• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Lavenda's Closet

  • HOME
  • YOUTUBE
  • MY CLOSET
  • PRESS
  • ABOUT
  • Personal Styling

Impossible Runaway

Outfit Of the Day, sophisticated, Thoughts on God

When God speaks, I don’t know how it’s possible for us to not listen. Perhaps it’s our greatest skill as humans to shut our ears. But when he speaks and we hear him, it’s so much more than simply perceiving sound- it’s like being set on fire. Because, yeah, that’s exactly what this is. It feels quite like I’ve been set on fire.

Images from NYFW 2018- Shop Below

My heart burns and aches and there’s no other way to describe the weight and the humbling knowledge that God is so good. That he loves us. That it’s not complicated, his love. It’s us who complicate the whole thing. We want to make sense of his love, we want to measure, define or earn his love…

We are exactly like spoiled children with God and just like a loving Father should, He loves us despite ourselves. Which brings me to a kind- of story I’d like to share…

Let’s picture God as a Father walking with his children in the country. They’re wearing fresh, clean clothes, they have snacks, treats and fresh, cold water in each of their backpacks for a picnic that he’s already set up just down the road.

Now imagine one of these kids begins to run. Let’s say she’s 4 years old. Anyhow, she begins to run as fast as she can, because it feels so good to her to be free. She yells, “Thank you daddy!” before holding tight to her bag straps and then running full force ahead. She thinks to herself how proud he will be that she’ll get there early and lay everything out and set it up for them. She envisions his proud face when he realized she did it- all by herself.

So she begins to run. And within seconds she’s kicked up so much dirt that her clothes are filthy. The rush of running ahead spurs her on though, until she get’s dirt in her eyes and begins to cry. She feels instant anger at her Father, who took her on this stupid afternoon walk in the first place. She throws down her backpack and kicks it hard, hurting her own little foot and scattering all the neatly packed treats that were inside onto the road. The dirt is still swirling around her, so she can’t see that far out and she begins to cry even harder. She realizes that she ran too far ahead and left her dad behind. How will he find her, she wonders. Her foot is throbbing, her food and water are gone and now all she can see is dirt in all directions… So she places her head into her arms on the ground and cries out.

But the thing is that she’s just a child, remember? To be honest, the coordination of a 4- year old may not even be so efficient as to call it “running”. And even if she had been somewhat quick in her sprint, hello, her Father was always going to be close behind. His leisurely stride kept him at pace right beside her, only she was too busy amidst her own short-term plans for adventure and glory to see him.

And this is exactly what we do, right? We kick up so much dust in our misplaced efforts, that it literally blinds us. It’s self-inflicted- all of it. In our haste to get ahead, we lose out on all these gifts and blessings that God’s prepared for us along the way and instead of stepping out of our own little dirt storms, we settle deeper and cry out only to blame God for our suffering…

So, what feels like hours pass for this child, which is more likely a minute or two, before her father leans down and picks her up. He holds her and whispers how much he loves her. How precious she is. He kisses her toe despite her angry protests and she scowls at his smile as he brushes off her dress and then holds her tight again again.

But its her dad, you know. So of course, she finally softens her little body and leans against him, allowing his arms to cover her entire little body.

As I hope we all get to do at some point- surrender and let him love us.

Ephesians 2:4-5 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, evenwhen we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ— by grace you have been saved.

It cracks me up because the way that I picture God in my mind is very human-like. I can’t comprehend the awe and Glory of being in his presence so when I picture him, I apply all of these human characteristics. I see him chuckling at us, because he sees the humor in our tiny, sordid efforts. He sees how hard we strive to please him and yet how short we will inevitably fall in those efforts. He even blesses us and hands us tools to use along the way, but he knows that we won’t always hold onto them, accept them or use them. He get’s that we are incapable of being completely whole on our own.

So yeah, I picture God looking down with a genuine smile and chuckling at his children. But it’s not as if he’s laughing at us. Not at all. It’s more an expression or a glimmer of his love for us, that instead of being angry with us for running away or deliberately doing wrong, he simply stands alongside and watches over.

Romans 8:37-39 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Read More HERE.

Sharing a look from NYFW in this post… the cover image really reminded me of this topic, so it seemed to fit 😉 Shop the look:

Newer Posts
Older Posts

Reader Interactions

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Comments

  1. Tonya Michelle says

    March 2, 2018 at 2:58 am

    I love this suit — those studded booties ARE LIFE. Keep killing’ it babe <3

    Reply
    • lavendamemory@gmail.com says

      March 5, 2018 at 10:45 am

      Thank you Tonya!

      Reply
  2. Helena Marz says

    March 2, 2018 at 1:58 pm

    What a lovely read! I really enjoyed reading this uplifting post and I think it is a great reminder for all of us to see God’s love for us is very powerful! ❤️

    Reply
    • lavendamemory@gmail.com says

      March 5, 2018 at 10:45 am

      Thanks for reading Helena and I agree- his love is just an extension of himself. Has nothing to do with us other than we are the recipients. Which is AWESOME 🙂

      Reply
  3. Carolyn says

    March 2, 2018 at 3:41 pm

    Such a lovely post! I love the verses you chose. The pictures along with this post are great too!

    Reply
    • lavendamemory@gmail.com says

      March 5, 2018 at 10:44 am

      Thanks so much love. I feel like I gravitate towards certain verses when I’m hearing God 🙂

      Reply
  4. Helen says

    March 3, 2018 at 7:38 am

    So well written dear and great you have so much faith and devotion!

    I am in love with that striped suit though! Total boss lady look xx

    Reply
    • lavendamemory@gmail.com says

      March 5, 2018 at 10:43 am

      Thank youuuuuu haha!

      Reply
  5. adriana says

    March 5, 2018 at 3:59 pm

    So perfect for NYFW! You look great, love these looks! They’re so classic and chic!

    Reply
    • lavendamemory@gmail.com says

      March 8, 2018 at 2:31 pm

      Really appreciate it girl 🙂

      Reply
  6. Celeste Godoy says

    March 13, 2018 at 1:49 am

    Absolutely love this post and that outfit looks so amazing on you!

    Reply

Primary Sidebar

Lavenda's Closet

Meet Lavenda

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Recent Posts

Newport Family Beach Trip: Agate Beach Best Western

Maternity Beach Shoot: Cannon Beach

The Maternity Edit: 5 Looks you Need in Your Closet for 2nd Trimester

Advertise Onlavendascloset
Get Started
Follow

@lavendascloset

Felt a little saucy in this dress, so I had to do Felt a little saucy in this dress, so I had to do a little dance. 🎶💃🏻 #RevolveU #7MonthsPregnant

This is cut so beautifully, that it will fit at any point of your pregnancy, even pre and post! I love the huge, puffy sleeves and flirty hemline. Just have to get a better bra option, since the ones I have don’t quite give me the coverage I want for the low-V. 🙈 #LukeAndLavenda

The sun was a gorgeous red this entire shoot, (from smoke blowing in I believe). 😰 But even still, it made for a lovely sunset.

Shop my #maternitystyle now! Dresses like this seem to sell out quick! http://liketk.it/2YI70 #liketkit @liketoknow.it #ltkpregnancy #ltkmaternity

#maternitystyle #maternityfashion #lavendalately #oregonblogger #powellbutte #maternityshoot #maternitydresses #pregnancyfashion #revolveambassador
This girlie turns 11 next week and I just can’t This girlie turns 11 next week and I just can’t believe how quickly it continues to go by!

While we don’t ever “get it right” as parents, I’ve been pretty blessed to see Ella’s knowledge and love for God continue to grow over the last few years, which gives me the greatest confidence in her future being a bright one! Who’s a better influence, am I right?

Growing up, I didn’t have a mom who consistently loved and cared for me, so it wasn’t modeled for me in those early years. As I grew up, I was blessed to get a peak into other homes and spend time with other family members who modeled a healthier dynamic of parent to child for me, but because of my childhood I’ve often lacked the confidence that my instincts are on track with Ella. Now that I have three girls and a fourth kiddo on the way, I am relieved to see that A: Ella is doing alright so far. And B: God offers age-old wisdom in the Bible for those of seeking parenting  advice.

Be kind, gentle and patient. Teach and stand up for the truth. 

Anyhow, just taking a pause to reflect on where I’ve been and where we are today. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and retreat into reactionary mode with our kids. I know I have during this “new normal”. But slowing down, cutting back and taking the time to reflect on our goals can be SO healing and refreshing. Thankful for Luke, who lovingly shares the load so that I’m not alone in it... 

I hope you all have a great week, despite the hustle. Lots of love from one mama to another. 😉

#familyfirst #lavendalately #portlandblogger #familyblogger #christianblogger #salishanresort
Besos y Besos 🥰 #7monthspregnant #pinkblushma Besos y Besos 🥰 

#7monthspregnant
#pinkblushmaternity
27 weeks PREGNANT tomorrow! I can’t believe how 27 weeks PREGNANT tomorrow! I can’t believe how fast it’s still flying by. Hopefully it’s smooth sailing all the way till delivery.

In the meantime, anyone want to help me pick out the perfect white crib? 😰
#pregnancyfashion #pregnancystyle #portlandphotographer #maternityfashion
Who knew I’d end up with such a hunky baby daddy Who knew I’d end up with such a hunky baby daddy, am I right, or am I right? 🙋🏽‍♀️😜 #RevolveU 

Almost 7 months along and Luke’s hair is growing right alongside this #BabyBump. He keeps getting “you look like Auqua Man” which I don’t quite see. What about you? 🤪  #LukeAndLavenda

Anyhow, thanks SO much @baileavesphotography for capturing this gorgeous shot! My dress is fully in stock and I linked up the hat too! More photos from this shoot coming soon. http://liketk.it/2Ym5f #liketkit @liketoknow.it #ltkmaternity

#maternitystyle #maternityfashion #pregnancystyle #pregnancystyle #27weekspregnant #7monthspregnant #portlandblogger #lablogger #maternityshoot #maternitydress #revolveXme #revolvesummer #couplegoals #cutestcouple
TOP HACK for shopping non-maternity dresses during TOP HACK for shopping non-maternity dresses during your pregnancy?

Look for smocked dresses and/or tops for a super flexible waistline. I prefer them to be cut a-line or babydoll so that it accentuates my baby bump. This dress was a super cute date-night find that I’ll layer up with boots all Fall.

Anyone else pulling out their tall boots already? Shop the look here: http://liketk.it/2YiyL #liketkit @liketoknow.it #ltkmaternity

#maternityfashion #pregancyfashion #pregnancystyle #portlandblogger #27weekspregnant #bcbgeneration
Anyone wanna dust 2020 off their boots and join me Anyone wanna dust 2020 off their boots and join me in the new year already? #LetsGo!

Wearing last seasons TopShop dress over the #babybump but linked up some similar options for ya! Also found some majorly cute white combat boots starting at $65!!

 http://liketk.it/2YcpW #liketkit @liketoknow.it #ltkmaternity

#pregnancystyle #pregnancyfashion #portlandblogger #fallfashion #lavendascloset #lavendalately
Snagged this dress for $12 without trying it on! E Snagged this dress for $12 without trying it on! Ended up fitting quite nice for our date night last week!

One piece of advice I received years and years ago, was “marriage will always take intention and work, so make time for it.” Thus, a weekly date night. ☺️

#LukeAndLavenda

#portlandcouple #cutestcouples #maternityfashion #maternitydresses #pregnancystyle #lavendalately
Okay, so it’s finally beginning to look and feel Okay, so it’s finally beginning to look and feel like FALL 🍂 around here. I’m both excited and absolutely dreading this season. (More on that in a sec.) first thing’s first: can we talk about how gooooood these overalls for mama-to-be’s?

Linked up this exact pair, though I recommend sizing up, or selecting the pair I found on ASOS if you’re already quite prominent or in your third trimester. (The fit on these is quite small.)

Also found these @stellamcartney sneakers for 30% off which is a steal on this designer splurge. 

Now, back to reality: Can we please talk about how the “new normal” relies on millions of mamas (and papas too) to choose between their career and caring for their kids? After failing my first quiz of the term, (I waited till the last day to turn it in, which was the first full day I had without kiddos, only to discover the hours of reading, study and notes were in vain. It had been due to DAY PREVIOUS 😱) I’m finding myself considering the possibility that I can’t “do it all” right now. Between the girls virtual school schedule, my college schedule and my beloved blog, (not to mention the daily challenges of an active pregnancy) I’m finding myself stretched too thin to succeed at ANY OF THEM. Trust me, Luke is in the same boat. He has to help with our littlest ones, while maintaining a full time job as well.

I mean, how’s everyone doing? What kind of cut-backs and compromises are parents making out there? Delegation is great, if you have the resources, but I know not everyone can afford tutors and private sitters in a world that has CANCELED affordable childcare.

Asking for a friend. 🙄

http://liketk.it/2Y493 #liketkit @liketoknow.it #maternitystyle

#portlandblogger #babybump #maternityfashion #lablogger #lavendalately #pregnancystyle #pregnancyfashion #prettyinpinkblush
26 WEEKS PREGNANT! Two weeks from my third trimest 26 WEEKS PREGNANT! Two weeks from my third trimester and feeling pretty good so far. 

Best part? I can eat a whole steak dinner by myself now ( Sorry Luke 🤪)!!

Trying to stay toned with a few weight workouts each week, but missing the gym to be honest. We’ll see how much weight I end up gaining by the end. Any guesses?

#26weekspregnant #maternitystyle #pregnancystyle #pregnancyfashion #lavendalately #portlandblogger #hutchdesign
Just after these shots, I cut two inches off my ha Just after these shots, I cut two inches off my hair. Does anyone else do self-trims from home? 

Get my #BabyBump style on the @liketoknow.it app or hit up my stories to shop similar styles! This mini Gucci is such a classic and one of their most affordable bags. All linked up and ready to shop! http://liketk.it/2XQB8 #liketkit #ltkmaternity 

#26weekspregnant #secondtrimester #maternitystyle #maternityfashion #pregnancyfashion #portlandblogger
26 WEEKS PREGNANT in just 3 days!!! That’s two 26 WEEKS PREGNANT in just 3 days!!! 

That’s two weeks away from the 3rd trimester and I still haven’t picked out a crib 🙈 Help!! I’ve gotten the hang of layering the #BabyBump as it continues to grow exponentially at this point. The girls keep staring at me with wide eyes and asking where my stomach went. 🤣🤪

You can shop my #RevolveU look fresh on the site. Wearing the blazer & jacket in an XS. Shoes are on sale and so is my leather tote bag! Shop them here: http://liketk.it/2XMfb 

Or double tap to have it sent via email/the @liketoknow.it app. ❤️ Not on there? Check out my stories for a link. #liketkit #ltkmaternity #ltkstyle #revolveme 

#babybumpstyle #maternitystyle #maternityfashion #pregnancystyle #pregnancyfashion #6monthspregnant #giginewyork
Follow on Instagram
This error message is only visible to WordPress admins

Copyright © 2021 · Lavenda's Closet · Designed by Small Shop & Developed by Bella Creative Studio