difficult truth to explain to someone at all, but even harder to explain to someone who does not regard God’s Word, the Bible. Many religions make claims, but God tells us that Jesus is the Way to Him…the One True God. With tough subjects like this, always pray and ask for God’s direction as the issue is discussed. Pray with your friend and ask God to show them…He will.

Prayer suggestion… Pray that you would recognize the One True God.

Lisa Life Lesson ~"New Beginnings"

2011-12-31T10:10:00.000-06:00

New Beginnings

As I was walking into our church worship center on Christmas Eve, the lady in front of me said to her family, "Oh, here, let's sit where we sat at Easter!" I wanted to say, "Welcome Back!" but didn't feel that was appropriate.

I absolutely LOVE new beginnings. Don't you? I love a new school year. I love a new calendar year. I love Mondays. Well, most Mondays. We have a great, new, shiny opportunity to start over if we've done things 50% lately. If your family hasn't made church attendance a priority, then start now.

I can hear you. I really can. "Well, Lisa, my kids have never really liked our pastor. They can't relate to him." OR "My husband needs a day to sleep in. He plays golf on Saturdays." OR "The kids have never connected to the youth group." OR, my favorite. "The soccer coach schedules practices on Sunday morning. What's a family to do????"

OKay, enough excuses. Find a church home that fits the needs of your family. A place where you can grow, and learn and SERVE together. And yes, you might have to change churches. I said it. I'm sure your current church will understand. They'd rather you go to church SOMEWHERE than nowhere at all. I promise.

Church isn't something we DO. It's who we are. WE are the church. The church body is the body of Christ. It's how we do family. Don't make the mistake of thinking you're getting a check in the box on your "good" list. We are commanded to fellowship with other believers. It's not our choice. (Hebrews 10:25)

The benefits to church fellowship are limitless. God wouldn't command us to do something that wouldn't help us or strengthen us. He knows we need the fellowship of other believers. It's a good thing.

Isaiah 58:13-14

13 “Keep the Sabbath day holy.

Don’t pursue your own interests on that day,

but enjoy the Sabbath

and speak of it with delight as the Lord’s holy day.

Honor the Sabbath in everything you do on that day,

and don’t follow your own desires or talk idly.

14 Then the Lord will be your delight.

I will give you great honor

and satisfy you with the inheritance I promised to your ancestor Jacob.

I, the Lord, have spoken!”

~Lisa Clark

Sky Ranch SkyMoms Parenting Mentor

Tips from Tori..." Creating more Memories...while kids are home on break make a craft together!"!"

2011-12-30T11:07:00.000-06:00

Creating more Memories...while kids are home on break

GO make a craft together!

Ok, so yesterday I posted about the Happy Birthday Jesus Cake and you can save that idea and recipe for baking the cake for Him on Christmas Eve, and or make it all year long to give away as a witnessing tool...

But, today I wanted to share a few ideas we have done (thanks to Pinterest) that you could do with your children or families with the time left with them ALL at home this next week before they return back to the rush of school and hectic school schedules!! Sitting down together with a glue gun, some paints, getting a little messy, around a table and laughing WILL create a memories that will last forever...oh, this is so much more precious than fighting the crowds at the malls all doing at their Christmas returns. :)

Here are just a few of our attempts of crafts but we made FABULOUS memories:

Sterling made this for her girlfriends gift exchange:

Use an ornament, and some buttons and hot glue, tie a ribbon bow and voila...

We are now on to using the rest of our buttons to make a canvas Monogram and pillow:

canvas

burlap

sewing machine (this was fun...as I had the opportunity to teach the girls how to sew!)

hot glue and glue sticks

and lots of colorful buttons.

Fyi: use muffin tins to sort colors and sizes

Kyndall made this for her girlfriends gift exchange: We made scarves with verses on them...and this can be used another fun WITNESSING TOOL!~

Scarf was only 5$ from target!

Verse we used:

"Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people." Colossians 3:23

Kyndall made key chains for each of her friends:

Jenga pieces

scrapbook paper

blue

mod podge

key chains

hook deals

..and she got the opportunity to learn how to use dads drill for each one..

SHE MADE 24, to give to all her friends...

We made these amazing crayon art melting projects- sure was fun...,

Crayons

canvas

hot glue and glue sticks

hairdryer

fyi: do the hairdryer “melting” OUTSIDE :)!

(hanging on her wall in her room)

Kyndall is in the process of making these beautiful bracelets...she is selling them and all the money will go towards the High School Youth Mission TRIP to the AMAZON with Prestonwood, this Summer...please let me know how many you want to buy to support her in this trip. :) Ha!

you can wear casual

you can wear dressy- by adding as an accessory with watch

you can wear just one, or wear several at a time!

So proud of her thinking of a way to raise money continually with all proceeds going to her Mission trip to Brazil...

AMAZON RIVER OUTREACH

"if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully."

Romans 12:8

Gotta go...we are headed to the kitchen table to tackle some hot glue, ...I wonder what we will end up with this time!

Blessings,

Tori Miller

Sky Ranch SkyMoms Ministry Director

Tips from Tori..." Creating Our Memories!"

2011-12-29T21:08:00.000-06:00

Celebrating Christmas and Creating Memories

Celebrating Christmas is a great time to start family traditions...that can be passed down for generations! When I became a parent, I started looking for ways to create Christmas memories and traditions with my children. One thing we have done through the years is have a birthday cake for Jesus. My mom (Mimi) loves to cook this birthday cake with the grandkids and sing Happy Birthday to Jesus after the Christmas Eve service, and dinner with the grandkids.

We then all go to back to our respective homes, get ready for bed and read the Christmas story from the Bible before going to bed and anxiously await the opening of the presents the next morning.

What is special about this cake is not the taste or the design, but the story.

You will need:

1 box of white cake mix (or your favorite white cake recipe)

1 box of chocolate cake mix (or your favorite chocolate cake recipe)

Vanilla frosting

food coloring: red, green and yellow

birthday candles

Prepare cakes according to the box/recipe directions. Divide the white batter in half. Drop several drops of green food coloring in one half, and red food coloring in the other half. Pour into 8" round cake pans and bake according to recipe directions.

The chocolate layer reminds us that we are sinful.

Chocolate (black/brown) - Sin is what separates us from God. We choose to disobey God. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23

The red layer reminds us that Jesus shed his blood for our sins.

RED - Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave, paying the price and penalty for our sin. He provided the only way to God. "But God demonstrates His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Roman 5:8

The white frosting reminds us that Jesus has given us a clean heart.

WHITE - When we become a Christian God cleanses us from all unrighteousness and washes us whiter than snow." But you know that He appeared so that He might take away our sins. And in Him is no sin." 1 John 3:5
"Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow." Isaiah 1:18

The green layer reminds us to grow in Christ.
GREEN -We must now grow as a believer in all areas of our life. Looking at Jesus as our example. "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen." 2 Peter 3:18 NKJ

The yellow decorations remind us of heaven.
· GOLD - If we have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, we have the promise of a home in heaven.” In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. “ John 14:2-3

The candles remind us Jesus is the Light of the World.

May you remember the story of the Jesus Birthday cake all year long! And may we all have the courage this year 2012 to share this story with someone who does not know about Christ and his forgiving love.

You could even bake a cake and give it away as a tool to witness to others.

God Bless!

Blessings,

Tori Miller

Sky Ranch SkyMoms Ministry Director

Teach Intentionally..."Family Time…God’s Good News", with Stacy Davis ~ Bible Teacher and Sky Ranch Board Member

2011-12-27T07:42:00.000-06:00

Family Time…God’s Good News

I hope that you had a Merry Christmas and as you prepare for family time, the topic of God’s good news goes well with the season this week! God’s good news or the gospel is something that I grew up hearing about a lot. But like many “church” words, I did not really know what the gospel actually meant. I would hear it said to share the gospel, but my thought was…I have no idea what I am supposed to share. Even though the church is all about spreading the gospel, it is interesting that in church the word gospel is often not very defined. It is just assumed that everyone knows what it means. Later in bible study classes as an adult, I learned that I actually knew the gospel all along. I just did not connect the name “the gospel or the good news” as simply telling about Jesus’ birth, death on the cross, resurrection and the message of how those actions impacted each person who believes Jesus is their personal Lord and Savior. It really was not a very hard concept. I just simply needed the word defined for me.

As a Mom, I found this lack of understanding the word “gospel” was evident in my own kids. One day during our family time, I just asked everyone in the family if they had any idea what “gospel” meant and if they could tell me. I just got blank looks and my kids even went to a private Christian school as well as church and I am a bible teacher. My kids were doing what I did. I think in our culture, if we do not understand what a word means, it is common to just skip over it and not check it out. This is exactly what they were doing and not even giving it a second thought. Until the day that I asked…what is the gospel? Once I explained it to them and everyone said “Oh!”, they realized they really did know it. Then, each of us took turns sharing our testimony which includes sharing the good news of Jesus. Your testimony is simply telling your story of your life before knowing Jesus, your repentance, acceptance and belief in Jesus, and then the changed lifestyle afterwards that resulted. For our family, we noticed that our testimony of the impact that Jesus has made in our lives is in constant process that keeps shaping. We are always learning and growing in our relationship with Jesus.

This week in your family time, I would encourage you to prepare by praying for God to show you if your family needs more help understanding what the gospel is. Ask God to give you insight of what still needs to be taught and understood. Then pray for God’s direction for each family member as you ask God to guide saying your own testimony. Then in your family time this week, ask if each person can share the gospel and can share their testimony. At first, everyone will be reluctant. Everyone always makes it more difficult than it is and you just have to jump in there and stumble through it. It may help to write down a few notes about their life before knowing Jesus and their life after knowing Jesus. Sometimes if a family member does not see much evidence that believing Jesus has changed their lifestyle, it can be a great springboard into an individual conversation on why. Remind your family that sharing the gospel and forming how to say your testimony is a process and it is okay if it is still developing and shaping. Enjoy listening to your kids share their experiences and they will enjoy hearing you share yours.

Do you need help or prayer for your family time? Email me at SkyMoms@skyranch.org.

I will be praying for you!

Stacy Davis

Click the link below for your free copy of the Sky Ranch “Open your Eyes” Family Devotional …

https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/SkyRanch/EventRegistration.html

This week we are in the 4^th Month Topic and 4^th Family Time (or page 40) of the Sky Ranch Devotional “Open Your Eyes”…

Family Time 4:

Month 4 Topic: God is perfectly good…God’s good news

Talk with God: Read…Luke 2:10, Acts 8:12, 1 Corinthians 15:3-8

~ Luke 2:10 And the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people; (11) for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”

In Luke 2:10, what is the angel bringing to them?

~ Acts 8:12 But when they believed Philip preaching the good news about the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were being baptized, men and women alike.

In Acts 8:12, what is Philip preaching?

~ 1 Corinthians 15:1, 3-8 (1) Now I make known to you, brethren, the gospel which I preached to you… (3) For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, (4) and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, (5) and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. (6) After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; (7) then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; (8) and last of all, as it were to one untimely born, He appeared to me also.

I Cor 15:1, 3-8, what is being preached?

Walk with God: Discuss… Do you know what the gospel is? Can you share it? It is God’s good news of hope to us. 1 Corinthians 15:1, 3-8, is a great summary of the gospel. As a family, practice saying it to each other and share the difference this good news of the gospel has made in your lives. Make a point to share it also with someone outside your family today.

Prayer suggestion… Pray that God will help you understand and share His good news.

Family Time 4:

Leader Answers:

Good news

Good news
The gospel
Discussion ideas: Take turns struggling through saying the gospel. It can be awkward at first. Add to it your life before hearing the gospel and then the change after hearing it, and how God has worked in your life. Then you will have your testimony to the positive change Jesus brings in a life. Some of your family may not see a change in their lives. Encourage them to keep praying and asking Jesus to show Himself to them. For some the change is gradual, it is a process and everyone’s pace is different; but it is important to note that you will see a good change if the belief in His Son, Jesus, is real.

TIps from Tori..."Enjoy This Merry Christmas!"

2011-12-23T10:29:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas!

SkyMoms, wishes you all a very Merry Christmas! For He is the Reason to Enjoy this Joyous Season, for he has done Great and Might Things!

And Mary said, "For He who is mighty has done great things for me, and Holy is His name."

Luke 1:49

Merry Christmas!,

Tori

Tori Miller

Sky Ranch SkyMoms Ministry Director

Prayer Encouragement: "Nothing to Something- Chosen and Royal " by SkyMom, Terrie Chevaillier

2011-12-22T10:29:00.000-06:00

Nothing to Something- Chosen and Royal

But you are the ones chosen by God,

chosen for the high calling of priestly work,

chosen to be a holy people,

God’s instruments to do his work and speak out for him,

to tell others of the night and day difference he made for you-

from nothing to something, from rejected to accepted.

1 Peter 2: 9-10 (The Message)

In the NIV version, verse nine refers to Christ followers as a

royal priesthood. Because our King, the Messiah was born,

we are a part of a royal priesthood.

When you are a part of royalty, you have the finest and lack nothing.

Because of Christmas, we get to partake in this priesthood of royalty.

With that high calling comes a work.

The work is to speak out for Him and share our stories of

broken to redeemed- from pit to palace.

Because of the King.

To do this, we have the finest to guide us and will lack nothing as we go about

the work because we have His Word and His Holy Spirit to guide and lead us.

We lack nothing.

This Christmas season, as part of us sharing the good (finest) news first

before the favorite things of gifts, parties, and food

let’s venture to share our pit to palace stories….our beauty for ashes stories,

and our broken to redeemed stories. Because of Christmas we can do this.

Let’s tell our children because of Christ ______________fill in the blank!

Let’s Pray:

Heavenly Father, Your Word tells us that we are royal priests sent

to tell others about you and go about Your work here on this earth.

I believe that our first work begins in our homes as we model You

to our children. We can show them You in how we love them and love

others especially during this season.

I pray that we would.

I also pray as Your Word teaches us to have courage and tell

them our stories of redemption.

What would Uou have us tell them?

Before Christ I was this……..And after Christ or because of Christ

I am now this………………..!

What is my fill in the blank of bondage or slavery that would minister hope to my

children

and allow them to see Christmas in us. Saved, redeemed

and set free because of Your birth.

There is a real story inside every one of us that needs to be told.

It speaks of royalty…ransomed to a palace, restored, redeemed,

with complete access to the finest of eternal and lasting things.

Give us courage and boldness to share!

Amen

~Terrie Chevaillier, SkyMom Prayer Encourager

Teach Intentionally..."Family Time…Do good like God", with Stacy Davis ~ Bible Teacher and Sky Ranch Board Member

2011-12-21T08:22:00.000-06:00

Family Time…Do good like God

Even though in the Garden of Eden everything started out good, it all changed the minute that mankind sinned. Psalms 14:1 and Romans 3:12 tells us that there is none good, not even one. Before I was a Christian, I often thought that people were born basically good and I have heard many other people agree and say the same. But once I started studying God’s Word, I learned that scripture tells us that actually none of us are born “good”. We are all born sinners in Romans 5:12. None of us would be good if God did not lead the way and show us how to be good and define goodness for us. But what does God tell us is good? How do we know what good is? God gives “goodness” in Galatians 5:22 as a result of God’s Holy Spirit.

So, goodness is Holy Spirit inspired. Ephesians 5:9 tells us that as God’s children we will do what is pleasing to the Lord and it will result in goodness, righteousness, and truth. So, it is again a result of the Holy Spirit causing goodness within us. King David tells us in Psalms 14:1 that understanding and seeking after God is considered good. So even though none of us would seek God nor be good on our own. God inspires goodness in all of us and defines goodness for us through His Holy Spirit and His Word. The behavior of goodness is summarized by all that is right in God’s eyes.

As a Mom, I noticed that this biblical teaching of kids born as little sinners was true. I did not have to teach my kids to lie about eating candy before dinner or lie about stealing the other child’s toy and then pretend they did not. They naturally knew how to do all of that. Instead, I actually had to teach them to be good according to God’s definition of good which is not lying or stealing. I had to teach them to treat others in the way that you want to be treated which is often different than how you were treated. God tells us in Romans 1:19 that each person is born with a basic understanding of right and wrong written on our hearts. God tells us that we can understand the difference between good and bad and that self-control will work for awhile, but we can’t stay “good” as a habit on our own. It is only after my kids believed Jesus and received God’s indwelling Holy Spirit that parenting got much easier because God’s Holy Spirit gave them a desire for “good” behavior as a habit for their lifestyle. But don’t get me wrong, they still occasionally sin, but sinning is not the habit of their life anymore.

This week in your family time, I would encourage you to prepare by praying for your family to desire favor from the Lord by doing “good” in God’s eyes. Pray for God to help your family look for opportunities to do “good” for others. Since it is the Christmas season, share with your family how Jesus is an indescribably good gift from God and why. God saw an opportunity to do good by sending Jesus to save you and me. Share how Jesus saves with your family and that gift was sent by God’s grace. Ask… how you can imitate God and share something good with others? Have you ever shown grace to others? Grace is unmerited favor. Encourage your family to think of ways to reach out to others this season. Can your family afford to share a few gifts with the local children’s hospital or a local family shelter? Can you share the message of the hope of Jesus with a friend that God directs you to? It can even be as simple as…can you show kindness to your brother or sister when they don’t deserve it?

Do you need help or prayer for your family time? Email me at SkyMoms@skyranch.org.

Merry Christmas! I will be praying for you!

Stacy Davis

Click the link below for your free copy of the Sky Ranch “Open your Eyes” Family Devotional …

https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/SkyRanch/EventRegistration.html

This week we are in the 4^th Month Topic and 3^rd Family Time (or page 39) of the Sky Ranch Devotional “Open Your Eyes”…

Family Time 3:

Month 4 Topic: God is perfectly good…Do good like God

Talk with God: Read…Proverbs 3:27, Proverbs 12:2, 3 John 1:11

~ Proverbs 3:27 Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do [it].

In Prov. 3:27, what are you not to withhold?

~ Proverbs 12:2 A good man will obtain favor from the Lord.

In Prov. 12:2, what does a good man obtain?

~ 3 John 1:11 Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God.

In 3 John 1:11, what are you to imitate?

Walk with God: Discuss… God tells us to “do good” when it is in our power. Think about that. Do you make nice comments, share, invite someone to dinner, give a big tip, smile, encourage? Do you? Most of us skip the small things, don’t we? Does God skip it? No, He doesn’t miss a moment to be kind and we are to imitate Him. Still give the big things, too…like food or clothes to a shelter, find someone a job, help the homebound with their needs, visit and care for the widows, orphans, sick and needy. Share the gospel. What will you obtain? Favor. Why would you want favor from the Lord?

Prayer suggestion… Pray for God through His Spirit to help you do what is good.

Family Time 3:

Leader Answers:

Good
Favor from the Lord
What is good

Discussion ideas: Favor is to be pleasing, acceptable to God, or to be approved by God. Isn’t that our desire? We want to do what is right in God’s eyes. Encourage each other to share things that are right and good that you can do as a family

Lisa Life Lesson ~"Christmas Letters"

2011-12-20T07:25:00.000-06:00

Christmas 2006 - I felt the Lord leading me to "document" in some way my children's heritage through simple handwritten letters from their grandparents (4 at the time) and great-grandparents (2).

I sent each a note requesting the letters with some thoughts on what they might include, such as where they grew up, when they accepted Jesus as Savior, what their interests were in high school, when they married, etc. All 6 so graciously participated and on Christmas Eve I wrapped each girl's letters with red ribbon and put them in their stockings. Needless to say, these letters have become a valuable keepsake remembered not only at Christmastime but throughout the year. Today, 3 of their grandparents, and 1 great-grandparent have gone to be with Jesus.

The letter writing spurred on my husband, Brad, to start a new family tradition a few years ago. He asked that each of us (me, Brad, Caroline and Camryn) write each other Christmas letters to be read on Christmas morning. These letters are a treasure. It's a wonderful time to put into writing how you feel about your loved ones. Of course, I cry every year. But I'm so thankful for the letters.

Merry Christmas. I'm thankful for the true gift of Christmas - Jesus.

~Lisa Clark

Sky Ranch SkyMoms Parenting Mentor

A Woman's Encouragement...from Linda Paulk, Sky Ranch CEO and President

2011-12-19T07:50:00.000-06:00

Dear SkyMoms,

The joy of the Lord is our strength (see Nehemiah 8:10)! Woohoo! Praise the Lord….so happy to know that this is TRUE! I awoke this morning praying for all of you. Praying that you would know that through Christ you can do all things and that your source of strength is in Him (see Philippians 4:13). We hear this so many times and acknowledge it as His word in the scripture, but so many times we don’t tap into the power source until we have exhausted our self efforts. I know…to be completely transparent…I am guilty of this too! We know the Lord has a plan, we know He wants the best for all for us, we know that He is in control…why don’t we give it to Him to handle? Ladies, today let me encourage you to cast all your cares upon the Lord for He will sustain you (see 1 Peter 5:7)

Today ladies, I know that there are some of you that are facing mountains to climb that seem too difficult to even begin the journey. I realize that there are those of you who have obstacles to overcome, perhaps addictions you are facing either yourself or one of your loved ones, problems with your children, marriage difficulties, health issues, and more. Please be encouraged by the scriptures above and know that God is our great provider and that He will never give us more than we can handle. He wants you to allow Him to carry you, but this is a decision we must make. We must choose to allow him to handle it. Many times I find myself choosing to allow Him to handle it in my head, but not in my heart, which is when I have fully surrendered it to Him.

Father God, today I pray for all of the Moms that are reading this blog. I pray that you would strengthen their faith in you and that they would tap into the power and authority you have given them through your Holy Spirit…that they would recognize as Christians, you have given us this power. I pray that they would acknowledge and recognize the enemy attacks, but focus on Jesus. I pray that whatever each Mom is facing today that they would know without a shadow of doubt that you are greater than any problem and can and will handle it all. I pray that they would release their cares to you. I pray that you provide comfort, strength, healing, wisdom, knowledge, and discernment as each Mom embraces the day to day struggles, trusting you. It is in the powerful name of Jesus I pray, Amen

Please know that the ministry of Sky Ranch is in prayer for all of your families. On behalf of all of Sky Ranch, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and pray that the Lord will bless each one of you with a time of renewal and refreshment in Him, and that He would strengthen your family during this time.

Grateful to serve,

Linda

Prayer Encouragement: "Lauren Scruggs!!!" by SkyMom, Terrie Chevaillier

2011-12-16T08:33:00.004-06:00

Prayer Encouragement For Lauren Scruggs

After reading Tori's request for SkyMoms to pray, I started reading through Lauren Skrugg's Caring Bridge Journal and came across two verses. On the first day of the accident, her mom posted Psalm 41:1-3. And just recently Lauren shared Isaiah 40:31. Let's take these two verses and pray God's word for Lauren as we know that His Word does not return void (Isaiah 55:11)

Psalm 41:1-3 How blessed is he who considers the helpless; the Lord will deliver him in a day of trouble. The Lord will protect him and keep him alive; And he shall be called blessed upon the earth; And do not give him over to the desire of his enemies. The Lord will sustain him upon his sickbed; In his illness you restore him to health.
Isaiah 40:31 Yet those who wait on the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up on wings like eagles. They will run and not get tired. They will walk and not faint.

Let us come boldy before the throne on Lauren's behalf and pray God's Word.

Dear Lord, Thank you that Your Word has power and is sent out to accomplish much. Sky moms come before you today and ask for healing for Lauren. . We ask a marvelous work of Your healing hand to be on display for all to see and give You glory.

Your Word says that those who consider the helpless will be blessed and delivered in the day of trouble. As we listened to Lauren's mom share a little about Lauren's life, we heard of her love others and how she is involved in many causes that benefit the helpless. Thank You that You Father will bless Lauren as Your Word promises.

We thank You that the power of life and sustenance is in Your most capable hands. You are protector and healer. Sustain her body and increase her appetite for nourishment. Even as she takes in physical food, feed her spiritually as well. Equip and strengthen her family and friends to minister to her and be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Father, when the enemy comes in to discourage, we thank you that her mind will not be given over to defeated thoughts, but that her thoughts would be conformed and transformed to healing thoughts....allow her mind to dwell on what is good and lovely...like the flowers she spoke of in her dream written in the journal. We say boldly right now....because of the authority we have in Jesus Christ that the enemy MUST FLEE!

This minute, You Lord are restoring health to Lauren. And we know from Your Word that when You are restoring physical health...that there is a restoring and abundance of spiritual health on top of it all. We believe that Lauren will have a trophy of a testimony that speaks of Your healing power.

From reading the journal, it sounds like this family is doing a lot of waiting. Waiting to see how Lauren's body will respond to surgery and therapy and treatment. However...in the waiting...You promise new strength that will not tire out or faint, but will mount UP!

We declare that Your Word will accomplish much. When what is happening or happens does not make sense to Lauren or her family, we pray that Your Holy Spirit would guide their hearts and minds into all truth...and in that place is hope, peace, and joy!
Amen

~Terrie Chevaillier, SkyMom Prayer Encourager
Please visit the caringbridge site for updates:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/laurenscruggs/journal

Prayer Request~ Lauren Scruggs Family

2011-12-15T08:23:00.000-06:00

Sky Ranch Loves this dear family, and her parents even helped serve as camp hosts at a family camp one session ay Sky Ranch Family Camp in Ute Trail this summer...would you please join us in praying for Lauren in her continued miraculous recovery!

You may follow her recovery here:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/laurenscruggs/journal

Lauren we are so proud of you...we are praying and cheering for you every step of the way,

We all at Sky love you!

Jeremiah 29:11

Blessings,
Tori
Sky Ranch SkyMoms Ministry Director

Prayer Encouragement: "Finest Thing: GOOD NEWS! " by SkyMom, Terrie Chevaillier

2011-12-13T00:30:00.000-06:00

Finest Thing: GOOD NEWS!

¹⁰ But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. ¹¹ Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

Luke 2: 10-11 (NIV)

As we build on the encouragement to pray that we would have beautiful feet this season,

Our first message that our feet need to bring to our children would be the good news!

For some of us, we might not really feel that the current “news” is so good right now.

Right now, our story or our children’s story could include something like:

Loss, loneliness, fear, lack of finances, thus causing lack of joy.

But if our daddy is the King, we have a Savior.

And because we have a Savior…we can have JOY!

We are a part of royalty…and that is GOOD NEWS!

If our daddy is the King and we are His children and our children are His children

then regardless of our circumstances right now we have access to the finest things….

Because our Savior was born and He is our Father…Messiah, and Lord.

The finest things are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control.

Finest things. Favorite Things.

Let’s pray:

Dear Heavenly Father…thank You that you are our daddy…THE KING.

And thank you that we are Your children.

Sometimes we do not feel that we live in a palace or feel that there is much good news.

However, because of Your birth….please help us as mom’s to teach our children

that the finest things this year are not comfort, the latest iphone, ipad, or i (myself), but the I AM.

Those gadgets are all good things, and they do bring joy, but it’s temporary joy.

Good news first (finest thing)….brings lasting joy. Those other things second (favorite

things)…bring fleeting joy and leave us wanting for more.

Guide us as we grow in our desire for intentionality to put Christ at the center of our family.

As we get a taste of the finest this season, I pray that we would

not settle for less the entire year to come.

Amen.
~Terrie Chevaillier, SkyMom Prayer Encourager

Teach Intentionally..."God is the good Shepherd", with Stacy Davis ~ Bible Teacher and Sky Ranch Board Member

2011-12-12T07:28:00.000-06:00

Family Time…God is the good Shepherd

God gives guidance. But when I was young, I did not know that and my life lacked guidance. I didn’t even understand anyone’s life had direction, much less, that I was supposed to be directing mine. I just wandered aimlessly. What I did was normal for a child. If I needed help, I turned to other people such as my parents or friends. It seemed to work. But some life-changing decisions can’t be answered by family or friends and these decisions have to be made by you. As I grew up and was taught that maturing meant making decision that did cause my life to take one path or another, I quickly realized that I was not equipped to handle making life-changing decisions. I needed help. But, who do you turn to for direction? People, even Mom and Dad, don’t have all the answers and it is a lot of responsibility to put on them. Scripture teaches to turn to God first (Matthew 6:33). God actually has all the answers and He really will share them with you.

As a Mom, my kids still struggle with this concept of turning to God first and people second. God really is the good Shepherd and He does direct us down the right path in life. But, He wants us to ask. As both of my kids are thinking of college majors and their future jobs, there have been a lot of conversations lately about their path in life. It is tempting for me just to give them my opinion and move on. But, each time the topic is brought up, I ask, “have you prayed about it?” The answer is often “no” and my response is “pray and then we will talk”. It is important to train kids to turn to God first and people second. It takes constantly reminding them over and over. As parents, it is our job to keep pointing our kids to God.

This week in your family time, I would encourage you to prepare by praying and asking God for help as you speak to your family on listening to God. Pray and ask for God’s direction first and then ask Him to direct you to people with the right message for your family. God can use people to speak to us, it is just important to ask God about it first. Ask God to give you discernment as you consider all the different “voices” in our world and direct you to the ones who will speak to your family and direct you to God and a godly lifestyle. Pray for God to give you wisdom to teach your kids how to “hear” the right ones and know the right direction that will help you. Know that a message from God will always line up with what God says in His Word and it will not go against Him. This devotional can be a great springboard into a conversation on the TV shows that your kids are watching and challenging them to look at who they allow to influence their lives. Ask your kids, how much do the TV messages line up with God’s message? For pre-teens or teenagers, how many of their TV shows glamorize sex outside of marriage, homosexuality, alcohol, drugs or self-centered lifestyles? Afterwards, if you realize that the TV shows don’t measure up to God’s standards, talk about changes. And if you see a need for more godly influences in your lives, pray as a family and ask God to send godly influences into your kid’s lives. He will.

Do you need help or prayer for your family time? Email me at SkyMoms@skyranch.org.

I will be praying for you!

Stacy Davis

Click the link below for your free copy of the Sky Ranch “Open your Eyes” Family Devotional …

https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/SkyRanch/EventRegistration.html

This week we are in the 4^th Month Topic and 2^nd Family Time (or page 38 ) of the Sky Ranch Devotional “Open Your Eyes”…

Family Time 2:

Month 4 Topic: God is perfectly good…God is the Good Shepherd

Talk with God: Read…Luke 18:19, John 10:14

~ Luke 18:19 And Jesus said to him, "Why do you call Me good? No one is good except God alone.”

In Luke 18:19, who is good?

~ John 10:14 I am the Good Shepherd; and I know My own, and My own know Me, (15) even as the Father knows Me and I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep.

In John 10:14, what is Jesus called?
Who knows Him?

Walk with God: Discuss… In Luke 18:19, why do you think Jesus is questioning the man for calling Him good? Is Jesus saying that He is not good? No, Jesus is showing that He is God in this statement. The man saw that Jesus is good as God is good. In John 10:14, Jesus’ own know Him. They listen to His voice. Who do you listen to? Today many voices distract us…TV, radio, movies, books, magazines, friends, even family…all can say the opposite of God. How much time do you spend listening to Jesus’ voice? How well do you know Him? Can you tell when it is Jesus speaking?

Prayer suggestion…Pray for God to help you follow Jesus, your Good Shepherd, and know Him.

Family Time 2:

Leader Answers:

God alone
The Good Shepherd
His own
Discussion ideas: In Scripture God talks a lot about “voices.” It is of major concern to Him. Spend time in God’s Word (try Proverbs) to help you discern between God’s voice and those against God. Pray also, asking for God to help you discern between good and evil, and to help you follow the good.

This Season is the Best Ya’ll!~ from Guest Chrissie Dunham

2011-12-08T10:34:00.000-06:00

This Season is the Best Ya’ll!

I love this season of the year. Our family gathers around to watch football, we enjoy cooler weather, pumpkins depart, and Christmas tress arrive and the best eating and cooking of the year begin. I love to pull out my recipes and cookbooks and start to dream about all of the traditional foods that we cook as a family, during this time of year, but I also like to look for new ideas.

Gathering around the table has always been important to me. First of all because I love to cook, but also this is one of the most important things we can do as families. Some of my most precious memories are from the dinner table. We all have hectic schedules and it seems that as the kids grow up, it gets harder and harder to find time to eat together as a family.

My husband and I made a rule in our house as our children’s schedules started spinning out of control that every Sunday night, no matter what was going on, we would have dinner as a family. Today my girls are 24 and 26 and guess who shows up every Sunday night for dinner…one is married with a 1- year - old boy and the other one is just got married. Sunday nights are my favorite family times.

Start family traditions with your children. They are so fun and the kids love traditions. I promise that they will love it and who knows, they may still come around after they have left the nest.

Some Sunday nights we cook breakfast for dinner. I want to share a recipe that is one of our family favorites and it is so easy.

Egg Strata

1 (8 count) can of refrigerated crescent rolls

1-pound mild breakfast sausage

1 (8 ounce) package cheddar cheese, shredded

7 eggs, beaten

1 teaspoon dry mustard

1-teaspoon celery salt

¼ cup ranch dressing

¼ cup milk

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13 inch pan with cooking spray. Press crescent roll dough in pan to cover bottom. Brown sausage in skillet and drain. Layer sausage and cheese in prepared pan. In bowl, combine and mix beaten eggs, dry mustard, celery salt ranch dressing and milk. Pour over layers. Bake 25-30 minutes. Serves 12.

Enjoy this casserole and start creating memories today!

“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.” Psalm 127:3

Chrissie Dunham

Director of Women's Ministry

Prestonwood Dallas Campus

Prayer Encouragement: "BEAUTIFUL FEET" by SkyMom, Terrie Chevaillier

2011-12-07T00:53:00.000-06:00

BEAUTIFUL FEET

How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed?

How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard?

And how will they hear without a preacher?

How will they preach unless they are sent?

Just as it is written,

“HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET

OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD THINGS!”

Romans 10: 14-15 (NASB)

Beauty is all around this season. Beautiful décor, beautiful music,

beautiful gifts, beautiful food, beautiful traditions, and beautiful parties, just to name a few.

Favorite things. Most definitely. These mentioned

are just a few of my favorite things.

Why?

For me they represent why my heart celebrates this time of year. They are

representations that this time of year is to be celebrated and set apart with more beauty

admiration, and intentionality….it’s like a royal time of the year.

Set apart. Royal. Fit for a King.

However, if I only set apart this time for a physical kind of beauty over the

beauty of teaching my children about the good news….then really I have failed.

My feet are supposed to bring good news of good things!

My feet are beautiful to my children and those around me

when they bring good news first and favorite decorative and bright twinkling things second.

This season and really all year round, my feet need to look different than the world’s feet.

Beautiful feet bringing beautiful good news of the finest thing first and twinkly things second is

my prayer for the feet of Sky Moms this season.

As Sky Moms, we join together because our finest thing is The King.

Jesus Christ, Messiah, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords.

Let’s Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father, we come to You with hearts that long to put you first and

gifts, parties, and decorations second. I believe that because most every mom

I talk to right now tells me that. And Father, I really do believe them.

I am so thankful that you see our heart’s desire first and do not judge us according to our sin

and failure to do that thing that we want to do, but somehow don’t do.

Your Word says that those around us will not believe if they have not heard.

And they can’t call on You if they have not believed.

As Sky Moms…we are preachers. Preachers sent.

Sent to first tell our family about the good news.

Sent second, third and fourth to give them gifts, a pretty home, and favorite holiday food.

If they don’t really understand how you came into the world

and why they need You and celebrate your birth this time of year,

and because of Your birth, they are part of a royal priesthood,

then I really do believe our feet look more worldly than heavenly.

I believe in my heart that this season you would like for Sky Moms

to teach our children about their royalty. About their set apartness.

And that their daddy is the

KING.

You Father, A KING, was born that day, for today and for eternity.

Amen.

~Terrie Chevaillier, SkyMom Prayer Encourager

Teach Intentionally..."Family Time…God is good & all that He makes is good", with Stacy Davis ~ Bible Teacher and Sky Ranch Board Member

2011-12-06T02:57:00.000-06:00

Family Time…God is good & all that He makes is good

What good moments stop and make you smile? As you race through life and whirl through your day, do you pause and consider God often? God is the basis for all that we consider to be good. Jesus told us that God alone is good. As I think of good moments in life with the ones that I love, how many of those moments are from God? All of them. Even good deeds from others…such as random acts of kindness or a struggle and then good prevails, they all come from God. It starts with God. He inspires us and His good ideas spread to people. Growing up it took me awhile to choose to notice the good in life. It was much easier to notice everything negative and of course to complain about the negative was easier too. It took time and God working in my life to help me see what was good and choose to talk about the good.

As a young parent raising kids, I noticed that my kids seemed to struggle with the same problem that I did of noticing and commenting on the negatives the majority of the time. This was especially common in our relationships. The majority of the time we existed peacefully together as a family and then one blow up of fighting and what is talked about for the next 5 years? The one blow up! Is there any mention of all the time of peace? Absolutely not! It is so easy to focus on the negative in relationships and the challenge is to choose to see the positives. But God tells us in 1Timothy 4:4 that everything created by God is good and nothing is to be rejected. Everything created in its original state was good. But sin entered and now we all live in a fallen world. So, problems do exist. But God still values each of us and He tell us to strive to be good and value what is good. In our family, it is still a challenge to encourage the group to value each other. But I do encourage my kids to see the glass half full and look for the good in each other.

This week in your family time, I would encourage you to prepare by praying and asking God to reveal to you how your family sees God and sees each other. The majority of the time, do you see God as good? Do you see each other as good? Do you value God? Do you value the other people in your family? It will be evident in your conversation and action towards each other if you do or don’t. If God is revealing to you that this is a challenge for your family, remind your family that your relationships are one of the only things that go with us into eternity. Your relationship with Jesus and others will continue in heaven. They are long term and matter. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 tells us to encourage one another and build each other up. You may have a family member who really struggles with being positive. If you do, each time this family member is critical, tell them to list 5 good things about the person that they targeted to criticize. And the compliments have to be valid nice comments. Train them to change how they think of others by challenging them with this positive exercise each time they criticize. It will take a while but eventually a change will take place. You can do the same exercise with thoughts on God. Train your family to see God’s good by thinking of 5 good things about Him too and then thank Him for it!

Do you need help or prayer for your family time? Email me at SkyMoms@skyranch.org.

I will be praying for you!

Stacy Davis

Click the link below for your free copy of the Sky Ranch “Open your Eyes” Family Devotional …

https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/SkyRanch/EventRegistration.html

This week we are in the 4^th Month Topic and 1^st Family Time (or page 37 ) of the Sky Ranch Devotional “Open Your Eyes”…

Family Time 1:

Month 4 Topic: God is perfectly good…All that He makes is good.

Talk with God: Read…Genesis 1:31, Deuteronomy 32:4

~ Genesis 1:31 And God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.

In Gen 1:31, how did God view all that He made?

~ Deuteronomy 32:4 He is the Rock, His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He.

In Deut 32:4, how is God’s work described?

Walk with God: Discuss... Before sin, God describes His work…you and me…as good. How do you view people? We all sin…we all fall short of the mark that God set for us and it is important to deal with our sins according to Scripture. But our attitude toward people is important, too. How do you view members of your family or friends? Do you see the good or the bad in them?

Prayer suggestion… Pray for God to help you see the good in life.

Family Time 1:

Month 4 Topic: God is perfectly good

Leader Answers:

Very good
Perfect
Discussion ideas: Now we live in a fallen world and Romans 3:12 tells us “none are good…not even one.” But we are to seek to be good like God is good. However, we can’t be good on our own…we need God’s redemption and Holy Spirit to help us live life. In our attitude, it can actually be easier to see the negative, can’t it? If someone struggles with always seeing the negative, ask them to find the positive or good in the situation…it can be as simple as training yourself to look for the good.

Ronda from~ The Family Table, brings us "Collin’s Pecan Pie!"

2011-12-02T22:43:00.000-06:00

Dear SkyMoms,

I hope you all enjoyed a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday with your families. It seems we can’t get the bird cleaned up fast enough before we start putting up the tree for Christmas!

I have so many thing that I am thankful for and this time of year always makes me think on holidays past and loved ones that are no longer with us. Have you ever noticed how certain smells remind you of loved ones? For me it is the smell of their cooking that takes me right back into their kitchens and I promise you I feel as if they should be walking in the back door at any moment. I don’t know about you, but our holiday cooking is full of family traditions that we just have to make each and every holiday.

The big question I have for you is this… Are you teaching your children these family heirloom recipes so they will have them for their families when they are older? I don’t mean just writing the recipe down and passing it on, I mean teaching them how to make their favorite family recipe so that they not only learn the tips and tricks on how to make Grandma Betty’s peach pie, but they hear the stories of how great a cook Grandma Betty was and how she took that peach pie to all of her friends each July 4^th or how she was known for her pecan pie at Thanksgiving and that she liked her pecans chopped just so. Better yet, if Grandma Betty is still around, have her do the teaching and you take the pictures. Now you have taken an ordinary recipe and made it extraordinary. I can assure you in 30 years your child will remember that feeling of being with Grandma like it was yesterday.

Each of our kids has an old family recipe that they cherish and have learned to make. Collin’s is pecan pie. He loves and adores that pie. I have told him how his Great Grandmother made the best pies ever and now I have passed on how to make that pecan pie to him. When we eat it, he is all smiles knowing he made that pie for the family. Grace makes deviled eggs that are so delicious that I could eat a dozen of them! So, each year, she is in charge of the eggs. I can remember when all she could do was peel the egg over the sink on a step stool. Now she is doing it all. When we eat those eggs and we are all raving to her about how delicious they taste, I know it makes her feel good. Little Ashton made fruit salad with his grandmother this thanksgiving and he peeled all of the potatoes for the mashed potatoes. As he gets older, I am sure he will settle on a favorite and soon he will be the master of that recipe just like the others.

I leave you today with Collin’s Pecan Pie, I mean Mama’s, well it was originally Grandma Mable’s Pecan Pie. We have tweaked it a bit here and there but I can still remember eating that pie with her all those years ago.

Collin’s Pecan Pie

1 cup Karo Light or Dark Syrup

3 eggs

1 cup sugar

2 T real butter, melted

2 tsp vanilla extract

1 heaping tsp of vanilla bean paste

2 T of bourbon

1 ½ cups (more or less), chopped pecans

1 unbaked 9 inch, deep dish pie crust

Using a mixer, combine all of the ingredients except pecans. Place pecans into the unbaked crust and pour mixture over nuts. Place pie on a foil lined cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees until the center barely jiggles for 45-60 minutes depending on your oven. It will continue to set as it cools. Cover the top of the pie loosely with foil at the end so the pecans don’t burn.

This pie tastes best if you let it sit overnight before eating. The vanilla bean paste can be omitted, but I love the flavor of those beans. Once you start cooking with paste, you will find you start throwing it into everything! And lastly, the bourbon can be omitted but it gives a nice subtle background flavor. If my crust is extra deep, I have made a recipe and half worth of mix by just eyeballing the extras-another egg, a little more karo, sugar, nuts. Right now my crust of choice is the homemade version on Pioneer Woman’s Website. There is a great crust tutorial for those ready to tackle the crust (which I highly encourage you to do!)

I wish you all a very, very Merry and Blessed Christmas!

Love, Ronda from …… The Family Table

Super-Sized SkyMom Gathering~Maggianos-Northpark for Park Cities/Highland Park, Texas

2011-12-01T20:16:00.000-06:00

Maggianos-Northpark for Park Cities/Highland Park

A special thanks to our hostesses:

Kathy, Michelle, Jennifer, Kathy Jackson, Rochelle and Amy

who sponsored tables and invited their friends to enjoy food, fun, fellowship, and spiritual encouragement!

A special thanks to Lisa Clark,

Sky Ranch SkyMoms Parenting Mentor,

who gave us an practical tips on beginning

" Family Traditions- Its Never to Late to Start!"

This message was about including our kids in ways of intentional traditions with our children all year year long and not just at the holiday season.

It could be making the favorite Saturday pancakes each weekend that you always make, the Friday game night you establish, or the Sunday Family meal time at the at family table you require.

In our home it is a tradition to always make the green bean bundles and cream corn at Thanksgiving, and we always play a family game of baccarat that last for hours!

Here are a few of the Christmas Traditions that Lisa shared today at the Sky Gathering....I love these traditions so much that I have adopted them into my own home...

The Christmas Box

Here’s what you need to make the box:

White wrapping paper

An empty box (mid-size)

Red ribbon and bow

Greenery

With the box you can share the gospel – We sit the box at the front of our tree. The “red” symbolizes His blood that was shed on the cross for our sins. (“Without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins.” Hebrews 9:22) The “empty box” symbolizes the empty tomb. 3 days after he was buried He rose from the grave and is alive. The tomb was empty! (Matthew 28:2-7) The “white” symbolizes our sins being washed away white as snow. (Isaiah 1:18) And the “green” symbolizes our new life in Christ after we accept Him as Savior. “Therefore, if any man is in Christ he is a new creation.” 2 Corinthians 5:17

Keeping Christ in Christmas is very hard with all the commercialism and materialism. This is just a small way to maintain the focus on Jesus Christ.

The Three Gifts at Christmas

When our children were young, we could see that gift “getting” was becoming more important than gift giving, and certainly more important than celebrating Jesus’ birthday. So, like many families, we decided to limit their gifts to 3 just like Jesus received. Remember, when the 3 Kings came to visit Him, they brought 3 gifts. (Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh. Matthew 2:11) This keeps it simple and focused.

The Christmas Jars

This is a book written by Jason F. Wright. I read it several years ago at a friend’s request and it has been a part of our year and Christmas ever since. The book explains it best, but the premise it to collect your change all year in a mason jar and then on Christmas Eve, leave it on someone’s porch who would be blessed by this small gift. It won’t change their lives by any means, but it could bless them tremendously. Our family prays about whom to give the jar to each year and it has become one of our favorite traditions.

Enjoy....what are your traditions?????

Upcoming other Super-Sized Gatherings are:

Prestonwood South Location-North Dallas Texas ~ January 19, 2012
Ricks Chophouse -McKinney, TX ~ February 8, 2012

Maggianos- Northpark for Park Cities/Highland Park, Texas ~ February 29, 2012

Stonebriar Country Club- Frisco, Texas ~ April 19, 2012

Blessings,

Tori Miller

Sky Ranch SkyMom Ministry Director