Friday, February 19, 2016

The Inner Views of Kelly Bowling

"It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. 
They are new every morning: great is Thy faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22, 23
(KJV)

More than once over the course of the past few years, I have mentioned or included the song,
"I'll Be Alright As Soon As I Touch Calvary" in my posts.
That song has come to mean so much to my family and me,
and last year, we were blessed to be able to hear it sung, in person,
by the group that first introduced the song to us.
(You can read about that special night, by clicking HERE.)

So, it was no surprise that while seeking God's face about His will concerning future Inner Views,
the dear lady you will read about today was brought to my mind.

I made contact, and she so graciously granted us an interview!
I am eternally grateful, and I know you will be very encouraged by meeting her.
Perhaps you are already familiar with her and her family's music.
If not, you are in for an extra special blessing!


The
of follower of Jesus, wife, mother, and soprano singer for The Bowling Family,
Kelly Bowling.

Cheryl:  First of all, I want to thank you, Kelly, for taking the time to grant us an interview. What an honor it is to be able to have you share with us today! To start off, can you tell us about yourself? 

Kelly:  I'm married to Mike. We have three daughters, ages 16, 12, and 9. We are on tour about 209 dates a year, so life is crazy at times, but we are blessed and together.  I sang for 17 years with my family, The Crabb Family, before Mike and I started The Bowling Family.

Cheryl:  We would love to hear about your Christian testimony. How old were you when you gave your heart to the Lord? What life events led up to that decision? How has following Jesus changed your life?

Kelly:  I was 14 when I got saved.  I was listening to music at home.  At first, secular music, but I had one gospel cassette (showing my age) to my name, and decided to listen to it.  Before I knew it, tears were falling, and I gave my heart to the Lord the summer before my freshman year of high school.  It set me on a totally different path, and I'm so thankful.  God has been so faithful to me.

Cheryl:  How long have you been singing? Can you recall any special memories of your first time singing in public? When did you first realize that God was calling you to sing full-time for Him?

Kelly:  I started singing at age 3.  I don't remember the first time I ever sang in public, but I remember the young years being up there, and I knew I loved it.  However, I got shy as I got older, and took some time away, but when I got saved, there was a new fire in me to sing again! I'm so glad I did! 

Cheryl:  How did you meet your husband, Mike, and how did you know he was “the one”? What is it like being on the road with him and your children, and being able to sing for the Lord together as a family? As a girl growing up, did you have any dreams or aspirations that this is what your life would one day look like?

Kelly:  I met Mike in Boaz, AL.  He was the lead singer for the Perry's.  My family was just getting started.  We had so much in common, it didn't take long to realize that he was the one. We dated about two years, and then he proposed.  I had always hoped to stay in ministry, and marry someone who had that same vision.  Our road life can be challenging, chaotic, and everything you can imagine life to be with three kids and raising them part time on a bus, but we're together, and that is the best part of it!

Cheryl:  Over the course of the past few years, my family and I have gone through some intense, fiery trials, and one of the songs that has gotten us through is “I’ll Be Alright As Soon As I Touch Calvary”. Last year, we were blessed to be able to attend Singin’ In the Sun in Myrtle Beach, and as we were standing in the part of the arena where the product tables were set up, we heard you and your family practicing that song next door. I can’t even begin to tell you the profound effect that moment had upon me, as I stood there, tears pouring down and thinking back over all of the many times we have turned to that song for comfort. Later, we got to see you all perform it live, and it was, without a doubt, my favorite moments of our entire time there. Can you please tell us the history behind your singing this song? Was there a particular reason you chose it, and what has the song meant to you, on a personal level? How has it affected others who have heard you sing it?

Kelly:  Mike has always loved this song, and he cut it as a solo artist years ago.  It is a Rusty Goodman song, and we have always loved his songwriting.  He was one of the greats!  I love to hear Mike sing this as well, it suits his voice, and the message never gets old.  It's wonderful to be reminded that at the foot of the Cross, is the only place we need to go! 

Cheryl:  Will you share with us about what happened on July 1, 2010? How has that event changed your life? What impact has it had upon your ministry? How was God’s love demonstrated to you throughout and in the aftermath of this ordeal?

Kelly:  On July 1st 2010, our family was in a bad bus wreck that left us with several injuries.  I suffered a broken back and Mike was airlifted with a brain injury.  Our daughter, Katelanne was airlifted as well.  It was my darkest day as a wife and mother, but God was with us, and brought us through.

It was life changing, we learned to trust God on a different level, and we learned that even if the enemy tries to destroy you, God has the final say.  There are not enough words for me to say how faithful God has been to us! 
(To read news article about the accident and to view pictures, click HERE.)

Cheryl:  As a woman who is involved in full-time ministry and who is also a wife and mother, how do you find balance and maintain Biblical priorities?

Kelly:  As, a mom, I just try to look to the Lord to lead me.  I'm sure I fail daily, but I feel the key is to keep God first, to live what you sing, to let your kids know that it's more than when you're on stage, and that you're a Christian first with or without a platform.


Cheryl:  There is an element of sincerity and genuineness in your stage presence that is so evident and refreshing. In moments of success and public affirmation, what is the one thing that you would say most keeps you humble and grounded in your walk with God and His purpose in having you do what you do?

Kelly:  What keeps me grounded is knowing who I am.  I don't deserve this wonderful life I've been blessed with, I know that.  I know that every good gift is from God. 

Cheryl:  We are, undoubtedly, living in the last and perilous times that were prophesied of in God’s Word. It is easy, in these troubled times, to become discouraged and lose hope. Are there any words of encouragement God is laying upon your heart to share with us here?

Kelly:  I would just say keep your faith in God, no matter what.  I often say, the enemy wants your faith, more than anything.  He attacks different areas of our life to ultimately steal our faith.  But God says we walk by faith and not by sight.  Trust Him even when life is crazy, trust Him when the rain is falling.  He is faithful, and I believe he'll prove that to you if you trust Him!

Cheryl:  How can we pray for you? Are there specific needs the Bowling Family would like us to know about? How can we support your ministry and purchase your products?

Kelly:  I appreciate all prayers, especially as we travel!  You can get our music at http://www.bowlingfamilyonline.com.
Bless their dear hearts!
This family has truly been brought through the fire,
and God has allowed them to live to proclaim His glory and praise.
With permission, I am including several videos concerning their bus accident.
As you watch, you will see the amazing power of God and how His mighty hand has been upon
this dear family through it all.
What a blessing it is to watch how God turned such a horrible test into such an amazing testimony!
As you watch, you will be abundantly reminded of the miraculous power of God.


If video doesn't load, click here.


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A BIG thank you to Kelly Bowling for granting us this interview.
To GOD be the glory!
Great things He has done.

It is my hope that by reading Kelly's story and watching the videos that reveal the trials and ordeals
she and her family have been through, you will be reminded that there is always hope in God.
No matter what you are going through, 
He is bigger than your problem.
He is greater than your situation.
He loves you so much!
You can trust Him.
Even though He allows us to walk through hard places, He is ever present in our lives.
The 4th man is always in the fire.  (Daniel 3:25)
He doesn't walk out a moment ahead of us.
He is always faithful!
Don't give up, my friend, no matter what you are facing.
Keep looking unto Jesus!
He will see you through.
As Kelly mentioned in her testimony above, Jesus made a promise to us.
"...lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen."
Matthew 28:20

I hope you will stop by The Bowling Family's Website to learn more about this sweet family,
their music, and their ministry,
and please keep them always in your prayers.

God bless you and your family, Kelly!
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Sunday, February 7, 2016

The Inner Views of Bob Sellers

"And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not."
Galatians 6:9
(KJV)

If you have been reading Homespun Devotions for very long, you will know that my family and I are huge fans of the Southern Gospel group, The Kingsmen.
They have been such a dear blessing to us throughout the struggles and trials of the past few years.
You can read previous posts I have written about them by clicking the following links:

My family's correspondence with The Kingsmen has been mainly through emails
to and from the gentleman who is being featured in today's Inner Views.
When God first began dealing with me about beginning to conduct interviews to post here,
he is one of the first people He brought to my mind.
We were so thankful that when we asked, he was willing to grant us an interview!
What a blessing!

I know you are going to love reading this, and you will be abundantly blessed!

We gratefully present to you....
 sinner saved by grace
and lead singer of the Grammy-nominated and Dove award-winning Kingsmen Quartet,
Bob Sellers.


The 
of
Bob Sellers.

Cheryl:  Could you please give us an introduction as to who you are, personally, and what you do, professionally?

Bob:  I'm a native and lifelong resident of Pickens County, AL. My hometown of Gordo is about 30 minutes from downtown Tuscaloosa. I graduated from The University of Alabama (Roll Tide!) in 1998 with a degree in Finance with a concentration in banking and financial services. I spent 17 years in banking, working the last ten years of my banking career as a commercial loan officer. I left that career in 2011 to join The Kingsmen full-time filling the position of lead vocals. Prior to joining The Kingsmen, I also had my own group (Capstone Quartet) that traveled part-time mostly on the weekends. I have been married to my high school sweetheart and the absolute love of my life, Kansas, since 1998, and we've been blessed with three children. Our oldest girl, Corley, is fifteen, Ellie is 12, and our son, Will, is 10. My wife is a sixth grade teacher here in our hometown. We live a simple life out in the country with one inside spoiled rotten fur baby ("Bella", a Malti-szu), three outside dogs and a cat. When not on the road with The Kingsmen (which I am 200+ days each year) I do some handyman-type work on the side such as painting and light remodeling, wood and tile floors, etc. I find it's a good way to stay somewhat in shape physically and mentally while not on the road and spend my time making a little extra money when Kansas and the kids are at school versus laying around being lazy. If and when there is any time left, my hobbies include anything going on outdoors such as camping, hunting, hiking, etc. and of course, obsessing over Alabama Crimson Tide sports, especially football. Roll Tide!


Left to Right:
Kansas, Bob, Corley,
Will, and Ellie Sellers

The Kingsmen
Left to Right:
Randy Crawford, Brandon Reese, Ray Dean Reese, Bob Sellers, and Chris Jenkins

Cheryl:  How long have you been a member of the Kingsmen, and how did you become a part of this ministry?

Bob:  I had gotten to know a couple of guys in the group pretty well over the years and in early 2011 I had a chance to fill in for one of them one night down in south Alabama. I guess owners Ray and Brandon Reese thought it was a pretty good fit, because a few months later they would have an opening at the lead position and offered me the job. I've been here ever since and haven't once regretted the career change. My wife is so supportive of what I do. I could never do it without her support and can't imagine trying to! She believes just as I do that this is God's purpose for my life right now, so we are totally committed to fulfilling that calling together. 

Bob and Kansas Sellers

Cheryl:  How did you come to be a Christian, and when did you feel God calling you to full-time ministry?

Bob:  I accepted Christ as my Lord and personal savior on June 6, 1984 during a week long summer revival at the church my grandfather Paul Sellers founded back in 1978. Granddaddy has gone to be with the Lord, but I am still a member of that church and I actually live about 200 yards from the back door. Although I rarely get the privilege to attend, it is a very special place to me, and all my family are active members there. I felt for several months at my last banking stint that God had other plans for my life. I was miserable at the time and having tried for a long time to make the best of a bad situation, I had begun to pray for a way out, and I really felt deeply within my heart that God had a career change in my future. I had no idea that it would be in full-time ministry, but as soon as Ray called it was as if a light bulb came on and God said, "Here's your answer!". 

Cheryl:  Your song, “Battle Cry”, has so deeply stirred our hearts and the hearts of many others, as it is so spiritually fitting to our times. Can you tell us how the song came to you and what your initial reaction was when you, as the Kingsmen, first heard it? Did you immediately discern the power of the song or have any idea how much of an impact it would make?
If you could sum up the current “battle cry” that is going forth from the heart of God, how would you describe it, and what do you think we, as the Body of Christ, should be doing in response to that battle cry?

Bob:  "Battle Cry" was one of dozens of songs (probably well over a hundred, actually) that we were blessed to have pitched to us by songwriters from all over the world. We listened for more than two years trying to find our favorite ten songs for this project and actually ended up with eleven, because we just couldn't bring ourselves to culling that last favorite. I was actually the first to hear the demo for "Battle Cry". I immediately liked the song. For me, I know by the time I hear a couple of measures of music and some of the lyrics of a song whether or not I like it, and it was just one that grabbed me immediately and got stuck in my head. I think the song resonates as it does because of the things happening in the world around us. God certainly wants us to pray, but I also think He desires to see His church put action behind our prayers. The days of Christian people sitting on the sidelines only hoping and praying for change have passed us by. We’ve got to take up arms against Satan. The mindset of staying quiet on the sidelines has allowed things such as gay marriage and abortion to be accepted in our country and what got God escorted out our schools. It's time Christians get busy spreading the Gospel to the uttermost parts of the earth, just like the Word of God compels us to such as in Luke 14:23 and Acts 1:8, reaching as many as we can while there is still time. Also, we need to stand for what is right and stand against what is wrong and practice what we preach. My favorite line in the song says, "Let us not grow weary as we carry the gospel to the lost, let us lay our lives down in the service of our captain and His cross; for evil rages, so hearts courageous, we must soldier on!". That truly is the Christian battle cry!

Cheryl:  As you travel from place to place and sing to different audiences in various venues, how do you compare the current level of spiritual fervency, dedication, and support with levels of the past?

Bob:  I think the biggest difference over the past generation or so in this industry is that more of us out here on the road have as much of an evangelical drive as we do an entertainment drive. I certainly believe that you can present the gospel in song in an entertaining way. After all, it's a dark, hard world sometimes, so if people can leave all that behind, come and sit through 90 minutes or a couple hours of a concert with us and have a smile put on their face, we're not going to apologize for that. Part of The Kingsmen's legacy is taking the audience on a roller coaster of emotions, whether it's laughing hysterically one minute to crying the next. We want a concert with us to be more than an emotional experience, however, and for people to leave having enjoyed a true worship experience. The best pay we ever receive is seeing someone in a service we've led come to the saving knowledge of Christ. The best compliment we get is when someone tells us they received a blessing.

Cheryl:  How many times do you perform throughout the year, and how do you find balance in maintaining family life along with being on the road?

Bob:  We perform anywhere between 180 and 200 dates a year. For me, it's a 450-mile drive to Asheville, NC, where the group is headquartered and where the bus leaves out of. I don't always have to drive that far, but I end up being away from home upward of 220-230 days each year. That is incomprehensible to some people, however, what I’ve learned to do is make the absolute best out of the time I do get at home. My wife's and my relationship has never been stronger. There really is a lot of truth to the old adage "absence makes the heart grow fonder". When I'm on the road, sometimes my heart absolutely aches for home, so when I am home, each and every moment, whether it's time with my wife and kids, some time spent on a hobby, spending time with my parents and other family I don't get to see as often as I'd like or just whatever I'm doing feels like a real privilege. Of course, the chores and other obligations of home still have to be met as well. Missing ballgames, recitals, “firsts”, etc. of my kids is the worst, or when someone at home is ill or injured. I prayed when I started with the group that I'd never have any regrets and that my children would never wish I'd have been there more. Obviously, we'd always like to be together more, but we've all learned to adapt to the point that it's just normal life for us, at least. 

Bob, Ellie, Corley, Kansas, and Will Sellers

Bob, with his parents, Helen and Robert Sellers

Cheryl:  What are some of the most humorous things that have happened during your concerts?

Bob:  Oh my goodness! You can’t imagine some of the hilarious things that happen on the road. They usually involve our bass singer and owner, Ray Dean Reese. He may be 76 years old, but he can be a big kid at heart. He does things to crack us up all the time. He’s been with The Kingsmen for 50 years and one of the funny things he's known for is if he ever forgets the lyrics to a song he will just sing “watermelon, watermelon, watermelon”. He says no one ever knows the difference as long as it blends in with what the rest of us are singing. As you can imagine, it never really blends in that well. Some of the funniest things also happen at the product table. For example, I had a man in Indianapolis actually argue with me over whether or not we were the same “Kingsmen” who sang the song “Louie, Louie”. I tried to explain that they were a rock and roll group from the northwest who came along a few years after us and that we’d never done “Louie, Louie”, but he said, “No, it was you. I saw you do it right here in 1968!”. At that point I just gave up and agreed with everything he said. We love them all, but people can say some of the wildest things at the table! It’s always entertaining.

Cheryl:  We are living in the perilous end times prophesied about in God’s Word, and it is easy to become discouraged in these dark days. In closing, what words of encouragement would you like to share with our readers?

Bob:  Yes, we are indeed. I'd just say just what the Bible says, “Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest." Joshua 1:9. “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28.  My life verses are Proverbs 3:5-6, which say, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

A BIG thanks to Bob for his time and for sharing his amazing story and testimony with us!
We are just so honored and humbled to have been able to interview such an inspiring man of God.

A few months ago, God blessed us to get to meet Bob in person and see The Kingsmen in concert!
That special evening was a night we will never forget and a tremendous blessing to our souls.
You may read more about it by clicking here.
Chris Jenkins, Zach, and Bob Sellers

And, guess what?????
Battle Cry, written by Joel Lindsey, Sue C. Smith, and Lee Black, 
and recorded by the Kingsmen, was the #2 Radio Song for 2015, 

The words to this song stir a deep longing within me to arise out of spiritual lethargy,
to shake off complacency,
and to do my personal part to defend God's truth in this evil age.
I never listen to this song without being profoundly moved,
and seldom do I hear it without shedding tears.


If video doesn't load, click here.

Another recent release from The Kingsmen's Battle Cry CD is "Cross of Grace".

I hope you will take the time to listen to it here.


If video doesn't load, click here.

God bless Bob Sellers, and God bless The Kingsmen, as they travel and do their utmost
to bring glory and honor to our dear Lord in these perilous, last days of time.

If you would like to support the ministry of The Kingsmen and/or order any of their products,
please click HERE!

To read previous
 click the links below.

The Inner Views of Joshua Becker
 The Inner Views of Lisa Newton
The Inner Views of Dr. Alveda King
The Inner Views of Jen Avellaneda
The Inner Views of Tonya Shellnutt
The Inner Views of Karen Del Tatto
The Inner Views of Evelyn Rennich

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Sunday, January 31, 2016

The Inner Views of Evelyn Rennich

"Be very careful, then, how you live--not as unwise but as wise,
making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil."
Ephesians 5:15,16
(NIV)

In our ongoing quest to minimize and simplify our lives,
I am always on the lookout for those who will encourage and keep us inspired 
on our journey.
My goal, when trying to seek out this encouragement,
is to not only to find those of like mind as far as the desire to live minimally,
but also who are Christians and whose motives for minimal living are driven by a passion to better serve Jesus Christ.

One of the first minimalism blogs I came to follow and appreciate was Becoming Minimalist,
written by Joshua Becker.
Joshua, who is also a dedicated Christian and pastor, 
was the very first person I interviewed for our new "Inner Views" endeavor,
and you can read that interview here.

At some point in time, while reading Joshua's blog,
I was introduced to yet another blog that talks about minimalism.
When I checked it out, I was thrilled to find out that the writer of the blog is also a Christian and a wife and mother.
I immediately began following her blog and have gleaned so much wisdom from her testimony and experiences.
I know you will, too.

I introduce to you, grace-clinger, mother of four, and Smallish blogger,
Evelyn Rennich.


The 
of
Evelyn Rennich.

Cheryl:  Please tell us about yourself, Evelyn!

 Evelyn:  I'm a Colorado girl, happily married to a great man and mother of four young kiddos. I love hiking and coffee.

Cheryl:  I would love to know about your Christian testimony. When did you become a Christian? Were you raised in a Christian home? What life events led up to your decision to follow Christ? How has that life choice affected your life since then?

Evelyn:  I was raised in a very happy, functional Christian home.  I asked Jesus to be Lord of my life at the age of 5, but my personal relationship with Him didn't begin until middle school. It was at that point that I learned that Christianity is a personal, intimate walk with the God of the universe.  My spiritual life has been characterized by a gradual deepening ever since.

Cheryl:  The name of your blog is “Smallish”. Can you explain what prompted the name?

Evelyn:  We were living in a very small apartment --450 sq. ft-- with two young boys, when I began Smallish.  We were just beginning to realize the benefits of living in a small place, and it all seemed to fit; this idea of living small, not just in physical space, but with smaller means (we are a one-income family), and with a small footprint on earth.  "Smallish" is our way of communicating our desire to live responsibly, joyfully.

Cheryl:  What inspired you to start blogging, and how has your blog enriched your life and journey towards minimalism?

 Evelyn:  In the fall of 2012 we were excited to move out of the teeny apartment we called "the Shoebox" and "get on with normal life" in the 1,300 sq. ft. home we owned.  I realized over the course of the summer that there was much I would miss about living in the small apartment and also was surprised to learn that I had a regret-- that I had not blogged about all we had learned and our journey of living in a little home.  I started blogging just months before we were planning to move out.  Wouldn't you know it, God had other plans.  We ended up living in our "Shoebox" apartment for three more years before God decided that season was over. Smallish is a sort of souvenir that grew up with us. :)

Cheryl:  What does minimalism look like in your home?

Evelyn:  Minimalism, to us, is limiting possessions, certainly, for we see giant blessing in fewer belongings, but it is so much more.  Living intentionally with less is a holistic endeavor.  It positively affects nearly every area of our lives.

 We are a family of 6, so minimalism in the strict, least-amount-of-belongings doesn't quite fit us. However, I am constantly purging physical things that we don't use or need.  In nearly every area of home or heart, I seek to "find the minimum level" of what I can live with.  Most days, the things we own still seems like too much, but this whole minimalism thing is a journey. :)  Minimalism also means we are committed to living slowly--not filling our schedules up with too many activities.  It means we'd like to live with minimal impact on the earth, which is also an area I feel like we have to get better at.
http://www.smallishblog.com/2015/10/08/what-minimalism-looks-like-for-us/

Cheryl:  What are the causes that are closest to your heart?

Evelyn:  I care deeply about salvation in Jesus Christ for a lost world, care for children, and about justice issues such as poverty/trafficking.

Cheryl:  How do you allow a mindset of minimalism to set the course of your Christmas spending, and what does Christmas day look like in your home? And favorite Christmas traditions you would like to share?

Evelyn:  We don't buy many presents for our kids, and we usually make something for other family and friends.  Our children receive wonderful gifts from family members, so my husband and I keep presents small and practical.  This year we bought our older 3 snow shovels because we knew we'd gain many hours of quiet and energy-exertion outside through the winter. ;)
Christmas day is a slow celebration including the reading of Scripture, giving gifts and giving thanks, grazing on good food, and enjoying family.

http://www.smallishblog.com/2013/12/16/three-christmas-traditions-for-joyful-holiday/

Cheryl:  How can we pray for you, specifically, at this season of life?

Evelyn:  What a sweet question!  As much as I love blogging and learning to live minimally or "green", raising four young children and supporting my husband is my primary calling in this season.  It is not a glamorous job, but I am keenly aware that if I don't invest my best in these years of building my marriage and setting foundations for my children, then I will have failed at my biggest tasking.  I would appreciate prayer that I can keep my priorities in order and serve my family each day with the joyful intention that translates Jesus' love into action.

Thank you so much for your heart and calling to share and minister, Cheryl!

And, thank YOU, dear Evelyn, for being willing to share your heart and thoughts with us here!
I love hearing from those of like mind, who are setting their focus on things eternal,
rather than the accumulation of things that are of this world.
Evelyn brings out some wonderful points in the two post links she has included above.
I hope you will take the time to click on the links and read her words of wisdom
and that you will consider subscribing to her blog, "Smallish"!

To read previous
 click the links below.

The Inner Views of Joshua Becker
 The Inner Views of Lisa Newton
The Inner Views of Dr. Alveda King
The Inner Views of Jen Avellaneda
The Inner Views of Tonya Shellnutt
The Inner Views of Karen Del Tatto

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Sunday, January 17, 2016

The Inner Views of Karen Del Tatto

"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend."
Psalm 27:17
(KJV)

I never cease to be amazed at the depths of genuine love and friendship that run 
throughout this blogging community.
Four years ago, when God first led me to start Homespun Devotions,
I never imagined how profoundly that decision would affect my life.
For years, my little family and I have diligently and regularly prayed "The Prayer of Jabez",
after reading Bruce Wilkinson's book by the same title.
In case you aren't familiar with Jabez's prayer, here it is...
"And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, 
Oh that Thou wouldest bless me indeed, 
and enlarge my coast, 
and that Thine hand might be with me, 
and that Thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! 
And God granted him that which he requested."
1 Chronicles 4:10

One of the ways that God has chosen to "enlarge our coast" is through Homespun Devotions.
Without a doubt, we would never have "met" the dear people God has brought into our lives,
had we not started this blog. 
Many of you have become more than just mere acquaintances.
You have become cherished heart friends...
friends who share your prayer requests with me, and with whom I share mine,
friends who stop by and encourage me, both by leaving dear comments or by emailing privately,
friends who care and who show it in so many sweet and wonderful ways.

This Christian blogging community is tightly-knit, accepting, forgiving, and filled with grace.
It is a place of great encouragement to me.
Many of your names are written on my personal prayer list, 
and I regularly lift your names to the Father, as your personal needs and burdens have become very important to me.
I truly love all of you so much.

Several months ago...I can't even remember exactly when or how we found each other...
I became acquainted with a new blogger.
I have been so blessed by her deep and thought-provoking writings.

This dear lady has left encouragement for me and picked me up so many, many times.
She is filled with so much love...for God, for His Word, for His people, for her family.
She has become a dear and cherished friend,
and I am SO blessed to be able to present her interview to you here.

Many of you know her already, but for those who don't,
please allow me to introduce to you,
Pastor's Wife and Christian Blogger at Growing Together in Grace and Knowledge,
Karen Del Tatto


The 
of 
Karen Del Tatto.

Cheryl:  Could you tell us about yourself, Karen?

Karen:  You’ll always hear me tell people that I grew up in a “Leave it to Beaver” family.  I lived in a close-knit neighborhood with my parents and two brothers.  We would play kick-ball until dark, hide and seek in the back woods and, in the winter, sleigh down the front road, parents and kids alike. 

My father, a very hard worker, taught me to have a strong work ethic.  My love for the outdoors came from him.  Every weekend, he would have our family out hiking in the woods. (As a youngster you probably would have heard me complaining, but as an adult, those are some of my fondest memories, and ever since childhood my favorite place to be is outside!) 

My mom is my best friend.  We have a wonderful relationship.  Growing up, she was always home when I got home from school.  I would sit at the kitchen table, where she had cookies and milk waiting for me.  I would tell her about my day.  Our favorite thing to do together is laugh! It was very hard when I got married in my early 20's and moved four hours away from my family.  If I were to be honest, that is probably one of my biggest regrets, as I feel like I missed out on so much, but I know that God had a much bigger plan and it was through that move that I would eventually meet Him…

Cheryl:  How did you come to know Jesus Christ? When did you become a Christian, and what were the events that led up to that decision?

 Karen:  The events leading up to my coming to know the Lord happened over a 12 year period - all beginning when I moved four hours away from my family.  I worked at AT&T in New Jersey and transferred with the company to Massachusetts.  In the first few months of working at AT&T, I met Liz who shared the Gospel with me and how God was working in her life.  In fact, there were several Christians who worked in the office where I did, and they would hold Bible studies in the conference room during lunch, but I wasn’t interested and rejected it.  Fast forward five years, when we began the process of moving from our first home to a bigger house to accommodate our expanding family.  The Lord did indeed “establish our borders”, blocking the house we thought we really wanted to buy and settling us in the home we are in now.  Our neighbor, Makiko, was a Christian.  One day, we were visiting, and she gave me a copy of "The Living Bible" and told me to read it, and God would speak to me.  I graciously took the Bible and attempted to read it, but I didn’t understand it and felt the Lord was not “speaking to me”. Fast forward another seven years when I met Paula, who had recently moved in a few houses down.  She had a little girl my daughter’s age.  She, too, was a Christian and invited me to attend Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPs), a Christian mom’s group, with her.  I was looking forward to meeting other young moms.  It was then that the Lord started softening my heart; the manner of those Christian moms was something I wanted.  Their gentle ways and their excitement for the Bible was contagious!  Paula then introduced me to her friend, Cindy, another believer, who asked me if I wanted to do a Bible study with her.  She said I could pick the topic, maybe something I struggled with.  I struggled terribly with anxiety, and she picked out a Bible study that spoke on that subject.  During the study, I was quite taken by the story of the Apostle Peter walking on water and, upon seeing the waves, starts to sink and cries out to Jesus to save him.  I wanted that!  I wanted salvation from my anxiety and wanted to know more about this Jesus that could bring me peace that surpasses all understanding.  I bought a Bible and started to read on my own and, suddenly, God was “speaking to me”!

I don’t have one of those testimonies where I had this stand-out moment of salvation.  Mine was a gradual calling out to the Lord.  My assurance - this "Miss Goody Two-Shoes" now saw herself as a sinner in need of a Savior.

This is the reason I am passionate about the Word of God, because although the Lord used many people throughout my testimony, it was ultimately in the pages of the Bible that the Lord showed me His great Salvation.

 Cheryl:  Tell us about how God has led you throughout life...in marriage, being married to a minister, various ministries you have been involved in, raising children, etc.

Karen:  I have been married to my husband Michael for almost 32 ½ years.  Like all marriages, we have had our ups and downs.  God used the book, "Sacred Marriage", by Gary Thomas, to show me His great purpose in my marriage – to bring Him Glory, by being a testimony in showcasing Christ’s love for His bride, the church, by how I conduct myself in marriage.

As I raised my children, the Lord used another book, "Shepherding a Child’s Heart", by Tedd Tripp, a book whose insights had such a profound effect on my children’s behavior and, most especially, me, as a mother.  Our family was truly blessed as a result.

When I felt called to homeschool, the Lord surrounded me with Godly mothers to share their insights and wisdom to help me along in my homeschool.

Prior to my husband feeling called to attend seminary, the Lord was preparing me, yet at the time, my husband and I didn’t realize God was working on both of us to that end.  It was only in hindsight that we could see God moving in us to be willing to obey the call.

The Lord used several Pastor’s wives to mentor me during the five years my husband was in seminary.  The words of wisdom they shared from their own experiences was such a blessing to me and truly helped me in my role as a Pastor’s wife.

My husband’s first pastoral assignment was not an easy one.  A majority of the congregation were not believers.   I relied heavily upon the Lord for strength during the two years we served. The Lord used me through a very successful Vacation Bible School to show a doubtful congregation that God would provide the children to attend.  And He did!  Abundantly!

Years ago, the Lord laid a ministry to the Marines upon my heart, which was born out of heartache when my “now” son-in-law was in harm’s way overseas for nine months.  As I sought the Lord for guidance on this ministry, He provided the means to have a successful run for many years where thousands of dollars were raised, and many Marines were reached.

Throughout my years as a Believer, the Lord has used His people, whether it be through interaction, their writing, their wisdom, or their prayers, to help guide me to walk in obedience with Him.  He has also used trials in profound ways to mold me and shape me, the loving hand of the Father refining His daughter.  And most especially, God’s Word has been my rock in my marriage, as a parent, and in ministry

Cheryl:  When did you start blogging, and what triggered God leading you to begin "Growing Together In Grace and Knowledge"?

Karen:  I began blogging the first week of January 2015.  The first week of 2015 seemed like the perfect time to start a blog for the purpose of deepening my relationship with the Lord and encouraging others; a desire the Lord laid on my heart five years ago.  You might wonder why so much time passed before I began blogging.  My Heavenly Father was preparing and refining me for such an endeavor.


In the past five years, I've endured many trials and life changes which caused a greater dependence upon the Lord.  It may not always be revealed to us this side of heaven, but the Lord, in His infinite mercy, showed me in a few very difficult circumstances that "what man meant for evil, God meant for good".  Through those trials, He sustained me and brought about amazing blessings that were above and beyond what I hoped or imagined.  In any trial or affliction, we have opportunity to bless others with the Comfort in which we were comforted. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 ESV  Through blogging, I desire to bring those experiences and blessings, as the Lord leads.

The Lord had used those five years to prepare me, both practically and spiritually, to begin writing a blog in Janaury 2015 - in the Lord's perfect time.  After being parched for a season, I had a true thirst to drink up the Word of God and to share all that the Lord revealed to me.

Cheryl:  How has your blog enriched your life and walk with Jesus?

Karen:  Writing a blog is humbling to me.  I am not an eloquent writer, but I love to share what God is teaching me through His Word and in my life experiences.  This blog is just as much about my growth and accountability to the Word as it is about bringing gracious readers encouragement and hope.

My faith has been incredibly strengthened in writing a blog.  When I stare at the computer screen and see what I have written, I praise God for His words; because what I see typed out just doesn’t seem like something I am capable of writing.  All glory and honor go to the Lord.

Cheryl:  What would you say are your biggest blessings at this season of life?

Karen:  Ahh, I have so many blessings at this season of my life.

Most notably, having my daughter, son-in-law, and nine-month old baby granddaughter living with me and my husband.  I enjoy Gabrielle and Garrett so much! And, to have been a part of my first granddaughter’s life in such a close, intimate way - since the day she was born, being present at the birth and now living under my own roof, watching her reach her milestones, enjoying her big personality and her infectious smile, has been such an incredible blessing!

Seeing my parents who are in their late 70’s still living such vibrant, active lives, walking four miles a weekend, every weekend.

My blog and meeting so many kindred bloggers who love the Lord Jesus – Iron sharpening Iron…

 Cheryl:  In many ways, we are living in very dark days. In closing, what words of encouragement would you like to share with the people of God?

 Karen:  That they would “fix their eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” Hebrews 12:2-3

Wonderful encouragement and advice, indeed, in these troubled times!
A big thank you to Karen, for sharing her heart and testimony with us here!
I hope you are as blessed in reading her interview, as I was in conducting it.

I do hope you will take the time to stop by Karen's blog.
I know you will be abundantly edified while reading what God has placed upon her heart.

Thank you, dear readers, for your faithfulness to visit here.
You are so appreciated and loved!

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Wednesday, January 6, 2016

The Inner Views of Tonya Shellnutt

"As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received."
Ephesians 4:1
(NIV)

Looking back in retrospect, one of the most meaningful new entrances into my life in 2015 was, undoubtedly, the dear lady I am interviewing for this portion of Inner Views.
The way we met was unusual.

Let me explain.
I have been impressed with Concerned Women for America for years,
often seeing news bits with Penny Nance speaking out against abortion and other issues
that are close to my heart.
So, one morning, early in 2015, when I got an email from CWA announcing that the state I live in was, for the first time ever, going to have a State Director for CWA, I was ecstatic.
The email explained that our new director would be a lady who 
was moving to our state from Montana, where she had served as the state director there.
There was a spot to "click" and read more about her, which I did.
There, it gave the opportunity to either email her or call her, to get acquainted.

Immediately, I felt one of those unmistakable Holy Spirit nudges to contact her.
At first, I thought I would email, because the thought of talking to her seemed intimidating to me.
But, the longer I sat at my laptop composing an email to her,
the more that still, small voice kept urging, "Why don't you call her instead?"

I finally decided to be obedient, picked up the phone, and dialed her number.
I found that my intimidation was unnecessary, as my phone call was very warmly received, 
and we were both at ease and enjoyed a sweet and encouraging conversation.
I found that her worldview was the same as mine,
and that the burdens upon my heart, were upon hers, also.

We made plans to meet after she moved to our state, and I hung up the phone inspired
and looking forward to our meeting.

Fast forward past many emails between the two of us to last September,
when my family and I attended a conference to be a part of the Concerned Women for America
prayer team.

There, the new director and I were finally able to meet face-to-face,
and we shared a wonderful time together!
We laughed, but we also cried, as she told her side of the story about that first phone call
and about some of the things she was going through the day I called her.
I had no idea.
Just another example of how God works on both ends of a situation,
and how important it is that we mind God, when we feel His Spirit nudging us to do something.
We just never know what is riding upon that nudge, and to fail to follow His lead 
could absolutely impact the life of another.

This dear lady has become very precious to my heart, and the more I get to know her and work with her, the more the Lord strengthens our bond.

She is training me to work for CWA as a Prayer Action Leader,
and I look forward to what God has in store for this venture in 2016!

I am ever so grateful to her for sharing her story/testimony with us.
I will forewarn you that you may need tissues while reading.
She has been through a lot of pain, but God has redeemed that pain,
and He has turned it into a real blessing to many, including me.

So, without further delay, I would like to introduce to you, 
SC State Director for Concerned Women for America,
Tonya Shellnutt.


The
.
of 
Tonya Shellnutt.

Cheryl:  Can you give us an introduction of who you are, a bit about your personal Christian testimony/journey, and the issues that are closest to your heart?

Tonya:  My story isn’t one that is all warm and fuzzy. I had a pretty rough upbringing despite being very loved by my mother. My birth father left when I was six months old, and my mom married a man who was in law enforcement, but who was a drunk. I was sexually assaulted when I was just five years old by a neighbor whom my parents left me alone with. Obviously, the traumatic incident left me scarred and was one that would shape my future negative behavior patterns. When I was 21 years old I met my future husband Rich, and he suggested I enter into treatment for my alcohol addiction. Really it was just a way for me to cope with the traumatic events in my life. I went through treatment and have been sober for 21 years. In 1997, I dedicated my life to Jesus Christ and have been freed from the chains of shame and guilt. My mother passed away in 1997 in a motorcycle accident. That day, I lost my mom and my dad. I do not know my birth father, and, unfortunately, my adoptive dad wants nothing to do with me. I am orphaned from the world’s standpoint, but so loved by my Heavenly Father. This is my story. This is what has shaped everything about how I live my life. I work with women in crisis situations who have been physically abused, dealing with addictions, or just needing someone to mentor them. Everyone wants to be loved and if we can help them bring Hope, then we will see real change and grace.

Cheryl:  For those who are not familiar with Concerned Women for America, will you kindly explain their history, their mission, and the seven core issues they defend?

Tonya:  Concerned Women for America is the nation’s largest public policy women’s organization, with over 500,000 members across the country.

The Judeo-Christian worldview once served as the bedrock of Western Civilization. In recent times, Western Civilization has willingly chosen to exchange the faith and logic of a Biblical worldview for an irrational secularism based on an unthinking and cruel relativism. This foolish exchange is at the root of the glaring injustices of modern American public policy.

Concerned Women for America (CWA) affirms the Bible's unmistakable standard that there is right and wrong; that God is the Authority who established right and wrong by creation and by revelation in His Word, the Bible; that He has sent a Savior, Jesus Christ, to free us from our sin (wrong) by simple repentance and to enable us through the Holy Spirit to do what is right.

Thus, through its Board of Trustees, CWA has established seven core issues on which we focus our efforts. Because the culture war that has engulfed our society makes claims on every area of life, we must set priorities thoughtfully to determine how best to fulfill our calling.

Provided below are very basic descriptions of our core issues.

Sanctity of Life:
CWA supports the protection of all innocent human life from conception until natural death. We also support alternatives to abortion and healing for mothers suffering from the results of abortion.

Defense of Family:
CWA believes that marriage consists of one man and one woman. We seek to protect and support the Biblical design of marriage and the gift of children.

Education:
CWA supports reform of public education by returning authority to parents and also accessibility to alternate forms of education.

Religious Liberty:
CWA supports the God-given rights of individuals in the United States and other nations to pray, worship, and express their beliefs without fear of discrimination or persecution.

National Sovereignty:
CWA believes that neither the United Nations nor any other international organization should have authority over the United States in any area. We also believe the United States has the right and duty to protect and secure our national borders. We believe in budget restraint which embodies responsible spending, small government, and a budget in which the U.S. government spends within its means and ceases to steal from future generations.

Sexual Exploitation:
CWA endeavors to fight all pornography, obscenity, prostitution, and sex slavery.

Support for Israel:
CWA believes that the people and nations who stand with Israel and the Jewish people will be blessed by God. We believe that any foreign policy effort to withdraw U.S. support for Israel is in direct contradiction to America’s national interests.

Cheryl:  Of all of the committees, causes, and ministries available, what drew you to this particular coalition, and how did you personally become involved with CWA?

Tonya:  I believe that the prayers of my Great-Grandmother were the blessing of my salvation. She prayed for me and told me stories about the Great Depression. All she wanted for her birthday one year was butter. Butter, nothing else. I couldn’t even imagine, and it inspires me to protect the freedoms that she endured for me. My grandfather was in WWII. The military is VERY important to me. They know what sacrifice is, and there is nothing more inspirational than one laying down their life for another, just as Christ did for us. We are called to reflect that same sacrifice. Why wouldn’t we be involved in causes that inspire others to do the same and reflect biblical values?

Cheryl:  We are in the midst of a spiritual downward spiral in America, yet I am encouraged to believe that God is raising up a generation with a renewed passion for righteousness. On a personal level, as a mother with children still living at home, what do you feel is the single-most important thing, habit, or trait we should focus on instilling and fostering in the hearts of our children to give them the strong foundation they will need in the future?

Tonya:  One of the most important things we must do for our children is to prepare them for the real world. Yes, it is important to shield them from age-appropriate content, but look for every opportunity to be a teachable moment. A lot of the women I mentor have very little coping skills. It isn’t because they were brought up in terrible homes, rather they were not given coping skills to deal with adversity. Kids need to see adversity and how you handle it. They need to see Jesus in us and how we cling to His word and promises and how they help us get through life. More often than not, kids learn by example, not the words we say. Therefore, if we teach our children to love Jesus, life skills, and empower them to greatness, we will see a generation rise up and protect our faith and freedom.

Cheryl:  I absolutely believe the quote that says, "The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world." As Christian women, wives, and mothers, how can we most effectively wield and utilize the power of our influence to promote the cause of Jesus Christ?

Tonya:  Women hold a tremendous amount of influence. God ALWAYS intended it for us to use for good. We have a society today where women misuse their God-given power. I wrote a book about this. It is called Woman Power Revolution. The book isn’t about women gaining power, rather about how our wounds can define how we treat men. If we don’t let God heal our wounds and treat our husbands and children as the Lord would see fit, we can use our power and influence in destructive ways. We were meant to empower others to greatness. God gave us this gift. If we live our lives for selfish gain, rather than seeking how to leave behind a meaningful legacy of courage and intentionality, we fail to utilize our God-given potential. Everyone needs a cheerleader, so encouraging those around us can make a life lasting impact. I like to refer to God’s desire for us to be sparklers for Christ. Light up a room when you walk in!

Cheryl:  Through your involvement with CWA, you are on the front lines of a cultural battleground, fighting a war that must seem insurmountable and impossible to win. On a personal level, how do you stay encouraged to press on and continue the fight?

 Tonya:  My story is one that God has allowed perseverance and endurance to be developed into my being. 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God gave us a spirit NOT of fear but of power and love and self-control.” When we trust the Lord to walk us through the valleys and we believe He is Sovereign, life is totally doable and we endure for the sake of our legacy which is ultimately God’s story of our lives. Don’t give up before the miracle happens.

Cheryl:  The role of Christian wife and mother is truly one of great demands and responsibility. Adding the obligations of ministry and/or advocacy to that already-overflowing-plate can be overwhelming. How do you find balance?  What advice would you give the woman who is reading this and feeling called to become more involved with CWA, but feels intimidated?

Tonya:  Our first and most important ministry we can ever have is our family. If we neglect our family, we have strayed from the will of God. However, one of the greatest tragedies, in my opinion, is not doing something because of fear. If God has put a desire in your heart, don’t be afraid, and minimize every reason why you can’t. Our families can be inspired by our courage and boldness. I would never counsel a woman to walk with such caution in life that she lives her life paralyzed. There is little freedom in that. God tells us over and over in scripture, DO NOT BE AFRAID. This isn’t a suggestion.

What an amazing and powerful testimony of the redemption plan Jesus put in place as He hung on an old, rugged cross for each one of us!

Tonya is living proof that, through His grace, we can rise triumphant over our past,
regardless how difficulty-ridden it happens to be,
and we can emerge victorious over every obstacle satan has managed to insert into our lives.

Dear friends, my prayer is that you will find hope in Tonya's story.
That you will come to the full realization that Jesus loves you,
and He wants to give you a new start, free from guilt and despair.

We are here to pray for you.
If you would like to share specific prayer needs with us,
please contact me via email, and, if you would like me to, 
I will happily share your requests with Tonya, also, so she can pray for you, too.

Please keep Tonya and her family in your prayers,
as they continue to courageously fight on the front lines of the intense cultural battlefields of our day.
Surely God is using them to portray what it means to stand for His truth.

Thank you for reading, and thank you, dear Tonya,
for opening your heart to us here.
Transparency takes a great amount of courage, and we so appreciate you being willing 
to share your redemption story with us.
I know your testimony will bless and inspire many!
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