I've been doing a study on the Greek word praotes. It means "gentleness." Gentleness is definitely an area God has been working on in my life. So I was a little scared to go too deep with at first. I was thinking it was going to be the same thing as praying for patience - we all know better than to do that : ) So, what I've started to lean is that this little 6 letter word is not so simple. Just listen to this definition: " Primarily it doesn't denote outward expression of feeling, but an inward grace of the soul, calmness toward God in particular. It is the acceptance of God's dealings with us considering them as good in that they enhance the closeness of our relationship with Him."

And then if that's not mind blowing enough, the definition goes on to say: "Praotes encompasses expressing wrath toward the sin of man as demonstrated by the Lord Jesus. . .This meekness does not blame God for the persecutions and evil doings of man. It is not the result of weakness. . .but the activity of the blessedness that exists in one's heart from being actively angry at evil. . .That virtue that stands between two extremes, uncontrollable and unjustified anger, and not becoming angry at all no matter what takes place around you."

So, basically it means stop fighting God. And how do I stop fighting God. Well, submit (Jeremiah 26:14, Acts 14:22, John 16:33) even when I know in advance it will cause suffering , humble myself (Titus 3:1-2, Phillppians 2:3) not only before Him but others as well , have a teachable spirit (James 1:21, Psalms 119: 71-72) to whatever He wants to teach me and then teach others (2 Timothy 2:24 - 26). "It's just impossible," I thought. But I can't just give up on it. To think of not having gentleness. . .well that's just plain ugly. So, after some serious one on one time with the Lord I decided I had no other choice but to seek after gentleness and boy has my life been filled with opportunities to practice it!!. .. so it IS like praying for patience : )

I've been on this one word all month so to say it all would take a looong time and I know that only my mom would want to read all that : ) I want to be like Jesus, I want to be a gentle giant, the calmness in the storm.

Our team (of foreigners) was cut in half today as Brooks and Brenda headed to the airport. They'll be in the states for about 8 months and until then we have big shoes to fill. Brooks and Brenda have been trying their hardest to help Blake and I get a clue as to what is going on and we are hoping that all their hours spent with us will not have been in vain. This afternoon has been extremely calm. . .kind of like the calm before the storm : )

Everyone gathered for breakfast this morning the say good-bye and send them on their way. Here we all are:


AND we couldn't be more thankful that our supervisor is back from the states. She arrived 2 weeks ago and has hit the ground running. Not to mention she's got these two new folks who are still wet behind the ears to deal with. She has been very patient and has only had to hit Blake once so far. Pray for unity as we join forces.