Elizabeth Writes

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Max’ism – Be Persistent
Luke 18:1-8

Max is a very persistent fellow. . .must be the Ludwig in him coming out. This was evidenced the other day when he felt like playing and I didn’t. Max brought his squeaky to me and dropped it next to my chair.

“Not right now, Max,” I said.

He nudged it with his nose until it touched my feet.

“No, Max,” I repeated.

He picked it up, squeaked it, then wedged it tightly between my crossed ankles. Laughing, I called to my husband. “Check this out. Look what Max is doing.”

My husband came into the room and together we pretended to be fascinated by the T.V. Max stared up at me, finally growling low in his throat.

“Did he just growl at you?” my husband asked, laughing.

“He sure did.” I picked up the toy and tossed it into the kitchen. Max scrambled forward to retrieve it. “He’s persistent, that’s for sure.”

Which got me to thinking. God said we are to be persistent in approaching Him. We are not to give up nor surrender the powerful weapon we have in prayer. God will bring justice for His chosen ones, those whom He has called members of the household of faith. The question then, really is do we have enough faith in Him in to keep seeking?

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Max’ism – Living Water
John 4:1-13

“Max’s water dish is empty!”

My voice echoed back to me through the suddenly silent house. Funny how fast kids can disappear when there are chores to be done.

Heaving a sigh, I grabbed his dish, gave it a good scrub, and replenished the water. Max watched me the whole time, his eyes fastened to the bowl and his tongue darting out to wet his lips.

“Poor puppy,” I crooned. “You were thirsty, huh?” I set down the dish and watched as he lapped at the cool water.

“Good grief, Max,” I said, picking up the bowl when he’d finished and filling it again so I wouldn’t have to do it in the morning. “You were thirsty.”

Eyes fixed on me adoringly, his tail thumped against the tile floor—his way of showing appreciation. All of this reminded me of another story, and of living water which Jesus said once a person partook of, would cause them never to thirst again. Suddenly, I realized what a gift it is that Jesus recognized my condition and took care to see to my need. And I’ll be careful. . .that Max’s bowl is never dry.

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max’ism – Setting Boundaries
Exodus 20:1-20

I have a full time job, which means for a large part of the day Max is alone. . .with the cat. While not ideal, the situation worked for a while, but gradually I started coming to home to more and more messes—a trash can turned over, things scattered around the floor, not to mention the little gifts Max sometimes left behind. You know what I mean. All of that was inconvenient, but it wasn’t a major problem until I found him tangled up with an appliance. Yep. Somehow, he’d managed to worm his way into the storage closet, tip the vacuum over, and entangle himself in the power cord. I shudder to think how long he was in there. I’m assuming it was a confrontation with the kitty that led to his predicament. Either way, I knew I had to do something.

So, it was off to Wal-Mart to buy baby gates.

Knowing what an athlete Max is, I thought it wise to buy gates too tall for him to jump over. He was curious at first, sniffing the new contraptions with interest. But then he discovered what they were for. The first time I left for work with the gates up and Max secured behind them, confined to the kitchen, hallway, and bathroom, he pouted, and whined, and cried, sadly watching me leave from the window next to the door.

I ran home at lunch to check on him. While he still wasn’t happy, he wasn’t tangled up in a cord, either. I turned the radio, having heard that any noise in the house helps keep a pet from feeling lonely. It took nearly a month, but Max has accepted that there are days he’ll be confined by the gates, and he no longer whines when I leave, content to play with the crate full of toys I’ve bought him, and listen to Bob Barker announcing the winner on the Big Wheel.

Which got me thinking.

Boundaries are a good thing. They keep us from harm. They limit the trouble we get into. So why do we buck against the boundaries God has set for us, knowing that He placed them with our best interests at heart? If we’re certain that our God loves us, shouldn’t we be glad that He cares enough to see to our welfare?

I know I am. And I think Max is, too.

Friday Funnies

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

OLD IS WHEN ...Your sweetie says, "Let's go upstairs and make love," and you answer, "Honey, I can't do both!"

OLD IS WHEN...Your friends compliment you on your new alligator shoes and you're barefoot.

OLD IS WHEN...A sexy babe catches your fancy and your pacemaker opens the garage door.

OLD IS WHEN...Going bra-less pulls all the wrinkles out of your face.

OLD IS WHEN...You don't care where your spouse goes, just as long as you don't have to go along.

OLD IS WHEN...You are cautioned to slow down by the doctor instead of the police.

OLD IS WHEN..."Getting a little action" means I don't need to take any fiber today.

OLD IS WHEN..."Getting lucky" means you find your car in the parking lot.

OLD IS WHEN...An "all nighter" means not getting up to pee!

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max’ism – Now That’s Talent
Matthew 25:14-30

I’ve always thought Max was a smart dog, but he really impressed me one day when my husband pulled out the treadmill do his running.

Determined to get in shape for a ski trip we are planning over spring break, my husband has been running faithfully for about three weeks. Each time he turns on the treadmill, Max sits next to him, watching the belt speed by. Worried that he might try and grab the belt with his mouth, or get his paw stuck, I usually encourage Max to move away. But today, I wasn’t paying a whole lot of attention to him…until my husband called my name.

“Come see what your dog is doing,” he huffed.

So I went into the living room to watch. Max took his squeaky, carefully set it on the front of the treadmill, and waited patiently until the vibration of my husband’s pounding feet knocked it onto the belt. The squeaky then shot off the back, sailing into the air a good foot before hitting the ground. The moment the squeaky fell onto the belt, Max dashed around to the back of the treadmill and tried to catch the squeaky before it fell to the floor. Over and over he pulled the same trick, each time coming just a little closer to catching the toy. My husband got to laughing so hard he had to stop running.

“Now that’s talent,” he said.

“No kidding. I need to write a Max’ism about it.”

Basically, I thought it was such a neat trick I wanted to tell people about it. I didn’t want to hide Max’s little “talent.”

Which got me to thinking. God has given each of us a talent—something He wants us to use for His glory or the furtherance of His kingdom. What are we doing with the gifts He’s given us? Are we showing off our talent—using it for Him? Or are we hiding our talent, content to keep it buried where it’s of no use to us or the One who bestowed it?

If I’m serious about serving the Lord, I going to have to use everything He’s given me, even if it means digging up “an old talent.”

Friday Funnies

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

TRUTHS ABOUT LIFE I LEARNED FROM BAD 80'S MOVIES

Smart people wear thick glasses, button-down shirts, and slacks. Dumb people wear football uniforms.

Your dog is way smarter than you.

France is populated entirely by attractive young women and Gerard Depardieu.

Every Southern town has a fat redneck sheriff named "Smokey."

Mexico is populated entirely by vacationing frat boys.

Parents always come back from vacation a day early.

There are no ugly prostitutes.

It's only possible to win any sporting event in the last three seconds of the game.

The best way to escape your enemies is to drive on the wrong side of the road.

A student who's failing every class can still rig up an elaborate device to answer his phone when he calls in sick.

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max’ism – My Four
James 2:1-11

Max is not a people person kind of dog. There four people in his life that he loves—me, my husband, my son, and my daughter. Oh, he tolerates a few others—my son’s girlfriend, a couple of my daughter’s friends, and the cat. But on the whole, Max pretty much believes in the old saying, “my four and no more.”
That was made evident the day we invited the varsity football team over to our house. As part of pre-game day tradition, parents of varsity football players have started making dinner for the team on Thursday nights. Around 5:30, the first boy arrived. Max barked when the car pulled into the driveway just as he always does, but when the boy came into the house, Max promptly grabbed his pant leg and started tugging. I couldn’t get him to stop. Fearful that his actions might turn even more aggressive, I shut Max up in our bedroom for the duration of the meal. It would have worked, if my daughter hadn’t gone into the bedroom for something. Out shot Max, barking, growling, the hair on his back standing straight on end. I must admit, I laughed when I saw all twenty of those macho football players pull their feet up onto the couch. Fortunately, once Max warmed up to everyone, he was pretty much content to ignore the intruders and everyone went home without a scratch.

Later that night, Max lay curled up on the loveseat next to me, his cold little nose tucked into the crook of my arm.

“It’s funny how he can be so loving to us, and so aggressive toward everyone else,” my husband said.

“Yep. I’d say he’s partial to us,” I replied, laughing.

But that got me to thinking.

Are there certain people I show partiality to? Do I show favor to some and not others? Has my church become a place where I’m content to say, “my four and no more?” Too many times, I’m afraid the answer to these questions would be yes. Even more frightening is the idea that my favor may be influenced by a person’s wealth or position in the community. I guess that’s why God saw fit to warn against showing partiality, and why I’m inclined to listen.

Friday Funnies

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

WHAT'S YOUR BUSINESS SIGN? Instead of Astrological Signs, how about these ..

1) MARKETING
You are ambitious yet stupid. You chose a marketing degree to avoid having to study in college, concentrating instead on drinking and socializing which is pretty much what your job responsibilities are now. Least compatible with Sales.

2) SALES
Laziest of all signs, often referred to as "marketing without a degree." You are also self-centered and paranoid. Unless someone calls you and begs you to take their money, you like to avoid contact with customers so you can "concentrate on the big picture." You seek admiration for your golf game throughout your life.

3) TECHNOLOGY
Unable to control anything in your personal life, you are instead content to completely control everything that happens at your workplace. Often even YOU don't understand what you are saying but who the hell can tell. It is written that Geeks shall inherit the Earth.

4) ENGINEERING
One of only two signs that you actually studied in school. It is said that engineers place ninety percent of all Personal Ads. You can be happy with yourself; your office is full of all the latest "ergodynamic" gadgets. However, we all know what is really causing your "carpal tunnel syndrome."

5) ACCOUNTING
The only other sign that you studied in school. You are mostly immune from office politics. You are the most feared person in the organization; combined with your extreme organizational traits, the majority of rumors concerning you say that you are completely insane.

6) HUMAN RESOURCES
Ironically, given your access to confidential information, you tend to be the biggest gossip within the organization. Possibly the only other person that does less work than marketing, you are unable to return any calls today because you have to get a haircut, have lunch AND then mail a letter.

7) MANAGEMENT/MIDDLE MANAGEMENT
Catty, cutthroat, yet completely spineless, you are destined to remain at your current job for the rest of your life. Unable to make a single decision you tend to measure your worth by the number of meetings you can schedule for yourself. Best suited to marry other "Middle Managers" as everyone in your social circle is a "Middle Manager."

8) SENIOR MANAGEMENT
(See above - Same sign, different title)

9) CUSTOMER SERVICE
Bright, cheery, positive, you are a fifty-cent cab ride from taking your own life. As children very few of you asked your parents for a little cubicle for your room and a headset so you could pretend to play "Customer Service." Continually passed over for promotions, your best bet is to sleep with your manager.

10) CONSULTANT
Lacking any specific knowledge, you use acronyms to avoid revealing your utter lack of experience. You have convinced yourself that your "skills" are in demand and that you could get a higher paying job with any other organization in a heartbeat. You will spend an eternity contemplating these career opportunities without ever taking direct action.

11) RECRUITER, "HEADHUNTER"
As a "person" that profits from the success of others, most people who actually work for a living disdain you. Paid on commission and susceptible to alcoholism, your ulcers and frequent heart attacks correspond directly with fluctuations in the stock market.

12) PARTNER, PRESIDENT, CEO
You are brilliant or lucky. Your inability to figure out complex systems such as the fax machine suggest the latter.

13) GOVERNMENT WORKER
Paid to take days off. Government workers are genius inventors, like the invention of new Holidays. They usually suffer from deep depression or anxiety and usually commit serious crimes while on the job ... Thus the term "GO POSTAL"

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max’ism: God Cares for You
Matthew 6:25-34

Dachshunds are bred hunters, but Max has never had to “hunt” for food a day in his life. Every morning, he heads to his food bowl where he knows he’ll find plenty of sustenance to carry him through the day. I doubt he worries whether or not the food will be there every morning. He assumes that it will, and believe me, he let’s me know if there wasn’t enough. He comes to my side, stares up at my face, and waits patiently until I get the idea: “Feed me. I’m hungry.” And of course, I do, because he’s depending on me.

God is so much more careful than I am. Not once has He forgotten to provide for one of His servants, so why do I worry about whether or not He’ll give me everything I need to take care of my family? Is it that I have not fully learned to trust Him? Is it that I do not believe He could love me enough to take care of me from day to day?

Unfortunately, I think it’s a combination of both, and no matter how many times I tell myself that God loves me, sin and all, I’m still afraid that one day, God will decide I’m not worthy of His love and watch care.

And therein lies my problem.

You see it’s not my worthiness that determines whether or not God will provide for me…it’s God’s character, His nature, His faithfulness. And I’m so glad.

Friday Funnies

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Name Your Child According To Your Profession

Lawyer's daughter: Sue
Thief's son: Rob
Lawyer's son: Will
Doctor 's son: Bill
Meteorologist's daughter: Haley
Steam shovel operator's son: Doug
Hair Stylist's son: Bob
Homeopathic doctor's son: Herb
Justice of the peace's daughter: Mary
Sound stage technician's son: Mike
Hot-dog vendor's son: Frank
Gambler's daughter: Bette
Exercise guru's son: Jim
Cattle Thief's son: Russell
Painter's son: Art
Iron worker's son: Rusty
TV show star's daughter: Emmy
Movie star's son: Oscar
Barber's son: Harry

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max’ism: Grow in Faith
2 Thessalonians 1:3-11

Max weighed about two pounds when my husband brought him home. I could literally hold him in the palm of my hand. He was so cute and little! His tiny legs could barely support him as he wobbled around the house, bumping into things and sprawling on the tiled floor. Anytime he wanted up onto the couch, I’d have to lift him since he wasn’t big enough to jump that high.

Eventually, Max grew large enough to be able to manage the couch, but the bed was still beyond him. I’d pick him up, and he’d curl up at our feet to go to sleep. Soon however, he discovered that by jumping onto the chair next to the bed, and then onto the mattress, he could get up by himself. Now it seems there’s nothing Max can’t do once he sets his mind to it. But it was a process. Small steps. And that’s how it should be with our faith.

God wants us to grow in our faith. No longer should we be taking those baby steps, wobbling and wavering with every new challenge. God wants us to grow stronger, reach higher, and accomplish more, in the name of Jesus. It’s not like we have to do it alone, after all. He’s always there, any time we need a hand up.

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max'ism: Dig In
Psalm 119:9-16

Max loves his squeaky toys…er…perhaps I should say, he loves to rip them open and tear the squeaky out. Afterward, he struts around the house with the squeaker hidden in his mouth. Now that’s a strange sight, I tell you. Unless you know what’s in his mouth, you’d have to wonder why an eight-pound dog is squeaking like that.

I’m going to have to run to the pet store again. Last night, Max tore up the last of his toys. He dug, and pawed, and ripped with a ferocity that surprised me. Fluff lay everywhere! Finally, satisfied with his prize, Max climbed up onto the couch and left the stuffing for me to clean up. While I didn’t appreciate the mess, the process did intrigue me.

What would happen if I dug into God’s word with the same ferocity? Could I claim some kind of prize like Max does? Would it please God if everyday, I scrambled to tear into His word, devouring it as though it were the last “toy” I’d every have?

I know the answer is ‘yes.’ The trick will be to discipline myself…no, to delight myself, in His Word.

Friday Funnies

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Jokes To Play on Fellow Astronauts Aboard The International Space Station

10. Break the radio and say that while everyone was sleeping there was nuclear
battle and everyone is now dead.

9. Look out the window any scream "We're being boarded!!"

8. Uncouple the Japanese section, and as they float away helplessly yell "That's for Pearl Harbour!!"

7. Use the Canada arm to start punching the Russian space shuttle and then exclaim that "they were asking for it with all their freakin' late-night cooking smells"

6. Flush a crew member out the air lock and tell everyone he was an alien planning to kill everyone and that you saved them from being cocooned!

5. Lock someone outside and tell him you won't let them in until he guesses the right number between 1-million. Then tell him you were only kidding and testing his resilience under pressure, and let him in just before his air runs out.

4. Dump a bottle of Vodka in the Russian's space suit, smash him over the head with his space hat, and as he reels about, point at him and exclaim to everyone: "Hey, look at Euvonnamokinov, he's drunk in space! Lock him in the ejection pod till we return!"

3. Instead of bringing your experiments on board, smuggle in a hooker!

2. When docking the shuttle, start beating the Viking war drum you hid by the
controls and yell "RAMMING SPEED"

1. Tell everyone your name is James T. Kirk and you are simulating the Kobayashi Maru.

The American Christian Fiction Writers Awards 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 18:12:00 +0000

The ACFW annual writer's conference was full of memorable moments again this year. Along with the beautiful sights and sounds of Denver, Colorado, this year's event sparkled with people decked in their finest to celebrate the accomplishments of 2009. Listed below are this year's award recipients:

2009 Mentor of the Year- Donita K. Paul
2009 Membership Service Award- John B. Olson
2009 Editor of the Year Award- Ami McConnell, Thomas Nelson
2009 Agent of the Year Award Steve Laube, The Steve Laube Agency

2009 Book of the Year Contest

Debut Author- A Passion Most Pure by Julie Lessman

Lits- Sweet Caroline by Rachel Hauck

Long Contemporary- Symphony of Secrets by Sharon Hinck

Long Contemporary Romance- Controlling Interest by Elizabeth White

Long Historical (tie)- My Heart Remembers by Kim Vogel Sawyer, and I Have Seen Him in the Watchfires by Cathy Gohlke

Mystery- For Whom the Wedding Bell Tolls by Nancy Mehl

Novellas- "Stuck on You" in A Connecticut Christmas anthology by Rhonda Gibson

Short Contemporary- Family Treasures by Kathryn Springer

Short Contemporary Suspense- Broken Lullaby by Pamela Tracy

Short Historical- Family of the Heart by Dorothy Clark

Speculative- The Restorer’s Journey by Sharon Hinck

Suspense- Fossil Hunter by John B. Olson

Women’s Fiction- The Shape of Mercy by Susan Meissner

Young Adult- The Big Picture by Jenny B. Jones

ACFW 2009 Genesis Contest

Contemporary Fiction- Jennifer Griffith, Magpies in Trees

Contemporary Romance- Christy LaShea Smith, The Bridge Between

Historical Fiction- Christine Schmidtke, Unveiled

Historical Romance- Lacy Williams, Marrying Miss Marshal

Mystery/Suspense/Thriller- Alan Schleimer, Q.doc

Romantic Suspense- Jan Warren, Katherine Octavia, C.I.A.

Science-Fiction/Fantasy/Allegory- David Fry, Lies To See

Women’s Fiction- Cathleen Armstrong, The Church of Last Chance

Young Adult- Gretchen Hoffman, Rewind

I'll never joke about it again...

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 16:08:00 +0000

Today, I actually did spew coffee.

It happened just after I got to work. I took a drink, it was hotter than I expected and it went down the wrong pipe. I coughed, mouth closed, trying to keep the scalding hot coffee from spattering all over my computer screen. Then I coughed harder, and a fine spray of brown liquid seeped through my clenched lips. That made me laugh...and cough. Tears were streaming down my face. I spewed out another huge spray, then totally lost the mouthful of coffee all over my desk, chair, keyboard, and floor.

IT WAS HORRIBLE!!

Now, I smell like coffee and my keyboard sticks. Plus, I think I burned all of the nose hairs out of my nasal passages. I'll never joke about it again...

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max’ism: Wash Me Clean

Psalm 51:1-7

One of Max’s least favorite activities is bath time. He hates it. The moment I say, “Let’s give you a bath,” Max is hiding under the couch. Unfortunately, he doesn’t always give me choice.

Take, for example, last Saturday. My family and I were busy doing yard work. Max came outside with us, but since we couldn’t pay much attention to him, it wasn’t long before he found his way to the pasture. The cow pasture. Where the cows are. And the cow patties.

When I finally realized that Max wasn’t in the yard with us, it was too late. He’d found every mud puddle and cow pie in the area, and he wore the evidence proudly. Disgusted, I carried Max inside, at arm’s length mind you, and plunked him in the tub.

“Bad dog, Max,” I scolded as I scrubbed, and rinsed, and scrubbed some more. At last, I was able to wash away the stench. Max was clean, but not happy. The moment I lifted him from the bath, he bolted for the living room, dripping and shaking all the way.

What is about getting a bath that he hates so much? Why does my washing away the grime make him want to run and hide? Can it be he’s actually content to wallow in the filth?

The more I thought about it, the more I realized that was exactly right, and we are not much different. Our sins cling to us, covering us in an unholy stench that must disgust our God and Savior. Yet, He does not hold us at arm’s length. Instead, He bids us come to let Him wash away our sin, and though the process can be uncomfortable, I’m learning to love bath time.

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max’ism: Learn to Prioritize
Exodus 20:1-6

Max is a jealous dog.

No matter how much time and attention I give him, it’s never enough. If I’m on the phone, he sits at me feet and whines. If I’m on the computer, he nudges my hands with his cold little nose until I’m forced to either pet him or turn him out of the room. In which case, he sits at the door and scratches. If I pet Newly. . .heaven forbid I should pet Newly in Max’s presence. It absolutely drives him crazy to think that my love could be split between the two of them. I’m just grateful he likes the kids and I haven’t had to choose .

But all that clamoring for my attention got me thinking. The Lord is a jealous God. He flat out said it.

“You shall have no other gods before me.”

And yet, I do. At home, in the office, at play, God has not always been first in my life, even though He deserves all of my love, honor, and attention. I have allowed the god of sports, the god of wealth, the god of children. . .yes, children, to come before Him, and the list goes on.

Forgive me, Father, for letting other things come before You. Help me, oh Lord, to prioritize, and to keep You first in all things. May I always love You most.

Amen.

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max’ism: Know Your Weaknesses

Genesis 39:1-12

Miniature dachshunds are known for many things. Loyalty. Unwavering devotion. Back problems.

Yes, unfortunately, these playful, active, bundles of energy are susceptible to injuries with their elongated spines. My husband went online to research the problem after a couple of the men he works with told him there were steps we could take to help prevent any future trouble.

Apart from surgery, he found several websites that offered some pretty simple solutions. Watch your pet’s diet. Keep their weight under control. Don’t let your pet jump off furniture.

Um…

Max doesn’t “jump” off furniture, he leaps. Literally. If we strapped a cape on him, he’d be Underdog. So for the last week and a half, we’ve been following him around the house, like parents with a toddler, trying to keep him from jumping off anything higher than a footstool. It hasn’t been easy, or successful. No matter how many times I scold him, he just likes to jump.

Which got me to thinking. I can trail Max around the house from dusk to dawn, but unless he realizes that jumping can harm him, and chooses not to do it, my efforts are in vain.

So it is with sin. There are just some things that are a greater temptation to me than others. Conquering that temptation sometimes means avoiding certain situations. Does that involve soul searching? Absolutely. Does it involve honesty? Definitely.

But more importantly, it means staying close to my Lord and Savior, who knows me even more intimately than I know myself, and asking Him to show me those parts of my character that I need to recognize and deal with.

After that, it’s as simple as knowing what my weaknesses are.

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max’ism: Too Many Toys
Mark 10:17-23

Max is like a child in many ways, among them, his toys. He likes to scatter them around the house. It’s not enough to get one toy out and play, he wants them all out at once.

I couldn’t sleep one night. Trying not to wake my husband, I slid from the bed without turning on a light and tiptoed my way to the door. Unfortunately, I didn’t realize Max had left his favorite squeaky lying on the floor. I stepped on it, and the most horrendous wail I’d ever hear echoed through the room. Max started barking, thinking someone was playing with his toys, and I frantically started shushing him. Finally, I had no choice but to turn on the light.

Needless to say, there sat my husband, blinking sleepily. “What happened?”

I held up the squeaky.

“That dog has too many toys,” he grumbled, flopping back onto the bed and throwing the blanket over his head.

I stifled a chuckle as I doused the light and backed out of the room, squeaky in hand. He was right, Max did have too many, but I didn’t have the heart to throw any of them away.

Which got me thinking.

Most of us can easily be accused of having more than we need. The real question is not what do we have, but what have we done to get it? Have we made God second to our pursuit of material wealth? Have we sacrificed our time with God for time at the office? When all is said and done, can we be accused of having too many toys?

If I looked closely, I’m afraid the answer for me would be yes. I am learning, however, to throw those things away.

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max’ism: Love One Another

Romans 12:9-21

“You kids fight like cats and dogs.”

Mom used to tell us that all the time. I never really understood it until I had my own kids. I understood it better when we got Max, and my daughter got a cat.

Those two go round and round. The pitter-patter of little feet? It’s more like the growling, hissing, and tromping of sworn enemies. Up the stairs, down the stairs, through the kitchen, over the couch—they fight and chase until one of them gets exhausted, or until one of them wins.

After a particularly extended brawl, Max came trotting down the stairs, a tell-tale bit of fluff dangling from his mouth. He looked downright smug, and the cat had a little less fur. Don’t worry. The cat got her revenge one day when Max lay on the floor napping. With all the stealth and cunning cats are known for, she climbed onto the couch above Max’s head, timed her leap, and pounced! Woken from a peaceful slumber, Max yelped, jumped up, and the chase was on.

It was so funny, so ridiculous, and so. . .familiar. Instead of being the brothers and sisters Christ wants us to be, we sometimes squabble amongst ourselves over trivial things. We allow little issues to disrupt the unity of our fellowship, and we put our own wants and desires above the needs of our brethren. How it must grieve the Lord to behold our selfish attitudes, when He specifically commanded us to love and care for one another. I hope we consider His words when we’re tempted to fight…like cats and dogs.

Friday Funnies

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Fri, 29 May 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Martha Stewart vs. Maxine...

Stuff a miniature marshmallow in the bottom of an ice cream cone to prevent ice cream drips.

Just suck the ice cream out of the bottom of the cone, for Pete's sake! You are probably lying on the couch with your feet up eating it anyway!

To keep potatoes from budding, place an apple in the bag with the potatoes.

Buy Hungry Jack mashed potato mix. Keeps in the pantry for up to a year.

When a cake recipe calls for flouring the baking pan, use a bit of the dry cake mix instead and there won't be any white mess on the outside of the cake.

Go to the bakery! Hell, they'll even decorate it for you!

If you accidentally over-salt a dish while it's still cooking, drop in a peeled potato and it will absorb the excess salt for an instant 'fix-me-up.'

If you over-salt a dish while you are cooking, that's too bad. Please recite with me the real woman's motto: 'I made it, you will eat it and I don't care how bad it tastes!'

Wrap celery in aluminum foil when putting in the refrigerator and it will keep for weeks.

Celery? Never heard of it!

Brush some beaten egg white over pie crust before baking to yield a beautiful glossy finish.

The Mrs. Smith frozen pie directions do not include brushing egg whites over the crust, so I don't.

Cure for headaches: take a lime, cut it in half and rub it on your forehead. The throbbing will go away.

Take a lime, mix it with tequila, chill and drink! All your pains go away!

If you have a problem opening jars, try using latex dish washing gloves. They give a non-slip grip that makes opening jars easy.

Go ask that very cute neighbor if he can open it for you.

Don't throw out all that leftover wine. Freeze into ice cubes for future use in casseroles and sauces.

Leftover wine??????????? HELLO!!!!!!!

Lastly, if you don't forward this to 1 of your friends within the next 5 minutes your belly button will unscrew and your butt will fall off.

Really.... It's true! Have I ever lied to you?

Industry News

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Wed, 27 May 2009 11:00:00 +0000

The Christian Pulse Announces Summer Reading Contest...
22 books, 22 reviews, 22 winners

Atlanta, GA - May 1, 2009 – Looking for the latest Christian book release to take with you on summer vacation or for relaxing on those cool summer nights? Beginning June 1, 2009, TheChristianPulse.com will give away 22 Christian books in 22 days. Visit www.thechristianpulse.com daily during the month of June for your chance to win. Each day we will publish a new Christian book review along with details on how to win a free copy of the book.

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 26 May 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max'ism - Stand Your Ground

1Samuel 17:32-50

Along with Max, we have an English Springer-Spaniel named Newly. The relationship between these two dogs is tenuous at best, especially because even though Max is the smaller of the two, he is determined to be the alpha. Newly put that to the test one day, in a confrontation of wills that left me both frightened and awed.

It started innocently enough. Max and Newly took turns chasing each other around the yard. But as I watched, their playful manner became more determined, the nips, more aggressive. Finally, Max wheeled, bared his teeth, and stood his ground. Astounded, Newly drew to a halt and literally fell back on his haunches. Seeing his opening, Max attacked with all the furor an eight pound dog can muster, and vigorously started biting Newly’s ankles. I rushed forward, to both mine and Newly’s chagrin, to rescue Newly!

Now that was a sight I tell you, and it reminded me of another story I knew, about a Philistine giant named Goliath and a little boy named David. And suddenly I thought about the giants I face in my own life, the biggest one being my fear of sharing my witness.

How easy it is to turn tail and run when life throws me difficult situations or tough decisions. But that is not pleasing to God. He wants me find strength and courage in Him, to face my trials with bravery and honor. Most of all, I hear Him command me. . .to stand my ground.

Friday Funnies

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Fri, 22 May 2009 13:00:00 +0000

How To Know Whether You Are Ready To Have Kids Or Not

MESS TEST

Smear peanut butter on the sofa and curtains. Place a fish stick behind the couch and leave it there all summer.

TOY TEST

Obtain a 55-gallon box of Legos (or you may substitute roofing tacks). Have a friend spread them all over the house. Put on a blindfold. Try to walk to the bathroom or kitchen. Do not scream because this would wake a child at night.

GROCERY STORE TEST

Borrow one or two small animals (goats are best) and take them with you as you shop. Always keep them in sight and pay for anything they eat or damage.

DRESSING TEST

Obtain one large, unhappy, live octopus. Stuff into a small net bag making sure that all the arms stay inside.

FEEDING TEST

Obtain a large plastic milk jug. Fill halfway with water. Suspend from the ceiling with a cord. Start the jug swinging. Try to insert spoonfuls of soggy cereal into the mouth of the jug, while pretending to be an airplane. Now dump the contents of the jug on the floor.

NIGHT TEST

Prepare by obtaining a small cloth bag and fill it with 8-12 pounds of sand. Soak it thoroughly in water. At 3:00p.m., begin to waltz and hum with the bag until 9:00p.m. Lay down your bag and set your alarm for 10:00p.m.Get up, pick up your bag, and sing every song you have ever heard. Make up about a dozen more and sing these too until 4:00a.m. Set alarm for 5:00a.m. Get up and make breakfast. Keep this up for 5 years. Look cheerful.

INGENUITY TEST

Take an egg carton. Using a pair of scissors and pot of paint, turn it into an alligator. Now take a toilet paper tube and turn it into an attractive Christmas candle. Use only scotch tape and a piece of foil. Last, take a milk carton, a ping-pong ball, and an empty box of Cocoa Puffs. Make an exact replica of the Eiffel Tower.

AUTOMOBILE TEST

Forget the BMW and buy a station wagon. Buy a chocolate ice cream cone and put it in the glove compartment. Leave it there. Get a dime. Stick it into the cassette player. Take a family size package of chocolate chip cookies. Mash them into the back seat. Run a garden rake along both sides of the car. There, perfect.

PHYSICAL TEST (Women)

Obtain a large beanbag chair and attach it to the front of your clothes. Leave it there for 9 months. Now remove 10 of the beans. And try not to notice your closet full of clothes. You won't be wearing them for a while.

PHYSICAL TEST (Men)

Go to the nearest drug store. Set your wallet on the counter. Ask the clerk to help himself. Now proceed to the nearest food store. Go to the head office and arrange for your paycheck to be directly deposited to the store. Purchase a newspaper. Go home and read it quietly for the last
time.

FINAL ASSIGNMENT

Find a couple who already have a small child. Lecture them on how they can improve their discipline, patience, tolerance, toilet training and child's table manners. Suggest many ways they can improve. Emphasize to them that they should never allow their children to run wild. Enjoy this experience. It will be the last time you will have all the answers.

Tuesday Devotional

noreply@blogger.com (Elizabeth Ludwig) — Tue, 19 May 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Max’ism – Happy to see You
Luke 15:11-24

Max can be counted on for one sure thing, he will always be happy to see me.

Our family went home for Christmas this year. Since we decided to fly, I arranged for Max to stay with a sitter. Yes, people will actually babysit your pet.

Anyway, we were gone for ten days. The lady who volunteered to keep Max was wonderful. She bought him toys, made him scrambled eggs for breakfast, even let him sleep in the bed with her. But he missed us. We missed him.

When we got home, I went right over to collect him. The moment he heard my voice, he leapt from the couch, jumped into my arms and licked my face. Repeatedly. All the way home, he kept trying to crawl into my lap so he could lick my fingers and sniff my neck. It was so sweet.

Funny thing is, I got the same reaction last Sunday when we got home from church. I was gone for two hours, yet the moment I walked through the door, Max leapt off the couch, ran to meet me, jumped into my arms, and licked my face. When I get home from work. . .well, you get the picture.

All of this got me thinking. Am I always so overjoyed at the prospect of spending time with the Lord? Do I miss Him when I neglect our time together? Does my heart thrill to hear His voice and do I run to meet with Him?

I must confess, my attitude is not always like Max’s shining example, especially when Sunday rolls around and my pillow beckons. Fortunately, God’s is, and He is always happy to see me.