Church at the Bay Ladies

NOT-So-Extreme Couponing Workshop & Luncheon

2012-01-25T20:06:00.004-05:00

Ready to learn a new skill or enhance one you already use?

Maybe learn a few simple ways to become better stewards of the money God graces you with?

Or, just want to hang out with some of the ladies of CATB?

Join us Saturday, February 4th @ 11 am
Cari Caraway's home (15819 Trackside, Odessa 33556)

Guest Speaker will begin promptly @11:15 am

We plan to break for lunch and conclude at 2pm.

Everyone attending will receive a packet full of couponing tips.
NOTE: this is NOT extreme couponing!

All levels of experience welcome

An Evite was previously sent to all current CATB ladies' emails.

If you did not receive an Evite, please REPLY HERE

Ladies on a Mission

2012-01-18T15:20:00.003-05:00

Please keep our current Haiti mission team (of10) in your prayers this week. They fly out Thursday, January 19th and stay four days visiting the orphanage that CATB is sponsoring.

~Nothing like one-on-one-in-your-presence kind of love~

~Truly being the hands & feet of Jesus~

We thank you!

CATB ladies on this mission: Rachael, April, Sandy, & Sarah

Blessings to you...Godspeed ahead

Do Not Disturb, by Michele Laccabue

2012-01-06T20:34:00.006-05:00

“O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you,in a dry and weary land where there is no water”. Psalm 63:1

Recently, I read a book titled “The Necessity of Prayer” by E.M. Bounds and realized my prayer life needed a makeover. As a believer in Christ for many years, it seemed my prayers had become too routine, too dry, too rushed, and not top priority. A line early in the book struck me…“Faith is kept alive by prayer”.

Do you feel your Christian walk is lacking in energy and not influencing those around you?

Is doubt or insecurity creeping into your thoughts?

Are you losing your sense of peace?

Or, maybe, you are feeling your prayers aren’t being answered so why bother.

The answer lies in lack of faith due to poor praying habits.

Simply put, personal prayer is a regular meeting time with God to diligently seek Him and to invite His presence into your life. It can occur anytime of the day, in any location, and as often as possible. It can last a few minutes or continue for hours. It needs to be a quiet place, a place of solitude. Consider God your soul-friend and converse with Him by asking questions, offering praise & thanksgiving, requesting His help, and confessing & repenting sins. And, then, most importantly, allow yourself to be silent and wait for Him (to speak, to move, to lead).

Did you notice … be silent and wait for Him?

Yep, this is the hard part for me. To remain silent and patiently wait is not easy for me. Life is busy, interruptions are frequent, and I’m a take charge kind of gal. Can you relate? I believe a “Do Not Disturb” sign may be in order. Maybe this will keep others out of my quiet time AND keep ME from going ahead and moving on without Him.

Keeping faith alive and active occurs during the discipline of praying. Making this an everyday, all day habit is basically training to hear His voice. He promises to draw closer, to teach His ways, to restore souls, to share His purposes & plans, to provide rest, and much more.

Jesus said to his disciples: “Always pray and not give up.” Luke 18:1

I want to hear God speak. I plan to be silent & wait so as not to miss Him.

Michele

“Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him”. Psalm 62:5

comments are welcome

Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent

2011-12-13T12:38:00.002-05:00

There are a few spots available to serve at the Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Tent next week with CATB.

Wednesday, December 21st
1:30 arrive for orientation (location near downtown Tampa)
4:00 shift ends

Students age 8 & up can serve alongside their parent.

PLEASE contact me ASAP if you are interested in joining our group and haven't contacted me previously.

You may also refer to blog post "Heart to Serve" on our CATB Ladies' Blog site

Thank you

Christmas Party link is Now Activated

2011-12-01T11:18:00.008-05:00

OOPS... sorry for the inconvenience. Our Christmas party RSVP in the previous post was not activated properly.

Please use the new & improved link, click HERE.

If you received an EVITE earlier this week, you may RSVP at that site.

Anyone NOT receiving an EVITE, please contact me (HERE) as I am trying to compile ALL your current email addresses.

This event is NEXT WEEK...Thursday, December 8th @7pm.

All details can be found at our CATB Ladies Blog
"Let's Celebrate the Reason for the Season"

Let's Celebrate the Reason for the Season

2011-11-30T18:31:00.014-05:00

"The angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you
good news of great joy that will be for all the people.
Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you;
He IS Christ the Lord".
Luke 2:10-11

Ladies, come celebrate the Christmas season with your sister's in Christ.

You are invited to attend:

Thursday, December 8th at 7pm
10306 Green Links Dr (Betsy's home in Westchase)

If you'd like, please bring:
~a sampling of your favorite holiday appetizer or dessert
~a little something ($5-$10) for a fun gift exchange

High School & college aged young ladies are welcome to come.

If you did not previously receive this invitation via an Evite in your email, please respond HERE.

You may also RSVP HERE

Heart to Serve

2011-11-15T16:56:00.006-05:00

Hello Church at the Bay ladies,

Have you ever volunteered in the big Metropolitan Ministries holiday tent downtown? My experiences have been amazing times to share love for the people of this community that could really use a "lift". Metropolitan Ministries' faith-based mission is to provide for the poor & homeless in our town.

Would you like to join me on December 21st, 1:30-4pm?
This is a ladies registered event, but kids (8 years & older) and hubbies may come too. I need a head count though. Space may be limited. Please respond here if you are interested or definitely planning on attending.

"If you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry, and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness". Isaiah 58:10

Stay tuned for more details regarding a food & toy drive. Wouldn't it be great to fill up a car or two to bring with us?

Blessings to you,
Michele

she did what she could, by April McCullohs

2011-10-04T14:42:00.003-04:00

Hal has been teaching a series called Game Plan the past few weeks that takes a look at God's plan for our lives. Unfortunately, some of us won't even take a break from our routines to ask God for direction, or to examine how he's wired us because we've subconsciously disqualified ourselves.

We disqualify ourselves from exploring God's will for our lives when we compare ourselves to the Super-Christian-Woman we might have in our mind's eye. You know, the woman who seems to embody the Proverbs 31 lady, the one who seems to have it all together, all the time. For me, my Super-Christian-Woman lives in a third world country, among the poorest of the poor, doesn't covet Nine West boots like I do, doesn't sweat the superficial stuff, and doesn't get flustered (every night) when she realizes she has to cook dinner, as if it were some top secret surprise.

Your Super-Christian-Woman could be the mom of five children who manages to make it to church on time, or that friend of yours who works full-time but still finds time to volunteer at a crisis pregnancy center. Your Super-Christian-Woman could even be you--in five years, when you're not as tired, or stressed, when the demands of work let up, or when the kids get to college. It can be easy to imagine God using you in the great, big, Later, when your gifts are better developed, when you've received more healing from God, when there's more of this, when there's less of that, when you're...

different.

But, the truth is that God is a God of the present. He calls himself the "I Am," and is a Master Craftsman at fulfilling his will in the here and now, exactly where life finds you.

So, if this fits you, stop disqualifying yourself from exploring God's will for your life! Let Him take what you have--it may seem average or even quite messy, but He has filled you with purpose and eagerly awaits your move in exploring it with you.

Only days before Jesus was crucified, he was reclining at dinner with friends. A woman came in the room, broke an expensive jar of perfume and anointed his head and his feet in an act of worship. Many there didn't understand what she was doing and began to rebuke her for "wasting" such an extravagant gift on this gesture. Jesus defended her,

"Leave her alone. Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing...

She did what she could...

I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her." Mark 14:3-10

No matter where you are in life, or where you've been, God has a unique plan for you that he desires to fulfill. He longs for our participation, though, and that begins with seeking Him. If you've been disqualifying yourself, take some time to identify your excuses and then ask God to help you release them to Him.

After all, God's not calling us to become the Super-Christian-Woman we've got tucked away in our minds. He's simply asking us for relationship with Him, for obedience, and that one day, people might say of us

"She did what she could."

----

Want a practical application step? Email gifts@halmayer.com for a free spiritual gifts test where you can explore God's unique thumbprint on your life. Be sure to come to church this Sunday to hear Hal teach on how to discern God's leading in your life.

Life Ladder, by Michele Laccabue

2011-09-21T22:29:00.005-04:00

Last week Church at the Bay started gathering in Growth Groups (formally known as Home Teams) to share how God’s message, spoken by Pastor Hal on Sunday, was impacting personal walks with Christ. We read scripture from Philippians chapter 3 and a challenge became very clear--that believers in Christ need to have a specific FOCUS every day—to intentionally look (heavenward) towards God and purposely tune into HIS plan intended for each of our lives.

Imagine this scenario: It’s imperative that you get up on the roof of your house. First, you position a ladder against the side wall. You grab both sides and place your foot on the first rung. Where are your eyes focused?? Yes, Upward! Tentatively, you continue to take the next steps, eyes not leaving the location of your final destination. Each step gets scarier as you leave “what you know” on the ground and ascend to the next level. At some point, you may consider going back down because of fear (and you may actually take a step or two backwards). It’s about choice. Do you redirect your focus upward and strive for the ultimate goal?

Paul wrote, “Forget what is behind & strain toward what is ahead” and “press on toward the goal to win the prize which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13,14).

~As you keep your eyes focused towards heaven, choose to take next steps with God in your daily life. He promises to reveal His power in YOUR life & to make clear His plans FOR YOU.

Proverbs 21:30, “There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord’s.”

What is your personal next step with Christ? A few ideas to consider: attend a Bible teaching church service each week, commit to spending time with God each day in prayer & reading the Bible, join a Growth Group & connect with other Christ followers, invite a friend to church with you…

I hope you choose to climb that “Life Ladder” all the way to the top.

Small Food Party! July 23

2011-07-14T21:41:00.000-04:00

Hey Ladies,

Join us July 23 for a Small Food Party! Call it tapas, appetizers, whatever--bring your favorite bite-sized snacks and enjoy some hang time with your friends from Church at the Bay.

Where: Jen Allinder's house: 14827 Coral Berry Drive, 33626

When: July 23, 4:00-6:00 p.m.

What to Bring: your favorite appetizer to share, and a friend!

RSVP to catbladies@churchatthebay.com by July 20.

See you there!

Summer Ladies' Groups

2011-06-09T20:11:00.001-04:00

Hey Ladies!

We've got something new to invite you to-- something we've never done before! We'd love for you to join a Summer Ladies' Group. Here's what a Summer Group is and is not:

It is:
-a casual gathering of 5-10 women

It's not:
-a formal class

It is:
-a time to get to know ladies from church over coffee or casual dinner

It's not:
-a curriculum or homework driven group

It is:
-every other week

It's not:
-every week

Wanna try it out?

We have three different groups. Here are the groups and their times and places:

Sandy Mayer's Group:
-Thursday nights, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
-Citrus Park Food Court
-First meeting was June 9; Next meeting is June 23

Rolanda Beacham's Group:
-Wednesday nights, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
-Starbucks on Anderson, near the AMC movie theater
-First meeting will be June 29

April McCullohs' Group:
-Wednesday mornings, 7:00-8:30 a.m.
-Starbucks on Anderson, near the AMC movie theater
-First meeting will be next Wed, June 15

Email catbladies@churchatthebay.com to sign up for a group!

dessert party!

2011-05-23T15:41:00.000-04:00

Hey Ladies!

Please join us on Thursday, June 2 for a dessert party at Sandy Mayer's house (12727 Tar Flower Drive, Tampa 33626)! We'll be meeting from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to sample each other's store-bought or home-made treats, to catch up with friends and to meet new ones!

No Bible study, no big agenda, just a fun break for the busy women you are!

Please email catbladies@churchatthebay.com to confirm you--and hopefully, a friend!--are coming.

Can't wait to see you there!

~April McCullohs

God's Plan is Still Good, by Connie Smith

2011-04-15T14:09:00.000-04:00

Connie and her husband, Dean, have probably greeted you as you've driven up to park at Church at the Bay. Her passion for the Lord and optimism are contagious.

Not long ago I was talking with God…I do that a lot…I was thinking of how I wanted a break from life. The day to day mundane of getting up to go to work, the long days and the pressure of always having someone at work plan my schedule. The not knowing from week to week if I would be home or traveling. I just felt tired and wanted a rest. I have always worked. My first job when I was 14 years old and I have never really had a break. I have always taken care of myself and have been a large contributor to my family’s income. I wanted to know what it felt like to have someone else take care of me “for a change”. I was having a “pity party”. While each day I woke I thanked God for all of the blessings He has given me, I was still tired and wanting a rest from life.

It was just a normal day to me, up early and off to work to start on the list of a number of tasks to complete. I had deadlines coming up on two very large projects and had meetings all day. I had flights scheduled to leave after church the next Sunday and needed to get a lot accomplished that day. While I was in one of those meetings, the senior manager in our office peeked in and asked to see me. I thought “can you wait until I’m finished with this meeting first”, but the look on her face told me I needed to go right then. The next few minutes took me completely by surprised and totally off guard. The company was in process of reorganizing and I was on the list to be laid off. At first, I thought what about the projects and all that needed to be finished. But then…a peace fell over me and it was like the weight of the world was being lifted from my shoulders. God had heard my prayers, was going to take care of me and give me that rest I felt I so very much needed.

God, being a good and wonderful God, heard my prayers. And what may seem as a “whoops” to many, God saw in His infinite wisdom, that I did need a break.

Jeremiah 29:11-13; “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."

Well, that was almost two months ago. While I am steadily looking for employment to help meet our financial needs, I am also reconnecting with friends and family that I didn’t have time to do with work and traveling for my job. Though we had a huge cut in our monthly income, God is providing for our needs. We have always considered what we have as being “on loan from God,” so we continue to thank him for our many blessings by tithing first and foremost. God always comes through for us no matter what the world throws our way. All that we have is His. We are humbled by His continued blessings and we are forever thankful for what He provides.

I know God has a plan for me and He shows me every day that He is with me by the blessings and comfort I get from reading his word. I have a peace that I know must be from God as I turn over control of my life and future into His hands.

Philippians 4:6 - 7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

I have had a few job interviews, but no offer has come. I believe that God has a plan for me and I get up each morning asking Him to grant me strength and grace to wait, “be still,” and trust His will for me. Until that job comes along, I trust God to work His will in my life and I enjoy the opportunity to rest and time to refuel by reading God’s word every day.

As Easter approaches in a few weeks, I pray that each of you will feel God’s presence in your life. Trust Him and know that He loves you enough to send His only son for your salvation.

Jesus died for our sins so that we could be forgiven, and rose from the dead so that we may have life with God. I am humbled to know that He cares so much for my salvation and enough for my life that He will provide the plan to help me be a disciple for His works. I pray that you will let Him provide the plan for your life as well.

There is a Race to Run, by Michele Laccabue

2011-04-05T07:54:00.000-04:00

Michele and Amanda on race day!

The month of March has become the time of year that I ramp up my running routine. It seems like a simple enough way to exercise and, at the same time, enjoy the great outdoors. Weeks ago, I laced up my shoes and hit the pavement. As I approached mile one, the fun had gone. My body wanted to turn back and my mind agreed. Luckily, I had set a goal of running a 5K race with my friend Amanda so I chose to persevere and push through the pain.

“Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize…” 1 Corinthians 9:24

I like prizes, so I trained harder and planned for race day. Race day came, and I was ready and excited! My personal goal was to complete the race with a faster time than I did the previous year. Preparation and good intention should be enough, right?

“Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus.” Hebrews 12:1-2

Well, my 5K race didn’t end exactly as I had planned. I did not finish with my best personal time. I was disappointed that all my hard work had not paid off. Yet, by a miracle of grace, I still won a prize! Wow, how can that be?

In the Bible, Paul repeatedly relates our Christian journey to a race. There is a sense of urgency here that requires effort, self-discipline, and purpose in our daily lives. God desires our goals to line up with His as we allow Him to work through us. He asks us to depend on Him and trust Him when life’s path and outcomes look different than we planned. Run away from sin. Run to faithful service. He wants us to run to these things and more. Yes, this road is narrow and specific, but we are ALL invited to come along. We can’t do it alone, though. We need Jesus Christ and the support of our community of believers. There is a prize waiting for each one of us. Will you commit to the race?

“…we do it to get a prize (a crown) that will last forever.” 1 Corinthians 9:25

God is good. He invites, He accepts, He leads, He teaches, He loves, and, thankfully, He forgives. He rewards with eternal crowns even when we are undeserving and unworthy of such an honor.

Together, for the rest of our days, let’s be determined to continue this race, to persevere when feeling too tired to continue, to have faith in outcomes we don’t understand, to move when He asks, and to boldly encourage others to join in on this journey.

In the end, may we confidently be able to say:

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7

See you on the road,

Michele Laccabue

You are Not a Lie, by Sarah Markley

2011-03-22T10:17:00.000-04:00

You are not the lies your parents have told you.

You are not the lies that life

and men

and bad friends have taught you.

screw-up

worthless

stupid

forgettable

ugly

You simply are not.

Click here to read the rest at Sarah Markley's site.

[Sarah Markley writes about life, God, family, healing from an extramarital affair, running, friendship and more. The comments that follow this post are well worth the read, too.]

Love One Another, Guest Devotion by Lisa Littlewood

2011-03-09T14:58:00.000-05:00

Several months ago I arrived at church, pulled out my program and read the name of that week’s speaker with the words “Missionary to Africa” written next to his name.
I won’t lie, part of me wanted to get up and walk out. I know, I’m a Christian; I’m not supposed to admit that.

Do you ever feel that way? Like you know you should be able to listen to a sermon about the needs of the world, but you’re not sure you can. That the ever present needs of your own family and life seem so pressing that you’re not sure you want an added measure of guilt. Guilt that part of your responsibility as a Christian might be to tread through the woods of a remote jungle and preach the gospel...

Click here to read the rest of the article...

God is Calling on Your Life, by Michele Laccabue

2011-02-26T16:20:00.000-05:00

Wouldn’t it be nice if God “called” us up on the phone and gave clear audio instructions? One place He offers lots of insight is in the Bible. Some of His callings are intended for all of us. For example, Romans 1:6 states, “You are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ” and Hebrews 3:1, “we share in the heavenly calling to fix our thoughts on Jesus”.

First and foremost, God calls us to choose a personal walk with Him. When we do, He then shares with us personal, unique callings for our lives. From the depths of our souls, we will know if He is directing us to move. Typically, He likes to put our God-given abilities to good use or activate our hearts to love. It’s probably something that your old self would never consider and you fear you cannot do it on your own (guess what? you’re right). The prompting is unmistakable. Act on it. He wants you to grow…to try something new…to see His power in action. Each step in following His calling (for you), brings you closer to Him, enlarges your faith, and your life story develops another chapter.

Over the years, God has called me to various challenges. One time in particular, I remember saying, “No, that’s not for me.” He was persistent though. He proceeded to lay out a path of people and circumstances that made it very clear that He was calling me to take this step of faith. I surrendered and began homeschooling my sons six years ago. Talk about going against culture and feeling “different” (not my first choice). I won’t lie, there were rough days with bouts of questioning, but He has been faithful. He hasn’t let me down. He has shown me in numerous ways, WHY He called me on this path and I am very thankful.

1 Thessalonians 5:24 says, “The one who calls you is faithful and He will do it”.

Rest in that my friends. He is faithful. Trust. He WILL do it IF He called you to the task. He will not leave you hanging. He will empower you. Keep in mind, callings are personal (my calling may not be yours), some callings may change over time, or He may add another layer when you are ready. Keep an eye on His plan by staying connected in your relationship with Him.

What has God called you to do recently?

“I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received” Ephesians 4:1

Your sister in Christ,

Michele

mlaccabue@tampabay.rr.com

Bold as Lions, by Alexis Albright

2011-02-15T12:03:00.000-05:00

Something I've struggled with for many years is fear. It will come out of nowhere and then my brain will run wild with details…it's insane!

A few weeks ago, I was winding down for the evening with a heavy heart. I got into bed and looked at my husband, Blaine, and began to tell him about some of the fear I had been struggling with. At one point, I began to cry. Blaine sat there and listened, and we had some good discussion. But my fears would not be “discussed” away, and my husband knew that. He committed to pray for me and my fear, and I was also going to pray. I would pray for peace from the Holy Spirit if my fears were unfounded and I would pray for wisdom if He was trying to get my attention. I realize that fear is something I've allowed to have a place in my life, and this could be ALL from Satan. But I wanted clarity from the Lord.

The next morning, I decided I would study Scripture on courage. I needed to read on how to live courageously and NOT fearfully.

Here are some of the verses that have given me strength to embrace the truth that fear is not from God- that we can live with boldness and confidence that He is God and He is in control:

Joshua 1:9 “This is my command – be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Proverbs 28:1 “The wicked run away when no one is chasing them, but the godly are as bold as lions.”

1 Chronicles 28:20 “…Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work related to the Temple of the Lord is finished correctly.”**

**David was giving instructions and plans to Solomon on the construction of the Temple. It was the Lord’s plan for Solomon to carry out this work, but even in doing good, fear and discouragement were a battle. David gave Solomon a charge full of encouragement that entailed worshiping and serving the Lord with his whole heart. I love that!

When fear begins to rear her head, I quickly jump to these verses I have bookmarked. I say these out loud- I proclaim the Word of God- and I am filled with holy COURAGE!

What is it that keeps you from being all that God wants you to be? Take the time to find some Scriptures in your Bible's concordance or look passages up online that will equip you with the Truth of the One who made you in His image. And then hide them in your heart!

The Healing Continues, by Connie Smith

2011-02-11T08:13:00.000-05:00

All of us are sinners. “No Perfect People Allowed” as our CATB motto goes. We all have things in our past that we want to forget but they seem to reappear when we least expect it.

This happened to me a week ago. It was when April spoke at the Sunday service about how events in her past had affected her and how she was working through them to find healing. It felt like someone was pressing on my chest making it hard to breathe. A couple of days later…it happened again. Like someone or something inside of me was pressing to get out. Finally, I stopped long enough and sat down trying to identify what would be causing this…urgency…this need to confront some long ago fears and pain. I thought of events in my past that I had buried so deep I thought they may not really be my life, but someone else’s. It was as if God knew that now is a time for me to face some of the things of my past and feel His healing touch on me.

I went to one of my favorite books of the Bible, Phillippians. Chapter 4 seems to say it all for me:

Phil 4: 6 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and you minds in Christ Jesus.”

Phil. 4: 13 “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”

I did, and am, praying for the strength of God and His grace to get me through this. I don’t know why these memories are coming back to me, or why now? I believe that God must think I am ready to open my heart and begin the healing process. I have to say that I am scared and uncertain about going deep into my heart. But I also feel the forgiving and healing power of God in my life. I am reading the book of John and see how great our God is that He can bring a dead man back to life and forgive a woman caught in adultery. Knowing that Jesus died for my sins is my refuge. I hope that in knowing Him and feeling His grace and mercy that it will help me to heal and to forgive myself.

Lord, I ask you to watch over anyone who is reading this and hope they can find strength in knowing that you are a God who loves us, even with our imperfections. Give us all the power of your grace and mercy, in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Why go there? by April McCullohs

2011-02-03T16:14:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday, I shared my story of healing from abuse. If you missed it, you can watch it here.

The biggest obstacle to my healing was actually getting started. Healing is hard work. It's disruptive to the normal routines of life and it usually means suspending your normal-happy-and-coping-self for a period to really examine what's going on in your soul. Embarking on a healing journey probably means sharing some of it with your spouse, if you're married, and asking him to extend some extra grace as you deal with what comes up. It probably means professional counseling at some point, it definitely means more reflection and quiet time with God, and it most likely means investing time and money in resources.

Healing is hard work.

So, why even go there?

Most of us would claim to have good lives, great families and friends, and many more blessings than millions of hurting women "out there." Shouldn't we just be grateful for what we have, for where we are in life, and move on with it?

Here's my challenge: We cannot live the life God designed for us without healing-- from what others have done to us, and from what we've done to others and to God.

When abuse (sexual, physical, verbal or visual--don't be quick to dismiss your story as "not counting") or tragedy occurs, our souls are damaged. Our natural, in the flesh, response is to harden our hearts and to rely on self-protection. The problem with a hardened heart is that it cannot give love and receive love the way God intended. In fact, those with backgrounds of abuse cannot fully obey God until we bring our brokenness directly to Him.

Remember this? When Jesus was asked what was the greatest commandment, he skipped over the behavioral stuff in the Ten Commandments and got to the heart of the matter:

"Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’^"Matthew 22:37-39 (emphasis mine)

Until we accept Jesus' invitation to heal, we will not be able to love with all of our ourselves, which is the "first and greatest commandment." We definitely won't be able to fulfill the second, equally important, commandment of loving our neighbors if we choose to remain in our state of contented brokenness. While this talk of commandments may sound so very religious, the point is that God wants our entire beings--to be known by Him in intimate relationship and to be offered to others by Him in sacrificial Jesus-type love.

In The Wounded Heart, Dan Allender shares a story about his friend (we'll call him "Tom" to avoid confusion) whose wrist broke as a child. Due to the neglect of his parents, Tom's bones were never set correctly and never healed properly. As an adult, Tom's wrist no longer hurts and he can use it to some degree but he will never be able to play racquetball, tennis or other sports. For Tom's wrist to be completely healed, a doctor would have to re-break the wrist, set it properly and Tom would have to endure physical therapy (expensive and time-consuming!) for a while before resuming its use.

And so it is with us.

For us to heal completely from abuse, we have to allow the Great Physician to examine our wounds, even if it results in more intense pain for a period. This takes a lot of courage, I know. But this Physician we're talking about is like no person we've ever known. He is humble and kind, gentle and worthy of our trust. A friend and I commented this week that he is a gentleman, the very finest.

If you felt a tugging this week, if emotions and memories were stirred, I plead with you to follow Jesus down this road. It may look shadowy and dark and you may be filled with dread and feel the rising tide of shame, but it's here, in these dark places, that he makes himself known, that he displays his redemptive power.

I'm praying for you, sister.

Feel free to email me at amccullohs [at] gmail [dot] com

Resources for Healing

2011-01-30T13:19:00.000-05:00

Today at church I shared a bit about my healing journey, which can't be done alone. Mary DeMuth and Dan Allender are two authors/speakers whose work on healing has had a big impact in my life. Their resources are below. More resources and posts on this topic will be coming this week, so please check back. If you have any questions, you can email them to catbladies@churchatthebay.com. I'm praying for you, friends!

~April McCullohs

Get Past the Past, an audio healing retreat by Mary DeMuth
This was a great resource to download and listen to on my ipod. I'd also recommend getting a friend to listen to the sessions with you, and then talking about each session as you go through them.

http://www.marydemuth.com/category/healing/
This is a page on Mary DeMuth's blog dedicated just to the topic of healing. Good stuff.

The Wounded Heart by Dan Allender
This book is the classic Christian resource for anyone wanting to move forward from their past wounds.

http://thepathlesschosen.com/
Dan Allender has other books and resources, dealing with a diversity of topics, that you can find on his blog.

Envy Looks Back, by April McCullohs

2011-01-23T17:12:00.000-05:00

A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Proverbs 14:30

They were all lined up on her bookcase. Dozens and dozens of them, their pudgy little bodies forever solidifying Sarah's stance in my eyes as cool. Each one of them boasted of its own experience--a meal of coveted chicken nuggets, or a plastiky cheeseburger, with fries and maybe even a Coke.

Sarah's mom is so cool, my five-year-old mind thought.

She's got 34 McNugget Buddies to prove it.

Here began my relationship with Envy, a friend with something to say about everything.

Fourth grade lunches were had under a pathetic sapling, striving to be something greater, where Kelly, Nicole, Dana and I circled and sat. As we unpacked our statements of status, my familiar friend Envy polarized my thoughts. I glanced at Dana's fruit snacks, those rubbery, sweet things that were supposed to taste like the flavors their fruit shapes held.

Poor you, Envy whispered, you just have real fruit. And my apple slices were browning.

Envy pointed out Nicole's white bread and then my oatmeal-dusted wheat bread. There were Juicy Juice boxes, compared to my water bottle, and Lunchables compared to my peanut butter and honey sandwich.

Envy continued her parade in my thoughts, usually unchecked.

In fifth grade, I noticed how Marisa's clothes were store-bought, and mine were sewn by Mom. Yes, we had fun going to JoAnn's, thumbing through giant books of patterns, choosing the fabrics and prints, and then watching the clothes come together, piece by piece, over days of cutting and pinning and sewing. But those tags on Marisa's clothes.

Those tags were cool.

I'm a mom now. And I'm starting to prepare lunches and clothe my children and choose which experiences we'll share and those we won't.

And I'm just a little angry with my friend Envy because the things she whispered, the feelings she imparted, weren't based in truth. Envy did not have my best interest in mind.

But Mom did.

While Sarah was busy collecting her McNugget Buddies, my mom was at home, making home-made cheese sauce for her version of mac n' cheese, sparing us kids the TBHQ and dimethylpolysiloxane.

While Dana's mom was buying her Lunchables and fruit snacks, mine was preparing sandwiches with real protein and fiber, believing that fruit should taste like fruit and not reconstituted corn syrup.

And while Marisa’s mom took her on shopping trips, trips that Mom and I would eventually have, my mom and I spent hours and hours creating those tagless clothes together, memories I wouldn’t trade even now for a pair of Seven jeans.

Envy tries to whisper to me now, even though I should be way past this childish covetousness and pettiness. She points out brands and status symbols and LeCreuset cookingware. I’m trying to recognize her voice a little bit faster, and dismantle her influence a little more frequently. She’s never loved me, like my mom and my husband and my God. Why I’ve given her this power over my thoughts, I’m not sure; it’s probably just the way of human nature.

I’m happy to say, though, that she looks different. She’s no longer a welcomed presence in my life, holding my trust in hand because she lets me know what’s cool, sparing me rejection. Envy represents the ugly parts of me and I want nothing to do with her now.

I’d like to be the kind of mom that packs less-than-cool lunches, with snacks that don't have their own commercials, and that probably won't get traded, because I care for my kids.

And I’d like to be the kind of daughter who can receive the goodness of life that her Father God gives, from whole wheat bread to off-brand sneakers, from authentic friendships to security in a husband's love, without leaning in to listen when Envy comes around and whispers.

A goal for the New Year… will you join me? by Michele Laccabue

2011-01-18T16:19:00.000-05:00

Michele Laccabue leads a women's home team here at Church at the Bay and is super pumped when women take their next steps with God.

The beginning of a new year typically is a time to reflect, a time to hope, and a great time to set goals to improve some aspect of our life. As a Christ follower, we learn quickly that we cannot “do life” very well without God. Thankfully, the power of prayer and the Bible are available to guide and equip us each day.

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

The Bible is unlike any other book. It is alive. Its words speak to us when we read it and, again, when we recall it. In order to recall it, we have to make the choice to “write them (His words) on the "tablet of our hearts” (Proverbs 3:3).

What does that mean? It means that God is asking us to dig into the Bible, study the scriptures, and memorize His words. If we imprint His words on our hearts, they will come to mind when we need them. He promises this choice is exciting and life-changing.

Will you join me in setting a goal to memorize at least one scripture passage per month this year?

Plan to choose verses that speak directly to your current circumstance or season. If you are at a loss and don’t know where to start, pray and ask God to speak to you through His Word. Start reading the Bible and WHEN a verse stands out to you…STOP! He may be speaking to you right there. Write it down and mediate on it. Make a choice to “write it on your heart” (yes, memorize it). If you don’t know where to start reading in the Bible, try reading from the passages mentioned in our Sunday services.

I plan to write each of my verses in my index card spiral (one with pretty paper is preferred) so I can take it wherever I go and memorize His words. By the end of the year, the pages will be lovingly worn and filled with words that are now

written on my heart. Will you join me? I’d love to hear from you if you accept the challenge.

Your sister in Christ,

Michele Laccabue

mlaccabue@tampabay.rr.com

Humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. James 1:21b

Why Are We Here Again? Guest Post By JP Kavanaugh

2010-11-14T13:42:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was one of those days that I could not have felt any further from closeness with God. I desperately wanted to be connected with Him because that night was our Recovery group meeting, which I lead. I needed to be spiritually “on my game”. I tried all of the regular things: early morning coffee out back with my Bible, Rick Warren’s daily devotional email… It wasn’t happening. I was too distracted by all of my “stuff”. How dare I stand in front of broken men and women and teach that the road to recovery is one of daily walking side by side with Jesus? I couldn’t even open my Bible. I just felt numb and distant; completely inadequate.

That night I showed up at our meeting, turned on my autopilot and opened with a ceremonious prayer. I made a couple of announcements, and then, eager to sit back down, I introduced our guest worship leader, David Alandete. My plan was to daydream for the next 20 or so minutes until it was time for me to teach. I would present the material, make a few jokes, say some “churchy” phrases, and dismiss to small group time. Awful right? I’m telling you, my heart wasn’t in it. I was frustrated. I felt like I gave effort all day to draw close to God. Had He been side stepping each of my advances? Did He finally figure out the depths of my sinful nature, and decide it best that we part ways? I sunk into my chair, defeated and ashamed, as David picked up his guitar and began his slot on my program list.

Have you ever been in a dark room and someone shined a flashlight directly in your eyes? It was really annoying right? You didn’t need that. But imagine being completely lost deep in the woods at night, cloaked in darkness with no idea how to get out. A sudden burst of light from a flashlight would bring immense joy. You have been rescued from your dark place. Someone has come with a light to help lead you back onto the path.

As David began singing, something began to stir in me. He sang, “How great is our God. Sing with me… How great is our God.” I began to perceive these broken people all around me singing their hearts out. My heart couldn’t resist the beckoning. “How great is our God.” My weight began to ease as I joined in. “The splendor of the King, clothed in majesty. Let all the earth rejoice. All the earth rejoice.” My heart, cold all day, was melting. What was happening? David sang, “He wraps himself in Light, and darkness tries to hide, and trembles at His voice. Trembles at His voice…” The cold dark places of my heart could no longer hide in the midst of our worship. The oppressive grip on me was loosened and I found myself welcomed into the very presence of God. Tears flowed as my daily preoccupation with myself and my needs were pummeled by worship.

In that moment it happened. I finally connected with God. How? What was different? All my other efforts had failed – one thing succeeded: worship. When you can’t find your way back to God, start with the very thing you were created for: worship. When you don’t have the words and your prayers feel empty: worship. When you feel numb and your heart won’t obey you: worship. Worship became that flashlight in the lonely woods leading me out of my dark place. Sometimes all of the best books, podcasts, Christian T-shirt slogans, and early morning cups of coffee out back can’t capture your heart’s affections. When that happens, ask yourself, “How great IS our God?” Try to answer that question, return to your purpose, and worship.

More Volunteers Needed for Metropolitan Ministries Event!

2010-11-10T21:45:00.000-05:00

Hey Ladies,

We've had a great response--20 ladies (and a few guy friends) have signed up to serve at Metropolitan Ministries' Holiday Tent on Saturday, November 20!

We have 10 spots left that we'd love to fill!

Please email catbladies@churchatthebay.com if you're interested and indicate which shift you'd like: the 8:30-11:30 a.m. shift, or the 11:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. shift. You'll receive an email confirmation with a map, directions and more information.

Thanks!

The Glorious Throne, by April McCullohs

2010-11-08T13:37:00.000-05:00

"A glorious throne, exalted from the beginning, is the place of our sanctuary." Jeremiah 17:12

I imagine it's a funny thing.

When a person with little or no church background walks into Church at the Bay for the first time and sees a band on stage, rocking their hearts out for Jesus. People in the auditorium are clapping and singing along, the lights are moving and the words of the songs are flashing on the screens.

It can't seem all that different from a Sugarland concert.

But then, when that first-time guest looks on stage at the singers, they notice something different. The singers' eyes are not reaching the audience's. And the audience, for that matter, isn't directing their attention to the singers'. For the most part, eyes are closed and heads are lifted up to the rafters.

Who, or what, are we singing to? To the guys in the light box in the back?

The difference between corporate (all-together) worship and concerts, even Christian, is in the audience. With musical performances, the musician seeks to connect with and please the audience through the music. With worship, the music isn't the end game. It's simply a venue, a conduit, for expressing grateful praise to God.

So, the eyes closed, the head lifted or bowed, the hands raised--these physical acts are all directed toward a God who promises to hear our praise and (even this!) to draw near to us when we worship with truthful hearts.

When I'm on stage singing, or in the third row of the auditorium on Sunday and my lids close over my eyes, where do I go in my head? In my heart? How do I picture this God to whom I direct my praise?

The most frequent place I go, mentally, is to His throne room. Revelation 4, Isaiah 6, Ezekiel 1 all have vivid descriptions of the glorious throne room of God. If you need some help visualizing the awesome dwelling place of God, read these passages and let them fill you with an excited anticipation for the next time you address God, in prayer or in worship.

For me, the words are not just words to be sung because that's what we do in church. Our worship time together is a dynamic, real-time opportunity to push aside the me-centeredness that so often drives my thought-life and actions and to allow my spirit the chance to give God the attention He deserves.

God is not some far-off politician who checks the fan email and is happy to see we're still sending Him our vote. When we set our hearts to pray, or to sing songs of praise, He promises to be present in those actual, real-time moments.

To receive our heart-cries.

To direct His attention our way.

To even allow us to sense His holy presence more clearly and more powerfully.

It takes faith to believe that we have an audience with God when we pray and when we sing. It's so much more than some yoga visualization exercise--this privilege, to address the King of Kings, is an invitation extended to us and made possible by the forgiveness of Jesus.

So the next time you quiet your heart to pray or show up for worship on Sunday morning, come with a heart prepared to stand, forgiven, before the throne room of the Lord.

And then sing your heart out.

Metropolitan Ministries Service Project, November 20

2010-11-05T09:36:00.000-04:00

Join your friends from Church at the Bay as we partner with Metropolitan Ministries to meet the needs of families in the community this Thanksgiving holiday!

We'll be helping thousands of needy families "shop" for their Thanksgiving meal at Metropolitan Ministries' Holiday Tent on Saturday, November 20. There are two shifts to choose from.

While this is a CATB Ladies' Event, guys are welcome to serve also--make sure you include any additional people in your email response.

Email catbladies@churchatthebay.com to respond. In your email, include which shift you'd like.

Shift 1: 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., OR

Shift 2: 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

We'll be meeting at Metropolitan Ministries: 2001 N Florida Ave, Tampa, FL 33602 You'll receive an email confirmation once you respond.

Looking forward to serving with you!

Guest Devotional - Alexis Albright

2010-10-26T11:57:00.001-04:00

When we sing to God, we sing songs that lift-up, praise, and edify His name. We often use the term “worship” to describe this time of singing. We can also say that we are, through music, honoring God, adoring Him, showing reverence, or glorifying Him.

The words in the songs that we sing at Church at the Bay most often come from Scripture—straight out of God's word, the Bible. After singing at church on Sunday, I regularly have those songs “stuck” in my head. I will find myself doing errands or household chores and singing those tunes. And as I’m singing them, I think about the words and my worship continues! I love that worship is not confined to our Sunday service or my quiet time… Worship can happen anywhere at any time. God wants us to worship Him all day long—for who He is and for the works of His hands.

My favorite lyrics of late are, “Our God is greater. Our God is stronger. God, You are higher than any other. Our God is healer, awesome in power. Our God, Our God.” Aren’t these words so powerful?! I will pray these words, acknowledging Him and praising Him through prayer. Whether I am singing or praying, I know I am deepening my relationship with God because I am doing what He created me to do: worship Him!

Psalm 150 says, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”

Music helps me connect to God in an intimate way. What does that for you? You don’t have to be a good singer, an eloquent prayer, or a detailed observer to be a good worshiper. If you’re driving with the windows down, you can thank Him and praise Him for the weather. Worship Him for giving you another day of life. Adore His creations (people, trees, sunshine, etc). God wants our worship. He wants to hear from us. And He wants us to hear from Him!

Guest Devotional - Blaine Albright

2010-10-22T13:05:00.000-04:00

As a college student, I had the opportunity to lead worship in a variety of settings. As a freshman, I led our FCA campus ministry in worship with an acoustic guitar and an overhead projector (campfire style). On Wednesday evenings, I would lead a generationally diverse crowd at my church, singing some old hymns and choruses. During the school week, I was involved in multiple choirs and many of our “concerts” were actually leading worship services at liturgical churches, often singing the Latin text. And my weekends were filled participating in 4 high energy services, much like what we do at Church at the Bay.

If you wanted me to rank all of those leading experiences according to my taste, it would be easy. And because of my bias, I would often approach the settings differently—preparing myself for “worship” in some cases, and maybe just preparing vocally for others. Here was the big problem: God was waiting for me every time. Often, despite my lack of spiritual preparation, the Holy Spirit would move in people’s hearts and bless them. When those people would find me and thank me for my ministry, it would hit me like a ton of bricks.

I “knew” that God wasn’t worshipped because of a style. But I didn’t always live like it. While God blessed people around me, my eyes were closed to experiencing Him because I wasn’t trying. I wasn’t thinking. I wasn’t seeking. And that is where I hope you and I can relate. This idea of worship transcending styles is actually a microcosm of the real issue: worship transcends music altogether.

Romans 12:1 declares our spiritual act of worship to be offering our lives as living sacrifices. If we take that verse to heart, the compartmentalizing of our faith that so often happens should seem silly. Our worship cannot be bound to a few minutes during church services or our personal quiet times. Our lives of worship must color every moment, where we literally live to bring glory to God—in the sanctuary, the boardroom, and the living room.

How often do we “miss God” because we aren’t approaching every moment as a chance to experience His strength or His grace or His leading? Meditate on Romans 12:1 and think about what your life looks like as “a living sacrifice”.

New Guest Series!

2010-10-19T15:54:00.000-04:00

Then I will hold my head high, above my enemies who surround me. At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy, singing and praising the Lord with music. Psalm 27:6

If you were to do a quick “topical” search of the Bible for the words “singing” or “music” you might be amazed at the amount of times they are specifically mentioned as vital elements of worshiping God. Singing praises to God isn’t something that churches do because it’s “tradition.” Rather, it’s a way for us to communicate with God, much like prayer.

Each week at church we get the privilege of worshipping with incredible music led by a talented ensemble of musicians and singers. This group of people doesn’t just get together on Sunday morning and pick a group of random songs for the week. There is so much that goes into the Worship Team including hours of research to figure out which songs will be added to the current song list, lengthy rehearsals during the week for both the band and the singers, an entire team of technical people who run the lights, sound, web cameras, lyrics on the screens, and so much more. It truly takes a team to make the worship experience come alive on the weekends. So, why would these people put so much time and energy into making music for us? That’s what we’re going to find out. What makes these people “tick?” What are they passionate about? What is so important about the connection between music and our relationship with God?

In the next couple weeks, we’re going to hear from four members of the CATB Worship Arts Team. We hope that it will give you a greater insight into the musical experience at CATB as well as your own relationship with musical worship. In the meantime, find a Christian radio station, turn up the volume and sing your heart out to God!

When will it end? By Connie Smith

2010-10-06T13:12:00.001-04:00

These last few weeks it seems as if Satan is definitely out to get the people I know and love. A friend’s brother is in a coma from a car accident, my sister-in-law had a stroke, another friend’s mother had a second stroke, people are getting laid off from work, a friend may lose his home ...where and when will it end? I am saddened and my heart goes out to my family and friends as they go through these life events. But there is also a sense of peace that comes over me when I can feel God’s grace being poured out. I have read chapter 4 of Philippians over and over. There are many verses that stand out and touch my heart. Phil 4: 6 – 7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Families and friends are coming together to pray and support one another. You can feel the strength that God gives those who have faith as people struggle with these life moments. Philippians 4: 13 “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”

There is NO greater comfort than knowing that God will take care of us and the people we love. He will give us the grace to get through all that life throws at us.

Lord, for everyone who is going through a difficult time in their life right now, please let them feel the power of your grace. Give them the strength to handle whatever lies ahead of them as they experience these life moments. We thank you for your mercy and give you all our praise. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.

CATB Ladies' Breakfast, October 16

2010-09-30T15:46:00.000-04:00

Join your sisters at Church at the Bay for a morning out with good coffee, food and conversation! The theme is Stories, and the week leading up to Breakfast you'll hear stories of faith from several ladies in our church via email. Please RSVP by Sunday, October 10 so you'll be signed up to receive the email devotions and so we have a number of attendees to give the restaurant. Bring a girlfriend! See you there!

When: Saturday, October 16 at 10:00 a.m.

Where: Mimi's Cafe on Dale Mabry (11702 N Dale Mabry Hwy Tampa, FL 33618)

How to RSVP: email catbladies@churchaththebay.com by Sunday, October 10

**If you cannot attend, you can still request to receive the email devotions by emailing catbladies@churchatthebay.com

Hungry, by April McCullohs

2010-09-24T15:00:00.000-04:00

"When I discovered your words, I devoured them.
They are my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name,
O Lord God of Heaven’s Armies."

Jeremiah 15:16

When I was in high school, my youth group participated in the 30 Hour Famine, an event sponsored by World Vision in order to raise money and awareness in the fight against poverty. We fasted for 30 hours together, met at church for the weekend, prayed, played and served our way through the hunger pangs.

And then we ate. A lot.

The funny thing was, after 6 hours or so into the fast, the hunger pangs wore off. The brain eventually got the message that food wasn't coming and stopped signaling the body's cravings. Late into the fast, something else set in:

Fatigue.

We, a group of 14-18 year old's whose energy never seemed to quit, ended up moping around like zombies...lethargic, listless and totally unmotivated to do anything.

One would think that the further away we got from having had a nutritious meal, the more ravenous our appetites would be. The opposite effect set in. The sensation of hunger was replaced by the slow-motion pace of exhaustion.

The same thing happens in our spiritual lives.

It's the principal of Metabolism.

When we indulge ourselves in God's Word, meeting with him daily through Bible reading and prayer; when we plug into Christian community, regularly attending church and home teams; when we take risks for God, obeying Him in our finances, work ethics, and relationships, our spiritual metabolisms are boosted.

We then know what it's like to sense God's active presence working in our lives; it nourishes our souls, breathing in much-needed life and energy.

And instead of pushing the plate of God's presence away, as if we've just finished a gluttonous Thanksgiving meal, we find ourselves craving more. More of Him. More of the Word. More time with His followers. More time on mission.

Unfortunately, the opposite effect of this principle of Metabolism works as well. When we begin to drift, compromising personal time with God and commitments to Christian community, a downward spiral begins. We lose our hunger pangs for Him, forgetting what it's like to experience the power of his presence. And the frightening thing is that we begin to believe we don't really need those former habits. Eventually, the only evidence of our decreased spiritual nutrition is exhaustion--emotional, spiritual and even physical exhaustion.

The principle of Metabolism will work for us, or against us--the choice is ours in how to employ it.

It takes time to jump-start our spiritual metabolisms--to "eat" more frequently when we're not necessarily hungry, but the results--a spirit that craves God's word, emotions that are centered on God's truth and not circumstances, and a life enriched by Christian community, are immeasurably worth the sacrifice of time and effort.

Let's amp up our spiritual metabolisms this fall by re-committing to the habits and disciplines that feed our souls. God is eager and ready to meet us at that place--

let's get hungry for more of Jesus.

What about you?

What habit do you need to re-commit to in order to start craving more of Jesus?

Football Game Night, September 17!

2010-09-05T13:53:00.001-04:00

Hey Ladies!

The guys have all season to enjoy football--we should get at least one night!

Come join your girlfriends from Church at the Bay on Friday, September 17, from 7:00-9:00 p.m. as we play games, eat tailgating food, laugh and have fun! Wear your favorite team's shirt or jersey! From the most passionate football-lovers out there to the most bored--this event is for you! Please bring $3 to cover the cost of snacks and drinks. Bring a friend!

Email catbladies@churchatthebay.com to RSVP and receive directions by Wednesday, September 15.

Hope to see you there!

How to get the most out of your Home Team!

2010-08-31T17:27:00.000-04:00

Home Teams are kicking off this week! If you've not yet signed up, we've got a great line up. Whether you've been coming to Church at the Bay for 3 years or for 3 weeks, joining a Home Team is the best way to get involved and to connect with other Christians. Check out the catalog if you haven't yet chosen a Home Team.

Once you've committed to a Home Team, here are some ways to get the most out of yours:

1) Commit to attending regularly. Weeknights can be rough, especially for those of us who are working full-time or are mommies with dinner, homework and schedules to keep up with. Resolve in your heart that this commitment will be worth it and that you're modeling to your kids the priority God has in your life. And then, just do it!

2) Push yourself out of your Comfort Zone. It's easy to show up, sit back and let the real "talkers" in the group dominate conversation. Go ahead and take some risks! Allow yourself to try answering the more vulnerable or difficult questions, even if it means you preface your answer with, "I'm not sure this answers the question, but..." Your authenticity could change the dynamic of the conversation that night, leading everyone else to a more meaningful dialogue.

3) Grab coffee or lunch with another Home Team member once a month. You already have a lot in common with the other people in your Home Team--you go to Church at the Bay, you're interested in your Home Team's curriculum, and you're probably in a similar life stage. Take your friendships to the next level by investing in time outside of Home Team and Church to get to know them better.

4) Reflect on the Home Team challenges during the week. If there's homework--do it! Whether it's a relational challenge or a chapter to read, make a realistic plan to complete your homework before the next Home Team's meeting. If there's not assigned homework, make sure you're taking the time each day to reflect on the content discussed in Home Team. When God moves you, whether it's a challenge to change, or a promise that comforts, let it "marinate" that week by taking time to reflect and pray.

With these four commitments, and a heart open to new friendships and God's challenges, you're sure to have a meaningful Home Team semester!

Women's Home Teams start this Week!

2010-08-29T21:00:00.003-04:00

Hello CATB ladies,

I'm excited to be leading a 'ladies only' Home Team in my home starting this Thursday night @ 7pm.

For the next 4 weeks, we will be exploring some basic truths in taking the next steps to becoming a woman of greater faith. If you are a new believer, new to Bible study, new to CATB, or just want to connect with other woman for support and encouragement, please join us. Please bring a Bible and notepad.

Email me to sign up and receive directions to my house!

Michele Laccabue

mlaccabue@tampabay.rr.com

Hi Ladies,

I'm leading a women's home team for the next 4 weeks, using a video curriculum by Andy Stanley called Judgment Call. We'll talk about how to discern when to speak up in our friends' lives and how we can help those in difficult or tempting situations. We'll be challenged to greater accountability and support in our Christian friendships.

We're meeting on Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. Please email me for directions and to sign up.

Sandy Mayer

sandy@churchatthebay.com

No More Excuses, by Sandy Mayer

2010-08-18T13:45:00.004-04:00

Have you ever read the Bible and thought, “Didn’t this happen earlier?” Well, I have started reading the Bible in chronological order and I’m excited about how it will come together. Each time I read and study the Bible, God speaks to me differently. It’s been at least 15 years since I have read it from Genesis to Revelation.

I started reading Exodus this week and was convicted by the continual excuses Moses gives God. God asks Moses to be His voice to ask Pharaoh to release the suffering Israelites. Moses gives God a few excuses: “Who am I; What if they ask me who sent me; What if they don’t listen to me; Oh, Lord, please send someone else to do it.” Do these excuses sound familiar?

My heart had a sinking feeling and I had to ask for forgiveness for thinking Moses was a wimp. I remember thinking, how could Moses not do what God wanted? God spoke DIRECTLY to Moses.

But then I have realized these are the same excuses I have used with God for CATB. I am not an eloquent speaker or writer. What if they don’t listen to what I try to teach? What if I embarrass myself and my husband? I don’t have the ‘pastor’s wife look.’ God can’t you use someone else…please…please…please?

It has been easy to hide and stay in the background for so many years. Don’t get me wrong, I have served in places where I wasn’t noticed, like being the director of Preschool, and teaching in the children’s area. But I haven’t been the ‘mother of a church,’ as some may call the pastor’s wife. Those are shoes God is slowing filling. So why am I sharing this side of me? Because I think all of us have a ministry and God is asking you to go beyond what you are doing now. Whether becoming a new mother, starting a new job, leading a hometeam, or raising and teaching your children in your every day routine…God is over all our real and silly excuses.

Throughout Exodus God continues to speak to Moses and was always with him. He didn’t give up on Moses and hasn’t given up on me. Praise God!!!

God is always with you, and remember His thoughts are higher than ours are.

He said, “Sandy quit stressing over all those excuses, just do what you know to do and I will take care of your inadequacies. Love the women at CATB and know that your mission is to lead them to Jesus.”

God, please guide me to do whatever it takes to help CATB bring people to Christ. Help me to lead. I don’t want my excuses using me. Keep my focus on You and who You are, and not on my circumstances.

When My Faith Feels Cold, by Dawn Camp

2010-08-10T16:55:00.000-04:00

When My Faith Feels Cold

I lead a fairly insulated life. Many of life's bigger temptations don't come into my path on a regular basis.

Money is always a struggle with our large family, but no major calamities have befallen us recently.

Although I count my blessings for this calm state of affairs, sometimes my faith feels cold.

Trials and temptations draw me closer to God when faced with the limits of my understanding and ability to deal with problems on my own. In the absence of larger struggles, however, I tend to rely on myself too much and Him too little.

Unfortunately, it's sometimes difficult to break that pattern of self-reliance.

I don't know about you, but when things are going well I don't have the courage to ask for adversity to deepen my relationship and dependence on Him.

James 4:8 tells us, "Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you." What an amazing thing to know that the God of the universe is there for me: for fellowship, confession, comfort.

When I recognize a coldness creeping into my relationship with Him, I pray this simple prayer, "Lord, my faith is cold and weak. Please draw me nigh unto you and draw nigh unto me."

And He does.

by Dawn Camp, My Home Sweet Home

4 Days Left to RSVP!

2010-08-05T13:30:00.000-04:00

Hey Ladies!

We've got 4 days left to RSVP for the last Dinner and Devo's of the summer.

The deadline is Sunday, August 8.

On August 14, from 5:00-8:00 p.m., we'll get together for a fabulous Italian dinner, fun games and conversation around the week's theme of Community. The cost is $10 to cover dinner.

Sign up by emailing catbladies@churchatthebay.com to reserve your spot, sign up for the devotions and receive directions.

We already have 18 RSVP's and we'd love for you to join us and bring a friend!

Refuting Satan's Lies, by Chrissy Mayer

2010-08-03T08:50:00.002-04:00

Satan would love for us to believe the lie "not good enough." It's the oldest trick in the book and yet it takes such a devastating toll on women of all ages. When we are distracted by insecurities, our confidence takes an immediate nose dive into the pit of self consciousness. This simple yet perfected trick of Satan has deceived our sisters since God's first daughter walked the earth.

2 Corinthians 11:3
"I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent's cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion of Christ."

Just because we have been told of our security in Christ since we became believers, it doesn't mean that we have really accepted and believed His affirmations of us. Furthermore, we are bombarded everyday and from every direction with messages telling us the exact contrary to what God has told us about each and every one of us...that WE are special, unique, and created in His image to do GREAT THINGS. It is an almost daily and sometimes hourly task to GET OVER OURSELVES and be reminded of our royal heritage.

The point here, Satan told Eve a life-altering lie, and she fell for it. YOU fall for it...WE have all fallen for it. Her consciousness changed immediately and she was thrown into the sinking sands of constant 'self-reflection'. And not the healthy self-reflection! The type of self-reflection in which we compare ourselves to anyone and ask subconsciously "how do we measure up?”. Man is this tiring! I had to take a deep breath even as I typed that last bit. Eve became ashamed of her body and ashamed of who she was: facing a life of continuous stress and disappointment. Believing this lie was the death of sister Eve ladies!

Life-altering lies that Satan wants you to believe:
You're not smart enough
You're boring
You're too old
You're too young
You're not pretty
You're not talented
You're not worth pursuing
You're useless for the Kingdom of God

How many of these lies have you believed at one point in time?

Something that God spoke to me about recently dealt with this very subject but from a very different angle...

Upon reading Ephesians 4:21-24 and Ephesians 4:1-4 (this is a very good book) I heard God say,

Why are you still wasting your time with these things? Aren't you tired? You don't have to live like this you know!
Wait just a second...I don't have to live like this? I thought this was just something that all women deal with and that we just have to learn to cope?!

Then I came to the realization that these things, these insecurities, these little rulers that I put in front of myself in any given situation are in fact sending a horrible message to the world that I too, though claiming to be a child of God, am living a life in bondage! But as I read these verses and heard the quiet steadfast spirit of God tell me, “LET IT GO,” I also began to see how some of my insecurities have even held me back from serving Him...and that was the hardest bit to swallow! As these verses state, the world’s illusions have already been revealed to us. As children of God we are to no longer act, think, speak like we don't know any better, and each one of us has been SPECIFICALLY CALLED TO NOW WALK WORTHY OF OUR PURPOSE! With our heads held high, because we have ALREADY been deemed worthy, we are to live a life of example of what freedom in His truth looks like, especially to other women that He has purposed to be within our spheres of influence!

So would you like more productive thoughts to occupy your mind? I know I do! Write down these verses and stick them somewhere where you will see them (I have them in my car). When Satan tries to distract you, confront the lie with scripture, combat his deceit with prayer.

Colossians 3:2 says that we are to set our minds on things above and concentrate on such things.

So, sisters, be purposeful on what you allow to enter your mind! Repeat His truth and walk in the freedom of knowing YOU are highly favored!

What lies have you let yourself believe?
What insecurities have kept you from serving God in any way?

Ask God's forgiveness for believing lies over His truth.
Tell Him the insecurities you struggle with.
Share one of your insecurities with a good friend and talk with one another about a specific way to replace that lie with Truth.

Guest Devotional - April McCullohs

2010-07-27T08:57:00.001-04:00

I've got a bright green door.

The kind of green that makes a great, big contrast with our yellow house.

And when you open that green door (if you were expected), you'd most likely see a tidied up entryway and a dining room which leads into a kitchen with counters wiped down and then you'd see the living room, with ~~no toys~~ not too many toys strewn across the floor.

The guest bathroom won't have its usual potty seat attached to the toilet and the shower curtain should be pulled shut to obstruct the buckets and boats and balls that litter the bathtub floor.

What you won't see is my bedroom, with its unmade linens and laundry-still-in-baskets and you definitely won't be touring my closet or bathroom.

Because that's the way we live.

And it's not bad, or hypocritical or full of pretense.

We only have so much time to clean, and we prioritize what we want others to see and what we don't want others to see.

It's really okay--with our literal homes.

The problem occurs when we live like this in all of our relationships.

When the only thing we let our close friends see are the tidied-up areas of our hearts, the places of success and happiness.

When we only allow our friends into the "guest areas"-- the ones that are presentable and under control and ready at all times for a realtor to show potential clients.

I just spent three hours with a friend who's been invited into my life, regardless of the conditions of the many rooms of my soul. The kind of friend who answers the question, "So, how's your heart?" without the obligatory superficial crap.

This friend ever-so-boldly invited me into her own basement--the kind of human basement with cockroaches and cobwebs and things we as humans don't want to confess we own. It was with fear and pain that we walked down those steps as she shared her story with me. She brought her ugly-things into the light--the light of heart-felt confession to another human--and it wasn't easy at all.

Since her courageous invitation-- to know even the most regretted and broken parts of her story--I've been able to reciprocate. Today, we walked down into my basement and I showed her some of my ugly-things. Together, we flipped the light on, acknowledged the fallenness of our human condition and then turned our eyes to the Only Light we know.

It's not just the confession and the invitation of another person into our brokenness that causes the life-resuscitating healing we so desperately need.

It's the turning toward the Light of Jesus-- One who doesn't down-play our screw-ups and at the same time grants us a purity and wholeness--a freedom from shame-- we could never achieve on our own.

Fear and shame and guilt make for stunted relationships and hearts that can only give so much. Only when we allow Jesus into our closets and bathrooms and basements (and he often invites another friend) will we discover the uninhibited freedom to love and be loved the way we were meant to.

That's the power of the invitation. It requires much, but for those bold enough to risk it all, the rewards are immeasurable.

Who have you invited into your basement? Is Jesus welcomed there?

Join us August 14 for the Last Dinner and Devo's of the Summer!

2010-07-26T15:55:00.000-04:00

Join us for the last Dinner and Devo's of the summer!

Starting on August 9, you'll receive a brief devotional in your email inbox each day leading up to the dinner. This Dinner & Devo's theme is Community--No Woman is an Island.

On August 14 we'll get together for a fabulous Italian dinner, fun games and conversation around the week's theme. You need to sign up by Sunday, August 8. The cost is $10 to cover dinner.

Sign up by emailing catbladies@churchatthebay.com to reserve your spot, sign up for the devotions and receive directions.

We already have 11 RSVP's and we'd love for you to join us and bring a friend!

Guest Devotional - Stacy Heckman

2010-07-19T16:26:00.002-04:00

When you hear the word “freedom” what is the first thing that comes to your mind? Is it an image of the American flag and all the freedom that it stands for? Or do you think of war-torn countries where freedom is just a distant thought that may never be an achievable goal? Or do you think of an addiction that you are struggling with that you just wish you could gain freedom from? There are so many things that come to my mind when I think of this powerful word.

God gives us so much freedom in our lives. Free will is the most powerful example that I can think of. This idea that I can make my own decisions – whether I think God agrees with them or not – is very powerful indeed. I can recall many seasons of my life when my own free will led me very far from God. In college, there seemed to be so many “important” distractions: sorority life, grades, fraternity boys, parties, the latest fashion, working, etc. that my relationship with God was something that could wait until I was “grown up.” In retrospect, that decision to choose all of those other distractions over God led to so many bad choices, painful experiences and deep, deep regrets.

You would think I would learn, right? Nope. Free will snuck up on me again after college once I was out on my own and all “grown up.” I still didn’t see the need to make a relationship with Christ a priority on my list. If I made it to church on Sunday, I was really proud of myself. But an ongoing dialogue with God, reading the Bible, immersing myself in worship… nope. I was too “busy” climbing the corporate ladder, networking, preparing for a wedding. I took full advantage of free will.

Now, almost 10 years later I look back on all those “wasted” years when I could have been experiencing true freedom, instead of just free will. Oh the fulfillment I could have been enjoying, the true love that comes from God, the amazing gift of salvation and forgiveness. What was I waiting for? Why did God allow me to wander aimlessly for all those years? Well, I think that’s just it… He “allows” us to make our own decisions. To choose Him. To choose a relationship that provides real freedom. He’s always there waiting…standing with outstretched arms…wanting us to choose Him.

Have you made the decision to fully choose God as your redeemer? The benefits of using our free will to choose Him are too numerous to list. But God does offer us a glimpse of what is available to us if we choose to follow Him in Isaiah 48:17-18:

“I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is good for you, and leads you along the paths you should follow. If only you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your righteousness like the waves of the sea.”

Seems pretty clear to me… relationship with God provides clear paths, good things and peace. Sign me up for that freedom!

Don't forget to RSVP for Dinner & Devo's!

2010-07-09T15:05:00.000-04:00

It's not too late to RSVP for our second Dinner & Devo's of the summer!

We're meeting at 6:00 p.m. on July 17th at Allison Irwin's house.

This dinner's theme is Mosaic--the unique and different ways God has created you! Once you've signed up, you'll receive devotions written around our theme each day leading up to the dinner, starting on Monday, July 12 through Friday, July 16.

Come join other Church at the Bay women as we eat, play games and get to know each other better. RSVP by emailing catbladies@churchaththebay.com as soon as you can.

If you're not able to make it to this dinner, you can still sign up to receive the devotions by emailing catbladies@churchatthebay.com

Guest Devotional - Alexis Albright

2010-07-05T12:47:00.002-04:00

“Any existence deprived of freedom is a kind of death.”

Memorializing our nation’s freedom is something truly worth celebrating. When you really think about what it means to be an American you’ll recognize we have FREEDOM of speech, FREEDOM for Democracy, FREEDOM of Religion, etc.

Freedom of Religion has allowed me the safety to worship my Lord on a daily basis. To worship Him in private and in public. To dialogue with Him wherever I am. To be led and to lead others according to the Bible. Freedom of Religion has allowed me to easily have a relationship with Jesus Christ--a relationship that has in turn given me many freedoms in my own life.

One of these freedoms has come in the last year. I struggled for about six years with my “role.” I’m a pastor’s wife, so what does that mean? I’m a mom so surely I should be doing “this” and “that.” I was an employee, but just part-time, so how could I really be excellent?

I constantly felt as though I should be doing more with every hat I wore. What I did in each of these situations was never enough. Taking care of the domestic responsibilities that allowed my husband the ability to go and perform his ministries didn’t really seem that abundant. And the day in/day out of caring for my kids was perpetually undercutting my idea of super-mom.

This battle of finding my “role” was one that I shed many tears over and one that kept total peace from filling my spirit. I cried out to God (for years) and asked for things to be made “right.” I felt, at times, stuck, like I was suffocating, and often times, I felt isolated. I wanted so badly to find my groove. I knew He wanted me to surrender, but I felt I had. I was doing everything I could to juggle it all.

It had come to a breaking point. One that required tough decisions. Complete surrender. I would give up my juggling act and let God show me how it should be done. And in this, I received complete peace. I now feel settled because my purpose is real. It fuels the beat of my heart.

God has defined my “role” like never before. When I stopped trying to find it, there it was. My mission is so vast. The greatest responsibility I have in discipleship is with the three little souls that I gave life to. The largest role I can play in ministry with my husband is being available and supportive - in whatever comes along. It doesn’t have to have a “title.” My outside job was left behind and new passions have been flourishing.

When it seems I have less control than ever, I feel my life has an extravagant direction. Since surrendering the hunt for a title, I have FREEDOM that defines me.

Mark 14:36 “Abba, Father,”he cried out, “everything is possible for you. Please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”

Second Dinner & Devo's- July 17

2010-07-01T21:29:00.000-04:00

Join us for our second Dinner and Devo's of the summer on Saturday, July 17, from 6:00-8:30 p.m.

This dinner's theme is Mosaic, and it's all about how God has uniquely created us, with different gifts, passions, life-stories and more. You'll receive a devotion each day leading up to the dinner, starting on Monday, July 12, that will help us dive into the theme.

At dinner, we'll play games, eat well, and break into small-ish groups to chat.

Please bring $10 to cover the cost of food and drinks. If you RSVP but have to cancel later, please cancel no later than July 15 so we don't overspend on food.

Bring a friend! Last Dinner and Devo's was a great success and we're looking forward to sharing it with you!

Email catbladies@churchatthebay.com to RSVP by Sunday, July 11.

Devotional by Connie Smith

2010-06-29T15:38:00.001-04:00

What does it mean to believe in yourself? To believe that God has a plan for you?

Like many women, I am a wife, mother and career women. I wear many hats and sometimes forget which one to wear, or wear all at the same time. Earlier this year, after my husband returned to work after being laid off for many months, I did some reflecting, praying that God would show me a way where I could follow His will for myself and my family. Right around that time I was asked to consider an income opportunity with a company, so I decided to start a new business, while continuing to work my full time job. I listened to some training material and when I heard that I need to believe in myself and the power of scripture, I truly felt that God was leading me into this opportunity. It sounds crazy to add one more thing into my life…but I believe God has a plan for me.

While some days are awesome and things seem to be moving forward, there are also days where I keep running into road blocks. I wonder as I go through each day if God is testing me? Watching me? Waiting to see if I truly believe that He will guide me, and for me to turn control over to Him so that my actions go toward His will.

I want so desperately to do what God wants, to follow His will and to use the abilities He has given me to show His presence in my life. And of course, I want it NOW. It is a daily challenge for me to accept that God is working His plan and He will do it in His time. I believe that Satan uses these opportunities to throw self doubt…lack of belief in myself…and most of all, lack of faith in God... at me to see where I stand.

Faith and belief in God is what gets me through these times. I look to scripture to affirm God’s promise: Matthew 21:21-22 Jesus replied,

"I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain. ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."

Many days all I see are mountains in front of me, but I know that God will help move those mountains and He can do that for each of us.

Pray that God will give you the wisdom and grace needed to follow His will and timing. Believe in Him and believe in your abilities to do His will. It will be worth the wait!

Being of One's Hour, Reflection by Susan Rose

2010-06-25T15:34:00.001-04:00

Being of One’s Hour

“You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body
and knit me together in my mother’s womb.
Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex!
Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it...

How precious are your thoughts about me,O God.
They cannot be numbered!
I can’t even count them;
they outnumber the grains of sand!”

Psalm 139:13-18 (New Living Translation)

When I was young I always felt out of place and clumsy, frumpy and socially inept. I wasn’t funny, I wasn’t really smart, I wasn’t athletic and didn’t have any real talents. Most of my elementary years were spent trying to recover from a kindergartener calling me “Susie-Q –Pew-Pew.” That kindergartener may have really liked me, at least that’s what my mom said, but he also expressed verbally how I felt about myself.

As I look back at my high school pictures I can now see a really beautiful girl, however I felt far from beautiful. I only had a few close friends and I clang to my boyfriend with huge insecurities. I stressed about my clothes, dieted and exercised constantly without satisfaction. I wore a smiled as my protective guard even when it hurt so no one knew my true feelings.

I then look at my wedding day and how stunning I was. I really did start to become pretty. I found a man that I didn’t have to rescue but who wanted to rescue me. I found someone I could confide in, and cry in front of, he didn’t laugh at my sensitivity instead he kissed my tears and hugged me close. I started to grow and love myself, as I saw how much he loved me.

As the time passed my confidence grew and I found talents I didn’t know I had and I made friends I didn’t know I could make.

Today I am 40 pound heavier than I would like to be, and have some wrinkles around my eyes and patches of grey hairs that needs consistent coloring.

Today I consider myself to be at the most beautiful time of my life.

Not the traditional or cultural expressions of beauty, but more like the Koine Greek, where beauty was associated with "being of one's hour".

I feel my beauty is in the time of my life where I have accepted God’s love for me. Regardless of what the mirror or the media may say about me, my Father in heaven has adorned me with jewels and fine clothes of righteousness. He has given me gifts and my heart’s desires; he has washed me clean with his blood.

I am amazed and basking in his love for me. I am free to accept love and, in return, to be able to love others.

I think most of us women can agree that when we are in Love we feel Beautiful.

How does God's opinion and love for you change the way you see yourself?

Publish Post

Dinner & Devo's Additional Info

2010-06-16T14:39:00.000-04:00

We forgot to include the time!

We're meeting for dinner and games at Susan Rose's house on Saturday, June 26, from 6:00-8:30 p.m.

To respond, email catbladies@churchatthebay.com by Sunday, June 20. You'll receive an email confirmation with directions and any additional information.

Hope to hear from you! It's gonna be a great time of connecting and having fun!

Dinner & Devo's, June 26

2010-06-14T16:30:00.001-04:00

You're invited to CATBLadies' first Dinner & Devo's of the summer!

We'll be meeting for dinner and games at Susan Rose's house on Saturday, June 26, from 6:00-8:30 p.m.

This Dinner's theme is Beauty--and you'll experience it, from the 5 beauty-themed devotions you'll receive leading up to the dinner, to the dress-up photo booth and fun games we'll play on the 26th.

Starting on Monday, June 21, through Friday, June 25, you'll receive a short devotion via email.

Please respond by emailing catbladies@churchatthebay.com as soon as you can, and no later than Sunday, June 20th. We want to be able to send you the devotions and we need to know how much food to prepare.

Please bring $10 to the dinner to cover the cost of food and treats.

We hope to see you!

Girls' Game Night, June 18

2010-06-10T10:47:00.000-04:00

Join us for a girls' night out full of socializing and Bunko

(rolling dice for points).

If you haven't played Bunko before, it's simple, fun and very social.

See your friends and meet new ones!

We'll be enjoying appetizers and slushy drinks.

Where:

Sue Gossett's house

16511 Turnbury Drive (The Eagels)

Tampa, FL 33556

(813) 472-9320

When:

Friday, June 18

7:00-9:00 p.m.

Please RSVP by June 16 by emailing suegossett@gmail.com

Bring $3 to cover cost of drinks and snacks.

Looking forward to seeing you!

In the Quiet Place, by April McCullohs

2010-06-07T15:47:00.002-04:00

Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve sensed God calling me to Himself. It’s not that I’m in a place of rebellion, or even apathy.

There’s just more to be had.

More of God.

More of myself to give to God.

What does this look like for me? It’s more regular time, away, by myself, with the intent to focus on God.

It’s reading a psalm

and then praying it aloud to God.

It’s putting on a quiet worship song and getting on my face.

It’s taking in the lyrics.

It’s sometimes singing them.

It’s talking to God about all the stuff weighing down my heart.

And, then the best part…

I get quiet.

By this time, I’ve emptied myself of petitions and requests and please-do-this’s.

Most of the time, when we’re “done praying,” we’re done. We get up, move on, and check God-time off our list.

I’ve been stopping, though. And waiting. And staying beyond that point.

It has become the sweetest part.

The most saturated with the Spirit.

It’s in the quietness that I sense Him most.

That I remember who he is.

That he silently assures me of who I am before him.

It’s in the quietness that I regain my strength, my vision, my focus.

My heart is renewed and energized and

At peace.

Once again.

God told his people through the prophet Isaiah,

In repentance and rest is your salvation,
in quietness and trust is your strength

And I’m discovering its truth all over again.

Walking Worthy & With Your Head Held High, by Chrissy Mayer

2010-06-05T08:07:00.002-04:00

Are you tired of playing games, wearing masks or trying to be someone other than yourself? Wouldn't you like the freedom to just be accepted for who you are, without the pressure to be someone you really don't know how to be? Would you like to learn how to embrace your uniqueness and resist the pull to be like everyone else?

God knew what He was doing when He made you. You are a unique individual—God created you the way you are! It's time that we dare to accept ourselves as different and stop being insecure about who we are.

Insecurity is the unbelief that God IS who HE said HE is and that YOU are who HE made YOU to be!

The Core Issue - Knowing vs Truly Believing...Head Knowledge vs a Heart Knowledge

Be Courageous
If you’re going to overcome insecurities and be the person God’s called you to be, you must have the courage to be different. Unhappiness and frustration happen when we reject our uniqueness and try to be like each other. If you’re going to be successful at being completely you, then you’re going to have to take a chance on not being like everyone else. You must ask yourself, Am I a people pleaser or a God pleaser?

Who Decides Your Worth?
Becoming a people pleaser is one of the easiest things we can do...but it can ultimately make us very unhappy. When we begin pleasing others, we begin to hear comments that make us feel good about ourselves. That’s okay as long as we don't derive our sense of worth from it. People are too fickle for us to place our sense of worth in their opinions. We’re worth something because God says we're worth something—not because of what people think or say about us.

People pleasers allow others to control their lives in order to gain acceptance and approval. But God doesn't want us to be easily manipulated or controlled by others. We shouldn't let other people's opinions of us control our actions.

Break Out of the Mold
The world (those we know and deal with on a daily basis who may be family, friends, people in the neighborhood or even in the church) is continually trying to conform us to its image. The word conform means "to be similar in form or character; to behave in accordance with prevailing modes or customs.” Romans 12:2 says, Do not be conformed to this world (this age),…but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind…It’s then that we find the good and acceptable will of God for our lives.

People will always try to fit us into their mold, partly due to their own insecurity. It makes them feel better about what they are doing if they can get someone else to do it too. Very few people have the ability to be who they are and let everybody else be who they are. Can you imagine how nice the world would be if we would all do that? Each person would be secure in who he is and let others be who they are. We would not have to try to be imitations of each other.

Unique for a Purpose
God wants to take us, with all our weaknesses and inabilities, and transform us, by working from the inside out, to do something powerful in this earth. If we’re going to overcome insecurities and succeed at being ourselves, we can't continue to be afraid of what everybody else may think. We can't continue to allow others to fit us into their mold. We are different! We are unique! God created us this way to accomplish His purposes here on earth.

If you know Jesus Christ personally...HE CHOSE YOU...HE HAS APPOINTED YOU...to accomplish something good...something that matters...something prepared FOR YOU long before time began...something meant to have SERIOUS IMPACT within YOUR SPHERE OF INFLUENCE!

The Question: Are your insecurities hurting, limiting, or even distracting us from profound effectiveness or fulfillment of purpose. Are they cheating you out of the powerful and abundant life Jesus flagrantly promised?

The Answer: Ask for God's forgiveness for putting others opinions before His and for trusting the world's measure of worth over our costly worth found in Him. (He has already deemed us 'good enough') Pray that as you seek Him that He would continue to show you your specific purpose and value..right now...right here...today!!! Choose to cling to Truth each time the lies try to convince you of anyhthing less!

Guest Devotional - Alexis Albright

2010-05-27T17:00:00.001-04:00

“The Me I Want To Be” Hmmm…. What does that look like? In my head, it’s many things that are probably similar to what you have in your head when you ask yourself that question. First of all, I want to be a God-fearing and God-loving woman. I want to be a wife that respects her husband above all else. A mother who has patience and genuine interest in her children’s every-minute activities. But I also have this trivial side. Like, I want my hair to be this shade of blonde because I feel it accents by skin tone best. And I want my toes to be perfectly pedicured at all moments, especially in the warmer months as they are constantly on display. I want my house to be ordered and my car to be clean and my dinners to be “Yummo,” “BAM” and “Delicioso.” (that’s for you Food Network junkies).

Is that the ME I really want to be? Do I want to be like that because my friends are like that or society tells me this is what makes me a super-woman? I have been reading (very slowly as I am usually caught reading with one eye open trying to get through at least one page before falling asleep because my three boys have done me in) through a book with this very title, “The Me I Want To Be,” by John Ortberg. The book is discussing how we get to that ME.

There is a part in this book where the author discusses finding who you are in Christ, and learning to grow into that person. Yes, there will be change, but not change in who God originally designed you to be but rather change towards it. So in other words, as you move closer to the person God thought about when he made you, “you don’t just become holier. You become you-ier.” I love that!!! I want to be me-ier.

I am on a journey to discovering who it is that God had in mind when he thought of me. Who did he want Alexis to be when he knit me in my mother’s whom? What did he want me to accomplish? I’m guessing it was a lot larger than the color of my hair or the cleanliness of my home. I imagine it had some to do with being a mother who shows her children love (in a way that only I can) and teaches them about who God is. I bet it has some to do with the way I love my husband and support him (in a way that only I can), so that he is free to go to work during the day and does not have to worry about our children or the daily tasks that (while not super important) do have to get done by someone. I do know it has to do with being ME, just the way He made me. The Bible tells me, “I am His masterpiece” and since I was hand-crafted by Him, there is no one else quite like me.

Psalm 139:13-16 “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.”

Guest Devotional - Stacy Heckman

2010-05-24T12:20:00.007-04:00

Why is it that every time I think I've really got a good grip on what it is that I need to be focusing on during my quiet time - WHAM! - out of the blue God says, "No, no, no my love (God sometimes has a British accent in my head)... that's not where you need to be focusing... here is what I want you to be working on." And what do you know? It truly is something that I am struggling with... I just didn't want to acknowledge it.

Recently, God has shown me that he wants me to work on my issues of pride. I had no idea this was something that I struggled with. Most of the time, I feel like I struggle with just the opposite - coveting. So often I think everyone else is more content, happier, prettier, more financially stable, a better cook, a better mother, a better wife, oh I could go on and on. But then God pointed out to me that I have a real issue with pride. For example, I can compare my marriage to someone else who is struggling with infidelity and boast that "I can't believe they are going through that - I would never make those mistakes." It's so easy for me to become prideful and judge someone else's situation when it's something I've never personally struggled with in my life. But that is so very far from how God wants us to react.

I read in my Bible study this week, "God hates pride because it dethrones Him and puts ourselves at the center of our universe. I believe god's hatred of pride expresses His love. Pride slights Him, but destroys us." Wow... that is powerful! God doesn't want us to destroy ourselves - he loves us - he wants to protect us. That is why he hates pride so much. He wants us to have our priorities straight and have Him at the center of our universe - not ourselves.

So, the next time you feel a prideful moment approaching, just remember that until we have walked a mile in that person's shoes, we have no idea what they are going through. Instead of criticizing, try caring. Instead of condemning, try compassion. Instead of pride, try prayer.

"When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." - Proverbs 11:2

Please read!

2010-05-18T13:52:00.000-04:00

Hey Ladies,

Unfortunately, we had to cancel the Ladies' Breakfast scheduled for this Saturday, May 22. Thanks for your interest!

Please try to make the church's Lunch at the Food Court! We're heading over to the Citrus Park Mall's food court after service this Sunday, May 23. It'll be a great time of hanging out and getting to know each other some more!

Check out upcoming summer events with women's ministry at www.catbladies.com.

God's Best!

Summer Events

2010-05-14T20:38:00.000-04:00

Here's a look at what's going on this summer with Church at the Bay Ladies:

June 5-- Service Project with Metropolitan Ministries--
We need 5 more people for this project
9 a.m.- 12 p.m.
We'll be moving furniture, laying mulch and setting up for a BBQ for the residents at a transitional housing complex. Email catbladies@churchatthebay.com for directions and to confirm you're going!

June 18--Girls' Game Night
7 p.m.-9 p.m. @ Sue Gossett's house
Email catbladies@churchatthebay.com for directions and to confirm you're going!

June 26-- Dinner & Devo's
6:00 p.m.
Starting on June 20th, you'll receive a brief devotional in your email inbox each day leading up to the dinner. This Dinner & Devo's theme is Beauty. Then, on June 26 we'll get together for a fabulous dinner, fun games and conversation around the week's theme. You need to sign up by June 18. Sign up by emailing catbladies@churchathebay.com.

July 17-- Dinner and Devo's

August 14-- Dinner and Devo's