Daughter's of Jehovah

Do You Sparkle for Jesus?

2011-11-30T07:45:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday night I was sitting at the computer desk in our back bedroom and I looked down at my left hand and the diamond in my wedding ring was gone!!! Needless to say I was hollering and tellling my husband, we were searching thru the house, on the floors, everywhere!!! For 20 minutes we searched and we didn't find it!!! I was almost sick to my stomach!!! It was the sentimental value of the ring. My husband had given me the engagement ring over 38 years ago!!! I was upset!!! My sparkling diamond was gone!!!
So many times in our lives we don't "sparkle" for Jesus! We let our flesh, our attitudes tell us what to do, instead of listening to the Holy Spirit and obeying Him. We are told in God's Word, "And You Shall Love the Lord Your God With All Your Heart, And With All Your Soul, And With All Your Mind, And With All Your Strength." Mark 12:30. We get upset with our husbands or children when things aren't done exactly the way we want them to be. We are so impatient!!! Just think how God's patience should run out on us, but He is ever faithful and longsuffering and wants the best for each and every one of us!!! We fret over material things (me-my ring). God gave his precious Son for us. He died on the cross, He took our sin debt upon Him, We are redeemed by the precious blood of Jesus when we admit we are a sinner, believe in Jesus Christ, and confess our sins and then we are saved!! Our Life Now Sparkles With Jesus Christ!!!

My Prayer is that each and every day I "sparkle" and proclaim Jesus in all I say or do!!
Oh, by the way, Saturday night, I was putting on my pantyhose and something "sparkled" on the floor, I reached down and touched the sparkly thing and guess what, IT WAS MY DIAMOND!!! Thank you Lord, for putting the "sparkle-(Light)" in my life when I accepted you as my Savior at age 10 years of age and for letting me find the "sparkle-diamond"for my ring!"

Follow me, I am the Light!
John 8:12-"I am the Light of the World......."

Walk in Light:
Ephesians 5:8b
"But now you are Light in the Lord, walk as children of Light."

Go out and "SPARKLE FOR JESUS TODAY!!!"

Does Jesus Have A Pocket?

2011-10-27T19:57:00.000-07:00

During a recent worship service, I was moved to tears.   They came suddenly and unexpectedly.   Rolling down my face.. falling uncontrollably from my heart.     As usual, I was unprepared for this event.   I never have tissue in my purse.   Most of the time I don't even have a purse. You would think that having been a Girl Scout leader for 12 years, I would at least follow the most basic of the Girl Scout Laws;   "Be Prepared".    But, not me.

Fortunately, my dear friend was sitting next to me in the church pew and she noticed my dilemma.   She is ALWAYS organized and prepared and I don't know if she ever was a Girl Scout. It is her God given gift to be prepared.

She reached into her ever ready and always well stocked purse and produced a hanky.

Well, actually it was a man's handkerchief.

Seriously?   She actually had a handkerchief in her Mary Poppins bag of surprises.   I am not sure why she carries a man's handkerchief in her purse.   Who in the world carries a handkerchief anymore?

Maybe she believes that at some point in time her big manly man husband will burst into uncontrollable bouts of crying and she will be able to come to his rescue.

Or maybe she has sat beside me in church for so long that she knows that at some point in time I will have the need for a hanky and, as always, be without one.

She has such a sweet heart.    She is a sweetheart.

Nevertheless, she armed me with the handkerchief and I was able to wipe the tears from my face and eyes and produce a smile.    A hanky is sooooo much nicer than a tissue.

She comforted me.

It made me think of Christ.    He is our Comforter.

There are two words used in the Bible which are translated as 'comforter'.

The first is from the root word Nacham which means "to be sorry, console oneself, repent, regret, comfort, be comforted, suffer grief, repent, to comfort oneself, ease oneself."

This is a good thing that we can comfort ourselves. It is healthy to be able to acknowledge our circumstance, to feel regret or suffer grief and comfort ourselves.   We can do this by counting our blessings, by looking for the silver lining, by drawing close to God.

However, self comfort can also be self destructive, such as when Esau was so jealous of his brother Jacob that he actually tried to ease the pain of that jealousy by plotting to kill Jacob. (Genesis 27: 42 When Rebekah was told what her older son Esau had said, she sent for her younger son Jacob and said to him, "Your brother Esau is consoling himself with the thought of killing you.")

When we think we are wronged , do we comfort ourselves with thoughts of revenge?   of getting even?

On the other hand, when we do something we know is wrong, do we try to justify and console ourselves by wrong thinking and reasoning?   We are sorry, but it has to be somebody's fault.   Do we comfort ourselves by placing the blame elsewhere?

The other word for comforter is from the Greek word "parakletos" which is translated as: summoned or called to one's side or to one's aid; or one who pleads another's cause before a judge, an advocate; an intercessor; or of Christ in his exaltation at God's right hand, pleading with God the Father for the pardon of our sins;   in the widest sense, a helper, succourer, aider, assistant; of the Holy Spirit destined to take the place of Christ with the apostles (after his ascension to the Father), to lead them to a deeper knowledge of the gospel truth, and give them divine strength needed to enable them to undergo trials and persecutions on behalf of the divine kingdom.

Jesus is the Parakletos. He is The Comforter.    The Holy Spirit.

I don't believe that I can add anything to that definition.

Isn't it grand to know that when we are overcome by the cares of the world, Jesus comes to our side to hold and comfort us... to catch our tears in His hands? Does He have a giant handkerchief in His pocket to wipe away our tears?   Does Jesus even have a pocket where He can keep a hanky?

When we are wronged, He is our strength.   When we do wrong and repent, He stands before the Father pleading His blood over us.

He is the Spirit that moves my friend to be prepared with a hanky just when I need it.   It is her ministry to a sister in Christ.    It is Jesus acting through her to be the Comforter.

We get to choose which comforter we reach for in times of stress and trouble. No matter what the circumstance, we have a choice.     Do we choose to comfort ourselves?   Or do we allow THE Comforter to come to our aid?

It is astonishing that a single act of kindness to a hurting heart becomes an act of Holiness.    We can all take a lesson from the handkerchief.   Allow God to use us to reach out to others in their pain and be Jesus to them.

Thank you my sweet friend.

ONE YEAR

2011-10-05T06:18:00.000-07:00

Father this pain revisited
Is as hard as the first
For a mother's arms left empty
Long for that living birth.
We're haunted with shadowy dreams -
Left longing for something more.
Reaching out across time and distance
All the way to heaven's shore.
They say time changes loss
and memories seem to dim -
But a mother's arms left empty
Never seems to forget them.
Our hearts are left longing
of what might have been
And we are left dreaming
of seeing them again.
Father this pain revisited
Is as hard as the first
So hold me as I weep again
over this loss of birth.

Cleansing

2011-10-03T06:46:00.000-07:00

Down, Down to the pits
of the miry clay
Deep, Deep down the path
of the darkest way
Out, Out to the furthest
Places of earth
Giving, Giving new life
- a new birth
Bright, Bright
is that crimson flow
Cleansing, Cleansing
the forsaken soul
Thanks, Thanks to the one
who gave His all
Redeeming, Redeeming
those lost in the fall
Praise, Praise to the King
the slain lamb
Power, Power comes
from the Great I am
Redeemed, Redeemed
set apart by the blood
Freed, Freed because
of that great love.

Uncommon Call

2011-10-03T06:44:00.000-07:00

I stand at the crossroads
of the Uncommon call
One way leads to the world
the evidence of the fall
The other up sacrifice hill
a forsaking of all
No More demanding
to have my own way
No more excuses for
the reasons I stray
Simply a road of
trust and obey.

Oh, Beverly!

2011-09-20T11:27:00.000-07:00

So many times in our lives we tend to wait or put off doing things that we know would be better for us. I woke up last Sunday morning with the right side of my face swollen and throughout the day it was swelling more! I knew immediately it was due to my teeth that I had not cared for in the last several years! Thank goodness, I got into a dentist Monday. He was very kind, caring, and took a full image of my mouth!! He started me on pencillen and gave me pain medicine, if needed. I will probably be under his care for a few months. He said next week when I go back and his hygenist evaluates me that we will have the game plan!
As I sat in the dental chair looking out a large window, I saw sparrows around their birdhouse, flying and enjoying their food and water and I was reminded of the verse in Luke 12:24, "Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap; they have no storeroom nor barn, and yet God feeds them; how much more valuable you are than the birds! God cares so much for me and you!!!
Often the only way to heal is hurt. Dental procedures, in my case, sometimes doctor procedures have to be done. The corruption must be cut from the sore or no healing will occur at all. The same is true of human beings in their relationship with God. God demands purity, and all corruption will be cut away to insure wholeness. There is no place for evil in the body of Christ.
If evil is found, drastic measures will be taken, and like a cancer, it will be removed. God will act as a skillful surgeon, cutting and putting back together again. What will be left will be better than new, and the body of Christ will be healthy for all eternity. Healing can occur no other way, but the Lord will be faithful to save as much as He possibly can. Our Prayer should be "Father, cut away all that is wrong in me. Though it might hurt, I would rather be able to heal than to sit and die in my corruption.Remove evil from my heart, and heal me in your tender love. Amen.

O Father, may I search the scriptures and diligently learn more about you and testify of your great love & care for me and others! (Scripture reference to John 5:39)Your Word testifies of your great love for us!

F (antastic)
A(dventures)
I (n)
T(rusting)
H(im!)

How is your adventure with the Lord?
My adventure will include making several stops at Dr. Carmony's office over the next few months, but I thank God that he was put in my pathway!

"Our Awesome God!"

2011-08-08T12:09:00.000-07:00

So many times in our lives we say this or that is awesome! My 5 year old grandson thinks Captain America, Super Heroes, and grilled cheese sandwiches are AWESOME! V.B.S. was awesome this last week! My grandchildren said being with their cousins is Awesome and their Great-grandmommy is awesome! All these things or people can truly be awesome in our eyes, but the "Most Awesome" is our God Almighty!
The definition of awesome is great or excellent. We truly serve a great God and an excellent God!! An Awesome God!! In Isaiah 40:28 it says, "Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God; the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, Does not become weary or tired. His understanding is unscrutable."God is not weak, never fatigued, never fails us, the Ancient of Days is all-sufficient!! Isn't that Awesome!!! He is Awesome!
Our God is a Holy God. (Isaiah 6:1-6)
Our God is a Trinity. (Deut. 6:4 and Matt. 28:19-20)
Our God is always at work in your life. (John 5:17 & Romans 8:28)

What are we to do? Like Isaiah we should fall on our knees!!!(Isaiah 45:23)

We are to worship, trust, & obey.
"Great is the Lord, and highly to be praised,
And His greatness is unsearchable." Psalm 145:3

"In God I have put my trust..." Psalm 56:11

"But whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected." I John 2:5

We are to love.

"If you keep my commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in His love." John 15:10

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another." John 13:34

We are to be holy.

"because it is written, You shall be Holy, for I am Holy." I Peter 1:16

We are to Proclaim Christ.

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek." Romans 1:16

As the song says....
"Our God is an Awesome God,
He reigns from heaven above,
With wisdom, power, & love,
Our God is an AWESOME GOD!!!"

We truly serve a Great, Excellent, and Awesome God!!!

There is a Time to Blow Your Horn

2011-08-03T18:05:00.000-07:00

(From the "View From the 9th" Collection)

Driving on the highways and roadways in Kuwait is an unforgettable experience. Even though there are rules and regulations, no one seems to obey the law. NO ONE. Excessive speed and intentional rudeness abounds.   Road rage is normal every day activity.    What is so great about this is that it gives everybody an opportunity to use their car horns regularly.   I would insert a smiley face in here if I could figure out how.    :)

In America, or in my little section of America, we could possibly even forget that we have horns built into our cars, but in Kuwait honking your horn is just part of your daily driving experience. It is EXHILARATING!

Lay on that horn and blow!!!!! Whew!

Since I've been home, I keep looking for an excuse to blow my truck's horn.   Alas! so far I have found no occasion to do so.

However, there are other reasons than inconsiderate motorists to toot your horn.

Jesus said “I am the way the truth and the life. No man comes to the Father but through me.”

That's a pretty bold statement.   There is no question that He was announcing to the world WHO He is and WHY He came.

There are so many scriptures where Jesus talks about who He is.   He did not step down or step back. He tooted his horn, told people why he was here.   Before he ascended to heaven he commanded us to tell the world His story.    To blow our horns. Only our horns have to toot about Him, not about us.

Honk!

Some horns are loud. Others are soft & gentle.   Some horns play symphonies. Others play jazz.   They have different sounds and are played in varying ways.

Horns are used to announce something... to get people’s attention.    The children of God are listening for and waiting to hear the horns blowing announcing the return of Christ!

So... toot your horn... Whether your horn plays gently or is blaringly loud, get somebody's attention and then use that opportunity to tell them about Christ.      What Jesus gave to His children is meant to be announced to the world.

Oh... and if you hear me blowing my car horn sometime, don't worry.   I am just reminiscing.

Morning Outing with Grandkids!

2011-08-03T10:30:00.000-07:00

My husband and I took our 4 grandsons to see"The Tale of Despereax" this morning at 10:00 at the show. We all had a good time, they ate their skittles, and drank their capri sun apple juices, and we all watched this show about a little mouse who was different (set apart), courageous, brave, noble, and tried to learn and listen, and see the beauty in everything.
As Christians, we are to be different, to be courageous, to grow ( learn) and to (listen) to the Lord. We are to be set apart. "But know that the Lord has set apart the godly man for Himself; The Lord hears when I call to Him.Psalm 4:3. We are to have courage, "Be strong and courageous!" Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9. We are to be noble, "Listen, for I will speak noble things; And the opening of my lips will reveal right things. (The virtues of wisdom are summarized in all that is noble, right, true, and righteous.) Sanctification (to be growing (learning) in the Lord daily), "but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 3:18. We are to listen, "When you are in distress and all these things have come upon you, in the latter days you will return to the Lord, your God and listen to His voice." Deut. 4:30. See the beauty of the Lord!! "One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the Lord, And to meditate in His temple." Psalm 27:4.
The rats in the show lived in ratworld in the darkness, and were mean and cruel.
As Christians we are to shine God's light and be loving and caring. "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden." Matthew 5:14 (A godly life gives convincing testimony of the saving power of God. That brings God glory.) "But You, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness and truth." Psalm 86:15. (God is loving, merciful, caring, and kind to us, so should we be to others.)

Father, I pray that just as Despereax, the mouse, was courageous, noble, brave, and set apart, that I might have these standards and be a Strong Christian for You and let my light shine!!!

Step out of your comfort zone for Christ!!!

2011-07-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

I just watched a video of our Pastor and his children skating at Skate America. The love that our Pastor shows for his children and the willingness he has to learn new things is commendable!!
Our heavenly Father has such great love for each and every one of us!!! When the "Waters" seem roaring in our lives, and we don't want to step out of our comfort zone, we must keep our eyes on our Heavenly Father and do His will
I am sure skating was probably out of our Pastor's "comfort zone," but he was willing to do it, because he loves his children. Are we willing to step out of our "comfort zone" and do the will of God? Is God calling you to teach a S. S. class, witness, be an encourager, or a prayer warrior? God wants willing servants! Are you willing to step out in faith?
Scripture Texts: John 3:16, Romans 5:8, Mark 3:35, Eph. 6:6, and Luke 17:5

"What kind of fragrance are you putting out?"

2011-07-23T09:55:00.001-07:00

As I was cleaning out the old fragrances from my scentsy holders, and putting in the new fragrances, these scriptures came to mind.
2 Cor. 2:14-16: "But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place. For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing; to the one an aroma from death to death, to the other an aroma from life to life. And who is adequate for these things?
(Paul was thankful for the privilege of pleasing God. Whenever God's servants are faithful and are an influence for the gospel, God is pleased. No one is adequate in his own strength or competent to serve God in the ways and with the power that Paul had been describing. God alone, is our strength!)
Another scripture brought to my mind on aroma: Eph. 5:2,
"...walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself us for us, and offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma."
(Christ's offering of Himself for fallen man pleased and glorified His heavenly Father, because it demonstrated in the most complete and perfect way God's sovereign, perfect, unconditional, and divine kind of love.)
How's your fragrance for Christ today?

The Author

2011-07-17T07:15:00.001-07:00

Hebrew 12:2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith...

How often do we look at our life and think that things could be better if we did things differently. Often times not even consulting God on our decision - but rather doing what we consider the best option for us.

This verse speaks of the fact that Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith. He set out a redemptive plan that includes a new life in him. He is the one who has written our story before the beginning of time. Like any good author of this world Jesus has carefully written our stories, following us through hardship, heartbreak, joy, and forgiveness to the end of our story. Unfortunately along the way we often decide we do not like the story that is laid out before us. And not knowing the ultimate outcome we decide to re-write certain parts. Ripping the pen and paper from the master author's hand and handing it over to the world or the enemy to write out a part of our story. In this we shortcut the beauty of the story the master author has before hand laid out. We miss the designed story he has for us and ultimately miss some of the blessings that were set out for our lives. During this time the Author of Salvation stands at our side ready to take over our story when we decide to trust him with it again.

Think back on the last good novel you read. The earthly author lovingly unfolded a story that surrounded major characters. The author laid out the details and through the story the reader follows as the character goes through trials and hardships, triumphs and defeats and ultimately the ending is good - though granted sometimes sad. But in the end we see that the story laid out shines brightly and we at the end have a connection to those involved.

In much the same way our story is written out by The Author of Salvation - and he has made one for each of us that will ultimately shape us into an image of Him. We must therefor trust our story in the hands of the Author of Salvation even in the times that we do not fully understand our story. We must trust him in the times of heartbreak and trials that he is working out a greater purpose. We must give him the thanks for the times of joy when all works out. We must commit to leave the pen in the hands of the Author who has our best intent in His heart. The one who said that He knows the thoughts he thinks toward of us and they are of peace and an expected end.

My hope is that at the end, my story is one that is captivating because the Author of Salvation shines through on each page. May this also be your endeavor as you seek God's will - trust His authorship in your life and know that He is writing a beautiful story across the years of your life. Let Him shine on each page.

Soar Like the Eagles!!!

2011-06-28T09:34:00.000-07:00

It is through God's power and strength that we can go on, regardless of difficulties we face or circumstances. It is encouraging to know, that God's power and strength never diminishes. When we feel as though all of life is crushing us, we must remember we can call on God to renew our strength!!!

"He gives strength to the weary;

And to him who lacks might, He increases power.

Though youths grow weary and tired,

And vigorous young men stumble badly,

Yet those who wait for the Lord

Will gain new strength;

They will mount up with wings like eagles,

They will run and not get tired,

They will walk and not become weary."

Isaiah 40: 29-31

Characteristics of holy life: Psalm 15:1-5

2011-06-28T09:27:00.000-07:00

O Lord, who may abide in Your tent?

Who may dwell on Your holy hill?

He who walks with integrity, and

works righteousness,

And speaks truth in his heart.

He does not slander with his tongue,

Nor does evil to his neighbor,

Nor takes up reproach against his friend;

In whose eyes a reprobate is despised,

But who honors those who fear the Lord;

He swears to his own hurt and does not change;

He does not put out his money at interest,

Nor does he take a bribe against the innocent.

He who does these things will never be shaken.

God is Great!!!

2011-06-13T12:09:00.000-07:00

This last week I had 4 of my grandsons for a week of fun & laughter & hugs!!! They attended V.B.S at my mom's church in the mornings, and they got to swim, slip & slide, bug hunt, play with water guns, and many other adventures!!One morning before we were fixing to gather for our morning prayer & review our memory verse for the week, I told the grandsons to pick up the toys in the play room. They started picking toys up rather slowly, But, it was so amazing when I heard the 4 year old grandson telling the other boys, "Ya'll come on!!! (In other words lets get this done!!) Then he said, "God is Great!!! God speaks to us thru the Bible, thru circumstances in our lives, and thru other people! That very moment that my 4 year old grandson said, "God is Great!!!'', God spoke thru a child to me!!! We serve a Great God! His lovingkindness is great!!!"For your lovingkindness is great to the heavens, And Your truth to the clouds. Psalm 57:10. It tells us of His great love, in Eph. 2:4, "But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us...." Great joy, Great Faith, Great Nations, there are many great things in the Bible that God tells us about, but, to sum it all up, a scripture that surely speaks of God's greatness indeed, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:16. The Father gave His unique and beloved Son to die on behalf of sinful men. This truly showed the greatness of His love for us!! The intensity!!! I marvel at His greatness and I thank Him for His love for me!!! A sinner saved by grace thru faith!!!

2011-05-20T14:16:00.001-07:00

In the midst of tumultuous waters
as the ship is batter by waves
Still I cling to this hope and security
Jesus is faithful, Jesus saves
When the dark night presses in
as it overpowers the light
Still I cling to this promise of truth
Jesus has won this fight
When my faith is shaking and weak
When shattered, bruised and alone
I hold to the stronghold of life:
Jesus has called me His own
When the light breaks through
dispelling this night
I'll remember the ancient truth
that Jesus is light
When lifted, restored and set right
when this heart is repaired
I'll remember this: The Good Shepherd
My Jesus has cared
When waves cease to beat
on the battered ship that's broken
I'll remember those precious words:
"Be Still" that were spoken
On the mountains so high
or now in the valley of loss
I'll cling to my hope of salvation
and always remember the cross.

Roots

2011-05-09T08:10:00.000-07:00

Have you ever stopped to think about these aspects of a root system produced by the regular, faithful study of God's Word:

>Roots are unseen-Each one of us need to set aside time in solitude to
immerse yourself in God's Word and grow in Him.
>Roots are for taking in-Alone and with your Bible in hand, you'll want to
take in and feed upon the truths of the Word of God and ensure your spiritual
growth.
>Roots are for storage-As you form the habit of looking into God's Word,
you'll find a vast, deep reservoir of divine hope and strength forming for rough
times.
>Roots are for support-Do you want to stand strong in the Lord? To stand
firm against the pressures of life? The routine care of your roots through
exposure to God's Word will cultivate you into a remarkable women of
endurance.

To become a woman after God's own heart, we must have God first in our heart and abide in God's Word. We must have this "root system", and be anchored deep into God's Word.

As we dwell in Christ over the years, we lay roots which form a foundation which make it impossible for us to be moved. Nothing can sway us if we plant ourselves completely in His love. If our roots are not in the Lord, we are shaken by the slightest thing, and we have no anchor to hold us in place. Christ invites us to take hold of the fertile soil of God's love. When we take root there, we are there eternally, and nothing can affect us. We are nurtured and strengthened by the grace of God, and we can depend on growing strong and secure in His care.

"The righteous shall never be removed; but the wicked shall not inherit the earth."
Proverbs 10:30

"I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit." John 15:1-2

"So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3: 17-19

"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15

Lord, I place the seed of my faith in your soil. Nurture and feed it so that it might take root and grow. Help my faith to grow strong and tall in the light of your love. Amen.

What's in the Bible? DVD 5 Trailer

2011-05-04T10:59:00.000-07:00

"Support and Stronghold"

2011-04-26T07:48:00.000-07:00

Last night we had rain and thunderstorms and tornado warnings in our area! This morning as I drove to work I saw a fence damaged from the storm, limbs everywhere, someone told me of trees that had been uprooted, the wind had blown fiercly things off our porches and garages!
So many times in our lives "great storms, (TRIALS), come in our lives and we seem to think all our support is gone! But, we must remember in whatever we face, God will give us the grace to face it, and He is our support and stronghold! God gives us so many verses of scripture on this for us!
Scriptures:
1. (2 Samuel 22:19): "They confronted me in the day of my calamity, But the Lord was my support."
(This verse speaks of David explaining how God reached down from heaven to save him on the earth! David's Psalm of Deliverance-Chapter 22)
2. (2 Samuel 22:3): "My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge; My savior, You save me from violence."
(In this verse David extols God as his defense, refuge, and deliverer in the many experiences of his agitated life.)
3. (Psalm 9:9-10):"The Lord also will be a stronghold for the oppressed, A stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know Your name will put their trust in You, For You, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You,"
( These verses speak of God's gracious dealings with dependent disciples.)
4. (Psalm 59:9): "Because of his strength I will watch for You,, For God is my stronghold."
(Verse from Chapter 59 on Prayer for Deliverance from Enemies, When Saul sent men they watched the house in order to kill David.)
5. (Psalm 62:2): "He only is my rock and my salvation, My stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken."
(In this verse David's absence from his homeland compounds his feelings of discouragement and exhaustion. David's hope and courage were failing. David expresses his disregard of personal autonomy and his reliance on his God in this metaphor for refuge.)
6.(Proverbs 10:29): "The way of the Lord is a stronghold to the upright, But ruin to the workers of iniquity."
(In this verse,"the way of the Lord,"-this is the spiritual path in which God directs man to walk.)
Lord, I pray that just as a "beam" need support, that I would ever remember that you are my support and my stronghold and that You will help me weather all the storms in my life!

2011-03-29T15:16:00.000-07:00

2011-03-29T15:15:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgi-G-dHYkY

"Are you being pounded by paint balls?"

2011-03-26T05:59:00.000-07:00

My grandson, Blaine, called early this morning to tell me that he and his mom & dad were going to play paint ball! He said Grammy pray for me! I don't know anything about this game, other than what my daughter has told me. She said they were getting well clothed up, because she was told when the paint balls hit you they can sting! They are off for a morning of fun and I pray God's protection on them!
Just as the paint balls can sting, Satan throws many things at us that can sting! We need to clothe ourselves in Christ! Put on our armor each and every day! We must remember, Satan is defeated! It tells us in Revelation 12:9, "And the great dragon was thrown down, the serpent of old who is called the devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him." Satan's accusations against believers are unsuccessful because of Christ our Advocate. Advocate, our Helper, one called alongside! Our defense attorney! Praise God for the Holy Spirit! Although Satan prosecutes believers night and day before the Father due to sin, ( It tell us in Rev. 12:10 that Satan will no longer accuse believers before the throne of God because he will no longer have access to heaven), Christ's High-Priestly ministry guarantees not only sympathy but also acquittal. (Hebrews 4:14-16), Jesus was sinless, He was able to be tempted, but not sin. When Satan throws those fiery darts, draw near with confidence to God's throne to receive mercy and grace through Jesus Christ to help in your time of need.
Many things come against us in this world, it seems sometimes like we are being pounded by paint balls (so to speak), but always remember John 16:33, "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world." Our fundamental ground for endurance in persecution is the victory of Jesus over the world. Through His impending death, He rendered the world's opposition null and void. While the world continues to attack His people, such attacks fall harmlessly, for Christ's victory has already accomplished a smashing defeat of the whole evil rebellious system!
The next time Satan sends a fiery dart(paint ball) your way, Fall upon your knees and draw near to the throne of God to receive that mercy and grace you need to help you thru this trial! Retaliate with Prayer and Depending on God!

Always Say A Prayer (A.S.A.P.)

2011-03-17T10:11:00.001-07:00

There's work to do, deadlines to meet,
you've got no time to spare,
but as you hurry and scurry
always say a prayer.

In the midst of family chaos,
"quality time" is rare.
Do your best; let God do the rest;
always say a prayer.

It may seem like your worries
are more than you can bear.
Slow down and take a breather--
always say a prayer.

God knows how stressful life is,
He wants to ease our cares,
and He'll respond a.s.a.p.

"Always Say A Prayer!'

Blessings

2011-03-17T10:06:00.000-07:00

Blessings can be a loving smile,
Or even a soft tender touch.
A kind word softly spoken,
These blessings mean so much.

Blessings are a special friend,
Being there in time of need.
Lending a hand and encouragement,
By doing a simple loving deed.

Blessings are when someone cares,
When our lives seem to be adrift.
Blessings are hearing a prayer,
That gives our spirits a lift.

Blessings are knowing God is near

Our every prayer He will hear,
Giving us comfort in our fear,
Trusting Him with all we hold dear.

"Always count your blessings!"

Let go & Let God!

2011-03-17T09:54:00.000-07:00

As children bring their broken toys,
with tears for us to mend,
I brought my broken dreams to God,
because He is my friend.
But then instead of leaving Him
in peace to work alone,
I hung around and tried to help,
with ways that were my own.
At last, I snatched them back again
and cried, "How can you be so slow?"
"My child" He said, "What could I do?"
You never did let go."

"Waiting"

2011-03-16T11:32:00.000-07:00

How many of us like to wait? We wait in lines, we wait at doctor's appointments, we wait for many things!

Scriptures on waiting:

Psalm 27:14-"Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord."

Psalm 130:5-"I wait for the Lord, my soul does wait, And in His word do I hope."

Isaiah 40:31-"Yet those who wait for the Lord, Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles,, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary."

Patient, Praying believers are blessed by God with strength in their trials. God's Word cannot fail, it gives us hope! We should wait with eager and patient anticipation of the Lord!

When you wait on the Lord, you gain wisdom, you give adoration to Him, you gain inspiration from Him, and you give thanksgiving for all your many blessings!

W (isdom)
A (doration)
I (nspiration)
T (hanksgiving)

The next time you or I are waiting in a long line or for doctor's results or any other long wait, we should reflect on this verse from Psalm 25:5: "Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For you are the God of my salvation; For you I wait all day."

O Lord, teach me to Understand the things I need to understand, and to wait upon you, Lord!

Father, Forgive them

2011-02-28T06:57:00.000-08:00

Father forgive them,
They know not what they do
They've turned their backs
on what is true
Father you gave them,
each one to me
So I give myself that
they may go free
Father, you knew them
before time began
And for each one you have
a special plan
Born into sin
captive in its snares
They are burdened and broken
with worries and cares
Father Forgive them
let me pay their price
This the atonement,
this the sacrifice
Father I'll carry it,
all their dark sin
And with my blood
will cleanse each of them
Father this cross,
this instrument of death & pain
Will serve as measure
of eternal gain
Lifted high for all
men to see
Here will I die to rise
on a rugged tree
Father love them
remind them of you
Stir in their hearts
what is true
Whisper their names
across time and space
Usher them in
through your matchless grace
Father forgive them
they've lost their way
All like sheep
have gone astray
Father I'll be the light
in the dark
The mender of the
bitterly broken heart
I will deliver them
out of their sin
And place them into
your loving hand
Father forgive them
see only me
In my death and rising
I bring them to thee

Forgiveness

2011-02-28T06:54:00.000-08:00

Forgiveness is foreign to the nature of sin
Because it requires a change from withen
It Challenges that which we've come to beleive
And requires that a new life each one recieve
It requires the sinner to recognize and see
The gift of God and His love eternally
It requires that we let go of guilt and shame
And respond to the gentle call of our name.

Better Late?

2011-02-23T10:46:00.000-08:00

Another Spring is fast approaching and the year is shaping up.

Being in a reflective mood, it dawned on me that I had not made any New Year's resolution this year. No big plan to start exercising daily and lose weight. No promise to myself to read the Bible all the way through from start to finish. Not even a simple "I'm going to be a better person this year."

And here it is... almost March.

So, thinking that it's never too late to resolve to do better, I am making a list of my top ten resolutions:

10. Be more organized - I put this at the #10 spot because that way I will remember it for at least a day.

9. Do my tax return on time.. if only because I know that will make the IRS suspicious!

8. Take a ballroom dance class - learn to TANGO!!!! Cha!Cha!Cha!

7. Start a hobby (actually I did this but had to leave it at home when I left for Kuwait so that one is already broken)

6. Make new friends (got a good start on that one.. met a lot of new people.. now if I could just remember their names.)

5. Write more often - because I know everybody is waiting breathlessly to read my every word!

4. Get to work early... something I am sure the boss would love and my co-workers would hate!

3. Lose Weight & Exercise-   ahhhh... the ultimate and classic resolution that we all make and we all break.

2. Save Money - well, first ya gotta make money and then ya gotta be a tightwad. yech.

1. Read the Bible all the way through from start to finish - I always get hung up on the "begats" Come on, be honest...the begats. Can't we just skip them thangs?

I could probably add 100 more things that I need or want to do. But I wonder what God would have me resolve to do.

There is the old song: "I have decided to follow Jesus... no turning back.. no turning back."   That should be the only resolution any of us make.   It is the only one that brings everything else into order.   Following Jesus is key to living a life that is exemplary in every way.

So... I'll just disregard the list (as usual) and continue following Him.

Whew!   Talk about relieving the pressure!

Now I can get on with my year.

"DIAL"

2011-02-23T10:29:00.000-08:00

This morning I walked over to my kitchen sink and I have a bottle of dial soap on it. The "Dial" instantly spoke to me! Divine Inspiration And Love! In Romans 1:20, "For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and "divine nature", have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. Our Creator, who made all that we see around us and constantly sustains it, must be a being of awesome power! His faithfulness, kindness, and graciousness are seen thru what He has created! Our Divine God displays his wonder in His divine nature!
God can talk to you thru the Bible, thru circumstances, and thru other people! God talked to me, inspired me, thru the bottle of Dial soap! It tells us in 2 Timothy 3:16 "All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training, in righteousness. The Word of God, Inspired, God-Breathed, Perfect! So identified is God with His Word that when Scripture speaks, God speaks! The Scripture provides the comprehensive and complete body of divine truth necessary for life and godliness. (Reference to Psalm 119:97-105).
Love! So many verses on love in the Bible, but in John 15:10 it says. "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love." Jesus set the model by His perfect obedience to the Father, which we are to use as the pattern for our obedience to Him.
Father, I thank you for your Creation, for the Word of God, and for your Love!
You give us divine inspiration from the Word of God! Your love letter to us!

Psalm 121

2011-02-23T08:54:00.000-08:00

Isn't it wonderful to know that God is our helper, our keeper, our protector, and our preserver! In Psalm 121 this song gives us a strong note of this assurance in all four stages!

A. God as my Helper in verses 1-2.
"I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; From where shall my help come? My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth.

B. God as my Keeper in verses 3 &4 & 5a
"He will not allow your foot to slip; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel, Will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your keeper;

C. God as my Protector in verses 5b & 6 & 7a
"The Lord is your shade on your right hand. The sun will not smite you by day, Nor the moon by night. The Lord will protect you from all evil;"

D. God as my Preserver in verses 7b & 8.
"He will keep your soul. The Lord will guard your going out and your coming in, From this time forth and forever.

Praise to the Lord! We extend our "right hand" in our time of need, the Father is always there!
So wonderful to know that we have "around the clock protection" with the Lord!

Isn't it reassuring for believers to know that God is our help & protection! Our Keeper & Our Preserver!

A word for Mothers

2011-02-22T19:17:00.000-08:00

Sacred and special
these gifts from above
Entrusted to us
with ultimate love
Have you considered
to what you've been called?
A mission impossible
if you don't lean on God.
He knew them before
time ever began
And has for each one
a very special plan
Our charge is to train them
in the way they should go
To live out each day
the truth that we know
With grace and love
and constant prayer
we handle these lives
with greatest of care.
So when the tides rise
and doubts prevail
Hold fast to the love
that never will fail
When the enemy whispers
your efforts are in vain
Be still and listen
as the father calls your name
In the midst of this season
we see only the task at hand
Our sight is so limited
to all that God has planned.

This is printed on here for a special friend of mine who requested it. This season of motherhood is sometimes filled with joy, but there are days when we wonder what it is that we are doing and if what we are doing makes a difference. God thinks it does!

"I Put My Foot In My Mouth!"

2011-02-17T09:10:00.000-08:00

Several years ago a dear friend of mine, that writes devotionals for this blog spot, also, gave me a precious 5'by7' picture frame with a beautiful picture and scripture in it. The scripture was from Proverbs 17:17a, "A friend loves at all times..." This friend's job sent her to Kuwait a couple of years ago and I sent the picture framed saying back with her. She returned back to the states and was supposed to give me the frame back, but forgot. She returned to Kuwait last month and I had casually told her when she returns we could exchange the friendship frame again! This frame has took on a special meaning for me. My dear friend and I have been special friends for over40 years. We have talked together, cried together, laughed together, went to Ladies retreats, went to the movies together, and had many fun times together! I hope this special friend remembers all these times when I share the rest of this devotional and know that my mouth just got overloaded and that I am still a work in progress and that we all make mistakes!
Last night at the Awana Bible Club Closing, I am the commander of Awana, I was telling that next week would be God & Country Night! They were to bring a card or letter of appreciation to Awana so that we could mail these to someone in the military. My friend, who goes to our church, and as I said before, is in Kuwait, and writes for this blog spot, also, is not in the military, but has gone to Kuwait with her job and is around soldiers. So I thought we would send the cards & letters to her and she could share them with the soldiers. THIS IS WHERE MY MOUTH OVERLOADED!!!! I told the Awana clubbers she is not in the military, but she wears SKIVVIES, like the military does!! After the closing our Pastor & Deacon were laughing with me and asking what she was wearing again? They were asking me if I said skimpy or bikini or what? I still said you know what those military wear, Skivvies or whatever you call them! I loaded up to come home and on the way home it came to me the word I should have used was "Fatigues!" Oh, what had I said! I wasn't even sure what "scivvies" meant! I looked it up, it was TRADEMARK UNDERWEAR!!!! I WAS SO EMBARRASSED!!! I had said this in front of the whole Awana closing ceremony! Needless, to say next week when the kids turn in their cards I will tell the kids thank you for the beautiful cards & letters that will be sent to Mrs. Kathy, who wears military "FATIGUES''!
I am so glad that I have another friend, Jesus, that looked beyond my faults and saw my need for a Savior! In the Bible it tells us in Romans 3:23, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." God saw our need and gave His son, Jesus, to die for our sin! I trusted Jesus as my Savior at the age of 10, was saved by His wonderful grace, and I am still a work in progress with the Lord. Daily growing in Him and depending on Him to lead me!
Just as I said the wrong word last night in describing what my friend wore, which was not intended in a wrong or hurtful way, WORDS can be hurtful, tho! How often do we get upset and say things we don't mean? It is easy to apologize for our words; however, they can never truly be taken back. Sometimes we need to take a moment, hold our tongue and seek His wisdom before we continue speaking! We need to ask ourselves are these words "True, Necessary, & Kind?" Here are two scriptures from the Proverbs to share on words, Proverbs 21:23 says, "He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity." It tells us in Proverbs 10:19, "When words are many, sin is absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise." My prayer is Psalm 19:14, "May the words of my mouth be holy and acceptable to thee in they sight!"
My dear & precious friend, Kathy, I pray for your safety and I thank God for our long friendship and pray that you forgive me for saying you wear Scivvies! I guess my brain went on recess when I said this! I love you, girl! Praise the Lord for good friends!

Well Done, My Faithful Servant!

2011-02-16T10:22:00.000-08:00

Our Faith Girls & sponsors had a meeting last night at our church! Their project was to organize the Awana games, shoebox ministry items, master's business ministry items, & pantry items! They were to learn from this orderliness. Their theme was,"Orderliness is preparing myself and my surroundings so I will achieve the greatest achievement." In God's Word it tells us,"Let all things be done decently and in order." I Cor. 14:40(Orderliness!) I am the church secretary at Faith and I had walked past the pantry and saw how neat and organized it was and then I went to the Fellowship Hall to prepare some things for Awana tonight, and I looked in the room with the other things the Faith Girls had organized! I was blown away! Amazed! God whispered to me and reminded me of our theme verse in Awana for this month, I John 3;18, "Little children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth." Claiming to love is not enough. Love is not sentiment, but deeds! The Faith Girls and sponsors demonstrated their love for God in their deeds, their project, of learning orderliness! God tells us in His Word in I Cor. 14:33a, "for God is not a God of confusion but of peace..." Have you got disorder in your life and need it straightened out, Come to Jesus, He can press out all your problems and organize your life! "Casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." I Peter 5:7.
In Matthew 25:14-30 is the parable of the talents illustrating the tragedy of wasted opportunity. The man who goes on the journey represents Christ, and the slaves represent professing believers given different levels of responsibility. Faithfulness is what he demands of them, but the parable suggests that all who are faithful will be fruitful to some degree. The fruitless person is unmasked as a hypocrite and utterly destroyed. As Christians we need not have "wasted opportunities," the time is now to tell others about the love of Jesus!
Faith Girls & Sponsors you did a job well done! You conveyed the orderliness of God in organizing all the different ministry items! Thanks to Faithful Faith Girls & Sponsors! Praise God!

Valentine's

2011-02-14T09:56:00.000-08:00

Oh, how we all long to hear from our significant loved one"Happy Valentine's", "I Love You", or other special phrases! That special gift, whether it be perfume, going out to dinner or a movie, or flowers! It just makes your day! My hubby brought me a dozen yellow roses! My favorite! These are all good and special things! But, the best Valentine that we can have is Jesus! He is our hope, our Savior, and our King! He demonstrated this love in Romans 5:8: "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us! What love! He loves us to infinity! Such an overwhelming love!!!

What Valentine Can I Give Him?

What can I give to Jesus
On this special Valentine's Day?
How can I tell Him I'll love Him,
And follow Him, come what may?
Should I send a red heart, with lace?
How can I thank Him enough
For His sacrifice, love and grace?
What valentine can I give Him?
My adoration to impart?
I'll give to Him what He want most,
I'll yield to Him my heart!

"I Love You Jesus!"

On the Altar

2011-02-04T10:43:00.001-08:00

"I am nothing but sharp edges and splinters.. shards of a splattered and shattered faith, using those shanks and points to keep His love at a distance so I don't have to face Him. Yet He allows Himself to be pierced and bloodied once again as He draws me close, holding me in His arms of love and grace and pulling those spears and swords into His body and heart as He covers me. How can He stand it? How can He stand me? "

I wrote these words one 2:00 a.m. morning about five years ago. It was a time when my life was broken and I felt that I had nothing left to give. Nothing but pain.

Looking back, I see the hand of God in my life, shaping me and changing me into the person He created me to be. Growing me. Growing my faith. Growing my confidence and trust in Him.

The following hymn (written by Elisha Hoffman ) comes to my mind with new understanding of the lyrics:

You have longed for sweet peace,
And for faith to increase,
And have earnestly, fervently prayed;
But you cannot have rest,
Or be perfectly blest,
Until all on the altar is laid.

Is your all on the altar of sacrifice laid?
Your heart does the Spirit control?
You can only be blest,
And have peace and sweet rest,
As you yield Him your body and soul.

Would you walk with the Lord,
In the light of His Word,
And have peace and contentment alway?
You must do His sweet will,
To be free from all ill,
On the altar your all you must lay.

O we never can know
What the Lord will bestow
Of the blessings for which we have prayed,
Till our body and soul
He doth fully control,
And our all on the altar is laid.

Who can tell all the love
He will send from above,
And how happy our hearts will be made,
Of the fellowship sweet
We shall share at His feet,
When our all on the altar is laid.

I laid my life in the hands of Jesus. He has not disappointed. He has not let me down. Ever. He suffered for me and with me personally. I gave Him my future, my past, my present. He owns it. He owns me.

He, in turn, and as the song says, has given me peace and contentment and a happy heart. The altar of His love is the crucible that changed my life.

"Christian New Year Resolutions"

2011-01-26T09:23:00.000-08:00

How Can I Use The New Year
To Better Serve My Lord?
I'll Read My Bible Everyday,
And Be More in Accord.
I'll Find New Ways To Serve Others,
I'LL Love My Neighbor, Too.
I'LL Focus on "Give" Instead Of "Get",
In Everything I Do.
I'll Forgive The People I'm Mad At,
Angry Feelings I'll Discard.
I'll Try to Love My Enemies,
Even Though It's Hard.
I'll Love My Lord With All My Heart,
With All My Mind And Soul.
And If I Do That Essential Thing,
All The Rest Will Be In Control!

(Reference to Deut. 6:5)

Suffering For The Sake Of by Joni Eareckson Tada

2011-01-20T12:20:00.000-08:00

Keep Moving - anchored in Christ

2011-01-18T06:07:00.000-08:00

I guess maybe clarification needs to be made of walking through the valley and staying in the valley. Each of us must make this walk through the valley and often times when we are truly surrendered to Abba we will walk through many valleys along this road. If our hope is anchored in Christ and we have committed His word to our hearts and we are holding to the promises of unseen things and our face is set on the end we will continue to move forward. Never allow the world to handle your sorrow or cause you to deny that you are in the valley because in doing so you will deny Christ the opportunity to ministers to you.

"Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted," Jesus said to the throng of humanity that sat on that mountainside in the afternoon sun. These were not random words flung out to make people feel good. This was God in the flesh - knowing the past, present and the future looking out over broken humanity and saying, "You will sorrow, your dreams will break, your world will shatter, your hope will falter, prayers won't always be answered your way - BUT you will be comforted, I will not leave you or forsake you, you will not be crushed or overcome, I will deliver you!"

He knew the world would shame people out of their sorrow convincing them some things "don't really hurt", or some sorrows are greater than others, or that there is an acceptable time to sorrow. He knew people would deny their sorrows hiding them in deep places in the heart. His invitation was to face it - I will comfort you.

Take a lesson from Jesus himself. Leading up to the Crucifixion he tried to prepare to his disciples. He tried to reach out in His humanity and share his heavy heart that had peace to impart. He even invited some to the Mount of Olives to pray with him to walk in the valley with him. Then there in that garden God in flesh wept openly and agonizingly. Sorrow and grief rolled over Him and He cried out to Abba. Jehovah, Immanuel, The Lamb poured out in His humanity cried out to Abba, "Father if there be another way let this cup pass from me!!" - let this sorrow end. "None the less YOUR will..." - surrender to the walk in the valley with hope secured in His father's will. And then the comforter was sent - and angel to minister to Jehovah. Notice what happened next. Jesus didn't get up with a smile on his face and go to the disciples and say, "OK I'm fine, I'm about to die an agonizing death, walk through a dark valley - darker than any valley known to man - so let's move on!" NO - scripture reveals that Jesus wept even harder with the comforter there - he came face to face with His heartbreak - he cried then so hard, so openly that blood poured from His brow. Then he stood and walked through the valley - not with giggles - not denying the pain - not denying His sorrow - BUT SURRENDER TO ABBA'S will - His faith anchored in God - His sight set on the Father's face - putting one foot in front of the other and moving forward.

When faced with the valleys of life (whatever they be) Keep moving anchored in Christ. Do not be deceived by the enemy. There is no shame is sorrow or disappointment or grief. The shame comes when we allow that instead of Christ to define us - when we allow that instead of Christ to become our focus (for when we do these things we have taken our sorrow as an idol and placed in before God). In recognizing it, facing it, owning it - we allow God to send comfort and strengthen us as we walk through our valleys - to move past all things in due time according to the seasons of God.

Thoughts for the Day Jan 16, 2011

2011-01-15T18:25:00.002-08:00

I can not begin to know God's reasons or His ways, for they are beyond my understanding. I am continually left amazed at His Handy-work and my unworthiness. It seems that the longer I follow this God who brought everything into existence, the more I pursue a relationship with Him the more I realize the brokenness of my estate and the need for a savior.

I am amazed that God chose His pain - and a most agonizing sacrifice of His beloved -so that I could be brought close. For in my most meager attempts of sacrifice I have found I fall sadly short. My offerings are mere shadows of what was so willingly lain upon the alter for me. In fact upon looking at what I have called sacrifice I am fully ashamed to say that I have chosen that which has often cost me very little or nothing and then very proudly (albeit, not spoken except in the farthest reaches of my heart) been proud of MY ability to do so well for the Lord when in fact I was using His resources. For all the talents and abilities I possess he formed within me before time began - as stated in Jeremiah 1:1 "I knew you before I formed you, before I placed you in your mother's womb". So who am I to take credit for what God Himself created within me - these talents or things are merely my duty to use for His glory.

This valley I am in - this loss that I have suffered - I pray constantly will bring me closer to Him who created me. I began last year with a prayer that God would change my life and my sight. I offered up to Him who created all things this life (that on it's own is useless and can accomplish nothing of lasting value) for His use. Little did I know that this prayer, prayed daily until November 2, 2011 would lead me on a journey that would turn my faith and my world upside down so that I might finally see right side up.

We began with the challenge of taking in two children - when the obviously easier answer would have been no. Brent was in seminary, I home school 4 children and these two children we knew had issues (much more serious than we knew at first). Yet we felt compelled that this was what God would have us to do. After they were removed from our home after their CPS court date to be placed in a different county (away from their parents who live only 2 blocks from us) I found out I was pregnant.
This too turned out to be a challenge. For when hope was seemingly lost we were forced to decide where our faith would stand. Daily a battle raged for my allegiance - would I surrender to desperation and despair or cling to the cross? Daily a reached for my savior, daily I begged for God's provision. Daily I saw His grace and the more the hope was extinguished by this world and the odds stacked up against us the more that grace became clear and new dreams and hopes arose. Then we lost our son - my world shattered - and the greatest grief, the most terrible ache, the deepest sorrow entered my world - and my world spun and tilted, tipped and rolled. There in the devastation of hopes, the brokenness of dreams, the desperation of heart my Savior reached out. Not promising relief, not offering sanctuary from this agonizing pain but whispering "Can you not stay one hour with me, I have not left you....I am able to deliver you". "Able to deliver", how strange these words sound - not delivered from this thing but able to be delivered into grace! Amazing how God changes our sight when we lean into him.

My prayer this year: still the same as last.
Here is my life Lord, take it, break it, bless it for your glory. Use it as you see fit. You chose your loss willingly so that it would be my gain. Teach me to lie down those things most precious without thought for your will. Help me not to cling to the things of this earth. Keep me humble. Keep me close. Keep my feet from temptation.

The Valley of the Shadows

2011-01-15T18:25:00.001-08:00

The tragic beauty of the valley
Is in the songs that fill the air
The broken hallelujahs from
God's children walking there
In the midst of terrible pain,
and in the wake of shattered dreams
On the bank where tears have fallen
into flowing streams
There the children cling
to the hope they know is true
That God is a loving Father
who will carry them through
So up from broken hearts,
poured out of aching souls
Rises a redeeming chant
The Father already knows
He hears his children's cries
has counted every sorrow
Knows their very hearts
and has penned their tomorrows
And though the shadows press
and the enemy stands near
He offers them a shelter
from their devouring fear
He may not ease the suffering
or change the circumstance
But ministers to hearts and souls
causes aching feet to dance
He holds them in his arms
so gently whispers love
Reminds them of redemption
the perfect gift from above
He gently takes their hands
and guides them on the way
Down the path of sorrow
to a brighter day.

"Snow Pack"

2011-01-11T11:16:00.000-08:00

We had a beautiful snow Sunday and Monday of this week! Kids were out playing in it! Throwing snowballs, building snowmen, and sledding!! Such fun!!!
God's word is like rain, like snow. It will water what it lands on. We cooperate in the distribution of this moisture by pouring it out in prayer over people, over situations. As Christians we need to release scripture prayers and it can pile up like a snowpack!
"Throw a snowball of Prayer on Someone Today!"

Scriptures:
Isaiah 55:11-""So will My word be which goes forth from m y mouth; It will not return to me empty, Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it."
Psalm 6:9-"The Lord has heard my supplication, The Lord receives my prayer."
Proverbs 15:29-"The Lord is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayers of the righteous."
Philippians 4:6-"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."
James 5: 16 -"Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much."

year of

2011-01-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

This is going to be a year of focus for me.

focus my Father
focus on His goodness, His mercy, His forgiveness, His love, His joy, His peace, His boldness, His blessings.

focus on one another
focus on other’s needs, building up others, encouraging others, serving one another

focus on the race before me
focus “pressing on” towards the goal, forgetting what lays behind.

focus my goals, goals that honor and glorify my Father
focus on serving Him with my goals

What does this year hold for you?

"Earthquake & Tremors"

2010-12-29T13:22:00.000-08:00

Around Dec. 9 I shared a devotional on this blog spot about, "I am thankful for towels!" In the devotional I shared about how sometimes God comes in and changes our plans, because He has the best master plan, from Jeremiah 29:11. I am now walking that pathway! My husband had quadruple bypass on Dec. 22, an earthquake to his body, and tremors to the whole family! He was in the hospital for 6 days! Our son & daughter& daughter-in-law & son-in-law & my mom & grandkids & ME were shaken ( tremors), but, we have stood together and are helping to rebuild with home health, physical therapy, many medications for my husband, and most of all the love & devotion that has been shown for my husband, the kids daddy, & Pop has been amazing! I have seen so much supplied during this time (there was no muscle damage to heart, ( even when I was told of the enormous blockage my husband had),, an extra artery my husband had (that did not show up on film taken before surgery), this helped circulate blood & oxygen more! (God's Provision!) A wonderful heart team for the surgery! Nurses that we knew that took care of Gary (God's comfort!) This was definitely not in my plans for my husband, But, we serve an amazing, faithful God, who is an on time God! He was definitely on time with my husband! He had 100% blockage in the right side of his heart and 99.999% blockage in the left side! I praise Him and thank Him for giving him back to us! We have a 6 to 12 week recovery period, or longer, for my husband! But, I know that God will walk us thru each step of the way! Trust & Obey for there is no other way! I thank God that we are fearfully and wonderfully made! Psalm 139:14. Thank you Lord for the extra artery for my husband at the right time in his life! You are an on time God! Our world has been shaken, by circumstances, but we serve an ever faithful God who never leaves us and is our solid rock! Praise Your Name!

Christmas

2010-12-25T15:40:00.000-08:00

Shepherds on hills on green,

A chorus of angles seen.

Praises of worship they did sing,

Of the newborn infant king.

Out they ran in the night,
To see the most wondrous sight.

Down on knee they worshiped Him,
Joy in their hearts never to dim.

Listen, and you can hear ,
He still calls all men near.

Answer His call and you will be,
A precious member of His family.

~Marni Raney 2006

Ladies Bible Study-"Living Your Life as a Beautiful Offering"

2010-12-09T10:15:00.000-08:00

Seven ladies from our church committed to a 8 week Bible study from Oct. 11-Nov. 28. Prayer requests were shared at each meetings, good food was shared, laughs, and a bond of friendship was tightened between us!
This study was based on the Sermon on the Mount. We studied the Beatitudes and the Lord's Prayer. We learned that because of Jesus we can live our lives as a beautiful offering, that only the Love of God can make you whole and Jesus fills the cup of our soul, and that God delights to show us mercy. Mercy, even in its smallest application, lets you breathe! We learned that God can use the ordinary woman with her everyday life! God's standards call us to a life of obedience, and we belong to heaven, and to not hide anything from God, (He knows anyway!), and to do all things for His glory, We learned about giving, praying, & fasting in secret. When you do these things God adds power to your everyday life. It is so important to keep a secret life with God. In the secret place, God comes to restore your soul. In order to live the life Jesus dreamed for you, lay yourself on His altar. Build your life on the rock of God's love for you!

All of the above fundamental truths are solid truths taught from the Word of God. Remain, Stay, & Abide with Jesus!

These words,from a song, "This is My Offering," was part of the study:

I will not give what costs me nothing
When I bring my sacrifice
Cause You have asked for only one thing
That I gladly give my life
So now I lay down on Your altar
Knowing what I lose I'll find
Please receive me thought I falter
For all I have is Yours, it's no longer mine
With my mouth I will praise
With my heart I will obey
This is my offering
I will go where You lead
I will trust what I can't see
This is my offering, This is my offering
May my worship be a fragrance
Rising up in sweet refrain
As I come into your presence
May I be a life worthy of Your name
With my mouth I will praise
With my heart I will obey
This is my offering
I will go where You lead
I will trust what I can't see
This is my offering, This is my offering
Be well pleased
With my mouth I will praise
With my heart I will obey
This is my offering
I will go where You lead
I will trust what I can't see
This is my offering, This is my offering
Be well pleased.

This was a wonderful Bible study by Angela Thomas and the song was by Kelly Minter. Highly recommend this study!

"Father, I pray that my life would be a beautiful offering to you!"

"I AM THANKFUL FOR TOWELS!"

2010-12-09T09:26:00.000-08:00

This morning i was getting ready for work and the water in the commode started bubbling and all of a sudden water started filling up in the commode and bathtub!! The commode overflowed and water was going everywhere! I was grabbing towels as fast as I could, I used nearly every towel in the cabinet, my bath rugs were soaked, and I used a large blanket, also, to wipe up the mess!!

So many times in our lives things come in and change "our" plans for the day!!! But, God has the best plan, the master plan! (Jeremiah 29:11-"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope."

I am thankful for a faithful friend & plumber who came right over, he said it was the city's problem (sewer), I am thankful for towels, blanket, and rugs to soak up the water! Messes in our lives happen!! But , I am so thankful the the Lord is my Banner! (Exodus 17:15-"The Lord is my Banner." I thank God for His Grace, (2 Cor. 12:9-"My grace is sufficient for you) and His mercy and love, (Eph. 2:4-"But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us.) I thank Him for making me into a new creature when I accepted Him as my Savior. (2 Cor. 5:17)-"Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature, the old things passed away; behold, new thing to come."

We ought always to give thanks to God! I pray that just as the water bubbled in the commode, that the Living Waters would bubble over in me to tell others more about Jesus, the One, who can clean up all your messes!!!

"Psalm 63"

2010-12-08T13:10:00.000-08:00

"The closer you walk with God, the less room for anything to come between." Psalm 63 is a beautiful Psalm telling how the Thirsting Soul is Satisfied in God! It tells of David's intense love for God. David was in the Judean wilderness. He sought God's presence, Remembered God's Power, and Anticipated God's Judgment. The psalmist clings to God. David's unfailing commitment to His Lord. His soul clings to the Lord! He lifts His hands, in readiness to receive every good gift from God, His trust is in God alone!
"Psalm 63:1-11"
O God, You are my God; I shall seek you earnestly; My soul thirst for You, my flesh yearns for You, In a dry and weary land where there is no water. Thus I have seen You in the sanctuary, To see Your power and Your glory. Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips will praise You So I will bless You as long as I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name. My soul is satisfied as with marrow and fatness, And my mouth offers praises with joyful lips. When I remember You on my bed, I meditate on You in the night watches, For You have been my help, And in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy. My soul clings to You; Your right hand upholds me. But those who seek my life to destroy it, Will go into the depths of the earth, They will be delivered over to the power of the sword; They will be a prey for foxes. But the king will rejoice in God; Everyone who swears by Him will glory, For the mouths of those who speak lies will be stopped."
Father, I pray I would seek You in all things, and remember things You have done, are doing, and will do!

"A Parent's Prayer"

2010-12-08T13:00:00.000-08:00

I can give you life, But I cannot live for you.
I can teach you things, But I cannot make you learn.
I can give you directions, But I can't always be there to lead you.
I can allow you freedom, But I cannot account for it.
I can take you to church, But I cannot make you believe.
I can teach you right from wrong, But I can't always decide for you.
I can buy you beautiful clothes, But I cannot make you lovely inside.
I can offer you advice, But I can't accept it for you.
I can give you love, But I can't force it upon you.'
I can teach you to share, But I cannot make you unselfish.
I can teach you respect, But I can't force you to show honor.
I can advise you about sex, But I can't keep you pure.
I can tell you about the facts of life, But I cannot build your reputation.
I can tell you about drinking, But I can't say no for you.
I can warn you about drugs, But I cannot prevent you from using them.
I can tell you about lofty goals, But I can't achieve them for you.
I can warn you about sin, But I cannot make your morals.
I can love you as a child, But I cannot place you in God's family.
I can teach you about Jesus, But I cannot make Jesus your Lord.

"One Solitary Life"

2010-12-08T12:53:00.000-08:00

He was born in an obscure village.
He worked in a carpenter shop until He was thirty.
He then became an intinerate preacher.
He never held an office.
He never had a family or owned a house.
He didn't go to college.
He had no credentials but Himself.
He was only thirty-three when the public turned against Him.
His friends ran away.
He was turned over to His enemies and went through the mockery of a trial.
He was nailed to a cross between two thieves.
While He was dying, His executioners gambled for His clothing, the only property He had on earth.
He was laid in a borrowed grave.
Nineteen centuries have come and gone, and today He is the central figure of the human race.
All the armies that have marched,
all the navies that ever sailed,
all the parliaments that ever sat,
and all the kins that ever reigned have not affected
the life of man on this earth as much as that ........ONE SOLITARY LIFE!

"Wit's End"

2010-12-08T12:42:00.000-08:00

Are you standing at Wit's End Corner,
Christian, with a troubled brow?
Are you thinking of what's before you,
And all you are bearing now?

Does all the world seem against you,
Are you in the battle alone?
Remember, at Wit's End Corner,
Is where God's Power is shown.

Are you standing at Wit's End Corner
Blinded with unbearable pain?
Feeling you cannot endure it,
You cannot bear the strain.

Bruised through constant suffering,
Dizzy, dazed and numb,
Remember that Wit's End Corner,
Is where Jesus' love will come.

Are you standing at Wit's End Corner,
Your work before you spread,
Living begun--yet unfinished,
Pressing on with heart and head.

Longing for strength to do it,
Stretching out trembling hands,
Remember, at Wit's End Corner
Is where our burden-bearer stands.

Are you looking at your family,
Yearning for those you love,
Longing and praying and watching,
Pleading their case with the One above.

Trying to lead them to Jesus,
Wondering if you have been true.
Then He whispers to you so sweetly,
I'll save them as I have saved you.

Are you standing at Wit's End Corner?
If so, you are in the right spot,
To learn of the wonderous resources
Of Him, who faileth not.

No doubt to a better, brighter pathway,
Your footsteps may soon be moved,
But only at Wit's End Corner,
Is Our God who is greatly proved!

"God Bless You!"

2010-12-08T12:39:00.000-08:00

I asked the Lord to bless you
As I prayed for you today
To guide you and protect you
As you go along your way....

His love is always with you
His promises are true
No matter what the tribulation
You know He will see us through

So when the road your're traveling on
Seems difficult at best
Give your problems to the Lord
And God will give you rest!

"I Wish for you...."

2010-12-08T12:35:00.000-08:00

Comfort on difficult days,
Smiles when sadness intrudes,
Rainbows to follow the clouds,
Laughter to kiss your lips,
Sunsets to warm your heart,

Gentle hugs when spirits sag,
Friendships to brighten your being,
Beauty for your eyes to see,
Confidence for when you doubt,

Faith so that you can believe,
Courage to know yourself,
Patience to accept the truth,
And love to complete your life."

"List To Live By"

2010-12-08T12:25:00.000-08:00

The most destructive habit...................Worry
The greatest Joy.....................................Giving
The greatest loss.....................................Loss of self-respect

The most satisfying work.......................Helping others
The ugliest personality trait...................Selfishness
The most endangered species................Dedicated Leaders

Our greatest natural resource................Our Youth
The greatest "shot in the arm"...............Encouragement
The greatest problem to overcome........Fear

The most effective sleeping pill...............Peace of mind
The most crippling failure disease..........Excuses
The most powerful force in life................Love

The most dangerous pariah.....................A Gossiper
The world's most incredible computer...The Brain
The worst thing to be without..................Hope

The deadliest weapon.................................The Tongue
The two most power-filled words............."I Can"
The greatest asset.......................................Faith

The most worthless emotion......................Self-pity
The most beautiful attire............................SMILE!
The most prized possession........................Integrity

The most powerful channel of communication.....Prayer
The most contagious spirit......................................Enthusiasm

"Smile Jesus Loves YOU and so do I!"

"I Am..."

2010-12-08T12:03:00.001-08:00

1. A Child of God(Romans 8:16)
2. Redeemed from the Hand of the Enemy (Psalm 107:2)
3. Forgiven (Colossians 1:13, 14)
4. Saved by Grace through Faith (Ephesians 2:8)
5. Justified (Romans 5;1)
6. Sanctified (I Corinthians 5:17)
7. A New Creature (II Corinthians 5:17)
8. Partaker of His Divine Nature (II Peter 1:4)
9. Redeemed from the Curse of the Law (Galatians 3:13)
10. Delivered from the Powers of Darkness (Colossians 1:13)
11. Led by the Spirit of God (Romans 8:14)
12. A Son of God (Romans 8:14)
13. Kept in Safety Wherever I Go (Psalm 91:11)
14. Getting All My Needs Met By Jesus (Philippians 4:19)
15. Casting All My Cares On Jesus (I Peter 5:7)
16. Strong in the Lord and in the Power of His Might (Ephesians 6:10)
17. Doing All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me (Philippians 4:13)
18. An heir of God and a Joint Heir with Jesus (Romans 8:17)
19. Heir to the Blessings of Abraham ( Galatians 3:13, 14)
20. Observing and Doing the Lord's Commandments (Deuteronomy 28:12)
21. Blessed Coming in And Blessed Going Out ( Deuteronomy 28:6)
22. An Heir of Eternal Life (I John 5:11, 12)
23. Blessed with All Spiritual Blessings ( Ephesians 1:3)
24. Healed by His Stripes (I Peter 2:24)
25. Exercising My Authority over the Enemy (Luke 10:19)
26. Above Only and Not Beneath (Deuteronomy 28:13)
27. More than a Conqueror (Romans 8:37)
28. Establishing God's Word Here on Earth ( Matthew 16:19)
29. An Overcomer by the Blood of the Lamb and the Word of My Testimony (Rev. 12:11)
30. Daily Overcoming the Devil (I John 4:4)
31. Not Moved by What I See ( II Corinthians 4:18)
32. Walking by Faith and Not by Sight (II Corinthians 5:7)
33. Casting Down Vain Imaginations (II Corinthians 10:4, 5)
34. Bringing Every Thought into Captivity (II Corinthians 10:5)
35. Being Transformed by Renewing My Mind (Romans 12: 1, 2)
36. A Laborer Together with God (I Corinthians 5:21)
37. The Righteousness of God in Christ (II Corinthians 5:21)
38. An Imitator of Jesus (Ephesians 5:1)
39. The Light of the World (Matthew 5:14)
40. Blessing the Lord at All Times and Continually Praising the Lord with My Mouth -
(Psalm 34:1)

"Twas the night before Jesus came'

2010-12-08T11:45:00.001-08:00

"Twas the night before Jesus came, and all through the house
Not a creature was praying, not one in the house.
Their Bibles were lain on the shelf without care
in hopes that Jesus would not come there.

The children were dressing to crawl into bed,
Not once ever kneeling or bowing a head.
And Mom in her rocker with baby on her lap
Was watching the Late Show while I took a nap.

When out of the East there arose such a clatter,
I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash!

When what to my wondering eyes should appear
But angels proclaiming that Jesus was here,
With a light like the sun sending forth a bright ray
I knew in a moment this must be THE DAY!

The light of His face made me cover my head
It was Jesus! returning just like He had said.
And though I possessed worldly wisdom and wealth,
I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself.

In the Book of Life which He held in His hand
Was written the name of every saved man.
He spoke not a word as He searched for my name;
When He said"It's not here" my head hung in shame.

The people whose names had been written with love
He gathered to take to His Father above,
With those who were ready He rose without a sound
While all the rest were left standing around.

I fell to my knees, but it was too late;
I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate.
I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight;
Oh, if only I had been ready tonight.

In the words of this poem the meaning is clear;
The coming of Jesus is drawing near.
There's only one life and when comes the last call
We'll find that the Bible was true after all!

"The Goodness of God"

2010-12-08T11:21:00.001-08:00

"The reason we breathe, to sing of His Glory!" When I think of all the many things that the Lord has done for me, I stand in awe of Him! He gave His Son for me and you!John 3:16, "For God so loved the world , that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." The Goodness of God!
It is so comforting to know that God has the best plan for each of us! Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope." His goodness passes before us! In Exodus 33:19, "I Myself will make all My goodness pass before you, and will proclaim the name of the Lord before you; and I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious , and will show compassion on whom I will show compassion." What a gracious and compassionate Lord! Isn't it exciting to expect ongoing opportunities of intimate fellowship with the Lord! In Psalm 23:6, "Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever!" God is PERFECTLY GOOD! He does good things for us! In Psalm 31:19, "How great is Your goodness, Which you have stored up for those who take refuge in You, Before the sons of men!" One of the fruits of the spirit is goodness! Believers are commanded to exemplify goodness, (Gal. 6:10-"So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of faith" and in 2 Thessalonians 1:11, "To this end also we pray for you always, that our God will count you worthy of your calling, and fulfill every desire for goodness and the work of faith with power." Our every desire should be for goodness! There are many thing in life that you value, but the most important thing of value is your relationship with God! Cherish it, draw near, seek Him, Listen closely ( hear), receive, and apply the "goodness" in your life! I thank God for His Goodness! God is good all the time.....................!!!!!

Caleb Levi Riddle

2010-12-05T18:04:00.000-08:00

How precious was your tiny life
Created by God divine
Handed down as a gift of His
to bless this life of mine
So short the time I had with you
here upon this earth
So sad to say tears of grief
were shed upon your birth
What should have been a joyous thing
met with excited smiles
Seemed a journey in the shadows
that lasted many miles
Your spirit had gone to be with God
before I held you, dear
So instead of smiles and joy
I greeted you with tears
I can not know the reason
your time here was so brief
But take comfort in the knowledge
that you will never know such grief
Your days will long be filled
with angel's songs so sweet
And you'll have a chance before I do
with all the saints to meet
I imagine you will dance
in the inner courts of praise
And sing your songs of joy
with tiny hands raised
You are so loved by all of us
that remain still here
We can not wait to meet you
when we finally get there
For now I say good-bye
for but a brief time
And thank you for the blessing
you are to this life of mine.

Hope in the Storms

2010-12-01T19:50:00.000-08:00

Lamentations 3:22-26
It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassion's fail not. They are new every morning great is thy faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. Is is good that a man both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.

I am ever thankful for the eternal, unconditional love of my Father! In Lamentations we see that because of His mercy we are not destroyed by the things of this life. He is our salvation. Even in the midst of suffering and pain scripture reminds us of this unfailing, everlasting love. It gives the believer hope in the midst of the storms of life.

There is one condition of all of this. It is that we must know our Father, not know of our Father with a heart knowledge, but rather we must have a personal, intimate relationship with our Father. We must invest in this relationship, spend time with God - in His presence. We must desire His word. Lamentations tells us that the "Lord is GOOD to them that WAIT for Him". We must learn to be still and wait for Him to speak, we must seek His presence. The verses conclude that we should hope and wait for the salvation of the Lord. This is our hope: He has said that He is our salvation and strong tower and He can not lie - therefor we will pass through this storm if our focus is on him.

This verse is dear to me. I am learning more to look to Father for everything. I would not have made it through the initial onslaught of my storm had I not hid in my Father's arms and stayed at the foot of the throne. Even now, I find my favorite place is before his throne in prayer or focused on His face as I walk.

Our God Is In Control by Steven Curtis Chapman

2010-11-30T14:55:00.000-08:00

Get Rid of the Junk

2010-11-23T05:34:00.000-08:00

As you read this scripture ask God to open your heart to His word and to make you able to receive that which he has for you - it may be a little hard to swallow.

Psalm 119:37-40 Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in your ways (or give me life in your word NLT). Establish your word to your servant, who is devoted to fearing you. Turn away my reproach which I dread, For your judgments are good. Behold, I long for Your laws, Revive me in your righteousness. (NKJV)

I began this morning with my bible studies and this verse struck me. "Turn my eyes from look at worthless things and give me LIFE in YOUR WORD".

How many "worthless things", I began to wonder, have I let slip into my life and distract me from my mission - that ordained by God task at hand - the work I am called to?

How many seemingly small things distract me from His precepts or laws and keep me focused on a task that is menial and has no eternal value. And if these things were distracting me what was my cost in this world?

So, as God does, he began to show me areas of worthlessness that creep into our lives, some of these I struggle with, some you may struggle with...this list is general and by no means complete.

(1) Your job and the acquisition of worldly things.
Have you allowed your job to consume most of your time?___________________
Is it to provide and be satisfied or has it become more, do you have to work
more hours or longer hours to pay for all your stuff?____________________
(Did you fall into the trap of instant gratification, this is so easy to do. Have you justified it because the kids need new clothes, we have to have this vehicle, a bigger house would be nice, that game system or newest electronic would make life easier, etc.)
(2) The pursuit of too many activities.
This can be all things, church related, school related, work related, hobbies, sports, etc. Anything that consumes your time to spend with the Lord and make more worthwhile the relationships in your life.
Is there anything you can cut out? ________________________________________
(Have you justified it as my children need this activity to be well-rounded it will develop character, I don't want my children left out. Or I need this time alone. Or I know I'm really busy but it's all church stuff it's all for the Lord - Do not get me wrong or get the wrong idea - I am all for church activities that cause us to grow in the Lord. However, if these activities are pressing out personal time with the Lord they become empty. They are only fulfilling and worthwhile when God is involved and leading you. They will only bless you with God involved - otherwise they are empty acts.)
(3) Housework. I know, right, but for some of us having things in order and always caught up give us a since of accomplishment, and they are often times a way to control our environment.
Does the drive to perfection in your environment crowd out time for God and those you love? __________________________________________________________________
(will you fold the laundry, sweep the floor, vacuum, etc. in order to keep it all nice when the Holy Spirit is calling for alone time, will you do these things even if you know you need to invest in relationships of those in your family and justify it that there will be time later)
(4) Television.
Do you set aside time to watch your favorite television show no matter what?
even if it means no study for the Lord? ____________________________________
(Do you justify it as a time to relax....)
(5) The computer/cellphone/facebook, etc.
Do these things eat up large chunks of your times, distracting you from those around you and your time with the Lord? ____________________________________

Worthless things - ANYTHING that distracts us from God and from those things with kingdom and eternal significance. Remember ladies the enemy comes to seek, steal, and destroy. He wants your time and relationship with God first and foremost, once he distract you from this all the other areas are left wide open. He then goes for the marriage relationship between husband and wife: breaking down communication, causing conflict and misunderstanding, bringing in diverse temptations. Then are the internal relationships. He wants mothers to neglect personal time with their children by substituting it with activities and busyness so there is no real personal, devoted time - Do you really know your child's heart? When is the last time they invited you into their world? When was the last time you stopped what you were doing just to look them in the eye and really hear from your heart what they were saying to you - invested in them personally?

Worthless things - time eaters - the distractions and deceptions of the world/the enemy.

Worthless things - things that appear valuable, necessary or require justification; while devaluing those things of highest importance.

O, Lord, today bring me to my knees. Cause me to see you. This life that is common I lay on your alter. Show me the worthless things I have allowed to creep into my life. Lord, I acknowledge that I am prone to wonder, that I am easily distracted. Lord, I need your strenght. Show me these worthless things and help me to control them, to leave them behind - to place you and the things of eternal significance in front. Thank you Lord for your help. - Amen

Ladies, God has intended great things in each of our lives. I pray that the "worthless" things don't pile up, turning our focus from that which is truly important. Redeem the time! Let's clean house today - pack up those worthless things! Let's put God first, then our jobs, our acquisitions, our activities/hobbies, will fall into proper perspective no longer having bloated importance.

Redeem the time!

Sacrifice of Praise

2010-11-21T15:20:00.001-08:00

I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving, And will call upon the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows to the Lord Now in the presence of all His people, In the courts of the Lord's house, In the midst of you, O Jerusalem. PRAISE THE LORD! Psalm 119:17-19

I have come to understand this verse in a whole new way since burying Caleb on November 5th. It was my deepest desire to be back in church, to be surrounded by God's people, to worship him. Nothing, however, prepared me for the profound effect that the worship time would have on me.

If I have learned nothing else through this pregnancy and this physical loss of a child it is the grace of God. I have seen this first hand and have been changed by it. I can testify of His goodness - because it is real to me, tangible, I lived it and experienced it - I saw it in the physical and in the spiritual. I can with a clear conscience say I am not angry with God and I don't even question his will in all this. That being said, the pain is still sharp and real, and in this world I can't understand His will. I can not see what He is working in my life - my prayer is that my life is more beautiful because of Him in it, that I have lived and continue to live in such a way as to reflect the God I have come to know more intimately and personally through this trial - That I give him glory and honor which are due him.

However, when the praise music begins and I begin to pray and to sing something happens. As I sing about God's goodness, I praise Him for all that He truly is - as I stand face to face with those realities in the courts of the God most high something happens. All that pain, all that loss, all that ache comes rushing back. My breath catches in my throat, my heart feels squeezed, my eyes fill up and I struggle to keep composure. I struggle with the desire to run up to the alter and lay down weeping before a God that means so much to me that He has given so much that I simply do not deserve.

My praise has become a sacrifice - it hurts, it costs me my comfort - it is no longer all feel-good, fluff. For the first time in my life, I think, I fully realize the impact of grace, the beautifully tragic gift that was laid out for someone who is totally unworthy and will never be worthy. My pain, my loss, my dreams, those things I prayed for that will not be in this earth - all that falls away and I am overwhelmed, consumed.

A sacrifice of praise is the choice in the midst of your pain, suffering, turmoil, heartache, brokenness to come into the House of the Lord and offer up what you know to be true (praise of who He is, thankfulness for what He has done and what He is) even when it sometimes feels so distant.

The sacrifice is costly - it means to do it when you don't feel like it, when it would be easier to stay out of the courts of praise because the pain is so sharp and your throat closes up, your eyes overflow, and you feel again that intense breaking of your heart, your shattered dreams and aching soul.

This choice causes you to look directly on Christ - in all His glory and sacrifice - causes your heart to acknowledge the grace of God that is being lavishly poured out upon you. In the midst of this praise God brings you close to him and begins to comfort and heal you. He gathers you in His arms, wipes away the tears, and whispers his love: "My daughter, you are precious. This pain will come to pass, and in it will be something more beautiful. My heart aches with you, for you, but remember I am able to deliver you...I've loved you since before time began, known you by name and numbered your days and set your path - I can see the end..."

Through the sacrifice we are made more beautiful and we see the spiritual made manifest in this physical world. We are consumed by His love, grace, and mercy - and we are forever changed by the encounter.

I know this time of praise may be hard for a long time to come. The physical world takes time to heal. I am so thankful, for being able to enter the gates of thanksgiving, to come into the Courts of God most High and to lift praises - even if they come from a broken wounded heart that simply doesn't understand.

Knowing, Showing, Growing: My John 3:16 Discovery Workbook, Robert J. Morgan

2010-11-17T06:00:00.000-08:00

This is the workbook much like Lola Mazola's Happyland Adventure. Although the items are idependent of one another I would recommend both at the same time. Once a child has read the story book they will enjoy this workbook. Or if you have older children this is ideal for them.

In order to review it I kept having to go get it from my 9 year old's room. Everytime I would lay it down she would pick it up.

It is as thourough and concise as the story book, but written for older children.

I am so impressed with this authors ability to break this verse down and present it in a logical way that children understand.

This book has three sections of salvation to explore:
(1) Knowing - coming to know Jesus: who he is, what he did for us, why we need him. This section Has two stories and worksheets. In the worksheet part other verses in Romans and other books are brought out to show our need for a Savior.
(2) Showing - Baptism. Again there is a short story and verses and worksheets. This helps a child understand what baptism is and what it signifies and why we follow a confession and prayer with this public act of obedience.
(3) Growing - how to grow in your christian walk. I Love the acrostic given to help the children remember the steps to christian growth. This is by far the lengthiest section in the book, having 7 areas. Each one has a short story followed by activities and additional scripture to be completed.

The book has helpful pages for parents.

Again - this is an excellent gift....a must have for young children who are asking questions about God, Jesus, salvation, and baptism. A book they will enjoy working through and that will help them dig deep into God's word to learn His truths.

This book was provided as a review copy by B&H Publishing in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for this copy.

Lola Mazola's Happyland Adventure, Robert j. Morgan

2010-11-17T05:08:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for the best way to explain God's plan of salvation this book is it! My children loved it - all 4 of them from the ages of 2 years old up to 9 years old. I even tested it on my sunday school class of girls aged from 4th grade to 6th grade. All of them loved it.

This book is about a young girl named Lola Mazola who gets invited on an awesome trip of a lifetime with some friends. The catch - it costs too much money, his dad can't afford it. Lola is so disappointed, as any child would be.

At Sunday school she learns about John 3:16 and the Happyland of Heaven, and God's greatest and most perfect gift.

At this point in the book the verse of John 3:16 is broken down into small parts that are easily understood by even the smallest child. Who is God? What is the world? Who is Jesus (and what all he did - birth, life, ministry, death & Resurrection)? and How can we accept this gift? and What does salvation mean?

Still disappointed about her trip she soon forgets about John 3:16. When she receives a gift of money that will allow her to go she says this is the best gift ever. *This is where the story gets good - this author does an excellent job of tying scripture to real world experience. As a parent I LOVED it!!!

Her father explains that the greatest gift was from God. My Favorite quote is,
"Uncle Tom gave his money so that you could go to Happyland for a week. But God gave is ONE and ONLY son so that you could go to His happy land of Heaven FOREVER..."

The book ends with Lola realizing how special Jesus is and praying to accept him as her Savior.

An added bonus to this book is that following the story it gives practical steps of growth after salvation.

This is truly an all inclusive childrens book of salvation. Start young bringing them into the knowledge of Christ and they will see him as a person, a friend, and a Savior - they will desire a true relationship.

This would be an excellent Christmas gift.

This book was given to me by B&H Publishing in exchange for an honest review of the product. Thank you for the review copy.

Water Walking Faith

2010-11-15T19:36:00.000-08:00

Matthew 14:28 "Lord if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.."

This is a familiar passage. The apostles were out in the boat and a storm came up suddenly and fiercely. The waves raged against the ship and threatened to break it apart. The apostles, frightened by what they saw, struggled to correct the situation. The winds hissed the lies of the enemy...."overboard, overboard, it's hopeless, it's hopeless..." Here they were surrounded by the darkness of night, their tiny vessel battered by tumultuous waves, the sails battered and ripped by the wind - without escape, seemingly without hope.

Then calmly, walking in the midst of the storm - on the tossing waves was a figure. "Is this a dream - is it a ghost - what is this that comes toward us - an angel of death???" The fear, the worry, the unknown - all in the form of questions.

And then the voice - "Be of good cheer, it is I, be not afraid"

That calm steady voice. So very quiet it could have been missed amidst the rage of the storm, it could have been lost in the hiss of the wind, could have been drowned out by the pounding waves. But it is that voice that pierces all darkness, cuts through all distraction. It is that voice that demands an audience, complete attention - it can not be ignored. It demands action - will you stop to listen?

I have come to love this passage of scripture over the past year as God has brought so much to me in these 12 months. He has taught me the truth of water walking faith. You see I knew this story...I had a head knowledge of it...I believed it to be true - but when was I ever going to be out on the water to walk upon it? Simply a Sunday school story miracle.

What a deception of the enemy!

Water walking faith happens all the time, are you ready for it?

Water walking faith, however, has a cost. You must be willing to accept the storm to see the miracle. You must be willing to look only at God to trade in the physical for the spiritual. To trust what you don't see, can't explain, know in this physical world is impossible and believe in the one who said "Fear Not".

I love Peter's response when he hears that familiar voice - the voice of the one he has come to trust as Savior, Messiah, Master, and Teacher. The one he has heard call the dead to rise, the blind to see, the possessed to be set free. The one he has heard pray and talk with Father God.

"Lord, If it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.."

For me it came, all to often, in a question like this - and I believe this is the way many of us have phrased it: "Lord, my world is falling apart, my heart is shattered....IF you are here call me - show me a miracle"

But look closely at Peter's request. He did not ask for a miracle, he did not even ask that the storm be calmed. He asked for Jesus to bid him to come to him on the water. THROUGH the storm, in the midst of the turmoil. He wanted Jesus to bid him come into his presence. He knew something so many of us forget, or never fully learn, or somehow don't grasp - He Knew where safety was. Safety was not in that earthly vessel, it was only in the presence, the company, at the feet of, in the arms of JESUS. No where else.

My request has become: "Father, here it is - my life, all that I am, just as I am - use me: help my sight be on you and you alone."

As we continue this we see that Jesus responds to Peter with firmness and authority in verse 29 - One simple word, "COME"

Come: step out, a simple command. Come....do you hear it? An invitation of Jesus into the safety of his arms.

Please note that the storm has not stilled. Very likely the others are a mixed group: some terrified still, others staring in disbelief as the events unfold. The winds still rage, the waves still pound - - - the enemy still attacks with his lies: "it is hopeless, it is hopeless, give up, there is no salvation"

But there in the midst is the truth "FEAR NOT, IT IS I - the I Am, the Alpha and Omega, The Strong Tower - FEAR NOT I am able to deliver you - I love you, you are mine!"

Peter stepped out in the midst of that storm - eyes on Jesus. One foot after the other, walking on water. All is well even in the midst of the raging storm because all he could see was Jesus' face, all he looked at was that out stretched arm - all he listened for was that calm, quiet, authoritative voice.

But the enemy was still there whispering. And Peter saw the crashing waves, he saw that his feet were on uncertain ground that rolled and shifted and threatened to upturn him. He looked away.

In verse 30 we see him sink.

Then the miracle of grace comes in - He cried out and Jesus lifted him up.

Thank you Lord for that grace! "Why did you doubt?" Jesus asked.

So it is still - why did you doubt, why do you worry - you are my child, I love you and know you and have set forth your days, I have good thoughts toward you - plans for an expected end.

Wow! Why - because we are weak, we are of this physical world - because our faith falters, and we long to be in control.

Through this year God has shown me spiritual things that are more beautiful than anything this world has to offer. However, it has come at the cost of my being in control. Some say this should be easy - but I ask each of you to look closely at your heart, seek that which is hidden. Is is not our tendency to try to fix things, cope with things, be the strong one.

In my darkest hours as the enemy whispered his lies of defeat I cried out to Jesus to show me the cross, to extend his hand, to comfort my heart. In my times of doubt I have learned to ask for His perfect strength, His understanding, His peace.

My earthly vessel is weak and battered. It shatters easily when the waves of life beat upon it. This road I walk shifts beneath my feet and I stumble. Sometimes this world I know falls around me, and the things I thought were in my control slip through my hands like sand. These dreams I cherish sometimes never come true, these hopes I treasure sometimes are stolen or broken. These things I strive for sometimes do not happen. These prayers I whisper are not always answered the way I want.

Yet it is all beautiful - and perfect - and calm.

Water walking faith is trading in this physical sight for things unseen - it is looking to Jesus and through him it is being given spiritual sight of things more beautiful and precious, things hoped for, believed in and things to come. It is grace in its purest form.

Water walking faith means in the midst of the storm you accept it for what it is - a storm that will pass - and look to what will be - The perfect will of God.

This is no easy thing, there are times we will begin to sink. But this is our hope - "IT IS I" will immediately pull us out of the crashing waves when we cry out.

My darkest hours were still dark, my pain was and is still very much real. But in those hours when the enemy whispered and in those hours when my world shifted, and in those hours when my hopes shattered - I was allowed to see the cross and Jesus said "COME".

Our circumstances and storms may not change - that is not what water walking faith is. It is just that our focus, like Peter's, changes from the storm to the Sustainer, from the lies to the Truth, from the bondage to the Freedom, from the Fear to the Peace-giver, from the shifting ground of life to the Solid Rock of Christ.

When he bids you come - step out. Surrender and walk upon the water. Invite Jesus to take your life and make it calm in the midst of the storm.

If we began to live out water walking faith a revival would sweep our nation. For you can not walk into grace and experience water walking faith and not be changed.

Surrender your life - all that you are - to Christ. Be as Peter and ask that He bid you out into the water.

Created for a Purpose

2010-11-15T19:10:00.000-08:00

The following is an email I sent to a dear daughter of the king. However, when I logged onto my email after bible study tonight it showed up as an unsent draft. Maybe this was meant for others as well, maybe God was speaking a truth to me. So here it is...something so simple, a message lost sometimes in the loudness of the world, hidden under our daily cares, forgotten in our rush to complete our tasks at hand. We all need to be reminded from time to time how very precious we are to Abba Father. Though this was written for someone in particular - I think it was also meant for others and myself - why else would God have not allowed the email to go through the first time (nothing in life is by happenstance but by divine appointment).

We are each created for such a day as this - to do our Father's bidding. I only say or write what is in my heart - I have learned in my years that my life must be surrendered to the One who created me and knew me before time began, who knit me together, placed me in my mother's womb and set my days - Just as he has done for you.

Always remember that you - a daughter of the king - are the crowning jewel of his creation - created for a purpose.

My loss is only physical - the spiritual side is so beautiful it can not be put into words. I rejoice daily in the time I had with Caleb Levi and I am ever thankful for the four children that are living (Anna Grace - 9, Chase "Rocky" Ryan - 7, Justin Wyatt, Jay - 3 and Rachel Elisabeth "RaeBird" - 2). I was four months pregnant with Caleb when a hemorrhage that I had developed at 4 weeks became worse and the bleeding blocked Caleb's blood supply. God answered many prayers during that pregnancy - he showed my husband and I many spiritual truths and we are forever changed because of our encounter with His grace.

Never forget that you are the crowning jewel - God saw woman and for the first time in the creation story said the words It is very good (not just it is good). Your life and the things in it are never by chance. Even our pain is beautiful when we allow God to use it.

Many nights during my pregnancy as a lay in bed hurting from the hemorrhage, tired from the blood loss, frustrated at the unknown - I prayed that God let me see the cross - that He support me with his strong arm - that he give me spiritual sight that overlooked the physical. Nothing in this physical world changed but my perception, my focus, my reality became that of the spiritual (this is the truth of the spiritual: it is not seen by human sight but by faith, it is comforting, beautiful, and peace that is incomprehensible). The enemy would whisper lies and Holy Spirit would whisper life sustaining, faith altering truths.

I do not know what the enemy has whispered to you - what life has done to you, what things you wrestle with I only know that God has said you are His daughter, you are more precious than rubies, more beautiful than anything on this earth, capable of all things in His strength, valuable above any earthly thing - created for a purpose. Even your heartaches, mistakes, pain, disappointments, broken dreams, broken heart, hurting spirit are made beautiful in His hands.

Ladies, we are each priceless, valuable, and loved beyond measure. Let Abba Father scoop you up in His strong arms and lift you high in the air and twirl you around. Look deeply into His laughing eyes, drink up this delightful love. Let laughter spill from your soul. Be filled. Be freed. Be Beautiful!

Psalm 37:4 Delight thyself in the Lord and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

2010-11-08T05:16:00.001-08:00

Thank you Lord for trails
that have brought me to my knees
That I may see your love
and grace more abundantly
I can not know the reason
for such suffering
Or why there must be pain
in this offering
I only know the surrender
that brings about your peace
That covers all this pain
and brings my heart relief
No longer bound by sorrow
in the midst of suffering
I rest in arms that hold me
through all these things
I thank you Lord for for things
I do not comprehend
That I learn tor trust in you
not what I understand
Thank you Lord for sight by faith
of spiritual things
More beautiful than earthly sight
that make my soul sing
Lord, my faith was shaken
in the midst of the storm
Yet my eyes were straining to
see your sweet and holy form
The waves rose up hissing
with lies of the enemy
But you asked me to stand
and trust what I can't see
Take this heart that's broken
and all that I am
Make it more beautiful,
use it as you plan
I will not ask you why
nor question where you lead
Only for your grace
and comfort will I plead

Thank you

2010-11-05T19:44:00.000-07:00

On October 26th we went to our regular OB check up expecting that all was well with Caleb. Dr. Mason listened for the heartbeat and found none - encouragingly he patted my hand and told me that sometimes babies turn and it is difficult to hear the heartbeat with the Doppler. So they got the ultrasound machine. As I lay there that day watching his expression change my heart went numb. No heartbeat, Caleb had passed away. I felt my world crash around me and could barely hear the next things that Dr. Mason said - I called Brent and he came in with all our children in tow.
The next week passed in a blur of heartache and questions - and how do you answer the questions of your children when your very own heart is reeling in shock. I felt so separated from reality - begging for a Lazarus miracle and receiving a small answer: "Surrender it all to me, I will take care of you - this seems like it will overwhelm you, but just as I stilled the wind for my disciples I will still this too, surrender".

What a difficult thing to do - human nature cries out for answers, demands control, wants stability, needs things fixed. God however wants us to be fully reliant on him, to give up the need for control, to accept the broken - knowing that in our brokenness He is making something more beautiful in the end. The key is letting him have the brokenness and not asking what he's making but fully trusting that it will be better and blessed.
I think I cried enough tears to fill a river, yet my comfort is those tears were lovingly counted by my Father.

Peace comes in that surrender - a strange peace that I am unable to put into words. God did not remove my heartache, he did not stop my pain, he did not stop my tears. He just wrapped me up in his love, wrapped my family up in his love. And we are changed because of this surrender, because of this encounter with His love, His grace, His provision. Our eyes were opened to spiritual things so beautiful that we shall never be the same. What the enemy would have as tragedy our family sees as victory, what the enemy would use to drive a wedge between husband and wife have driven us all the closer together as we leaned into our Lord, our Refuge, or Strength and Strongtower.

My Father's words to Jeremiah so many years ago echoed in my heart.."Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; and before you came forth I sanctified you..." (Jeremiah 1:5), and again in Psalms David recounts the same knowledge. Caleb was known and loved by God. He was given as a heritage and blessing to Brent and I and our children - Anna Grace, Chase Ryan, Justin Wyatt, and Rachel Elisabeth. Caleb's days from conception where written out by God, numbered by His hand just as each one of our days are. His life was sanctified - set aside, special and valued - by God. He was created for an expected end (as the scriptures say each of us are). In what the world sees as a tragedy I see such blessing. I am continually overwhelmed by God's provision. we prayed to see Caleb - God gave us a clear ultrasound just 3 weeks before his death. We watched as he waved his arms and kicked his feet to the beat of his beautiful heart. Then God granted us delivery in the hospital where we were able to see his perfectly formed body.
Through this entire pregnancy God has faithfully answered our prayers, strengthened us in our weakness, comforted us when we were fearful, given us words to comfort our children, and filled our hearts with overflowing love for God.

Life is beautiful, real and precious! I am ever thankful to God for this life that changed our family. Though he will be greatly missed I am so thankful God saw fit to allow him here for the time that he was here.

Today, we were surrounded by our spiritual family - our church family. They grieved with us and comforted each one of us in ways that others have not. They have stood by us throughout this, and lifted faithful, beautiful prayers on our behalf to God. I can never say enough to this family God has provided us in way of thanks. Through this God has shown me how very special our spiritual families truly are - for we are joined by a common God in a miraculous love.

Caleb Levi Riddle
Born November 2, 2010
12:26 am
3 1/2 inches long
8 ounces
Titus Memorial Hospital
Little Brother to: Anna Grace (Sissy), Chase Ryan (Rocky), Justin Wyatt (Jay), and Rachel Elisabeth (Rae Bird)
Son of Brent Ryan and Abbie Day

30 Days of Praise & Thanksgiving

2010-11-04T10:16:00.000-07:00

I've started 30 days of Praise and Thanksgiving on my blog and Facebook. Care to join me?

We have much to be thankful for and much to praise the LORD for. His blessings are without measure.

"Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, [and] into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, [and] bless his name." Ps 100:4

1. I am thankful for my faithful husband.

2. "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; His love endures forever." Psalm 107:1

3. I'm thankful that I live in America, where I can participate in free elections.

4. "I will praise the LORD according to His righteousness; and will sing praise to the name of the LORD most high." Psalm 7:17

Talking Tombstones

2010-10-24T01:21:00.000-07:00

Here I am again.

It’s 2:00 a.m.

The ground is wet... damp with dew.   Or is it my tears that have fallen on this place and moistened the grass and soil beneath?

Tombstones don’t mind the moisture.   They are immune to every force of nature it seems, or at least they are immune to my bitter and unhappy state.

Miserable place to be.   Graveyard... resting place for the dead.

It feels like home.

I had lost something here.    Something precious to me.   Or maybe I gave it away... let it slip from my hands without realizing its worth.   These late night visits provided no solace for my spirit.   What did they profit me?   An exercise in foolishness some might say, but what do they know?

Restless nights, sleepless.   I rise from my bed and drive to this place again and again.

Keep coming.   Keep searching.   Maybe you will find it this time.

“What do you seek here?   What do you want from us?”   I can almost hear their voices call to me.   I wish.   I yearned to hear their voices again...   To talk with them one more time... to capture a moment of that childhood joy that was gone. Buried along with my brother and sister.

Joy!   What a treasure joy has become. How do I get it back?   At what cost?   Is any price too high?

Apparently not.    He didn’t think so.    It cost Him his life. The ultimate price.

Why do I seek joy in a graveyard? In the dark wee hours of the morning?

Don’t I know? Haven’t I heard?

Joy is not here.

Joy is risen! Darkened tombs can not hold it.

Joy is not in my past.   Joy is my present and future.   It is not dependent on anyone or anything. It is in me.. in Him.    It comes from Him and no other.

He is my joy! My Savior! My Friend!   He has become my dancing partner!   His voice calls to me now, “Come and be filled. Go and proclaim the good news! Walk with me. Peace! Be still.”

The tombs are silent and empty now.   At 2:00 a.m. His voice and His joyous song is all I hear!

"....do not sorrow, for the joy of the LORD is your strength." (Nehemiah 8: 10)

Author's note:   This story was written in February of 2005 for a writing competition. Not a winner, but it is one that I love.

Battle Ready!

2010-10-23T16:10:00.000-07:00

For forty days, twice a day every day, he swaggered out and shouted to the four winds.   Had he grown tired of battle?   Was he frustrated because no worthy opponent had come forward thus far?

""Why have you come out to line up for battle? Am I not a Philistine, and you the servants of Saul? Choose a man for yourselves, and let him come down to me. If he is able to fight with me and kill me, then we will be your servants. But if I prevail against him and kill him, then you shall be our servants and serve us." And the Philistine said, "I defy the armies of Israel this day; give me a man, that we may fight together!" (1 Samuel 17: 8-10)

This was the Goliath of Gath... the splendor of the Philistine army.   Ten feet tall, weighing in at over 400 pounds.    His armor alone weighed at least 200 pounds with its bronze helmet, coat of mail, leg armor and bronze javelin.   His spear was as large as a tree branch.

Everyday he created a stir among the chosen people.    No one would dare go up alone against this megalith.   He was more mighty and powerful than any of them.    Good grief! His biceps probably measured 2 feet in diameter!    With his armor, he weighed at least one third of a ton!   Anybody would be a fool to try and take him on alone.     The Israeli soldiers spoke in frightened whispers of his size and might.

Goliath was defiant and intimidating.    He was cocksure of himself and knew he had no equal.   He was the largest of the giants, taller, more muscular, more mighty.    In a land of giants, he was the champion.

The army of Israel was terrified of him.    When he came into battle, they would scatter and flee in horror.

He thirsted for battle!   He was anxious to fight and kill... to destroy his enemy.

The two armies were camped out on mountaintops with a valley between.   The valley of Elah in Ephes Dammim, meaning the edge of blood.    Israel was camped between Sohkoh and Azekah.    In Hebrew, the word Sohkoh means 'hedge' and Azekah means 'a field dug over, broken up."

So Israel was entrenched outside their hedge, between it and the broken ground leading to ephes Dammim, the edge of blood.

Israel was at a standstill... unsure of their fate... unable to defeat their own fear, much less overcome the army and giants standing in front of them.   They had forgotten their past and the victories that God had given.

Except for David.    The young shepherd.    The least of his brothers.   David figured that if with God’s help, he could defeat a Lion coming at him with all his fierce muscle and weight and 20 razor sharp talons, then one ugly giant was a pushover.

King Saul, hearing of David's boldness, and desperate for some solution to his dilemma, called David to his side.   King Saul offered his own personal armor to David.    David tried it on and couldn’t move. This was the armor of a man, a warrior king. It didn’t fit.   He hadn’t tested it. Hadn’t proved it.

He didn’t need it.

David was clad in the armor of God. With him, it was tried and true.    He had spent years in the field perfecting it.    Singing praises to the Lord, spending time with Him.    Fighting off the bears and lions that would come against him.       He was comfortable in this God armor.    It fit well and he trusted it.      He had taken it’s measure.   It was reliable.

Goliath issued this challenge to Israel twice daily... "One on one combat!   Winner takes all!"

Today would be his final challenge!

Except it wasn’t one on one.    This giant’s shield bearer went before him. He carried a shield and a sword.    He was a giant also.   He had to be a giant.    He carried the shield and sword to protect Goliath.   If he was a normal sized man, what was he gonna protect?   Goliath's kneecaps?

He’s there to ward off attackers so that the Goliath has room to throw his deadly spear.   The giant of Gath needs a giant of a body guard!

Here is young David, alone with a slingshot and five river stones.   Up against two grizzly grouchy bullying giants!

Goliath is almost insulted that his only opponent is a boy. One with no armor and no weapon, at that.   Practically naked before him with no protection.   He’s taking David’s measure. Goliath is using the wrong measuring stick.

He didn't consider that God had already taken David's measure.

Here is the young Israelite without any visible means of defeating this armor clad, battle seasoned, oversized warrior.

But the battle is over before it ever starts as these bold and defiant words explode from David’s mouth!

“I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied! This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.   Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear, for the battle IS the Lords and He will give you into our hands.”

With that exclamation of faith, David races towards Goliath, swinging his loaded sling. With the hedge behind him and the broken ground before him, he almost flies towards the edge of blood.   Towards the enemy of his people and of his God.

If Goliath was cocksure of his own might and fighting prowess, David was even more confident in his God's ability to conquer any enemy.

With one throw from his sling, David knocked Goliath out with a stone.    The giant fell unconscious to the ground.   His insulting tongue stilled.   His powerful body was rendered limp and useless.

David took the sword from the champion of the Philistines and before the amazed eyes of the two armies, he cut off the head of his enemy Goliath.

The completely demoralized Philistines ran away like frightened children.     If one Israelite boy without any visible armor or weapon could defeat their champion, what could the entire Israelite army do against them?   What would the God of Israel do with them?

They were totally defeated.

If the Israelites had forgotten all that God had done for them, David’s faith and miraculous victory reminded them.   Once Goliath was dead, Israel marched forward and defeated the Philistines.

We all have giants that come against us.      Finances, Family problems, Work, Sickness, Death, Divorce, Disappointments.      Just like a giant Goliath, they don’t come one on one.   They hit you from all directions.

We have everyday giants.   We have monumental life altering giants.    They all come from the same place.   The devil doesn’t fight fair.      He sends his sword bearing shield bearer before him to trick us, confuse us, distract us and keep us from focusing.    The little things.   We think we can handle it.   Then BAM! He shows up with deadly force!.     The thing that get us right in the heart.   His javelin or spear.   We lose our job.   We lose a loved one.   We have a life threatening illness.    We’ve been double teamed. and we could so easily be struck down, but for the Armor of God.

Paul tells us to put on the armor of God... He never once told us to take it off.     In Romans 13: 12 he calls it the “armor of light”.   Unapproachable Light.

When you are wearing this armor, you are not only protected, but you stand out as a victorious warrior!

Our armor is our faith.

Life events take our spiritual measure. Like David, before we go into our daily battle, we should make sure we have a good fit.   We should remind ourselves of the times that God has come through for us in the past and that He will do it again now.

Don’t try to enter into a battle wearing some body else’s faith.    We’re each given a measure.   It is formed and forged just for us. We need to test it and try it and become so accustomed to it that it fits us like our own skin.

Like the Israelites, we tend to forget.

David took goliath’s armor and kept it.    In my imagination I see it standing in a focal point in his home. A daily reminder of how God came through for him and for Israel.

There are many times in the Bible when it is mentioned that the Israelites made a marker , set up stones, as a reminder of what God had done at a particular time or place.

I have several items in my home that are reminders to me of what God has done in my life.   A bowl of seashells on my coffee table.   A Santa Claus figurine holding a sign with the word "JOY".   A photograph of a beach at sunrise.   These are all reminders of the huge things God has done in my life and of His promises.

The next time you go into battle, be prepared.    As your enemy takes your measure, race toward him or it with the sure knowledge that God is with you and has gone before you.

Call to mind what God has done in your past and trust Him for what He is doing in the present.      When the victory is won give Him the glory!    Then just in case you're forgetful like the Israelites, make a note of your victories.   Keep a reminder, something visible, as a reminder of how God did a miracle in your life.

And give Him the glory!

Breathless

2010-10-13T18:22:00.000-07:00

The king is enthralled by your beauty.   Honor him, for he is your lord. (Psalm 45:11)

Yes!   The King thinks you are beautiful.   He looks on you and can't take his eyes or His mind off of you.

We may look in the mirror and see every flaw. He looks at us and sees an extension of Himself.   He sees in us the beauty of His creation and the perfection of His plan.   He sees His bride in preparation for the wedding day!

His excitement over us spills into the heavens and He gives us gifts of beauty!      He honors us with His presence and encourages us with the intimacy of His voice calling our names.

He does battle for us and defeats every foe!    He shares His heart and knowledge with us and draws us near in an all consuming love.

With playful laughter and open arms, He lifts us up in our hearts and fills us with joy.    He whispers sweetness in our ears and His music resonates through our minds.   His fragrance is breathtaking and falls on our skin like dew anointing us with His essence.

Yes, God IS enthralled by our beauty.     He loves us so deeply that He placed His most beautiful and precious gift inside each of us that call on His name.   The gift of Himself... His spirit.

What an incredibly wonderful God!        He makes us beautiful.     We are His heart's desire.

And He is ours.

Dwelling Places

2010-10-08T15:15:00.000-07:00

I was talking with a friend this morning about life, the universe and everything.   Of course, God is the key element there and He was also the central topic in our conversation.

Reflecting back on our past decisions and actions, we discussed both our right and wrong choices and how they have affected our present and our future. You know... Girl talk!    Haha!

Life throws us a lot of stuff.   Some of it just happens and some of it is our own doing.   But regardless, life is a series of ups and downs.    The major stuff, like births, deaths, marriages, divorces, illness... those are the ones that shape our character and our life stories. Yet the smallest incident can have the greatest effect on us.    An alcoholic begins his/her struggle with that very first drink.   An addiction to a drug begins with that first "hit".      A first glimpse at pornography catches the eye and mind.   Life is changed forever by those first "small" occurrences.    Relationships are eventually destroyed.

Eden is a nice place to live.    It's a place where everything is beautiful and the blessings just seem to flow one after the other.    On the other hand, the deepest pit in hell is, to say the least, a tad on the miserable side.   I have been in both places at various points in my life.   I prefer being on the mountaintop of blessings in Eden.     But I don't always get to choose my circumstance.    And I really don't believe that our lives are intended to live continually in Eden.

Let's face it.   We are human beings and we begin to take things for granted when life is good.     That's when sin creeps into our neighborhood and tries to foul things up.    We come face to face with the world of degradation and lies.    Our faith is tested by temptation.     The temptation comes in the form of a circumstance.   Our response to a new situation is the elemental device that God uses to teach and meld us into the likeness of Him. Something changes in our life and we see it as a terrible event, when actually it is the very thing that God uses to shape us into the creation He has planned.

The world was perfect for Adam and Eve.   Yet Adam and Eve were not perfect.    The lying serpent didn't get into the garden by his own strategy.    God saw it coming and allowed it to happen. He knew that Adam & Eve would not withstand the onslaught of lies.   Although they were capable of obeying God, as are we, they were overthrown by this small "first" that forever changed life for humankind.   Or did it just set God's plan into motion?     He knew beforehand that sin would come to destroy His creation and He made arrangements at the beginning of time to send Jesus as the Lamb to be slain.    Only by the blood of Jesus are we, including Adam and Eve, made perfect.

During the last major upheaval in my life (going through the break up of an almost four decade long marriage), I journeyed to Galveston to see the aftermath of Hurricane Rita.   I saw not only the destruction caused by the storm, but also the cleanup crews at work and the reconstruction of the structures and the lives of those affected by the storm.

I wrote the following words in my Bible: "Sometimes it takes the hurricanes, the overwhelming flood, the rot and destruction in our lives.. so that we can be gutted... with nothing left but the framework so God can restore and rebuild our lives anew."

Various paths were set before me during that time of my life.   Choices were made... some good and some not so good.    But none were a surprise to my loving heavenly Father.      He has used each of them to direct me in the path that He REALLY wants for me.   Thankfully, Jesus paved that path for me a long time ago.

Talking with my friend this morning, I reminded her and myself of just how God had changed my life so drastically.    Let's just say she is not living on a mountaintop right now and since I am such a fount of wisdom, I thought maybe I could give some advice.     Lord, I just hope the advice came straight through me from YOU.

I told her that during another one of the most miserable 'pit of hell' experiences in my life, I finally caved in and cried out to God asking Him to restore the joy of my salvation.       Being the gracious and loving God that He is, He granted my request. Others may not know this, but God did a miracle that night.    My life was forever changed by His answer to a simple prayer.     I was still living in a pit... my circumstances did not change.   But God changed something inside of me and I was filled with His joy.    Because of Him, my attitude changed, my heart changed, and I drew closer to Him than I knew was possible.   The pit became a place where God taught me about His love and faithfulness.   His joy gave me the strength to endure.

No, I am not glad I was dwelling in a pit.   It was probably a pit of my own creation. Regardless, who the heck wants to experience pit living?    Looking back, that pit was the circumstance or experience that God used to change my life and bring me to Him.       So yes, I am thankful and glad that I finally came to that place in my life where there was nowhere to go but God.

So if you are living in Eden, enjoy!    Beware!   Be Faithful!   One of those 'firsts' might show up and try to drag you out.

But if you are in one of life's pits, remember that you are not alone.   Remember that our God is in control and He is the only one with the power and love to help you survive the pit circumstance and come out strong on the other side.

Nehemiah 8: 10   "....Do not grieve.   For the joy of the LORD is your strength."

A Story of Uriah...The Lord is My Light

2010-10-05T16:49:00.000-07:00

King David. THE King of Israel. His army is at war. He stays behind relaxing. A little R&R in the luxury of his palace while his men are deprived of their wives and children's company. While his men fight and are injured and die in battle.

What has happened? This is King David. The man that leads his army into the fray in the name of the Lord God Jehovah! The man that God has blessed with victory after victory. Yet here he is at home.

He's restless.... can't sleep. So he arises from his bed and walks on the roof of his palace where his eyes fall on the beauty of a woman bathing. And he is undone. All of his vows to live for the Lord are overthrown and he is held captive by her sexuality and his lust.

But she is married. Not only that, she is married to one of his 'mighty men', Uriah the Hittite. Uriah is no ordinary warrior. He is a Hittite. He shouldn't even exist. Centuries before, God had commanded the Israelites to go into Canaan and utterly destroy those who dwelt there. The Hittites dwelt there. But Israel did not carry out that command and they allowed some of the Hittites to remain in the promised land. Thus the existence of Uriah.

Uriah the inexplicable. His bore a Hebrew name meaning "The Lord is My Light." He is listed in 1 Chronicles 11:47 and 2nd Samuel 23:39 as one of David's mighty men. He's in the inner circle of those that David trusts with his life. He had sworn fealty to David the King. To be loyal to him and to do battle for him. To help David be the victorious one. God had made that same promise to David when he was a boy and anointed him King.

Yet these promises and relationships faded into a fog of nothingness in David's mind as he squashed his relationship with the one true God for what was meant to be a one night stand with a beautiful woman. He minimized his relationship and his friendship with Uriah, the Lord is my Light, as he plotted and planned to have her in spite of every obstacle.

Who would know? It wouldn't matter. He would have his way with her and send her home. Uriah was away. He would never discover the truth.

But that one night of guilty and sinful pleasure resulted in a pregnancy... What should have been a welcome and happy occurrence in a marriage became evidence of sin and wrong doing for Bathsheba and David. He was guilty and now the whole world would know that King David was faithless and weak.

Like Adam and Eve in the garden, hiding from God, David begins to plot and plan how to cover his sin. He orders Uriah home from the battle upon the pretense of obtaining a military report and tells him to go home and be with his wife. If Uriah lies with her, then he will think that the child is his own and David's secret would be safe.

But Uriah, the faithful warrior, refuses to accept the comfort and luxury of his home and bed while his God and his men are at war. He said to David, "The ark, and Israel and Judah are dwelling in tents and my lord Joab and the servants of my lord are encamped in the open fields. Shall I then go to my house to eat and drink and to lie with my wife? As you live, and as your soul lives, I will not do this thing." (2nd Samuel 11:11)

Stalwart Uriah! Loyal Uriah! He stood firm against a temptation that must have been almost overwhelming to him. To be at home with his wife if even only for a short time would be a welcome and unexpected respite from the discomfort of camp and peril of battle.

He was truly a mighty man. He was truly living up to his name, the Lord is my Light.

And David was stopped in his tracks by this mighty man....Caught in his sin by this descendant of pagans who now worshipped the Lord.

Perplexed and anxious, he plots again and fills Uriah with food and drink, figuring that if he is in a drunken state that his resolve will melt away and he will give in. That he will just go home and do the thing with Bathsheba. In David's thinking, there's no way that Uriah would be able to stand with drunken wobbly legs on what David believes is a shaky moral ground.

In David's thinking, he was underestimating Uriah and trying to bring him down to his own level. David is thinking that he can influence The Lord is my Light and use him to cover up his wrongdoing.

David forgot one thing. The Light of the Lord sheds light on our sin. It will never be used to cover our sin up as if it doesn't exist. The Light of the Lord exists to expose sin.

Of course, Uriah did not comply with David's plans. Somehow his inebriated mind retained some shred of strength and he fell asleep with the servants. He didn't go home to Bathsheba.

In David's state of forgetfulness and in his frantic efforts to cover his sin, he loses any small bit of righteousness and sanity left to him and orders Uriah back to the heat of battle. He orders him to the front where he is sure to be killed. And he is dead. Uriah is slain by the enemy and by the order of King David, "a man after God's own heart".

David had become a murderer. David killed the "The Lord is My Light". He thought he had made sure there was no way that The Light could be focused on his sin. But the mighty David had fallen. Not by a sword or an arrow. Not by the small river washed stone from a slingshot. Not by poison or garrote. He fell from great heights and from mighty power by his own failure to do what God had told him to do... to be what God had told him to be. He fell by his own hand. He may as well have attempted spiritual suicide.

Though Uriah was gone, his death shed the Light even more powerfully over David. His actions and his sin could not be hidden from God. His relationship with his God was broken and gasping for breath.

David knew that the Lord was displeased with him.

In time, the Lord sent Nathan the prophet to confront him and accuse him. "Why have you despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in His sight? You have killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword; you have taken his wife to be your wife, and have killed him with the sword of the people of Ammon . 'Now therefore, the sword shall never depart from your house, because you have despised Me, and have taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be your wife.' (2nd Samuel 12: 9-10)

When God spoke these words (through Nathan), David could no longer keep up the facade of innocence and he confessed to Nathan "I have sinned against the Lord!" and Nathan said to David "The Lord has taken away your sin. You shall not die." (2nd Samuel 12: 13) "However, because by this deed you have given occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also that is born to you shall surely die." (2nd Samuel 12:14)

God forgave David the sins of adultery and murder. There were dire consequences to come, but the sin was not held against him. David could start anew with a restored conscience and relationship with his Lord.

As Christians, we can think or believe we are so close to God that He won't mind if we take a break, a little R&R from Christianity so to speak. We get comfortable in our relationship with Him and take for granted our status as His precious and privileged children. Maybe we are weary of the constant battle and like David, we see something or someone and think that we deserve a little pleasure or fun. After all, it won't hurt anybody. We deliberately sin. Then we begin to try to cover it up. We make every effort to kill and squash our guilty conscience... our Uriah. We make excuses. We try to justify our actions and even use holy scripture to do so at times. Failing at that, we put a distance between ourselves and our God and eventually our relationship with Him is in tatters and we begin to live a life where we don't welcome God's Light.

Thank God for this story of Uriah and his moral strength. Thank God for showing us that even those we see as the most spiritual and most righteous can fall. When we think that our relationship with God is so close that "I would never do this.... There's no way." we should thank God for this warning that we should ALWAYS beware of the devil crouching at our door waiting for the chance to trip us up. None of us should become so sure of ourselves that we think there is no way we could give in to life's temptations or that we will not be held accountable if we do.

Thank You God for allowing us the opportunity to ask forgiveness when we fall. Though we may have consequences to our sin, we have forgiveness and a new beginning through Jesus.

"The Living Waters"

2010-09-14T10:18:00.000-07:00

This last week-end I went to Broken Bow to the cabin with 4 other ladies on our ladies ministry team. We had such fun eating out, shopping, playing games, laughing, watching a late movie, just being together and relaxing!! Saturday morning I was the only one to brave the great big awesome looking hot tub!!! But, oh as I stepped in and sat back it felt so good!!!!!!!!The waters felt wonderful on my body, but God's touch ,(Living Waters!),how it revived my soul!!! How I cherish that time !!! God spoke volumes to me in that 30 minute hot tub time!! As the waters began beating against me, God reminded me how storms in our lives will come and beat against us , but always remember that He is our still waters and He will calm your storms and give you Peace. He will be with you thru all your storms!!He is our refuge from the storm! "For you have been a defense for the helpless, A defense for the needy in his distress, A refuge from the storm; a shade from the heat; For the breath of the ruthless Is like a rain storm against a wall." Isaiah 25:4. As I lay back on the tub, I saw two small birds flying by and God told me "Always remember I am the Music of your soul!"He restores me!! "He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness, For His name's sake." Psalm 23:3. I spotted a tall vine, God reminded me, "I am the vine, you are the branches!" John 15:5 Stay attached to me!!! Abide in Me!! Go Deeper!!! Learn More about me!! I reached my hand out to grab some to the foam that was in the water and the foam dissolved in my hand, God reminded me how the worldly things we want or try to get, will pass away, but I will never pass away, never leave you, never forsake you!!!"Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away." Matt. 24:35. & "I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you." Hebrews 13: 5b. My word stands firm, "The grass withers, the flower fades, but the Word of our God stands forever. Isaiah 40:8
O Father, You are My Living Waters, Praise Your Most Holy Name!!!

Road Trip

2010-09-11T00:42:00.000-07:00

I woke up Thursday morning and debated with myself whether or not to hit the road.

My 'vacation' week was winding down. I had cleaned out and organized my little office/computer room. I had traded my car for a pickup. I had taken my tax info by the accountant to FINALLY do my 2009 tax return.

The original plan had been for a road trip to somewhere, anywhere, get away from the hacienda and do something different. But the weather was a bit nasty this week and I postponed the "trip to nowhere" thinking that I would go later in the week when the rains had gone away.

When that day came, I almost argued myself out of the trip. But, reasoning that I would kick myself in the rear if I didn't go, I packed my backpack with a change of clothes, grabbed my computer and put the truck in gear.

My pastor's wife, Abbie, had told me about the missions in San Antonio and I had decided that I wanted to see them.

I finally found my way to Mission Concepcion (after going in circles in San Antonio trying to find the right road). It is a beautiful and magnificent building and I took a few pictures. Then I made my way on down the trail to Mission San Jose. I never got to the other 2 missions. I spent so much time on these two.

Lucky me! I arrived on a weekday when the kids are back in school. So there were hardly any other tourists around and I practically had the whole place to myself. I felt like I had gone back in time to an era that has been romanticized by the fog of years.

Life must have been so hard for the Franciscan monks and for their converts, the local Indians. Growing their own crops, milling their wheat. Every basic need required hard work... monumental effort. And on top of the day to day chores and back breaking work, they had to also defend their missions against the Commanche Indians who regularly attacked...killing and stealing from them.

Yet even with all the hardship and danger, they managed to build these wonderful structures. The architecture is beautiful and the statuary and ironwork amazing. Even with all the hardship and danger, the monks managed to carry out their mission of bringing the message of Christianity to these people.

Such dedication to their calling and purpose amazes me. It made me reflect on my own commitment to the calling God has on my life. Would I be willing to go to a strange and foreign land and put my life on the line in order to tell others of Christ?

Missionaries have done this for centuries... Lived and died for the call of Christ. It's very humbling when you think of it. It is hard to get a perspective on it. There are contemporary missionaries that are living this out even as I write these words. I have been receiving regular email from one for a few years now. She uses code words in her email so that the local government will not know that she is talking about Jesus. I am in awe of their love and commitment to Christ.

I was talking with God about this on the way home tonight. His calling on my life hasn't changed. Study His Word. Share His Word. Write devotionals and share them with others. Teach / speak when given the opportunity.

No, His calling on me hasn't changed. But maybe I have been changed by walking a day in the past. Maybe my commitment to carrying out His command is more urgent and solid... more compelling.

The only wild Indians attacking me are my own inadequacies and weaknesses. I am not in fear for my life. I'm not called to a dangerous mission. My God is strong and loving enough to have His hand on missionaries to guide and protect them. I believe He can probably help me out with my shortcomings.

Lord, thank You for the men and women who have lived their lives to bring the love of Christ to the world... Thank You for those that have given their lives in that cause. Father God, keep me mindful of Your purpose for me and help me to be bold to do it. In Jesus' precious name.. amen.

Journal from the heart

2010-09-09T08:37:00.000-07:00

This will most likely be one of my longest post and most personal on the site ever. Please bear with me as I feel that it is of the utmost importance to testify of God’s grace and goodness and his sufficient supply in the times of our needs and trials. As most of you know I am experiencing some problems with this pregnancy and it has brought me to the cross more than once. I could wait to see the outcome then testify of God’s goodness, yet that is not what God is calling me to do. Paul did not wait until his freedom of circumstances, his deliverance from jail or trails to speak of the goodness of God – Elohim (The Lord of Lords). This is my most difficult as the subject is so new and raw in my own heart and as I am still in the midst of this storm – yet God has begun a transformation that is beautiful. I trust completely in his will and know that his ways are far above my own. I believe that every life is not without purpose – from the very moment of conception – that moment when it is placed in your womb before you even know it. That life is not without significance and purpose. For me to see it any other any other way would be to negate the very word of God that states from beginning to end this very thing : He knew us before he placed us, he knit together our inner most parts, he ordained us, set us apart, numbered our days, laid out a plan for our lives, and gave us a certain end! This means from the very moment we are placed our life is important and begins to have an effect on this very world. We become a testimony of God. So let me share with you my journal. I do not know the reason other than to let you all know that “The Right Christian thing to do” flew out the window and ONLY a personal relationship with Christ is the anchor - - - all the church, all the “right” words, all the scripture quoting, all the songs - - - they do nothing. Only that relationship that faith in Elohim makes the difference. Faith has become more for me than a word, a work - it is my reality – for it is these things that I can not see that have made this present trial bearable, it has kept me from being overwhelmed by fear and doubt. Faith is truly rejecting this reality for the reality of the cross and this being done the circumstance does not change but the view does!

9/4/2010

I have started this a few days late but none the-less here it is – my testimony of the goodness of God in my life. On Sunday (6 days ago) Brent and I headed to the ER as a cramped and bled. Brent prayed over our child as we drove down the highway, both us clung to the promises of our God. Repeating that we walk by faith not my sight and that which God has promised he is able to deliver. When the doctor came back with a negative report I sat stunned unable to react. “Good HCG, visable yolk sac and gestational sac – NO BABY….Could be that you have already miscarried and the baby is already absorbed or could be that it is just too early”. The bleeding and cramping had stopped, but what to do with this information. On our way home we decided again that we would cling to God’s promises. We began to rejoice that our reality was not the report of man, but it was the promises of God (the things we can not see). The next morning we both awoke rejoicing in the promises of God almighty. It was this day we called our baby Caleb Levi. Calab because when he was old he still said “give me my mountain” and Levi for the keepers of God’s law.
This morning I rolled over to a sudden tremendous gush of blood and clots. This was followed very quickly by the onset of labor like pains that immediately brought tears. I called Brooxie and then Marni who came to set with the children. Again, numbness came over me – was this it? Would this be good-bye to our child? My spirit strove against my flesh and the overwhelming fear and darkness of the enemy. “Your reality child is not this which you see and feel – it is Jesus Christ – You MUST focus on Jesus Christ or you will be overwhelmed by the fear and the darkness of the enemy”.

So silently as pain pulled at my body I repeated to myself: “ You are my strong tower, you are by help in this trial, you are my strength, you are my courage – I will not question your ways that are greater than mine no matter what – I will not questions your ways – increase my faith Lord, nor will I surrender readily that which you have given to me over to the enemy. You alone are able to give and take. You are able to deliver me – I trust you will to be worked out completely for your glory, what ever it be – I walk by faith and faith requires only that I focus on the cross…. You are my strong tower……”
Again, Brent and I prayed over our child claiming scriptures over him and the promise that God is able. This time the pain and bleeding did not stop instead it increased. But this time on the sonogram was a strong beating heart – a healthy baby!!! Blood work good – bleeding coming from where the pregnancy or placenta had tried to attach. If it stops and attaches all is well – follow up in a week.
I think that I have cried more today than in my life. But God has whispered into my ear that he would lead me into green pastures – these are the prayer and comfort of my church family. The still waters have been the comfort and refreshment of God’s word.

I have come to understand in a new way the phrase “the valley of the shadow of death” found in Psalm 23. As I traverse this valley of suffering my heart goes from breaking to rejoicing. You see death is just that a “shadow” – that which was and that which could have or might have been. A Shadow much like the one created by the sun as it hits one side of your body casting a image of you. You can step on your own shadow, but you can never walk from your toe to your head nor catch up to your own shadow. Yet someone else can walk through your shadow, stand in your shadow. You feel nothing as they pass through the shadow because it is merely a gauzy reflection of you. But for the person walking through this shadowy valley our emotions well up as tide within us and threaten to overtake us as we consider what could have been and what was.

I am in this valley of uncertain times – but I have found the meaning of comfort of God’s rod and staff. You see God does not want us focused on the shadow – death may or may not come – our certaintity I this only that if the shadow does not fade then the life is still there and when it does fade it fades into the Son of Eternity – the brightness of heaven’s light. Our time is here and now this present moment. I have found that this is the place of faith refinement. A place our sight can be changed from here and now to the sight of faith. A place where we are each called to at sometime and we are faced with this charge: “Choose ye this day whom you will serve – the God of your fathers or the god of this world (the enemy), What reality will be yours? – The reality of God’s promise or the reality of the Father’s of lies and shadows and fears? Will you put o the whole armor of God and having done so will you stand? Will you stay in your bean field faced with your Goliath and having done all stand?”

9/7/2010

We made it to the OB appointment. There again was our baby – healthy beating heart! The negative the uterus is filled with clots, BUT here again the miracle and provisions of GOD!!! The clots are above and around the baby outside the sac. They are not near the placenta that is very well attached. The bleed is above the baby!!
God's hand clearly over our child, clearly protecting him! Overwhelmed at God’s goodness I proclaimed it there “THAT IS THE GREATNESS OF MY GOD” MY God – the one I serve the one that heard My prayers – the one that loves ME!!! Tears flowed down my face – I do not know if the doctor thought I was crazy or not. I listened as he repeated the rest – blood work weekly, 50/50 chance of survival, sonograms weekly, rest and take it easy, must monitor the clots and make sure they are dissolving and coming out, bleed will hopefully heal on its own.

On the way home more prayer and proclamation of God’s promises.

This week my church family has done what it does always – freely given of itself to the service of others. They have been my green pastures. They have faithfully lifted up our family in prayers. They have brought meals every day – a blessing much needed in this first week of adjustment. They have spoken words of affirmation. They have showered us with love and comfort – only God could have planned it this way!
Our family has drawn together in prayer and God’s word has strengthened us .
Every once in a while I am drawn back to the statement 50/50, but God has given me this – we are each only guaranteed a this moment. We each have only a 50/50 chance to make it through this day. For our days are numbered by our God and he alone holds the time for each of us. So this day I will choose the reality of faith – things which I can not see, I will rest in promises breathed in the living Word of God, I will cling to the cross, I will choose this day to surrender to His will for His purpose, to rejoice in this present provision that he has given us. I will choose to give testimony of His Goodness and to be thankful in this.

"Safe Harbor"

2010-08-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

What would your definition of safe harbor be? (Think about it!!!)

In Matthew 8:24-26 it says, "And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being covered with the waves; but, Jesus Himself was asleep. And they came to Him and woke Him, saying, "Save us, Lord; we are perishing!" He said to them, "Why are you afraid, you men of little faith? Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and it became perfectly calm." ( As we can see, when Jesus spoke there was Power in the Word!)

I am so thankful that as a Christian we have a safe harbor in Jesus Christ! The storms of life come upon us in strong & mighty waves that seem like they will topple us! We all face many storms in our lives (finances, health, deaths of loved ones, divorce, drugs, alcohol, depression, this is just to name a few), but we serve a great and mighty God who will walk with us thru each and every storm we face and will steady us and give us the strength we need for each moment.

In Isaiah 25:4 it says, "For you have been a defense for the helpless, A defense for the needy in his distress, A refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat; For the breath of the ruthless is like a rain storm against a wall." Praise God he is our strong defense!

We just need to remember to stay focused on Jesus, and give Him the glory, for each and everything He is doing before, during, and after the storm! His lovingkindness and His faithfulness are awesome! Sometimes those storms may teach you to " Lay in the Savior's arms"
more closely each day. We need to always remember the closer that we walk with God, the less room for anything to come between. " We don't need to pray for an easy life, we need to pray to be made stronger in the Lord!" Always remember, that there could be more trials, more refining, but, thank God, for our safe harbor, Jesus Christ!

In Proverbs 8:10 it says, "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous run into it and is safe." (Our strong, safe tower, safe haven, safe harbor!!!)

Life is hard, but God is so goooooooooooooood!!!

So thankful for that Safe Harbor, Jesus Christ!

Scriptures to leave you with:

Psalm 136:1- "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, For His loving kindness is everlasting."

Deut. 32:4-"The Rock! His work is perfect, For all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, Righteous and upright is He."

Psalm 56:3-"When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You."

Remember: When trials come, run to our Safe Harbor, Jesus Christ!"

Prayer Request from Gospel Light

2010-07-26T16:13:00.001-07:00

This prayer request is copied from an email I recieved from my dear friend at Gospel Light: Please Pray for this child....

One last thing, I’d like to send you a prayer request. One of our authors, Britt Merrick, has a little six year old daughter, Daisy, who’s going through chemo right now in an effort to rid her of a huge tumor in her abdomen. This is her second time around going through chemo. After having undergone surgery and chemo the first time, the tumor just recently came back, growing to the size of a grapefruit within a span of just a few months. They’ve been given a report that her chances of making it through are 30-50%. All of our hearts here at Gospel Light are going out to their family. I know that little Daisy and the Merrick family can use ALL the prayer they can get. Here’s a link to a blog that they keep updated with Daisy’s day to day condition: http://prayfordaisy.tumblr.com.

Anna's Song

2010-07-21T12:48:00.001-07:00

Sometimes the sweetest worship comes from our children. In their innocence they are uninhibited by legalism, peer pressure, or religious standards. They simply look at God for who He says He is and accepts that as the truth of the matter. They do not question His greatness, His power, His authority, His workmanship. To them He is the I AM! They do not wonder how He came to be, or why He is - they just accept that HE IS! They do not look around to see who is watching, they do not wonder what others may think, they do not hold back - - they come boldly. The trust completely, and find complete joy in His presence, unchecked communion with God himself. And I believe He delights in them. O, that for a moment we could go back - or better yet move forward - past the legalism, the standards the religion that binds us, past our perception of what others might think, back to the basics of unrestrained, pure worship before the Lord.

Anna sang this song around our home for weeks in May 2005 (she would have been 4 years old at the time). She called it Up to God. Finally one day I wrote the words down in my bible:

God's looking down at me
I Sing praises up to God
God is my heart song, is in my soul
God sent his son,
He died on the cross
So I sing praises up to God
If you look up to God
You can sing praises
Whatever song he puts in your heart
I sing praises up to God
I sing praises in my heart
I sing praises up to God!

Never the Less

2010-07-21T09:28:00.000-07:00

While working on the devotional "One Desperate Hour" and praying over that verse another truth stopped me in my tracks: just one long word tucked into the middle of that verse: the word "nevertheless"

You see the first part of that prayer was Jesus realizing the weakness of his flesh, crying out in his most desperate hour to a Holy Father to strengthen this weak, wounded flesh of humanity.

Then it changes "nevertheless"....the pivotal words. The words that are followed by an absolute surrender, an absolute acknowledgment of who God is, a time of allowing His will to consume and control the situation and the outlook.

However in those words are a mountain of truth. Something caused Jesus to see the outcome, the fruit was worth the journey. The blessing out-weighed the suffering. The beauty would be worth the betrayals, beating, blood, and brokenness. The benefits out numbered the cost.

I am the Never the Less! I am the one Jesus saw in that instant and so are you. He saw us each as we are before we are formed in our mother's wombs. He saw us each as we are in our suffering of sin. He saw us each as we are in Him, made righteousness and beautiful because of the offering of His life for our atonement, our redemption.

I am Never the Less because Jesus went to the cross, because he surrendered to God's will...because he chose to stay in this flesh to become a sinless offering for all humanity. I am Never the Less but always the more.

Never the Less: always the victor, always the head, always with hope, always redeemed, always set free, always counted precious and set apart, always known by name, always remembered, always held in His hand....never to be Less again!

I am Never the Less because I know the I AM!

One Desperate Hour

2010-07-18T19:58:00.000-07:00

He knelt in prayer, The Lamb of God, The Truth, The Alpha and Omega, The Son of God. He knelt in prayer, broken hearted, poured out, in agony, crying out to God the Father. In agony of soul, in war against this weak flesh of humanity. Jesus knelt in prayer before the Father with full knowledge of what was to come. Jesus knelt in prayer looking into the heaven he left - the perfect union of fellowship with God the Father. He had already given up a throne to walk in the weak, wounded, sinful flesh, stained from the fall. He'd felt the attacks of Satan's lies. He'd felt the heartbreak of the loss of loved ones and wept. He'd felt the sting of rejection of friends and family of his hometown. He'd seen the disappointment in the eyes of those who did not get the answers that they wanted from him. He would soon be betrayed by one of his twelve, someone he had invested time and love in, someone he'd shared fellowship with, dined with and taught the truth of God to. He would be denied by one of his closest friends. He would be left alone to face arrest by those he trusted most. He would be thrown into a filthy prison with the vilest offenders and those without conscience. He would be beaten beyond recognition. He would take lashes one short of the death blow that would leave his back open and raw. He would be cursed, forsaken, spit upon, and condemned by the very ones he came to save. He would suffer humiliation and be nailed to a cross for all to see. He would suffer the a moment of broken fellowship with God the Father as he took on the sins of all humanity.

In this - his most desperate hour - his flesh cried out "IT IS TO MUCH!", his flesh cried out "Leave them be, walk away....."

Jesus knew this human frame, this flesh, this free will was weak, wounded from the fall of Adam and could not stand alone.

In this - most desperate hour - Jesus cried out "Father, if is Your will, let this cup pass from me;
nevertheless not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42)

In this most desperate hour Jesus understood His flesh, and His fleshly free-will needed to be surrendered to God (it needed to be nailed to cross before he could be nailed to the cross). And at the moment of surrender the scripture says that an angel was sent to strengthen Jesus.

Surrender to God = Strengthened by His Hand!

In our most desperate hour, our hour of anguish, when no answers seem to fit we must surrender it ALL to the Lord. We must ask HIS will to be done. We must step back. In that most desperate hour God will answer and He will supply the strength we need for the hour.

Surrender to God and be strenghtened by His hand....let His will be worked out and he will hold you through the fire...Let His will be manifest in your life and He will bless you...Let His will consume you and he will make something more beautiful.

Christ still had the cross to face after that prayer but his focus changed. In Luke you will see that after being strengthened that Jesus returned to a more earnest prayer. In John we are given a more in depth description of this prayer. Jesus' focus was not on the desperate hour - the anguish of the moment - the thing that seemed impossible. That all remained the same. His focus was turned on those he loved, the reason for the mission.

Our circumstance may not change, the thing that brought us to our most desperate hour of prayer may not be immediately removed, but how we see it will change and our attitude about it will change. We can have faith that in our most desperate hour because we have surrendered to HIS WILL all things will work together for good and we will have peace to walk in the valley of desperation because of who walks beside us - because of who bears us up - because of who carries and comforts us.

In our most desperate hour He has promised not to leave us.

In your most desperate hour surrender to God, fall headlong into His arms and allow Him to work in you and through you. Experience victory!

Book Review of "God Knows My Name!"

2010-07-15T08:27:00.001-07:00

I would highly recommend this book to anyone! Beth Redman, author, truly communicates the heart of God. Beth shares her journey's with us, and the freedom, healing, and relief that come over our hearts as we hear again how much God loves us and embraces us in spite of our choices or past. His plan of hope for us is sure! (Jeremiah 29:11)
The Chapters, "God Knows My Name", "God Knows My Past", "God Shapes My Character", "God Sees My Choices", "God Has Not Forgotten Me", "God is My Helper", "God is My Defender" and "God is My Restorer" all link together and complete the book so well. I look back on situations in my past and see how God worked them out, He was and is my Helper, Defender, Restorer! He saw choices I made, but most of all, He knows my name!! He knew me in my mother's womb!! He has shaped my character through many trials and difficulties, refined me, and is still refining me more each day! He has not forgotten me for a minute, but, Praise the Lord, He has forgiven me!!
Through out your life many "curveballs" may be thrown your way. The circumstances may make it appear as though God as forgotten you, but always remember He sees you, hears you, has compassion for you, and always burns with love for you. He is faithful. Trust in Him through whatever life throws at you, honor Him by believing that He is good and He could never forget you! Isn't it wonderful to know that your name is engraved on the palm of His hand. You are His. Never forgotten, forever loved.
Life is hard, but God is so.......................Good!!!
This book is definitely an encouragement and worth reading!

"Praise the Lord, all you nations; extol him, all you peoples.
For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever." Ps. 117

"My Summertime Experiences!!!"

2010-07-15T07:47:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe this summer is half over! It has been great, tho! My husband & I had a new metal roof put on our house the end of May and had all the trim on our house painted and an awning put up for my husband's truck in mid-June! We had 4 of our grandsons for a week in June and they went to V.B.S. at my mom's church. The 7 yr. old grandson made a profession of faith on that Thursday of V.B.S. Praise the Lord! We had revival at the church the last of June with Bro. Jim Moss! The Messages were very powerful and truly made you search your heart!!
July 6-9th. we had 9 kids & 4 sponsors go to church camp. My 10 yr. old grandson went with them! A Lyric he told me after he got back was"Hope in Difficulty, Faith in what you cannot see, Grace, O Lord Majesty!" Thank you Jesus, You are our Hope, Keep My Eyes firmly on you each moment thru each and every adventure with You as we walk in your Grace, O Precious Lord!
Our Ladies Sunday School class have been studying, "Becoming a Woman of Simplicity!" Lord, make us women of pure devotion! God may we enter into Your rest, and receive your peace, and be still! Even when difficulties come, may we have a deep, abiding sense that "all is well with my soul." Our next study, we start Aug. 1, will be "Living a Life of Balance' by Marilyn Meberg. This
study states that it is true enough that we need to maintain physical and mental health, but we also need spiritual balance. Only God can guide us toward the balance we desperately desire. It starts with our hearts and hopefully this study will help us get there! V.B.S. is coming in August at our church! "High Seas is the theme! Isn't is wonderful to know that in the low seas and the high seas of our lives that Jesus is Right There!!!! My grandkids will be back for a week, to go to V.B.S. What Fun!!! Awana will be starting up in Sept!!!! I have been studying on a Bible Study entitled, "Living Your Life as a Beautiful Offering" by Angela Thomas. It is a Bible study based on the Sermon on the Mount. Pray for this study and the ladies that will be attending. It will start in October at our church. Prayers for each lady and God's blessings as you seek to dance the dance of your life in His arms during this study!!! My husband & I got to spend time with our kids & grandchildren on the 4th. Swimming, good food, & fireworks! I have had a full and blessed summer!! God is my Provider, My Warrior, My Defender, and My Savior, & King!!!

Proverbs 31

2010-06-18T19:07:00.000-07:00

Okay - - this is a preview of a project I am working on - - your opinions would be gladly accepted.

Proverbs 31:11
A look into the spiritual side of this verse and it's application.

Please open your bible and prayerfully read this verse before continuing.

A woman of virtue is one that God can trust safely with his kingdom work and his testimony. I believe that this verse shows the very nature of God in his desire to connect with each one of us on a personal and intimate level. If you remember in verse 10 we are told the virtuous woman is worth more than rubies. This showed us the value that God places on a woman that seeks him, follows his laws and plans, that rests in his promises and speaks his word. It speaks to the fact that this woman is grounded, rooted and built up in her identity in Christ. She is sure of who she is in the Lord and is unshakable in this identity. For this woman God desires to trust her with his very presence, his heart, his testimony, his precious kingdom work.

Take time now to prayerfully answer the following:
1. Do you trust God fully with your heart?_______________
Have you given over every part to the Lord? Remember that he already knows your heart, we are told in the new testament that God does not look on the outward man but on the heart. However, God desires for us to willingly give our heart to him - to turn over each part. Even those parts that hold our deepest regrets, hurts, fears, pain, shame, and longing. What do you need to surrender to God right now so that you are fully trusting him with you WHOLE HEART? _________________________________________

2. Do you live a life completely surrendered? ____________________________________
Is there anything right now that you could not give up, give away, or leave behind if God called you to move? _____________

3. Are there areas of your life that still need to be surrendered to Christ? ______

4. Is Christ the Lord of your life? _______ Your first response will be "yes". Stop for a moment and ask the Lord to reveal to you if this is true. We are taught to say yes to this, but many a christian sets in the church pew with little gods in control of their life - they are driven by success, world standards, man's opinions, worry, guilt, and all types of other burdens and they refuse to ask the Lord to take control and then to surrender it all to the Lord. Pray and then ask yourself the question again - Lord is there any area of my life that I still try to control?

Take time to really ask the spirit to reveal the answers to you. We are often surprised by what lies hidden in the deepest corners of our hearts. Sometimes it is unresolved hurt or unforgiveness. Sometimes it is a lie the enemy planted to so deeply at a young age that we are even surprised at it's existence in our lives (some of these for women deal with our value, self-worth, acceptance, worthiness of love and success, etc). Many times it is revealed to a long time christian that though you accepted Christ as your savior he has yet to become Lord of your life.

Living a life of total surrender to the Lord is not an easy task, especially in our me-centered world. The world around us - The Evil One - tells us that we should do what makes "me" fell goo or right. Instant gratification and worldly recognition are highly sought after even for the christian. However, for God to fully trust us with his heart we must first trust him with ours - every part, all our worries, cares, hopes, dreams, ambitions, fears. We must surrender it all and believe and act in the belief that God knows what is best. We must come to a heart knowledge of the fact that God thinks good thoughts toward us and a certain end - - - He knows his plans for us and they are the best plans for our lives, built on a sure foundation. If you want to be trusted with God's kingdom work, his testimony - you must trust him.

Begin today by trusting God with all your life. We are instructed to Love the Lord with all of our heart. Surrender your life to his Lordship and see how he begins to work in you, trusting you with his heart! Be ready for an exciting, life altering journey!

Lord,
Search me and try me. Reveal today in me the areas of my life that I have not trusted you with. Help me, O Lord, as I begin today to live a life of surrender to you. Heal the brokenness of my heart, shed light on any darkened corner, replace all lies with your truth, all worry with your peace, all burders with your yoke. Be my strong tower and my refuge. Work in me, Father God, a more beautiful work that I may be a living sacrifice for you poured out for use in this world for your work.
Amen.

No Expectations

2010-06-07T16:30:00.000-07:00

We bring our requests to God. Lord, do this... do that. In faith, we expect Him to respond to us in some manner..solve our problems like some magical Santa Claus bringing gifts.

In truth, what are our expectations of God? What can we expect about Him or from Him?

These are truths about God: He is Creator. He holds the world in place with a Word. He is good. He is loving. He is Wise. He is Mercy. He is Grace. He is Power. He is Truth. He is Faithful. He keeps His Promise.

These are just a few of the basic expectations we have.

So when we approach Him with our list, what should we expect? That He will change to suit our needs and wants and desires?

If there is one thing true about God, it is that He is unchanging. So why would we expect Him to change for us?

Then again... why do we expect anything from Him at all?

He has proven Himself to us over and over. He has given us sign after sign of His power and faithfulness. We fully expect Him to continue to do so.

But we reach a point where we must come to a decision. An emotion free and intelligent decision based on our experience with God. Based on the knowledge of who He is or has been to us. A choice to be the person He created us to be and expects us to be.

What are His expectations of us (me)?

He is the light of the world. When He resides in us, we become that light. So we should live as creatures of light. But we don't. Why? because we have not made a conscious free will choice to live that way. We are still drawn by the darkness of this world to participate in dark.

Sure, we may have made a choice to believe in Him, to accept His salvation through Christ. But does that mean that we have made a choice to live our lives in His light? To serve Him with our lives?

We may even be serving Him in some capacity, but other than that service, are we living for Him? Are we, like the disciples, willing to exchange our lives for His light? Are we willing that every breath allowed to us be breathed in Him? Or are we too concerned with our expectations of Him for ourselves? Our expectations for our lives, our stuff, our happiness.

If God is who he says he is, and we choose to live mediocre lives skipping from dark to light to dark to light, then we are doing Him and ourselves a huge disservice.

Make a choice. What has God done for you? Who is He to you? What signs has He given to you? Make a choice based on your answers to those questions.

What right do we have to come to him with any expectation for ourselves?

We should have no expectation of God other than that He is. He said "I am that I am." Why should we expect anything else?

We should have no expectation of God other than that in His "I AM" He has a plan for us. His will for us. His will and His plan for us is for our good and it is perfect. A perfect plan for our lives given to us by a perfect God.

Our will should be set aside. Given over to Him. Consciously. Purposefully. With complete and utter understanding that what we think is right or wrong for us is inconsequential. Only what God wants for us is important or carries any meaning at all.

Give Him a chance to prove that His plan works. To show that every thing He ever said is true. That every promise He ever made will come to pass. Have no other expectation of Him. And be prepared to be amazed.

"Shingles of My Heart!"

2010-05-26T09:07:00.000-07:00

This morning at 7:50 a.m. 6 men came to roof our house. Within 15 minutes they had set-up and were on the roof taking shingles down. I was in the house and as I heard them scraping & digging the shingles off, I thought of how God has to work on our hearts! Lord, make me a vessel fit for use!!! Mold me & make me! "But now, O Lord, "You are our Father, We are the clay, and You are our potter; And all of us are the work of Your hand.(Isaiah 64:8)

Fill me with the fruits of the spirit: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, & self-control. (Gal. 5:22-23)

"Hammer away, chisel these things out, Lord, Dig and scrape the things not of You away from my heart!"

Take away every sin, (greed, rebellion, hate, confusion, impatience, untruths, unkindness, and roughness, & etc.) in my life! Tame my tongue! "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer." Psalm 19:14

Just as my house needs a new roof, Lord give me a new word each day and teach me more of your ways!!! (Hebrews 4:12)-"For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart."

(Psalm 25:4)-"Make me know Your ways, O Lord; Teach me Your paths."

Psalm 143:10-"Teach me to do Your will, For You are my God; Let Your good Spirit lead me on level ground."

Refresh me daily!!!! (Philemon 1:20b)-"Refresh my heart in Christ."

You are my firm & solid foundation!!! (2 Timothy 2:19)-"Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, " The Lord knows those who are His" and, Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness."

God is faithful!!! (I Corinthians 1:9) - "God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord."

Lord, make this vessel fit for your service!!! Shingle me well!!!

"God my Creator, My Savior, the Music of My Heart!"

2010-05-07T10:09:00.000-07:00

God created me, He saved my soul, and He is the music of my heart! It amazes me how He took the dust and made man, and even more amazing is His great and mighty love for each of us!! He is the Music in my heart, the Melody in my soul, the Song that leads me in the dark, the Fire that warms me, the Symphony that calms my fears, the Lyrics I long to hear, The Masterpiece that is still working on this piece of art!!! I am captivated!! I am in awe of my blessed Savior!! I Praise His Most Holy Name!!! I have strings in need of mending, and I thank God for His mercy!!! Use this instrument to your Glory, O Lord!!

Treasures from God's Word:

Gen. 1:27-"God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them."

Ecclesiastes 12:1-"Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth, before the evil days come and the years draw near when you will say, "I have no delight in them."

Luke 2:11-"For today in the city of David there has been born a Savior, who is Christ the Lord."

John 3:16-"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life."

Exodus 15:2-"The Lord is my strength and song, And He became my salvation; This is my God, and I will praise Him; My father's God, and I will extol Him."

Isaiah 12:5-"Praise the Lord in song, for He has done excellent things. Let this be known throughout the earth."

Psalm 33:3-"Sing to Him a new song; Play skillfully with a shout of joy."

Ephesians 5:19-"Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord."

Psalm 51:10-"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."

John 4:24-"God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth."

I Cor. 14:15-"What is the outcome then? I will pray with the spirit and I will pray with the mind also; I will sing with the spirit and I will sing with the mind also."

Gal. 5:16-"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh."

Gal. 5:22-23-"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."

Psalm 107:29"He caused the storm to be still, So that the waves of the sea were hushed."

Psalm 46:10-"Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."

Zephaniah 3:17-"The Lord your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy! (Sing over you!)

Isaiah 64:8-"But now, O Lord, You are our Father, We are the clay, You are our potter; And all of us are the work of Your hand."

Psalm 33:8-"Let all the earth fear the Lord; Let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him."

I Chronicles 16:12-"Remember his wonderful deeds which He has done, His marvels and the judgments from His mouth."

I Thess. 2:8-"Having so fond an affection for you, we were well-pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us."

Philippians 1:8-"For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus."

Psalm 119:156-"Great are Your mercies, O Lord; Revive me according to Your ordinances."

Acts 9:15-"But the Lord said to him, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before the Gentiles and kings and sons of Israel."

Romans 6:13-"And do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God."

O Father,make me an instrument of your love & peace!!! Sing over me your love song of instruction!!!

"Grace Made The Way!"

2010-04-20T11:53:00.000-07:00

This last week-end my son & his family and my daughter & her family were in to visit! We all had pictures made at Sears, went to park & fed ducks, went to Chuckie Cheese in Mall, and went to a birthday party for one of the grandsons, and just enjoyed being together!!!
As my son & his family were leaving Sunday afternoon from my daughter-in-law's parent's house, they had put the kids in the car, keys were in the ignition, and my son & his wife went in to get the rest of their things, my 3 yr. old grandson got out of his car seat, turned the key, and put the car in reverse!!!! Oh......................!!!!! The car went down the driveway, down the incline, and hit & knocked down a fence post!!! The kids were alright!!! Hysterical, crying, and a few bruises!!! Thank God for His Grace!!! Thank God that the fence post was there!!! Just as the fence post made a way for the car to finally come to a stop, God gave His son, Jesus, to make a way for us!!! "The Law came in so that the transgression would increase; but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace would reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 5: 20-21

GRACE-God's Riches at Christ Expense!!!

O thank you, God, for your Grace!!! Thank you for Jesus!!! Thank you for forgiving me of my sins!!!

I am justified by His grace!!!

"So that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life."
Titus 3 :7

His grace is sufficient!!!

2 Cor. 12:9-"And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness." Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.

Praise God for His Marvelous Grace!!!

Oh, by the way my little 3 yr. old grandson's escapade in turning the key and putting car in reverse did over $900.00 damage to the car!!! But, thank God for His Grace and Protection over my precious grandsons!

"My Safe Place"

2010-04-13T12:26:00.000-07:00

Oh, how each of us want to feel safe & secure!! When things in this world shake our world, the very things around us, how we tremble!!! But, oh how reassuring to know that we have that safe place, that safe haven, that refuge, that fortress to go to!! That shelter to comfort us, protect us, guide us, love us, and give us the encouragement we need!!! The Lord Jesus Christ, my safe place, blesses me each day with a new word!! He refreshes me!!! He draws me close!!! Lord, teach me more of your ways, show me the things I need to do and need to learn!!! Just as a toddler feels safe in their mother's arms, I am totally safe and secure in my Heavenly Father's arms!!! He knows the best plans for me and for you!!!
Scriptures:
Proverbs 18:10-"The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous run into it and is safe."
Psalm 107:30-Then they were glad because they were quiet, So "He" guided them to their desired haven."
Psalm 46:1-"God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble."
Psalm 118: 8-" It is better to take refuge in the Lord, Than to trust in man."
2 Samuel 22:3-"My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold and my refuge; My savior, You save me from violence."
Psalm 18:2-"The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold."
Psalm 91:2-"I will say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress, My God in whom I trust!"
2 Cor. 1:3-"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort."
2 Thess. 3:3- "But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one."
John 16:13-"But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever he hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come."
Psalm 23:3-"He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
John 15:10-"If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love."
Romans 5:8-"But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Romans 15:5-"Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus."
Hebrews 6:18-"So that by two unchangeable things in which it is impossible for God to lie, we who have taken refuge would have strong encouragement to take hold of the hope set before us."
Psalm 25:4 &5- "Make me know your ways, O Lord; Teach me your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For you are the God of my salvation; For You I wait all the day."
Jeremiah 29:11-"For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity, to give you a future and a hope."

"These promises from God's Word give me hope!!! Jesus, My Savior, My True & Faithful Friend, You are my SAFE PLACE!!!!

Anna's Song

2010-04-08T06:47:00.002-07:00

HATS

2010-04-08T06:47:00.001-07:00

So many hats I have to wear
They've become quite a burden to bear
A wife, a mother, and a friend
then there's others I wear with them
I've got enough that I think I could share
After all that only sounds fair
I'll leave them here beside the road
To relieve at last this heavy load
Perhaps I'll come some other day
if ever again I pass this way
to dust them off and try them on..
but then again they might be gone.
Well, in that case, I'll keep them close
And wear all the ones I enjoy the most
I'll pass the others ones alone
To another who has none
I'll give my thanks for hats to wear,
at least my head's not cold and bare
No more grumbling will I make
For blessings aren't burdens for heavens sake
soon enough the hats that make me frown
will be traded in for a shiny new crown
So many hats have I to wear,
O, what blessing, this load I bear!

Kings Portion, God speaks

2010-04-08T06:42:00.001-07:00

I've given you kings portion
the bounty of my hand,
and established your vineyard
in a beautiful land.
I've provided a tree
along the dusty road
Then gave you a well
where living waters flowed.
In the Valley of Bacca
marked with suffering
I led you to a cool stream
and caused your heart to sing
In the land of the shadows
when fears overtook
I heard your cries and answered
and held you while you shook.
On the rocky roads of battle,
and up the mountain steep
I have promised to hold you
and in my hand to keep.
In the midst of the wars
when the enemy will come
I'll provide you victory
Your battle will be won.
I've called on your spirit
I've asked you to take part
Because you offered up your life
and opened up your heart
You sought out my face,
you counted up the cost
You knew to have your life
the old man must be lost
So along this broken road,
and in this fallen place
I have promised to provide
endurance for this race
When you grow faint
from a battle long
I'll whisper in you ear
the victor's song
I've given you kings portion
the bounty of my hand
I've established your vineyard
in a beautiful land.

Remember the Saints

2010-04-08T06:09:00.001-07:00

It seems so many saints have been called away home
And though we rejoice those of left sometimes feel alone
There is an aching in our hearts to have them to hold
And yet we know the time would come that we'd have to let the go
We know that heaven's angels met them with dance and song
But in our broken hearts for our loved ones we still long
O father grant us grace when at your alter we cry
And please be patient with us when we question why
O father give us peace and hold us to you chest
That in this grieving moment we may find rest
Thank you Lord for granting us the company of saints
Whose lives were living testimonies of a God who still reigns
So let our joy be rekindled, let our fire brighty burn
As in one accord to our Lord the remaining saints turn.

Tender Warrior

2010-04-08T06:08:00.001-07:00

My tender-hearted warrior, My little child
I wish I could protect you from a world that is wild
My tender-hearted warrior, My little son
I wish I could protect you from a world that's undone
I wish I could keep you from the things you might see
But then I would keep you from the one you ought to be
And the prophesy rings true spoken by Simeon
To every generation of mothers who raise a son
I must raise you to battle, establish what is right
Stand on the sideline and pray as you fight
And the sword that pierces so deep a mother's soul
Is the very one that enables her son to reach the goal
Mary knew it well as she watched the Savior die
Her first born son lifted on that cross so high
My tender-hearted warrior, My little child
I'll raise in the love of God that is meek and mild
My tender-hearted warrior, My little son
I'll raise you in God's way for the work must be done.

The Valley of the Shattered Souls of Men

2010-04-08T06:07:00.001-07:00

I walked through the valley of the shattered souls of men
And realized that I once was one of them
They cried out for mercy, cried out for healings
Moaned in agony and screamed about their feelings
They sat in groups of blame to pass along the pain
And clothed themselves in agony, garments heavy with shame
They entertained depression had lunch with self-hate
Shared secrets with Sir Criticism and all of his dear mates
They wallowed in self-pity, denied themselves victory
Claimed they sought deliverance yet refused to be free
The irony of the valley lies in its midst
A river flowing freely down the center of it
And all these desperate souls camped along its shore
Never understanding what it was even for
Like the pool of Siloam, healing ran within the stream
The blood of Christ flowing freely, seeking to redeem
I walked through the valley of the shattered souls of men
And realized the message I had to get to them
Healing comes in ways most refuse to see
Gentle, peaceful streams that pass by quietly.

Hold My Hand

2010-04-08T06:05:00.000-07:00

O Father you know I struggle,in this daily life of mine
To study your word, to do your work, to make wise use of my time
You know my ancient enemy sits curled in striking pose
Always in my pathway, right before my toes
O Father you know my struggles within, and the battles without
And though I hold tightly to you, I sometimes look down in doubt
O Father as I step out today, let my stride be confident
Let me cling to the hand of the One that was heaven sent
Your word says you order the steps of righteous men
So, Father, set mine today before my work begins
Father, I can not walk this pathway on my own
For my adversary stalks me to watch when I'm alone
So hide me in your shadow and walk with me still
As I seek you face and try to do your will
And Father should I slip today - Help me take your hand,
Help me regain my footing, help me get up and stand.
Father grand me mercy, much of it I need
Father thank you for salvation and the sower of that seed,
Father, thank you for righteous men whose knees are always bent
whose faithful prayers are echoed as heavenward they're sent
Thank you for your sacrifice, redeeming me in my sin
that cleansing blood that makes me changed from within
So Father, as I begin today and off to battles go
Help me Lord to live my life a reflection of the God I know.

Come to the Father

2010-04-07T06:31:00.000-07:00

Majesty and glory surround your throne
Mercy and love falling down on you own
The Lamb's blodd falling - to sinners is calling
"Come to the Father and be made whole"

Come to the Father and be made whole
Reclaim all the joy that Satan has stole
Come to the Father be and be made new
Learn of a love that's forever and true

Majesty and glory suround your throne
Mercy and love falling down on your own
The Lamb's blood falling - to sinners is calling
"Come to the Father and be made whole"

Tired and burdened, Cast down and alone
The thicket and thorns around you have grown
Poured out and broken upon dry ground
Tears that are falling with no one around

But Jesus is waiting for you to call
Waiting to mend you heart and all
Waiting to take you safe in his arms
To keep and deliver you from all harms

Majesty and glory surround your throne
Mercy and love falling down on your own
The Lamb's blood falling - to sinner's is calling
"Come to the Father and be made whole"

Jesus is waiting with outstretched hand
Waiting to lead you to the Promised Land
Waiting to relieve you from the burden of sin
Knocking and waiting just to come in

Come to the Father, kneel at His throne
Come to the Father, be one of His own
Come to the Father, be washed in the blood
Be made clean in salvations flood

Majesty and glory suround your throne
Mercy and love falling down on your own
The Lamb's blood falling - to sinners is calling
"Come to the Father and be made whole"

Your Esther Moments

2010-04-07T06:25:00.001-07:00

Did you wake up this morning inspired to pursue life? To see what adventure God has called you to this morning - what purpose he set before you? Was there excitement in the moment as you put on your make up and fixed your hair? Did you view today as yet another day in a never ending adventure with your Lord?

As you looked at yourself did you reflect on the thought that your a a precious, unique individual? A princess of the great I AM - the daughter of a King that has power over everything on earth and in heaven? You ARE a unique, one-of-a-kind masterpeice, created by a loving father for adivine purpose.

If you you looked at life this way your days might be different.

I love the prophet Jeremiah! In Jeremiah 1:5-10 God speaks something to Jeremiah that changes his life forever

Today he is speaking these very words to you: if you are still and quiet you will hear the whisper of the Lord, "Daughter, draw close I have known you since the begining of time."

Jeremiah 1:5 Before I formed you in the womb I knew you. Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.

I want you to notice what God says: "I knew you.
Not just I knew of you. No god wants us to know that he knew us in an intimate special, one on one way. He had an invested interest in us. He loved us cherished us, studied us, created us, and has known us inside and out. He looked at us the way we look at our children when they are born with love, with awe. He also says, "I sanctified you" - Before YOU were born God set you a part. He made You for a purpose that no one else can fullfill, He created you for a purpose that no one else is do. He had something special just for you!! Then he says, "I ordained you"...I annointed you. Have you ever stopped to think that God ordained you? Like David to be king you have had a mark set on you by the Most High, you have been set aside today.

Jeremiah 1:7 "The Lord said: Do not say 'I am a youth, For you shall go to all all to whom I send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do Not be afraid of their faces for I Am with you to deliver you"

WOW! Do not say "I am a youth".... God is telling you this morning not to doubt in your abilities, age, talents, provisions, position, or any other thing. He is telling you this morning not to look at the world's standard. He is saying I am sufficient! I am have called you! Further more he says you will go, and do....and I will deliver you. Daily life is a call to be obedient to trust in the Lord to lead us. We must be obedient to his call, trusting that he is the I AM, the Alpha and Omega, The King of Kings - - able to deliver us from the evil one, set our feet on sure ground, able to lead us to green pastures, and able to guide us in and out of battle VICTORIOUS! Victorious, Ladies - not just okay! God says we will go and he will deliver!

Jeremiah 1:10 "I have put my words in your mouth. See I have this day set you over the nations and over kingdoms, To root out and to pull down To destroy and to throw down, to build and plant!"

God has set HIS word in your mouth: blessing and power!!! You must choose to operate in his word. He has set you over not under, given you power to pull down, root out and destroy. God wants all the evil around you and in you away from you. In HIS name, His power, the blood of His Son this is given to you to be able to do. He has given you power over the evil one. NO more defeat, No more bondage! God has called you to the abundant life. He has called you to reach for life. He has called you to spread Life! He has called You to be a pitcher through which the Living Water might be poured out in the dry and thristy land. He has said "Go to the enemies Camp and take back what was taken!" It is yours! The enemy has NO rights to you! YOU are a chosen, set a part, seperated, ordained, princess and daughter of the I AM!!

Further more he has give you the power to build and plant! You must speak the blessing of the Lord over all who come in contact with you. You must let the Living Water flow from you to water that which is here. You are to build and plant the love of Christ in all that come in contact with you. You have been called to the saving of families, friends, cities, nations. You are the beginning of a revival. You are created for a divine purpose: An Esther moment.

The words spoken to Jeremiah changed Jeremiah because he took hold of the truth of them. He chose to believe what God spoke to him. He allowed God to become a consuming fire in His life: Her surrendered to the purpose that God had for him, trusting God would do just as He promised.

This is how it works for you too....are you willing as Esther was that day - to surrender to the call? Are you ready for your Esther moment of the day?

Grow in Christ Daily!"

2010-04-05T12:09:00.000-07:00

This last Sunday one of the ladies in our Faith Ladies S.S. class answered a question in our study about the farmer sowing the seed of God's word. She said, "He needed, "Miracle Grow!"
Just as plants need to be fertilized, so do we! We need a fresh touch from God each day!! He is our supply, He gives us what we need, and when we need it!! We are to grow in Jesus each and every day. Our fruitfulness depends on how we receive His message and our awareness that the world can easily crowd out His Word! Rest in God! Draw Near!

Grow: Romans 4:20-"Yet, with respect to the promise of God, he did not waver in unbelief but grew strong in faith, giving glory to God."
Supply: Philippians 4:19- "And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus."
Fruitful: Philippians 1:22- "But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me, and I do not know which to choose." (Paul knew the only reason to remain in this world was to bring souls to Christ and build up believers to do the same!)
Rest: Psalm 37:7- Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him.'
Draw Near: James 4:8- "Draw near to God and He will draw near to you."

Just as we are amazed when we see a flower bloom, a garden grow, or a caterpillar turn into a butterfly, We should be in total awe and amazement at the "miracle" of God's love for us!!

We truly serve a miracle working, most Holy & Sovereign God!!

Lord, work your "Miracle Grow" in my life more & more each & every day!!!