Stalking Jesus

Who's your favorite celebrity? Whether you follow someone on Twitter, are a rabid fan of an author, or watch every episode of a reality show, chances are you know a lot about someone you've never met. I'm a big fan of a leadership blogger (who I actually got to meet in person.) Because I have read this person's blog every day for years, I know much about their life. I know their spouses name, how many children they have, what they like to do for entertainment, etc. I know a lot about them, but I don't really know them.

Celebrities have this happen to them all the time. In fact, some fans even start to stalk their favorite celebrities. They know so much about the person they believe they have a relationship with them. But they are just stalkers.

Are you stalking Jesus? I was listening to an interview by Bob Goff the other day, and he said he used to stalk Jesus. That idea had such a profound impact of me. I don't want to just know a lot of things about Jesus. I want to KNOW Jesus. As Bob pointed out, this can be hard with an invisible man. But it can be done.

It is important to know the Word of God. But we must also spend time developing a relationship with God. Prayer and meditation are key. Spending time with God, not just learning about God. Listening for the Holy Spirit with his still small voice.

Know Jesus. Don't be a Jesus stalker.

“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep
and my sheep know me." -Jesus
John 10:14

Kelly Combs is a Christian wife, mom, writer and speaker. You can learn about Kelly by visiting her website at www.kellycombs.com

When Problems are Gifts in Disguise

I have two precious daughters. The oldest is the classic first born. She is obedient. She is a pleaser. She cleans the house just for "fun." She is everything a mom could want in a child. It is easy to draw close to her.

Then there is my second born. She is strong willed and opinionated. She has her own ideas and does not accept discipline compliantly. Truthfully, this daughter doesn't draw me close to her, but makes me draw close to the Lord! Because many days when I am out of patience or worn down, it is HIS name I call to. I pray for strength and wisdom to be the parent I should be to my strong-willed daughter.

Both my daughters love Jesus. But my youngest daughter loves him with a passion, that same passion she has for everything she wants or loves. The neighbor girl, two years older than my youngest, told her that there is no God. That Jesus was a man and he died, and he can't hear your prayers. My daughter wouldn't hear of it. She told her in no certain terms that Jesus was real, and that the Bible said he was real and that he does hear our prayers.

"Mom, she didn't believe me. But I'm going to keep telling her no matter what! She needs to know." I have no doubt that my argumentative girl will make a case for Christ like no other. Through out her life, with her gift of evangelism and her strong will she will be a great witness for Jesus. I believe she will be a light in the world bringing many people to know Christ. 

Yes, today (in exasperation!) she draws me closer to God. But it will all be worth it when that same tenacious personality, with the help of the Holy Spirit, brings many others closer to God.

What traits do your children have (or had) that seem hard to parent, but may serve them well in life?

Kelly Combs is a Christian wife, mom, writer and speaker. You can learn about Kelly by visiting her website at www.kellycombs.com