Why Are We Here Again? Guest Post By JP Kavanaugh

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

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

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

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

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

More Volunteers Needed for Metropolitan Ministries Event!

Hey Ladies,

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

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

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

Thanks!

The Glorious Throne, by April McCullohs

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

 
I imagine it's a funny thing.

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To receive our heart-cries.

To direct His attention our way.

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

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

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

And then sing your heart out.  

Metropolitan Ministries Service Project, November 20

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Looking forward to serving with you!

Guest Devotional - Alexis Albright

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

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

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

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

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

Guest Devotional - Blaine Albright

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

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

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

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

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

New Guest Series!

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

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

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

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

When will it end? By Connie Smith

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

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

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

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

CATB Ladies' Breakfast, October 16

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

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

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

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

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

Hungry, by April McCullohs

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

Jeremiah 15:16

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

And then we ate. A lot.

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

Fatigue.

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

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

The same thing happens in our spiritual lives.

It's the principal of Metabolism.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

let's get hungry for more of Jesus. 

What about you? 

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

Football Game Night, September 17!

Hey Ladies!


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


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

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

Hope to see you there!

How to get the most out of your Home Team!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Women's Home Teams start this Week!

Hello CATB ladies,

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

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

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

Michele Laccabue

mlaccabue@tampabay.rr.com

Hi Ladies, 

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

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

Sandy Mayer

sandy@churchatthebay.com 

No More Excuses, by Sandy Mayer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When My Faith Feels Cold, by Dawn Camp

When My Faith Feels Cold

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

And He does.

by Dawn Camp, My Home Sweet Home

4 Days Left to RSVP!

Hey Ladies! 

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

The deadline is Sunday, August 8. 

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

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

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

Refuting Satan's Lies, by Chrissy Mayer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Guest Devotional - April McCullohs

I've got a bright green door.

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

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

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

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

Because that's the way we live.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Guest Devotional - Stacy Heckman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Guest Devotional - Alexis Albright

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Second Dinner & Devo's- July 17

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

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

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

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

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

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

Devotional by Connie Smith

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Being of One's Hour, Reflection by Susan Rose

Being of One’s Hour

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

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

 Psalm 139:13-18 (New Living Translation)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Publish Post

Dinner & Devo's Additional Info

We forgot to include the time!

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

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

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

Dinner & Devo's, June 26

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

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


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

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

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

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

We hope to see you!

Girls' Game Night, June 18

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

(rolling dice for points). 

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

See your friends and meet new ones! 

We'll be enjoying appetizers and slushy drinks. 

Where: 

Sue Gossett's house

16511 Turnbury Drive (The Eagels)

Tampa, FL 33556

(813) 472-9320

When: 

Friday, June 18

7:00-9:00 p.m.

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

Bring $3 to cover cost of drinks and snacks. 

Looking forward to seeing you!