The celebration I want to talk about is the treasures we find in other people. Read this story below:
A man was exploring caves by the Seashore. In one of the caves he found a canvas bag with a bunch of hardened clay balls. It was like someone had rolled clay balls and left them out in the sun to bake. They didn't look like much, but they intrigued the man, so he took the bag out of the cave with him.
As he strolled along the beach, he would throw the clay balls one at a time out into the ocean as far as he could. He thought little about it, until he dropped one of the clay balls and it cracked open on a rock .. Inside was a beautiful, precious stone!
Excited, the man started breaking open the remaining clay balls. Each contained a similar treasure. He found thousands of dollars worth of jewels in the 20 or so clay balls he had left.
Then it struck him. He had been on the beach a long time. He had thrown maybe 50 or 60 of the clay balls with their hidden treasure into the ocean waves. Instead of thousands of dollars in treasure, he could have taken home tens of thousands, but he had just thrown it away!
It's like that with people. We look at someone, maybe even ourselves, and we see the external clay vessel. It doesn't look like much from the outside. It isn't always beautiful or sparkling, so we discount it. We see that person as less important than someone more beautiful or stylish or well known or wealthy. But we have not taken the time to find the treasure hidden inside that person.
There is a treasure in each and every one of us. If we take the time to get to know that person, and if we ask God to show us that person the way He sees them, then the clay begins to peel away and the brilliant gem begins to shine forth.
When I read this story my heart was stirred. How many times have I been guilty of not seeing a person the way God see's them. Do I do that with myself as well? Do I even do that with my kids? A resounding "YES" penetrated my being.
I over look the gems hidden in my children when they are rambling on about what seems like nothing to me (or my mind is on the next task at hand). I miss out on a hidden gem when I am waiting in a line or on an elevator and never take the time to speak to those around me.
Toda
y I am giving away a $20.00 gift card to Starbucks and a copy of Karen Ehman's book; A Life That Says Welcome"
All you need to do is share a comment on a either a gem you have missed, or one that you uncovered.
Then take time to browse P31's carnival of giving. Some are celebrating their love of nature. Others grandbabies on the way. Come along and join the fun. Just click on the names below. Here's what you could win:
Wendy Blight is giving away a copy of the One Year Chronological Bible and her book Hidden Joy in a Dark Corner: The Transforming Power of God's Story.
Shari Braendel is givng away 3 beautiful jewelry pieces to begin a spring wardrobe with! One for a Glamour Girl, one for a Movie Star and one for a Rock Star!
Micca Campbell is giving away her book An Untroubled Heart, and a cute clutch purse for those fun summer evenings!
Whitney Capps is giving away a $30 Francesca's Gift card, redeemable at www.francescascollections.com
Melanie Chitwood is giving away One marriage conference call (see her blog for details) and her new book What a Wife Needs from Her Husband.
Lynn Cowell is giving away a prize for mom and a prize for a teen girl in her life – the 3 book series B.A.B.E. series by Andrea Stephens (Beautiful, Accepted, Blessed, Eternally Significant) for the teen and for Mom a $10 gift card to Starbucks along with Lynn’s CD “Building a Bridge to Your Child’s Heart”.
Karen Ehman is giving away a Winter White Basket that includes Skin Milk body wash, a white loofah, Winter White Citrus Bath & Body Works products, white lily linen and room sprays, white hot cocoa, a white mug and white-chocolate macadamia nut cookies. Along with it, a copy of her book on celebrations entitled Homespun Memories for the Heart: More Than 200 Ideas to Make Unforgettable Moments.
Suzie Eller is giving away a webcam!
Zoe Elmore is giving away a journal, a copy of My Heart's Cry by Anne Graham Lotz and a piece of jewelry Zoe style!
Tracie Miles is giving away her CD "Overcoming Stress with Extraordinary Faith" and a Soulmates Slipper with Christian Notepad and Pen.
Rachel Olsen is giving away Bread for Life": a hardback copy of The Daily Message: Through the Bible in One Year by Eugene Peterson (which you can read this along with her this year) and the Williams-Sonoma Muffins cookbook.
Wendy Pope Wendy is giving away a copy of her book Out of the Mouths of Babes and her CD Yes, No, and Maybe of a Balanced Life
Luann Prater & www.EncouragementCafe.com are giving away an Encouragement Cafe mug and t-shirt at both sites!
LeAnn Rice is giving away a copy of her cookbook Sharing Grace: Recipes- Family Traditions-Gift ideas and a Starbucks gift card.
Susanne Scheppmann is giving away her Birds in My Mustard Tree Bible Study with an I-tunes gift card.
Lysa TerKeurst is giviving away a Mom's Book Club gift pack including 4 copies of Lysa's book, Am I Messing Up My Kids? and a 30-minute Q&A conference call with Lysa.
Van Walton is giving away her DVD for children - From the Pound to the Palace
Glynnis Whitwer is giving away her book work@home: A Practical Guide for Woman Who Want to Work from Home and a French Country Wire Silverware Basket
She Reads is giving away two novels, Watch Over Me by Christa Parrish and Screen Play by Chris Coppernoll, and chocolate, courtesy of the authors. They will tell the story of how their writing brought them together - a love story, quite literally, fit for a novel!
RadRevolution Our ministry to teen girls is giving away a copy of Do the Hard Thing along with a RadRev t-shirt!
160 Comments:
I have recently uncovered a real gem that I nearly tossed away because of bad first impressions and my judgements based on those. I have come to know a dear fiend who for a long time I brushed off as being a snob and too good for me. I got to know this lady and have become very dear friends with her in a matter of a few short months. I have found we are very much alike and almost missed out on having this precious women in my life. I keep thinking about the time wasted over the two years that I did not get to know her.
This is so encouraging, because I have begun to try this with my family - both husband and children - and this analogy will help me keep "digging for treasure"! Thanks for the post.
We recently moved to a house right across the street from our church which is wonderful; my hearts desire has always been to have a welcoming house; a place where people can come and rest. I started hosting a ladies prayer group one day a week, and have discovered quite a few gems that I probably never would have gotten to know! I'm so grateful! Thanks for this give away opportunity!
Jennifer :)
My gem is my husband!!! I was not looking for a relationship when I met him. I almost threw him away!!!!!! So glad I didn't!!!! I remember the moment it struck me that he truly cared about me and that maybe I should start opening my heart to him. What a world of difference it would have made in my life to not have uncovered him!!!! Thanks for the encouragement!
Staci
Oh, I have lost too many gems with my son(s) when I have so easily focused on the negative instead of encouraging the positive. When I have let loose that word of anger and acted uncontrolled. Negativity seems to come much more easily for me.
After the wounds that I have caused, my heart is troubled and I regret my actions seeking immediate forgiveness from my Heavenly Father. I want to make the most of every opportunity with my kids, husband, and others.
I am so grateful for the gem that I have in Jesus who is patient and longsuffering with a wretch like me.
Oh that I might be all that Christ has created me to be...that would be the greatest gem of all!
sbcgentile@yahoo.com
Charlene, this illustration is so precious. I would love to know where you found that story. I'm preparing to speak in May at a Ladies Event. They are having a fashion show, and then they have asked me to speak on inner beauty. I would really like to share this story with them.
Today, this story is like uncovering a gem. I love that when we wait on the Lord when preparing a message to share, He provides in unexpected ways. What a treasure to find this perfect example of "inner beauty".
Hugs to you today my friend,
Joy
I recently discovered a " bruised gem" in a tough angry woman in our church.....who has had a tough life but has showed a warm heart in little ways. Hurting people often hurt people.
dy
I've definitely missed out on many gems with my kids - why is it always so easy to focus on the negative and where they need to improve?! The Lord and I have much work to do in that area.
Blessings, Maureen
ferguson5@sbcglobal.net
Oh, my gem is the woman who renewed my faith in God and who helped me set aside my preconceptions about Christians. She is amazing, so amazing I wrote about her in my blog: http://redheadedsteppchild.blogspot.com/2010/01/chosen-for-friendship.html. I thank God for her every day.
I have to say my gem is my husband. He is a man of integrity and the most caring and giving. This is a second marriage for us both and I almost lost him out of fear.
I married a precious gem....he was considered the 'nerd' of the school and my friends teased me when I first said yes to a date - a school sponsored banquet. However, I learned he was so much more than a nerd! That was nearly 24 yrs ago!
Now, I am working to uncover the gem inside our baby girl..she is 16!
There have been many times when I would meet a person and thought we would never be friends because I had judged them before I got to know them. Once I got to know them they became some of the closest friends I ever had and I was the one blessed! Thank you for doing this!
CAROLYN
I LOVE BEING A PART OF PROVERBS 31 LADIES
WHAT AN ENCOURAGEMENT TO ME
I'm realizing that I have been missing out on gems, because of my own fears. I used to think it was other people who didn't want to develop a friendship with me, but I'm seeing that it's the other way around. I'm working on the "What do I do now?" part of this revelation.
The gem I've recently recovered is realizing that even before supporting and tending to those who are important in my life, I MUST spend time with Jesus..daily..alone...before life begins.
The key to turning mud balls into gems is our perspective. This past week we celebrated Valentines day. Historically I have dreaded this holiday as I have been a widow the past 12 years. But this year I decided to turn it into something special. I snuck out of Sunday School, ran home, decorated the dining room in red and white dishes, decoration, and flowers. Then after church treated my three teenage boys to yummy french toast, Andrea Bocelli music and took the opportunity to be intentional about educating them about what a women enjoys about Valentines day! I tried to do it with humor and the boys loved it! It was a gem of a day! And it all started with a change in my perspective!
I have recently uncovered the gem as knowing my Mother as my very best friend. She is 80 and has dementia. For years all I could see was her negative side, she always seemed to be very critical of me. She called it `constructive criticism`. I miss those years the locusts have eaten. But, I'm so very thankful for the time I do have with her.
moma3homeschool{at}gmail{dot}com
I have realized that I miss out on gems when I don't speak to those around me. I was recently on a trip and I didn't speak more than a few words to any of my seat mates. I wonder what I missed?!
Wow...that story was so convicting to me. God has been dealing with me lately because I find myself sometimes developing preconceived notions of people based on initial impressions or worse, hearsay, and I am trying to break through that to get to know the real person so I can truly know them and their heart. I wonder how many friendships I missed by not delving deeper into getting to know a person, but with God's help, I will not let these opportunities pass me by again.
I would love to win this book because it sounds perfect - we are getting ready to move soon and I would love some new ideas on celebrations, memories and how to draw close to the people I will meet.
Warmly,
Kris
Lvnglyf73@aol.com
I have come to know that prayer helps us recognize the hidden gems.
Gems I seem to throw away a lot lately is how I spend my time. Sometimes I will be doing something that I love but I will spend more time than I should on those activities. Later I tend to get angry about wasting so much time, but I should really be thankful for the blessing to be able to do what I enjoy doing. I liked the story. gasweetheart211[at]netscape[dot]net
I am celebrating the gift of watching children so their moms can go to a bible study.
Farside53@bellsouth.net
The gems I am currently discovering are my children. The Holy Spirit keeps reminding me that these days (they are both toddlers) will be gone before I know it. I am learning to be intentional with them - to really hear their sweet voices and see the world through their eyes. The funny thing is they are teaching me more about Jesus than I could ever teach them right now!
I'm working on my girls to get them to see themselves as the gems that they are.
it truly is amazing what we have and dont even realize it...I have gotten real bad at shutting myself off from ppl after being hurt so badly....and one situation in particular is a lady from our church.. from the beginning she seemed drawn to me, as she calls it, I however found it oddly uncomfortable bc she was invading my space...I had almost tossed it completely away....and God showed me it was just how she loved... and she has been one of the greatest friends and PRAYER WARRIORS I have ever known... TRULY a diamond in the rough!!! WOW... God is awesome....
I believe that I have missed a number of gems with my preconcieved notions about people. I am working on this area!
Deena
deenakramer@msn.com
Someone recently told me that it is hard to get to know me but once people break through my armour it is worth it.
I guess I just put up a wall because of I have been hurt in the past and I am afraid of being vulnerable.
I appreciated this and I am trying to work on it.
The gem I missed was deciding that I had to work and started a daycare and have since started homeschooling my children. The gem was not working!
Nancy in Baltimore
nanrykl@aol.com
I recently uncovered a gem in an acquantaince at my son's preschool. We pretty much grew up the same and what a blessed friend she has become!
ps. would love to win karen's book!
I've been convicted lately of being judgemental toward others. In doing that I've probably lost quite a few gems, but I'm praying that the Lord will continue to convict me of this so I may find plenty of gems.
rapelfre@aol.com
I have recently reconnected with a friend from elementary school that God has brought back into my life- she is now a sister in the Lord .. she was the gem that God knew I needed in my life.
But I also want to find the gems in each of my childrens lives while they are young so we can build on this now so they can be the people God wants them to be as they grow.
My pastor preached on being real and open with people last week. I am learning the benefits of opening myself up to others in the midst of the current crisis I am experiencing. A gem I have discovered is that when I take the plunge and become vulnerable with others, God uses them to help me and brighten my heart.
I'm sure that I've overlooked plenty of gems, being judgemental. But your post today has opened my eyes to this and i plan on looking for the "gems" out there and not miss anymore. Thanks for all you p31 girls do.
God bless,
Renea H
harrinr@vmcmail.com
Missed treasures are similar to missed opportunites. Mine is my grandmother with alzheimer's disease and seeing her rapidly deteriorate makes me wish I hadn't missed out on the past 10-12 years or more of her life. We once were close and after losing my first husband to cancer (or maybe before that even) I started to withdraw myself from her thinking that if I wasn't "close" to her that it wouldn't hurt so much when I lost her, decieving myself in that way has only left me with regret and could not be farther from the truth. Just one very visible reminder that Satan can parade around and destroy you while looking like a sheep. I try and cherish every moment of time I have with her from here on out.
I'm looking for the gem inside myself. Does that sound odd? I need to find it because....I've lost it.
Thanks,
Becky
rahastings@juno.com
My gems are my prayer warrior friends who are there for me all of the time in times of trouble for my children and also times of happiness in my life.
Deborah
Rejoicenrlord@gmail.com
my 'gem' is my family :)
karenk
kmkuka(at)yahoo(dot)Com
As I read your blog for today and thought about my "gem", my husband came to mind. Specifically speaking, his tendency to get into deep theological discussions, that admittedly, often drive me crazy! But I think I have thrown away a lot of gems by not listening to him more, as I tend to glaze over halfway through. He has seminary training and sometimes I let it go over my head rather than take time to ask questions. But I wonder what I miss about Jesus as I tune him out (not to much the disrespect I show him). Thanks for asking a question that encourages me to look at this tendency of his differently!
I am so thankful for the gems hidden in God's Word. Sometimes I don't want to take the effort to search for them.
Thank you for your generosity!
(jdgerigg@bright.net)
My gem is my wonderful caring Husband. I recently realized how often I take for granted his positive attitude, his encouragement for me to grow, and his desire to serve me. I have been so selfish and have prayed to be more like his Christ-like example to me so that I can be a gem in his life as well as the people I meet each day.
I am sure that I miss gems in people each day because of my busy schedule...especially in my kids.
what a timely post! i needed that just for this day! thank you! consider me entered...would love love a Starbucks card!
One of the things I've discovered is not having to be in control all the time and "letting go and letting God" take care of it. The Serenity Prayer reminds me of that...over and over again.
I'm afraid that I've missed out on seeing the gems that are hidden in my husband and children. I've really been trying to look for the positive characteristics (there are many) instead of letting the little annoyances block them out. Thanks so much for the reminder. Going on our second week of snow days, I needed it!
God gave me a gift of not just writing, but of hospitality. I found a love of cooking and creativity. One day I began a monthly english tea. I saw so much division in our church with age and different music tastes. I also invited a local writer. I thought, "She won't say yes. I cannot even pay her." She came and to my surprise the other person I invited was an old friend of hers from way back. There was a reunion that day of two friends that time parted. That tea was unforgettable.
My gems are my family. I'm really trying to focus intentionally on them. Getting to know them beyond the mom in me caring for them. They truly are treasures!
Thanks!
Deb (deb@debbrown.org)
A gem I'm trying realize is enjoying my young children even in the midst of the busyness and all the demands.
Last night, I realized that I ignore the gems in me. Someone gave me a compliment and I discounted it. They repeated the compliment in slightly different words and I again negated it. When I thought about it later, I realized that what they talked about was a particular way that God made me. And if I don't appreciate what He has given me (through personality or talents), I ignore those gems.
kate AT sweetpotatoes DOT dom
I've recently discovered a gem... a gem in focusing daily with God. My husband superglued my snooze button (w/ a goodhearted intentions) & I've found an "tired" but early focus & opportunity to pray & read. A time becoming well-treasured in the morning before the family wakes.
www.charlenekidd.blogspot.com; You saved my day again.
Wow - that is a powerful story. One that I hope comes to mind the next time I am tempted to overlook or not speak to someone just because they don't measure-up to my "standards" or I think I am too busy to stop and listen. Thank you. ddp5@bellsouth.net
i have often overlooked gems by not taking enough time to get to know other God's girls. i want to invest the time that God invests in each person i meet.
lisa@andrewsmithteam.com
The gem I've discovered lately is prayer. It has become my "go to" and I am seeing and feeling the difference in my life. No longer am I running to the phone or wringing my hands over issues or concerns, but bending my knees and bowing my head--it's golden!
Wow. Thank you for this beautiful illustration. I think sometimes I miss 'gems' because I am too busy with all of my tasks that I forget to take the time to get to know other people.
Like the best stories, this one shares a great truth, one I need to remember as I too often look at the simple clay shells we wear and not the treasure contained in them.
The gem I can miss is not spending enough time with my friends or being intential enough with them. I need to be more deliberate to make the calls when I feel a prompting and spend time talking on the phone or being there in person with them. I don't want to have a protective wall up, but want to be more vulnerable. Thanks for sharing the story - a good reminder.
Thanks also for the opportunity to win the book - I have wanted this book for so long! Would love to win it! :)
taprince (at) comcast (dot) net
Would like to be more aware of digging for the gems in my children and not noticing the "dirt" so much.
I uncover little gems in my daughters every day. We do a bible study together and my 11 and 8 year old tell ME things that I didn't understand myself! Sometimes the simple wisdom of a child is much clearer than something that we analyze as adults to try to understand, yet never grasp the true meaning!
I have lost too many gems in those moments with my girls because I would be distracted in my own mind with my own thoughts. Working on this...
In His Graces~Pamela
So many times I have overlooked the "Gems" around me, especially when I am trying to stay focused on the "task at hand". I pray that I will be able to see the "Gems" that are hidden around me.
The recent gem I have uncovered is the love and support of the Christian blogging community that I have been fortunate enough to discover over a year into blogging. They have been more than an answer to prayers on most days and have been there like family and seen me at my highs and lows. I am forever thankful for this!
Love and Hugs ~ Kat
What a treasure chest of gems I have in my Womens Bible Study group at church!
I would so love to win this book and the gift card to use as a little mom get away.
Blessings!
Michelle
rfams4him@verizon.net
I always try to not be swayed by a how a person appears whether its how they are dressed or sometimes the front that people can put up. I am so glad that I didnt let that stop me from getting to know my very best friend because at first I wasnt sure how it was going to work out, but with God all things are possible.
I have discovered recently that I need to stop saying, Oh I'm sorry if I can do anything let me know. No I need to DO SOMETHING tangible, something little, something practical. I am trying to do more of this.
Stacie
asamjones@embarqmail.com
So many hidden treasures have been discovered during the 2 years I have worked with Christian Women's Job Corp. The treasures were hidden in the women who came through this ministry and I would not have discovered them had I not answered God's call. Now I see hurting women through the eyes of our Savior and have grown to love them.
That story stirred me. I believe we do this daily. How often do we discard somebody that would have been the answer to our prayers? Just this month, my husband chose to toss away our marriage. We had been separated for quite a while and I know it is both of our faults, but I was still trusting for restoration. I believe that even though we had issues, that if they would have been cracked away at, there was a gem inside.
I was blessed to uncover a gem of a friend in someone who was "cast aside" by a former employer of ours. I had a heart for this woman and stuck with her after she was fired for some pretty "real" reasons. This gal is GORGEOUS on the outside and as I began to dig deeper I have found incredible beauty on the inside as well.. I could have believed everything that was seemingly "unsalvagable" and passed up one of the most precious friendships ever. Praise God, He led me to see what was hidden!
I know I have failed to uncover many of my daughters' gems. They are both very young and I find that I get too distracted with my "to-do" list that I fail to see their "gems". This is something I am working on. I am realizing they are growing so fast and will all too soon be grown and out of the house. I need to cherish every moment!
I minister to ladies who are or have been in prison. People ask me all the time why I do that and my first response is 'because they need Jesus'. However, many times these ladies end up being more of a blessing and encouragement to me than I think that I have been to them. And if I had overlooked them I would have missed out on a bunch of blessings.
Hidden treasures are always the most priceless.
I have learned that we need to take the time to uncover these gems, As busy moms, we tend to rush through the day just trying to get it all done and we miss out on so many precious gems, especially in our children.
sfink@churchatrockcreek.com
When my 16-year old son decided to go live with his dad in another state, I was depressed and miserable and feeling sorry for myself. But seeing him make this choice, and seeing him explain to me and show me why he wanted to live with his dad really made me see what a precious and priceless gem my son is. He made a mature choice and handled it in a mature way. I see such a young man in him now, where before I saw a little boy. This process awakened me to seeing and hearing gems every day in my little girl at home. Now I know that once a child leaves home, those gems in the form of happy memories, even the little everyday things, are what I will treasure in my heart. I don't want to waste a second!!! :) Thank you for this post. It is such a lovely story!!!
I nearly tossed away the chance for a genuine relationship with my sister-in-law. I didn't feel worthy of a friendship with her and I'm so glad I didn't let that stop me.
My Spiritual mother is helping me to see the gem that she sees in me despite my disability. After knowing her for almost twenty-seven years and only calling or writing her maybe twice a year God turned our simple friendship into a Spiritual mother and daughter relationship and God revealed the gem I now see in her. In the past ten months she has been a friend who has made a huge difference in my life.
One of my friends is an "unlikely" match, I suppose, on the outside. We were asked once by a waitress if we were mother and daughter.
Funny, I don't notice our age difference. We met when our kids were in class together. She has a boy, I have a girl. They are pre-teens now and no longer hangout, but our friendship has remained.
In our walks together we have learned we share some painful childhood moments and talking about them has helped us both to heal.
I'm glad age is irrelevant in friendships. When you really open up and share your heart, you find God in one another.
In God's miraculous mercy and grace, He has given me eyes to see my mother as a treasure. After decades of strife, nearly ending a final blow of silence and defeat, we walked through it together and found forgiveness and healing. She does not share my faith nor a personal relationship with Jesus, but God has given me eyes to see her as women who has served me with a Christ-like heart. She is now a treasure to me, this side of heaven!
Of course, I'd love to win the treasure you are giving away, too. It would be fun to take my mom to Starbuck's on that card and tell her why, too!
You know it's sad, but if you want honesty, my nine year old daughter is trying to tell me about her day at school as I tried to read your blog and find out what I could win. Those are the gems that I miss when I'm trying to multitask. How sad but true. What a real eye opener. Thank you.
Melissa R.
reynolds212@hotmail.com
Missing out on the gems in my daughter over and over again. Assuming because I'm not good at something that she won't be either. Assuming that my struggles will translate into challenges for her. God has shown me over and over that she is not me and she is differnt. I pray that I continue to see the gems inside her and then can look inward and see the gems that God has placed in me. Thank you so much, what a great post!
Charlene, I would love to read your book and learn how to be more welcoming. I just don't know how to do that!
My gems are my children. But too often I look at their different personalities and instead of seeing it as a treasure I get frustrated. I have been trying to see each of their unique "ways" as a gift and not a burden.
As I listen carefully to my kids, especially my almost 8yo, I discover who in touch they are with God. My boys love to sing praise songs and their little voices are heaven on earth!!
Jen L. (JLarsonRN@gmail.com)
My gem is my very best friend Paula. We've been friends for over 23 years and there is no one that's a better friend than she is. I'm so blessed to have this gem in my life!
emma
emmastormy08@gmail.com
I started working in a new office a couple of years ago. Having been a stay at home mom for 20 years, this new job was like being in a whole different culture of people than I had been used to. Everyone had their own unique way of doing the same job. It was exciting but challenging to work with all of these different personalities. The LORD challenged me on my openness. A question came to mind one day and I wrote it on my white board in my office so that I would remember it. It was: "Who are you missing out on knowing because of your self-imposed limitations?" I was freed up to reach out to others in a way I had never had the opportunity to before.
I have since been promoted to other job opportunities but I have kept that gem to help me to look for the unique treasures in each person I meet from now on. Just think of how many people I could have missed out on knowing!
Thank you for your wonderful encouragement.
Cindy
Oh wow, this story totally made me cry! What a sad truth about each of us. I totally want God to bless me with His eyes for seeing people as He does. Oftentimes, I find myself judging people by their appearance, demeanor at first, etc. I am very guilty of judging myself in this manner, and have missed out on many good friendships I'm sure because I saw myself as "not good enough" for the other person. On the other hand, because of God's willingness to show me the true beauty inside someone else, I have truly been blessed by a wonderful friendship! We never know who we are meeting, what they are going through, or what their story is, unless we look past the rough, sometimes dirty exterior and see the beauty that is within them as God does.
in Him,
Tricia
(tricia at free to dance dot com)
My gems are the little things i life, sometimes i miss them, and other times, when i am more aware i am surprised by them!
rebornbutterfly (at) sbcglobal (dot) net
My daughter is really good with words. She's encouraging and compliments people all the time. That's hard for me, and since she's only 4, it's extra special to me!
I JUST wrote a blog about this very thing. (If you want to see the whole thing check out my blog.) The general gist though, is that I recently worked in a tax office. Seeing so many people come through with unemployment slips with their w2's, grown children living with parents, people working 2 and 3 jobs really opened my eyes. People are suffering. Everyone has a story and struggle and too often we are either one, too caught up in self to care or two, feel like we are better than others. God has shown me that each of us is an individual; uniquely loved by God. Why should we value anyone as less than a beloved treasure?
God has given me the gift of chronic illness. It's something I've often longed to be rid of, run away from, exchange for something I liked better. But having met many amazing people also living with a wide range of disabilities (and each one of these people is him/herself and amazing and courageous treasure to me!) I've been especially drawn to those who live with vision impariments and Paul's writing of his own "thorn in the flesh" which I speculate to be a sight issue as well.
Through their eyes, I'm challenges by Isaiah 45:3, "I will give you the treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name." God is here in the midst of my dark place. He isn't giving me treasures in spite of illness, but is right here in the midst of my pain, redeeming my suffering to make it a treasure in and of itself.
jsaake AT yahoo DOT com
Stacy (Russ' wife) comments...a "gem" my husband and I found happen to be a married couple that moved to a town we arrived at 2 wks. earlier. We offered to help them move into their apt. since they knew no one and found friends for life...a wonderful couple from Ghana, Africa. We had trouble understanding their accents at first and wondered at our cultural differences, but oh, how they love the Lord and love others because of it...we could have so easily missed out on a great and lasting friendship!!
My gem is my husband. When we met I was not looking fora relationship. Immediately I knew there was something different about him. I'm so glad I didn't "throw" him away. He is an incredible, God loving man. He is an amazing husband & father. I am so glad I opened my heart to him!
As a nursing student, I have found many gems in the past year. It's hard because when people are sick, they are not usually at their best. But I've found that if I take a little extra time (which there is not usually a lot of) I can break through the unappealing clay to see the beautiful gems in people every day!
The gem I discovered is my husband. When we first met 19 years ago we wanted nothing to do with each other. But God is good and continued to make our paths cross until finally we said "OK, God, I get it" We have been married now for 18 years and serve in full time ministry together. he is my precious gem.
A gem that I have uncovered involves forgiveness. I was hurt deeply by a few family members. After biblical counseling, reading many books, talking to many friends and still having issues letting go the Lord revealed something to me. Counseling, advice from books and friends were great but had I truly come to him. Had I used him as a cousenlor for the issues and read in his word for learning how to forgive. The answer I'm sad to say was, no. I haven't really given it all to him and laid the burden of it at his feet. Once I discovered this and fell before him with my burden of forgiveness he spoke softly to me and showed me that...
I had to forgive even if the family members that had wronged me had never said sorry and to know that they never might and that my forgiveness can't have conditions on it. I can't expect it. I need to have the Lord heal the wounds of pain that I thought and apology would heal. The truth was nothing they said even if they eventually said it would make me forgive. I could only gain that forgiveness through the Lord.
Over the last few years I have become obsessed with work and climbing the career ladder. My 18 year old son and I were going to the Mall to get him some shoes. He was talking and I WAS NOT listening. I was present in body but not mind. We got out at the Mall and he said, I would rather you keep the money and spend an hour just listening to me. I broke down in tears. My gem was right before me and I was not paying attention. This was a real turning point for me. I am thankful for my son and this moment.
I know people I think a real gems, yet I haven't reached out and developed a friendship. Clearly something I need to work on.
true gems in life for me are little moments with my husband, who is truly my gift from the Lord. With our little boy on the way, I can see that there are more beautiful moments to come!
So often I have allowed "first impressions" to determine how I view people. I have been proven wrong on many occasion, and each time I am reminded of how unfair it was for me to be so critical of others, and also how thankful I was/am that I gained a relationship with that person. How sad that I could have missed out on wonderful friendships because of my sometimes judgmental attitude. So grateful to be shown the error in my ways. Thank you for this kind reminder.
Amber
ambydoo143@yahoo.com
I was grouped into a bible study through my church. I did not want to be with these ladies. The worst part was my husband's boss's wife was the leader. 2 years later these women are my closest friends and I love them all dearly. They are my treasures.
I think we can all find hidden treasures if we just take the time to look for them and to let Him show us.
I've learned to adjust my life so that it allows God into my everyday experiences. My work was so stressful that I was drawn to the Lord myself, but often had difficulty connecting with others to invest in them. I have changed that situation and often think how grateful I am that my job now allows me to connect with others as well as follow when God prompts me.
I have so many gems it's hard to narrow them down. The first one that comes to my mind is my husband. He is a true gem and is very rare indeed. A blessing to all who know him.
The gem I lost was my father. My parents divorced when I was very young, and my dad and I had very little relationship. In fact, for a period of ten years or so we had no relationship. I held this against him much of my life. However, one day I heard a Focus on the Family broadcast about fathers, and decided that I would get to know him. I did - but he died only a few months after I made this decision. I realize now how much I lost in what I learned about him in his last few months of life.
I don't usually seek out conversations with others when travelling alone, but was stuck at an airport with flights cancelled, and got to spend time with a soldier headed home for the funeral of the grandfather who raised him.
Thanks for offering such treasures today - both in the story you told and in the give-away... I'm a winner, regardless!
carol at envisionprinting dot com
I am a very blessed mama of 12 gems with 10 grand-gems and one more grand-gem on the way. Wow, the story you shared is so good. You may never know, in this life, how many gems you have helped to uncover either. I have had women come up to me years after we first met and tell me how my life has helpd them in some way... just by example or in one case she simply overheard my conversation with someone else. WOW... I hope my conversations edify!..and give honor to God :)
Oh wow, did this hit home! I am so often overlooking the hidden gems in my husband and children. They busyness of life too often takes it's toll, causing my priorities to be out of order. I've been so busy serving others, that I've been really convicted about putting the needs of those I love most, my family...my gems, behind others.
I have a son with hemophilia, so we are in the hospital ALOT. I used to get discouraged when we had to have a stay in the hospital or go to an unscheduled dr appt. Then one day through my Bible reading God opened up my eyes to the fact that we go through things to be a comfort to others wherewith we have been comforted. From that day on I have truly viewed our visits as a blessing in which I maybe a blessing to others. Tisa Birchall
philandtisa@comcast.net
My husband was my hidden gem!! We met through a mutual friend at a time when I was hopelessly consumed by a very unhealthy relationship. God blessed our friendship with years of patience and understanding on my husband's part, and SLOWLY my blinders fell off to the wonderful, loving and caring man who was right in front of me waiting for me to see the gem that he was! Praise God for wiping the mud out of my eyes twenty-one years ago!!
Kathy
Charlene,
It is so great to meet you! I love your blog and P31 ministries for hosting this carnival/tour today! It has given me a chance to get to know so many new friends!
Thank you for your heart and for sharing!
xoxo,
Melissa in Mel's World
I have found that I have missed gems raising my children. Too busy many times to just do fun and crazy things at their level. I have much more time now with my grandchildren and have seen the gems I lost with my own children but am enjoying those now with my precious grandchildren. God is so good...he always comes through for us.
I would have to say that I do this more to myself than to anyone else. I think this would be such a great article for my daughter to read. I have to somehow convince myself of this truth. It's a great article!! Thanks so much for sharing.
Blessings,
Mimi
mnjesusfreak at gmail dot com
I really love this story and it reminds me to continually look for the good in people despite unpleasant behavior. It reminds me of a crusty oyster; it doesn't look desireable on the outside, and the speck of dirt that irritates the inner lining is used by God to create something amazingly beautiful. God can use the pain in our lives to create gems!
dzajac@earthlink.net
The women in my Bible Study on Monday nights have been such a blessing and a treasure to me :)
I have been guilty of this in my youth ministry. You have those kids that say and do all the right things and you think how you are to have such great kids in your program. But sometimes you get the ones that say and do all the wrong things. It would be easier if they just decided not to come anymore, but they are the ones that really need you. Early in my career I dismissed one of these less than perfect teens, and it was the wrong thing to do. Now I remind myself of that whenever I feel that the group would work better without a specific teen. I try everything I can to reach all of my teens because they are all a treasure that was created by God, and he led them to my group for a reason.
My gem that I miss...my daughter who is off at college. Yes, we keep in touch daily. But she is a true joy - and inspiration to me and others. She loves the Lord with great passion and zeal. :)
I know that I miss many "gems" with my husband and children. Thanks for the reminder to stop and savor them!
My gems are my children. I have 3 girls. I have a 20 year old who is awesome and brings so much joy to my life. Also, I have twins who are 17, (Amber is with Jesus). Amber and Ashley were born handicapped and I was given gems the day they were born. What blessings my girls have been in my life and I am glad
that I opened those gifts to see the treasure inside each one of my girls.
Thanks for letting me share.
Debbie
A few months ago my children and I were playing in our den floor. At that time they were 1 and 8 months. I thought it would be fun to sing some songs with them. I sat them down in front of me and started singing. They both quietly looked up at me, as if they were saying with their eyes, "Teach me, Mommy."
I never want to get so consumed that I miss these opportunities-these gems that I will treasure forever- to spend time with my children, and to be a woman of character that displays a Christlike attitude.
Thank you,
Jessica S.
jessweety2@aol.com
The real gem for me is my Lord and Savior! Please help me Lord to find the gem in my husband again! We have been married for 17 years and have lost the joy we once had! I am on a mission to find that joy and passion we once had! We have 4 daughters, one is with the Lord, and would love for them to see their parents "in like" with each other again! We are wasting precious, precious time here!!
Bless you for your ministry!
Stacy
scottkirch@sbcglobal.net
I have come to a place in my walk with Chirst that I am learning how to celebrate Hidden Treasures. With is the Lord in my life. And me being a child of God in his KINGDOM. My email is victory-n-christ@hotmail.com and it says it all for me
Hi Charlene! What a beautiful post. I love that story about the clay balls. It was so touching and made me think about something that happened recently. I work with children at our local public school. There is one little boy who never seems to get his school work done and is always doing something he shouldn't. Well on Valentines Day, he was so proud to give me a large heart shaped box of chocolates. I made sure I went over to thank him and as I was leaving the room afterward, he ran over and hugged me with such a sweet and sincere hug. I almost started to cry. I saw a different side to him that I had almost failed to see because of my earlier impatience. That is my treasure found story.
I would love to read the "A Life That Says Welcome" book. It is my desire to make others feel as special as God made them. Of course who wouldn't also love a Starbucks card.
Thank you Charlene!
Lee Ann
What a neat story. We all need to always deep just a little deeper to get to know someone.
A gem I am so glad to see is my youngest dancing. What a joy it brings to my heart.
Very moving story! I think we are all guilty of judging before thinking! I love being around people and love to share my home, so I think this book would be very useful!
I have lost some gems with my son..I have noticed lately how talented he is and I have started complimenting and encouraging him...Our relationship has been a struggle, but we are working on it..
Living in a Bible college setting, our home is literally surrounded by other christian couples. Our first year, I kept to myself and my work. Last year, I decided to get involved. As a result, the friendships developed with my godly neighbors are a constant challenge and encouragement to me in my walk with Christ!
I began working in a nursing home this past week and really got to know the patients on a level that many people do not take the time to do. I was able to uncover and see these wonderful souls that stay hidden so much of the time they are there. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity and time to get to know these patients. I encourage everyone to never judge a book by its cover :)
I found a gem in my now best friend of 16 years. I met her in beauty school and I was too shy to talk to her first but she approached me and I could not have found a better "gem" of a friend in her. :) lisadavis008@aol.com
I believe that in the new church my husband and I are attending are some gems waiting to be uncovered. I am a bit scared because of past hurts, but with God's help I will not allow these hurts to keep me from making new friends (gems) and discovering all that HE has for me and these other women!
http://adviceformommies.blogspot.com/
I would love to have this book! I could really use the help. :)
Michelle
mpsuess1@yahoo.com
The real "gem" I have missed is not being close to the Lord in my younger years of life. I ask myself and God....why did it take me until I was 55 to begin to really study God's word! Glad I finally made it!
What a beautiful story! I think I threw away some gems today. My kids have had an extra long break off from school due to snow days and I have not ben appreciating a full house like I should! Thanks for reminding me to always see the beauty in the gems I have been blessed with!
I disvovered thru Suicide Loss of a spouse the hidden in the Valley GEMS of new Praise thru deep grief for a Savior who loves me yet as I wailed in sorrow. I discovered that Prayer means EVERYTHINg as we crawl..as we learn that LIFE is still valuable. I discovered just how strong I am in Christ..I discovered that dethorning of Old had to come for the New Faith growth to happen. I discovered my BRIDEGROOM in a much deeper way =) And I also discovered I am fuller of compassion..full of Beauty even thru Ashes. Isaiah 61 1-3. I have discovered a NEW SONG even tho I hurt.
I was blessed to be offered a job at my alma mata in April 2009. It's an awesome feeling to be able to give where you got. This blessing has allowed me to have blessings overflowing and one of those is a student name Erica. The short story is that Erica attended the university a year prior to my arrival, but did not done well. A gem is an understatement. The truth is she has uncovered/discovered me.
~Nadia
PtyGrl19oh8@aol.com
My gems are my children. It is so easy to get tied up trying to keep the laundry done, the house cleaned or at least straightened, the school responsibilities taken care of, supper cooked, and so on. I am a stay at home mom and I need to stop and enjoy my gems! Otherwise what is the point of staying at home with them? I pray for patience and a peace that all the housework will always be there, but my babies won't always be little!
Several years ago a family was visiting our church. They definitely stood out because (1)we are a small church and (2) They were of a distinct different color than anyone in the congregation. I greeted them and talked more indepth with the wife - finding out that they were not only new to the church - but the community and the US! That was the beginning of a precious friendship and many memories!
I have recently uncovered a rare gem in a childhood friend who has become a Christian in adulthood. God has preserved our friendship over the years, and has recently brought us together again at church, singing the the choir and enjoying sharing our journeys over lunches after Bible Study. "God is faithful" is a gem for everyday.
Earlier today I clicked on your blog, just skimmed it and then read what you requested..have we ever overlooked a "gem".. Well I didnt have time to read the entire story or comment...I made a note to do it tonight. It's pretty ironic that you mentioned children..that was my first thought when I skimmed it this afternoon. So many times I've complained about traits of my girls. One is being too slow, being a pack rat, drama queen, one is reserved, on guard, etc. Many times I have to stop myself and say "hey, God created them this way, and HE is going to use them for something with these characteristics that are bugging me right now". Thanks for the reminder!
For me, after spending 40 years hating God, I found a gem - Jesus, and one of the people the Holy Spirit used to bring me to Christ was my pastor who spent two years helping me deal with the father wounds that kept me away from God. Then, surprise of all surprises, I found where Christ was in the midst of the pain of my past, and realized that I did not walk through all that stuff alone. God is so awesome!!!
A new coworker that I've been tossed in with. I really like her and yet didn't like the fact that my job changed and I was moved in with her.
She's a strong committed Christian and I know that GOD HAS A PLAN for both of us.
I'm glad I have a sister to work with now.
My husband is my gem even though I don't treat him as such. He deploys alot so I miss the times to appreciate my gem until he's gone.
williamsmay2000@yahoo.com
My unexpected gem is hands-down, my husband. God brought him to me and though I wasn't seeing it at the time, he persevered and pursued me. Thankfully, I listened to the Lord and we are now more in love than ever, after a couple of very hard, tumultuous years in the beginning. This year marks 5 years of marriage, 5 years of allowing God to lead me and 5 years of allowing this wonderful, Godly man to love me. All of me.
Thanks for the reminder!
I so enjoy showing God's love thru hospitality to others. I would love to have some new ideas for making those times more welcoming and loving in serving the Lord this way.
Blessings,
Sue
My gem is my husband!!! I continue to uncover his value more and more each day! I've been truly blessed by this man in more ways than I can count!
is there anything better? I think not :-)
thanks for the blessing
kagreene62@comcast.net
The most precious gem in my life is Christ. It's because of Him that I'm rich in ways that nothing on earth can provide.
I recently discovered my children as my gems - seeing the value that they have in God's eyes and forgetting the cost of less sleep and less time for my own desires.
jenniferleannbarnes@gmail.com
I don't know if this applies but at this moment it's all I can think about on the eve of Lent. I've chosen to give up something that keeps me I guess you could say anti-social. It is not quite an obsession but something I've recently felt convicted I hold a bit too tight a grip on. So. I'm waiting to discover this Lent season what gem in my life have I kept repressed by holding on this certain thing. What "gem" will I learn about myself, that I'll realize I've kept hidden for too long.
lisa07110@yahoo.com
p.s. what's funny is that your giveaway is all about my sacrifice and giving up coffee was my 2nd choice.
I have found some beautiful gems in my womens group. Each have such wonderful stories and we learning so much about each other.
I'm trying to focus on discovering the "gems" in my son, who is 6. He can be very high maintenance at times. Recently I have looked for those gems: his ability to draw pictures very well, his desire to always help me with dinner, his interest in animals. What a treat when I focus on the positives, and not the negatives!
such a beautiful illustration.
thank you.
a real gem in my life is an elderly man who worked for years as a janitor at our church. he has recently retired & i miss him. every morning he would shuffle by my desk to remove the trash from the previous day. he would be humming a tune then as soon as he would see me he would stop & ask me how i was, how my family was. i knew he genuinely cared & was never too busy to hear my response. he often shared as tears would well up in his eyes what God was teaching him. the love for his precious Lord & Savior was so evident. he would end our time with a warm smile & a word of encouragement. his gentle way surely reflected the love of Christ. i am so thankful to God for this gem!
Thank you so much for the great post!
I am encouraged to keep praying over a relationship with a person who is a friend of my DH. I have, several times, decided to become closer to this person, but given up because I have issues with the person he was at one time. I know how wrong this is and unfair my actions are. Your post reminded me that we all have layers of clay covering the gem portion of us at times! No one is perfect and he has a huge kind heart and loves the Lord----and THAT is what I should be looking at....not his past. I need to trust God more.....let go and let God. I know deep inside I am to be a friend to this person.
Dear God keep working on me so I can be the person YOU want me to be to this person and everyone else!
I usually am the "gem" finder and try to find the gem in situations or people.
My gem is my family. Sometimes we tend to overlook the little things in life. Trying to uncover more of those!
Oh-! The gems I miss right now are the present moments with my children. I seem to focus on the task not the person.
This really convicts my heart because for about a month now the Lord continues to press upon my heart to "see" His children. Really SEE them. From my family, to my church family, to the people I walk pass on the street.
The other day I really noticed how on a very busy day, at a very busy time our waiter at a restaraunt was having a really bad day. EVERYONE was upset with him and all his work was backed up. I was tempted to get upset after my children were waiting to eat for over and hour and they were getting fussy and he never even stopped at our table to say anything. But the Lord allowed me to see what kind of a day he was having and that he needed some encouragement. I ended up leaving him a big tip, knowing alot of people probably didn't, left him an encouraging note with something that had my church name written on it. I pray I see him next Sunday with his family.
My gem...a friend that at times has been unlovable. This friendship is often difficult, and requires much work, but then again, what relationship doesn't?
I recently joined a weight loss support group. One of the women in the group seemed so brash and loud and I felt like she was going to be a distraction for the rest of the group. As the weeks went on, and I started to listen to what she was saying, I realized how similar we are and how much I enjoyed her.
That's right. We fail to see with God's eyes. We fail to look at the heart, at the real person God loves.
Charlene,
I guess I should say I have 'recovered' a gem in the Proverbs 31 Ministry! As I look back on the tough times we have had since leaving Charlotte 10 years ago, I appreciate even more the relationships formed while I was with P31. I look forward to catching up with you very soon!
In His Love,
Cynthia Owens
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