Faith, Family and Friends!

Trusting God!

2011-12-07T20:48:00.001-06:00

Please read Acts 27 and 28 of the journey that Paul experienced!

"Can I trust God even when my life gets stormy? Can I trust Him even when things go unexpectedly wrong? Can I trust Him even when my situation is so discouraging that I see no way out? Will I trust Him even when things seem hopeless?" Oh my, I wonder how many times I have asked these questions and several more in the last few months! In my posts, I seem to be stuck on this subject because of all the trauma in my life. If you have been following me then you know that my sweetheart of 27 years was diagnosed with cancer in June of this year. I can't begin to fill you in on everything and there would be no need anyway. This post is about trusting God no matter what! This roller coaster ride has taken me to the very bottom where I didn't think my heart could stand the pain and then to where I would soar with hope that he would live and be healthy again. Now the ride is not over with, right now we are home with physical therapy trying to get him on his feet so that we can finish treatment. I can't tell you what the outcome will be, only God knows. But I can tell you in the last week, peace has settled in my heart. Not peace that I will be okay if the end result is not what I want, but just peace, like the roller coaster ride has smoothed out a bit. This peace that comes from knowing God is in control. We all pray for God's will and then we find our scriptures to hang on to. This is standing firm in our faith, but what if this is not God's perfect plan? Do you see where I am going? I am believing for complete healing for this man that has my heart, but what if it is time for him to go home? I truly believe that trusting God is the hardest thing to do! Oh, we are full of faith but when the storms come, I will admit to you, my faith has wavered more than once. So what do we do? I have no answers nor has anyone else had one for me. Why do bad things happen to the children of God? Still no answers! It is for me just taking one day at a time, staying in the Word and continuing to believe in God. Is it easy? Not hardly, it is the hardest thing I have ever had to do. Will all this be used for the Glory of God? The Word says it will be, and will it be worth it somehow? Well, I guess I am still out on that one. I am trying so hard not to discourage you with my words, but somehow just show you my heart and it is just being honest with you. I have experienced every kind of emotion that can be imagined in this situation, I have blamed God (yes, I said that) and questioned Him for His motives in allowing this disease. I just also have to believe that God understands, after all He made me and knows full well my weakness and frailties. So where do we go from here? As I stated before, it is one day at a time, and trying not to figure out everything, which is silly. I am praying for my unbelief, for my faith to be strengthened and I am praying no matter what happens I will be faithful. This ride we are on leads to our destination of Heaven, there to be with Jesus for ever and ever. So no matter what happens, we will stay focused on Him who never leaves or forsakes us. Him who loves us and said He would never put more on us than we can stand but would make a way of escape. "Just allow God to still the storms" ! Thank you for your prayers and letting me share with you this ride. I pray God's richest blessing on your life, and if it is a while before I pen another post, Merry Christmas. May it be the memorable ever!

Check out Spiritual Sundays, link follows: you will be blessed
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/12/welcome-back-again.html

Preparation in the Desert!

2011-09-21T21:42:00.002-05:00

Luke 1:80

And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness [in the desert] until the day of his public appearance to Israel.

Have you ever had a desert experience? You know the times in your life where you feel alone and surely this cannot be a part of God's plan for your life? Well, if you haven't, you will have! Sound harsh? We cannot ignore parts of the Bible when He tells us there will be valleys, deserts, times of trials and testing. So what do we do when our heart breaks? How do we react to these tragedies? Two words! Trust God! From the time you begin reading in Genesis and end in Revelation, we are told to trust the One who created us. It is very hard to do this when we don't understand what is going on. But if you really believe that ALL things work together to the good to those that love the Lord and are called according to HIS purpose (Romans 8:28)! Then what else can you do? I know many of you are going through some difficult times, we sure are, so I just want to encourage you that God is in control if you will let Him be. He will lead and guide, if you will let Him and He will never leave you, but you need to stay close. Your words are powerful when they are faith filled! Speak healing and health to your loved ones, be encouraging to those around you that are hurting. Really show folks you care! Jesus taught us about love, it was His whole purpose because people are the most important thing to Him. He loves us and will never let us down. And be patient if things don't happen when we think they should, could it be because we are not ready? Time is a mystery to us but God knows the beginning, middle and end. We get stuck in the middle some time, but if we don't give up and just keep believing and TRUST Him, we will learn to grow in those hard times and be strong in our faith. Will there be more deserts? You can count on it! But every time we are out there, our faith grows. Then and only then are we (in Him) a comfort and help to others. As you read this my prayers are for you to be strengthened and stand firm. Find out who you are in Christ and believe those promises are for you.
Blessings to you! (Please check out Spiritual Sundays, you will be blessed!
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/09/welcome-friends.html

Just Say "Thank You"

2011-08-23T17:52:00.001-05:00

Philippians 4:6

(New Living Translation)

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.

I have heard and do believe that the most powerful of prayers is to tell God "Thank You" and probably one of the hardest things to do. How in the world can we be thankful when we are faced with things so hard we can't even think straight? It is not the thing that is happening we are thankful for, it is realizing that there is a purpose and plan straight from God Himself! And in the middle of it we are being stretched and called upon to exercise our faith. Faith is of course believing and trusting in not what we see, but what we don't see. I am reminded so many times of Job and all that he went through. Not understanding but trusting, oh yes, he had his moments, we all do, but ultimately restored with his faith stronger than ever. What a testimony he still has, and what a testimony we will have when we stand firm and strong. I am certain in these times we live in, you are or will be faced with trials and heartaches that you think you cannot bear, just remember to say Thank You to the One that will truly not let you down. It is ok to tell your Father how you feel as Job did, but ask what it is that He wants to show you. Ask how He will use this not only for you but those you are around. It is also a command not a suggestion in scripture that we come to Him with thanksgiving in our heart. As I have said so many times in my blog, life is hard! We have to go beyond our comfort zone in order to trust God. I pray blessings on you as you have been so kind to stop by and I do apologize for being lax in my posts. So much is going on with my husband and this battle with cancer that just getting through the day is a bit overwhelming. Thank you for your prayers! I will be giving updates on his condition, as we will be here at the Cancer Center of America in Zion Illinois for at least five months!
Stand firm and be thankful! God is working and He has a plan for your life!

Please check out Spiritual Sunday, you will be blessed! link follows:
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/08/hello-everyone.html

Moving Forward!

2011-07-16T13:18:00.000-05:00

There are times when you must trust God, times when all you or anyone else can do is not enough! Have you ever been there? Have you been or are you faced with life coming at you like a fierce storm? If this doesn't apply to you now, it probably will before you exit this old world. I am not trying to be discouraging today, but encouraging that when these times come your way, you will know that God's Word is true and no matter what happens, He is not only with you, but will make a way for escape if you can't bear it! This is exactly what is happening to us now as we are on this journey. Surgery was first on the agenda and it happened yesterday and recovery is in the process now. Do we know what will happen? No, but God does. Will it always be good news? no, but God has the answers. All of the questions we are faced with and the fears we will have from time to time, God knows and understands our frame. After all He is the one who formed us and knew us before the foundations of the world. He is El Shadiah, God Almighty. Is this journey easy? absolutely not, it is reality? oh yes, definitely. But again, God told us that we would experience things that would hurt our heart and cause us to faint. "But God", this is what we must remember! Every second, "But God". We must stay focused on Him and expect Him to move on our behalf. Thank you for your prayers for John and myself. As always I pray blessings on you as you read this. May you be filled with assurance that God knows what He is doing and that whatever happens to us as Christians that there is a plan behind it.
Be sure and check out Spiritual Sundays, you will be encouraged there to. link follows:
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/07/welcome.html

Life Changes!

2011-07-08T18:07:00.000-05:00

An update is in order since I have been silent for so long! Many "life changes" have happened in our life, but the biggest one is that word that no one wants to hear "Cancer". My husband has just a month ago been diagnosed with lung cancer and so the journey began. To tell you that we were shocked would be an understatement! We knew something was wrong, but had no idea it could be this. The emotional roller coaster started off with me crying my heart out for several days, then of course reality sets in. I have to tell you that the statement that Job made in 3:25
"What I always feared has happened to me.
What I dreaded has come true."
really hit me hard. I also have to be honest and tell you that I was angry with God. Any raw emotion that can be experienced was there. Yesterday as we sat with the doctor and was given most of the results of the tests, again just panic and unbelief. All the whys and hows and of course we don't know, but God does and He has everything under control. Now, I have to tell you of the faith my sweet hubby has. Did this shake him up? No, not at all. His response was "this will bring God glory, He is in control of my life and I do believe I will be healed". Oh, there was and is a lot more like that. It is remarkable to see someone in terrible pain, yet believing God is working miracles in his life and the life of others. Many good things have already happened and we certainly are expecting many more. The biggest miracle so far is the fact we are at the Cancer Treatment Center in Zion Illinois. I can't begin to or have room to tell you about this place except that it is amazing. The stories we hear are truly miraculous, people that were given up on are still alive, some cancer free and others being helped with treatment. You would think it would be a very sad place, but it is not. These people have hope here which they didn't have before.
This week has been a trying of our faith and many others as they pray for us. Bad news after another as the test results was coming. Cancer showing up in the colon was not expected, but there it is and these things have to be dealt with. As I said before, there are so many emotions to go through and then it is back to faith and believing in God's Word. We know what His promises are and we are praying for His will to be done. We are going to stand strong and ride this thing out. I will be posting an update as regular as I can. I also know there will be many praying for him as you read this. Thank you so much, what a wonderful blessing to know that people we don't even know will take the time to pray for someone they don't even know. My prayer is for you to walk close to the Lord and listen with your heart, then you will have the peace and joy that is rightly yours.

I will be linking up with Spiritual Sundays, please go there, you will be blessed. http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/07/hello-friends.html

Disasters Around Us!

2011-05-25T10:10:00.002-05:00

This is Elk River below our house! Just some of the terrible flooding

Philippians 4:6 (The Message)

6-7. Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

What words explain the pain and suffering of a disaster? Of course I am talking about the tornados that have been occuring since Sunday, the main one being in Joplin Missouri. We live only 30 miles south, so this is just part of our community. This is where we go to the doctor, grocery shopped and of course just enjoyed shopping. And now to know it has changed is hard, but knowing about the death and the injured is the hardest. They are still looking for folks and finding some to. I think yesterday 17 was pulled from the debris. It is just heart breaking! Totally overwhelmed in knowing what to do. Have you ever heard some one say, "well, I just prayed, I didn't know what else to do". Well, of course, it is the best thing to do. Prayer changes things. Prayer brings comfort right in the middle of times of trouble. The minute I turn in Gods Word, I can know that the God who made me will take care of me. If we know and believe the Word, then we know all the promises are for us. We are entitled to them, because we have accepted Him as our Savior! I honestly believe that many folks would not turn to God if it was not for some kind of disaster! Tragedies come in many different ways and it is sad in a way that it would take something like this to make a person realize they need God. But if that person and their family are brought into the family of God, well, what is more important than a persons soul? Nothing! Yes, I know all the despair that is associated with these horrific storms, but I can promise you, there will be good brought out of it to. Will we do everything we can to help no matter what? Yes, of course we will! Joplin and the other places will be rebuilt. Yes, peoples lives will be changed, many for the better. Please remember the promises from God that are yours and mine! Stand on them no matter what is going on around you, and you will experience the peace of God. No, we will never understand all that happens, but we know we can go to our Heavenly Father and find safety,peace, and comfort there!
Please keep all these affected close to your heart in prayer and thanksgiving. God is merciful!

Have a blessed rest of the week!
Please check out Spiritual Sundays, you will be encouraged. Link follows:
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/05/welcome-to-spiritual-sunday.html

Happy Mothers Day to My Mother!

2011-05-05T20:31:00.001-05:00

My Mother, the one on the left!

What a wonderful time to celebrate and pay tribute to our precious mothers! Mine has been gone for several years (about 30) and it is difficult to remember so many things about her. If I were to describe her, first thing would be how sweet she was. Her life was difficult because of health issues when she was young, so most of her life she was as the old saying goes "puny". There was just 3 of us kids. I was the oldest, sis was two years younger and brother was 9 years younger. Our childhood was (except for the polio, sis and I had at ages 3 and 5) pretty normal. We lived in the country and rode a school bus about 10 miles to our little school. All in all, just normal. No big problems. Our dad worked hard on different jobs and Mom took care of many things around the farm. Milking cows was just one on the chores. I remember one time she had gone after them in the pasture and came in all breathless, because a panther had chased her back to the barn. I don't remember her ever being afraid of anything. She really was a remarkable woman and her family meant everything to her. When we needed discipline, there was no yelling and screaming. None of the things that so many have gone through. To say we were blessed would be an understatement. She was an expert seamstress and made all our clothes. She had a great aunt that lived in Hoboken, New Jersey that was a movie star in silent pictures who would send huge crates of clothes to us about once a year. Dad would have to go to Harrison, the largest town around and pick it up. You would not believe what all she would send! In one shipment was a fur coat that she cut up and made things for us. I still have some of the treasures! It was hard for us living in a small rural area to comprehend (small gold purses, hats, shoes and some of the prettiest dresses), how could one person wear all those clothes. Oh, and her backyard backed up to none other than Frank Sinatra! Anyway, she loved our mother! . She wasn't the only one that loved her though. She was blessed with many friends, I honestly don't think there was anyone that didn't like her. When you came to our house, she was the perfect hostess. She loved to cook and you didn't leave hungry. She kept our house clean, and our clothes were always ironed and ready for us. I remember one time she had made us each a new dress. It was Sunday morning and we were getting ready for church. Some how or another I spilled shoe polish on my dress, I tried to wash it out and then tried to dry it. Well, anyway I got it to close to the stove and burned a hole in it. I was probably 8 years old, but I remember just being sick at my stomach. When she got back and saw what I had done, she just shook her head. But, I did wear that same dress to church, hole and all lol. So many memories and so long ago. I wish my girls had gotten to know their grandmother, but one day they will see her in heaven. I am looking forward to that day to! To say how much "I miss her" I can't even describe in words. I have often wondered why she had to leave us, but God knows all things so I just leave it at that. But, I do remember all the times that I wanted to go to her and ask for advice or just sit and talk with her.If your mother is still with you, you are blessed. If she has gone on to Glory, then you, like me, will see her again. What a reunion that will be. This life on earth is not the end of the story, we have hope and our destination is Heaven to spend eternity with our Savior, Jesus Christ. (the following is on her tombstone)

Remember dear children, as you pass by
As you are now, once was I
As I am now, so you must be
Prepare for death, and follow me!

Happy Blessed Mothers day, Mama
Please check out Spiritual Sunday, yo will be blessed. Link follows:
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/05/happy-mothers-day.html

What do you Think?

2011-04-29T09:05:00.001-05:00

Romans 8:35-39 (The Message)

So, what do you think? With God on our side like this, how can we lose? If God didn't hesitate to put everything on the line for us, embracing our condition and exposing himself to the worst by sending his own Son, is there anything else he wouldn't gladly and freely do for us? And who would dare tangle with God by messing with one of God's chosen? Who would dare even to point a finger? The One who died for us—who was raised to life for us!—is in the presence of God at this very moment sticking up for us. Do you think anyone is going to be able to drive a wedge between us and Christ's love for us? There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing, not even the worst sins listed in Scripture:

So, what do you think? Do you believe that God will keep you from losing this battle? If you think you are not in a battle, even the news media will tell you that. Dear friends, we live in serious and dangerous times! Times and events that if you will ask older folks, they will tell you "they have never seen anything like it". So what is going on? Do you think we are living in the last days before Jesus comes? I am sure most will agree this is true. Do you believe that as this scripture tells us that God will protect us and who would dare touch God's anointed? This is you and me and all who have accepted Jesus as our Savior! As this scripture goes on to say, there is nothing that will separate us from the Love of God! Nothing! If you make the kingdom of God your primary focus, then you can be assured that He will meet our needs. As the gas prices go higher and the unemployment keeps growing, what will people do if they do not depend on God. I am not a doomsday person, but the ones who do not depend on God will surely face overwhelming problems! We must put our faith in God! I think we have heard that Jesus was sent to die for our sins by His own Father so often, that it is not making an impact. This was the greatest sacrifice ever made and it was made for you and me. We need to get hold of this truth and really understand that everything God did was for us! And by Him doing all that, He is able to keep us! I hope your heart is encouraged today by the truth of God's Word. He will sustain you and lift you up and prosper you! He will make a way when there does not seem to be one. I pray God's richest blessings on you and your family. Stay faithful and see the Glory of God!

http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/04/good-morning-friends.html

Two Thousand Years Ago!

2011-04-22T21:32:00.000-05:00

^{1 Corinthians 15: 16-28 (The Message translation)}
If corpses can't be raised, then Christ wasn't, because he was indeed dead. And if Christ weren't raised, then all you're doing is wandering about in the dark, as lost as ever. It's even worse for those who died hoping in Christ and resurrection, because they're already in their graves. If all we get out of Christ is a little inspiration for a few short years, we're a pretty sorry lot. But the truth is that Christ has been raised up, the first in a long legacy of those who are going to leave the cemeteries. There is a nice symmetry in this: Death initially came by a man, and resurrection from death came by a man. Everybody dies in Adam; everybody comes alive in Christ. But we have to wait our turn: Christ is first, then those with him at his Coming, the grand consummation when, after crushing the opposition, he hands over his kingdom to God the Father. He won't let up until the last enemy is down—and the very last enemy is death!

It is hard to know where to start when writing about the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. My heart is so heavy when I read about the pain and agony He suffered and at the same time my heart is overwhelmed with praise and thanksgiving for what He did for all of us. How do you put in words and explain that it was the greatest event that ever happened in the history of heaven and this world? He took our place on that cross, beaten beyond recognition, then dying for our sins just so we could have a choice where we would spend eternity. When I read this scripture in the message translation, it really spoke to and made it plain to me. If Jesus had not been raised from the dead, then everything was for nothing. He would have been just like some other man, but He was the Son of God and because he was raised, we have hope and a future with Him. As you can tell I am overwhelmed, because no words seem appropriate! I am beyond thankful for what He has done for me and my family. Because you see, when we accept Him as our Savior, we have the promise of our family been saved also. I pray these few days will burn deep in your heart what Jesus Christ did for you. I also pray for blessings upon you. Have a wonderful Lords Day on Easter Sunday!

Please check out Spiritual Sunday, link follows!

http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/04/greetings.html

God is in Control!

2011-04-19T15:52:00.000-05:00

Ephesians 1:11,12 (The Message)

It's in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.

Things have been so hectic and crazy around here, more stress that normal, that I just didn't have time to post. So hopefully I am back on track! I wonder if anyone else out there in blog land is just overwhelmed with all the "stuff" going on? As I started thinking about what to share with you today, I honestly didn't know where to start. I really have not ever seen things in such turmoil as it is now. Not with just a few folks, but everyone we know is dealing with extreme circumstances. We even heard last week of a man that committed suicide, what a tragedy that was. Someone with no hope for the future. I can tell you as for myself, if I take my focus off Jesus, I become fearful to. This is no time for us to be weak in our faith. We must stay strong and keep our eyes on Him. Just watching the news can cause fear! It is a time for us Christians to be standing together and praying for each other. What a blessing to know someone is praying for me and what a privilege to be able to pray for others. So for today,my prayer is that you will be encouraged and remember what the Word of God tells you. Please read the above scripture again, and rejoice in who you are because of Jesus and know that He has a purpose for your life and He really is in control, no matter what it looks like.

Blessings are being sent to You!

The Plans I Had!

2011-04-01T10:03:00.000-05:00

Proverbs 16:1-3 (The Message)

Everything with a Place and a Purpose
1 Mortals make elaborate plans, but God has the last word.

2 Humans are satisfied with whatever looks good;
God probes for what is good.

3 Put God in charge of your work,
then what you've planned will take place.

Well, here is what I am looking at! Rain and cold, only 39 this morning. I think our weather guy has missed it for a few days now. Oh well, we can't change the weather, but I had all these plans! Like working in my shop, (I have some florals to design) if our yard is not mowed soon, then goats will be the next thing on the list. I love working in my flower beds and we have so many of them that now I feel like I am getting behind! Is this the time to say "Woe is Me"? Maybe not that bad, but you know how it feels when our plans are thwarted? So what have I accomplished these past few days? Actually several things, my closets are clean and organized, windows and mirrors windexed, laundry caught up and my floors are clean. And, all these things needed to be done. You know sometimes we just have to stop and do a little evaluating. When things don't work out like we want them to, we really should not get discouraged. You see God loves us so much, He is always there to guide us, give us patience and show us what the most important things are. Yes, all these things were important to do, but they will be there when it is time. I believe for a Christian there is a time and a purpose for everything in our lives. And if He really causes everything to work together for our good, then we must realize those small things are included to. So as for this day, I am not going to get in a hurry to do anything, in fact being curled up on the sofa with two little poodles so close I can't move, the fireplace going and a cup of hot tea, I am perfectly content. lol. Just finishing my bible study for the day has given me hope and a purpose. Thank you sweet friends for stopping by, I pray your days is pleasant and filled with blessings.

(I am linking up with Spiritual Sundays, please check them out, you will be inspired.)
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/03/welcome-to-spiritual-sunday_31.html

The Focus of His Love!

2011-03-27T15:48:00.001-05:00

Ephesians 1:3-6 ( The Message translation)

3-6..How blessed is God! And what a blessing he is! He's the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in him. Long before he laid down earth's foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son.

Do you see the excitement that God had when He was planning our very existence? Can you feel the love pouring out from this scripture? Listen, if no one has told you lately that you are special to God and that He loves you unconditionally, then you need to read these verses again! It is true! God's Word is true and you can depend on Him. Blessings up blessings with words that I cannot describe is what love God has for His children. That is you and me. It is very important that we grasp what God is trying to show us. We will all face, if we aren't already, situations that will break our heart and threaten to destroy us. It is vital that we know and understand not only what God has done for us, but who we are in Him, and what we are entitled to. Just this morning we heard of a baby that is now in Heaven. What utter despair this family must be going through, our hearts just cry out to God for a special comfort and peace for them. And, we can be assured that He sees those tears and He will give them what they need. You see, God created us, He made us, He knows our needs and He supplies all of them. No matter what we go through, just stop and remember who He is and then remember those blessings that are yours and mine. He will take care of us just like He promised! He will see us through those valleys when life doesn't seem like it is worth living.
Please be encouraged today! We serve a living God who loves us to the point of watching His own Son die. Just for us! Also please pray for this family, they will need the love of God shown to them.
Thank you for stopping by! I love your comments and am anxious to come visit you.
Be Blessed!
I am linking up with Spiritual Sundays, link follows:
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/03/welcome.html

Just Trust God!

2011-03-11T10:37:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 3:5-12 (The Message Translation)

^5-12 Trust God from the bottom of your heart;
   don't try to figure out everything on your own.
Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;
   he's the one who will keep you on track.
Don't assume that you know it all.
   Run to God! Run from evil!
Your body will glow with health,
   your very bones will vibrate with life!
Honor God with everything you own;
   give him the first and the best.
Your barns will burst,
   your wine vats will brim over.
But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline;
   don't sulk under his loving correction.
It's the child he loves that God corrects;
   a father's delight is behind all this.

Well, it sounds like it should be easy, just trust God! How many times I have heard that said to me, and I am like, "well OK" but it isn't easy is it? It takes commitment and dedication and probably the most of all to get ourselves out of the way with "I can figure this out and then I can fix it". As I was reading the scriptures this morning, this passage jumped out at me and I immediately went to the Message translation to use in my post. It spoke to my heart as I have been trying to figure out how us along with other folks are going to make it in this economy. Actually frantic sometimes, worry sometimes, until I remember Who I serve. When we see all these things happening that grips our hearts with fear, like the gas prices going up, people out of work, earthquakes in unusual places and recently the Tsunami that hit Japan this morning. It is truly overwhelming! Some are saying what in the world is going on, but the ones who know Christ as their personal Savior know these things will come because He told us that in His Word! You see, God always showed His people what was going to happen, He always had a plan and He has one now. Don't be frightened and discouraged. God is in control! I believe many will be saved because of all this shaking that is going on. Stay focused on God and know His Word. We have written instructions! I pray for peace in your heart so that you will be able to encourage others.
Have a Blessed Day!
Check out Spiritual Sundays and be blessed to, the link follows:
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/03/welcome-back.html

Lessons for Living!

2011-03-05T10:52:00.001-06:00

Psalm 119:33 (The Message)

^33-40 God, teach me lessons for living
      so I can stay the course.
   Give me insight so I can do what you tell me—
      my whole life one long, obedient response.
   Guide me down the road of your commandments;
      I love traveling this freeway!
   Give me a bent for your words of wisdom,
      and not for piling up loot.
   Divert my eyes from toys and trinkets,
      invigorate me on the pilgrim way.
   Affirm your promises to me—
      promises made to all who fear you.
   Deflect the harsh words of my critics—
      but what you say is always so good.
   See how hungry I am for your counsel;
      preserve my life through your righteous ways!

If we are really serious about our relationship with God, then this should be our daily prayer. In this scripture this is truly our lesson for living a Christian life. I hear so many "formulas" for the way we should live and what it comes down to is just being obedient. And if we know what the Word of God tells us, then we know what we have to do. It is not about rules and regulations, but simple truths in love. Please read the scripture again and make this a prayer from your heart. Since it is so complete, my post will be short this week! Thank you for stopping by and leaving your sweet comments!
Be blessed this week and check out Spiritual Sundays. (the link follows)

http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/03/welcome-to-spiritual-sunday.html

Another Birthday!

2011-02-26T22:22:00.000-06:00

"Getting older is better than the alternative" is just one of the many light hearted remarks I have heard this week. This one in particular made me do some thinking. Is another birthday better than not having one, which only means we have died? I must tell you up front, that for many years I had a terrible fear of dying, then as I got older in the Lord, I began to realize that death is not to be feared. As I am now getting older in years, I can honestly say
I am not afraid! As a matter of fact, I am looking forward to heaven more and more each day. So this week as I celebrated my birthday, I didn't fret about being one year older! I like my senior coffee at McDonald's! I just have to share with you what the Message translation tells us about getting old:
(Ecclesiastes 12:3) In old age, your body no longer serves you so well. Muscles slacken, grip weakens, joints stiffen. The shades are pulled down on the world. You can't come and go at will. Things grind to a halt. The hum of the household fades away. You are wakened now by bird-song. Hikes to the mountains are a thing of the past. Even a stroll down the road has its terrors. Your hair turns apple-blossom white, Adorning a fragile and impotent matchstick body. Yes, you're well on your way to eternal rest, While your friends make plans for your funeral.
Oh well, I guess we all need a little bit of humor don't we? I love the part about the impotent matchstick body! hahahahaha
Thank you for stopping by, I pray blessings for you and your family!

I am linking with Spiritual Sunday, You will be encouraged when you visit!
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/02/welcome-back-again.html

Uncertainty!

2011-02-18T15:44:00.000-06:00

Acts 1:9-11 (The Message translation)

9-11. These were his last words. As they watched, he was taken up and disappeared in a cloud. They stood there, staring into the empty sky. Suddenly two men appeared—in white robes! They said, "You Galileans!—why do you just stand here looking up at an empty sky? This very Jesus who was taken up from among you to heaven will come as certainly—and mysteriously—as he left."

We all know what that word means, don't we? Webster describes the word as "The condition of being in doubt or being unsure of something". Sounds like the way life, for most if not all of us, is right now. No one has any answers, lots of questions, lots of yelling (just watch the news for awhile) and a lot of confusion. Of course we know who works best in confusion, don't we? Anything to undermine God and His principles, and that is what you will hear! So you may be asking, "what are we to do? who do we believe? and where do we turn to? Man and all of his wisdom cannot fix what is wrong, and they certainly cannot give us concrete answers and solutions to all the "uncertainty" in this world. The only thing most folks (non Christians) will tell you is, they are not sure about anything anymore. Remember the American dream? During the time I was growing up, there was nothing we could not accomplish. Hard work and education would take you as far as you wanted to go, and your part of the world would be secure! But something has changed, hasn't it? Do you believe life will ever be the same? I have asked my daughters this question, and they have said the same thing, "no, mom I think life as we have known it, has changed forever". Well, change has to happen! We are living in the last days before Jesus returns and all these things must come to pass. It is like actors preparing for a big production. The stage is set, everyone is in place, the audience is here, and we are just waiting for the curtain to go up. That is how close it is, dear friends! It is that close! So what are we to do in these unsettling times? First we must know the Word of God! This is where our peace in the middle of trying times will come from, and this is how we fight this everyday battle with the enemy of our souls. Hey, I read the last of the Book, I know Who wins! There are many things that are for certain and the following is just a few. We have a new destination called Heaven, Jesus said He would never leave or forsake us! No matter what happens, we are never alone. We can count on Him! Please be certain about one thing, Jesus Christ is the answer, He is in control and He will take care of us and our families if we put Him first! I pray you will be encouraged as you remember who you are in Christ and what He will do for you, if you allow Him to. Thank you for stopping by, I love your comments and I am always anxious to see what God is doing in your world. Be blessed sweet friends!

Please check out Spiritual Sunday, the link follows:
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/

Powerful Words!

2011-02-10T15:44:00.001-06:00

Here is our latest 13 inches of snow!

Proverbs 18:21 (The Message)

Words kill, words give life;
they're either poison or fruit—you choose.

You choose! It really is up to you to speak words of blessings to someone or to speak words that just wound them to their very core. I guess as a person gets older in the Lord and maybe the other way to, we realize what the Word of God tells us about the words we speak. Words are powerful! With words God spoke all creation into existence, with words Jesus commanded people to be healed and set free from their sins and transgressions. Words, just spoken words! Wow, all through the Bible we are told of what the impact is, no matter who it is coming from. I am reminded of how each time we are with someone, our words will either give someone hope or cause them concern and worry. Just casual conversation, but a very important time to be so careful of what we say. We are required to give anyone an answer as to why we believe what we do. And if we know, then we can relate it to someone else. I actually know of Christian ladies, older than me, that cannot tell you what they believe. They know what their church believes, but not what is in their heart. To me that is very sad. Now I am veering away from my original thought just for a bit to tell you, that before we speak words of life, we have to know what they are. Do you know what you believe and why? If there are any doubts, then it is time to start. It is never to late to learn. The Holy Spirit is our teacher and He will lead us into ALL truths. And will bring them to our remembrance! Thank you Lord for the Holy Spirit. We are not in any of this walk by ourselves and we certainly cannot do anything without Him. Let us rely more on God and less on ourselves! I believe no decision should be made without much prayer and then when we believe, we speak! Speaking words of life and hope into those sweet family members and friends around us. Spoken words that when our loved ones are bound, we can speak freedom. And yes, I do believe in healing! Speaking words and believing that a body is made whole. Words that comfort when a loved one has passed away. Words for any occasion, spoken in faith, giving encouragement and hope.
Thank you for stopping by, I pray your day is blessed with people around you speaking life giving words.

I am linking up with Spiritual Sunday, please visit, you will be blessed!
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/

A Fathers Delight!

2011-02-03T21:53:00.003-06:00

Proverbs 3:5-12 (The Message translation)

5-12 Trust God from the bottom of your heart;
don't try to figure out everything on your own.
Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;
he's the one who will keep you on track.
Don't assume that you know it all.
Run to God! Run from evil!
Your body will glow with health,
your very bones will vibrate with life!
Honor God with everything you own;
give him the first and the best.
Your barns will burst,
your wine vats will brim over.
BUT, don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline;
don't sulk under his loving correction.
It's the child he loves that God corrects;
a father's delight is behind all this.

I remember when I was a child and need of discipline! Oh my, it did not feel like this was the best thing for me. You see, I knew as I am sure all of us did when we were children we knew what was right and wrong. And, when we crossed that line, we knew what would happen. This was how we were taught and that is how we learned. As I read this scripture, the last part of it really caught my attention. The motive for the correction of course is the reason. Why did our parents correct us? Was this their motives to make us better and stronger people? They knew what we would face in this world, they knew life would be hard. I think of a small tree just being planted and tied with cable from all sides to keep it growing straight. Not free to just grow which ever way, but trained to grow straight. And then one day that tree is grown, and it is tall and majestic and able to withstand the storms that come. Then I know why it was given such strict attention. We are like that, we need Godly guidance all of our lives not just when we are small. We need to be accountable to God for our actions and especially reactions. We need to trust God when we are being blown around and it seems like we have lost our way. We are never alone, He is with us. But He is allowing the winds and storms of life toughen us, so that we will grow and mature as we should. As you also read in this passage, don't miss this "BUT", that I have capitalized. Trusting God, listening to Him and you will be blessed, BUT, do not overlook the rest of it. Read on, don't resent God when he disciplines us. Remember He loves us and His intentions are for our good. I hope this blesses you as much as it does me. It is wonderful to claim the promises of God, BUT, there are stipulations also. We must do our part and trust is a big part of it. Thank you for stopping by, I pray you are safe and warm. (The picture above is what we have been dealing with this week. 11 inches of snow and sub zero temps.)
Be blessed my friends!

I will be linking up with Metamorphosis Monday, the link follows:
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/02/welcome-to-spiritual-sunday.html

All Things Really Do Work Together!

2011-01-28T10:09:00.003-06:00

Romans 8:28 (The Living Translation)
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

I just have the funniest story to share with you this morning so let me set the stage. My grandson married this wonderful young woman Sarah last year, when the ceremony was over, my daughter introduced her new daughter in law to her new father in law. Well, that doesn't sound to bad, right? Except when she did, she called her by an old girlfriends name of her son! Oh, my goodness! After a tense moment and a look of panic on grandsons face (my other daughter just at this moment takes a picture), she rushes outside and begins to bawl like a baby! Now, I have to admit it was intense! But every time she told anyone what she did, all people did was laugh. Even the new bride didn't get rattled. (I expect she will be apologizing to for many years to come. Lol.) Now here comes the exciting part, we have a Christian Radio station in our area that had a contest about the worst or most memorable event that took place at a wedding. The prize would be a seminar on marriage with Gary Smalley and events through out the day on February 14th, Valentines day. By this time, I am sure you realize she won! When they called her and ask her to share what happened, even they were laughing. Many of the comments posted on facebook showed everyone just thought it was funny but also having an "oh no" monent! Well, it definitely would have been interesting if the new bride had reacted any different. Thank goodness, she had a sense of humor to! As I was listening to all this transpiring, I immediately thought of the scripture that "all things work together to the good to those that are called according to His purpose" and wondered if at the time it happened, God is saying to Himself, "how in the world will I use this". I don't mean any disrespect, but if you really believe this particular scripture, then you will have to believe He really means it! And He will use "everything" as a lesson for us to learn and grow in the ways of His Son. I hope you enjoy my funny story, but please remember the reason for this post! Our past failures, future failures, mistakes, sins whatever you want to call them, He really does work out these things for our good! Even the things which just embarrass us to death, can still have a good ending. Thank you for stopping by, I pray you will be a blessing to everyone you come in contact with this week.
Please check out Spiritual Sunday, you will be inspired! Link follows!
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/01/new-week.html

Forgiving Others!

2011-01-21T11:35:00.000-06:00

Matthew 6:6-8 (The Message)

6. "Here's what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won't be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace.

7-13. "The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They're full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God. Don't fall for that nonsense. This is your Father you are dealing with, and he knows better than you what you need. With a God like this loving you, you can pray very simply. Like this:

Our Father in heaven,
Reveal who you are.
Set the world right;
Do what's best— as above, so below.
Keep us alive with three square meals.
Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil.
You're in charge!
You can do anything you want!
You're ablaze in beauty!
Yes. Yes. Yes.

Forgiving someone has nothing to do with feelings! If we waited for that, it would never happen! "But what they did is not right", it is not even about right or wrong, justice or injustice. Forgiveness is a choice we make, WE make it ourselves! How many times in my life has this been before me, "Well, I know I need to forgive them, I have been hurt here Lord, and well, I just don't feel like I can ever forgive them". Sound familiar? I think we probably all have to admit this is one of the hardest things in life we will ever be asked to do. Sometimes we hang on to unforgiveness to justify our own behavior, we were wronged and we will not forget or let that other person forget. It is a heavy burden to carry and it does keep us in bondage to that thing. Have you ever heard of "a made up mind"? Well, this is what we must do, just make up our mind that we will do what God commands us to do. He didn't say to think about it or try to forgive, He said "Forgive" period. He will help us you know, in ourselves we cannot do this, we aren't capable. But with God ALL things are possible, yes even forgiveness. If it wasn't, we would not be commanded to do it! I love this passage from the Message translation, if you have a chance to get one, it is really very good. "The focus will shift from you to God and you will begin to sense His Grace", I don't know about you but that blesses my soul! Please read these scriptures again and let God speak to your heart. There is much more in here than forgiveness. Simple truths will help us lead a life that will be pleasing to God. I pray you are having a fabulous day and that you are safe and warm but above all, I pray your heart is peaceful. Thank you for stopping by, I have been so busy caring for my sister that I haven't had a chance to visit all the wonderful blogs over at Spiritual Sundays and those of my friends and families, but I promise to do better this week.
Blessings to you!

Please check all the wonderful encouraging posts! Link follows:
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/01/hello-friends_21.html

The Thing I Feared Most!

2011-01-13T22:45:00.001-06:00

Job 3:24-26 (The Message)

24-26. "Instead of bread I get groans for my supper,
then leave the table and vomit my anguish.
The worst of my fears has come true,
what I've dreaded most has happened.
My repose is shattered, my peace destroyed.
No rest for me, ever—death has invaded life."

I have ofter wondered about this scripture. Before all the calamity in Job's life, did he fear that his children would offend God and bring judgement or was it when things began to happen that he continued to fear what would happen next? Well, I did research on this and the opinions are generally split as was mentioned above. I did think it was reasonable to suppose that because Job had great faith in God, he would not have feared this all his life. His life at this point contained a wife, children, wealth in land and possessions and probably had never experienced anything close to these events. So then why would he live in fear? On the other hand, I can certainly see how if everything is suddenly taken away from you, one at a time, that you could be in despair and wonder "what will happen next", like the old saying "just waiting for the other shoe to drop". What ever it was, poor Job was a miserable man. Yes he does question and he is wavering but in the end after God shows up, he is back on track. I find the story of Job fascinating and realizing we will never know everything until we get to heaven. That is the walking by faith thing, remember. So what ever conclusion you come close to, just remember Job was a human just like us, he had great faith in God, just like we can. We can choose to trust God no matter what happens in our life. Is it hard? oh yeah, it is hard! It hurts our hearts to lose those we love, or even the things we have worked so hard for. But we can always find something to be thankful for and have faith that God who "restores what the canker worm has eaten" means that He is working out His will in our lives. Don't forget the last of the story, that is exactly what happened to Job. The Lord blessed him more in the last part than in the first! He lived to see his children and their children to the fourth generation. And the Bible said he died, old and full of years! A truly remarkable story, as there are so many in the Word of God! Did I get your wheels turning? Let me know what you think about Job.
Thank you for stopping by, I said a prayer for you!

Please check out Spiritual Sundays, you will be blessed! Link follows:
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/01/welcome-back.html

Times are Changing!

2011-01-07T14:59:00.000-06:00

I wonder how many folks received something electronic for Christmas? I am happy to report I am the proud owner of a Nook e-reader from Barnes and Noble! I have to say! I just love it and the convenience of everything attached to it. The first book I put on it was of course, the Bible. Then I put a daily devotional, then Francine Rivers new book, and I was on my way. There are many books that are free and reduced price that I feel like it will be worth it to have. But, there is something about holding a book, having a library and even the smell of books that tugs my heart. Will we ever get to the point when a "real" book will be hard to find? Maybe for some folks this will be true. Things are certainly changing aren't they? I supposed they call it progress and it has to be that way or we get stuck. I am not altogether sure it is not ok to be "stuck". So change is good and then some things should never change. Like our conviction that we follow Christ, that we have a made up mind we will not turn back. As this New Year gets under way, I am thinking about all the changes that will be made, some of our doing, some of others, but nevertheless there will be change. Am I rooted and grounded enough that I will stand firm, that no matter what happens I will not lose my trust in God? I believe it is a good thing to check ourselves every once in awhile. What is my motive for the things I do? Is this pleasing to God? Do I have unforgiveness in my heart? Am I bitter or deeply hurt over the things in my past. The list could go on forever, but my point here is no matter what, changes are all around us. There will be good ones and there will be those that are of great loss to us. I certainly don't like new years resolutions, but I do like commitments and with God's help I truly want to be more committed to living in His will for my life. My desire for my family and friends is to know Jesus and grow in the knowledge of His Word, just like the scriptures tell us. We can make this world a better place for others if we try. Just think of all the people you come in contact with and how much we can pray for them and show them the Love of Christ. Let's strive to be more like Him, so others can have hope. It is a terrible thing to not have hope.
Blessings to you this week, thank you for stopping by!

I w!ill be linking up with Spiritual Sundays, please stop by for a visit
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2011/01/hello-friends.html

Blessings for the New Year!

2010-12-30T22:41:00.001-06:00

Isaiah 61:1 (NIV)

The Year of the LORD’s Favor

¹ The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
   because the LORD has anointed me
   to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
   to proclaim freedom for the captives
   and release from darkness for the prisoners
Each of us has a calling on our life to take the Gospel to the lost, to proclaim freedom to those who will listen. A responsibility that should not be taken lightly. As a matter of fact, I don't think anything should be taken lightly any more. You talk about living in the last days, its here folks. There is not time to be unfocused. We must be committed and have our minds made up. A sold out heart for God! I have to tell you, I don't know how an unsaved person can even watch the news! There is no hope out there! Yesterday I heard that gas will go up to 5.00 a gallon! Well that is scary, isn't it? For us, we are thinking of other ways to cut back to be able to afford it. Life as we have known it has changed! Life will never be the same! I also heard a fella say it was only a cycle, that he had seen this in his 70 something years here on earth. And I would agree with him except that I believe we are living in the last days. I truly believe Jesus is coming back soon. So, as we begin this New Year, I won't be making resolutions, without God, they won't last anyway. But, I am going to be more serious about the things of God, more receptive to the needs of people around me, and stay in the Word more. I don't know about you, but I need my mind renewed daily, I need my heart changed to become more like Him. More sold out and committed to the truth.
I don't know what this year will bring, I just know that as long as I trust and believe what God's Word says, then I will not have to fear and I won't have to live under a cloud of stress and anxiety.
Let's hold each other up in prayer and really care about each other. In the body of Christ, if one of us hurts, we should all feel it. By the same token, we will rejoice over the good things to.
I am praying for you as you read this the old blessing.

Numbers 6:24 (New Living Translation)

‘May the Lord bless you
      and protect you.
May the Lord smile on you
      and be gracious to you.
May the Lord show you his favor
      and give you his peace.’.

Thank you for visiting my blog and for all the encouragement you give to me. I know many of you have prayed for me and my sister this year. I wish I could tell you how much that means to me. God Bless you richly! And thank you for letting me be a part of your life.
You are dear to me, Have a wonderful, blessed New Year!
(Please check out the following link to Spiritual Sunday! What a blessing this has been to me this year)
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/

I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day!

2010-12-25T10:44:00.001-06:00

"I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet
The words repeat
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

And thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along
The unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Till, ringing, singing on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime
A chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Then from each black accursed mouth
The cannon thundered in the South,
And with the sound
The carols drowned
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

It was as if an earthquake rent
The hearth-stones of a continent,
And made forlorn
The households born
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

And in despair I bowed my head;
"There is no peace on earth," I said;
"For hate is strong,
And mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!"

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
"God is not dead; nor doth he sleep!
The Wrong shall fail,
The Right prevail,
With peace on earth, good-will to men!"

This is a song (originally it was a poem) that was penned by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in the middle of the Civil War when it looked hopeless for peace on either side. His wife had died in a tragic fire and two years later his son was seriously injured. On Christmas day after all this had happened he heard the church bells ringing and there in his grief he wrote seven stanzas of "I heard the Bells on Christmas Day". Two verses had been omitted from the poem when John Baptiste Calkin in 1872 set the words to music and the song was born. A beautiful song that tells the story of heartache but also of a God that is not dead, nor does He sleep. I had heard and even sang this song but never did the content mean anything to me until now, which is very sad. Out of pure misery this man's words still today grasp my heart and overwhelms me with sorrow for his loss. Yet at the same time his faith in God is evident!
I pray you will be blessed and your Christmas Day holds memories of good and even with the bad there is hope and peace because of the One who came and died for us!
(Please check out Spiritual Sundays, you will surely be blessed)
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2010/12/merry-christmas.html

Be Encouraged!

2010-12-17T22:56:00.000-06:00

Romans 5:3-5 (The Message)

There's more to come: We continue to shout our praise even when we're hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next. In alert expectancy such as this, we're never left feeling shortchanged. Quite the contrary—we can't round up enough containers to hold everything God generously pours into our lives through the Holy Spirit!

Do you know anyone who is hemmed in and overcome with troubles? Maybe the best way to ask this is do you know anyone who is not? Nearly everyone we know has some kind of major issues they are facing. Health problems and financial seem to be at the top of the list. We visited some folks this week that in the small neighborhood they live in, there are six houses for sale. The majority of them in foreclosure. How so very sad to see people lose their homes. As for health, major life threatening disease touches so many we know. Now is the time to be persistent in our prayer life! Thank God for people that will pray for others. As some of you know my sister has really been going through it. Two months ago she broke her hip and then last week she broke the same hip in two more places! What an ordeal she is enduring! (thank you for your prayers) OK, so we have established the fact that we need God! There is no one or nothing that can help us except Him! There is no other way except God's way. I want to encourage you with the Word of God that tells us that no matter what happens, we are not alone. He will not fail us. God truly loves us! As we celebrate the birth of our Savior next Saturday, let's remember the real reason why we celebrate this event. Please be encouraged, and keep this in your heart! No matter what has happened or what will happen, God Loves You!!!!! He is there generously pouring into our lives by His precious Holy Spirit!
Blessings and a very Merry Christmas to you and your Family!
Be sure and check out Spiritual Sunday, you will be blessed. The link is included. http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2010/12/christmas-sharing.html

Living God's Way!

2010-12-11T19:13:00.001-06:00

One of my favorite wreaths I have made this year!

Galatians 5:22-23 (The Message)

But what happens when we live God's way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.

Hummm, that is certainly something to think about! All these things really happen when we live the way God would have us to live? I guess my next question would be "Well, what is the problem then, I sure don't see this in most Christians I know". Do you? In fact I know some folks who are not Christians that act better and have a lot more compassion. My daughter worked for a man that told her he had prayed for just the "right" person when she applied for the job. Well, she was hired and it didn't take long to see there was some really bad fruit on his tree. She eventually quit and is now working for a man that is not a Christian, but a very honest fella with integrity. As she put it, "you can take his words to the bank". These are also her words, "Mom, I would rather work for someone like I do now, than to work for so called Christians that just use God for gain." Wow, I wonder how many of us could add to the story. What is really wrong with folks? Why isn't there good fruit showing in these folks life? If you have any answers, I would love to hear them. But I think we probably all know the answer, they are not "real", they are lukewarm to say the least, their first love is not for God. We should all have these fruits in our life and they should of course be obvious to others. I know I am up on that soap box again, but listen folks, it is time to get serious about living God's way! We are on a time schedule and that old clock is ticking fast, Jesus is coming back soon and we need to be doing what He has told us to do. As we get closer to the time when we celebrate the birth of our Saviour, lets get "real" and serious. Let's ask God for a closer walk with Him, let's study His Word and pray for others. OK, I am going to quit now, I think you get the message! I pray you will be encouraged today and challenged to have all these fruits evident in our lives. Blessings and more blessings to you my dear friends!
Please check out Spiritual Sundays, you will be thankful you did!
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2010/12/hello-everyone.html

When Your Heart is Heavy!

2010-11-30T22:07:00.001-06:00

My table set for the Holidays!

Matthew 11:28:30 (The Message)

28-30. "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."

Words of encouragement and hope from the Word of God! I often use the Message translation because of the simple but powerful way it is spoken. When I came across "learn the unforced rhythms of grace" it just blessed me so. This is what we must have to sustain us in the time we are living in. Uncertainty is an understatement! Major problems with the economy, health issues, financial, the list does go on and on. Where do we turn? Well, we should turn to Jesus, but many times we don't. Fear causes us to have unbelief and doubt and we wonder where God is in our circumstances. Life has changed for all of us and I believe the stage is being set for the return of our Lord and Savior. I don't know about you but I pray you are keeping your focus on "The Way, The Truth and The Light". A heavy heart can cause us to lose our focus for awhile but we are to never give up. My husband who is also a preacher is an encourager. His faith is amazing in the midst of trials! Mine? Not as much, I have to admit to doing some whining and complaining. Then I always think of the Israelites. God leading them, protecting them, feeding them and all He ever wanted was for them to be obedient and trust Him. Oh He did tire of them didn't He? As I am sure He does with us. But I am also reminded that "He knows our frame" and loves us with an unfailing love. So as I am writing this my faith is strengthened again. Will I ever doubt and wonder if God really knows what is best for me? Unfortunately, yes I will. But I am going to keep on keeping on. Heaven is my home and I have to be on a journey to get there. Our job as Christians is to build each other up in the faith, we must pray for each other and stand firm. I pray you will be encouraged as you read the Word of God, not my words, but His Words for there you will be set free. Have a wonderful rest of the week sweet friends! I will also ask you to pray for my sister as she is facing very serious health problems. Thank you!
Please check out Spiritual Sundays, you will be blessed!
http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2010/12/welcome.html

Thanksgiving Memories!

2010-11-22T17:45:00.001-06:00

I love Thanksgiving! For most of us it is a time to remember all the things we are thankful for. But where do you start? This was my biggest question as I began, so I decided to start at the “beginning”. Soooo thankful to be born in this country was the first on my list. To have the freedom and know our founding fathers believed in God has made all the difference. number 2: The family I was born into! Not necessarily a Christian family, we did go to church sometimes and without my dad, but raised with morals. 3: Where I was raised! Growing up in a rural area surrounded by family and friends. No crime to speak of, although I do remember one time someone stole some meat from our smokehouse and a fella stole my dads wagon. Even though my sister and I had polio, we were protected and learned to walk again. 4: my children, I have 4 daughters that are adorable, now they have their children and we are blessed double. 5: This man now my hubby that came into my life 26 years ago. Now a man of God, a preacher! Who would have ever thought that. Now I can tell you in the beginning it certainly did not look like this was from God. Not until many years later would we really see a plan that was being developed all along. 6: Our home would have to be next before our church, because if we hadn’t moved here, we wouldn’t be in this church. So home it is! And what a home, blessed of God, not used for entertaining but for hospitality. We host church parties, baby showers and anything that comes our way. We love it!

7: Our church! hubby preaches every two weeks, and I teach so I can learn. Our brothers and sisters in the Lord are amazing to. We are so blessed to be in a church where the truth is preached. If you have experienced the “other way” you know perfectly well what I mean. 8: Friends! Oh my what could be better! I have always said “friends are a gift from God”. Friends that really do love and care about you! 8: Our health! Well as we get older everyone has a few problems, I should have more than a few because of the polio which has now developed into “post-polio”. Right before we moved here, I was looking into a power chair because I was having so many problems. I am happy and thankful to report that I do very well. God helps me everyday and I do pretty much what I want. I am also thankful that I do not have to work so I can stop and I do when I feel like I have done to much. Ok, the best for last! I am saved and on my way to heaven. Truly knowing Jesus as my Savior, believing He died for me and that He loved me enough to prove it. What else is more important? Nothing, nothing is! No matter what my life might have been like before, what matters now is the most important decision I have ever made in my life and that was to give my heart to God! So as you see, I have so much to be thankful for, everyday, not just once a year when some get sentimental, but everyday. I hope you have a list a mile long and I pray you will have the best blessed day on Thanksgiving and the rest of the weekend. Remember to check out Spiritual Sunday. Your heart will be encouraged!http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/2010/11/welcome-to-spiritual-sunday.html

The Old Life Has to Go!!!!!

2010-11-19T19:48:00.000-06:00

Ephesians 4:25-32 (The Message)

25. What this adds up to, then, is this: no more lies, no more pretense. Tell your neighbor the truth. In Christ's body we're all connected to each other, after all. When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself.

26-27. Go ahead and be angry. You do well to be angry—but don't use your anger as fuel for revenge. And don't stay angry. Don't go to bed angry. Don't give the Devil that kind of foothold in your life.

28. Did you use to make ends meet by stealing? Well, no more! Get an honest job so that you can help others who can't work.

29. Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift.

30. Don't grieve God. Don't break his heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of your life, making you fit for himself. Don't take such a gift for granted.

31-32. Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk. Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you.

Lying, anger, stealing, being careful what comes out of our mouth, and unforgiveness, the list goes on and on. But in this passage we are told all these things grieve our Lord! Have you ever really thought about this? We try most of the time to not hurt any ones feelings by the things we say or the way we act, but when it comes to Jesus Christ, we are not so careful! Is it because we can't "see" Him that we just forget? As we learn more about Him and what He likes and dislikes, we develop a relationship with Him and I think at this point that we come to realize that we truly can grieve Him. When we think about He has done for us giving us the Ultimate sacrifice "His Son" making a way for us to be saved and live with Him forever, (you hear this often from me) but this is one of those face on the floor moments! Humbled and excited all at the same time. In the last part of verse 30, we are told to never take this gift for granted. A free gift, but a very costly gift on His part! As you read the passage again, realize that this is for our own good! Obedience on our part will cause growth, peace in our heart and a purpose for our life. The Scriptures were never meant to deprive us of anything but to live life to its fullest in Christ! We must be changing, all these things will never go away completely, we will always make mistakes and have sin in our life. But isn't He wonderful! He thought of that to! Our past present and future sins were all nailed to the Cross. We just need to ask for forgiveness and be truly sorry, then we are in right standing again. I pray these Scriptures bless your heart as they did mine. I am truly inadequate in relating the wonderful news about Jesus, but I just wanted to share with you today what is on my heart. I also pray you will have a wonderful weekend and Lords Day! Please check out Spiritual Sunday, you will be blessed by all the testimonies. http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/

Rescued to Help Another!

2010-11-10T17:46:00.002-06:00

2 Corinthians 1:4 (The Message)

3-5. All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort—we get a full measure of that, too.

This scripture in all translations is good, but in the "Message", It is powerful! It seems like just about everyone is experiencing hard times of some sort and we need to know what to do about it. As was with Joseph, it doesn't really matter, God will use it for our good. But, we do have a responsibility even if we are right in the middle of "it" to lift up our brothers and sisters in the Lord especially if we know personally what they are facing. What that also does is to take our eyes off our situation and focus on the promises of God for them. I talked to someone dear to my heart today that to say she was "going through it" would be an understatement! Bless her heart, she has lost three members of her family (the last one, a grandson killed in Afghanistan) in the last few years. It is truly heartbreaking! Her birthday is today and I just wanted to let her know my prayers was with her. As I looked away from my stuff, I also realized I didn't have a clue of the grief and brokenness she was facing. This is one of those face on the floor times, when I just felt totally selfish and humbled. No, it doesn't lessen the pain we are going through and it certainly doesn't make us feel any better to know someone else is going through these fiery trials. It just makes us realize we all need God! We need somehow to keep our focus on Him! Is it easy? Absolutely not. Can it be done? Yes, we just need to exchange the spirit of heaviness for the garment of praise. Yes, even when and especially when we do not "feel" like it. Just start thanking God for defeating death and hell and making it possible for to have eternal life. Another thing when we focus on the bad, the enemy steals our peace. We really can have peace and joy in Christ no matter what is going on. Not being in denial as some say, but seeing with faith. "Seeing things that aren't as though they were" My prayer for you today is to ask God to show you if someone around you needs some encouragement, just a word of hope. You will then be blessed as well as that other child of God! And remember we are not in this alone! We are to pray for each other and share in our heartaches.
Blessings to you today!
Please visit Spirtual Sunday (the link is on the sidebar) You will be blessed by all the testimonies.

In the Wilderness!

2010-11-05T23:35:00.001-05:00

1Kings 19:1-4 (New Living Translation)

1 When Ahab got home, he told Jezebel everything Elijah had done, including the way he had killed all the prophets of Baal. 2 So Jezebel sent this message to Elijah: “May the gods strike me and even kill me if by this time tomorrow I have not killed you just as you killed them.”
3 Elijah was afraid and fled for his life. He went to Beersheba, a town in Judah, and he left his servant there. 4 Then he went on alone into the wilderness, traveling all day. He sat down under a solitary broom tree and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors who have already died.”

Is it depressing to you for someone to share their struggles and heartaches? We all know we can't be on the mountain top all the time, as a matter of fact there is a lot of wilderness living going on out there. People who love God and doing the best they can, yet experiencing difficulties. You know what I am about to share with you, don't you? One more question though, how much sharing do we need to do? (Ok, maybe two) Do we leave our faith behind?
If I can identify with anyone these past weeks, it would be Elijah. Seeing and knowing the power of God, yet here he was running away from this crazy woman. Setting under a tree saying "it is enough" life is to hard, take me on home. Get the picture, now I have to admit I wasn't at that point, but many things just weighed to heavy and I am wondering Lord where are you? You said you would meet our needs. Maybe there are times when we have to evaluate where we are going, and does God hear us when we pray and how long does it take for the answer to come. Maybe you have not been on this road of indecision, but I can assure you, it happens to everyone at some point. I have decided that as we grow and as the refining process takes place, it is not comfortable. Duh! is that an understatement of what? This getting out of our comfort zone, (which is really hard for me) means we should be going forward with Christ. We (me) have to be willing to go or do whatever we (I) am called to do. Let me say here that "I do". Many times in my life I just did what I wanted to do and it was never worth it. NO peace and joy lived there. This is what happens when we take our focus off God! Am I stronger? I hope so as I see Gods Hand in our life. Am I going to make it, a resounding YES! My destination is Heaven. Will there be more financial, spiritual, physical, etc, etc, to deal with before I get there? You better believe it. The enemy of our souls is out there to kill, steal and destroy. Do not underestimate him, but do remember the power given to us by Jesus Himself, through the Holy Spirit is much much greater. We do not have to live in defeat! So now you may be asking "Well what is your problem, you are saying all the right things, why are you wandering around in the wilderness? So here is my (excuse) answer. I was being rebellious because I didn't think God was being fair, my faith was "not" in things that are not seen, but just going on what I did see, which looked pretty hopeless. Confession is good, but being a whiny baby is certainly not! I hope I have not depressed you to much. God is good and this to shall pass! If you get the chance read about Elijah and Jezebel. It is quite a story! I have prayed for you as read this and if you are having problems, don't give up. I don't think God cares for us asking questions.
Check out Spiritual Sundays. (The link is on the sidebar) You will be encouraged!
Have a wonderful weekend and Lords Day!

Sassy Cat AKA Miss Lucy!

2010-10-30T05:22:00.000-05:00

Here is Miss Lucy during the time we had her. I will post a picture of her when she comes for a visit.

Genesis 45:4-8
^4-8 "Come closer to me," Joseph said to his brothers. They came closer. "I am Joseph your brother whom you sold into Egypt. But don't feel badly, don't blame yourselves for selling me. God was behind it. God sent me here ahead of you to save lives. There has been a famine in the land now for two years; the famine will continue for five more years—neither plowing nor harvesting. God sent me on ahead to pave the way and make sure there was a remnant in the land, to save your lives in an amazing act of deliverance. So you see, it wasn't you who sent me here but God. He set me in place as a father to Pharaoh, put me in charge of his personal affairs, and made me ruler of all Egypt.

A phone call reminded me of last winters experience with a ragdoll cat names Miss Lucy. The sweet lady that called let me know how much she loved this cat that now had a purpose and a home. Let me explain; Early one morning I heard this faint meowing next to our sunporch window. Upon closer inspection, I found a small white very neglected cat. Poor little thing, she was covered in fleas and an ear infection that never went away for as long as I had her. A trip to the vet verified that along with having her spayed. I don't know much about cats because we never had one, poodles occupied our home so the process began. I named her Miss Lucy and so the relationship developed. She lived in our garage and received lots of attention during the winter. She was the sweetest most lovable little thing. I gave her baths and she just stood there, I doctored her ears and she just laid there. She was amazing, but hubby especially, did not want a cat in the house. No one ever came looking for her so I knew she would need a good home. A notice left at the vets produced a phone call from someone that was interested in her. So one thing led to another and now Miss Lucy has an amazing home. Sounds like she is loved and very well taken care of. I am so thankful! I had wondered all the time and even asked God "why". And now I see the very reason. This sweet lady informed me her "Sassy" had died at the age of 14&1/2 years. She said it just broke her heart when they had to put her down. Also Miss Lucy was "just like" Sassy. So here is my take on this situation. God cares so much about the little things in our life, He knew the heartbreak this woman felt when she lost her beloved Sassy. And the fact also, was I willing to try and save her because she would have surely not made it through the winter. Even the vet bill was worked out so she could be cared for. So what do you think? Does God really use everything for our good? Remember Joseph? He said his brothers meant it for bad, but God meant it for good. This also proves one other thing to me, we have to do what is right and to the best of our ability. We won't understand things in the beginning, why our house, why a cat (we already had Sammy who is spoiled rotten and stays in our shop at night), but if you are a child of God, then you must believe even the little things matter to Him. Oh by the way, I am expecting a visit from her and Miss Lucy aka Sassy.
Be blessed this Lords Day and don't forget to check out Spiritual Sunday, the link is on the sidebar.

Triumphal music!

2010-10-28T20:38:00.002-05:00

Habakkuk 3:2 (The Message)

^1-2 A prayer of the prophet Habakkuk, with orchestra: God, I've heard what our ancestors say about you,
   and I'm stopped in my tracks, down on my knees.
Do among us what you did among them.
   Work among us as you worked among them.
And as you bring judgment, as you surely must,
   remember mercy.

I love the little book of Habakkuk! If you have the chance to read it, there is an amazing account of God showing him what was about to happen and why. The love and mercy of God is shown in this shigionoth (The word denotes a lyrical poem composed under strong mental emotion; a song of impassioned imagination accompanied with suitable music; a dithyrambic ode.) “Strong mental emotion” is an indication of how sincere and heartfelt this prayer was as he is singing. I remember years ago, being in church, and hearing the saints of God singing their prayers. Maybe someone would begin in the front, and pretty soon all across the building, there would be the most beautiful song you have ever heard. It always reminded me of angels singing to God. But the point here is it has been “many years”, why do we not have this in church anymore? What has happened that we do not praise God like this, and is it important? Is our praise and worship the same thing? When I need to know something, our pastor is the one that helps explain things. Here is his view on this subject of “shigionoth”, So many people have gotten away from this type of worship, singing in the Holy Spirit was common and a way of expressing praise to God, but pride has entered the church and the fact that it is an “old” thing is not acceptable, therefore it is not sought after. Some people are always searching for “New” ways, something different and so they are not seeking God in this way. Anytime pride enters the Holy Spirit is grieved, and He is unable to move. If you will look at the definition again, this is the hearts deepest cries, emotions that cannot be related any other way except praise. I just believe it would be such a blessing to have the Holy Spirit ministering in a service, where peoples lives are changed and they desire to walk closer to their Father God! I like the “old” ways. My desire is to be a part of this again! If you would, please leave a comment and let me know what you think! Love and Blessings to you!

(I wrote this post several months ago and have discovered that it is one of the most read on my blog, so I thought I would post it again. Let me know what you think about Shigionoth!)

Life healed and Whole!

2010-10-22T22:08:00.002-05:00

1 Peter 1:3-9 (The Message)

^3-5What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we've been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now! God is keeping careful watch over us and the future. The Day is coming when you'll have it all—life healed and whole.
^6-7I know how great this makes you feel, even though you have to put up with every kind of aggravation in the meantime. Pure gold put in the fire comes out of it proved pure; genuine faith put through this suffering comes out proved genuine. When Jesus wraps this all up, it's your faith, not your gold, that God will have on display as evidence of his victory.
^8-9You never saw him, yet you love him. You still don't see him, yet you trust him—with laughter and singing. Because you kept on believing, you'll get what you're looking forward to: total salvation.

"Putting up with every king of aggravation" is an understatement in my life! As my sweet Aunt Donnie used to say "I have more on my plate than I can say grace over"! We all know what time we are living in, even folks that are not believers will tell you there is to much going on and something has to give! Life is getting scary for many and if someone is dealing with health issues, well, you get the picture. When I read this scripture the first thing that jumped out at me was "God is keeping careful watch over us and the future". Why do we worry (certainly not supposed to worry) and fret? Why is it so hard for us to trust God? Soooo many answers and all lead to God. Because we want to "see", it is hard to walk by faith. But this is how it works, one step at a time, and one day at a time. Totally relying on God to lead us, trusting Him with laughter and singing. Please read the scripture again and claim it for your own when you need to be strengthened and encouraged. I do believe the time we live in will be more difficult. We need to focus ( I am especially talking to myself) on God, not looking to the right or the left. I pray your week will be wonderful beginning with Spiritual Sunday. Be sure and check them out, you will be blessed.

http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com/

It is Party Time!

2010-10-15T21:03:00.003-05:00

Colossians 3:15 (The Message)

^15-17Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of Christ—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way.

Isn't it wonderful when friends and family can get together and have fun? Our annual fall party is this weekend with a new title "Fall Blessings Party". Do you like it? I just felt like since there are so many disturbing things going on that it would be nice to focus on the good things, hence "Blessings". I am sure if I ask everyone here, they can come up with a blessing. We all have things to be thankful for. If they drove and didn't have to walk is a blessing. If they are able to eat and enjoy the food, that is another one. If they can hear the music, another one. You see the list goes on and on. Just being together with folks who love the Lord is a blessing to me! I hope no matter what is going on in your life that you will keep your focus on God. You know that old saying "if He brought you to it, He will bring you through it". I also hope your weekend will be wonderful. Be sure to check out Spiritual Sundays, you will be inspired!
The link is on the sidebar!

In Him We are Complete!

A Little Background!

2010-10-08T22:36:00.009-05:00

Here are a couple pictures of the flowers

I was also honored to design the bride and bridesmaids bouquets! Fall weddings are so beautiful!

Deuteronomy 13:4 (New Living Translation)

4. Serve only the Lord your God and fear him alone. Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him.

I am not sure I have posted much about our family, so I'm thinking this is a good time. We have a very special wedding this coming Sunday, and the reasons (more than one) is the fact that this makes the second grandson to be married and hubby will have performed both ceremonies. Now if you don't find that very interesting, let me tell you why. God called hubby to preach when he was a young man, did he answer the call??? not hardly, not until he was 59 years old! Yes, you read it right! At the age of 59, he finally accepted his calling and began intense studying with the pastor of our little church when we moved to Missouri. This pastor who became his best friend ever encouraged him and helped him in his studying. God of course was ready for him to accelerate in his ministry. That was 4 years ago, he now preaches twice a month at our home church. If the word "amazing" needs to be described, then this is exactly what happened and continues to happen. Now back to the grandson! In March of this year grandson number 1 (who is also a youth pastor) got married and ask papa to do the honors. (by the way, this was the first wedding hubby ever performed) It was truly a beautiful service! Now grandson number 2 is next and the same thing "papa will you marry us?" and of course the answer is Yes! Now don't you just find all that "amazing?" Take it from me, it is!!!!! I have never witnessed any one change like he has. Hubby was a good man in many ways, just not in God's ways. I am so proud in the most humblest of ways to be married to this fella. After all these years to finally see God's plan materialize just brings joy to my heart and thankfulness to my lips. God is good and so faithful! Can you imagine how hard on one hand it would be to step up at the age of 59 and tell God you are ready to fulfill His destiny in your life? What courage it takes, as the old saying goes "it is not for the weak in heart". It does take courage to stand and preach the gospel, not watered down, still saying the "sin" word, telling people that hell is a real place and all done with great humility and the most sincere love for people. This best describes hubby! So we are on our way to visit with my brother, then Sunday will be the big day! Please remember in all this, it is never to late to do what God has called us to do! I believe Moses was 80 when God called him to lead His people out of Egypt! If you think you are to old, to whatever, just remember with God ALL things are possible!
thank you for stopping by, my prayers and blessings are for you and your family. Please stop by Spiritual Sundays and be encouraged in the Lord.(link is on the sidebar)
Have a wonderful weekend!

A Trip to the Past!

2010-10-02T20:42:00.004-05:00

Psalm 91 (New Living Translation)

1. Those who live in the shelter of the Most High
will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
2. This I declare about the Lord:
He alone is my refuge, my place of safety;
he is my God, and I trust him.
3. For he will rescue you from every trap
and protect you from deadly disease.
4. He will cover you with his feathers.
He will shelter you with his wings.
His faithful promises are your armor and protection.
5. Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night,
nor the arrow that flies in the day.
6. Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness,
nor the disaster that strikes at midday.
7. Though a thousand fall at your side,
though ten thousand are dying around you,
these evils will not touch you.

Have you ever had anything to happen that jerks you back into the past? Something that uncovers a part of your life that you would just like to forget? I had this very thing in my face this week. First a little background; my sister and I had polio when we were children. And that began a life of fear (my first encounter), doctors, hospitals, iron lungs etc. So from 5 and 3 years old to now we have dealt with many health problems. This week my sister fell and broke her hip, because of the post polio her recovery is having many complications. If you are not familiar with polio, it was a virus that caused damage to the nerves. Some were paralyzed to never walk, some of us regained strength only to lose it again as the aging process takes place. Because the heart is a muscle, most post polio patients have heart trouble. Actually what happens is the nerves are dying and there is nothing the doctors can do about it. So the heart and the muscles gets weaker. Even writing this is hard for me, but it is a realization that won't go away. I have to deal with this but I can tell you without God, I could not. There is no hope for this condition, no cure and even the medication is limited as how it helps with pain. I am sorry if this is depressing to you, it is not meant to be nor for pity. This is life and we all are or will deal with something! We will be faced with events that will hurt our hearts and cause us to hopefully call out to God. Some won't and I know that, but I just can't wrap my mind around that aspect. We are here on this earth for just a short time like a vapor,yet we will spend eternity somewhere. My point with all this is we don't need to go through this alone, no matter what we are facing. I am speaking of myself here because my sister does not know Jesus as her Savior! Now that is the scariest of all! I would ask you to please pray for her. I will keep you updated on her condition.

Thank you for listening to my heart, I am praying for you as you read this.

Blessings to you, have a wonderful week. Check out Spiritual Sunday, there are wonderful testimonies to the faithfulness of God! (the link is on the sidebar)

Fall Season!

2010-09-25T17:36:00.005-05:00

My shop had to have a wreath to!

Leviticus 26:3 (The Message)

"If You Live by My Decrees..."

3-5. "If you live by my decrees and obediently keep my commandments, I will send the rains in their seasons, the ground will yield its crops and the trees of the field their fruit. You will thresh until the grape harvest and the grape harvest will continue until planting time; you'll have more than enough to eat and will live safe and secure in your land.

Am I the only one that seems to be busy all the time? I can't seem to get caught up, there is always something to do. I have to admit though I am enjoying most of it! This has been the busiest summer for hubby and I in several years, we just can't seem to figure out why. LOL. When you get to our age slowing down was a big part of life, supposedly! The one thing I don't like is not writing as much. Even my blog gets only one post a week, hopefully that to will get back to normal. As you have read in some of my posts, a friend and I have opened a booth at a local flea market. We prayed for favor to sell our "wares", and we are. We are so thankful! And having so much fun with it to. I love to paint and decorate and she has antiques and collectibles. Perfect match to get those folks coming back! There is also lots of holidays coming up, my Bible study will begin again in October. I have found the greatest study from a newspaper ad that had Beth Moores "Daniel". Even though I am not Presbyterian, they let me join anway. lol. Now two studies later, we are excited to begin again. I have been able to keep up with my daily readings, I know this is where my strength comes from. It is through the Word we have faith and hope. We may get to have vacations and time off, but the enemy of our souls never stops the attacks. He is truly a relentless foe! We need to remember that we are in a battle and stay focused. It is easy to get sidetracked, isn't it? I hope you have had a wonderful summer, beginning now we will begin to think more inside than outside. Being cozy and lots of good food, (it has been to hot to think much about eating this summer).
Blessings to you this Lords Day! Check out Spiritual Sunday and read the testimonies, you will be encouraged. (The Link is on the sidebar)

Life is a Journey!

2010-09-18T21:38:00.006-05:00

One of my Fall Blessings Wreath!

1 Peter 1:18-21 (The Message)

Your life is a journey you must travel with a deep consciousness of God. It cost God plenty to get you out of that dead-end, empty-headed life you grew up in. He paid with Christ's sacred blood, you know. He died like an unblemished, sacrificial lamb. And this was no afterthought. Even though it has only lately—at the end of the ages—become public knowledge, God always knew he was going to do this for you. It's because of this sacrificed Messiah, whom God then raised from the dead and glorified, that you trust God, that you know you have a future in God.

Life is certainly a journey, just like the scripture states. Some call it a wild ride, and as the world is right now, I would say the latter. How can we keep this in our heart the price that was paid on the Cross? As I read these Scriptures in the Message translation, the part that really stood out to me was "God always knew He was going to do this for me and you". Always, He had a plan! What hope and encouragement to know this. I certainly don't believe things will improve a lot, the stage has to be set for what will come. But I do believe God really is in control. I wanted to share this with you this Lords Day, to give you hope to not quit, but to stay focused. We all face different situations, but the answer to all of them is still God. Please visit Spiritual Sundays to read the inspiring posts. (The link is on the sidebar). Have a Wonderful Blessed Day!

Promises from God!

2010-09-10T19:13:00.002-05:00

Happy Blessed Fall!

Promises from God!

Psalm 91 (The Message)

You who sit down in the High God's presence, spend the night in Shaddai's shadow,
Say this: "God, you're my refuge.
I trust in you and I'm safe!"
That's right—he rescues you from hidden traps,
shields you from deadly hazards.
His huge outstretched arms protect you—
under them you're perfectly safe;
his arms fend off all harm.
Fear nothing—not wild wolves in the night,
not flying arrows in the day,
Not disease that prowls through the darkness,
not disaster that erupts at high noon.
Even though others succumb all around,
drop like flies right and left,
no harm will even graze you.
You'll stand untouched, watch it all from a distance,
watch the wicked turn into corpses.
Yes, because God's your refuge,
the High God your very own home,
Evil can't get close to you,
harm can't get through the door.
He ordered his angels
to guard you wherever you go.
If you stumble, they'll catch you;
their job is to keep you from falling.
You'll walk unharmed among lions and snakes,
and kick young lions and serpents from the path.

14-16. "If you'll hold on to me for dear life," says God,
"I'll get you out of any trouble.
I'll give you the best of care
if you'll only get to know and trust me.
Call me and I'll answer, be at your side in bad times;
I'll rescue you, then throw you a party.
I'll give you a long life,
give you a long drink of salvation!"

What more can be said? What more needs to be done? Don't you see what God has done for you and me? Why do we worry and let fear control us? Many, many questions and the answers are here in Psalms 91. God has made provision for us, angels ordered to protect us and all we have to do is believe! But if we don't know what the Word says, then we can't believe or trust in God. I can promise you that when I am overwhelmed the only reason I would stay that way is to not go to Gods Word. There is power in His Word! All I have to do is begin to read and ask myself "Are these promises for me?" Of course if we are saved then we have rights to every single one of them. I want to encourage you this week, because you may have "more on your plate than you can say grace over" as my sweet aunt used to say. We are certainly pressed in on from every side, the enemy is not a toothless old lion, but a roaring lion with a mission to destroy us. But (and I love that word, it means hold on there is more to come) we know what happens to our adversary, we know who wins! We can be assured that God will never leave us, never! His love and provision will last forever. I pray you have a wonderful weekend and a blessed Lords Day. (Be sure and check out the ladies at Spiritual Sunday. The link is on the sidebar)
[Image]

The King!

2010-09-06T11:11:00.003-05:00

left to right in back; Me, Karen, Michelle. front left to right; Candy and Kathy

Well, it is back from vacation and we had a wonderful time. Lots of sight seeing and rest was just what we needed. Our first stop was in Memphis touring Graceland. Now I have to tell you my daughters are crazy about Elvis, me on the other hand is not to crazy about him. I know, some would think this is unAmerican! Maybe so, but no denying he was a very talented man. He is the "king" is what we were told there. Well, this is all well and good, but it bothered me to see him worshiped as he is. Even to this day people come from all over the world to see where he lived and died. When we got around to the grave site, there were folks crying for him! It certainly is very sad, I am not saying that at all, and it is such a waste that he didn't live longer. We also visited Hank Williams museum in Montgomery, Alabama and spent the day there. I love history so this was right up my alley. We headed onto Pensacola and enjoyed the rest of our time just having fun and relaxing. We all really enjoyed the trip, but it had to end and get back to the "real world". I want to thank you for praying for our safety, everything was fine. God had His Hand on us! Summer is nearly over with and we are getting into another season. I hope you have made some wonderful memories with family and friends and if not, if things are not going well, then my prayer for you is to keep focused on God and He will lead you through the valley you are walking. He will never leave or forsake any of us if we are trusting in Him. Our King will not die and leave us to fend for ourselves. Have a wonderful week! Please check out Spiritual Sunday, the link is on the sidebar.

Much Needed Rest!

2010-08-27T14:12:00.003-05:00

This next week my daughters and I will be taking a much needed vacation. To say we are excited is an understatement! Time away from jobs, stress and yes even family members. They all stay so busy! I remember all the running and keeping up with all the activities. Life is busy and hectic and sometimes we just need a time out to regroup. We usually get together every year and celebrate all our birthdays. Distance keeps us from visiting, so we have a big day, this year five days to enjoy. Please remember us in your prayers for a safe journey. Have a wonderful Spiritual Sunday!. (the link is on the sidebar)

Blessings to you!

Seasons of Change!

2010-08-21T09:51:00.007-05:00

This picture was taken last October coming up the driveway to our house!

Ecclesiastes 12:2-7 (The Message)

2. Honor and enjoy your Creator while you're still young,
Before the years take their toll and your vigor wanes,
Before your vision dims and the world blurs
And the winter years keep you close to the fire.

3-5. In old age, your body no longer serves you so well.
Muscles slacken, grip weakens, joints stiffen.
The shades are pulled down on the world.
You can't come and go at will. Things grind to a halt.
The hum of the household fades away.
You are wakened now by bird-song.
Hikes to the mountains are a thing of the past.
Even a stroll down the road has its terrors.
Your hair turns apple-blossom white,
Adorning a fragile and impotent matchstick body.
Yes, you're well on your way to eternal rest,
While your friends make plans for your funeral.

6-7. Life, lovely while it lasts, is soon over.
Life as we know it, precious and beautiful, ends.
The body is put back in the same ground it came from.
The spirit returns to God, who first breathed it.

Are you ready for the seasons to change? I sure am, it has been really hot and dry here in southwest Missouri. God in His wisdom knew we would have to have changes in our life, didn't He? Some are good and some are bad, but I have learned even in the bad, there is a lesson I need to learn. We will always be in school, so to speak, until we go to Heaven. As this season comes to a close, I am reminded of the part of life I live in. You could say I am in the Autumn part. Spring and Summer are the first half of our life and then we go into the second part. This part is a little scary to me (may not be the best word to describe it) but according to the Bible, it should not be. How can we not notice though that our physical body begins to show some signs of wear and tear. We do begin the dying process the minute we are born. Life that is affected by how we treat our body, but the inevitable happens. We do get old, but here is the wonderful revelation for me to know that I am closer to God today than I was this time last year. My concerns and things that once was very important is not that big of a deal anymore. My focus stays on God more, I pray more and seek His Face more. This is growing in the grace and knowledge of God. So, will we face hard things as the seasons change? You better believe it, life is difficult and will always be. We will suffer like our Savior did and we don't know what we will face. I am being completely honest with you when I tell you, I have lots of growing to do. I am reluctant to say, "I am ready for whatever comes my way", or I don't dread somewhere in my spirit that I could have a disease or deal with pain, or wind up in a nursing home, or whatever. The list could go on and on. My point is, I don't know the future, but God does. I will take one day at a time and try to do the best I can. If any or all of these things happen to me, well it just will. I do know one BIG thing, though. God said He would never leave or forsake me! He said He would be with me till the end of my life here on earth. This brings peace in my heart! I wish I could say I have no fear, but that is not the truth. That is something I pray for and ask Gods help with daily. I hope I haven't rambled to much, this was on my heart this morning and I wanted to share it with you. I pray you have a blessed weekend! Always be thankful for the season you are in, don't have a mindset that when this or that happens,you will do more for God. Today is the day and maybe the only one we will have left!

The Thorns!

2010-08-10T13:09:00.006-05:00

Mark 15:17 (The Message)

16-20.The soldiers took Jesus into the palace (called Praetorium) and called together the entire brigade. They dressed him up in purple and put a crown plaited from a thornbush on his head. Then they began their mockery: "Bravo, King of the Jews!" They banged on his head with a club, spit on him, and knelt down in mock worship. After they had had their fun, they took off the purple cape and put his own clothes back on him. Then they marched out to nail him to the cross.

As some of you have noticed, I love decorating my home! Whether it is floral design, painting mistreated furniture, walls or just about anything that doesn't move out of my way. Really anything that will make our home welcome and comforting to our wonderful family and friends that visit us. I found this shadow box at a garage sale and decided it needed some loving care. And of course it so touched my heart because of the message in it. I repainted the frame, got the red silk in it then began to work with the cross. I got it positioned then in trying to figure out where to place the thorns (they are real) I stabbed my finger pretty good. My goodness those thorns are sharp! As this was going through my mind, I immediately remembered our Lord and the crown of thorns that was placed harshly on His Head! It just broke my heart all over again! And this was just a few of things that He suffered and endured for you and me. I can only imagine so much of it, even as I read about the treatment and then to take it personally that if I had been the "only" one, He would have taken the same road to the Cross. I don't know about you, but maybe we all need a reminder sometimes of the price paid for our salvation. The paper you see are the words of the Old Rugged Cross and now this precious reminder hangs over the mantle in our family room for all to see. My clock also sits there on purpose so that no matter who sees it, they are confronted with this truth of the Cross. I hope you enjoy the rest of the week! Remember to not look to the left or the right and certainly not behind you, but look to Jesus and keep focused on Him and the Cross that delivers us from eternal destruction gives us hope and promises of Heaven. Bless You sweet friends!
(Be sure and check out Spiritual Sundays (the link is on the sidebar) There are wonderful and inspiring testimonies of Gods Goodness!

Overwhelmed but Hope Remains!

2010-08-05T15:10:00.006-05:00

Flowers from my Garden!

Psalm 25:4-6 (New Living Translation)

4. Show me the right path, O Lord;
point out the road for me to follow.

5. Lead me by your truth and teach me,
for you are the God who saves me.
All day long I put my hope in you.

6. Remember, O Lord, your compassion and unfailing love,
which you have shown from long ages past

I quit! Working with hubby in the yard that is! I finally realized I just can't do as much as I used to. Oh it grieves me so to even say it! I was overwhelmed by so much to do, that I just came in the house and sat down. Have you ever been like that? Overwhelmed that is? Not just what we can't do anymore but just life in general. Life is more complicated now than anytime that I can ever remember, and if the elections don't turn things around this fall, then by human standards, we are doomed! Very depressing and discouraging to say the least! Many non christians are already hopeless and I am sorry to say, many Christians are the same. What is the answer? Well, for one thing we do not look at what the "World" tells us, we can't because then there really is no hope. We must stay focused on God and believe, not just hope so, or think so, but really believe that He has a plan for our life. Yes, in spite of everything and not because of anything, we have to BELIEVE. I listened to a woman's testimony yesterday that by all accounts should either be dead or in the poor house. "But for God" she took him at His Word. She had made the statement that everything was between her and God and she would not involve anyone else. Her family could have gone in debt to help her, but again she stated "this was between her and God". When she began to seek Him for guidance and over a period of time, amazing things began to happen. Her 91 ford with no heater got her around and she was thankful but now she has private airlines carrying her around. Now I am not saying we are all going to be wealthy (we could be) but we certainly will "prosper" in every way that counts. My prayer for you today is don't quit (I will be back in the flower beds, but just not as long and hard as I used to work), don't get discouraged that you see no hope. There is hope but it will only come from God, the answer is on the way. No matter how many "prince of Persia's" are waylaying our answer, the answer will come and it will be the right time for it to happen. For those of us that are getting a little older or maybe have some health problems, God will make a way for those things to get done to. Blessings to you my sweet friends! Have a wonderful Lords Day and don't forget to check out Spiritual Sunday! The link is on the sidebar!

A Delightful Child!

2010-07-30T22:09:00.006-05:00

Esther 4:12-17 (The Message)

12-14. When Hathach told Mordecai what Esther had said, Mordecai sent her this message: "Don't think that just because you live in the king's house you're the one Jew who will get out of this alive. If you persist in staying silent at a time like this, help and deliverance will arrive for the Jews from someplace else; but you and your family will be wiped out. Who knows? Maybe you were made queen for just such a time as this."

15-16. Esther sent back her answer to Mordecai: "Go and get all the Jews living in Susa together. Fast for me. Don't eat or drink for three days, either day or night. I and my maids will fast with you. If you will do this, I'll go to the king, even though it's forbidden. If I die, I die."

17. Mordecai left and carried out Esther's instructions.

Have you in your family or by acquaintance known "a delightful child"? All children are precious and truly gifts from God, but sometimes there may be this special child that exudes this joyful spirit. It is actually hard to describe the laughter and peace that surrounds her or him. I am not even sure if those are the correct words, but I can tell you it is a blessing to witness this child. Seems like they also possess the ability to excel in everything they do. I have noticed they pay attention to detail, you might not even think they are really understanding, but they are. Seems like it is so easy for them, why is that? I have not exactly figured out this phenomenon and maybe never will. We know they are special because God made all of us special and He has a plan for everyone so it is more than that. Maybe God has something special for them to do in their life that few could do. I am reminded of Hadassah or Queen Esther as she was called in the Bible. She was there for "such a time as this" as her uncle had told her. She was beautiful but more than that because she found favor with everyone. People loved her! We know she was brave and committed to God. Did she start off in life in a perfect situation? Not hardly, her parents had died and this is why her uncle was raising her. She was appointed by God for this time to save her people, it was her time but more importantly she was in Gods timing and perfect will. I am sure there will always be "Hadassahs" until Jesus comes and who knows but one might be in our family or someone we know. If you are aware of someone with this kind of spirit, please leave a comment. It will be several years before this child will be grown and I am anxious to see what will take place in her life. Our God is an awesome God and who knows what will happen in the future, but one thing I am assured of He is in control and I praise Him for His promises. We must pray for not only our children and grandchildren but for all children that they would be eager and accept Gods calling in their life. I pray you have a wonderful safe weekend and especially blessed services on Sunday. Be sure and check out Spiritual Sundays, the link is on the side bar. You will be blessed! And, when you get a chance read the book of Esther, it is a powerful story of plans that made sure our Savior would be born.

Signed, Sealed and Delivered!

2010-07-28T22:13:00.004-05:00

Ephesians 1:3-14 (The Message)

The God of Glory

3-6. How blessed is God! And what a blessing he is! He's the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in him. Long before he laid down earth's foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son.
7-10. Because of the sacrifice of the Messiah, his blood poured out on the altar of the Cross, we're a free people—free of penalties and punishments chalked up by all our misdeeds. And not just barely free, either. Abundantly free! He thought of everything, provided for everything we could possibly need, letting us in on the plans he took such delight in making. He set it all out before us in Christ, a long-range plan in which everything would be brought together and summed up in him, everything in deepest heaven, everything on planet earth.

11-12. It's in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.

13-14. It's in Christ that you, once you heard the truth and believed it (this Message of your salvation), found yourselves home free—signed, sealed, and delivered by the Holy Spirit. This signet from God is the first installment on what's coming, a reminder that we'll get everything God has planned for us, a praising and glorious life.

Who are we in Christ? What does it mean, this plan that He has for us? I suppose we all have questions that will never be answered until we get to heaven. It doesn't keep us from asking or wondering though, does it? We either believe all or nothing in Gods Word, there is no in between. When this revelation gets in our heart we will know WHO we are and WHAT we are entitled to because of Jesus. I have to know who I am! I have been doing a genealogy research to know more about my family, I wanted to know all about these people and where they came from. Same way in becoming a new creature in Christ, we should want to know all about our Heavenly Father and our new life. What are the benefits of being free from all our sins? What does freedom really mean to you? Signed, sealed and delivered when we believe just as the scripture states above. What wonderful promises that are ours. Please read the scriptures above and remember to be so thankful for what Jesus did for us on the Cross, this blood was shed for you and me, and all of us that will accept Him as Savior. I pray you will have a blessed rest of the week.

The One Forgiven Most!

2010-07-25T18:46:00.004-05:00

Luke 7: 35-52 (The Message)

Anointing His Feet.

36-39. One of the Pharisees asked him over for a meal. He went to the Pharisee's house and sat down at the dinner table. Just then a woman of the village, the town harlot, having learned that Jesus was a guest in the home of the Pharisee, came with a bottle of very expensive perfume and stood at his feet, weeping, raining tears on his feet. Letting down her hair, she dried his feet, kissed them, and anointed them with the perfume. When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, "If this man was the prophet I thought he was, he would have known what kind of woman this is who is falling all over him."
40. Jesus said to him, "Simon, I have something to tell you."

"Oh? Tell me."

41-42. "Two men were in debt to a banker. One owed five hundred silver pieces, the other fifty. Neither of them could pay up, and so the banker canceled both debts. Which of the two would be more grateful?"

43-47. Simon answered, "I suppose the one who was forgiven the most."

"That's right," said Jesus. Then turning to the woman, but speaking to Simon, he said, "Do you see this woman? I came to your home; you provided no water for my feet, but she rained tears on my feet and dried them with her hair. You gave me no greeting, but from the time I arrived she hasn't quit kissing my feet. You provided nothing for freshening up, but she has soothed my feet with perfume. Impressive, isn't it? She was forgiven many, many sins, and so she is very, very grateful. If the forgiveness is minimal, the gratitude is minimal."

48. Then he spoke to her: "I forgive your sins."

49.That set the dinner guests talking behind his back: "Who does he think he is, forgiving sins!"

50. He ignored them and said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you. Go in peace."

What kind of woman was this? A woman that was forgiven many, many sins that made her more grateful than some of us can imagine. A woman of "ill repute", a prostitute by trade, shunned by everyone. This story was a reminder to me of a statement made by someone that should have known better. She told us that it was no different what we had been saved from, that sin was sin. My immediate reaction (maybe to immediate) was that she and I didn't have a clue what a woman such as this had experienced in her life. Oh yes, I can tell you about numerous sins in my life, sins that breaks my heart and the heart of my Savior. But I cannot tell you anything about this kind. Just as the scripture talks about the bankers that owed money and was forgiven, one fifty silver pieces and the other five hundred pieces. Now these ARE the Words of Jesus, as they say "duh", of course the one forgiven 500 pieces is going to be more grateful. I think sometimes maybe people that are in ministry say a lot of things that are not exactly scriptural. You think? Again, duh! Yes, thank God for forgiving and saving me. I am so thankful that I wasn't in this kind of life. Did I have real horrible sin in my life? Of course I did, we all are sinners. But sweet friends as the old saying goes "Sin will take you farther than you want to go and keep you longer than you want to stay". Not everyone was raised in a Christian home and not everyone has been a Christian all their life! But I will tell you one thing I have observed, those that have been in the pig pen are the most dedicated, they can tell you where Jesus brought them from. They don't want to go back, they know they can't. I will get off my soapbox for now, I get really angry at these people that make statements like this, these holier than thou folks (sorry again). Lets not get to big for our breeches! No we all don't have the same kind of story, we all were sinners. But there are some that have been forgiven "many, many, those 500 pieces of silver, etc" sins. Bless you, I pray you will have a wonderful week ahead.

Way to Busy!

2010-07-22T08:01:00.004-05:00

Flowers from my Garden!

Luke 10:38-42 (The Message)

Mary and Martha

38-40. As they continued their travel, Jesus entered a village. A woman by the name of Martha welcomed him and made him feel quite at home. She had a sister, Mary, who sat before the Master, hanging on every word he said. But Martha was pulled away by all she had to do in the kitchen. Later, she stepped in, interrupting them. "Master, don't you care that my sister has abandoned the kitchen to me? Tell her to lend me a hand."

41-42. The Master said, "Martha, dear Martha, you're fussing far too much and getting yourself worked up over nothing. One thing only is essential, and Mary has chosen it—it's the main course, and won't be taken from her."

I am having a hard time trying to keep up with this busy life! This summer is swiftly going by, I can't believe it is already near the end of July! I would say, "I am toooo busy", I suppose we all at some time just want everything to stop for a minute and just rest. How do we get caught up in all this? For me, it is being out of my routine. Hubby and I have have been long without children in the house, (grandchildren come and now and we love it) so I have (or had) my "routine" of spending time in Gods Word first thing of a morning and enjoying my coffee. Then just whatever I wanted or needed to do would be next. Well things change and I don't adapt very well. We are creatures of habit, aren't we? I realize I need to be more flexible, I also realize as folks get older they tend to be set in their ways hummm! I am quite sure I don't like the last one. lol. All of this just to say no matter what happens we should never neglect Gods Word or spending time in prayer. I think of the story of Mary and Martha and I am identifying more with Martha at times than I would like to . Always being concerned to the point of being upset if things are not done. Sound familiar? Martha was the same "fussing far to much and getting worked up over nothing",( I love how the "Message" states that.) There is only one thing that is important and that will never be taken away from us! My prayer today is Lord help me to always put you first, stay out of those areas that are really unimportant, and keep focused. There is a time for everything just like the Word tells us. If you are struggling with these things to, remember they are just "things". Have a wonderful blessed day! My prayers are with you!

Born from Above!

2010-07-17T22:34:00.005-05:00

My garden if full of reminders of God's Handiwork!

John 3:1-7 (The Message)

Born from Above

1-2. There was a man of the Pharisee sect, Nicodemus, a prominent leader among the Jews. Late one night he visited Jesus and said, "Rabbi, we all know you're a teacher straight from God. No one could do all the God-pointing, God-revealing acts you do if God weren't in on it."
3. Jesus said, "You're absolutely right. Take it from me: Unless a person is born from above, it's not possible to see what I'm pointing to—to God's kingdom."

4. "How can anyone," said Nicodemus, "be born who has already been born and grown up? You can't re-enter your mother's womb and be born again. What are you saying with this 'born-from-above' talk?"

5-6.Jesus said, "You're not listening. Let me say it again. Unless a person submits to this original creation—the 'wind-hovering-over-the-water' creation, the invisible moving the visible, a baptism into a new life—it's not possible to enter God's kingdom. When you look at a baby, it's just that: a body you can look at and touch. But the person who takes shape within is formed by something you can't see and touch—the Spirit—and becomes a living spirit.

7-8."So don't be so surprised when I tell you that you have to be 'born from above'—out of this world, so to speak. You know well enough how the wind blows this way and that. You hear it rustling through the trees, but you have no idea where it comes from or where it's headed next. That's the way it is with everyone 'born from above' by the wind of God, the Spirit of God."

Have you been born again? How do you know if you have or haven't? I watched one of my favorite preachers talk about this very thing. It was powerful and quite a revelation to me. I had never thought about it in this way. He brought out the point that before the birth, there was conception and then nine months of preparation for that baby to be born. Then of course a radical change would take place at birth. This change when we are spiritually born again brings also a radical change. We know God has turned us around from the way we was heading, we are going in a different direction. All the ways that we have tried to change ourselves of course fail. We can't do it, but He can! The Holy Spirit comes to live in us just as this baby was in the womb. It was an amazing sermon that really touched my heart. We must be born from above to make heaven our home. I have heard and I am sure you have to someone say they "think" they are saved! It would be like asking me if I have children, I wouldn't say, "Well, I think I do", people might think I was strange for a very good reason. Of course I have children, I know that and I know I am born again just as Nicodemus is being told by Christ Himself in this passage. It is of the greatest importance that we must be sure of our salvation. It is a matter of life and death, hell and heaven! I pray this has touched your heart as well. We know when we are born again, radical change does happen and we begin a growth process that will last until Jesus comes for us. I pray that you will be blessed this Lords Day! Pray for me as I pray for you! Also enjoy the wonderful encouragement over at Spiritual Sundays (the link is on the sidebar).

Busy but Blessed!

2010-07-13T21:13:00.003-05:00

Romans 15:4 (The Message)

3-6..That's exactly what Jesus did. He didn't make it easy for himself by avoiding people's troubles, but waded right in and helped out. "I took on the troubles of the troubled," is the way Scripture puts it. Even if it was written in Scripture long ago, you can be sure it's written for us. God wants the combination of his steady, constant calling and warm, personal counsel in Scripture to come to characterize us, keeping us alert for whatever he will do next. May our dependably steady and warmly personal God develop maturity in you so that you get along with each other as well as Jesus gets along with us all. Then we'll be a choir—not our voices only, but our very lives singing in harmony in a stunning anthem to the God and Father of our Master Jesus

How do you take time to keep a blog updated when you have two granddaughters that like to be entertained? I am sooo behind on everything, but I am enjoying them so much. I am so thankful God gives us a second chance with grandchildren, aren't you? Now I have the time to spend with them and teach them, not only about the ways of God, but hobbies like painting and floral arranging. And, they just love it! I am not sure that I have shared this with you, but I have identical twins and the girls that are here now are their daughters. No one had ever told them how close related they are, more than their other cousins! So this is really "cool", to them! But all this to say, I am a busy woman! I love to write and this blog helps me to convey my feeling and thoughts in this crazy world we live in. We all need encouragement through God's Word, daily reminders that we are loved and cared for. I love the scripture from the "Message" that states that God is dependently steady and warmly personal! He did take on the "troubles of the troubled." Developing relationships with granddaughters or anyone for that matter is what God would have us to do, but our relationship with Him is the most important one we will ever have. I hope you enjoy your time with family and friends and most of all in your quiet time with the Lord. This is where our strength comes from and where are hope lies. Blessing to you sweet friends! Have a Wonderful Day!

Don't Worry, Just Pray!

2010-07-10T22:40:00.005-05:00

Granddaughters in Prayer!

Philippians 4:4-9 (The Message)

4-5. Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him! Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that you're on their side, working with them and not against them. Help them see that the Master is about to arrive. He could show up any minute!

6-7. Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.

8-9. Summing it all up, friends, I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.

Check with the Ladies at Spiritual Sunday (link is on the sidebar). It is so encouraging to read all the posts. Blessings to all on this Lords Day!

Old MIlk Cans and Friends!

2010-07-07T14:20:00.004-05:00

1 John 4:7 (The Message)

God Is Love

7-10. My beloved friends, let us continue to love each other since love comes from God. Everyone who loves is born of God and experiences a relationship with God. The person who refuses to love doesn't know the first thing about God, because God is love—so you can't know him if you don't love. This is how God showed his love for us: God sent his only Son into the world so we might live through him. This is the kind of love we are talking about—not that we once upon a time loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to clear away our sins and the damage they've done to our relationship with God.

This week a couple of my friends and I decided we wanted to paint! Now as you know that is right up my alley! I love to paint! Nothing is safe in my house if it has one scratch on it! LOL I took lessons years ago with a few classes scattered in between, but most of it has been a trial and error type thing. Lots of books and even research on the Internet has helped me do some pretty neat things. Anyway two of us decided to paint old milk cans and the other lady had some smaller things. We started about 10:30 and didn't quit until about 3:00 pm. I noticed when we were really concentrating, no one said anything! We were on a mission! It turned out to be so much fun and our projects turned out pretty well to. Our little paint party reminded me of how we should be with God! In those quiet times, nothing should distract us. The enemy of our souls will do everything to get our mind off the things of God, he knows the power we have in Christ and the power he doesn't have over us. There is always a lesson to be learned isn't there? God said in His Word, He would make everything work together for good to us, and He will. No matter what you are doing or where you are at, God can use the circumstances to teach us about His ways! I hope and pray you have friends and family you love to spend time with, some hobby or interests that will be blessings. Have a wonderful day and do something fun! Enjoy the time God has given to you!

Three BIG Problems!

2010-06-30T20:09:00.007-05:00

2Kings 5:16-27 (The Message)

16. "As God lives," Elisha replied, "the God whom I serve, I'll take nothing from you." Naaman tried his best to get him to take something, but he wouldn't do it.

17-18. "If you won't take anything," said Naaman, "let me ask you for something: Give me a load of dirt, as much as a team of donkeys can carry, because I'm never again going to worship any god other than God. But there's one thing for which I need God's pardon: When my master, leaning on my arm, enters the shrine of Rimmon and worships there, and I'm with him there, worshiping Rimmon, may you see to it that God forgive me for this."

19-21. Elisha said, "Everything will be all right. Go in peace."

But he hadn't gone far when Gehazi, servant to Elisha the Holy Man, said to himself, "My master has let this Aramean Naaman slip through his fingers without so much as a thank-you. By the living God, I'm going after him to get something or other from him!" And Gehazi took off after Naaman.

Naaman saw him running after him and jumped down from his chariot to greet him, "Is something wrong?"

22. "Nothing's wrong, but something's come up. My master sent me to tell you: 'Two young men just showed up from the hill country of Ephraim, brothers from the guild of the prophets. Supply their needs with a gift of 75 pounds of silver and a couple of sets of clothes.'"

23. Naaman said, "Of course, how about a 150 pounds?" Naaman insisted. He tied up the money in two sacks and gave him the two sets of clothes; he even gave him two servants to carry the gifts back with him.

24. When they got to the fort on the hill, Gehazi took the gifts from the servants, stored them inside, then sent the servants back.

25. He returned and stood before his master. Elisha said, "So what have you been up to, Gehazi?"

"Nothing much," he said.

26-27. Elisha said, "Didn't you know I was with you in spirit when that man stepped down from his chariot to greet you? Tell me, is this a time to look after yourself, lining your pockets with gifts? Naaman's skin disease will now infect you and your family, with no relief in sight."

Gehazi walked away, his skin flaky and white like snow.

The 3 big problems: Problem #1- He accepted money that had been offered to someone else. #2- He implied that money could be exchanged for God's free gift of healing. #3-Then he lied to cover up accepting the money. Wow!! do you see anything wrong with this picture? Why would a faithful servant do such a thing for money? He was serving a man that had a double portion of what Elijah had! Elisha showed compassion for those around him, and God used him mightily. Gehazi had to have seen the power of God, He had to have seen all the miracles, He had to know who God was! So instead of asking "why" again, lets get real here. How many times have we seen the love of money change a persons heart? How many times have people turned from God when they could better themselves financially? All to many times would be my answer. Now we know money is not evil, but the love of it sure causes a lot of greed and deceit doesn't it? This story was remarkable to me not because of what Gehazi did, but the fact that he was constantly with Elisha and witnessed things that you and I can only imagine. People being brought back from the dead would have gotten my attention, but somehow Gehazi got sidetracked! This story goes to show us that it doesn't matter who we are with or where we are at, if we take our eyes off Jesus, we are going to wind up in big trouble. We must stay focused, sin will destroy us and cause us to be ineffective for the Kingdom of God. It was a sad and very scary account of a man and his family that would pay for his greedy action. The scripture even says "with no relief in sight". Oh my, what a lesson! But that is what the Word of God is "instruction, divine inspiration" God gives us His Word so that we can live a life that is pleasing to Him, will we make mistakes and "sin"? Of course we will, but we have grace and mercy to cover us because of the Cross. I hope this story blesses you as it did me. There is always a lesson to be learned!

Half Man and Half God?????

2010-06-28T01:41:00.004-05:00

9. For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form.

I was watching someone here while back make a statement that just floored me, she stated that "Jesus was half man and half God"! Well, I knew in my spirit this couldn't be true so I began to do some research, I wanted to know the truth. The first thing I found was Jesus Christ's physical body was 100-percent human, not just part human. Our bodies can die, and so could his. When we die, our physical body dies, but our soul and spirit remain. They are eternal; they never die. The same is true of Jesus Christ. His physical body died, but His inner self is eternal and did not die.Jesus was more than a man. Although he was 100-percent human, he was also 100% God, the Creator of the universe. He is all-powerful. Although evil men killed his physical body, He easily had the power to restore life to His body again. Which is exactly what happened, Jesus walked out of that tomb! He is God with power over life and death! Our bodies will be changed just like His when we physically die. Changed into a glorious body, healthy and strong! There are many scriptures that prove that Jesus was human and divine if you need further proof. In Colossians 2:9, we are told: " For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form." Even in bodily form, even when Jesus was here in the flesh, he was fully God — all that God is. You couldn't tell it by looking at him, but that is what He said, and that is what Paul said. I don't know what you believe, but it was important to me to be absolutely sure of this. It is good to search the scriptures and ask questions. I also believe God wants us to get to know Him. Will we ever understand God's ways? Of course not! His ways are not our ways! But His Truth is liberating and He does give us peace. If you had questions, I hope this has helped. I also pray you have a blessed day!

Everything is Alright!

2010-06-26T21:31:00.005-05:00

2Kings 4:24-28 (NIV)

24 She saddled the donkey and said to her servant, "Lead on; don't slow down for me unless I tell you." 25 So she set out and came to the man of God at Mount Carmel.
When he saw her in the distance, the man of God said to his servant Gehazi, "Look! There's the Shunammite! 26 Run to meet her and ask her, 'Are you all right? Is your husband all right? Is your child all right?' "
"Everything is all right," she said.

27 When she reached the man of God at the mountain, she took hold of his feet. Gehazi came over to push her away, but the man of God said, "Leave her alone! She is in bitter distress, but the LORD has hidden it from me and has not told me why."

28 "Did I ask you for a son, my lord?" she said. "Didn't I tell you, 'Don't raise my hopes'?"

"Everything is all right", really? Her one and only son was dead and "everything is all right", hummm. Well, needless to say I was on a mission to find out what in the world was wrong or right with this woman. If you will read the whole story, you will find because of her servants heart she had shown kindness to Elisha with a room to stay when he would travel that way. His way of thanking her was to tell her she would have a son the next year which was exactly what happened. Several years later the child became ill and died and in the scriptures above is when she is off to see this man of God. Elisha recognizes her and asks if everyone is ok and her strange answer is "everything is all right". How could things be all right, her child was dead! In every translation I found, the answer was the same. Maybe she had heard of the widow's son from Sarepta was brought back to life and that the spirit of Elijah rested on Elisha; and maybe had confidence of God's goodness that she was very ready to believe that He who so soon took away what He had given would restore what he had now taken away. By this faith women received their dead raised to life, Heb. 11:35. In this faith she made no preparation for the burial of her dead child, but for his resurrection; because she laid him on the prophet's bed (v. 21), expecting and believing. I was so blessed and excited to learn of this mothers faith. How we need to get hold of this truth, you know these people in the Bible were as real flesh and blood, just like us. If God did this for her, and He does not change, then why can't we believe He will do the same for us! You say "raise someone from the dead", well why not? There is nothing impossible with God! I pray this story has inspired you as it does me! I am so thankful for a God that loves and cares for us. When you read the last of this story you will find how the child is brought back to life, such a tender way of showing us how much God loves us. I hope you have a wonderful Lords Day! Please don't limit God, He is all powerful and able to meet every need you have! Be Blessed, sweet friends!

We Can Be Sure!

2010-06-25T04:20:00.005-05:00

Romans 8:28 (The Message)

26-28. Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God's Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don't know how or what to pray, it doesn't matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That's why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.

Do you really believe this scripture? I have to admit I didn't believe "everything" would work for my good! I believe it has to do with where we are in our faith walk. I just never could go along with the fact that these terrible things that have happened in my life could have anything to do with God, much less be used for my good. BUT, as I get older in life and certainly as I grow in the Lord, I can tell you with a sincere heart that I truly do believe this very thing. For example, years ago when I was divorced and remarried, having a blended family and all the junk that went along with it, I can look back now and see God leading us all the way. Isn't that wonderful to know? We are on a journey! Now were there mistakes and wrong decisions? Of course, but God was still using these things to help me grow. In Jeremiah 29:11 we read "For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." I do believe God knows what is best for me, I do believe He will use the things that other people's actions or those of my own will be used for my good just as His Word declares. If we believe only parts of Gods Word and not all of it, then this is picking and choosing what we want from Him. We either believe all of it or nothing! I don't serve a God that can lie, I know what He says to me and I choose by daily walking in faith that He will be there for me, that I can trust Him and certainly that I can believe what His Word says to me. I hope and pray you have a made up mind to believe and trust in the One and Only true Lord. There is no other way except His way. We live in perilous times just like the Bible said would happen in the last days! I am here to tell you, these are the last days. Time is short and urgency is the hour, please be in the place you need to be spiritually to pray for and stand in the gap for your unsaved loved ones and friends. We need to live strong and mighty by the power of the Holy Spirit. It is possible, we just need to step out in faith and claim the promises of God! Have a wonderful day leaning on Him!

The Heart is Dark and Deceitful!

2010-06-23T13:56:00.005-05:00

Jeremiah 17:9.10 (The Message)

9-10. "The heart is hopelessly dark and deceitful,
a puzzle that no one can figure out.
But I, God, search the heart
and examine the mind.
I get to the heart of the human.
I get to the root of things.
I treat them as they really are,
not as they pretend to be."

"Not as they pretend to be", Wow! The Message Bible has a way of turning on the light so to speak! This is our hearts God is talking about! Because our hearts are deceitfully wicked and dark we will deal with pride and idolatry all our life. Yes, we are born this way and even after we experience salvation and deliverance we will still be faced with pride and idolatry. Pride focused on our self can be like the arrogance of Nebuchadnezzar, or pride can be focused exactly the other way of thinking about how worthless we are. Either way, it is nothing but pride that the enemy of our souls would love to keep us in bondage to. Idolatry is anything or anyone we set up before God! Websters definition is Worship of idols. or Blind or excessive devotion to something. How many times have we done this? Probably more than we imagine. We must recognize what is going on! Ask the Lord to reveal to us what the problem is, He will! It is the first big step, but when you make it you are on your way! It is an ongoing battle we face everyday! But God made a covenant with us, and He will perform what He started in us. I love how this scripture says "He will get to the root of things and treat them as they really are." Isn't that amazing! Who else would we want to examine our heart except God! We can't fool or pretend with the One Who created us! Thanks for listening to me ramble today, (I have a bee in my bonnet) we need to make use of the time we have left, and there is really no time to waste. A closer walk with God should be tops on our priority list! Bless you, sweet friends!

DeCluttering!

2010-06-21T15:15:00.005-05:00

Just a few of the cabinets that I have been going through! Yuk

1 Peter 5:6,7 (New Living Translation)

6. So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.

Do you ever feel like you can't stand one more minute of clutter? Its like every drawer and closet is talking to you? Well, I don't know what is going on, but I am a driven woman! (hubby is not excited about this at all). I have got to get this stuff out of my house and garage! I have been doing that spring cleaning thing, but all of a sudden I realize I just have to much stuff! One of my mischievous friends ask if I was going to die or something, (grinning). Well maybe, but either way, no one needs to go through this stuff but me. So I am on a mission to clear the clutter and it is going pretty well. Just about finished with the kitchen when I cut not one finger, but two. So that is why I am now writing my blog, and waiting until my hand quits throbbing. Since I have been bothered by all the clutter in my house, I am also reminded of all the clutter in our minds and hearts. We have to do some cleaning and sweeping out there to. Things can build up like unconfessed sin or having unforgiveness towards someone and then we have to clear it out. Of course the first thing would be to recognize that we have some clutter in our heart, then casting all those cares on Christ. I don't know about you but it bothers me when I am weighted down with all the things that come my way. "Life is hard" is certainly an understatement! To have that peace and joy in my heart, to be unburdened from all the stuff is unlike anything I can ever experience. We must come to the Lord and ask Him for strength and direction! I pray your house and heart is not weighted down with to much clutter, you may have to do like me and start in (with hubby saying, "hey things are not that bad", yeah right!) going through things. Another good reason is what we don't use, someone else may desperately need! So there is one good reason! It is time to continue, have a blessed day and remember to say a little prayer for me as I tackle my clutter.

A Tribute to My Dad!

2010-06-18T15:58:00.005-05:00

I am standing in front of Dad, and sis in front of Mom!

My dad was the most special person in my life, I loved my mother dearly, but dad was my hero. Taken into account he was 39 years old when I was born and being his first child, might have something to do with that, you think? Right from the beginning I must tell you he was not a Christian, his upbringing did not include the ways of God. So how could he have been a good father to us ( I have a sister 2 years younger than I and a brother that is 9 years younger)? One word, "Wisdom". I am sure his age had lots to do with it also, he had been through World War II and from what facts I can gather he was quite a hero there to. I remember as a little girl our mother would go through this black trunk that held all his papers, books and a box with medals. There was even a purple heart to show for being wounded. Of course we didn't grasp the importance of the sacrifice he had made for his country, but I can tell you since then we have been so proud of him. He was a hard working man, he had bought a farm before he and my mother were married so life was hard and money was always tight. He was well respected by family and friends and was known as a "fair man". I remember so many times when neighbors would need help on their farms and he was there. There probably was not to many graves dug back then, that he did not help with. I also remember little cousins that went to the doctor because my dad paid for it. He loved us dearly and when my sister and I came down with polio, he did one thing in particular that was "illegal". Evidently he was also known for his ability to make the best "White Lightening" anywhere around !Now in case you are not familiar with this term, it was also known as bootleg whiskey! It was the one and only time he made it after he and my mother were married, but you know what, he had to have money for the trips back and forth to Little Rock and folks surely did drink that stuff. He worked at whatever was available from building dams, mining (Rush Creek Mining Company), logging, then finally driving 30 something miles one way to work in a factory in Harrison, Arkansas. In all of these jobs, I never heard him complain. He just figured it was his job to do for his family. That is what most men did back then. Was he selfish? No, I never remember anything like that. He was called "a mans man", by my hubby and many others. We grew up being taught about life and making decisions, he would tell us " Remember the only way to make a good decision, is to see things how they are, not how they should be, not how you want them to be, but just how they are, then you will make a wise choice". He loved us by showing us, I don't remember him telling me he loved me after I got to be older. We just knew he did! Did he discipline us, you better believe it! I got one whipping and that was all I wanted, my sister got one, and that little stinker of a brother never did. (he was and still is a remarkable person). He was not mean or hateful, we just knew what to do and what NOT to do. He never got onto me about anything even after I was grown (there was times he should have), but just talked to me. I was never disrespectful to him and I am so thankful for that. Some things are certainly hard to live with, aren't they? Then not to long before he passed away, he told me again he loved me. It never bothered me that he didn't, I just knew he did. He also said one time he was looking in the mirror and asked "who is that old man in there, I just don't feel old in my heart". I understand that now, because I can still see myself as a little blond headed girl! Life is strange isn't it? We are here and then we are gone. We want to be remembered for being a very unselfish person like my dad, not someone who is only concerned about "me". I hope you have wonderful memories whether your dad is still here or gone onto glory (by the way, my dad did give his heart to the Lord not long before he died, thank you Jesus for your mercy and goodness. He does answer prayers even when it seems impossible). I could fill a book with memories of my dad, but hopefully this will be enough that you can see what kind of man he was. Fathers day (or mothers) is always hard for me as I am sure it is for some of you! But time goes on doesn't it? I hope you have a wonderful Lords Day to honor your Heavenly Father and your earthly father! Be blessed family and friends!

Breaking for the Summer!

2010-06-16T14:28:00.005-05:00

Psalm 111:1 (The Message)

Hallelujah! I give thanks to God with everything I've got—
Wherever good people gather, and in the congregation.
God's works are so great, worth
A lifetime of study—endless enjoyment!
Splendor and beauty mark his craft;
His generosity never gives out.
His miracles are his memorial—
This God of Grace, this God of Love.
He gave food to those who fear him,
He remembered to keep his ancient promise.
He proved to his people that he could do what he said:
Hand them the nations on a platter—a gift!
He manufactures truth and justice;
All his products are guaranteed to last—
Never out-of-date, never obsolete, rust-proof.
All that he makes and does is honest and true:
He paid the ransom for his people,
He ordered his Covenant kept forever.
He's so personal and holy, worthy of our respect.
The good life begins in the fear of God—
Do that and you'll know the blessing of God.
His Hallelujah lasts forever!

Well, today was the last of our Bible Study with Kay Arthur's "The Covenant". Eight weeks gave us a better understanding of what God has done for us. I have heard sermons and knew about it, but had never had the opportunity to do an in depth study such as this! After we concluded, we went to a small restaurant for lunch and more fellowship. Because this is not my home church, it has been such a blessing to get to know these ladies. They are wonderful and they love the Lord, and it didn't take long to realize they were there to learn more about God. There is never a time when we get to the point that we know everything about our Lord. It is a well that we can draw from no matter how long we live on this earth. I will miss them and studying together, but we will start back up in October with Priscilla Shirer. I hope you have opportunities to study Gods Word with other women. As in this case we were not of the same denomination, but it didn't matter. We are all trying to get to the same heaven aren't we? The only thing that matters is the fact we have experienced salvation by the One and Only Jesus Christ. We will all be there together, why can't we be together here? I know we all have some differences, but shouldn't be enough to get "our needle stuck". We can study and worship together! We can and should pray for each other! And we certainly should love each other! This should be our hearts cry to love and not judge each other. Except for the Grace of God, where would any of us be? Have a wonderful and blessed day!

Forgetting the Past!

2010-06-12T21:01:00.003-05:00

Hebrews 10:16-18 (New Living Translation)

16. “This is the new covenant I will make
with my people on that day says the Lord:
I will put my laws in their hearts,
and I will write them on their minds"
17. Then he says,

“I will never again remember
their sins and lawless deeds.”

18. And when sins have been forgiven, there is no need to offer any more sacrifices.

It is so hard to keep up with granddaughter's! My goodness, we just had one this week and when she left today, I just curled up on the couch and took a nap. We have painted, made a floral arrangement, shopped and she even helped clean house. I stay busy, but this was a different kind of busy. She is only 10 but is very creative, so she wants to know how to do everything. We even discussed paint colors for her house she would have one day. Talk about planning for the future! Wow, but we did have so much fun and I did miss her the minute she left. It is wonderful being a grandmother. When my girls were little, it was work and lots of troubles in our family made it very stressful. Life kept me busy and seems like I just didn't have the time to do everything I wanted or needed to do. I suppose this is normal, I have heard many women say they enjoy their grandchildren so much more. I also suppose we all live with some regret over the past. There are so many things I for one would like to go back and change. You know, "why did I do that" or "why didn't I do that"? But we can't, can we? The past is the past, and we can't change it. Just breaks my heart, you know, one of those face on the floor type things. Oh that it was possible to go back, and change those decisions I made, to have focused on God and not on everything going on around me. To have done what was right and pleasing to God, NO MATTER WHAT!!!!! So now that we know we can't, what do we do? Believe what God tells us as in the scripture above (there are many more). We must trust Him and believe that He forgives us and has truly forgotten. Of course we can't, but sisters and friends this is Grace, loving and merciful Grace. It really is time to quit beating up on ourselves and move on with Christ. We have such opportunities with our grown children and especially those precious grandchildren. Each and every day is a new day with them. A time to make a difference in their lives. Praying and holding them up to the Lord is something we can certainly do. I hope and pray you don't spend to much time back there, but are moving on, forgetting those things which are behind. And making a difference in the lives of your family. Have a blessed Lords Day, (don't forget to go to Spiritual Sunday and check out all the wonderful posts, link is on the sidebar) In love and praying for you!

Listening for God's Voice!

2010-06-10T03:56:00.005-05:00

Proverbs 3:5-12 (The Message)

5-12.. Trust God from the bottom of your heart;
don't try to figure out everything on your own.
Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;
he's the one who will keep you on track.
Don't assume that you know it all.
Run to God! Run from evil!
Your body will glow with health,
your very bones will vibrate with life!
Honor God with everything you own;
give him the first and the best.
Your barns will burst,
your wine vats will brim over.
But don't, dear friend, resent God's discipline;
don't sulk under his loving correction.
It's the child he loves that God corrects;
a father's delight is behind all this.

Do you ever try to figure out everything, and I do mean everything? With our own reasoning we sure can come up with some stuff can't we? There is no way we can put God in a box as the old saying goes and know what is going on. We sure can't predict the future, but we do like to try don't we. Why do we do this instead of trusting God? We need to remember first of all that with God we are talking about supernatural, and of course we deal only with this reality we have here on earth. This faith walk takes us places we don't know where we are going, just like Abraham, but if we are walking in faith, then God is leading the way. I get off track sometimes, (more than I want to) because I am not asking and then obeying. God doesn't make it hard, we do! We are all a stubborn lot, aren't we?
Why there is even a promise of good health in these scriptures! That should excite us and give us hope. If there ever was a time when we need to stay tuned to God, sweet friend, it is now. The enemy of our souls is working overtime, there is no time to be lax in our commitment to God. I hope this scripture blesses your heart today as it does mine. Lets just stay focused and pray for each other. Remember where our help comes from and when the discipline comes and it surely will, lets not be upset with God and try to get out of our situation. Ask Him what He wants you to know, this is just one of the many promises that He will do just that! I pray you will be blessed and have a wonderful day!

Jesus Will Come in the Clouds!

2010-06-07T17:56:00.006-05:00

1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 (The Message)

15-18. And then this: We can tell you with complete confidence—we have the Master's word on it—that when the Master comes again to get us, those of us who are still alive will not get a jump on the dead and leave them behind. In actual fact, they'll be ahead of us. The Master himself will give the command. Archangel thunder! God's trumpet blast! He'll come down from heaven and the dead in Christ will rise—they'll go first. Then the rest of us who are still alive at the time will be caught up with them into the clouds to meet the Master. Oh, we'll be walking on air! And then there will be one huge family reunion with the Master. So reassure one another with these words.

My daughter took this picture this morning before the storm moved in! Isn't it amazing? , I heard even the news team from Springfield Missouri had taken some. I have never seen anything like this before and from what I have heard since then, many others hadn't either. One of my friends on facebook posted some and had several replies, one of them being "Well, it just looks like Jesus could come back in those", I have chill bumps now just thinking about it. Maybe the clouds this morning are a reminder that we need to be ready to meet Him. Can't you just picture this in your mind, rising in the air to meet Jesus just as He told us that one day it would happen. Being with Him forever and ever. It just overwhelms me, this is one of those face on the floor moments for me. You see, I believe the Word of God, Jesus said we would have to make a choice between life or death. We would decide where we wanted to spend eternity. I pray you have decided to follow Him! I know how easy it is to get caught up in the things of life, been there done that and wasted a lot of precious time. (We all realize how fast time goes by, don't we?) But, we need to remember what season we are living in and be ready to go! We also need to desperately pray for our loved ones that they would be ready to. I will leave you with this thought, "Just what if this is really true, what if Jesus really does come back for His children? Will you be going?

Do We Believe God?

2010-06-05T21:39:00.005-05:00

Romans 8:28 (New Living Translation)

28. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

Do you really believe that "everything" works together for our good? Is it a far fetched idea that we can really believe this is what the scripture means or could it be somethings else? Do you believe that when something horrible happens to a person that God can take that and use it for good? I know this is a hard thing and we will never fully understand, I certainly don't. But I have been a Christian long enough to actually see over a period of time a working out in Gods Will for a person. Some things that were just unbearable, for instance a rape of a beautiful young woman that loved God with all her heart, then to realize that there would be a child conceived. Life changed for everyone in the family, the thoughts of abortion and then to adoption if she chose to keep it. Months of uncertainty and much soul searching resulting in a little boy being born, then reaching the decision to keep the baby and trust God to help her raise him. Questions from every side as to why this happened and surely everyone would be ruined and marked forever was overwhelming. But all the while God was working, did He choose for her to be raped? Of course not, would He turn it around and use it for good as stated is in His Word? Oh yes, he surely did. I can't begin to tell you the hearts that were healed due to a little one that was conceived in such a violent way. I know we will never understand everything, but I can tell you no matter what, we need to stay focused on God. We have to trust and believe that He means exactly what He said in His Word. Is it easy? Not hardly. But it comes down to making decisions every day that we live on this earth. Each day when we get up we can choose to serve God or not, it is up to us! If you are facing something in your life that has your face on the floor, ask God and then expect to hear from Him. Be patient as you grow in knowledge, knowing in your heart that God knows what is best for you. He created you, He knew you before you was born, He will not leave you! Trust Him, you just have to TRUST HIM! I am praying for you as you read this that the Blessings of God be upon you and your family. Have a wonderful Lords day! (If you get a chance go to Spiritual Sundays, the link is on the side bar and check out other encouraging blogs. You will be strengthened in your faith.)

Family Fun!

2010-06-04T14:55:00.004-05:00

Christa (one of the twins) me, Candace (the other twin)

Karen and Kathy. My daughters!

Proverbs 8:22-31 (The Message)

22-31 "God sovereignly made me—the first, the basic—
before he did anything else.
I was brought into being a long time ago,
well before Earth got its start.
I arrived on the scene before Ocean,
yes, even before Springs and Rivers and Lakes.
Before Mountains were sculpted and Hills took shape,
I was already there, newborn;
Long before God stretched out Earth's Horizons,
and tended to the minute details of Soil and Weather,
And set Sky firmly in place,
I was there.
When he mapped and gave borders to wild Ocean,
built the vast vault of Heaven,
and installed the fountains that fed Ocean,
When he drew a boundary for Sea,
posted a sign that said no trespassing,
And then staked out Earth's Foundations,
I was right there with him, making sure everything fit.
Day after day I was there, with my joyful applause,
always enjoying his company,
Delighted with the world of things and creatures,
happily celebrating the human family.

Spending time with family! What could be better? I have one brother and one sister, our mother has been gone for many years, and dad about 12 years ago. Things have changed and time has rolled on. Now we are the older ones at the family gatherings. Seems strange to me that I am here at this point in my life. I remember one time not to long before my dad passed away, he was standing in front of the mirror and asked himself who was that old guy he was looking at, he said he just never felt old in his heart. Just makes me cry now as I remember him. He was my hero to be sure. He was the ripe old age of 39 when I was born, so I was a bit spoiled (my brother and sister would tell you a lot more than a "bit"). I loved my parents dearly and miss them so much especially at family times. With my daughters and their families and the rest of the bunch, there will be many mouths to feed and lots of fun to be had. Some will go floating, some will be cooking, and there is even a trip planned to the old home place. We have many good memories, life was so different then than now. We were secure and happy growing upon a farm out in the hills of Arkansas. I don't remember being afraid at night, crime was null and void there. Our parents were wonderful hosts and we always had company, and lots of kids to play with to. At church we learned about God, and I was saved and baptized at the age of 12. My brother (who is 9 years younger than I) is a preacher and lives not to far from where we were raised. Sis lives farther away and of course we live the farthest, so we don't get to visit much. So Saturday will be filled with lots of laughing, eating and having fun. I am really looking forward to it, but a part of me is also quiet and thoughtful before God. Having good memories are such a blessing, aren't they? I hope you have a wonderful day, please be careful and don't forget to thank the Lord for all His goodness and mercy!

Going Through a Rough Spot!

2010-06-03T08:37:00.005-05:00

(Another one of my places for quiet time. This sunroom looks out
onto the river in the front of our house.)

Ephesians 3:20 (New Living Translation)

20. Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.

(Remember it is how much of Gods power that works in us that gages how much He is able to do through us)

No one likes to be discouraged or listen to someone murmur and complain, so I won't stay here long. But on the other hand we all know life is not going to be upon that mountain all the time, we must have that valley experience. So here is my heart today and for the last several days. Not anything really wrong that I can put my finger on, just struggling big time. Struggling with life is hard these days, of course we all have our personal struggles and if we are not careful we would live a defeated life. So what do we do when we have these days that last longer than a few? For one thing, ask the Lord if there is any unforgiveness in our life, do we have any root of bitterness against anyone? Second thing is what He would have us learn from this trial, the next thing that I need to do is keep a guard on my lips. It is a time when we could say the wrong thing if we aren't aware this is exactly what the enemy of our souls would have us do. Then it is important to get in Gods Word and spend some time with Him, praying in the Spirit, and singing songs of praise!!!!! This is my goal to do this things, I don't believe there are any magic formulas, it takes hard work and we are in a battle. We must never forget that! I am praying for you today as you read this, you may be going through a rough spot (as we say in the hills of Arkansas) but I also know in my heart and in my mind and most important because of what God tells us in His Word, that we will come through this and we will be strengthened in our spirit and renewed in our minds. God bless you richly this day!

Mornings and Quiet Times!

2010-06-01T04:08:00.004-05:00

My back porch is where I spend my quiet times of a morning!

Psalm 59:16 (New Living Translation)

16. But as for me, I will sing about your power.
Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love.
For you have been my refuge,
a place of safety when I am in distress

I love mornings! My first cup of coffee, spending time with hubby and then my quiet time. I also love to journal, I have to admit though I am not consistent. Why is it so hard to be faithful with some things? I do really well for awhile, then I get busy. This is also the way we can get in serving the Lord. We may be really inspired by an event at church or something else then we get lax. I just listened to my daily devotion and it was talking about spending time with God instead of listening to the news which caused seeds of doubt and fear to enter in. I know we need to know what is going on, but most of the time we will not hear the truth anyway. Life is scary right now, people are unsure now more than ever (in my lifetime anyway) what is going to happen. But we must not dwell on negative things, but keep focused on God reading His Word and following Him. It can also be a very exciting time as we watch people reach out to God. Sometimes we have to be in that hard place before we see our need for Him. Hubby and I have family members that our not saved so with fervent prayer we are banding together claiming them for the Kingdom of God. As we begin a new month, lets join together and pray for the lost. Standing in the gap and lifting them up to our Father. Lets also pray for strength and determination. We must stand firm! I am praying that God will reveal His will for you also as you read this. Have a blessed day sweet friends!

Memorial Day!

2010-05-28T22:31:00.005-05:00

How many of you had dads that fought in World War II? I am sure the ones of us who did have lots of stories to tell. My dad was wounded several times and saw much more than a person needs to see. He never talked about it though which is normal among anyone who has been in war. A war where blood was shed to keep our country safe and free. As we are celebrating Memorial Day this weekend, we all should be focused on what has happened in this country from the beginning to present time. Everything was for freedom, all the bloody battles like the one at Shiloh. Hubby and I visited there when we lived in Germantown, Tennessee. I have never been to such a sad place! It absolutely broke my heart to learn of what these men endured. In all the wars that have been fought of course there was always blood spilled. People always fight for what they believe in, don't they? As I think about the present time, of course blood is still being spilled, but the big issue to me are the souls being lost. We truly are in a battle now from the time we get up until we go to bed. A spiritual battle that is raging because satan knows his time is short, he is on a rampage. You can see it everywhere. I have never in my life time seen so much going on. As my Aunt Donnie used to say, "we have more on our plate than we can say grace over". One tragedy after another! Surely one can see the time is winding down! Just watch the news and look what is going on in our country. This wonderful country that so many have died for! Abortions being the way for some to solve their problems, prayer being taken out of schools replaced with guns and condoms, people with evil on their minds continually, and the list goes on and on. Memorial Day is truly for remembering! Memories should change us when we know what can happen, like in Germany with Hitler. Listen sweet friends there is much to pray about! We must hold our Country up before the Lord, confess our sins and ask for our land to be healed. This is what God will do if we ask. As we remember and pray, lets make a commitment to be faithful to God and to our family and friends. God so loved the world, He did send His one and only Son to die in our place. This most important blood of all that redeemed so many and gave us hope for eternal life with Him. I hope you enjoy this holiday with your loved ones, be safe and have fun!

God Can Do Anything!

2010-05-27T08:44:00.004-05:00

Ephesians 3:20,21 (The Message)

20-21. God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.

Glory to God in the church!
Glory to God in the Messiah, in Jesus!
Glory down all the generations!
Glory through all millennia! Oh, yes!

Do you really believe with all your heart that God can truly do anything? For instance when you pray, do you ask for abundance or do you ask with just your knowledge of the situation? Isn't it wonderful that we can't limit God in His provision for us! If we don't know Gods Word, we simply cannot stand on His promises! I know you all probably get tired of me saying this all the time, but we MUST study these letters that God has written to us. In order for us to stand against the devil, we must use the Sword (the Word of God). We must be suited up with the full armor! So, when we know the Word, then we are able to stand on all the promises! God really can and does more than we can imagine or ask! More than or an abundance of His grace and mercy! Listen Sisters, we need to think big, we need to get out there in life and kick (you thought I was going to say something else, and I did think it. lol) Satan out of our home, our family and our church. If we know who we are then we should act like it. Some mornings I just get up mad as a wet hen because I let the enemy walk through that door that I have opened! He can be stopped, he is supposed to be stopped! He is defeated and he knows it. Lets stand up as strong women of God and take back what the enemy has stolen from us. Lets reclaim what is rightfully ours through Jesus Christ! I hope I have made you mad this morning to! Sometimes that is the only time we will act on a situation. Be blessed today, Sisters and Friends! I am praying for you as you read this

Job's Wife!

2010-05-24T22:04:00.002-05:00

Job 2:9,10 (The Message)

His wife said, "Still holding on to your precious integrity, are you? Curse God and be done with it!"

10 He told her, "You're talking like an empty-headed fool. We take the good days from God—why not also the bad days?"

Not once through all this did Job sin. He said nothing against God.

What is your opinion of Job's wife? Do you think she is one mean, hateful woman? Or could it be she had rather see her husband dead than to see him suffer as he was doing? My opinion of her has certainly changed as I remembered the way their family was before Satan was allowed to destroy all they had. How could they have had a family like this if she had been a horrible mother and wife? No, I believe she loved her family deeply! There was parties and spending time with each other which meant a lot of organizing and even with servants there are still things that had to be done. I also believe she prayed for her family, and especially when things began to happen, I believe she prayed more. Maybe it broke her heart to see her husband suffering so. If you read the account you will see just what this terrible disease was doing to his body and his mind. He experienced terrible sores that was itching and burning, he had lost his appetite, he was losing weight, the list goes on. When his friends came to see him, they didn't even recognize him. Oh yes, do not read over this part. Job was being tormented in a way we can't even imagine. Just maybe we should not be so hard on this woman Mrs. Job, as some call her. To many jokes have been made and not enough truth to show her as being a devoted wife and mother. She had to have been horrified at what he was going through. Maybe here on the last, she just wants him to die and not suffer anymore. I do believe at this point she was desperate! Who knows what we would do if we were in the same situation! I believe we need to rethink Mrs. Job and not judge her to quickly!!!!!

Followers of Christ!

2010-05-23T16:55:00.003-05:00

Ephesians 3:7-13 (The Message)

7-8. This is my life work: helping people understand and respond to this Message. It came as a sheer gift to me, a real surprise, God handling all the details. When it came to presenting the Message to people who had no background in God's way, I was the least qualified of any of the available Christians. God saw to it that I was equipped, but you can be sure that it had nothing to do with my natural abilities.

8-10. And so here I am, preaching and writing about things that are way over my head, the inexhaustible riches and generosity of Christ. My task is to bring out in the open and make plain what God, who created all this in the first place, has been doing in secret and behind the scenes all along. Through followers of Jesus like yourselves gathered in churches, this extraordinary plan of God is becoming known and talked about even among the angels!

11-13. All this is proceeding along lines planned all along by God and then executed in Christ Jesus. When we trust in him, we're free to say whatever needs to be said, bold to go wherever we need to go. So don't let my present trouble on your behalf get you down. Be proud!

Paul's letter to the Ephesians could be anyone of us writing this passage if we are followers of Christ! In the very first sentence he is telling us his life work is to help people understand and respond to the message of the Cross. Please read it several times to fully understand what he is saying to us. I to feel totally unqualified, but I have a burning desire and compassion for helping people. Sharing what we have revelation about to be there when people are hurting and don't know where to turn. Do you feel like things are way over your head (as I do) but are willing to step out in faith, knowing that God will help us give a word to someone? God will make it plain, He is the great "I Am". We must never forget who He is and we must never forget that we are never alone. He will equip us to share His message of truth and grace. I pray you are having a wonderful day in the Lord, and you will be blessed in the coming week. Remember He loves you special one!

Wednesdays Bible Study Update!

2010-05-19T12:10:00.004-05:00

In my devotion time this morning and during Bible Study I was reminded again of how crucial it is to understand "Covenant". A suggestion was made that if we would study 1st and 2nd Timothy and use our name where Paul is talking to this young preacher, we would begin to understand how we are entitled to these promises because of being in Covenant with God! So this is my goal to start this very day, I want all that God has for me and I am sure you do to. Going through this study is a revelation to me! This is the basis for our belief in God, because if we don't believe, then we cannot receive what is rightly ours! When that curtain or veil was torn into, we were given access to God. No more blood sacrifices, only the Blood of Jesus would be required to cover our sins. It was and will always be the only way we can come to God. There are many folks out there telling there are other ways to come to God, hear me when I tell you, that is a bald faced lie. Remember who works best in confusion? Lets not be confused, lets just lay this out plain and simple. It is not hard to understand Gods Word, remember the Holy Spirit is our teacher and he will guide and make a way for revelation. I am just praying and want so bad for you (and me) to be blessed and take hold of all that is ours from our Father God. The best thing about this is He wants it to! Please have a wonderful day, it is really storming here in southern Missouri, so be safe.

Saturday Morning!

2010-05-15T17:54:00.004-05:00

I hope you are having a peaceful weekend. Life gets so hectic and it seems like there is always something going on. Sometimes it is good just to do nothing or at least do something you love. Hubby had a job to go to this morning, so I decided to do a little painting. Since we have moved here, I had so many other things to do, like take down a mountain of wallpaper and paint walls, so the decorative painting was put on the back burner (that is an Arkansas way of saying, it had to wait). So with brushes and an idea I began. I am certainly not the greatest, but I was pretty pleased when it was finished (pictures are not the greatest because of the angle I had to take). Now I am wondering what to paint next! God has been so good to me to let me enjoy things like this. Life is not always easy and there are times when it is refreshing just to empty all the turmoil and craziness of this world. Time to be thankful for all God has done for me. Thankful that I can walk because of the polio, thankful for the blessings of my family and friends. But thankful most of all for salvation! This is one of those face on the floor times, when it is overwhelming to know what God did for me. Whether it is painting or whatever hobby you have, it is a wonderful opportunity to pray and praise God. What a blessing to be able to express oneself in this way! I pray your Sunday Worship services will bring restoration and freedom to you and your family! Be blessed sweet friends!

Bible Study Update!

2010-05-12T12:23:00.005-05:00

Well, it is Wednesday and time for an update on today's Bible Study. This is the third week into Kay Arthur's' "Covenant", which is tremendous. Several of the ladies including me have not been taught to much about what it means to be in Covenant with God! Listen, dear sisters this is serious business! An excellent account is of course David and Jonathan, also Laban and Jacob. Laban was Jacobs father in-law, in this account we are given the meaning of Mizpah.

Genesis 31:48-52 (The Message)

48-50. Laban said, "This monument of stones will be a witness, beginning now, between you and me." (That's why it is called Galeed—Witness Monument.) It is also called Mizpah (Watchtower) because Laban said, "God keep watch between you and me when we are out of each other's sight. If you mistreat my daughters or take other wives when there's no one around to see you, God will see you and stand witness between us."

51-53 Laban continued to Jacob, "This monument of stones and this stone pillar that I have set up is a witness, a witness that I won't cross this line to hurt you and you won't cross this line to hurt me. The God of Abraham and the God of Nahor (the God of their ancestor) will keep things straight between us."

God will keep things straight because of a covenant made between two men with God as their witness! It is the same way with us when we make or cut a covenant with Jesus Christ! He died for our sins shedding His Blood so we could come into a binding agreement or covenant with Him. It is a very serious matter we must not overlook. If you have not studied much about this, it will be a revelation for you as well as it is for our Bible Study ladies. In order for us to claim the promises God has for us, we must understand who we are and what rights do we have. But more important than anything is what Jesus did at the Cross. This Blood Covenant was sealed for us! God bless your day, my sweet friends. I am praying for you!

A Mothers Determination!

2010-05-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

Even now just the word, “polio” brings back many heartbreaking memories for me. You see, my sister and I experienced first hand this disease that plagued many children and adults in the early 1950s. I was five and my sister was three. Within 2 days we were both diagnosed and on our way to the children’s hospital in Little Rock, Arkansas. It is strange the memories you have when you are a child. I remember the fear! We had always been protected by our parents and now something was happening to us that they could not control and we did not understand. I remember the other children in the same ward we were in, the crying that took place, and the heartache that touched everyone. All across our nation people lived in fear they would be the next victims. No one knew where “it” was coming from, or how “it” was spreading. So many questions and the doctors did not have the answers to any of them. We were in the hospital for about 6 weeks receiving treatments for the fever, and therapy for our legs that wouldn’t move anymore. Part of the routine was this monster of a machine called an iron lung. We have been asked many times since then how long we were in it, but there is no way of knowing. Our parents have both gone to be with the Lord, and there are many questions that I would like to ask, but that is not possible. I think sometimes, we don’t get interested in things until we get older and then it is too late to find out the facts. However, I have to share with you the faith of our mother! I couldn’t tell you if she believed in healing or not but I know she prayed for us, and how she worked with us all the time after we came home. We were still paralyzed and had to be carried which added to all the other jobs she has. Each day brought hot clothes wrapped around our legs and hours of therapy, moving, stretching and pulling! I know God had to give her strength and patience. I am sure with two little girls to take care of; it was very hard for her. She wasn’t the strongest person having health problems herself as a child. However, I can tell you we both learned to walk again! With the exception of surgery for my sister when she was 11, we did recover. Not ever as strong, but we could walk, and run slow. What a blessing! Some of the other children we knew were not as fortunate. This story is not to discourage and have you think “oh those poor little girls” Thank God we made it! We were also told that if our mother had not been determined and believed that we would walk again, we probably wouldn’t have. Where is our faith to believe when something devastating happens to us? Are we grounded and rooted? I am so thankful for a mother that believed God! If she had been in a fearful state all the time, she would have been powerless to help us. There are so many promises in Gods word that will sustain us in the darkest hours of our lives; of course, this is depending on the fact that we know Gods Word. Then when we do know His word, we need to believe that what He said, He will do for us. Was there a time she was overtaken with fear and questioned God? I am sure she was! I believe it is normal to ask these questions of “why”. It is important for us to have the facts and reason out why these things happen to us, even though there will be times when this is not possible. Of course we never did learn of who we had come in contact with or when. Since then scientist have proven that it was a virus spread much like the flu. The polio vaccine was not available in our community until 1956, after that fewer cases were reported. So many children endured this terrible epidemic, so many mothers turned into nurses, and more importantly prayer warriors. You know, those “knee warriors”, the ones that would not give up, but were filled with a determination and perseverance that came directly from the throne room of Heaven. Each year as Mothers Day approaches, I am reminded how our mother had faith in God, and believed that her children would walk again. A mother, who never felt sorry for us, but always treated us as being normal, do you realize how “crippled” we could have been in other ways? She was wise in her decisions because she had faith. I truly believe God gives mothers a tender heart and a special instruction for her children. I pray you have precious memories of your mother, If you don’t, I am truly sorry! However, if you are a mother, you have an opportunity every day to make a difference in your children’s lives. Pray for them; claim them for the Kingdom of God. Love them and more importantly show them Gods love. You will be blessed, remember God is Faithful when we believe.

Covenant!

2010-05-05T17:08:00.003-05:00

1 Samuel 18:3,4

3-4. Jonathan, out of his deep love for David, made a covenant with him. He formalized it with solemn gifts: his own royal robe and weapons—armor, sword, bow, and belt.

(Commentary)
Jonathan's friendship for David.

The friendship of David and Jonathan was the effect of Divine grace, which produces in true believers one heart and one soul, and causes them to love each other. This union of souls is from partaking in the Spirit of Christ. Where God unites hearts, carnal matters are too weak to separate them. Those who love Christ as their own souls, will be willing to join themselves to him in an everlasting covenant. It was certainly a great proof of the power of God's grace in David, that he was

able to bear all this respect and honour, without being lifted up above measure. (1Sa 18:6-11)

In the Scriptures and this commentary we are told of a special friendship between two very unlikely men. One was the Prince of Israel named Jonathan, and the other a mere shepherd boy named David. The first time they met they developed a bond that would last till death. As we were studying this weeks Bible Study, we were able to go into depths of this union. I have read and studied, but sometimes I get a aha moment, you know when the little light goes on and I get it. The account of Jonathan and David is a true picture of us when we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. (From the giving of his robe,armor, sword, bow and belt; their enemies were now the same and they would defend and be honorable to each other as long as they lived.) We put on Christ and He took on our humanity. Of course you know the rest and most important when He forgave us our sins and went to the cross for us. We are new in Him! We have a covenant with God, just as was made between these two friends. Our God will never leave us! Our mutual enemy the devil will not be able to stand against us because of this Covenant. Listen closely sweet friends, we must know who we are in Christ, we must understand about this Covenant! It will bring us freedom in Him and we will know who we are. Then we will also know without a doubt these promises are for us. All of them! If you haven't studied this very important truth, please do. Your walk with God will depend on it! You do have authority over the enemy and your life will show His power in you. Have a very blessed day!

The Reality, Not the Illusion!

2010-05-02T21:37:00.004-05:00

(One of my Peony bushes that is beginning to bloom, I love Spring, a time for new beginnings)

1 John 5:14-15 (The Message)

13-15.My purpose in writing is simply this: that you who believe in God's Son will know beyond the shadow of a doubt that you have eternal life, the reality and not the illusion. And how bold and free we then become in his presence, freely asking according to his will, sure that he's listening. And if we're confident that he's listening, we know that what we've asked for is as good as ours.

"Bold and free" is how this version states this, talking about me and you. If we believe, really believe Gods Word, without a shadow of a doubt, this how we come to Him. I don't know about you but that blesses my heart so and gives me confidence. There is no way we would come to Christ if we did not believe He would listen to us, I mean, why would we? But the realty is He is listening, He does hear and He does care. It is scriptures like this that keeps us going, seems like there is always something to deal with and we simply cannot do it on our own. Issues with health, the economy and so many more have people searching for answers. Some are putting their trust in God and some are frantically searching in other areas. Listen my sweet friend, there is no other answer, there is no other way. Only through Jesus Christ will we find the peace and purpose for our life. I want to encourage you as we begin another week, that you look to Him, believe Him and wait for the answer to come. You will not be disappointed. God loves you and I am praying for you!

The Faithfulness of God!

2010-04-29T22:24:00.003-05:00

Psalm 138:1-3 (The Message)

1-3. Thank you! Everything in me says "Thank you!" Angels listen as I sing my thanks.
I kneel in worship facing your holy temple
and say it again: "Thank you!"
Thank you for your love,
thank you for your faithfulness;
Most holy is your name,
most holy is your Word.
The moment I called out, you stepped in;
you made my life large with strength.

Have you ever labored in prayer for what seemed like forever waiting for an answer? Anything from the Lord, even a clear maybe or just no? I had mentioned on facebook the other day about something our family was praying about. There seemed to be more wrong than right, and how in the world could God be in this! Oh yes, it was something else! Months of wondering when will this begin to happen or is it Gods will for it to happen. Several people praying for direction is powerful, but in this scripture it says "the moment I called out, You stepped in", and of course that is the way it happens. Hubby preached recently that when we pray and God begins to move, He is also moving on the other end and in peoples lives until it all lines up with His timing. It is not easy to wait, but this is the faith walk that is talked about in Gods Word. Then to have peace and know it is Gods will means everything when the enemy of our souls come to us and tries to steal it from us. I have repeated this so many times to myself (and still do sometimes) about why we live where we do and the events that led up to it. How wonderful to know that as sure as I am breathing I know God brought us here, then knowing that gives me peace and assures me He is taking care of us. To be in the will of God will let you sleep of a night, you will be encouraged to know that no matter what happens He will be with us. So I proclaim loud and clear "thank you Lord", thank you for your faithfulness, thank you for being there for me when I call to you. Thank you for your love,and for answering our prayers.

God Won't Leave You!

2010-04-28T22:00:00.004-05:00

1 Chronicles 28:11-20 (The Message)

11-19 Then David presented his son Solomon with the plans for The Temple complex: porch, storerooms, meeting rooms, and the place for atoning sacrifice. He turned over the plans for everything that God's Spirit had brought to his mind: the design of the courtyards, the arrangements of rooms, and the closets for storing all the holy things. He gave him his plan for organizing the Levites and priests in their work of leading and ordering worship in the house of God, and for caring for the liturgical furnishings. He provided exact specifications for how much gold and silver was needed for each article used in the services of worship: the gold and silver Lampstands and lamps, the gold tables for consecrated bread, the silver tables, the gold forks, the bowls and the jars, and the Incense Altar. And he gave him the plan for sculpting the cherubs with their wings outstretched over the Chest of the Covenant of God—the cherubim throne. "Here are the blueprints for the whole project as God gave me to understand it," David said.

20-21 David continued to address Solomon: "Take charge! Take heart! Don't be anxious or get discouraged. God, my God, is with you in this; he won't walk off and leave you in the lurch. He's at your side until every last detail is completed for conducting the worship of God. You have all the priests and Levites standing ready to pitch in, and skillful craftsmen and artisans of every kind ready to go to work. Both leaders and people are ready. Just say the word."

Sounds like quite a job to me! Very detailed plans for the temple, yet God gave David the blueprints for the whole project. Then assures him to not be discouraged because God would be with him, He would be at his side until the end. I don't know about you but this is so comforting to my heart! This reinforces to me along with other scriptures that God will never leave me or forsake me. No matter what happens we can have specific instructions. Every time you open the Word of God you will find the "road map" to be on. He will not steer us in the wrong direction. I want to encourage you to seek God for the instructions you need to finish your task. Don't give up because it looks to big or hopeless. It is not, nothing is to hard for God. Have a blessed day! Remember who you are in Christ.

New in Christ!

2010-04-26T08:24:00.005-05:00

(One of the pictures of my garden, I am so thankful Spring is here)

Ephesians 4:17-24 (New Living Translation)

Living as Children of Light

17. With the Lord’s authority I say this: Live no longer as the Gentiles do, for they are hopelessly confused. 18. Their minds are full of darkness; they wander far from the life God gives because they have closed their minds and hardened their hearts against him. 19. They have no sense of shame. They live for lustful pleasure and eagerly practice every kind of impurity.
20. But that isn’t what you learned about Christ. 21. Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, 22. throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. 23. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. 24. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.

I was blessed to attend the Beth Moore simulcast on Saturday! All I can say is "amazing", 300,000 women in 389 locations. We had 120 where we was at! No one was "accidentally" there, it was Gods plan. Women are reaching out in unity and standing up to be counted in the faith. The scripture she used in Ephesians was to show how we are before Christ is the Lord of our life, and what happens afterward. We are new in Him, we do make the choice to put off the old man. In verse 24, we are the ones that has to do this! It didn't say God does it, or someone else for us, it says " (you) put on your new nature, created to be like God-truly righteous and holy". It is up to us, our responsibility to have a made up mind to do this very thing. I pray as you begin another week, that you would be mindful of this truth. When something comes up (and it will), remember to respond with this new nature we have. Ask yourself, now, is this how I used to act with my old nature? or is this my new nature being like Christ. Love and blessings to you my sweet friends!

Judgement Seat of Christ!

2010-04-20T11:18:00.004-05:00

2 Corinthians 5:9-11 (New International Version)

9. So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. 10.For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.

HIS PLAN FOR ME

When I stand at the judgment seat of Christ and He
shows me His plan for me,
The plan of my life as it might have been had
He had His way, And I see how I blocked
Him here and I checked Him there, and I
would not yield my will,
Will there be grief in my Savior's eyes?
Grief, though He loves me still?
He would have made me rich, and I stand there
poor, stripped of all but His grace
While memory runs like a hunted thing down the
paths I cannot retrace. Then my desolate heart will
well-nigh break with tears that I cannot shed; I shall
cover my face with my empty hands,
I shall bow my uncrowned head.
Lord, of the years that are left me, I give them to Thy
hand;
Take me and break me, mold me to the pattern Thou
has planned.
- Martha Snell Nicholson

I recently ordered a book called "This Was Your Life" written by Rick Howard. Hubby has read it now going on the fourth time in a week. I just began to read it today and I am just amazed at what I am learning about the judgement seat of Christ. The main thing with me is I have been a Christian nearly all my life and I have not heard this preached enough to even know what it was about. It will literally change your life. To say it humbled me is an understatement. We are truly nothing without Christ and if we don't understand the gospel and these "works" that we hear so much about, then we will miss the nugget of truth that is there. What we do here on earth will determine what our rewards will be in Heaven. I have heard "well, if I can just make it to heaven that is all I really care about". Certainly we need to rethink this statement. Just as there will be degrees of punishment in hell, there will be degrees of rewards in heaven. Now I am not making mention of this book for any other reasons than it is truly a Word from God. I hope I am not infringing on this authors rights, I truly don't know what the "rules" are concerning this. I just want to encourage you if you want to read and study something that will open your eyes and heart, then this book is to be read. All the scriptures are there and it is Biblically sound. It will change the way you "do" things and the reason why. I pray blessings on you and your family dear friends. Please enjoy and be thankful for what God has done for you!
(Please check out other inspiring posts at Spirtual Sundays) http://bloggerspirit.blogspot.com

Spring Finally!

2010-04-17T10:50:00.005-05:00

A view from our front sunroom!

Psalm 145:13 (New Living Translation)

13 For your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom.
You rule throughout all generations.

The Lord always keeps his promises;
he is gracious in all he does.

What a beautiful week we have had! After a winter that seemed to last a very long time, Spring has finally come. It is such a blessing to look out and see "green" again. A time for new beginnings and new life. A time to remember all the promises that are ours because of Jesus Christ. I think sometimes those promises get buried beneath all the cares and problems of this world, and we have to dig for them. They have to be exposed for us to stand on them and claim them for ourselves. I also think there is always an excitement and anticipation when this wonderful season comes around. Being outdoors and just breathing fresh air gives us hope. I know our world is being turned upside down, and I can tell you in my heart there is uncertainty and fear sometimes. I know we are not supposed to have fear, I am just being honest here. I do have faith and trust God and I just have to continue to stand on His promises and take Him at His Word. I know another thing to, how in the world are folks handling all this if they don't know Him as their Savior? Our families and friends need lots of prayer, and we need to be firm in our convictions. I hope you have a blessed weekend and enjoy all those wonderful things you see when you look around you.

My Absence from Blogging!

2010-04-14T12:58:00.007-05:00

Numbers 6:24-26 (King James Version)

24.The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:

25.The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:

26.The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
(This passage was used for blessing the bride and groom)

Is everyone busy or is it just me? Oh my! we have had so much going on I thought I better give an account of myself. This is just last week that started off with a cracked tooth that had to be pulled on Tuesday, then we had rehearsal for 50 people on Thursday night, then Friday night was the big night (grandson got married). Saturday we had company for lunch and then of course Sunday is always a big day. So as you can see I haven't accomplished much this week. The wedding was beautiful and they are off on their honeymoon so now maybe things can settle down a bit. Hubby performed the ceremony for the first grandson to get married and that was quite special. I was reminded as I listened to the vows that were made, how many people really take these to heart. How many realize this is a covenant between them and to God. This grandson is a youth minister so I do believe he "knew" what he was saying. I think lots of times people have the idea of "well, if it works that is great, if not, then oh well". So I guess they shouldn't be surprised when it doesn't work out. It is heartbreaking to me for everyone concerned but especially for the children. This grieves my heart so. Some of us will experience marriages in our families and friends for the next few months, so if you would agree with me, let's really do some praying for them. Praying that they would realize how important to know God and His Word and not take this lightly. It is no wonder families are crumbling everywhere. It is time to stand up for the family and declare that God is the only way and the only answer to the problems we all face. I will try to get back on track with my blogging. I do enjoy it so and you are all so gracious to come and visit me. I pray Gods blessings on you this day!

The God of Glory!

2010-04-11T19:56:00.004-05:00

Ephesians 1:3 (The Message)

The God of Glory

3-6. How blessed is God! And what a blessing he is! He's the Father of our Master, Jesus Christ, and takes us to the high places of blessing in him. Long before he laid down earth's foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son.

Does this sound like a loving father who gave everything because He loved us so? When I read this passage I am grieved in my spirit that I have not always recognized who God really is. Maybe it really takes time to get to know Him, whatever it is I am just now realizing so much about my Heavenly Father. He knows me and you, He knew how we would be, all the sin, all the disobedience, all the heartache we would cause Him. And in spite of it all, He still did the unimaginable thing and sent His Son to take our place. He made a way in spite of all the sin and detestable things that we would do, so we would someday live with Him in Heaven. Yes, that is a love I can't even understand. How could anyone have us on His mind before the foundations of the world, knowing what would happen and still go through with His master plan? I am so humbled by this, it is truly one of those face on the floor moments for me. We should never get to busy that we don't spend time with Jesus in reading His Word and in prayer. We need to remember every day this amazing love that God has for us. This is the Jesus that takes us to the high places of blessings with Him. His focus really is on you and me. Be blessed sweet friends! There is nothing to hard for Him!

Be Encouraged!

2010-04-07T17:03:00.006-05:00

Psalms 138:8 (New Living Translation)

8. The Lord will work out his plans for my life—
for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever.
Don’t abandon me, for you made me.

Jeremiah 29:11 (New Living Translation)

11. For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.

Just two of the covenant promises from the Word of God! What a blessed relief and comfort to know that God has a plan for my life and He will see it through to the end. I can't even find the words to tell you what this means to me. Now there are times when I question Him about things, but I know in my heart He has not left me. We will have trials and things happen to us that we don't understand, but this is how we become strong in our faith. We have to believe that all things work together to them that love the Lord and are called according to His purpose. Please be encouraged and look to Jesus, just accept His truth and believe Him. I am praying for you as you read this, please pray for me to. Blessings to you and your family!

Brokenness!

2010-04-05T08:59:00.003-05:00

Psalm 51:17 (The Message)

16-17. Going through the motions doesn't please you,
a flawless performance is nothing to you.
I learned God-worship
when my pride was shattered.
Heart-shattered lives ready for love
don't for a moment escape God's notice.

God sees, He hears and He knows this time when we are broken before Him. The time when we are at the end of ourselves! We are looking at all the sin in our lives and we are hopeless! Does this sound familiar? Is this not when we called on Jesus to forgive us and to cleanse us? I remember the pain and reality of seeing me exactly as I was. But we all have to experience this, each one of us has to realize our need for a Savior. We have to realize we can go no farther making these decisions that either hurt us or someone else. This brokenness is truly a transforming event in our life. No, it is never to enjoy someones pain, but in this case it is beautiful because what is about to emerge is a life transformed by our Lord and Savior. A new creature with a new heart and a desire to live for our Heavenly Father. It is an amazing event to watch a person changed just like a beautiful butterfly. Our lives will never again be the same, as this scripture above states "our heart shattered lives are ready for love", Gods love! And don't think for one moment, He does not see us. He is ready then to say "come and let me heal your broken heart! What an amazing God we serve! As the resurrection is still fresh on our minds and hearts, lets continue to pray for those that don't know Him as their Savior, lets be there for them and help them find this Jesus that is truly alive. I pray for you this week (please pray for me to) that we would be aware of the needs our brothers and sisters. God bless you today my special friends!

Our Hope in Christ!

2010-04-03T18:08:00.003-05:00

I Corinthians 15:12-20 (New Living Translation)

12. But tell me this—since we preach that Christ rose from the dead, why are some of you saying there will be no resurrection of the dead? 13. For if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised either. 14. And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless. 15. And we apostles would all be lying about God—for we have said that God raised Christ from the grave. But that can’t be true if there is no resurrection of the dead. 16. And if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised. 17. And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins. 18. In that case, all who have died believing in Christ are lost! 19. And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world.
20. But in fact, Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died.

Scripture proves over and over again that Jesus was raised from the dead, yet many choose not to believe. How in this world can anyone satisfy their minds and hearts with this concept? However they explain it, I can tell you one thing for sure, all these other "gods" have a burial place where folks can go and visit. They really are "dead", they have not been brought back to life. It is so sad to see people being deceived to believe these lies. There is no hope if we don't believe that Jesus died and was resurrected on the third day! Just as the scripture states above our faith would be useless and we would not have forgiveness of our sins. But we are not to be pitied, we are saved by His blood and we are assured of our salvation. We know in whom we believe! As you celebrate this special day, let remember to pray for our family and friends that don't know Jesus Christ. He died for all to be saved! We are going to live forever somewhere, lets make sure it is with the One who made the greatest sacrifice ever known to man. I pray blessings on you and your family!

Good Friday!

2010-04-01T19:15:00.003-05:00

Matthew 27:45-54 (New Living Translation)

45. At noon, darkness fell across the whole land until three o’clock. 46. At about three o’clock, Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” which means “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”
47. Some of the bystanders misunderstood and thought he was calling for the prophet Elijah. 48. One of them ran and filled a sponge with sour wine, holding it up to him on a reed stick so he could drink. 49. But the rest said, “Wait! Let’s see whether Elijah comes to save him."

50. Then Jesus shouted out again, and he released his spirit. 51. At that moment the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. The earth shook, rocks split apart, 52. and tombs opened. The bodies of many godly men and women who had died were raised from the dead. 53. They left the cemetery after Jesus’ resurrection, went into the holy city of Jerusalem, and appeared to many people.

54. The Roman officer and the other soldiers at the crucifixion were terrified by the earthquake and all that had happened. They said, “This man truly was the Son of God!”

Why is Good Friday referred to as “good”? What the Jewish authorities and Romans did to Jesus was definitely not good (see Matthew chapters 26-27). However, the results of Christ’s death are very good! Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Yes, it is "good" for us, it was the only hope we would have! Do you realize if He hadn't went to the Cross and was resurrected on the third day for us where we would be today? There certainly wouldn't be any reason to celebrate Easter, we might as well just color our eggs and have a big day hunting them. There wouldn't be any reason to go to church, and if we did then we would be taking animals to sacrifice and living under the heavy burden of the law. I sometimes think we don't realize just what Jesus did for us! Oh it breaks my heart what He went through for us! All the torture and the pain, the agony that led up to His death is overwhelming to me. You talk about feeling unworthy, oh my! remember that old song that says "such a worm as I"? Well that is me for sure. But God in His mercy saw more and farther than we can imagine and this is the way it had to happen. So as we remember this Good Friday, just take the time to read the scriptures above and then fall on your face and thank God for this greatest sacrifice ever made or ever would be made, just for you and me! Praises to the Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world!

Jesus Predicts His Death!

2010-03-29T21:33:00.003-05:00

John 12:34-36 (New Living Translation)

34. The crowd responded, “We understood from Scripture that the Messiah would live forever. How can you say the Son of Man will die? Just who is this Son of Man, anyway?”

35. Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going. 36. Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light.”

After saying these things, Jesus went away and was hidden from them.

These final instructions from Jesus was supposed to diminish their fears, but they simply did not understand. How could this Jesus they know be the Son of Man and would He literally die? It was just more than they could comprehend. It does boggle the mind doesn't it, it even boggles mine. Have you ever imagined what it would have been like to be alive in that time and experience this scenario? I have and I think about now when false prophets come forward with anything and everything to deceive people and how there will always be some folks that will follow them. Doesn't it make you wonder if they could be real? Why is that and how can they just believe these lies? Many of these people knew Jesus as He was growing up, they knew His parents and his brothers. They had witnessed miracles, just a few days before Lazarus had died and Jesus called him out of that tomb. Yet in their hearts, they just still had some doubts. It is still the same today, we have people that don't believe Jesus died and was raised from the dead on the third day. I certainly don't have answers for everything, but I do know by faith, we step out one foot at a time and we begin a walk that strengthens and assures us of this truth. We know our hearts change when we are saved, and that what we read in the Bible is really the Word of God. We are then steadfast in our faith and we believe. Nothing will shake us and draw us away if we know this truth. As we are remembering this Holy Week in the events that take place, remember we can have certainty in our hearts that Jesus is the Son of God and everything in Gods Word is true. You really can stake your (eternal) life on it.

Palm Sunday!

2010-03-27T22:51:00.003-05:00

John 12:12-16 (New Living Translation)

Jesus’ Triumphant Entry!

12. The next day, the news that Jesus was on the way to Jerusalem swept through the city. A large crowd of Passover visitors 13. took palm branches and went down the road to meet him. They shouted,
“Praise God!
Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord!
Hail to the King of Israel!”

14. Jesus found a young donkey and rode on it, fulfilling the prophecy that said:

15. “Don’t be afraid, people of Jerusalem.
Look, your King is coming,
riding on a donkey’s colt.”

16. His disciples didn’t understand at the time that this was a fulfillment of prophecy. But after Jesus entered into his glory, they remembered what had happened and realized that these things had been written about him.

This very special Sunday begins as Jesus makes His entry in Jerusalem to begin a week of trial that would end in His death and Resurrection! It is very important for us to remember the significance of why Jesus made this journey for us. There will be many things to reflect on this week, so each day will be living the events as they happened those many years ago. It is hard to explain the emotions that I am sure every Christian will experience this week. How our Lord was treated just brings my face to the floor! But as for today, the entry was amazing. Can't you just feel the excitement? Many of the people that were there had been with Him when He called Lazarus from the tomb. They didn't have to have a reporter from channel 3 or the internet to announce the miraculous life of Jesus. These people saw and knew what He had done, and they loved Him. I wonder how many had loved ones healed or brought back from the dead? It just brings tears to my eyes as to the hope He gave anyone who came near Him. The tribute shown to Him with the palm leaves, the shouting of praises and the love shown to Him was overflowing. I can just picture being there on the side of the road as He is riding through. Our King and Savior! What a day! I pray for you this Palm Sunday that you will also put yourself there and this week you will let these events lodge deep within your heart. Remember what He has done for you, and be ever so thankful. Because if He hadn't, there would be no hope, no hope at all for you and me.
Blessings and Praises to our Lord!

2010-03-26T22:20:00.002-05:00

Psalm 95:1,2 (The Message)

1-2. Come, let's shout praises to God, raise the roof for the Rock who saved us!
Let's march into his presence singing praises,
lifting the rafters with our hymns!

I hope you had a productive day! Ours certainly was! How many of you have an ornamental pond? What a job! but its time again to clean now that spring is here. Hubby and I both worked a couple of hours until the liner was cleaned, (I did some praying when I plugged the pump in that it would work, and it did) water put back in and now it is working away. I just love it! I love to hear the water running, it is so peaceful. When the weather is good, that is where I head to of a morning with my coffee and Bible in hand. I am always amazed at how wonderful God is and what He does for us. It may not sound like a big deal to some folks, but to me it is the most peaceful time I spend during the day. It is a time to reflect on the mercies and goodness of God, a time to study His Word, and a time to do some much needed praying without having to be interrupted by a poodle or two or the phone ringing. This quiet time is the perfect way to start my day, so the pond is running, the flower beds are clean and I am just waiting on the warmer weather. I truly hope you have a blessed Saturday! Enjoy those simple but very profound times we sometimes take for granted.

Covenant Promises!

2010-03-23T22:29:00.005-05:00

Psalm 111:1 (The Message)

1-10. Hallelujah! I give thanks to God with everything I've got—
Wherever good people gather, and in the congregation.
God's works are so great, worth
A lifetime of study—endless enjoyment!
Splendor and beauty mark his craft;
His generosity never gives out.
His miracles are his memorial—
This God of Grace, this God of Love.
He gave food to those who fear him,
He remembered to keep his ancient promise.
He proved to his people that he could do what he said:
Hand them the nations on a platter—a gift!
He manufactures truth and justice;
All his products are guaranteed to last—
Never out-of-date, never obsolete, rust-proof.
All that he makes and does is honest and true:
He paid the ransom for his people,
He ordered his Covenant kept forever.
He's so personal and holy, worthy of our respect.
The good life begins in the fear of God—
Do that and you'll know the blessing of God.
His Hallelujah lasts forever!

The good life really does begin when you accept Jesus as your Savior! This is the beginning of the "forever" you certainly want to be in on . Because we will spend eternity somewhere! As our world spends out of control we must hold on to the promises of God and remember the Covenant He made with us. He really did obligate Himself to people He created. That sounds rather strange and maybe even blasphemous, but it is true! Why would this God who created everything make a Covenant with you and me? To grasp this concept means studying His Word! I have been writing in my blogs for sometime now the importance of seeking God, and I can't over emphasize this enough. We do not need to be weak and helpless in the Kingdom! Jesus completed everything that needed to be done for us, now it is up to us! I want to encourage you in the love and peace of God that you look to Him! Let Him know the deepest part of your heart, ask Him to reveal Himself to you, He will and you will have hope and a purpose. Blessing to you as you seek Jesus Christ!

God is Everything to Me!

2010-03-22T20:20:00.003-05:00

Psalm 56:12,13 (The Message)

12-13. God, you did everything you promised,
and I'm thanking you with all my heart.
You pulled me from the brink of death,
my feet from the cliff-edge of doom.
Now I stroll at leisure with God
in the sunlit fields of life.

What a beautiful day! The sun came out and melted the snow away, (I am so thankful). This has been a long winter to say the least! But it does look like Spring is here! A time of rebirth, a time to celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ! A time to be so thankful, because if Jesus had not rose from the dead, there would be no hope for us. There are many wrong teachings out there and we must not lose sight of this "precious blood" that was shed for us. We must stay focused and the only way we can know the truth is to study Gods Word. We should never take a mans view or his opinion about God! This is where many people get off track and are led astray. Satan was defeated and he knows it, but that doesn't stop him from trying to steal, kill and destroy everything we are and have. Yesterday when the snow was falling and was so pretty it was impossible to believe that everything just happened. Today when the sun was shining and the sky was so blue, once again I was aware of the beauty of what God has done for us. I believe we have some very unsettling times coming and we must be sure we know Gods Word. Then and only then will we be able to stand. I pray as you begin your week, you will be encouraged and strengthened that no matter what happens, God has a plan for you and me. Blessings, sweet friends!

Friends are a Gift from God!

2010-03-19T22:44:00.003-05:00

Proverbs 17:17 (The Message)

One Who Knows Much Says Little
17. Friends love through all kinds of weather,
and families stick together in all kinds of trouble.

I am so thankful to be feeling better today! This week has not been very productive to say the least. I even missed my last Bible Study and I was the teacher! Not to fret, they made it fine without me. I was disappointed though, it was the climax of Esther! What an amazing account of God working behind the scenes. Our next study will be with Kay Arthur (The Covenant). I love to study Gods Word! Studying to show ourselves approved is the answer! And it makes a difference who we study with! I have met some wonderful ladies that love the Lord and are dedicated to His work. The Lord has always blessed me with good friends, I can honestly say all during my life there have been some constant and then some who were there for a time. We have moved a lot so there was opportunity in church and neighborhood to meet lots of nice folks. Friends are truly a gift from God! Now on the other hand, we have to be a good friend to. Just listening is probably one of the most important things we can do. Being honest and discreet is an absolute must also. If we have the ability to make another person feel good about themselves, then we have accomplished a great deal. I believe we must encourage each other, holding each other up in prayer, and really being concerned. You know enough that we feel what they are going through. We must have compassion and empathy. My friends have been praying for me this week and I am so thankful. Even though it was not serious, I was still down and out. We have a lot of things coming up in the next few weeks that will require lots of strength, and of course I am looking to my Heavenly Father for that. Guidance to know exactly what to do, and then wisdom to know how to handle it. Thank you again for your prayers, I pray and ask Gods blessings on you when you read my blogs. Thank you for that to. I truly love the Lord and only want to do His will. We have weather moving in that will surely keep us on our toes, maybe on our knees to so everyone be safe and have a blessed weekend.

Feeling Yukky!

2010-03-18T11:28:00.002-05:00

Just an update to let you know I have the flu (urgg) this week, and I am trying to get over it. What began Monday with just feeling yukky, turned out to be the worst flu I have ever had, so needless to say, no blogs were being written. Thank God for such a caring husband that has been doing laundry, dishes and listening to me whining (I hope I didn't do to much). Even though being flat on my back, I thought about all the good things of God! All the blessings and all the provisions! Being so thankful! Yes, even sick there is so much to be thankful for! (not the sick part). The enemy of our souls would love to keep us down and deceive us to believe God doesn't care about us or we wouldn't be sick, but he is a first class liar and the truth is never in him. It is God we listen to, not him. In the great "I Am" is the answers and the peace and the healing! Blessings to you my sweet friends!