A PaperDahl Publication

Live, Love, and Praise Loud

2012-01-21T08:29:00.000-05:00

I've come to a place in my life that I've determined this next half of life, will be my best half! I've summed up this next half with these 5 words...."Live, Love, and Praise Loud!"

The biggest part of charting a course for your life is to KNOW yourself! Know your inner core and basically inner character. It's discovering who you really are, what you like, what you dislike, what your passionate about, what your not, and then choosing to live out of that character, full throttle!

God fashioned me with certain characteristic qualities when He created me. I believe I spent the first 30 years of my life both fighting those qualities as well as figuring out those qualities. Surprise! By the time I hit my mid-30's I started becoming quite comfortable with me. They say that's when it begins to happen. By my late-30's, I began to fully embrace myself as a whole...flaws and all! So, here I am, nearing 41 years old and feel that I've got the foundation built in my life that I can now start building on! So, this is just a blog about a few things I've learned in getting to this stage, which I might add is absolutely AMAZING! I also want to encourage those in the journey called LIFE, thus my purpose for sharing!

What's it take to "Live" the life you desire....

A decision to live your authentic self! It's simple really! I made it so complicated the first half of my life. Wow! I do believe you have to take a journey of self-discovery...alone in my case! I see so many people that are literally afraid to be alone. I've been there...believe me. They bounce from one relationship to another and think they've found the be all and end all in the arms of someone. Meanwhile, they never take the time to discover who they really are by embracing every part of themselves...pain, hurt, victories, failures, successes, emotional baggage, relationship residue, like, dislikes, and on and on the story goes. I can say to live the life you desire....you must take a journey of self discovery and not be afraid to be your authentic self...unashamed!

Love.....

Many people ask me, "Tammy, how are you so content being single?" Well first, let me just tell you, that contentment was NOT an easy journey of discovery. NOT AT ALL! However, I can say it was completely worth it! You see, in my youth, I didn't go without a relationship of some kind from the time I was like 10...I'm not joking at all! I gave myself away over and over again from the time I was 13 until I was 23 years old, to receive what I refer to as false validation! I depended on a guy to validate my worth! Unfortunately, I did it in all the wrong ways and ended up feeling worthLESS!! So, when I got pregnant with my daughter at the age of 23, I had some super, super, hard decisions to make. One of the decisions would include not having a revolving door of men coming in and out of my life! After I had my daughter Mikayla, in 1995, that decision was more difficult than I had anticipated because life as a single mom was emotionally and physically taxing. I desired an emotional fix!!! I, however, got a grip early on and said, nope, I'm not living with a revolving door! So, I ultimately chose the single life. For nearly 10 years I would pine inside of myself desiring a man's love....it was so, so, so, difficult. I would cry and feel so unworthy and question why no one was looking my way, and feel that something was wrong with me. Throughout those painful years, I chose to find my worth and value in the One who created me...God! I studied His character, His immense love for me, and grew to love Him deeply, which in turn has led me to the place of complete contentment being single! In fact, I absolutely LOVE my single life! I'm free to do what I want, pursue goals I want, and create the life that I want! The first half of my life, I overgave to other's to try and satisfy a deep hole in my soul. I don't do that anymore! So, do I see myself single forever?....I have no idea. I can tell you I have absolutely no desire whatsoever at this stage in my life to be in a relationship. That may change, but its completely ok with me if it doesn't. So I've surrounded myself with amazing, authentic friendships, and experience love on a completely different level.

Praise Loud.....

Listen, one thing I've found in life is that you've gotta look for the good things! We all have junk! We all have issues and life circumstances that can knock us down, but let me tell you, there is always, always, always, something GOOD to find! Always! Years ago a pastor told me, "Tammy, if you can't find something good in your life, go out and find someone who is in a worse position than you are, serve them, and you'll find you'll become thankful real quick! That advice has carried me through the toughest of times - and I can tell you I followed it! To me praising loud is just letting your thankfulness drown out your sorrows! Your attitude of gratitude can become the loudest voice in your life...if you choose!

So...this next half of life...choose to "Live, Love, and Praise Loud!"

Be encouraged.....You can have the life you desire!!!

TDahl

"What Did He Say About Me" - "I Will Give You Hope"

2011-09-12T06:02:00.000-04:00

Excerpt from my 31 Day Devotional - "What Did He Say About Me"

“Daily Scripture:

Isaiah 61: 7 AMP

Instead of your [former] shame you shall have a twofold recompense; instead of dishonor and reproach [your people] shall rejoice in their portion. Therefore in their land they shall possess double [what they had forfeited]; everlasting joy shall be theirs.

Daily Devotion:

All promises from God are great! This promise however, is absolutely my favorite!!! My pastor recently preached a sermon on hope. When he used this scripture, he defined the word forfeited. Forfeited means, something surrendered due to an offense or error I’ve made. WOW!

Hope is the expectation of good

I’ve heard great preacher’s say, well if you sin; you better watch it, because God will curse you. Yes, I’ve heard that with my own ears! Now don’t get me wrong I believe strongly in consequences to our actions! When we sin there are consequences. However, it’s not God getting you! God has set up both natural and spiritual laws within the earth. He’s given man (and woman) dominion in the earth, but all humanity is governed by these laws. Jesus became the curse for us, so we don’t walk around cursed by God. However, we choose life or death constantly. Anytime we obey God, we’ve chosen life. Just like anytime we disobey God, then we’ve chosen death. The consequences of sin bring a “death” to our life because we can’t experience God’s fullness while we are in disobedience. It’s not God withholding it from us, it is literally our inability to receive what He’s already given us! Sin causes us to have a heart of stone. When we repent, which simply means to change our minds and choose life, our heart then becomes open to God’s way! However, many times, because we feel guilty and ashamed we still are unable to receive the goodness of God! Yet, when we feel guilt and shame, we are really taking upon ourselves, what Jesus already took upon Himself! We are taking back the curse because we identify ourselves by our deeds! Jesus said right before He died, “it is finished,” yet we keep taking what was finished two thousand years ago, back!

If we’ve truly repented; changed our minds and let God into our weakness, whatever that may be, then what we need to do, is identify ourselves by the deeds of Christ. We simply need to agree with what God says!

As a child I was taught not to take the Lord’s name in vain. This was defined by the words “God, Gosh, Geez, etc.” In fact, if I said “Oh my God,” I was instructed that I was in sin and that I needed to repent! Well, years ago as I was training up my child in the way she should go, the Lord spoke to me one day and challenged me with what that commandment really meant. I was like, well God; this is what I’ve been taught. The Lord then taught me something. God spoke to me and said that what that scripture really meant was that anytime we don’t agree with what He declares, we are taking His name in vain. It made perfect sense to me. In order to see ourselves as God sees us, we need to agree with what He says! So when faced with difficulties, life challenges or decisions we must ask ourselves, what does God say about this?

Well we know that He says instead of our former shame we shall have a twofold recompense. That means we get double the good for the bad!! Many people will challenge that and say well this works only if someone else had taken something from you or has done something bad to you. I believe that, but that’s not the entire promise. I think it’s easy to believe that things will get restored to you if someone else is the cause, however let’s take a look at the word forfeited! Forfeited means something we caused! That means when we’re the common denominator in the mistake, we still will be restored double when we choose to agree with God! Does that not make hope come alive in your heart? Hope is the expectation of good! Expect good when you begin to agree with what God says!

Tammy L. Dahl

What Do I Believe?

2011-09-02T07:30:00.000-04:00

The Bible instructs us on what to believe. The preacher teaches us what we should believe. However, only you can answer the question of – What do I believe?

One of my favorite scriptures in the Bible is Proverbs 4:23 NLT - Above all else, guard your heart, for it affects everything you do.

Your heart is the center of what you believe

Your heart is the center of what you believe. As a young child I did not even know this verse, let alone even think about “guarding my heart.” As a child, the Bible to me was just a cool book (I’ve always loved leather-bound books!) with a bunch of words that were hard to understand and absolutely made no sense at all with all the “thee’s” and “thou’s,” written upon its pages. Furthermore, we mustn’t forget all the “shalt not’s!” I knew what “thou shalt not kill” meant, but what the heck did “covet” mean to a 10-year old? You get my point!

One of the most frustrating, yet most factual things that I’ve known for years is what Pastor Allen Speegle has said over and over again (paraphrased) – “You attract what you are, and what you are is a result of what you believe.” We act upon what we believe. Look at the areas of your life today that are not the way you want them.

Are you broke as a joke? What do you believe about money?

Are your relationships a mess? What do you believe about relationships?

Are you attracting the same wrong type of person you’ve always attracted?

What do you believe about love?

You get the picture here.

About a year ago, I attended a life mastery weekend workshop. I took part in an exercise that exposed what my beliefs were in the area of love. I had to answer the question – What is love? My answers were things like, “the reason for living, God, the purpose of life”….and on and on I went. As I kept answering this question, I thought I had begun to run out of answers. As I came to the end of my “conscious” answers and began tapping into my subconscious, my real belief was exposed. “Love” to me represented things like abandonment, pain, rejection, instability and the list went on. Well, if I attract what I believe (and I will!), then I will attract someone who will cause or bring about those things. Then, my faulty belief will just be reinforced as my truth again. Well, I certainly don’t want to invite any more pain and rejection into my life (do you?), especially with a life partner, so I have decided to change my truth in that area!!

There are areas of your life that you are going to attract great things, but there will also be areas of your life that you will attract…well…not-so great things! You are always attracting something! Don’t get discouraged when you see the not-so good things! Let me remind you that you are a work in progress! Jesus is your partner! When you are experiencing the not-so good things that your beliefs have attracted, embrace them! Look at them, and examine them from the perspective of “responsibility.” By taking ownership for your part, you become a victor instead of a victim! Know why? It is because confronting faulty beliefs and taking responsibility for them “is” the catalyst for change if you choose for it to be! It really is your choice! When what you really believe is exposed, you can finally deal with it – effectively!!!

I choose not to allow my faulty beliefs to stay that way! With the help of Jesus, my mentors and close friends, I begin to focus my attention on the identity of Christ. I begin making an exchange – what I believe (my view and opinion) for what HE believes (His view and opinion)! I make a conscious decision to focus on His attributes, and not mine! As I persuade my heart by focusing on Him and not me, I begin to change the subconscious part of me. Whatever area that is not lining up with what God says my life should look like becomes exposed to His truth, and not my interpretation. Don’t you think we’ve given our faulty belief systems way too much of our lives? It’s time to embrace a new identity – you have been given one by the God of the universe, who loves you more than you know! Press in to find that new identity, and make the exchange!

In His Grip, Grace, and Strength,

TDahl

When Mis-Trust Causes Poor Judgment of Others

2011-08-14T07:40:00.001-04:00

Don't you just love it when you have to pay for other people's character flaws? What I mean is when people attack your character based on their past experiences with others. One thing I have learned throughout my 40 year life, is that people are going to think what they are going to think. At times they will die believing the worst about someone rather than admit the possibility that they have poor judgement.   When you encounter one of these individuals, it doesn't take long to figure out the symptom of why they struggle with any relationship. They mis-trust deeply! It's like they are always on guard waiting for the person they are mis-trusting to validate the faulty beliefs they have developed in their heart based on their own life experiences. It is always very sad to me because for years I lived that way. I'm incredibly thankful that God brought someone to my life to work that horrible belief system out of my heart.

The person that helped me through that faulty belief system I had, stuck by me when I would lash out in mis-trust. He was able to separate my behavior from my worth as an individual. We went through some tough stuff in our friendship. One day I was sick and tired of being sick and tired of this belief system that kept robbing me of peace and had robbed me of great friendships. My mis-trust of people consumed me. I would always have to validate and re-validate my position. I would need to have other's agree with me, and they would (that area was never lacking) and then I could continue to reinforce my faulty belief . Meanwhile, the people I mis-trusted were sleeping just fine if you know what I mean. As I really dealt with my pain and mis-trust issues years ago, I realized something very profound and actually found it in the Bible. You judge people based on the same things that operate in your own life. It's true...100% of the time! It may not be immediately revealed, but it will come to light eventually. The reason I couldn't trust, was because I myself, was not trustworthy! OUCH! Now, don't get me wrong, you don't just trust anyone. You have to use wisdom. However, when you've built somewhat of a relationship with someone, when something goes array, you shouldn't automatically assume the worst. In fact, if you've developed a healthy belief system, you should automatically assume the best, until that person proves themselves otherwise. I can't tell you how many relationships, good relationships with good people that I've let go because I refused to trust and refused to look at myself in the situation.

I follow a general rule in my heart - 99.999% of the time, people are not out to "hurt" you! That would just be evil! When they are out to hurt you, it's based on their own hurt! Hurting people hurt people. It's easy to empathize when you realize that its out of one's own hurt that they lash out. Maybe you are one of those individuals who deals with this faulty belief system in your heart! The good news is....there is healing in Jesus Christ!  If this is you, it's time to recognize this, because I can promise you  its holding you back from having great relationships!!  Since dealing with my mis-trust issues, I've been blessed with amazing friendships. Friendships with individuals that allow me to be me!   We can hash things out when we disagree and still have a knowing in our hearts of our love for each other.  Friendships that you can share you deepest fears and insecurities and know that they are safely kept even in the midst of an all out fight!  I remember a major fight I had with one of my closest friends. It resulted in her storming out of my house, both of us balling our eyes out while apart, followed by a knock at my door about 30 minutes later, with a mutual greeting... a warm, tear filled embrace and a mutual I'm sorry! We laugh at that fight today, but what saved our friendship is that both of us had a healthy belief system and a love for each other, coupled with a deep knowing that when the rubber meets the road, we had each others backs and always will!

Maybe you are asking,....does this describe me? Well, one way to answer this question is to look at past friendships and see how they ended and why.  Examine if this behavior keeps repeating itself in someway, shape, or form with the result of an ended friendship, etc. Do you desire deep, meaningful relationships but somehow never have that desire fulfilled? These are just a few ways to discover and unlock what's keeping you from the great relationships that God desires you have!  Begin to ask God to show you the why's of this faulty belief systems and ask Him to reveal the steps you need to take to create a new belief system! I never could have imagined the amazing relationships God desired for me, until I decided to take the steps with God to overcome my own hurt and have the willingness to embrace something new. Mis-trust always causes poor judgment! Decide now to disrupt what's causing your mis-trust.

In His Grip, Grace, and Strength,

TDahl

...And It Will Be Established For You

2011-08-06T08:55:00.002-04:00

Can I just say I love the Word of God! As I get older, I love it more and more. I think as we age, we begin to focus on the the things that are truly important.  Things that are eternally focused and not temporal. I'll never forget a statement my pastor made several years back in regards to material possessions. He said "just drive by a junk yard and think to yourself, that used to be someone's dream (referencing the scrap pieces of metal and smashed up vehicles).

I've been evaluating several areas of my personal life (which I do often), but something is different this time. I'm not exactly sure what the change has been this time, but there has been a change. I'm looking at how I'm spending my time. I'm examining how I'm spending my money, even moreso than I ever have (I do this often as well-its a must for me). I'm really challenging my ideas, thoughts and actions and asking myself...are these eternal minded or temporal minded? Let me give you an example....

I enjoy "Starbucks!" Yes, who on earth doesn't? Hello! I do not go there often, unless someone has given me a gift card because anytime you pay almost 400%, more, yes, I said 400% more for something than it actually costs the retailer, you know your literally throwing your money away (my sister used to run a "Starbucks" so I know a little about costs here). However, it doesn't keep me from doing it once in a while. This last time I went in and paid my $4.65 for my Venti Skinny Vanilla Latte add foam and whip (my mouth is watering) it somehow didn't taste so good. See, for $4.65 I could have invested that in someone's life in Haiti (I went there on a missions trip). I could have went and bought a jar of spaghetti sauce and a package of pasta and provided a meal to a family who doesn't know where their next meal is coming from. I could have sown it into my churches offering to help pay for postage when mailing a CD to someone who has never heard the gospel.  I could have sown it into the ministry network I'm a part of to help support pastor's in Africa that are going to be part of a leadership conference soon. It's amazing what $4.65 can really do these days! These are "eternally" minded thoughts! It almost made me sick that night when I purchased that "Starbucks" and sipped on it, with these eternally minded thoughts rolling around in my mind. I didn't even enjoy my purchase! In fact, my mouth has stopped watering just thinking about that night.

I've really been thinking and pondering lately on my life's purpose. The reason why I'm here, right now, for just this time. God chose me to be here on this earth at this time in history! Why?  You cannot get a temporal answer on that question - it can only be answered from an eternal perspective. God's KINGDOM perspective! This is what I know...God gave each of us gifts and talents. I believe with all my heart that He also chose that our gifts and talents would also be our earthly provision. It would be how you made a living to support your family, and expand the Kingdom. We are part of a Kingdom!! A Kingdom so big that it's eternal! It's forever and ever!!! Let that sink in for a moment. Foolishly, we've built our own kingdoms that have very little to do with eternity.

Now, I am not saying don't ever have a "Starbucks" or don't ever go out to eat, etc. I'm not saying don't live in a nice house, and have nice things. It is more than ok to prosper!  God desires prosperity for His children.  What I am saying is lets closely evaluate our investments into Kingdom things and compare them to our investments in earthly things.  We need to be Kingdom minded and then earthly minded!  Many of us have put Kingdom mindedness in last position, when it should be in first position!  MYSELF INCLUDED in that statement!

As I was reading the Word this morning I went to one of my favorite scriptures...Job 22:28. However, as I was reading, the Lord prompted me to read the verses above that scripture....let's take a look together.

Job 22:21-28 [I've noted several translations]

21. Agree with God, and be at peace; thereby good will come to you. [Revised Standard Version]

22. Accept the teaching He gives; keep His words in your heart.

23. If you return to the Almighty, you will prosper. If you put wrongdoing out of your tent (home) [God's Word Translation]

24. Throw away your gold; dump your finest gold in the dry stream bed.

25. Let Almighty God be your gold, and let him be silver, piled high for you.

26. Then you will always trust in God and find that He is the source of your joy.

27. When you pray, He will answer you, and you will keep the vows you made. [Good News Translation]

28. You will also decree a thing, and it will be established for you; And light will shine on your ways.    [New American Standard Version]

I'm reminded of my Aunt Rosemary who pretty much gave up all her earthly possessions and served as a missionary on an Indian reservation in Nageezi, New Mexico. She was there for 5 years. She had to draw her own water for baths. Her bathroom was an outhouse and she lived in a little trailer. She believed God for everything she needed. God gave her the desire to serve and her focus was Kingdom minded (it would have to be to live in those conditions and LOVE what you do) and she lived on the financial support of those who had "Kingdom" thinking!  I've asked myself...what am I willing to give up? I am choosing to exchange my "earthly" thinking for "Kingdom" thinking!   I don't think we're giving up anything to be honest, because we are gaining so much more! As I read the above scriptures, I have embraced these verses of scripture as a whole and say "God I want to trust YOU, and not me anymore!"

My hearts desire is to be a successful music artist in both the secular and Christian markets-AND I WILL BE!!!   However, I want to have Kingdom minded thinking in my decisions. My hearts desire is to touch the world with my gifts and talents that God has given to me and to leave a legacy that lives beyond myself, pointing people to Jesus Christ! I want to invest more in my church financially! In fact, I'm saying it right now, that my heart's desire is to build the housing for single parents that is part of the vision and mission of my church. In order for me to do that, I need to be Kingdom minded on the receiving end as well as the giving end! That means it begins now, in the small things. I have to open my heart to receive incredible prosperity (that is a mindset) and to also develop the mindset to sow incredible prosperity back! It starts with me declaring and then watching it be established "FOR" me! What is your declaration?

In His Grip, Grace and Strength,

TDahl

When We Struggle...

2011-08-01T07:56:00.000-04:00

I want to talk about something that all of us deal with from time to time....STRUGGLE

Dictionary.com defines struggle like this: to contend with an adversary or opposing force.

I feel that even when we are not met with huge "struggle" we continually have an opposing force in our lives...its called being human. We make decisions throughout our daily lives to either respond or react to circumstances that oppose our ideals and desires. For example, there are moments when I just want to react to someone's stupidity instead of respond maturely. There are things that get under my skin, such as people being late all the time, or making sarcastic comments directed toward me (just freakin' tell me to my face rather than dance around an issue), or being one way to my face and 2 seconds later talking about me behind my back, because someone else has another opinion. Can I just say get get a flippin' life already! We can choose the high road, or lower ourselves to that person's level. And yes, I said lower, because we need to have a standard operating in our own lives that we are unwilling to compromise on, for anyone! So there are struggles we face on a daily basis that don't put us into crisis mode, but can get the best of us at times. Hopefully we are mature enough to apologize when we react instead of respond to these types of things. I want to talk about what we do when we face big struggles. Life changing struggles and how we should respond to those struggles.

Can I just say that I am one who knows struggle! I've been a single parent for 16+ years (that's huge). I've had financial struggles for most of that time. I've had people judge me because of my past (Christians no less). I've had people judge my parenting style. I've lost everything and had to start over. I've had friendships dissolve in front of my eyes because I've had to take the high road on some issues. I've lost jobs. I've been sexually assaulted. The list goes on and on. So, I know struggle.

Over the past few months, I've had to purposely "fix" my attention on some areas that, if not dealt with, could have literally taken me so far off course in life. The struggles have seemed to nail me from every direction - family, personal, parenting, friendships, relationships, music, and the list goes on.  My way of dealing with life struggles is to withdraw for a period of time from the sources of the pain, and surround myself with what I call, "My Core." This consists of individuals who have known me for many years, are solid in Christ, and LIVE the WORD obediently!  Included in "my core" are also individuals that have known pain themselves and have overcome. I think its super important to have relationships with people that really identify with the things in which we struggle. Its very difficult for me, not impossible, but difficult for me to open my heart to someone that cannot identify with my struggle. Unless of course, its one of my spiritual father's.  There is something about having that "Spiritual Dad" that can just make things clear! (I encourage you to find one or several.)

I want to give you some keys in which to deal with personal struggle, so you are able to rise above the circumstance, identify your weakness and begin the process of exchanging it for God's strength!

1.  Deal with bitterness and FAST!

Whether its others that have judged you, or you feel mis-understood, or you even feel that God isn't rescuing you (we feel this people...let's be real) and making things better, don't get bitter! I had a conversation with a woman recently that is having huge issues in her church and she is dealing with bitterness. Listen, bitterness causes resentment and resentment causes us to have a critical spirit! When we become critical we cannot see things clearly!!!  A critical spirit robs us, not anyone else, of life!

2. Choose the TRUTH!

Look, even if you are frustrated with God because you feel He's not helping you in the time you are requesting it, you need to persuade your heart! God is ON YOUR SIDE! You must be completely persuaded on that issue! God does not react to our temper tantrums. God responds to our situations and struggles. His plan will not fail! I am reminded of some song lyrics...."sometimes He calms the storm with a whisper peace be still, He can settle any sea, but it doesn't He will. Sometimes He holds us close and lets the winds and waves go wild. Sometime He calms the storms and other times He calms His child." I love this song, and while I don't agree with all of the lyrics because I don't believe God brings pain to our lives, I do believe He brings divine discontent so we see doors of opportunity He's preparing for us. See, sometimes we get so comfortable and miss where He wants to bring us. We need to know our identity in Christ and we also need to know the power of Christ within us. He will cause us to overcome!! No if's, and's, or but's about it!!!

3. Understand that rejection is not personal.

Rejection is a painful place and is usually very personal to us. Refuse to let it be!    We as human beings can miss it so much! Every single one of us! We are far from perfect, but we have a Savior, who in His perfection, can identify with rejection! Jesus was rejected!

4. We have a race to run - get rid of the baggage!

As a former track runner in high school, I would get the lightest weight, running shoes and seriously light weight spandex when I was competing. It's no accident when you see runners wearing as little as possible when they are in competition. You don't want anything to hold you back and slow you down. Its the same in our race that God has ordained and set before us. Identify the baggage that is holding you back and deal!

As for us, we have this large crowd of witnesses around us. So then, let us rid ourselves of everything that gets in the way, and of the sin which holds on to us so tightly, and let us run with determination the race that lies before us. Hebrews 12:1 [Good News Translation]

5. Look at the opportunity, not the problem!

It's easy to be overwhelmed with the problem, but I encourage you to look at the opportunity. Whatever you are dealing with, it's an opportunity to trust God! Focus on the opportunity! Focus on the fact that God will rescue you - it's His Word! Don't take your problem into your own hands. Your strength is futile in comparison to God's. Choose to exchange your problem for God's opportunity! Your weakness for His strength. You are just one choice away from resolving your struggle! Leave it in the Master's hands and continue to run your race! There is a finish line and it's gonna be a celebration when you cross that line!

In His Grip, Grace and Strength,

TDahl

It Takes a Village

2011-07-29T08:30:00.000-04:00

I think they need to have a national support group for single parents to keep us from A. going crazy and B. thinking we're crazy. Hi my name is Tammy and I'm a single parent...Hi Tammy, thank you for sharing.

The journey of single parenting has been the toughest of all my journey's! Not kidding!!! When I was pregnant with Mikayla, I had a huge support system - the beginning of my village. I was living with a family that took me in because I literally left my daughter's father at nearly midnight on August 16th, 1994 - barefoot and pregnant.  The next day, I showed up at what I call "The Heisey Haven." I was able to see how a healthy family operated for the first time in my life.  I had a year of "training" with them.

While pregnant, I began attending a church in Orlando in December of that same year. My friend Richel attended there and she was one of the first real friendships I had in my life, that had literally been put together by God. She has been one of my mentor's for years, and of course one of my dearest friends. As I attended this church, I was learning about the importance of having an earthly father (which for many people, that means an earthly "spiritual" father) that could teach us how to have a relationship with "THE FATHER." This was kind of a foreign thing for me because I had seen my father's (biological and step) abandon the relationship with my mother and thus abandon the relationship with me. So in my heart and belief system, father's always left. Not to mention, the God I learned about as a child was mean and angry and more like the godfather, so to trust Him as a father was really a journey. With the love and guidance from my pastor and his family (Pastor Mark Evans and Mama Crystal) I began to learn and try and fail and learn and try and fail, but get back up, dust myself off and try again to trust. Pastor Mark took me under his wing and would speak into my life as a father should. Sometimes it made me angry!!! Sometimes it would make me melt!! Sometimes I would get in his face with pride and be a rebel!! But he kept nurturing my heart! He kept speaking life into me and over me. He would correct me with a gentleness, push me with firmness and somehow I would always walk away feeling loved.

During the course of my pregnancy, I was able to save enough money to take 12 weeks off of work after Mikayla was born. This bonding time was crazy good for me and her! Mikayla was like the best baby on the planet. She slept through the night at 4 weeks old. We had the same sleeping schedules, which was incredibly good as it helped me be able to function after I went back to work. Me and no sleep do not go well together! Trust me!! I've always been an early to bed early to rise girl - apart from about 2 years of craziness prior to my getting pregnant.

The caregivers that God sent for Mikayla were always the best!!! She was surrounded from birth with godly families who lived, ate, and breathed God in a good way!! This was wonderful for me as well, because for the first time in my life, other than life at the Heisey's, I was seeing God as a Father. Not just some genie in the sky I was talking to asking for help all the time. Which by the way...is very very very difficult for me to ask for help!!

For years Mikayla and I grew together. God surrounded her with "spiritual" daddy's from the time she came into this world. I knew that this would be absolutely necessary for her to become a well balanced, healthy individual. The one that has been in her life the longest - Sameer, was always taking her to water parks and having a blast with her. Speaking life over her, praying with her, helping her. Teaching her how to blow bubbles with her bubble gum. Making a sandbox for her in my back yard. The stuff that Daddy's do!

In 1999 my mom and I had built a house in Eustis. We wanted to move back in together because my mom was an integral part of "the village." She would pick Mikayla up from daycare for me and spend tons of time with her. She bought her cool things like the dollhouse that sits in our back yard. She helped with the financial end of making a cool playground for Mikayla as a child. All the kids came to our house when she was into all that stuff. We would dress up and have tea parties in her dollhouse and read books together. We had a blast!

It was also during this year that I was introduced to Family Bible Church in Eustis through my daughter's pre-school teacher. I prayed about making a change for nearly 2 years. I loved my church in Orlando. I loved the people, I loved the relationships I had, I loved being a part of the worship team, and loved being able to help others too.  I left NWC in 2001 but was open to new things that God wanted to teach me as a Father. He had been showing me the grace message during these 2 years in my alone time with him.  My first official day at Family Bible Church was on "Father's Day!" Imagine that!

One of my priorities in making the change, was that Mikayla would add to her "spiritual" parent family! Well, it obviously was God's priority too. Mikayla was able to build relationship with another set of spiritual parents - Rod and Jill. They were crazy about her, spent time with her, have made tons of memories with her throughout the years. The funny stories they tell just crack me up! Mikayla has had nothing but the best!

Nothing could have prepared me for the shock of the teen years. It seemed like it just happened one day...and the feeling it left in my heart was indescribable.  I asked myself...who are you and where is my daughter? Where is the one that has been my shadow for all these years? Where is the one that likes to spend time with me? She doesn't like me anymore!!! She thinks I'm the dumbest thing on the planet!! It seemed as though things were just out of control and I was in panic mode this past year as a parent.  However, God reminded me quickly to "employ" the forces!

Enter "The Village!!!" The Village is crucial!!! The Village is mandatory!!! However, what I didn't realize is that the village could be so painful....sniff sniff. It is incredibly difficult watching everyone else be the hero in your child's life! You see the areas you just don't cut it. You see what you're not! You see what you can't be! You see what you can't offer and have to depend on someone else to show the way because otherwise its the blind leading the blind. After you get out of the pity party....You see how your child's heart flourishes!! You see your child becoming strengthened and solid. You see them come alive in the midst of some of the most difficult years in their own lives. I mean after all, they have to figure out who they are, what they want, etc., and battle insecurities, navigate friendships and potential relationships. It's crazy for them.

God keeps adding to the village too! Now we have some newbies to "the village" - Seth and Lori (Mikayla's youth pastor's). Mikayla has known Lori since we went to Family Bible Church, but now Lori is grown, and has a family of her own. We have Danny and Rae, who helped navigate the painful year when Mikayla just didn't want to be a part of church anymore.  We still have all the other spiritual parent's that have been in place since birth. And then we have me....and although I don't appear important at this point in her life, I know that God gave me wisdom enough to know and understand the importance of other's coming along side to support, and fill the gaps, and in some cases gaping holes (no father) to bring up a child. God knows my weaknesses and He brings along those that can be a strength. It's hard to accept the help sometime because you feel so "less than" I guess. But in a gentle reminder from MY HEAVENLY FATHER... "Tammy, just trust me, I know what I'm doing and you've listened to Me. Mikayla is ultimately Mine (God's) and I (God) will see to it she is steady and secure."

Don't let anyone tell you different....it takes a village!!!

I'm very thankful for my village!!!

TDahl

The Truth Is...

2011-07-27T07:18:00.000-04:00

Recently, I've had reason to question why we as the human race, allow someone elses opinion to become our truth. Personally, I have pondered why I believe the things I do. I mean, after all, what I've learned in life has been, apart from me opening the Bible, myself, and depending on Holy Spirit to teach me, is based the opinion's of someone else, or my own opinion formulated through my own life experience.

For example, I learned how to fold a towel as a child based on how my mom taught me - her opinion was to fold the towel in half, fold it again, and then fold the long piece over twice. It makes everything look pretty when it's in the cabinet.

The truth is...all of our personal opinions are our truths! Key word "our"....it doesn't mean it is "the" truth! Do we ever challenge those opinions? I know I do! I think we have to in order to become what we are meant to be. So, with that said, this blog is about the opinion of others and how we let if affect our lives and hold us back and why!

Do you remember the movie "Pretty Woman" with Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. It is one of my favorite movies that I never grow tired of watching. There is a particular scene where Richard Gere's character "Edward" says to Julia Robert's character "Vivian" - "I think you are very bright" and Vivian replies "The bad stuff is easier to believe." That part hits me like a brick everytime I watch the movie. Why? Because that is one of those "opinions" that I've had to overcome. I've come such a long way in many areas of my life - knowing "THE TRUTH" which is found in Jesus Christ. However, there are still areas that someone else's opinion of me can wreak havoc in my heart! I recently encountered this and have had to literally pull myself in a cocoon and "deal".... because if I don't, it could potentially cause a detour in my life.. and listen, I have absolutely no time for detours!!

So I've asked myself...does this person's "truth" about me matter? NO it does not. Why then would I ponder a detour? FEAR! Fear of what? Rejection!! Plain and simple! The "R" word has raised its ugly head in my heart once again. UGH!!! Rejection is painful people! We all tend to run from that because it causes such a brokenness! We were never designed to be rejected and our hearts were never designed to be broken. Unfortunately, in this world, there is brokenness. This is an area, that I need to, and we all need to conquer - once and for all.

You can ask anyone this question and get the same answer. If 100 people tell you that you are great and 1 person says you're not so great....you will remember that 1 person for the rest of your life. You will remember what they said, what they did, what they wore when they said it, where you were, etc. It's that whole "the bad stuff is easier to believe" crap! Anyone who tells you that they don't care about someone elses opinion is straight up lying to you! We do care about other's opinions! However, caring about those opinions versus letting those opinions define you are two totally different animals here! So, in the words of a dear friend of mine reminding me of what I already knew...God's opinion is what needs to override any and all opinions! His truth is the final authority! If we choose HIS Lordship in our lives then we must submit to HIS truth. I'll go a step further....His opinion needs to OVERWRITE "our" truth!

This is a process, but it can be done. I've had to overwrite many of my own truths with His truth. His truth brings a freedom so life defining and life changing! You can guage your progress when that other person's opinion no longer brings an emotion to your heart! That's when you know you've conquered it with a power greater than yourself!

We've got lives to live and destinies to fulfill! We do not have time for detours!!! Let's overcome and live the lives we were destined to live and NOT HOLD BACK! God's on our side! Our lives are meant to make a mark that cannot be erased. It is not about us! It is about something far greater than ourselves! It is about God creating you, for just this time, to make an eternal impact for HIS KINGDOM! Time cannot be wasted....let's get on with it!

TDahl

I'm Back....

2011-07-21T08:23:00.003-04:00

It's been forever since I've posted, but I kind of took a "break" I guess you could say. A long break! Since my last post in 2009 (LOL) I have begun a journey to re-embrace my dream of music! Yes...music! This is something that has always been off and on for me. There are so many reasons why. Yet, its been the passion of my life. A dream that, for lack of better words, just would not leave me alone! So, with that stated....I finally just embraced it!

Since my last post, I've created a new website - www.tammydahl.com - so please take some time to visit!

I've also recorded a 4 track worship album in Nashville, TN in March of this year. It became available on May 5th! You can order it via my website!

The recording experience was phenomenal and taught me so much. I mean, seriously, I was able to work with some of the best musicians on the planet! Not to mention, I was also able to bring one of my dearest friends with me - Ms. Mandy Jones! She brought her melodic background vocals to this project and it's off the chain! She was also a huge huge huge support for me. Boosting my confidence, encouraging me, etc. Seriously, talk about feeling small next to people that are flippin' amazing "musically." Wow!!! I was also blessed with a young man writing an original song for the project. Cody Michael Troesch wrote the music and we co-wrote the lyrics together to the song "Beyond My Limits," the Title Track of the album! You can hear this track just by visiting my website!

So, as life allows me, I will post more! Life is about to get even more exciting than it has been.

TDahl

Steadfast and Secure in His Love

2009-07-28T15:44:00.004-04:00

It is very much necessary for me to "experience" life! God takes me on amazing trips at times and is able to show me so much of His heart because I'm whisked away from my comfortable surroundings that are weighted in to do lists and responsibility. When God takes me on adventures into the unknown, it is His voice I seek and it is His voice I hear crystal clear! My latest adventure was flying to San Antonio, Texas for a weekend getaway. I met my friend Beverly out there. Bev and I have spoken on the phone for years. We were introduced by a mutual friend years ago via telephone, so we had never met in person. This was an adventure in and of itself! Bev was amazing and so fun to hang with!

So, over the course of this weekend Bev and I were able to share some great time together and also talk about the love of our lives....Jesus Christ! See, the roads the Bev and I have traveled are very similar and both of us are crazy in love with Jesus because He truly has liberated us! He has brought us immense freedom, along with an amazingly steadfast security when we rest in His love. God showed me some really awesome truths about being and remaining steadfast and secure in Him!

I've studied relationships for years now. Although, I really have only had 3 "relationships" with men, I have learned some truths about relationships by simply watching others in their relationships. One thing I have found is that Christian women make huge mistakes when they transfer their reliance on God for their security and stability, to the men in their lives. The number one thing a woman usually wants in a relationship with a man is security! However, are we really supposed to demand that security from another human? I don't believe we are. In fact, we are to remain rooted and grounded in the ONE who created us! The result of making that transfer is, when that man of human flesh disappoints us or doesn't care for us or love us the way we "expected," we begin to want to control the relationship. We as women figure by trying to control the relationship, it will fulfill our expectations, therefore causing us to become secure again! This begins a vicious cycle that is unhealthy and incredibly destructive both personally and relationally.

Another thing I have observed is the level of insecurity women operate in when they are not in tune with their identity in Christ. We have an identity crisis! Have you ever heard a woman ask this question: "Am I good enough for that man?" First of all, that question is rooted and grounded in the insecurity of human perception! Our perceptions as humans can be so distorted and jaded, in fact our perceptions are always based on our own experiences. So when we assess things apart from God's view and opinion, we will get an inaccurate picture! Well what is God's view and opinion? God's view and opinion says women are a gift! In fact, lets go back to Genesis and look at creation. God created man, then put him to sleep so he could create such a unique and precious gift called woman! God presented woman to man as a gift! God instructed them together, to have dominion in the earth and be fruitful and multiply. No where does it instruct the woman to now trust in this man for her security! In fact, that dependence should be reserved for God and God alone!

When a woman experiences feelings of insecurity, her first priority should be to get away with her Creator and allow Him to fill her up with His amazing, unconditional love and complete acceptance of her! When her love tank is filled up supernaturally by God, then she will not feel compelled to control her relationship with her man! In fact, when she begins to fill herself up with God and transfer her dependence back to her Creator, her relationship with her man will inevitably become better and better and better! Why? Because the woman is looking for her identity to come from the only one it can - God! She will not be looking for this from her man! He was not designed to be her source of completeness! When women realize this and solve the identity crisis by allowing God to affirm them through His love, then and only then will we become steadfast and secure - supernaturally!

TDahl

Spirit of Dumb Dumb

2009-07-27T20:08:00.003-04:00

As I sit here this evening, I'm reflecting on a recent conversation with an old friend. I'm not sure really how to title this blog, but the more I think and ponder, the more I feel I have titled it correctly...."Spirit of Dumb Dumb."

This man friend of mine and I went to dinner Saturday night and just talked about our journey's over the past few years with God. He shared some pretty intense things with me...mainly about girls that he's gone out with. Some of the stories were kind of difficult for me to hear, not for any other reason than, I find that the way he met these women and the reason behind taking them out were very disturbing to me. The more I have pondered these stories in my heart, I have grown angry! Angry that the "Spirit of Dumb Dumb" has corrupted his heart!!

This man, at one time could have had my heart! I mean, he was everything that I had prayed for in a mate and we were able to share on levels that were so incredible. Far beyond shallow conversation! Something I deeply enjoy! Why you ask did it not work out? Not quite sure on that one! However, after hearing the things I did this weekend, I find myself quite relieved that it didn't! Don't get me wrong, he's an amazing man....but he's so deceived right now! It saddens me. So much, that I have even cried off and on for the past 2 days because it hurts to see how someones belief system has been so altered over the course of 6 years and I see it leading him down a path that is furthest from his heart's desires.

Have you ever heard this statement: "The last place an alcoholic should find himself in, is a bar." I use that analogy because it's so much more understandable in what I'm trying to convey in this blog. Why would an alcoholic avoid a place like a bar? Well, for a very obvious reason...he or she would be operating in the "Spirit of Dumb Dumb" if they hung out at a bar and wanted to remain sober! Why would you put yourself in a place that offers you constant temptation?

Well, this guy wants an amazing relationship with a woman! It's his heart's desire to find the love of his life, get married and be with a godly woman! Yet, I feel he has compromised the very thing he desires! How you ask? Well, he's been going to places and doing things that are not going to attract a woman with the character he desires. Instead, I feel he's dating women flippantly to get to know them, rather than getting to know someone from a distance, find out their value system and morals and most importantly, their relationship with God, and then asking them out! Not only that, the kind of women he's dating makes my skin crawl! You ask, are you jealous? Why would I be jealous of a woman that has no morals or godly character? Well, because he went out with them you may say. No! If his discernment is that jaded, it is most definitely a train wreck about to happen! It infuriates me that he's so deceived!!! He is a good man, but I find that the way he's going about life right now, at least on the whole dating issue, is a train wreck! It will bring nothing but destruction to his life!

We attract what is in our heart! He's attracting the wrong women! Why? Because he is dating in the flesh! He's following his discontent and frustration and making decisions based on that, instead of following the leadership of Christ. All I can do is pray for him and pray that he wakes up before he wakes up beside a woman, opposite of what he has prayed for and opposite of what he has desired! Amazing how deceitful the enemy is!

No "Spirit of Dumb Dumb" here! I want God's best and will not compromise by rationalizing what I feel God has called me to live!

TDahl

"The Love of a Man Should Protect"

2009-05-20T11:38:00.003-04:00

There are so many things churning in my heart and mind this week. Earlier this week, my daughter suggested we rent the movie "Twilight," so that I could watch it. When the movie first came out, she went to it 6 times. I couldn't understand the fascination whatsoever! Although, watching a movie about vampires was not appealing to me in the least. I mean seriously, why all these teenagers were freaking out and obsessing over "Edward" was beyond me!

So, to her surprise, I agreed to her suggestion. This was the beginning of my own obsession! However my obsession goes deeper and obviously for reasons other than the obvious fact that "Edward" (Robert Pattinson) is dreamy.

After watching this movie for the first time, my heart experienced this awakening I guess you could say. Maybe an awakening to the sheer possibility that there is a man out there that really would have the characteristics of "Edward." Again, I'm not talking about physical characteristics such as his intense eyes and mysterious glances, although that could send me reeling as I love mystery in a man and I love to look into a man's eyes and see so much more than just the color. No, I'm talking about characteristics of "protection" and "dying to his own selfish desires for the benefit of another." Let me explain...

I feel men have lost their identity! I was talking with God early, the morning after seeing "Twilight" and asked Him to show me why this movie was so captivating. God began to show me how He truly created man to protect as well as honor women. Funny, I found out yesterday that this woman I know is having an affair with a married man. Not only is this man dishonoring his wife, but he has dishonored this woman. Both of them lost their jobs due to their affair. Now, the man has lost his provision for his own family due to his unwise decisions. The love of a man should protect, not destroy. Having a wife is a gift! I truly believe that if men were to honor their women the way God designed them to be honored, the men would have the most incredible lives. Yet, they throw away families for affair's because they themselves grow tired and weary of giving themselves up for their wives. They become selfish and yield to their desires, discounting the cost of the hearts that will become torn, shattered and jaded to love.

When God gives me away as a bride, I can't help but have great expectation because I know that God will not release my hand in marriage to someone who will not protect me! God has been that husband for me for 14 years now and He is jealous for me! I am His daughter and you know what...His daughter's don't have to gravel for the love of a man! They should respond to the love of a man. A love that protects at all costs, even his very life! What would happen if men began to find their identity that has been stripped away over the years? Marriages would flourish and children would be secure and not settle for anything less than what was modeled to them. It would change the entire face of this Nation. I await my "Edward" and will not settle for anything less because I will not respond to a false love. I will respond to a love that protects.

TDahl

Making Decisions for your Life - Fully Persuaded

2009-01-31T08:47:00.003-05:00

You know how you read things out of the Bible and even hear various scriptures from church on Sunday, etc. and sometimes they come alive and sometimes they don't, at least that particular time? I'm one who reflects on what I hear for a long time.

Well, for at least 3 years now, I've heard Job 22:28 recited often at my church (www.fambible.org) and it has come alive to some degree in my heart.First, lets go to Job 22:28: (Here are the various translations)

NIV- What you decide on will be done, and light will shine on your ways.

KJV-Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee: and the light shall shine upon thy ways.

NASB -You will also decree a thing, and it will be established for you; And light will shine on your ways.

NIV-What you decide on will be done, and light will shine on your ways.Now lets look at Romans 4:19-21 NIV

19. Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead--since he was about a hundred years old--and that Sarah's womb was also dead.

20. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God,

21. being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.

This scripture is talking about the promise Abraham and Sarah received from God. We know that a period of 20 years passed from the promise to the manifestation of the promise. We also know that Abraham tried to help God (I can't identify - LOL) and had Ishmael (not the promised child). So, knowing that Abraham tried to help God, we can safely assume that Abraham's becoming fully persuaded was a journey in and of itself. I know some of the promises God has given me, but there are times that I question...well did God really say (sounds like the serpent in the garden), because the wait has been so long? The goal of the enemy is to steal the Word! He can only do this by deceiving us. Unfortunately, the enemy is very good at what he does and I think we as the body of Christ underestimate his skill. In fact, we choose to meditate on the things the enemy says (and the enemy can also be ourselves - our own self doubt and past experiences that are dictating our future), rather than what God has said!!! Our past does not dictate our future unless we decide it should! It is our decision!!! God has given us the power to decide and decree! In Genesis we see that God gave man dominion in the earth. That means we have authority! What are we deciding and decreeing? It's been said time and time again how "God is in control." Well, I disagree with that. Psalms 115:16 KJV says, The heaven, even the heavens, are the LORD'S: but the earth hath he given to the children of men.

Well you ask, what about God's sovereignty? Ok, His sovereignty is declared in Revelation. We know the end! That's God's sovereignty! Let's look at part of the prayer Jesus prayed - Our Father who art in heaven hallowed it be thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Let's really look at that right now. Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Wow...Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth AS IT IS in heaven! It doesn't say in heaven as it is in earth!!! What is in heaven? Is there sickness there? Is there disease? Is there sadness? Are there tears? Is there rape? Is there pornography? Is there evil? What is in heaven? The Bible declares it is a perfect place! No tears, no sickness, no disease, no sadness, nothing evil! So why do God's kids think that He teaches them lessons through sickness and disease? Why do God's kids think He kills people and takes precious family members from us? Can we learn in these circumstances in life? Absolutely, however if we believe that God is the cause of our circumstances or somehow allowing them, then how are we supposed to be "overcomers" as He declares we are? I don't serve a bi-polar God!

You may be asking, well what about Job? Well, what about Job? Go back to the original translation and you will find that God didn't ALLOW the things in Job's life; Job allowed them! I did an in depth study of Job years ago because I was taught that God allowed all the horrible things that happened in my life and yet these same people told me that I could trust God with all my heart! Are you kidding me? Oh yes, let me trust a God that would allow me to be molested and raped!!! Uh...don't think so!!! God did not allow it. Man made a choice and I was at the receiving end of that choice. Well you may argue, God could have stopped it! I disagree again...He's given us dominion!

However, GOD REDEEMS IT!!! He has that authority when we give it to Him!!! When I realized this powerful truth, it set me free to love God without reservation! It set me free to LOVE HIM because He first loved me! Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-13! This is the very essence and nature of God! It is not what He does, it is who He is!!! When I realized that God was really for me and not against me and that He had an amazing plan for my life and I really did have purpose it made all the difference in the world in my decision making! (Thought I forgot what my message was about huh?) As my heart has really come alive to the revelation of deciding and decreeing, and as I am becoming fully persuaded, things are being established for me, as the Word declares! As we begin to recognize and come alive on the inside of us of who God really is, we will begin to decide that His plan really is something that will fulfill us.

When I was a little girl all I wanted to do was sing! I sang all the time. As I grew older, I was pursuing music and then something changed everything. My best friend committed suicide. He was a lead singer in a band and basically I followed him everywhere he played. I met so many talented musicians and really started to network. My roommate at the time was also a lead singer for a band and the guy had a flippin' amazing voice! I was surrounded by music. We would stay up late and just sing with him playing his acoustic guitar. It was such a fulfilling time in those moments. After my best friend committed suicide, I wanted nothing to do with music! Nothing! Later after committing my life back to the Lord (which was a journey in and of itself) I began to sing a little here and there in church. My pastor at the time told me that was my calling. I ran from it! I just wanted to sing once in awhile. I enjoyed singing on the worship team and that was taken from me when I went through a really difficult time in my life. Music was becoming my love again, but it was snatched from me! Later, I left that church and went to Family Bible. I was there about 6 months and was asked to sing with the Worship Team and I agreed. However, I was afraid to be passionate about it because of my past experiences! I didn't want to get hurt again. I served but was not fulfilled because I wouldn't let my heart become too attached (as hard as that was). I later stepped down because I just couldn't love love love it! Nearly a year went by and I was dead inside. God had instructed me to work on my music and here I was running from it again. Then something happened this past November. Jill, our worship leader came up to me and said "Tammy, it's time." "I want you back on the team." My heart crumbled inside and this fear came up in me...when I was about to respond with "no" the Lord quickened my heart and said "do it afraid." My no, became an "I'll try." On the night of my first practice with the team something happened. I can't explain it other than, I once again had a passion come alive in me. It was even more powerful than when I was a little girl! I made a decision! I said "God, my voice is Yours and I won't run anymore." I decided and decreed I would not run! This happened in November this past year. I also received a Word from the Lord through Pastor Ron Allen. He called me off the stage at church one night and said that he was calling me out and separating me because God was going to take me places in worship and we ain't seen nothing yet! He also came against any hindrances that have kept me from doing what I was called to do. Jill also gave me a Word that night. She said the Lord told her I had her mantle. I just said "yes" to God and decided and decreed that my voice was His and things are being established for me!

In December, Gena, a friend of mine wanted me to come and audition for a band that was looking for a lead singer. I said Ok. We went together and my audition piece was "Anyway" by Martina McBride. When I sang that song in the studio their response was "Holy @#!* that was better than sex!" It was so funny! Since then these amazing guys are working their butts off to get me out there. These are guys that know the music biz and I'm just letting God open doors.

So, with this LONG note, I want to encourage you to ask yourself "What is it that you need to decide and decree about your life?" What dreams do you have that you've forgotten about or just pushed aside as if they don't matter anymore? What passions do you have that you've run from because you think it's just a stupid dream? Let me tell you, God puts those dreams in you for a purpose. His gifts and callings are never revoked!!! Listen to me! God has a specific plan for your life that will fulfill you! He will establish it for you if you decide and decree - FULLY PERSUADED...no waivering! I waivered for years and years...it was only when I became fully persuaded that doors began to open! God is now redeeming the time that was lost!! Get on living your passions and dreams...We've got work that needs to be done!!! TDahl

The Gospel of Grace is Good News

2008-12-04T05:43:00.005-05:00

If what you're hearing about God isn't Good, then it really isn't about God, it's about man's interpretation and false perception of who God is. In Proverbs 4:23 it says above all else guard your heart for out of it flow the issues of life. We filter everything through our heart, which is our belief system. We are to guard our belief system and not just allow any wind of doctrine to corrupt our heart.

Recently, I've been accused of believing a false doctrine. I had made a comment one day that as believers in Jesus Christ we no longer have to continue to ask Him for forgiveness because our sins have already been forgiven. This person literally turned about 10 shades of red and grew angry in my presence. I did say that I thought if we wronged someone we should ask for forgiveness because its the right thing to do. However, when I've per say "sinned" I just go to my Daddy God and say I messed up and declare that I know He'll help me fix this because He loves me and I'm His daughter! My relationship with my Daddy God is one of open communication and authenticity. I do not fear God because He is my deliverer. He is the one that can fix things when I mess up. He's my father and my very best friend. I don't go out and blatantly "sin" but I am not perfect. I just thank God that Jesus was perfect and became my sin so I could be righteous in the sight of God. So this person who grew angry with me, pointed out 1 John 1:9. It reads, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness." I began to ask this person the following questions: "who wrote the book?" "who was this written for/to?" "was it before or after the cross?" These are three very important questions when studying the Bible in it's context. I did not give him the answers, however the answers are: John wrote 1 John. The first chapter was written to the Gnostics (these were the unbelievers). So yes, if you are an unbeliever, we do need to confess our need for a Savior. It was written after Jesus went to the cross. In the 2nd chapter we see John addressing the believer. He addresses us as "my little children" and goes on to say that he write's us that we may not sin, and if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins and not for ours only, but also the whole world.

The Word also declares that where sin abounds, grace does much more abound! What exciting news! Listen, God is good and He is a loving God that does not impute our sins against us any longer! He imputed sin on Jesus Christ and He fulfilled the law. The law was designed to show us our need for a Savior because it was impossible to measure up to the law. Under our new and better covenant, Grace showed up in the person of Jesus Christ and measured up for us!

Praise God, my sin is not counted against me! Because of the work of Jesus Christ I can approach the throne of God boldly and confidently even in the midst of failure! He will never reject me and will never condemn me. I am in Christ! There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ!

Just Plain Funny

2008-08-30T07:38:00.002-04:00

So yesterday I ended up collapsing at work having difficulty breathing. I had just come in from outside and it was about 104 degrees out there. I was lying on the floor and 3 men standing over me getting me various things...ice, gatorade, water and one on the phone with 911. Stubborn me said "don't you dare call an ambulance." How embarrassing, not to mention the bazillion dollars they charge you, even with insurance! I finally cooled down, but I felt like an elephant was sitting on the right side of my ribcage. It was incredibly weird. After a while, I started feeling ok, just really drained and tired. I was getting the talks from everyone - go to ER or go to Urgent Care. Finally, I decided I would. I ended up going to Urgent Care and this is where I had to laugh.

The nurse comes in and take my vital. I'm fine! Then the doctor comes in and basically tells me to strip down. She starts feeling around and asking me to take deep breath's in and out. She found the painful place by placing pressure on the area. Not fun! She then wants to complete an X-Ray. So she leaves the room and the tech comes in saying, "Tammy we need to do a pregancy test." I busted out laughing!!! She looked at me and said, "what's so funny?" I said, maam' I haven't had sex in 11 years...not even a kiss! She laughed and said,"not even in your dreams?" "Nope...not even in those," I replied. Well, they still had to take one. Five minutes later she comes back into my little room and says "Maam', guess what? Your not pregnant." We both just cracked up and had the whole place in stitches!

I had to share this humor! Oh...I have a myofascial strain of the right ribs and heat exhaustion. I'm fine!

Excerpt from Tammy's upcoming book, "What Did He Say About Me?"

2008-08-16T10:48:00.003-04:00

Daily Scripture
II Corinthians 12:9 AMP
But He said to me, My grace [My favor and loving-kindness and mercy] is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect [fulfilled and completed] and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ [the Messiah] may rest [yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell] upon me!

Daily Devotion

This is going to be a long devotional, but I feel compelled to be extremely detailed. Recently, I had an incredible adventure! I went to Colorado Springs, CO for the first time. I was able to go horseback riding in the mountains for 2 hours and then immediately after, was able to go whitewater rafting for the first time. The horseback ride was challenging, but I knew how to handle the horse aspect, especially growing up riding! However, the whitewater rafting was a whole other world that I had no knowledge of in the least.
A few years back I went kayaking with my Aunt Rosemary, but it was a rubber kayak and the water was in no way as rough as what I was about to take on. Upon my arrival, I was given a wet suit and boots and fitted for a life jacket. I could barely breathe in Colorado, let alone have a life jacket that was squeezing the life right out of me. I had to adjust! I was praying for the Lord to just help me breathe.
We loaded up in the bus that would take us to the river entrance to embark on my 4 hour rafting trip. Yes, I signed up for 4 hours on the river! I just thought we were going to put our raft in the river and go. Well, that is not what happened in the least.
We all got a detailed talk on the way to the river and then when we arrived, we did as we were instructed – we unloaded the rafts! They were so heavy! Being oxygen depleted made it even more difficult! Yet, I was part of a team and everyone of us had to contribute! We unloaded the rafts and set them on land. We began to practice, on land!!! I thought to myself…how weird.
We would have to get in the boat and fake paddle and then our guide would yell out something like high right or right side and those of us sitting on the left would have to move quickly to the right. Then he’d say center and quickly we’d move to the center. No sooner as we got settled in center…he’d yell “left.” Quickly everyone was moving to the left!
We then got the chat about how we were all a team and needed to move when we were told to move. He then said this, “when we go through the rapids and you are in position to paddle, keep your paddled connected with the current. Sink it deep he said!” He said, “the paddle connected with the current will keep you in the raft!”
First of all, by this time I was scared out of my mind! I thought this was going to be a fun adventure. I didn’t realize the danger! Second of all, I thought you sat in the raft, not on the side of the raft. Something was wrong I thought. How in the world am I going to be able to stay in the raft if I’m sitting on the side of the raft, and not get bounced out of it when we hit the rapids? All these questions were flying in my head like a tornado.
As we finished our land practice, we began to load our raft in the water. As we got in the water and set our positions I was actually able to catch my breath and relax for a few minutes taking in the beautiful scenery. Our guide then began to instruct us to practice while the water was calm. So we began the once again tedious task of finding positions when our guide yelled out the various instructions.
I was actually really terrified now that we were in the water, knowing there was no way I was getting out of this one! I was going through this, and was at the point of no return. We got to relax a bit more after our guide thought we would be able to handle these rapids.
Then, our practice was over, we were ready to actually experience this as our guide called out “rapids ahead.” I tensed up in fear! I could hear them, but I couldn’t see them. My limitation of sight caused this fear in my heart that I couldn’t describe. Finally, the rapid came into view, our paddles were down deep in the current and there we went.
What do you know, the guide was right!!! The paddle, when kept in the current really does keep you in the raft! All of a sudden through that experience, I began to not fear, and lighten up so I could really enjoy this trip. God’s strength was made perfect in my weakness.
What was my weakness? Lack of experience! Many individuals have knowledge. After all I “heard” what I was supposed to do and I could have reiterated that to someone else easily, yet I had no experience to back it up. In the spiritual sense, experience with God gives us wisdom. Knowledge is not wisdom!
As I continued on this rafting trip, God showed me something so amazing. He showed me that even when we encounter trials and hardships that life bring us, we must keep our paddles (our lives) connected with the current (Jesus) in those storms. Some storms are small, some storms are huge.
The rapids started out small, but the experience of getting through the smaller ones, gave us “experience” enough to handle “The Widow Maker.”
The Widow Maker was our final rapid on this course and let me tell you, I have the pictures to prove that this rapid was tough! Yet, I knew that God’s grace would be sufficient – even in danger, just like our daily scripture says. His grace is His ability.
I was so trusting in God through this rafting trip because of my lack of both knowledge and experience in this area. God showed me that the problem with most people that follow Him is that they don’t stay connected to Him in the storms of life, instead they remove their paddle from the current and then they are just tossed into the blender of life, and then to make it worse, they actually blame Him.
It’s not God making your life miserable or causing bad things to happen to you. How could we trust Him if He was the cause of our pain and hurt? It doesn’t make sense. Life happens! If we would have removed our paddles from the current while going through any of those rapids, we would have all fallen out of the raft! We need to stay connected to the current (God) so that we can go through the rapids of life. Let the power of Christ rise up in you by staying connected. Through staying connected with Him, you will experience; not just have knowledge, but experience, that He really is sufficient!

www.outofexile.org

"The Shack" by William Paul Young (Book Review)

2008-08-13T07:43:00.002-04:00

THE SHACK www.theshackbook.com
“The Shack” is a fictional book written by William P. Young. I believe everyone in the entire world should read this book. It will free you from any religious tradition and gives you, what I believe, is the reality of who God is! This book will take you on an emotional journey where you will experience every emotion known to the human race! It will set you free if you allow it to penetrate those areas of your heart that you’ve kept protected and locked up from past hurts. It will bring you to a place of a real, living breathing relationship with your creator. By the end of this book…you truly will call God, your Papa!!!!
On their website you can continue your experience with “The Shack” in the following ways:
Share how you feel about The Shack and read what others are saying
Share your insights and discuss the book with other readers at The Shack Forum
Communicate with the Author
Read Willie’s blog
Purchase additional copies of The Shack
Find out the latest news for The Missy Project
For information about having the author speak to your organization or group, please contact: Wes Yoder at (615) 370.4700 Ext.230 or Wes@AmbassadorSpeakers.com

Movie Review - Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2

2008-08-10T21:44:00.002-04:00

So, this evening I took my 13 year old along with 3 of her friends to the movie "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2." I actually enjoyed the movie and found it to have some great life lessons. I felt the PG13 rating was inappropriate as there is a sex scene, a nude model (nothing shown) in an art class, a pregnancy scare and a girl staying overnight with a guy. Obviously this is not appropriate behavior for teenagers to exhibit.

All in all, I do feel the movie was great and mild in comparison with other PG13 films. I would say go see it, but monitor your children. It does make for great conversation with your teenager after the film.

TDahl

Why Can't We Just Be Real?

2008-08-10T08:22:00.002-04:00

I love to watch people and study their body language and actions as well as listen to their words. Once I get to know someone, I find that most of the time their words rarely are backed up by their actions. I find that incredibly sad! Our words should line up with our deeds. If our words do not line up with our deeds, then I must ask the question "why can't we just be real?" When our words are not followed by actions, then we must ask ourselves why.

One of the saddest things I see is people hiding behind various masks trying to disguise who they really are. The mask could be religion, relationships, a title, or possessions. They may say all the right things, but their actions are entirely opposite. For years I lived my life behind a mask, but eventually I came to a place within myself and realized that if I wanted to effectuate change in this world, it had to begin with me.

So why is it that we feel we just can't be real? Why must we put on a mask and literally rob ourselves and others of who we really are? Why do we have to hide behind masks? Maybe who we really are isn't as nice as what we portray? Maybe it's because we are so insecure in our own identities that we try to take on the identities of those we admire instead, but highly fail because that is not really us!

Recently I had a long discussion with someone about the importance of authenticity. If you hang around someone long enough, you will eventually discover the real them. That's why when people get married that are supposingly so in love, wake up 6 months after the wedding asking themselves "what the heck did I do?" and "who is this person laying beside me?" because neither person was their true authentic self. We've been deceived and we blame the other, because it's always easier to look at that other person rather than take your responsibility of your own actions. We always look to play the blame game.

We humans have this great weakness of living out of our emotions worrying what other people may say or think about us. We want to control what other people's opinions about us are! I think that's the most insane thing, as we have no control over that. We would rather try to control the thoughts words of others than to just live authentically.

Why? Because, rejection is our greatest fear! Even the rejection we place upon ourselves by thinking negatively about who we are. We all want to be loved and accepted. We all want to make a difference in the world and know that it was a better place just because we lived. At least I do!

I believe for us to begin making the difference and impact we were meant to make, we must first begin with living out of our true selves - not afraid to be who we are and express those things that make each of us an individual. I believe that this world would become a better place just by our being here, and we would find great friendships, great relationships and have the fulfilling, meaningful life we were destined to have!

So...Let's just be real! Don't fear who you are - God created you and put His stamp of approval on you!

*Always remember, there is only one you! There is no one else on the planet that can do what YOU were created to do! Live your God-given destiny! You're the only one who can!!! Tammy L. Dahl